Transmission unit for human-powered vehicle

Abstract

Provided is a transmission unit for a human-powered vehicle that can improve design freedom. The transmission unit for a human-powered vehicle includes a housing, an input portion, a first transmission portion, a second transmission portion, and an output portion. The first transmission portion includes a first input rotating body, a first output rotating body, and a first endless ring-shaped member. The second transmission portion includes a second input rotating body, a second output rotating body, and a second endless ring-shaped member. The first endless ring-shaped member includes a plurality of first engaging portions that respectively engage with the first input rotating body and the first output rotating body and has a first pitch width in an extension direction of the first endless ring-shaped member. The second endless ring-shaped member includes a plurality of second engaging portions that respectively engage with the second input rotating body and the second output rotating body and has a second pitch width in an extension direction of the second endless ring-shaped member. The first pitch width is different from the second pitch width.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a transmission unit for a human-powered vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a transmission unit for a manually driven vehicle that includes a speed-changing section connected to a motor. The speed-changing section of the transmission unit for a manually driven vehicle in Patent Document 1 includes a reducer, which is composed of multiple sprockets and multiple chains.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent document 1: International Publication No. 2011 / 013109. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] One of the objectives of this invention is to provide a transmission unit for human-powered vehicles that can improve design freedom.

[0008] Technical solutions for solving the problem

[0009] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, the transmission unit is a transmission unit for a manually driven vehicle, comprising: a housing; an input section configured to be disposed in the housing for inputting driving force; a first transmission section disposed in the housing, wherein the driving force is input to the first transmission section via the input section; a second transmission section disposed in the housing, wherein the driving force is input to the second transmission section via the first transmission section; and an output section configured to be rotatably disposed in the housing, wherein the driving force is input to the output section via the second transmission section; the first transmission section includes a first input rotating body, a first output rotating body with a diameter different from that of the first input rotating body, and a first endless annular member wound around the first input rotating body and the first output rotating body. The second transmission unit includes a second input rotating body, a second output rotating body with a diameter different from that of the second input rotating body, and a second endless annular component wound around the second input rotating body and the second output rotating body. The first endless annular component includes a plurality of first engaging portions, which engage with the first input rotating body and the first output rotating body respectively, and have a first spacing width in the extending direction of the first endless annular component. The second endless annular component includes a plurality of second engaging portions, which engage with the second input rotating body and the second output rotating body respectively, and have a second spacing width in the extending direction of the second endless annular component. The first spacing width is different from the second spacing width.

[0010] According to the transmission unit of the first aspect, for example, since an endless ring-shaped component with a suitable spacing width can be used depending on the shape of the transmission unit, the size of the transmission unit, or the driving force transmitted, the degree of design freedom is increased. According to the transmission unit of the first aspect, since a driving force suitable for the spacing width of the respective endless ring-shaped component is input to the first transmission unit and the second transmission unit, more appropriate speed change can be performed.

[0011] In the transmission unit according to the first aspect of the present disclosure, a motor is further provided, which is configured to apply a propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle, the driving force being input from the motor to the input unit, the first transmission unit and the second transmission unit respectively constituting a speed reducer, and the second spacing width being greater than the first spacing width.

[0012] According to the transmission unit of the second aspect, since the rotational torque transmitted to the second transmission unit is greater than the rotational torque transmitted to the first transmission unit, and the second gap width is greater than the first gap width, it is easy to make the strength of the second transmission unit higher than the strength of the first transmission unit, so that appropriate speed change can be performed.

[0013] In the transmission unit according to the first, second, or third aspect of this disclosure, the first output rotating body is configured to rotate integrally with the second input rotating body.

[0014] According to the transmission unit of the third aspect, the driving force of the input unit is appropriately transmitted from the first transmission unit to the second transmission unit.

[0015] In the transmission unit of the fourth aspect according to any one of the first to third aspects of this disclosure, the first output rotating body and the second input rotating body are integrally formed.

[0016] Based on the transmission unit in the fourth aspect, the number of parts can be reduced.

[0017] In the transmission unit of the fifth aspect according to any one of the first to fourth aspects of this disclosure, a third transmission unit is further provided, which is disposed in the housing. The driving force is input to the third transmission unit via the second transmission unit and input to the output unit via the third transmission unit. The third transmission unit includes a third input rotating body, a third output rotating body with a diameter different from the third input rotating body, and a third endless annular member wound around the third input rotating body and the third output rotating body. The third endless annular member includes a plurality of third engaging parts, which engage with the third input rotating body and the third output rotating body respectively, and have a third spacing width in the extending direction of the third endless annular member. The third spacing width is different from at least one of the first spacing width and the second spacing width.

[0018] According to the transmission unit of the fifth aspect, for example, since an endless ring-shaped component with an appropriate spacing width can be used depending on the shape of the transmission unit, the size of the transmission unit, or the driving force transmitted, the degree of design freedom is increased. According to the transmission unit of the fifth aspect, since a driving force appropriate to the spacing width of the respective endless ring-shaped component is input to the first, second, and third transmission units, more appropriate speed changes are possible. In addition to the first and second transmission units, the transmission unit of the fifth aspect also includes a third transmission unit, thereby further increasing the speed ratio between the input and output units.

[0019] In the transmission unit according to the fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the third speed-changing unit constitutes a speed reducer.

[0020] According to the transmission unit in the sixth aspect, the speed can be appropriately reduced by the third speed change unit.

[0021] In the transmission unit according to the fifth or sixth aspect or the seventh aspect of this disclosure, the third pitch width is greater than at least one of the first pitch width and the second pitch width.

[0022] According to the transmission unit in the seventh aspect, since it is easy to make the strength of the third transmission unit higher than at least one of the strength of the first transmission unit and the strength of the second transmission unit, appropriate speed change is possible.

[0023] In the transmission unit of the eighth aspect according to any of the fifth and seventh aspects of this disclosure, a fourth transmission unit is further provided, which is disposed in the housing. The driving force is input to the fourth transmission unit via the third transmission unit and input to the output unit via the fourth transmission unit. The fourth transmission unit includes a fourth input rotating body, a fourth output rotating body with a diameter different from the fourth input rotating body, and a fourth endless annular member wound around the fourth input rotating body and the fourth output rotating body. The fourth endless annular member includes a plurality of fourth engaging parts, which engage with the fourth input rotating body and the fourth output rotating body respectively, and has a fourth spacing width in the extending direction of the fourth endless annular member. The fourth spacing width is different from at least one of the first spacing width, the second spacing width, and the third spacing width.

[0024] According to the transmission unit of the eighth aspect, for example, since an endless ring-shaped component with a suitable spacing width can be used depending on the shape of the transmission unit, the size of the transmission unit, or the driving force transmitted, the design freedom is increased. According to the transmission unit of the eighth aspect, since a driving force suitable for the spacing width of the respective endless ring-shaped component is input to the first, second, third, and fourth transmission units, more appropriate speed changes are possible. In addition to the first, second, and third transmission units, the transmission unit of the eighth aspect also includes a fourth transmission unit, thereby further increasing the speed ratio between the input and output units.

[0025] In the transmission unit of the ninth aspect of the eighth aspect of this disclosure, the fourth speed-changing unit constitutes a speed reducer.

[0026] According to the transmission unit in the ninth aspect, the speed can be appropriately reduced by the fourth speed change unit.

[0027] In the transmission unit of the eighth or ninth aspect or the tenth aspect of this disclosure, the fourth pitch width is greater than at least one of the first pitch width, the second pitch width, and the third pitch width.

[0028] According to the transmission unit of the tenth aspect, since it is easy to make the strength of the fourth transmission unit higher than the strength of the first transmission unit, the strength of the second transmission unit, and the strength of the third transmission unit, appropriate speed change is possible.

[0029] In the transmission unit of the eleventh aspect of any one of the first to tenth aspects of this disclosure, the first pitch width is 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less.

[0030] According to the transmission unit of the eleventh aspect, the transmission unit can be easily miniaturized by using a first endless annular member having a first pitch width of 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less.

[0031] The transmission unit of the twelfth aspect according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects of this disclosure further includes a planetary gear reducer disposed on the transmission path of the driving force between the input and the output.

[0032] According to the transmission unit in the twelfth aspect, the speed ratio between the input and output sections can be further increased by using a planetary gear reducer.

[0033] In the transmission unit of the thirteenth aspect according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects of this disclosure, the first input rotating body includes a first sprocket, the first output rotating body includes a second sprocket, and the first endless annular component includes a chain.

[0034] According to the transmission unit of aspect thirteen, speed can be appropriately changed through a first speed-changing part including a first sprocket, a second sprocket, and a chain.

[0035] In the transmission unit of the fourteenth aspect according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects of this disclosure, the first input rotating body includes a first pulley, the first output rotating body includes a second pulley, and the first endless annular member includes a belt.

[0036] According to the transmission unit of the fourteenth aspect, speed can be appropriately changed by means of a first speed-changing part including a first pulley, a second pulley and a belt.

[0037] In the transmission unit of the fifteenth aspect according to any one of the first to fourteenth aspects of this disclosure, a first one-way clutch is further provided, the first one-way clutch being disposed on the transmission path of the driving force between the input section and the output section.

[0038] According to the transmission unit in aspect 15, it is possible to suppress the situation where driving force is input from the output unit to the input unit.

[0039] In the transmission unit of the sixteenth aspect according to any one of the first to fifteenth aspects of this disclosure, an input rotating shaft is further provided, which is disposed in the housing and is used for human-powered driving force input, and the input rotation center axis of the input rotating shaft is coaxially disposed with the output rotation center axis of the output part.

[0040] According to the transmission unit in the sixteenth aspect, the design freedom of the transmission unit with the input rotation shaft can be increased.

[0041] In the transmission unit according to the sixteenth and seventeenth aspects of this disclosure, at least a portion of the input rotating shaft is housed in the housing, and the length of the at least a portion of the input rotating shaft housed in the housing along the axial direction of the input rotating shaft is more than 50 mm and less than 70 mm.

[0042] According to the transmission unit on the seventeenth face, for example, when crank arms are connected to both ends of the input rotating shaft, the distance between each crank arm can be shortened.

[0043] In the transmission unit according to the sixteenth, seventeenth, or eighteenth aspects of this disclosure, a second one-way clutch is further provided, which is disposed between the input rotating shaft and the output unit on the transmission path of the human-powered drive force.

[0044] According to the transmission unit in the eighteenth aspect, it is possible to suppress the situation where driving force is input from the output section to the input rotating shaft.

[0045] Invention Effects

[0046] The transmission unit for human-powered vehicles according to the present invention can improve design freedom. Attached Figure Description

[0047] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the transmission unit for a human-powered vehicle according to the first embodiment;

[0048] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 First side view of the transmission unit for a human-powered vehicle;

[0049] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Second side view of the transmission unit for a human-powered vehicle;

[0050] Figure 4 It means from Figure 2 The diagram omits the configuration of the reducer inside the second housing.

[0051] Figure 5 It means from Figure 3 The diagram omits the configuration of the reducer inside the first housing.

[0052] Figure 6 It is along Figure 2 A schematic diagram showing the inside of the transmission unit for a manually driven vehicle when the housing is cut open along line D6-D6 and viewed from the direction of arrow V.

[0053] Figure 7 It means Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the motor, reducer, input rotary shaft and output section;

[0054] Figure 8 It means Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the intermediate shaft, the first rotating component, the third rotating component, and their surroundings;

[0055] Figure 9 It means Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the input rotating shaft, output section, first one-way clutch and its surrounding parts;

[0056] Figure 10 This is a top view of the first chain in the first embodiment;

[0057] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 A side view of the first chain;

[0058] Figure 12 This is a top view of the second chain in the first embodiment;

[0059] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 A side view of the second chain;

[0060] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram showing the first spacing width of the first belt in the second embodiment;

[0061] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram showing the second spacing width of the second belt in the second embodiment;

[0062] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram showing the transmission path of the motor driving force and the human driving force in the transmission unit of the human-powered vehicle according to the third embodiment.

[0063] Figure 17 This is a first schematic diagram showing the configuration of the reducer in the first modified example;

[0064] Figure 18 This is a second schematic diagram showing the configuration of the reducer in the first modified example;

[0065] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram showing the motor, reducer, input rotary shaft, and output section of the second modified example;

[0066] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram showing the intermediate shaft, the first rotating component, and the third rotating component and their surroundings in the third modified example. Detailed Implementation

[0067] <First Implementation>

[0068] refer to Figures 1 to 13 This section describes the transmission unit 10 for a human-powered vehicle. Hereinafter, the transmission unit 10 for a human-powered vehicle will simply be referred to as transmission unit 10. A human-powered vehicle is a means of transportation having at least one wheel and being propelled by at least human power. Human-powered vehicles include, for example, various types of bicycles such as mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, freight bikes, manual bicycles, and recumbent bicycles. There is no limitation on the number of wheels a human-powered vehicle can have. Human-powered vehicles also include, for example, unicycles and vehicles with two or more wheels. Human-powered vehicles are not limited to vehicles propelled solely by human power. Human-powered vehicles include E-bikes (electric bicycles) that are propelled not only by human power but also by the power of an electric motor. E-bikes include electric-assisted bicycles that utilize an electric motor for assisted propulsion. In the following embodiments, a human-powered vehicle will be described as an electric-assisted bicycle.

[0069] For example, a human-powered vehicle includes a crank for receiving human driving force, wheels, and a frame. For example, the wheels include a rear wheel and a front wheel. For example, the frame includes a chassis, a fork, handlebars, and a stem. The frame may also include at least one of a suspension and a loading platform. The front wheel is mounted on the chassis via the fork. The handlebars are connected to the fork via the stem. The crank rotates to drive the rear wheel. The rear wheel is supported by the chassis.

