CONTROL DEVICE FOR A MUSCLE-POWERED VEHICLE, POWER SUPPLY DEVICE FOR A MUSCLE-POWERED VEHICLE AND COMPONENT FOR A MUSCLE-POWERED VEHICLE

Abstract

A control device for a human-powered vehicle includes a controller configured to control a voltage converter. The voltage converter is configured to convert the voltage of the electrical power supplied by a power supply and to supply electrical power to a power receiving unit. The controller is configured to control the voltage converter so that it operates in two states: a first state of the electrical power supply, in which the voltage converter performs pulse-width modulation control to convert the voltage and supply electrical power to the power receiving unit, and a second state of the electrical power supply, in which the voltage converter performs pulse-frequency modulation control to convert the voltage and supply electrical power to the power receiving unit.

Description

BACKGROUND TECHNOLOGY

[0001] This application claims priority from Japanese patent application JP 2023-123288, filed on July 28, 2023. The entire disclosure of Japanese patent application JP 2023-123288 is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a control device for a human-powered vehicle, a power supply device for a human-powered vehicle, and a component for a human-powered vehicle.

[0003] Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2015-231764 discloses an example of a component of a human-powered vehicle that is operated with electric power supplied from a power supply. SUMMARY OF REVELATION

[0004] The object of the present disclosure is to provide a control device for a human-powered vehicle, a power supply device for a human-powered vehicle and a component for a human-powered vehicle which supplies electrical power to a power consumption unit in a preferred manner.

[0005] A control device according to a first aspect of the present disclosure is for a human-powered vehicle. The control device includes a controller configured to control a voltage converter. The voltage converter is configured to convert the voltage of the electrical power supplied from a power supply and supply electrical power to a power consumption unit.The controller is configured to control the voltage converter to operate the voltage converter in one of a first electric power supply state in which the voltage converter performs pulse width modulation control to convert voltage and supply electric power to the power receiving unit, or in a second electric power supply state in which the voltage converter performs pulse frequency modulation control to convert voltage and supply electric power to the power receiving unit.

[0006] In the control device according to the first aspect, the controller controls the voltage converter in one of a first electric power supply state and a second electric power supply state. The voltage converter thereby converts the electric power supplied from the power supply in a preferred manner. In this way, the control device appropriately supplies electric power to the power consumption unit.

[0007] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, the control device according to the first aspect is configured so that the power consumption unit is configured to switch its electric power consumption state between a first electric power consumption state and a second electric power consumption state that consumes less power than the first electric power consumption state. The controller is configured to control the voltage converter so that the voltage converter is operated in the first electric power supply state in a case where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit is the first electric power consumption state.The controller is configured to control the voltage converter to operate the voltage converter in the second electric power supply state in a case where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit is the second electric power consumption state.

[0008] In the control device according to the second aspect, the controller controls the voltage converter in the electric power supply state that is different between the first electric power consumption state and the second electric power consumption state.

[0009] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, the control device according to the second aspect is configured so that, in a case where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit is switched from one of the first electric power consumption state and the second electric power consumption state to the other of the first electric power consumption state and the second electric power consumption state, the controller is configured to control the voltage converter so that the voltage converter is switched from one of the first electric power supply state and the second electric power supply state to the other of the first electric power supply state and the second electric power supply state,while the state of electrical power consumption of the power consumption unit is the first state of electrical power consumption.,

[0010] In the control device according to the third aspect, the controller switches the electric power supply state of the voltage converter while the power consumption unit is in the first electric power consumption state. This prevents switching of the electric power supply state in a case where the power consumption unit is in the second electric power consumption state.

[0011] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the control device according to the second or third aspect is configured so that, in a case where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit is switched from the second electric power consumption state to the first electric power consumption state, the controller is configured to switch the voltage converter from the second electric power supply state to the first electric power supply state after the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit is switched from the second electric power consumption state to the first electric power consumption state.

[0012] In the control device according to the fourth aspect, the controller switches the electric power supply state of the voltage converter from the second electric power supply state to the first electric power supply state in a case where the power consumption unit is in the first electric power consumption state. This prevents switching of the electric power supply state in a case where the power consumption unit is in the second electric power consumption state.

[0013] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the control device according to any one of the second to fourth aspects is configured such that, in a case where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit is switched from the first electric power consumption state to the second electric power consumption state, the controller is configured to switch the voltage converter from the first electric power supply state to the second electric power supply state before the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit is switched from the first electric power consumption state to the second electric power consumption state.

[0014] In the control device according to the fifth aspect, the controller switches the electric power supply state of the voltage converter from the first electric power supply state to the second electric power supply state when the power consumption unit is in the first electric power consumption state. This prevents switching of the electric power supply state when the power consumption unit is in the second electric power consumption state.

[0015] A power supply device according to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure is for a human-powered vehicle. The power supply device includes the control device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects and the voltage converter.

[0016] The power supply device according to the sixth aspect supplies electric power to the power receiving unit in a preferred manner.

[0017] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the power supply device according to the sixth aspect is configured so that the voltage converter is configured to change the voltage of the electric power supplied to the power receiving unit in a case where the voltage converter is switched from one of the first electric power supply state and the second electric power supply state to the other of the first electric power supply state and the second electric power supply state.

[0018] In the power supply device according to the seventh aspect, the controller switches the electric power supply state of the voltage converter while the power consumption unit is in the first electric power consumption state. This prevents a voltage change of the electric power supplied to the power consumption unit in a case where the power consumption unit is in the second electric power consumption state.

