Communication system and control unit

Abstract

To provide a communication system and a control unit that can perform proper communication.SOLUTION: A communication system includes: a first communication part which is connected to an operation device mounted on a human power-driven vehicle; a second communication part which is connected to a gear box of the human power-driven vehicle; and a third communication part which is connected to a component mounted on the human power-driven vehicle different from the operation device and the gear box. The second communication part receives first information transmitted from the first communication part in response to operation of the operation device, and the third communication part of the component receives second information transmitted from the second communication part and including at least part of the first information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a communication system and a control device. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a bicycle component having a communication section that communicates by operating an operating section. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2018-39466 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] An object of the present invention is to provide a communication system and a control device capable of performing appropriate communication. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A communication system according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a first communication unit connected to an operating device mounted on a human-powered vehicle, a second communication unit connected to a transmission of the human-powered vehicle, and a third communication unit connected to a component mounted on the human-powered vehicle other than the operating device and the transmission, wherein the second communication unit receives first information transmitted from the first communication unit in response to operation of the operating device, and the third communication unit of the component receives second information including at least a part of the first information transmitted from the second communication unit. According to the communication system of the first aspect, appropriate communication can be performed from the first communication unit connected to the operation device to the second communication unit connected to the transmission and the third communication unit connected to the component.

[0006] In the communication system of the second aspect according to the first aspect, the component includes a motor unit configured to provide propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle. According to the communication system of the second aspect described above, appropriate communication can be performed from the first communication unit connected to the operation device to the second communication unit connected to the transmission and the third communication unit connected to the motor unit.

[0007] In a communication system according to a third aspect according to the first or second aspect, the first information is identical to the second information. According to the communication system of the third aspect, appropriate communication can be performed.

[0008] In the communication system of a fourth aspect according to the third aspect, the first information and the second information include at least one of information about the transmission and information about the component. According to the communication system of the fourth aspect, appropriate communication can be performed.

[0009] In the communication system of a fifth aspect according to the third aspect, the first information and the second information include information about the transmission and information about the component. According to the communication system of the fifth aspect, appropriate communication can be performed.

[0010] In a communication system according to a sixth aspect in accordance with the first or second aspect, the first information includes information relating to the transmission and information relating to the component, and the second information includes only information relating to the component. According to the communication system of the sixth aspect, appropriate communication can be performed.

[0011] In a communication system of a seventh aspect according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, the communication system further includes a control device including a control unit that controls the first communication unit, the second communication unit, and the third communication unit. According to the communication system of the seventh aspect, the control unit can execute appropriate communication.

[0012] In the communication system of an eighth aspect according to the seventh aspect, the control unit transmits the first information to the second communication unit by a wireless signal or a wired signal. According to the communication system of the eighth aspect, appropriate communication can be performed by wireless signals or wired signals.

[0013] In the communication system of a ninth aspect according to the eighth aspect, the control unit transmits the first information to the second communication unit by a wired signal when the operating device and the transmission are connected by wire, and outputs the first information by a wireless signal when the operating device and the transmission are not connected by wire. According to the communication system of the ninth aspect, appropriate communication can be carried out by wireless signals or wired signals.

[0014] In a communication system according to a tenth aspect in accordance with the eighth or ninth aspect, the control unit transmits the second information to the third communication unit by a wireless signal or a wired signal. According to the communication system of the tenth aspect, appropriate communication can be carried out by wireless signals or wired signals.

[0015] In a communication system of an eleventh aspect according to the tenth aspect, the control unit transmits the second information to the third communication unit by a wired signal when the transmission and the component are connected by wire, and outputs the second information by a wireless signal when the transmission and the component are not connected by wire. According to the communication system of the eleventh aspect, appropriate communication can be carried out by wireless signals or wired signals.

[0016] In a communication system of a twelfth aspect according to the eleventh aspect, the control unit controls the second communication unit so that the second communication unit receives the first information output by a wireless signal, and transmits the second information output by a wired signal to the third communication unit. According to the communication system of the twelfth aspect, the control unit can execute appropriate communication.

[0017] In a communication system of a thirteenth aspect according to any one of the seventh to twelfth aspects, the communication system further includes a battery that supplies power to the operating device, the transmission, and at least one of the components, and the control unit controls the supply of power from the battery. According to the communication system of the thirteenth aspect, the control unit suitably controls at least one of the operating device, the transmission, and the component.

[0018] In a communication system of a fourteenth aspect in accordance with the thirteenth aspect, the control unit controls the supply of power from the battery to the operating device, the transmission, and at least one of the components based on at least one of the first information and the second information. According to the communication system of the fourteenth aspect, the control unit suitably controls at least one of the operating device, the transmission, and the component.

[0019] In a communication system of a fifteenth aspect according to the thirteenth or fourteenth aspect, the battery includes a first battery that supplies power to the operating device and the component, and a second battery that supplies power to the transmission, and the control unit controls the supply of power from the first battery and the second battery based on at least one of the first information and the second information. According to the communication system of the fifteenth aspect, the control unit suitably controls at least one of the operating device, the transmission, and the component.

[0020] A control device according to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention includes a first communication unit connected to an operating device mounted on a human-powered vehicle, a second communication unit connected to a transmission of the human-powered vehicle, a third communication unit connected to a component of the human-powered vehicle other than the transmission, and a control unit that controls the first communication unit, the second communication unit, and the third communication unit, wherein the control unit controls the first communication unit to output first information in response to operation of the operating device, controls the second communication unit to receive the first information and output second information including at least a part of the first information, and controls the third communication unit to receive the second information. According to the control device of the sixteenth aspect, the control unit can execute appropriate communication between the first communication unit connected to the operation device and the third communication unit connected to the component.

[0021] In the control device of a seventeenth aspect according to the sixteenth aspect, the component includes a motor unit configured to provide a propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle. According to the control device of the seventeenth aspect, appropriate communication can be performed between the first communication section connected to the operation device and the third communication section connected to the motor unit.