[0070] For example, a human-powered vehicle includes an input rotation shaft 12 capable of rotating relative to the frame. The input rotation shaft 12 receives human driving force. The input rotation shaft 12 is configured to rotate using the input human driving force. The crank consists of the input rotation shaft 12 and crank arms respectively disposed at the axial ends of the input rotation shaft 12. Each crank arm is connected to a pedal. In this embodiment, the input rotation shaft 12 is a crankshaft.

[0071] The crank is connected to the rear wheel via a drive mechanism. The drive mechanism includes a first drive rotating body, a second drive rotating body, and a connecting component. The first drive rotating body is connected to the input rotating shaft 12. The first drive rotating body includes a sprocket, pulley, or bevel gear. The first drive rotating body rotates corresponding to the input rotating shaft 12. The second drive rotating body is connected to the rear wheel. The second drive rotating body includes a sprocket, pulley, or bevel gear. The connecting component is used to transmit the rotational force of the first drive rotating body to the second drive rotating body. The connecting component includes, for example, a chain, belt, or drive shaft.

[0072] A one-way clutch is provided between the second drive rotating body and the rear wheel. The one-way clutch is configured such that when the second drive rotating body rotates forward, it causes the rear wheel to rotate forward, and when the second drive rotating body rotates backward, it allows relative rotation between the second drive rotating body and the rear wheel. In this embodiment, the rear wheel is connected to the crank via a drive mechanism. At least one of the rear wheel and the front wheel may also be connected to the crank via a drive mechanism.

[0073] For example, a human-powered vehicle includes a battery. The battery is disposed on at least one of the frame and the rack of the human-powered vehicle. For example, the battery includes one or more battery elements. For example, the battery elements include rechargeable batteries. For example, the battery is configured to supply power to the drive unit 10. For example, the battery and the drive unit 10 are communicatively connected via wired or wireless means. The battery can communicate with the drive unit 10, for example, via power line communication (PLC), CAN (Controller Area Network), or UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter).

[0074] The transmission unit 10 includes a housing 14. For example, the housing 14 includes a first housing 14A and a second housing 14B. The first housing 14A and the second housing 14B are arranged side-by-side in the axial direction of the input rotation shaft 12, forming an internal space SA. For example, the transmission unit 10 includes an input rotation shaft 12. For example, the housing 14 includes at least one mounting portion 14C. The housing 14 is detachably mounted on the frame of a manually operated vehicle via the at least one mounting portion 14C. The at least one mounting portion 14C is configured to be disposed on the housing 14 and mounted on the frame of the manually operated vehicle. For example, the at least one mounting portion 14C includes an internal thread, and the housing 14 is mounted to the frame of the manually operated vehicle by screwing in a threaded element containing external threads.

[0075] For example, the first housing 14A and the second housing 14B are connected to each other by a connecting member 14D. The connecting member 14D is, for example, a bolt or a rivet. One of the first housing 14A and the second housing 14B is provided with a through hole for inserting the shaft portion of the bolt, and the other of the first housing 14A and the second housing 14B is provided with an internal thread portion for engaging with the bolt.

[0076] For example, the transmission unit 10 also includes a motor 16 configured to provide propulsion to a human-powered vehicle. For example, the motor 16 is disposed within the internal space SA of the housing 14. For example, the motor 16 is configured to include a rotor 16A and a stator 16B. For example, the motor 16 is configured to rotate the rotor 16A by being powered by the battery of the human-powered vehicle.

[0077] The motor 16 is configured to be disposed in the housing 14 and to provide propulsion to the manually driven vehicle. For example, the motor 16 includes a motor output shaft 18. For example, the transmission unit 10 includes a first bearing 20, through which the motor output shaft 18 is supported in the housing 14. For example, the first bearing 20 can be a ball bearing, a roller bearing, or a sliding bearing.

[0078] For example, motor 16 includes a rotating mechanism portion 16X containing a rotor 16A and a stator 16B, and a motor output shaft 18. For example, when viewed from the first direction X1, the rotating mechanism portion 16X is circular. For example, the rotor 16A is disposed inside the stator 16B. For example, motor 16 is an internal rotor type motor. For example, the rotor 16A rotates by supplying power to the stator 16B. For example, motor output shaft 18 is configured to be connected to the rotor 16A and rotate integrally with the rotor 16A. For example, motor output shaft 18 is configured to extend from the inside of the rotor 16A to the outside in the first direction X1. For example, the motor rotation center axis C1 of motor output shaft 18 is equal to the rotation center axis of rotor 16A. Motor 16 can be an external rotor type motor or an axial clearance type motor.

[0079] For example, the transmission unit 10 includes a control unit for controlling the motor 16. The control unit includes a calculation processing device that executes a predetermined control program. The calculation processing device may include, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The control unit may also include one or more microcomputers. The control unit may also include multiple calculation processing devices separately configured in multiple locations. For example, the control unit also includes a storage unit. The storage unit stores various control programs and information for various control processes. The storage unit may include, for example, non-volatile memory and volatile memory. Non-volatile memory may include, for example, at least one of ROM (Read-Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), and flash memory. Volatile memory may include, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0080] For example, at least a portion of the control unit is mounted on a first circuit board disposed in the internal space SA. For example, the control unit includes an inverter circuit that supplies power to the motor 16. For example, the inverter circuit is mounted on the first circuit board. The control unit is configured to control the motor 16 by controlling the power supplied from the inverter circuit to the motor 16.

[0081] For example, the transmission unit 10 also includes an input section 22. For example, the input section 22 is configured to be disposed in the housing 14 for inputting driving force. For example, the driving force is input from the motor 16 to the input section 22. For example, the input section 22 inputs the driving force of the motor 16 to the reducer 24. For example, the input section 22 includes a motor output shaft 18.

[0082] For example, the transmission unit 10 also includes an output section 26. For example, the output section 26 is disposed in the housing 14 and configured to be rotatable, and the driving force is input to the output section 26 via the reducer 24. For example, the output section 26 is configured to be connected to the first driving rotating body and rotate integrally with the first driving rotating body. For example, the output section 26 is configured to output at least one of the driving force of the motor 16 and the human driving force input to the input rotating shaft 12 as the propulsion force of the human-powered vehicle to the first driving rotating body. In this embodiment, the output section 26 is configured to output the combined driving force of the motor 16 and the human driving force input to the input rotating shaft 12 to the first driving rotating body.

[0083] For example, at least a portion of the output section 26 is housed within the internal space SA of the housing 14. For example, a first hole 14X is formed in the housing 14. For example, the transmission unit 10 includes a second bearing 28, and the output section 26 is supported by the second bearing 28 in the first hole 14X of the housing 14. For example, the second bearing 28 can be a ball bearing, a roller bearing, or a sliding bearing. For example, the output section 26 includes a connecting section 26A disposed outside the housing 14. For example, when a spline is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the first driving rotating body, a spline that engages with the spline of the first driving rotating body is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the connecting section 26A.

[0084] For example, the transmission unit 10 also includes a first one-way clutch 30. For example, the first one-way clutch 30 is disposed on the drive force transmission path between the input unit 22 and the output unit 26. For example, the first one-way clutch 30 is configured to suppress the transmission of rotational force of the output unit 26 to the motor 16 when the rotational direction of the output unit 26 corresponds to the opposite direction of the forward direction of the manually driven vehicle. For example, the first one-way clutch 30 is housed within the internal space SA of the housing 14. For example, the first one-way clutch 30 includes any one of a roller clutch, a ratchet clutch, and a wedge clutch.

[0085] For example, a first one-way clutch 30 is disposed at the connection between the reducer 24 and the output section 26. For example, the first one-way clutch 30 includes an inner wheel, an outer wheel, and an engagement member disposed between the inner and outer wheels. For example, when the first one-way clutch 30 includes a roller clutch, the engagement member includes rolling elements. For example, the rotation center axis of the first one-way clutch 30 is coaxially arranged with the rotation center axis C2 of the output section 26. For example, the inner wheel of the first one-way clutch 30 is configured to rotate integrally with the output section 26. For example, the inner wheel of the first one-way clutch 30 is disposed on the outer periphery of the output section 26. The inner wheel of the first one-way clutch 30 can be pressed into the output section 26 or can be integrally formed with the output section 26. For example, the outer wheel of the first one-way clutch 30 is disposed on the inner periphery of the rotating body included in the reducer 24. For example, the outer wheel of the first one-way clutch 30 is configured to rotate integrally with the rotating body included in the reducer 24.

[0086] For example, the transmission unit 10 further includes an input rotation shaft 12, which is disposed in the housing 14 for input of human driving force. For example, the housing 14 has a second hole 14Y formed on it, which is axially opposite to the first hole 14X of the input rotation shaft 12. For example, the transmission unit 10 includes a third bearing 32, through which the input rotation shaft 12 is supported in the second hole 14Y of the housing 14. For example, the third bearing 32 can be a ball bearing, a roller bearing, or a sliding bearing.

[0087] For example, the input rotation center axis C3 of the input rotating shaft 12 is coaxially arranged with the output rotation center axis C2 of the output unit 26. For example, when the input rotating shaft 12 is driven by a human force in the forward direction of the human-powered vehicle, the input rotating shaft 12 and the output unit 26 rotate together. For example, the input rotating shaft 12 is supported by the first hole 14X of the housing 14 via the output unit 26.

[0088] For example, at least a portion of the input rotation shaft 12 is housed in the housing 14. In this embodiment, a portion of the input rotation shaft 12 in which a reducer 24 is disposed is housed in the housing 14. For example, the length L of at least a portion of the input rotation shaft 12 housed in the housing 14 in the axial direction of the input rotation shaft 12 is 50 mm or more and 70 mm or less. For example, the length L of at least a portion of the input rotation shaft 12 housed in the housing 14 in the axial direction of the input rotation shaft 12 is 55 mm or more and 65 mm or less. For example, the length of the portion of the input rotation shaft 12 disposed in the housing 14 in the axial direction of the input rotation shaft 12 is substantially equal to the length L.

[0089] For example, at least a portion of the input rotation shaft 12 is disposed between the first plane A1 and the second plane A2. For example, the first plane A1 is a surface including the rotation mechanism portion 16X, which is a first end face B1 on a first direction X1 substantially parallel to the motor rotation center axis C1 of the motor output shaft 18 and perpendicular to the first direction X1. For example, the first end face B1 is the end face of the rotation mechanism portion 16X on the side protruding from the motor output shaft 18 in the first direction X1. For example, the second plane A2 is a surface including the rotation mechanism portion 16X on a second end face B2 on the first direction X1 and perpendicular to the first direction X1. For example, the second end face B2 is the end face on the first direction X1 opposite to the first end face B1.

[0090] For example, the transmission unit 10 also includes a second one-way clutch 34. For example, the second one-way clutch 34 is disposed between the input rotating shaft 12 and the output unit 26 in the transmission path of the manual driving force. For example, the second one-way clutch 34 is configured such that when the input rotating shaft 12 rotates in a first rotation direction corresponding to the forward direction of the manually driven vehicle, the driving force of the input rotating shaft 12 is transmitted to the output unit 26, but the rotation of the output unit 26 is not transmitted to the input rotating shaft 12. For example, the second one-way clutch 34 is configured such that when the input rotating shaft 12 rotates in the first rotation direction, the driving force of the input rotating shaft 12 is transmitted to the output unit 26, and when the input rotating shaft 12 rotates in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction, the driving force of the input rotating shaft 12 is not transmitted to the output unit 26. For example, the second one-way clutch 34 is housed within the internal space SA of the housing 14. For example, the second one-way clutch 34 includes any one of a roller clutch, a ratchet clutch, and a wedge clutch.

[0091] For example, the second one-way clutch 34 is disposed between the outer periphery of the input rotating shaft 12 and the inner periphery of the output section 26. For example, the second one-way clutch 34 includes an inner wheel, an outer wheel, and an engagement member disposed between the inner wheel and the outer wheel. For example, when the second one-way clutch 34 includes a roller clutch, the engagement member includes rolling elements. For example, the rotation center axis of the second one-way clutch 34 is coaxially disposed with the output rotation center axis C2 of the output section 26. For example, the inner wheel of the second one-way clutch 34 is configured to rotate integrally with the input rotating shaft 12. For example, the inner wheel of the second one-way clutch 34 is disposed on the outer periphery of the input rotating shaft 12. For example, the inner wheel of the second one-way clutch 34 can be integrally formed with the outer periphery of the input rotating shaft 12, or it can be pressed into the outer periphery of the input rotating shaft 12. For example, the outer wheel of the second one-way clutch 34 is configured to rotate integrally with the output section 26. For example, the outer wheel of the second one-way clutch 34 can be integrally formed with the inner periphery of the output section 26, or it can be pressed into the inner periphery of the output section 26.

[0092] For example, reducer 24 is disposed in housing 14, and driving force is input to reducer 24 from motor 16. For example, at least a portion of reducer 24 is housed within internal space SA of housing 14. For example, reducer 24 is entirely housed within internal space SA of housing 14. For example, reducer 24 reduces the input rotational speed and outputs it. For example, reducer 24 is connected to motor output shaft 18 and to output section 26. For example, reducer 24 outputs the driving force of motor 16 input to input section 22 from output section 26.

[0093] For example, reducer 24 includes multiple gearboxes. For example, one gearbox includes a reduction mechanism for single-stage reduction. For example, reducer 24 reduces the input rotational speed and outputs it at a number of stages corresponding to the number of gearboxes included in reducer 24. For example, reducer 24 includes an intermediate shaft 36, a first gearbox 38, a second gearbox 40, a third gearbox 42, and a fourth gearbox 44. For example, at least one of the first gearbox 38, the second gearbox 40, the third gearbox 42, and the fourth gearbox 44 includes a predetermined reducer. The predetermined reducer includes at least one of a chain-type reducer and a belt-type reducer. In this embodiment, the first gearbox 38, the second gearbox 40, the third gearbox 42, and the fourth gearbox 44 each include a predetermined reducer.

