Component for human-powered vehicle

Abstract

To provide a component for a human-powered vehicle that is easy to manufacture.SOLUTION: A component for a human-powered vehicle includes a shaft member extending in an axial direction and a torque detection unit configured to detect torque input to the shaft member, the shaft member includes an intersecting surface extending in a direction intersecting the axial direction, and the torque detection unit includes a strain gauge provided on the intersecting surface.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to components for human powered vehicles. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a component for a human-powered vehicle that includes a torque detector that detects torque input to a shaft member. The torque detector is provided on the outer periphery of the shaft member and includes a strain gauge extending in the circumferential direction. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2020-34399 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the component for a human-powered vehicle in Patent Document 1, the strain gauges are attached to the outer periphery of the shaft member along the circumferential direction of the shaft member, which reduces manufacturing efficiency. One objective of the present disclosure is to provide components for human-powered vehicles that are easy to manufacture. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A component according to a first aspect of the present disclosure is a component for a human-powered vehicle, and comprises an axially extending shaft member and a torque detection unit that detects torque input to the shaft member, wherein the shaft member includes an intersecting surface extending in a direction intersecting the axial direction, and the torque detection unit includes a strain gauge provided on the intersecting surface. According to the component of the first aspect, since the strain gauge is provided on the intersecting surface extending in a direction intersecting the axial direction, the component is easy to manufacture.

[0006] In the component of the second aspect according to the first aspect of the present disclosure, the shaft member includes a shaft main body portion and a protrusion protruding radially outward from the shaft main body portion, the protrusion including the intersecting surface. According to the component of the second aspect, the protrusion protruding radially outward from the shaft main body includes an intersecting surface, so that it is easy to provide a strain gauge at the intersecting surface.

[0007] In a component of a third aspect according to the first or second aspect of the present disclosure, the strain gauge includes a plurality of pattern portions formed by conductive wire and formed in an arc shape or annular shape, each of the plurality of pattern portions being arranged over an angle of 60 degrees or more and 360 degrees or less in the circumferential direction of the shaft member. According to the component of the third aspect, each of the plurality of pattern portions is provided over an angle of 60 degrees or more and 360 degrees or less in the circumferential direction of the shaft member, so that the torque detection portion can suitably detect the torque input to the shaft member.

[0008] In the component of the fourth aspect according to the third aspect of the present disclosure, the conductive lines are formed by printing. According to the component of the fourth aspect, the conductive lines are formed by printing, so that a plurality of pattern portions can be suitably formed.

[0009] In a component of a fifth aspect according to the third or fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the conductive wire includes, in a circumferential direction of the shaft member, a plurality of first portions along the circumferential direction of the shaft member, and a second portion connecting two adjacent ones of the plurality of first portions, the second portions being arranged so as to be inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the radial direction of the shaft member, the predetermined angle being greater than 30 degrees and less than 60 degrees. According to the component of the fifth aspect, the second portion is disposed so as to be inclined at an angle greater than 30 degrees and less than 60 degrees with respect to the radial direction of the shaft member, so that the conductive wire can be made long. Therefore, the torque detection unit can suitably detect the torque input to the shaft member.

[0010] In the component of a sixth aspect according to any one of the first to fourth aspects of the present disclosure, the strain gauge further comprises an electrically insulating flexible substrate. According to the component of the sixth aspect, the strain gauge includes a flexible substrate, so that the strain gauge is conveniently attached to the intersecting surface.

[0011] In the component of the seventh aspect according to the sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the flexible substrate is formed in an arc shape or an annular shape, and is provided over an angle of 90 degrees or more and 360 degrees or less in a circumferential direction of the shaft member. According to the component of the seventh aspect, the flexible substrate is provided over an angle of 90 degrees or more and 360 degrees or less in the circumferential direction of the shaft member, so that the strain gauge can be stably attached to the intersecting surface.

[0012] In a component of an eighth aspect according to any one of the first to seventh aspects of the present disclosure, the component further comprises an output portion and a transmission member that transmits the torque of the shaft member to the output portion, and the intersecting surface is provided on a portion of the shaft member that is connected to the transmission member. According to the component of the eighth aspect, the torque detector can detect strain occurring in the portion of the shaft member that is connected to the transmission member.

