BICYCLE HUB UNIT

Abstract

A bicycle hub unit (50), comprising: a hub axle (52) connected to the frame (12) of the bicycle (10), and a rotation limiting member (70) connecting the hub axle (52) to the frame (12) such that rotation with respect to the hub axle (52) and the frame (12) is restricted, wherein at least one of the hub axle (52) and the rotation limiting member (70) has a structure configured to guide a cable (80) electrically connected to an electrical component (62) and an electronic component (66) in an axial direction (DA) extending along an axis of the hub axle (52) in a region including the rotation limiting member (70).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a bicycle hub unit.

[0002] A known bicycle hub unit supports a wheel of a bicycle. The bicycle hub unit includes a hub axle connected to a frame of the bicycle, and a hub body provided on the hub axle for rotation around the hub axle, supporting the wheel of the bicycle. Patent document JP 2004-82847 A discloses an example of a prior art bicycle hub unit.

[0003] DE 10 2017 128 040 A1 discloses a bicycle hub comprising a hub axle, a hub body, an electrical energy generation section, a freewheel, and an electrical unit. The hub body is rotatable with respect to the hub axle. The electrical energy generation section is arranged between the hub axle and the hub body. The electrical energy generation section is configured to generate electrical energy through relative rotation of the hub axle and the hub body. The freewheel is configured to support a pinion gear. The freewheel is connected to the hub body and is rotatable around the hub axle. The electrical component is arranged between the hub axle and the freewheel in a radial direction with respect to the central axis. The electrical unit is electrically connected to the electrical energy generation section. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] It is desirable that a bicycle hub unit can be securely connected to a bicycle frame.

[0005] It is an object of the present invention to provide a bicycle hub unit which is adapted to be stably connected to a frame of a bicycle.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a bicycle hub unit comprises a hub axle connected to a frame of a bicycle, and a rotation-limiting member connecting the hub axle to the frame so that rotation with respect to the hub axle and the frame is restricted. At least one of the hub axle and the rotation-limiting member has a structure configured to guide a cable electrically connected to an electrical component and an electronic component in an axial direction extending along an axis of the hub axle in a region including the rotation-limiting member.

[0007] The hub axle is connected to the frame, so the rotation-limiting element restricts the rotation of the hub axle relative to the frame. Thus, the bicycle hub unit is securely connected to the frame. Additionally, the cable is routed through the structure or design designed to guide the cable. This limits the interference / interaction of the cable with various elements contained within the bicycle hub unit.

[0008] According to a second aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub unit according to the first aspect further comprises the electronic component electrically connected to the electrical component and fixed to the hub axle.

[0009] The rotation limiting element sets the rotational phase of the hub axle relative to the frame to a predetermined rotational phase. Thus, when the bicycle hub unit is connected to the frame, the electronic component is adjusted to a predetermined position relative to the frame. Therefore, the bicycle hub unit is connected to the frame so that the electronic component is arranged at the appropriate position.

[0010] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub unit according to the first or second aspect is arranged such that the rotation limiting member is detachably attached to the hub axle.

[0011] This improves the usability of the bicycle hub unit.

[0012] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub unit according to any one of the first to third aspects further comprises a hub body provided on the hub axle so as to be rotatable around the hub axle, and an electric power generating portion that generates electric power based on rotation of the hub body with respect to the hub axle and supplies generated electric power to the electronic component.

[0013] Thus, electric power generated by the electric power generation section can be stably supplied to the electronic component.

[0014] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, a bicycle hub unit comprises a hub axle connected to a frame of a bicycle and having a recess and a rotation limiting member including a first engagement portion that engages with the recess of the hub axle. The rotation limiting member connects the hub axle to the frame, thereby limiting rotation with respect to the hub axle and the frame. The rotation limiting member is removably attached to the hub axle.

[0015] The hub axle is connected to the frame, so the rotation-limiting element restricts rotation of the hub axle relative to the frame. Thus, the bicycle hub unit is securely connected to the frame.

[0016] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub unit according to the fifth aspect is configured such that the recess comprises a groove provided in an outer peripheral surface of the hub axle to extend in an axial direction extending along an axis of the hub axle.

[0017] Thus, the first engagement section engages easily into the recess.

[0018] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub unit according to the fifth or sixth aspect is configured such that the recess has a structure configured to guide a cable wired to the bicycle.

[0019] The cable is routed through a structure designed to guide the cable. This limits the cable's interference with various components within the bicycle hub unit.

