Drive arrangement for a human-powered vehicle with an eccentric transmission and vehicle having the drive arrangement

Abstract

The invention is based on the object of proposing a drive device for a human-powered vehicle which is compact and which is distinguished by improved efficiency. To this end, a drive device (5) for a human-powered vehicle (1) is proposed, which has a generator module (6) for generating electrical energy, which is used to drive a drive module (7) for generating an electrical drive torque, wherein the generator module (6) has a generator (15), which can be driven by a vehicle user by means of a pedaling force, wherein the generator module (6) has a pedal shaft (14) for transmitting the pedaling force from a pedal (9) to the generator (15), wherein the generator module (6) has a transmission device (16) for transmitting the pedaling force onto the generator (15), wherein the pedal shaft (14) is connected in a transmission-locked manner to the generator (15) via the transmission device (16), and wherein the transmission device (15) is designed as an eccentric transmission (20).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a drive system for a manually operated vehicle. Furthermore, this invention relates to a vehicle having a drive system. Background Technology

[0002] An electric bicycle is known to be able to be driven without a physical drive connection between the pedals and the rear wheel. The rider drives a generator via the pedals to produce current, which supplies current to a drive motor connected to the rear wheel. Therefore, in this drive system, physical drive connections, such as chains, belts, or universal joints, can be eliminated. To increase crankshaft speed and correspondingly reduce torque, conventional transmission types are typically used, such as single-stage or multi-stage planetary transmissions, Wolffrom kits, etc., to enable the use of generators with low torque and correspondingly small structural size.

[0003] Publication DE 59709997 D1 discloses a vehicle, particularly a bicycle, that can be operated by muscle force. The bicycle has a generator that can be driven by the user to produce electricity, and at least one electric motor for driving the vehicle, the electric motor being connected to the generator to transmit electrical power. In particular, a speed-increasing gearbox is provided between the pedals for driving the generator and the generator, wherein the gearbox is a planetary gearbox, which is preferably at least partially housed within the generator. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present invention provides a drive mechanism for a human-powered vehicle, which is compact and characterized by improved efficiency.

[0005] The object of this invention is a drive mechanism configured and / or suitable for use in a human-powered vehicle. In particular, the vehicle is configured as an electric bicycle, also known as an E-Bike. In principle, a bicycle can have exactly two wheels. Alternatively, the vehicle can, however, have more than two, especially three or exactly four wheels.

[0006] The drive unit can be coupled to the drive module; alternatively, the drive module forms part of the drive unit. The drive module is used to generate electric driving torque. The drive module preferably includes at least one electric motor that converts electrical energy into electric driving torque. Here, the drive module, especially the electric motor, can be and / or is connected to at least one or exactly one drive wheel of the vehicle in a driving manner. In principle, the drive module is configured as a hub drive, which is integrated into the drive wheel of the vehicle. Alternatively, the drive module can also be located outside the drive wheel and / or used as a central drive motor for one or more drive wheels. In principle, the drive wheel is configured as the rear wheel of the vehicle. Alternatively, the drive wheel can also be configured as the front wheel of the vehicle.

[0007] The drive unit has a generator module configured and / or adapted to generate electrical energy for an electric motor. The generator module is particularly configured separately from the drive module. The generator module has a generator capable of being driven by a vehicle user via pedal force. Specifically, the generator produces electrical power derived from the torque and speed applied at the generator. Preferably, the vehicle user can change the magnitude of the electrical power in relation to the pedal force or pedaling frequency. Preferably, the drive unit has a control device configured to control the drive torque and / or drive speed in relation to the pedal force and / or pedaling frequency. Particularly preferably, the generator is not configured to enable operation as a drive motor and / or can only operate in generator operation. Alternatively, the generator can operate as an electric motor to, for example, position the crankshaft in a specific location.

[0008] The generator module has a pedal shaft configured and / or adapted to transmit foot force to the generator. Specifically, pedals are provided at each end of the pedal shaft, via which the foot force is directed into the pedal shaft. The pedal shaft is rotatably supported within the generator module. Preferably, the pedal shaft defines the main axis of rotation of the generator module by means of its axis of rotation. The pedal shaft extends continuously from one pedal to the other.

[0009] The generator module has a transmission device configured and / or adapted to transmit pedal force to the generator. The pedal shaft is connected to the generator via the transmission device in a driving manner. Specifically, the transmission device is used for speed-up transmission (magnitude (i) < 1), where the rotational speed at the generator increases and the torque transmitted to the generator decreases.

