Control device for human-powered vehicle, power supply device for human-powered vehicle, and assembly for human-powered vehicle

Abstract

The invention provides a control device for a human-powered vehicle, a power supply device for the human-powered vehicle, and a component for the human-powered vehicle, which can supply appropriate power to a power consumption part. A control device for a human-powered vehicle includes a control unit configured to control a voltage conversion unit configured to convert a voltage of power supplied by a power source and to supply the power to a power consumption unit, the control unit being configured to control the voltage conversion unit to convert the voltage of the power supplied by the power source and to supply the power to the power consumption unit. The voltage conversion unit operates in either a first power supply state in which the voltage is converted by pulse width modulation control and power is supplied to the power consumption unit, or a second power supply state in which the voltage is converted by pulse frequency modulation control and power is supplied to the power consumption unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a control device for a human-powered vehicle, a power supply device for a human-powered vehicle, and a component for a human-powered vehicle. Background Art

[0002] For example, the unit for a human-powered vehicle disclosed in Patent Document 1 is operated by electric power supplied from a power source.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-231764. Summary of the invention

[0006] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0007] One of the objects of the present disclosure is to provide a control device for a human-powered vehicle, a power supply device for a human-powered vehicle, and a component for a human-powered vehicle, which are capable of supplying appropriate electric power to a power consumption unit.

[0008] Means used to solve problems

[0009] According to the first aspect of the present disclosure, the control device is a control device for a human-powered vehicle and comprises: a control unit, which is configured to control a voltage conversion unit, the voltage conversion unit being configured to convert the voltage of the power supplied by a power source and supply the power to a power consumption unit, the control unit being configured to control the voltage conversion unit so that the voltage conversion unit operates in either a first power supply state in which the voltage is converted by pulse width modulation control and the power is supplied to the power consumption unit, and a second power supply state in which the voltage is converted by pulse frequency modulation control and the power is supplied to the power consumption unit.

[0010] According to the control device of the first aspect, since the control unit operates the voltage conversion unit in either the first power supply state or the second power supply state, the voltage conversion unit can convert the power supplied by the power supply into appropriate power. Therefore, the control device can supply appropriate power to the power consumption unit.

[0011] In the control device according to the second aspect of the first aspect of the present disclosure, the power consumption state of the power consumption unit is configured to switch between a first power consumption state and a second power consumption state in which power consumption is less than that of the first power consumption state, and the control unit is configured to, when the power consumption state of the power consumption unit is the first power consumption state, control the voltage conversion unit so that the voltage conversion unit operates under the first power supply state, and when the power consumption state of the power consumption unit is the second power consumption state, control the voltage conversion unit so that the voltage conversion unit operates under the second power supply state.

[0012] According to the control device of the second aspect, the control unit can control the voltage conversion unit in different power supply states in the first power consumption state and the second power consumption state.

[0013] In the control device according to the third aspect of the second aspect of the present disclosure, when the power consumption state of the power consumption unit is switched from one of the first power consumption state and the second power consumption state to the other, the control unit is configured to control the voltage conversion unit to switch the voltage conversion unit from one of the first power supply state and the second power supply state to the other while the power consumption state of the power consumption unit is in the first power consumption state.

[0014] According to the control device of the third aspect, since the control unit switches the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit during the first power consumption state, the influence of the switching of the power supply state occurring in the second power consumption state can be suppressed.

[0015] In the control device according to the fourth aspect of the second aspect or the third aspect of the present disclosure, when the power consumption state of the power consumption unit is switched from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state, the control unit is configured to switch the voltage conversion unit from the second power supply state to the first power supply state after the power consumption state of the power consumption unit is switched from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state.

[0016] According to the control device of the fourth aspect, the control unit switches the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit from the second power supply state to the first power supply state in the first power consumption state. Therefore, the influence of switching the power supply state in the second power consumption state can be appropriately suppressed.

[0017] In the control device of the fifth aspect according to any one of the second aspect to the fourth aspect of the present disclosure, when the power consumption state of the power consumption unit is switched from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state, the control unit is configured to switch the voltage conversion unit from the first power supply state to the second power supply state before the power consumption state of the power consumption unit is switched from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state.

[0018] According to the control device of the fifth aspect, the control unit switches the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit from the first power supply state to the second power supply state in the first power consumption state. Therefore, the influence of switching the power supply state in the second power consumption state can be appropriately suppressed.

[0019] A power supply device according to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure is a power supply device for a human-powered vehicle and includes: the control device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects; and the voltage conversion unit.

[0020] According to the power supply device according to the sixth aspect, appropriate power can be supplied to the power consuming unit.

[0021] According to the seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the power supply device is a power supply device for a human-driven vehicle and comprises: the control device described in any one of the third aspect to the fifth aspect; and the voltage conversion unit, wherein the voltage conversion unit is configured such that when switching from one of the first power supply state and the second power supply state to the other, the voltage of the power supplied to the power consumption unit changes.