[0020] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub unit according to any one of the fifth to seventh aspects is configured such that the rotation limiting member has a structure configured to guide a cable wired to the bicycle.

[0021] The cable is routed through a structure designed to guide the cable. This limits the cable's interference with various components within the bicycle hub unit.

[0022] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub unit according to any one of the first to fourth and eighth aspects is configured such that the rotation limiting member has a structure configured to guide the cable so that the cable is disposed on an outer side of an inner surface of the frame that is closer to a center line of the frame with respect to an axial direction extending along an axis of the hub axle in the axial direction of the hub axle.

[0023] This limits the interference / interaction of the cable with various elements contained in the bicycle hub unit.

[0024] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub unit according to the ninth aspect is configured such that the rotation limiting member has a structure configured to guide the cable in a radial direction of the hub axis between the inner surface and an outer surface of the frame opposite to the inner surface.

[0025] This limits the interference of the cable with external elements.

[0026] According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub unit according to any one of the first to fourth and eighth to tenth aspects is configured such that the rotation limiting member includes a groove configured to guide the cable.

[0027] Thus, the cable is guided appropriately through the groove of the rotation limiting element.

[0028] According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, a bicycle hub unit includes a hub axle connected to a frame of a bicycle, a hub body provided on the hub axle so as to be rotatable about the hub axle, an electric power generation portion that generates electric power based on rotation of the hub body with respect to the hub axle, and a guide member provided on the hub axle so as to restrict rotation with respect to the hub axle. The guide member has a structure configured to guide a cable electrically connected to the electric power generation portion such that the cable is located on an outer side of an inner surface of the frame, which is closer to a center line of the frame with respect to an axial direction extending along an axis of the hub axle in the axial direction of the hub axle.

[0029] When the cable is routed through the guide element, the hub axle is connected to the frame. This ensures a stable connection between the bicycle hub unit and the frame. Additionally, the guide element guides the cable so that the cable is positioned on the outer side of the frame's inner surface. This limits the cable's interference with various components within the bicycle hub unit.

[0030] According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub unit according to the twelfth aspect is configured such that the guide member has a structure configured to guide the cable in a radial direction of the hub axis between the inner surface and an outer surface of the frame opposite to the inner surface.

[0031] This limits the interference of the cable with external elements.

[0032] According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub unit according to the twelfth or thirteenth aspect is configured such that the guide member includes a groove configured to guide the cable.

[0033] Thus, the cable is guided in a suitable manner through the groove of the guide element.

[0034] According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub unit according to any one of the twelfth to fourteenth aspects is configured such that the guide member is detachably attached to the hub axle.

[0035] This improves the usability of the bicycle hub unit.

[0036] According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub unit according to any one of the twelfth to fifteenth aspects is configured such that the guide member includes a rotation restricting member connecting the hub axle to the frame so as to restrict rotation with respect to the hub axle and the frame.

[0037] The hub axle is connected to the frame, so the rotation-limiting element restricts the rotation of the hub axle relative to the frame. Thus, the bicycle hub unit is securely connected to the frame.

[0038] According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub unit according to any one of the first to fourth and sixteenth aspects is configured such that the rotation restricting member has a first engaging portion engaged with the hub axle to restrict rotation of the hub axle.

[0039] Thus, the rotation limiting element appropriately limits the rotation of the hub axle.

[0040] According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub unit according to any one of the fifth to eighth and seventeenth aspects is configured such that the first engagement portion has a first protrusion that restricts rotation of the hub axle in one direction and a second protrusion that restricts rotation of the hub axle in another direction.

[0041] Thus, the rotation limiting element appropriately limits the rotation of the hub axle.

[0042] According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub unit according to any one of the fifth to eighth, seventeenth and eighteenth aspects is configured such that the hub axle has a second engaging portion engaged with the first engaging portion.

[0043] Thus, the rotation limiting element appropriately limits the rotation of the hub axle.

[0044] According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub unit according to any one of the first to eleventh and sixteenth to nineteenth aspects is configured such that the rotation restricting member is shaped to fit into a groove of the frame so as to restrict rotation with respect to the frame.

[0045] Thus, the rotation of the rotation limiting element with respect to the frame is appropriately restricted.

[0046] According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub unit according to the twentieth aspect is configured such that, in a case where the hub axle is connected to the frame, the groove of the frame allows the hub axle to pass therethrough.