[0022] In the control device of an eighteenth aspect according to the sixteenth or seventeenth aspect, the operation device is provided on a steering mechanism of the human-powered vehicle, and the steering mechanism includes a handlebar. According to the control device of the eighteenth aspect, the operating device is disposed in a suitable location, improving usability. Effect of the Invention

[0023] According to the communication system and the control device of the present invention, appropriate communication can be performed. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1] 1 is a side view of a human-powered vehicle including a communication system and a control device according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2]FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical connection relationship between the control device and various elements according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of control executed by a control unit of the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing electrical connections between a control device and various elements according to a second embodiment. [Diagram 5] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of control executed by a first control unit according to a second embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of control executed by a second control unit of the second embodiment. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of control executed by a third control unit according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing electrical connections between a control device and various elements according to a third embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing electrical connections between a control device and various elements according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing electrical connections between a control device and various elements according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0025] First Embodiment A human-powered vehicle A including a communication system 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3. Here, the human-powered vehicle means a vehicle that uses human power at least partially as a driving force for traveling, and includes vehicles that electrically assist human power. Vehicles that use only a driving force other than human power are not included in the human-powered vehicle. In particular, vehicles that use only an internal combustion engine as a driving force are not included in the human-powered vehicle. Normally, a human-powered vehicle is assumed to be a small, light vehicle, and a vehicle that does not require a license to drive on public roads is assumed. Specifically, the illustrated human-powered vehicle A is a trekking bike. The human-powered vehicle A further includes a frame A1, a front fork A2, wheels W, a handlebar H, and a drive train B. The wheels W include a front wheel WF and a rear wheel WR.

[0026] The drive train B is, for example, a chain drive type. The drive train B includes a crank C, a front sprocket assembly D1, a rear sprocket assembly D2, and a chain D3. The crank C includes a crank shaft C1 rotatably supported by the frame A1, and a pair of crank arms C2 provided at both ends of the crank shaft C1. A pedal PD is rotatably attached to the tip of each crank arm C2. The drive train B can be of any type, and may be a belt drive type or a shaft drive type.

[0027] The front sprocket assembly D1 is attached to the crank C so as to rotate integrally with the crankshaft C1. The rear sprocket assembly D2 is attached to the hub HR of the rear wheel WR. A chain D3 is wound around the front sprocket assembly D1 and the rear sprocket assembly D2. A human-powered driving force applied to the pedals PD by a rider on the human-powered vehicle A is transmitted to the rear wheel WR via the front sprocket assembly D1, the chain D3, and the rear sprocket assembly D2.

[0028] The communication system 10 includes a first communication unit 12 connected to an operation device 20 mounted on a human-powered vehicle A, a second communication unit 14 connected to a transmission 30 of the human-powered vehicle A, and a third communication unit 16 connected to a component 40 of the human-powered vehicle A that is different from the transmission 30. The third communication unit 16 is connected to a component 40 mounted on the human-powered vehicle A that is different from the operation device 20 and the transmission 30. The operation device 20, the transmission 30, and the component 40 are mounted on one human-powered vehicle A. The component 40 includes a configuration mounted on the human-powered vehicle A other than the operation device 20 and the transmission 30. In the communication system 10, the second communication unit 14 receives first information transmitted from the first communication unit 12 in response to an operation of the operation device 20, and the third communication unit 16 of the component 40 receives second information including at least a part of the first information transmitted from the second communication unit 14.

[0029] The first communication unit 12 includes a transmitting unit configured to be able to transmit at least a signal including information. Preferably, the first communication unit 12 includes a receiving unit configured to be able to receive a signal including information. The second communication unit 14 includes both a transmitting unit configured to be able to transmit a signal including information and a receiving unit configured to be able to receive a signal including information. The third communication unit 16 includes a receiving unit configured to be able to receive at least a signal including information. Preferably, the third communication unit 16 includes a transmitting unit configured to be able to transmit a signal including information. The first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14 are connected to be able to communicate with each other by wire or wirelessly. The first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14 are capable of communicating with each other by, for example, power line communication (PLC), a Controller Area Network (CAN), or a Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter (UART). The second communication unit 14 and the third communication unit 16 are connected to be able to communicate with each other by wire or wirelessly.

[0030] The communication system 10 further includes a battery BT that supplies power to at least one of the operating device 20, the gear shifter 30, and the component 40. The operating device 20 and the component 40 are connected by a power line. The operating device 20 and the battery BT may be connected by a power line. The battery BT includes one or more battery elements. The battery element includes a rechargeable battery. The battery BT is connected to a control unit 52 of the control device 50 so as to be able to communicate with each other by wire or wirelessly. The battery BT and the control unit 52 of the control device 50 may be connected by a connection terminal, or the control unit 52 of the control device 50 may be disposed in the battery BT, and the third communication unit 16 of the component 40 and the control unit 52 may be connected by wire. The battery BT may include a first battery BT1 that supplies power to the operating device 20 and the component 40, and a second battery BT2 that supplies power to the gear shifter 30. At least one of the first battery BT1 or the second battery BT2 may be configured to be able to supply power to all of the operation device 20, the gear shift device 30, and the components 40. The operation device 20 and the gear shift device 30 may be connected by a power line. The battery BT may further include a third battery BT3 that supplies power to the operation device 20 when the operation device 20 is not connected to the first battery BT1 or the second battery BT2 by a power line. The third battery BT3 supplies power to the operation device 20 when, for example, the operation device 20 and the gear shift device 30 communicate wirelessly.

[0031] In one example, the power capacity of the first battery BT1 and the power capacity of the second battery BT2 are different. When the transmission 30 is electrically connected to both the first battery BT1 and the second battery BT2, the control unit 52 may be configured to preferentially supply power from the battery BT with a larger power capacity to the transmission 30. When the component 40 is electrically connected to both the first battery BT1 and the second battery BT2, the control unit 52 may be configured to preferentially supply power from the battery BT with a larger power capacity to the component 40. In one example, the power capacity of the first battery BT1 is larger than the power capacity of the second battery BT2. The transmission 30 and the component 40 may be electrically connected to the first battery BT1. In this case, when the amount of power of the first battery BT1 becomes less than a predetermined value, the transmission 30 and the component 40 may be configured to preferentially supply power to one of them. Preferably, the first battery BT1 and the second battery BT2 are connected by a power line. When the amount of electric power of one of the first battery BT1 and the second battery BT2 falls below a predetermined value, electric power is supplied from the other of the first battery BT1 and the second battery BT2.