[0022] According to the power supply device of the seventh aspect, since the control unit switches the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit during the first power consumption state, it is possible to suppress changes in the voltage of the power supplied to the power consumption unit in the second power consumption state.

[0023] In the power supply device of an eighth aspect according to the sixth aspect or the seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the power consumption section includes at least one of the control section and an electronic component for the human-powered vehicle.

[0024] According to the power supply device of the eighth aspect, it is possible to supply appropriate power to at least one of the control unit and the electronic components for the human-powered vehicle.

[0025] In the power supply device according to the ninth aspect of the eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the power consumption unit includes the control unit and the electronic component, and the control unit is configured to be connected to the electronic component through a power line that supplies power from the voltage conversion unit, and communicate with the electronic component via the power line.

[0026] According to the power supply device according to the ninth aspect, the control unit can supply power to the electronic component and communicate with the electronic component through the power line.

[0027] The component according to the tenth aspect of the present disclosure is a component for a human-powered vehicle and has the power supply device according to the sixth aspect or the seventh aspect.

[0028] According to the assembly of the tenth aspect, appropriate electric power can be supplied to the power consuming unit.

[0029] In the assembly of the eleventh aspect according to the tenth aspect of the present disclosure, it is a transmission unit including a motor, and the motor is configured to apply a propulsion force to the human-powered vehicle.

[0030] According to the assembly of the eleventh aspect, the power transmission unit can supply appropriate electric power to the power consumption unit.

[0031] Effects of the Invention

[0032] The control device for a human-powered vehicle, the power supply device for a human-powered vehicle, and the component for a human-powered vehicle of the present disclosure can supply appropriate power to a power consumption unit. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] Figure 1 is a side view of a human-powered vehicle including a control device for a human-powered vehicle, a power supply device for a human-powered vehicle, and a component for a human-powered vehicle according to an embodiment;

[0034] Figure 2 Yes means Figure 1 A block diagram of the electrical structure of a human-driven vehicle;

[0035] Figure 3 Yes means Figure 2 A flowchart of an example of switching control performed by a control unit;

[0036] Figure 4 Yes means to proceed Figure 3 1 is a timing diagram showing an example of changes in the power consumption state of the power consuming unit, the power supply state of the voltage converting unit, and the conversion state of the voltage converting unit in the case of switching control of . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] Reference Figures 1 to 4, a control device 70 for a human-powered vehicle, a power supply device 60 for a human-powered vehicle, and a component 50 for a human-powered vehicle are described. The human-powered vehicle 10 is a vehicle having at least one wheel and capable of being driven at least by human-powered driving force. The human-powered vehicle 10 includes various bicycles such as mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes, push bikes, and recumbent bikes. The number of wheels possessed by the human-powered vehicle 10 is not limited. For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 includes a unicycle and a vehicle having two or more wheels. The human-powered vehicle 10 is not limited to a vehicle capable of being driven only by human-powered driving force. The human-powered vehicle 10 includes an electric bicycle (E-bike) that is propelled not only by human-powered driving force but also by the driving force of an electric motor. The electric bicycle (E-bike) includes an electric-assisted bicycle that is propelled with the assistance of an electric motor. In the following, the human-powered vehicle 10 is described as an electric-assisted bicycle.

[0038] The human-powered vehicle 10 includes at least one wheel 12 and a vehicle body 14. For example, the at least one wheel 12 includes a front wheel 12F and a rear wheel 12R. For example, the vehicle body 14 includes a frame 16.

[0039] For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a crank 18 for inputting human-powered driving force. For example, the crank 18 includes a crank shaft 20 and a crank arm 22. For example, the crank shaft 20 can rotate relative to the vehicle frame 16. For example, the pedal 24 is connected to the crank arm 22.

[0040] For example, the crank arm 22 includes a first crank arm 22A and a second crank arm 22B. For example, the pedal 24 includes a first pedal 24A and a second pedal 24B. For example, the first crank arm 22A and the second crank arm 22B are provided at respective ends in the axial direction of the crankshaft 20. For example, the first pedal 24A is connected to the first crank arm 22A. For example, the second pedal 24B is connected to the second crank arm 22B.

[0041] For example, the front fork 26 is connected to the frame 16. For example, the front wheel 12F is mounted on the front fork 26. For example, the handlebar 28 is connected to the front fork 26 via the stem 30. For example, the rear wheel 12R is supported by the frame 16. In the present embodiment, the crank 18 is connected to the rear wheel 12R via the drive mechanism 32. For example, the rear wheel 12R is driven by the rotation of the crankshaft 20. For example, at least one of the front wheel 12F and the rear wheel 12R may be connected to the crank 18 via the drive mechanism 32.

[0042] For example, the drive mechanism 32 includes at least one first rotating body 34 coupled to the crankshaft 20. For example, the first rotating body 34 includes a front sprocket. The first rotating body 34 may include a pulley or a bevel gear. The crankshaft 20 may be coupled to the front sprocket via a one-way clutch.

