COMPONENT FOR A MUSCLE-POWERED VEHICLE

Abstract

A component for a muscle-powered vehicle comprises a shaft element, a transmission device, a control unit, and a drive unit. The transmission device is integrated into the shaft element and allows switching between different transmission ratios. The control unit is configured to operate the transmission device and to switch between transmission ratios incrementally. The drive unit includes a driver configured to drive the control unit. The drive unit is arranged so that, viewed in the axial direction of the shaft element, at least a portion of the drive unit overlaps at least a portion of the transmission device.

Description

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

[0001] This application claims priority from the following foreign applications: Japanese application JP 2023-187130, filed on October 31, 2023 and Japanese application JP 2024-004694, filed on January 16, 2024. The entire disclosures of the following foreign applications: Japanese application JP 2023-187130 and Japanese application JP 2024-004694 are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a component for a human-powered vehicle.

[0003] Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2018-100060 discloses an example of a component having a transmission device. SUMMARY OF REVELATION

[0004] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a component for a human-powered vehicle that is reduced in size.

[0005] A component according to a first aspect of the present disclosure is intended for a human-powered vehicle. The component comprises a shaft element, a transmission, a controller, and a drive unit. The transmission is provided on the shaft element and enables switching to different transmission ratios. The controller is configured to control the transmission to switch transmission ratios stepwise. The drive unit includes a driver configured to drive the controller. The drive unit is arranged so that, viewed in an axial direction of the shaft element, at least a part of the drive unit overlaps at least a part of the transmission.

[0006] In the component according to the first aspect, the drive unit is arranged so that, viewed in the axial direction of the shaft body, at least a portion of the drive unit overlaps at least a portion of the transmission device. This reduces the size of the component in the radial direction of the shaft body.

[0007] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the first aspect further comprises a crank axle support and a power link. The crank axle support supports a crank axle to which human driving power is supplied. The power link connects the crank axle and the transmission device. The power link is configured to switch a ratio of a rotational speed of a transmission input rotating body of the transmission device to a rotational speed of the crank axle to a predetermined ratio.

[0008] In the component according to the second aspect, the power link preferably transmits driving force of the crank axle to the transmission device.

[0009] A component according to a third aspect of the present disclosure is intended for a human-powered vehicle. The component includes a crank axle carrier, a shaft member, a transmission device, a controller, a drive unit, and a power link. The crank axle carrier supports a crank axle to which human drive power is supplied. The shaft member extends parallel to the crank axle. The transmission device is provided on the shaft member and enables switching to various transmission ratios. The controller is configured to control the transmission device to switch transmission ratios stepwise. The drive unit includes a driver configured to drive the controller. The power link connects the crank axle and the transmission device.The power link is configured to switch the ratio of a rotational speed of a transmission input rotating body of the transmission device to a rotational speed of the crankshaft to a predetermined ratio. The drive unit is arranged so that, viewed in a direction orthogonal to the crankshaft and the shaft member, at least a portion of the drive unit overlaps at least a portion of the power link.

[0010] In the component according to the third aspect, the drive unit is arranged so that, viewed in the axial direction of the shaft member, at least a portion of the drive unit overlaps at least a portion of the power connector. This reduces the size of the component in the axial direction of the shaft member.

[0011] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the third aspect is configured such that the drive unit is arranged such that, viewed in the axial direction of the shaft member, at least a part of the drive unit overlaps at least a part of the transmission device.

[0012] In the component according to the fourth aspect, the drive unit is arranged so that, viewed in the axial direction of the shaft member, at least a portion of the drive unit overlaps at least a portion of the transmission device. This reduces the size of the component in the radial direction of the shaft member.

[0013] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the first to fourth aspects is configured so that the transmission device includes at least one transmission unit. The controller includes at least one camshaft and at least one rotation controller configured to control the at least one transmission unit. The drive unit includes a drive shaft that drives the at least one camshaft. The drive shaft is connected to the at least one camshaft.

[0014] In the component according to the fifth aspect, the drive unit preferably controls the at least one transmission unit with the drive shaft.

[0015] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the second to fourth and fifth aspects, when directly or indirectly corresponding to the second or third aspect, further includes an electric power supply unit configured to supply electric power to the drive unit. The electric power supply unit is arranged around the crank axis.

[0016] In the component according to the sixth aspect, the electrical energy supply unit is arranged around the crank axis.

[0017] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the sixth aspect is configured so that the electric power supply unit is arranged between the transmission device and the crank axle carrier.

[0018] In the component according to the seventh aspect, the electric power supply unit is arranged between the transmission device and the crank axle carrier.

[0019] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the sixth or seventh aspect is configured so that the electric power supply unit is arranged around the crank axis to surround at least a part of the crank axis.

[0020] In the component according to the eighth aspect, the electric power supply unit is arranged around the crank axis to surround at least a part of the crank axis. This limits the enlargement of the component in the axial direction of the crank axis.

[0021] According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the sixth to eighth aspects is configured to have the electric power supply unit extending along the crank axis.

[0022] In the component according to the ninth aspect, the electric power supply unit extends along the crank axis. This limits the enlargement of the component in the radial direction of the crank axis.

[0023] According to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the sixth to ninth aspects is configured so that the electric power supply unit includes at least one of a battery and a capacitor.

[0024] The component according to the tenth aspect optimally supplies electrical energy to the drive unit, wherein the electrical energy supply unit includes at least one of a battery and a capacitor.

[0025] According to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the sixth to tenth aspects is configured so that the electric power supply unit includes an electric power generator.

[0026] The component according to the eleventh aspect optimally supplies electrical energy to the drive unit, wherein the electrical energy supply unit includes an energy generator.

[0027] According to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the fifth and sixth to eleventh aspects, when corresponding to the fifth aspect, is arranged so that the drive unit includes a geared motor that drives the drive shaft.

[0028] The component according to the twelfth aspect preferably switches the transmission ratio with the gear motor.

[0029] According to a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects further comprises a drive motor configured to provide propulsive force with respect to the human-powered vehicle.

[0030] The component according to the thirteenth aspect transmits propulsive force with respect to the muscle-powered vehicle via the drive motor.

[0031] The component for a human-powered vehicle according to the present disclosure is reduced in size. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 is a side view of a component of a human-powered vehicle having a transmission device for a human-powered vehicle according to a first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the Fig. 1 shown component of a muscle-powered vehicle. Fig. 3 is a side view of the Fig. 1 shown component for a muscle-powered vehicle without housing, seen from one side in the axial direction. Fig. 4 is a side view of the Fig. 1 shown component of a human-powered vehicle without the housing, seen from the other side of the axial direction. Fig. 5 is a plan view of the Fig. 1 shown component of a human-powered vehicle, viewed in a direction orthogonal to a crank axis and a shaft element. Fig. 6 is a side view of the Fig. 1 shown component of a human-powered vehicle, seen from the other side of the axial direction. Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the Fig. 3 shown component of the muscle-powered vehicle along the line D7-D7. Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the Fig. 7 shown component of the muscle-powered vehicle enlarged. Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the Fig. 7 shown transmission device for a muscle-powered vehicle enlarged. Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the Fig. 3 shown transmission device for a muscle-powered vehicle along the line D10-D10. Fig. 11 is a skeleton diagram showing the transmission paths of the driving force in the Fig. 1 shows the component of a muscle-powered vehicle. Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing a rotary control of the Fig. 7 shows the transmission device for a muscle-powered vehicle. Fig. 13 is a perspective view showing part of the rotary control of the Fig. 12 shows the transmission device. Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a rotational state of a gear ring gear of a first transmission of the invention shown in Fig. 10 is in a restricted state. Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the rotational state of the gear ring gear of the first gear of the Fig. 10 shown transmission device of a muscle-powered vehicle is in a release state. Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a rotational state of a gear ring gear of a second transmission of the invention shown in Fig. 10 is in a restricted state. Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the rotational state of the gear ring gear of the second gear of the Fig. 10 shown transmission device of a muscle-powered vehicle is in a release state. Fig. 18 is a side view showing a second rotary link of the Fig. 13 shows the transmission device for a muscle-powered vehicle. Fig. 19 is a graph showing the relationship between a rotation angle of a drive shaft of the Fig. 7 shows the transmission device of a muscle-powered vehicle and the rotational states of the transmission ring gears. Fig. 20 is a side view of a component of a human-powered vehicle according to a second embodiment without a housing, viewed from one side in the axial direction. Fig. 21 is a side view of the component of the human-powered vehicle according to the second embodiment without the housing, viewed from the other side of the axial direction. Fig. 22 is a skeleton diagram showing the transmission paths of the driving force in the component of the human-powered vehicle according to the second embodiment. Fig. 23 is a conceptual diagram showing a cross section of a drive motor and a transmission device of the component for a human-powered vehicle according to the second embodiment, viewed in a direction orthogonal to a crank axis and a shaft member. Fig. 24 is a conceptual diagram showing a cable and a cable operating device for a component of a human-powered vehicle of a modified example. EMBODIMENTS OF THE DISCLOSUREFirst Embodiment

[0032] A transmission device 24 for a human-powered vehicle and a component 20 for a human-powered vehicle according to a first embodiment will now be described with reference to the Fig. 1 to 19 described.

[0033] A human-powered vehicle is a vehicle with at least one wheel that can be propelled by at least human power. Examples of a human-powered vehicle include various types of bicycles such as mountain bikes, racing bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes, handcycles, and recumbent bicycles. The number of wheels of the human-powered vehicle is not limited. The human-powered vehicle also includes, for example, a unicycle or a vehicle with two or more wheels. The human-powered vehicle is not limited to a vehicle that can be propelled solely by human power. The human-powered vehicle also includes an electric bicycle (e-bike), which uses the power of an electric motor for propulsion in addition to human power. The e-bike includes an electrically assisted bicycle that supports propulsion by an electric motor.In the embodiments described below, the muscle-powered vehicle refers to a bicycle.

[0034] The human-powered vehicle includes, for example, a vehicle body and a wheel. The vehicle body includes, for example, a frame. The wheel is provided, for example, on the frame. The wheel includes a front wheel and a rear wheel. The human-powered vehicle includes a crank axle 10 that is rotatable relative to the frame. A crank arm 12 is provided at each end of the crank axle 10 in an axial direction A1. A pedal is coupled to each crank arm 12. Human driving force is transmitted from the crank arms 12 and the pedals to the crank axle 10.

[0035] Component 20 is provided, for example, in a human drive transmission path extending from crank axle 10 to a drive wheel of the human-powered vehicle. The drive wheel includes, for example, the front wheel and / or the rear wheel. The drive wheel includes, for example, the rear wheel. Component 20 is arranged around an input rotational center axis C1 of crank axle 10. Component 20 can be provided on an axle of the drive wheel.

[0036] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the component 20 for a human-powered vehicle includes, for example, a shaft element 22, a transmission device 24, a controller 26, and a drive unit 30. The controller 26 is configured, for example, to control the transmission device 24 to switch a transmission ratio in steps. The drive unit 30 is configured, for example, to drive the controller 26.

[0037] Component 20 includes, for example, an input rotary body 32. Human drive power, for example, is supplied to input rotary body 32. Input rotary body 32 forms, for example, part of the transmission path for human drive power. Input rotary body 32 has, for example, the input rotation center axis C1. Input rotary body 32 includes, for example, the crank axis 10.

[0038] For example, component 20 includes an output rotary shaft 34. Output rotary shaft 34 extends substantially parallel to input rotary body 32, for example. In this specification, the term "substantially parallel" includes, for example, a case where two or more elements are completely parallel to each other, and a case where two or more elements can be considered completely parallel to each other even though they are not completely parallel to each other. For example, a case where two or more elements can be considered completely parallel to each other is a case where their non-parallel state does not affect the functionality of component 20.

[0039] The output rotary shaft 34 is spaced apart from the crank axis 10, for example, and outputs the drive power received by the transmission device 24. The output rotary shaft 34 is provided, for example, in the human drive power transmission path. The transmission device 24 and a power link 42 are provided between the input rotary body 32 and the output rotary shaft 34 in the human drive power transmission path.

[0040] The output rotary shaft 34 is configured, for example, to output propulsion power to the drive wheel. The drive power of the output rotary shaft 34 is transmitted, for example, via a connecting element 14 to the drive wheel. The drive wheel includes, for example, the rear wheel. The drive wheel can also include the front wheel.

[0041] As in the Fig. 1 and Fig. As shown in Figure 7, component 20 includes, for example, an output rotating body 36. Output rotating body 36 includes, for example, at least one of a sprocket, a pulley, and a bevel gear. Connecting element 14 includes, for example, at least one of a chain, a belt, and a shaft. Output rotating shaft 34 transmits drive power to the rear wheel, for example, via a sprocket and a chain.

[0042] The output rotating body 36 is coupled, for example, to the output rotating shaft 34. The output rotating shaft 34 includes, for example, an output rotating body coupling portion 34A. The output rotating body coupling portion 34A includes, for example, a sprocket coupling portion. The output rotating body 36 is coupled, for example, to the output rotating body coupling portion 34A so as to rotate integrally with the output rotating shaft 34. The output rotating body 36 receives, for example, drive power from the transmission device 24 via the output rotating shaft 34 and outputs drive power. The output rotating body 36 is arranged, for example, coaxially with the output rotating shaft 34. A rotation direction of the output rotating body 36 substantially coincides, for example, with a rotation direction of the input rotating body 32.

[0043] The output rotary body 36 is connected to a wheel, for example, via the connecting element 14. The output rotary shaft 34 is configured, for example, to transmit drive power to the rear wheel via the output rotary body 36 and the connecting element 14.

[0044] As in Fig. 7, the crank axle 10 is, for example, larger in diameter than the output rotary shaft 34. The crank axle 10 has a diameter R1 which, for example, corresponds to the diameter of the crank axle 10 at a portion which is identical to the diameter shown in Fig. 1. The output rotary shaft 34 has a diameter R2, which corresponds, for example, to the diameter of the coupling portion 34A of the output rotary body. The diameter R1 can be the minimum diameter of the crank axle 10. The diameter R2 can be the minimum diameter of the output rotary shaft 34. The output rotary shaft 34 has, for example, a smaller diameter than the crank axle 10 so that the output rotary body 36 outside a housing 38 does not interfere with the crank axle 10.

[0045] In the transmission path of, for example, driving power, a first one-way clutch may be provided between the input rotary body 32 and the output rotary body 36. The first one-way clutch includes at least one of a roller clutch, a ratchet clutch, and a one-way clutch. The first one-way clutch is provided, for example, on the transmission device 24 or on the power link 42. In a case where the input rotary body 32 is rotated forward, for example, the first one-way clutch rotates the output rotary body 36 forward. In a case where the input rotary body 32 is rotated reverse, for example, the first one-way clutch restricts the reverse rotation of the output rotary body 36. A forward rotation direction of the input rotary body 32 corresponds, for example, to the rotation direction of the input rotary body 32 in a case where the human-powered vehicle is moving forward.A forward rotation direction of the output rotary body 36 corresponds, for example, to the rotation direction of the output rotary body 36 in a case where the muscle-powered vehicle moves forward.

[0046] In the human power transmission path, for example, a second one-way clutch is provided between the output rotating body 36 and the rear wheel. The second one-way clutch includes, for example, at least one of a roller clutch, a ratchet clutch, and a one-way clutch. In a case where the output rotating body 36 is rotated forward, for example, the second one-way clutch rotates the drive wheel forward. In a case where the output rotating body 36 is rotated reversely, for example, the second one-way clutch restricts the reverse rotation of the drive wheel. A forward rotation direction of the drive wheel corresponds, for example, to the rotation direction of the drive wheel when the human-powered vehicle is moving forward.

