Bicycle battery mount and bicycle battery unit

Abstract

Bicycle battery mount (10), including: a mounting main body (14) designed to hold a plurality of bicycle battery units (12); an engagement unit (16) configured to lock the bicycle battery units (12) by engaging with the bicycle battery units (12) while the bicycle battery units (12) are arranged in the main mounting body (14); and an actuating unit (18) designed to actuate the engagement unit (16), wherein the main body of the mounting (14) comprises a first retention section (22) which includes the engagement unit (16) and the actuating unit (18), and the first retention section (22) holds each of the ends of the bicycle battery units (12), and wherein in a state in which the bicycle battery units (12) are held on the main mounting body (14), the first retention section (22) is provided in the longitudinal direction of the main mounting body (14) between two of the adjacent bicycle battery units (12).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a bicycle battery holder designed for mounting a plurality of bicycle battery units and a bicycle battery unit that can be mounted on this bicycle battery holder. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] A bicycle battery holder designed for mounting multiple bicycle battery units is known, for example, from JP 3 641 055 B2. State of the art documentation

[0003] JP 3 641 055 B2, US 6 423 443 B1, WO 2013 / 007 828 A2, JP H08- 53 096 A, JP 2002- 321 675 A.

[0004] US 6,423,443 B1 and WO 2013 / 007 828 A2 each disclose a bicycle battery holder comprising a main holder body and an engagement unit. The main holder body is configured to hold multiple bicycle battery units. The engagement unit is configured to lock the bicycle battery units by engaging them while they are mounted in the main holder body. JP 2002-321 675 A discloses a bicycle battery holder comprising a main holder body, an engagement unit, and an actuating unit. The main holder body is configured to hold multiple bicycle battery units. The engagement unit is configured to lock one bicycle battery unit at a time, and the actuating unit is configured to actuate the engagement unit. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] In the case where a bicycle battery unit is mounted on the bicycle battery holder, the bicycle battery unit is preferably not detached from the bicycle battery holder.

[0006] The object of the present invention is to provide a bicycle battery holder that can readily lock a plurality of bicycle battery units, and a bicycle battery unit that is mounted on this bicycle battery holder.

[0007] According to the invention, the aforementioned problem is solved by a bicycle battery holder according to claim 1 and a bicycle battery unit according to claim 21. Preferred embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0008] One embodiment of the bicycle battery holder according to the present invention comprises a main holder body capable of holding a plurality of bicycle battery units, an engagement unit, and an actuating unit. The main holder body is configured to hold a plurality of bicycle battery units. The engagement unit is configured to lock the bicycle battery units by engaging with them while the bicycle battery units are arranged in the main holder body. The actuating unit is configured to actuate the engagement unit. The main holder body comprises a first retaining section that includes the engagement unit and the actuating unit, and the first retaining section holds each of the ends of the bicycle battery units.In a state where the bicycle battery units are held against the main mounting body, the first retention section is provided in the longitudinal direction of the main mounting body between two of the adjacent bicycle battery units.

[0009] Following the example of the bicycle battery holder, the intervention unit comprises a plurality of intervention sections in order to intervene individually in the battery units.

[0010] Using the example of a bicycle battery holder, the actuating unit is designed to move the engagement unit from a first position that engages with the bicycle battery units to a second position that does not engage with the bicycle battery units.

[0011] One example of a bicycle battery holder also includes a pre-tensioning element to pre-tension the engagement unit into the first position.

[0012] Following the example of the bicycle battery holder, the actuating unit includes an insertion hole designed to receive a specified key, and the actuating unit is designed to actuate the engagement unit when the specified key is inserted into the insertion hole.

[0013] For example, in the case of a bicycle battery holder, the actuation unit includes a rotating part that is rotated when actuated, and the rotating part is connected to the engagement unit.

[0014] For example, the bicycle battery holder keeps each of the bicycle battery units in a state in which at least a section of each of the bicycle battery units is exposed.

[0015] Following an example of the bicycle battery holder, the main body of the holder further comprises a second retention section that holds an opposite end of a first of the two adjacent bicycle battery units, and a third retention section that holds an opposite end of a second of the two adjacent bicycle battery units.

[0016] Following the example of the bicycle battery holder, the first retention section is arranged between the second retention section and the third retention section.

