Drive unit of electric vehicle

Abstract

A drive unit (100) of an electric bicycle (2) comprises: a pedal system (10) configured to rotate about a first axis (A) in a first rotational direction; a generator (20); a first intermediate gear system (30) for connecting the pedal system (10) to the generator (20) such that the generator (20) rotates about a second axis (B); an electric motor (40) configured to rotate about a third axis (C) in a direction of rotation opposite the direction of rotation of the generator (20), where the rotation of the electric motor (40) is mechanically independent of the pedal system (10); an output gear (50); a second intermediate gear system (60) for transmitting rotation of the electric motor (40) to the output gear (50) such that the output gear (50) rotates in the first direction; and a control unit for controlling the motor (20).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a drive unit for an electric vehicle (such as an electric bicycle or an electric motorcycle), the drive unit comprising an electric motor and a generator. Background Art

[0002] A conventional solution for an electric bicycle with self-powered capabilities (i.e., the ability to provide its own electricity) is a bicycle comprising a battery, a generator connected to the pedals, and an electric motor located on the rear axle and configured to drive the wheel. However, a problem with this configuration is that the location of the electric motor on the rear wheel negatively affects the vehicle's dynamics, particularly when the bicycle is equipped with rear suspension, as the electric motor increases the vehicle's unsprung mass.

[0003] In other known solutions, the electric motor is mounted on the bicycle frame rather than on the axle of the rear wheel. In this configuration, the electric motor is typically mounted relatively close to the rear wheel and connected to it via a chain, with the motor typically configured to rotate in the same direction as the wheel and pedal cranks. When the bicycle has a suspension system configured as a swing arm, one known solution is to mount the electric motor on the axle of the articulated swing arm.

[0004] However, all known solutions neglect to compensate for the rotational inertia generated by multiple masses rotating about multiple axes. These rotating masses can generate unwanted vibrations that can cause traction / drive system failures. Furthermore, the effects of these rotating masses can increase the vehicle's steering resistance. This problem becomes more severe as electric motor power increases, potentially requiring larger generators and motors, which in turn increases the number of rotating masses in the overall system.

[0005] Therefore, there is still room for technical improvement in the electric bicycle drive system including the generator and the motor. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention aims to solve the problem of optimizing mass distribution and compensating rotational inertia in an electric vehicle (e.g., a motorcycle or bicycle) comprising a generator and an electric motor, thereby reducing the vehicle's steering resistance while providing vibration compensation. This problem is solved by a drive unit according to claim 1. Preferred embodiments of the invention are defined in the appended claims.

[0007] A first aspect of the present invention relates to a drive unit for an electric bicycle or motorcycle, wherein the drive unit comprises a pedal system, a generator, a first intermediate gear system, an electric motor, an output gear, a second intermediate gear system and a control unit.

[0008] The pedal system is configured to rotate about a first axis in a first rotational direction based on input mechanical energy provided by a user of the electric bicycle (e.g., by pedaling). The pedal system includes two pedals, two pedal cranks, and a pedal gear, wherein the pedal gear is configured to rotate about the first axis in the first rotational direction. The generator is configured to be connected (i.e., connectable) to a battery, preferably an external battery (i.e., a battery located external to the drive unit, which need not be part of the drive unit).

[0009] The first intermediate gear system is configured to connect the pedal system (e.g., a pedal gear of the pedal system) to the generator, and is further configured to transmit input mechanical energy from the pedal system to the generator, causing the generator to rotate about the second axis in a first rotational direction or a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction (e.g., the first direction is clockwise and the second direction is counterclockwise when viewed from the right side of the drive unit), thereby generating electricity. In a preferred embodiment, the pedal system and the generator can be configured to rotate in opposite directions so that their respective rotational inertias at least partially compensate for each other.

[0010] By the combination of the pedal system, the first intermediate gear system and the generator, an energy input block / system is provided.

[0011] The electric motor is configured to rotate about a third axis in a rotational direction opposite to the rotational direction of the generator (i.e., a first rotational direction or a second rotational direction) based on electrical energy provided by an external battery and / or a generator, wherein the rotation of the electric motor is mechanically independent of the rotation of the pedal system. Thus, there is no mechanical connection between the rotation of the electric motor and the rotation of the pedal system. Preferably, the electric motor can be configured to rotate in the same rotational direction as the pedal system, which in a preferred embodiment corresponds to the first rotational direction.

[0012] The output gear is configured to be connected to at least one wheel (i.e., at least one drive / traction wheel; preferably, at least the rear drive / traction wheel) of the electric bicycle / motorcycle via an external transmission system. The external transmission system (e.g., a transmission chain / belt or similar device) can be configured to connect the output gear to at least one drive wheel of the vehicle (e.g., a sprocket / pinion provided on at least one drive wheel) to enable the electric bicycle to move forward or backward in the direction of travel.

[0013] The sprocket / pinion can be a fixed sprocket / pinion, i.e. a sprocket configured to rotate together with the drive wheel, such that, depending on the direction of rotation of the electric motor, the fixed sprocket allows the vehicle to move forward or backward in the direction of travel. This feature is generally compatible with all embodiments of the present invention. Thus, the electric motor can be configured to temporarily change its direction of rotation (e.g., upon instruction from a control unit) (e.g., temporarily change from a first direction of rotation to a second direction of rotation, or vice versa) to allow the vehicle to move backward when necessary, wherein this advantageous feature is achieved thanks to the mechanical independence of the electric motor from the pedal system and its combination with a generator, and thanks to its combination with an external transmission system that connects the output gear to a fixed sprocket on the vehicle's traction wheel. This is an optional (auxiliary) feature that provides the drive unit with the ability to temporarily drive the electric vehicle backward when necessary.