[0010] Within the scope of this invention, the transmission device is configured as an eccentric transmission. Specifically, the eccentric transmission has: a transmission input end, particularly an input mechanism; and a transmission output end, particularly an output mechanism, wherein a pedal shaft is disposed on the input side and a generator is disposed on the output side. In particular, the force transmission path for transmitting pedal force extends from the pedal shaft through the eccentric transmission to the generator. The pedal shaft is axially guided about the main rotation axis through the eccentric transmission and / or coaxially disposed with the eccentric transmission.

[0011] The advantages of this invention are particularly evident in the use of an eccentric gearbox, which results in a particularly low-noise gearbox with a compact structure. This enables a generator module characterized by a small structural space. In contrast to application-specifically designed planetary gear stages, the corresponding research and development costs, such as time, cost, and risk, are eliminated. Furthermore, the eccentric gearbox allows for a centrally located shaft, which is a fundamental prerequisite for use in bicycles with pedals on both sides.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the eccentric transmission has a roller carrier with driving rollers as a first mechanism. The roller carrier is particularly preferably configured as a roller disc. The driving rollers are regularly distributed in a circumferential direction around a common pitch circle of the main axis. The driving rollers extend axially and / or parallel to the main axis. Furthermore, the eccentric transmission has at least one cam disc. The cam disc has a driving member opening for the driving rollers and an eccentric wheel receiving opening in the center. The free diameter of the driving member opening is configured to be larger than the diameter of the driving roller. In particular, the cam disc is configured as a flat disc. At the outer circumference, the cam disc has a curved shape. The eccentric transmission has a hollow wheel section as a second mechanism. The hollow wheel section can be configured as a single piece or multiple pieces. At least one cam disc rotates on the hollow wheel section by means of its outer circumference during operation. The eccentric transmission has an eccentric shaft as an output mechanism. The eccentric shaft has at least one eccentric wheel section, wherein the eccentric wheel section has a circular cross-section. The eccentric wheel section engages with the central eccentric wheel receiving opening. Preferably, a disc bearing device is provided between the eccentric wheel section and the eccentric wheel receiving opening to reduce friction.

[0013] The curved shape of at least one cam disc and the internal contour of the hollow wheel section can, in principle, be arbitrarily configured, as long as they can perform the function of an eccentric gearbox. Particularly preferably, the eccentric gearbox is configured as a cycloidal gearbox, wherein the cycloidal shape is shown through the outer circumference of at least one cam disc.

[0014] In another specific embodiment, a generator module is proposed to have a stator and a rotor, wherein an eccentric shaft is torsionally connected to the rotor. Therefore, during operation, the pedal torque is transmitted to the rotor via an eccentric transmission, causing the rotor to rotate relative to the stator about the main rotation axis. In particular, the eccentric shaft is preferably at least fixedly connected to the rotor in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting and / or material-fitting manner. Alternatively, the eccentric shaft and the rotor can also be formed from a common material segment. Preferably, the eccentric shaft is arranged coaxially and / or concentrically with the rotor about the main rotation axis. Thus, a generator module is proposed, characterized by a particularly compact structure.

[0015] In another specific implementation, the eccentric shaft is proposed to have a hollow shaft section for threading the pedal shaft, wherein the pedal shaft is rotatably supported at the inner circumference of the hollow shaft section. Specifically, the hollow shaft section has at least one bearing housing at its inner circumference for a bearing assembly, preferably a rolling bearing, via which the pedal shaft is rotatably supported at the hollow shaft section. Preferably, the rotor is torsionally mounted at the outer circumference of the hollow shaft section.

[0016] In a preferred implementation, the eccentric transmission has a gear ratio less than 1:30 between the transmission input and output. Preferably, the eccentric transmission has a gear ratio between 1:30 and 1:100. More preferably, the eccentric transmission has a gear ratio of 1:50. In this manner, a high pedal torque (in the range of approximately up to 200 Nm) generated by the driver at a low speed (in the range of 30 to 120 rpm) at the transmission input is converted to a smaller torque at a high speed at the transmission output.