[0019] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the power supply device according to the sixth or seventh aspect is configured so that the power receiving unit includes at least one of the controller and an electronic component of the human-powered vehicle.

[0020] The power supply device according to the eighth aspect preferably supplies electric power to one of the controller and an electronic component of the human-powered vehicle.

[0021] According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, the power supply device according to the eighth aspect is configured such that the power consumption unit includes the controller and the electronic component. The controller is connected to the electronic component via an electric power line that supplies electric power from the voltage converter. The controller is configured to communicate with the electronic component via the power line.

[0022] In the power supply device according to the ninth aspect, the controller supplies electric power to the electronic component and communicates with the electronic component via the electric power line.

[0023] A component according to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure is for a human-powered vehicle. The component includes the power supply device according to any one of the sixth to ninth aspects.

[0024] The component according to the tenth aspect supplies electrical power to the power receiving unit in a preferred manner.

[0025] According to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the tenth aspect is configured so that the component is a drive unit including a motor configured to apply a driving force to the human-powered vehicle.

[0026] In the component according to the eleventh aspect, the drive unit preferably supplies electrical power to the power receiving unit.

[0027] The human-powered vehicle control device, the human-powered vehicle power supply device, and the human-powered vehicle component according to the present disclosure supply electric power to the power receiving unit in a preferential manner. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 is a side view of a human-powered vehicle including a human-powered vehicle control device, a human-powered vehicle power supply device, and a human-powered vehicle component according to one embodiment. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the Fig. 1 shows the muscle-powered vehicle. Fig. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of switching control performed by a Fig. 2 shown control is executed. Fig. 4 is a timing chart illustrating an example of changes in a state of electric power consumption of a power consumption unit, a state of electric power supply of a voltage converter, and a switching state of the voltage converter in a case where the Fig. 3 shown switching control is executed. EMBODIMENT OF THE REVELATION

[0028] A human-powered vehicle control device 70, a human-powered vehicle power supply device 60, and a human-powered vehicle component 50 will now be described with reference to the Fig. 1 to 4. A human-powered vehicle 10 is a vehicle that includes at least one wheel and can be propelled by at least human propulsion. Examples of a human-powered vehicle 10 include various types of bicycles such as mountain bikes, racing bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes, hand bikes, and recumbent bikes. The number of wheels of the human-powered vehicle 10 is not limited. The human-powered vehicle 10 also includes, for example, a unicycle and vehicles with two or more wheels. The human-powered vehicle 10 is not limited to a vehicle that can only be propelled by human propulsion. The human-powered vehicle 10 includes an electric bicycle (e-bike), which uses the propulsion power of an electric motor for propulsion in addition to human propulsion.An e-bike includes an electric-assisted bicycle that supports propulsion through an electric motor. Hereinafter, the human-powered vehicle 10 is referred to as an electric-assisted bicycle.

[0029] The human-powered vehicle 10 includes at least one wheel 12 and a vehicle body 14. The at least one wheel 12 includes, for example, a front wheel 12F and a rear wheel 12R. The vehicle body 14 includes, for example, a frame 16.

[0030] The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes, for example, a crank 18, to which the human drive force acts. The crank 18 includes, for example, a crank axle 20 and crank arms 22. The crank axle 20 is rotatable, for example, relative to the frame 16. Pedals 24, for example, are coupled to the crank arms 22.

[0031] The crank arms 22 include, for example, a first crank arm 22A and a second crank arm 22B. The pedals 24 include, for example, a first pedal 24A and a second pedal 24B. The first crank arm 22A and the second crank arm 22B are, for example, each provided at two axial ends of the crank axle 20. The first pedal 24A is, for example, connected to the first crank arm 22A. The second pedal 24B is, for example, connected to the second crank arm 22B.

[0032] A front fork 26 is connected to the frame 16, for example. The front wheel 12F is attached to the front fork 26, for example. A handlebar 28 is coupled to the front fork 26, for example, via a stem 30. The rear wheel 12R is supported, for example, by the frame 16. In the present embodiment, the crank 18 is connected to the rear wheel 12R via a drive mechanism 32. The rear wheel 12R is driven, for example, by the rotation of the crank axle 20. For example, at least one of the front wheel 12F and the rear wheel 12R may be connected to the crank 18 via the drive mechanism 32.

[0033] The drive mechanism 32 includes, for example, at least one first rotating body 34 coupled to the crank axle 20. The first rotating body 34 includes, for example, a front sprocket. The first rotating body 34 may include a pulley or a bevel gear. The crank axle 20 may be coupled to the front sprocket via a one-way clutch.

[0034] The drive mechanism 32 further includes, for example, at least one second rotating body 36 and a transmission element 38. The transmission element 38 is configured to transmit the rotational force of the first rotating body 34 to the at least one second rotating body 36. The transmission element 38 includes, for example, a chain. The transmission element 38 may also include a belt or a shaft. The second rotating body 36 includes, for example, a rear sprocket. The second rotating body 36 may include a pulley or a bevel gear. The chain is, for example, wound around the front and rear sprockets. The second rotating body 36 is, for example, coupled to the rear wheel 12R. The rear wheel 12R is, for example, configured to rotate according to the rotation of the second rotating body 36.

