Power generation device

Abstract

To increase a power generation amount.SOLUTION: A power generation device used for a man-power driving vehicle including a hollow member comprises: a movable section which is movable inside of the hollow member; a first support section which supports the movable section movably inside of the hollow section; and a first power generation section including a coil and a first magnetostrictive material and deforming the first magnetostrictive material in response to the relative movement of the movable section to the first support section, thereby generating power in the coil.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a power generating device, and more particularly to a power generating device that is used in a vehicle such as a bicycle and generates power by vibration. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a light emitting device for a vehicle, and discloses that the vehicle power generating device is provided with a vibration power generating device. Also disclosed is an embodiment in which the power generated by the vibration power generation device is supplied to a light emitting unit such as an LED and used as a light emitting device for a vehicle. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6195255 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in conventional vibration power generation devices, the amount of generated power is small, and as in the disclosed embodiment, it is only sufficient to light up a light-emitting part such as an LED, and this poses a problem in terms of practicality.

[0005] In consideration of the above-mentioned problems, one object of the present invention is to provide a power generation device capable of increasing the amount of power generation. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] (1) One aspect of the present invention that solves the above-mentioned problems is a power generating device for use in a human-powered vehicle having a hollow member, the power generating device comprising: a movable part movable within the hollow member; a first support part that movably supports the movable part inside the hollow member; and a first power generating unit that includes a coil and a first magnetostrictive material, and generates electric power in the coil by deforming the first magnetostrictive material in response to relative movement of the movable part with respect to the first support part.

[0007] According to the above configuration, the vibration generated when the human-powered vehicle is traveling causes the movable part to move relative to the first support part inside the hollow member, deforming the first magnetostrictive material and generating electric power in the coil. This allows the generator to generate a larger amount of electric power than conventional generators.

[0008] (2) In one aspect of the present invention, the power generating device according to (1) may further include a first elastic portion that elastically supports the movable portion so that the movable portion is movable relative to the first support portion.

[0009] According to the above configuration, the movable part can be reciprocated within the hollow member by the action of the restoring force of the first elastic part. This increases the number of times the first magnetostrictive material is deformed, and the number of times power is generated in the coil can be increased. Therefore, the increase in the number of times power is generated allows a larger amount of power to be generated.

[0010] (3) In one aspect of the present invention, the power generating device according to (1) or (2) may further include a first sliding portion that supports the movable portion so that the movable portion is slidable relative to the first support portion.

[0011] According to the above configuration, the first sliding portion can smoothly move the movable portion inside the hollow member. The smooth movement of the movable portion causes the first magnetostrictive material to deform, thereby improving the efficiency of power generation in the coil.

[0012] (4) One aspect of the present invention is the power generating device described in (1) or (2), which may further include a second support part arranged at a distance from the first support part and supporting the movable part movably inside the hollow member between the first support part and the movable part, and a second power generating part including a second magnetostrictive material and generating electric power by changing the magnetic flux in the second magnetostrictive material due to relative movement of the movable part with respect to the second support part.

[0013] According to the above configuration, the movable part moves relative to the first support part and the second support part in the hollow member due to vibrations generated when the human-powered vehicle is running, the first magnetostrictive material and the second magnetostrictive material are deformed, and electric power can be generated in the coil. Therefore, since two magnetostrictive materials are used, a larger amount of electric power can be generated.

[0014] (5) In one aspect of the present invention, the power generating device according to (4) may further include a second elastic portion that elastically supports the movable portion so that the movable portion is movable relative to the second support portion.

[0015] According to the above configuration, the movable part can be reciprocated within the hollow member by the action of the restoring force of the first elastic part and the second elastic part. This increases the number of times the first magnetostrictive material and the second magnetostrictive material are deformed, and increases the number of times power is generated in the coil. Therefore, the increase in the number of times power is generated allows a larger amount of power to be generated.

[0016] (6) One aspect of the present invention is the power generating device described in (1), in which the hollow member has a seat tube to which a saddle can be attached, and at least one of the movable part, the first support part, and the first power generating part may be arranged within the seat tube.

[0017] According to the above configuration, electricity can be generated in the seat tube by vibrations that occur when the human-powered vehicle is traveling.

[0018] (7) One aspect of the present invention is the power generation device described in (1), wherein the hollow member has a mounting post that can be attached to a vehicle frame, and a suspension post having a movable post that slides freely relative to the mounting post, and at least one of the movable part, the first support part, and the first power generation part may be arranged within the suspension post.

[0019] According to the above configuration, electricity can be generated in the suspension post by vibrations that occur when the human-powered vehicle is traveling.

[0020] (8) One aspect of the present invention is the power generating device described in (1), wherein the first power generating unit includes a first frame to which the first magnetostrictive material is attached and which is formed to include a non-magnetic material, a first part that supports the first frame so that it can swing in a first direction together with the first magnetostrictive material, and a second part that is connected to the first part and arranged alongside the first magnetostrictive material in a second direction different from the first direction, and a first yoke formed to include a magnetic material, and the coil may be wound around at least one of the first yoke and the first magnetostrictive material.

[0021] According to the above configuration, the size of the power generating device in the first direction can be suppressed compared to a case where the first yoke is disposed in the first direction in which the first magnetostrictive material and the first frame swing, and therefore the power generating device can be easily installed in a small space, improving the convenience of the power generating device.

[0022] (9) One aspect of the present invention is the power generation device described in (8), wherein the first frame may have a first fixed end supported by either the movable part or the first support part at a first width, and a first oscillating end spaced apart from the first fixed end and having a second width smaller than the first width.

[0023] According to the above configuration, a large amount of power can be generated.

[0024] (10) One aspect of the present invention is the power generating device according to (9), wherein the first frame may have a folded-back curved portion between the first fixed end and the first swing end.

[0025] According to the above configuration, a large amount of power can be generated.

[0026] (11) One aspect of the present invention is the power generating device as defined in (10), in which the first magnetostrictive material may be attached between the curved portion and the first oscillation end.