[0017] In principle, the drive roller can be rigidly mounted on the roller carrier. However, it is preferable that the drive roller has a bolt, a roller support device, and a roller sleeve for transmitting torque to one or more cam discs. Preferably, the roller sleeve is configured as a non-cutting part and / or a shaped part. The bolt is fixed to the roller carrier. A roller support device is provided between the bolt and the roller sleeve. In principle, it can be a sliding support device; preferably, the roller support device is configured as a rolling element support device. With the above design, low-noise operation with low frictional loss can be achieved in the generator module.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the eccentric transmission has two cam disks that are diametrically opposed and / or oppositely offset, for example, by 180° in a circumferential direction within the disk plane. The cam disks are preferably arranged axially abutting each other. Preferably, the cam disks are arranged in contact with each other and / or slide over each other during operation. This implementation reduces lateral forces in the eccentric transmission.

[0019] In another specific implementation, the generator module is proposed to have a housing that is configured and / or adapted to house the generator and the eccentric transmission. Specifically, the generator and the eccentric transmission are fully housed within the housing. Preferably, a pedal shaft is partially guided through the housing, wherein the pedal shaft is radially supported at the housing via at least one additional bearing assembly, preferably a rolling bearing. The housing can be constructed in multiple pieces, preferably in two pieces. In particular, the housing has receiving spaces for accommodating the eccentric transmission and the generator, wherein the eccentric transmission and the generator are form-fitted within the housing about the main rotation axis in the axial and / or radial directions. Preferably, the stator is fixedly connected to the housing.

[0020] In another specific embodiment, an eccentric transmission, pedal shaft, and generator are proposed to be arranged coaxially and / or concentrically about the main rotational axis. Therefore, an eccentric transmission is proposed, characterized by a small axial structural width and a simultaneously rotationally symmetrical construction.

[0021] In a preferred implementation, the roller carrier forms the input mechanism of the transmission, particularly the input mechanism of an eccentric transmission. Specifically, the roller carrier is torsionally connected to the pedal shaft. In this design, the generator module can be implemented in a particularly compact manner. Thus, the eccentric transmission can operate approximately "rearward," which is possible because the eccentric transmission does not have a self-locking mechanism. In this design, the hollow wheel section is torsionally arranged. For example, the hollow wheel section is torsionally fixed in the housing or formed through the housing.

[0022] In an improved embodiment of the invention, the hollow wheel section includes a plurality of bolt sections axially and regularly distributed along a circumferential direction. It is proposed that at least one cam disk rotates on the bolt sections. Particularly preferably, the bolt sections are configured as cylindrical pins, particularly hard cylindrical pins, which can be inserted, for example, into the housing of the generator module or a hole in the housing, or alternatively into a rotatable support member serving as the hollow wheel section. In this manner, the function of the hollow wheel section can be achieved with optimized cost and structural space.

[0023] In an alternative design, the hollow wheel section forms the input mechanism in the gearbox. Specifically, the roller bearings are rigidly arranged. This design, however, results in a slightly larger structural configuration.

[0024] In one possible design, the pedal shaft has a shaft section and a shaft extension for connection to the pedal. The shaft section preferably extends through the generator. Optionally, the shaft section and shaft extension can be releasably connected to each other. In particular, the shaft extension and shaft section can be inserted into each other. Therefore, an intermediate member in the form of a shaft extension between the shaft section and the pedal is proposed. In this way, the interface with the shaft section and the interface with the pedal can be designed independently of each other, thus fulfilling functional requirements separately. Furthermore, design leeway is created for the configuration of the shaft extension, allowing it to also functionally match between the interfaces. Particularly preferred is that the input mechanism is integrally formed with the shaft extension. Thus, the transmission input end driven by the pedal shaft is integrally formed with the associated shaft extension. This eliminates the need for otherwise additional, required torque-transmitting connections between the shaft extension and the components for the transmission input end. Furthermore, the shaft extension is associated with another function. For example, the shaft extension is integrally formed with a roller bearing or a hollow wheel section.

[0025] In a preferred improvement, the maximum outer diameter of the shaft extension is greater than the maximum outer diameter of the shaft section in the region of the generator. Alternatively or additionally, the maximum outer diameter of the shaft extension is configured to be greater than the minimum free diameter passing through the generator. This improvement is based on the consideration that the outer diameter of the pedal shaft is limited by the generator. On the other hand, it is advantageous that the pedal acts on the pedal shaft via a larger diameter. A design of at least two pieces is possible, in which the shaft section is introduced into the generator and pushed through the generator and subsequently connected to the shaft extension, wherein the shaft extension has a larger outer diameter than the shaft section to couple the pedal.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the shaft segment and the shaft extension are connected to each other in a circumferentially shaped manner. For example, the interlocking teeth are particularly suitable for use with teeth extending in the axial direction. Alternatively, polygonal connectors, especially those with a P3G profile (triangle) or a P4C profile (quadrilateral), can be used. This shaft-hub connection ensures reliable torque transmission. Preferably, the shaft segment and the shaft extension are screwed together in a coaxial direction. Here, it is particularly preferred that coaxial shaft screws be used, which are screwed into the shaft segment.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the shaft extension has an internal thread for receiving a second coaxial shaft screw to secure the pedal. Specifically, the first and second coaxial shaft screws are arranged sequentially along the axial direction. This results in a particularly stable pedal shaft.

