Electric actuator unit for a manual drive vehicle

Abstract

An electric actuator unit (10) of a human-powered vehicle (2) includes a housing (20), an electric actuator (21), and a cover (30). The housing (20) includes a first housing (22) and a second housing (24). The first housing (22) and the second housing (24) are coupled to define an interior space (20A). The electric actuator (21) is arranged at least partially in the interior space (20A). The cover (30) is configured to be attached to the housing (20) to at least partially cover a boundary (26) disposed between the first housing (22) and the second housing (24).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an electric actuator unit for a human-powered vehicle. Background Art

[0002] The human-powered vehicle comprises an arrangement comprising an electric actuator unit having a housing. One of the objects of the present invention is to at least partially protect the housing of the electric actuator unit. Summary of the invention

[0003] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an electric actuator unit for a human-powered vehicle includes a housing, an electric actuator, and a cover. The housing includes a first housing and a second housing. The first housing and the second housing are coupled to define an internal space. The electric actuator is at least partially disposed in the internal space. The cover is configured to be attached to the housing to at least partially cover a boundary disposed between the first housing and the second housing.

[0004] With the electric actuator unit according to the first aspect, the housing can be at least partially protected using the cover.

[0005] According to a second aspect of the present invention, the electric actuator unit according to the first aspect is configured so that the cover includes an opening, and in a cover-attached state in which the cover is attached to the housing, the housing is at least partially exposed through the opening. With the electric actuator unit according to the second aspect, the housing can be at least partially protected while reducing the weight of the electric actuator unit.

[0006] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the electric actuator unit according to the second aspect is configured so that the first housing is at least partially exposed through the opening in the cover-attached state. With the electric actuator unit according to the third aspect, the first housing can be at least partially protected while reducing the weight of the electric actuator unit.

[0007] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the electric actuator unit according to the second or third aspect is configured so that the second housing is arranged not to be exposed through the opening in a cover-attached state. With the electric actuator unit according to the fourth aspect, the second housing can be at least partially protected.

[0008] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the electric actuator unit according to the first aspect is configured so that the cover does not include an opening through which the housing is at least partially exposed in a cover-attached state in which the cover is attached to the housing. With the electric actuator unit according to the fifth aspect, the housing can be reliably at least partially protected.

[0009] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the electric actuator unit according to any one of the first to fifth aspects is configured so that the cover includes a cover body and a coupling portion. The cover body is configured to at least partially cover the housing. The coupling portion is configured to couple the cover body and the housing. With the electric actuator unit according to the sixth aspect, the cover attachment state can be reliably maintained. Therefore, the housing can be reliably protected using the cover.

[0010] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the electric actuator unit according to the sixth aspect is configured so that the housing includes a receiving portion. The coupling portion is contactable with the receiving portion to maintain a cover-attached state in which the cover is attached to the housing. With the electric actuator unit according to the seventh aspect, the cover-attached state can be more reliably maintained. Therefore, the housing can be more reliably protected using the cover.

[0011] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the electric actuator unit according to the seventh aspect is configured so that the coupling portion includes a first coupling portion and a second coupling portion spaced apart from the first coupling portion. The receiving portion includes a first receiving portion and a second receiving portion spaced apart from the first receiving portion. The first coupling portion and the second coupling portion are contactable with the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion, respectively, to maintain the cover attached state. With the electric actuator unit according to the eighth aspect, the first coupling portion, the second coupling portion, the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion can be used to stabilize the positional relationship between the housing and the cover.

[0012] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the electric actuator unit according to the eighth aspect is configured so that the second coupling portion includes at least one of a second coupling opening and a second coupling protrusion. The second receiving portion includes at least one of: a second receiving protrusion configured to be at least partially disposed in the second coupling opening in a cover-attached state; and a second receiving opening in which the second coupling protrusion is at least partially disposed in a cover-attached state. With the electric actuator unit according to the ninth aspect, a relatively simple structure can be used to couple the housing and the cover.

[0013] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the electric actuator unit according to any one of the first to ninth aspects is configured so that the cover is a member separated from a base member of the electric device. The base member is configured to be mounted to a body of a human-powered vehicle. With the electric actuator unit according to the tenth aspect, the housing can be reliably at least partially protected.

[0014] According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, the electric actuator unit according to the tenth aspect is configured so that the base member includes a first base portion and a second base portion. The housing is configured to be at least partially arranged between the first base portion and the second base portion. Using the electric actuator unit according to the eleventh aspect, the housing can be reliably mounted to the base member.

[0015] According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, an electric actuator unit for a human-powered vehicle includes a housing, an electric actuator, and a cover. The housing includes an internal space. The housing is configured to be at least partially disposed between a first base portion and a second base portion. The first base portion and the second base portion are included in a base member of an electric device. The base member is configured to be mounted to a body of the human-powered vehicle. The electric actuator is at least partially disposed in the internal space. The cover is configured to be attached to the housing, and the cover is a member separate from the base member.

[0016] With the electric actuator unit according to the twelfth aspect, the housing can be at least partially protected using the cover.

[0017] According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the electric actuator unit according to any one of the tenth to twelfth aspects is configured so that the cover includes a stopper. The stopper is configured to restrict the cover from being disengaged from the housing in an assembled state in which the cover is attached to the housing and the housing is mounted to the base member. With the electric actuator unit according to the thirteenth aspect, the housing and the cover can be reliably connected using the stopper.

[0018] According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, an electric actuator unit for a human-powered vehicle includes a housing, an electric actuator, and a cover. The housing includes an internal space. The housing is configured to be at least partially disposed to a base member of the electric device. The base member is configured to be mounted to a body of the human-powered vehicle. The electric actuator is at least partially disposed in the internal space. The cover is configured to be attached to the housing. The cover includes a stopper. The stopper is configured to restrict the cover from detaching from the housing in an assembled state in which the cover is attached to the housing and the housing is mounted to the base member.

[0019] With the electric actuator unit according to the fourteenth aspect, the housing and the cover can be reliably coupled using the stopper. Therefore, the housing can be at least partially protected using the cover.

[0020] According to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the electric actuator unit according to the thirteenth aspect or the fourteenth aspect is configured so that the stopper can contact the base member to restrict the cover from being disengaged from the housing in the assembled state. With the electric actuator unit according to the fifteenth aspect, the housing and the cover can be more reliably coupled using the stopper. Therefore, the housing can be more reliably at least partially protected using the cover.

[0021] According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the electric actuator unit according to any one of the thirteenth to fifteenth aspects is configured so that the stopper is configured to be at least partially disposed between the base member and the housing in an assembled state. With the electric actuator unit according to the sixteenth aspect, the housing and the cover can be more reliably coupled using the stopper. Therefore, the housing can be more reliably at least partially protected using the cover.

[0022] According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the electric actuator unit according to any one of the tenth to sixteenth aspects is configured so that the housing is configured to be at least partially disposed within the base member. With the electric actuator unit according to the seventeenth aspect, the housing can be at least partially protected using the base member.

[0023] According to the eighteenth aspect of the present invention, the electric actuator unit according to the first to seventeenth aspects is configured so that the cover includes a contactable portion. The contactable portion is contactable with the outer surface of the housing. With the electric actuator unit according to the eighteenth aspect, the contactable portion can be used to stabilize the positional relationship between the housing and the cover.

[0024] According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, the electric actuator unit according to the eighteenth aspect is configured so that the contactable portion is spaced apart from the coupling portion. With the electric actuator unit according to the nineteenth aspect, the positional relationship between the housing and the cover can be reliably stabilized using the contactable portion.

[0025] According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, the electric actuator unit according to any one of the first to nineteenth aspects is configured so that the cover is configured to be detachably and reattachably attached to the housing. With the electric actuator unit according to the twentieth aspect, maintenance of the electric actuator unit can be improved.

[0026] According to the twenty-first aspect of the present invention, the electric actuator unit according to any one of the first to twentieth aspects further includes an output shaft. The output shaft is at least partially disposed outside the housing. The electric actuator is configured to rotate the output shaft relative to the housing around the rotation axis. The cover is a component separated from the output shaft. With the electric actuator unit according to the twenty-first aspect, the actuation force generated by the electric actuator unit can be output via the output shaft while the housing is at least partially protected using the cover. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] A more complete understanding of the present invention and many of its attendant advantages may be readily obtained and better appreciated by reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0028] Figure 1 is a side elevation view of a human-powered vehicle including an electric device according to an embodiment;

[0029] Figure 2 Yes Figure 1 a side elevational view of the electrical device of the illustrated electrical actuator unit;

[0030] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 a side elevational view of the electrical device shown;

[0031] Figure 4 yes Figure 2a rear view of the electrical device shown;

[0032] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 an exploded side elevational view of an electric actuator unit of the illustrated electric device;

[0033] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 a side elevational view of an electric actuator unit of the illustrated electric device;

[0034] Figure 7 yes Figure 2 a partial rear view of the electrical device shown;

[0035] Figure 8 is along Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the electric actuator unit taken along line VIII-VIII;

[0036] Fig. 9 yes Figure 5 A top view of the electric actuator unit shown;

[0037] Fig.10 yes Figure 5 a perspective view of the electric actuator unit shown;

[0038] Fig.11 is a top view of an electric actuator unit according to a variation;

[0039] Fig.12 yes Figure 5 a perspective view of a cover of the electric actuator unit shown;

[0040] Fig.13 yes Figure 5 An exploded perspective view of the electric actuator unit shown;

[0041] Fig.14 yes Figure 5 Another exploded perspective view of the electric actuator unit shown;

[0042] Fig.15 is along Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view of the electric actuator unit taken along line XV-XV;

[0043] Fig.16 is along Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view of the electric actuator unit taken along line XVI-XVI;

