Clutch assemblage for human powered vehicles, and transmission for human powered vehicles

Abstract

To provide a clutch assemblage for human powered vehicles and a transmission for human powered vehicles capable of properly transmitting power.SOLUTION: A clutch assemblage for human powered vehicles includes a substrate, at least one engagement member having a proximal end and a free end, and a support member formed independently of the substrate and incorporated in the substrate. The support member has a support surface capable of coming into contact with the proximal end of the at least one engagement member. With the proximal end in contact with the support surface, the support member supports the at least one engagement member so that the engagement member can pivot.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a clutch device for a human-powered vehicle and a transmission device for a human-powered vehicle. [Background technology]

[0002] The human-powered vehicle of Patent Document 1 discloses a transmission equipped with a clutch device. The clutch device of Patent Document 1 includes a switching mechanism that switches the power transmission state. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-84608 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a clutch device for a human-powered vehicle and a transmission device for a human-powered vehicle that can transmit power in an optimal manner. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A clutch device according to a first aspect of the present disclosure is a clutch device for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: a base material; at least one engaging member having a base end and a free end; and a support member formed separately from the base material and provided on the base material, wherein the support member has a support surface that can contact the base end of the at least one engaging member, and when the base end is in contact with the support surface, the support member pivotally supports the at least one engaging member. According to the clutch device of the first aspect, since the support member is formed separately from the base material, the position of the at least one engagement member can be adjusted relative to the base material by adjusting at least one of the position of the support member relative to the base material and the shape of the support member. Therefore, the clutch device can transmit power favorably.

[0006] The clutch device of the second aspect according to the first aspect of the present disclosure further includes an adjustment member disposed between the base material and the support member, for adjusting a position of the engagement member relative to the base material. According to the clutch device of the second aspect, the position of at least one engagement member relative to the base material can be suitably adjusted by the adjustment member.

[0007] In a clutch device of a third aspect according to the first or second aspect of the present disclosure, the support member includes a first plane supported by the base material and a second plane supported by the base material and not parallel to the first plane. According to the clutch device of the third aspect, the first plane and the second plane are supported by the base material, so that the support member can be suitably positioned relative to the base material.

[0008] The clutch device of a fourth aspect according to any one of the first to third aspects of the present disclosure further comprises at least one fastener member that fastens the support member to the base material. According to the clutch device of the fourth aspect, the support member can be suitably attached to the base material by at least one fastener member.

[0009] In the clutch device of a fifth aspect according to any one of the first to fourth aspects of the present disclosure, the base material includes a first material, and the support member includes a second material different from the first material. According to the clutch device of the fifth aspect, the base material and the support member can be formed from materials suitable for each of them.

[0010] A clutch device according to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure is a clutch device for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: a base material; at least one engagement member having a base end and a free end; and a support member provided on the base material, the support member having a support surface contactable with the base end of the at least one engagement member, and pivotally supporting the at least one engagement member when the base end is in contact with the support surface, the base material comprising a first material, and the support member comprising a second material different from the first material. According to the clutch device of the sixth aspect, the base material and the support member can be formed from suitable materials, respectively, so that the clutch device can transmit power in a suitable manner.

[0011] In the clutch device of a seventh aspect according to the fifth or sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the second material is harder than the first material. According to the clutch device of the seventh aspect, since the second material is harder than the first material, the support member is less likely to deform due to contact with the at least one engagement member.

[0012] In the clutch device of an eighth aspect according to the seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the first material includes an aluminum alloy and the second material includes iron. According to the clutch device of the eighth aspect, since the base material contains an aluminum alloy, it is possible to contribute to weight reduction of the clutch device. According to the clutch device of the eighth aspect, since the support member contains iron, the support member is unlikely to deform due to contact with at least one engagement member.

[0013] In a clutch device of a ninth aspect according to any one of the first to eighth aspects of the present disclosure, the at least one engagement member is pivotable between a first position in which the free end is closer to the base material and a second position in which the free end is farther from the base material than the first position, and further includes a biasing member that biases the at least one engagement member to the first position. According to the clutch device of the ninth aspect, at least one engagement member is suitably operated by the biasing member.

[0014] The clutch device of a tenth aspect according to the ninth aspect of the present disclosure further comprises a control member that contacts the at least one engagement member to move the at least one engagement member from the first position to the second position. According to the clutch device of the tenth aspect, at least one engagement member is preferably operated by the control member.

[0015] In a clutch device of an eleventh aspect according to any one of the first to tenth aspects of the present disclosure, the base material includes an axial member having a central axis, and the support surface is configured to support the at least one engaging member such that the at least one engaging member is pivotable about a pivot axis parallel to the central axis. According to the clutch device of the eleventh aspect, the support member allows at least one engagement member to be favorably pivoted about a pivot axis parallel to the central axis of the shaft member.

[0016] In a clutch device of a twelfth aspect according to any one of the first to tenth aspects of the present disclosure, the base material includes an axial member having a central axis, and when viewed from a direction parallel to the central axis, the support member is provided on the base material within a range of less than 180 degrees with respect to the central axis. According to the clutch device of the twelfth aspect, the support member is provided on the base material within a range of less than 180 degrees with respect to the central axis, so that a decrease in the strength of the base material is suppressed.

[0017] In a clutch device of a thirteenth aspect according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects of the present disclosure, the support member includes at least one first recess in which the base end portion is disposed. According to the clutch device of the thirteenth aspect, at least one engaging member can be stably supported by the first recess.