[0027] According to the above configuration, a large amount of power can be generated. Effect of the Invention

[0028] According to the present invention, the effect of increasing the amount of power generation can be obtained. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0029] [Figure 1] 1 is a side view showing a human-powered vehicle equipped with a power generating device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a part of a body frame of a human-powered vehicle equipped with a power generation device according to a first embodiment of the present invention, showing an example of a configuration in which the power generation device is built into a hollow member. [Diagram 3] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of a body frame of a human-powered vehicle equipped with a power generation device according to a second embodiment of the present invention, showing an example of a configuration in which the power generation device is built into a hollow member. [Figure 4] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a power generation section including a power generation device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of a body frame of a human-powered vehicle equipped with a power generation device according to a modified example of the second embodiment of the present invention, showing an example of a configuration in which the power generation device is built into a hollow member. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of a body frame of a human-powered vehicle equipped with a power generation device according to a modified example of the second embodiment of the present invention, showing an example of a configuration in which the power generation device is built into a hollow member. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of a body frame of a human-powered vehicle equipped with a power generation device according to a third embodiment of the present invention, showing an example of a configuration in which the power generation device is built into a hollow member. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a side view showing a human-powered vehicle equipped with a power generating device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a power generating device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a power generating device according to a modified example of the fifth embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0030] A power generating device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the description of the embodiments, the same reference numerals are used for components having the same or similar functions. The duplicated description of those components may be omitted. The drawings are schematic or conceptual, and the relationship between the thickness and width of each part, the size ratio between parts, etc. are not necessarily the same as the actual ones.

[0031] In the description of the embodiments, ordinal numbers such as "first," "second," and "third" may be used. These ordinal numbers do not indicate the number of components described with the ordinal numbers. Ordinal numbers may be used to indicate that each of a plurality of components is a separate component. The terms "longitudinal direction LD," "radial direction RD," and "circumferential direction CD" are used as directional terms. The longitudinal direction LD corresponds to the direction in which the hollow members constituting the power generating device extend. The radial direction RD is a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction LD. The circumferential direction CD is a direction along the outer periphery of the members constituting the power generating device in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction LD.

[0032] With respect to the longitudinal direction LD, the direction from the second support part to the first support part is referred to as the +LD direction, and the direction from the first support part to the second support part is referred to as the -LD direction. In other words, the -LD direction is the opposite direction to the +LD direction. The radial direction RD corresponds to a direction radiating from an axis parallel to the longitudinal direction LD. The axis means, for example, a line passing through the center of the hollow member extending in the longitudinal direction LD. The terms "longitudinal direction LD," "radial direction RD," and "circumferential direction CD" are terms used to explain the relative positions of multiple components that make up each of the human-powered vehicle and the power generation device, or the shape and structure of each of the multiple components, and do not define the respective attitudes of the human-powered vehicle and the power generation device.

[0033] The term "cross-sectional shape" may be used as the term for shape. Unless otherwise defined, the cross-sectional shape refers to the shape in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction LD. The term "connected" indicates the positional relationship between two components. This positional relationship does not only mean that the two components are directly connected, but also means that another component is interposed between the two components. The same interpretation applies to the terms "provided," "disposed," and "opposed."

[0034] First Embodiment <Human-powered vehicle 10> As shown in FIG. 1, the human-powered vehicle 10 has a body frame 12, a front fork 14, a handlebar 16, a drive unit 18, a front wheel 20F, a rear wheel 20R, a front brake 22F, a rear brake 22R, a saddle 24, and a seat post 25. The body frame 12 has a head tube 12A, a top tube 12B, a down tube 12C, a seat tube 12D, a seat stay 12E, and a chain stay 12F. A seat post 25 extending upward from the human-powered vehicle 10 is connected to the seat tube 12D. A saddle 24 is attached to the upper part of the seat post 25.

[0035] The human-powered vehicle 10 has hollow members. The head tube 12A, the top tube 12B, the down tube 12C, the seat tube 12D, the seat stays 12E, and the chain stays 12F are each an example of a hollow member. The material of such hollow members is, for example, metal, carbon fiber reinforced plastic, or the like.

[0036] The cross-sectional shape of each part constituting the body frame 12 is, for example, circular. Note that the cross-sectional shape of each part constituting the body frame 12 is not limited to a circle, and may be an ellipse, a triangle with chamfered corners, or the like. Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape of each part constituting the body frame 12 may have a three-dimensional shape that changes along the longitudinal direction LD.

[0037] The front fork 14 is supported by the head tube 12A. The front fork 14 is an example of a hollow member. The handlebar 16 is supported by the front fork 14. The handlebar 16 is an example of a hollow member.

[0038] The front wheel 20F is rotatably supported by the front fork 14. The rear wheel 20R is rotatably supported by a seat stay 12E and a chain stay 12F. The drive unit 18 is made up of a crank, a chain, a front sprocket, a rear sprocket, etc. The drive unit 18 is configured to transmit the leg power of the rider riding on the human-powered vehicle 10 to the rear wheel 20R. The front brake 22F is attached to the front fork 14. The front brake 22F is configured to apply a braking force to the front wheel 20F. The rear brake 22R is attached to the seat stay 12E and is configured to apply a braking force to the rear wheel 20R.

[0039] <Generator 30A> 2, the power generating device 30A according to the first embodiment includes a movable section 32, a first support section 34F, and a first power generating section 36F. The power generating device 30A is used in a human-powered vehicle 10.

[0040] At least one of the movable section 32, the first support section 34F, and the first power generating section 36F is disposed within the seat tube 12D. In the present embodiment, all of the movable section 32, the first support section 34F, and the first power generating section 36F are disposed within the seat tube 12D.

[0041] Furthermore, the power generating device 30A includes a first elastic portion 38F. Furthermore, the power generating device 30A includes a first sliding portion 40F. Furthermore, the power generating device 30A includes a second support section 34S and a second power generating section 36S. Furthermore, the power generating device 30A includes a second elastic portion 38S. Furthermore, the power generating device 30A includes a second sliding portion 40S. Furthermore, the power generation device 30A includes a charging circuit section .

[0042] <Movable part 32> In the first embodiment, the movable portion 32 is configured to move within the seat tube 12D. The movable part 32 may move inside a cylindrical part other than the seat tube 12D. For example, the movable part 32 may be configured to move inside the head tube 12A, the top tube 12B, the down tube 12C, the seat tube 12D, the seat stays 12E, the chain stays 12F, the front fork 14, the seat post 25, and the handlebar 16. The movable part 32 has, for example, a rod shape extending along the longitudinal direction LD. The movable part 32 is disposed inside the seat tube 12D. The cross-sectional shape of the movable part 32 is, for example, circular. As long as the movable part 32 can move smoothly inside the seat tube 12D, the shape of the movable part 32 is not particularly limited. The material of the movable part 32 is, for example, stainless steel. The movable part 32 may contain a magnetic material. In this case, it is sufficient that the movable part 32 has non-magnetic properties as a whole.

