Vehicle

Abstract

To provide a vehicle having a maximum speed pilot lamp, and upgrade running performance while ensuring safety.SOLUTION: A vehicle 1 has a maximum speed pilot lamp 30, and includes a motor 11 for driving the vehicle, an accelerator grip 20 for use in adjusting an output of the motor 11, and a control unit 50 that controls the output of the motor 11 on the basis of a manipulation performed on the accelerator grip 20. For example, when a manipulation quantity performed on the accelerator grip 20 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the control unit 50 suspends the motor 11 or suppresses the output of the motor 11.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle, and more particularly to a vehicle equipped with a maximum speed indicator light. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, vehicles have been proposed that can switch between a driving mode in which the vehicle runs only on motor power and a driving mode in which the vehicle runs only on human power from pedaling. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a vehicle that can be used as an electric motorcycle and can also be used as a bicycle by cutting off the motor power. In addition, electric kick scooters have become popular in recent years as small vehicles that run only on motor power. Electric kick scooters that meet the standards of the Road Traffic Act are classified as specific small motorized bicycles, and can be driven by anyone aged 16 or older without a license.

[0003] The maximum speed of a specified small motorized bicycle is controlled by a speed control device, and the installation of a maximum speed indicator light is mandatory. Furthermore, among specified small motorized bicycles, those that meet the standards set forth in the Road Traffic Act are classified as special specified small motorized bicycles, and can be ridden on sidewalks. The maximum speed of special specified small motorized bicycles is further restricted. In addition, when ridden as a specified small motorized bicycle, the maximum speed indicator light must be continuously lit, and when ridden as a special specified small motorized bicycle, the maximum speed indicator light must be flashing. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6906831 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, even in vehicles such as small motorized bicycles, it is important to improve the running performance while giving due consideration to safety. In other words, there is a demand for vehicles that are both safe and comfortable to ride. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A vehicle according to one aspect of the present invention is a vehicle equipped with a maximum speed indicator light, and comprises a motor for driving the vehicle, an operating unit for adjusting the output of the motor, and a control unit for controlling the output of the motor based on operation of the operating unit, and is characterized in that the control unit stops the motor or suppresses the output of the motor when the amount of operation of the operating unit exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0007] Another aspect of the present invention is a vehicle equipped with a maximum speed indicator light, and comprising a motor for driving the vehicle, an operating unit for adjusting the output of the motor, and a control unit for controlling the output of the motor based on operation of the operating unit, wherein the control unit suppresses the output of the motor in a speed range above a predetermined speed and below a maximum speed, and gradually increases the amount of output suppression of the motor as the vehicle speed approaches the maximum speed.

[0008] Another aspect of the present invention is a vehicle equipped with a maximum speed indicator light, and comprising a motor for driving the vehicle, an operating unit for adjusting the output of the motor, and a control unit for controlling the output of the motor based on operation of the operating unit, wherein when the operating signal of the operating unit stops, the control unit maintains the output of the motor at a predetermined value, provided that the vehicle speed is equal to or greater than a predetermined speed. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, in a vehicle equipped with a maximum speed indicator lamp, it is possible to improve driving performance while ensuring safety. The vehicle according to the present invention is, for example, excellent in safety and excellent in ride comfort. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle that is an example of an embodiment. [Diagram 2] 1 is a rear view of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 3] 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a control unit and devices connected to the control unit in a vehicle that is an example of an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the relationship between vehicle speed and motor output (output suppression rate). [Diagram 5] 4 is a flowchart showing an outline of a process relating to motor output control. [Figure 6] 5 is a flowchart showing details of a process related to motor output control. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a vehicle according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The embodiment described below is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to the following embodiment. In addition, the scope of the present invention includes embodiments that are formed by selectively combining multiple embodiments and modified examples described below.

[0012] 1 and 2 are diagrams showing the appearance of a vehicle 1, which is an example of an embodiment. For the sake of convenience, terms indicating the front / rear, up / down, left / right directions will be used below, and these refer to the front / rear, up / down, left / right directions of the vehicle 1 and each component in a normal usage state.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the vehicle 1 includes a motor unit 10 including a motor 11 for driving the vehicle, an accelerator grip 20 which is an operation unit for adjusting the output of the motor 11, and a control unit 50 which controls the output of the motor 11 based on the operation of the accelerator grip 20. The vehicle 1 also includes a battery 13 which supplies power to the motor 11 and the like. The vehicle 1 includes a frame 2, a front wheel 3a, a rear wheel 3b, a handlebar 4, and a saddle 5, similar to an electrically assisted bicycle. On the other hand, the vehicle 1 differs from an electrically assisted bicycle in that it does not have pedals and cannot run by human-powered driving force. Note that the vehicle 1 may have pedals if human-powered driving force is not added to the power transmission path. That is, the vehicle 1 is an electric vehicle which runs only by the power of the motor 11. Note that the grip on the right side of the handlebar 4 is the accelerator grip 20.

[0014] The vehicle 1 further includes a maximum speed indicator light 30. The maximum speed indicator light 30 is, for example, an indicator light for informing the surroundings of the driving mode of the vehicle 1, and when the driving mode can be switched to drive, the lighting state is changed according to the driving mode. This allows other vehicles and passersby to recognize the driving mode of the vehicle 1. The vehicle 1 is configured to be able to run by switching between a first driving mode in which the vehicle runs with a first output output from the motor 11, and a second driving mode in which the vehicle runs with a second output output from the motor 11. In this embodiment, the second output is lower than the first output.

[0015] The vehicle 1 is classified, for example, into a specified small motor bicycle and an exception specified small motor bicycle under the Road Traffic Act. The maximum speed of a specified small motor bicycle is limited to 20 km / h or less. The exception specified small motor bicycle is a specified small motor bicycle that meets additional standards and has a maximum speed limited to 6 km / h or less. In this embodiment, the first driving mode is a driving mode that meets the standards of a specified small motor bicycle, and the second driving mode is a driving mode that meets the standards of an exception specified small motor bicycle.