[0035] The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes, for example, a power supply 40. The power supply 40 is configured, for example, to supply electrical power to the component 50. For example, the power supply 40 is configured to supply electrical power to a power consumption unit 42. The power supply 40 is, for example, a battery. The battery contains one or more battery cells. Each battery cell is a rechargeable battery. The power supply 40 outputs electrical power at a first voltage V1. The first voltage V1 is, for example, 36 V.

[0036] The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes, for example, the power pickup unit 42. The power pickup unit 42 is configured, for example, to be actuated by the electrical power supplied by the power supply 40. The power pickup unit 42 is, for example, electrically connected to the power supply 40.

[0037] The muscle-powered vehicle 10 further includes at least one electronic component 44. In Fig. 2, three electronic components 44 are shown as examples. The number of electronic components 44 in the muscle-powered vehicle 10 is not limited to the Fig. 2. For example, the electronic component 44 is electrically connected to the power supply 40 and the component 50. The electronic component 44 includes, for example, at least one of an actuator 44A, an electrical transmission device, a bicycle computer, an electrically adjustable seat post, and an electric suspension.

[0038] The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes, for example, the component 50 for a human-powered vehicle. The component 50 includes a housing 50A. The component 50 further includes a first connector 52 connected to the power supply 40 and a second connector 54 connected to the electronic component 44. The first connector 52 and the second connector 54 are provided, for example, on the housing 50A.

[0039] The component 50 is connected to the electronic component 44, for example, via an electrical power line 46. The electrical power line 46 supplies electrical power from a voltage converter 62, for example. The component 50 is configured, for example, to perform power line communication (PLC) with the electronic component 44 via the electrical power line 46.

[0040] Component 50 may communicate via a Controller Area Network (CAN) or a Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter (UART). For example, in a case where component 50 communicates via CAN or UART, component 50 communicates with electronic component 44 via a communication line that is different from power line 46. Component 50 may be configured to communicate wirelessly with electronic component 44.

[0041] Component 50 is connected, for example, to power supply 40 in a manner that enables communication. Component 50 communicates with power supply 40, for example, via at least one of PLC, CAN, and UART. Component 50 may be configured to communicate wirelessly with power supply 40.

[0042] Component 50 is, for example, a drive unit 56. Drive unit 56 includes, for example, a motor 56A configured to exert a propulsive force on human-powered vehicle 10. Motor 56A is, for example, arranged in housing 50A. Motor 56A is configured, for example, to transmit the drive force of motor 56A to crank axle 20. Component 50 may be at least one of an electrical transmission device, a bicycle computer, an electrically adjustable seat post, and an electric suspension.

[0043] The drive unit 56 further includes, for example, an inverter 56B. The motor 56A is supplied with the electrical power from the power supply 40, for example. The motor 56A is connected to the power supply 40, for example, via the inverter 56B. The inverter 56B includes, for example, a drive circuit for the motor 56A. The inverter 56B is controlled, for example, by a controller 72.

[0044] Component 50 includes, for example, the power supply device 60. The power supply device 60 for a human-powered vehicle includes, for example, the control device 70 and the voltage converter 62.

[0045] The voltage converter 62 is configured, for example, to convert the voltage of the electrical power supplied by the power supply 40 and supply electrical power to the power consumption unit 42. The voltage converter 62 includes, for example, a converter. The converter is, for example, a DC-DC converter. The converter includes, for example, a switching element. The switching element includes, for example, at least one metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) or an insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT). The MOSFET can be an N-channel type or a P-channel type.

[0046] The voltage converter 62 is connected, for example, to the first connector 52. The voltage converter 62 converts, for example, the first voltage V1 supplied by the power supply 40 into a second voltage V2. The second voltage V2 is, for example, a value suitable for supplying the power consumption unit 42. The second voltage V2 contains, for example, a second voltage V21 and a second voltage V22. The second voltage V21 and the second voltage V22 are, for example, values ​​suitable for supplying the power consumption unit 42. The voltage converter 62 is connected, for example, to the second connector 54. The voltage converter 62 is configured, for example, to supply electrical power of the power supply 40 to at least one of the controller 72 and the second connector 54.

[0047] The voltage converter 62 is configured, for example, to operate in one of the first electrical power supply state and a second electrical power supply state. In the first electrical power supply state, the voltage converter 62 performs, for example, pulse width modulation (PWM) control to convert the voltage and supply electrical power to the power consumption unit 42. In the second electrical power supply state, the voltage converter 62 performs, for example, pulse frequency modulation (PFM) control to convert the voltage and supply electrical power to the power consumption unit 42. The voltage converter 62 is formed, for example, from a single integrated circuit (IC) chip. Such a voltage converter 62 formed from a single IC chip reduces the number of parts in the power supply device 60.Reducing the number of parts in the power supply device 60 enables a reduction in the size of the power supply device 60. Furthermore, reducing the number of parts in the power supply device 60 enables a reduction in the number of manufacturing processes of the power supply device 60.

[0048] The voltage converter 62 is configured, for example, to change the voltage of the current supplied to the power consumption unit 42 in a case where the voltage converter 62 is switched from one of the first electric power supply state and the second electric power supply state to the other of the first electric power supply state and the second electric power supply state. In a case where the voltage converter 62 is in the first electric power supply state, the voltage of the current supplied to the power consumption unit 42 is the second voltage V21. In a case where the voltage converter 62 is in the second electric power supply state, the voltage of the electric power supplied to the power consumption unit 42 is the second voltage V22.For example, the second voltage V22 is a value that is 95% to 105% of the second voltage V21. For example, the second voltage V22 is greater than the second voltage V21. For example, the second voltage V22 is 102% of the second voltage V21. For example, the second voltage V21 is 8 V. For example, the second voltage V22 is 8.16 V.