[0017] Using the example of a bicycle battery holder, the distance between the first retention section and the second retention section is equal to the distance between the first retention section and the third retention section.

[0018] Following the example of the bicycle battery holder, the main body of the holder further comprises a first connecting section that connects the first retaining section and the second retaining section, and a second connecting section that connects the first retaining section and the third retaining section.

[0019] Following the example of the bicycle battery holder, the first retention section, the second retention section, the third retention section, the first connecting section and the second connecting section are formed in one piece.

[0020] Following the example of the bicycle battery holder, the first retention section, the second retention section and the first connecting section form a partially open rectangular parallelepiped that defines a first retention space, and the first retention section, the third retention section and the second connecting section form a partially open rectangular parallelepiped that defines a second retention space.

[0021] Using the example of a bicycle battery holder, the first holding space and the second holding space are each designed so that the volume will be smaller than the volume of the bicycle battery unit.

[0022] Following an example of the bicycle battery holder, the second retention section includes a pivot point to position the bicycle battery unit relative to the first retention space while rotating it relative to the main holder body, and the third retention section includes a pivot point to position the bicycle battery unit relative to the second retention space while rotating it relative to the main holder body.

[0023] An example of a bicycle battery holder also includes a mounting section for attaching the main body of the holder to a bicycle frame.

[0024] For example, a bicycle battery holder has a connecting port that is connected to a port provided on the majority of bicycle battery units, on the main body of the holder.

[0025] According to one embodiment of the bicycle battery holder, the connection port is provided on the first retention section.

[0026] Following the example of the bicycle battery holder, the main body of the holder also includes a charging socket for connecting an external power source.

[0027] Following the example of the bicycle battery holder, the charging socket is provided on the first retention section.

[0028] One embodiment of the bicycle battery unit according to the present invention is a bicycle battery unit which is attached to the bicycle battery holder according to one of the aspects above, comprising a housing and a plurality of battery elements which are received by the housing. EFFECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0029] A number of bicycle battery units can be locked in place using the bicycle battery mount and bicycle battery unit described above. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 is a side view of a bicycle equipped with a bicycle battery holder according to an embodiment shown. Fig. 2 is a first side view of the in Fig. 1 bicycle battery holder shown. Fig. 3 is a second side view of the one in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 bicycle battery holders shown. Fig. 4 is a top view of the area shown in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 to Fig. 3 bicycle battery holders shown. Fig. Figure 5 is an enlarged, partial side view of the engagement unit and the actuating unit in a first position. Fig. Figure 6 is an enlarged, partial side view of the engagement unit and the actuating unit in a second position. Fig. Figure 7 is a second side view of the bicycle battery mount while the bicycle battery units are being attached. EXECUTIONAL FORMS FOR IMPLEMENTING THE INVENTION

[0030] Initially, one refers to Fig. Figure 1 shows a bicycle B equipped with a bicycle battery holder 10 (hereinafter referred to as "battery holder 10") according to a first embodiment. The bicycle B comprises a frame F, a crankshaft C, a drive unit D, and a torque sensor (not shown). The frame F carries various components, such as electrical components, etc. The crankshaft C is rotatably mounted on the frame F. The drive unit D assists a manual driving force applied to the crankshaft C. The torque sensor (not shown) detects the manual driving force, etc. The bicycle B further comprises a battery holder 10 and a plurality of battery units 12. The battery holder 10 is attached to a down tube FA of the frame F. The battery units 12 are mounted on the battery holder 10.While an example of bicycle B is shown, bicycle B can be any type of bicycle, such as a mountain bike or a road bike.

[0031] The battery mount 10 comprises a structure that is detachable from the down tube FA. In another example, the battery mount 10 can be attached to a seat tube FB or to a rear rack. The battery units 12 comprise a first battery unit 12A and a second battery unit 12B. The battery units 12 supply energy to various electrical components, including the drive unit D. In the present embodiment, the first battery unit 12A and the second battery unit 12B have the same dimensions.

[0032] The drive unit D comprises a control device and an electric motor (both not shown). The electric motor of the drive unit D is powered by energy supplied by the battery units 12. The drive unit D can be positioned at various locations on the frame F. For example, the drive unit D can be positioned on a section of the frame F that is near the crankshaft C, the rear wheel, and the front wheel. In the case where the drive unit D is positioned in a section of the frame F that is near the crankshaft C, the drive unit D transmits torque to the front sprocket. The control device of the drive unit D controls the electric motor based on the detection result of a torque sensor.