[0043] The movable part 32 has a first movable magnet 32A and a second movable magnet 32B. Each of the first movable magnet 32A and the second movable magnet 32B is a known permanent magnet. The first movable magnet 32A is provided at one end of the movable part 32 in the longitudinal direction LD. The second movable magnet 32B is provided at the other end of the movable part 32 in the longitudinal direction LD. The magnetic pole of the first movable magnet 32A may be an N pole or an S pole as long as a repulsive force against the first support part 34F is obtained. Similarly, the magnetic pole of the second movable magnet 32B may be an N pole or an S pole as long as a repulsive force against the second support part 34S is obtained. In this embodiment, the magnetic pole of each of the first movable magnet 32A and the second movable magnet 32B is an S pole.

[0044] <First support part 34F> The first support portion 34F is configured to movably support the movable portion 32 inside the seat tube 12D. The cross-sectional shape of the first support portion 34F is circular, the same as the cross-sectional shape of the seat tube 12D. The first support portion 34F is disposed inside the seat tube 12D. The first support portion 34F is fixed to the seat tube 12D. The first support portion 34F is located at one end of the power generating device 30A in the longitudinal direction LD. In other words, the first support portion 34F is located at an end of the power generating device 30A in the +LD direction.

[0045] The first support portion 34F has a first supporting magnet 34A. The first supporting magnet 34A is provided on a surface of the first support portion 34F facing the -LD direction. The first supporting magnet 34A faces the first movable magnet 32A. The magnetic pole of the first supporting magnet 34A may be an N pole or an S pole as long as a repulsive force against the first movable magnet 32A is obtained. In this embodiment, the magnetic pole of the first supporting magnet 34A is an S pole.

[0046] <First power generation section 36F> The first power generating unit 36F includes a coil 44A and a first magnetostrictive material 46F. The first power generating unit 36F is configured to deform the first magnetostrictive material 46F in response to relative movement of the movable unit 32 with respect to the first support unit 34F. The first power generating unit 36F is configured to generate electric power in the coil 44A by the deformation of the first magnetostrictive material 46F. The first power generating unit 36F is also configured to generate electric power in the coil 44A by a change in magnetic flux in the first power generating unit 36F.

[0047] <Coil 44A> The coil 44A is provided on the inside of the seat tube 12D in the radial direction RD. The coil 44A is provided along the circumferential direction CD of the seat tube 12D. The cross-sectional shape of the coil 44A is annular. The coil 44A has a structure in which, for example, a coil wire is wound around an annular bobbin with a plurality of turns.

[0048] <1st magnetostrictive material 46F> The first magnetostrictive material 46F is provided on the outer side of the movable part 32 in the radial direction RD. The first magnetostrictive material 46F is provided along the circumferential direction CD of the movable part 32. The cross-sectional shape of the first magnetostrictive material 46F is annular. The first magnetostrictive material 46F is separated from the coil 44A via a gap. The first magnetostrictive material 46F is made of a magnetostrictive material. The first magnetostrictive material 46F is made of, for example, an Fe-Ga alloy. The magnetic permeability of the first magnetostrictive material 46F changes due to mechanical strain. The magnetization direction of the first magnetostrictive material 46F also changes due to mechanical strain.

[0049] <First elastic portion 38F> The first elastic portion 38F is configured to elastically support the movable portion 32 so as to be movable relative to the first support portion 34F. The first elastic part 38F is disposed between the first support part 34F and the movable part 32 in the longitudinal direction LD. The first elastic part 38F is, for example, a coil spring. In this embodiment, a first end of the first elastic part 38F in the +LD direction is in contact with the first support magnet 34A. A second end of the first elastic part 38F in the -LD direction is in contact with the first movable magnet 32A. In the first elastic part 38F, a restoring force is generated to move the first movable magnet 32A away from the first support part 34F. As long as it is possible to generate a restoring force to move the first movable magnet 32A away from the first support part 34F, the type of the first elastic part 38F is not limited to a coil spring. For example, a leaf spring or the like may be used for the first elastic part 38F.

[0050] <First sliding portion 40F> The first sliding portion 40F is configured to slidably support the movable portion 32 so as to be slidable relative to the first support portion 34F. The first sliding part 40F is disposed between the first power generating part 36F and the first support part 34F in the longitudinal direction LD. The first sliding part 40F has a first movable sliding part 40FA and a second movable sliding part 40FB.

[0051] <First movable sliding portion 40FA> The first movable sliding part 40FA is provided on the outer side of the movable part 32 in the radial direction RD. The first movable sliding part 40FA is provided along the circumferential direction CD of the movable part 32. The cross-sectional shape of the first movable sliding part 40FA is annular. The first movable sliding part 40FA has a curved surface facing the second movable sliding part 40FB.

[0052] <Second movable sliding portion 40FB> The second movable sliding part 40FB is provided on the inside of the seat tube 12D in the radial direction RD. The second movable sliding part 40FB is provided along the circumferential direction CD of the seat tube 12D. The cross-sectional shape of the second movable sliding part 40FB is annular. The second movable sliding part 40FB has a curved surface facing the first movable sliding part 40FA.

[0053] 2, the first movable sliding part 40FA and the second movable sliding part 40FB are spaced apart in the radial direction RD. When the movable part 32 vibrates in the longitudinal direction LD, the first movable sliding part 40FA and the second movable sliding part 40FB are configured to slide against each other. In the example shown in FIG. 2, each of the first movable sliding part 40FA and the second movable sliding part 40FB has a curved surface. As a modified example, a convex part extending in the longitudinal direction LD may be provided on one curved surface of the first movable sliding part 40FA and the second movable sliding part 40FB, and a concave part extending in the longitudinal direction LD may be provided on the other curved surface of the first movable sliding part 40FA and the second movable sliding part 40FB. In this structure, the first movable sliding part 40FA and the second movable sliding part 40FB are configured to slide against each other with the convex part disposed in the concave part. In other words, the concave part and the convex part can be called a rail, a groove, or a guide.

[0054] <Second support part 34S> The second support portion 34S is disposed apart from the first support portion 34F. The second support portion 34S is configured to movably support the movable portion 32 inside the seat tube 12D between the first support portion 34F and the second support portion 34S. The cross-sectional shape of the second support part 34S is circular, the same as the cross-sectional shape of the seat tube 12D. The second support part 34S is disposed inside the seat tube 12D. The second support part 34S is fixed to the seat tube 12D. The second support part 34S is located at the other end of the power generating device 30A in the longitudinal direction LD. In other words, the second support part 34S is located at the end of the power generating device 30A in the -LD direction.

[0055] The second support portion 34S has a second supporting magnet 34B. The second supporting magnet 34B is provided on a surface of the second support portion 34S facing the +LD direction. The second supporting magnet 34B faces the second movable magnet 32B. The magnetic pole of the second supporting magnet 34B may be an N pole or an S pole as long as a repulsive force against the second movable magnet 32B is obtained. In this embodiment, the magnetic pole of the second supporting magnet 34B is an S pole.