[0047] This allows the hub axle to be easily connected to the frame.

[0048] According to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub unit according to any one of the first to twenty-first aspects is configured such that the hub axle is provided on a rear wheel of the bicycle.

[0049] This ensures that the bicycle hub unit is securely connected to the frame.

[0050] According to a twenty-third aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub unit according to any one of the first to eleventh and sixteenth to twenty-first aspects is configured such that the hub axle is provided on a rear wheel of the bicycle, and the rotation restricting portion is provided on the hub axle to be connected to the frame at a position close to a rear sprocket of the bicycle.

[0051] This limits the interference of the cable wired to the bicycle hub unit with the rear sprocket.

[0052] According to a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub unit according to any one of the first to fourth and seventh to seventeenth aspects further comprises the cable.

[0053] This limits the interference of the cable with various elements contained in the bicycle hub unit.

[0054] According to a twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub unit according to any one of the first to twenty-fourth aspects is configured such that the hub axle has a structure configured to be fixed to the frame with a wheel holding mechanism.

[0055] This ensures that the bicycle hub unit is securely connected to the frame.

[0056] The bicycle hub unit of the present invention is stably connected to a frame of a bicycle. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 is a side view of a bicycle having an embodiment of a bicycle hub unit mounted thereon. Fig. 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of the Fig. 1 shown bicycle hub unit. Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a Fig. 2 shown rotation limiting element. Fig. 4 is a perspective view showing the rotation limiting member of Fig. 2 and its surroundings. Fig. 5 is a side view showing the rotation limiting element of Fig. 2 and its surroundings. EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTIONEmbodiment

[0057] A bicycle 10 having a bicycle hub unit 50 will now be described with reference to Fig. 1 described.

[0058] The bicycle 10 includes the bicycle hub unit 50 (hereinafter referred to as "the hub unit 50"). The type of bicycle 10 shown in the drawing is a mountain bike. In one example, the bicycle 10 further includes a frame 12, a front wheel 18, a rear wheel 20, and a drivetrain 22. The hub unit 50 is provided at a rear end 12A of the frame 12.

[0059] The drive train 22 includes a crank assembly 24, a front sprocket assembly 32, a rear sprocket assembly 34, and a chain 36. The crank assembly 24 includes a crankshaft 26, two crank arms 28, and two pedals 30. The pedals 30 are rotatably connected to the distal ends of the crank arms 28.

[0060] The front sprocket assembly 32 includes one or more front sprockets 32A and is provided on the crank assembly 24 to rotate integrally with the crankshaft 26. The rear sprocket assembly 34 includes one or more rear sprockets 34A and is provided on the hub unit 50. The chain 36 rides on one of the front sprockets 32A in the front sprocket assembly 32 and one of the rear sprockets 34A in the rear sprocket assembly 34. The gear ratio of the bicycle 10 is changed by changing the combination of the front sprocket 32A and the rear sprocket 34A on which the chain 36 rides. The drive force applied to the pedals 30 is transmitted to the rear wheel 20 via the front sprocket assembly 32, the chain 36, and the rear sprocket assembly 34.

[0061] The bicycle 10 further includes bicycle components 38. The bicycle components 38 include, for example, an electric shifting device 40, an electric suspension 42, an electrically adjustable seat post 44, an electric power assist device (not shown), a lamp 46, and a bicycle computer 48. The electric shifting device 40 includes a first shifting unit 40A and a second shifting unit 40B. The first shifting unit 40A is a rear derailleur provided at the rear end 12A of the frame 12. The second shifting unit 40B is a front derailleur provided on the frame 12 near the crankshaft 26. The electric suspension 42 is a front suspension that serves to absorb shocks received by the front wheel 18 from the ground. The electrically adjustable seat post 44 serves to change the height of a saddle S relative to the frame 12.The electric power-assist device serves to assist the propulsion of the bicycle 10. Some of the elements included in the bicycle components 38 are powered by electrical energy supplied by a battery B attached to the bicycle 10.

[0062] The structure of the lifting unit 50 will now be described with reference to Fig. 2 described.