[0013] In a component of a ninth aspect according to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the component further includes a one-way clutch that transmits the torque of the shaft member to the output section, the transmission member forming a part of the one-way clutch, the one-way clutch being configured to transmit the torque of the shaft member to the output section when the shaft member rotates in a first direction, and to allow relative rotation between the output section and the shaft member when the output section rotates in the first direction, and including an outer ring that rotates integrally with the output section, an inner ring provided on the shaft member, and a switching member arranged between the outer ring and the inner ring, and the intersecting surface being provided at a portion of the shaft member corresponding to the inner ring. According to the component of the ninth aspect, the torque detector can detect strain occurring in the portion of the shaft member that is connected to the inner ring.

[0014] In the component of a tenth aspect according to any one of the first to ninth aspects of the present disclosure, the shaft member is connected to a crankshaft of the human-powered vehicle. According to the component of the tenth aspect, the torque detection portion can detect the torque input to the shaft member connected to the crankshaft.

[0015] In the component of the eleventh aspect according to the tenth aspect of the present disclosure, the shaft member includes a crankshaft connection portion that is connected to the crankshaft, and the intersecting surface is provided at a position away from the crankshaft connection portion in the axial direction of the shaft member. According to the component of the eleventh aspect, the torque detector can detect the torque input to the shaft member at a position away from the crankshaft connection portion of the shaft member.

[0016] In a component of a twelfth aspect according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects of the present disclosure, an electronic component is further included, and the torque detection unit further includes an electrical connection portion that electrically connects the strain gauge and the electronic component, and the electrical connection portion is positioned radially outward of the shaft member than the strain gauge. According to the component of the twelfth aspect, the electrical connection portion is disposed radially outward of the strain gauge on the shaft member, so that the electrical connection portion can be easily connected to the electronic component.

[0017] In a component of a thirteenth aspect according to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, the electronic component includes a first circuit board extending in a direction intersecting the axial member, the first circuit board extending in the radial direction opposite the intersecting plane. According to the component of the thirteenth aspect, the first circuit board extends in the radial direction so as to face the intersecting surface, so that the electrical connection portion can be easily connected to the electronic component.

[0018] In the component of the fourteenth aspect according to the thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, a second circuit board electrically connectable to the first circuit board is further provided, the second circuit board includes a power transmitting unit, the first circuit board includes a power receiving unit capable of receiving power from the power transmitting unit, and the torque detection unit is configured to operate using the power received by the power receiving unit. According to the component of the fourteenth aspect, the torque detection unit operates using the power received by the power receiving unit, and therefore the torque detection unit can operate satisfactorily.

[0019] In a component of a fifteenth aspect according to a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the component further includes a second circuit board electrically connectable to the first circuit board, the first circuit board including a first communication unit, the second circuit board including a second communication unit capable of communicating with the first communication unit, and the second communication unit configured to transmit a detection result of the strain gauge to the first communication unit. According to the component of the fifteenth aspect, the detection result of the strain gauge can be suitably transmitted to the second circuit board by the first communication section and the second communication section.

[0020] In a component of a sixteenth aspect according to any one of the first to fifteenth aspects of the present disclosure, the strain gauge includes a first resistor, a second resistor, a third resistor, and a fourth resistor, and the first resistor, the second resistor, the third resistor, and the fourth resistor are bridge-connected. According to the component of the sixteenth aspect, the torque detection unit can suitably detect the torque input to the shaft member by the bridge-connected first resistor, second resistor, third resistor, and fourth resistor.

[0021] In the component of the 17th aspect according to the 16th aspect of the present disclosure, the first resistor, the second resistor, the third resistor, and the fourth resistor constitute at least a part of a Wheatstone bridge circuit, and the torque detection unit further includes a first terminal, a second terminal, a third terminal, and a fourth terminal that constitute four terminals of the Wheatstone bridge circuit, and the first terminal, the second terminal, the third terminal, and the fourth terminal are arranged radially outward of the shaft member than the first resistor, the second resistor, the third resistor, and the fourth resistor. According to the component of the 17th aspect, the first terminal, the second terminal, the third terminal, and the fourth terminal are positioned radially outward of the axial member relative to the first resistor, the second resistor, the third resistor, and the fourth resistor, making it easier to organize the wiring for connecting each terminal to the outside of the strain gauge.