[0018] In the clutch device of a fourteenth aspect according to the thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the support member further includes a second recess in which at least a portion of the free end portion is disposed. According to the clutch device of the fourteenth aspect, when at least one engaging member is pivoted to bring the free end portion closer to the base portion, the second recess can suppress the amount of protrusion of the at least one engaging portion from the support member.

[0019] In the clutch device of a fifteenth aspect according to the eleventh or twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, there is further provided an annular member provided on the shaft member so as to be rotatable around the central axis, and an inner peripheral portion of the annular member relative to the central axis has an engaged portion engageable with the free end portion. According to the clutch device of the fifteenth aspect, by engaging the free end of at least one engaging member with the inner periphery of the annular member, rotation of the annular member relative to the at least one engaging portion can be restricted.

[0020] A transmission according to a sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure is a transmission for a human-powered vehicle, and includes the clutch device according to any one of the first to fifteenth aspects. According to the transmission of the sixteenth aspect, power can be transmitted suitably.

[0021] A transmission according to a seventeenth aspect of the present disclosure is a transmission for a human-powered vehicle, comprising the clutch device of the fifteenth aspect and a planetary gear mechanism, the planetary gear mechanism including a sun gear, and the sun gear including the annular member. According to the transmission of the seventeenth aspect, in a transmission including a planetary gear mechanism, power can be transmitted suitably.

[0022] In a transmission device according to an eighteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the human-powered vehicle includes a hub axle, the hub axle including the base material. According to the transmission of the eighteenth aspect, power can be transmitted suitably in the clutch mechanism provided around the hub axle. Effect of the Invention

[0023] The clutch device for a human-powered vehicle and the transmission device for a human-powered vehicle of the present disclosure can transmit power in an optimal manner. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1] 1 is a plan view of a hub unit including a clutch device for a human-powered vehicle and a transmission for a human-powered vehicle according to an embodiment; [Diagram 2] 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line D2-D2 in FIG. [Diagram 3] 3 is a plan view showing a part of the clutch device for the human-powered vehicle shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line D4-D4 in FIG. [Diagram 5] 3 is a plan view showing the base material, the support member, and the fastener member of FIG. 2. FIG. [Figure 6] 6 is an exploded perspective view showing the base material, the support member, and the fastener member of FIG. 5. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line D7-D7 in FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of FIG. [Figure 9] 8 is a graph showing the relationship between the cam angle and the roller contact diameter for the cam in FIG. 7. [Figure 10] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a clutch device for a human-powered vehicle according to a first modified example. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of a planetary gear mechanism according to a second modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0025] <Embodiment> 1 to 9, a transmission device 30 for a human-powered vehicle and a clutch device 80 for a human-powered vehicle will be described.

[0026] A human-powered vehicle is a vehicle that has at least one wheel and can be driven at least by human driving force. Human-powered vehicles include various types of bicycles, such as mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes, hand bikes, and recumbents. The number of wheels that a human-powered vehicle has is not limited. Human-powered vehicles also include, for example, one-wheeled vehicles and vehicles with two or more wheels. Human-powered vehicles are not limited to vehicles that can be driven only by human driving force. Human-powered vehicles include E-bikes that use not only human driving force but also the driving force of an electric motor for propulsion. E-bikes include electrically assisted bicycles whose propulsion is assisted by an electric motor. Hereinafter, in each embodiment, the human-powered vehicle will be described as a bicycle.

[0027] The human-powered vehicle 10 includes at least one wheel and a vehicle body. The at least one wheel includes, for example, a front wheel and a rear wheel. The vehicle body includes a frame. The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes, for example, a crank to which human-powered driving force is input. The crank includes, for example, a crank arm and a crank shaft. The crank shaft is rotatable relative to, for example, the frame. The crank arm is connected to, for example, a pedal.

[0028] A front fork is connected to the frame. A front wheel is attached to the front fork. A handlebar is connected to the front fork via a stem. A rear wheel is supported by the frame. A crank is connected to the rear wheel by a drive mechanism. The rear wheel is driven by rotation of the crankshaft. At least one of the front wheel and the rear wheel may be connected to the crank by the drive mechanism.

[0029] The drive mechanism includes a first rotating body connected to the crankshaft. The first rotating body includes, for example, a front sprocket. The first rotating body may include a pulley or a bevel gear. In this embodiment, since the human-powered vehicle 10 includes a coaster brake, the crankshaft is connected to the front sprocket without a one-way clutch, but if the human-powered vehicle 10 does not include a coaster brake, the crankshaft may be connected to the front sprocket via a one-way clutch.

[0030] The drive mechanism further includes a second rotating body 12 and a transmission member. The transmission member is configured to transmit the rotational force of the first rotating body to at least one second rotating body 12. The transmission member includes, for example, a chain. The transmission member may include a belt or a shaft. The second rotating body 12 includes, for example, a rear sprocket. The second rotating body 12 may include a pulley or a bevel gear. The chain is wound around, for example, a front sprocket and a rear sprocket. The second rotating body 12 is connected to, for example, a rear wheel. The rear wheel is configured to rotate with, for example, the rotation of the second rotating body 12.