[0014] The direction of travel refers to the direction in which the vehicle moves forward (or backward), which is usually (for example, when the vehicle is traveling in a straight line) basically consistent with the longitudinal direction of the vehicle (that is, the direction extending longitudinally from the rear of the vehicle to the front of the vehicle, which longitudinal direction is basically parallel to the ground on which the vehicle is located).

[0015] The second intermediate gear system is configured to transmit the rotation of the electric motor to the output gear so that the output gear rotates in a first direction (e.g., to move the vehicle forward). Furthermore, the second intermediate gear system can be additionally configured so that, when the electric motor (temporarily) reverses its direction of rotation (e.g., as part of an auxiliary function that provides the electric vehicle with the ability to travel backward, i.e., reverse gear), the second intermediate gear system causes the output gear to also reverse its direction of rotation, thereby allowing the output gear to temporarily rotate in a second direction of rotation. Thus, the second intermediate gear system can be configured to transmit the rotation of the electric motor to the output gear so that the output gear either always rotates in the same direction as the electric motor (e.g., when the electric motor is normally configured to rotate in the first direction and temporarily / auxiliarily rotates in the second direction) or always rotates in the opposite direction to the electric motor (e.g., when the electric motor is normally configured to rotate in the second direction and temporarily / auxiliarily rotates in the first direction).

[0016] By the combination of the electric motor, the second intermediate gear system and the output gear, an energy output module / system is provided.

[0017] The control unit is configured to control the rotation of the electric motor (e.g., rotational speed and / or rotational direction). The control unit can be configured to control the rotation of the electric motor based on a set of predetermined instructions and / or based on commands provided by a vehicle user (e.g., real-time commands). In some embodiments, the control unit can be configured to control the rotation of the electric motor and simultaneously control the level of resistance provided by the generator (e.g., mechanical resistance). Thus, the control unit can adjust the resistance provided by the generator based on a set of predetermined parameters and / or based on commands provided by a vehicle user (e.g., real-time commands).

[0018] The control unit can be configured to know the relative position of each rotating mass in the drive unit, the geometric configuration of each rotating mass (e.g., its shape), and the mass of each rotating mass (e.g., the pedal system, the generator, the first intermediate gear system, the electric motor, the second intermediate gear system), as these masses are constant design values ​​for the drive unit. Furthermore, the control unit can be configured to receive real-time data on the specific rotational speed of each rotating mass (e.g., via a sensor configured to detect the rotational speed / velocity of each rotating mass). Based on this, the control unit can be configured to calculate the moment of inertia of each rotating mass (based on the mass, geometric configuration, and rotational speed of each mass), and can further be configured to determine a rotational speed range for the electric motor (based on the calculated moment of inertia and information about the relative position of each rotating mass, e.g., the distance between the respective axes about which each rotating mass rotates) to compensate for vibration and / or reduce steering resistance of a vehicle equipped with the drive unit. Thus, the control unit may be configured, for example, to control the speed of the electric motor when rotating in a first direction to at least partially compensate for the moment of inertia of the remaining rotating mass in the drive unit, thereby reducing vibrations of the drive unit and / or improving the steering ability of a vehicle on which the drive unit is installed.

[0019] It is worth noting that all technical features described for the control unit are transversely compatible with all embodiments of the drive unit.

[0020] In some embodiments, the drive unit may include at least one housing (e.g., a rigid housing) configured to house at least the generator, the first intermediate gear system, the electric motor, and the second intermediate gear system. Optionally, the pedal gear and / or the output gear may also be housed within the housing. This configuration is particularly advantageous because it allows the drive unit to be configured as a single component (i.e., the housing may include components of the drive unit) and to provide internal / integrated compensation for its rotational inertia. In a preferred embodiment, the output gear may be arranged externally from the housing, thereby providing direct / full access to the external transmission system for maintenance purposes.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the first axis, the second axis, and the third axis may be parallel to each other and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the vehicle (i.e., the longitudinal direction of the drive unit). The second axis may be arranged between the first axis and the third axis along the travel direction of the electric bicycle (i.e., along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle). Preferably, the first axis may be arranged at a rear position along the longitudinal direction, while the third axis may be arranged at a front position along the same longitudinal direction. In some embodiments, when arranged along the travel direction (i.e., along the longitudinal direction) of the electric vehicle (such as a bicycle or motorcycle), the second axis may be positioned closer to the third axis than to the first axis.

[0022] The second axis can be positioned at a lower vertical position relative to the vertical direction of the electric bicycle than the first axis and the third axis. Thus, from a vertical perspective, the second axis can be positioned below the first axis and below the third axis. The vertical direction is relative to the vehicle (i.e., the drive unit) and is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. Preferably, the first axis can be positioned at a lower vertical position relative to the vertical direction of the electric bicycle than the third axis.

[0023] According to the layout defined for the second and third axes, the electric motor can be positioned at the front (considered in the longitudinal direction) and above (considered in the vertical direction) the drive unit, while the generator can be positioned at the front and below / bottom of the drive unit. It should be noted that, while the electric motor and generator can be positioned at the front of the drive unit, the electric motor can be positioned further forward (in the longitudinal direction) than the generator. This configuration has the synergistic technical effect of significantly reducing vibrations in the drive unit (due to partial compensation of inertia between the rotating masses of the electric motor and generator, as these two elements rotate in opposite directions) while providing improved cooling for the electric motor and generator (which operate at higher temperatures) (due to exposure to the front airflow generated by the vehicle's forward motion). Consequently, the reliability of the drive unit is synergistically improved. This is compatible with embodiments in which the drive unit includes one (or more) housings for housing the aforementioned elements of the drive unit.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, the first intermediate gear system and / or the second intermediate gear system may be arranged between the first and third axes in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. In addition, the first intermediate gear system and / or the second intermediate gear system may be arranged at a higher vertical position (i.e., in the vertical direction) than the second axis on the electric bicycle.