[0016] The maximum speed of the vehicle 1 is limited according to the driving mode by the function of the control unit 50. Furthermore, the lighting state of the maximum speed indicator light 30 of the vehicle 1 is changed according to the driving mode by the function of the control unit 50. According to the Road Traffic Act, the maximum speed indicator light 30 must be continuously lit in the first driving mode, and the maximum speed indicator light 30 must be blinking (intermittently lit) in the second driving mode. In the first driving mode, the vehicle speed is limited to a first maximum speed, and in the second driving mode, the vehicle speed is limited to a second maximum speed. Note that while driving on the sidewalk is possible in the second driving mode, driving on the sidewalk is prohibited in the first driving mode. Other vehicles and pedestrians can confirm the driving mode of the vehicle 1 by looking at the lighting state of the maximum speed indicator light 30.

[0017] Note that the driving modes of the vehicle 1 are not limited to these, and for example, there may be a third driving mode in which the vehicle travels with a third output output from the motor 11 and the vehicle speed is limited to a third maximum speed or less. The maximum speed of the vehicle 1 and the illumination state of the maximum speed indicator lamp 30 can be set as appropriate in accordance with laws and regulations, etc.

[0018] As described above, the vehicle 1 includes the frame 2, the front wheel 3a, the rear wheel 3b, the handlebars 4, and the saddle 5, and further includes safety parts similar to those of a motorized bicycle. The vehicle 1 includes a maximum speed indicator 30, a headlight 31, a taillight 32, and a turn signal 33 as safety parts. The vehicle 1 may include other safety parts such as a speedometer, a warning sounder, a rearview mirror, and a reflecting member. The vehicle 1 also includes a chain 6 that transmits the power of the motor unit 10 to the rear wheel 3b, which is the driving wheel. As the vehicle 1 does not have pedals, it includes steps 7 as footrests for the user. For example, one step 7 is provided on each side of the vehicle 1.

[0019] The frame 2 is a framework that connects the front wheel 3a, the rear wheel 3b, the handlebars 4, the saddle 5, etc. The motor unit 10 and the battery 13 are supported by the frame 2. The frame 2 is composed of a plurality of pipes. In this embodiment, the plurality of pipes include a head pipe 2a, a front fork 2b, a down pipe 2c, a seat pipe 2d, a chain stay 2e, a seat stay 2f, and a bottom bracket (not shown). The vehicle 1 may have a top pipe instead of or in addition to the down pipe 2c, and may have a foldable structure.

[0020] In this embodiment, the vehicle is exemplified as being in a form similar to a bicycle, but the form of the vehicle is not limited thereto, and may be a stand-up electric vehicle such as an electric kick scooter, an electric wheelchair, or a wheelchair with a motor built into the wheel. The wheel diameter is not particularly limited, but an example of a suitable wheel diameter is 20 inches or less. The vehicle 1 has, for example, a front wheel 3a and a rear wheel 3b with a wheel diameter of 20 inches or less. Under the Road Traffic Act, the size of the body of a specific small motorized bicycle is set at 1.9 m or less in length and 0.6 m or less in width.

[0021] The vehicle 1 further includes a front carrier 8a and a rear carrier 8b. In the vehicle 1, a maximum speed indicator light 30, a headlight 31, and a direction indicator 33 are attached to the front carrier 8a, and a maximum speed indicator light 30, a tail light 32, a direction indicator 33, and a license plate 34 are attached to the rear carrier 8b. The maximum speed indicator light 30 and the direction indicator 33 are installed at the front and rear of the vehicle 1, respectively. The tail light 32 is generally called a tail lamp, and is turned on in conjunction with the headlight 31, for example, and also functions as a brake lamp. Note that the location where the maximum speed indicator light 30 and the like are installed is not limited to the carrier.

[0022] The vehicle 1 is equipped with a switch unit 40 including a changeover switch 42 for switching the driving mode. The switch unit 40 is generally called a hand switch, and is installed near the grip on the left side of the handlebar 4. For example, a user can switch the driving mode of the vehicle 1 by operating the changeover switch 42 while the vehicle 1 is stopped. When the vehicle 1 is traveling, the operation of the changeover switch 42 is invalid. The changeover switch 42 can also be provided in a location separate from the switch unit 40.

[0023] The configuration of the vehicle 1 will be described in further detail below with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the control unit 50 and various devices connected to the control unit 50.

[0024] 3, the vehicle 1 includes a motor 11, a drive circuit 12 for the motor 11, an accelerator grip 20, a switch unit 40, various sensors, various safety devices such as a maximum speed indicator lamp 30, and a control unit 50. The control unit 50 controls the output of the motor 11 based on the operation of the accelerator grip 20, but limits the maximum speed depending on the driving mode. In other words, when the vehicle speed reaches the maximum speed, the control unit 50 controls the output of the motor 11 so that the vehicle speed is equal to or lower than the maximum speed regardless of the amount of operation of the accelerator grip 20.

[0025] The vehicle 1 is equipped with the above-mentioned sensors, including a sensor 14 that detects the amount of operation of the accelerator grip 20, a vehicle speed sensor 15 that detects the vehicle speed, a rotation sensor 16 that detects the number of rotations of the motor 11, and a current sensor 17 that detects the amount of current supplied to the motor 11. The vehicle 1 is further equipped with an acceleration sensor 18 as a means for acquiring inclination information of the vehicle 1. The detection information of each sensor is transmitted to the control unit 50 and used for output control of the motor 11. The vehicle 1 may also be equipped with other sensors, such as a voltage sensor that detects the voltage of the battery 13, and a temperature sensor that detects the temperatures of the motor 11, the drive circuit 12, the battery 13, etc.

[0026] The sensor 14 is installed, for example, inside the accelerator grip 20, and detects the amount of rotation of the accelerator grip 20. The sensor 14 is configured, for example, to detect the amount of rotation (opening) of the accelerator grip 20 by voltage. The rotation speed of the accelerator grip 20 can also be detected from the slope of the voltage output by the sensor 14. As will be described in detail later, in this embodiment, when the operation amount of the accelerator grip 20 detected by the sensor 14 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the motor 11 is stopped or the output of the motor 11 is suppressed. In this case, for example, a threshold is set for the value (for example, voltage) output from the sensor 14.