[0032] The human-powered vehicle A includes an operating device 20, a transmission device 30, and a component 40 that is different from the operating device 20 and the transmission device 30. The component 40 includes a motor unit 42 configured to impart propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle A. Preferably, the component 40 further includes at least one of a braking device 44, a suspension 46, and an adjustable seat post 48.

[0033] The operation device 20 outputs a predetermined signal in response to an operation by a user. The operation device 20 is provided in a steering mechanism of the human-powered vehicle A. The steering mechanism includes a handlebar H. The operation device 20 includes at least a gear shift operation device for operating the transmission 30. The gear shift operation device is composed of at least one of a shifter and a switch. The gear shift operation device outputs a signal including information related to gear shifting for controlling the transmission 30 in response to an operation by a user. The gear shift operation device transmits a signal including information related to gear shifting via the first communication unit 12. The operation device 20 further includes a component operation device for operating a component 40 of the human-powered vehicle A. If the component 40 includes a motor unit 42, the component operation device transmits a signal including information related to the output of the motor relative to the human-powered driving force via the first communication unit 12. If the component 40 includes a braking device 44, the component operation device transmits a signal including information related to braking via the first communication unit 12. When the component 40 includes a suspension 46, the component operating device transmits a signal including information regarding the operation of the suspension 46 via the first communication unit 12. When the component 40 includes an adjustable seat post 48, the component operating device transmits a signal including information regarding the height of the adjustable seat post 48 via the first communication unit 12. Regarding the first communication unit 12 connected to the operating device 20, one first communication unit 12 may be connected to multiple operating devices 20, or two or more first communication units 12 may be connected to multiple operating devices 20.

[0034] The transmission 30 includes an external derailleur. The external derailleur is configured to be able to change a gear ratio defined by at least one of the number of teeth and the diameter of a front sprocket around which the chain D3 is wound and a rear sprocket around which the chain D3 is wound. The front sprocket is part of a front sprocket assembly D1 including one or more front sprockets. The rear sprocket is part of a rear sprocket assembly D2 including one or more rear sprockets. In one example, the transmission 30 includes at least one of a front derailleur 32 and a rear derailleur 34. The front derailleur 32 is provided near the front sprocket assembly D1. The front sprocket around which the chain D3 is wound is changed by the operation of the front derailleur 32, thereby changing the gear ratio. The gear ratio is defined based on the relationship between the number of teeth of the front sprocket and the number of teeth of the rear sprocket. In one example, the gear ratio is defined as the ratio of the rotational speed of the rear sprocket to the rotational speed of the front sprocket. That is, the gear ratio is defined as the ratio of the number of teeth on the front sprocket to the number of teeth on the rear sprocket. The rear derailleur 34 is provided at the rear end A3 of the frame A1. The rear sprocket around which the chain D3 is wound changes with the operation of the rear derailleur 34, thereby changing the gear ratio. The transmission 30 may include an internal transmission instead of an external transmission. In this case, the internal transmission is provided, for example, in the hub HR of the rear wheel WR. The transmission 30 may include a continuously variable transmission instead of an external transmission. In this case, the continuously variable transmission is provided, for example, in the hub HR of the rear wheel WR. The transmission 30 changes the gear ratio of the human-powered vehicle A in response to an operation signal from a gear shift operation device.

[0035] The motor unit 42 operates to assist the propulsion of the human-powered vehicle A. The motor unit 42 operates, for example, in response to a human-powered driving force applied to the pedal PD. The motor unit 42 includes a motor. The motor unit 42 operates with power supplied from a battery BT mounted on the human-powered vehicle A. The component operation device includes a motor unit operation device that operates the motor unit 42. The motor unit operation device outputs an operation signal that changes the control state and assist force of the motor unit 42.

[0036] The braking devices 44 include braking devices 44 corresponding to the number of wheels W. The braking devices 44 include a braking device 44 corresponding to the front wheels WF and a braking device 44 corresponding to the rear wheels WR. The two braking devices 44 may have the same configuration as each other. The braking devices 44 are, for example, rim brake devices that brake the rim of the human-powered vehicle A. The component operation device includes a brake operation device. The corresponding braking device 44 is electrically driven based on an operation signal output in response to the operation of the brake operation device. The braking device 44 may be a disc brake device that brakes a disc brake rotor mounted on the human-powered vehicle A.

[0037] The suspension 46 includes at least one of a front suspension and a rear suspension. The front suspension operates to reduce impacts that the front wheels WF receive from the ground. The rear suspension operates to reduce impacts that the rear wheels WR receive from the ground. The component operation device includes a suspension operation device. In response to an operation of the suspension operation device, the corresponding suspension 46 is electrically driven. Specifically, at least one of the displacement state, travel amount, damping force, and rebound force of the corresponding suspension 46 is changed based on an operation signal output in response to the operation of the suspension operation device.

[0038] The adjustable seat post 48 operates to change the height of the saddle relative to the frame A1. The component operating device includes an adjustable seat post operating device. The adjustable seat post 48 is electrically driven based on an operating signal output in response to an operation of the adjustable seat post operating device.

[0039] The communication system 10 further includes a control device 50 including a control unit 52 that controls the first communication unit 12, the second communication unit 14, and the third communication unit 16. The control unit 52 controls at least one of the operation device 20, the transmission 30, and the component 40 mounted on the human-powered vehicle A.

[0040] The control unit 52 includes at least one of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The control unit 52 can also control the transmission 30 in response to the operation of the gear shifting device. The control device 50 further includes a storage unit 54 that stores various information. The storage unit 54 includes a non-volatile memory and a volatile memory. The non-volatile memory includes at least one of a ROM (Read-Only Memory), an EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), and a flash memory. The volatile memory includes a RAM (Random access memory), for example. The storage unit 54 stores, for example, various programs for control, preset information, and the like.