[0049] The power supply device 60 further includes, for example, a backflow prevention unit 64. The backflow prevention unit 64 prevents, for example, current from flowing back to the voltage converter 62. The backflow prevention unit 64 is provided, for example, on a downstream side of the voltage converter 62 in a power supply path extending from the power supply 40 to the power consumption unit 42. The backflow prevention unit 64 includes, for example, a Schottky junction diode (SBD) or a field-effect transistor (FET).

[0050] The power supply device 60 further includes, for example, a low-dropout regulator (LDO) 66. The voltage converter 62 is connected to the controller 72 via the LDO regulator 66. The LDO regulator 66 converts the voltage of the electrical power supplied by the voltage converter 62. The LDO regulator 66 converts, for example, the second voltage V2 supplied by the voltage converter 62 into a third voltage V3. The third voltage V3 is, for example, 3.3 V.

[0051] The control device 70 for a human-powered vehicle includes, for example, the controller 72. The controller 72 includes, for example, processors that execute predetermined control programs. The processors of the controller 72 include, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessor unit (MPU). The processors of the controller 72 can be arranged at various locations. The controller 72 can include one or more microcomputers. The controller 72 is provided together with the voltage converter 62 on a circuit board of the component 50.

[0052] The controller 72 is connected, for example, to the power supply 40 in a manner that enables wired communication or wireless communication. The controller 72 is configured, for example, to receive electrical power from the power supply 40. The controller 72 is connected, for example, to the power supply 40 via the voltage converter 62.

[0053] The controller 72 is connected, for example, to the electronic component 44 in a manner that enables wired communication or wireless communication. The controller 72 is connected, for example, to the electronic component 44 via the power line 46. The controller 72 is configured, for example, to communicate with the electronic component 44 via the power line 46.

[0054] The control device 70 further includes, for example, a memory 74. The memory 74 stores, for example, control programs and information used for control processes. The memory 74 includes, for example, a non-volatile memory and a volatile memory. The non-volatile memory includes, for example, at least one of a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), and a flash memory. The volatile memory includes, for example, a random access memory (RAM). The memory 74 is provided, for example, on the same circuit board as the controller 72. The memory 74 may be provided on a different circuit board than the controller 72. Alternatively, the memory 74 may be provided outside the human-powered vehicle 10 and configured to communicate with the controller 72.

[0055] The control device 70 further includes, for example, a communication unit 76. The communication unit 76 is provided, for example, on the same circuit board as the controller 72. The communication unit 76 can be provided on a different circuit board than that of the controller 72. The controller 72 communicates, for example, with the electronic component 44 via the communication unit 76.

[0056] The communication unit 76 communicates with the electronic component 44, for example, via the power line 46. For example, the communication unit 76 is configured to communicate with the electronic component 44 via the PLC. In a case where the communication unit 76 communicates via the PLC, the electrical power line 46 also serves as a communication line for the PLC.

[0057] The communication unit 76 can communicate with the electronic component 44 via CAN or UART. In a case where the communication unit 76 communicates with the electronic component 44 via CAN or UART, the communication unit 76 communicates with the electronic component 44 via a communication line that is different from the electrical power line 46. The communication unit 76 can be configured to perform radio communication with the electronic component 44.

[0058] For example, the power receiving unit 42 includes at least one of the controller 72 and the electronic component 44 for a human-powered vehicle. In the present embodiment, the power receiving unit 42 includes, for example, the controller 72 and the electronic component 44. For example, in a case where the human-powered vehicle 10 includes two or more electronic components 44, each of the electronic components 44 corresponds to the power receiving unit 42.

[0059] The power consumption unit 42 is configured, for example, to switch its electrical power consumption state between a first electrical power consumption state and a second electrical power consumption state that consumes less power than the first electrical power consumption state. In the first electrical power consumption state, the power consumption unit 42 is configured, for example, for normal operation. In the second electrical power consumption state, the operation of the power consumption unit 42 is configured, for example, to be more restricted than in the normal state. In the second electrical power consumption state, the power consumption unit 42 is configured, for example, not to perform normal operation in a case where no communication signal is received.In a case where the power consumption unit 42 is connected to the power supply 40, for example, the power consumption unit 42 is operated in the second state of electrical power consumption.

[0060] For example, the power consumption unit 42 operates in the second electrical power consumption state instead of an off state in which the power consumption unit 42 is completely inactive. This allows the power consumption unit 42 to transition from the second electrical power consumption state to the first electrical power consumption state more quickly than from the off state, while simultaneously reducing the electrical power consumption of the power supply 40.

[0061] The controller 72 is configured, for example, to control the voltage converter 62. For example, the controller 72 is configured to control the voltage converter 62 so that the voltage converter 62 is operated in one of a first state of the electrical power supply and a second state of the electrical power supply.

[0062] The controller 72 is configured, for example, to control the voltage converter 62 so that the voltage converter 62 is operated in the first electric power supply state in a case where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is the first electric power consumption state. In a case where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is the first electric power consumption state, the voltage converter 62 executes, for example, PWM control.

[0063] The controller 72 is configured, for example, to control the voltage converter 62 so that the voltage converter 62 is operated in the second electric power supply state in a case where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is the second electric power consumption state. In a case where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is the second electric power consumption state, the voltage converter 62 executes, for example, PFM control.