[0027] A three-axis acceleration sensor is used for the acceleration sensor 18. The acceleration sensor 18 may be a two-axis acceleration sensor as long as it can detect the acceleration in the forward direction and the gravity direction of the vehicle 1. When a three-axis sensor is used as the acceleration sensor 18, for example, the X-axis of the sensor is set to be able to measure the acceleration in the forward direction of the vehicle 1, and the Z-axis is set to be able to measure the acceleration in the gravity direction of the vehicle 1. The inclination angle of the vehicle 1 can be obtained from the acceleration in the forward direction and the gravity direction of the vehicle 1 detected by the acceleration sensor 18. As will be described in detail later, in this embodiment, the output suppression amount of the motor 11 is gradually increased as the vehicle speed approaches the maximum speed. At this time, the output suppression amount is changed based on the inclination angle of the vehicle 1.

[0028] The motor unit 10 includes a motor 11, a drive circuit 12, at least some of the sensors, and a drive mechanism for transmitting the power of the motor 11 to the chain 6. The drive mechanism includes, for example, a reducer and a clutch. The control unit 50 may be built into the motor unit 10, or may be mounted on the same printed wiring board as the drive circuit 12. In this embodiment, the drive circuit 12 performs a switching operation based on a control signal from the control unit 50 to change the amount of current supplied to the motor 11, thereby controlling the output of the motor 11. The motor 11 may be any electric motor that can be driven by power supplied from the battery 13 to run the vehicle 1. An example of the motor 11 is a three-phase brushless DC motor.

[0029] As described above, the accelerator grip 20 is an operating unit for adjusting the output of the motor 11, and is provided on the grip on the right side of the handlebar 4. The user can adjust the output of the motor 11, and therefore the vehicle speed, by rotating the accelerator grip 20. The accelerator grip 20 may be the same as those applied to general motorized bicycles, motorcycles, etc. The configuration of the operating unit is not limited to the accelerator grip 20, and may be, for example, a lever-type or push-button-type operating unit.

[0030] The maximum speed indicator light 30 indicates the maximum speed of the vehicle 1 while it is traveling. As described above, the maximum speed indicator light 30 is continuously lit in the first traveling mode (e.g., maximum speed 20 km / h) and flashes in the second traveling mode (e.g., maximum speed 6 km / h). By checking the lit state of the maximum speed indicator light 30, other vehicles and passersby can recognize the traveling mode of the vehicle 1 and, ultimately, the maximum speed of the vehicle 1. The maximum speed indicator light 30 is, for example, a light capable of emitting green light.

[0031] The maximum speed indicator light 30 is always lit continuously or flashes while the vehicle 1 is traveling, and the vehicle 1 is not provided with a switch for operating the maximum speed indicator light 30. The vehicle 1 is provided with a turn signal lever or the like for turning on the direction indicator 33. In this embodiment, the maximum speed indicator light 30 is provided separately from the direction indicator 33, but an indicator light having both functions may be provided.

[0032] The switch unit 40 includes, for example, a power switch 41, a changeover switch 42, and a display unit. The power switch 41 is an operation unit for starting up the control unit 50. When the power switch 41 is turned on, output control of the motor 11 is executed. A conventionally known monitor such as a liquid crystal monitor or an organic EL monitor can be applied to the display unit. For example, the driving mode of the vehicle 1, the vehicle speed, the remaining battery power, the time, etc. are displayed on the display unit.

[0033] As described above, the changeover switch 42 is an operation unit for switching the driving mode of the vehicle 1. In this embodiment, the driving mode of the vehicle 1 can be switched from the first driving mode to the second driving mode and from the second driving mode to the first driving mode by operating the changeover switch 42. The control unit 50 sets the driving mode of the vehicle 1 based on the operation of the changeover switch 42, and stores the setting information in the memory 52. ​​Note that, if the vehicle 1 is equipped with a means for acquiring position information, which will be described later, it is possible to automatically switch the driving mode based on the acquired driving position of the vehicle 1 (for example, a roadway or a sidewalk).

[0034] The control unit 50 includes a first processing unit 50a that executes control related to the first driving mode, and a second processing unit 50b that executes control related to the second driving mode. The control unit 50 further includes a third processing unit 53 that executes output suppression control of the motor 11 during starting and acceleration. The control unit 50 also includes a fourth processing unit 54 that executes output suppression control of the motor 11 near the maximum speed. The control unit 50 also includes a fifth processing unit 55 that executes output maintenance control to maintain the output of the motor 11 at a predetermined value when the operation signal of the accelerator grip 20 is stopped.

[0035] The control unit 50 is composed of, for example, a microcomputer including a processor 51, a memory 52, and an input / output interface. The processor 51 realizes the functions of each of the above-mentioned processing units by reading and executing a control program. The memory 52 stores the control program, various setting information, and the like. The memory 52 includes a non-volatile memory such as a ROM, HDD, SSD, and a volatile memory such as a RAM.

[0036] When the control unit 50 sets the driving mode of the vehicle 1 to the first driving mode or the second driving mode based on the operation signal of the changeover switch 42, it controls the output of the motor 11 and the lighting state of the maximum speed indicator lamp 30 according to the set driving mode. In the first driving mode, the function of the first processing unit 50a causes the maximum speed indicator lamp 30 to be continuously lit, and controls the output of the motor 11, etc. so that the maximum speed of the vehicle 1 is 20 km / h or less. In the second driving mode, the function of the second processing unit 50b causes the maximum speed indicator lamp 30 to flash, and controls the output of the motor 11, etc. so that the maximum speed of the vehicle 1 is 6 km / h or less.

[0037] The output control of the motor 11 by the third processing unit 53, the fourth processing unit 54, and the fifth processing unit 55 will be described in detail below. The vehicle 1 is provided with at least eleven functions selected from those described below, but preferably includes all of the functions.