[0063] The hub unit 50 comprises a hub axle 52 and a rotation limiting element 70. The hub axle 52 is attached to the rear wheel 20 (see Fig. 1) of the bicycle 10. The hub axle 52 is / will be connected to the frame 12 of the bicycle 10. In one example, the hub axle 52 is connected to the rear end 12A of the frame 12. The rotation limiting member 70 connects the hub axle 52 to the frame 12 so that rotation relative to the hub axle 52 and the frame 12 is restricted. The rotation limiting member 70 is removably attached to the hub axle 52. The rotation limiting member 70 is provided on the hub axle 52 to be connected to the frame 12 at a position proximate the rear sprockets 34A of the bicycle 10.

[0064] The hub unit 50 further includes a hub body 60, an electric power generation portion 62A, a freewheel 64, an electronic component 66, and a cable 68. The hub body 60 is provided on the hub axle 52 so as to be rotatable about the hub axle 52. The hub body 60 has a structure configured to support the rear wheel 20 having a plurality of spokes (not shown).

[0065] The electric power generation section 62A generates electric power based on rotation of the hub body 60 relative to the hub axle 52 and supplies the generated electric power to the electronic component 66. The electric power generation section 62A is provided, for example, between the hub axle 52 and the hub body 60 in a radial direction of the hub axle 52. The electric power generation section 62A and the electronic component 66 are electrically connected by the cable 68. The electric power generation section 62A is an example of an electrical component 62 mounted on the bicycle 10.

[0066] The freewheel 64 is arranged adjacent to the hub body 60 in an axial direction DA that extends along the axis of the hub axle 52. The freewheel 64 is connected to the hub body 60 to be rotatable about the hub axle 52. The freewheel 64 has a structure configured to support the plurality of rear sprockets 34A. In one example, the freewheel 64 transmits a drive force across various elements included in the drivetrain 22 (see Fig. 1) is transmitted to the rear sprockets 34A, the drive force to the hub body 60 and rotates together with the hub body 60 about the hub axle 52. The freewheel 64 has a pawl mechanism 64A that functions as a one-way clutch. The freewheel 64 allows transmission of rotation to the hub body 60 in a first rotational direction and prevents transmission of rotation to the hub body 60 in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction.

[0067] The electronic component 66 is electrically connected to the electrical component 62 and fixed to the hub axle 52. In one example, the electronic component 66 is electrically connected to the electric power generation section 62A through the cable 68 and is provided between the hub axle 52 and the freewheel 64 in the radial direction of the hub axle 52.

[0068] The hub unit 50 further includes a cable 80. The cable 80 is wired to the bicycle 10 and connected to the electric power generation section 62A and the electronic component 66. The cable 80 electrically connects the electronic component 66 and one of the associated bicycle components 38. The one associated bicycle component 38 is, for example, the first shifting unit 40A (see Fig. 1). The electric power generated by the electric power generation section 62A is supplied to the first switching unit 40A via the cable 68, the electronic component 66, and the cable 80. The first switching unit 40A is driven by the electric power. In addition, the electronic component 66 includes, for example, a control circuit (not shown) that controls the first switching unit 40A. The control circuit of the electronic component 66 drives the first switching unit 40A to change the rear sprocket 34A on which the chain 36 rides. Since the electronic component 66 is arranged near the first shifting unit 40A, the cable 80 can be shortened.

[0069] At least one of the hub axle 52 and the rotation limiting member 70 has a structure configured to guide the cable 80 in a region encompassing the rotation limiting member 70 in the axial direction DA of the hub axle 52. In one example, both the hub axle 52 and the rotation limiting member 70 have the structure configured to guide the cable 80.

[0070] The rotation limiting element 70 has a structure configured to guide the cable 80. The rotation limiting element 70 has a structure configured to guide the cable 80 such that the cable 80 is arranged on an outer side of an inner surface 14A of the frame 12, which is arranged closer to a center line CL of the frame 12 with respect to the axial direction DA of the hub axle 52 in the axial direction DA of the hub axle 52. The rotation limiting element 70 has a structure configured to guide the cable 80 in the radial direction of the hub axle 52 between the inner surface 14A and an outer surface 14B of the frame 12 opposite the inner surface 14A. In the Fig. In the example shown in Figure 2, the cable 80, which is guided by the rotation-limiting member 70, passes through a region between the inner surface 14A and the outer surface 14B of the frame 12 in the axial direction DA of the hub axle 52. The rotation-limiting member 70 corresponds to a guide member 70 having a structure configured to guide the cable 80. The guide member 70 of the present embodiment is the rotation-limiting member 70 that connects the hub axle 52 to the frame 12, so that rotation with respect to the hub axle 52 and the frame 12 is restricted.