[0043] For example, the driving mechanism 32 further includes at least one second rotating body 36 and a transmission component 38. The transmission component 38 is configured to transmit the rotational force of the first rotating body 34 to the at least one second rotating body 36. For example, the transmission component 38 includes a chain. The transmission component 38 may include a belt or a transmission shaft. For example, the second rotating body 36 includes a rear sprocket. The second rotating body 36 may include a pulley or a bevel gear. For example, the chain is wound around the front sprocket and the rear sprocket. For example, the second rotating body 36 is connected to the rear wheel 12R. For example, the rear wheel 12R is configured to rotate with the rotation of the second rotating body 36.

[0044] For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a power source 40. For example, the power source 40 is configured to supply power to the component 50. For example, the power source 40 is configured to supply power to the power consumption unit 42. For example, the power source 40 is a battery. The battery includes one or more battery elements. The battery element includes a rechargeable battery. The power source 40 outputs power of a first voltage V1. For example, the first voltage V1 is 36V.

[0045] For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a power consumption unit 42. For example, the power consumption unit 42 is configured to be operated by the power supplied from the power source 40. For example, the power consumption unit 42 is electrically connected to the power source 40.

[0046] The human-powered vehicle 10 also includes at least one electronic component 44. As an example, Figure 2 Three electronic components 44 are shown. The number of electronic components 44 included in the human-powered vehicle 10 is not limited to Figure 2 For example, the electronic component 44 is electrically connected to the power source 40 and the assembly 50. For example, the electronic component 44 includes at least one of an operating device 44A, an electric shifter, a computer, an electric adjustable seat post, and an electric suspension.

[0047] For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a human-powered vehicle assembly 50. The assembly 50 has a housing 50A. The assembly 50 further includes a first connection portion 52 to which the power source 40 is connected, and a second connection portion 54 to which the electronic component 44 is connected. For example, the first connection portion 52 and the second connection portion 54 are provided on the housing 50A.

[0048] For example, the assembly 50 is connected to the electronic component 44 via the power line 46. For example, the power line 46 supplies power from the voltage conversion unit 62. For example, the assembly 50 is configured to perform power line communication (PLC) with the electronic component 44 via the power line 46.

[0049] The component 50 can communicate via CAN (Controller Area Network) or UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter). When the component 50 communicates via CAN or UART, the component 50 communicates with the electronic component 44 via, for example, a communication line different from the power line 46. The component 50 can be configured to communicate wirelessly with the electronic component 44.

[0050] For example, the component 50 is communicably connected to the power source 40. For example, the component 50 communicates with the power source 40 through at least one of PLC, CAN, and UART. The component 50 may be configured to communicate with the power source 40 wirelessly.

[0051] For example, the component 50 is a transmission unit 56. For example, the transmission unit 56 includes a motor 56A, and the motor 56A is configured to apply a propulsion force to the human-powered vehicle 10. For example, the motor 56A is disposed in the housing 50A. For example, the motor 56A is configured to transmit the driving force of the motor 56A to the crankshaft 20. The component 50 can be at least one of an electric transmission, a computer, an electric adjustable seat post, and an electric suspension.

[0052] For example, the transmission unit 56 further includes an inverter 56B. For example, the power of the power source 40 is supplied to the motor 56A. For example, the motor 56A is connected to the power source 40 via the inverter 56B. For example, the inverter 56B includes a drive circuit of the motor 56A. For example, the inverter 56B is controlled by the control unit 72.

[0053] For example, the assembly 50 includes a power supply device 60. For example, the power supply device 60 for a human-powered vehicle includes a control device 70 and a voltage conversion unit 62.

[0054] For example, the voltage conversion unit 62 is configured to convert the voltage of the power supplied by the power supply 40 and supply the power to the power consumption unit 42. For example, the voltage conversion unit 62 includes a converter. For example, the converter is a DC / DC converter. For example, the converter includes a conversion element. For example, the conversion element includes at least one of a MOSFET (metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor) and an IGBT (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor). The MOSFET may be an N-channel type or a P-channel type.

[0055] For example, the voltage conversion unit 62 is connected to the first connection unit 52. For example, the voltage conversion unit 62 converts the first voltage V1 supplied by the power supply 40 into the second voltage V2. For example, the second voltage V2 is a value suitable for supplying to the power consumption unit 42. For example, the second voltage V2 includes a second voltage V21 and a second voltage V22. For example, the second voltage V21 and the second voltage V22 are values ​​suitable for supplying to the power consumption unit 42. For example, the voltage conversion unit 62 is connected to the second connection unit 54. For example, the voltage conversion unit 62 is configured to supply the power of the power supply 40 to at least one of the control unit 72 and the second connection unit 54.