[0038] The control unit 50 is configured to suppress the output of the motor 11 when the operation amount of the accelerator grip 20 exceeds a predetermined threshold. This function is executed by the third processing unit 53. When the accelerator grip 20 is turned widely when the vehicle 1 starts or travels at a low speed, the front wheel 3a may be lifted up, and it is assumed that the vehicle may lose balance due to a strong impact. The control unit 50 controls the output of the motor 11 based on the operation amount of the accelerator grip 20 and the vehicle speed, but when the operation amount of the accelerator grip 20 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the control unit 50 does not control according to the operation amount of the accelerator grip 20 and suppresses the output of the motor 11. This effectively reduces the impact caused by sudden starts and sudden acceleration.

[0039] The above-mentioned predetermined threshold value is set, for example, as an output value of the sensor 14 that detects the operation amount of the accelerator grip 20. For example, since the sensor 14 outputs the operation amount of the accelerator grip 20 as a voltage, the threshold value may be set as (A1)V. Alternatively, the threshold value may be set as the slope of the operation amount of the accelerator grip 20, that is, the rotation speed of the accelerator grip 20. Since the rotation speed of the accelerator grip 20 can be detected from the slope of the voltage of the sensor 14, the threshold value can be set as (B1)V / ms. The threshold value may be a fixed value, or may be a variable value that changes based on at least one condition selected from the vehicle speed, the tilt angle of the vehicle 1, the driving mode, and the like.

[0040] For example, when the output value of the sensor 14 exceeds a threshold value, the control unit 50 converts the output value into the threshold value (e.g., (A1)V) and transmits a control signal corresponding to the threshold value to the drive circuit 12 to control the output of the motor 11. Alternatively, the output value of the sensor 14 may be directly acquired and a control signal corresponding to the threshold value may be transmitted to the drive circuit 12. In either case, a control signal corresponding to the actual amount of operation of the accelerator grip 20 is not transmitted to the drive circuit 12, but a control signal corresponding to an amount of operation smaller than the actual amount of operation is transmitted. Note that the specific control means is not particularly limited as long as it is possible to suppress the output of the motor 11 below the output corresponding to the actual amount of operation of the accelerator grip 20.

[0041] When the output value of the sensor 14 exceeds the threshold, the control unit 50 may reduce the output value by a predetermined percentage and output a control signal corresponding to an output value less than the threshold. For example, when the output value of the sensor 14 exceeds the threshold, the control unit 50 may control the output of the motor 11 based on a value obtained by reducing the output value by 70%. Alternatively, when the output value of the sensor 14 exceeds the threshold, the control unit 50 may control the output of the motor 11 based on a predetermined value less than the threshold, or may stop the motor 11.

[0042] When the operation amount of the accelerator grip 20 exceeds the threshold, the control unit 50 preferably stops the motor 11 or suppresses the output of the motor 11 on condition that a predetermined condition is satisfied. In this case, it is possible to reduce the shock caused by sudden start and sudden acceleration while preventing unnecessary output suppression, and usability is further improved. In other words, an additional condition is set to prevent unnecessary output suppression. The additional condition is not limited to one, and may be multiple. When the additional condition is satisfied, the control unit 50 may compare the operation amount of the accelerator grip 20 with the threshold, or may determine whether the additional condition is satisfied when the operation amount of the accelerator grip 20 exceeds the threshold.

[0043] It is preferable that when the amount of operation of the accelerator grip 20 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the control unit 50 stops the motor 11 or suppresses the output of the motor 11, provided that the driving mode of the vehicle 1 is the first driving mode.

[0044] For example, when the driving mode of the vehicle 1 is the first driving mode, the control unit 50 compares the output value of the sensor 14 with a threshold value, and when it is determined that the output value exceeds the threshold value, suppresses the output of the motor 11. This makes it possible to effectively reduce shocks caused by sudden starts and sudden accelerations in the first driving mode in which the maximum speed is high. The output suppression control of the motor 11 by the function of the third processing unit 53 is effective, for example, when the driver mistakenly thinks that the driving mode of the vehicle 1 is set to the second driving mode when the driving mode is set to the first driving mode and turns the accelerator grip 20 too much.

[0045] When the operation amount of the accelerator grip 20 exceeds a threshold, the control unit 50 may stop the motor 11 or suppress the output of the motor 11, provided that the vehicle speed is equal to or lower than a predetermined speed. When the vehicle speed is high, the shock caused by acceleration is generally small, so it is preferable not to limit the acceleration corresponding to the operation of the accelerator grip 20. Furthermore, it is preferable that the control unit 50 executes output suppression control of the motor 11 based on the operation amount of the accelerator grip 20, provided that the driving mode of the vehicle 1 is the first driving mode. The above-mentioned predetermined speed may be set to the maximum speed of the second driving mode.

[0046] For example, when the driving mode of the vehicle 1 is the first driving mode and the vehicle speed is equal to or lower than a predetermined speed, the control unit 50 compares the output value of the sensor 14 with a threshold value, and suppresses the output of the motor 11 when it is determined that the output value exceeds the threshold value. This makes it possible to efficiently reduce shocks caused by sudden starts and sudden accelerations only when starting in the first driving mode, which has a high maximum speed, or when driving at low speeds. The predetermined speed may be set to 0 km / h. That is, this function may be applied only when the vehicle 1 starts.

[0047] When the operation amount of the accelerator grip 20 exceeds the threshold, the control unit 50 may stop the motor 11 or suppress the output of the motor 11, provided that it is within a predetermined time from the start of the operation of the accelerator grip 20. That is, the control unit 50 permits starting and acceleration corresponding to the actual operation amount of the accelerator grip 20 after a predetermined time has elapsed since acquiring the operation signal of the accelerator grip 20 when the vehicle 1 is stopped. An example of the predetermined time is 3 seconds. In this case, if the accelerator grip 20 is turned to such an extent that the vehicle 1 does not move forward while stopped at a red light, the user can easily start the vehicle 1 when the light turns green.

[0048] For example, the control unit 50 suppresses the output of the motor 11 when the output value of the sensor 14 exceeds a threshold value, on the condition that the driving mode of the vehicle 1 is the first driving mode, the vehicle speed is equal to or lower than a predetermined speed, and a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the operation of the accelerator grip 20. The control unit 50 may release the output suppression of the motor 11 when the predetermined time has elapsed, or may gradually reduce the amount of output suppression from the predetermined time until a second predetermined time has elapsed. In the latter case, driving stability is further improved.