[0028] Optionally, the drive unit includes one or more pedals, wherein the pedals are fitted onto the shaft extension and are shaped-fitted with the shaft extension in a circumferential direction. Furthermore, the drive unit includes a second coaxial shaft screw for securing the pedals, the second coaxial shaft screw being screwed into an internal thread. The second coaxial shaft screw is preferably a crank screw, such as an ISIS crank screw. This is achieved through the shaft extension, providing sufficient radial structural space for the second coaxial shaft screw.

[0029] On the opposite side, the pedal shaft has another pedal. Preferably, another shaft extension is provided, wherein in one possible design, the shaft segment and the other shaft extension are integrally formed. In this design, the shaft segment can be pushed across the generator from the axial side segment by means of the integral shaft extension and then connected to the separate shaft extension. Preferably, the integrally connected shaft extension is provided on the side opposite to the transmission, such that on the transmission side, the shaft extension and the input mechanism can be integrally formed. This allows both shaft extensions to have a larger outer diameter than the shaft segment.

[0030] In another possible design, the additional shaft extension is detachably connected to the shaft segment. In particular, the additional shaft extension is constructed identically to or mirror-symmetrically with the shaft extension structure described above.

[0031] In another design, the generator module is proposed to be directly connected to the drive module via electrical lines to provide electrical energy. Specifically, the motor is thus directly fed current generated by the generator. Alternatively or as a supplementary option, the generator module is connected to the drive module indirectly via an energy storage module to provide electrical energy. Specifically, the energy storage module is configured as a battery, which is fed by the generator during operation and can also be charged by an external current source. Specifically, the motor can thus be fed by the electrical energy stored in the energy storage module.

[0032] Another subject of the invention relates to a vehicle having a drive mechanism as described above. In particular, the vehicle is configured as a human-powered vehicle, especially a bicycle, driven by an electric motor. Specifically, the vehicle is characterized in that the electrical energy required by the electric motor is generated at least in part by the driver via a generator module. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Other features, advantages, and effects of the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention and the accompanying drawings. Hereinafter:

[0034] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a vehicle having a drive device as an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0035] Figure 2A cross-sectional view of the generator module of the drive unit is shown;

[0036] Figure 3 Show Figure 2 A 3D diagram of the transmission unit in the image;

[0037] Figure 4 Show Figure 2 and 3 Axial top view of the transmission unit in the middle;

[0038] Figure 5 Show Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the alternative transmission device to the drive unit in the diagram.

[0039] Corresponding or identical parts are given the same reference numerals in the figure. Detailed Implementation

[0040] Figure 1 A human-powered vehicle 1 is shown in a strongly simplified view. The vehicle 1 is configured as a bicycle, which is essentially formed by a frame 2, a front wheel 3, and a rear wheel 4.

[0041] Vehicle 1 has a drive unit 5 for driving the rear wheels 4. The rear wheels 4 thus form the drive wheels of vehicle 1, while the front wheels 3 remain undriven. Optionally, however, it may be proposed that the front wheels 3 are driven.

[0042] The drive unit 5 includes a generator module 6, and optionally a drive module 7 and an energy storage module 8. The generator module 6 is located in the area of ​​the pedal bearings and is actuated by the vehicle user via foot force to generate electrical energy for the drive module 7. The generator module 6 has two pedals 9 arranged opposite each other, which are rotated by foot force to generate electrical power within the generator module 6.