[0041] In the first example, the control device 50 is provided at least in the gear shifting device 30. The control device 50 is provided at least in either the front derailleur 32 or the rear derailleur 34. The control unit 52 receives the first information via the second communication unit 14 by wired or wireless communication. The control unit 52 transmits a signal including the second information from the second communication unit 14 by wired or wireless communication, and the third communication unit 16 arranged in the component 40 is configured to be able to receive the signal transmitted from the second communication unit 14. In the first example, the operating device 20 and the component 40 each include a control unit different from the control unit 52 of the control device 50. In the second example, the control device 50 is provided in the component 40. When the component 40 includes the motor unit 42, the control device 50 is provided in the motor unit 42, for example. In one example, the control device 50 is housed in the housing 42A of the motor unit 42. In the second example, the operating device 20 and the gear shifting device 30 each include a control unit different from the control unit 52 of the control device 50. The control unit 52 receives a signal including the second information via the third communication unit 16 by wired or wireless communication. In the third example, the control device 50 is provided in the battery BT. In the third example, the control unit 52 may be disposed in a housing of the battery BT and connected to the battery BT by a terminal. In the third example, the control unit 52 controls the battery BT and the component 40 based on the information received by the third communication unit 16. The control unit 52 may be configured to transmit information related to the control to a control unit different from the control unit 52 disposed in the component 40 by wired or wireless communication, and the control unit 52 may process information included in the signal received by the third communication unit 16 disposed in the component 40 and transmit a signal to another control unit of the component 40. In this case, a signal including the third information may be transmitted to the third communication unit 16 disposed in the component 40 based on the signal from the control unit 52. The control device 50 operates by power supplied from the battery BT. The control device 50 is configured to be capable of wired or wireless communication with at least one of the first communication unit 12, the second communication unit 14, and the third communication unit 16. FIG. 2 discloses the configuration of a control device 50 of the first example.

[0042] The control unit 52 controls the first communication unit 12 to output first information in response to operation of the operating device 20, controls the second communication unit 14 to receive the first information and output second information including at least a part of the first information, and controls the third communication unit 16 to receive the second information.

[0043] The first information and the second information will be described. The first information and the second information include at least one of information about the transmission 30 and information about the component 40. The information about the transmission 30 includes at least one of information about the control state of the transmission 30 and information for the control unit 52 to control the transmission 30. The information about the control state of the transmission 30 includes information about the current gear ratio. The information for the control unit 52 to control the transmission 30 includes information about an operation signal related to a change in the gear ratio. The information about the component 40 includes at least one of information about the control state of the component 40 and information for the control unit 52 to control the component 40. When the component 40 includes a motor unit 42, the information about the motor unit 42 includes at least one of information about the control state of the motor unit 42 and information for the control unit 52 to control the motor unit 42. The control state of the motor unit 42 includes a first control state and a second control state having an assist force different from that of the first control state. The assist force includes at least one of the maximum output value of the motor, the minimum output value of the motor, the maximum output torque of the motor, the minimum output torque of the motor, the motor response speed, the ratio of the motor output to the human torque input to the human-powered vehicle A, and the driving force of the motor to the human driving force input to the human-powered vehicle A. The information used by the control unit 52 to control the motor unit 42 includes information related to the assist force.

[0044] In a first example, the first information is identical to the second information. In one example, the first information and the second information include information related to the transmission 30 and information related to the component 40. In another example, the first information and the second information include one of information related to the transmission 30 and information related to the component 40. In a second example, the first information is different from the second information. The control unit 52 is configured to be able to change the content of the second information. In one example, the first information includes information related to the transmission 30 and information related to the component 40, and the second information includes only information related to the component 40. In another example, the first information includes only information related to the transmission 30, and the second information includes information related to the transmission 30 and information related to the component 40.

[0045] A method of transmitting the first information and the second information executed by the control unit 52 will be described. The control unit 52 transmits the first information to the second communication unit 14 by wireless signal or wired signal. The control unit 52 transmits the first information from the transmitting unit of the first communication unit 12. The control unit 52 transmits the first information to the second communication unit 14 by wired signal when the operation device 20 and the gear shifting device 30 are connected by wire, and outputs the first information by wireless signal when the operation device 20 and the gear shifting device 30 are not connected by wire.

[0046] The control unit 52 transmits the second information to the third communication unit 16 by wireless signal or wired signal. The control unit 52 transmits the second information from the transmitting unit of the second communication unit 14. The control unit 52 transmits the second information to the third communication unit 16 by wired signal when the transmission 30 and the component 40 are connected by wire, and outputs the second information by wireless signal when the transmission 30 and the component 40 are not connected by wire.

[0047] The combination of wireless signals and wired signals transmitted by the control unit 52 is arbitrary. In a first example, the control unit 52 controls the second communication unit 14 so that the second communication unit 14 receives the first information output from the first communication unit 12 by a wired signal, and transmits the second information output from the second communication unit 14 by a wired signal to the third communication unit 16. In a second example, the control unit 52 controls the second communication unit 14 so that the second communication unit 14 receives the first information output from the first communication unit 12 by a wireless signal, and transmits the second information output from the second communication unit 14 by a wireless signal to the third communication unit 16. In a third example, the control unit 52 controls the second communication unit 14 so that the second communication unit 14 receives the first information output from the first communication unit 12 by a wired signal, and transmits the second information output from the second communication unit 14 by a wireless signal to the third communication unit 16. In the fourth example, the control unit 52 controls the second communication unit 14 so that the second communication unit 14 receives the first information output from the first communication unit 12 via a wireless signal, and transmits the second information output from the second communication unit 14 via a wired signal to the third communication unit 16.