[0044] Fig.17 is along Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view of the electric actuator unit taken along line XVII-XVII of ;

[0045] Fig.18 is along Figure 7A cross-sectional view of the electric actuator unit taken along line XVIII-XVIII;

[0046] Fig.19 is along Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view of the electric actuator unit taken along line XIX-XIX of ;

[0047] Fig. 20 is along Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view of the electric actuator unit taken along line XX-XX;

[0048] Fig.21 is along Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view of the electric actuator unit taken along line XXI-XXI;

[0049] Fig. 22 is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the electric actuator unit taken along line XXII-XXII;

[0050] Fig.23 yes Figure 1 A partial perspective view of the cables of the human-powered vehicle shown;

[0051] Fig.24 yes Figure 1 A partial perspective view of an additional cable for a human-powered vehicle is shown;

[0052] Fig.25 is along Fig. 27 A cross-sectional view of the electric actuator unit taken along line XXV-XXV;

[0053] Fig.26 is along Fig. 27 A cross-sectional view of the electric actuator unit taken along line XXVI-XXVI;

[0054] Fig. 27 yes Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of the electrical device shown;

[0055] Fig.28 is an exploded perspective view of an electric actuator unit according to a first modification;

[0056] Fig.29 yes Fig.28 Another exploded perspective view of the electric actuator unit shown;

[0057] Fig.30 is along Fig.28 A cross-sectional view of the electric actuator unit taken along line XXX-XXX;

[0058] Fig.31 yes Fig.28 a perspective view of the housing of the electric actuator unit shown;

[0059] Fig.32 is an exploded perspective view of an electric actuator unit according to a second modification;

[0060] Fig.33 is along Fig.32 A cross-sectional view of the electric actuator unit taken along line XXXIII-XXXIII;

[0061] Fig.34 yes Figure 5 an exploded perspective view of the electric actuator unit shown; and

[0062] Fig.35 is along Fig.11 A cross-sectional view of the electric actuator unit taken along line XXXV-XXXV of . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0063] The embodiments will now be described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding or identical elements throughout the various drawings.

[0064] like Figure 1 As shown, the human-powered vehicle 2 includes a crank 3, a sprocket 4, a chain 5, a sprocket assembly 6, a wheel 7A, a wheel 7B and a vehicle body 8. The vehicle body 8 includes, for example, a frame 8F, a handlebar 8H, a front fork 8A and a seat 8S. The crank 3 is rotatably connected to the vehicle body 8. The crank 3 is rotatable relative to the vehicle body 8 during pedaling. The sprocket 4 is connected to the crank 3. The sprocket assembly 6 is rotatably connected to the vehicle body 8. The chain 5 engages with the sprocket 4 and the sprocket assembly 6. The sprocket assembly 6 is connected to the wheel 7B to transmit the pedaling force from the crank 3 to the wheel 7B via the sprocket 4 and the chain 5. If necessary or desired, the sprocket 4 can include at least two sprockets.

[0065] like Figure 1 As shown, the human-powered vehicle 2 includes electric devices FS, RS, RD, DU, FB, RB, AS, HA, and SP. Each of the electric devices FS, RS, RD, DU, FB, RB, AS, HA, and SP is configured to be mounted to the vehicle body 8 of the human-powered vehicle 2.

[0066] The electric device FS includes a suspension. The electric device FS is configured to absorb shock or vibration generated when riding on rough terrain. The electric device FS is installed in the front fork 8A. The electric device FS is configured to absorb shock or vibration transmitted from the wheel 7A.

[0067] The electric device RS includes a suspension. The electric device RS is configured to absorb shock or vibration generated when riding on rough terrain. The electric device RS is configured to absorb shock or vibration transmitted from the wheel 7B.

[0068] The electric device RD includes a shifter. The electric device RD is configured to change the transmission ratio of the human-powered vehicle 2. The transmission ratio is the ratio of the rotational speed of the sprocket assembly 6 to the rotational speed of the sprocket 4. The electric device RD is configured to shift the chain 5 relative to the sprocket assembly 6. In the present embodiment, the electric device RD includes a rear derailleur. However, if necessary or desired, the electric device RD may include another type of shifter. Examples of another type of shifter include a front derailleur and an internal gear hub.

[0069] The electric device DU includes an assist drive unit. The electric device DU is configured to assist the propulsion of the human-powered vehicle 2. The electric device DU is configured to change the assist ratio according to the human power applied to the human-powered vehicle 2.

[0070] The electric device FB includes a brake device. The electric device FB is configured to apply a braking force to the human-powered vehicle 2. The electric device FB is configured to apply a braking force to the wheel 7A.

[0071] The electric device RB includes a brake device. The electric device RB is configured to apply a braking force to the human-powered vehicle 2. The electric device RB is configured to apply a braking force to the wheel 7B.

[0072] The electric device AS includes an adjustable seat post. The electric device AS is configured to change the height of the vehicle seat 8S relative to the frame 8F. The electric device AS has an adjustable state and a locked state. The electric device AS allows the user to change the height of the vehicle seat 8S in the adjustable state. The electric device AS is locked in the locked state to maintain the height of the vehicle seat 8S. The electric device AS is configured to change the state of the electric device AS between the adjustable state and the locked state.

[0073] The electric device HA includes a hub assembly and rotatably couples the wheel 7B and the vehicle body 8 .

[0074] The electric device SP includes at least one of a smartphone and a bicycle computer. The electric device SP is configured to display information related to the human-powered vehicle 2. However, if necessary or desired, the electric device SP may include structures other than a smartphone and a bicycle computer. The electric device SP may also be referred to as an external device SP or a display device SP.

[0075] If necessary or desired, the human-powered vehicle 2 may include another electric device in addition to the electric devices FS, RS, RD, DU, FB, RB, AS, HA, and SP. If necessary or desired, at least one of the electric devices FS, RS, RD, DU, FB, RB, AS, HA, and SP may be omitted from the human-powered vehicle 2.

[0076] like Figure 1 As shown, the human-powered vehicle 2 includes an operating device ST. The operating device ST is configured to be mounted on the vehicle body 8 of the human-powered vehicle 2 (see, for example, Figure 1 ). The operating device ST is configured to operate at least one of the electric devices FS, RS, RD, DU, FB, RB, AS, HA and SP based on a user input.

[0077] In the present application, the term "human-powered vehicle" includes a vehicle that travels with the power of at least the human power of the user (i.e., the rider) riding the vehicle. Human-powered vehicles include various bicycles, such as mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes, hand-operated bicycles, and recumbent bicycles. In addition, human-powered vehicles include electric bicycles (E-bikes). Electric bicycles include electric-assisted bicycles, which are configured to assist the propulsion of the vehicle with an electric motor. However, the total number of wheels of the human-powered vehicle is not limited to two. For example, human-powered vehicles include vehicles with one wheel or three or more wheels. In particular, human-powered vehicles do not include vehicles that use only a driving source (e.g., an internal combustion engine, an electric motor) as a power source. In general, light road vehicles, including vehicles that do not require a driver's license on public roads, are considered human-powered vehicles.

[0078] In this application, the following directional terms "front", "rear", "forward" and "backward", "left", "right", "lateral", "upward" and "downward" and any other similar directional terms refer to those directions determined based on a user in a standard user position in a human-powered vehicle 2 and facing the handlebars or steering device. Examples of a standard user position include a saddle and a seat. Therefore, these terms used to describe the electrical devices FS, RS, RD, DU, FB, RB, AS, HA and SP or other devices should be interpreted relative to a human-powered vehicle 2 used in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface and equipped with the electrical devices FS, RS, RD, DU, FB, RB, AS, HA and SP or other devices.

[0079] like Figure 2 As shown, the electric device RD includes an electric actuator unit 10. That is, the human-powered vehicle 2 includes the electric actuator unit 10. In the present embodiment, the electric actuator unit 10 of the electric device RD will be described below. However, if necessary or desired, the structure of the electric actuator unit 10 can be applied to an electric actuator unit included in another electric device such as the electric devices RS, DU, FB, RB, AS, and HA.

[0080] The electric device RD includes a base member 12, a movable member 14, and a link structure 16. The base member 12 is configured to be mounted to the vehicle body 8 of the human-powered vehicle 2. The base member 12 is configured to be coupled to the vehicle body 8. The base member 12 is configured to be coupled to the vehicle body 8 using a derailleur fastener 17. The movable member 14 is movable relative to the base member 12. The link structure 16 movably couples the base member 12 and the movable member 14.

[0081] like Figure 3 As shown, the movable member 14 includes a connecting member 14A, a guide plate 14B, a guide wheel 14C and a tensioning wheel 14D. The guide plate 14B is pivotally connected to the connecting member 14A around a pivot axis PA. The guide wheel 14C is rotatably connected to the guide plate 14B. The tensioning wheel 14D is rotatably connected to the guide plate 14B. The guide wheel 14C is configured to engage with the chain 5. The tensioning wheel 14D is configured to engage with the chain 5. The structure of the movable member 14 is not limited to the above structure. For example, if necessary and / or desired, the connecting member 14A can be omitted from the movable member 14. In this variation, the guide plate 14B is directly connected to the connecting rod structure 16.

[0082] like Figure 2 As shown, the link structure 16 is movably connected to the base member 12 and the movable member 14. The link structure 16 is movably connected to the base member 12 and the connecting member 14A. In the present embodiment, the link structure 16 includes a first link 16A and a second link 16B. The first link 16A is pivotally connected to the base member 12 around a first pivot axis PA1. The first link 16A is pivotally connected to the movable member 14 (e.g., the connecting member 14A) around a second pivot axis PA2. The second link 16B is pivotally connected to the base member 12 around a third pivot axis PA3. The second link 16B is pivotally connected to the movable member 14 (e.g., the connecting member 14A) around a fourth pivot axis PA4. The first pivot axis PA1 to the fourth pivot axis PA4 are parallel to each other. However, if necessary and / or desired, one of the first link 16A and the second link 16B can be omitted from the link structure 16. The structure of the link structure 16 is not limited to the above structure. At least one of the first to fourth pivot axes PA1 to PA4 may not be parallel to another one of the first to fourth pivot axes PA1 to PA4.