[0056] For example, the voltage conversion unit 62 is configured to operate in any one of a first power supply state and a second power supply state. For example, the first power supply state is a power supply state in which the voltage conversion unit 62 converts the voltage by pulse width modulation (PWM) control and supplies power to the power consumption unit 42. For example, the second power supply state is a power supply state in which the voltage conversion unit 62 converts the voltage by pulse frequency modulation (PFM) control and supplies power to the power consumption unit 42. For example, the voltage conversion unit 62 is configured by an IC (Integrated Circuit) chip. By configuring the voltage conversion unit 62 with an IC chip, the number of components of the power supply device 60 can be reduced. By reducing the number of components of the power supply device 60, the power supply device 60 can be miniaturized. By reducing the number of components of the power supply device 60, the assembly man-hours of the power supply device 60 can be reduced.

[0057] For example, the voltage conversion unit 62 is configured so that, when switching from one of the first power supply state and the second power supply state to the other, the voltage of the power supplied to the power consumption unit 42 changes. When the voltage conversion unit 62 is in the first power supply state, the voltage of the power supplied to the power consumption unit 42 is the second voltage V21. When the voltage conversion unit 62 is in the second power supply state, the voltage of the power supplied to the power consumption unit 42 is the second voltage V22. For example, the second voltage V22 is a value of 95% to 105% of the second voltage V21. For example, the second voltage V22 is greater than the second voltage V21. For example, the second voltage V22 is 102% of the second voltage V21. For example, the second voltage V21 is 8V. For example, the second voltage V22 is 8.16V.

[0058] For example, the power supply device 60 further includes a backflow prevention unit 64. For example, the backflow prevention unit 64 prevents current from flowing back to the voltage conversion unit 62. For example, the backflow prevention unit 64 is provided downstream of the voltage conversion unit 62 on the power supply path from the power supply 40 to the power consumption unit 42. For example, the backflow prevention unit 64 includes a Schottky-Barrier Diode (SBD) or a field effect transistor (FET).

[0059] For example, the power supply device 60 further includes an LDO (Low Drop Out) regulator 66. The voltage conversion unit 62 is connected to the control unit 72 via the LDO regulator 66. The LDO regulator 66 converts the voltage of the power supplied by the voltage conversion unit 62. For example, the LDO regulator 66 converts the second voltage V2 of the power supplied by the voltage conversion unit 62 into a third voltage V3. For example, the third voltage V3 is 3.3V.

[0060] For example, the control device 70 for a human-powered vehicle includes a control unit 72. For example, the control unit 72 includes an arithmetic processing device that executes a predetermined control program. For example, the arithmetic processing device included in the control unit 72 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The arithmetic processing device included in the control unit 72 can be set in a plurality of places that are far away from each other. The control unit 72 can include one or more microcomputers. The control unit 72 is provided together with the voltage conversion unit 62 on a circuit substrate included in the component 50.

[0061] For example, the control unit 72 is connected to the power source 40 in a wired or wireless manner so as to be communicable. For example, the control unit 72 is configured to be supplied with electric power from the power source 40. For example, the control unit 72 is connected to the power source 40 via the voltage conversion unit 62.

[0062] For example, the control unit 72 is connected to the electronic component 44 by wire or wireless so as to be communicable. For example, the control unit 72 is connected to the electronic component 44 through the power line 46. For example, the control unit 72 is configured to communicate with the electronic component 44 via the power line 46.

[0063] For example, the control device 70 further includes a storage unit 74. For example, the storage unit 74 stores a control program and information for control processing. For example, the storage unit 74 includes a non-volatile memory and a volatile memory. For example, the non-volatile memory includes at least one of a ROM (Read-Only Memory), an EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), and a flash memory. For example, the volatile memory includes a RAM (Random Access Memory). For example, the storage unit 74 and the control unit 72 are arranged on the same circuit substrate. The storage unit 74 can be arranged on a different circuit substrate from the control unit 72, and can be configured to be arranged outside the human-powered vehicle 10 and communicate with the control unit 72.

[0064] For example, the control device 70 further includes a communication unit 76. For example, the communication unit 76 is provided on the same circuit substrate as the control unit 72. The communication unit 76 may be provided on a different circuit substrate from the control unit 72. For example, the control unit 72 communicates with the electronic component 44 via the communication unit 76.

[0065] For example, the communication unit 76 communicates with the electronic component 44 via the power line 46. For example, the communication unit 76 is configured to communicate with the electronic component 44 by PLC. When the communication unit 76 communicates by PLC, the power line 46 also functions as a communication line for PLC.

[0066] The communication unit 76 can communicate with the electronic component 44 through CAN or UART. For example, when the communication unit 76 communicates with the electronic component 44 through CAN or UART, the communication unit 76 communicates with the electronic component 44 via a communication line different from the power line 46. The communication unit 76 can be configured to perform wireless communication with the electronic component 44.