[0056] <Second power generating section 36S> The second power generating unit 36S includes a second magnetostrictive material 46S. The second power generating unit 36S is configured to change the magnetic flux in the second magnetostrictive material 46S in response to the relative movement of the movable unit 32 with respect to the second support unit 34S. The second power generating unit 36S is configured to generate electric power by changing the magnetic flux in the second magnetostrictive material 46S.

[0057] <Second magnetostrictive material 46S> The second magnetostrictive material 46S is provided on the outer side of the movable part 32 in the radial direction RD. The second magnetostrictive material 46S is provided along the circumferential direction CD of the movable part 32. The cross-sectional shape of the second magnetostrictive material 46S is annular. The second magnetostrictive material 46S is disposed next to the first magnetostrictive material 46F in the -LD direction.

[0058] <Second elastic portion 38S> The second elastic portion 38S is configured to elastically support the movable portion 32 so as to be movable relative to the second support portion 34S. The second elastic part 38S is disposed between the second support part 34S and the movable part 32 in the longitudinal direction LD. The second elastic part 38S is, for example, a coil spring. In this embodiment, a first end of the second elastic part 38S in the -LD direction is in contact with the second support magnet 34B. A second end of the second elastic part 38S in the +LD direction is in contact with the second movable magnet 32B. In the second elastic part 38S, a restoring force is generated to separate the second movable magnet 32B from the second support part 34S. As long as it is possible to generate a restoring force to separate the second movable magnet 32B from the second support part 34S, the type of the second elastic part 38S is not limited to a coil spring. For example, a leaf spring or the like may be used for the second elastic part 38S.

[0059] <Second sliding portion 40S> The second sliding portion 40S is configured to slidably support the movable portion 32 so as to be slidable relative to the second support portion 34S. The second sliding part 40S is disposed between the second power generating part 36S and the second support part 34S in the longitudinal direction LD. The second sliding part 40S has a second movable sliding part 40SA and a second movable sliding part 40SB.

[0060] The second movable sliding part 40SA is provided on the outer side of the movable part 32 in the radial direction RD. The second movable sliding part 40SA is provided along the circumferential direction CD of the movable part 32. The cross-sectional shape of the second movable sliding part 40SA is annular. The second movable sliding part 40SA has a curved surface facing the second movable sliding part 40SB.

[0061] The second movable sliding part 40SB is provided on the inside of the seat tube 12D in the radial direction RD. The second movable sliding part 40SB is provided along the circumferential direction CD of the seat tube 12D. The cross-sectional shape of the second movable sliding part 40SB is annular. The second movable sliding part 40SB has a curved surface facing the second movable sliding part 40SA.

[0062] The specific structure of the second movable sliding part 40SA is similar to that of the first movable sliding part 40FA described above.The specific structure of the second movable sliding part 40SB is similar to that of the second movable sliding part 40FB described above.

[0063] <Charging circuit section 42> The charging circuit unit 42 has a connector 42A and a wiring 42B. The wiring 42B is electrically connected to the coil 44A. The connector 42A is configured to be connected to a charger (not shown). The charging circuit unit 42 is disposed, for example, inside the seat tube 12D. The position at which the charging circuit unit 42 is installed is not particularly limited. For example, the charging circuit unit 42 may be disposed on the surface of the first support portion 34F in the +LD direction, or may be disposed at a position away from the first support portion 34F.

[0064] <Action and effect> In the power generating device 30A having the above-mentioned configuration, vibrations generated when the human-powered vehicle 10 is traveling are transmitted to the seat tube 12D. Inside the seat tube 12D, the movable part 32 moves relative to the first support part 34F, and the magnetic flux changes in the first magnetostrictive material 46F, so that electric power can be generated in the coil 44A. This makes it possible to generate a larger amount of electric power than conventional power generating devices.

[0065] Furthermore, the action of the restoring force of the first elastic portion 38F causes the movable portion 32 to reciprocate within the seat tube 12D. Even if the human-powered vehicle 10 stops, the first elastic portion 38F causes the movable portion 32 to repeatedly reciprocate until a certain time has elapsed, that is, until the operation of the movable portion 32 stabilizes. This increases the number of times the magnetic flux changes in the first magnetostrictive material 46F, and increases the number of times power is generated in the coil 44A. Therefore, the increased number of times power is generated allows a larger amount of power to be generated.

[0066] In addition, in the first sliding portion 40F, the first movable sliding portion 40FA and the second movable sliding portion 40FB slide, and the movable portion 32 can be moved smoothly inside the seat tube 12D. The smooth movement of the movable portion 32 changes the magnetic flux in the first magnetostrictive material 46F, so that the efficiency of power generation in the coil 44A can be improved.

[0067] Furthermore, due to vibrations generated when the human-powered vehicle 10 is traveling, the movable part 32 moves relative to the first support part 34F and the second support part 34S inside the seat tube 12D. This causes a change in magnetic flux in the first magnetostrictive material 46F and the second magnetostrictive material 46S, and electric power can be generated in the coil 44A. Therefore, since two magnetostrictive materials are used, a larger amount of electric power can be generated.

[0068] In addition, the action of the restoring forces of the first elastic portion 38F and the second elastic portion 38S can cause the movable portion 32 to reciprocate within the seat tube 12D. This increases the number of times that the magnetic flux changes in the first magnetostrictive material 46F and the second magnetostrictive material 46S, and can increase the number of times that power is generated in the coil 44A. Therefore, the increase in the number of times that power is generated allows a larger amount of power to be generated.

[0069] <Second embodiment> Next, a power generating device according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 3, the same members as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted or simplified. In the description of the first power generating unit in the second embodiment, the terms "first direction D1," "second direction D2," and "third direction D3" are used as directional terms. The first direction D1 is the direction in which the first magnetostrictive material oscillates. The second direction D2 is a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. The third direction D3 is a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1 and the second direction D2.

[0070] The first direction D1 may be a direction parallel to the radial direction RD or a direction inclined to the radial direction RD. The second direction D2 may be a direction parallel to the radial direction RD or a direction inclined to the radial direction RD. The third direction D3 may be a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction LD or a direction inclined to the longitudinal direction LD. The terms "first direction D1", "second direction D2", and "third direction D3" are terms used to explain the relative positions of the multiple members constituting the first power generation unit, or the shapes and structures of the multiple members, and do not define the attitude of the first power generation unit.