[0048] The control of the operating device 20, the gear shifting device 30, and the component 40 executed by the control unit 52 will be described. The control unit 52 controls the power supply from the battery BT. The control unit 52 controls the power supply from the battery BT to at least one of the operating device 20, the gear shifting device 30, and the component 40 based on at least one of the first information and the second information. In one example, when at least one of the first information and the second information includes information related to the gear shifting device 30, the control unit 52 supplies power from the battery BT to the operating device 20 and the gear shifting device 30. When both the first information and the second information include information related to the gear shifting device 30, the control unit 52 changes at least one of the amounts of power supplied from the battery BT to the operating device 20 and the gear shifting device 30 compared to a case where the information related to the gear shifting device 30 is not included. In one example, when the first communication unit 12 of the operation device 20 and the second communication unit 14 of the transmission 30 are connected by wire and include information on the transmission 30, the control unit 52 increases the amount of power supplied to the operation device 20 and the transmission 30 compared to when the information on the transmission 30 is not included. When the first communication unit 12 of the operation device 20 and the second communication unit 14 of the transmission 30 are connected by wireless and include information on the transmission 30, the control unit 52 increases the amount of power supplied to the transmission 30 compared to when the information on the transmission 30 is not included. The control unit 52 controls the operation device 20 to supply power while power is being supplied from the battery BT. When the second information includes information on the component 40, the control unit 52 supplies power from the battery BT to the component 40. When the second information does not include information on the component 40, the control unit 52 may change the amount of power supplied from the battery BT to the component 40 compared to when the information on the component 40 is included.

[0049] The control unit 52 controls the supply of power from the first battery BT1 and the second battery BT2 based on at least one of the first information and the second information. In one example, when at least one of the first information and the second information includes information related to the transmission 30, the control unit 52 supplies power from the second battery BT2 to the transmission 30. When both the first information and the second information include information related to the transmission 30, the control unit 52 changes the amount of power supplied from the second battery BT2 to the transmission 30 compared to a case where the information related to the transmission 30 is not included. In one example, when the information related to the transmission 30 is included, the control unit 52 increases the amount of power supplied to the transmission 30 compared to a case where the information related to the transmission 30 is not included. When the second information includes information related to the component 40, the control unit 52 supplies power from the first battery BT1 to the component 40. When the second information does not include information related to the component 40, the control unit 52 may change the amount of power supplied from the first battery BT1 to the component 40 compared to a case where the information related to the component 40 is included.

[0050] The control unit 52 controls the transmission 30 and the component 40 based on at least one of the first information and the second information. In one example, when at least one of the first information and the second information includes information for controlling the transmission 30, the control unit 52 controls the transmission 30 based on the information for controlling the transmission 30. When the second information includes information for controlling the component 40, the control unit 52 controls the component 40 based on the information for controlling the component 40.

[0051] An example of control executed by the control unit 52 of the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 3. The control unit 52 periodically executes the processes of steps S11 to S18 while power is being supplied from the battery BT.

[0052] In step S11, the control unit 52 determines whether or not the operating device 20 has been operated. If the determination is affirmative, the control unit 52 executes the process of step S12. If the determination is negative, the control unit 52 executes the process of step S11 again.

[0053] In step S12, the control unit 52 determines whether or not the operation device 20 and the transmission 30 are connected by wire. The control unit 52 may, for example, detect which battery BT supplies power to the operation device 20, and determine whether or not the operation device 20 and the transmission 30 are connected by wire. If the determination is positive, the control unit 52 executes the process of step S13. If the determination is negative, the control unit 52 executes the process of step S14.

[0054] In step S13, the control unit 52 outputs the first information as a wired signal from the first communication unit 12. After completing step S13, the control unit 52 executes the process of step S15. In step S14, the control unit 52 outputs the first information as a wireless signal from the first communication unit 12. After completing step S14, the control unit 52 executes the process of step S15.

[0055] In step S15, the control unit 52 determines whether or not the transmission 30 and the component 40 are connected by wire. If the determination is positive, the control unit 52 executes the process of step S16. If the determination is negative, the control unit 52 executes the process of step S17.

[0056] In step S16, the control unit 52 outputs the second information as a wired signal from the second communication unit 14. After completing step S16, the control unit 52 executes the process of step S18. In step S17, the control unit 52 outputs the second information as a wireless signal from the second communication unit 14. After completing step S17, the control unit 52 executes the process of step S18.

[0057] In step S18, the control unit 52 controls the transmission 30 and the component 40 based on at least one of the first information and the second information. After step S18 is completed, the control unit 52 ends the control.

[0058] <Second embodiment> A communication system 10 and a control device 50 of the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 4 to Fig. 7. The communication system 10 and the control device 50 of the second embodiment are similar to the communication system 10 and the control device 50 of the first embodiment, except for the configurations of the control unit 52 and the battery BT. Configurations common to the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and duplicated descriptions will be omitted.

[0059] 4, the control unit 52 includes a first control unit 52A, a second control unit 52B, and a third control unit 52C. The first control unit 52A controls the operation device 20, the first communication unit 12 connected to the operation device 20, and the notification unit 56. The second control unit 52B controls the gear shifting device 30 and the second communication unit 14 connected to the gear shifting device 30. The third control unit 52C controls the component 40 and the third communication unit 16 connected to the component 40.

[0060] The first control unit 52A is provided in the operation device 20. The first control unit 52A outputs the first information in response to the operation of the operation device 20. When the first communication unit 12 receives the third information, the first control unit 52A controls the notification unit 56 so that the third information is displayed on the notification unit 56.

[0061] The notification unit 56 includes a display unit. The display unit has, for example, a display panel. The notification unit 56 includes, for example, at least one of a portable electronic device, a display, a smartphone, a tablet computer, and a cycle computer. The notification unit 56 may include a speaker. The notification unit 56 is configured to be able to communicate with at least the first communication unit 12 in a wired or wireless manner.

[0062] The battery BT further includes a third battery BT3 that supplies power to at least one of the first communication unit 12, the operating device 20, the first control unit 52A, and the notification unit 56. The third battery BT3 has a smaller power capacity than the first battery BT1 and the second battery BT2. In one example, the third battery BT3 is configured by a lithium ion battery. In another example, the third battery BT3 is configured by a button battery.

[0063] The second control unit 52B is provided in the transmission 30. In one example, the second control unit 52B is provided in either the front derailleur 32 or the rear derailleur 34. The second control unit 52B controls the transmission 30. When the second control unit 52B receives the first information, it outputs the second information to the third communication unit 16. When the second control unit 52B receives the third information, it outputs the third information to the first communication unit 12.