[0094] For example, driving force is input from input unit 22 to output unit 26 via reducer 24. For example, the driving force from input unit 22 is sequentially transmitted to first transmission 38, second transmission 40, third transmission 42 and fourth transmission 44, and then output from fourth transmission 44 to output unit 26.

[0095] For example, at least one of a portion of a first transmission 38, a portion of a second transmission 40, a portion of a third transmission 42, and a portion of a fourth transmission 44 is disposed on the intermediate shaft 36. For example, the intermediate shaft 36 is disposed in the internal space SA of the housing 14 with its central axis substantially parallel to the first direction X1. For example, the intermediate shaft 36 is disposed offset from the motor output shaft 18 and the output portion 26 in a direction perpendicular to the first direction X1, and is disposed substantially parallel to the motor output shaft 18. For example, both ends of the intermediate shaft 36 in the first direction X1 are supported on the housing 14.

[0096] For example, the first transmission 38 is disposed within the internal space SA of the housing 14 and is provided within the housing 14. For example, the first transmission 38 includes an input rotating body 38A, an output rotating body 38B, and an endless annular component 38C. When the first transmission 38 includes a chain-type reducer, the input rotating body 38A and the output rotating body 38B include sprockets, and the endless annular component 38C includes a chain. When the first transmission 38 includes a belt-type reducer, the input rotating body 38A and the output rotating body 38B include pulleys, and the endless annular component 38C includes a belt. In this embodiment, the first transmission 38 includes a chain-type reducer. For example, the first transmission 38 changes the rotational speed of the input rotating body 38A, causing the output rotating body 38B to rotate. The input rotating body 38A is a rotating body coaxially disposed with the motor output shaft 18 and driven by the motor 16. For example, the input rotating body 38A is configured to be disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the motor output shaft 18 and rotate integrally with the motor output shaft 18.

[0097] The output rotating body 38B is a rotating body with a diameter different from that of the input rotating body 38A and is disposed on the intermediate shaft 36. For example, the diameter of the output rotating body 38B is larger than the diameter of the input rotating body 38A. For example, the output rotating body 38B is configured to be disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the intermediate shaft 36 and rotate relative to the intermediate shaft 36. The endless annular component 38C is a component that is wound around the input rotating body 38A and the output rotating body 38B. The input rotating body 38A and the output rotating body 38B can be integrally rotatably connected via the endless annular component 38C.

[0098] For example, the endless annular component 38C engages with the input rotating body 38A and the output rotating body 38B respectively, and includes multiple engaging portions in the extending direction of the endless annular component 38C. For example, the multiple engaging portions are arranged side by side with a predetermined spacing width. For example, the input rotating body 38A and the output rotating body 38B include teeth that engage with the multiple engaging portions. The dimension of the teeth of the input rotating body 38A in the direction parallel to the motor rotation center axis C1 is smaller than its radial dimension in the direction parallel to the motor rotation center axis C1. The dimension of the teeth of the output rotating body 38B in the direction parallel to the intermediate shaft center axis C4 is smaller than its radial dimension in the direction parallel to the intermediate shaft center axis C4.

[0099] For example, the second transmission 40 is disposed within the internal space SA of the housing 14 and is provided within the housing 14. For example, the second transmission 40 includes an input rotating body 40A, an output rotating body 40B, and an endless annular component 40C. When the second transmission 40 includes a chain-type reducer, the input rotating body 40A and the output rotating body 40B include sprockets, and the endless annular component 40C includes a chain. When the second transmission 40 includes a belt-type reducer, the input rotating body 40A and the output rotating body 40B include pulleys, and the endless annular component 40C includes a belt. In this embodiment, the second transmission 40 includes a chain-type reducer. For example, the second transmission 40 changes the rotational speed of the input rotating body 40A, causing the output rotating body 40B to rotate. The input rotating body 40A is a rotating body coaxially disposed with the intermediate shaft 36 and receives driving force via the output rotating body 38B. For example, the input rotating body 40A is configured to rotate integrally with the output rotating body 38B. For example, the input rotating body 40A is configured to be disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the intermediate shaft 36 and to be able to rotate relative to the intermediate shaft 36.

[0100] The output rotating body 40B is a rotating body with a diameter different from that of the input rotating body 40A and is coaxially disposed with the output section 26. For example, the diameter of the output rotating body 40B is larger than that of the input rotating body 40A. For example, the output rotating body 40B is configured to be disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the input rotating shaft 12 and to be able to rotate relative to the input rotating shaft 12. The endless annular member 40C is a member that is wound around the input rotating body 40A and the output rotating body 40B. The input rotating body 40A and the output rotating body 40B are integrally rotatably connected by the endless annular member 40C.

[0101] For example, the endless annular component 40C engages with the input rotary body 40A and the output rotary body 40B respectively, and includes multiple engaging portions in the extending direction of the endless annular component 40C. For example, the multiple engaging portions are arranged side by side with a predetermined spacing width. For example, the input rotary body 40A and the output rotary body 40B include teeth that engage with the multiple engaging portions. The dimension of the teeth of the input rotary body 40A in the direction parallel to the central axis C4 of the intermediate shaft is smaller than the radial dimension of the central axis C4 of the intermediate shaft. The dimension of the teeth of the output rotary body 40B in the direction parallel to the central axis C3 of the input rotary body is smaller than the radial dimension of the central axis C3 of the input rotary body.

[0102] For example, the third transmission 42 is disposed within the internal space SA of the housing 14 and is provided within the housing 14. For example, the third transmission 42 includes an input rotating body 42A, an output rotating body 42B, and an endless annular component 42C. When the third transmission 42 includes a chain-type reducer, the input rotating body 42A and the output rotating body 42B include sprockets, and the endless annular component 42C includes a chain. When the third transmission 42 includes a belt-type reducer, the input rotating body 42A and the output rotating body 42B include pulleys, and the endless annular component 42C includes a belt. In this embodiment, the third transmission 42 includes a chain-type reducer. For example, the third transmission 42 changes the rotational speed of the input rotating body 42A, causing the output rotating body 42B to rotate. The input rotating body 42A is a rotating body coaxially disposed with the output section 26 and receives driving force via the output rotating body 40B. For example, the input rotating body 42A is configured to rotate integrally with the output rotating body 40B. For example, the input rotating body 42A is configured to be disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the input rotating shaft 12 and to be able to rotate relative to the input rotating shaft 12.

[0103] The output rotating body 42B is a rotating body with a diameter different from that of the input rotating body 42A and is disposed on the intermediate shaft 36. For example, the diameter of the output rotating body 42B is larger than the diameter of the input rotating body 42A. For example, the output rotating body 42B is configured to be disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the intermediate shaft 36 and to be rotatable relative to the intermediate shaft 36. The endless annular component 42C is a component that is wound around the input rotating body 42A and the output rotating body 42B. The input rotating body 42A and the output rotating body 42B are integrally rotatably connected by the endless annular component 42C.

[0104] For example, the endless annular component 42C engages with the input rotating body 42A and the output rotating body 42B respectively, and includes multiple engaging portions in the extending direction of the endless annular component 42C. For example, the multiple engaging portions are arranged side by side with a predetermined spacing width. For example, the input rotating body 42A and the output rotating body 42B include teeth that engage with the multiple engaging portions. The dimension of the teeth of the input rotating body 42A in the direction parallel to the input rotation center axis C3 is smaller than the radial dimension of the input rotation center axis C3. The dimension of the teeth of the output rotating body 42B in the direction parallel to the intermediate shaft center axis C4 is smaller than the radial dimension of the intermediate shaft center axis C4.

[0105] For example, a fourth transmission 44 is disposed within the internal space SA of the housing 14 and is provided within the housing 14. For example, the fourth transmission 44 includes an input rotating body 44A, an output rotating body 44B, and an endless annular component 44C. When the fourth transmission 44 includes a chain-type reducer, the input rotating body 44A and the output rotating body 44B include sprockets, and the endless annular component 44C includes a chain. When the fourth transmission 44 includes a belt-type reducer, the input rotating body 44A and the output rotating body 44B include pulleys, and the endless annular component 44C includes a belt. In this embodiment, the fourth transmission 44 includes a chain-type reducer. For example, the fourth transmission 44 changes the rotational speed of the input rotating body 44A, causing the output rotating body 44B to rotate. The input rotating body 44A is a rotating body disposed on the intermediate shaft 36 and receives driving force via the output rotating body 42B. For example, the input rotating body 44A is configured to rotate integrally with the output rotating body 42B. For example, the input rotating body 44A is configured to be disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the intermediate shaft 36 and to be able to rotate relative to the intermediate shaft 36.

[0106] The output rotating body 44B is a rotating body with a diameter different from that of the input rotating body 44A and is coaxially disposed with respect to the output section 26. For example, the diameter of the output rotating body 44B is larger than that of the input rotating body 44A. For example, the output rotating body 44B is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the output section 26 via the first one-way clutch 30. The endless annular component 44C is a component that is wound around the input rotating body 44A and the output rotating body 44B. The input rotating body 44A and the output rotating body 44B are integrally rotatably connected by the endless annular component 44C.

[0107] For example, the endless annular component 44C engages with the input rotating body 44A and the output rotating body 44B respectively, and includes multiple engaging portions in the extending direction of the endless annular component 44C. For example, the multiple engaging portions are arranged side by side with a predetermined spacing width. For example, the input rotating body 44A and the output rotating body 44B include teeth that engage with the multiple engaging portions. The dimension of the teeth of the input rotating body 44A in the direction parallel to the central axis C4 of the intermediate shaft is smaller than the radial dimension of the central axis C4 of the intermediate shaft. The dimension of the teeth of the output rotating body 44B in the direction parallel to the rotational axis C2 of the output part is smaller than the radial dimension of the rotational axis C2 of the output part.

[0108] For example, the reducer 24 includes a first rotating component 50. An output rotating body 38B and an input rotating body 40A are provided on the first rotating component 50. For example, the first rotating component 50 is configured to rotate integrally with the output rotating body 38B and the input rotating body 40A. For example, the output rotating body 38B and the input rotating body 40A are integrally formed with the first rotating component 50. The first rotating component 50 is disposed on the outer periphery of the intermediate shaft 36. For example, the rotation axis of the first rotating component 50 is coaxially arranged with the intermediate shaft center axis C4 of the intermediate shaft 36. For example, the first rotating component 50 is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the intermediate shaft 36 in a manner that allows it to rotate relative to the intermediate shaft 36. For example, the transmission unit 10 includes a pair of fourth bearings 56, and the first rotating component 50 is supported on the intermediate shaft 36 via the pair of fourth bearings 56. For example, the fourth bearings 56 can be ball bearings, roller bearings, or sliding bearings.

[0109] For example, the reducer 24 includes a second rotating component 52. For example, an output rotating body 40B and an input rotating body 42A are provided in the second rotating component 52. For example, the second rotating component 52 is configured to rotate integrally with the output rotating body 40B and the input rotating body 42A. For example, the output rotating body 40B and the input rotating body 42A are integrally formed with the second rotating component 52. The second rotating component 52 is disposed on the outer periphery of the input rotating shaft 12. For example, the rotation axis of the second rotating component 52 is coaxially arranged with the input rotation center axis C3 of the input rotating shaft 12. For example, the second rotating component 52 is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the input rotating shaft 12 in a manner that allows it to rotate relative to the input rotating shaft 12. For example, the transmission unit 10 includes a pair of fifth bearings, and the second rotating component 52 is supported on the input rotating shaft 12 via the pair of fifth bearings. For example, the fifth bearings can be ball bearings, roller bearings, or sliding bearings.

[0110] For example, the reducer 24 includes a third rotating component 54. For example, an output rotating body 42B and an input rotating body 44A are provided in the third rotating component 54. For example, the third rotating component 54 is configured to rotate integrally with the output rotating body 42B and the input rotating body 44A. For example, the output rotating body 42B and the input rotating body 44A are integrally formed with the third rotating component 54. The third rotating component 54 is disposed on the outer periphery of the intermediate shaft 36. For example, the rotation axis of the third rotating component 54 is coaxially arranged with the intermediate shaft center axis C4 of the intermediate shaft 36. For example, the third rotating component 54 is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the intermediate shaft 36 in a manner that allows it to rotate relative to the intermediate shaft 36. For example, the transmission unit 10 includes a pair of sixth bearings 58, and the third rotating component 54 is supported on the intermediate shaft 36 via the pair of sixth bearings 58. For example, the sixth bearings 58 can be ball bearings, roller bearings, or sliding bearings.

[0111] In this embodiment, the transmission unit 10 is equipped with a first gearbox 38, a second gearbox 40, a third gearbox 42, and a fourth gearbox 44 on the motor output shaft 18, intermediate shaft 36, input rotation shaft 12, and output section 26, respectively. The input rotation shaft 12 is coaxially arranged with the output section 26. Therefore, the reducer 24 can essentially perform four-stage reduction using shaft components that rotate around three axes.

[0112] For example, at least a portion of the first rotating member 50 is disposed between the first plane A1 and the second plane A2. In this embodiment, the portion of the first rotating member 50 in which the input rotating body 40A is formed is disposed between the first plane A1 and the second plane A2. For example, the second rotating member 52 and the third rotating member 54 are disposed between the first plane A1 and the second plane A2.

[0113] For example, output rotating body 38B is configured to overlap with output rotating body 40B when viewed from the first direction X1. For example, output rotating body 42B is configured to overlap with output rotating body 44B when viewed from the first direction X1. For example, output rotating bodies 38B, 40B, 42B, and 44B are configured not to overlap with motor 16 when viewed from the first direction X1. For example, input rotating bodies 40A, 42A, and 44A are configured not to overlap with motor 16 when viewed from the first direction X1.