[0025] The first and / or second intermediate gear systems may each include at least one gear. In some embodiments, the at least one gear of the first intermediate gear system may be configured to rotate about a fourth axis, preferably in a second rotational direction (the at least one gear may be configured to engage with a pedal gear of the pedal system so that the at least one gear rotates in a rotational direction opposite to / opposite to the rotational direction of the pedal system (i.e., the first rotational direction). The fourth axis may be arranged longitudinally between the first axis and the second axis (for example, the fifth axis may be arranged parallel to the first axis and the second axis). Preferably, the fourth axis may be arranged at a higher vertical position relative to the vertical direction than the first axis and the second axis; and / or the vertical distance between the second axis and the fourth axis may be configured to be substantially equal to the vertical distance between the second axis and the third axis (within a predetermined tolerance range).

[0026] In some embodiments, the second, third, and fourth axes can be arranged to substantially form an equilateral triangle within a tolerance range (i.e., all three axes can be arranged parallel to each other to form a triangular prism with each side corresponding to an axis). This configuration provides better compensation for the moment of inertia, thereby reducing undesirable vibrations in the drive unit. These configurations provide better compensation for the moment of inertia, thereby reducing undesirable vibrations in the drive unit.

[0027] Furthermore, at least one gear of the second intermediate gear system can be configured to rotate in the second rotational direction about the same axis (i.e., the fourth axis) or about a different axis (e.g., the fifth axis). The fifth axis can be arranged in the longitudinal direction of the drive unit between the second axis and the fourth axis (e.g., the fifth axis can be arranged parallel to the second axis and the fourth axis). Preferably, the fifth axis can be arranged at a higher position relative to the vertical than the first axis and the second axis; and / or the vertical distance between the second axis and the fifth axis can be configured to be substantially equal to the vertical distance between the first axis and the fifth axis (within a predetermined tolerance range). This helps reduce undesirable vibrations in the drive unit. In some compatible embodiments, the vertical distance between the first axis A and the second axis B is substantially equal to (i.e., equal to) the vertical distance between the third axis C and the fourth axis D. Preferably, the second axis, the third axis, and the fourth axis can be arranged such that each axis forms a vertex of a substantially equilateral triangle (e.g., within a 5% tolerance range) (i.e., all three axes can be arranged parallel to each other to form a triangular prism with each side corresponding to an axis).

[0028] The first intermediate gear system may include a planetary gear system. At least one gear of the second intermediate gear system configured to rotate in the second rotational direction may be a component of the planetary gear system. The planetary gear system may include a static ring gear, a sun gear, two or more planet gears (preferably, three or four) and a planet carrier, wherein the planet carrier may be connected to the pedal gear to receive input mechanical energy such that when the pedal gear rotates in the first rotational direction, the planet carrier rotates in the second rotational direction (e.g., about a fourth axis), causing one or more planets (i.e., planet gears) to rotate the sun gear in the second rotational direction.

[0029] Therefore, in embodiments of the drive unit in which the first intermediate gear system is configured to transmit input mechanical energy from the pedal system to the generator, thereby rotating the generator in a second rotational direction about a second axis (e.g., when the electric motor is configured to rotate in a first rotational direction), the first intermediate gear system may include a corresponding reversing gear configured to transmit rotation of the sun gear to the generator, such that the reversing gear rotates in the first rotational direction and the generator rotates in the second rotational direction. Preferably, the first intermediate gear system may further include a first main gear configured to rotate in conjunction with (i.e., together with) the sun gear and having a larger diameter than the sun gear, wherein the corresponding reversing gear may be connected to (e.g., engaged with) the first main gear to transmit rotation of the sun gear to the generator. The first main gear may preferably be configured to rotate about the same axis as the sun gear (e.g., about the fourth axis), such that all masses of the first intermediate gear system, except the first reversing gear, rotate about the central axis of the planetary gear system (e.g., the fourth axis).

[0030] The corresponding reversing gear of the first intermediate gear system can be configured to have a diameter smaller than that of the first main gear. In a preferred embodiment, the diameter of the reversing gear can be equal to or larger than the diameter of each planetary gear. Therefore, the rotating mass of the first reversing gear can be significantly smaller than the remaining rotating mass of the first intermediate gear system.

[0031] The first intermediate gear system may further include a planet carrier auxiliary gear configured to rotate with the planer frame, such that the planet carrier can be connected to the pedal system via the connection between the pedal gear and the planet carrier auxiliary gear. Preferably, the transmission ratio between the pedal gear and the planet carrier auxiliary gear is configured such that the angular velocity of the planet carrier is greater than the angular velocity of the pedal gear. Furthermore, the transmission ratio between the planetary gear system and the reversing gear 35 may be configured to multiply the angular velocity of the pedal system before transmitting it to the generator.

[0032] The first intermediate gear system may be configured such that when the pedal gear rotates in a range between 50 and 70 rpm (preferably 60 rpm) in the first direction, the generator rotates at an optimal speed within a predetermined tolerance (depending on the embodiment, in the second direction or the first direction). The optimal speed of the generator is a configuration parameter of the generator, and thus the first intermediate gear system may be configured to have a gear ratio suitable for converting the speed of the pedal gear to meet the optimal speed of the generator of the drive unit.

[0033] The second intermediate gear system may include a first intermediate gear connected to the motor (e.g., meshing with a motor gear that rotates along the axis of the motor) to receive rotational energy generated by the motor, and a second intermediate gear configured to transmit the rotational energy of the first intermediate gear (i.e., the rotational energy generated by the motor and then received by the first intermediate gear) to the output gear. Preferably, the first intermediate gear and the second intermediate gear may be configured to rotate in conjunction (i.e., rotate together at the same angular velocity) about the same axis (e.g., about the fourth axis or about the fifth axis), wherein more preferably, the diameter of the first intermediate gear is larger than the diameter of the second intermediate gear.