[0049] The vehicle 1 may be provided with an operation unit for turning on and off the function of the third processing unit 53. In the case where the function of the third processing unit 53 is applied only when the vehicle 1 starts, the operation unit may be set so that the function of the third processing unit 53 can be turned off each time the vehicle starts. Specifically, if the function of the third processing unit 53 is turned off within a predetermined time (for example, within 10 seconds) before the vehicle starts, the control unit 50 does not determine whether the operation amount of the accelerator grip 20 exceeds the threshold value at this time of starting, and does not execute the output suppression control of the motor 11. In this case, starting and acceleration corresponding to the actual operation amount of the accelerator grip 20 are possible.

[0050] When the operation amount of the accelerator grip 20 exceeds a threshold, the control unit 50 may stop the motor 11 or suppress the output of the motor 11 on the condition that the vehicle 1 is traveling on a sidewalk. The control unit 50 determines whether the vehicle 1 is traveling on a sidewalk, and executes the output suppression control of the motor 11 based on the threshold only when the vehicle 1 is traveling on a sidewalk. In this case, the output of the motor 11 is not suppressed when starting and accelerating while traveling on a roadway, thereby improving usability.

[0051] When the vehicle 1 executes output control of the motor 11 based on the traveling position, the vehicle 1 includes a means for acquiring the position information of the vehicle 1. Examples of the means for acquiring the position information include a receiver that acquires the position information from outside the vehicle 1, and a camera that acquires an image of the traveling position of the vehicle 1. For example, the receiver receives radio waves from a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) satellite, and the control unit 50 calculates the position information of the vehicle 1 from the received information. Alternatively, the camera acquires an image of the traveling direction of the vehicle 1, etc., and the control unit 50 analyzes the image to identify the location where the vehicle 1 is traveling.

[0052] The control unit 50 suppresses the output of the motor 11 when the output value of the sensor 14 exceeds a threshold value, for example, on the condition that the vehicle 1 is traveling on a sidewalk and the vehicle speed is equal to or lower than a predetermined speed. At this time, it may further take into consideration whether or not a predetermined time has passed since the start of operation of the accelerator grip 20, and whether or not the traveling mode of the vehicle 1 is the first traveling mode. Artificial intelligence (AI) including various machine learning methods, map matching, etc. may be used to identify the traveling position of the vehicle 1, particularly to identify the position by image analysis.

[0053] The control unit 50 is configured to suppress the output of the motor 11 in a speed range of a predetermined speed or more and a maximum speed or less, and to gradually increase the amount of suppression of the output of the motor 11 as the vehicle speed approaches the maximum speed. This function is executed by the fourth processing unit 54. As described above, a maximum speed is set in each of the first and second driving modes, and the output of the motor 11 is controlled so as not to exceed the maximum speed. In this case, if the motor 11 is stopped when the vehicle speed reaches the maximum speed and is operated based on the operation amount of the accelerator grip 20 when the vehicle speed falls below the maximum speed, sudden deceleration and sudden acceleration may be frequently repeated near the maximum speed.

[0054] Fig. 4 is a diagram showing the relationship between the vehicle speed and the output suppression amount of the motor 11. As shown in Fig. 4, in this embodiment, the output of the motor 11 is suppressed in a predetermined speed range below the maximum speed, and the output suppression amount of the motor 11 is gradually increased as the vehicle speed approaches the maximum speed Vmax. This effectively suppresses sudden deceleration and sudden acceleration of the vehicle 1 near the maximum speed, and achieves a smooth running state even near the maximum speed. When the vehicle speed reaches a predetermined speed Vk, the control unit 50 prohibits the output of the motor 11 corresponding to the operation amount of the accelerator grip 20, and starts suppressing the output of the motor 11.

[0055] The control unit 50 sets a first predetermined speed that is less than the first maximum speed and a second predetermined speed that is less than the second maximum speed as the predetermined speed Vk. That is, the predetermined speed Vk at which the output suppression control is started is set for each traveling mode. The predetermined speed Vk is, for example, a speed that is 5 km / h lower than the maximum speed Vmax. Note that the predetermined speed Vk at which the output suppression control is started is not particularly limited and can be set appropriately according to the maximum speed Vmax, etc. The control unit 50 may execute the output suppression control only when the traveling mode of the vehicle 1 is the first traveling mode.

[0056] FIG. 4 shows the running resistance α when traveling on flat ground and the running resistance β when traveling uphill. The predetermined speed Vk may be a fixed value that does not change, but it is preferable to change the control conditions such as the predetermined speed Vk in consideration of the state of the vehicle 1. In this case, a smoother running state can be realized, and usability is further improved. For example, when traveling uphill, if the output of the motor 11 is suppressed in the same way as when traveling on flat ground or traveling downhill, it is expected that the maximum speed will be significantly limited. Therefore, it is preferable to shift the predetermined speed Vk, which is the start point of the output suppression, toward the maximum speed Vmax, as shown by the dashed line in FIG. 4.

[0057] The control unit 50 preferably changes the output suppression amount based on the inclination information of the vehicle 1. The inclination information of the vehicle 1 is not limited to the inclination angle of the vehicle 1, and may be the inclination angle of the road on which the vehicle 1 is traveling, which is identified from the position information of the vehicle 1. Note that, in a normal traveling state, the inclination angle of the vehicle 1 and the inclination angle of the road on which the vehicle 1 is traveling are substantially the same. Specifically, when the vehicle 1 is climbing a slope, the output suppression amount is reduced compared to when traveling on flat ground and when traveling downhill. Also, the output suppression amount may be increased when traveling downhill compared to when traveling on flat ground.

[0058] When the vehicle 1 changes the output suppression amount of the motor 11 based on the inclination information of the vehicle 1, it is preferable that the vehicle 1 includes a means for acquiring the inclination angle of the vehicle 1. The inclination angle of the vehicle 1 can be measured, for example, using the acceleration sensor 18. The inclination angle θ of the vehicle 1 can be calculated from the acceleration X in the forward direction of the vehicle 1 and the acceleration Z in the gravity direction, which are detected by the acceleration sensor 18. The control unit 50 calculates the inclination angle θ, for example, from the following formula. Formula: θ = arctan(X / Z)

[0059] In addition, since the inclination angle θ varies to some extent even if the inclination of the road is approximately constant, it is preferable to use a representative value of the inclination angle acquired in a predetermined period for the output suppression control of the motor 11. The representative value of the inclination angle θ may be at least one selected from the average value, median value, mode value, maximum value, and minimum value. Among them, the average value is preferable.