[0083] like Figure 4 As shown, the second link 16B is at least partially disposed between the first link 16A and the transverse center plane CP of the human-powered vehicle 2. The transverse center plane CP is defined as a plane perpendicular to the sprocket assembly 6 (see, for example, FIG. Figure 1 ) of the sprocket rotation axis RA (see for example Figure 2 ).

[0084] The electric actuator unit 10 is coupled to the base member 12. The electric actuator unit 10 is coupled to at least one of the movable member 14 and the link structure 16 to move the movable member 14 relative to the base member 12. The electric actuator unit 10 is configured to generate an actuation force. The electric actuator unit 10 is coupled to at least one of the movable member 14 and the link structure 16 to transmit the actuation force to at least one of the movable member 14 and the link structure 16.

[0085] like Figure 4 As shown, the electric actuator unit 10 of the human-powered vehicle 2 includes a housing 20. The housing 20 is configured to be mounted to the base member 12. The housing 20 includes an internal space 20A.

[0086] The electric actuator unit 10 of the human-powered vehicle 2 includes an electric actuator 21. The electric actuator 21 is configured to generate an actuating force to move the movable member 14 relative to the base member 12. For example, the electric actuator 21 includes an electric motor. The electric actuator 21 is at least partially disposed in the interior space 20A. In the present embodiment, the electric actuator 21 is completely disposed in the interior space 20A. However, if necessary or desired, the electric actuator 21 may be partially disposed in the interior space 20A. If necessary or desired, the electric actuator 21 may include a structure other than the electric motor.

[0087] like Figure 5 As shown, the housing 20 includes a first housing 22 and a second housing 24. The first housing 22 and the second housing 24 are coupled to define an internal space 20A. The housing 20 is a member separated from the base member 12. The first housing 22 and the second housing 24 define a boundary 26. The first housing 22 includes a first contact surface 22A. The second housing 24 includes a second contact surface 24A. The first contact surface 22A contacts the second contact surface 24A when the first housing 22 is coupled to the second housing 24.

[0088] The first contact surface 22A includes a first edge 22A1. The second contact surface 24A includes a second edge 24A1. The first edge 22A1 of the first contact surface 22A and the second edge 24A1 of the second contact surface 24A are exposed from the outer surface of the housing 20. The first edge 22A1 of the first contact surface 22A and the second edge 24A1 of the second contact surface 24A define a boundary 26. The boundary 26 is defined in a reference plane RP. The reference plane RP is perpendicular to the rotation axis A1.

[0089] like Figure 6As shown, the electric actuator unit 10 of the human-powered vehicle 2 includes a cover 30. The cover 30 is configured to be attached to the housing 20. The cover 30 is a member separate from the housing 20. The cover 30 is configured to be detachably and reattachably attached to the housing 20. The cover 30 is configured to be attached to the housing 20 to at least partially cover the boundary 26 provided between the first housing 22 and the second housing 24.

[0090] In the present embodiment, the cover 30 is configured to partially cover the boundary 26 provided between the first shell 22 and the second shell 24. However, if necessary or desired, the cover 30 may be configured to completely cover the boundary 26 provided between the first shell 22 and the second shell 24.

[0091] like Figure 7 As shown, the cover 30 is a member separate from the base member 12 of the electric device RD. The housing 20 is a member separate from the base member 12. The housing 20 is configured to be at least partially provided to the base member 12 of the electric device RD. The housing 20 is configured to be at least partially provided within the base member 12. In the present embodiment, the housing 20 is configured to be partially provided to the base member 12 of the electric device RD. The housing 20 is configured to be partially provided within the base member 12. However, if necessary or desired, the housing 20 may be configured to be completely provided to the base member 12 of the electric device RD. If necessary or desired, the housing 20 may be configured to be completely provided within the base member 12.

[0092] like Figure 8 As shown, the electric actuator unit 10 further includes an output shaft 32. The electric actuator 21 (see, for example, Figure 4 ) is configured to rotate the output shaft 32 relative to the housing 20 about the rotation axis A1. The electric actuator unit 10 includes a force transmission structure 33. The force transmission structure 33 is coupled to the electric actuator 21 (see, for example, Figure 4 ) and an output shaft 32 to transfer power from the electric actuator 21 (see, for example, Figure 4 )’s actuating force is transmitted to the output shaft 32.

[0093] The output shaft 32 is at least partially disposed outside the housing 20. In the present embodiment, the output shaft 32 is partially disposed outside the housing 20. However, the output shaft 32 may be completely disposed outside the housing 20 if needed or desired.

[0094] The force transmission structure 33 includes a torque limiter 33A. The torque limiter 33A is configured to limit the torque greater than the reference torque from the electric actuator 21 (see, for example, Figure 4 ) is transmitted to the connecting rod structure 16. The torque limiter 33A is configured to limit the torque greater than the reference torque from being transmitted from the connecting rod structure 16 to the electric actuator 21 (see, for example, Figure 4). The torque limiter 33A includes a rotating shaft 33B. The force transmission structure 33 includes a gear 33C. The gear 33C is fixed to the output shaft 32. The rotating shaft 33B includes a gear portion engaged with the gear 33C. The torque limiter 33A may be omitted from the force transmission structure 33 if necessary or desired.

[0095] like Fig.34 As shown, the base member 12 includes a first base portion 12A and a second base portion 12B. That is, the first base portion 12A and the second base portion 12B are included in the base member 12 of the electric device RD. The housing 20 is configured to be at least partially disposed between the first base portion 12A and the second base portion 12B. The housing 20 is configured to be at least partially disposed between the first base portion 12A and the second base portion 12B in a first direction D1 defined along the rotation axis A1. In the present embodiment, the housing 20 is partially disposed between the first base portion 12A and the second base portion 12B. The housing 20 is partially disposed between the first base portion 12A and the second base portion 12B in the first direction D1.

[0096] In the present embodiment, the first base portion 12A is a separate member from the second base portion 12B. The first base portion 12A is fixed to the second base portion 12B. The first base portion 12A is fixed to the second base portion 12B by a fastener 12F. For example, the fastener 12F includes a screw. However, if necessary or desired, the first base portion 12A can be integrally provided with the second base portion 12B as a one-piece unitary member.

[0097] like Figure 8 As shown, the output shaft 32 includes a first shaft end 32A and a second shaft end 32B. The output shaft 32 extends between the first shaft end 32A and the second shaft end 32B along the rotation axis A1. The first shaft end 32A and the second shaft end 32B are rotatably supported by the base member 12. The first base portion 12A rotatably supports the first shaft end 32A around the rotation axis A1. The second base portion 12B rotatably supports the second shaft end 32B around the rotation axis A1.

[0098] The electric device RD includes a first bushing B1 and a second bushing B2. The first bushing B1 is arranged between the first shaft end 32A and the first base portion 12A. The second bushing B2 is arranged between the second shaft end 32B and the second base portion 12B. The first base portion 12A includes a first support hole 12C. The second base portion 12B includes a second support hole 12D. The first shaft end 32A is arranged in the first support hole 12C. The second shaft end 32B is arranged in the second support hole 12D. The first bushing B1 is arranged in the first support hole 12C. The second bushing B2 is arranged in the second support hole 12D.

[0099] The second link 16B is fixed to the output shaft 32 to rotate integrally with the output shaft 32. The second link 16B is configured to receive a rotational force from the output shaft 32. The second link 16B includes a first link portion 30A and a second link portion 30B. The first link portion 30A includes a first link hole 30C. The second link portion 30B includes a second link hole 30D. The output shaft 32 extends through the first link hole 30C and the second link hole 30D. The output shaft 32 is fixed to the first link hole 30C via a fixing structure such as a serration, a spline, and a press fit.

[0100] The second link 16B is at least partially disposed between the first base portion 12A and the second base portion 12B in the first direction D1. The first link portion 30A is at least partially disposed between the first base portion 12A and the second base portion 12B in the first direction D1. The second link portion 30B is at least partially disposed between the first base portion 12A and the second base portion 12B in the first direction D1. The first link portion 30A is at least partially disposed between the first base portion 12A and the housing 20 in the first direction D1. The second link portion 30B is at least partially disposed between the second base portion 12B and the housing 20 in the first direction D1.

[0101] The first shaft end 32A includes a first end surface 32G. The second shaft end 32B includes a second end surface 32H. The first base portion 12A includes a first end cover portion 12G. The second base portion 12B includes a second end cover portion 12H. The first end cover portion 12G faces the first end surface 32G. The second end cover portion 12H faces the second end surface 32H.

[0102] The first end cap portion 12G includes a first end hole 12G1. The inner diameter of the first end hole 12G1 is smaller than the inner diameter of the first support hole 12C. The second end cap portion 12H includes a second end hole 12H1. The inner diameter of the second end hole 12H1 is smaller than the inner diameter of the second support hole 12D. If necessary or desired, the first end hole 12G1 can be omitted from the first end cap portion 12G. If necessary or desired, the second end hole 12H1 can be omitted from the second end cap portion 12H.