[0033] Fig. Figure 2 is a second side view of the battery holder 10 in a state in which the battery units 12A and 12B are mounted on it. Fig. Figure 3 is a second side view of the battery holder 10. Fig. Figure 4 is a top view of the battery holder 10 in a state in which the battery units 12A and 12B are not mounted on it.

[0034] The battery holder 10 comprises a main holder body 14 and an engagement unit 16. The main holder body 14 is configured to hold the battery units 12A and 12B. The engagement unit 16 is configured to lock the battery units 12A and 12B by engaging each of the battery units 12A and 12B held by the main holder body 14. The battery holder 10 further comprises an actuating unit 18 and a mounting section 20. The actuating unit 18 actuates the engagement unit 16. The mounting section 20 can be mounted on the frame F of the bicycle B. The mounting section 20 comprises a plurality of openings formed in a first connecting section 28 and a second connecting section 30. The battery holder 10 is detachably fixed to the frame F, with a screw (not shown) being screwed into a screw hole of the frame F through the mounting section 20.

[0035] As in Fig. 2 or Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the main mounting body 14 comprises a first retention section 22, a second retention section 24, and a third retention section 26. The first retention section 22 is configured to hold one end of each of the battery units 12A and 12B. The second retention section 24 is configured to hold the other end of the first battery unit 12A of the battery units 12. The third retention section 26 is configured to hold the other end of the second battery unit 12B of the battery units 12. The main mounting body 14 further comprises a first connecting section 28, a second connecting section 30, and a pair of side walls 32 and 34. The first connecting section 28 connects the first retention section 22 and the second retention section 24. The second connecting section 30 connects the first retention section 22 and the third retention section 26.The side walls 32 and 34 connect the second retention section 24 and the third retention section 26. The main mounting body 14 also includes a connection port 22A and a charging socket 22B. The connection port 22A is connected to a connection port 60 of the battery unit 12. The charging socket 22B is connected to an external power source. The lower sections of the side walls 32 and 34 are connected to the first connection section 28 and the second connection section 30, respectively.

[0036] The first retention section 22 is arranged between the second retention section 24 and the third retention section 26 in the longitudinal direction of the main mounting body 14. That is, the first retention section 22 is provided between the first battery unit 12A and the second battery unit 12B in a state in which the battery units 12 are held by the main mounting body 14. The engagement unit 16 and the actuating unit 18 are provided on the first retention section 22.

[0037] A distance LA between the first retaining section 22 and the second retaining section 24 in the longitudinal direction of the main mounting body 14 is essentially equal to a distance LB between the first retaining section 22 and the third retaining section 26 in the longitudinal direction of the main mounting body 14. The distance LA is essentially equal to the dimension of the first connecting section 28 in the longitudinal direction of the main mounting body 14. The distance LB is essentially equal to the dimension of the second connecting section 30 in the longitudinal direction of the main mounting body 14. The battery mounting 10 of the present embodiment is designed for mounting two battery units 12 that have the same dimensions.

[0038] The first retention section 22, the second retention section 24, the third retention section 26, the first connecting section 28, the second connecting section 30, and the pair of side walls 32, 34 are formed in one piece. The first retention section 22, the second retention section 24, the third retention section 26, the first connecting section 28, the second connecting section 30, and the pair of side walls 32, 34 are, for example, made of a resin material. The connecting port 22A is provided on the first retention section 22. The connecting port 22A is provided on the upper surface of the first retention section 22 and projects upwards. The connecting port 22A can also be provided such that it does not project from the upper surface of the first retention section 22, or it can be provided in a recess formed on the upper surface of the first retention section 22.Each of the battery units 12 has a plurality of connection terminals 22A. The charging socket 22B is provided on the first retaining section 22 and is electrically connected to the connection terminal 22A. The charging socket 22B is located at the center of a side surface of the first retaining section 22 in the width direction. In the case where the connection terminal 22A and the charging socket 22B are provided on the first retaining section 22, the wiring connecting these two can be shortened.