[0060] For example, when the vehicle 1 is climbing a slope, the control unit 50 changes the output suppression amount by shifting the predetermined speed Vk at which output suppression starts to the maximum speed Vmax side based on the inclination angle θ of the vehicle 1. The control unit 50 may increase the amount of shift of the predetermined speed Vk to the high speed side as the inclination angle θ of the vehicle 1 increases. The memory 52 may store a table, a formula, or the like that specifies the relationship between the inclination angle θ and the predetermined speed Vk. By increasing the predetermined speed Vk, the start point of output suppression is delayed, and good driving performance on uphill slopes can be ensured.

[0061] For example, the inclination angle θ is 0° when the front wheels 3a and the rear wheels 3b are aligned horizontally while the vehicle is traveling on flat ground, a positive value indicates the angle when the vehicle is traveling uphill and the front wheels 3a are lifted, and a negative value indicates the angle when the vehicle is traveling downhill and the rear wheels 3b are lifted. If the predetermined speed at the inclination angle θ=0° is Vk0, the control unit 50 may change the predetermined speed to Vk1, which is faster than Vk0, when the inclination angle θ increases toward the positive side, or may change the predetermined speed to Vk2, which is slower than Vk0, when the inclination angle θ increases toward the negative side. The predetermined speed Vk may be changed stepwise or continuously based on the inclination angle θ.

[0062] When the vehicle 1 is climbing a slope, the control unit 50 may change the output suppression amount by decreasing the ratio of output suppression to the vehicle speed (hereinafter referred to as the "output suppression rate") based on the inclination angle θ of the vehicle 1. The control unit 50 decreases the output suppression rate stepwise or continuously as the inclination angle θ of the vehicle 1 increases. The memory 52 may store a table, a formula, or the like that specifies the relationship between the inclination angle θ and the output suppression rate. By decreasing the output suppression rate, good driving performance on uphill slopes can also be ensured.

[0063] The control unit 50 may change at least one of the predetermined speed Vk and the output suppression rate based on the inclination angle θ of the vehicle 1, or may increase the predetermined speed Vk and decrease the output suppression rate. Note that, for example, the output suppression rate shows a constant inclination as shown in FIG. 4 when traveling on flat ground, but when the output suppression rate is changed according to the inclination angle θ of the vehicle 1, the output suppression rate may change at any time. The output suppression rate may be the same or different in each traveling mode. Also, the output suppression rate may be set so that the amount of change with respect to the vehicle speed becomes smaller as the vehicle approaches the maximum speed.

[0064] Note that instead of the inclination angle θ of the vehicle 1, the driving state of the vehicle 1 may be estimated using the vehicle speed acquired by the vehicle speed sensor 15, the acceleration of the vehicle 1 calculated from the detection information of the vehicle speed sensor 15, the rotation sensor 16, etc., and the like, and the output of the motor 11 may be controlled. For example, since the driving resistance can be estimated from the operation amount of the accelerator grip 20 and the vehicle speed, the output suppression amount may be reduced when the driving resistance is high. However, using the inclination angle θ of the vehicle 1 enables more rapid control.

[0065] The control unit 50 is configured to maintain the output of the motor 11 at a predetermined value when the operation signal of the accelerator grip 20 is stopped, on condition that the vehicle speed is equal to or higher than a predetermined speed. This output maintenance control is executed by a fifth processing unit 55. For example, if the output of the motor 11 is set at a level at which the vehicle speed is maintained, the vehicle 1 can continue to travel at a constant speed without operating the accelerator grip 20. In addition, if the rotation of the drive mechanism such as the chain 6 is continued at a low torque within a range that does not affect the vehicle speed, the time lag when re-accelerating can be effectively reduced.

[0066] The above-mentioned predetermined value is set to, for example, an output level that can drive the drive mechanism and does not affect the vehicle speed. More specifically, it is an output level that can continue to rotate the chain 6 but cannot maintain the vehicle speed, and the vehicle speed gradually decreases and stops unless the accelerator grip 20 is operated. When the motor 11 stops, it is necessary to rotate the drive mechanism such as the chain 6 when reaccelerating, and a time lag occurs in reaccelerating when traveling at high speed. In this embodiment, smoother reacceleration can be achieved by maintaining the rotation of the chain 6, etc. Note that when this function is applied, it is a prerequisite that a drive mechanism including a clutch is provided.

[0067] For example, when the operation signal of the accelerator grip 20 is stopped, the control unit 50 maintains the output of the motor 11 at a predetermined value on the condition that the vehicle speed is equal to or higher than a predetermined speed and the driving mode of the vehicle 1 is the first driving mode. Since a time lag in re-acceleration is unlikely to occur during low-speed driving, it is preferable to execute this control only during high-speed driving in the first driving mode. The predetermined speed that is the starting point of the output maintenance control may be the same as the above-mentioned predetermined speed Vk, or may be lower than the predetermined speed Vk. The predetermined speed that is the starting point of the output maintenance control is, for example, 10 km / h.

[0068] The control unit 50 stops the motor 11 on the condition that the brake 21 is actuated or the vehicle speed falls below a predetermined speed. When setting the output of the motor 11 to a level at which the vehicle speed is maintained, the control unit 50 stops maintaining the output of the motor 11 on the condition that the brake 21 is actuated. In other words, the user can operate the brake 21 to decelerate and stop the vehicle 1, which is traveling at a constant speed.

[0069] When maintaining the output of the motor 11 at an output level that does not affect the vehicle speed, the control unit 50 stops maintaining the output of the motor 11 on the condition that the vehicle speed becomes less than a predetermined speed. The predetermined speed may be the same as the predetermined speed at the start point of the output maintenance control, or may be a lower speed. In this case, the operation of the brake 21 does not need to be a condition for releasing the output maintenance. When the accelerator grip 20 is operated while the output maintenance control is being executed, the output of the motor 11 is controlled based on the amount of operation.