[0031] The human-powered vehicle 10 includes, for example, a hub unit 20. The human-powered vehicle 10 includes, for example, a hub axle 22. The hub axle 22 is provided, for example, in the hub unit 20. The hub axle 22 is supported, for example, by a frame of the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0032] The hub unit 20 includes, for example, an input rotor 24 and an output rotor 26. The rotational torque of the second rotor 12 is transmitted to the input rotor 24. The output rotor 26 transmits the rotational torque to a rim of a wheel. The output rotor 26 is configured to be rotatable relative to the input rotor 24, for example. The output rotor 26 is, for example, a hub shell. The output rotor 26 includes, for example, spoke attachment portions 26A to which spokes of the wheel are attached. The output rotor 26 may be configured integrally with the rim.

[0033] The hub unit 20 includes, for example, a transmission 30 for a human-powered vehicle. The transmission 30 is configured to change the gear ratio of the human-powered vehicle 10. The transmission 30 is provided, for example, in a transmission path of the human-powered driving force in the human-powered vehicle 10, and configured to change the gear ratio. The gear ratio is, for example, the ratio of the rotational speed of the output rotor 26 to the rotational speed of the input rotor 24. The rotational speed of the output rotor 26 includes, for example, the rotational speed of the drive wheels.

[0034] The relationship between the transmission ratio, the rotational speed of the output rotor 26, and the rotational speed of the input rotor 24 is expressed by equation (1). In equation (1), R represents the transmission ratio. In equation (1), W represents the rotational speed of the output rotor 26. In equation (1), C represents the rotational speed of the input rotor 24. Equation (1): R = W (rpm) / C (rpm)

[0035] The transmission 30 for a human-powered vehicle includes, for example, a clutch device 80. The transmission 30 includes, for example, the clutch device 80 and a planetary gear mechanism 32. The planetary gear mechanism 32 includes a sun gear .

[0036] The planetary gear mechanism 32 includes, for example, a first planetary gear mechanism 36 and a second planetary gear mechanism 38 to which the rotational force from the first planetary gear mechanism 36 is input. The rotational force of the second rotating body 12 is transmitted to the first planetary gear mechanism 36, for example, via the input rotating body 24. The rotational force of the first planetary gear mechanism 36 is transmitted to the second planetary gear mechanism 38, for example. The first planetary gear mechanism 36 and the second planetary gear mechanism 38 are provided on the hub axle 22.

[0037] The first planetary gear mechanism 36 includes, for example, a first sun gear 40, a first planetary gear 42, a first carrier 44, and a first ring gear 46. The numbers and configurations of the first sun gear 40, the first planetary gear 42, the first carrier 44, and the first ring gear 46 are changed according to the number of shift stages required for the transmission 30.

[0038] The first sun gear 40 is provided around the hub axle 22, for example. In this embodiment, the first planetary gear mechanism 36 includes a first sun gear 40A and a first sun gear 40B. The number of teeth of the first sun gear 40A is, for example, smaller than the number of teeth of the first sun gear 40B. The first planetary gear mechanism 36 includes a first planetary gear 42A and a first planetary gear 42B, for example. The number of teeth of the first planetary gear 42A is larger than the number of teeth of the first planetary gear 42B. The first planetary gear 42A meshes with the first sun gear 40A, and the first planetary gear 42B meshes with the first sun gear 40B.

[0039] The first planetary gear 42A and the first planetary gear 42B, for example, configure a stepped first planetary gear unit 48. The multiple first planetary gear units 48 are arranged around the first sun gear 40. The first carrier 44 supports the multiple first planetary gear units 48. The first carrier 44 causes the multiple first planetary gear units 48 to revolve together with the first sun gear 40. The first ring gear 46 is arranged around the multiple first planetary gear units 48 so as to mesh with one of the first planetary gear 42A and the first planetary gear 42B.

[0040] The second planetary gear mechanism 38 includes, for example, a second sun gear 50, a second planetary gear 52, a second carrier 54, and a second ring gear 56. The number and configuration of the second sun gear 50, the second planetary gear 52, the second carrier 54, and the second ring gear 56 are changed according to the number of shift stages required for the transmission 30.

[0041] The second sun gear 50 is provided around the hub axle 22, for example. In this embodiment, the second planetary gear mechanism 38 includes a second sun gear 50A and a second sun gear 50B. The second sun gear 50A is provided, for example, in the axial direction X of the hub axle 22, at a position farther from the first planetary gear mechanism 36 than the second sun gear 50B. The number of teeth of the second sun gear 50A is, for example, smaller than the number of teeth of the second sun gear 50B. The second planetary gear mechanism 38 includes, for example, a second planetary gear 52A and a second planetary gear 52B. The number of teeth of the second planetary gear 52A is, for example, larger than the number of teeth of the second planetary gear 52B. The second planetary gear 52A meshes with the second sun gear 50A, and the second planetary gear 52B meshes with the second sun gear 50B.

[0042] The second planetary gear 52A and the second planetary gear 52B, for example, configure a stepped second planetary gear unit 58. The multiple second planetary gear units 58 are arranged around the second sun gear 50. The second carrier 54 supports the multiple second planetary gear units 58. The second carrier 54 causes the multiple second planetary gear units 58 to revolve together with the second sun gear 50. The second ring gear 56 is arranged around the multiple second planetary gear units 58 so as to mesh with one of the second planetary gear 52A and the second planetary gear 52B.

[0043] The input rotor 24 includes a first end 24A and a second end 24B. The second rotor 12 is attached to the first end 24A. The second end 24B is attached to the first carrier 44. The input rotor 24 transmits the rotational torque of the second rotor 12 to the first carrier 44. The rotation transmitted to the first carrier 44 is transmitted to the output rotor 26 via the transmission 30.