[0034] In those embodiments of the drive unit in which the motor is configured to rotate in a second rotational direction (for example, when the first intermediate gear system is configured to transfer the input mechanical energy of the pedal system to the generator, causing the generator to rotate around the second axis in the first rotational direction), the second intermediate gear system may also include a corresponding reversing gear that meshes with the motor and the first intermediate gear (for example, the reversing gear is arranged between the motor and the first intermediate gear and is configured to operate as a mechanical connection mechanism therebetween), so that both the motor and the first intermediate gear rotate in the second direction, and the corresponding reversing wheel rotates in the first rotational direction.

[0035] Preferably, the drive unit may further include a receiving gear configured to rotate together with the output gear around the same axis (for example, around the first axis or around an additional axis independent of the first axis) (i.e., rotate together at the same angular velocity), wherein a second intermediate gear may preferably be connected to the receiving gear so that the rotational energy of the first intermediate gear is transferred to the output gear.

[0036] The second intermediate gear system may be configured as a reducer gear system to reduce the angular velocity (initially generated by the electric motor) transmitted to the output gear.

[0037] In some embodiments, the sun gear, planet carrier, first main gear, first intermediate gear, and second intermediate gear can be configured to rotate about a fourth axis in the second rotational direction. This configuration has the advantage of unifying the rotational axes of the multiple masses (i.e., the aforementioned element masses) that rotate in the second rotational direction. In other embodiments, the sun gear, planet carrier, first main gear, and planer frame auxiliary gear can be configured to rotate about a fourth axis in the second rotational direction, while the first intermediate gear and second intermediate gear can be configured to rotate about a fifth axis in the third rotational direction.

[0038] In preferred embodiments, the output gear can be arranged and configured to rotate about a first axis. This configuration is compatible with embodiments in which the drive unit further includes a receiving gear configured to rotate along the same axis as the output gear. These configurations provide the technical effect of unifying the rotational axes of the multiple masses rotating in the first rotational direction, thereby helping to reduce undesirable vibrations in the drive unit.

[0039] A second aspect of the invention relates to an electric vehicle (eg an electric bicycle / cycle or a motorcycle) comprising a drive unit according to any of the previously described embodiments.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, the electric vehicle may include a transmission system (e.g., a transmission chain or a transmission belt) configured to transmit the rotation of the output gear to at least one wheel of the vehicle (preferably, to at least one rear wheel). At least one wheel of the vehicle (e.g., the rear wheel) may include a sprocket / pinion, such that the transmission system is configured to transmit the rotation of the output gear to the sprocket / pinion. The sprocket may be configured as a conventional pinion of a bicycle, i.e., a pinion configured to transmit rotation to the corresponding wheel only in the forward direction.

[0041] In some embodiments, the sprocket / pinion can be configured as a fixed sprocket / pinion (i.e., a pinion configured to transmit rotation to the corresponding wheel in both the forward and reverse directions), thereby enabling bidirectional transmission of rotation of the output gear, such that when the output gear rotates in a first direction (e.g., due to the combined operation of the electric motor and the second intermediate gear system), the fixed sprocket / pinion rotates in the first direction, and when the output gear rotates in a second direction (e.g., due to the electric motor temporarily reversing its rotational direction to move the vehicle backward), the fixed sprocket / pinion rotates in the second direction. The fixed sprocket / pinion provides an additional advantage for electric vehicles, namely the ability to generate energy (e.g., for charging the battery of the electric vehicle) under braking conditions and / or when the vehicle is traveling downhill. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0042] The preferred embodiments of the quick connector are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0043] Figure 1 Three different views of an arrangement of a drive unit 1 according to an embodiment of the invention are shown, wherein the drive unit comprises a housing. Figure 1 A shows a side view of the left side of the drive unit 1, Figure 1 B shows a side view of the right side of the drive unit, Figure 1 C shows a top view of the drive unit 1 .

[0044] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1A left side view of the drive unit 100, wherein different components are selectively hidden to better illustrate Figure 2 A to Figure 2 C shows the configuration of the first intermediate transmission system of the drive unit.

[0045] Figure 3 Shows Figure 1 and Figure 2 A right side view of the drive unit 100, wherein different components are selectively hidden to better illustrate Figure 3 A to Figure 3 Configuration of the second intermediate transmission system of the drive unit in C.

[0046] Figure 4 is a top view of a drive unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein for illustrative purposes the housing is not visible (or there is no housing), thereby showing the arrangement of the first shaft, the second shaft, the third shaft, the fourth shaft and the optional fifth shaft.

[0047] Figure 5 Detailed Description of the Invention An electric bicycle including a drive unit according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] Figure 1 Three different views of a drive unit 1 arrangement according to an embodiment of the invention are shown. Figure 1 A shows a side view of the left side of the drive unit 1, Figure 1 B shows a side view of the right side of the drive unit, Figure 1 C shows a top view of the drive unit 1 .

[0049] Figure 1 The drive unit 1 of the electric bicycle or motorcycle comprises a pedal system 10, a generator 20, a first intermediate gear system 30, an electric motor 40, an output gear 50, a second intermediate gear system 60 and a control unit (not visible in the figure). The positions of all these components are as follows Figure 1 As shown, although they are not directly visible due to the presence of the housing. It should be noted that in this particular embodiment, the drive unit 1 includes a housing such that all elements of the drive unit 1, except for the output gear 50, the pedal cranks, and the pedals, are housed within the housing. However, this is an optional and advantageous configuration, and the housing can be adapted for other compatible embodiments, given the description provided.