[0043] The vehicle does not have a mechanical drive connection between the pedal 9 and the drive wheel 4. The generator module 6 is electrically connected to the drive module 6 and / or the energy storage module 8 only via the electrical line 10 to provide the electrical energy required by the drive module 7. The drive module 7 can be configured, for example, as a hub motor integrated into the rear wheel 4, which transmits electric drive torque to the rear wheel 4. The drive module 7 can be supplied directly by the electrical energy generated by the generator module 6 or indirectly by the electrical energy stored in the energy storage module 8. The energy storage module 8 can be fed by the generator module 6 during driving and additionally charged by an external current source. Optionally, the electrical energy provided by the generator module 6 can be used by a consumer 11, such as a lamp.

[0044] Figure 2A longitudinal section of the generator module 6 along the main rotation axis H is shown. The generator module 6 has a pedal shaft 14, which defines the main rotation axis H by means of its rotation axis. In the installation case, a pedal 9 is mounted on the end side at the pedal shaft 14.

[0045] The generator module 6 includes a generator 15 and a transmission unit 16, both housed within a housing 17. The generator 15 has a stator 18 and a rotor 19, with the pedal shaft 14 connected to the transmission input of the transmission unit 16 and the rotor 19 connected to the transmission output. The stator 18 is fixed to the housing 17 to remain stationary. The transmission unit 16 transmits the pedal torque introduced into the pedal shaft 14 to the generator 18.

[0046] The transmission unit 16 is configured as an eccentric transmission 20. The eccentric transmission 20 is coaxial with the generator 15 and pedal shaft 14 about the main rotation axis H and is shaped-fitted between the generator 15 and the housing 17 in the axial direction. The housing 17 is constructed in two parts, wherein the housing 17 has a housing base 21, which is closed in the axial direction by a housing cover 22. Here, the housing base 21 and the housing cover 22 each have central through openings 23 and 24 for the pedal shaft 14 to pass through the housing 17.

[0047] The eccentric transmission 20, serving as an input mechanism, has a roller carrier 25, which is torsionally mounted to the pedal shaft 14. Additionally, it includes two cam discs 26 and 27, each having an eccentric wheel receiving opening 48. Figure 3 ) and multiple eccentric drive openings 49 ( Figure 3 Cam discs 26 and 27 are arranged opposite to each other to reduce lateral forces during operation. Roller carrier 25 has a plurality of drive rollers 28, wherein the drive rollers 28 engage in drive openings 49 of cam discs 26 and 27 such that the cam discs are driven in the circumferential direction by the drive rollers 28 and then by the roller carrier 26.

[0048] The eccentric transmission 20 has a hollow wheel section 29, which has a plurality of axially extending bolt sections 50. The bolt sections 50 are configured as rigid cylindrical pins that are pushed into holes in the housing 17. The outer circumferences of the cam discs 26, 27 are corrugated, and the corrugations are only partially, more precisely, staggered by 180 degrees, engaged with the hollow wheel section 29. In particular, the corrugations are configured as cycloidal shapes.

[0049] The output mechanism of the eccentric transmission 20 is configured as a hollow shaft 30, which has two eccentric wheel sections 31 and 32, respectively, which are engaged with the eccentric wheel receiving openings of the cam discs 26 and 27 via disc bearing devices 33 and 34. The hollow shaft 30 is torsionally connected to the rotor 19. When the pedal shaft 14 rotates, the roller bearing 25 also rotates, increasing the rotational speed. In a preferred embodiment, the eccentric transmission 20 has a gear ratio less than 1:30 between the transmission input and output. Preferably, the eccentric transmission 20 has a gear ratio between 1:30 and 1:100. Preferably, the eccentric transmission 20 has a gear ratio of 1:50. In this manner, at a low speed (in the range of 30 to 120 1 / min) at the transmission input / input mechanism, the high pedal torque (in the range of approximately 200 Nm) generated by the driver is converted into a smaller torque at a high speed at the transmission output / output mechanism.

[0050] In this embodiment, the pedal shaft 14 has three sub-components: a central shaft section 35 and shaft extensions 36 and 37, which are mounted end-to-end on the central shaft section 35. The shaft section 35 is coaxial with the rotor 19 and is disposed in the same axial segment as the rotor 19. Specifically, the shaft section 35 extends beyond the rotor 19 on both sides along the axial direction. The maximum outer diameter of the shaft section 35 is here determined to be smaller than the free inner diameter of the rotor 19 and / or the hollow shaft 30. The shaft extensions 36 and 37 are mounted end-to-end on the shaft section 35. For this purpose, the shaft extensions 36 and 37 have receiving portions 38 and 39 into which the corresponding ends of the shaft section 35 are inserted. The receiving portions 38 and 39, respectively, form a shaft-hub connection with the ends of the shaft section 35 in a circumferential direction. For example, they can be polygonal connections or toothed joints. For axial fastening and / or fixing of the shaft extensions 36 and 37, first shaft screws 40 and 41 are screwed into the shaft section 35, and the first shaft screws fix the shaft extensions 36 and 37 in the axial direction by means of the screw heads. In this way, the shaft extensions 36 and 37 each have a first interface with the shaft section 35.