[0044] The transmission 30 further includes a clutch device 80 that changes the shift stage. The clutch device 80 changes the rotational states of the first sun gear 40 and the second sun gear 50. In this embodiment, the clutch device 80 switches the rotational states of the first sun gear 40A, the first sun gear 40B, the second sun gear 50A, and the second sun gear 50B between a restricted state in which rotation relative to the hub axle 22 is restricted, and an allowed state in which rotation relative to the hub axle 22 is allowed.

[0045] In this embodiment, the first sun gear 40A, the first sun gear 40B, the second sun gear 50A, and the second sun gear 50B are all sun gears 34.

[0046] The clutch device 80 for a human-powered vehicle includes a base material 82, at least one engaging member 84, and a support member 86. The at least one engaging member 84 has, for example, a base end 84A and a free end 84B. The base material 82 includes, for example, a shaft member 88 having a central axis C1. The clutch device 80 further includes, for example, an annular member 90 provided on the shaft member 88 so as to be rotatable around the central axis C1. An inner periphery 90A of the annular member 90 with respect to the central axis C1 has, for example, an engaged portion 90B engageable with the free end 84B.

[0047] The hub axle 22 of this embodiment includes a base material 82. The sun gear 34 of this embodiment includes an annular member 90. In this embodiment, each of the first sun gear 40A, the first sun gear 40B, the second sun gear 50A, and the second sun gear 50B includes an annular member 90. When the clutch device 80 includes a plurality of sun gears 34, the clutch device 80 includes, for example, a plurality of engagement members 84 corresponding to each of the plurality of sun gears 34. In this embodiment, the clutch device 80 includes four engagement members 84 corresponding to each of the first sun gear 40A, the first sun gear 40B, the second sun gear 50A, and the second sun gear 50B. The annular member 90 has a rotational center axis. The rotational center axis of the annular member 90 substantially coincides with, for example, the central axis C1 of the base material 82. For example, the sun gear 34 is configured by forming a plurality of teeth on the outer periphery around the rotational center axis of the annular member 90. For example, a plurality of recesses are formed aligned in the circumferential direction about the central axis C1 on the inner peripheral portion 90A of the annular member 90. The engaged portion 90B includes, for example, a plurality of recesses on the inner peripheral portion 90A.

[0048] At least one engaging member 84 is pivotable, for example, between a first position where the free end 84B is closer to the base material 82 and a second position where the free end 84B is farther from the base material 82 than the first position. When the free end 84B is in the first position, the engaging member 84 allows rotation of the annular member 90 relative to the shaft member 88. When the free end 84B is in the second position, the engaging member 84 restricts one-way rotation of the annular member 90 relative to the shaft member 88.

[0049] The support member 86 is formed separately from the base material 82 and provided on the base material 82. The base material 82 includes, for example, a placement portion 82B for placing the support member 86. The placement portion 82B is provided, for example, in a middle portion of the base material 82 in the axial direction X. The placement portion 82B includes a recess. The base material 82 includes, for example, a first material. The support member 86 includes, for example, a second material different from the first material. The second material is, for example, harder than the first material. The first material includes, for example, an aluminum alloy. The second material includes, for example, iron. The first material is, for example, lighter than the second material. The weight per unit volume of the base material 82 is, for example, smaller than the weight per unit volume of the support member 86. The volume of the support member 86 is, for example, smaller than the volume of the base material 82. The hardness of the support member 86 is, for example, greater than the hardness of the base material 82. The first material is lighter than the second material, and the second material is harder than the first material, which contributes to reducing the weight of the transmission 30 while ensuring the rigidity of the support member 86.

[0050] When viewed in a direction parallel to the central axis C1, the support member 86 is provided on the base material 82, for example, in a range less than 180 degrees from the central axis C1. When viewed in a direction parallel to the central axis C1, the support member 86 is provided on the base material 82, for example, in a range equal to or greater than 80 degrees and less than 120 degrees from the central axis C1. The support member 86 is provided, for example, in a range in the axial direction X of the clutch device 80 where at least one engagement member 84 is arranged.

[0051] The support member 86 includes, for example, a first plane 92A supported by the base material 82 and a second plane 92B supported by the base material 82 and not parallel to the first plane 92A. The first plane 92A is, for example, parallel to the axial direction X. The second plane 92B is, for example, parallel to the axial direction X. The first plane 92A is, for example, continuous with the second plane 92B. One end of the first plane 92A is connected to one end of the second plane 92B. The angle between the first plane 92A and the second plane 92B is, for example, 45 degrees or more and 120 degrees or less. The angle between the first plane 92A and the second plane 92B is, for example, 80 degrees or more and 100 degrees or less. The angle between the first plane 92A and the second plane 92B is, for example, substantially 90 degrees. The first flat surface 92A and the second flat surface 92B may each be formed with minute projections and recesses for preventing slipping, such as knurling. The second flat surface 92B is disposed between the central axis C1 of the base material 82 and the pivot axis C2 of at least one engagement member 84, when viewed from a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the base material 82.

[0052] The arrangement portion 82B is formed, for example, so as not to overlap the central axis C1 of the substrate 82 when viewed from a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the substrate 82. The arrangement portion 82B of the substrate 82 has a first substrate plane 83A corresponding to the first plane 92A of the support member 86, and a second substrate plane 83B corresponding to the second plane 92B of the support member 86. The angle between the first substrate plane 83A and the second substrate plane 83B is equal to the angle between the first plane 92A and the second plane 92B.