[0114] In the transmission unit 10 of this embodiment, since at least a portion of the reducer 24 is disposed between the first plane A1 and the second plane A2, the size of the transmission unit 10 in the first direction X1 can be reduced. For example, by disposing at least a portion of the reducer 24 between the first plane A1 and the second plane A2, the length of the portion of the housing 14 where the input rotation shaft 12 is disposed in the axial direction of the input rotation shaft 12 can be set to 70 mm or less. For example, by disposing at least a portion of the reducer 24 between the first plane A1 and the second plane A2, the length of the portion of the housing 14 where the input rotation shaft 12 is disposed in the axial direction of the input rotation shaft 12 can be set to 65 mm or less.

[0115] In this embodiment, the radii of the input rotating bodies 38A, 40A, 42A, and 44A are all equal. At least one of the radii of the input rotating bodies 38A, 40A, 42A, and 44A may also differ from the others. For example, the radii of the input rotating bodies 38A, 40A, 42A, and 44A can be arbitrarily selected based on the required reduction ratio of each of the transmissions 38, 40, 42, and 44.

[0116] In this embodiment, the radii of the output rotating bodies 38B, 40B, 42B, and 44B are all equal. At least one of the radii of the output rotating bodies 38B, 40B, 42B, and 44B may also differ from the others. For example, the radii of the output rotating bodies 38B, 40B, 42B, and 44B can be arbitrarily selected based on the required reduction ratio of each of the transmissions 38, 40, 42, and 44.

[0117] For example, the endless ring-shaped components 38C, 40C, 42C, and 44C are composed of a first chain 46 or a second chain 48.

[0118] For example, the first chain 46 includes a first inner chain plate 46A, a second inner chain plate 46B, a first outer chain plate 46C, a second outer chain plate 46D, a plurality of pins 46E, and a rolling ring 46F. For example, the first inner chain plate 46A is configured to be opposite to the second inner chain plate 46B in a second direction X2. For example, the second direction X2 is a direction perpendicular to the chain's driving direction Y1. The first inner chain plate 46A includes a first inner chain plate hole 46AX and a second inner chain plate hole 46AY. The second inner chain plate 46B includes a third inner chain plate hole 46BX opposite to the first inner chain plate hole 46AX and a fourth inner chain plate hole 46BY opposite to the second inner chain plate hole 46AY.

[0119] For example, the first outer link plate 46C is configured to be opposite to the second outer link plate 46D in the second direction X2. The first outer link plate 46C includes a first outer link plate hole 46CX and a second outer link plate hole 46CY. The second outer link plate 46D includes a third outer link plate hole 46DX opposite to the first outer link plate hole 46CX and a fourth outer link plate hole 46DY opposite to the second outer link plate hole 46CY.

[0120] One of the multiple pins 46E is configured to pass through the second outer link plate hole 46CY, the first inner link plate hole 46AX, the third inner link plate hole 46BX, and the fourth outer link plate hole 46DY. Another of the multiple pins 46E is configured to pass through the first outer link plate hole 46CX, the second inner link plate hole 46AY, the fourth inner link plate hole 46BY, and the third outer link plate hole 46DX.

[0121] The roller ring 46F is configured to cover at least a portion of the pin 46E in the second direction X2. For example, the roller ring 46F is configured such that, in the second direction X2, the portion of the pin 46E disposed in the first inner chain plate hole 46AX covers the portion disposed in the third inner chain plate hole 46BX. For example, the roller ring 46F is configured such that, in the second direction X2, the portion of the pin 46E disposed in the second inner chain plate hole 46AY covers the portion disposed in the fourth inner chain plate hole 46BY.

[0122] For example, the first chain 46 includes a pair of connecting pins 46G and a clip 46H. One of the connecting pins 46G is configured to pass through the second outer chain plate hole 46CY, the first inner chain plate hole 46AX, the third inner chain plate hole 46BX, and the fourth outer chain plate hole 46DY. The other of the connecting pins 46G is configured to pass through the first outer chain plate hole 46CX, the second inner chain plate hole 46AY, the fourth inner chain plate hole 46BY, and the third outer chain plate hole 46DX.

[0123] For example, the clip 46H allows one of a pair of connecting pins 46G to pass through the second outer link plate hole 46CY, the first inner link plate hole 46AX, the third inner link plate hole 46BX, and the fourth outer link plate hole 46DY. For example, the clip 46H is configured to be detachable relative to the pair of connecting pins 46G, allowing the other of the pair of connecting pins 46G to pass through the first outer link plate hole 46CX, the second inner link plate hole 46AY, the fourth inner link plate hole 46BY, and the third outer link plate hole 46DX. The roller ring 46F is configured to cover at least a portion of the connecting pin 46G in the second direction X2. For example, the roller ring 46F is configured in the second direction X2, extending from the portion of the connecting pin 46G disposed in the first inner link plate hole 46AX to the portion disposed in the third inner link plate hole 46BX. For example, the roller ring 46F is configured in the second direction X2, extending from the portion of the connecting pin 46G disposed in the second inner link plate hole 46AY to the portion disposed in the fourth inner link plate hole 46BY.

[0124] For example, the first chain 46 includes a plurality of engaging portions 46J. The plurality of engaging portions 46J includes a plurality of sliding surfaces formed on the rolling ring 46F. For example, the first chain 46 is configured to engage with an input sprocket and an output sprocket on the plurality of sliding surfaces. The plurality of engaging portions 46J correspond to the plurality of engaging portions of the endless annular components 38C, 40C, 42C, and 44C. The plurality of engaging portions 46J are arranged side-by-side with a predetermined spacing width P1.

[0125] For example, the second chain 48 includes a first inner chain plate 48A, a second inner chain plate 48B, a first outer chain plate 48C, a second outer chain plate 48D, a plurality of pins 48E, and a rolling ring 48F. For example, the first inner chain plate 48A is configured to be opposite to the second inner chain plate 48B in the second direction X2. The first inner chain plate 48A includes a first inner chain plate hole 48AX and a second inner chain plate hole 48AY. The second inner chain plate 48B includes a third inner chain plate hole 48BX opposite to the first inner chain plate hole 48AX, and a fourth inner chain plate hole 48BY opposite to the second inner chain plate hole 48AY.

[0126] For example, the first outer link plate 48C is configured to be disposed opposite to the second outer link plate 48D in the second direction X2. The first outer link plate 48C includes a first outer link plate hole 48CX and a second outer link plate hole 48CY. The second outer link plate 48D includes a third outer link plate hole 48DX opposite to the first outer link plate hole 48CX and a fourth outer link plate hole 48DY opposite to the second outer link plate hole 48CY.

[0127] One of the multiple pins 48E is configured to pass through the second outer link plate hole 48CY, the first inner link plate hole 48AX, the third inner link plate hole 48BX, and the fourth outer link plate hole 48DY. Another of the multiple pins 48E is configured to pass through the first outer link plate hole 48CX, the second inner link plate hole 48AY, the fourth inner link plate hole 48BY, and the third outer link plate hole 48DX.

[0128] The roller ring 48F is configured to cover at least a portion of the pin 48E in the second direction X2. For example, the roller ring 48F is configured such that, in the second direction X2, the portion of the pin 48E disposed in the first inner chain plate hole 48AX covers the portion disposed in the third inner chain plate hole 48BX. For example, the roller ring 48F is configured such that, in the second direction X2, the portion of the pin 48E disposed in the second inner chain plate hole 48AY covers the portion disposed in the fourth inner chain plate hole 48BY.

[0129] For example, the second chain 48 includes a pair of connecting pins 48G and a clip 48H. One of the connecting pins 48G is configured to pass through the second outer chain plate hole 48CY, the first inner chain plate hole 48AX, the third inner chain plate hole 48BX, and the fourth outer chain plate hole 48DY. The other of the connecting pins 48G is configured to pass through the first outer chain plate hole 48CX, the second inner chain plate hole 48AY, the fourth inner chain plate hole 48BY, and the third outer chain plate hole 48DX.

[0130] For example, the clip 48H allows one of a pair of connecting pins 48G to pass through the second outer link plate hole 48CY, the first inner link plate hole 48AX, the third inner link plate hole 48BX, and the fourth outer link plate hole 48DY. For example, the clip 48H is configured to be detachable relative to the pair of connecting pins 48G, allowing the other of the pair of connecting pins 48G to pass through the first outer link plate hole 48CX, the second inner link plate hole 48AY, the fourth inner link plate hole 48BY, and the third outer link plate hole 48DX. The roller ring 48F is configured to cover at least a portion of the connecting pin 48G in the second direction X2. For example, the roller ring 48F is configured in the second direction X2, extending from the portion of the connecting pin 48G disposed in the first inner link plate hole 48AX to the portion disposed in the third inner link plate hole 48BX. For example, the roller ring 48F is configured in the second direction X2, extending from the portion of the connecting pin 48G disposed in the second inner link plate hole 48AY to the portion disposed in the fourth inner link plate hole 48BY.

[0131] For example, the second chain 48 includes a plurality of engaging portions 48J. The plurality of engaging portions 48J includes a plurality of sliding surfaces formed on the rolling ring 48F. For example, the first chain 46 is configured to engage with an input sprocket and an output sprocket on the plurality of sliding surfaces. For example, the plurality of engaging portions 48J of the second chain 48 corresponds to the plurality of engaging portions of the endless annular components 38C, 40C, 42C, and 44C. The plurality of engaging portions 48J are arranged side-by-side with a predetermined spacing width P2.

[0132] For example, the spacing width P1 of the first chain 46 and the spacing width P2 of the second chain 48 are 4.0 mm or more and 8.0 mm or less. For example, the spacing width P1 is the distance between the centers of the plurality of pins 46E in a direction perpendicular to the second direction X2. For example, the spacing width P2 is the distance between the centers of the plurality of pins 48E in a direction perpendicular to the second direction X2. For example, the spacing width P2 is greater than the spacing width P1. For example, the spacing width P1 is 4.7625 mm. For example, the spacing width P2 is 6.35 mm. For example, the spacing widths P1 and P2 correspond to predetermined spacing widths of the endless annular components 38C, 40C, 42C, and 44C.

[0133] For example, the inner link plate width L1 of the first chain 46 and the inner link plate width L2 of the second chain 48 are 2.0 mm or more and 3.3 mm or less. For example, the inner link plate width L1 is the distance from the first inner link plate 46A to the second inner link plate 46B. For example, the inner link plate width L2 is the distance from the first inner link plate 48A to the second inner link plate 48B. For example, the inner link plate width L1 is less than the inner link plate width L2. For example, the inner link plate width L1 is 2.38 mm. For example, the inner link plate width L2 is 3.18 mm. The inner link plate width L1 is less than or equal to the inner link plate width L2. For example, the inner link plate width L1 is within 50% to 80% of the inner link plate width L2.

[0134] For example, the diameter PD1 of pin 46E of the first chain 46 and the diameter PD2 of pin 48E of the second chain 48 are 1.5 mm or more and 3.66 mm or less. For example, diameter PD2 is larger than diameter PD1. For example, diameter PD1 is 1.62 mm. For example, diameter PD2 is 2.31 mm.

[0135] For example, the diameter RD1 of the circlip 46F of the first chain 46 and the diameter RD2 of the circlip 48F of the second chain 48 are both 2.0 mm and 7.8 mm. For example, diameter RD2 is larger than diameter RD1. For example, diameter RD1 is 2.48 mm. For example, diameter RD2 is 3.3 mm.

[0136] For example, the first chain 46 and the second chain 48 are surface treated by vanadium diffusion or chromium diffusion. For example, one of the first chain 46 and the second chain 48 is vanadium diffusion treated, and the other of the first chain 46 and the second chain 48 is chromium diffusion treated.

[0137] In the first embodiment, the transmission unit 10 can be configured according to any one of the first structural example, the second structural example, the third structural example, the fourth structural example, and the fifth structural example.

[0138] <First Structural Example>

[0139] The transmission unit 10 of the first structural example will be described below.

[0140] The transmission unit 10 of the first structural example includes a housing 14, an input section 22, a first transmission section, a second transmission section, and an output section 26. The first transmission section is disposed in the housing 14, and driving force is input to the first transmission section via the input section 22. The first transmission section includes a first input rotating body, a first output rotating body with a diameter different from that of the first input rotating body, and a first endless annular member wound around the first input rotating body and the first output rotating body. The first endless annular member is respectively engaged with the first input rotating body and the first output rotating body, and includes a plurality of first engaging portions having a first spacing width in the extending direction of the first endless annular member.

[0141] The second transmission unit is disposed in the housing 14, and the driving force is input to the second transmission unit via the first transmission unit. The second transmission unit includes a second input rotating body, a second output rotating body with a diameter different from that of the second input rotating body, and a second endless annular member wound around the second input rotating body and the second output rotating body. The second endless annular member is respectively engaged with the second input rotating body and the second output rotating body, and includes a plurality of second engaging portions having a second spacing width in the extending direction of the second endless annular member. The output unit 26 is rotatably disposed in the housing 14, and the driving force is input to the output unit 26 via the second transmission unit.

[0142] The first spacing width and the second spacing width are different. For example, the second spacing width is greater than the first spacing width. For example, the first spacing width is 4mm or more and less than 10mm. For example, the first spacing width is 4.5mm or more and less than 8mm. For example, the second spacing width is 4mm or more and less than 10mm, and is greater than the first spacing width. For example, the second spacing width is 4.5mm or more and less than 8mm, and is greater than the first spacing width. For example, the first endless loop component is the first chain 46, and the second endless loop component is the second chain 48.