[0022] In the component of the 18th aspect according to the 16th aspect of the present disclosure, the first resistor, the second resistor, the third resistor, and the fourth resistor constitute at least a part of a Wheatstone bridge circuit, and the torque detection unit further includes a first terminal, a second terminal, a third terminal, and a fourth terminal that constitute four terminals of the Wheatstone bridge circuit, and the first terminal, the second terminal, the third terminal, and the fourth terminal are arranged radially inward of the shaft member relative to the first resistor, the second resistor, the third resistor, and the fourth resistor. According to the component of the eighteenth aspect, since it is disposed radially inward of the shaft member, it is easy to organize the wiring for connecting each terminal to the outside of the strain gauge.

[0023] In the component of a nineteenth aspect according to any one of the first to eighteenth aspects of the present disclosure, the strain gauges are attached to the intersecting surfaces by adhesive. According to the component of the nineteenth aspect, the strain gauges can be suitably attached to the intersecting surfaces by adhesive.

[0024] The component of a twentieth aspect according to any one of the first to nineteenth aspects of the present disclosure, further comprising a motor that provides a propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle. According to the component of the twentieth aspect, it is easy to manufacture a component equipped with a motor that provides propulsive force to a human-powered vehicle. Effect of the Invention

[0025] The components for human powered vehicles of the present disclosure are easy to manufacture. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0026] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a side view of a human-powered vehicle including components for use in a human-powered vehicle according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a side view of a component for the human powered vehicle of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line D3-D3 in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a part of FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the crankshaft and the periphery of the crankshaft in FIG. 2. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a front view showing the strain gauge of FIG. 5. [Figure 7] 1 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of a human-powered vehicle including components for the human-powered vehicle of an embodiment. FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a front view showing a strain gauge according to a first modified example. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a front view showing a strain gauge according to a second modified example. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a front view showing a strain gauge according to a third modified example. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a front view showing a strain gauge according to a fourth modified example. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a front view showing a strain gauge according to a fifth modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0027] <Embodiment> 1-7, a component 40 for a human powered vehicle is described.

[0028] A human-powered vehicle is a vehicle that has at least one wheel and can be driven at least by human driving force. Human-powered vehicles include various types of bicycles, such as mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes, hand bikes, and recumbents. The number of wheels that a human-powered vehicle has is not limited. Human-powered vehicles also include, for example, one-wheeled vehicles and vehicles with two or more wheels. Human-powered vehicles are not limited to vehicles that can be driven only by human driving force. Human-powered vehicles include E-bikes that use not only human driving force but also the driving force of an electric motor for propulsion. E-bikes include electrically assisted bicycles whose propulsion is assisted by an electric motor. Hereinafter, in each embodiment, the human-powered vehicle will be described as a bicycle.

[0029] 1, the human-powered vehicle 10 includes, for example, a crank 12, at least one wheel 14, and a vehicle body 16. The at least one wheel 14 includes, for example, a front wheel 14F and a rear wheel 14R. The vehicle body 16 includes a frame 18. For example, a saddle 18A is attached to the frame 18.

[0030] The crank 12 includes, for example, a crank arm 12B. For example, a crank shaft 48 is attached to the crank arm 12B. The crank shaft 48 is rotatable with respect to, for example, the frame 18. For example, a pedal 20 is connected to the crank arm 12B. For example, the crank arm 12B includes a right crank arm 12B of the human-powered vehicle 10 and a left crank arm 12B of the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0031] For example, each of the crank arms 12B is provided at each of the axial ends of the crank shaft 48. For example, a pedal 20 is connected to each of the crank arms 12B.

[0032] A front fork 22 is connected to the frame 18. A front wheel 14F is attached to the front fork 22. A handlebar 24 is connected to the front fork 22 via a stem 26. A rear wheel 14R is supported by the frame 18. In this embodiment, the crank 12 is connected to the rear wheel 14R by a drive mechanism 28. The rear wheel 14R is driven by the rotation of a crankshaft 48. At least one of the front wheel 14F and the rear wheel 14R may be connected to the crank 12 by the drive mechanism 28.

[0033] The drive mechanism 28 includes at least one first rotating body 30 coupled to the crankshaft 48. The at least one first rotating body 30 includes, for example, a front sprocket. The at least one first rotating body 30 may include a pulley or a bevel gear. The crankshaft 48 may be coupled to the front sprocket via a one-way clutch.