[0051] A foot pedal 9 is mounted on the axially outer side of the shaft extensions 36 and 37 and secured by second shaft screws 42 and 43. These second shaft screws are screwed into the internal threads 12 and 13 of the shaft extensions 36 and 37, respectively, and the screw heads secure the foot pedal 9 axially. Thus, the shaft extensions 36 and 37 each have a second interface with the corresponding foot pedal 9. The first and second shaft screws 40 and 42 or 41 and 43 are arranged axially in sequence.

[0052] Achieving this through a releasable connection between the shaft extensions 36 and 37 and the shaft section 35, the shaft extensions 36 and 37 can have a larger maximum outer diameter than the shaft section 35, while still meeting installation requirements. Another advantage is that the first and second interfaces can be designed to meet load requirements without considering the limitation of the maximum outer diameter, which must push past the rotor 19 during installation. The first and second interfaces are axially offset from each other so that they do not interfere with each other in design.

[0053] Another advantage is that additional functions can be achieved at the outer circumference of the shaft extensions 36 and 37:

[0054] Therefore, the generator module 6 has bearing devices 44 and 45, which are configured as rolling bearing devices, particularly as ball bearing devices. The bearing devices 44 and 45 support the pedal shaft 14 relative to the housing 17 and the housing section of the housing 17. Here, the shaft extensions 36 and 37 are respectively configured as bearing mating members for the bearing devices 44 and 45, and respectively support the inner ring of the bearing devices 44 and 45 at their outer circumference. The corresponding outer rings are provided in the housing 17. By configuring the outer diameter of the shaft extensions 36 and 37 to be larger than the outer diameter of the shaft section 35, larger diameter bearing devices 44 and 45 can be used, enabling higher rigidity of the bearing devices 44 and 45 together with the stable assembly formed by the shaft section 35 and the shaft extensions 36 and 37.

[0055] Furthermore, the generator module 6 has sealing devices 46 and 47 that seal the pedal shaft 14 relative to the housing 17 at corresponding through openings 23 and 24. The sealing devices 46 and 47 extend at shaft extensions 36 and 37. The shaft extensions 36 and 37 thus form sealing mating elements at the sealing devices 46 and 47. Therefore, it is not necessary to introduce the seals into the housing 17.

[0056] Furthermore, in generator module 6, the roller carrier 25 of the eccentric transmission 20 is integrally formed with the shaft extension 36 as the transmission input end / input mechanism. Therefore, the shaft extension 36 performs additional functions. This provides a particular advantage by eliminating the need for a shaft-hub connection between the pedal shaft 14 and the transmission unit 16.

[0057] As is common in traditional bicycles, pedal axles cannot be constructed larger in diameter on both sides (e.g., to stably accommodate pedals with, for example, ISIS teeth), because the centrally located component would otherwise be unable to fit. If the component were constructed larger in diameter, the overall outer diameter of the module would also (unnecessarily) increase, which would increase structural space, cost, and weight.

[0058] If, in order to accommodate the pedals, a corresponding DIN tooth is selected, with a small diameter sufficient to allow all components to be fitted from the shaft end, then a pedal specially manufactured for this purpose must be used. This significantly limits the choice of crank length, design, crank offset (Q factor / subposition width) due to the small number of pieces, or makes it more expensive.

[0059] If replacing a specific pedal simply involves plugging a crank adapter into a continuous pedal shaft to enable the use of a standard crank (such as ISIS), this can also be achieved with only a small wall thickness, which results in decreased stability and higher costs due to the additional required shaft connection.

[0060] In order to achieve a stable pedal shaft 14, it is proposed that the pedal shaft 14 be constructed in multiple parts (e.g., two or three parts), wherein the pedal shaft has a small diameter in its (axial) middle part, but has a larger diameter at its ends.