[0071] <Generator 30B> 3, the power generating device 30B according to the second embodiment includes a movable portion 32, a first support portion 34F, and a power generating portion 36A. The power generating device 30B is used in a human-powered vehicle 10.

[0072] <Power Generation Unit 36A> The power generation section 36A is an example of a first power generation section. 3 and 4, the power generating section 36A includes a coil 44B, a first magnetostrictive material 46A, a first frame 48, and a first yoke 50. The power generating section 36A further includes a magnetic flux generating member 49. In the following, a case will be described in which the first magnetostrictive material 46A is aligned with the first yoke 50 in the second direction D2 intersecting the first direction D1. The first direction D1 corresponds to the rocking direction in which the first magnetostrictive material 46A rocks. Note that, as shown in FIG. 4, the first magnetostrictive material 46A may be aligned with the first yoke 50 in the first direction D1. The power generating unit 36A is configured to deform the first magnetostrictive material 46A in response to relative movement of the movable part 32 with respect to the first support part 34F. The power generating unit 36A is configured to generate electric power in the coil 44B by the deformation of the first magnetostrictive material 46A. Furthermore, the power generating section 36A includes a weight 56, a first fixed magnet 58, and a second fixed magnet 60.

[0073] <Coil 44B> The coil 44B differs from the coil 44A according to the first embodiment in the location where the coil 44B is installed. The coil 44B is provided on the outside of the first magnetostrictive material 46A in the radial direction RD. The coil 44B is provided along the circumferential direction CD of the first magnetostrictive material 46A. The coil 44B may have a structure in which a coil wiring is wound with a plurality of turns around the outer periphery of the first magnetostrictive material 46A, for example. The coil 44B is wound around at least one of the first yoke 50 and the first magnetostrictive material 46A. In this embodiment, the coil 44B is wound around the first magnetostrictive material 46A. The coil 44B is electrically connected to the charging circuit unit 42 via the wiring 42B (see FIG. 2).

[0074] As shown in FIG. 4, the coil 44B is wound around both the first frame 48 and the first magnetostrictive material 46A. The coil 44B may be wound only around the first magnetostrictive material 46A. The coil 44B may be wound around at least one of the first yoke 50, the first frame 48, and the first magnetostrictive material 46A. The coil 44B has output wiring 44C, 44D. The output wiring 44C, 44D are wirings drawn out from the coil 44B. The power generated in the coil 44B is supplied to the charging circuit section 42 through the output wiring 44C, 44D.

[0075] <First magnetostrictive material 46A> The first magnetostrictive material 46A is attached to a first frame 48. For example, the first magnetostrictive material 46A is provided on the outer side of the first frame 48 in the radial direction RD. The first magnetostrictive material 46A is provided along the first frame 48 in the circumferential direction CD. The first magnetostrictive material 46A is made of a magnetostrictive material similar to the first magnetostrictive material 46F according to the first embodiment. The magnetic permeability of the first magnetostrictive material 46A changes due to mechanical strain. The magnetization direction of the first magnetostrictive material 46A also changes due to mechanical strain.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 4, the first magnetostrictive material 46A has a plate shape extending in the third direction D3. The plate thickness direction of the first magnetostrictive material 46A is the first direction D1. When viewed from the first direction D1, the first magnetostrictive material 46A has a substantially rectangular shape. The first magnetostrictive material 46A is attached to the first frame 48. When viewed from the second direction D2, the first magnetostrictive material 46A overlaps with the first yoke 50. The first magnetostrictive material 46A is made of a magnetostrictive material. The first magnetostrictive material 46A is made of, for example, an Fe-Ga alloy. The magnetic permeability of the first magnetostrictive material 46A changes due to mechanical strain. In addition, the magnetization direction of the first magnetostrictive material 46A changes due to mechanical strain.

[0077] <1st frame 48> The first frame 48 is formed so as to include a non-magnetic material. In this embodiment, the first frame 48 is formed from a non-magnetic material. In this embodiment, the entire first frame 48 is formed from a non-magnetic material. For example, the first frame 48 is formed from stainless steel. Note that the first frame 48 may include a magnetic material. In this case, it is sufficient that the first frame 48 has non-magnetic properties as a whole.

[0078] The first frame 48 is disposed inside the seat tube 12D. The first frame 48 is a plate-like member extending along the longitudinal direction LD. The cross-sectional shape of the movable part 32 is, for example, rectangular. The first frame 48 may be formed of a single plate-like member, or may be formed of a laminate in which a plurality of plate-like members are stacked.

[0079] As shown in Fig. 4, a first magnetostrictive material 46A is attached to the first frame 48. The first magnetostrictive material 46A is a separate member from the first frame 48. The first magnetostrictive material 46A may be attached to the first frame 48 via an adhesive. The first magnetostrictive material 46A may be attached to the first frame 48 by welding or the like. The first frame 48 has a plate shape that extends in a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. The first frame 48 is fixed to the first yoke 50 in the first direction D1. In the present embodiment, the entire first frame 48 is made of a non-magnetic material, but the first frame 48 may be at least partially made of a non-magnetic material.

[0080] The first frame 48 has a first fixed end 48K and a first swinging end 48Y. The first fixed end 48K is configured to support either the movable portion 32 or the first support portion 34F. In the present embodiment, the first fixed end 48K supports the first support portion 34F. In the radial direction RD, the first fixed end 48K has a first width W1. The first swing end 48Y is spaced apart from the first fixed end 48K. In the radial direction RD, the first swing end 48Y has a second width W2. The second width W2 is smaller than the first width W1.

[0081] Further, the first frame 48 has a base 48A, a base protrusion 48B, a swinging portion 48C, and a swinging protrusion 48D. The base 48A has a first fixed end 48K. The base protrusion 48B is a portion that protrudes from the base 48A in the radial direction RD. In other words, the base 48A and the base protrusion 48B form a substantially L-shaped portion. The swinging portion 48C has a first swinging end 48Y. The swinging protrusion 48D is a portion that protrudes from the swinging portion 48C in the radial direction RD. In other words, the swinging portion 48C and the swinging protrusion 48D form a substantially L-shaped portion.

[0082] <1st York 50> The first yoke 50 is formed to include a magnetic material. As shown in FIG. 4, the first yoke 50 supports the first frame 48 so that it can swing. When viewed from the first direction D1, the first yoke 50 has a substantially L-shape. The first yoke 50 has a structure in which a plurality of yoke plates 50P are stacked in the first direction D1. Each of the plurality of yoke plates 50P has a first portion 50A and a second portion 50B. The first portion 50A is configured to support the first frame 48 together with the first magnetostrictive material 46A so as to be swingable in a first direction. The second portion 50B is connected to the first portion 50A. The second portion 50B is disposed next to the first magnetostrictive material 46A in a second direction different from the first direction.