[0067] For example, the power consumption unit 42 includes at least one of the control unit 72 and the electronic component 44 for the human-powered vehicle. In the present embodiment, for example, the power consumption unit 42 includes the control unit 72 and the electronic component 44. For example, when the human-powered vehicle 10 includes a plurality of electronic components 44, each of the plurality of electronic components 44 corresponds to the power consumption unit 42.

[0068] For example, the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is configured to switch between a first power consumption state and a second power consumption state in which the power consumption is less than that of the first power consumption state. For example, the power consumption unit 42 is configured to operate normally in the first power consumption state. For example, the power consumption unit 42 is configured to operate more restricted than normal in the second power consumption state. For example, the power consumption unit 42 is configured to not operate normally in the second power consumption state during a period in which a communication signal is not received. For example, if the power consumption unit 42 is connected to the power supply 40, it is started in the second power consumption state.

[0069] For example, the power consumption unit 42 operates in the second power consumption state instead of the power-off state in which the operation is completely stopped. Therefore, when the power consumption unit 42 operates in the second power consumption state, the power consumption of the power supply 40 can be suppressed, and the first power consumption state can be entered earlier than the power-off state.

[0070] For example, the control unit 72 is configured to control the voltage conversion unit 62. For example, the control unit 72 is configured to control the voltage conversion unit 62 to operate in either the first power supply state or the second power supply state.

[0071] For example, the control unit 72 is configured to control the voltage conversion unit 62 so that the voltage conversion unit 62 operates in the first power supply state when the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is the first power consumption state. For example, when the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is the first power consumption state, the voltage conversion unit 62 operates by PWM control.

[0072] For example, the control unit 72 is configured to control the voltage conversion unit 62 so that the voltage conversion unit 62 operates in the second power supply state when the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is the second power consumption state. For example, when the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is the second power consumption state, the voltage conversion unit 62 operates by PFM control.

[0073] For example, the electronic component 44 includes an operating device 44A. The operating device 44A includes an operating portion that can be operated by a user. For example, the operating device 44A is configured to operate at least one of the assembly 50 and the electronic component 44 other than the operating device 44A. For example, the operating device 44A is configured to operate at least one of the transmission unit 56, the electric transmission, the computer, the electric adjustable seat post, and the electric suspension.

[0074] For example, the operating unit includes at least one switch. The operating unit may include an operating lever or a disk switch. For example, the switch includes an electric switch. The electric switch switches the switching state of the electric switch in response to the user's operation. The electric switch may connect or disconnect the electric contacts of the electric switch in response to the user's operation.

[0075] For example, when the user operates the operating portion, the operating device 44A outputs an operating signal. For example, the operating signal includes an operating signal for starting or stopping the transmission unit 56. The operating signal may include at least one of an operating signal for changing the auxiliary mode of the transmission unit 56 and an operating signal for switching the gear of the electric transmission. The operating signal may include an operating signal for starting or stopping at least one of a computer, an electric adjustable seat post, and an electric suspension.

[0076] For example, the control unit 72 is configured to receive an operation signal from the operating device 44A. For example, the control unit 72 is configured to switch the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 from one of the first power consumption state and the second power consumption state to the other of the first power consumption state and the second power consumption state when receiving the operation signal.

[0077] For example, the control unit 72 is configured to switch the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state when the operation signal is received while the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is in the first power consumption state. For example, the control unit 72 is configured to switch the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state when the operation signal is received while the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is in the second power consumption state.

[0078] For example, the control unit 72 is configured to switch the power consumption state from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state when the operation signal is received while the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is in the first power consumption state. For example, the control unit 72 is configured to send a first control signal for switching the power consumption state of the electronic component 44 from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state to the electronic component 44 when the operation signal is received while the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is in the first power consumption state. The electronic component 44 switches from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state in response to the reception of the first control signal. The electronic component 44 is configured to send a first switching completion signal to the control unit 72 when the switching from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state is completed.

[0079] For example, the control unit 72 is configured to switch the power consumption state from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state when the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is in the second power consumption state upon receiving the operation signal. For example, the control unit 72 is configured to send a second control signal for switching the power consumption state of the electronic component 44 from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state to the electronic component 44 when the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is in the second power consumption state upon receiving the operation signal. The electronic component 44 is configured to send a second switching completion signal to the control unit 72 when the switching from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state is completed.

[0080] For example, when the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is switched from one of the first power consumption state and the second power consumption state to the other, the control unit 72 is configured to control the voltage conversion unit 62 so as to switch the voltage conversion unit 62 from one of the first power supply state and the second power supply state to the other during the period when the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is in the first power consumption state. The control unit 72 is configured to control the voltage conversion unit 62 so as not to switch the voltage conversion unit 62 from one of the first power supply state and the second power supply state to the other during the period when the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is in the second power consumption state.