[0034] The drive mechanism 28 further includes at least one second rotating body 32 and a transmission member 34. The transmission member 34 is configured to transmit the rotational force of the at least one first rotating body 30 to the at least one second rotating body 32. The transmission member 34 includes, for example, a chain. The transmission member 34 may include a belt or a shaft. The at least one second rotating body 32 includes, for example, a rear sprocket. The at least one second rotating body 32 may include a pulley or a bevel gear. The chain is wound around, for example, a front sprocket and a rear sprocket. The at least one second rotating body 32 is connected to, for example, a rear wheel 14R. The rear wheel 14R is configured to rotate with, for example, the rotation of the at least one second rotating body 32.

[0035] The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes, for example, a battery 38. The battery 38 includes, for example, one or more battery elements. The battery element includes, for example, a rechargeable battery. The battery 38 is provided, for example, on the frame 18. The battery 38 supplies power to, for example, a component 40 for the human-powered vehicle. The battery 38 may be provided in the component 40.

[0036] 2 to 5 includes a shaft member 42 extending in the axial direction X, and a torque detection unit 44 that detects torque input to the shaft member 42. The component 40 further includes, for example, a housing 46. The housing 46 forms an accommodation space 46S. The component 40 of this embodiment further includes a crankshaft 48. The crankshaft 48 is supported by the housing 46.

[0037] The component 40 further includes, for example, a motor 50 that provides a propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle 10. The motor 50 is supported, for example, by the housing 46. At least a portion of the motor 50 is disposed, for example, in the accommodation space 46S. The motor 50 includes, for example, an inner rotor type motor. The motor 50 includes a stator 50A and a rotor 50B.

[0038] The component 40 further includes, for example, an output unit 52 and a transmission member 54 that transmits the torque of the shaft member 42 to the output unit 52. For example, a manual driving force and the torque of the motor 50 are input to the output unit 52. The shaft member 42 is connected to the output unit 52 via, for example, the transmission member 54. The output unit 52 is, for example, a hollow shaft. The crankshaft 48 is disposed inside the output unit 52, for example. The crankshaft 48 has, for example, a rotation center axis CX. The rotation center axis of the shaft member 42 and the rotation center axis of the output unit 52 are, for example, substantially equal to the rotation center axis CX.

[0039] The crankshaft 48 is rotatably supported by, for example, a first crank bearing 40A and a second crank bearing 40B. The first crank bearing 40A is provided, for example, between the housing 46 and the crankshaft 48. The first crank bearing 40A rotatably supports, for example, one end of the crankshaft 48 relative to the housing 46. The first crank bearing 40A is, for example, a ball bearing or a roller bearing. The first crank bearing 40A may be a plain bearing. The second crank bearing 40B is provided, for example, between the output portion 52 and the crankshaft 48. The second crank bearing 40B rotatably supports the other end of the crankshaft 48 relative to the output portion 52. The second crank bearing 40B is, for example, a plain bearing. The second crank bearing 40B may be a ball bearing or a roller bearing.

[0040] The output portion 52 is rotatably supported by, for example, an output portion bearing 40C. The output portion bearing 40C is provided, for example, between the housing 46 and the output portion 52. The output portion bearing 40C rotatably supports, for example, the output portion 52 with respect to the housing 46. The output portion bearing 40C is, for example, a ball bearing or a roller bearing. The output portion bearing 40C may be a plain bearing.

[0041] The component 40 further includes, for example, a reducer 56. The reducer 56 is connected to, for example, the motor 50 and the output unit 52. The torque of the motor 50 is transmitted to the output unit 52 via the reducer 56. The reducer 56 is configured to reduce the torque of the motor 50 in three stages and transmit it to the output unit 52. The reducer 56 may be configured to reduce the torque of the motor 50 in one stage, two stages, or four or more stages and transmit it to the output unit 52. The reducer 56 includes, for example, a plurality of gears. The reducer 56 may include a planetary gear mechanism, or may include a pulley or a sprocket.

[0042] A motor one-way clutch 58 may be provided in the torque transmission path of the motor 50 from the motor 50 to the output unit 52. The motor one-way clutch 58 is provided, for example, in the reducer 56. The motor one-way clutch 58 transmits the torque of the motor 50 to the output unit 52, for example, when the motor 50 rotates in a direction corresponding to the forward direction of the human-powered vehicle 10. The motor one-way clutch 58 is configured to allow relative rotation between the output unit 52 and the motor 50, for example, when the output unit 52 rotates in a direction corresponding to the forward direction of the human-powered vehicle 10. When the motor 50 is configured to be capable of regenerative power generation, the motor one-way clutch 58 is omitted.