[0039] The first retaining section 22, the second retaining section 24, the first connecting section 28, and the pair of side walls 32, 34 form an upwardly open first retaining space 14A. The volume of the first retaining space 14A is smaller than the volume of the first battery unit 12A. When the first battery unit 12A is mounted on the main support body 14, the upper section of the first battery unit 12A is exposed from the main support body 14. The volume of the upper section of the first battery unit 12A exposed from the main support body 14 is essentially equal to the difference between the volume of the entire first battery unit 12A and the volume of the first retaining space 14A.

[0040] The first retaining section 22, the third retaining section 26, the second connecting section 30, and the pair of side walls 32, 34 form an upwardly open second retaining space 14B. The volume of the second retaining space 14B is smaller than the volume of the second battery unit 12B. When the second battery unit 12B is mounted on the main support body 14, the upper section of the second battery unit 12B is exposed from the main support body 14. The volume of the upper section of the second battery unit 12B exposed from the main support body 14 is essentially equal to the difference between the volume of the entire second battery unit 12B and the volume of the second retaining space 14B.Viewed from the lateral direction of the battery holder 10, the pair of side walls 32, 34 extends to a position higher than the position of the engagement unit 16, and in the present embodiment they extend to a position higher than the upper surface of the first retention section 22.

[0041] The second retaining section 24 comprises a pivot point 36 and a projection 38. The pivot point 36 is designed to position the battery unit 12 relative to the first retaining space 14A while rotating it relative to the main retaining body 14. The projection 38 is designed to support the battery unit 12 positioned relative to the first retaining space 14A. The pivot point 36 and the projection 38 project from the side face of the second retaining section 24, on the side with the first retaining section 22, toward the first retaining space 14A. The longitudinal direction of the pivot point 36 and the projection 38 corresponds to the lateral direction of the main retaining body 14. The lateral direction of the main retaining body 14 corresponds to the lateral direction of the bicycle B when the main retaining body 14 is attached to the bicycle B.

[0042] The third retaining section 26 comprises a pivot point 40 and a projection 42. The pivot point 40 is designed to position the battery unit 12 relative to the second retaining space 14B while rotating it relative to the main retaining body 14. The projection 42 is designed to support the battery unit 12 positioned relative to the second retaining space 14A. The pivot point 40 and the projection 42 project from the side face of the third retaining section 26, on the side with the first retaining section 22, toward the second retaining space 14B. The longitudinal direction of the pivot point 40 and the projection 42 corresponds to the lateral direction of the main retaining body 14.

[0043] The engagement unit 16 comprises a pair of engagement sections 44 for individually engaging the plurality of battery units 12. The pair of engagement sections 44 is arranged such that each is designed to protrude from a guide hole 22C (see Fig. 6) stand out, which is formed in the first stopping section 22.

[0044] The engagement section 44 is formed by a claw-like element. The openings of the guide hole 22C are formed on a first side surface section 22D of the first retention section 22, which faces the second retention section 24, and on a second side surface section 22E of the first retention section 22, which faces the third retention section 26. The first side surface section 22D is inclined in a direction that approaches the second retention section 24 as it approaches the first connecting section 28. The second side surface section 22E is inclined in a direction that approaches the third retention section 26 as it approaches the second connecting section 30.

[0045] The actuating unit 18 moves the pair of engagement sections 44 from a first position, in which the pair engages the first battery unit 12A or the second battery unit 12B, to a second position, in which the pair does not engage the first battery unit 12A or the second battery unit 12B. Each engagement section 44 is designed to be movable in the longitudinal direction of the battery holder 10.

[0046] The battery unit 12 comprises a plurality of battery elements 56, a housing 58, and a connection terminal 60. The housing 58 contains the battery elements 56. The connection terminal 60 is connected to the connection terminal 22A of the main mounting body 14. The battery element 56 is rechargeable.

[0047] The housing 58 of the battery units 12A, 12B comprises a first recess 58A, a second recess 58B, and an engagement hole 58C. The first recess 58A has a shape corresponding to the pivot point 36. The second recess 58B has a shape corresponding to the projection 38. The engagement section 44 is inserted into the engagement hole 58C.

[0048] The first recess 58A and the second recess 58B are formed at a first end of the housing 58. The engagement hole 58C is formed at a second end of the housing 58, which is the end on the side opposite the first end. A connecting port 60 is provided at a position that contacts the connecting port 22A of the housing 58 when the battery unit 12 is attached to the battery holder 10. The second end of the housing 58 of the first battery unit 12A covers both the upper surface and the first side surface section 22D of the first retaining section 22 when the battery unit 12 is attached to the battery holder 10.The second end of the housing 58 of the second battery unit 12B covers both the upper surface and the second side surface section 22E of the first retaining section 22 in a state in which the battery device 12 is attached to the battery holder 10. A small gap is formed between the first battery unit 12A and the second battery unit 12B in a state in which the battery unit 12 is attached to the battery holder 10.