[0070] An example of a process relating to the output control of the motor 11 will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0071] 5 is a flowchart showing an outline of a process related to the output control of the motor 11. As shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 50 sets the driving mode based on the operation information of the changeover switch 42 (step S1). In this embodiment, the driving mode is set to a first driving mode in which the vehicle runs with a first output output from the motor 11, or a second driving mode in which the vehicle runs with a second output output from the motor 11, and the setting information is stored in the memory 52. ​​Then, the control unit 50 turns on the maximum speed indicator lamp 30 in a lighting state corresponding to the driving mode set in step S1 (step S2). For example, the maximum speed indicator lamp 30 is in a continuous lighting state in the first driving mode and in a flashing state in the second driving mode.

[0072] The control unit 50 controls the output of the motor 11 so that the vehicle speed does not exceed the maximum speed of the driving mode set in step S1 (step S3). The control unit 50 transmits a control signal to the drive circuit 12 based on the operation of the accelerator grip 20, more specifically, based on the voltage of the sensor 14 that detects the amount of operation of the accelerator grip 20, to control the output of the motor 11. Meanwhile, since the maximum speed is set for each driving mode in the vehicle 1, if controlling the motor 11 based on the amount of operation of the accelerator grip 20 would exceed the maximum speed, for example, the control unit 50 does not transmit a control signal corresponding to the actual amount of operation and suppresses the output of the motor 11.

[0073] If a specific motor control condition is met (Yes in step S4), the control unit 50 further stops the motor 11, suppresses the output of the motor 11, or maintains the output of the motor 11 at a predetermined value (step S5), regardless of the operation of the accelerator grip 20. That is, in addition to the control of the motor 11 in step S3, the control unit 50 executes further control of the motor 11 when a specific condition is met. The functions of steps S4 and S5 may be set to be constantly active, or may be capable of being turned on and off by the user.

[0074] Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a process related to the motor output control (steps S4 and S5 in Fig. 6) when a specific condition is satisfied. The control shown in Fig. 6 may be executed when the driving mode of the vehicle 1 is the first driving mode.

[0075] 6, when the vehicle speed is equal to or lower than a predetermined speed V1 (Yes in step S10), the control unit 50 compares the operation amount of the accelerator grip 20 with a threshold value (step S11). When the operation amount of the accelerator grip 20 exceeds the threshold value in step S11, the output of the motor 11 is suppressed (step S12). In step S12, a control signal corresponding to the operation amount of the accelerator grip 20 is not sent to the drive circuit 12, and a control signal corresponding to an operation amount smaller than the actual operation amount is sent.

[0076] When a predetermined release condition is met (Yes in step S13), the control unit 50 releases the output suppression of the motor 11 executed in step S12 (step S12) and controls the output of the motor 11 so as not to exceed the maximum speed (step S3 in FIG. 5). An example of a release condition for the output suppression is the time from the start of operation of the accelerator grip 20, and the release condition is met when a predetermined time has passed since the start of operation. In addition, the output suppression of the motor 11 is released when the start condition for the output suppression control is no longer met.

[0077] If the vehicle speed exceeds the predetermined speed V1 in step S10 (No in step S10), the control unit 50 proceeds to step S15. If the vehicle speed is equal to or greater than the predetermined speed V2 (Yes in step S15), the control unit 50 further determines whether or not an operation signal from the accelerator grip 20 is present (step S16). If the accelerator grip 20 is not operated, the process proceeds to step S17, and if the accelerator grip 20 is operated, the process proceeds to step S20.

[0078] 6, the predetermined speed V2 is given as a precondition for proceeding to steps S17 and S20, but the precondition may be different for each step. For example, step S20 may be executed on the condition that the vehicle speed is a predetermined speed V3 that is higher than the predetermined speed V2.

[0079] If the operation signal of the accelerator grip 20 is stopped in step S16 (Yes in step S16), the control unit 50 maintains the output of the motor 11 at a predetermined value (step S17). As described above, the predetermined value is set to an output level that allows the chain 6 to continue rotating but does not affect the vehicle speed. If a predetermined release condition is met (Yes in step S18), the control unit 50 releases the maintenance of the output of the motor 11 executed in step S17 (step S19) and stops the motor 11.

[0080] An example of a condition for canceling the output maintenance is the actuation of the brake 21, and the cancel condition is met when the brake 21 is operated. The output maintenance of the motor 11 is also canceled when the vehicle speed falls below a predetermined speed. Note that, when the output of the motor 11 is maintained at an output level that does not affect the vehicle speed, the actuation of the brake 21 does not need to be a condition for canceling the output maintenance.

[0081] When an operation signal of the accelerator grip 20 is acquired in step S16 (No in step S16), the control unit 50 acquires the inclination angle of the vehicle 1 (step S20) and suppresses the output of the motor 11 taking the inclination angle into consideration (step S21). The control unit 50 suppresses the output of the motor 11 when the vehicle is traveling at high speed close to the maximum speed, and gradually increases the output suppression amount of the motor 11 as the vehicle speed approaches the maximum speed. At this time, it is preferable to change the output suppression amount based on the inclination angle θ of the vehicle 1.

[0082] When a predetermined cancellation condition is met (Yes in step S22), the control unit 50 cancels the output suppression of the motor 11 executed in step S21 (step S23) and controls the output of the motor 11 so as not to exceed the maximum speed (step S3 in FIG. 5). Note that when the start condition for the output suppression control is no longer satisfied, it is determined that the cancellation condition is met and the output suppression of the motor 11 is released.

[0083] As described above, the vehicle 1 having the above configuration can improve driving performance while ensuring safety. The vehicle 1 is, for example, excellent in safety and ride comfort, and is suitable for vehicles with limited maximum speed.

[0084] Specifically, when the operation amount of the accelerator grip 20 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the motor 11 is stopped or the output of the motor 11 is suppressed, thereby reducing the impact caused by sudden acceleration. For example, even if the accelerator grip 20 is turned too much by mistake, a sudden acceleration that would lift the front wheel 3a is prevented. This function is also effective when the driver mistakenly thinks that the vehicle 1 is set to the second driving mode when the vehicle is set to the first driving mode and turns the accelerator grip 20 too much. By executing this control while taking into account the vehicle speed, driving mode, position information, etc., usability is further improved.