[0043] The shaft member 42 is connected to, for example, a crankshaft 48 of the human-powered vehicle 10. The shaft member 42 is, for example, a hollow shaft. The crankshaft 48 is, for example, disposed inside the shaft member 42. The shaft member 42 is configured to distort, for example, when torque is input. The shaft member 42 is formed of, for example, a magnetostrictive material. The shaft member 42 includes a first end 42A in the axial direction X and a second end 42B opposite to the first end 42A in the axial direction X. The shaft member 42 includes, for example, a crankshaft connection portion 42C that is connected to the crankshaft 48. The crankshaft connection portion 42C is provided, for example, on the first end 42A. The crankshaft connection portion 42C engages with the outer periphery of the crankshaft 48 by, for example, a spline or a serration. The transmission member 54 is provided, for example, on the second end 42B.

[0044] The component 40 further includes, for example, a support member 40D. The support member 40D is disposed in a portion of the shaft member 42 different from the crankshaft connection portion 42C in the axial direction X. The support member 40D is formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape. The support member 40D is disposed between the outer periphery of the crankshaft 48 and the inner periphery of the shaft member 42.

[0045] The component 40 further includes, for example, a one-way clutch 60 that transmits the torque of the shaft member 42 to the output unit 52. The transmission member 54, for example, constitutes a part of the one-way clutch 60. The one-way clutch 60 is configured, for example, to transmit the torque of the shaft member 42 to the output unit 52 when the shaft member 42 rotates in a first direction, and to allow relative rotation between the output unit 52 and the shaft member 42 when the output unit 52 rotates in the first direction. The first direction corresponds to the respective rotation directions of the shaft member 42 and the output unit 52 when the human-powered vehicle 10 moves forward.

[0046] The one-way clutch 60 includes, for example, an outer ring 60A that rotates integrally with the output portion 52, an inner ring 60B that is provided on the shaft member 42, and a switching member 60C that is arranged between the outer ring 60A and the inner ring 60B. The switching member 60C may be a rolling body or a pawl member. The outer ring 60A is provided, for example, on the inner periphery of the output portion 52. The outer ring 60A is formed, for example, integrally with the output portion 52. The outer ring 60A may be formed separately from the output portion 52. The inner ring 60B is provided, for example, on the outer periphery of the shaft member 42. The inner ring 60B is formed, for example, integrally with the shaft member 42. The inner ring 60B may be formed separately from the shaft member 42. One of the outer ring 60A and the inner ring 60B is provided with, for example, a placement portion in which the switching member 60C is placed. The other of the outer ring 60A and the inner ring 60B is provided with, for example, a groove that engages with the switching member 60C.

[0047] The shaft member 42 includes a cross surface 42X extending in a direction intersecting the axial direction X. The torque detection unit 44 includes a strain gauge 66 provided on the cross surface 42X. The strain gauge 66 is formed, for example, in a sheet shape. In this embodiment, the surface on which the strain gauge 66 is provided among the surfaces of the shaft member 42 extending in a direction intersecting the axial direction X is described as the cross surface 42X. The cross surface 42X is, for example, perpendicular to the axial direction X. The cross surface 42X includes, for example, a flat surface. The shaft member 42 includes, for example, a shaft main body portion 62 and a protruding portion 64 protruding radially outward from the shaft main body portion 62. The protruding portion 64 includes, for example, the cross surface 42X. The protruding portion 64 is provided, for example, closer to the second end portion 42B than the first end portion 42A in the axial direction X. The cross surface 42X has, for example, a circular ring shape when viewed from the axial direction X.

[0048] The intersecting surface 42X is provided, for example, at a position away from the crankshaft connecting portion 42C in the axial direction X of the shaft member 42. The intersecting surface 42X faces, for example, the crankshaft connecting portion 42C side of the protruding portion 64. The intersecting surface 42X is provided, for example, at a portion of the shaft member 42 that is connected to the transmission member 54. The intersecting surface 42X is provided, for example, at a portion of the shaft member 42 that corresponds to the inner ring 60B.