[0049] The Fig. 5 and Fig. Figure 6 shows enlarged side views of the engagement unit 16 and the first retaining section 22. The actuating unit 18 comprises a rotating part 48, a casing 50, a pair of wires 52, and a pair of springs 54. The rotating part 48 includes an insertion hole 46 into which a specified key (not shown) is inserted. The casing 50 houses the rotating part 48. The wires 52 are each connected to the rotating part 48 and the engagement section 44, respectively. The springs 54 pre-tension the engagement sections 44 in a first position. The spring 54 is an example of a pre-tensioning element. The spring 54 is, for example, a compression coil spring. The insertion hole 46 of the rotating part 48 is open in the width direction to the other side face of the first retaining section 22.

[0050] The pair of springs 54 are each arranged relative to the guide hole 22C of the first retaining section 22. One end of the wire 52 is connected to the engagement section 44. The other end of the wire 52 is connected to the rotating part 48. One end of the spring 54 is connected to the engagement section 44. The other end of the spring 54 is connected to the sleeve 50.

[0051] The rotating part 48 has a columnar shape. The housing 50 has a cylindrical shape. The rotating part 48 is housed within the housing 50 in a position that allows it to rotate relative to the housing 50. The rotational position of the rotating part 48 relative to the housing 50 is changed by inserting and turning a key in the insertion hole 46.

[0052] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, when the rotating part 48 is in a first rotational position, the engagement section 44 is held in the first position by the elastic force of the spring 54. The wire 52 is held in a state in which essentially no sag is produced.

[0053] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, when the rotating part 48 is in a second rotational position, the engagement section 44 is held in the second position, with the spring 54 being compressed by the tensile force of the wire 52. The wire 52 is held in a state in which essentially no sag is produced.

[0054] The effect of the battery holder 10 is described with reference to Fig. 2 to Fig. 7 described. The battery units 12 are mounted on the battery holder 10 and locked onto the battery holder 10, for example, by the following procedure.

[0055] In a state where the battery units 12 are detached from the battery holder 10, the rotating part 48 is in the first rotation position, and the engagement section 44 is arranged in the first position, as shown in Fig. 5 shown. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the user first brings the first recess 58A of the first battery unit 12A into contact with the pivot point 36. Next, the user moves the first battery unit 12A around the pivot point 36 towards the first connecting section 28. As the end of the housing 58 of the first battery unit 12A approaches the first retaining section 22, the housing 58 of the first battery unit 12A contacts the engagement section 44 and pushes the engagement section 44 to the second position. The end of the housing 58 of the first battery unit 12A contacts the first retaining section 22. At the same time, as the engagement section 44 is inserted into the engagement hole 58C, the projection 38 is fitted into the second recess 58B, and the first battery unit 12A is held against the battery holder 10.When the first battery unit 12A is mounted on the battery holder 10, the first battery unit 12A is automatically locked in place by the engagement section 44 on the battery holder 10.

[0056] Next, the second battery unit 12B is mounted to the battery holder 10 using the same procedure. The mounting sequence of the first battery unit 12A and the second battery unit 12B is arbitrary.

[0057] The battery units 12 are detached from the battery holder 10, for example, by the following procedure. The user inserts a key into the insertion hole 46 of the rotating part 48, which is located in the first in Fig. The key is in the rotational position shown in section 5 and turns in a first direction of rotation F1. The rotating part 48 is thereby rotated in the first direction of rotation F1 with respect to the casing 50.