[0064] The electronic component 44 includes, for example, the actuating device 44A. The actuating device 44A includes a user-actuable portion. For example, the actuating device 44A is configured to actuate at least one electronic component 44 other than the component 50 or the actuating device 44A. For example, the actuating device 44A is configured to actuate at least one of the drive unit 56, an electrical transmission device, a bicycle computer, an electrically adjustable seat post, and an electrical suspension.

[0065] The actuating portion includes, for example, at least one switch. The actuating portion may include a lever or a rotary knob. The switch includes, for example, an electrical switch. The electrical switch may toggle a switching state of the electrical switch in response to user actuation. The electrical switch may connect or open an electrical contact of the electrical switch in response to user actuation.

[0066] For example, in a case where the user operates the operating portion, the operating device 44A outputs an operation signal. An operation signal includes, for example, an operation signal for switching the drive unit 56 between the ON and OFF states. An operation signal may include at least an operation signal for changing an assist mode of the drive unit 56 and an operation signal for switching a transmission stage of an electric transmission device. An operation signal may include an operation signal for switching at least one of a bicycle computer, an electric seat post, and an electric suspension between the ON and OFF states.

[0067] The controller 72 is configured, for example, to receive an actuation signal from the actuation device 44A. In a case where the controller 72 receives an actuation signal, the controller 72 is configured, for example, to switch the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 from one of the first electric power consumption state and the second electric power consumption state to the other of the first electric power consumption state and the second electric power consumption state.

[0068] In a case where the controller 72 receives an actuation signal in a state in which the electrical power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is, for example, the first electrical power consumption state, the controller 72 is configured to switch the electrical power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 from the first electrical power consumption state to the second electrical power consumption state. In a case where the controller 72 receives an actuation signal in a state in which the electrical power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is, for example, the second electrical power consumption state, the controller 72 is configured to switch the electrical power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 from the first electrical power consumption state to the second electrical power consumption state.

[0069] In a case where the controller 72 receives an actuation signal in a state where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is, for example, the first electric power consumption state, the controller 72 is configured to switch the electric power consumption state from the first electric power consumption state to the second electric power consumption state.In a case where the controller 72 receives an actuation signal in a state where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is, for example, the first electric power consumption state, the controller 72 is configured to send a first control signal to the electronic component 44 for switching the electric power consumption state of the electronic component 44 from the first electric power consumption state to the second electric power consumption state. In response to receiving the first control signal, the electronic component 44 switches from the first electric power consumption state to the second electric power consumption state.In a case where the switching from the first electric power consumption state to the second electric power consumption state is completed, the electronic component 44 is configured to send a first switching completion signal to the controller 72.

[0070] In a case where the controller 72 receives an actuation signal in a state where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is, for example, the second electric power consumption state, the controller 72 is configured to switch the electric power consumption state from the second electric power consumption state to the first electric power consumption state.In a case where the controller 72 receives an actuation signal in a state where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is, for example, the second electric power consumption state, the controller 72 is configured to send a second control signal to the electronic component 44 for switching the electric power consumption state of the electronic component 44 from the second electric power consumption state to the first electric power consumption state. In response to receiving the second control signal, the electronic component 44 switches from the second electric power consumption state to the first electric power consumption state.In a case where the switching from the second electric power consumption state to the first electric power consumption state is completed, the electronic component 44 is configured to send a second switching completion signal to the controller 72.

[0071] For example, in a case where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is switched from one of the first electric power consumption state and the second electric power consumption state to the other of the first electric power consumption state and the second electric power consumption state, the controller 72 is configured to control the voltage converter 62 so that the voltage converter 62 is switched from one of the first electric power supply state and the second electric power supply state to the other of the first electric power supply state and the second electric power supply state while the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is the first electric power consumption state.The controller 72 is configured to control the voltage converter 62 so that the voltage converter 62 does not switch from one of the first electric power supply state and the second electric power supply state to the other of the first electric power supply state and the second electric power supply state during a period in which the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is the second electric power consumption state.

[0072] For example, in a case where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is switched from the first electric power consumption state to the second electric power consumption state, the controller 72 is configured to switch the voltage converter 62 from the first electric power supply state to the second electric power supply state before the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is switched from the first electric power consumption state to the second electric power consumption state.In a case where the controller 72 receives an actuation signal for switching the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 from the first electric power consumption state to the second electric power consumption state, the controller 72 may, for example, be configured to switch the voltage converter 62 from the first electric power supply state to the second electric power supply state and then send a first control signal to the electronic component 44.In a case where the controller 72 receives an actuation signal for switching the electrical power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 from the first electrical power consumption state to the second electrical power consumption state, the controller 72 can, for example, be configured to send a first control signal to the electronic component 44 after a first period of time has elapsed. The first period of time is, for example, set to a period of time sufficient to switch the voltage converter 62 from the first electrical power supply state to the second electrical power supply state.

[0073] For example, in a case where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is switched from the second electric power consumption state to the first electric power consumption state, the controller 72 is configured to switch the voltage converter 62 from the second electric power supply state to the first electric power supply state after the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 has been switched from the second electric power consumption state to the first electric power consumption state.For example, in a case where the controller 72 receives an operation signal for switching the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 from the second electric power consumption state to the first electric power consumption state, the controller 72 may be configured to send a second control signal to the electronic component 44 and then switch the voltage converter 62 from the second electric power supply state to the first electric power supply state after receiving a second switching completion signal from the electronic component 44.In a case where the controller 72 receives an actuation signal for switching the electrical power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 from the second electrical power consumption state to the first electrical power consumption state, the controller 72 may, for example, be configured to send a second control signal to the electronic component 44 and then switch the voltage converter 62 from the second electrical power supply state to the first electrical power supply state after a second period of time has elapsed. The second period of time is set, for example, to a period of time sufficient to switch the electronic component 44 from the second electrical power consumption state to the first electrical power consumption state.