[0050] The pedal system 10 is configured to rotate about a first axis A in a first rotational direction ( Figure 1 A) rotates counterclockwise.

[0051] Figure 1The embodiment shown shows four axes A, B, C, and D that are arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal direction x and parallel to one another. The second axis B is arranged along the longitudinal direction x between the first axis A and the third axis C. The first axis A is arranged in a rear position along the longitudinal direction x (considering the normal forward direction of the vehicle), and the third axis C is arranged in a front position along the same longitudinal direction x.

[0052] The second axis B is arranged closer to the third axis C than the first axis A along the longitudinal direction x. The second axis B is shown as being arranged at a lower vertical position relative to the vertical direction z than the first axis A and the third axis C. Therefore, when considering the vertical direction z, the second axis B is located below the position of the first axis A and below the position of the third axis C. The vertical direction z is considered relative to the vehicle (or the drive unit itself) and is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction x. Furthermore, the first axis A is depicted as being arranged at a lower vertical position relative to the vertical direction z than the third axis C.

[0053] also, Figure 1 A particularly optimized configuration (which is an optional configuration) of the arrangement of the first axis A, the second axis B, the third axis C, and the fourth axis D is shown. This configuration shows that the vertical distance between the second axis B and the fourth axis D is equal to the vertical distance between the second axis B and the third axis C (within a predetermined tolerance, such as a tolerance of 5%), and the vertical distance between the second axis B and the fifth axis E is equal to the vertical distance between the first axis (A) and the fifth axis E. The optimized configuration further defines that the vertical distance between the first axis A and the second axis B is substantially equal (i.e., equal) to the vertical distance between the third axis C and the fourth axis D.

[0054] It is worth noting that in Figure 1 , the positions of the second axis B, the third axis C and the fourth axis D form a substantially equilateral triangle. However, this is an optional feature of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 A left side view of the drive unit 100, wherein different components are selectively hidden to better illustrate Figure 2 A to Figure 2 Configuration of the device in C.

[0056] Figure 2 A pedal system 10 is shown comprising two pedals (not shown), two pedal cranks and a pedal gear 11 , wherein the pedal gear 11 is configured to rotate in a first rotational direction about a first axis A. A generator 20 is configured to be connected to a battery, preferably an external battery.

[0057] The first intermediate gear system 30 is configured to connect the pedal gear 11 of the pedal system 10 to the generator 20 and is further configured to transfer input mechanical energy of the pedal system 10 to the generator 20, causing the generator 20 to rotate about the second axis B in a second rotational direction opposite to the first direction (in this case, the first direction is counterclockwise and the second direction is clockwise), thereby generating electricity. Therefore, the pedal system 10 and the generator 20 are advantageously configured to rotate in opposite directions so that their respective rotational inertias at least partially compensate for each other.

[0058] It should be noted that in other embodiments compatible with the present invention and as described above, the first intermediate gear system 30 can alternatively be configured to transfer the input mechanical energy of the pedal system 10 to the generator 20, causing the generator 20 to rotate in the first rotational direction about the second axis B. In these embodiments, the pedal system and the electric motor are advantageously configured to rotate in opposite directions so that their respective rotational inertias at least partially compensate for each other.

[0059] exist Figure 2 In the embodiment, the combination of the pedal system 10, the first intermediate gear system 30 and the generator 20 constitutes an energy input module / system.

[0060] Figure 2 B and Figure 2 C shows a first intermediate gear system 30 including a planetary gear system and an optional reversing gear 35. The planetary gear system includes a static ring gear 31, a sun gear 32, three planetary gears 33 (although other configurations are possible based on the description provided), and a planet carrier 34. The planet carrier 34 is connected to the pedal gear 11 to receive input mechanical energy such that when the pedal gear 11 rotates in a first rotational direction, the planet carrier 34 rotates in a second rotational direction, thereby causing one or more planets 33 (i.e., planetary gears) to rotate the sun gear 32 in the second rotational direction.

[0061] The reversing gear 35 of the first intermediate gear system 30 is configured to transfer the rotation of the sun gear 32 to the generator 20 such that the reversing gear 35 rotates in a first rotational direction and the generator 20 rotates in a second rotational direction. Figure 2As shown in FIG. 2B , the first intermediate gear system 30 further includes a first main gear 36 configured to rotate in conjunction with the sun gear 32. The first main gear 36 is configured to have a larger diameter than the sun gear 32, with the reversing gear 35 connected to (e.g., engaged with) the first main gear 35 to transmit the rotation of the sun gear 32 to the generator 20. The first main gear 36 is configured to rotate about the same axis as the sun gear 32 (i.e., the fourth axis D). Therefore, all of the mass of the first intermediate gear system, except for the reversing gear 35, advantageously rotates about the central axis (axis D) of the planetary gear system, with the mass of the reversing gear 35 being very small compared to the mass of the planetary gear system.

[0062] The diameter of the reversing gear 35 is configured to be smaller than the diameter of the first main gear 36. In this embodiment, the diameter of the reversing gear is larger than the diameter of each planetary gear.

[0063] It should be noted that Figure 2 The reversing gear 35 of the first intermediate gear system 30 shown in is an optional feature of the present invention, which is only present in some embodiments of the drive unit 1, wherein the first intermediate gear system 30 is configured to transfer the input mechanical energy of the pedal system 10 to the generator 20 to cause the generator 2 to rotate about the second axis B in the second rotational direction (for example, when the electric motor is configured to rotate in the first rotational direction).