[0081] For example, when the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is switched from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state, the control unit 72 is configured to switch the voltage conversion unit 62 from the first power supply state to the second power supply state before the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is switched from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state. For example, the control unit 72 may be configured to, upon receiving an operation signal for switching the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state, send a first control signal to the electronic component 44 after switching the voltage conversion unit 62 from the first power supply state to the second power supply state. For example, the control unit 72 may be configured to, upon receiving an operation signal for switching the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state, send a first control signal to the electronic component 44 after a first period has elapsed. For example, the first period is set to a sufficient period to switch the voltage conversion unit 62 from the first power supply state to the second power supply state.

[0082] For example, when the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is switched from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state, the control unit 72 is configured to switch the voltage conversion unit 62 from the second power supply state to the first power supply state after the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is switched from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state. For example, the control unit 72 may be configured to switch the voltage conversion unit 62 from the second power supply state to the first power supply state after receiving the operation signal for switching the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state, after sending the second control signal to the electronic component 44, and after receiving the second switching completion signal from the electronic component 44. For example, the control unit 72 may be configured to switch the voltage conversion unit 62 from the second power supply state to the first power supply state after receiving the operation signal for switching the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state, after sending the second control signal to the electronic component 44, and after the second period has passed. For example, the second period is set to a sufficient period for the electronic component 44 to switch from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state.

[0083] Reference Figure 3 , an example of the switching control of the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit 62 and the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 by the control unit 72 is described. When power is supplied from the power supply 40, the control unit 72 enters Figure 3 The control unit 72 executes the following steps at a predetermined period: Figure 3 If the power supply 40 stops supplying power, the control unit 72 stops processing.

[0084] like Figure 3 As shown, in step S11, the control unit 72 determines whether the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is the first power consumption state. When the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is the first power consumption state, the control unit 72 proceeds to step S12.

[0085] In step S12, the control unit 72 determines whether an operation signal is received from the operation device 44A. If an operation signal is received from the operation device 44A, the control unit 72 proceeds to step S13. If an operation signal is not received from the operation device 44A, the control unit 72 ends the process.

[0086] In step S13, the control unit 72 switches the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit 62 to the second power supply state, and then proceeds to step S14. In step S14, the control unit 72 determines whether the switching of the voltage conversion unit 62 to the second power supply state is completed. In the case where the switching of the voltage conversion unit 62 to the second power supply state is completed, the control unit 72 proceeds to step S15. In the case where the switching of the voltage conversion unit 62 to the second power supply state is not completed, the control unit 72 repeats the processing of step S14.

[0087] In step S15, the control unit 72 sends the first control signal to the electronic component 44, and then proceeds to step S16. In step S16, the control unit 72 switches the power consumption state of the control unit 72 to the second power consumption state, and then ends the process. The control unit 72 can perform step S15 and step S16 in a different order.

[0088] In step S11, if the power consumption state of power consumption unit 42 is not the first power consumption state, control unit 72 proceeds to step S17. In this embodiment, the power consumption state of power consumption unit 42 is not the first power consumption state and corresponds to the second power consumption state.

[0089] In step S17, the control unit 72 determines whether an operation signal is received from the operation device 44A. If an operation signal is received from the operation device 44A, the control unit 72 proceeds to step S18. If an operation signal is not received from the operation device 44A, the control unit 72 ends the process.

[0090] In step S18, the control unit 72 sends the second control signal to the electronic component 44, and then proceeds to step S19. In step S19, the control unit 72 switches the power consumption state of the control unit 72 to the first power consumption state, and then proceeds to step S20. The control unit 72 can perform step S18 and step S19 in a reverse order.

[0091] In step S20, the control unit 72 determines whether the switching of the power consumption unit 42 to the first power consumption state is completed. For example, when the control unit 72 receives the first switching completion signal from the electronic component 44, the control unit 72 determines that the switching of the power consumption unit 42 to the first power consumption state is completed. When the switching of the power consumption unit 42 to the first power consumption state is completed, the control unit 72 proceeds to step S21. When the switching of the power consumption unit 42 to the first power consumption state is not completed, the control unit 72 repeats the processing of step S20. In step S21, the control unit 72 switches the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit 62 to the first power supply state, and then ends the processing.

[0092] Reference Figure 4 , through Figure 3 An example of changes in the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit 62 and the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 caused by the switching control shown will be described. Figure 4 The figure shows the change of the power consumption state of the power consuming unit 42. For example, the power consumption state of the control unit 72 changes at substantially the same time as the power consumption state of the electronic component 44 changes.

[0093] Time t11 is the time when the control unit 72 receives the operation signal when the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is in the first power consumption state. At time t11, if the control unit 72 receives the operation signal, the control unit 72 starts the control of switching the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit 62 from the first power supply state to the second power supply state. At time t11, the voltage conversion unit 62 operates under PWM control.