[0047] As in the Fig. 1 to 4 and 7, the component 20 also includes, for example, the housing 38, which is attachable to the frame of the human-powered vehicle. The housing 38 includes, for example, at least one frame attachment portion 38A. The frame attachment portion 38A is attached to the frame of the human-powered vehicle, for example, by a bolt or the like. The housing 38 includes more than one frame attachment portion 38A. The frame attachment portions 38A are arranged, for example, at intervals around the input rotational center axis C1. The frame attachment portions 38A are spaced apart from each other by 90 degrees or more around the input rotational center axis C1.

[0048] A power connector included in component 20 is, for example, at least partially housed in a cavity 38B of housing 38. The power connector is, for example, a member that forms part of the human driving force transmission path. At least a portion of the power connector is formed from a metal material, for example. At least a portion of the power connector may be formed from a resin material, for example. The power connector includes, for example, at least one of the transmission device 24, the shaft member 22, the power connector 42, the input rotary body 32, the output rotary shaft 34, and the output rotary body 36.

[0049] The shaft element 22 extends, for example, substantially parallel to the input rotary body 32. The shaft element 22 is, for example, spaced from the input rotary body 32. The shaft element 22 is, for example, arranged coaxially with the output rotary shaft 34.

[0050] The shaft element 22 is, for example, spaced from the crank axis 10. The shaft element 22 extends, for example, parallel to the crank axis 10. The shaft element 22 and the output rotary shaft 34 extend, for example, parallel to the crank axis 10. The shaft element 22 includes, for example, an end that is located toward the output rotary shaft 34 and is inserted into the output rotary shaft 34.

[0051] The output rotary shaft 34 has, for example, a larger diameter than the shaft element 22. The shaft element 22 has a diameter R3, which is, for example, the diameter of the shaft element 22 at a portion inserted into the output rotary shaft 34. The diameter R3 can, for example, be the minimum diameter of the shaft element 22. The shaft element 22 has, for example, a rotational center axis C2.

[0052] As in the Fig. 7 and Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the component 20 further includes, for example, a crank axle support 40 and the power link 42. The crank axle support 40 supports, for example, the crank axle 10 to which human drive power is supplied. The crank axle support 40 supports, for example, the crank axle 10 so that the crank axle 10 can rotate relative to the housing 38 about the input rotation center axis C1. The crank axle support 40 is provided, for example, on the housing 38. The crank axle support 40 supports the crank axle 10, for example, with a bearing.

[0053] The power link 42 is configured, for example, to switch the ratio of a rotational speed of a transmission input rotating body 24A of the transmission device 24 to a rotational speed of the crank axle 10 to a predetermined ratio. The power link 42 is provided, for example, in the human driving power transmission path. The power link 42 forms, for example, a part of the human driving power transmission path. The power link 42 is connected, for example, to the input rotating body 32. The power link 42 receives, for example, human driving power from the input rotating body 32. The power link 42 connects, for example, the crank axle 10 and the transmission device 24. The power link 42 is configured, for example, to transmit human driving power supplied to the input rotating body 32 to the transmission device 24.

[0054] The power link 42 includes, for example, at least one power link planetary gear unit 44. The at least one power link planetary gear unit 44 is rotatable, for example, about the rotational center axis C2 of the shaft member 22. The at least one power link planetary gear unit 44, the transmission device 24, and the output rotating body 36 are arranged, for example, in the axial direction A1 of the shaft member 22 in an order of the at least one power link planetary gear unit 44, the transmission device 24, and the output rotating body 36.

[0055] The power link planetary gear unit 44 includes, for example, a power link planetary gear 44A, a power link sun gear 44B, and a power link ring gear 44C. The power link planetary gear unit 44 includes a plurality of power link planetary gears 44A. The power link planetary gear unit 44 may include a plurality of power link sun gears 44B and / or a plurality of power link ring gears 44C.

[0056] The power link planetary gears 44A are arranged, for example, between the power link sun gear 44B and the power link ring gear 44C in the radial direction to the rotational center axis C2 of the shaft member 22. The power link sun gear 44B meshes, for example, with the power link planetary gears 44A. The power link ring gear 44C meshes, for example, with the power link planetary gears 44A.

[0057] The at least one power link planetary gear unit 44 includes, for example, a power link carrier 44D. The power link carrier 44D includes, for example, power link carrier pins 44E. The power link carrier 44D supports, for example, the power link planetary gears 44A with the power link carrier pins 44E. Each of the power link carrier pins 44E includes, for example, a first power link pin end 44F at one end and a second power link pin end 44G at the other end in the axial direction A1. The power link carrier 44D is supported, for example, by the housing 38 such that rotation of the power link carrier 44D relative to the housing 38 is limited. The rotation of the power link carrier 44D relative to the housing 38 is restricted so that the power link planetary gears 44A do not rotate about the power link sun gear 44B.

[0058] The power link carrier 44D includes, for example, a first power link carrier portion 44H and a second power link carrier portion 44K. The first power link pin end 44F is, for example, disposed in the first power link carrier portion 44H. The second power link pin end 44G is, for example, disposed in the second power link carrier portion 44K. The power link planetary gears 44A are, for example, disposed between the first power link carrier portion 44H and the second power link carrier portion 44K in the axial direction A1.

[0059] The power link 42 also includes, for example, a power link unit 46 that is different from the at least one power link planetary gear unit 44. The power link unit 46 is configured, for example, to transmit human driving force supplied to the input rotating body 32 to the at least one power link planetary gear unit 44.

[0060] The power link unit 46 includes, for example, a first power link gear 46A and a second power link gear 46B. The first power link gear 46A is arranged, for example, coaxially with the input rotating body 32. The first power link gear 46A rotates, for example, integrally with the input rotating body 32. The first power link gear 46A includes, for example, a spur gear.

[0061] The second power link gear 46B meshes, for example, with the first power link gear 46A. The second power link gear 46B is arranged, for example, coaxially with the shaft member 22. The second power link gear 46B includes, for example, a spur gear. The second power link gear 46B and the input rotary body 32 rotate, for example, in opposite directions.

[0062] The first power link gear 46A, for example, has a larger pitch diameter than the second power link gear 46B. The first power link gear 46A may, for example, have a smaller pitch diameter than the second power link gear 46B. The at least one power link planetary gear 44 is arranged, for example, between the second power link gear 46B and the transmission device 24 in the axial direction A1. Each of the first power link gear 46A and the second power link gear 46B may include a helical gear.

[0063] Instead of, or in addition to, the first power link gear 46A and the second power link gear 46B, the power link unit 46 may include sprockets and a chain meshing with the sprockets. Instead of, or in addition to, the first power link gear 46A and the second power link gear 46B, the power link unit 46 may include pulleys and a belt meshing with the pulleys.

[0064] The at least one power link planetary gear unit 44 includes, for example, a power link input portion 44M. The second power link gear 46B is provided, for example, on an outer peripheral part of the power link input portion 44M. Rotational power output from the power link unit 46 is supplied to the power link input portion 44M. The power link input portion 44M may be integrally formed with the second power link gear 46B to form a single component. In a case where the power link input portion 44M is integrally formed with the second power link gear 46B, the assembly process is simplified.

[0065] The power link input portion 44M includes, for example, the power link ring gear 44C. The power link ring gear 44C is provided, for example, on an inner peripheral part of the power link input portion 44M. The power link ring gear 44C is provided, for example, on a part of the power link input portion 44M that is different from the second power link gear 46B in the axial direction A1. The power link ring gear 44C has, for example, a larger pitch diameter than the second power link gear 46B. The power link ring gear 44C may have, for example, a smaller pitch diameter than the second power link gear 46B.

[0066] The at least one power link planetary gear unit 44 includes, for example, a power link output portion 44N. The power link output portion 44N includes, for example, the power link sun gear 44B. The power link output portion 44N is configured, for example, to rotate in a direction opposite that of the power link input portion 44M. The rotation of the power link carrier 44D relative to the housing 38 is restricted such that, for example, rotational force supplied to the power link ring gear 44C is output from the power link sun gear 44B as rotational force in the opposite direction.

[0067] For example, the power link input portion 44M rotates integrally with the second power link gear 46B. The second power link gear 46B and the input rotating body 32 rotate in opposite directions, so that the power link input portion 44M and the input rotating body 32 rotate in opposite directions. Accordingly, a rotation direction of the power link output portion 44N about the rotational center axis C2 of the shaft member 22 coincides with the rotation direction of the input rotating body 32 about the input rotational center axis C1.

[0068] The power link 42 is configured, for example, to change the rotational speed of the crank axle 10 by two or more steps to switch the ratio of the rotational speed of the transmission input rotating body 24A of the transmission device 24 to the rotational speed of the crank axle 10 to a predetermined ratio. The predetermined ratio is, for example, greater than 1. The predetermined ratio is, for example, 3 or greater and 20 or less. The predetermined ratio is, for example, 4 or greater and 15 or less. The predetermined ratio is, for example, 5 or greater and 10 or less. The predetermined ratio is, for example, 6 or greater and 7 or less. The predetermined ratio is, for example, 6.155. The predetermined ratio may be less than 1.

[0069] The power link unit 46 switches, for example, a ratio of a rotational speed of the power link input section 44M to the rotational speed of the crank axle 10 to a first ratio. The at least one power link planetary gear unit 44 switches, for example, a ratio of the rotational speed of the transmission input rotating body 24A to the rotational speed of the power link input section 44M to a second ratio. The predetermined ratio is, for example, a value resulting from the multiplication of the first ratio and the second ratio. The first ratio is, for example, greater than 1 and less than or equal to 3. The first ratio is, for example, 1.5 or greater and 2.5 or less. The first ratio is, for example, 2.130. The second ratio is, for example, 2 or greater and 4 or less. The second ratio is, for example, 2.5 or greater and 3 or less. The second ratio is, for example, 2.889.

[0070] As in Fig. 8, the component 20 further includes, for example, a torque sensor 48. The torque sensor 48 detects, for example, information related to human driving force. The torque sensor 48 includes a strain sensor, a magnetostrictive sensor, a pressure sensor, or the like. The torque sensor 48 is provided, for example, on the power link carrier 44D. The torque sensor 48 may be provided on a member of the power link unit 46 other than the power link carrier 44D. Alternatively, the torque sensor 48 may also be provided on the crank axle 10, the transmission device 24, or the output rotary shaft 34.

[0071] As in the Fig. 7 to 9, the transmission device 24 is provided, for example, in the human driving power transmission path. The transmission device 24 is connected, for example, to the power link 42. Human driving power supplied to the input rotating body 32 is supplied to the transmission device 24 via the power link 42. The transmission device 24 is provided, for example, on the shaft member 22. The transmission device 24 is arranged, for example, to rotate about the rotational center axis C2 of the shaft member 22. In a state where the housing 38 is attached to the frame, the driving power output from the transmission device 24 is transmitted to the drive wheel of the human-powered vehicle via the link 14.

[0072] The transmission device 24 for a human-powered vehicle enables, for example, switching to different transmission ratios. The transmission device 24 is configured, for example, to select one of the transmission ratios. The transmission ratio is, for example, a ratio of a rotational speed of the output rotary shaft 34 to a rotational speed of the input rotary body 32. At least one of the transmission ratios can be greater than 1 or less than 1. At least one of the transmission ratios can be 1.

[0073] The transmission device 24 includes, for example, at least one transmission unit 50. The transmission unit 50 includes, for example, at least one transmission planetary gear mechanism 52. The transmission unit 50 may include a transmission mechanism other than a transmission planetary gear mechanism, as long as the transmission mechanism is configured to switch the transmission ratio.

[0074] The transmission planetary gear mechanism 52 includes, for example, a transmission planetary gear 52A. The transmission planetary gear 52A is, for example, one of a plurality of transmission planetary gears 52A. The transmission planetary gear mechanism 52 includes, for example, a transmission carrier 52B. The transmission carrier 52B supports, for example, the transmission planetary gears 52A. The transmission planetary gear mechanism 52 includes, for example, a sun gear 52C. The transmission sun gear 52C meshes, for example, with the transmission planetary gears 52A. The transmission planetary gear mechanism 52 includes, for example, a transmission ring gear 52D. The transmission ring gear 52D meshes, for example, with the planetary gears 52A. For example, the rotational state of one of the transmission sun gear 52C, the transmission carrier 52B, and the transmission ring gear 52D is controlled to select one of the various transmission ratios.

[0075] As in the Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 12 and Fig. 13, the controller 26 includes, for example, at least one camshaft 56 and at least one rotation controller 54 configured to control the at least one transmission unit 50. The rotation controller 54 includes, for example, a cam 58 and a control element 60. The cam 58 is provided, for example, on the camshaft 56. The control element 60 is provided, for example, on each transmission ring gear 52D. The control element 60 is moved, for example, between the cam 58 and the transmission ring gear 52D. The control element 60 controls, for example, the rotational state of the transmission ring gear 52D to select one of the various transmission ratios.

[0076] The drive unit 30 includes, for example, a drive shaft 62 that drives the at least one camshaft 56. The drive shaft 62 is connected, for example, to the at least one camshaft 56. The at least one camshaft 56 meshes, for example, with the drive shaft 62.

[0077] The drive unit 30 includes a gear motor 28A that drives the drive shaft 62. The gear motor 28A is, for example, contained in a driver 28. The gear motor 28A is connected to the drive shaft 62, for example, via a speed reducer. The drive shaft 62 is rotated, for example, by the gear motor 28A.

[0078] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the drive unit 30 includes, for example, a control device 30A. The control device 30A is provided, for example, on one or more circuit boards. The control device 30A is configured, for example, to control the gear motor 28A. The control device 30A includes, for example, a processor that executes a predetermined control program. The processor includes, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessing unit (MPU). The processor can be arranged in various locations. The control device 30A can include one or more microcomputers.

[0079] The control device 30A includes, for example, a geared motor memory. The geared motor memory stores various types of control programs and information used for various types of control processes. The geared motor memory includes, for example, at least one of a non-volatile memory and a volatile memory. A 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. A volatile memory includes, for example, a random access memory (RAM).

[0080] The control device 30A is configured, for example, to control the gear motor 28A in response to a transmission signal from a transmission operating device. The control device 30A may be connected to the transmission operating device via a radio communication device or an electrical cable. Instead of, or in addition to, a transmission signal from the transmission operating device, the control device 30A may control the gear motor 28A to switch the transmission ratio in response to a signal from a sensor mounted on the human-powered vehicle. A signal from the vehicle-mounted sensor relates, for example, to a driving condition and a driving environment of the human-powered vehicle.

[0081] The drive unit 30 includes, for example, a drive unit housing 30B. The drive unit housing 30B accommodates, for example, the gear motor 28A, the speed reducer of the gear motor 28A, a control board of the gear motor 28A, and at least part of the drive shaft 62.