[0049] The strain gauge 66 shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 is attached to the crossing surface 42X by, for example, adhesion. The strain gauge 66 further includes, for example, an electrically insulating flexible substrate 68. The flexible substrate 68 is formed of, for example, a resin. The flexible substrate 68 includes, for example, a polyimide film. For example, the flexible substrate 68 is attached to the crossing surface 42X by adhesion, thereby attaching the strain gauge 66 to the crossing surface 42X. The adhesive disposed between the strain gauge 66 and the crossing surface 42X may be disposed on the entire surface of the flexible substrate 68 facing the crossing surface 42X, or may be disposed only on the edge of the surface of the flexible substrate 68 facing the crossing surface 42X. The strain gauge 66 may include a substrate that does not have flexibility instead of at least a part of the flexible substrate 68.

[0050] The flexible substrate 68 is formed, for example, in an arc shape or an annular shape. The flexible substrate 68 is provided, for example, over 90 degrees and 360 degrees inclusive in the circumferential direction of the shaft member 42. The flexible substrate 68 of this embodiment is provided over 360 degrees in the circumferential direction of the shaft member 42. The flexible substrate 68 includes, for example, a first arrangement portion 68A in an arc shape or annular shape, and a second arrangement portion 68B protruding radially outward from the first arrangement portion 68A.

[0051] The strain gauge 66 includes, for example, a plurality of pattern portions 70. The plurality of pattern portions 70 are formed by conductive wires 72. The plurality of pattern portions 70 in this embodiment include a first pattern portion 70A, a second pattern portion 70B, a third pattern portion 70C, and a fourth pattern portion 70D. The plurality of pattern portions 70 are provided in, for example, a first arrangement portion 68A of the flexible substrate 68.

[0052] The conductive wire 72 is formed by, for example, printing. The conductive wire 72 is formed by, for example, a conductive film. The conductive wire 72 is formed on the flexible substrate 68 by, for example, screen printing, inkjet printing, or the like. The conductive wire 72 may be formed by, for example, evaporating a metal foil onto an electrically insulating member. Materials for the metal foil include, for example, nickel, chromium, aluminum, gold, and copper. The conductive wire 72 may be formed by a semiconductor material such as silicon. The conductive wire 72 may be formed by etching a conductive film, or may be formed by attaching a linear member to the flexible substrate 68. The strain gauge 66 may further include a cover film that covers the multiple pattern portions 70. The cover film is formed by a resin. For example, a polyimide film is used as the cover film.

[0053] The conductive wire 72 includes, for example, a plurality of first portions 72A along the circumferential direction of the shaft member 42, and a second portion 72B connecting two adjacent ones of the plurality of first portions 72A. The second portion 72B is arranged so as to be inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the radial direction of the shaft member 42. The predetermined angle is, for example, greater than 30 degrees and smaller than 60 degrees. The length of the first portion 72A is, for example, shorter than the length of the second portion 72B. The length of the first portion 72A may be equal to or greater than the length of the second portion 72B. Each of the plurality of pattern portions 70 is configured as a pattern in which the first portion 72A and the second portion 72B are repeated. The plurality of second portions 72B included in one pattern portion 70 may be arranged so as to have different predetermined angles.

[0054] The multiple pattern portions 70 are formed, for example, in an arc shape or an annular shape. Each of the multiple pattern portions 70 is provided, for example, over an area of ​​60 degrees or more and 360 degrees or less in the circumferential direction of the shaft member 42. Each of the multiple pattern portions 70 is provided, for example, over an area of ​​90 degrees or more and 180 degrees or less in the circumferential direction of the shaft member 42.

[0055] Each of the first pattern portion 70A, the second pattern portion 70B, the third pattern portion 70C, and the fourth pattern portion 70D is provided over, for example, 90 degrees or more and 180 degrees or less in the circumferential direction of the shaft member 42. Each of the first pattern portion 70A, the second pattern portion 70B, the third pattern portion 70C, and the fourth pattern portion 70D of the present embodiment is provided over, for example, 135 degrees or more and 180 degrees or less in the circumferential direction of the shaft member 42.

[0056] One of the plurality of pattern portions 70 is disposed outward in the radial direction of the shaft member 42 than another one of the plurality of pattern portions 70. Two of the first pattern portion 70A, the second pattern portion 70B, the third pattern portion 70C, and the fourth pattern portion 70D are disposed outward in the radial direction of the shaft member 42 than the other two of the first pattern portion 70A, the second pattern portion 70B, the third pattern portion 70C, and the fourth pattern portion 70D.