[0094] Time t12 is the time when the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit 62 has been switched from the first power supply state to the second power supply state. At time t12, the control unit 72 sends the first control signal to the electronic component 44. At time t12, the control unit 72 starts the control for switching its own power consumption state to the second power consumption state. After time t12, the voltage conversion unit 62 operates under PFM control. At time t12, the second voltage V2 changes from the second voltage V21 to the second voltage V22.

[0095] Time t13 is the time when the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is switched from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state. After the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is switched from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state, the second power consumption state is maintained until the control unit 72 receives an operation signal again.

[0096] Time t14 is the time when the control unit 72 receives the operation signal when the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is in the second power consumption state. At time t14, the control unit 72 sends the second control signal to the power consumption unit 42. At time t14, the control unit 72 starts control for switching its own power consumption state to the first power consumption state.

[0097] Time t15 is the time when the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is switched from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state. At time t15, the control unit 72 starts control to switch the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit 62 from the second power supply state to the first power supply state.

[0098] Time t16 is the time when the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit 62 is switched from the second power supply state to the first power supply state. After time t16, the voltage conversion unit 62 operates under PWM control. At time t16, the second voltage V2 changes from the second voltage V22 to the second voltage V21.

[0099] like Figure 4 As shown, when the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit 62 is the first power supply state, the start and stop of the conversion state of the voltage conversion unit 62 are switched by PWM control. When the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit 62 is the first power supply state, the voltage conversion unit 62 adjusts the duty ratio so that the first voltage V1 is converted into the second voltage V21. The duty ratio is the ratio of the start period to the total period of the start period when the conversion state is in the start state and the stop period when the conversion state is in the stop state.

[0100] When the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit 62 is the second power supply state, the start and stop of the conversion state of the voltage conversion unit 62 are switched by PFM control. When the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit 62 is the second power supply state, the voltage conversion unit 62 is controlled to fix the start period and change the stop period. When the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit 62 is the second power supply state, the voltage conversion unit 62 is controlled to change the stop period so that the first voltage V1 is converted into the second voltage V22. When the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit 62 is the second power supply state, the voltage conversion unit 62 may also be controlled to fix the stop period and change the start period.

[0101] When the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit 62 is the first power supply state, the voltage in the power line 46 for communication through PLC is maintained at, for example, the second voltage V21. When the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit 62 is the second power supply state, the voltage in the power line 46 for communication through PLC is maintained at, for example, the second voltage V22. The voltage output from the LDO regulator 66 to the control unit 72 is maintained at the third voltage V3.

[0102] For example, the electronic component 44 and the LDO regulator 66 are configured to reset if the supplied power is interrupted. The control unit 72 can suppress the electronic component 44 and the LDO regulator 66 from resetting by maintaining the voltage supplied from the voltage conversion unit 62 to the electronic component 44 and the LDO regulator 66 at the second voltage V2 even when the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is in the second power consumption state.

[0103] For example, since the voltage conversion unit 62 converts the voltage by PWM control in the first power supply state, the power quality is less likely to deteriorate and the output voltage is less likely to fluctuate compared to the second power supply state. For example, since the voltage conversion unit 62 converts the voltage by PFM control in the second power supply state, the power efficiency is higher under light load than in the first power supply state. Therefore, the voltage conversion unit 62 can suppress power consumption by switching between PWM control and PFM control.

[0104] The voltage change generated when the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit 62 is switched is transmitted to the power consumption unit 42 via the power line 46. At least one of the operation signal for switching to the first power consumption state and the second control signal is composed of a simple signal, so that the power consumption of the power consumption unit 42 in the second power consumption state can be appropriately suppressed. For example, when the second control signal is composed of a simple signal, if the power consumption unit 42 detects a voltage change in the second power consumption state, it is possible to mistakenly recognize the voltage change as the operation signal for switching to the first power consumption state or the second control signal.

[0105] After the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit 62 is switched from the first power supply state to the second power supply state, the control unit 72 switches the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state. Therefore, the voltage change caused by the switching of the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit 62 occurs during the period when the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is in the first power consumption state, and therefore, the possibility of the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 switching from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state due to the voltage change can be reduced.

[0106] After the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is switched from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state, the control unit 72 switches the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit 62 from the second power supply state to the first power supply state. Therefore, the voltage change caused by the switching of the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit 62 occurs during the period when the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is in the first power consumption state, and therefore, it is possible to suppress the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 from switching from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state due to the voltage change.

[0107] <Modification>

[0108] The descriptions related to the embodiments are examples of the methods that the control device for the human-powered vehicle, the power supply device for the human-powered vehicle, and the components for the human-powered vehicle of the present disclosure can adopt, and are not intended to limit the methods. For example, the control device for the human-powered vehicle, the power supply device for the human-powered vehicle, and the components for the human-powered vehicle of the present disclosure can adopt the modified examples of the embodiments shown below, and the methods formed by combining at least two non-contradictory modified examples. In the following modified examples, for the parts common to the embodiments, the same symbols as the embodiments are added, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0109] The power consumption unit 42 may be configured to switch from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state when a predetermined condition different from the operation of the operating device 44A is satisfied. For example, the predetermined condition is satisfied when at least one of the human-powered vehicle 10 starts to travel and vibration is applied to the human-powered vehicle 10. For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 includes a vibration sensor, and when the magnitude of the vibration of the human-powered vehicle 10 is greater than a predetermined magnitude, it is determined that the predetermined condition is satisfied. The human-powered vehicle 10 may include an acceleration sensor, and when the acceleration of the human-powered vehicle 10 is greater than a predetermined acceleration, it is determined that the predetermined condition is satisfied.