[0082] As in the Fig. 5 and Fig. 7, the drive unit 30 is arranged, for example, such that at least a part of the drive unit 30, seen in a direction B1 which is orthogonal to the crank axis 10 and the Fig. 7, overlaps at least a portion of the power link 42. In the drive unit 30, as viewed in direction B1, for example, a portion of the housing of the drive unit 30B, a portion of the speed reducer of the geared motor 28A, a portion of the control board of the geared motor 28A, and a portion of the geared motor 28A overlap at least a portion of the power link 42. In the power link 42, as viewed in direction B1, for example, a portion of the at least one power link planetary gear unit 44 and a portion of the power link unit 46 overlap at least a portion of the drive unit 30.

[0083] As in the Fig. 6 and Fig. 7, the drive unit 30 is arranged, for example, so that in the axial direction A1 of the Fig. 7, at least a part of the drive unit 30 overlaps at least a part of the transmission device 24. The dashed line in Fig. 6 shows, for example, a projection plane of the transmission device 24. In the drive unit 30, as viewed in the axial direction A1, for example, a part of the drive unit housing 30B, a part of the speed reducer of the geared motor 28A, and a part of the control board of the geared motor 28A overlap at least a part of the transmission device 24. In the transmission device 24, as viewed in the axial direction A1, for example, a part of the at least one rotary control 54 overlaps at least a part of the drive unit 30.

[0084] As in the Fig. 1 and Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the component 20 further includes, for example, an electrical energy supply unit 64 configured to supply the drive unit 30 with electrical energy. The electrical energy supply unit 64 is arranged, for example, around the crank axle 10. The electrical energy supply unit 64 is arranged, for example, around the crank axle 10 to surround at least a portion of the crank axle 10. The electrical energy supply unit 64 can, for example, be arranged on a portion of an outer peripheral surface of the crank axle 10.

[0085] The electrical energy supply unit 64 extends, for example, along the crank axle 10. The electrical energy supply unit 64 is arranged, for example, between the transmission device 24 and the crank axle 10. A first distance from the electrical energy supply unit 64 to the crank axle 10 is shorter than a second distance from the transmission device 24 to the crank axle 10. The electrical energy supply unit 64 can be arranged, for example, between the transmission device 24 and the crank axle carrier 40.

[0086] The electric power supply unit 64 includes, for example, at least one of a battery and a capacitor. The battery may be a primary cell or a secondary cell. The electric power supply unit 64 may include a power generator. The electric power generator generates electric power, for example, through rotational force of the crank axle 10. The electric power supply unit 64 may include only a battery, a capacitor, or an electric power generator. Alternatively, the electric power supply unit 64 may include an electric power generator and at least one of a battery and a capacitor. In a case where the electric power supply unit 64 includes a battery and a power generator, the battery is a rechargeable battery.

[0087] As in the Fig. 1 and Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the transmission device 24 also includes, for example, a housing that can be attached to the frame of the human-powered vehicle. The housing of the transmission device 24 is, for example, housing 38. The transmission device 24 may include a housing that is different from housing 38.

[0088] The transmission device 24 further includes, for example, a shaft element. The shaft element of the transmission device 24 is, for example, the shaft element 22. The component 20 includes, for example, the transmission device 24. In addition to the transmission device 24, the component 20 may also include a structure other than the transmission device 24.

[0089] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 8 to 11, the transmission device 24 includes, for example, a first gear 66 and a second gear 68. The first gear 66 receives drive power from the input rotating body 32, to which human drive power is supplied. The second gear 68 receives drive power from the first gear 66. The transmission device 24 also includes, for example, the input rotating body 32. The at least one transmission unit 50 includes, for example, the first gear 66 and the second gear 68.

[0090] The first gear 66 and the second gear 68 are arranged, for example, on the shaft element 22. The transmission device 24 further includes, for example, the power link 42, which connects the input rotary body 32 and the first gear 66. The power link 42 is configured, for example, to switch a ratio of a rotational speed of a first input rotary body 66A to the rotational speed of the input rotary body 32 to a predetermined ratio. The transmission input rotary body 24A includes, for example, the first input rotary body 66A.

[0091] The first transmission 66 includes, for example, the first input rotating body 66A and a first output rotating body 66B. The first transmission 66 is configured, for example, to select a ratio of a rotational speed of the first output rotating body 66B to the rotational speed of the first input rotating body 66A from a plurality of first transmission ratios. The first output rotating body 66B includes, for example, the shaft element 22.

[0092] The second transmission 68 includes a second input rotary body 68A and a second output rotary body 68B. The second transmission 68 is configured to select a ratio of a rotational speed of the second output rotary body 68B to a rotational speed of the second input rotary body 68A from a plurality of second transmission ratios. In a state where the housing 38 is attached to the frame, for example, the drive power output from the second output rotary body 68B is transmitted to the drive wheel of the human-powered vehicle via the connecting member 14. The second input rotary body 68A includes, for example, the shaft member 22. The second output rotary body 68B includes, for example, the output rotary shaft 34.

[0093] The first input rotary body 66A receives rotational power from the power link output section 44N, for example. The first input rotary body 66A is connected, for example, to the power link output section 44N. The power link output section 44N includes, for example, a first connector 70A. The first connector 70A includes, for example, a gear or splines. The first input rotary body 66A includes, for example, a second connector 70B connected to the first connector 70A. The second connector 70B includes, for example, a gear or splines.

[0094] The transmission device 24 switches the transmission ratio, for example, between a minimum transmission ratio and a maximum transmission ratio. The minimum transmission ratio is, for example, a transmission ratio corresponding to a speed reduction. The maximum transmission ratio is, for example, a transmission ratio corresponding to a speed increase. The minimum transmission ratio is, for example, greater than 0 and less than 1. The maximum transmission ratio is, for example, greater than 1 and less than or equal to 10. In a case where the transmission ratio is the minimum transmission ratio, the speed reduction rate increases as the minimum transmission ratio decreases. In a case where the transmission ratio is the maximum transmission ratio, the speed increases as the maximum transmission ratio increases.

[0095] The different transmission ratios are each determined, for example, by a combination of one of the first transmission ratios and one of the second transmission ratios. For example, the first transmission ratios are numerically greater than the second transmission ratios.

[0096] For example, the first transmission 66 includes a plurality of first planetary gear mechanisms 72. For example, the first transmission ratios correspond to the first planetary gear mechanisms 72, respectively.

[0097] The first transmission 66 includes, for example, a first planetary gear unit 74. The transmission planetary gear mechanism 52 includes, for example, the first planetary gear unit 74. The first planetary gear unit 74 includes, for example, a first planetary gear 76, a first sun gear 78 that meshes with the first planetary gear 76, and a first ring gear 80 that meshes with the first planetary gear 76.

[0098] The transmission planetary gear 52A includes, for example, the first planetary gear 76. The first planetary gear 76 is, for example, one of a plurality of first planetary gears 76. The first planetary gears 76 are, for example, arranged at intervals around the rotational center axis C2 of the shaft member 22. The number of first planetary gears 76 is, for example, two or more and eight or fewer. The number of first planetary gears 76 is, for example, four.

[0099] The first planetary gears 76 include, for example, a first gear planetary gear 76A and a second gear planetary gear 76B with a larger pitch diameter than the first gear planetary gear 76A. The first gear planetary gear 76A and the second gear planetary gear 76B are, for example, integrally formed with each other. The first gear planetary gear 76A and the second gear planetary gear 76B may be separately formed and configured to rotate integrally with each other.

[0100] The transmission sun gear 52C includes, for example, the first sun gear 78. The first sun gear 78 may be one of a plurality of first sun gears 78. The first sun gear 78 includes, for example, a first transmission sun gear 78A. The first transmission sun gear 78A meshes, for example, with the second transmission planetary gear 76B. A rotational center axis of the first transmission sun gear 78A substantially coincides integrally with the rotational center axis C2 of the shaft member 22.

[0101] The transmission ring gear 52D includes, for example, the first ring gear 80. The first ring gear 80 is, for example, one of a plurality of first ring gears 80. The first ring gears 80 are, for example, independently rotatable. The first ring gears 80 include, for example, a first transmission ring gear 80A and a second transmission ring gear 80B. The first transmission ring gear 80A meshes, for example, with the first transmission planetary gear 76A. The second transmission ring gear 80B meshes, for example, with the second transmission planetary gear 76B.

[0102] The first planetary gear unit 74 includes, for example, a first carrier 82 that supports the first planetary gear 76. The gear carrier 52B includes, for example, the first carrier 82. The first carrier 82 includes, for example, a first carrier portion 84 and a second carrier portion 86. The first carrier portion 84 is integrally formed with the first input rotary body 66A.

[0103] The first carrier 82 includes, for example, a first carrier pin 82A. The first planetary gear 76 is, for example, rotatably supported on the first carrier pin 82A. The first carrier pin 82A is, for example, arranged between the first carrier portion 84 and the second carrier portion 86 in the axial direction A1. The first planetary gear 76 can be rotatably supported by the first carrier pin 82A via a bearing.

[0104] The first support pin 82A includes, for example, two ends in the axial direction A1, defining a first pin end 82B and a second pin end 82C. The first pin end 82B is supported, for example, by the first support portion 84. The second pin end 82C is supported, for example, by the second support portion 86.

[0105] The first support pin 82A may be configured to secure the first pin end 82B to the first support portion 84 and the second pin end 82C to the second support portion 86. The first support pin 82A may be configured to rotatably support the first pin end 82B by the first support portion 84 and the second pin end 82C by the second support portion 86. In a case where the first pin end 82B is rotatably supported by the first support portion 84 and the second pin end 82C is rotatably supported by the second support portion 86, the first planetary gear 76 may be non-rotatably supported by the first support pin 82A.

[0106] The second transmission 68 includes, for example, a plurality of second planetary gear mechanisms 88. For example, the second transmission ratios correspond to the second planetary gear mechanisms 88, respectively.

[0107] The second transmission 68 includes, for example, a second planetary gear unit 90. The transmission planetary gear mechanism 52 includes, for example, the second planetary gear unit 90. The second planetary gear unit 90 includes, for example, a second planetary gear 92, a second sun gear 94 that meshes with the second planetary gear 92, and a second ring gear 96 that meshes with the second planetary gear 92.

[0108] The transmission planetary gear 52A includes, for example, the second planetary gear 92. The second planetary gear 92 is, for example, one of a plurality of second planetary gears 92. The second planetary gears 92 are, for example, arranged at intervals around the rotational center axis C2 of the shaft member 22. The number of second planetary gears 92 is, for example, two or more and eight or fewer. The number of second planetary gears 92 is, for example, four.

[0109] The second planetary gears 92 include, for example, a third gear planetary gear 92A and a fourth gear planetary gear 92B with a smaller pitch diameter than the third gear planetary gear 92A. The third gear planetary gear 92A and the fourth gear planetary gear 92B are, for example, integrally formed with each other. The third gear planetary gear 92A and the fourth gear planetary gear 92B may be separately formed and configured to rotate integrally with each other.

[0110] The transmission sun gear 52C includes, for example, the second sun gear 94. The second sun gear 94 may be one of a plurality of second sun gears 94. The second sun gear 94 includes, for example, a second transmission sun gear 94A. The second transmission sun gear 94A meshes, for example, with the fourth transmission planetary gear 92B. A rotational center axis of the second transmission sun gear 94A substantially coincides with the rotational center axis C2 of the shaft member 22.

[0111] The transmission ring gear 52D includes, for example, the second ring gear 96. The second ring gear 96 includes, for example, a third transmission ring gear 96A. The third transmission ring gear 96A meshes, for example, with the third transmission planetary gear 92A. The second ring gear 96 may be one of a plurality of second ring gears 96. In this case, the second ring gears 96 are, for example, independently rotatable.

[0112] The second planetary gear unit 90 includes, for example, a second carrier 98 that supports the second planetary gear 92. The gear carrier 52B includes, for example, the second carrier 98. The second carrier 98 includes, for example, a third carrier portion 100 and a fourth carrier portion 102.

[0113] The second carrier 98 includes, for example, a second carrier pin 98A. The second planetary gear 92 is, for example, rotatably supported on the second carrier pin 98A. The second carrier pin 98A is, for example, arranged between the third carrier section 100 and the fourth carrier section 102 in the axial direction A1. The second planetary gear 92 can be rotatably supported by the second carrier pin 98A via a bearing.

[0114] The second support pin 98A includes, for example, two ends in the axial direction A1, defining a third pin end 98B and a fourth pin end 98C. The third pin end 98B is supported, for example, by the third support portion 100. The fourth pin end 98C is supported, for example, by the fourth support portion 102.

[0115] The second support pin 98A may be configured to secure the third pin end 98B to the third support portion 100 and the fourth pin end 98C to the fourth support portion 102. The second support pin 98A may be configured to rotatably support the third pin end 98B by the third support portion 100 and the fourth pin end 98C by the fourth support portion 102. In a case where the third pin end 98B is rotatably supported by the third support portion 100 and the fourth pin end 98C is rotatably supported by the fourth support portion 102, the second planetary gear 92 may be supported by the second support pin 98A in a non-rotatable manner.

[0116] The first transmission 66 further includes, for example, a third planetary gear unit 104. The transmission planetary gear mechanism 52 includes, for example, the third planetary gear unit 104. The third planetary gear unit 104 includes, for example, a third planetary gear 106, a third sun gear 108 that meshes with the third planetary gear 106, and a third ring gear 110 that meshes with the third planetary gear 106.

[0117] The transmission planetary gear 52A includes, for example, the third planetary gear 106. The third planetary gear 106 is, for example, one of a plurality of third planetary gears 106. The third planetary gears 106 are, for example, arranged at intervals around the rotational center axis C2 of the shaft member 22. The number of third planetary gears 106 is, for example, two or more and eight or fewer. The number of third planetary gears 106 is, for example, four.

[0118] The third planetary gears 106 include, for example, a fifth gear planetary gear 106A and a sixth gear planetary gear 106B with a larger pitch diameter than the fifth gear planetary gear 106A. The fifth gear planetary gear 106A and the sixth gear planetary gear 106B are, for example, integrally formed with each other. The fifth gear planetary gear 106A and the sixth gear planetary gear 106B may be separately formed and configured to rotate integrally with each other.

[0119] The sun gear 52C of the transmission includes, for example, the third sun gear 108. The third sun gear 108 may be one of a plurality of third sun gears 108. The third sun gear 108 includes, for example, a third transmission sun gear 108A. The third transmission sun gear 108A meshes, for example, with the fifth transmission planetary gear 106A. A rotational center axis of the third transmission sun gear 108A substantially coincides with the rotational center axis C2 of the shaft member 22.

[0120] The first sun gear 78 and the third sun gear 108 are, for example, integrally formed with each other. The first transmission sun gear 78A and the third transmission sun gear 108A are, for example, integrally formed with each other. The first sun gear 78 and the third sun gear 108 can be formed separately and configured to rotate integrally. The first transmission sun gear 78A has, for example, a smaller pitch diameter than the third transmission sun gear 108A.

[0121] The first sun gear 78 and the third sun gear 108 are, for example, formed separately from the shaft member 22 and are configured to rotate integrally with the shaft member 22. The first gear sun gear 78A and the third gear sun gear 108A are, for example, formed on an outer peripheral part of a first tubular member 112A. For example, a first engaging portion 112B is formed on an inner peripheral part of the first tubular member 112A. The first engaging portion 112B includes, for example, keyways or serrations. The first engaging portion 112B engages, for example, with a first shaft member engaging portion 22A of the shaft member 22. The first shaft member engaging portion 22A includes, for example, keyways or serrations. The first shaft member engaging portion 22A is, for example, formed integrally with the shaft member 22.The first gear sun gear 78A and the third gear sun gear 108A may be formed integrally with the shaft member 22.