[0064] However, in an alternative embodiment (not shown in the figures), the motor 40 is configured to rotate in the second rotational direction (for example, when the first intermediate gear system 30 is configured to transmit the input mechanical energy of the pedal system 10 to the generator 20, so that the generator 20 rotates around the second axis B in the first rotational direction), the first intermediate gear system 30 does not require any reversing gear 35, but the second intermediate gear system 60 may also include a corresponding reversing gear engaged with the motor 40 and the first intermediate gear 61 (for example, the reversing gear is arranged between the motor 40 and the first intermediate gear 61 and is configured to operate as a mechanical connection mechanism between them), so that both the motor 40 and the first intermediate gear 61 rotate in the second direction, and the corresponding reversing wheel of the second intermediate gear system 60 rotates in the first rotational direction.

[0065] Figure 2 The first intermediate gear system 30 further includes a planet carrier auxiliary gear 37 configured to rotate together with the planet carrier 34, wherein the planet carrier 34 is connected to the pedal system 10 via the connection between the pedal gear 11 and the planet carrier auxiliary gear 37. Specifically, the transmission ratio between the pedal gear and the planet carrier auxiliary gear is configured such that the angular velocity of the planet carrier is greater than the angular velocity of the pedal gear. Furthermore, the transmission ratio between the planetary gear system and the reversing gear 35 is configured to multiply the angular velocity of the pedal system 10 before transmitting it to the generator 20.

[0066] In with Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some compatible embodiments, the first intermediate gear system 10 is configured such that, when the pedal gear rotates in the first direction within a range of 50 to 70 rpm (preferably 60 rpm), the generator rotates in the second direction at an optimal speed within a predetermined tolerance. The optimal speed of the generator is a configuration parameter of the generator, and thus the first intermediate gear system can be configured to have a gear ratio suitable for converting the speed of the pedal gear to meet the optimal speed of the generator of the drive unit.

[0067] Although not visible, the control unit may be configured to regulate / adapt the mechanical resistance of the generator.

[0068] Furthermore, the specific arrangement defined for the second axis B and the third axis C means that the motor 40 is arranged at the front (considering the longitudinal direction x) and the upper (considering the vertical direction z) position of the drive unit 1, and the generator 20 is arranged at the front and the lower / bottom position of the drive unit 1. Note that, although the motor 40 and the generator 20 are arranged at the front position of the drive unit 1, the motor 40 is arranged at a position further forward than the generator 20. This configuration provides a synergistic technical effect of significantly reducing the vibrations of the drive unit 1 (due to the partial compensation of the inertia between the rotating masses of the motor 40 and the generator 20, as the two elements rotate in opposite directions), while providing improved cooling to the motor 40 and the generator 20, which are elements with relatively high operating temperatures. Consequently, the reliability of the drive unit is improved.

[0069] The housing 70 of the drive unit is as shown in FIG. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the housing 70 is configured to have a specific shape that partially surrounds the motor 40 and the generator 20. Thus, the first portion of the housing 70 is configured to partially surround the motor 40 to improve cooling of the motor 40 (which is the component with the highest operating temperature in the drive unit), wherein the motor 40 is configured as a generally cylindrical body arranged along the third axis C. In the embodiment shown, the first portion of the housing 70 is configured to surround a portion of the cylindrical body of the motor 40, which extends along approximately 140°. In other compatible embodiments, the first portion can be configured / shaped to cover / surround a portion of the body of the motor 40, which extends along an angle in the range of 90° to 270°, preferably 100° to 200°, and more preferably 125° to 160°.

[0070] The housing 70 also includes a second portion that is configured to partially surround the generator 20. Thus, the second portion of the housing 70 is configured to partially surround the generator 20 to improve cooling of the generator 20, wherein the generator 20 is configured as a generally cylindrical body arranged along the second axis B. In the illustrated embodiment, the second portion of the housing 70 is configured to surround a portion of the cylindrical body of the generator 20 extending along approximately 80°. In other compatible embodiments, the second portion can be configured / shaped to cover / surround a portion of the body of the generator 20 extending along an angle in the range of 60° to 120°, preferably 70° to 90°.

[0071] Furthermore, an inclined surface is arranged connecting the first and second portions of the housing, the surface improving cooling capabilities of the housing because the surface provides a thermal path for dissipating unwanted heat through the portion of the housing receiving a higher airflow as the vehicle moves in a forward direction.

[0072] Figure 3 Shown Figure 1 and Figure 2 The motor 40 is configured to rotate about the third axis C in a first rotational direction based on electrical energy provided by an external battery and / or generator. The rotation of the motor 40 is mechanically independent of the rotation of the pedal system 10.

[0073] Figure 3 The output gear 50 is configured to be connectable to at least one wheel (preferably, at least to the rear traction / drive wheel) of the electric bicycle / motorcycle via an external transmission system (not visible). The external transmission system (e.g., a transmission chain or a transmission belt) can be configured to connect the output gear 50 to at least one wheel of the vehicle (e.g., to a sprocket arranged on at least one wheel) to enable the electric bicycle / motorcycle to travel forward or backward along the travel direction (i.e., along the longitudinal direction x).

[0074] Figure 3 The second intermediate gear system 60 is shown, which includes a first intermediate gear 61 connected to the motor 40 to receive the rotational energy generated by the motor 40, and a second intermediate gear 62 configured to transfer the rotational energy of the first intermediate gear 60 (i.e., the rotational energy generated by the motor 80 and then received by the first intermediate gear 61) to the output gear. Figure 3 In an embodiment, the connection between the first intermediate gear 61 and the motor 40 is achieved by providing an optional motor gear rotation 41, which is configured to rotate in conjunction with the axis of the motor 80 so that the intermediate gear 61 is connected to the motor gear 41.