[0103] like Figure 8 As shown, the electric actuator unit 10 comprises an electronic controller circuit system EC. The electronic controller circuit system EC is configured to be based on the control signal from the operating device ST (see for example Figure 1 ) controls the electric actuator 21 (see, for example, Figure 4 ). The electronic controller circuit system EC includes a processor EC1, a memory EC2 and a circuit board EC3. The processor EC1 and the memory EC2 are electrically mounted on the circuit board EC3. The circuit board EC3 is at least partially disposed in the inner space 20A of the housing 20. The circuit board EC3 is fixed to the housing 20.

[0104] The processor EC1 is coupled to the memory EC2. The memory EC2 is coupled to the processor EC1. The processor EC1 and the memory EC2 are electrically mounted on a circuit board EC3. The processor EC1 is electrically connected to the memory EC2 via the circuit board EC3. The memory EC2 is electrically connected to the processor EC1 via the circuit board EC3. For example, the electronic controller circuit system EC includes semiconductors. The processor EC1 includes semiconductors. The memory EC2 includes semiconductors. However, if necessary or desired, the electronic controller circuit system EC may not contain semiconductors. If necessary or desired, the processor EC1 may not contain semiconductors. If necessary or desired, the memory EC2 may not contain semiconductors.

[0105] For example, the processor EC1 includes at least one of a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessing unit (MPU), and a memory controller. The memory EC2 is electrically connected to the processor EC1. For example, the memory EC2 includes at least one of a volatile memory and a non-volatile memory. Examples of volatile memories include random access memories (RAM) and dynamic random access memories (DRAM). Examples of non-volatile memories include read-only memories (ROM), electrically erasable programmable ROMs (EEPROMs), and disks. The memory EC2 includes storage areas each having an address. The processor EC1 is configured to control the memory EC2 to store data in a storage area of ​​the memory EC2 and read data from a storage area of ​​the memory EC2. The processor EC1 may also be referred to as a hardware processor EC1 or a processor circuit or circuit system EC1. The memory EC2 may also be referred to as a hardware memory EC2 or a memory circuit or circuit system EC2. The memory EC2 may also be referred to as a computer-readable storage medium EC2.

[0106] The electronic controller circuit system EC is configured to execute at least one control algorithm of the electric device RD. For example, the electronic controller circuit system EC is programmed to execute at least one control algorithm of the electric device RD. The memory EC2 stores at least one program including at least one program instruction. The at least one program is read into the processor EC1, so that the at least one control algorithm of the electric device RD is executed based on the at least one program.

[0107] The structure of the electronic controller circuit system EC is not limited to the above structure. The structure of the electronic controller circuit system EC is not limited to the processor EC1 and the memory EC2. The electronic controller circuit system EC can be implemented by separate hardware or a combination of hardware and software. In the present embodiment, the processor EC1 and the memory EC2 are integrated into a single chip, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field programmable gate array (FPGA). However, if necessary or desired, the processor EC1 and the memory EC2 may be separate chips. If necessary or desired, the electronic controller circuit system EC may include a processor EC1, a memory EC2 and a circuit board EC3. The electronic controller circuit system EC may be at least two electronic controllers arranged separately.

[0108] The electronic controller circuit system EC may include at least two electronic controllers arranged separately. If necessary or desired, at least one control algorithm of the electrical device RD may be executed by the at least two electronic controllers. The electronic controller circuit system EC may include at least two hardware processors arranged separately. The electronic controller circuit system EC may include at least two hardware memories arranged separately. If necessary or desired, at least one control algorithm of the electrical device RD may be executed by the at least two hardware processors. If necessary or desired, at least one control algorithm of the electrical device RD may be stored in at least two hardware memories. If necessary or desired, the electronic controller circuit system EC may include at least two circuit boards arranged separately. If necessary or desired, the electronic controller circuit system EC may include at least two system buses arranged separately.

[0109] The electric actuator unit 10 includes a wireless communicator circuit system WC, a position sensor PS1, and a sensor object PS2. The wireless communicator circuit system WC is electrically connected to the electronic controller circuit system EC. The wireless communicator circuit system WC is electrically mounted on a circuit board EC3. The wireless communicator circuit system WC is configured to wirelessly communicate with the wireless communicator circuit system of the operating device ST. The position sensor PS1 is electrically mounted on the circuit board EC3. The sensor object PS2 is coupled to a rotation shaft included in the force transmission structure 33. For example, the sensor object PS2 is coupled to the rotation shaft 33B of the torque limiter 33A. The position sensor PS1 is configured to acquire the position of the movable member 14 (see, for example, Figure 4 ). The position sensor PS1 is configured to acquire the rotation position of the output shaft 32. The position sensor PS1 is configured to acquire the rotation position of the sensor object PS2 coupled to the rotation shaft 33B of the torque limiter 33A.

[0110] like Fig. 9 As shown, the cover 30 is a separate member from the output shaft 32. The cover 30 is spaced apart from the output shaft 32 when viewed along the rotation axis A1.

[0111] The cover 30 includes an opening 34, and the housing 20 is at least partially exposed through the opening 34 in the cover-attached state in which the cover 30 is attached to the housing 20. The first housing 22 is at least partially exposed through the opening 34 in the cover-attached state. In the present embodiment, the first housing 22 is partially exposed through the opening 34 in the cover-attached state. However, as Fig.11 and Fig.35 As shown, if needed or desired, the first housing 22 can be arranged to not be exposed through the opening 34 in the cover attached state. In such a variation, the opening 34 is omitted from the cover 30, or is provided in another position where the first housing 22 is not exposed through the opening 34 in the cover attached state.

[0112] The first housing 22 includes an exposed portion 22E. The exposed portion 22E is exposed through the opening 34 in the cover attached state. The exposed portion 22E may include an indicator, such as a mark, logo, or character, indicating information related to the human-powered vehicle 2. The indicator may indicate information related to the electric device RD or the electric actuator unit 10.

[0113] like Fig.10 As shown, the second housing 24 is arranged to not be exposed through the opening 34 in the cover-attached state. If needed or desired, the second housing 24 can be at least partially exposed through the opening 34 in the cover-attached state.

[0114] like Fig.11 As shown, if needed or desired, the cover 30 may not include an opening 34 through which the housing 20 is at least partially exposed in the cover-attached state in which the cover 30 is attached to the housing 20. The opening 34 may be omitted from the cover 30 if needed or desired.

[0115] like Fig.12 As shown, the cover 30 includes a cover body 36 and a coupling portion 38. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 As shown, the coupling portion 38 is configured to couple the cover body 36 and the housing 20. The coupling portion 38 is configured to detachably and reattachably couple the cover body 36 and the housing 20. The cover body 36 is configured to at least partially cover the housing 20. In the present embodiment, the cover body 36 is configured to partially cover the housing 20. However, if necessary or desired, the cover body 36 can be configured to completely cover the housing 20.

[0116] The coupling portion 38 includes a first coupling portion 40. The coupling portion 38 includes a second coupling portion 42. The coupling portion 38 includes a second coupling portion 44. The second coupling portion 42 is spaced apart from the first coupling portion 40. The second coupling portion 44 is spaced apart from the first coupling portion 40. The second coupling portion 42 is spaced apart from the second coupling portion 44.

[0117] The shape of the second coupling portion 42 is different from the shape of the first coupling portion 40. The shape of the second coupling portion 44 is different from the shape of the first coupling portion 40. The shape of the second coupling portion 42 is the same as the shape of the second coupling portion 44. However, if needed or desired, the shape of the second coupling portion 42 can be the same as the shape of the first coupling portion 40. If needed or desired, the shape of the second coupling portion 44 can be the same as the shape of the first coupling portion 40. If needed or desired, the shape of the second coupling portion 42 can be different from the shape of the second coupling portion 44.

[0118] like Fig.13 and Fig.14 As shown, the housing 20 includes a receiving portion 48. The coupling portion 38 is contactable with the receiving portion 48 to maintain a cover attached state in which the cover 30 is attached to the housing 20.

[0119] The receiving portion 48 includes a first receiving portion 50. The receiving portion 48 includes a second receiving portion 52. The receiving portion 48 includes a second receiving portion 54. The second receiving portion 52 is spaced apart from the first receiving portion 50. The second receiving portion 54 is spaced apart from the first receiving portion 50.

[0120] like Fig.15 and Fig.16 As shown, the first coupling portion 40 and the second coupling portion 42 are contactable with the first receiving portion 50 and the second receiving portion 52, respectively, to maintain the cover attached state. Fig.15 and Fig.17 As shown, the first coupling portion 40 and the second coupling portion 44 are contactable with the first receiving portion 50 and the second receiving portion 54, respectively, to maintain the cover attached state.

[0121] like Fig.16 As shown, the second coupling portion 42 includes at least one of a second coupling opening and a second coupling protrusion. The second receiving portion 52 includes at least one of a second receiving protrusion and a second receiving opening, the second receiving protrusion is configured to be at least partially disposed in the second coupling opening in the cover attached state, and the second coupling protrusion is at least partially disposed in the second receiving opening in the cover attached state.

[0122] In the present embodiment, the second coupling portion 42 includes a second coupling opening 42A. The second receiving portion 52 includes a second receiving protrusion 52A configured to be at least partially disposed in the second coupling opening 42A in the cover-attached state.

[0123] However, if needed or desired, the second coupling portion 42 includes a second coupling protrusion instead of or in addition to the second coupling opening 42A. The second receiving portion 52 may include a second receiving opening instead of or in addition to the second receiving protrusion 52A.

[0124] like Fig.17 As shown, the second coupling portion 44 includes at least one of a second coupling opening and a second coupling protrusion. The second receiving portion 54 includes at least one of a second receiving protrusion and a second receiving opening, the second receiving protrusion is configured to be at least partially disposed in the second coupling opening in the cover attached state, and the second coupling protrusion is at least partially disposed in the second receiving opening in the cover attached state.