[0122] The transmission ring gear 52D includes, for example, the third ring gear 110. The third ring gear 110 is, for example, one of several third ring gears 110. The third ring gears 110 are, for example, independently rotatable. The third ring gears 110 include, for example, a fourth transmission ring gear 110A and a fifth transmission ring gear 110B. The fourth transmission ring gear 110A meshes, for example, with the fifth transmission planetary gear 106A. The fifth transmission ring gear 110B meshes, for example, with the sixth transmission planetary gear 106B.

[0123] The third planetary gear unit 104 includes, for example, a third carrier 114 that supports the third planetary gear 106. The gear carrier 52B includes, for example, the third carrier 114. The third carrier 114 includes, for example, a first carrier portion 84 and a second carrier portion 86.

[0124] The third carrier 114 includes, for example, a third carrier pin 114A. The third planetary gear 106 is rotatably supported, for example, by the third carrier pin 114A. The third carrier pin 114A is arranged, for example, between the first carrier section 84 and the second carrier section 86 in the axial direction A1. The third planetary gear 106 can be rotatably supported by the third carrier pin 114A via a bearing.

[0125] The third support pin 114A includes, for example, two ends in the axial direction A1, defining a fifth pin end 114B and a sixth pin end 114C. The fifth pin end 114B is supported, for example, by the first support portion 84. The sixth pin end 114C is supported, for example, by the second support portion 86.

[0126] The third support pin 114A may be configured to secure the fifth pin end 114B to the first support portion 84 and the sixth pin end 114C to the second support portion 86. The third support pin 114A may be configured to rotatably support the fifth pin end 114B by the first support portion 84 and the sixth pin end 114C by the second support portion 86. In a case where the fifth pin end 114B is rotatably supported by the first support portion 84 and the sixth pin end 114C is rotatably supported by the second support portion 86, the third planetary gear 106 may be supported by the third support pin 114A in a non-rotatable manner.

[0127] For example, a portion of the first support 82 is formed integrally with a portion of the third support 114. The first support section 84 is, for example, a portion of the first support 82 and a portion of the third support 114. The second support section 86 is, for example, a portion of the first support 82 and a portion of the third support 114.

[0128] The third support pin 114A is formed separately from the first support pin 82A and spaced apart from the first support pin 82A, for example. The first support pin 82A is, for example, one of the first support pins 82A, each corresponding to the first planetary gears 76. The third support pin 114A is, for example, one of the third support pins 114A, each corresponding to the third planetary gears 106. The first support pins 82A and the third support pins 114A are arranged, for example, at equal intervals around the rotational center axis C2 of the shaft member 22.

[0129] The second transmission 68 further includes, for example, a fourth planetary gear unit 116. The transmission planetary gear mechanism 52 includes, for example, the fourth planetary gear unit 116. The fourth planetary gear unit 116 includes, for example, a fourth planetary gear 118, a fourth sun gear 120 that meshes with the fourth planetary gear 118, and a fourth ring gear 122 that meshes with the fourth planetary gear 118.

[0130] The transmission planetary gear 52A includes, for example, the fourth planetary gear 118. The fourth planetary gear 118 is, for example, one of a plurality of fourth planetary gears 118. The fourth planetary gears 118 are, for example, arranged at intervals around the rotational center axis C2 of the shaft member 22. The number of fourth planetary gears 118 is, for example, two or more and eight or fewer. The number of fourth planetary gears 118 is, for example, four. The fourth planetary gears 118 include, for example, a seventh transmission planetary gear 118A.

[0131] The transmission sun gear 52C includes, for example, the fourth sun gear 120. The fourth sun gear 120 may be one of a plurality of fourth sun gears 120. The fourth sun gear 120 includes, for example, a fourth transmission sun gear 120A. The fourth transmission sun gear 120A meshes, for example, with the seventh transmission planetary gear 118A. A rotational center axis of the fourth transmission sun gear 120A substantially coincides with the rotational center axis C2 of the shaft member 22.

[0132] The second sun gear 94 and the fourth sun gear 120 are, for example, formed integrally with each other. The second transmission sun gear 94A and the fourth transmission sun gear 120A are, for example, formed integrally with each other. The second sun gear 94 and the fourth sun gear 120 may be formed separately and configured to rotate integrally. The second transmission sun gear 94A and the fourth transmission sun gear 120A may be formed separately and configured to rotate integrally.

[0133] The second sun gear 94 and the fourth sun gear 120 are formed, for example, separately from the shaft member 22 and rotate integrally with the shaft member 22. The second transmission sun gear 94A and the fourth transmission sun gear 120A are formed, for example, on an outer peripheral portion of a second tubular member 112C. For example, a second engagement portion 112D is formed on an inner peripheral portion of the second tubular member 112C. The second engagement portion 112D includes, for example, keyways or serrations. The second engagement portion 112D engages, for example, with a second shaft member engagement portion 22B of the shaft member 22. The second shaft member engagement portion 22B includes, for example, keyways or serrations. The second shaft member engagement portion 22B is, for example, formed integrally with the shaft member 22.The second sun gear 94 and the fourth sun gear 120 may, for example, be formed integrally with the shaft element 22.

[0134] For example, the fourth ring gear 122 belongs to the transmission ring gear 52D. The fourth ring gear 122 includes, for example, a sixth transmission ring gear 122A. The sixth transmission ring gear 122A meshes, for example, with the seventh transmission planetary gear 118A. The fourth ring gear 122 can be one of several fourth ring gears 122. In this case, the fourth ring gears 122 are, for example, independently rotatable.

[0135] The fourth planetary gear unit 116 includes, for example, a fourth carrier 124 that supports the fourth planetary gear 118. The gear carrier 52B includes, for example, the fourth carrier 124. The fourth carrier 124 includes, for example, the third carrier portion 100 and the fourth carrier portion 102.

[0136] The fourth carrier 124 includes, for example, a fourth carrier pin 124A. The fourth planetary gear 118 is, for example, rotatably supported on the fourth carrier pin 124A. The fourth carrier pin 124A is, for example, arranged between the third carrier portion 100 and the fourth carrier portion 102 in the axial direction A1. The fourth planetary gear 118 may be rotatably supported by the fourth carrier pin 124A via a bearing.

[0137] For example, the fourth support pin 124A includes two ends in the axial direction A1, defining a seventh pin end 124B and an eighth pin end 124C. The seventh pin end 124B is supported, for example, by the third support section 100. The eighth pin end 124C is supported, for example, by the fourth support section 102.

[0138] The fourth support pin 124A may be configured to attach the seventh pin end 124B to the third support portion 100 and the eighth pin end 124C to the fourth support portion 102. The fourth support pin 124A may be configured to rotatably support the seventh pin end 124B by the third support portion 100 and the eighth pin end 124C by the fourth support portion 102. In a case where the seventh pin end 124B is rotatably supported by the third support portion 100 and the eighth pin end 124C is rotatably supported by the fourth support portion 102, the fourth planetary gear 118 may be supported by the fourth support pin 124A in a non-rotatable manner.

[0139] The fourth carrier 124 is, for example, the same as the second carrier 98. The fourth carrier pin 124A is, for example, the same as the second carrier pin 98A. The second planetary gear 92 and the fourth planetary gear 118 are arranged next to one another in the axial direction A1, for example. The fourth carrier 124 may, for example, be different from the second carrier 98. The fourth carrier pin 124A may, for example, be different from the second carrier pin 98A.

[0140] The second transmission 68 also includes, for example, a fifth planetary gear unit 126. The transmission planetary gear mechanism 52 includes, for example, the fifth planetary gear unit 126. The fifth planetary gear unit 126 includes, for example, a fifth planetary gear 128, a fifth carrier 130 supporting the fifth planetary gear 128, a fifth sun gear 132 meshing with the fifth planetary gear 128, and a fifth ring gear 134 meshing with the fifth planetary gear 128.

[0141] The transmission planetary gear 52A includes, for example, the fifth planetary gear 128. The fifth planetary gear 128 is, for example, one of a plurality of fifth planetary gears 128. The fifth planetary gears 128 are, for example, arranged at intervals around the rotational center axis C2 of the shaft member 22. The number of fifth planetary gears 128 is, for example, two or more and eight or fewer. The number of fifth planetary gears 128 is, for example, four.

[0142] The fifth planetary gears 128 include, for example, an eighth gear planetary gear 128A and a ninth gear planetary gear 128B with a larger pitch diameter than the eighth gear planetary gear 128A. The eighth gear planetary gear 128A and the ninth gear planetary gear 128B are, for example, formed integrally with each other. The eighth gear planetary gear 128A and the ninth gear planetary gear 128B may be formed separately and configured to rotate integrally.

[0143] The transmission sun gear 52C includes, for example, the fifth sun gear 132. The fifth sun gear 132 may be one of a plurality of fifth sun gears 132. The fifth sun gear 132 includes, for example, a fifth transmission sun gear 132A. The fifth transmission sun gear 132A meshes, for example, with the ninth transmission planetary gear 128B. A rotational center axis of the fifth transmission sun gear 132A substantially coincides with the rotational center axis C2 of the shaft member 22.

[0144] The fifth sun gear 132 is, for example, formed integrally with the shaft member 22. The fifth sun gear 132 may be formed separately from the shaft member 22 and connected to the shaft member 22 by splines or toothings to rotate integrally with the shaft member 22.

[0145] The first sun gear (78), the second sun gear (94), the third sun gear (108), the fourth sun gear (120), and the fifth sun gear (132) are configured, for example, to rotate integrally in a first direction about the central axis of rotation C2 of the shaft element 22. The first sun gear 78, the second sun gear 94, the third sun gear 108, the fourth sun gear 120, and the fifth sun gear 132 may, for example, be configured to rotate integrally in a second direction, opposite to the first direction, about the central axis of rotation C2 of the shaft element 22.

[0146] For example, the first gear sun gear 78A has a larger pitch diameter than the fifth gear sun gear 132A. For example, the first gear sun gear 78A has a smaller pitch diameter than each of the second gear sun gear 94A, the third gear sun gear 108A, and the fourth gear sun gear 120A.

[0147] For example, the third gear sun gear 108A has a larger pitch diameter than the first gear sun gear 78A and the fifth gear sun gear 132A. For example, the third gear sun gear 108A has a smaller pitch diameter than the second gear sun gear 94A and the fourth gear sun gear 120A.

[0148] For example, the second gear sun gear 94A has a larger pitch diameter than the first gear sun gear 78A, the third gear sun gear 108A, the fourth gear sun gear 120A, and the fifth gear sun gear 132A.

[0149] For example, the fourth gear sun gear 120A has a larger pitch diameter than the first gear sun gear 78A, the third gear sun gear 108A, and the fifth gear sun gear 132A. The fourth gear sun gear 120A has a smaller pitch diameter than the second gear sun gear 94A, for example.

[0150] For example, the fifth gear sun gear 132A has a smaller pitch diameter than each of the first gear sun gear 78A, the second gear sun gear 94A, the third gear sun gear 108A, and the fourth gear sun gear 120A.

[0151] The transmission ring gear 52D includes, for example, the fifth ring gear 134. The fifth ring gear 134 includes, for example, a seventh transmission ring gear 134A. The seventh ring gear 134A meshes, for example, with the eighth transmission planetary gear 128A. The fifth ring gear 134 may be one of a plurality of fifth ring gears 134. In this case, the fifth ring gears 134 are, for example, independently rotatable.

[0152] The transmission carrier 52B includes, for example, the fifth carrier 130. A portion of the fifth carrier 130 is, for example, integrally formed with a portion of the second carrier 98. A portion of the fifth carrier 130 is, for example, integrally formed with a portion of the fourth carrier 124.

[0153] The fifth carrier 130 includes, for example, a fifth carrier pin 130A. The fifth planetary gear 128 is rotatably supported, for example, by the fifth carrier pin 130A. The fifth carrier 130 includes, for example, the third carrier portion 100, the fourth carrier portion 102, and a fifth carrier portion 136. The fifth carrier pin 130A is supported, for example, by the third carrier portion 100, the fourth carrier portion 102, and the fifth carrier portion 136.

[0154] The fifth support pin 130A includes, for example, two ends in the axial direction A1, which define a ninth pin end 130B and a tenth pin end 130C. The ninth pin end 130B is supported, for example, by the third support section 100. The tenth pin end 130C is supported, for example, by the fifth support section 136. The fourth support section 102 is arranged, for example, between the third support section 100 and the fifth support section 136. The fourth support section 102 supports, for example, a portion of the fifth support pin 130A that is located between the third support section 100 and the fifth support section 136.

[0155] The fifth support pin 130A may, for example, be configured to attach the ninth pin end 130B to the third support portion 100 and the tenth pin end 130C to the fifth support portion 136. The fifth support pin 130A may, for example, be configured to rotatably support the ninth pin end 130B from the third support portion 100 and the tenth pin end 130C from the fifth support portion 136. In a case where the ninth pin end 130B is rotatably supported by the third support portion 100 and the tenth pin end 130C is rotatably supported by the fifth support portion 136, the fifth planetary gear 128 may be supported by the fifth support pin 130A in a non-rotatable manner.

[0156] The fifth support pin 130A is formed, for example, as a separate element from the second support pin 98A and the fourth support pin 124A and is spaced apart from the second support pin 98A and the fourth support pin 124A. The second support pin 98A is, for example, one of the second support pins 98A, each corresponding to the second planetary gears 92. The fourth support pin 124A is, for example, one of the fourth support pins 124A, each corresponding to the fourth planetary gears 118. The fifth support pin 130A is, for example, one of the fifth support pins 130A, each corresponding to the fifth planetary gears 128. The second support pins 98A and the fifth support pins 130A are, for example, arranged at equal intervals around the rotational center axis C2 of the shaft member 22. The fourth support pins 124A and the fifth support pins 130A are arranged, for example, at equal intervals around the rotational center axis C2 of the shaft member 22.

[0157] In the first planetary gear unit 74, for example, a rotational state of one of the first sun gear 78, the first carrier 82, and the first ring gear 80 is controlled to select one of the first transmission ratios. In the third planetary gear unit 104, for example, a rotational state of one of the third sun gear 108, the third carrier 114, and the third ring gear 110 is controlled to select one of the first transmission ratios.

[0158] In the second planetary gear unit 90, for example, a rotational state of one of the second sun gear 94, the second carrier 98, and the second ring gear 96 is controlled to select one of the second transmission ratios. In the fourth planetary gear unit 116, for example, a rotational state of one of the fourth sun gear 120, the fourth carrier 124, and the fourth ring gear 122 is controlled to select one of the second transmission ratios. In the fifth planetary gear unit 126, for example, a rotational state of one of the fifth sun gear 132, the fifth carrier 130, and the fifth ring gear 134 is controlled to select one of the second transmission ratios.

[0159] In the first transmission 66, for example, a rotational state of one of the first ring gear 80 and the third ring gear 110 is controlled to select one of the first transmission ratios. In the second transmission 68, for example, a rotational state of one of the second ring gear 96, the fourth ring gear 122, and the fifth ring gear 134 is controlled to select one of the second transmission ratios. In the transmission device 24, for example, a rotational state of one of the first ring gear 80, the second ring gear 96, the third ring gear 110, the fourth ring gear 122, and the fifth ring gear 134 is controlled to select one of the second transmission ratios.