[0058] With the rotation of the rotating part 48 in the first direction of rotation F1, the engagement section 44 is moved from the first position, which is in Fig. As shown in section 5, the wire 52 moves the wire into the second position, which is shown in Fig. 6 is shown. When the rotating part 48 is moved into the second rotating position, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the pair of engagement sections 44 will separate from the engagement hole 58C of the first battery unit 12A and the second battery unit 12B, respectively, and the locking mechanism will be released. In this state, the user is able to detach the first battery unit 12A and the second battery unit 12B from the battery holder 10. When the rotating part 48 is in the second rotation position and the user removes their hand from the key, the engagement section 44 is pushed into the first position by the spring 54; this causes the rotating part 48 to rotate in a second direction F2, opposite to the first direction F1, and return to the first rotation position.The key can be designed so that it can only be removed from the insertion hole 46 when the rotating part 48 is in the first rotation position, or the key can be designed to be removable from the insertion hole 46 when the rotating part 48 is either in the first rotation position or in the second rotation position.

[0059] In the present embodiment, the rotating part 48 is designed to return from the second rotation position to the first rotation position even if the user does not turn the key; however, a mechanism for holding the rotating part 48 in the second rotation position may be provided. In the case that the battery unit 12 is mounted on the battery holder 10, the user, in a state where the rotating part 48 is in the second rotation position, moves the rotating part 48 to the first rotation position by turning the key in the second direction F2, after holding the battery unit 12 on the battery holder 10. The battery unit 12 is thereby locked onto the battery holder 10. Furthermore, a configuration may be used in which, when the rotating part 48 is in the Fig.6, the second rotation position shown is turned and the key is pulled out of the insertion hole 46, the rotation position of the rotating part 48 with respect to the casing 50 is held in the second rotation position.

[0060] For example, the following effects can be achieved after installing the battery holder 10. (1) The battery holder 10 includes an engagement unit 16 for locking a plurality of battery units 12 by actuating an actuating unit 18. Accordingly, a plurality of battery units 12 can be easily locked onto the battery holder 10. (2) The battery holder 10 comprises the main holder body 14, which can hold the battery units 12, leaving the upper sections of the battery units 12 exposed. Accordingly, the battery unit 12 is easy to mount onto the main holder body 14, and a user can easily grasp the mounted battery unit 12. (3) The battery holder 10 includes the first retaining section 22 for holding one end of the battery units 12. Accordingly, the battery units 12 mounted on the battery holder 10 will not readily fall off the battery holder 10. (4) The battery holder 10 includes the second retaining section 24 for holding the other end of the first battery unit 12A. Accordingly, the first battery unit 12A, which is mounted on the battery holder 10, will not readily fall off the battery holder 10. (5) The battery holder 10 includes the third retaining section 26 for holding the other end of the second battery unit 12B. Accordingly, the second battery unit 12B, which is mounted on the battery holder 10, will not readily fall off the battery holder 10. (6) The battery holder 10 comprises the first connecting section 28, which supports the first battery unit 12A by connecting the first retaining section 22 and the second retaining section 24. Accordingly, the position of the first battery unit 12A is stabilized with respect to the battery holder 10. (7) The battery holder 10 comprises the second connecting section 30, which supports the second battery unit 12B by connecting the first retaining section 22 and the third retaining section 26. Accordingly, the position of the second battery unit 12B is stabilized with respect to the battery holder 10. (8) The battery holder 10 includes the connection terminal 22A and a charging socket 22B, which are arranged on the first retaining section 22. Accordingly, the connection terminal 22A and the charging socket 22B are arranged close to each other, so that the wiring etc. can be shortened. Modified examples