[0125] In the present embodiment, the second coupling portion 44 includes a second coupling opening 44A. The second receiving portion 54 includes a second receiving protrusion 54A configured to be at least partially disposed in the second coupling opening 44A in the cover-attached state.

[0126] However, if needed or desired, the second coupling portion 44 includes a second coupling protrusion instead of or in addition to the second coupling opening 44A. The second receiving portion 54 may include a second receiving opening instead of or in addition to the second receiving protrusion 54A.

[0127] like Fig.15 As shown, the first coupling portion 40 includes a first coupling surface 40S. The first receiving portion 50 includes a first receiving surface 50S. The first coupling surface 40S is arranged to face the first receiving surface 50S in the cover attached state. The first receiving surface 50S is arranged to face the first coupling surface 40S in the cover attached state. The first coupling surface 40S contacts the first receiving surface 50S in the cover attached state. The first receiving surface 50S contacts the first coupling surface 40S in the cover attached state.

[0128] The first coupling surface 40S is arranged to face the second direction D2 defined along the reference plane RP in the cover attached state. The first receiving surface 50S is arranged to face the second direction D2 in the cover attached state. The second direction D2 is defined to be perpendicular to the first direction D1.

[0129] like Fig.16As shown, the second coupling portion 42 includes a second coupling surface 42S. The second receiving portion 52 includes a second receiving surface 52S. The second coupling surface 42S is arranged to face the second receiving surface 52S in the cover attached state. The second receiving surface 52S is arranged to face the second coupling surface 42S in the cover attached state. The second coupling surface 42S and the second receiving surface 52S are contactable to limit the cover 30 from moving away from the housing 20 in the cover attached state. The second receiving surface 52S and the second coupling surface 42S are contactable to limit the cover 30 from moving away from the housing 20 in the cover attached state.

[0130] The second coupling surface 42S is arranged to face the second direction D2 in the cover attached state. The second receiving surface 52S is arranged to face the second direction D2 in the cover attached state. The second receiving protrusion 52A protrudes from the housing 20 in the first direction D1. The second receiving protrusion 52A extends through the second coupling opening 42A in the first direction D1.

[0131] The second connecting surface 42S is provided to the second connecting opening 42A. The second receiving surface 52S is provided to the second receiving protrusion 52A. In the case where the second connecting portion 42 includes a second connecting protrusion, the second connecting surface 42S is provided to the second connecting protrusion. In the case where the second receiving portion 52 includes a second receiving opening, the second receiving surface 52S is provided to the second receiving opening.

[0132] In the present embodiment, the second receiving protrusion 52A is integrally provided as a one-piece unitary member with the second housing 24 of the housing 20. However, the second receiving protrusion 52A may be a separate member from the housing 20 if needed or desired.

[0133] like Fig.16 As shown, the second coupling portion 42 includes a second additional coupling surface 42B. The second additional coupling surface 42B is arranged to face the housing 20 in the first direction D1 in the cover attachment state. The second additional coupling surface 42B is arranged to face the second housing 24 of the housing 20 in the first direction D1 in the cover attachment state. The second additional coupling surface 42B is contactable with the second housing 24 to restrict the cover 30 from moving relative to the housing 20 in the third direction D11. The first direction D1 includes the third direction D11 and a fourth direction D12. The fourth direction D12 is a direction opposite to the third direction D11.

[0134] like Fig.17As shown, the second coupling portion 44 includes a second coupling surface 44S. The second receiving portion 54 includes a second receiving surface 54S. The second coupling surface 44S is arranged to face the second receiving surface 54S in the cover attached state. The second receiving surface 54S is arranged to face the second coupling surface 44S in the cover attached state. The second coupling surface 44S and the second receiving surface 54S are contactable to limit the cover 30 from moving away from the housing 20 in the cover attached state. The second receiving surface 54S and the second coupling surface 44S are contactable to limit the cover 30 from moving away from the housing 20 in the cover attached state.

[0135] The second coupling surface 44S is arranged to face the second direction D2 in the cover attached state. The second receiving surface 54S is arranged to face the second direction D2 in the cover attached state. The second receiving protrusion 54A protrudes from the housing 20 in the first direction D1. The second receiving protrusion 54A extends through the second coupling opening 44A in the first direction D1.

[0136] The second connecting surface 44S is provided to the second connecting opening 44A. The second receiving surface 54S is provided to the second receiving protrusion 54A. In the case where the second connecting portion 44 includes a second connecting protrusion, the second connecting surface 44S is provided to the second connecting protrusion. In the case where the second receiving portion 54 includes a second receiving opening, the second receiving surface 54S is provided to the second receiving opening.

[0137] In the present embodiment, the second receiving protrusion 54A is integrally provided as a one-piece unitary member with the second housing 24 of the housing 20. However, the second receiving protrusion 54A may be a separate member from the housing 20 if needed or desired.

[0138] like Fig.17 As shown, the second coupling portion 44 includes a second additional coupling surface 44B. The second additional coupling surface 44B is arranged to face the housing 20 in the first direction D1 in the cover attachment state. The second additional coupling surface 44B is arranged to face the second housing 24 of the housing 20 in the first direction D1 in the cover attachment state. The second additional coupling surface 44B is contactable with the second housing 24 to restrict the cover 30 from moving relative to the housing 20 in the third direction D11.

[0139] like Fig.15 As shown, the cover 30 includes a stopper 60. The stopper 60 is configured to restrict the cover 30 from being disengaged from the housing 20 in an assembled state in which the cover 30 is attached to the housing 20 and the housing 20 is mounted to the base member 12. The stopper 60 is contactable with the base member 12 to restrict the cover 30 from being disengaged from the housing 20 in the assembled state.

[0140] The stopper 60 is configured to be at least partially disposed between the base member 12 and the housing 20 in an assembled state. The stopper 60 is configured to be at least partially disposed between the base member 12 and the housing 20 in a first direction D1 in an assembled state. In the present embodiment, the stopper 60 is configured to be partially disposed between the base member 12 and the housing 20 in the first direction D1 in an assembled state. However, if necessary or desired, the stopper 60 may be configured to be completely disposed between the base member 12 and the housing 20 in an assembled state.

[0141] In the present embodiment, the stopper 60 protrudes in the second direction D2 from the first coupling portion 40. However, the stopper 60 may be provided at a position other than that of the illustrated embodiment.

[0142] like Fig.15 As shown, the housing 20 includes a first positioning portion 20P. The base member 12 includes a second positioning portion 12P. The first positioning portion 20P is configured to engage with the second positioning portion 12P to limit the movement of the housing 20 relative to the base member 12. In the present embodiment, the first positioning portion 20P includes a protrusion 20P1. The second positioning portion 12P includes a recessed portion 12P1. The protrusion 20P1 is at least partially disposed in the recessed portion 12P1 to limit the movement of the housing 20 relative to the base member 12. However, if necessary or desired, the first positioning portion 20P can be omitted from the housing 20. If necessary or desired, the second positioning portion 12P can be omitted from the base member 12.

[0143] like Fig.13 As shown, the cover 30 includes a limiting portion 61. The limiting portion 61 protrudes from the cover body 36. The limiting portion 61 is spaced apart from the stopper 60. Fig.18 As shown, the limiting portion 61 is configured to be at least partially disposed between the base member 12 and the housing 20. The limiting portion 61 is configured to be partially disposed between the base member 12 and the housing 20 in a fifth direction D5. The fifth direction D5 is defined as being perpendicular to the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. However, if necessary or desired, the limiting portion 61 can be omitted from the cover 30.

[0144] like Fig.19 and Fig. 20 As shown, the cover 30 includes a contactable portion 62. The contactable portion 62 is contactable with the outer surface 20S of the housing 20. The contactable portion 62 is contactable with the outer surface 22S of the first housing 22. The contactable portion 62 is contactable with the outer surface 24S of the second housing 24.

[0145] The cover body 36 includes a cover inner surface 36A and a cover outer surface 36B. The cover outer surface 36B is provided on the opposite side of the cover inner surface 36A. The cover inner surface 36A is configured to face the outer surface 20S of the housing 20 in the cover attached state where the cover 30 is attached to the housing 20. The contactable portion 62 is provided in the cover inner surface 36A. The contactable portion 62 protrudes from the cover inner surface 36A.

[0146] like Fig.12 As shown, the contactable portion 62 is spaced apart from the coupling portion 38. The contactable portion 62 is spaced apart from each of the first coupling portion 40 and the second coupling portion 42.

[0147] In the present embodiment, the contactable portion 62 includes at least one first contactable protrusion 64. The contactable portion 62 includes at least two first contactable protrusions 64. The first contactable protrusion 64 is provided in the cover inner surface 36A. The first contactable protrusion 64 protrudes from the cover inner surface 36A.

[0148] The contactable portion 62 includes at least one second contactable protrusion 66. The contactable portion 62 includes at least two second contactable protrusions 66. The second contactable protrusion 66 is provided in the cover inner surface 36A. The second contactable protrusion 66 protrudes from the cover inner surface 36A.

[0149] like Fig.19 and Fig. 20 As shown, the first contactable protrusion 64 is contactable with the outer surface 20S of the housing 20. The first contactable protrusion 64 is contactable with the outer surface 22S of the first housing 22.

[0150] The second contactable protrusion 66 is contactable with the outer surface 20S of the housing 20. The second contactable protrusion 66 is contactable with the outer surface 24S of the second housing 24.

[0151] The assembly process of the base member 12, the housing 20 and the cover 30 will be described in detail below.

[0152] like Figure 6 As shown, the cover 30 is attached to the housing 20 before the housing 20 is attached to the base member 12. Fig.10 As shown, the second receiving protrusion 52A of the second receiving portion 52 is inserted into the second coupling opening 42A of the second coupling portion 42 when the cover 30 is attached to the housing 20. The second receiving protrusion 54A of the second receiving portion 54 is inserted into the second coupling opening 44A of the second coupling portion 44 when the cover 30 is attached to the housing 20.