[0074] An example of control executed by the controller 72 to switch the electric power supply state of the voltage converter 62 and the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 will now be described with reference to Fig. 3. In a case where the controller 72 is supplied with electrical power from the power supply 40, the controller 72 starts the Fig. 3 from step S11. The controller 72 executes the switching control in Fig. 3 in predetermined cycles. In a case where the supply of electrical power from the power supply 40 stops, the controller 72 terminates the process.

[0075] As in Fig. 3, the controller 72 determines in step S11 whether the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is the first electric power consumption state. In a case where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is the first electric power consumption state, the controller 72 proceeds to step S12.

[0076] In step S12, the controller 72 determines whether an actuation signal is received from the actuation device 44A. If the controller 72 receives an actuation signal from the actuation device 44A, the controller 72 proceeds to step S13. If the controller 72 does not receive an actuation signal from the actuation device 44A, the controller 72 terminates the process.

[0077] In step S13, the controller 72 switches the electric power supply state of the voltage converter 62 to the second electric power supply state and then proceeds to step S14. In step S14, the controller 72 determines whether the switching of the voltage converter 62 to the second electric power supply state is completed. If the switching of the voltage converter 62 to the second electric power supply state is completed, the controller 72 proceeds to step S15. If the switching of the voltage converter 62 to the second electric power supply state is not yet completed, the controller 72 repeats step S14.

[0078] In step S15, the controller 72 sends a first control signal to the electronic component 44 and then proceeds to step S16. In step S16, the controller 72 switches the electrical power consumption state of the controller 72 to the second electrical power consumption state and then terminates the process. The controller 72 can execute steps S15 and S16 in any order.

[0079] In a case where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is not the first electric power consumption state in step S11, the controller 72 proceeds to step S17. In the present embodiment, a case where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is not the first electric power consumption state corresponds to a case where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is the second electric power consumption state.

[0080] In step S17, the controller 72 determines whether an operation signal is received from the operating device 44A. If the controller 72 receives an operation signal from the operating device 44A, the controller 72 proceeds to step S18. If the controller 72 does not receive an operation signal from the operating device 44A, the controller 72 ends the process.

[0081] In step S18, the controller 72 sends a second control signal to the electronic component 44 and then proceeds to step S19. In step S19, the controller 72 switches the electrical power consumption state of the controller 72 to the first electrical power consumption state and then proceeds to step S20. The controller 72 can execute steps S18 and S19 in any order.

[0082] In step S20, the controller 72 determines whether the switching of the power consumption unit 42 to the first electric power supply state is completed. The controller 72 determines that the switching of the power consumption unit 42 to the first electric power supply state is completed, for example, in a case where the controller 72 receives a second switching completion signal from the electronic component 44. In a case where the switching of the power consumption unit 42 to the first electric power supply state is completed, the controller 72 proceeds to step S21. In a case where the switching of the power consumption unit 42 to the first electric power supply state is not completed, the controller 72 repeats step S20.In step S21, the controller 72 switches the electric power supply state of the voltage converter 62 to the first electric power supply state and then ends the process.

[0083] An example of changes in the state of the electrical power supply of the voltage converter 62 and the state of the electrical power consumption of the power consumption unit 42 resulting from the Fig. 3 shown switching control will now be explained with reference to Fig. 4. In Fig. 4 illustrates changes in the electrical power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42. For example, the electrical power consumption state of the controller 72 and the electrical power consumption state of the electronic component 44 change substantially simultaneously.

[0084] At time t11, the controller 72 receives an actuation signal in a state where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is the first electric power consumption state. Upon receiving the actuation signal at time t11, the controller 72 begins switching control of the electric power supply state of the voltage converter 62 from the first electric power supply state to the second electric power supply state. The voltage converter 62 executes PWM control at time t11.

[0085] At time t12, the electrical power supply state of the voltage converter 62 switches from the first electrical power supply state to the second electrical power supply state. At time t12, the controller 72 sends a first control signal to the electronic component 44. At time t12, the controller 72 begins controlling the switching of its electrical power consumption state to the second electrical power consumption state. Starting at time t12, the voltage converter 62 performs PFM control. At time t12, the second voltage V2 switches from the second voltage V21 to the second voltage V22.

[0086] At time t13, the electrical power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 switches from the first electrical power consumption state to the second electrical power consumption state. After the electrical power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 switches from the first electrical power consumption state to the second electrical power consumption state, the second electrical power consumption state is maintained until the controller 72 receives an actuation signal again.

[0087] At time t14, the controller 72 receives an actuation signal in a state where the electrical power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is the second electrical power consumption state. At time t14, the controller 72 sends a second control signal to the electronic component 44. At time t14, the controller 72 begins switching its electrical power consumption state to the first electrical power consumption state.

[0088] At time t15, the electrical power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 switches from the second electrical power consumption state to the first electrical power consumption state. At time t15, the controller 72 begins switching the electrical power supply state of the voltage converter 62 from the second electrical power supply state to the first electrical power supply state.