[0053] The support member 86 has a support surface 86A that can come into contact with a base end portion 84A of at least one engagement member 84. The support member 86 pivotally supports the at least one engagement member 84 in a state in which the base end portion 84A is in contact with the support surface 86A. The support surface 86A is configured to be capable of supporting the at least one engagement member 84 such that the at least one engagement member 84 is pivotable around a pivot axis C2 that is parallel to the central axis C1, for example.

[0054] The support member 86 includes, for example, at least one first recess 86B in which the base end 84A is disposed. The first recess 86B forms, for example, a support surface 86A. The support member 86 further includes, for example, a second recess 86C in which at least a portion of the free end 84B is disposed. The second recess 86C may be omitted.

[0055] The outer surface of the portion between the first recess 86B and the second recess 86C of the support member 86 is configured, for example, as a curved surface. The outer surface of the portion between the first recess 86B and the second recess 86C of the support member 86 is configured, for example, as a curved surface in which a circumferential intermediate portion about the central axis C1 protrudes radially outward with respect to the central axis C1.

[0056] The base material 82 is manufactured by, for example, forging or casting. For example, the support member 86 is manufactured by forming the first recess 86B and the second recess 86C by cutting a member manufactured by forging or casting. In this embodiment, the first recess 86B and the second recess 86C, which require high machining accuracy, are formed in the support member 86, which makes it easy to machine the base material 82.

[0057] The clutch device 80 further includes, for example, at least one fastener member 94 that fixes the support member 86 to the base material 82. The at least one fastener member 94 includes, for example, a bolt 94A. The base material 82 is formed with, for example, a first hole 82C into which the bolt 94A is inserted. The first hole 82C is formed in the arrangement portion 82B. A female thread is formed on an inner circumferential surface of the base material 82 that defines the first hole 82C. The first hole 82C is formed so as not to penetrate the base material 82 in order to suppress a decrease in strength of the base material 82, for example. The first hole 82C may penetrate the base material 82.

[0058] The rotation center axis of the bolt 94A is, for example, perpendicular to the first plane 92A. The rotation center axis of the bolt 94A may be perpendicular to the second plane 92B. The rotation center axis of the bolt 94A may be inclined with respect to the first plane 92A or the second plane 92B. The rotation center axis of the bolt 94A may be inclined with respect to the first plane 92A or the second plane 92B so that the first plane 92A of the support member 86 is pressed toward the first base material plane 83A by the bolt 94A, and the second plane 92B of the support member 86 is pressed toward the second base material plane 83B by the bolt 94A.

[0059] The support member 86 includes, for example, a second hole 86D into which the bolt 94A is inserted. For example, the second hole 86D is provided in, for example, a middle portion of the support member 86 in the axial direction X. The fastener member 94 is provided, for example, in a position not in contact with the engaging members 84. When the clutch device 80 includes a plurality of engaging members 84, the fastener member 94 is provided, for example, between two engaging members 84 adjacent to each other in the axial direction X.

[0060] In this embodiment, the at least one fastener member 94 includes one bolt 94A, but the at least one fastener member 94 may include multiple bolts 94A. When the at least one fastener member 94 includes multiple bolts 94A, the base material 82 is formed with first holes 82C corresponding to each bolt 94A, and the support member 86 is formed with second holes 86D corresponding to each bolt 94A.

[0061] The clutch device 80 further includes, for example, a biasing member 96 that biases the at least one engaging member 84 to the first position. The biasing member 96 is formed, for example, in an annular shape. The biasing member 96 includes, for example, a metal spring. For example, when the at least one engaging member 84 includes a plurality of engaging members 84, the biasing member 96 is provided for each engaging member 84. The engaging member 84 is formed, for example, with a hole or a groove into which the biasing member 96 is inserted. The hole or groove formed in the engaging member 84 extends, for example, in the circumferential direction of the hub axle 22.

[0062] The clutch device 80 further includes a control member 98 that, for example, comes into contact with the at least one engaging member 84 to move the at least one engaging member 84 from a first position to a second position. The control member 98 is attached to the hub axle 22, for example, rotatably in the circumferential direction of the hub axle 22. The control member 98 is configured to rotate in the circumferential direction of the hub axle 22 when changing the gear shift stage. The control member 98 is configured to rotate, for example, in response to operation of a gear shift operating device. When the gear shift operating device and the gear shift device 30 are connected by a cable, the control member 98 rotates due to operation of the cable. When the gear shift operating device and the gear shift device 30 are connected so as to be able to communicate with each other, an electric actuator is provided in the gear shift device 30. When the gear shift operating device is operated, the electric actuator is driven to rotate the control member 98.

[0063] The control member 98 includes, for example, a base portion 98A and arm portions 98B. The base portion 98A extends, for example, in the axial direction X of the hub axle 22. The arm portions 98B extend, for example, from the base portion 98A in the circumferential direction of the hub axle 22. The control member 98 includes, for example, a number of arm portions 98B corresponding to the number of annular members 90.

[0064] The free end 84B of the engaging member 84 includes, for example, a first portion 84C that engages with the engaged portion 90B of the annular member 90, and a second portion 84D that extends from the first portion 84C in the axial direction X. In the axial direction X, the arm portion 98B is provided, for example, at a position corresponding to the second portion 84D. The engaging member 84 is maintained in the second position by the arm portion 98B coming into contact with the second portion 84D. When the arm portion 98B does not come into contact with the second portion 84D, the engaging member 84 is maintained in the first position.