[0153] like Fig.21As shown, the cover 30 is deformable to allow the cover 30 to be attached to or detached from the housing 20. In a state where the second receiving protrusion 52A is disposed in the second coupling opening 42A and the second receiving protrusion 54A is disposed in the second coupling opening 44A (see, for example, Fig.10 ), the first coupling portion 40 and the stopper 60 slide in the attachment direction D6 along the housing 20. For example, the attachment direction D6 is defined along the reference plane RP.

[0154] When the first coupling surface 40S of the first coupling portion 40 reaches the first receiving surface 50S of the first receiving portion 50, the first coupling portion 40 moves in the fourth direction D12 relative to the housing 20 due to the elastic force of the cover 30. This makes the first coupling surface 40S contact the first receiving surface 50S. Therefore, the cover 30 is coupled to the housing 20 to at least partially cover the boundary 26 of the housing 20.

[0155] like Figure 8 As shown, after the cover 30 is coupled to the housing 20, the first base portion 12A and the second base portion 12B are coupled via the fastener 12F in a state where the housing 20 is disposed between the first base portion 12A and the second base portion 12B. Fig.15 As shown, the stopper 60 is provided between the first base portion 12A and the housing 20 , thereby restricting the cover 30 from falling off from the housing 20 .

[0156] like Fig. 22 As shown, the guide plate 14B is pivotally connected to the connecting member 14A around the pivot axis PA. The movable member 14 includes a first pivot portion 14E, a second pivot portion 14F and a cap 14G. The first pivot portion 14E is at least partially disposed in the connecting member 14A. The first pivot portion 14E includes a threaded hole 14E1. The threaded hole 14E1 extends along the pivot axis PA. The second pivot portion 14F includes an external threaded portion 14F1. The external threaded portion 14F1 is configured to engage with the threaded hole 14E1 to pivotally connect the connecting member 14A and the guide plate 14B around the pivot axis PA.

[0157] The cap 14G is attached to the first pivot portion 14E. The first pivot portion 14E includes an attachment hole 14E2. The attachment hole 14E2 is connected to the threaded hole 14E1. The cap 14G is at least partially disposed in the attachment hole 14E2. The cap 14G includes a longitudinal portion 14G1 and a head portion 14G2. The longitudinal portion 14G1 extends from the head portion 14G2. The outer diameter of the head portion 14G2 is greater than the outer diameter of the longitudinal portion 14G1. The longitudinal portion 14G1 is at least partially disposed in the attachment hole 14E2. The cap 14G includes a limiting portion 14G3. The limiting portion 14G3 is configured to limit the cap 14G from falling off from the first pivot portion 14E. The limiting portion 14G3 has a snap-fit ​​structure.

[0158] The second pivot portion 14F includes a hole 14F2. The hole 14F2 extends along the pivot axis PA. For example, a tool is inserted into the hole 14F2 to remove the cap 14G from the first pivot portion 14E. If needed or desired, the hole 14F2 can be omitted from the second pivot portion 14F.

[0159] like Fig.13 As shown, the electric actuator unit 10 includes a connector port 84 to which the cable CB1 or the additional cable CB2 is to be electrically connected. The connector port 84 is electrically connected to the electronic controller circuitry EC. The connector port 84 is provided to the housing 20. The connector port 84 includes a connector hole 84A.

[0160] The connector port 84 is configured to be detachably and reattachably connected to the cable CB1 or the additional cable CB2. The cable CB1 includes a connector CB11, which is configured to be detachably and reattachably connected to the connector port 84. The additional cable CB2 includes an additional connector CB21, which is configured to be detachably and reattachably connected to the connector port 84. The connector CB11 is configured to be detachably and reattachably inserted into the connector hole 84A of the connector port 84. The additional connector CB21 is configured to be detachably and reattachably inserted into the connector hole 84A of the connector port 84.

[0161] like Fig.23 and Fig.24 As shown, the connector CB11 has a shape that is different from the shape of the additional connector CB21. For example, the additional connector CB21 comprises a flange CB23, while the connector CB11 does not have such a flange.

[0162] like Fig.25 As shown, the electric actuator unit 10 includes a connector cover 86. The connector cover 86 is attached to the connector port 84 to at least partially cover the connector port 84. The connector cover 86 allows each of the connector CB11 and the additional connector CB21 to be connected to the connector port 84.

[0163] The connector cover 86 includes a fixed portion 86A, a flexible portion 86B and an insertion hole 86C. The fixed portion 86A is fixed to the connector port 84. The flexible portion 86B has a minimum inner diameter DM3. The flexible portion 86B is elastically deformable to change the minimum inner diameter DM3. The connector cover 86 is made of an elastic material such as rubber. The fixed portion 86A and the flexible portion 86B define the insertion hole 86C.

[0164] like Fig.25As shown, the connector CB11 of the cable CB1 has a maximum outer diameter DM1. The maximum outer diameter DM1 is greater than the minimum inner diameter DM3 of the connector cover 86. When the connector CB11 is inserted into the insertion hole 86C of the connector cover 86, the flexible portion 86B can be deformed to increase the minimum inner diameter DM3 to the maximum outer diameter DM1 of the connector CB11.

[0165] The connector CB11 includes a groove CB12. The connector cover 86 includes a radial inner portion 86D. The radial inner portion 86D is at least partially disposed in the groove CB12 when the connector CB11 is electrically connected to the connector port 84. Therefore, the connector CB11 is positioned by the connector cover 86 and the groove CB12. The connector CB11 is at least partially disposed in the connector cover 86 when the connector CB11 is electrically connected to the connector port 84.

[0166] like Fig.26 As shown, the additional connector CB21 of the additional cable CB2 has a maximum outer diameter DM2. The maximum outer diameter DM2 is defined by the flange CB23. The maximum outer diameter DM2 is greater than the minimum inner diameter DM3 of the connector cover 86. The maximum outer diameter DM2 is greater than the maximum outer diameter DM1 of the connector CB11. When the additional connector CB21 is inserted into the insertion hole 86C of the connector cover 86, the flexible portion 86B can be deformed to increase the minimum inner diameter DM3 to the maximum outer diameter DM2 of the additional connector CB21.

[0167] The additional connector CB21 includes a groove CB22. The radial inner portion 86D is at least partially disposed in the groove CB22 in a state where the additional connector CB21 is electrically connected to the connector port 84. Therefore, the additional connector CB21 is positioned by the connector cover 86 and the groove CB22. The additional connector CB21 is at least partially disposed in the connector cover 86 in a state where the additional connector CB21 is electrically connected to the connector port 84.

[0168] like Fig. 27 As shown, the electrical device RD includes a cable channel cover 90. The cable channel cover 90 is configured to be attached to the base member 12. The cable channel cover 90 is coupled to the base member 12 by a cover fastener 92. The base member 12 includes a cable channel 12K, and the cable CB1 or the additional cable CB2 is at least partially disposed in the cable channel 12K. The connector port 84 is at least partially disposed in the cable channel 12K. The connector cover 86 is at least partially disposed in the cable channel 12K. The cable channel cover 90 is coupled to the base member 12 to at least partially cover the cable channel 12K.

[0169] In the event that an additional cable CB2 is electrically connected to the connector port 84 and the additional cable CB2 and the cable channel cover 90 interfere, the cable channel cover 90 may be detached from the base member 12 .

[0170] The cover 30 is a separate member from the cable passage cover 90. The cover 30 is spaced apart from the cable passage cover 90 in the assembled state of the electric device RD.

[0171] In the present embodiment, the base member 12 is made of a metal material such as aluminum, iron and titanium. The housing 20 is made of a non-metal material such as a resin material. The cover 30 is made of a non-metal material such as a resin material. The cable channel cover 90 is made of a non-metal material such as a resin material. Examples of resin materials include polybutyleneterephtalate (PBT) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). For example, the housing 20 is made of PBT. The cover 30 is made of ABS. The cable channel cover 90 is made of ABS. In the case where the housing 20 is made of a resin material, the weight of the electric actuator unit 10 can be reduced. In the case where the housing 20 is made of a resin material, the interference between the housing 20 and the wireless signal can be reduced. In the case where the cover 30 is made of a resin material, the weight of the electric actuator unit 10 can be reduced. In the case where the cover 30 is made of a resin material, the interference between the cover 30 and the wireless signal can be reduced. In the case where the base member 12 is made of a metal material to maintain the strength of the electric actuator unit 10, the base member 12 preferably does not completely cover the electric actuator unit 10. Since the base member 12 does not completely cover the electric actuator unit 10, and the housing 20 is covered by the cover 30 made of a resin material, the weight of the electric actuator unit 10 can be reduced, and the interference between the electric actuator unit 10 and the wireless signal can be reduced while maintaining the strength of the electric actuator unit 10. However, if necessary or desired, the housing 20 can be made of a resin material or a non-metallic material other than PBT. If necessary or desired, the cover 30 can be made of a resin material or a non-metallic material other than ABS. If necessary or desired, the cable channel cover 90 can be made of a resin material or a non-metallic material other than ABS. If necessary or desired, at least one of the housing 20, the cover 30 and the cable channel cover 90 can be made of a metal material. If necessary or desired, the base member 12 can be made of a non-metallic material.

[0172] The shapes of the housing 20 and the cover 30 are not limited to the above-described embodiment and its modifications.

[0173] exist Figure 28 to Figure 31 In the illustrated first variation, for example, the coupling portion 38 includes a second coupling portion 242. The coupling portion 38 includes a second coupling portion 244. The second coupling portion 242 is spaced apart from the first coupling portion 40. The second coupling portion 244 is spaced apart from the first coupling portion 40. The second coupling portion 242 is spaced apart from the second coupling portion 244.