[0064] The third control unit 52C is provided in the component 40. When a plurality of components 40 are provided in the human-powered vehicle A, the third control unit 52C may be provided in each component 40, or may be provided in any one of the components 40. The third control unit 52C controls the component 40. The third control unit 52C transmits the third information from the third communication unit 16. When the third communication unit 16 and the second communication unit 14 communicate with each other by wire, the third control unit 52C outputs the third information from the third communication unit 16 to the second communication unit 14. The third information includes information on the state of the component 40. In one example, when the component 40 includes the motor unit 42, the third information includes information on the control state of the motor and the assist force. When the component 40 includes the braking device 44, the third information includes information on the braking force. When the component 40 includes the suspension 46, the third information includes information on the displacement state, the travel amount, the damping force, and the repulsive force. When the component 40 includes the adjustable seat post 48, the third information includes information on the height of the saddle relative to the frame A1.

[0065] An example of the control executed by the first control unit 52A will be described with reference to Fig. 5. The first control unit 52A repeatedly executes the processes from step S21 to step S26 while power is being supplied from the battery BT.

[0066] In step S21, the first control unit 52A determines whether or not the operating device 20 has been operated. If the determination is affirmative, the first control unit 52A executes the process of step S22. If the determination is negative, the first control unit 52A executes the process of step S25.

[0067] The processes executed by the first control unit 52A in steps S22 to S24 are similar to the processes executed by the control unit 52 in the first embodiment in steps S12 to S14.

[0068] In step S25, the first control unit 52A determines whether or not the third information has been received. If the determination is positive, the first control unit 52A executes the process of step S26. If the determination is negative, the first control unit 52A ends the control.

[0069] In step S26, the first control unit 52A outputs the third information to the notification unit 56. After step S26 ends, the first control unit 52A ends the control.

[0070] An example of the control executed by the second control unit 52B will be described with reference to Fig. 6. The second control unit 52B repeatedly executes the processes from step S31 to step S37 while power is being supplied from the battery BT.

[0071] In step S31, the second control unit 52B determines whether or not the first information has been received. If the determination is affirmative, the second control unit 52B executes the process of step S32. If the determination is negative, the second control unit 52B executes the process of step S36.

[0072] The processes executed by the second control unit 52B in steps S32 to S34 are similar to the processes executed by the control unit 52 in steps S15 to S17 in the first embodiment.

[0073] In step S35, the second control unit 52B controls the transmission 30 based on the first information. After completing step S35, the second control unit 52B executes the process of step S36.

[0074] In step S36, the second control unit 52B determines whether or not the third information has been received. If the determination is positive, the second control unit 52B executes the process of step S37. If the determination is negative, the second control unit 52B ends the control.

[0075] In step S37, the second control unit 52B outputs the third information from the second communication unit 14 to the first communication unit 12. After step S37 ends, the second control unit 52B ends the control.

[0076] An example of the control executed by the third control unit 52C will be described with reference to Fig. 7. The third control unit 52C repeatedly executes the processes from step S41 to step S44 while power is being supplied from the battery BT.

[0077] In step S41, the third control unit 52C determines whether or not the second information has been received. If the determination is affirmative, the third control unit 52C executes the process of step S42. If the determination is negative, the third control unit 52C ends the control.

[0078] In step S42, the third control unit 52C determines whether or not the information on the component 40 is included. If the determination is positive, the third control unit 52C executes the process of step S43. If the determination is negative, the third control unit 52C ends the control.

[0079] In step S43, the third control unit 52C controls the component 40 based on the second information. After step S43 ends, the third control unit 52C executes the process of step S44.

[0080] In step S44, the third control unit 52C outputs the third information from the third communication unit 16 to the second communication unit 14. After step S44 ends, the third control unit 52C ends the control.

[0081] <Third embodiment> A communication system 10 and a control device 50 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 8. The communication system 10 and the control device 50 according to the third embodiment further include a fourth communication unit 18 provided in the transmission 30. Configurations common to the first and second embodiments are given the same reference numerals as in the first and second embodiments, and duplicated descriptions will be omitted.

[0082] The communication system 10 further includes a fourth communication unit 18. The fourth communication unit 18 is provided in the gear shifting device 30. The fourth communication unit 18 includes a receiving unit configured to be able to receive at least a signal including information. Preferably, the fourth communication unit 18 includes a transmitting unit configured to be able to transmit a signal including information. The fourth communication unit 18 is provided in one of the front derailleur 32 and the rear derailleur 34 of the gear shifting device 30, and the second communication unit 14 is provided in the other. In one example, the second communication unit 14 is provided in the rear derailleur 34, and the fourth communication unit 18 is provided in the front derailleur 32. The fourth communication unit 18 is configured to be able to communicate with the third communication unit 16 in a wired or wireless manner. The fourth communication unit 18 may be configured to be able to communicate with at least one of the first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14 in a wired or wireless manner. In one example, the fourth communication unit 18 is configured to be able to communicate with the second communication unit 14. When the second communication unit 14 is capable of communicating with the third communication unit 16 and the fourth communication unit 18, the third communication unit 16 and the fourth communication unit 18 may be configured not to communicate with each other.

[0083] The flow of signals including information in the communication system 10 of the third embodiment will be described. Transmission and reception by each communication unit is controlled by the control unit 52 of the control device 50 or each control unit provided in the operation device 20, the transmission device 30, and the component 40 (not shown).

[0084] The first communication unit 12 communicates with a second communication unit 14 provided on the rear derailleur 34 in a wired or wireless manner. In one example, the first communication unit 12 communicates with the second communication unit 14 wirelessly. The first communication unit 12 transmits a signal including first information to the second communication unit 14. The first information includes at least one of information regarding the transmission 30 and information regarding the component 40.

[0085] The second communication unit 14 performs wired or wireless communication with the third communication unit 16 provided in the component 40. In one example, the second communication unit 14 performs wired communication with the third communication unit 16. The second communication unit 14 transmits a signal including the second information to the third communication unit 16. The second information includes at least one of information about the transmission 30 and information about the component 40. The second communication unit 14 may transmit the second information to the fourth communication unit 18 via the second battery BT2 and the power line electrically connected thereto. The second battery BT2 further includes a communication unit including both a transmitting unit configured to be capable of transmitting a signal including information and a receiving unit configured to be capable of receiving a signal including information.