[0083] Each of the multiple yoke plates 50P is at least partially formed of a magnetic material. In this embodiment, each of the multiple yoke plates 50P is formed of a magnetic material. In this embodiment, the entire first yoke 50 is formed of a magnetic material. The material of each of the multiple yoke plates 50P is not particularly limited, and each of the multiple yoke plates 50P is formed of, for example, soft magnetic steel. Each of the multiple yoke plates 50P may be formed of, for example, SS400, which is a type of soft magnetic steel. The first yoke 50 may include both a magnetic material and a non-magnetic material.

[0084] In each of the multiple yoke plates 50P, the first portion 50A has a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape extending in the second direction D2. The second portion 50B has a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape extending in the third direction D3. The second portion 50B faces the first magnetostrictive material 46A and the coil 44B at an interval in the second direction D2. The second portion 50B is arranged next to the first magnetostrictive material 46A in the second direction D2.

[0085] In this embodiment, in each of the multiple yoke plates 50P, the first portion 50A is integrally formed with the second portion 50B. The first portion 50A and the second portion 50B form an integral single member. In the example shown in Fig. 4, the first yoke 50 has a configuration in which a plurality of yoke plates 50P are stacked. In other words, each of the plurality of yoke plates 50P is separable from the others. The structure of the first yoke 50 is not limited to the structure shown in Fig. 4. The first yoke 50 may be formed of an integral member.

[0086] <Magnetic flux forming member 49> As shown in FIG. 4, the magnetic flux forming member 49 is fixed to the second part 50B. The magnetic flux forming member 49 is arranged in line with the first magnetostrictive material 46A and the second part 50B in the second direction D2. The magnetic flux forming member 49 is arranged between the first yoke 50 and the first magnetostrictive material 46A in the second direction D2. The magnetic flux forming member 49 faces the first magnetostrictive material 46A with a gap in between in the second direction D2. The magnetic flux forming member 49 has a pair of magnetic poles. The magnetic flux forming member 49 is, for example, a permanent magnet. An N pole is formed on one surface of the magnetic flux forming member 49 facing the third direction D3. An S pole is formed on the other surface of the magnetic flux forming member 49 facing the third direction D3. The magnetic flux forming member 49 forms a magnetic flux passing through the first magnetostrictive material 46A.

[0087] <Weight 56> The weight 56 ​​is provided at the first swing end 48Y of the first frame 48. The weight of the weight 56 ​​is set according to the amount of swing of the first frame 48 in the radial direction RD. In addition, the distance between the weight 56 ​​and the first support part 34F in the longitudinal direction LD is set according to the amount of swing of the first frame 48 in the radial direction RD.

[0088] <First fixed magnet 58, second fixed magnet 60> Each of the first fixed magnet 58 and the second fixed magnet 60 is a known permanent magnet. The first fixed magnet 58 and the second fixed magnet 60 are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction LD. The first fixed magnet 58 is located on the +LD side of the first magnetostrictive material 46A. The second fixed magnet 60 is located on the -LD side of the first magnetostrictive material 46A. The first fixed magnet 58 has a north pole and a south pole. The north pole of the first fixed magnet 58 is provided on the inner wall of the seat tube 12D. The south pole of the first fixed magnet 58 faces the base projection 48B via a gap. The second fixed magnet 60 has an N pole and an S pole. The S pole of the second fixed magnet 60 is provided on the inner wall of the seat tube 12D. The N pole of the second fixed magnet 60 faces the pivot protrusion 48D via a gap. The first magnetostrictive material 46A, the first fixed magnet 58, and the second fixed magnet 60 form a magnetic circuit, that is, a closed magnetic circuit 64.

[0089] <Action and effect> In the power generating device 30B having the above-mentioned configuration, vibrations generated when the human-powered vehicle 10 is traveling are transmitted to the seat tube 12D. Inside the seat tube 12D, with the first fixed end 48K of the first frame 48 fixed to the first support portion 34F, the first swing end 48Y of the first frame 48 vibrates in the radial direction RD. This causes the first magnetostrictive material 46A to deform, and the magnetic flux in the closed magnetic circuit 64 changes. Therefore, electric power can be generated in the coil 44B. This allows a larger amount of electric power to be generated than in conventional power generating devices.

[0090] Furthermore, with the above-described configuration, it is possible to prevent the power generating device 30B from becoming large in size, which makes it easier to install the power generating device 30B in a small space, thereby improving the convenience of the power generating device 30B.

[0091] In addition, since the second width W2 of the first swing end 48Y is smaller than the first width W1 of the first fixed end 48K, the first swing end 48Y swings more easily. Furthermore, since the weight 56 ​​is provided on the first swing end 48Y, the swing of the first swing end 48Y is further promoted. This can increase the amount of power generation.

[0092] In addition, the first fixed magnet 58 and the second fixed magnet 60 are not provided on the first frame 48, but are provided on the inner wall of the seat tube 12D. Therefore, vibrations of the first frame 48 are not transmitted to the first fixed magnet 58 and the second fixed magnet 60. In other words, the first fixed magnet 58 and the second fixed magnet 60 can be separated from the first frame 48 in terms of vibration transmission. Therefore, each of the first fixed magnet 58 and the second fixed magnet 60 is less susceptible to wear, and the durability of each of the first fixed magnet 58 and the second fixed magnet 60 can be improved. Therefore, the closed magnetic circuit 64 can be stably formed.

[0093] <Modification of the second embodiment> Next, a power generating device according to a modification of the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, the same members as those in the second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted or simplified. This modification differs from the second embodiment in that a plurality of first fixed magnets 58 and a plurality of second fixed magnets 60 are disposed inside the seat tube 12D. Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the seat tube 12D as viewed in the -LD direction. In Fig. 6, reference numeral 44R indicates the outer shape of the coil 44B. In Fig. 6, the second fixed magnet 60 is arranged so as to overlap the first fixed magnet 58, so the second fixed magnet 60 is omitted from the illustration, and only the reference numeral 60 is shown. In addition, the first magnetostrictive material 46A arranged inside the coil 44B is also omitted from the illustration.

[0094] 6, four first fixed magnets 58 and four second fixed magnets 60 are provided on the inner wall of the seat tube 12D at equal angular intervals in the circumferential direction CD. The base protrusion 48B corresponds to the position of the first fixed magnets 58. Similarly, the pivot protrusion 48D corresponds to the position of the second fixed magnets 60. The south pole of each of the four first fixed magnets 58 faces the base protrusion 48B via a gap. The north pole of each of the four second fixed magnets 60 faces the swing protrusion 48D via a gap.