[0089] At time t16, the electrical power supply state of voltage converter 62 switches from the second electrical power supply state to the first electrical power supply state. Starting at time t16, voltage converter 62 performs PWM control. At time t16, second voltage V2 switches from second voltage V22 to second voltage V21.

[0090] As in Fig.As shown in Figure 4, in a state where the electric power supply state of the voltage converter 62 is the first electric power supply state, the switching state of the voltage converter 62 is switched between the ON and OFF states by PWM control. In a state where the electric power supply state of the voltage converter 62 is the first electric power supply state, the voltage converter 62 adjusts the duty ratio so that the first voltage V1 is converted to the second voltage V21. The duty ratio is a ratio of an ON period during which the switching state is the ON state to a total period of the ON period and an OFF period during which the switching state is the OFF state.

[0091] In a state where the electric power supply state of the voltage converter 62 is the second electric power supply state, the switching state of the voltage converter 62 is switched between the ON and OFF states by PFM control. In a state where the electric power supply state of the voltage converter 62 is the second electric power supply state, the voltage converter 62 is controlled so that the ON period is fixed and the OFF period is varied. In a state where the electric power supply state of the voltage converter 62 is the second electric power supply state, the voltage converter 62 is controlled so that the OFF period is varied to convert the first voltage V1 into the second voltage V22.In a state where the electric power supply state of the voltage converter 62 is the second electric power supply state, the voltage converter 62 may be controlled so that the OFF period is fixed and the ON period is varied.

[0092] In a state where the electrical power supply state of the voltage converter 62 is, for example, the first electrical power supply state, the voltage on the electrical power line 46 used for communication via the PLC is maintained at the second voltage V21. In a state where the electrical power supply state of the voltage converter 62 is, for example, the second electrical power supply state, the voltage on the electrical power line 46 used for communication via the PLC is maintained at the second voltage V22. The voltage output of the LDO regulator 66 to the controller 72 is maintained at the third voltage V3.

[0093] The electronic component 44 and the LDO regulator 66 are configured, for example, to be reset in the event of a power supply interruption. The electronic component 44 and the LDO regulator 66 are not reset if the controller 72 maintains the voltage supplied from the voltage converter 62 to the electronic component 44 and the LDO regulator 66 at the second voltage V2 even during a period in which the electrical power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is the second electrical power consumption state.

[0094] For example, in the first state of the electrical power supply, the voltage converter 62 converts the voltage using PWM control. As a result, the power supply quality does not deteriorate compared to the second state of the electrical power supply, and no output voltage fluctuations occur. For example, in the second state of the electrical power supply, the voltage converter 62 converts the voltage using PFM control. As a result, the power supply efficiency is higher at light loads than in the first state of the electrical power supply. In this way, the voltage converter 62 reduces electrical power consumption by switching between PWM and PFM control.

[0095] A voltage change caused by switching the electrical power supply state of the voltage converter 62 is transmitted to the power consumption unit 42 via the power line 46. In this case, at least one of an actuation signal for switching to the first electrical power consumption state and a second control signal takes the form of a simple signal. This limits the power consumption of the power consumption unit 42 in the second electrical power consumption state. For example, in a case where the second control signal has the configuration of a simple signal, the power consumption unit 42 would erroneously recognize a voltage change detected in the second electrical power consumption state as an actuation signal for switching to the first electrical power consumption state or as a second control signal.

[0096] The controller 72 switches the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 from the first electric power consumption state to the second electric power consumption state after the controller 72 switches the electric power supply state of the voltage converter 62 from the first electric power supply state to the second electric power supply state. Thus, a voltage change caused by the switching of the electric power supply state of the voltage converter 62 occurs while the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is the first electric power consumption state.This avoids a situation in which the voltage change switches the electrical power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 from the first electrical power consumption state to the second electrical power consumption state.

[0097] The controller 72 switches the electrical power supply state of the voltage converter 62 from the second electrical power supply state to the first electrical power supply state after the controller 72 switches the electrical power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 from the second electrical power consumption state to the first electrical power consumption state. Thus, a voltage change occurs caused by the switching of the electrical power supply state of the voltage converter 62 while the electrical power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is the first electrical power consumption state.This avoids a situation in which the voltage change switches the electrical power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 from the first electrical power consumption state to the second electrical power consumption state. Modified examples

[0098] The description related to the above embodiment illustrates, without intending to be limiting, applicable forms of a human-powered vehicle control device, a human-powered vehicle power supply device, and a human-powered vehicle component according to the present disclosure. The human-powered vehicle control device, the human-powered vehicle power supply device, and the human-powered vehicle component according to the present disclosure are applicable, for example, to modified examples of the above embodiment described below and to combinations of at least two of the modified examples that do not contradict each other.In the modified examples described below, elements identical to the corresponding elements of the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals. Such elements will not be described in detail.

[0099] The power consumption unit 42 may be configured to switch from the second electric power consumption state to the first electric power consumption state when a predetermined condition different from the operation of the operating device 44A is met. For example, the predetermined condition is met when the human-powered vehicle 10 starts traveling or when the human-powered vehicle 10 vibrates. For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 includes a vibration sensor and determines that the predetermined condition is met when the vibration level of the human-powered vehicle 10 is greater than or equal to a predetermined level.The human-powered vehicle 10 may include an acceleration sensor and determine that the predetermined condition is satisfied in a case where the acceleration of the human-powered vehicle 10 is greater than or equal to a predetermined acceleration.