[0086] The third communication unit 16 communicates with at least one of the second communication unit 14 and the fourth communication unit 18 provided on the front derailleur 32. The third communication unit 16 performs wired or wireless communication with the fourth communication unit 18. In one example, the third communication unit 16 performs wired communication with the fourth communication unit 18. When the received second information includes information related to the gear shifting device 30, the third communication unit 16 transmits a signal including information related to the gear shifting device 30 to at least one of the second communication unit 14 and the fourth communication unit 18. When the second communication unit 14 and the fourth communication unit 18 communicate with each other, the third communication unit 16 may be configured not to perform wired or wireless communication with the fourth communication unit 18.

[0087] The first battery BT1 supplies power to the component 40 and the third communication unit 16. The second battery BT2 supplies power to at least the front derailleur 32, the rear derailleur 34, the second communication unit 14, and the fourth communication unit 18. The third battery BT3 supplies power to the operating device 20 and the first communication unit 12. The third battery BT3 is formed of, for example, a button battery. When the first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14 are connected by a power line capable of power line communication, the second battery BT2 supplies power to the operating device 20 and the first communication unit 12.

[0088] <Fourth embodiment> A communication system 10 and a control device 50 of the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 9. The communication system 10 and the control device 50 of the fourth embodiment are configured such that the configuration of the second battery BT2 of the third embodiment is omitted. Configurations common to the first to third embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals as the first to third embodiments, and duplicated descriptions will be omitted.

[0089] A description will be given of the flow of signals including information in the communication system 10 of the fourth embodiment. Transmission and reception from each communication unit is controlled by the control unit 52 of the control device 50 or each control unit provided in the operation device 20, the transmission device 30, and the component 40 (not shown).

[0090] The first communication unit 12 communicates with a second communication unit 14 provided on the rear derailleur 34 in a wired or wireless manner. In one example, the first communication unit 12 communicates with the second communication unit 14 wirelessly. The first communication unit 12 transmits a signal including first information to the second communication unit 14. The first information includes at least one of information regarding the transmission 30 and information regarding the component 40.

[0091] The second communication unit 14 performs wired or wireless communication with the third communication unit 16 provided in the component 40. In one example, the second communication unit 14 performs wired communication with the third communication unit 16. The second communication unit 14 transmits a signal including the second information to the third communication unit 16. The second information includes at least one of information about the transmission 30 and information about the component 40. The second communication unit 14 may transmit the second information to the fourth communication unit 18 via an electrically connected power line.

[0092] The third communication unit 16 communicates with at least one of the second communication unit 14 and the fourth communication unit 18 provided on the front derailleur 32. The third communication unit 16 performs wired or wireless communication with the fourth communication unit 18. In one example, the third communication unit 16 performs wired communication with the fourth communication unit 18. When the received second information includes information related to the gear shifting device 30, the third communication unit 16 transmits a signal including information related to the gear shifting device 30 to at least one of the second communication unit 14 and the fourth communication unit 18. When the second communication unit 14 and the fourth communication unit 18 communicate with each other, the third communication unit 16 may be configured not to perform wired or wireless communication with the fourth communication unit 18.

[0093] The first battery BT1 supplies power to the component 40, the front derailleur 32, the rear derailleur 34, the second communication unit 14, the third communication unit 16, and the fourth communication unit 18. The second battery BT2 is omitted or is configured integrally with the first battery BT1. The third battery BT3 supplies power to the operating device 20 and the first communication unit 12. The third battery BT3 is configured, for example, by a button battery. When the first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14 are connected by a power line capable of power line communication, the first battery BT1 supplies power to the operating device 20 and the first communication unit 12.

[0094] <Modification> The explanations of each embodiment are examples of forms that the communication system and control device according to the present invention can take, and are not intended to limit the forms. The communication system and control device according to the present invention can take, for example, modified forms of each embodiment shown below, and forms that combine at least two modified forms that are not mutually contradictory. In the following modified forms, parts that are common to the forms of the embodiments are given the same reference numerals as the embodiments, and their explanations are omitted.

[0095] The receiving unit and transmitting unit of the second communication unit 14 may be configured separately. In one example, the receiving unit of the second communication unit 14 is provided in the front derailleur 32, and the transmitting unit of the second communication unit 14 is provided in the rear derailleur 34. In another example, the receiving unit of the second communication unit 14 is provided in the rear derailleur 34, and the transmitting unit of the second communication unit 14 is provided in the front derailleur 32.

[0096] The third communication unit 16 may be provided in the battery BT. In one example, the third communication unit 16 is disposed in the first battery BT1. The third communication unit 16 and the control unit 52 that controls the component 40 are connected by wire.

[0097] In the communication system 10 of the third embodiment and the communication system 10 of the fourth embodiment, when the first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14 are connected by wire, the system may be configured to be switchable between wired communication and wireless communication. The control unit that controls the operation device 20 and the first communication unit 12 transmits a wireless signal to the second communication unit 14 even when the first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14 are connected by wire. In this case, the operation device 20 and the first communication unit 12 may be configured to receive power from the first battery BT1 or the second battery BT2 to which they are connected by wire. The system is configured to switch between wired communication and wireless communication, for example, by operating the operation device 20.

[0098] In the communication system 10 of the third embodiment and the communication system 10 of the fourth embodiment, the second communication unit 14 and the fourth communication unit 18 may be configured to perform wired or wireless communication. In this case, a signal including information received by one of the second communication unit 14 or the fourth communication unit 18 is transmitted to the other of the second communication unit 14 or the fourth communication unit 18.

[0099] The communication system 10 of the modified example shown in FIG. 10 is configured so that the first battery BT1 or the second battery BT2 can supply power to the operating device 20. The first battery BT1 and the operating device 20 may be configured not to be directly connected by a power line. The first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14 are connected by a power line that allows power line communication. The first battery BT1 or the second battery BT2 supplies power to the operating device 20 via the gear shift device 30. The second battery BT2 may be omitted. In addition, the first battery BT1 may supply power only to the component 40, and only the second battery BT2 may supply power to the operating device 20 via the gear shift device 30.