[0160] The transmission device 24 includes, for example, a plurality of transmission paths. The transmission paths constitute part of the human driving force transmission path. Driving force supplied from the power link output section 44N to the transmission input rotating body 24A is output to the output rotating body 36 via one of the transmission paths. The transmission paths include a first transmission path, a second transmission path, a third transmission path, a fourth transmission path, a fifth transmission path, a sixth transmission path, a seventh transmission path, an eighth transmission path, a ninth transmission path, a tenth transmission path, an eleventh transmission path, and a twelfth transmission path.

[0161] In the first transmission path, for example, drive power supplied to the transmission input rotating body 24A is output to the output rotating body 36 via the third carrier 114, the sixth transmission planetary gear 106B, the third transmission sun gear 108A, the shaft member 22, the fifth transmission sun gear 132A, the ninth transmission planetary gear 128B, and the fifth carrier portion 136.

[0162] In the second transmission path, for example, drive power supplied to the transmission input rotating body 24A is output to the output rotating body 36 via the third carrier 114, the fifth transmission planetary gear 106A, the third transmission sun gear 108A, the shaft member 22, the fifth transmission sun gear 132A, the ninth transmission planetary gear 128B, and the fifth carrier portion 136.

[0163] In the third transmission path, for example, drive power supplied to the transmission input rotating body 24A is output to the output rotating body 36 via the first carrier 82, the second transmission planetary gear 76B, the first transmission sun gear 78A, the shaft member 22, the fifth transmission sun gear 132A, the ninth transmission planetary gear 128B, and the fifth carrier portion 136.

[0164] In the fourth transmission path, for example, drive power supplied to the transmission input rotating body 24A is output to the output rotating body 36 via the first carrier 82, the first transmission planetary gear 76A, the second transmission planetary gear 76B, the first transmission sun gear 78A, the shaft member 22, the fifth transmission sun gear 132A, the ninth transmission planetary gear 128B, and the fifth carrier portion 136.

[0165] In the fifth transmission path, for example, drive power supplied to the transmission input rotating body 24A is output to the output rotating body 36 via the third carrier 114, the sixth transmission planetary gear 106B, the third transmission sun gear 108A, the shaft member 22, the fourth transmission sun gear 120A, the seventh transmission planetary gear 118A, the fourth carrier portion 102, and the fifth carrier portion 136.

[0166] In the sixth transmission path, for example, drive power supplied to the transmission input rotating body 24A is output to the output rotating body 36 via the third carrier 114, the fifth transmission planetary gear 106A, the third transmission sun gear 108A, the shaft member 22, the fourth transmission sun gear 120A, the seventh transmission planetary gear 118A, the fourth carrier portion 102, and the fifth carrier portion 136.

[0167] In the seventh transmission path, for example, drive power supplied to the transmission input rotating body 24A is output to the output rotating body 36 via the first carrier 82, the second transmission planetary gear 76B, the first transmission sun gear 78A, the shaft member 22, the fourth transmission sun gear 120A, the seventh transmission planetary gear 118A, the fourth carrier portion 102, and the fifth carrier portion 136.

[0168] In the eighth transmission path, for example, drive power supplied to the transmission input rotating body 24A is output to the output rotating body 36 via the first carrier 82, the first transmission planetary gear 76A, the second transmission planetary gear 76B, the first transmission sun gear 78A, the shaft member 22, the fourth transmission sun gear 120A, the seventh transmission planetary gear 118A, the fourth carrier portion 102, and the fifth carrier portion 136.

[0169] In the ninth transmission path, for example, driving force supplied to the transmission input rotating body 24A is output to the output rotating shaft 34 via the third carrier 114, the sixth transmission planetary gear 106B, the third transmission sun gear 108A, the shaft member 22, the second transmission sun gear 94A, the fourth transmission planetary gear 92B, the fourth carrier portion 102, and the fifth carrier portion 136.

[0170] In the tenth transmission path, for example, driving force supplied to the transmission input rotating body 24A is output to the output rotating shaft 34 via the third carrier 114, the fifth transmission planetary gear 106A, the third transmission sun gear 108A, the shaft member 22, the second transmission sun gear 94A, the fourth transmission planetary gear 92B, the fourth carrier portion 102, and the fifth carrier portion 136.

[0171] In the eleventh transmission path, for example, driving force supplied to the transmission input rotating body 24A is output to the output rotating shaft 34 via the first carrier 82, the second transmission planetary gear 76B, the first transmission sun gear 78A, the shaft member 22, the second transmission sun gear 94A, the fourth transmission planetary gear 92B, the fourth carrier portion 102, and the fifth carrier portion 136.

[0172] In the twelfth transmission path, for example, driving force supplied to the transmission input rotating body 24A is output to the output rotating shaft 34 via the first carrier 82, the first transmission planetary gear 76A, the second transmission planetary gear 76B, the first transmission sun gear 78A, the shaft member 22, the second transmission sun gear 94A, the fourth transmission planetary gear 92B, the fourth carrier portion 102, and the fifth carrier portion 136.

[0173] The first to twelfth transmission paths are selected, for example, according to the rotational state of the transmission ring gears 52D. The rotational states of the transmission ring gears 52D are each switched, for example, between a release state and a restriction state. In a restriction state, the rotation of the transmission ring gears 52D relative to the housing 38 is restricted. In a release state, rotation of the transmission ring gears 52D relative to the housing 38 is permitted. In the restriction state, as long as the rotation of the transmission ring gears 52D in one of the first direction and the second direction around the rotational center axis C2 of the shaft member 22 is restricted in order for the transmission device 24 to transmit human driving power, the rotation of the transmission ring gears 52D in the other of the first direction and the second direction around the rotational center axis C2 of the shaft member 22 need not be restricted.

[0174] Table 1 shows the rotational states of the transmission ring gears 52D included in the first transmission 66 and the rotational states of the transmission ring gears 52D included in the second transmission 68 in each of the transmission paths. The transmission ring gears 52D included in the first transmission 66 include, for example, the first transmission ring gear 80A, the second transmission ring gear 80B, the fourth transmission ring gear 110A, and the fifth transmission ring gear 110B. The transmission ring gears 52D included in the second transmission 68 include, for example, the third transmission ring gear 96A, the sixth transmission ring gear 122A, and the seventh transmission ring gear 134A. In Table 1, “◯” (circle) indicates that the rotation state of the corresponding one of the first gear ring gear 80A, the second gear ring gear 80B, the third gear ring gear 96A, the fourth gear ring gear 110A, the fifth gear ring gear 110B, the sixth gear ring gear 122A, and the seventh gear ring gear 134A is in the restriction state.In Table 1, “×” (cross) indicates that the rotation state of the corresponding one of the first gear ring gear 80A, the second gear ring gear 80B, the third gear ring gear 96A, the fourth gear ring gear 110A, the fifth gear ring gear 110B, the sixth gear ring gear 122A, and the seventh gear ring gear 134A is in the release state.

[0175] As shown in Table 1, in a case where the first transmission path is selected from the transmission paths, the rotational states of the first transmission ring gear 80A, the second transmission ring gear 80B, the third transmission ring gear 96A, the fourth transmission ring gear 110A, and the sixth transmission ring gear 122A are in the enabling state. In a case where the first transmission path is selected from the transmission paths, the rotational states of the fifth transmission ring gear 110B and the seventh transmission ring gear 134A are in the restricting state.

[0176] In a case where the second transmission path is selected from the transmission paths, the rotational states of the first transmission ring gear 80A, the second transmission ring gear 80B, the fifth transmission ring gear 110B, the third transmission ring gear 96A, and the sixth transmission ring gear 122A are in the enabling state. In a case where the second transmission path is selected from the transmission paths, the rotational states of the fourth transmission ring gear 110A and the seventh transmission ring gear 134A are in the restricting state.

[0177] In a case where the third transmission path is selected from the transmission paths, the rotational states of the first transmission ring gear 80A, the third transmission ring gear 96A, the fourth transmission ring gear 110A, the fifth transmission ring gear 110B, and the sixth transmission ring gear 122A are in the enabling state. In a case where the third transmission path is selected from the transmission paths, the rotational states of the second transmission ring gear 80B and the seventh transmission ring gear 134A are in the restricting state.

[0178] In a case where the fourth transmission path is selected from the transmission paths, the rotational states of the second transmission ring gear 80B, the third transmission ring gear 96A, the fourth transmission ring gear 110A, the fifth transmission ring gear 110B, and the sixth transmission ring gear 122A are in the enabling state. In a case where the fourth transmission path is selected from the transmission paths, the rotational states of the first transmission ring gear 80A and the seventh transmission ring gear 134A are in the restricting state.

[0179] In a case where the fifth transmission path is selected from the transmission paths, the rotational states of the first transmission ring gear 80A, the second transmission ring gear 80B, the third transmission ring gear 96A, the fourth transmission ring gear 110A, and the seventh transmission ring gear 134A are in the enabled state. In a case where the fifth transmission path is selected from the transmission paths, the rotational states of the fifth transmission ring gear 110B and the sixth transmission ring gear 122A are in the restricted state.

[0180] In a case where the sixth transmission path is selected from the transmission paths, the rotational states of the first transmission ring gear 80A, the second transmission ring gear 80B, the fifth transmission ring gear 110B, the third transmission ring gear 96A, and the seventh transmission ring gear 134A are in the enabling state. In a case where the sixth transmission path is selected from the transmission paths, the rotational states of the fourth transmission ring gear 110A and the sixth transmission ring gear 122A are in the restricting state.

[0181] In a case where the seventh transmission path is selected from the transmission paths, the rotational states of the first transmission ring gear 80A, the third transmission ring gear 96A, the fourth transmission ring gear 110A, the fifth transmission ring gear 110B, and the seventh transmission ring gear 134A are in the enabling state. In a case where the seventh transmission path is selected from the transmission paths, the rotational states of the second transmission ring gear 80B and the sixth transmission ring gear 122A are in the restricting state.

[0182] In a case where the eighth transmission path is selected from the transmission paths, the rotational states of the second transmission ring gear 80B, the third transmission ring gear 96A, the fourth transmission ring gear 110A, the fifth transmission ring gear 110B, and the seventh transmission ring gear 134A are in the enabling state. In a case where the eighth transmission path is selected from the transmission paths, the rotational states of the first transmission ring gear 80A and the sixth transmission ring gear 122A are in the restricting state.

[0183] In a case where the ninth transmission path is selected from the transmission paths, the rotational states of the first transmission ring gear 80A, the second transmission ring gear 80B, the fourth transmission ring gear 110A, the sixth transmission ring gear 122A, and the seventh transmission ring gear 134A are in the enabled state. In a case where the ninth transmission path is selected from the transmission paths, the rotational states of the third transmission ring gear 96A and the fifth transmission ring gear 110B are in the restricted state.

[0184] In a case where the tenth transmission path is selected from the transmission paths, the rotational states of the first transmission ring gear 80A, the second transmission ring gear 80B, the fifth transmission ring gear 110B, the sixth transmission ring gear 122A, and the seventh transmission ring gear 134A are in the enabling state. In a case where the tenth transmission path is selected from the transmission paths, the rotational states of the third transmission ring gear 96A and the fourth transmission ring gear 110A are in the restricting state.

[0185] In a case where the eleventh transmission path is selected from the transmission paths, the rotational states of the first transmission ring gear 80A, the fourth transmission ring gear 110A, the fifth transmission ring gear 110B, the sixth transmission ring gear 122A, and the seventh transmission ring gear 134A are in the enabling state. In a case where the eleventh transmission path is selected from the transmission paths, the rotational states of the second transmission ring gear 80B and the third transmission ring gear 96A are in the restricting state.

[0186] In a case where the twelfth transmission path is selected from the transmission paths, the rotational states of the second transmission ring gear 80B, the fourth transmission ring gear 110A, the fifth transmission ring gear 110B, the sixth transmission ring gear 122A, and the seventh transmission ring gear 134A are in the enabling state. In a case where the twelfth transmission path is selected from the transmission paths, the rotational states of the first transmission ring gear 80A and the third transmission ring gear 96A are in the restricting state.

[0187] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 12 to 17, the rotation controller 54 selects between the restriction state and the release state of the gear ring gear 52D. The gear ring gear 52D includes, for example, at least one engagement portion 52E. The at least one engagement portion 52E is provided, for example, on an outer peripheral portion of the gear ring gear 52D. The at least one engagement portion 52E includes, for example, a plurality of engagement portions 52E. The engagement portions 52E are arranged, for example, on the outer peripheral portion of the gear ring gear 52D at intervals around the rotational center axis C2 of the shaft member 22. The engagement portions 52E include, for example, recesses or projections.

[0188] The control element 60 includes, for example, a contact portion 60A and an engagement portion 60B. The contact portion 60A contacts the cam 58. The engagement portion 60B engages the engagement portion 52E. The contact portion 60A is formed integrally with the engagement portion 60B. The engagement portion 60B includes, for example, a projection or a recess.

[0189] The rotation control 54 restricts the rotation of the gear ring gear 52D, for example, by engaging the engaging portion 60B of the control element 60 with the engaging portion 52E of the gear ring gear 52D. In this case, the gear ring gear 52D is in a restricted state. The rotation control 54 permits a rotational state of the gear ring gear 52D, for example, by disengaging the engaging portion 60B of the control element 60 from the engaging portion 52E of the gear ring gear 52D. In this case, the gear ring gear 52D is in the released state.

[0190] The engagement state between the engagement portion 60B and the engagement portion 52E changes, for example, according to the contact state between the cam 58 and the contact portion 60A. The rotation controller 54 switches, for example, the rotation state of the transmission ring gear 52D between the release state and the restriction state to switch from one of the transmission paths to another of the transmission paths.

[0191] The transmission device 24 includes, for example, a first rotary control 138, a second rotary control 140, and a locking mechanism 142. The at least one rotary control 54 includes, for example, the first rotary control 138 and the second rotary control 140.

[0192] The first rotation controller 138 includes, for example, a first camshaft 138A and is configured to control the first gear 66. The at least one camshaft 56 includes, for example, the first camshaft 138A. The first rotation controller 138 is configured, for example, to select one of the first gear ratios of the first gear 66 according to the rotation of the first camshaft 138A. The first rotation controller 138 is configured, for example, to select one of the first gear ratios of the first gear 66 by controlling the rotational state of the first ring gear 80 according to the rotation of the first camshaft 138A.

[0193] The first rotation control 138 includes, for example, a first cam 144 and a first control element 146. The first cam 144 is arranged on the first camshaft 138A to rotate integrally with the first camshaft 138A. The first control element 146 is moved between the first cam 144 and the first ring gear 80. The cam 58 includes, for example, the first cam 144. The control element 60 includes, for example, the first control element 146.

[0194] The first cam 144 and the first control element 146 are provided, for example, on each of the first ring gears 80. The first rotation control 138 includes, for example, a first transmission cam 144A and a first transmission control element 146A corresponding to the first transmission ring gear 80A. The first rotation control 138 includes, for example, a second transmission cam 144B and a second transmission control element 146B corresponding to the second transmission ring gear 80B.

[0195] The first rotation control 138 limits the rotation of the first ring gear 80, for example, by the engagement of the first control element 146 with the first ring gear 80. The first rotation control 138 limits the rotation of the first transmission ring gear 80A, for example, by the engagement of the engagement portion 60B of the first transmission control element 146A with the engagement portion 52E of the first transmission ring gear 80A. The first rotation control 138 limits the rotation of the second transmission ring gear 80B, for example, by the engagement of the engagement portion 60B of the second transmission control element 146B with the engagement portion 52E of the second transmission ring gear 80B.