[0143] For example, the first and second transmission sections each constitute a speed reducer 24. For example, the first output rotating body is configured to rotate integrally with the second input rotating body. For example, the first output rotating body and the second input rotating body are integrally formed. For example, the first input rotating body includes a first sprocket, the first output rotating body includes a second sprocket, and the first endless annular component includes a chain. The first input rotating body includes multiple teeth on its outer periphery around a rotation axis. The first output rotating body includes multiple teeth on its outer periphery around a rotation axis. The second input rotating body includes multiple teeth on its outer periphery around a rotation axis. The second output rotating body includes multiple teeth on its outer periphery around a rotation axis.

[0144] For example, the transmission unit 10 further includes a third speed-changing section disposed in the housing 14, and the driving force is input to the third speed-changing section via the second speed-changing section. For example, a third endless annular member engages with the third input rotating body and the third output rotating body respectively, and includes a plurality of third engagement portions having a third spacing width in the extending direction of the third endless annular member. For example, the third speed-changing section includes a third input rotating body, a third output rotating body with a diameter different from that of the third input rotating body, and a third endless annular member wound around the third input rotating body and the third output rotating body. For example, the driving force is input to the output section 26 via the third speed-changing section. For example, the third input rotating body includes a sprocket, the third output rotating body includes a sprocket, and the third endless annular member includes a chain. For example, the third speed-changing section constitutes a reducer 24. The third input rotating body includes a plurality of teeth on its outer periphery around the rotation axis. The third output rotating body includes a plurality of teeth on its outer periphery around the rotation axis.

[0145] For example, the third spacing width is different from at least one of the first spacing width and the second spacing width. In this structural example, the third spacing width is at least different from the first spacing width. For example, the third spacing width is greater than at least one of the first spacing width and the second spacing width. In this structural example, the third spacing width is at least greater than the first spacing width. For example, the third spacing width is 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less, and is greater than the first spacing width. For example, the third spacing width is 4.5 mm or more and 8 mm or less, and is greater than the first spacing width. For example, the first endless loop component is the first chain 46, the second endless loop component is the second chain 48, and the third endless loop component is the second chain 48. The first endless loop component can be the first chain 46, the second endless loop component can be the first chain 46, and the third endless loop component can be the second chain 48.

[0146] For example, the transmission unit 10 further includes a fourth speed-changing section disposed in the housing 14, and the driving force is input to the fourth speed-changing section via the third speed-changing section. For example, a fourth endless annular member engages with the fourth input rotating body and the fourth output rotating body respectively, and includes a plurality of fourth engagement portions having a fourth spacing width in the extending direction of the fourth endless annular member. For example, the fourth speed-changing section includes a fourth input rotating body, a fourth output rotating body with a diameter different from that of the fourth input rotating body, and a fourth endless annular member wound around the fourth input rotating body and the fourth output rotating body. For example, the driving force is input to the output section 26 via the fourth speed-changing section. For example, the fourth speed-changing section constitutes a reducer 24. For example, the fourth input rotating body includes a sprocket, the fourth output rotating body includes a sprocket, and the fourth endless annular member includes a chain. For example, the driving force is input to the output section 26 via the first speed-changing section. The fourth input rotating body includes a plurality of teeth on its outer periphery around the rotation axis. The fourth output rotating body includes a plurality of teeth on its outer periphery around the rotation axis.

[0147] For example, the fourth spacing width is different from at least one of the first spacing width, the second spacing width, and the third spacing width. In this structural example, the fourth spacing width is at least different from the first spacing width. For example, the fourth spacing width is greater than at least one of the first spacing width, the second spacing width, and the third spacing width. In this structural example, the fourth spacing width is at least greater than the first spacing width. For example, the fourth spacing width is 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less, and is greater than the first spacing width. For example, the fourth spacing width is 4.5 mm or more and 8 mm or less, and is greater than the first spacing width.

[0148] For example, in this structural example, the first endless loop component is a first chain 46, the second endless loop component is a second chain 48, the third endless loop component is a second chain 48, and the fourth endless loop component is a second chain 48. The first endless loop component can be the first chain 46, the second endless loop component can be the first chain 46, the third endless loop component can be the second chain 48, and the fourth endless loop component can be the second chain 48. For example, in this structural example, the first endless loop component can also be the first chain 46, the second endless loop component can also be the first chain 46, the third endless loop component can also be the first chain 46, and the fourth endless loop component can also be the second chain 48.

[0149] In this structural example, the first, second, third, and fourth endless ring components are arranged in the following order along the driving force transmission path: first endless ring component, second endless ring component, third endless ring component, and fourth endless ring component. For example, the first, second, third, and fourth endless ring components are configured such that their spacing width increases as they approach the output section 26 along the driving force transmission path. For example, the first, second, third, and fourth endless ring components are configured such that their spacing width does not decrease when they approach the input section 22 along the driving force transmission path.

[0150] For example, in this structural example, the first transmission unit corresponds to the first transmission 38, and the second transmission unit corresponds to the second transmission 40. In this structural example, the first input rotating body corresponds to the input rotating body 38A, the first output rotating body corresponds to the output rotating body 38B, and the first endless annular component corresponds to the endless annular component 38C. For example, in this structural example, the plurality of first engaging portions correspond to the plurality of engaging portions of the endless annular component 38C. For example, in this structural example, the second input rotating body corresponds to the input rotating body 40A, the second output rotating body corresponds to the output rotating body 40B, and the second endless annular component corresponds to the endless annular component 40C. For example, in this structural example, the second input rotating body includes a sprocket, the second output rotating body includes a sprocket, and the second endless annular component includes a chain. For example, in this structural example, the plurality of second engaging portions correspond to the plurality of engaging portions of the endless annular component 40C.

[0151] For example, in this structural example, the third transmission unit corresponds to the third transmission 42. For example, in this structural example, the third input rotating body corresponds to the input rotating body 42A, the third output rotating body corresponds to the output rotating body 42B, and the third endless annular member corresponds to the endless annular member 42C.

[0152] For example, in this structural example, the fourth transmission unit corresponds to the fourth transmission 44. For example, in this structural example, the fourth input rotating body corresponds to the input rotating body 44A, the fourth output rotating body corresponds to the output rotating body 44B, and the fourth endless annular member corresponds to the endless annular member 44C.

[0153] <Second structural example>

[0154] The transmission unit 10 of the second structural example will be described below.

[0155] The transmission unit 10 in the second structural example includes a housing 14, a motor 16, a reducer 24, and an output section 26. The reducer 24 includes a first speed-changing section, a second speed-changing section, and an intermediate shaft 36.

[0156] The first transmission unit includes: a first input rotating body coaxially configured with the motor output shaft 18, to which driving force is input from the motor 16; a first output rotating body with a different diameter than the first input rotating body and disposed on the intermediate shaft 36; and a first endless annular component wound around the first input rotating body and the first output rotating body. For example, the first input rotating body includes a first sprocket, the first output rotating body includes a second sprocket, and the first endless annular component includes a chain.

[0157] The second transmission unit includes: a second input rotating body disposed on the intermediate shaft 36, to which driving force is input via a first output rotating body; a second output rotating body having a different diameter than the second input rotating body and coaxially disposed with the output unit 26; and a second endless ring-shaped component wound around the second input rotating body and the second output rotating body. For example, the second input rotating body includes a first sprocket, the second output rotating body includes a second sprocket, and the second endless ring-shaped component includes a chain.

[0158] For example, the first output rotating body is configured to rotate integrally with the second input rotating body. For example, the first output rotating body and the second input rotating body are integrally formed.

[0159] For example, the reducer 24 further includes a third transmission unit disposed in the housing 14, through which driving force is input to the third transmission unit via the second transmission unit. For example, the third transmission unit includes a third input rotating body, a third output rotating body with a different diameter than the third input rotating body, and a third endless ring-shaped component wound around the third input rotating body and the third output rotating body. For example, the third input rotating body includes a first sprocket, the third output rotating body includes a second sprocket, and the third endless ring-shaped component includes a chain. For example, the third input rotating body is coaxially configured with the output unit 26. For example, the third output rotating body is coaxially configured with the intermediate shaft 36.

[0160] For example, the reducer 24 further includes a fourth transmission unit disposed in the housing 14, and the driving force is input to the fourth transmission unit via the third transmission unit. For example, the fourth transmission unit includes a fourth input rotating body, a fourth output rotating body with a different diameter than the fourth input rotating body, and a fourth endless ring-shaped component wound around the fourth input rotating body and the fourth output rotating body. For example, the fourth input rotating body includes a first sprocket, the fourth output rotating body includes a second sprocket, and the fourth endless ring-shaped component includes a chain. For example, the fourth input rotating body is coaxially configured with the intermediate shaft 36. For example, the fourth output rotating body is coaxially configured with the output unit 26.

[0161] For example, the output unit 26 is rotatably disposed on the housing 14, and the driving force is input to the output unit 26 via the first gear transmission unit and the second gear transmission unit. For example, the driving force is input to the output unit 26 via the third gear transmission unit. For example, the driving force is input to the output unit 26 via the fourth gear transmission unit.

[0162] The motor rotation center axis C1 of the motor output shaft 18, the intermediate shaft center axis C4 of the intermediate shaft 36, and the output rotation center axis C2 of the output section 26 extend substantially parallel to the first direction X1. For example, the motor rotation center axis C1, the intermediate shaft center axis C4, and the output rotation center axis C2 are configured such that, when viewed from the first direction X1, they are located at the vertices of a triangle, respectively.

[0163] For example, the shape of the triangle can be arbitrarily configured. In this structural example, the length from the motor rotation center axis C1 to the intermediate shaft center axis C4 is greater than the sum of the radius of the first end face B1 of the rotating mechanism section 16X and the radius of the first output rotating body. In this structural example, the length from the motor rotation center axis C1 to the intermediate shaft center axis C4 is greater than the sum of the radius of the first end face B1 of the rotating mechanism section 16X and the radius of the third output rotating body. In this structural example, the length from the intermediate shaft center axis C4 to the output section rotation center axis C2 is less than the sum of the radius of the first output rotating body and the second output rotating body. In this structural example, the length from the intermediate shaft center axis C4 to the output section rotation center axis C2 is less than the sum of the radius of the third output rotating body and the fourth output rotating body. In this structural example, the length from the output section rotation center axis C2 to the motor rotation center axis C1 is greater than the sum of the radius of the first output rotating body and the radius of the first end face B1 of the rotating mechanism section 16X. In this structural example, the length from the rotation center axis C2 of the output section to the rotation center axis C1 of the motor is greater than the sum of the radius of the fourth output rotating body and the radius of the second end face B2 of the rotating mechanism section 16X.

[0164] For example, in this structural example, the first transmission unit corresponds to the first transmission 38, and the second transmission unit corresponds to the second transmission 40. For example, in this structural example, the first input rotating body corresponds to the input rotating body 38A, the first output rotating body corresponds to the output rotating body 38B, and the first endless annular component corresponds to the endless annular component 38C. For example, in this structural example, the second input rotating body corresponds to the input rotating body 40A, the second output rotating body corresponds to the output rotating body 40B, and the second endless annular component corresponds to the endless annular component 40C. For example, in this structural example, the third transmission unit corresponds to the third transmission 42. For example, in this structure, the third input rotating body corresponds to the input rotating body 42A, the third output rotating body corresponds to the output rotating body 42B, and the third endless annular component corresponds to the endless annular component 42C. For example, in this structural example, the fourth transmission unit corresponds to the fourth transmission 44. For example, in this structural example, the fourth input rotating body corresponds to the input rotating body 44A, the fourth output rotating body corresponds to the output rotating body 44B, and the fourth endless annular component corresponds to the endless annular component 44C. For example, in this structural example, the motor rotation center axis C1 of the motor output shaft 18, the intermediate shaft center axis C4 of the intermediate shaft 36, and the output rotation center axis C2 of the output section 26 extend parallel to the first direction X1.

[0165] <Example of the third structure>

[0166] The transmission unit 10 of the third structural example will be described below.

[0167] The transmission unit 10 in the third structural example includes a housing 14, a motor 16, a reducer 24, and an output section 26. The reducer 24 includes a first speed-changing section and a second speed-changing section. The first speed-changing section includes: a first input rotating body, to which driving force is input from the motor 16; a first output rotating body with a different diameter than the first input rotating body; a first endless annular member wound around the first input rotating body and the first output rotating body; and an intermediate shaft 36, which is configured offset from the motor output shaft 18 and the output section 26 and substantially parallel to the motor output shaft 18. For example, the first input rotating body includes a first sprocket, the first output rotating body includes a second sprocket, and the first endless annular member includes a chain.

[0168] The second transmission unit includes: a second input rotating body, to which driving force is input via a first output rotating body; a second output rotating body, the diameter of which is different from that of the second input rotating body and is coaxially arranged with the output unit 26; and a second endless annular member, which is wound around the second input rotating body and the second output rotating body.

[0169] One of the first input rotating body and the first output rotating body, and one of the second input rotating body and the second output rotating body, are rotatably disposed on the motor output shaft 18 or the intermediate shaft 36. In this structural example, the first output rotating body and the second input rotating body are configured to rotate relative to the intermediate shaft 36. In this structural example, the first input rotating body is configured to be disposed on the motor output shaft 18 and rotatably disposed relative to the motor output shaft 18. For example, one of the first input rotating body and the first output rotating body, and one of the second input rotating body and the second output rotating body are disposed on the intermediate shaft 36. For example, at least one of the first input rotating body and the first output rotating body, and at least one of the second input rotating body and the second output rotating body is configured to rotate relative to the intermediate shaft 36. In this structural example, the first output rotating body and the second input rotating body are disposed on the intermediate shaft 36. In this structural example, the second output rotating body is configured to be disposed on the input rotating shaft 12 and rotatably disposed relative to the input rotating shaft 12.