[0174] The shape of the second coupling portion 242 is different from the shape of the first coupling portion 40. The shape of the second coupling portion 244 is different from the shape of the first coupling portion 40. The shape of the second coupling portion 242 is different from the shape of the second coupling portion 244. However, if needed or desired, the shape of the second coupling portion 242 can be the same as the shape of the first coupling portion 40. If needed or desired, the shape of the second coupling portion 244 can be the same as the shape of the first coupling portion 40. If needed or desired, the shape of the second coupling portion 242 can be the same as the shape of the second coupling portion 244.

[0175] exist Fig.28 and Fig.29 In the illustrated first variation, the receiving portion 48 includes a second receiving portion 252. The receiving portion 48 includes a second receiving portion 254. The second receiving portion 252 is spaced apart from the first receiving portion 50. The second receiving portion 254 is spaced apart from the first receiving portion 50.

[0176] like Fig.15 and Fig.30 As shown, the first coupling portion 40 and the second coupling portion 242 are respectively contactable with the first receiving portion 50 and the second receiving portion 252 to maintain the cover attached state. The first coupling portion 40 and the second coupling portion 244 are respectively contactable with the first receiving portion 50 and the second receiving portion 254 to maintain the cover attached state.

[0177] like Fig.30 and Fig.31 As shown, the second coupling portion 242 includes at least one of a second coupling opening and a second coupling protrusion. The second receiving portion 252 includes at least one of a second receiving protrusion and a second receiving opening, the second receiving protrusion is configured to be at least partially disposed in the second coupling opening in the cover attached state, and the second coupling protrusion is at least partially disposed in the second receiving opening in the cover attached state.

[0178] like Fig.30 As shown, the second coupling portion 242 includes a second coupling protrusion 242A. The second receiving portion 252 includes a second receiving protrusion 252B and a second receiving opening 252A. The second coupling protrusion 242A is configured to be at least partially disposed in the second receiving opening 252A in the cover attached state. The second receiving protrusion 252B and the second coupling protrusion 242A can contact to maintain the cover attached state.

[0179] However, if needed or desired, the second coupling portion 242 includes a second coupling opening instead of the second coupling protrusion 242A or a second coupling opening in addition to the second coupling protrusion 242A. The second receiving portion 252 may include at least one of a second receiving protrusion 252B and a second receiving opening 252A instead of or in addition to the second receiving opening 252A.

[0180] like Fig.30 As shown, the second coupling portion 244 includes at least one of a second coupling opening and a second coupling protrusion. The second receiving portion 254 includes at least one of a second receiving protrusion and a second receiving opening, the second receiving protrusion is configured to be at least partially disposed in the second coupling opening in the cover attached state, and the second coupling protrusion is at least partially disposed in the second receiving opening in the cover attached state.

[0181] exist Fig.30 In the illustrated first variation, the second coupling portion 244 includes a second coupling protrusion 244A. The second receiving portion 254 includes a second receiving protrusion 254B and a second receiving opening 254A. The second coupling protrusion 244A is configured to be at least partially disposed in the second receiving opening 254A in the cover attached state. The second receiving protrusion 254B and the second coupling protrusion 244A can contact to maintain the cover attached state.

[0182] However, if needed or desired, the second coupling portion 244 includes a second coupling opening instead of or in addition to the second coupling protrusion 244A. If needed or desired, at least one of the second receiving protrusion 254B and the second receiving opening 254A may be omitted from the second receiving portion 254.

[0183] like Fig.30 As shown, the second coupling portion 242 includes a second coupling surface 242S. The second receiving portion 252 includes a second receiving surface 252S. The second coupling surface 242S is arranged to face the second receiving surface 252S in the cover attachment state. The second coupling surface 242S and the second receiving surface 252S can contact to limit the cover 30 from moving away from the housing 20 in the cover attachment state. The second coupling surface 242S is set to the second coupling protrusion 242A. The second receiving surface 252S is set to the second receiving opening 252A. In the case where the second coupling portion 242 includes a second coupling opening, the second coupling surface 242S is set to the second coupling opening. In the case where the second receiving portion 252 includes a second receiving protrusion, the second receiving surface 252S is set to the second receiving protrusion.

[0184] The second coupling portion 244 includes a second coupling surface 244S. The second receiving portion 254 includes a second receiving surface 254S. The second coupling surface 244S is arranged to face the second receiving surface 254S in the cover attached state. The second coupling surface 244S and the second receiving surface 254S can contact to restrict the cover 30 from moving away from the housing 20 in the cover attached state. The second coupling surface 244S is provided to the second coupling protrusion 244A. The second receiving surface 254S is provided to the second receiving opening 254A. In the case where the second coupling portion 244 includes a second coupling opening, the second coupling surface 244S is provided to the second coupling opening. In the case where the second receiving portion 254 includes a second receiving protrusion, the second receiving surface 254S is provided to the second receiving protrusion.

[0185] exist Fig.32 and Fig.33 In the second variation shown, for example, the coupling portion 38 includes a second coupling portion 342. The second coupling portion 342 is spaced apart from the first coupling portion 40.

[0186] The shape of the second coupling portion 342 is different from the shape of the first coupling portion 40. However, the shape of the second coupling portion 342 may be the same as the shape of the first coupling portion 40 if needed or desired.

[0187] exist Fig.33 In the illustrated second variation, the receiving portion 48 includes a second receiving portion 352. The second receiving portion 352 is spaced apart from the first receiving portion 50. The first coupling portion 40 and the second coupling portion 342 are contactable with the first receiving portion 50 and the second receiving portion 352, respectively, to maintain the cover attached state.

[0188] like Fig.33 As shown, the second coupling portion 342 includes a second coupling surface 342S. The second receiving portion 352 includes a second receiving surface 352S. The second coupling surface 342S is arranged to face the second receiving surface 352S in the cover attached state. The second coupling surface 342S and the second receiving surface 352S can contact to restrict the cover 30 from moving away from the housing 20 in the cover attached state. The second coupling surface 342S is provided to the second coupling protrusion 342A. The second receiving surface 352S is provided to the second receiving opening 352A.

[0189] exist Fig.33 In the illustrated second variation, the stopper 60 includes an additional stopper 363. The additional stopper 363 protrudes from the stopper 60 in the first direction D1. The additional stopper 363 is contactable with the base member 12 in the second direction D2.

[0190] In this application, the term "comprising" and its derivatives used herein are intended to be open terms, indicating the presence of the features, elements, components, groups, integers and / or steps, but not excluding the presence of other undescribed features, elements, components, groups, integers and / or steps. This concept also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the terms "having", "including" and their derivatives.

[0191] The terms “member,” “segment,” “portion,” “section,” “element,” “body,” and “structure” when used in the singular can have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts.

[0192] Ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" in this application are merely identifiers and do not have any other meanings, such as a specific order and the like. In addition, for example, the term "first element" itself does not imply the existence of a "second element", and the term "second element" itself does not imply the existence of a "first element".

[0193] The term “a pair”, as used herein, can include a configuration in which a pair of elements have a different shape or structure from each other as well as a configuration in which a pair of elements have the same shape or structure as each other.

[0194] The terms "a", "one or more" and "at least one" can be used interchangeably herein.

[0195] The phrase “at least one of…” used in the present disclosure refers to “one or more” of the desired options. For one example, if the number of its options is two, the phrase “at least one of…” used in the present disclosure means “only one single option” or “both of the two options”. For other examples, if the number of its options is equal to or greater than three, the phrase “at least one of…” used in the present disclosure means “only one single option” or “any combination of equal to or greater than two options”. For example, the phrase “at least one of A and B” covers (1) A alone, (2) B alone, and (3) both A and B. The phrase “at least one of A, B, and C” includes (1) A alone, (2) B alone, (3) C alone, (4) both A and B, (5) both B and C, (6) both A and C, and (7) all of A, B, and C. In other words, in the present disclosure, the phrase “at least one of A and B” does not mean “at least one A and at least one B”.

[0196] Finally, as used herein, terms of degree such as "substantially", "about" and "approximately" mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term so that the end result is not significantly changed. All numerical values ​​described in this application can be interpreted as including terms such as "substantially", "about" and "approximately".

[0197] Obviously, many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings.It is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein.