[0196] The first cam 144 includes, for example, a first cam surface 144C and a second cam surface 144D. The first cam surface 144C is, for example, lower than the second cam surface 144D in the radial direction of the first camshaft 138A.

[0197] The first rotation control 138 restricts the rotation of the first ring gear 80, for example, in a case where the first control element 146 contacts the first cam surface 144C. The first rotation control 138 restricts the rotation of the first gear ring gear 80A, for example, in a case where the contact portion 60A of the first gear control element 146A contacts the first cam surface 144C of the first gear cam 144A. The first rotation control 138 restricts the rotation of the second gear ring gear 80B, for example, in a case where the contact portion 60A of the second gear control element 146B contacts the first cam surface 144C of the second gear cam 144B.

[0198] The first rotation control 138 enables rotation of the first ring gear 80 in a case where, for example, the first control element 146 contacts the second cam surface 144D. The first rotation control 138 enables rotation of the first gear ring gear 80A in a case where, for example, the contact portion 60A of the first gear control element 146A contacts the second cam surface 144D of the first gear cam 144A. The first rotation control 138 enables rotation of the second gear ring gear 80B in a case where, for example, the contact portion 60A of the second gear control element 146B contacts the second cam surface 144D of the second gear cam 144B.

[0199] The second rotation controller 140 includes, for example, a second camshaft 140A arranged coaxially with the first camshaft 138A. The second rotation controller 140 is configured to control the second gear 68. The at least one camshaft 56 includes, for example, the second camshaft 140A. The second rotation controller 140 is configured, for example, to select one of the second gear ratios of the second gear 68 according to the rotation of the second camshaft 140A. The second rotation controller 140 is configured, for example, to select one of the second gear ratios of the second gear 68 by controlling the rotational state of the second ring gear 96 according to the rotation of the second camshaft 140A.

[0200] The second rotation control 140 includes, for example, a second cam 148 and a second control element 150. The second cam 148 is provided on the second camshaft 140A to rotate integrally with the second camshaft 140A. The second control element 150 is arranged to move between the second cam 148 and the second ring gear 96. The cam 58 includes, for example, the second cam 148. The control element 60 includes, for example, the second control element 150.

[0201] The second cam 148 and the second control element 150 are provided, for example, on each of the second ring gears 96. The second rotation control 140 includes, for example, a third transmission cam 148A and a third transmission control element 150A, which correspond to the third transmission ring gear 96A.

[0202] The second rotation control 140 limits the rotation of the second ring gear 96, for example, by engagement of the second control element 150 with the second ring gear 96. The second rotation control 140 limits the rotation of the third ring gear 96A, for example, by engagement of the engagement portion 60B of the third transmission control element 150A with the engagement portion 52E of the third ring gear 96A.

[0203] The second cam 148 includes, for example, a third cam surface 148B and a fourth cam surface 148C. The third cam surface 148B is, for example, lower than the fourth cam surface 148C in the radial direction of the second camshaft 140A.

[0204] The second rotation control 140 restricts the rotation of the second ring gear 96 in a case where, for example, the second control element 150 contacts the third cam surface 148B. The second rotation control 140 restricts the rotation of the third transmission ring gear 96A in a case where, for example, the contact portion 60A of the third transmission control element 150A contacts the third cam surface 148B of the third transmission cam 148A.

[0205] The second rotation control 140 enables rotation of the second ring gear 96 in a case where, for example, the second control element 150 contacts the fourth cam surface 148C. The second rotation control 140 enables rotation of the third gear ring gear 96A in a case where, for example, the contact portion 60A of the third gear control element 150A contacts the fourth cam surface 148C of the third gear cam 148A.

[0206] The first rotation controller 138 is configured, for example, to select one of the first transmission ratios by controlling the rotational state of the third ring gear 110 according to the rotation of the first camshaft 138A. The first rotation controller 138 includes, for example, a third cam 152 and a third control element 154. The third cam 152 is arranged on the first camshaft 138A to rotate integrally with the first camshaft 138A. The third control element 154 is moved between the third cam 152 and the third ring gear 110. The cam 58 includes, for example, the third cam 152. The control element 60 includes, for example, the third control element 154.

[0207] The third cam 152 and the third control element 154 are provided, for example, on each of the third ring gears 110. The first rotation control 138 includes, for example, a fourth gear cam 152A and a fourth gear control element 154A corresponding to the fourth gear ring gear 110A. The first rotation control 138 includes, for example, a fifth gear cam 152B and a fifth gear control element 154B corresponding to the fifth gear ring gear 110B.

[0208] The first rotation control 138 limits the rotation of the third ring gear 110, for example, by engagement of the third control element 154 with the third ring gear 110. The first rotation control 138 limits the rotation of the fourth ring gear 110A, for example, by engagement of the engagement portion 60B of the fourth transmission control element 154A with the engagement portion 52E of the fourth ring gear 110A. The first rotation control 138 limits the rotation of the fifth transmission ring gear 110B, for example, by engagement of the engagement portion 60B of the fifth transmission control element 154B with the engagement portion 52E of the fifth transmission ring gear 110B.

[0209] The third cam 152 includes, for example, a fifth cam surface 152C and a sixth cam surface 152D. The fifth cam surface 152C is, for example, lower than the sixth cam surface 152D in the radial direction of the first camshaft 138A.

[0210] The first rotation control 138 restricts the rotation of the third ring gear 110, for example, when the third control element 154 contacts the fifth cam surface 152C. The first rotation control 138 restricts the rotation of the fourth gear ring gear 110A, for example, in a case where the contact portion 60A of the fourth gear control element 154A contacts the fifth cam surface 152C of the fourth gear cam 152A. The first rotation control 138 restricts the rotation of the fifth gear ring gear 110B in a case where, for example, the contact portion 60A of the fifth gear control element 154B contacts the fifth cam surface 152C of the fifth gear cam 152B.

[0211] The first rotation control 138 enables rotation of the third ring gear 110 in a case where, for example, the third control element 154 contacts the sixth cam surface 152D. The first rotation control 138 enables rotation of the fourth gear ring gear 110A in a case where, for example, the contact portion 60A of the fourth gear control element 154A contacts the sixth cam surface 152D of the fourth gear cam 152A. The first rotation control 138 enables rotation of the fifth gear ring gear 110B in a case where, for example, the contact portion 60A of the fifth gear control element 154B contacts the sixth cam surface 152D of the fifth gear cam 152B.

[0212] The second rotation controller 140 is configured, for example, to select one of the second transmission ratios by controlling the rotational state of the fourth ring gear 122 according to the rotation of the second camshaft 140A. The second rotation controller 140 includes, for example, a fourth cam 156 and a fourth control element 158. The fourth cam 156 is arranged on the second camshaft 140A to rotate integrally with the second camshaft 140A. The fourth control element 158 ​​is moved between the fourth cam 156 and the fourth ring gear 122. The cam 58 encloses, for example, the fourth cam 156. The control element 60 includes, for example, the fourth control element 158.

[0213] The fourth cam 156 and the fourth control element 158 ​​are provided, for example, on each of the fourth ring gears 122. The second rotation control 140 includes, for example, a sixth gear cam 156A and a sixth gear control element 158A, which correspond to the sixth gear ring gear 122A.

[0214] The second rotation control 140 limits the rotation of the fourth ring gear 122, for example, by the engagement of the fourth control element 158 ​​with the fourth ring gear 122. The second rotation control 140 limits the rotation of the sixth ring gear 122A, for example, by the engagement of the engagement portion 60B of the sixth gear control element 158A with the engagement portion 52E of the sixth ring gear 122A.

[0215] The fourth cam 156 includes, for example, a seventh cam surface 156B and an eighth cam surface 156C. The seventh cam surface 156B is, for example, lower than the eighth cam surface 156C in the radial direction of the second camshaft 140A.

[0216] The second rotation control 140 restricts the rotation of the fourth ring gear 122 in a case where, for example, the fourth control element 158 ​​contacts the seventh cam surface 156B. The second rotation control 140 restricts the rotation of the sixth gear ring gear 122A in a case where, for example, the contact portion 60A of the sixth gear control element 158A contacts the seventh cam surface 156B of the sixth gear cam 156A.

[0217] The second rotation control 140 enables rotation of the fourth ring gear 122 in a case where, for example, the fourth control element 158 ​​contacts the eighth cam surface 156C. The second rotation control 140 enables rotation of the sixth gear ring gear 122A in a case where, for example, the contact portion 60A of the sixth gear control element 158A contacts the eighth cam surface 156C of the sixth gear cam 156A.

[0218] The second rotation controller 140 is configured, for example, to select one of the second transmission ratios by controlling the rotational state of the fifth ring gear 134 according to the rotation of the second camshaft 140A. The second rotation controller 140 includes, for example, a fifth cam 160 and a fifth control element 162. The fifth cam 160 is arranged on the second camshaft 140A to rotate integrally with the second camshaft 140A. The fifth control element 162 is moved between the fifth cam 160 and the fifth ring gear 134. The cam 58 includes, for example, the fifth cam 160. The control element 60 includes, for example, the fifth control element 162.

[0219] The fifth cam 160 and the fifth control element 162 are provided, for example, on each of the fifth ring gears 134. The second rotation control 140 includes, for example, a seventh gear cam 160A and a seventh gear control element 162A, which correspond to the seventh gear ring gear 134A.

[0220] The second rotation control 140 limits the rotation of the fifth ring gear 134, for example, by engaging the fifth control element 162 with the fifth ring gear 134. The second rotation control 140 limits the rotation of the seventh ring gear 134A, for example, by engaging the engagement portion 60B of the seventh transmission control element 162A with the engagement portion 52E of the seventh ring gear 134A.

[0221] The fifth cam 160 includes, for example, a ninth cam surface 160B and a tenth cam surface 160C. The ninth cam surface 160B is, for example, lower than the tenth cam surface 160C in the radial direction of the second camshaft 140A.

[0222] The second rotation control 140 restricts the rotation of the fifth ring gear 134 in a case where, for example, the fifth control element 162 contacts the ninth cam surface 160B. The second rotation control 140 restricts the rotation of the seventh gear ring gear 134A in a case where, for example, the contact portion 60A of the seventh gear control element 162A contacts the ninth cam surface 160B of the seventh gear cam 160A.

[0223] The second rotation control 140 enables rotation of the fifth ring gear 134 in a case where, for example, the fifth control element 162 contacts the tenth cam surface 160C. The second rotation control 140 enables rotation of the seventh gear ring gear 134A in a case where, for example, the contact portion 60A of the seventh gear control element 162A contacts the tenth cam surface 160C of the seventh gear cam 160A.

[0224] As in the Fig. 12, Fig. 13 and Fig. 18, the transmission device 24 further includes, for example, a drive 28 including the drive shaft 62 and the gear motor 28A. The drive shaft 62 rotates the first camshaft 138A and the second camshaft 140A with the locking mechanism 142. The gear motor 28A rotates the drive shaft 62. The locking mechanism 142 locks, for example, the first camshaft 138A and the second camshaft 140A. The drive shaft 62 extends, for example, parallel to the first camshaft 138A and the second camshaft 140A.

[0225] The locking mechanism 142 includes, for example, a first rotary link 164. The first camshaft 138A is coupled, for example, via the first rotary link 164, to the drive shaft 62 to rotate integrally with the drive shaft 62. The first rotary link 164 includes, for example, a spur gear. The first rotary link 164 includes, for example, a first spur gear 164A and a second spur gear 164B. The first spur gear 164A and the second spur gear 164B have substantially the same pitch diameter. The first spur gear 164A is arranged, for example, on the drive shaft 62 to rotate integrally with the drive shaft 62. The second spur gear 164B is provided, for example, on the first camshaft 138A to rotate integrally with the first camshaft 138A.

[0226] The locking mechanism 142 includes, for example, a second rotary link 168. The second rotary link 168 includes a first locking gear 168A and a second locking gear 168B that meshes with the first locking gear 168A. The first locking gear 168A is provided, for example, on the drive shaft 62 to rotate integrally with the drive shaft 62. The second locking gear 168B is provided, for example, on the second camshaft 140A to rotate integrally with the second camshaft 140A.

[0227] The second rotary link 168 switches, for example, an engagement state of the first locking gear 168A and the second locking gear 168B according to a rotation angle of the drive shaft 62. One of the first locking gear 168A and the second locking gear 168B is, for example, a sector gear whose teeth are formed only along a portion of its circumference. The other of the first locking gear 168A and the second locking gear 168B meshes with one of the first locking gear 168A and the second locking gear 168B, for example, only via the toothed portion of the sector gear.For example, in a case where an untoothed portion of the sector gear of one of the first locking gear 168A and the second locking gear 168B faces the other of the first locking gear 168A and the second locking gear 168B, one of the first locking gear 168A and the second locking gear 168B rotates relative to the other of the first locking gear 168A and the second locking gear 168B.

[0228] The second rotary link 168 is configured, for example, to transmit torque of the drive shaft 62 to the second camshaft 140A in a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is within a predetermined range. Further, the second rotary link 168 is configured, for example, not to transmit torque of the drive shaft 62 to the second camshaft 140A in a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is outside the predetermined range. In a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is included in the predetermined range, for example, the teeth of the sector gear of one of the first locking gear 168A and the second locking gear 168B mesh with the other of the first locking gear 168A and the second locking gear 168B.In a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is outside the predetermined range, for example, the non-toothed portion of the sector gear of one of the first locking gear 168A and the second locking gear 168B is opposed to the other of the first locking gear 168A and the second locking gear 168B.

[0229] The locking mechanism 142 is configured, for example, to lock the first camshaft 138A and the second camshaft 140A to limit the rotation of the first ring gear 80 and the second ring gear 96 regardless of the rotational phase of the drive shaft 62. The locking mechanism 142 is configured, for example, to lock the first camshaft 138A and the second camshaft 140A to limit the rotation of the first ring gear 80, the second ring gear 96, the third ring gear 110, the fourth ring gear 122, and the fifth ring gear 134 regardless of the rotational phase of the drive shaft 62.

[0230] The locking mechanism 142 includes, for example, a control shaft 60C. The control element 60 is rotatably supported by the control shaft 60C about a rotational axis of the control shaft 60C. The locking mechanism 142 includes, for example, a biasing element 60D. The biasing element 60D biases the control element 60 about the rotational axis of the control shaft 60C so that the control element 60 contacts the cam 58. The biasing element 60D includes, for example, a torsion coil spring. The biasing element 60D can be, for example, a coil spring.

[0231] The locking mechanism 142 includes, for example, a first control shaft 142A, which is different from the first camshaft 138A, the second camshaft 140A, and the drive shaft 62. The control shaft 60C includes, for example, the first control shaft 142A. The first control element 146 is provided, for example, on the first control shaft 142A. The third control element 154 is provided, for example, on the first control shaft 142A. The first control element 146 and the third control element 154 are arranged, for example, side by side on the first control shaft 142A in the axial direction A1.

[0232] The locking mechanism 142 includes, for example, a second control shaft 142B, which is different from the first camshaft 138A, the second camshaft 140A, and the drive shaft 62. The control shaft 60C includes, for example, the second control shaft 142B. The second control element 150 is provided, for example, on the second control shaft 142B. The fourth control element 158 ​​is provided, for example, on the second control shaft 142B. The fifth control element 162 is provided, for example, on the second control shaft 142B. The second control element 150, the fourth control element 158, and the fifth control element 162 are arranged side by side on the second control shaft 142B in the axial direction A1, for example.