[0075] The first intermediate gear 61 and the second intermediate gear 62 are configured to rotate in unison (i.e., rotate together at the same angular velocity) about a fifth axis E (it should be noted that in other embodiments, these gears can be configured to rotate about a fourth axis D). The diameter of the first intermediate gear is greater than the diameter of the second intermediate gear.

[0076] Figure 3 The drive unit 1 of the illustrated embodiment also includes a receiving gear 51 that is configured to rotate together with (i.e., together with and at the same angular velocity) the output gear 50 about the same axis (i.e., about the first axis A). It should be noted that in other embodiments, the output gear 50 (and optionally the receiving gear 51) can be configured to rotate about an additional axis independent of any of the previously described axes. In addition, a second intermediate gear 62 is connected to the receiving gear 51 so that the rotational energy of the first intermediate gear 61 is transferred to the output gear 50.

[0077] exist Figures 1 to 3 In the embodiment, the sun gear 32, the planet carrier 34, the first main gear 36 and the planet carrier auxiliary gear 37 are configured to rotate about the fourth axis D in the second rotation direction, and the first intermediate gear 61 and the second intermediate gear 62 are configured to rotate about the fifth axis E in the second rotation direction.

[0078] Figure 4 A top view of a drive unit 1 compatible with the embodiments shown in the preceding figures is shown, wherein for illustrative purposes the optional housing is not visible, thereby showing the arrangement of the first axis A, the second axis B, the third axis C, the fourth axis D and the optional fifth axis E. Note that according to the illustrated configuration, the first intermediate gear system 30 is arranged on the left side of the drive unit 1, while the second intermediate gear system 60 and the output gear 50 are arranged on the right side of the drive unit 1. This configuration is particularly suitable for bicycles or motorcycles that are connected to the vehicle's traction wheel on the right side of the traction wheel (for example, by arranging a sprocket or similar device on the right side of the traction wheel), so that the external transmission system can also be arranged on the right side. However, in alternative configurations, the arrangement of the drive unit can be similar to Figure 4 The embodiment shown is mirrored, so that the first intermediate gear system 30 can be arranged on the right, while the second intermediate gear system 60 and the output gear 50 can be arranged on the left of the drive unit 1 .

[0079] Figure 5 An electric vehicle (bicycle) is described, comprising a Figures 1 to 4 The drive unit of any of the figures. Figure 5The bicycle includes an external transmission system 52 configured as a transmission system (although in other embodiments, the external transmission system can be configured as a belt or the like) for transmitting rotation to a rear wheel 53 (i.e., the traction / drive wheel of the vehicle). Specifically, the wheel 53 of the vehicle to which the rotation is transmitted includes a sprocket / pinion, such that the transmission system 52 is configured to transmit the rotation of the output gear 50 to the sprocket / pinion. The sprocket / pinion can be configured as a fixed sprocket / pinion, thereby enabling bidirectional transmission of the rotation of the output gear 50, such that when the output gear 50 rotates in a first direction (e.g., due to the combined operation of the motor 40 and the second intermediate gear system 60), the fixed sprocket / pinion rotates in the first direction, and when the output gear 50 rotates in a second direction (e.g., due to the motor temporarily reversing its rotational direction to move the vehicle backward), the fixed sprocket / pinion rotates in the second direction.

[0080] Although not visible in the figures, the external battery may be arranged in the main body of the frame (ie at the junction of the steering tube and the part where the drive unit is located).

Claims

1. A drive unit (1) for an electric bicycle (2), the drive unit (1) comprising: a pedal system (10) comprising a pedal gear (11) configured to rotate in a first rotational direction about a first axis (A) based on input mechanical energy provided by a user of the electric bicycle (2); a generator (20) configured to be connected to an external battery; a first intermediate gear system (30) configured to connect the pedal system (10) to the generator (20) and to transmit input mechanical energy of the pedal system (10) to the generator (20), so that the generator (20) rotates about a second axis (B) in a first rotation direction or in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction, thereby generating electricity; an electric motor (40) configured to rotate about a third axis (C) in a rotational direction opposite to a rotational direction of the generator (20) based on electrical energy provided by an external battery and / or a generator (20), wherein the rotation of the electric motor (40) is mechanically independent of the rotation of the pedal system (10); an output gear (50) configured to be connected to at least one wheel (53) of the electric bicycle via an external transmission system (52), wherein the external transmission system (52) is configured to connect the output gear to at least one wheel (53) of the electric bicycle (2) so as to enable the electric bicycle (2) to travel forward or backward in a travel direction; a second intermediate gear system (60) configured to transmit the rotation of the motor (40) to the output gear (50) so as to rotate the output gear (50) in the first rotation direction; and A control unit is configured to control the rotation of the electric motor (20), wherein preferably, the control unit is also configured to control the mechanical resistance of the generator (20).

2. The drive unit (1) according to claim 1, wherein The motor (40) is also configured to temporarily reverse its own direction of rotation; and Wherein, preferably, the second intermediate gear system (60) is further configured to transmit the rotation of the motor (40) to the output gear (50), so that when the motor (40) reverses its own rotation direction, the output gear (50) also reverses its own rotation direction.

3. The drive unit (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The first axis (A), the second axis (B) and the third axis (C) are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (x) of the electric bicycle (2), wherein the second axis (B) is arranged between the first axis (A) and the third axis (C) along the longitudinal direction (x) of the electric bicycle; and Preferably, along the longitudinal direction (x) of the electric bicycle (2), the second axis (B) is arranged closer to the third axis (C) than the first axis (A).

4. Drive unit (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The second axis (B) is arranged at a lower vertical position than the first axis (A) and the third axis (C) relative to the vertical direction (z) of the electric bicycle (2); Wherein, preferably, the first axis (A) is arranged at a lower vertical position than the third axis (C) relative to the vertical direction (z) of the electric bicycle (2).