[0071] The hub axle 52 has a structure configured to be secured to the frame 12 with a wheel support mechanism 90. The hub axle 52 includes an axle body 54 and a connecting hole 55. The connecting hole 55 is provided in the axle body 54 to extend in the axial direction DA of the hub axle 52.

[0072] The wheel support mechanism 90 includes a lever 92, a support portion 94, a shaft 96, and a holder 98. The lever 92 is provided on the support portion 94 so as to be movable relative to the support portion 94. The shaft 96 is provided on the support portion 94 so as to extend from the support portion 94. The holder 98 is removably attached to the shaft 96. In one example, the lever 92 is operated to extend and contract the shaft 96 with respect to the support portion 94 to change the distance between the support portion 94 and the holder 98.

[0073] The rotation limiting member 70 is connected to the hub axle 52 so that the cable 80 is routed through the rotation limiting member 70. The hub axle 52 is connected to the frame 12 through the rotation limiting member 70. The shaft 96 of the wheel holding mechanism 90 is inserted into the connecting hole 55 of the hub axle 52. After the holder 98 is connected to the shaft 96, the lever 92 is operated to fix the wheel holding mechanism 90 to the frame 12 and also to fix the hub axle 52 to the frame 12. As described above, the hub unit 50 is connected to the frame 12.

[0074] As in Fig. 3, the rotation limiting member 70 includes a first part 72, a second part 78, and a groove 74. The first part 72 and the second part 78 are, for example, provided integrally with each other. In a state in which the rotation limiting member 70 is connected to the hub axle 52, the first part 72 is provided on an outer side of the second part 78 in the axial direction DA of the hub axle 52 (see Fig. 4). The second part 78 has a structure configured to support the hub axle 52. The second part 78 includes an insertion hole 78A through which the hub axle 52 can be inserted. An example of the shape of the second part 78 is a tubular shape. The groove 74 is configured to guide the cable 80 (see Fig. 4). The groove 74 is provided, for example, in the first part 72.

[0075] The first part 72 includes the groove 74 and two limiting sections 75. The groove 74 is provided between the two limiting sections 75. The groove 74 includes a first groove 74A and a second groove 74B. The first groove 74A extends in the axial direction DA of the hub axle 52 so that the cable 80 is guided in the axial direction DA of the hub axle 52. The second groove 74B extends in the radial direction of the hub axle 52 so that the cable 80 is guided in the radial direction of the hub axle 52. In one example, the second groove 74B extends in a height direction of the bicycle 10 so that the cable 80 is guided in the height direction of the bicycle 10 (see Fig. 1). The first groove 74A and the second groove 74B are continuous with each other. The first groove 74A is shorter than the limiting portions 75 in the axial direction DA of the hub axle 52. The second groove 74B guides the cable 80 in the radial direction of the hub axle 52 between the inner surface 14A and the outer surface 14B of the frame 12. More specifically, the second groove 74B is provided between the inner surface 14A and the outer surface 14B of the frame 12 at a location between the two limiting portions 75. The cable 80 extending from the electronic component 66 (see Fig. 2) is arranged along the first groove 74A and the second groove 74B so that the cable 80 is guided to a substantially lower side of the bicycle 10 (see Fig. 4). The cable 80, which is led to the lower side of the bicycle 10, is connected to the first switching unit 40A (see Fig. 1).

[0076] The limiting portions 75 extend from the second part 78 in the axial direction DA of the hub axle 52. Each of the limiting portions 75 includes a contact surface 75A and a support surface 75B. The contact surface 75A contacts the frame 12 in a state in which the rotation limiting member 70 is connected to the frame 12. The support surface 75B supports the hub axle 52 in a state in which the hub axle 52 is inserted into the insertion hole 78A of the second part 78.

[0077] As in Fig. 4, the rotation limiting member 70 is shaped to fit into a groove 16 of the frame 12 so that rotation relative to the frame 12 is restricted. In one example, the first portion 72 is shaped to fit into the groove 16 of the frame 12. In a case where the hub axle 52 is connected to the frame 12, the groove 16 of the frame 12 allows the hub axle 52 to pass. In a case where the first portion 72 of the rotation limiting member 70 is fitted into the groove 16 of the frame 12 and the contact surface 75A of each limiting portion 75 comes into contact with an inner surface 16A of the groove 16, the rotation of the rotation limiting member 70 relative to the frame 12 is restricted.