[0095] 5 and 6, four closed magnetic circuits 64 are formed. By increasing the number of closed magnetic circuits 64, a large amount of power can be generated. In the example shown in Figure 6, four first fixed magnets 58 are provided on the inner wall of the seat tube 12D at an angular pitch of 90 degrees, but the angular pitch is not limited to 90 degrees, and the number of first fixed magnets 58 is not limited.

[0096] <Third embodiment> Next, a power generating device according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 7, the same members as those in the second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted or simplified.

[0097] <Generator 30C> 7, the power generating device 30C according to the third embodiment includes a movable section 32, a first support section 34F, a second support section 34S, and a power generating section 36B. The power generating device 30C is used in a human-powered vehicle 10.

[0098] <Power Generation Unit 36B> The power generating unit 36B is an example of a first power generating unit. The power generating unit 36B includes a coil 44B, a first magnetostrictive material 46A, a first frame 48, and a first yoke 50. The power generating unit 36B is configured to deform the first magnetostrictive material 46A in response to relative movement of the movable part 32 with respect to the first support part 34F. The power generating unit 36B is configured to generate electric power in the coil 44B by the deformation of the first magnetostrictive material 46A. Furthermore, the power generating section 36B includes a weight 56, a first fixed magnet 58, and a second fixed magnet 60.

[0099] The first fixed magnet 58 and the second fixed magnet 60 are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction LD. The first fixed magnet 58 is located on the +LD direction side of the first magnetostrictive material 46A. The first fixed magnet 58 is provided inside the first support portion 34F. The second fixed magnet 60 is located on the -LD direction side of the first magnetostrictive material 46A. The second fixed magnet 60 is provided inside the second support portion 34S. The first fixed magnet 58 has a north pole and a south pole. The south pole of the first fixed magnet 58 is located at the first fixed end 48K of the first frame 48. The second fixed magnet 60 has a north pole and a south pole. The north pole of the second fixed magnet 60 faces the weight 56 ​​with a gap therebetween. The first magnetostrictive material 46A, the first fixed magnet 58, and the second fixed magnet 60 form a magnetic circuit, that is, a closed magnetic circuit 64.

[0100] <Action and effect> In the power generating device 30C having the above-mentioned configuration, the same or similar effects as those of the power generating device 30B can be obtained. Furthermore, the second fixed magnet 60 is not provided on the first frame 48, but on the second support portion 34S. Therefore, vibrations of the first frame 48 are not transmitted to the second fixed magnet 60. In other words, the second fixed magnet 60 can be separated from the first frame 48 in terms of vibration transmission. Therefore, the second fixed magnet 60 is less likely to wear, and the durability of each of the second fixed magnets 60 can be improved. Therefore, the closed magnetic circuit 64 can be stably formed.

[0101] The angle of each of the first fixed magnet 58 and the second fixed magnet 60 relative to the longitudinal direction LD or the angle of each of the first fixed magnet 58 and the second fixed magnet 60 relative to the radial direction RD can be changed as appropriate. By changing the angle of the magnets in this manner, the closed magnetic circuit 64 can be adjusted. For example, the arrangement of the first fixed magnet 58 may be adjusted so that the N-pole and S-pole portions of the first fixed magnet 58 face in the radial direction RD. Similarly, the arrangement of the second fixed magnet 60 may be adjusted so that the N-pole and S-pole portions of the second fixed magnet 60 face in the radial direction RD. Furthermore, the number of first fixed magnets 58 in the first support portion 34F is not limited to one. A plurality of first fixed magnets 58 may be provided in the first support portion 34F. Similarly, the number of second fixed magnets 60 in the second support portion 34S is not limited to one. A plurality of second fixed magnets 60 may be provided in the second support portion 34S.

[0102] <Fourth embodiment> Next, a power generating device according to a fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 8, the same members as those in the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted or simplified. <Human-powered vehicle B> The human-powered vehicle B shown in Fig. 8 is a so-called mountain bike. In the human-powered vehicle B, a body frame 12 has a rear frame RB, a front frame FB, and a rear suspension RS. The rear suspension RS connects the rear frame RB and the front frame FB so as to be able to absorb vibrations occurring in the human-powered vehicle B. The front fork 14 has a front suspension FS.

[0103] Furthermore, the body frame 12 has a mounting post 12G, a suspension post 12H, and a mudguard 12J. The mounting post 12G can be attached to the vehicle body frame 12. The suspension post 12H has a movable post 12I that slides telescopically relative to the mounting post 12G. At least one of the movable section 32, the first support section 34F, and the first power generating section 36F is disposed within the suspension post 12H. The mudguard 12J is provided on the mounting post 12G. The mudguard 12J is disposed above the rear wheel 20R with a gap therebetween, and extends from the mounting post 12G toward the rear of the human-powered vehicle B.

[0104] According to the above configuration, electricity can be generated in the suspension post 12H by vibrations that occur when the human-powered vehicle 10 is traveling. Furthermore, when the human-powered vehicle 10 is traveling, the mudguard 12J vibrates. The vibration of the mudguard 12J is transmitted to the movable part 32. Therefore, the mudguard 12J vibrates due to the vibration generated when the human-powered vehicle 10 is traveling, and this allows power to be generated in the suspension post 12H.

[0105] It is possible to place a weight on the tip of the mudguard 12J at the rear of the human-powered vehicle 10 so as not to affect the running of the human-powered vehicle 10. By placing such a weight, it is possible to amplify the amplitude of the vibration of the mudguard 12J, thereby enabling more effective power generation. In this embodiment, the mudguard 12J is provided on the mounting post 12G, but the mudguard 12J may be attached to the suspension post 12H. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the mudguard 12J disposed above the rear wheel 20R is exemplified, but power may be generated by utilizing vibrations of a mudguard disposed above the front wheel 20F.

[0106] <Modification of the Fourth Embodiment> At least one of the movable part 32, the first support part 34F, and the first power generating part 36F is disposed within the rear suspension RS. With this configuration, power can be generated in the rear suspension RS by vibrations that occur when the human-powered vehicle 10 is traveling. Similarly, at least one of the movable part 32, the first support part 34F, and the first power generating part 36F may be disposed within the front suspension FS. With this configuration, power can be generated in the front suspension FS by vibrations that occur when the human-powered vehicle 10 is traveling.