[0100] In the communication system 10 including the fourth communication unit 18, the first information from the first communication unit 12 may be received by both the second communication unit 14 and the fourth communication unit 18, or may be configured to be received by either one of the units capable of wired communication with the first communication unit 12. It is preferable that the output to the third communication unit 16 is output by either one of the second communication unit 14 and the fourth communication unit 18 that is capable of wired communication with the third communication unit 16.

[0101] The communication system 10 may be configured to output a wireless signal even in the case of a wired connection. After completing the process of step S11, the control unit 52 of the first embodiment omits the process of step S12 and executes the process of step S14. The control unit 52 omits the process of step S15 and executes the process of step S17. The first control unit 52A and the second control unit 52B in the communication system 10 of the second embodiment also execute similar processes.

[0102] In the second embodiment, any one of the first control unit 52A, the second control unit 52B, and the third control unit 52C may be omitted. When the first control unit 52A is omitted, the second control unit 52B controls the first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14. When the second control unit 52B is omitted, the first control unit 52A controls the first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14. When the third control unit 52C is omitted, the second control unit 52B controls the second communication unit 14 and the third communication unit 16.

[0103] In the second embodiment, the second control unit 52B may control the transmission 30 based on the third information. In one example, the third information includes information related to the output of the motor unit 42. When the output of the motor unit 42 is large, the second control unit 52B controls the transmission 30 to reduce the gear ratio, and when the output of the motor unit 42 is small, the second control unit 52B controls the transmission 30 to increase the gear ratio.

[0104] In the second embodiment, the second control unit 52B may be configured to omit the processing of step S35 and, after the processing of step S36, control the transmission 30 based on the information related to the transmission 30 included in the third information.

[0105] The phrase "at least one" as used herein means "one or more" of the desired options. As an example, the phrase "at least one" as used herein means "only one option" or "both of two options" if the number of options is two. As another example, the phrase "at least one" as used herein means "only one option" or "any combination of two or more options" if the number of options is three or more. [Explanation of symbols]

[0106] 10...communication system, 12...first communication section, 14...second communication section, 16...third communication section, 20...operation device, 30...transmission device, 40...component, 42...motor unit, A...human-powered vehicle, H...handlebar.

Claims

1. a first communication unit connected to an operating device mounted on the human-powered vehicle; a second communication unit connected to a transmission of the human-powered vehicle; a third communication unit connected to a component mounted on the human-powered vehicle other than the operation device and the transmission; a control device including a control unit that controls the first communication unit, the second communication unit, and the third communication unit; The second communication unit receives first information transmitted from the first communication unit in response to an operation of the operation device, The third communication unit of the component receives second information including at least a part of the first information transmitted from the second communication unit; The component includes a motor unit configured to provide a propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle; the first information includes information regarding the motor unit, A communication system, wherein the second information includes information regarding the motor unit.

2. The communication system of claim 1 , wherein the first information is identical to the second information.

3. The communication system according to claim 1 , wherein the first information further includes information relating to the transmission.

4. The communication system according to claim 1 , wherein the second information further includes information relating to the transmission.

5. The communication system according to claim 3 , wherein the second information includes only information relating to the motor unit.

6. The communication system according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit transmits the first information to the second communication unit by a wireless signal or a wired signal.

7. 7. The communication system according to claim 6, wherein the control unit transmits the first information to the second communication unit by a wired signal when the operation device and the transmission are connected by wire, and outputs the first information by a wireless signal when the operation device and the transmission are not connected by wire.

8. The communication system according to claim 6 , wherein the control unit transmits the second information to the third communication unit by a wireless signal or a wired signal.

9. 9. The communication system according to claim 8, wherein the control unit transmits the second information to the third communication unit by a wired signal when the transmission and the component are connected by wire, and outputs the second information by a wireless signal when the transmission and the component are not connected by wire.

10. 10. The communication system according to claim 9, wherein the control unit controls the second communication unit so that the second communication unit receives the first information output by a wireless signal, and transmits the second information output by a wired signal to the third communication unit.

11. The communication system according to claim 1 , further comprising a battery that supplies power to at least one of the operating device, the transmission, and the components, and the control unit controls the power supply from the battery.

12. The communication system according to claim 11 , wherein the control unit controls power supply from the battery to at least one of the operation device, the transmission, and the component based on at least one of the first information and the second information.

13. the battery includes a first battery that supplies power to the operating device and the components, and a second battery that supplies power to the transmission; The communication system according to claim 11 , wherein the control unit controls power supply from the first battery and the second battery based on at least one of the first information and the second information.

14. The communication system according to claim 1 , wherein the operating device is configured to operate the motor unit.

15. The information about the motor unit includes at least information for the control unit to control the motor unit, the information for controlling the motor unit includes information regarding an assist force of the motor unit, The communication system according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit controls the motor unit based on information related to the assist force.

16. A control device including a control unit that controls a first communication unit connected to an operation device mounted on a human-powered vehicle, a second communication unit connected to a transmission of the human-powered vehicle, and a third communication unit connected to a component mounted on the human-powered vehicle other than the operation device and the transmission, the control unit controls the first communication unit to output first information in response to an operation of the operation device, controls the second communication unit to receive the first information and output second information including at least a part of the first information, and controls the third communication unit to receive the second information; The component includes a motor unit configured to provide a propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle; the first information includes information regarding the motor unit, A control device, wherein the second information includes information regarding the motor unit.

17. The control device according to claim 16 , wherein the first information further includes information relating to the transmission.

18. The information about the motor unit includes at least information for the control unit to control the motor unit, the information for controlling the motor unit includes information regarding an assist force of the motor unit, The control device according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the control unit controls the motor unit based on information related to the assist force.

19. the operation device is provided in a steering mechanism of the human-powered vehicle, The control device of claim 16 , wherein the steering mechanism includes a handlebar.

Images