5. Drive unit (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The first intermediate gear system (30) and / or the second intermediate gear system (60) are arranged between the first axis (A) and the third axis (C) along the longitudinal direction (x) of the electric bicycle (2).

6. Drive unit (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The first intermediate gear system (30) and / or the second intermediate gear system (60) are arranged at a vertical position higher than the second axis (B) along the vertical direction (z) of the electric bicycle (2), preferably higher than the first axis (A).

7. The drive unit (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The first intermediate gear system (30) is configured such that when the pedal gear (11) rotates in the first rotation direction at a speed ranging from 50 to 70 rpm, the generator rotates in the first or second rotation direction at its optimal speed.

8. Drive unit (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The first intermediate gear system (30) includes at least one gear (31, 32, 33, 34), the gear (31, 32, 33, 34) being configured to rotate in a second direction along the longitudinal direction (x) about a fourth axis (D), the fourth axis (D) being arranged between the first axis (A) and the second axis (B); Wherein, preferably, the fourth axis (D) is arranged at a higher vertical position than the first axis (A) and the second axis (B) relative to the vertical direction (z) of the electric bicycle (2), and / or wherein the vertical distance between the second axis (B) and the fourth axis (D) is equal to the vertical distance between the second axis (B) and the third axis (C) within a predetermined tolerance range.

9. The drive unit (1) according to claim 8, wherein the second intermediate gear system (60) comprising at least one gear (61, 62) configured to rotate about the fourth axis (D) or about a fifth axis (E), preferably in the second rotational direction, the fifth axis (E) being arranged between the second axis (B) and the fourth axis (D) along the longitudinal direction (x); Wherein, preferably, the fifth axis (D) is arranged at a higher vertical position than the first axis (A) and the second axis (B) relative to the vertical direction (z) of the electric bicycle (2), and / or wherein the vertical distance between the second axis (B) and the fifth axis (E) is equal to the vertical distance between the first axis (A) and the fifth axis (E).

10. The drive unit (1) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein: The first intermediate gear system (30) includes a planetary gear system; wherein the planetary gear system comprises a fixed annular gear (31), a sun gear (32), two or more planetary gears (33) and a planetary carrier (34), wherein the planetary carrier (34) is connected to the pedal gear (11) to receive input mechanical energy, so that when the pedal gear (11) rotates in a first rotational direction, the planetary carrier (34) rotates about a fourth axis (D) in a second rotational direction, so that one or more planetary gears (33) cause the sun gear (32) to rotate in the second rotational direction; and Wherein, preferably, the first intermediate gear system (30) further includes a first main gear (36), the first main gear (36) being configured to rotate in conjunction with the sun gear (32), and the diameter of the first main gear (36) is larger than the diameter of the sun gear (32).

11. The drive unit (1) according to claim 10, wherein When the first intermediate gear system (30) is configured to transmit the input mechanical energy of the pedal system (10) to the generator (20), so that the generator (20) rotates around the second axis (B) in a second rotation direction, the first intermediate gear system (30) further includes a corresponding reversing gear (35), the reversing gear (35) being configured to transmit the rotation of the sun gear (32) to the generator (20), so that the reversing gear (35) rotates in the first rotation direction, and the generator (20) rotates in the second rotation direction; Preferably, the reversing gear (35) of the first intermediate gear system (30) is connected to the sun gear (32) via the first main gear (36).

12. The drive unit (100) according to claim 10 or 11, wherein: The first intermediate gear system (30) further includes a planet carrier auxiliary gear (37) configured to rotate together with the planet carrier (34), so that the planet carrier (34) is connected to the pedal system (10) through the connection between the pedal gear (11) and the planet carrier auxiliary gear (37); Wherein, preferably, the transmission ratio between the pedal gear (11) and the planet carrier auxiliary gear (37) is configured so that the angular velocity of the planet carrier gear (37) is greater than the angular velocity of the pedal gear (11).

13. The drive unit (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The second intermediate gear system (60) includes a first intermediate gear (61) and a second intermediate gear (62), wherein the first intermediate gear (61) is connected to the motor (20) to receive rotational energy from the motor (20), and the second intermediate gear (62) is connected to the first intermediate gear (61) and is configured to transmit the rotational energy of the first intermediate gear (61) to the output gear (50); Preferably, the first intermediate gear (61) and the second intermediate gear (62) are configured to rotate together around the same axis; more preferably, the first intermediate gear (61) and the second intermediate gear (62) are configured to rotate together around the fourth axis (D) or the fifth axis (E).

14. The drive unit (100) according to claim 13, wherein When the first intermediate gear system (30) is configured to transmit the input mechanical energy of the pedal system (10) to the generator (20), so that the generator (20) rotates around the second axis (B) in the first rotation direction, the second intermediate gear system (60) further includes a corresponding reversing gear arranged as a connecting mechanism between the motor (40) and the first intermediate gear (61), wherein the reversing gear is configured to serve as a connecting mechanism between the motor (40) and the first intermediate gear (61), so that the motor (40) and the first intermediate gear (61) both rotate in the second direction, and the reversing gear of the second intermediate gear system (60) rotates in the first rotation direction.

15. The drive unit (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The output gear (50) is arranged to rotate about the first axis (A).

16. The drive unit (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a housing (70) configured to house at least the generator (20), the first intermediate gear system (30), the electric motor (40) and the second intermediate gear system (60).

17. An electric vehicle (2), comprising: A drive unit (1) according to any preceding claim; a battery connected to the drive unit (1); at least one wheel (53) including a sprocket; and A transmission system (52) is configured to transmit the rotation of the output gear (50) of the drive unit (1) to a sprocket to drive a traction wheel (53), wherein the sprocket is preferably configured as a fixed sprocket / pinion.

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