[0061] Assembly parts (in such as Figure 2 In the three-piece configuration shown, the central shaft (with a small diameter) consists of a shaft section 35, each having a shaft connection at its end. The shaft connection can be configured as a toothed joint or a P3G polygonal joint. Shaft extensions 36 and 37 are inserted into the shaft connection and preferably axially tightened to the shaft section 35 using first shaft screws 40 and 41. The pedal shaft 14 is supported via one or more shaft extensions 36 and 37, but not via the shaft section 35, thus enabling a stable connection and—contributing to rigidity—allowing the use of larger bearing assemblies 44 and 45. Sealing devices 46 and 47, serving as housing or cover seals, are also continuously provided on the shaft extensions 36 and 37, eliminating the need for seals within the housing 17.

[0062] It is also feasible to construct the shaft extensions 36, 37 of the pedal shaft 14 by one-piece configuration of the shaft end extending from the generator module 6 (unlike radial nesting in a plug-in adapter). Standardized ISIS crank screws can be used as second shaft screws 42, 43, which would be impossible in a plug-in adapter due to the excessively small radial member wall thickness. The transmission input / input mechanism driven by the drive shaft can also be constructed one-piece with the associated shaft extensions 36, 37. This saves on other, otherwise necessary torque-transmitting connections (e.g., plug-in teeth) between the shaft extension 36 and the components for the transmission input / input mechanism (cost, structural space, weight).

[0063] Because inserting other components (transmission parts / bearings, etc.) onto the pedal shaft 14 during installation may only be possible / must be done from one side, the pedal shaft 14 can alternatively be constructed as a single piece. Here, the shaft section 35 and one of the two shaft extensions 36, 37 can be constructed as a single piece. Preferably, this can be done on one side of the generator module 6, where the transmission unit 16 is not located, so that on the transmission side, the shaft extension 36 and the transmission input / input mechanism can be constructed as a single piece. The pedal shaft 14 is supported relative to the hollow shaft 30 and / or the rotor 19 via a rotor bearing assembly 51, which is provided in the end region of the rotor 19 and configured as a rolling element support assembly. Furthermore, the pedal shaft 14 is supported in the region of the transmission unit 16 by a roller support assembly 52 on the hollow shaft 30 and / or the eccentric wheel sections 31, 32.

[0064] Figure 3 A schematic three-dimensional view is shown of a transmission device 16 or an eccentric transmission 20 configured as a cycloidal transmission. An axial top view showing the same components is also provided. Figure 2 and Figure 4 As can be seen in the overview view, each of the drive rollers 28 has a bolt 52, which is fixed in the roller disc 53 of the roller carrier 25, for example, by pressing. Roller sleeves 54 are coaxially mounted on each bolt 52, and the roller sleeves 54 are supported on the bolt via roller support devices 55. The roller support devices 55 are configured as sliding support devices or rolling element support devices. The outer diameter of the drive rollers 28 and / or the roller sleeves 54 is configured to be larger than the drive member opening 54, so that the roller sleeves 54 can roll within the inner circumference of the drive member opening 54. The roller disc 53 is integrally formed with the shaft extension 36, thereby saving on the shaft-hub connection.

[0065] To further reduce frictional losses in the generator module 6, especially in the transmission unit 16 and specifically in the eccentric transmission 20, the transmission space is provided with oil or grease lubrication, wherein the transmission space is separated from the dry space for the generator and electronic devices by an intermediate wall 56 and a seal 57 relative to the hollow shaft 30.

[0066] Figure 5 Showing the use of Figure 1 The second embodiment of the generator module 6 in the drive unit 5. In Figure 5 The image shows a longitudinal section along the principal axis of rotation H, where only the section with respect to the axis of rotation will be discussed below. Figure 2 The difference between generator module 6 and [other modules]. Figure 2 Unlike the generator module 6, the hollow wheel section 29 here is formed to the input mechanism and / or transmission input end in the transmission unit 16 or the eccentric transmission 20. The hollow wheel section 29 is capable of being connected to... Figure 2A similar approach is achieved through multiple bolt sections 50 arranged in a circumferential direction and configured as particularly rigid cylindrical pins. In the illustrated embodiment, the hollow wheel section 29 has a carrier 58, which is torsionally mounted on the pedal shaft 14. However, it is also possible for the carrier 58 to be connected to the shaft extension, such as in... Figure 2 The shaft extension 36 is constructed as a single piece. Furthermore, the pedal shaft 14 can also be constructed as two or more pieces, as in... Figure 2 Like in China.