[0170] For example, the reducer 24 also includes a third speed-changing section disposed in the housing 14. For example, the third speed-changing section includes a third input rotating body, a third output rotating body with a diameter different from that of the third input rotating body, and a third endless annular member wound around the third input rotating body and the third output rotating body.

[0171] For example, one of the third input rotator and the third output rotator is configured to be mounted on the intermediate shaft 36 and be rotatable relative to the second input rotator. In this structural example, the third output rotator is mounted on the intermediate shaft 36 and is configured to be rotatable relative to the second input rotator.

[0172] For example, the reducer 24 also includes a fourth speed-changing unit disposed in the housing 14. For example, the fourth speed-changing unit includes a fourth input rotating body, a fourth output rotating body with a diameter different from the fourth input rotating body, and a fourth endless annular component wound around the fourth input rotating body and the fourth output rotating body. For example, the fourth input rotating body includes a first sprocket, the fourth output rotating body includes a second sprocket, and the fourth endless annular component includes a chain. In this structural example, a third output rotating body is disposed on the intermediate shaft 36. In this structural example, the fourth input rotating body and the third output rotating body are integrally formed.

[0173] For example, in this structural example, the first transmission unit corresponds to the first transmission 38, and the second transmission unit corresponds to the second transmission 40. For example, in this structural example, the first input rotating body corresponds to the input rotating body 38A, the first output rotating body corresponds to the output rotating body 38B, and the first endless annular component corresponds to the endless annular component 38C. For example, in this structural example, the second input rotating body corresponds to the input rotating body 40A, the second output rotating body corresponds to the output rotating body 40B, and the second endless annular component corresponds to the endless annular component 40C.

[0174] For example, in this structural example, the third transmission unit corresponds to the third transmission 42. For example, in this structural example, the third input rotating body corresponds to the input rotating body 42A, the third output rotating body corresponds to the output rotating body 42B, and the third endless annular member corresponds to the endless annular member 42C. For example, in this structural example, the fourth transmission unit corresponds to the fourth transmission 44. For example, in this structural example, the fourth input rotating body corresponds to the input rotating body 44A, the fourth output rotating body corresponds to the output rotating body 44B, and the fourth endless annular member corresponds to the endless annular member 44C.

[0175] In this structural example, the transmissions corresponding to the first, second, third, and fourth transmissions can be arbitrarily selected from the first transmission 38, the second transmission 40, the third transmission 42, and the fourth transmission 44. For example, the combination of the first, second, third, and fourth transmissions can be any of the selection examples E11 to E18 in Table 1.

[0176] Table 1

[0177] First transmission section Second transmission section Third transmission section Fourth transmission section Example E11 Second transmission Fourth transmission First Transmission Third transmission Example E12 Second transmission Fourth transmission Third transmission First Transmission Example E13 Second transmission Third transmission Fourth transmission First Transmission Example E14 Second transmission Third transmission First Transmission Fourth transmission Select Example E15 Third transmission Fourth transmission First Transmission Second transmission Example E16 Third transmission Fourth transmission Second transmission First Transmission Example E17 First Transmission Third transmission Second transmission Fourth transmission Example E18 First Transmission Third transmission Fourth transmission Second transmission

[0178] In selection examples E11 and E12, the first input rotatable body and the second input rotatable body are disposed on the intermediate shaft 36 in a manner that allows them to rotate relative to the intermediate shaft 36. In selection example E11, the third output rotatable body and the fourth output rotatable body are disposed on the intermediate shaft 36 in a manner that allows them to rotate relative to the intermediate shaft 36. In selection example E12, the third output rotatable body and the fourth output rotatable body are disposed on the intermediate shaft 36 in a manner that allows them to rotate relative to the intermediate shaft 36.

[0179] In selection examples E13 and E14, the first input rotatable body and the second output rotatable body are disposed on the intermediate shaft 36 in a manner that allows them to rotate relative to the intermediate shaft 36. In selection example E13, the third input rotatable body and the fourth output rotatable body are disposed on the intermediate shaft 36 in a manner that allows them to rotate relative to the intermediate shaft 36. In selection example E14, the third output rotatable body and the fourth input rotatable body are disposed on the intermediate shaft 36 in a manner that allows them to rotate relative to the intermediate shaft 36.

[0180] In selection examples E15 and E16, the first output rotatable body and the second input rotatable body are disposed on the intermediate shaft 36 in a manner that allows them to rotate relative to the intermediate shaft 36. In selection example 5, the third output rotatable body and the fourth input rotatable body are disposed on the intermediate shaft 36 in a manner that allows them to rotate relative to the intermediate shaft 36. In selection example E16, the third input rotatable body and the fourth output rotatable body are disposed on the intermediate shaft 36 in a manner that allows them to rotate relative to the intermediate shaft 36.

[0181] In selection examples E17 and E18, the first output rotator and the second output rotator are disposed on the intermediate shaft 36 in a manner that allows them to rotate relative to the intermediate shaft 36. In selection example E17, the third input rotator and the fourth input rotator are disposed on the intermediate shaft 36 in a manner that allows them to rotate relative to the intermediate shaft 36. In selection example E18, the third input rotator and the fourth input rotator are disposed on the intermediate shaft 36 in a manner that allows them to rotate relative to the intermediate shaft 36.

[0182] <Example of the Fourth Structure>

[0183] The transmission unit 10 of the fourth structural example will be described below.

[0184] The transmission unit 10 in this structural example includes a housing 14, a motor 16, a first transmission unit, and an output unit 26. For example, driving force is input to the output unit 26 via the second transmission unit.

[0185] For example, the first transmission unit constitutes a reducer 24. The first transmission unit is disposed in the housing 14, and driving force is input to the first transmission unit from the motor 16. The first transmission unit includes a first input rotating body, a first output rotating body with a diameter different from the first input rotating body, and a first endless ring-shaped component wound around the first input rotating body and the first output rotating body. For example, the first input rotating body includes a first sprocket, the first output rotating body includes a second sprocket, and the first endless ring-shaped component includes a chain.

[0186] At least a portion of the first transmission unit is disposed between the first plane A1 and the second plane A2. For example, at least a portion of the first endless annular member in the first transmission unit is disposed between the first plane A1 and the second plane A2. In a structural example, the first endless annular member is entirely disposed between the first plane A1 and the second plane A2. For example, the first endless annular member is configured to drive in a direction parallel to the first plane A1 and the second plane A2.

[0187] For example, the first input rotation center axis of the first input rotator and the first output rotation center axis of the first output rotator are configured to be substantially parallel to the first direction X1. In this structural example, the first input rotation center axis of the first input rotator and the first output rotation center axis of the first output rotator are configured parallel to the first direction X1. For example, the first input rotator and the first output rotator are arranged side by side between the first plane A1 and the second plane A2 in a direction perpendicular to the first direction X1.

[0188] For example, the transmission unit 10 also includes a second gear shifter, which is disposed on the housing 14, and the driving force is input to the second gear shifter via the first gear shifter. For example, the second gear shifter constitutes a reducer 24. The second gear shifter includes a second input rotating body, a second output rotating body with a diameter different from the second input rotating body, and a second endless ring-shaped component wound around the second input rotating body and the second output rotating body. For example, the second input rotating body includes a first sprocket, the second output rotating body includes a second sprocket, and the third endless ring-shaped component includes a chain.

[0189] For example, at least a portion of the second transmission unit is disposed between the first plane A1 and the second plane A2. For example, at least a portion of the second endless annular member in the second transmission unit is disposed between the first plane A1 and the second plane A2. In this structural example, the entire second endless annular member is disposed between the first plane A1 and the second plane A2. For example, the second endless annular member is configured to drive in a direction parallel to the first plane A1 and the second plane A2, between the first plane A1 and the second plane A2.

[0190] For example, the second input rotation center axis of the second input rotator and the second output rotation center axis of the second output rotator are configured to be substantially parallel to the first direction X1. In this structural example, the second input rotation center axis of the second input rotator and the second output rotation center axis of the second output rotator are configured parallel to the first direction X1. For example, the second input rotator and the second output rotator are arranged side by side between the first plane A1 and the second plane A2 in a direction perpendicular to the first direction X1.

[0191] For example, the first output rotating body and the second input rotating body are coaxially arranged, and the diameters of the first output rotating body and the second input rotating body are different. In this structural example, the diameter of the first output rotating body is larger than the diameter of the second input rotating body. For example, the first output rotating body is configured to rotate integrally with the second input rotating body. For example, the first output rotating body and the second input rotating body are integrally formed.

[0192] For example, the transmission unit 10 also includes a third transmission unit disposed in the housing 14. For example, driving force is input to the first transmission unit via the third transmission unit. For example, the third transmission unit constitutes a reducer 24. For example, the third transmission unit includes a third input rotating body, a third output rotating body with a diameter different from the third input rotating body, and a third endless ring-shaped member wound on the third input rotating body and the third output rotating body. For example, the third input rotating body includes a first sprocket, the third output rotating body includes a second sprocket, and the third endless ring-shaped member includes a chain.

[0193] For example, the third input rotation center axis of the third input rotator and the third output rotation center axis of the third output rotator are configured to be substantially parallel to the first direction X1. In this structural example, the third input rotation center axis of the third input rotator and the third output rotation center axis of the third output rotator are configured parallel to the first direction X1. For example, the third input rotator and the third output rotator are configured side by side in a direction perpendicular to the first direction X1. For example, the third input rotator and the third output rotator are configured at a position closer to the first plane A1 than the second plane A2 and farther away from the second plane A2 than the first plane A1.

[0194] For example, the third output rotating body is coaxially arranged with the first input rotating body, and the diameter of the third output rotating body is different from the diameter of the first input rotating body. In this structural example, the diameter of the third output rotating body is larger than the diameter of the first input rotating body. For example, the third output rotating body is configured to rotate integrally with the first input rotating body. For example, the third output rotating body and the first input rotating body are integrally formed.

[0195] For example, at least a portion of the third transmission unit is configured to overlap with at least one of the rotor 16A and the stator 16B when viewed from the first direction X1. In this structural example, the third input rotating body is configured to overlap with the rotor 16A and the stator 16B when viewed from the first direction X1. In this structural example, the third endless annular member is configured to overlap with the rotor 16A and the stator 16B when viewed from the first direction X1.

[0196] For example, at least a portion of the third transmission unit is configured to overlap with at least a portion of the first transmission unit when viewed from the first direction X1. In this structural example, the third output rotating body is configured to overlap with the first input rotating body when viewed from the first direction X1.

[0197] For example, the transmission unit 10 also includes a fourth transmission unit disposed in the housing 14. For example, driving force is input to the fourth transmission unit via the first transmission unit. For example, the fourth transmission unit constitutes a reducer 24. For example, the fourth transmission unit includes a fourth input rotating body, a fourth output rotating body with a diameter different from the fourth input rotating body, and a fourth endless ring-shaped member wound around the fourth input rotating body and the fourth output rotating body. For example, the fourth input rotating body includes a first sprocket, the fourth output rotating body includes a second sprocket, and the fourth endless ring-shaped member includes a chain.

[0198] For example, at least a portion of the fourth transmission unit is disposed between the first plane A1 and the second plane A2. For example, at least a portion of the fourth endless annular member in the fourth transmission unit is disposed between the first plane A1 and the second plane A2. In this structural example, the fourth endless annular member is entirely disposed between the first plane A1 and the second plane A2. For example, the fourth endless annular member is configured to drive in a direction horizontal to the first plane A1 and the second plane A2, between the first plane A1 and the second plane A2.

[0199] For example, the fourth input rotation center axis of the fourth input rotator and the fourth output rotation center axis of the fourth output rotator are configured to be substantially parallel to the first direction X1. In this structural example, the fourth input rotation center axis of the fourth input rotator and the fourth output rotation center axis of the fourth output rotator are configured to be parallel to the first direction X1. For example, the fourth input rotator and the fourth output rotator are arranged side by side between the first plane A1 and the second plane A2 in a direction perpendicular to the first direction X1.

[0200] For example, the first output rotator and the fourth output rotator are coaxially configured, and the first input rotator and the fourth input rotator are coaxially configured. For example, the second input rotator and the fourth output rotator are coaxially configured, and the second output rotator and the fourth input rotator are coaxially configured. For example, the third output rotator and the fourth input rotator are coaxially configured.

[0201] For example, in this structural example, the first transmission unit corresponds to the second transmission 40. For example, in this structural example, the first input rotating body corresponds to the input rotating body 40A, the first output rotating body corresponds to the output rotating body 40B, and the first endless annular component corresponds to the endless annular component 40C. For example, in this structural example, the second transmission unit corresponds to the third transmission 42. For example, in this structural example, the second input rotating body corresponds to the input rotating body 42A, the second output rotating body corresponds to the output rotating body 42B, and the second endless annular component corresponds to the endless annular component 42C. For example, in this structural example, the third transmission unit corresponds to the first transmission 38. For example, in this structural example, the third input rotating body corresponds to the input rotating body 38A, the third output rotating body corresponds to the output rotating body 38B, and the third endless annular component corresponds to the endless annular component 38C. For example, in this structural example, the fourth transmission unit corresponds to the fourth transmission 44. For example, in this structural example, the fourth input rotating body corresponds to the input rotating body 44A, the fourth output rotating body corresponds to the output rotating body 44B, and the fourth endless annular component corresponds to the endless annular component 44C.

[0202] <Fifth Structural Example>

[0203] The transmission unit 10 of the fifth structural example will be described below.

[0204] The transmission unit 10 includes a housing 14, an input section 22, a first transmission section, and an output section 26. For example, driving force is input to the output section 26 via the second transmission section.