[0107] <Fifth embodiment> Next, a power generating device according to a fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 9, the same members as those in the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted or simplified. In particular, the structure of the first magnetostrictive material 46A and the first frame 48 will be described, and other members constituting the power generating device will not be shown.

[0108] 9, the first frame 48 has a first extending portion 48E and a second extending portion 48F. The first extending portion 48E faces the second extending portion 48F in the first direction D1. Furthermore, the first frame 48 has a folded-back curved portion 54. The curved portion 54 is provided between the first fixed end 48K and the first swinging end 48Y. In other words, in the direction from the first fixed end 48K to the first swing end 48Y, the first frame 48 is provided with the first fixed end 48K, the first extending portion 48E, the curved portion 54, the second extending portion 48F, and the first swing end 48Y, in that order. The first magnetostrictive member 46A is attached between the curved portion 54 and the first swing end 48Y.

[0109] Furthermore, as described in the second embodiment, the first fixed end 48K has a first width W1. In the second direction D2, the first swing end 48Y has a second width W2. The second width W2 is smaller than the first width W1.

[0110] According to this embodiment, since the curved portion 54 is formed in the first frame 48, it is possible to increase the amplitude of the first swing end 48Y, and therefore it is possible to generate a large amount of electric power.

[0111] <Modification of the Fifth Embodiment> Next, a power generating device according to a modification of the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 10, the same members as those in the above-described fifth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted or simplified.

[0112] 10, the first extending portion 48E faces the second extending portion 48F in the second direction D2. The first frame 48 has a folded-back curved portion 54. The curved portion 54 is provided between the first fixed end 48K and the first swinging end 48Y. The first magnetostrictive member 46A is attached between the curved portion 54 and the first swing end 48Y.

[0113] Furthermore, as described in the second embodiment, the first fixed end 48K has a first width W1. In the first direction D1, the first swing end 48Y has a second width W2. The second width W2 is smaller than the first width W1. According to this modification, since the curved portion 54 is formed in the first frame 48, it is possible to increase the amplitude of the first swing end 48Y, and therefore it is possible to generate a large amount of electric power.

[0114] In the above description, the power generator 30A is disposed inside the seat tube 12D, which is an example of a hollow member. The power generator 30A may be disposed inside at least one of the head tube 12A, the top tube 12B, the down tube 12C, the seat stays 12E, the chain stays 12F, the front fork 14, and the handlebar 16. Also, a power generating device may be disposed in the drive unit 18. In particular, the power generating device may be disposed inside a cylindrical member constituting a bottom bracket that supports the rotation shaft of the crank. Also, the power generating device may be disposed inside a cylindrical member of a hub that supports the rotation shaft (wheel shaft) of the front wheel 20F or the rear wheel 20R. [Explanation of symbols]

[0115] 10, B human-powered vehicle, 12 body frame, 12A head tube, 12B top tube, 12C down tube, 12D seat tube, 12E seat stay, 12F chain stay, 12G mounting post, 12H suspension post, 12I movable post, 12J mudguard, 14 front fork, 16 handlebar, 18 drive unit, 20F front wheel, 20R rear wheel, 22F front brake, 22R rear brake, 24 saddle, 30A, 30B, 30C generator, 32 movable part, 32A first movable magnet, 32B second movable magnet, 34A first support magnet, 34B second support magnet, 34F first support part, 34S second support part, 36A, 36B generator part, 36F first generator part, 36S second generator part, 38F first elastic part, 38S second elastic portion, 40F first sliding portion, 40FA first movable sliding portion, 40FB second movable sliding portion, 40S second sliding portion, 40SA second movable sliding portion, 40SB second movable sliding portion, 42 charging circuit portion, 42A connector, 42B wiring, 44A, 44B coil, 46A first magnetostrictive material, 46F first magnetostrictive material, 46S second magnetostrictive material, 48 first frame, 48A base portion, 48B base projection, 48C oscillating portion, 48D oscillating projection, 48E first extension portion, 48F second extension portion, 48K first fixed end, 48Y first oscillating end, 50 first yoke, 50A first portion, 50B second portion, 50P yoke plate, 54 curved portion, 56 weight, 58 first fixed magnet, 60 second fixed magnet, 64 Closed magnetic circuit, FB front frame, FS front suspension, RB rear frame, RS rear suspension

Claims

1. A power generation device for use in a human-powered vehicle having a hollow member, a movable part that is movable within the hollow member; a first support portion that movably supports the movable portion inside the hollow member; a first power generating unit including a coil and a first magnetostrictive material, the first power generating unit generating electric power in the coil by deforming the first magnetostrictive material in response to relative movement of the movable unit with respect to the first support unit; Equipped with Power generation equipment.

2. The movable portion may further include a first elastic portion that elastically supports the movable portion so as to be movable relative to the first support portion. The power generating device according to claim 1 .

3. The movable portion may further include a first sliding portion that slidably supports the movable portion relative to the first support portion. The power generating device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. a second support portion that is disposed apart from the first support portion and that movably supports the movable portion between the first support portion and the movable portion inside the hollow member; A second power generating unit includes a second magnetostrictive material, and generates electric power by changing a magnetic flux in the second magnetostrictive material due to a relative movement of the movable part with respect to the second support part. The power generating device according to claim 1 or 2.

5. Further, a second elastic portion is provided to elastically support the movable portion so as to be movable relative to the second support portion. The power generating device according to claim 4.

6. The hollow member is It has a seat tube to which a saddle can be attached, At least one of the movable portion, the first support portion, and the first power generating portion is disposed within the seat tube. The power generating device according to claim 1 .

7. The hollow member is The suspension post includes a mounting post that can be mounted on a vehicle body frame, and a movable post that can slide telescopically relative to the mounting post, At least one of the movable portion, the first support portion, and the first power generating portion is disposed within the suspension post. The power generating device according to claim 1 .

8. The first power generation unit is A first frame to which the first magnetostrictive material is attached and which is formed to include a non-magnetic material; a first yoke including a magnetic material, the first yoke having a first portion that supports the first frame together with the first magnetostrictive material so as to be swingable in a first direction, and a second portion that is connected to the first portion and is arranged alongside the first magnetostrictive material in a second direction different from the first direction; The coil is wound around at least one of the first yoke and the first magnetostrictive material. The power generating device according to claim 1 .

9. The first frame is a first fixed end supported by either the movable portion or the first support portion at a first width; a first swing end provided away from the first fixed end and having a second width smaller than the first width; The power generating device according to claim 8.

10. The first frame is A folded curved portion is provided between the first fixed end and the first swing end. The power generating device according to claim 9.

11. The first magnetostrictive material is attached between the curved portion and the first swing end. The power generating device according to claim 10.

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