[0067] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0068] 1 vehicle

[0069] 2. Frame

[0070] 3. Front wheels

[0071] 4 Rear wheels

[0072] 5. Drive unit

[0073] 6 Generator Module

[0074] 7. Driver Module

[0075] 8 Energy Storage Modules

[0076] 9 pedals

[0077] 10 lines

[0078] 11 Consumables

[0079] 12 Internal Thread

[0080] 13 Internal Thread

[0081] 14 Pedal Shaft

[0082] 15 Generators

[0083] 16. Transmission unit

[0084] 17. Casing

[0085] 18 stators

[0086] 19 Rotors

[0087] 20 Eccentric Transmission

[0088] 21. Shell Basic Structure

[0089] 22. Housing cover

[0090] 23. Through opening in the housing cover

[0091] 24. Through openings in the shell base

[0092] 25 Roller bearings

[0093] 26, 27 Cam discs

[0094] 28 Carrying Rollers

[0095] 29 Hollow Gear Section

[0096] 30 Hollow Shaft

[0097] 31, 32 Eccentric wheel section

[0098] 33, 34 Disc bearing assembly

[0099] 35 Shaft Section

[0100] 36, 37 axis extensions

[0101] 38, 39 Reception Section

[0102] 40, 41 First shaft screws

[0103] 42, 43 Second shaft screws

[0104] 44, 45 bearing assembly

[0105] 46, 47 Sealing devices

[0106] 48. Eccentric wheel accommodating opening

[0107] 49. Carrying component opening

[0108] 50 bolt section

[0109] 51 Rotor bearing assembly

[0110] 52 bolts

[0111] 53 Roller Disc

[0112] 54 Roller Sleeve

[0113] 55 Roller support device

[0114] 56 Intermediate wall

[0115] 57 Seals

[0116] 58. Bearing components

[0117] H is the main rotation axis.

Claims

1. Drive device (5) for a human-powered vehicle (1), having a generator module (6) for generating electrical energy, which is used to drive a module (7) for generating an electrical drive torque, wherein the generator module (6) has a generator (15), which can be driven by a user of the vehicle by means of a pedaling force, wherein the generator module (6) has a pedal shaft (14) for transmitting the pedaling force from a pedal (9) to the generator (15), wherein the generator module (6) has a transmission device (16) for transmitting the pedaling force onto the generator (15), wherein the pedal shaft (14) is connected in a transmission manner to the generator (15) via the transmission device (16), characterized in that the transmission device (16) is designed as an eccentric transmission (20), which has, as a first mechanism, a roller carrier (25) with a driving roller (28), at least one cam disk (26, 27) having a driving element opening (49) and a centrally arranged eccentric wheel receiving opening (48), wherein the driving roller (28) engages into the driving element opening (49); as a second mechanism, a hollow wheel section (29), wherein the cam disk (26, 27) runs on the hollow wheel section (29) by means of an outer circumference; and as an output mechanism, an eccentric shaft, wherein the eccentric shaft has at least one eccentric wheel section (31, 32), wherein the eccentric wheel section (31, 32) engages into the centrally arranged eccentric wheel receiving opening (48), the hollow wheel section (29) forming an input mechanism into the eccentric transmission (20).

2. Drive device (5) according to claim 1, characterized in that the driving roller (28) has a peg (52), a roller bearing device (55) and a roller sleeve (54), wherein the roller sleeve (54) is arranged rotatably on the peg (52) via the roller bearing device (55), and wherein the peg (52) is fixed in the roller carrier (25).

3. Drive device (5) according to claim 2, characterized in that the eccentric transmission (20) has two diametrically opposite and / or oppositely staggered cam disks (26, 27).

4. Drive device (5) according to the preceding claim 3, characterized in that the hollow wheel section (29) is formed by a plurality of peg sections (50), wherein the at least one cam disk (26, 27) runs on the peg sections (50).

5. Drive device according to the preceding claim 4, characterized in that the pedal shaft (14) has a shaft section (35) and a shaft extension (36, 37) for connecting to the pedal (9), wherein the shaft section (35) and the shaft extension (36, 37) are releasably connected to one another, and wherein the shaft extension (36, 37) is designed in one piece with the input mechanism.

6. Drive arrangement (5) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a drive module (7) and an energy storage module (8) are provided, wherein for providing electrical energy the generator module (6) is directly connected to the drive module (7) via an electrical line (10) or indirectly connected to the drive module (7) via the energy storage module (8).

7. Vehicle (1) having a drive arrangement (5) according to one of the preceding claims.

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