[0078] As in Fig. 5, the rotation limiting member 70 further includes a first engagement portion 76. The first engagement portion 76 engages the hub axle 52 to limit rotation of the hub axle 52. The first engagement portion 76 includes a first protrusion 76A and a second protrusion 76B. The first protrusion 76A limits rotation of the hub axle 52 in one direction. In one example, the first protrusion 76A is provided on the support surface 75B of one of the limiting portions 75. The second protrusion 76B limits rotation of the hub axle 52 in the other direction. In one example, the second protrusion 76B is provided on the support surface 75B of the other limiting portion 75.

[0079] The hub axle 52 includes a recess 56. The recess 56 has a structure configured to guide the cable 80. The recess 56 is a groove 56A provided in an outer peripheral surface 54A of the hub axle 52 to extend in the axial direction DA of the hub axle 52. For example, the groove 56A extends in the outer peripheral surface 54A of the hub axle 52 from one end 52A of the hub axle 52 to another end 52B of the hub axle 52 (see Fig. 2). In a state in which the rotation limiting member 70 is connected to the hub axle 52, the groove 56A of the hub axle 52 and the groove 74 of the rotation limiting member 70 form a single guide hole 100 through which the cable 80 can be inserted. The guide hole 100 is smaller than a connector 82 (see Fig. 2) of the cable 80 connected to the electronic component 66 (see Fig.2). Thus, the guide hole 100 prevents the removal of the connector 82 of the cable 80.

[0080] The hub axle 52 further includes a second engagement portion 58. The second engagement portion 58 engages the first engagement portion 76 of the rotation limiting member 70. The second engagement portion 58 includes a first projection 58A and a second projection 58B. The first projection 58A engages, for example, with the first projection 76A of the first engagement portion 76. The first projection 58A comprises one edge of the groove 56A in the hub axle 52. The second projection 58B engages, for example, with the second projection 76B of the first engagement portion 76. The second projection 58B comprises the other edge of the groove 56A in the hub axle 52. In a case where the rotation limiting member 70 is connected to the hub axle 52 so that the first engaging portion 76 and the second engaging portion 58 are engaged with each other, the rotation of the hub axle 52 is restricted with respect to the rotation limiting member 70. Modified example

[0081] The above description illustrates one embodiment of a bicycle hub unit according to the present invention and is not intended to be limiting. The embodiment of the bicycle hub unit of the present invention can be modified, for example, as follows. Furthermore, two or more of the modified examples can be combined. In the following modified examples, the same reference numerals are given to the elements that are the same as the corresponding elements of the embodiment. Such elements will not be described in detail.

[0082] The bicycle component 38 electrically connected to the cable 80 may be modified. In one example, the bicycle component 38 electrically connected to the cable 80 includes at least one of the second shifting unit 40B, the electric suspension 42, the electrically adjustable seatpost 44, the electric power assist device, the lamp 46, and the bicycle computer 48 instead of or in addition to the first shifting unit 40A.

[0083] The structure of the first engagement portion 76 can be varied. In one example, the first engagement portion 76 includes a single protrusion that restricts rotation of the hub axle 52 in one direction and the other direction. In this example, the second engagement portion 58 includes a single recess that engages the single protrusion.

[0084] The relationship between the rotation limiting element 70 and the hub axle 52 can be changed. In a first example, the rotation limiting element 70 is attached to the hub axle 52. In a second example, the rotation limiting element 70 is provided integrally with the hub axle 52. In a third example, the rotation limiting element 70 is attached to the frame 12.

[0085] The position at which the rotation limiting member 70 is connected can be changed. In one example, the rotation limiting member 70 is provided on the hub axle 52 to be connected to the frame 12 at a position remote from the rear sprockets 34A of the bicycle 10.

[0086] The shape of the rotation limiting element 70 can be changed. In one example, the rotation limiting element 70 is shaped such that it does not fit into the groove 16 of the frame 12. In this example, the rotation limiting element 70 comprises a member configured to be connected to the frame 12 to limit rotation relative to the frame 12. In a second example, the rotation limiting element 70 is shaped such that it fits into the groove 16 of the frame 12 so that rotation relative to the frame 12 is limited. In this example, the rotation limiting member 70 functions as the guide member 70. The guide member 70 is provided on the hub axle 52 so as to restrict rotation with respect to the hub axle 52 and has a structure configured to guide the cable 80 such that the cable 80 is disposed on an outer side of the inner surface 14A of the frame 12 in the axial direction DA of the hub axle 52.In one example, in a case where the hub axle 52 is fixed to the frame 12 with the retaining mechanism 90, rotation of the hub axle 52 and the guide member 70 with respect to the frame 12 is restricted.