[0061] The description relating to the embodiment described above is an example of the shapes that the bicycle battery holder according to the present invention can assume and is not intended to limit these shapes. In addition to the embodiment described above, the bicycle battery holder according to the present invention can also assume the shapes of the modified examples of the embodiment shown below, as well as shapes that combine at least two modified examples that do not contradict each other. • The battery holder 10 of a modified example comprises a preload element configured to move the position of the engagement section 44 to either a first position or a second position, and a battery detection sensor for detecting that the battery unit 12 has been positioned relative to either a first holding space 14A or a second holding space 14B. An example of a preload element is an electric motor. An example of a battery detection sensor is a photoelectric sensor or a magnetic sensor. The preload element moves the engagement section 44 from the second position to the first position based on the battery unit 12 being detected by the battery detection sensor. • In a modified example, the battery holder 10 can accommodate three or more battery units 12. The configuration of the intervention unit 16 can be modified depending on the number of battery units 12 that can be mounted. In one example, the battery holder 10 includes an intervention unit 16 that can engage with all of the battery units 12. In another example, the battery units 12 are classified into a plurality of groups, and the battery holder 10 includes the intervention units 16 corresponding to each group. If the battery units 12 are contained in a group, the intervention unit 16 corresponding to that group engages with all of the battery units 12 contained in that group. If a battery unit 12 is contained in a group, the intervention unit 16 corresponding to that group engages with that battery unit 12. • In the battery holder 10 of a modified example, at least one of the side walls 32 and 34 is omitted. According to this modified example, the battery unit 12 can be mounted on the first mounting space 14A or the second mounting space 14B from the side of the main mounting body 14. When using a configuration in which the battery unit 12 is mounted from the side of the main mounting body 14, the pivot point 36 and the projection 38 are parallel to the direction that is perpendicular to the longitudinal and transverse directions of the main mounting body 14. • In the battery holder 10 of a modified example, the connection terminal 22A is arranged relative to the second retention section 24 and the third retention section 26, respectively. As for the first retention section 22, the connection terminal 22A can be arranged on a surface on which the opening of the guide hole 22C is formed, or relative to the first connection section 28 and the second connection section 30, respectively. • In the battery holder 10 of a modified example, the charging socket 22B is arranged relative to at least one of the second retention section 24 and the third retention section 26. • In the battery holder 10 of a modified example, the distance LA is longer or shorter than the distance LB. That is, in the battery holder 10 of this modified example, two types of battery units 12 with different dimensions can be mounted. • In the battery holder 10 of a modified example, at least one of the first connecting section 28 and the second connecting section 30 is omitted. • In the battery holder 10 of a modified example, the first retention section 22, the second retention section 24, and the third retention section 26 can each comprise a fastening section 20 that can be attached to the frame F. In the battery holder 10 of a further modified example, at least one of the first retention section 22, the second retention section 24, the third retention section 26, the first connecting section 28, and the second connecting section 30 can comprise a fastening section 20 that can be attached to the frame F. • In the battery holder 10 of a modified example, the first retaining space 14A and the second retaining space 14B are aligned in the lateral direction of the main holder body 14. That is, one of the second retaining section 24 or the third retaining section 26 is omitted, and the other of the second retaining section 24 or the third retaining section 26 holds the two battery units 12. • In the battery holder 10 of a modified example, the volume of the first holding space 14A is larger or smaller than the second holding space 14B. That is, in the battery holder 10 of this modified example, two types of battery units 12 with different dimensions can be mounted. • In the case of the battery holder 10 of a modified example, the volume of the first holding space 14A is larger than the volume of the battery unit 12A, or essentially equal to the volume of the battery unit 12A. • In the battery holder 10 of a modified example, the volume of the second holding space 14B is larger than the volume of the battery unit 12B, or substantially equal to the volume of the battery unit 12B. • In the battery holder 10 of a modified example, the main holder body 14 can be formed integrally with the frame F. In the battery holder 10 of a modified example, the main holder body 14 can be permanently mounted to the frame F by a fixing element, such as adhesive. • In the battery holder 10 of a modified example, the insertion hole 46 of the rotating part 48 can be open to one side of the first retaining section 22 in the width direction. • When the rotating part 48 of the battery holder 10 of the present embodiment is moved into the second rotational position, the pair of engagement sections 44 simultaneously moves from the first position to the second position; however, in the battery holder of a modified example 10, the timing at which the pair of engagement sections 44 moves from the first position to the second position may be offset when the rotating part 48 is moved into the second rotational position. This type of setup can be achieved by varying the length of the wire 52. DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE MARKS B bicycle F frame 10 Battery holder (bicycle battery holder) 12 Battery unit (bicycle battery unit) 14 Mounting main body 14A First Holding Area 14B Second Holding Space 16 intervention unit 18 Actuating unit 20 Fastening section 22 First retention section 22A connection 22B charging socket 24 Second retention section 26 Third containment section 28 First connecting section 30 Second connecting section 36 Pivot point 40 pivot point 44 Intervention section 46 insertion holes 48 Turned part 54 Spring (preload part) 56 battery element 58 cases