[0110] The power consumption unit 42 may include the control unit 72 and may not include the electronic component 44. In the present modification, the human-powered vehicle 10 may not include the electronic component 44.

[0111] The power consumption section 42 may include the electronic component 44 and may not include the control section 72 .

[0112] The power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 may be switched at the same time as the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit 62. By setting the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 and the power supply state of the voltage conversion unit 62 to be switched at the same time, the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 can be switched earlier.

[0113] When the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is switched from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state, the control unit 72 may be configured to switch the voltage conversion unit 62 from the second power supply state to the first power supply state before the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is switched from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state.

[0114] When the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is switched from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state, the control unit 72 may be configured to switch the voltage conversion unit 62 from the first power supply state to the second power supply state after the power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is switched from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state.

[0115] At least one of the voltage conversion unit 62 and the control unit 72 may be provided in the electronic component 44. For example, the voltage conversion unit 62 is provided in the assembly 50, and the control unit 72 is provided in the electronic component 44. At least one of the voltage conversion unit 62 and the control unit 72 may be provided in the power supply 40.

[0116] The expression "at least one" used in this specification refers to "more than one" of the desired options. As an example, if the number of options is two, the expression "at least one" used in this specification refers to "only one option" or "both of the two options". As another example, if the number of options is three or more, the expression "at least one" used in this specification refers to "only one option" or "a combination of any two or more options".

[0117] Explanation of symbols:

[0118] 10…human-powered vehicle, 40…power source, 42…power consumption unit, 44…electronic component, 46…power line, 50…assembly, 56…transmission unit, 56A…motor, 60…power supply device, 62…voltage conversion unit, 70…control device, 72…control unit.

Claims

1. A control device, which is a control device for a human-powered vehicle and comprises: a control unit configured to control a voltage conversion unit configured to convert a voltage of electric power supplied from a power source and supply the electric power to a power consumption unit, The control unit is configured to control the voltage conversion unit so that the voltage conversion unit operates in either a first power supply state in which the voltage is converted by pulse width modulation control and power is supplied to the power consumption unit, or a second power supply state in which the voltage is converted by pulse frequency modulation control and power is supplied to the power consumption unit.

2. The control device according to claim 1, wherein: The power consumption state of the power consumption unit is configured to switch between a first power consumption state and a second power consumption state in which power consumption is lower than that of the first power consumption state. The control unit is configured as follows: When the power consumption state of the power consumption unit is the first power consumption state, controlling the voltage conversion unit so that the voltage conversion unit operates in the first power supply state; When the power consumption state of the power consumption unit is the second power consumption state, the voltage conversion unit is controlled so that the voltage conversion unit operates in the second power supply state.

3. The control device according to claim 2, wherein: When the power consumption state of the power consumption unit is switched from one of the first power consumption state and the second power consumption state to the other, the control unit is configured to control the voltage conversion unit to switch the voltage conversion unit from one of the first power supply state and the second power supply state to the other while the power consumption state of the power consumption unit is in the first power consumption state.

4. The control device according to claim 3, wherein: When the power consumption state of the power consumption unit is switched from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state, the control unit is configured to switch the voltage conversion unit from the second power supply state to the first power supply state after the power consumption state of the power consumption unit is switched from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state.

5. The control device according to claim 3, wherein: When the power consumption state of the power consumption unit is switched from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state, the control unit is configured to switch the voltage conversion unit from the first power supply state to the second power supply state before the power consumption state of the power consumption unit is switched from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state.

6. A power supply device for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: The control device of claim 1; and The voltage conversion unit.

7. A power supply device for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: The control device of claim 3; and The voltage conversion unit, The voltage conversion unit is configured to change a voltage of power supplied to the power consumption unit when switching from one of the first power supply state and the second power supply state to the other.

8. The power supply device according to claim 6 or 7, wherein: The power consumption unit includes at least one of the control unit and an electronic component for the human-powered vehicle.

9. The power supply device according to claim 8, wherein: The power consumption unit includes the control unit and the electronic component. The control unit is configured as follows: The voltage converter is connected to the electronic component via a power line to which power is supplied. And communicate with the electronic component via the power line.

10. A component for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: The power supply device according to claim 6 or 7.

11. The assembly according to claim 10, wherein The assembly is a transmission unit including a motor configured to apply propulsion to the human-powered vehicle.

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