[0233] The first control shaft 142A is, for example, spaced from the second control shaft 142B. The first control shaft 142A extends, for example, parallel to the second control shaft 142B. The first control element 146 and the third control element 154 extend, for example, from the first control shaft 142A to the second control shaft 142B. The second control element 150, the fourth control element 158, and the fifth control element 162 extend, for example, from the second control shaft 142B to the first control shaft 142A. The first control element 146 and the third control element 154 extend in a direction opposite the direction in which the second control element 150, the fourth control element 158, and the fifth control element 162 extend.

[0234] For example, the driver 28 rotates the drive shaft 62 and switches the rotational state of the transmission ring gear 52D between the restricted state and the released state to select one of the transmission paths. For example, the driver 28 switches the rotational state of the transmission ring gear 52D between the restricted state and the released state during a period in which the drive shaft 62 completes three rotations to select one of the first through twelfth transmission paths.

[0235] Fig. 19 shows the switching of the rotational states of the first gear ring gear 80A, the second gear ring gear 80B, the fourth gear ring gear 110A, the fifth gear ring gear 110B, an n-th gear ring gear, and an m-th gear ring gear according to the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62. The "n" is, for example, a positive integer. The "m" is, for example, a positive integer. The n-th gear ring gear and the m-th gear ring gear correspond, respectively, to the third gear ring gear 96A, the sixth gear ring gear 122A, and the seventh gear ring gear 134A according to the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62. For example, in a case where "n" is seven, "m" is six. For example, in a case where "n" is six, "m" is three. For example, in a case where “n” is three, “m” is seven.

[0236] In the following, the angles of rotation during the first rotation of the drive shaft 62 are between 0 degrees and 360 degrees, the angles of rotation during the second rotation of the drive shaft 62 are between 360 degrees and 720 degrees, and the angles of rotation during the third rotation of the drive shaft 62 are between 720 degrees and 1080 degrees. Fig. 19 For example, 0 degrees to 360 degrees correspond to 360 degrees to 720 degrees and 720 degrees to 1080 degrees.

[0237] In the Fig. 19, the first locking gear 168A is the sector gear. In a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 in Fig. 19 is 0 degrees, the sector gear of the first locking gear 168A is in a state in which the first locking gear 168A is disengaged from the second locking gear 168B, as shown in Fig. 18. As the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 increases, the drive shaft 62 is rotated, for example, in a direction in which the sector gear of the first locking gear 168A moves away from the second locking gear 168B. For example, the sector gear of the first locking gear 168A meshes with the second locking gear 168B in a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is 277 degrees or more and 360 degrees or less. For example, the sector gear of the first locking gear 168A meshes with the second locking gear 168B when the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is 637 degrees or more and 720 degrees or less.

[0238] In a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is 0 degrees or more and 360 degrees or less, the n-th gear ring gear corresponds to the seventh gear ring gear 134A, and the m-th gear ring gear corresponds to the sixth gear ring gear 122A. In a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is 0 degrees or more and 290 degrees or less, the rotation state of the sixth gear ring gear 122A is in the release state, and the rotation state of the seventh gear ring gear 134A is in the restriction state. In a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is 0 degrees or more and 360 degrees or less, the rotation state of the third gear ring gear 96A is continuously in the release state.

[0239] In a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is a first rotation angle, the rotation state of the fifth gear ring gear 110B is in the restricted state, and the rotation states of the first gear ring gear 80A, the second gear ring gear 80B, and the fourth gear ring gear 110A are in the enabled state. Accordingly, in a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is the first rotation angle, the first transmission path is selected from the transmission paths. The first rotation angle is, for example, 0 degrees or more and 12 degrees or less.

[0240] In a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is a second rotation angle, the rotation state of the fourth gear ring gear 110A is in the restricted state, and the rotation states of the first gear ring gear 80A, the second gear ring gear 80B, and the fifth gear ring gear 110B are in the enabled state. Accordingly, in a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is the second rotation angle, the second transmission path is selected from the transmission paths. The second rotation angle is, for example, 82 degrees or more and 93 degrees or less.

[0241] In a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is a third rotation angle, the rotation state of the second gear ring gear 80B is in the restricted state, and the rotation states of the first gear ring gear 80A, the fourth gear ring gear 110A, and the fifth gear ring gear 110B are in the enabled state. Accordingly, in a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is the third rotation angle, the third transmission path is selected from the transmission paths. The third rotation angle is, for example, 163 degrees or more and 174 degrees or less.

[0242] In a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is a fourth rotation angle, the rotation state of the first gear ring gear 80A is in the restricted state, and the rotation states of the second gear ring gear 80B, the fourth gear ring gear 110A, and the fifth gear ring gear 110B are in the enabled state. Accordingly, in a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is the fourth rotation angle, the fourth transmission path is selected from the transmission paths. The fourth rotation angle is, for example, 244 degrees or more and 255 degrees or less.

[0243] In a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is 360 degrees or more and 720 degrees or less, the n-th gear ring gear corresponds to the sixth gear ring gear 122A, and the m-th gear ring gear corresponds to the third gear ring gear 96A. In a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is 360 degrees or more and 650 degrees or less, the rotation state of the third gear ring gear 96A is in the release state and the rotation state of the sixth gear ring gear 122A is in the restriction state. In a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is 360 degrees or more and 720 degrees or less, the rotation state of the seventh gear ring gear 134A is always in the release state.

[0244] In a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is a fifth rotation angle, the rotation state of the fifth gear ring gear 110B is in the restricted state, and the rotation states of the first gear ring gear 80A, the second gear ring gear 80B, and the fourth gear ring gear 110A are in the enabled state. Accordingly, in a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is the fifth rotation angle, the fifth transmission path is selected from the transmission paths. The fifth rotation angle is, for example, 360 degrees or more and 372 degrees or less.

[0245] In a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is a sixth rotation angle, the rotation state of the fourth gear ring gear 110A is in the restricted state, and the rotation states of the first gear ring gear 80A, the second gear ring gear 80B, and the fifth gear ring gear 110B are in the enabled state. Accordingly, in a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is the sixth rotation angle, the sixth transmission path is selected from the transmission paths. The sixth rotation angle is, for example, 442 degrees or more and 453 degrees or less.

[0246] In a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is a seventh rotation angle, the rotation state of the second gear ring gear 80B is in the restricted state, and the rotation states of the first gear ring gear 80A, the fourth gear ring gear 110A, and the fifth gear ring gear 110B are in the enabled state. Accordingly, in a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is the seventh rotation angle, the seventh transmission path is selected from the transmission paths. The seventh rotation angle is, for example, 523 degrees or less and 534 degrees or less.

[0247] In a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is an eighth rotation angle, the rotation state of the first gear ring gear 80A is in the restricted state, and the rotation states of the second gear ring gear 80B, the fourth gear ring gear 110A, and the fifth gear ring gear 110B are in the enabled state. Accordingly, in a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is the eighth rotation angle, the eighth transmission path is selected from the transmission paths. The eighth rotation angle is, for example, 604 degrees or more and 615 degrees or less.

[0248] In a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is 720 degrees or more and 1080 degrees or less, the n-th gear ring gear corresponds to the third gear ring gear 96A, and the m-th gear ring gear corresponds to the seventh gear ring gear 134A. In a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is 720 degrees or more and 1010 degrees or less, the rotation state of the seventh gear ring gear 134A is in the release state and the rotation state of the third gear ring gear 96A is in the restriction state. In a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is 720 degrees or more and 1080 degrees or less, the rotation state of the sixth gear ring gear 122A is continuously in the release state.

[0249] In a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is a ninth rotation angle, the rotation state of the fifth gear ring gear 110B is in the restricted state, and the rotation states of the first gear ring gear 80A, the second gear ring gear 80B, and the fourth gear ring gear 110A are in the enabled state. Accordingly, in a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is the ninth rotation angle, the ninth transmission path is selected from the transmission paths. The ninth rotation angle is, for example, 720 degrees or more and 732 degrees or less.

[0250] In a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is a tenth rotation angle, the rotation state of the fourth gear ring gear 110A is in the restricted state, and the rotation states of the first gear ring gear 80A, the second gear ring gear 80B, and the fifth gear ring gear 110B are in the enabled state. Accordingly, in a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is the tenth rotation angle, the tenth transmission path is selected from the transmission paths. The tenth rotation angle is, for example, 802 degrees or more and 813 degrees or less.

[0251] In a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is an eleventh rotation angle, the rotation state of the second gear ring gear 80B is in the restricted state, and the rotation states of the first gear ring gear 80A, the fourth gear ring gear 110A, and the fifth gear ring gear 110B are in the enabled state. Accordingly, in a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is the eleventh rotation angle, the eleventh transmission path is selected from the transmission paths. The eleventh rotation angle is, for example, 883 degrees or more and 894 degrees or less.

[0252] In a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is a twelfth rotation angle, the rotation state of the first gear ring gear 80A is in the restricted state, and the rotation states of the second gear ring gear 80B, the fourth gear ring gear 110A, and the fifth gear ring gear 110B are in the enabled state. Accordingly, in a case where the rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is the twelfth rotation angle, the twelfth transmission path is selected from the transmission paths. The twelfth rotation angle is, for example, 964 degrees or more and 975 degrees or less.

[0253] The first transmission ratios include, for example, a first predetermined transmission ratio and a second predetermined transmission ratio that is the next higher than the first predetermined transmission ratio. The first transmission ratio 66 has, for example, a first transmission pitch. The first transmission pitch is, for example, a ratio of the second predetermined transmission ratio to the first predetermined transmission ratio. In a case where the first transmission ratios include, for example, two first transmission ratios, the first transmission 66 has a single first transmission pitch. In a case where the first transmission ratios include, for example, three or more first transmission ratios, the first transmission 66 has multiple first transmission pitches.

[0254] Each of the first transmission ratios is, for example, 1 or greater. Each of the first transmission ratios may be less than 1. The first transmission ratios are, for example, 1 or greater and 10 or less. The first transmission ratios are, for example, 2 or greater and 6 or less. The first transmission pitch is, for example, 1.0 or greater and 1.3 or less. The difference between a maximum value and a minimum value of the first transmission pitch is, for example, 0.01 or more and 0.02 or less. The difference between the maximum value and the minimum value of the first transmission pitch may be, for example, 0.011 or greater and 0.012 or less.

[0255] The second transmission ratios include, for example, a third predetermined transmission ratio and a fourth transmission ratio that is the next higher after the third predetermined transmission ratio. The second transmission 68 has, for example, a second transmission pitch. The second transmission pitch is, for example, a ratio between the fourth predetermined transmission ratio and the third predetermined transmission ratio. In a case where the second transmission ratios include, for example, two second transmission ratios, the second transmission 68 has a single first transmission pitch. In a case where the second transmission ratios include, for example, three or more second transmission ratios, the second transmission 68 has multiple second transmission pitches.

[0256] Each of the second transmission ratios is, for example, 1 or less. Each of the second transmission ratios can be, for example, greater than 1. The second transmission ratios are, for example, greater than 0 and less than or equal to 1. The second transmission ratios are, for example, 0.1 or greater and 0.6 or less. The second transmission ratios are, for example, 1.8 or greater and 2.1 or less. The difference between a maximum value and a minimum value of the second transmission pitch is, for example, 0.06 or more and 0.07 or less. The difference between the maximum value and the minimum value of the second transmission pitch can be, for example, 0.014 or greater and 0.015 or less.

[0257] The first gear pitch is, for example, smaller than the second gear pitch. For example, in a case where the first gear 66 has multiple first gear pitches and the second gear 68 has multiple second gear pitches, all first gear pitches are smaller than all second gear pitches. In a case where the first gear 66 has multiple first gear pitches and the second gear 68 has multiple second gear pitches, at least one of the first gear pitches can be smaller than at least one of the second gear pitches.

[0258] In a case where the first gear 66 has a plurality of first gear pitches and the second gear 68 has a single second gear pitch, at least one of the first gear pitches may be smaller than the second gear pitch. In a case where the first gear 66 has a plurality of first gear pitches and the second gear 68 has a single second gear pitch, all of the first gear pitches may be smaller than the second gear pitch. In a case where the first gear 66 has a single first gear pitch and the second gear 68 has a plurality of second gear pitches, the first gear pitch may be smaller than at least one of the second gear pitches. In a case where the first gear 66 has a single first gear pitch and the second gear 68 has a plurality of second gear pitches, the first gear pitch may be smaller than all of the second gear pitches.

[0259] In the present embodiment, the first transmission ratios include four first transmission ratios, and the second transmission ratios include three second transmission ratios. Table 2 shows the first transmission ratios and the first transmission pitches according to the present embodiment. Table 3 shows the second transmission ratios and the second transmission pitches according to the present embodiment. In Table 2, the difference between the maximum value and the minimum value of the first transmission pitch is, for example, 0.013. In Table 3, the difference between the maximum value and the minimum value of the second transmission pitch is, for example, 0.066. Table 2 1. Übertragungsverhältnis 1. Getriebesteigung 3,07 3,60 1,173 4,27 1,186 5,02 1,176 Table 3 2. Übertragungsverhältnis 2. Getriebesteigung 0,14 0,26 1,857 0,50 1,923 Second embodiment

[0260] A component 20 and a transmission device 24 according to a second embodiment will now be described with reference to the Fig. 20 to 23. Those elements of the component 20 and the transmission device 24 in the second embodiment that are identical to the corresponding elements of the component 20 and the transmission device 24 in the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals. These components will not be described in detail.

[0261] The human-powered vehicle component 20 according to the second embodiment includes, for example, the transmission device 24 and a drive motor 170. The human-powered vehicle component 20 includes, for example, the crank axle carrier 40, the power link 42, and the output rotary shaft 34.

[0262] The drive motor 170 is configured, for example, to supply propulsion power to the human-powered vehicle. The drive motor 170 is, for example, an assist motor. The drive motor 170 has, for example, a drive motor rotary shaft 170A. The drive motor rotary shaft 170A extends, for example, parallel to the crank axis 10, the shaft element 22, and the output rotary shaft 34. The drive motor rotary shaft 170A is, for example, spaced apart from the shaft element 22 and the output rotary shaft 34. The drive motor rotary shaft 170A can be arranged coaxially with the crank axis 10.

[0263] As in Fig. 23, the drive motor 170 is arranged, for example, so that the drive motor 170 overlaps at least a part of the transmission device 24 as seen in the direction B1 orthogonal to the crank axis 10 and the shaft element 22.

[0264] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 22, component 20 further includes, for example, a resultant force section 172. Drive motor 170 is configured, for example, to supply motor drive power, which is the drive force output from drive motor 170, to resultant force section 172, which is provided between power link 42 and transmission device 24 in the human drive power transmission path. Motor drive power is combined, for example, with human drive power by resultant force section 172.

[0265] The resultant force portion 172 includes, for example, at least one of the power link input portion 44M and the first input rotating body 66A. In a case where the resultant force portion 172 includes, for example, the power link input portion 44M, the power link input portion 44M is configured to receive the torque of the drive motor 170. Motor drive power is, for example, combined with human drive power through the power link input portion 44M. In a case where the resultant force portion 172 includes, for example, the first input rotating body 66A, the first input rotating body 66A is configured to receive the torque of the drive motor 170. Motor drive power is, for example, combined with human drive power through the first input rotating body 66A.