[0198] Description of reference numerals:

[0199] 2 Human-powered vehicles

[0200] 3 Cranks

[0201] 4 sprockets

[0202] 5 Chain

[0203] 6 Sprocket Assembly

[0204] 7A Wheels

[0205] 7B wheel

[0206] 8 Body

[0207] 8A front fork

[0208] 8F Frame

[0209] 8H handlebar

[0210] 8S Seat

[0211] 10Electric actuator unit

[0212] 12 base components

[0213] 12A First base part

[0214] 12B Second base part

[0215] 12C first support hole

[0216] 12D second support hole

[0217] 12f Fastener

[0218] 12G first end cap part

[0219] 12G1 first end hole

[0220] 12H Second end cover

[0221] 12H1 Second end hole

[0222] 12K Cable Channel

[0223] 12P second positioning part

[0224] 12P1 recess

[0225] 14 Movable components

[0226] 14A Connecting member

[0227] 14B guide plate

[0228] 14C guide wheel

[0229] 14D tension pulley

[0230] 14E First pivoting part

[0231] 14E1 threaded hole

[0232] 14E2 attachment hole

[0233] 14F Second pivoting part

[0234] 14F1 external thread

[0235] 14F2 hole

[0236] 14G cap

[0237] 14G1 longitudinal section

[0238] 14G2 Header

[0239] 14G3 Restricted Section

[0240] 16 connecting rod structure

[0241] 16A first link

[0242] 16B Second link

[0243] 17 Derailleur fasteners

[0244] 20 Shell

[0245] 20A internal space

[0246] 20P first positioning part

[0247] 20P1 protrusion

[0248] 20S outer surface

[0249] 21 Electric actuator

[0250] 22 First Shell

[0251] 22A first contact surface

[0252] 22A1 First Edge

[0253] 22E exposed part

[0254] 22S outer surface

[0255] 24 Second Shell

[0256] 24A Second contact surface

[0257] 24A1 Second Edge

[0258] 24S outer surface

[0259] 26 Border

[0260] 30 caps

[0261] 30A First Link Section

[0262] 30B Second link part

[0263] 30C first link hole

[0264] 30D second link hole

[0265] 32 Output shaft

[0266] 32A First shaft end

[0267] 32B Second shaft end

[0268] 32G first end surface

[0269] 32H Second end surface

[0270] 33 Force transmission structure

[0271] 33A torque limiter

[0272] 33B Rotation axis

[0273] 33C Gear

[0274] 34 (cover) opening

[0275] 36 Cover body

[0276] 36A cover inner surface

[0277] 36B cover outer surface

[0278] 38 connection part

[0279] 40 First coupling portion (of coupling portion 38)

[0280] 40S first connection surface

[0281] 42 Second connecting portion (of connecting portion 38)

[0282] 42A Second connection opening

[0283] 42B Second additional connection surface

[0284] 42S Second connection surface

[0285] 44 (of the coupling portion 38) second coupling portion

[0286] 44A Second connection opening

[0287] 44B Second additional connection surface

[0288] 44S Second connection surface

[0289] 48 receiving part

[0290] 50: First receiving portion (of receiving portion 48)

[0291] 50S first receiving surface

[0292] 52 (receiving part 48) second receiving part

[0293] 52A Second receiving protrusion

[0294] 52S second receiving surface

[0295] 54 (receiving part 48) second receiving part

[0296] 54A Second receiving protrusion

[0297] 54S second receiving surface

[0298] 60 stopper

[0299] 61 Restricted Section

[0300] 62 accessible parts

[0301] 64 first contactable protrusion

[0302] 66 second contactable protrusion

[0303] 84 connector ports

[0304] 84A connector hole

[0305] 86 Connector Cover

[0306] 86A fixed part

[0307] 86B flexible part

[0308] 86C Insertion hole

[0309] 86D radial inner section

[0310] 90 Cable Channel Cover

[0311] 92 Cover Fasteners

[0312] 242 Second connecting portion (of connecting portion 38)

[0313] 242A Second connecting protrusion

[0314] 242S Second connection surface

[0315] 244 (of the coupling portion 38) second coupling portion

[0316] 244A Second connecting protrusion

[0317] 244S Second connection surface

[0318] 252 (receiving part 48) second receiving part

[0319] 252 second receiving opening

[0320] 252B Second receiving protrusion

[0321] 252S Second receiving surface

[0322] 254 (receiving part 48) second receiving part

[0323] 254A Second receiving opening

[0324] 254B Second receiving protrusion

[0325] 254S Second receiving surface

[0326] 342 second connection part

[0327] 342S Second connection surface

[0328] 352 Second receiving part

[0329] 352S Second receiving surface

[0330] 363 Additional stop

[0331] FS, RS, RD, DU, FB, RB, AS, HA, SP electrical devices

[0332] AS electric device (adjustable seat post)

[0333] DU electric device (auxiliary drive unit)

[0334] FB electric device (brake device)

[0335] FS electric device (suspension)

[0336] HA electric device (hub assembly)

[0337] RB electric device (brake device)

[0338] RD electric device (shifter)

[0339] SP electronic devices / display devices (smartphones, bicycle computers, etc.)

[0340] RS electric device (suspension)

[0341] ST operating device

[0342] A1 Rotation axis

[0343] ASIC

[0344] B1 first bushing

[0345] B2 Second Bushing

[0346] CB1 Cable

[0347] CB2 additional cable

[0348] CB11 Connector

[0349] CB12 groove

[0350] CB21 additional connector

[0351] CB22 groove

[0352] CB23 flange

[0353] CP transverse center plane

[0354] CPU Central Processing Unit

[0355] D1 first direction

[0356] D2 Second direction

[0357] D5 Fifth direction

[0358] D6 Attachment Direction

[0359] D11 third direction

[0360] D12 Fourth direction

[0361] DM1 maximum outer diameter

[0362] DM2 maximum outer diameter

[0363] DM3 minimum inner diameter

[0364] DRAM Dynamic Random Access Memory

[0365] EC electronic controller circuit system

[0366] EC1 processor (hardware processor / processor circuit / circuit system)

[0367] EC2 storage (hardware storage / storage circuit / circuit system / computer-readable storage medium)

[0368] EC3 Circuit Board

[0369] EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM

[0370] FPGA Field Programmable Gate Array

[0371] MPU micro processing unit

[0372] PA pivot axis

[0373] PA1 first pivot axis

[0374] PA2 Second pivot axis

[0375] PA3 Third pivot axis

[0376] PA4 Fourth pivot axis

[0377] PS1 Position Sensor

[0378] PS2 Sensor Object

[0379] RA sprocket rotation axis

[0380] RAM Random Access Memory

[0381] ROM Read Only Memory

[0382] RP Reference Plane

[0383] WC wireless communicator circuit system.

Claims

1. An electric actuator unit for a human-powered vehicle, the electric actuator unit comprising: a housing, the housing comprising a first housing and a second housing, the first housing and the second housing being coupled to define an inner space; an electric actuator disposed at least partially in the interior space; and A cover is configured to be attached to the housing to at least partially cover a boundary provided between the first housing and the second housing.

2. The electric actuator unit according to claim 1, wherein The cover includes an opening through which the housing is at least partially exposed in a cover-attached state in which the cover is attached to the housing.

3. The electric actuator unit according to claim 2, wherein The first housing is at least partially exposed through the opening in the cover-attached state.

4. An electric actuator unit according to claim 2 or 3, wherein The second housing is arranged not to be exposed through the opening in the cover-attached state.

5. The electric actuator unit according to claim 1, wherein The cover does not include an opening through which the housing is at least partially exposed in a cover-attached state in which the cover is attached to the housing.

6. The electric actuator unit according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein The cover comprises a cover body and a coupling portion, The cover body is configured to at least partially cover the housing, and The coupling portion is configured to couple the cover body and the housing.

7. The electric actuator unit according to claim 6, wherein The housing includes a receiving portion, and The coupling portion is contactable with the receiving portion to maintain a cover-attached state in which the cover is attached to the housing.

8. The electric actuator unit according to claim 7, wherein The coupling portion includes a first coupling portion and a second coupling portion spaced apart from the first coupling portion, The receiving portion includes a first receiving portion and a second receiving portion spaced apart from the first receiving portion, and The first coupling portion and the second coupling portion are contactable with the first receiving portion and the second receiving portion, respectively, to maintain the cover attached state.

9. The electric actuator unit according to claim 8, wherein The second coupling portion includes at least one of a second coupling opening and a second coupling protrusion, The second receiving portion includes at least one of the following: a second receiving protrusion configured to be at least partially disposed in the second coupling opening in the cover attached state, and A second receiving opening in which the second coupling protrusion is at least partially arranged in the cover attached state.

10. The electric actuator unit according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein The cover is a separate member from the base member of the electrical device, and The base member is configured to be mounted to a body of the human-powered vehicle.

11. The electric actuator unit according to claim 10, wherein The base member includes a first base portion and a second base portion, and The housing is configured to be at least partially disposed between the first base portion and the second base portion.

12. An electric actuator unit for a human-powered vehicle, the electric actuator unit comprising: a housing including an interior space, the housing being configured to be at least partially disposed between a first base portion and a second base portion, the first base portion and the second base portion being included in a base member of an electric device, the base member being configured to be mounted to a body of the human-powered vehicle; an electric actuator disposed at least partially in the interior space; as well as A cover is configured to be attached to the housing, the cover being a separate member from the base member.

13. An electric actuator unit according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein The cover includes a stopper, and The stopper is configured to restrict the cover from being disengaged from the housing in an assembled state in which the cover is attached to the housing and the housing is mounted to the base member.

14. An electric actuator unit for a human-powered vehicle, the electric actuator unit comprising: a housing including an interior space, the housing being configured to be at least partially disposed to a base member of an electric device, the base member being configured to be mounted to a body of the human-powered vehicle; an electric actuator disposed at least partially in the interior space; as well as A cover is configured to be attached to the housing, the cover including a stopper configured to restrict the cover from being detached from the housing in an assembled state in which the cover is attached to the housing and the housing is mounted to the base member.

15. An electric actuator unit according to claim 13 or 14, wherein The stopper is contactable with the base member to restrict the cover from being disengaged from the housing in the assembled state.

16. An electric actuator unit according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein The stopper is configured to be at least partially disposed between the base member and the housing in the assembled state.

17. An electric actuator unit according to any one of claims 10 to 16, wherein The housing is configured to be at least partially disposed within the base member.

18. An electric actuator unit according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein The cover includes an accessible portion, and The contactable portion is contactable with an outer surface of the housing.

19. The electric actuator unit according to claim 18, wherein The contactable portion is spaced apart from the coupling portion.

20. An electric actuator unit according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein The cover is configured to be removably and reattachably attached to the housing.

21. The electric actuator unit according to any one of claims 1 to 20, further comprising Output shaft, of which The output shaft is at least partially disposed outside the housing, The electric actuator is configured to rotate the output shaft relative to the housing about a rotation axis, and The cover is a member separate from the output shaft.

Images