[0065] The clutch device 80 further includes, for example, a first support member 80A that supports the annular member 90. The first support member 80A is formed, for example, in an annular shape. The first support member 80A is disposed, for example, between the shaft member 88 and the annular member 90 in the radial direction of the shaft member 88. The outer circumferential surface of the first support member 80A is configured, for example, to slide on the inner circumferential surface of the annular member 90. The annular member 90 is provided, for example, for each annular member 90.

[0066] The transmission 30 further includes a first one-way clutch 60. The first one-way clutch 60 is disposed between the first carrier 44 and the second carrier 54. When the rotational speed of the first carrier 44 in the rotational direction corresponding to the first direction of the crank is equal to or higher than the rotational speed of the second carrier 54, the first one-way clutch 60 transmits the rotational torque of the first carrier 44 to the second carrier 54. When the rotational speed of the second carrier 54 in the rotational direction corresponding to the first direction of the crank exceeds the rotational speed of the first carrier 44, the first one-way clutch 60 does not transmit the rotation of the second carrier 54 to the first carrier 44. The first one-way clutch 60 may be a roller clutch or a claw clutch.

[0067] The transmission 30 further includes a second one-way clutch 62. The second one-way clutch 62 is provided between the second ring gear 56 and the output rotor 26. When the rotational speed of the second ring gear 56 in the rotational direction corresponding to the first direction of the crank is equal to or higher than the rotational speed of the output rotor 26, the second one-way clutch 62 transmits the rotation of the second ring gear 56 to the output rotor 26. When the rotational speed of the output rotor 26 in the rotational direction corresponding to the first direction of the crank exceeds the rotational speed of the second ring gear 56, the second one-way clutch 62 does not transmit the rotation of the output rotor 26 to the second ring gear 56.

[0068] The second one-way clutch 62 is, for example, a roller clutch. The second one-way clutch 62 includes, for example, a roller 64 and a cam 66 on which the roller 64 is arranged. The cam 66 is, for example, provided on the outer periphery of the second ring gear 56. The cam 66 is, for example, a groove extending in the circumferential direction of the second ring gear 56. The cam 66 has, for example, a shape in which the relationship between the roller contact diameter and the cam angle is a series of arcs of a plurality of perfect circles. The cam 66 includes, for example, a first cam surface 66A corresponding to the arc of the first perfect circle in the circumferential direction, and a second cam surface 66B corresponding to the arc of the second perfect circle.

[0069] The dashed line in Fig. 9 indicates the cam angle required for the roller contact diameter. The cam 66 has a shape in which a plurality of arcs of a perfect circle are connected so as to approximate the cam angle required for the roller contact diameter. The shape of the cam 66 is easier to design for a curved surface having an arc of a perfect circle than for a curved surface that is not a perfect circle. Therefore, the cam 66 can contribute to improving the manufacturing efficiency of the second one-way clutch 62. The second one-way clutch 62 may be a claw clutch.

[0070] The transmission 30 further includes a third one-way clutch 70. The third one-way clutch 70 is provided between the second carrier 54 and the output rotor 26. When the rotational speed of the second carrier 54 in the rotational direction corresponding to the first direction of the crank is equal to or higher than the rotational speed of the output rotor 26, the third one-way clutch 70 transmits the rotation of the second carrier 54 to the output rotor 26. When the rotational speed of the output rotor 26 in the rotational direction corresponding to the first direction of the crank exceeds the rotational speed of the second carrier 54, the third one-way clutch 70 does not transmit the rotation of the output rotor 26 to the second carrier 54. The third one-way clutch 70 may be a roller clutch or a claw clutch.

[0071] The transmission 30 of the present embodiment has a first shift stage, a second shift stage, a third shift stage, a fourth shift stage, and a fifth shift stage.

[0072] In the first speed change stage, the rotational torque of the second rotor 12 is transmitted to the output rotor 26 via the first planetary gear mechanism 36, the first one-way clutch 60, the second ring gear 56, and the second one-way clutch 62 without being changed in speed.

[0073] In the second speed change stage, the rotational torque of the second rotor 12 is accelerated by the first sun gear 40A in the first planetary gear mechanism 36, and then transmitted to the output rotor 26 via the first ring gear 46, the second carrier 54, the second ring gear 56, and the second one-way clutch 62. The speed change ratio in the second speed change stage is greater than the speed change ratio in the first speed change stage.

[0074] In the third speed change stage, the rotational torque of the second rotor 12 is accelerated by the first sun gear 40B in the first planetary gear mechanism 36, and then transmitted to the output rotor 26 via the first ring gear 46, the second carrier 54, the second ring gear 56, and the second one-way clutch 62. The speed change ratio in the third speed change stage is greater than the speed change ratio in the second speed change stage.

[0075] In the fourth speed change stage, the rotational torque of the second rotor 12 is accelerated by the first sun gear 40B in the first planetary gear mechanism 36, and then transmitted to the second carrier 54 of the second planetary gear mechanism 38 via the first ring gear 46. The rotational torque input to the second planetary gear mechanism 38 is accelerated by the second sun gear 50A in the second planetary gear mechanism 38, and then transmitted to the output rotor 26 via the third one-way clutch 70. The speed change ratio in the fourth speed change stage is greater than the speed change ratio in the third speed change stage.