[0087] The structure of the rotation limiting member 70 can be changed. In a first example, the rotation limiting member 70 has a structure configured to guide the cable 80 such that the cable 80 extends outward from the outer surface 14B of the frame 12 in the axial direction DA of the hub axle 52. In a second example, the rotation limiting member 70 has a structure configured to guide the cable 80 such that the cable 80 is arranged on an inner side of the inner surface 14A of the frame 12 in the axial direction DA of the hub axle 52. In a third example, the rotation limiting member 70 has no structure configured to guide the cable 80.

[0088] The structure of the recess 56 in the hub axle 52 can be varied. In one example, the recess 56 has no structure configured to guide the cable 80.

[0089] The area of the groove 56A in the outer peripheral surface 54A of the hub axle 52 can be changed. In one example, the groove 56A in the outer peripheral surface 54A of the hub axle 52 is provided only in an area that includes the rotation limiting member 70 in the axial direction DA of the hub axle 52.

[0090] The means for securing the hub axle 52 may be varied. In one example, the hub axle 52 has a structure configured to be secured to the frame 12 with a nut (not shown).

[0091] The position where the hub axle 52 is connected can be changed. In one example, the hub axle 52 is provided on the front wheel 18 of the bicycle 10.

[0092] At least one of the electric power generation section 62A, the electronic component 66, the cable 68, and the cable 80 may be omitted from the hub unit 50. In a first example, the electric power generation section 62A is omitted from the hub unit 50. In this example, the electronic component 66 and the battery B are electrically connected by the cable 68. In a second example, the electric power generation section 62A, the electronic component 66, and the cable 68 are omitted from the hub unit 50. In this example, the bicycle components 38 and the battery B are electrically connected by the cable 80. In a third example, the electric power generation section 62A, the electronic component 66, the cable 68, and the cable 80 are omitted from the hub unit 50.In this example, the structure configured to guide the cable 80 from the hub axle 52 and the rotation limiting member 70 may be omitted. DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS 10 bicycles, 12 frames, 14A inner surface, 14B outer surface, 16 grooves, 20 rear wheel, 34A sprocket, 50 bicycle hub unit, 52 hub axle, 54A outer peripheral surface, 56 recess, 56A groove, 58 second intervention section, 60 hub bodies, 62 electrical components, 62A Electric Power Generation Section, 66 electronic components, 70 rotation limiting element (guide element), 74 groove, 76 first intervention section, 76A first projection, 76B second projection, 80 cables, 90 wheel holding mechanism, CL center line, DA axial direction