[0057] The first pattern portion 70A and the second pattern portion 70B of this embodiment are disposed outward in the radial direction of the shaft member 42 from the third pattern portion 70C and the fourth pattern portion 70D. The first pattern portion 70A and the second pattern portion 70B of this embodiment are disposed side by side so as to be continuous in the circumferential direction of the shaft member 42. The third pattern portion 70C and the fourth pattern portion 70D of this embodiment are disposed side by side so as to be continuous in the circumferential direction of the shaft member 42, for example. The length of the first pattern portion 70A in the circumferential direction of the shaft member 42 of this embodiment is substantially equal to the length of the second pattern portion 70B in the circumferential direction of the shaft member 42. The length of the third pattern portion 70C in the circumferential direction of the shaft member 42 of this embodiment is substantially equal to the length of the fourth pattern portion 70D in the circumferential direction of the shaft member 42.

[0058] The strain gauge 66 includes, for example, a first resistor 74A, a second resistor 74B, a third resistor 74C, and a fourth resistor 74D. The first resistor 74A, the second resistor 74B, the third resistor 74C, and the fourth resistor 74D are, for example, bridge-connected. The first pattern portions 70A of this embodiment correspond to the first resistor 74A. The second pattern portions 70B of this embodiment correspond to the second resistor 74B. The third pattern portions 70C of this embodiment correspond to the third resistor 74C. The fourth pattern portions 70D of this embodiment correspond to the fourth resistor 74D.

[0059] The first resistor 74A, the second resistor 74B, the third resistor 74C, and the fourth resistor 74D shown in Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 constitute at least a part of a Wheatstone bridge circuit 76, for example. The torque detection unit 44 further includes a first terminal 78A, a second terminal 78B, a third terminal 78C, and a fourth terminal 78D constituting four terminals of the Wheatstone bridge circuit 76, for example. The first terminal 78A, the second terminal 78B, the third terminal 78C, and the fourth terminal 78D are disposed, for example, on the radially outer side of the shaft member 42 than the first resistor 74A, the second resistor 74B, the third resistor 74C, and the fourth resistor 74D. The first terminal 78A, the second terminal 78B, the third terminal 78C, and the fourth terminal 78D are provided, for example, on the second arrangement portion 68B of the flexible substrate 68.

[0060] The first terminal 78A and the third terminal 78C include, for example, an input terminal. The second terminal 78B and the fourth terminal 78D include, for example, an output terminal. The first terminal 78A, the second terminal 78B, the third terminal 78C, and the fourth terminal 78D are formed on the flexible substrate 68 by, for example, a method similar to that for the conductive lines 72 of the plurality of pattern portions 70.

[0061] One end of the first pattern portion 70A is electrically connected to the first terminal 78A by a wiring. The other end of the first pattern portion 70A is electrically connected to the fourth terminal 78D by a wiring. One end of the second pattern portion 70B is electrically connected to the first terminal 78A by a wiring. The other end of the second pattern portion 70B is electrically connected to the second terminal 78B by a wiring. One end of the third pattern portion 70C is electrically connected to the second terminal 78B by a wiring. The other end of the third pattern portion 70C is electrically connected to the third terminal 78C by a wiring. One end of the fourth pattern portion 70D is electrically connected to the third terminal 78C by a wiring. The other end of the fourth pattern portion 70D is electrically connected to the fourth terminal 78D by a wiring. The wiring connecting the multiple pattern portions 70 to each of the terminals 78A, 78B, 78C, and 78D is formed on the flexible substrate 68, for example, by a method similar to that for the conductive lines 72 of the multiple pattern portions 70.

[0062] The torque detection unit 44 further includes, for example, a temperature detection unit 80. The temperature detection unit 80 includes, for example, a thermistor or a temperature sensing diode. The temperature detection unit 80 is disposed on the first arrangement portion 68A of the flexible substrate 68, for example.

[0063] The component 40 further includes, for example, an electronic component 82. The torque detection unit 44 further includes, for example, an electrical connection portion 84 that electrically connects the strain gauge 66 and the electronic component 82. The electrical connection portion 84 is disposed, for example, radially outward of the shaft member 42 relative to the strain gauge 66. The electrical connection portion 84 includes, for example, a printed wiring board. The electrical connection portion 84 may include an electric wire.