[0100] The power pickup unit 42, including the controller 72, does not necessarily need to include the electronic component 44. In the present modified example, the human-powered vehicle 10 does not need to include the electronic component 44.

[0101] The power consumption unit 42 with the electronic component 44 does not necessarily have to contain the controller 72.

[0102] The electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 and the electric power supply state of the voltage converter 62 can be switched simultaneously. In a case where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 and the electric power supply state of the voltage converter 62 are switched simultaneously, the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 can be easily switched.

[0103] In a case where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is switched from the second electric power consumption state to the first electric power consumption state, the controller 72 may be configured to switch the voltage converter 62 from the second electric power supply state to the first electric power supply state before the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is switched from the second electric power consumption state to the first electric power consumption state.

[0104] In a case where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is switched from the first electric power consumption state to the second electric power consumption state, the controller 72 is configured to switch the voltage converter 62 from the first electric power supply state to the second electric power supply state after the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit 42 is switched from the first electric power consumption state to the second electric power consumption state.

[0105] At least one of the voltage converter 62 and the controller 72 may be provided on the electronic component 44. For example, the voltage converter 62 is provided on the component 50 and the controller 72 is provided on the electronic component 44. At least one of the voltage converter 62 and the controller 72 may be provided on the power supply 40.

[0106] In this specification, the phrase "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "one or more" of a desired selection. For example, the phrase "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "only a single selection" or "both of two selections" in a case where the number of selections is two. As another example, the phrase "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "only a single selection" or "any combination of two or more selections" in a case where the number of selections is three or more. REFERENCE SYMBOL 10 muscle-powered vehicle, 40 Power supply 42 Power consumption unit 44 electronic components 46 electrical power line 50 components 56 drive unit 56A engine 60 Power supply device 62 voltage converters 70 Control device 72 Control QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] JP 2023-123 288

[0001]

Claims

[1] Control device (70) for a muscle-powered vehicle, the control device (70) comprising: a controller (72) configured to control a voltage converter (62), wherein the voltage converter (62) is configured to convert the voltage of the electrical power supplied from a power supply (40) and to supply electrical power to a power consumption unit (42), wherein the controller (72) is configured to control the voltage converter (62) so that the voltage converter (62) is operated in one of a first state of the electrical power supply in which the voltage converter (62) performs pulse width modulation control to convert a voltage and supply electrical power to the power consumption unit (42), or in a second state of the electrical power supply in which the voltage converter (62) performs pulse frequency modulation control to convert a voltage and supply electrical power to the power consumption unit (42). [2] Control device (70) according to claim 1, wherein: the power consumption unit (42) is configured to switch its electrical power consumption state between a first electrical power consumption state and a second electrical power consumption state that consumes less power than the first electrical power consumption state; the controller (72) is configured to control the voltage converter (62) so that the voltage converter (62) is operated in the first state of the electric power supply in a case where the state of the electric power consumption of the power consumption unit (42) is the first state of the electric power consumption; and the controller (72) is configured to control the voltage converter (62) so that the voltage converter (62) is operated in the second electric power supply state in a case where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit (42) is the second electric power consumption state. [3] The control device (70) according to claim 2, wherein, in a case where the electric power consumption state of the power receiving unit (42) is switched from one of the first electric power consumption state and the second electric power consumption state to the other of the first electric power consumption state and the second electric power consumption state, the controller (72) is configured to control the voltage converter (62) so that the voltage converter (62) is switched from one of the first electric power supply state and the second electric power supply state to the other of the first electric power supply state and the second electric power supply state while the electric power consumption state of the power receiving unit (42) is the first electric power consumption state. [4] The control device (70) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, in a case where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit (42) is switched from the second electric power consumption state to the first electric power consumption state, the controller (72) is configured to switch the voltage converter (62) from the second electric power supply state to the first electric power supply state after the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit (42) has been switched from the second electric power consumption state to the first electric power consumption state. [5] Control device (70) according to one of claims 2 to 4, wherein in a case where the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit (42) is switched from the first electric power consumption state to the second electric power consumption state, the controller (72) is arranged to switch the voltage converter (62) from the first electric power supply state to the second electric power supply state before the electric power consumption state of the power consumption unit (42) is switched from the first electric power consumption state to the second electric power consumption state. [6] Power supply device (60) for a human-powered vehicle, the power supply device (60) comprising: the control device (70) according to one of claims 1 to 5; and the voltage converter (62). [7] The power supply device (60) according to claim 6, wherein the voltage converter (62) is configured to change the voltage of the electric power supplied to the power receiving unit (42) in a case where the voltage converter (62) is switched from one of the first electric power supply state and the second electric power supply state to the other of the first electric power supply state and the second electric power supply state. [8] The power supply device (60) of claim 6 or 7, wherein the power receiving unit (42) includes at least one of the controller (72) and an electronic component (44) of the human-powered vehicle. [9] Power supply device (60) according to claim 8, wherein: the power consumption unit (42) includes the controller (72) and the electronic component (44); the controller (72) is connected to the electronic component (44) by an electrical power line (46) that supplies electrical power from the voltage converter (62); and the controller (72) is configured to communicate with the electronic component (44) via the electrical power line (46). [10] Component (50) for a human-powered vehicle, the component (50) comprising: the power supply device (60) according to one of claims 6 to 9. [11] Component (50) according to claim 10, wherein the component (50) is a drive unit (56) including a motor (56A) arranged to apply a propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle.

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