Claims

[1] Bicycle hub unit (50) comprising: a hub axle (52) which is / will be connected to the frame (12) of the bicycle (10), and a rotation limiting element (70) connecting the hub axle (52) to the frame (12) so that rotation with respect to the hub axle (52) and the frame (12) is / is limited, wherein at least one of the hub axle (52) and the rotation limiting element (70) has a structure configured to guide a cable (80) electrically connected to an electrical component (62) and an electronic component (66) in an axial direction (DA) extending along an axis of the hub axle (52) in a region comprising the rotation limiting element (70). [2] The bicycle hub unit (50) of claim 1, further comprising the electronic component (66) electrically connected to the electrical component (62) and secured to the hub axle (52). [3] Bicycle hub unit (50) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the rotation limiting element (70) is detachably attached to the hub axle (52). [4] Bicycle hub unit (50) according to one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: a hub body (60) provided on the hub axle (52) to be rotatable about the hub axle (52); and an electric power generation section (62A) that generates electric power based on a rotation of the hub body (60) with respect to the hub axis (52) and supplies generated electric power to the electronic component (66). [5] Bicycle hub unit (50), comprising: a hub axle (52) which is / is connected to a frame (12) of a bicycle (10) and has a recess (56); and a rotation limiting element (70) having a first engagement portion (76) engaging with the recess (56) of the hub axle (52), wherein the rotation limiting element (70) connects / can connect the hub axle (52) to the frame (12) so that rotation with respect to the hub axle (52) and the frame (12) is / is restricted, and the rotation limiting element (70) is releasably attached to the hub axle (52). [6] The bicycle hub unit (50) according to claim 5, wherein the recess (56) comprises a groove (74) provided in an outer peripheral surface (54A) of the hub axle (52) to extend in an axial direction (DA) extending along an axis of the hub axle (52). [7] The bicycle hub unit (50) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the recess (56) has a structure adapted to guide a cable (80) wired to the bicycle (10). [8] The bicycle hub unit (50) according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the rotation limiting member (70) has a structure configured to guide a cable (80) wired to the bicycle (10). [9] The bicycle hub unit (50) according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and 8, wherein the rotation limiting member (70) has a structure configured to guide the cable (80) such that the cable (80) is disposed on an outer side of an inner surface (14A) of the frame (12) that is closer to a center line (CL) of the frame (12) with respect to an axial direction (DA) extending along an axis of the hub axle (52) in the axial direction (DA) of the hub axle (52). [10] The bicycle hub unit (50) according to claim 9, wherein the rotation limiting member (70) has a structure configured to guide the cable (80) in a radial direction of the hub axle (52) between the inner surface (14A) and an outer surface (14B) of the frame (12) opposite the inner surface (14A). [11] Bicycle hub unit (50) according to one of claims 1 to 4 and 8 to 10, wherein the rotation limiting member (70) comprises a groove (74) adapted to guide the cable (80). [12] Bicycle hub unit (50) comprising: a hub axle (52) connected to a frame (12) of a bicycle (10); a hub body (60) provided on the hub axle (52) to be rotatable about the hub axle (52); an electric power generation section (62A) that generates electric power based on a rotation of the hub body (60) with respect to the hub axis (52); and a guide member (70) provided on the hub axle (52) so as to restrict rotation with respect to the hub axle (52), the guide member (70) having a structure configured to guide a cable (80) electrically connected to the electric power generating section (62A) so that the cable (80) is located on an outer side of an inner surface (14A) of the frame (12) that is closer to a center line (CL) of the frame (12) with respect to an axial direction (DA) extending along an axis of the hub axle (52) in the axial direction (DA) of the hub axle (52). [13] The bicycle hub unit (50) according to claim 12, wherein the guide member (70) has a structure configured to guide the cable (80) in a radial direction of the hub axle (52) between the inner surface (14A) and an outer surface (14B) of the frame (12) opposite the inner surface (14A). [14] Bicycle hub unit (50) according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the guide member (70) comprises a groove (74) configured to guide the cable (80). [15] Bicycle hub unit (50) according to one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the guide element (70) is releasably attached to the hub axle (52). [16] Bicycle hub unit (50) according to one of claims 12 to 15, wherein the guide member (70) comprises a rotation limiting member (70) connecting the hub axle (52) to the frame (12) so as to limit rotation with respect to the hub axle (52) and the frame (12). [17] Bicycle hub unit (50) according to one of claims 1 to 4 and 16, wherein the rotation limiting member (70) has a first engagement portion (76) engaged with the hub axle (52) to limit the rotation of the hub axle (52). [18] Bicycle hub unit (50) according to one of claims 5 to 8 and 17, wherein the first engagement portion (76) has a first projection (76A) that restricts rotation of the hub axle (52) in one direction and a second projection (76B) that restricts rotation of the hub axle (52) in another direction. [19] Bicycle hub unit (50) according to one of claims 5 to 8, 17 and 18, wherein the hub axle (52) has a second engagement portion (58) engaged with the first engagement portion (76). [20] Bicycle hub unit (50) according to any one of claims 1 to 11 and 16 to 19, wherein the rotation limiting member (70) is shaped to fit into a groove (74) of the frame (12) so as to limit rotation relative to the frame (12). [21] A bicycle hub unit (50) according to claim 20, wherein, in a case where the hub axle (52) is connected to the frame (12), the groove (74) of the frame (12) allows the hub axle (52) to pass therethrough. [22] Bicycle hub unit (50) according to one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the hub axle (52) is provided on a rear wheel (20) of the bicycle (10). [23] A bicycle hub unit (50) according to any one of claims 1 to 11 and 16 to 21, wherein the hub axle (52) is provided on a rear wheel (20) of the bicycle (10), and the rotation limiting portion is provided on the hub axle (52) to be connected to the frame (12) at a position close to a rear sprocket (34A) of the bicycle (10). [24] Bicycle hub unit (50) according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and 7 to 17, further comprising the cable (80). [25] Bicycle hub unit (50) according to one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the hub axle (52) has a structure adapted to be attached to the frame (12) with a wheel retaining mechanism (90).

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