[0266] Component 20 also includes, for example, a drive motor speed reducer 170B. The drive motor speed reducer 170B receives, for example, motor drive power from the drive motor 170. The drive motor speed reducer 170B outputs, for example, motor drive power received from the drive motor 170 to the resultant power section 172. The drive motor speed reducer 170B connects, for example, the drive motor rotating shaft 170A and the resultant power section 172.

[0267] The drive motor speed reducer 170B includes, for example, at least one of gears, pulleys, and an endless annular member. The drive motor speed reducer 170B includes, for example, meshing gears. The annular endless member includes, for example, at least one of a chain and a belt. In a case where the drive motor speed reducer 170B includes gears and the annular endless member, the annular endless member includes, for example, a chain. In a case where the drive motor speed reducer 170B includes pulleys and the annular endless member, the annular endless member includes, for example, a belt. The drive motor speed reducer 170B may include a planetary gear mechanism.

[0268] Component 20 is, for example, a drive unit. Housing 38 contains, for example, the crank axle 10, the transmission device 24, the power connector 42, and the drive motor 170.

[0269] Component 20 also includes, for example, a third one-way clutch. The third one-way clutch is provided, for example, in a motor drive force transmission path extending from the drive motor 170 to the resultant force portion 172. The third one-way clutch transmits, for example, the rotational force of the drive motor 170 to the resultant force portion 172 and restricts the transmission of the rotational force of the resultant force portion 172 generated by human drive force to the drive motor 170. The third one-way clutch includes, for example, at least one of a roller clutch, a ratchet clutch, and a one-way clutch.

[0270] The drive unit includes, for example, a drive motor controller configured to control the drive motor 170. The drive motor controller is housed, for example, in the housing 38. The drive motor controller includes, for example, a processor that executes a predetermined control program. The processor includes, for example, a CPU or an MPU. The processor can be arranged at various locations. The drive motor controller can include one or more microcomputers. The drive motor controller also includes, for example, an inverter circuit. The inverter circuit is electrically connected to the processor and the drive motor 170. The drive motor controller can include the same processor as the control device 30A.

[0271] The drive motor controller includes, for example, a second memory. The second memory stores various types of control programs and information used for various types of control processes. The memory includes, for example, at least one non-volatile memory and one volatile memory. The non-volatile memory includes, for example, at least one ROM, an EPROM, an EEPROM, or a flash memory. The volatile memory includes, for example, a RAM. The second memory can contain the same memory as the gear motor memory. Modified examples

[0272] The description in connection with the above embodiments illustrates, without the intention of limitation, applicable forms of a component for a human-powered vehicle and a transmission device for a human-powered vehicle according to the present disclosure. The component for a human-powered vehicle and the transmission device for a human-powered vehicle according to the present disclosure are applicable, for example, to modified examples of the above embodiments described below and combinations of at least two of the modified examples that do not contradict each other. In the modified examples described below, the elements identical to the corresponding elements of the above embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals. Such components will not be described in detail.

[0273] As in Fig.24, the transmission device 24 may be configured to change the transmission ratio by pulling a cable 174. In the present modified example, the transmission device 24 does not need to include the gear motor 28A. In the present modified example, the human-powered vehicle includes, for example, a cable operating device 176 that rotates the drive shaft 62. In the present modified example, the driver 28 includes, for example, a cable attachment portion 178. The cable attachment portion 178 is attached to the cable operating device 176, for example, via the cable 174. The cable attachment portion 178 is provided, for example, on the drive shaft 62. The cable operating device 176 is provided, for example, on a handlebar of the human-powered vehicle. The driver operates the cable operating device 176 to change the pulling amount of the cable 174.The rotation angle of the drive shaft 62 is changed according to the amount of tension of the cable 174. The amount of tension of the cable 174 is maintained, for example, by a cable positioning mechanism. The cable positioning mechanism is provided, for example, on the cable operating device 176 or the cable attachment section 178. The cable positioning mechanism includes, for example, a ratchet.

[0274] At least one of the minimum transmission ratio and the maximum transmission ratio of the transmission device 24 can be changed. The minimum transmission ratio of the transmission device 24 can be greater than 1. The maximum transmission ratio of the transmission device 24 can be less than or equal to 1.

[0275] The first gear 66 may be omitted from the transmission device 24. Alternatively, the second gear 68 may be omitted from the transmission device 24. The transmission device 24 may include three or more transmission units 50.

[0276] Instead of or in addition to the transmission unit 50, the transmission device 24 may include a transmission unit with a gear mechanism that is not a planetary gear mechanism. For example, the transmission device 24 may include a transmission unit that includes a manual transmission with a clutch. For example, the transmission device 24 may include a transmission unit with a continuously variable transmission.

[0277] The component 20 can be provided on an axle of the wheel of the human-powered vehicle. In the present modified example, the component 20 is provided, for example, on the axle of the drive wheel. The drive wheel includes, for example, the rear wheel. The shaft member 22 includes, for example, a hub axle. The input rotary body 32 is, for example, not provided in the housing 38. The output rotary body 36 includes, for example, a hub shell. The output rotary shaft 34 is, for example, formed integrally with the output rotary body 36. The hub shell is, for example, formed integrally with the housing 38. The hub shell can be formed separately from the housing 38 and configured to rotate integrally with the housing 38. The component 20 is, for example, provided on a rear wheel hub of the rear wheel.

[0278] The drive motor speed reducer 170B may be omitted. For example, in a case where the drive motor speed reducer 170B is omitted, the motor drive force of the drive motor 170 is directly supplied to the power link input portion 44M or the first input rotary body 66A.

[0279] As long as the transmission device 24 for a human-powered vehicle, which enables switching to various transmission ratios, is configured as described below, any other structure may be omitted. The transmission device 24 for a human-powered vehicle includes the first gear 66 and the second gear 68. The first gear 66 receives drive power from the input rotating body 32 to which human drive power is supplied. The second gear 68 receives the drive power from the first gear 66. The first gear 66 includes the first input rotating body 66A and the first output rotating body 66B. The first gear 66 is configured to select a ratio of a rotation speed of the first output rotating body 66B to a rotation speed of the first input rotating body 66A from a plurality of first transmission ratios. The second gear 68 includes the second input rotating body 68A and the second output rotating body 68B.The second gear 68 is configured to select a ratio of a rotational speed of the second output rotary body 68B to a rotational speed of the second input rotary body 68A from a plurality of second gear ratios. Each of the first gear ratios is 1 or greater. Each of the second gear ratios is 1 or less. The first gear 66 has the first gear pitch. The second gear 68 has the second gear pitch. The first gear ratios include the first predetermined gear ratio and the second predetermined gear ratio, which is the next larger than the first predetermined gear ratio. The first gear pitch is a ratio between the second predetermined gear ratio and the first predetermined gear ratio.The second transmission ratios include the third predetermined transmission ratio and the fourth predetermined transmission ratio, which is the next largest after the third predetermined transmission ratio. The second transmission pitch is a ratio of the fourth predetermined transmission ratio to the third predetermined transmission ratio. The first transmission pitch is smaller than the second transmission pitch.

[0280] As long as the transmission device 24 for a human-powered vehicle, which enables shifting to various transmission ratios, is configured as described below, any other structure can be omitted. The transmission device 24 for a human-powered vehicle includes the first gear 66, the second gear 68, the first rotation controller 138, the second rotation controller 140, and the locking mechanism 142. The first gear 66 includes the first planetary gear unit 74. The second gear 68 includes the second planetary gear unit 90. The first rotation controller 138 includes the first camshaft 138A and is configured to control the first gear 66. The second rotation controller 140 includes the second camshaft 140A arranged coaxially with the first camshaft 138A. The second rotation controller 140 is configured to control the second gear 68.The locking mechanism 142 locks the first camshaft 138A and the second camshaft 140A. The first rotation control 138 is configured to select one of a plurality of first transmission ratios of the first gear 66 according to the rotation of the first camshaft 138A. The second rotation control 140 is configured to select one of a plurality of second transmission ratios of the second gear 68 according to the rotation of the second camshaft 140A.

[0281] As long as the component 20 for a human-powered vehicle is configured as described below, any other structure can be omitted. The component 20 for a human-powered vehicle includes the shaft member 22, the transmission device 24, the controller 26, and the drive unit 30. The transmission device 24 is provided on the shaft member 22 and enables switching of various transmission ratios. The controller 26 is configured to control the transmission device 24 to switch the transmission ratios stepwise. The drive unit 30 includes the driver 28 configured to control the controller 26. The drive unit 30 is arranged so that at least a part of the drive unit 30 overlaps at least a part of the transmission device 24 as viewed in the axial direction of the shaft member 22.

[0282] As long as the component 20 for a human-powered vehicle is configured as described below, any other structure can be omitted. The component 20 for a human-powered vehicle includes the crank axle carrier 40, the shaft member 22, the transmission device 24, the controller 26, the drive unit 30, and the power link 42. The crank axle carrier 40 supports the crank axle 10, to which human drive power is supplied. The shaft member 22 extends parallel to the crank axle 10. The transmission device 24 is provided on the shaft member 22 and enables switching to various transmission ratios. The controller 26 is configured to control the transmission device 24 to switch the transmission ratios stepwise. The drive unit 30 includes a driver 28 configured to drive the controller 26.The power link 42 connects the crank shaft 10 and the transmission device 24. The power link 42 is configured to switch a ratio of a rotational speed of the transmission input rotating body 24A of the transmission device 24 to a rotational speed of the crank shaft 10 to a predetermined ratio. The drive unit 30 is arranged so that, viewed in the direction B1 orthogonal to the crank shaft 10 and the shaft member 22, at least a portion of the drive unit 30 overlaps at least a portion of the power link 42.

[0283] As long as the human-powered vehicle component 20 is configured as described below, any other structure may be omitted. The human-powered vehicle component 20 includes the crank axle support 40, the transmission device 24, the power link 42, the output rotary shaft 34, and the drive motor 170. The crank axle support 40 supports the crank axle 10, to which human drive power is supplied. The transmission device 24 enables switching to various transmission ratios. The power link 42 connects the crank axle 10 and the transmission device 24. The output rotary shaft 34 is spaced apart from the crank axle 10. The output rotary shaft 34 outputs the drive power received by the transmission device 24. The drive motor 170 is configured to supply propulsion power to the human-powered vehicle.The power link 42 is configured to switch a ratio of a rotational speed of the transmission input rotating body 24A of the transmission device 24 to a rotational speed of the crank shaft 10 to a predetermined ratio. The drive motor 170 is configured to transmit motor drive power, which is the drive force output from the drive motor 170, to the resultant power portion 172 provided between the power link 42 and the transmission device 24 in a human drive power transmission path.

[0284] In the second embodiment, the predetermined ratio may be less than or equal to 1. In the second embodiment, the drive motor 170 applies motor drive force to the resultant force portion 172, which receives propulsion force that has not been changed, switched, or shifted by the transmission device 24. This allows the motor control device to drive the drive motor 170 without considering the shift in the transmission ratio performed by the transmission device 24. Thus, in the present modified example, the drive motor 170 also preferably applies propulsion force to the human-powered vehicle.

[0285] 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" when 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" when the number of selections is three or more.

[0286] Atomic numbers such as “first,” “second,” and “third” are used in this disclosure only to distinguish elements with the same name and are not intended to have any special meaning. REFERENCE SYMBOL 10 crank axle, 20 components 22 Shaft element 24 Transmission device 24A Gearbox input rotary body 26 Control 28 drivers 28A gear motor 30 drive unit 40 crank axle carrier 42 Power link 50 transmission unit 54 Rotary control 56 camshaft 62 drive shaft 64 electrical energy supply unit 170 drive motor 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 2023-187130

[0001] JP 2024-004694

[0001] JP 2018-100060

[0003]

Claims

[1] Component (20) for a muscle-powered vehicle, the component (20) comprising: a shaft element (22); a transmission device (24) provided on the shaft element (22) and enabling switching to different transmission ratios; a controller (26) configured to control the transmission device (24) to switch transmission ratios stepwise; and a drive unit (30) with a driver (28) arranged to drive the controller (26), wherein the drive unit (30) is arranged so that, viewed in an axial direction of the shaft element (22), at least a part of the drive unit (30) overlaps at least a part of the transmission device (24). [2] Component (20) according to claim 1, further comprising: a crank axle carrier (40) supporting a crank axle (10) to which a human driving force is supplied; and a power link (42) connecting the crank axle (10) and the transmission device (24), wherein the power link (42) is configured to switch a ratio of a rotational speed of a transmission input rotary body (24A) of the transmission device (24) to a rotational speed of the crank shaft (10) to a predetermined ratio. [3] Component (20) for a muscle-powered vehicle, the component (20) comprising: a crank axle carrier (40) supporting a crank axle (10) to which human driving power is supplied; a shaft element (22) extending parallel to the crank axis (10); a transmission device (24) provided on the shaft element (22) and enabling switching to different transmission ratios; a controller (26) configured to control the transmission device (24) to switch transmission ratios in stages; a drive unit (30) with a driver (28) arranged to drive the controller (26); and a power link (42) connecting the crank axle (10) and the transmission device (24), wherein the power link (42) is arranged to switch a ratio of a rotational speed of a transmission input rotary body (24A) of the transmission device (24) to a rotational speed of the crank shaft (10) to a predetermined ratio, and the drive unit (30) is arranged so that, viewed in a direction orthogonal to the crank axis (10) and the shaft element (22), at least a part of the drive unit (30) overlaps at least a part of the power link (42). [4] Component (20) according to claim 3, wherein the drive unit (30) is arranged so that, viewed in the axial direction of the shaft element (22), at least a part of the drive unit (30) overlaps at least a part of the transmission device (24). [5] Component (20) according to one of claims 1 to 4, in which: the transmission device (24) contains at least one transmission unit (50); the controller (26) includes at least one camshaft (56) and at least one rotary controller (54) configured to control the at least one transmission unit (50); the drive unit (30) includes a drive shaft (62) which drives the at least one camshaft (56); and the drive shaft (62) is connected to the at least one camshaft (56). [6] Component (20) according to any one of claims 2 to 4 and 5, when directly or indirectly dependent on claim 2 or claim 3, further comprising: an electrical energy supply unit (64) which is arranged to supply electrical energy to the drive unit (30), wherein the electrical energy supply unit (64) is arranged around the crank axis (10). [7] Component (20) according to claim 6, wherein the electrical energy supply unit (64) is arranged between the transmission device (24) and the crank axle carrier (40). [8] Component (20) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the electrical energy supply unit (64) is arranged around the crank axle (10) to surround at least a part of the crank axle (10). [9] Component (20) according to one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the electrical energy supply unit (64) extends along the crank axis (10). [10] Component (20) according to one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the electrical energy supply unit (64) includes at least one of a battery and a capacitor. [11] Component (20) according to one of claims 6 to 10, wherein the electrical energy supply unit (64) includes an electrical energy generator. [12] A component (20) according to any one of claims 5 and 6 to 11 when dependent on claim 5, wherein the drive unit (30) includes a geared motor (28A) driving the drive shaft (62). [13] Component (20) according to one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising a drive motor (170) arranged to provide a propulsive force with respect to the human-powered vehicle.

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