[0076] In the fifth speed change stage, the rotational torque of the second rotor 12 is accelerated by the first sun gear 40B in the first planetary gear mechanism 36, and then transmitted to the second carrier 54 of the second planetary gear mechanism 38 via the first ring gear 46. The rotational torque input to the second planetary gear mechanism 38 is accelerated by the second sun gear 50B in the second planetary gear mechanism 38, and then transmitted to the output rotor 26 via the second carrier 54 and the third one-way clutch 70. The speed change ratio in the fifth speed change stage is greater than the speed change ratio in the fourth speed change stage.

[0077] The hub unit 20 further includes a brake mechanism 28. The brake mechanism 28 brakes the rotation of the output rotor 26 relative to the hub axle 22. The brake mechanism 28 constitutes a coaster brake.

[0078] The brake mechanism 28 includes a switching mechanism 28A that switches the transmission state of the driving force of the human-powered vehicle 10. The switching mechanism 28A does not transmit the driving force when the crank rotates in a first direction in which the human-powered vehicle 10 moves forward. The switching mechanism 28A transmits the driving force when the crank rotates in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0079] Braking portion 28B is provided between the end of second carrier 54 and output rotor 26. Braking portion 28B includes friction portion 28C. When the crank rotates in the second direction, friction portion 28C engages with output rotor 26 and applies friction force to output rotor 26. Braking portion 28B is, for example, a roller brake. The cam of the roller brake may have a shape in which the relationship between the roller contact diameter and the cam angle is a series of arcs of multiple perfect circles, similar to cam 66 of second one-way clutch 62.

[0080] The switching mechanism 28A is provided between the first planetary gear mechanism 36 and the second planetary gear mechanism 38. When the crank rotates in the second direction, the switching mechanism 28A transmits the rotation input to the first planetary gear mechanism 36 to the second planetary gear mechanism 38. The rotation transmitted to the second planetary gear mechanism 38 is transmitted to the brake unit 28B. When the crank rotates in the second direction, the first one-way clutch 60 does not transmit the rotation of the first carrier 44 to the second carrier 54. When the crank rotates in the second direction, the second one-way clutch 62 does not transmit the rotation of the second ring gear 56 to the output rotor 26. When the crank rotates in the second direction, the third one-way clutch 70 does not transmit the rotation of the second carrier 54 to the output rotor 26.

[0081] <Example of change> The description of the embodiments is an example of possible forms of the clutch device for a human-powered vehicle and the transmission for a human-powered vehicle, and is not intended to limit the forms. The clutch device for a human-powered vehicle and the transmission for a human-powered vehicle according to the present disclosure may take the form of, for example, a modified example of the embodiment shown below, or a combination of at least two modified examples that are not mutually contradictory. In the modified examples below, parts common to the embodiment are given the same reference numerals as the embodiment, and their description is omitted.

[0082] The support member 86 may be attached to the base material 82 by means other than the fastener member 90. In this modified example, the support member 86 may be attached to the base material 82 by, for example, an adhesive, or may be attached to the base material 82 by welding or the like.

[0083] As shown in FIG. 10, the clutch device 80 may further include an adjustment member 100 that is disposed between the base material 82 and the support member 86 and adjusts the position of the engagement member 84 relative to the base material 82. The position of the engagement member 84 relative to the base material 82 includes, for example, a distance from a central axis C1 in the radial direction. The adjustment member 100 includes, for example, a metal material. The adjustment member 100 may include a first material or a second material. The adjustment member 100 may include a flexible material. The adjustment member 100 includes, for example, a shim having a thin plate shape. The adjustment member 100 is disposed, for example, between the central axis C1 of the base material 82 and the pivot axis C2 of at least one engagement member 84 when viewed from a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the base material 82. The adjustment member 100 is disposed, for example, between the second plane 92B and the second base material plane 83B. The adjustment member 100 may be formed with a third hole into which the bolt 94A is inserted. The third hole is formed at a position corresponding to the first hole 82C and the second hole 86D. The adjustment member 100 may be disposed at a position other than the positions corresponding to the first hole 82C and the second hole 86D. The adjustment member 100 may be disposed, for example, between the first plane 92A and the first substrate plane 83A.

[0084] The second material of the support member 86 may be the same as the first material of the base material 82. When the first material is the same as the second material, the first material and the second material include, for example, iron. In this modified example, when the support member 86 is provided separately from the base material 82, the position of the engagement member 84 with respect to the base material 82 can be adjusted by adjusting the shape of the support member 86. Therefore, the clutch device 80 can transmit power favorably.

[0085] The second material of the support member 86 may be softer than the first material of the base material 82. In this modification, deformation of the engaging member 84 due to contact between the engaging member 84 and the support member 86 is suppressed, so that the clutch device 80 can transmit power favorably.

[0086] The clutch device 80 includes a base material 82, at least one engaging member 84 having a base end 84A and a free end 84B, and a support member 86 provided on the base material 82, the support member 86 having a support surface 86A capable of contacting the base end 84A of the at least one engaging member 84, and pivotally supporting the at least one engaging member 84 in a state in which the base end 84A is in contact with the support surface 86A, the base material 82 includes a first material, and the support member 86 includes a second material different from the first material, and other configurations can be appropriately changed. In this modified example, for example, the support member 86 may be formed integrally with the base material 82. For example, the support member 86 may be formed of the second material in which a portion of the base material 82 that supports the engaging member 84 is hardened.