[0205] For example, the first transmission unit constitutes a reducer 24. The first transmission unit is disposed in the housing 14, and driving force is input to the first transmission unit via the input unit 22. The first transmission unit includes a first input rotating body, a first output rotating body with a diameter different from the first input rotating body, and a first endless ring-shaped component wound around the first input rotating body and the first output rotating body. For example, the first input rotating body includes a first sprocket, the first output rotating body includes a second sprocket, and the first endless ring-shaped component includes a chain. The first endless ring-shaped component engages with the first input rotating body and the first output rotating body respectively, and includes a plurality of first engaging portions having a first spacing width in the extending direction of the first endless ring-shaped component.

[0206] The first spacing width is 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less. For example, the first spacing width is 5 mm or more and 8 mm or less. For example, the first endless loop component includes a first chain 46.

[0207] For example, the transmission unit 10 also includes a second speed-changing section disposed in the housing 14, and the driving force is input to the second speed-changing section via the first speed-changing section. For example, the second speed-changing section constitutes a reducer 24. The second speed-changing section includes a second input rotating body, a second output rotating body with a diameter different from that of the second input rotating body, and a second endless ring-shaped member wound around the second input rotating body and the second output rotating body. For example, the second input rotating body includes a first sprocket, the second output rotating body includes a second sprocket, and the second endless ring-shaped member includes a chain. The second endless ring-shaped member is respectively engaged with the second input rotating body and the second output rotating body, and includes a plurality of second engaging portions having a second spacing width in the extending direction of the second endless ring-shaped member.

[0208] For example, the second spacing width is 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less. For example, the second spacing width is 5 mm or more and 8 mm or less. For example, the second endless ring-shaped component includes a first chain 46 or a second chain 48.

[0209] For example, the transmission unit 10 also includes a third transmission unit disposed in the housing 14, and the driving force is input to the third transmission unit via the second transmission unit. For example, the third transmission unit constitutes a reducer 24. In this structural example, the third transmission unit corresponds to the third gearbox 42. For example, the third transmission unit includes a third input rotating body, a third output rotating body with a diameter different from the third input rotating body, and a third endless ring-shaped member wound on the third input rotating body and the third output rotating body. In this structural example, the third input rotating body corresponds to the input rotating body 42A, the third output rotating body corresponds to the output rotating body 42B, and the third endless ring-shaped member corresponds to the endless ring-shaped member 42C. For example, the third input rotating body includes a first sprocket, the third output rotating body includes a second sprocket, and the third endless ring-shaped member includes a chain. For example, the third endless ring-shaped member is engaged with the third input rotating body and the third output rotating body respectively, and includes a plurality of third engaging portions having a third spacing width in the extending direction of the third endless ring-shaped member.

[0210] For example, the third spacing width is 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less. For example, the third spacing width is 5 mm or more and 8 mm or less. For example, the third endless loop component includes a first chain 46 or a second chain 48. When the second endless loop component is a second chain 48, the third endless loop component includes a second chain 48.

[0211] For example, the transmission unit 10 also includes a fourth transmission unit disposed in the housing 14, and the driving force is input to the fourth transmission unit via the third transmission unit. In this structural example, the fourth transmission unit corresponds to the fourth gearbox 44. For example, the fourth transmission unit constitutes a reducer 24. For example, the fourth transmission unit includes a fourth input rotating body, a fourth output rotating body with a diameter different from that of the fourth input rotating body, and a fourth endless annular member wound around the fourth input rotating body and the fourth output rotating body.

[0212] In this structural example, the fourth input rotating body corresponds to input rotating body 44A, the fourth output rotating body corresponds to output rotating body 44B, and the fourth endless annular component corresponds to endless annular component 44C. For example, the fourth input rotating body includes a first sprocket, the fourth output rotating body includes a second sprocket, and the fourth endless annular component includes a chain. For example, the fourth endless annular component engages with both the fourth input rotating body and the fourth output rotating body, and includes a plurality of fourth engaging portions having a fourth spacing width in the extending direction of the fourth endless annular component.

[0213] For example, the fourth spacing width is 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less. For example, the fourth spacing width is 5 mm or more and 8 mm or less. For example, the fourth endless loop component includes a second chain 48. When the third endless loop component is the second chain 48, the fourth endless loop component includes the second chain 48.

[0214] For example, the first input rotation center axis of the first input rotator, the first output rotation center axis of the first output rotator, the second input rotation center axis of the second input rotator, and the second output rotation center axis of the second output rotator are configured to be substantially parallel to the first direction X1. In this structural example, the first input rotation center axis of the first input rotator, the first output rotation center axis of the first output rotator, the second input rotation center axis of the second input rotator, and the second output rotation center axis of the second output rotator are configured parallel to the first direction X1. For example, the first output rotation center axis of the first output rotator and the second input rotation center axis of the second input rotator are configured coaxially.

[0215] For example, the first output rotating body is offset relative to the second input rotating body in the first direction X1 and is coaxially configured with the second input rotating body. For example, the first output rotating body is offset further than the first plane A1 relative to the second input rotating body in the first direction X1. For example, the first output rotating body is configured to rotate integrally with the second input rotating body. For example, the first output rotating body and the second input rotating body are integrally formed. For example, the first output rotating body is configured to rotate integrally with the second input rotating body and the first rotating component 50.

[0216] For example, in the first direction X1, the second transmission unit is disposed between the first transmission unit and the output unit 26. For example, in the first direction X1, the second transmission unit is disposed between the first transmission unit and the third transmission unit. For example, the transmission unit 10 is arranged in the first direction X1 in the order of the first transmission unit, the second transmission unit, the third transmission unit, the fourth transmission unit, and the output unit 26.

[0217] For example, in this structural example, the first transmission unit corresponds to the first transmission 38. For example, in this structural example, the first input rotating body corresponds to the input rotating body 38A, the first output rotating body corresponds to the output rotating body 38B, and the first endless annular member corresponds to the endless annular member 38C. For example, in this structural example, the plurality of first engaging parts correspond to the plurality of engaging parts 46J. For example, in this structural example, the second transmission unit corresponds to the second transmission 40. In this structural example, the second input rotating body corresponds to the input rotating body 40A, the second output rotating body corresponds to the output rotating body 40B, and the second endless annular member corresponds to the endless annular member 40C. For example, in this structural example, the plurality of second engaging parts correspond to the plurality of engaging parts 48J.

[0218] <Second Implementation>

[0219] refer to Figure 14 and Figure 15 The transmission unit 10 of the second embodiment is described below. Except for the structure of the reducer 24, the transmission unit 10 of the second embodiment is the same as that of the transmission unit 10 of the first embodiment. For structures common to the first embodiment, the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment are added, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0220] The reducer 24 of the transmission unit 10 in this embodiment includes a belt-driven reducer. For example, at least one of the first transmission 38, the second transmission 40, the third transmission 42, and the fourth transmission 44 includes a belt-driven reducer. The reducer 24 in this embodiment is configured the same as in the first embodiment, except that at least one of the first transmission 38, the second transmission 40, the third transmission 42, and the fourth transmission 44 includes a belt-driven reducer.

[0221] For example, at least one of the input rotating bodies 38A, 40A, 42A, and 44A includes an input pulley; at least one of the output rotating bodies 38B, 40B, 42B, and 44B includes an output pulley; and at least one of the endless annular components 38C, 40C, 42C, and 44C includes a first belt 60 or a second belt 62. For example, when the first transmission 38 includes a belt-driven reducer, the input rotating body 38A includes an input pulley, the output rotating body 38B includes an output pulley, and the endless annular component 38C includes a first belt 60 or a second belt 62. For example, when the second transmission 40 includes a belt-driven reducer, the input rotating body 40A includes an input pulley, the output rotating body 40B includes an output pulley, and the endless annular component 40C includes a first belt 60 or a second belt 62. For example, when the third transmission 42 includes a belt-driven reducer, the input rotating body 42A includes an input pulley, the output rotating body 42B includes an output pulley, and the endless annular component 42C includes a first belt 60 or a second belt 62. For example, when the fourth transmission 44 includes a belt-driven reducer, the input rotating body 44A includes an input pulley, the output rotating body 44B includes an output pulley, and the endless annular component 44C includes a first belt 60 or a second belt 62.

[0222] For example, the first belt 60 is a flat belt including a plurality of protrusions and a connecting belt. For example, the plurality of protrusions are arranged adjacent to each other in the connecting belt in the second driving direction. For example, the belt spacing width in this embodiment is the distance from the center of the protrusion in the second driving direction to the center of the adjacent protrusion in the second driving direction.

[0223] For example, the spacing width PV2 of the second belt 62 is greater than the spacing width PV1 of the first belt 60. For example, the spacing widths PV1 and PV2 are 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less. For example, the spacing widths PV1 and PV2 are 4.5 mm or more and 8 mm or less. For example, the spacing width PV1 is 4.7625 mm. For example, the spacing width PV2 is 6.35 mm.

[0224] In the first, second, third, and fifth structural examples of the first embodiment, for example, the transmission unit 10 of the second embodiment can be modified such that the first input rotating body includes a first pulley, the first output rotating body includes a second pulley, and the first endless annular component includes a belt. When the first endless annular component in the first, second, third, and fifth structural examples of the first embodiment is modified to include a belt, the belt includes a first belt 60 or a second belt 62.

[0225] The transmission unit 10 in the second embodiment can also be modified to include, for example, a first input rotating body including a first pulley, a first output rotating body including a second pulley, and a first endless annular component including a belt, as in the fourth configuration of the first embodiment. When the first endless annular component is modified to include a belt in the fourth configuration of the first embodiment, the belt includes a first belt 60 or a second belt 62.

[0226] <Third Implementation Method>

[0227] refer to Figure 16 The transmission unit 10 of the third embodiment is described below. Except for the structure of the reducer 24, the transmission unit 10 of the third embodiment is the same as that of the transmission unit 10 of the first embodiment. Therefore, for structures common to the first embodiment, the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment are added, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0228] The transmission unit 10 in this embodiment also includes a planetary gear reducer 64 disposed on the transmission path of the driving force between the input section 22 and the output section 26.

[0229] For example, at least one of the first transmission 38, the second transmission 40, the third transmission 42, and the fourth transmission 44 includes a planetary gear reducer 64. The reducer 24 of this embodiment is structurally the same as that of the first embodiment, except that at least one of the first transmission 38, the second transmission 40, the third transmission 42, and the fourth transmission 44 includes a planetary gear reducer 64.

[0230] For example, the first transmission 38 includes a planetary gear reducer 64, and at least one of the second transmission 40, the third transmission 42, and the fourth transmission 44 includes a chain reducer. For example, the planetary gear reducer 64 includes a sun gear, a ring gear, multiple planetary gears, and a gear carrier. The sun gear is disposed on the outer periphery of the motor output shaft 18 of the motor 16. The sun gear may be integrally formed with the motor output shaft 18, or it may be separately formed from and mounted on the motor output shaft 18. Multiple planetary gears are arranged between the sun gear and the ring gear. The gear carrier supports the multiple planetary gears, which revolve integrally around the sun gear. In this embodiment, driving force is input to the second transmission 40 via the first transmission 38. For example, the input rotating body 40A of the second transmission 40 rotates integrally with the gear carrier of the first transmission 38.

[0231] The transmission unit 10 may also include a gear reducer disposed on the path of driving force transmission between the input section 22 and the output section 26. At least one of the first transmission 38, the second transmission 40, the third transmission 42 and the fourth transmission 44 includes a planetary gear reducer 64, and at least another of the first transmission 38, the second transmission 40, the third transmission 42 and the fourth transmission 44 includes a gear reducer.

[0232] For example, the first transmission 38 includes a planetary gear reducer 64, the second transmission 40 includes a gear reducer, and at least one of the third transmission 42 and the fourth transmission 44 includes a chain reducer. For example, the gear reducer includes an input gear and an output gear. For example, the gear reducer is configured such that the rotational speed of the output gear is lower than the rotational speed of the input gear. The input gear is a rotating body coaxially mounted with the intermediate shaft 36 and inputting driving force via the gear carrier of the first transmission 38. The output gear is a rotating body with a diameter different from that of the input gear and coaxially mounted with the output section 26. For example, the diameter of the output gear is larger than that of the input gear. For example, the output gear is configured to be disposed on the outer circumferential surface of the input rotating shaft 12 and is capable of rotating relative to the input rotating shaft 12. For example, the output gear is configured to rotate together with the input gear by meshing its teeth with the teeth of the input gear. For example, the gear reducer does not include the planetary gear reducer 64.

[0233] In this structural example, the first transmission 38, the second transmission 40, the third transmission 42, and the fourth transmission 44 selectively include any one of a predetermined reducer, a planetary gear reducer 64, and a gear reducer. For example, the combination of the first transmission 38, the second transmission 40, the third transmission 42, and the fourth transmission 44 can be selected from the selection examples E21 to E30 in Table 2.

[0234] Table 2

[0235] First transmission section Second transmission section Third transmission section Fourth transmission section Example E21 Planetary gear reducer Pre-ordered reducer Pre-ordered reducer Pre-ordered reducer Example E22 Planetary gear reducer Gear reducer Pre-ordered reducer Pre-ordered reducer Example E23 Planetary gear reducer Gear reducer Gear reducer Pre-ordered reducer Example E24 Planetary gear reducer Gear reducer Gear reducer Gear reducer Example E25 Planetary gear reducer Planetary gear reducer Pre-ordered reducer Pre-ordered reducer Example E26 Planetary gear reducer Planetary gear reducer Gear reducer Pre-ordered reducer Example E27 Planetary gear reducer Planetary gear reducer Gear reducer Gear reducer Example E28 Planetary gear reducer Planetary gear reducer Planetary gear reducer Pre-ordered reducer Example E29 Planetary gear reducer Planetary gear reducer Planetary gear reducer Gear reducer Example E30 Planetary gear reducer Planetary gear reducer Planetary gear reducer Planetary gear reducer

[0236] <Variation Example>

[0237] The descriptions of each embodiment are examples of possible arrangements of the power transmission unit 10 for a manually driven vehicle according to the present invention, and are not intended to limit its arrangements. The power transmission unit 10 for a manually driven vehicle according to the present invention can, for example, take variations of the embodiments shown below, as well as combinations of at least two non-contradictory variations. In the following variations, for parts common to the embodiments, the same reference numerals as in the embodiments are added, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0238] • When viewed from the first direction X1, the motor rotation center axis C1, the intermediate shaft center axis C4, and the output section rotation center axis C2 can be aligned on a straight line. For example, as Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown, the motor rotation center axis C1, the intermediate shaft center axis C4, and the output section rotation center axis C2 are arranged on a first straight line. For example, the intermediate shaft center axis C4 is arranged between the motor rotation center axis C1 and the output section rotation center axis C2. For example, the intermediate shaft center axis C4 is arranged at a position closer to the output section rotation center axis C2 than the motor rotation center axis C1.