[0085] In addition, by suppressing the output of the motor 11 in a speed range above a predetermined speed and below the maximum speed, and gradually increasing the amount of output suppression as the vehicle speed approaches the maximum speed, it is possible to effectively suppress sudden deceleration and sudden acceleration of the vehicle 1 near the maximum speed. For example, if the motor 11 is stopped when the vehicle speed reaches the maximum speed and is operated based on the operation amount of the accelerator grip 20 when the vehicle speed falls below the maximum speed, sudden deceleration and sudden acceleration may be frequently repeated. With this function, such sudden deceleration and sudden acceleration can be suppressed, and a smooth running state can be achieved even near the maximum speed. By executing the control taking into account the inclination of the vehicle 1, usability is further improved.

[0086] Furthermore, when the operation signal of the accelerator grip 20 is stopped, the output of the motor 11 can be maintained at a predetermined value, provided that the vehicle speed is equal to or higher than a predetermined speed, thereby enabling smooth re-acceleration, for example. If the vehicle 1 is equipped with a drive mechanism including a clutch, the time lag when re-accelerating can be effectively reduced by continuing to rotate the drive mechanism such as the chain 6 at a low torque within a range that does not affect the vehicle speed. It is also possible to maintain the output of the motor 11 at a level that maintains the vehicle speed when the operation of the accelerator grip 20 is stopped. In this case, the vehicle 1 can continue traveling at a constant speed even without operating the accelerator grip 20.

[0087] In addition to the above-mentioned modified examples, the above embodiment can be modified in various ways without impairing the object of the present invention. For example, the control unit 50 may control the vehicle speed by suppressing the output of the motor 11 and activating the brake. An example of a brake automatically controlled by the control unit 50 is a brake generated by regenerative driving of the motor 11, but the brake 21 operated by the user may also be used. [Explanation of symbols]

[0088] 1 vehicle, 2 frame, 2a head pipe, 2b front fork, 2c down pipe, 2d seat pipe, 2e chain stay, 2f seat stay, 3a front wheel, 3b rear wheel, 4 handle, 5 saddle, 6 chain, 7 step, 8a front carrier, 8b rear carrier, 10 motor unit, 11 motor, 12 drive circuit, 13 battery, 14 sensor, 15 vehicle speed sensor, 16 rotation sensor, 17 current sensor, 18 acceleration sensor, 20 accelerator grip, 21 brake, 30 maximum speed indicator, 31 headlight, 32 taillight, 33 turn signal, 34 number plate, 40 switch unit, 41 power switch, 42 changeover switch, 50 control unit, 50a first processing unit, 50b second processing unit, 51 processor, 52 memory, 53 third processing unit, 54 fourth processing unit, 55 fifth processing unit

Claims

1. In vehicles equipped with maximum speed indicator lights, A motor for driving a vehicle; An operation unit for adjusting the output of the motor; A control unit that controls an output of the motor based on an operation of the operation unit; Equipped with The control unit stops the motor or suppresses an output of the motor when an amount of operation of the operation unit exceeds a predetermined threshold.

2. the vehicle is capable of running by switching between a first running mode in which the vehicle runs on a first output output from the motor and a second running mode in which the vehicle runs on a second output output from the motor; The vehicle according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit stops the motor or suppresses an output of the motor on condition that a driving mode of the vehicle is the first driving mode.

3. The vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit stops the motor or reduces an output of the motor on condition that the vehicle speed is equal to or lower than a predetermined speed.

4. The vehicle according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit stops the motor or suppresses an output of the motor on condition that a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of operation of the operation unit.

5. means for acquiring vehicle location information; The vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit stops the motor or suppresses an output of the motor on condition that the vehicle is traveling on a sidewalk.

6. In vehicles equipped with maximum speed indicator lights, A motor for driving a vehicle; An operation unit for adjusting the output of the motor; A control unit that controls an output of the motor based on an operation of the operation unit; Equipped with The control unit suppresses the output of the motor in a speed range of above a predetermined speed and below a maximum speed, and gradually increases an amount of suppression of the motor output as the vehicle speed approaches the maximum speed.

7. means for acquiring inclination information of the vehicle; The vehicle according to claim 6 , wherein the control unit changes the output suppression amount based on inclination information of the vehicle.

8. The vehicle according to claim 7 , wherein the control unit shifts the predetermined speed to the maximum speed side based on an inclination angle of the vehicle when the vehicle is climbing a slope.

9. the vehicle is capable of running by switching between a first running mode in which the vehicle runs on a first output output from the motor and a second running mode in which the vehicle runs on a second output output from the motor; The vehicle according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the control unit sets, as the predetermined speed, a first predetermined speed that is less than a first maximum speed, and a second predetermined speed that is less than a second maximum speed.

10. In vehicles equipped with maximum speed indicator lights, A motor for driving a vehicle; An operation unit for adjusting the output of the motor; A control unit that controls an output of the motor based on an operation of the operation unit; Equipped with The control unit maintains the output of the motor at a predetermined value when the operation signal of the operation unit is stopped, on condition that the vehicle speed is equal to or greater than a predetermined speed.

11. A drive mechanism including a clutch is further provided, The vehicle according to claim 10, wherein the predetermined value is set to an output level capable of driving the drive mechanism and having no effect on vehicle speed.

12. The vehicle according to claim 10, wherein the control unit stops the motor on condition that a brake is applied or the vehicle speed becomes less than the predetermined speed.

13. the vehicle is capable of running by switching between a first running mode in which the vehicle runs on a first output output from the motor and a second running mode in which the vehicle runs on a second output output from the motor; The vehicle according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the control unit maintains the output of the motor at a predetermined value under the condition that the vehicle speed is equal to or greater than a predetermined speed and the vehicle driving mode is the first driving mode.

14. The vehicle according to claim 1 , 6 or 10 , wherein the operating unit is provided on a steering wheel of the vehicle.

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