[0087] As shown in FIG. 11, the first carrier 44 may include a carrier pin 44A that rotates integrally with the first planetary gear unit 48. The carrier pin 44A passes through the first planetary gear units 48. The first carrier 44 includes a first carrier portion 44C that is attached to a first end 44B of the carrier pin 44A in the axial direction X. A first bearing 44D is provided between the first end 44B of the carrier pin 44A and the first carrier portion 44C. The first carrier 44 includes a second carrier portion 44F that is attached to a second end 44E of the carrier pin 44A. A second bearing 44G is provided between the second end 44E of the carrier pin 44A and the second carrier portion 44F. The first bearing 44D and the second bearing 44G include, for example, radial bearings. Since the carrier pin 44A rotates integrally with the first planetary gear unit 48, it is possible to suppress an increase in the radial size of the first planetary gear unit 48, compared to a case in which bearings are provided between the carrier pin 44A and the multiple first planetary gear units 48. The second carrier 54 may be configured similarly to the first carrier 44 in Fig. 11. The configuration of the first carrier 44 of this modified example may be applied to devices other than the planetary gear mechanism 42 of this embodiment.

[0088] The shape of the cam 66 may be applied to a roller clutch other than the second one-way clutch 62.

[0089] The configuration of the clutch device 80 may be applied to a clutch device provided other than the transmission 40. For example, the clutch device 80 is applied to a one-way clutch provided in a transmission operation device for a human-powered vehicle. For example, the clutch device 80 is applied to a one-way clutch provided in an assist drive unit for a human-powered vehicle.

[0090] The term "at least one" as used herein means "one or more" of the desired options. As an example, the term "at least one" as used herein means "only one option" or "both of two options" if the number of options is two. As another example, the term "at least one" as used herein means "only one option" or "any combination of two or more options" if the number of options is three or more.

[0091] As used in this specification, ordinal numbers such as "first, second, and third" are used merely to distinguish between multiple elements having the same name and do not have any special meaning. [Explanation of symbols]

[0092] 10...human-powered vehicle, 22...hub axle, 30...transmission device, 32...planetary gear mechanism, 34...sun gear, 80...clutch device, 82...base material, 84...engaging member, 84A...base end, 84B...free end, 86...support member, 86A...support surface, 86B...first recess, 86C...second recess, 88...shaft member, 90...annular member, 90A...inner periphery, 90B...engaged portion, 92A...first flat surface, 92B...second flat surface, 94...fastener member, 96...urging member, 98...control member, 100...adjusting member.

Claims

1. A clutch device for a human-powered vehicle, A substrate; at least one engagement member having a proximal end and a distal end; A support member formed separately from the base material and provided on the base material, A clutch device, wherein the support member has a support surface that can contact the base end of the at least one engaging member, and pivotally supports the at least one engaging member when the base end is in contact with the support surface.

2. The clutch device according to claim 1 , further comprising an adjustment member disposed between the base material and the support member for adjusting a position of the engagement member relative to the base material.

3. The support member is A first plane supported by the base material; 2. The clutch apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a second plane supported by said substrate and non-parallel to said first plane.

4. The clutch apparatus of claim 1 further comprising at least one fastener member securing said support member to said substrate.

5. the substrate comprises a first material; The clutch arrangement of claim 1 , wherein the support member comprises a second material different from the first material.

6. A clutch device for a human-powered vehicle, A substrate; at least one engagement member having a proximal end and a distal end; A support member provided on the base material, the support member has a support surface that can contact the base end of the at least one engaging member, and pivotally supports the at least one engaging member in a state in which the base end is in contact with the support surface; the substrate comprises a first material; The support member includes a second material different from the first material.

7. 7. The clutch device according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the second material is harder than the first material.

8. the first material comprises an aluminum alloy; The clutch arrangement of claim 7 wherein the second material comprises iron.

9. the at least one engagement member is pivotable between a first position in which the distal end is closer to the substrate and a second position in which the distal end is further from the substrate than the first position; 7. The clutch arrangement of claim 1 or 6, further comprising a biasing member biasing the at least one engagement member to the first position.

10. 10. The clutch arrangement of claim 9, further comprising a control member contacting said at least one engagement member to move said at least one engagement member from said first position to said second position.

11. The substrate includes a shaft member having a central axis, 7. The clutch device according to claim 1, wherein the support surface is configured to support the at least one engagement member such that the at least one engagement member is pivotable about a pivot axis parallel to the central axis.

12. The substrate includes a shaft member having a central axis, The clutch device according to claim 1 or 6, wherein the support member is provided on the base material within a range of less than 180 degrees with respect to the central axis when viewed from a direction parallel to the central axis.

13. The clutch arrangement of claim 1 or 6, wherein the support member includes at least one first recess in which the base end is disposed.

14. The clutch arrangement of claim 13 , wherein the support member further includes a second recess in which at least a portion of the free end is disposed.

15. The shaft member further includes an annular member rotatably attached to the shaft member about the central axis, The clutch device according to claim 11, wherein an inner peripheral portion of the annular member with respect to the central axis has an engaged portion engageable with the free end portion.

16. A transmission for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: A transmission comprising the clutch device according to claim 1 or 6.

17. A transmission for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: The clutch device according to claim 15; A planetary gear mechanism, The planetary gear mechanism includes a sun gear, The sun gear includes the annular member.

18. The human-powered vehicle includes a hub axle. The transmission of claim 16, wherein the hub axle comprises the base material.

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