Claims

[1] Bicycle battery holder (10), comprising: a mounting main body (14) designed to hold a plurality of bicycle battery units (12); an engagement unit (16) configured to lock the bicycle battery units (12) by engaging with the bicycle battery units (12) while the bicycle battery units (12) are arranged in the main mounting body (14); and an actuating unit (18) designed to actuate the engagement unit (16), wherein the main body of the mounting (14) comprises a first retention section (22) which includes the engagement unit (16) and the actuating unit (18), and the first retention section (22) holds each of the ends of the bicycle battery units (12), and wherein in a state in which the bicycle battery units (12) are held on the main mounting body (14), the first retention section (22) is provided in the longitudinal direction of the main mounting body (14) between two of the adjacent bicycle battery units (12). [2] Bicycle battery holder (10) according to claim 1, wherein the engagement unit (16) comprises a plurality of engagement sections (44) to engage individually in the bicycle battery units (12). [3] Bicycle battery holder (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the actuating unit (18) is configured to move the engagement unit (16) from a first position engaging the bicycle battery units (12) to a second position not engaging the bicycle battery units (12). [4] Bicycle battery holder (10) according to claim 3, which further comprises a preloading element (54) that preloads the engagement unit (16) into the first position. [5] Bicycle battery holder (10) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the actuating unit (18) comprises an insertion hole (46) which is configured to receive a predetermined key, and the actuating unit (18) is configured to actuate the engagement unit (16) when the predetermined key is inserted into the insertion hole (46). [6] Bicycle battery holder (10) according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the actuating unit (18) comprises a rotating part (48) which is rotated when actuated, and the rotating part (48) is connected to the engagement unit (16). [7] Bicycle battery holder (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the main body of the holder (14) holds each of the bicycle battery units (12) in a state in which at least a section of each of the bicycle battery units (12) is exposed. [8] Bicycle battery holder (10) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the main body of the holder (14) further comprises a second retention section (24) which holds an opposite end of a first of the two adjacent bicycle battery units (12), and a third retention section (26) which holds an opposite end of a second of the two adjacent bicycle battery units (12). [9] Bicycle battery holder (10) according to claim 8, wherein the first retention section (22) is arranged between the second retention section (24) and the third retention section (26). [10] Bicycle battery holder (10) according to claim 9, wherein a distance between the first retention section (22) and the second retention section (24) is equal to a distance between the first retention section (22) and the third retention section (26). [11] Bicycle battery holder (10) according to one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the main holder body (14) further comprises a first connecting section (28) connecting the first retaining section (22) and the second retaining section (24), and a second connecting section (30) connecting the first retaining section (22) and the third retaining section (26). [12] Bicycle battery holder (10) according to claim 11, wherein the first retention section (22), the second retention section (24), the third retention section (26), the first connecting section (28) and the second connecting section (30) are formed in one piece. [13] Bicycle battery holder (10) according to claim 12, wherein the first retention section (22), the second retention section (24) and the first connecting section (28) form a partially open rectangular parallelepiped defining a first retention space (14A), and the first retention section (22), the third retention section (26) and the second connecting section (30) form a partially open rectangular parallelepiped defining a second retention space (14B). [14] Bicycle battery holder (10) according to claim 13, wherein the first holding space (14A) and the second holding space (14B) are each designed to have a smaller volume than the volume of the bicycle battery unit (12). [15] Bicycle battery holder (10) according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the second retention section (24) comprises a pivot point (36) to position the bicycle battery unit (12) relative to the first retention space (14A) while it is rotated relative to the main body of the holder (14), and the third retention section (26) comprises a pivot point (40) to position the bicycle battery unit (12) relative to the second retention space (14B) while it is rotated relative to the main body of the holder (14). [16] Bicycle battery holder (10) according to one of claims 1 to 15, which further comprises a fastening section (20) for attaching the main body of the holder (14) to a bicycle frame. [17] Bicycle battery holder according to one of claims 1 to 16, wherein a connection port (22A) is provided on the main body of the holder (14) for connection to ports provided on the plurality of bicycle battery units (12). [18] Bicycle battery holder (10) according to claim 17, which depends on claim 1, wherein the connection port (22A) is provided on the first retention section (22). [19] Bicycle battery holder (10) according to claim 18, wherein the main body of the holder (14) further comprises a charging socket (22B) for connecting an external power source, and the charging socket (22B) is electrically connected to the connection terminal (22A). [20] Bicycle battery holder (10) according to claim 19, which depends on claim 1, wherein the charging socket (22B) is provided on the first retention section (22). [21] Bicycle battery unit (12) attached to the bicycle battery holder (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 20, comprising a housing (58) and a plurality of battery elements (56) which are received by the housing (58).

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