[0239] • The output rotating body 40B can be coaxially arranged with the motor output shaft 18. For example, as Figure 19 As shown, the output rotating body 40B is configured to be disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the motor output shaft 18 and capable of rotating relative to the motor output shaft 18. For example, the input rotating body 42A is a rotating body coaxially disposed with the motor output shaft 18. For example, the input rotating body 42A is configured to be disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the motor output shaft 18 and capable of rotating relative to the motor output shaft 18. For example, the second rotating member 52 is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the motor output shaft 18. When the output rotating body 40B is coaxially disposed with the motor output shaft 18, the combination of the transmissions corresponding to the first transmission unit, the second transmission unit, the third transmission unit, and the fourth transmission unit can be selected from the selection examples in Table 3. In selection examples E41 and E42, the first input rotating body and the second input rotating body are configured to be capable of rotating relative to the motor output shaft 18. In selection examples E43 and E44, the first input rotating body and the second output rotating body are configured to be capable of rotating relative to the motor output shaft 18. In selection examples E45 and E46, the first output rotating body and the second input rotating body are configured to rotate relative to the motor output shaft 18.

[0240] Table 3

[0241] First transmission section Second transmission section Third transmission section Fourth transmission section Example E41 First Transmission Third transmission Second transmission Fourth transmission Example E42 First Transmission Third transmission Fourth transmission Second transmission Example E43 First Transmission Second transmission Third transmission Fourth transmission Example E44 First Transmission Second transmission Fourth transmission Third transmission Select Example E45 Second transmission First Transmission Third transmission Fourth transmission Example E46 Second transmission First Transmission Fourth transmission Third transmission

[0242] The first output rotator and the second input rotator can be configured to be mounted on the intermediate shaft 36 and unable to rotate relative to the intermediate shaft 36. For example, the first output rotator and the second input rotator can be configured to rotate relative to the third output rotator and the fourth input rotator. For example, the intermediate shaft 36 can be configured to rotate relative to the housing 14. For example, as... Figure 20 As shown, the transmission unit 10 includes a pair of seventh bearings 66, and the intermediate shaft 36 is supported on the housing 14 via the pair of seventh bearings 66. For example, the seventh bearings 66 can be ball bearings, roller bearings, or sliding bearings. Figure 20The output rotating body 42B and input rotating body 44A shown can be integrally formed with the intermediate shaft 36, and the output rotating body 38B and input rotating body 40A are configured to be able to rotate relative to the intermediate shaft 36. Figure 20 The third rotating component 54 shown is integrally formed with the intermediate shaft 36, while the first rotating component 50 is separately formed with the intermediate shaft 36. The output rotating body 38B and the input rotating body 40A can be integrally formed with the intermediate shaft 36, and the output rotating body 42B and the input rotating body 44A can be configured to rotate relative to the intermediate shaft 36.

[0243] • When the endless loop components 38C, 40C, 42C, and 44C include a chain, the chain may include a silent chain.

[0244] • In the first embodiment, at least one of the first transmission 38, the second transmission 40, the third transmission 42 and the fourth transmission 44 may be disposed outside the housing 14.

[0245] In the first embodiment, at least one of the first transmission 38, the second transmission 40, the third transmission 42, and the fourth transmission 44 can be configured on the human-powered drive force transmission path between the input rotary shaft 12 and the output unit 26. When at least one of the first transmission 38, the second transmission 40, the third transmission 42, and the fourth transmission 44 is configured on the human-powered drive force transmission path, human-powered drive force can be input to the first transmission 38. Human-powered drive force can be input to the output unit 26 via at least one of the first transmission 38, the second transmission 40, the third transmission 42, and the fourth transmission 44.

[0246] The transmission unit 10 may include a speed increaser. When the transmission unit 10 includes a speed increaser, at least one of the first, second, third, and fourth speed change sections may constitute a speed increaser. For example, at least one of the first, second, third, and fourth speed change sections may constitute a speed increaser, and the other speed change sections of the first, second, third, and fourth speed change sections may constitute a speed reducer 24.

[0247] The transmission unit 10 may include more than one transmission in addition to the first transmission 38, the second transmission 40, the third transmission 42, and the fourth transmission 44. When the transmission unit 10 includes more than one transmission in addition to the first transmission 38, the second transmission 40, the third transmission 42, and the fourth transmission 44, the driving force input to the input unit 22 is output from the output unit 26 via the first transmission 38, the second transmission 40, the third transmission 42, the fourth transmission 44, and more than one transmission. For example, in Figure 19In the illustrated structure, the transmission unit 10 may include a fifth transmission and a sixth transmission. For example, the fifth transmission is disposed within the internal space SA of the housing 14 and is located within the housing 14. For example, the fifth transmission includes an input rotating body, an output rotating body, and an endless annular component.

[0248] For example, the fifth transmission changes the rotational speed of its input rotating body, causing its output rotating body to rotate. The input rotating body of the fifth transmission is a rotating body coaxially arranged with the intermediate shaft 36 and receiving driving force from the output rotating body 42B of the third transmission 42. For example, the input rotating body of the fifth transmission is configured to be disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the intermediate shaft 36 and rotate integrally with the intermediate shaft 36. The output rotating body of the fifth transmission is a rotating body with a diameter different from that of the input rotating body and is disposed on the motor output shaft 18. For example, the diameter of the output rotating body of the fifth transmission is larger than the diameter of the input rotating body. For example, the output rotating body of the fifth transmission is configured to be disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the motor output shaft 18 and be able to rotate relative to the motor output shaft 18. The endless annular portion of the fifth transmission is a component wound around the input rotating body and the output rotating body of the fifth transmission. The input rotating body and the output rotating body of the fifth transmission are integrally rotatably connected by the endless annular portion of the fifth transmission.

[0249] For example, a sixth transmission is disposed within the internal space SA of housing 14 and is installed within housing 14. For example, the sixth transmission includes an input rotating body, an output rotating body, and an endless annular component. For example, the sixth transmission changes the rotational speed of the input rotating body, causing the output rotating body of the sixth transmission to rotate. The input rotating body of the sixth transmission is a rotating body coaxially disposed with the motor output shaft 18 and receives driving force from the output rotating body of the fifth transmission. The input rotating body of the sixth transmission and the output rotating body of the fifth transmission are integrally formed. For example, the input rotating body of the sixth transmission is configured to be disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the intermediate shaft 36 and rotate integrally with the intermediate shaft 36. The output rotating body of the sixth transmission is a rotating body with a diameter different from that of the input rotating body of the sixth transmission and is disposed on the motor output shaft 18. For example, the diameter of the output rotating body of the sixth transmission is larger than the diameter of the input rotating body of the sixth transmission. For example, the output rotating body of the sixth transmission is configured to be disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the motor output shaft 18 and is capable of rotating relative to the motor output shaft 18. The endless annular portion of the sixth transmission is a component wound around the input rotating body of the sixth transmission and the output rotating body of the fifth transmission. For example, the input rotating body 44A of the fourth transmission 44 is configured to rotate integrally with the output rotating body of the sixth transmission.

[0250] For example, when the second transmission 40 is selected as the first transmission unit and the fifth transmission is selected as the second transmission unit, the first output rotating body and the second output rotating body are arranged on the intermediate shaft 36 in such a way that they can rotate relative to the motor output shaft 18.

[0251] As used in this specification, "at least one" means "one or more" of the desired options. As an example, if there are two options, "at least one" as used in this specification means "only one option" or "both of the two options." As another example, if there are three or more options, "at least one" as used in this specification means "only one option" or "any combination of two or more options."

[0252] Symbol explanation:

[0253] 10…Transmission unit; 12…Input rotary shaft; 14…Housing; 16…Motor; 22…Input section; 24…Reducer; 26…Output section; 30…First one-way clutch; 34…Second one-way clutch; 64…Planetary gear reducer.

Claims

1. A transmission unit for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: case; An input section is configured to be disposed in the housing and have a motor output shaft, wherein the motor output shaft is used for driving force input; A first transmission unit is disposed in the housing, and the driving force is input to the first transmission unit via the input unit; The second transmission unit is disposed in the housing, and the driving force is input to the second transmission unit via the first transmission unit; intermediate shaft; An output section is configured to be rotatably disposed on the housing, and the driving force is input to the output section via the second speed change section; The first transmission unit includes a first input rotating body, a first output rotating body with a diameter different from that of the first input rotating body, and a first endless annular component wound around the first input rotating body and the first output rotating body. The first input rotating body is coaxially configured with the motor output shaft, and the driving force is input from the motor output shaft to the first input rotating body. The first output rotating body has a diameter different from that of the first input rotating body and is disposed on the intermediate shaft. The second transmission unit includes a second input rotating body, a second output rotating body with a different diameter than the second input rotating body, and a second endless annular component wound around the second input rotating body and the second output rotating body. The second input rotating body is disposed on the intermediate shaft, and the driving force is input to the second input rotating body via the first output rotating body. The second output rotating body has a different diameter than the second input rotating body and is coaxially configured with the output unit. The first endless annular component includes a plurality of first engaging portions, which engage with the first input rotating body and the first output rotating body respectively, and have a first spacing width in the extending direction of the first endless annular component. The second endless annular component includes a plurality of second engaging portions, which engage with the second input rotator and the second output rotator respectively, and have a second spacing width in the extending direction of the second endless annular component. The first spacing width is different from the second spacing width. The motor rotation center axis of the motor output shaft, the intermediate shaft center axis of the intermediate shaft, and the output rotation center axis of the output section are configured to extend substantially parallel to the first direction and, when viewed from the first direction, are respectively located at the vertices of a triangle.

2. The transmission unit according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes a motor configured to apply propulsion to the human-powered vehicle. The driving force is input from the motor to the input section. The first speed-changing section and the second speed-changing section respectively constitute a speed reducer. The second spacing width is greater than the first spacing width.

3. The transmission unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first output rotating body is configured to rotate integrally with the second input rotating body.

4. The transmission unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first output rotating body and the second input rotating body are integrally formed.

5. The transmission unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, It also includes a third transmission unit, which is disposed in the housing, and the driving force is input to the third transmission unit via the second transmission unit. The driving force is input to the output unit via the third transmission unit. The third transmission unit includes a third input rotating body, a third output rotating body with a diameter different from the third input rotating body, and a third endless annular component wound around the third input rotating body and the third output rotating body. The third endless annular component includes a plurality of third engaging portions, which engage with the third input rotating body and the third output rotating body respectively, and have a third spacing width in the extending direction of the third endless annular component. The third spacing width is different from at least one of the first spacing width and the second spacing width.

6. The transmission unit according to claim 5, wherein, The third speed-changing section constitutes a speed reducer.

7. The transmission unit according to claim 5, wherein, The third spacing width is greater than at least one of the first spacing width and the second spacing width.

8. The transmission unit according to claim 5, wherein, It also includes a fourth transmission unit, which is disposed in the housing, and the driving force is input to the fourth transmission unit via the third transmission unit. The driving force is input to the output unit via the fourth transmission unit. The fourth transmission unit includes a fourth input rotating body, a fourth output rotating body with a diameter different from the fourth input rotating body, and a fourth endless annular component wound around the fourth input rotating body and the fourth output rotating body. The fourth endless annular component includes a plurality of fourth engaging portions, which engage with the fourth input rotator and the fourth output rotator respectively, and have a fourth spacing width in the extending direction of the fourth endless annular component. The fourth spacing width is different from at least one of the first spacing width, the second spacing width, and the third spacing width.

9. The transmission unit according to claim 8, wherein, The fourth speed-changing section constitutes a speed reducer.

10. The transmission unit according to claim 8, wherein, The fourth spacing width is greater than at least one of the first spacing width, the second spacing width, and the third spacing width.

11. The transmission unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The width of the first spacing is 4mm or more and 10mm or less.

12. The transmission unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, It also includes a planetary gear reducer, which is disposed on the transmission path of the driving force between the input and the output.

13. The transmission unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first input rotating body includes a first sprocket. The first output rotating body includes a second sprocket. The first endless ring-shaped component includes a chain.

14. The transmission unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first input rotating body includes a first pulley. The first output rotating body includes a second pulley. The first endless annular component includes a belt.

15. The transmission unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, It also features a first one-way clutch. The first one-way clutch is disposed on the transmission path of the driving force between the input section and the output section.

16. The transmission unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, It also features an input rotary shaft, which is located within the housing and allows for human-powered input. The input rotation center axis of the input rotation shaft is coaxial with the output rotation center axis of the output section.

17. The transmission unit according to claim 16, wherein, At least a portion of the input rotation shaft is housed within the housing. The length of at least a portion of the input rotating shaft housed in the housing along the axial direction of the input rotating shaft is more than 50 mm and less than 70 mm.

18. The transmission unit according to claim 16, wherein, It also has a second one-way clutch. The second one-way clutch is disposed between the input rotating shaft and the output unit on the transmission path of the human driving force.

Images