[0064] The electronic component 82 includes, for example, a first circuit board 86 extending in a direction intersecting with the shaft member 42. The first circuit board 86 extends, for example, in a radial direction so as to face the intersecting plane 42X. The first circuit board 86 has an arc shape or an annular shape. The first circuit board 86 is attached, for example, to the outer periphery of the shaft member 42. The first circuit board 86 is attached, for example, to the shaft member 42 so as to rotate integrally with the shaft member 42. The first circuit board 86 includes, for example, a printed wiring board.

[0065] The component 40 further includes, for example, a second circuit board 88 that can be electrically connected to the first circuit board 86. The second circuit board 88 extends, for example, in a radial direction so as to face the first circuit board 86. The second circuit board 88 has an arc shape or an annular shape. The second circuit board 88 is attached, for example, to the housing 46. The second circuit board 88 is attached, for example, to the housing 46 so as to rotate relative to the first circuit board 86. The second circuit board 88 includes, for example, a printed wiring board.

[0066] 7, the second circuit board 88 includes, for example, a power transmitting unit 88A. The first circuit board 86 includes, for example, a power receiving unit 86A that can receive power from the power transmitting unit 88A. The torque detection unit 44 is configured to operate, for example, by the power received by the power receiving unit 86A. The power transmitting unit 88A supplies power to the power receiving unit 86A by, for example, non-contact power feeding.

[0067] The first circuit board 86 includes, for example, a first communication unit 86B. The second circuit board 88 includes, for example, a second communication unit 88B capable of communicating with the first communication unit 86B. The second communication unit 88B is configured, for example, to transmit the detection result of the strain gauge 66 to the first communication unit 86B. The torque detection unit 44 is configured, for example, to transmit information including the detection result of the strain gauge 66 from the second communication unit 88B to the first communication unit 86B. The first communication unit 86B and the second communication unit 88B are configured, for example, to wirelessly communicate with each other.

[0068] The power transmitting unit 88A includes, for example, a second coil 88C. The power receiving unit 86A includes, for example, a first coil 86C. The power receiving unit 86A and the first communication unit 86B each include a first coil 86C. The power receiving unit 86A and the first communication unit 86B each further include, for example, an oscillation circuit for generating a carrier wave. The oscillation circuit includes, for example, an LC resonant circuit. The power transmitting unit 88A and the second communication unit 88B each include a second coil 88C. The power transmitting unit 88A and the second communication unit 88B each further include, for example, an oscillation circuit for generating a carrier wave. The oscillation circuit includes, for example, an LC resonant circuit.

[0069] The first circuit board 86 is provided with a first signal processing circuit 86D that processes a signal output from the torque detection unit 44. The first signal processing circuit 86D includes, for example, an operational amplifier 86E, an ADC (analog to digital converter) 86F, an ADC 86G, an arithmetic circuit 86H, a modulation circuit 86J, and a power supply circuit 86K.

[0070] The operational amplifier 86E is electrically connected to, for example, the second terminal 78B and the fourth terminal 78D of the strain gauge 66. The operational amplifier 86E amplifies a signal corresponding to the potential difference between the second terminal 78B and the fourth terminal 78D of the strain gauge 66 and outputs the amplified signal.

[0071] The ADC 86F is connected to the output terminal of the operational amplifier 86E. The ADC 86F converts the signal from the operational amplifier 86E into a digital signal and outputs it. The ADC 86G is electrically connected to the temperature detection unit 80. The ADC 86G converts, for example, a signal corresponding to the detection result of the temperature detection unit 80 into a digital signal and outputs it.

[0072] The arithmetic circuit 86H is electrically connected to the ADCs 86F and 86G, and calculates the amount of torsion of the shaft member 42 in response to the digital signal from the ADC 86F and the digital signal from the ADC 86G. In one example, the arithmetic circuit 86H corrects the potential difference between the second terminal 78B and the fourth terminal 78D in response to the detection result of the temperature detection unit 80, and then calculates the amount of torsion of the shaft member 42 in response to the corrected potential difference between the second terminal 78B and the fourth terminal 78D.

[0073] The modulation circuit 86J is electrically connected to the arithmetic circuit 86H. The modulation circuit 86J changes at least one of the amplitude and the frequency of the signal wave of the calculation result of the arithmetic circuit 86H so as to superimpose the calculation result of the arithmetic circuit 86H on a carrier wave, and outputs the signal wave to the first coil 86C.

[0074] The power supply circuit 86K is electrically connected to the modulation circuit 86J and the first coil 86C. The power supply circuit 86K converts the AC power supplied from the first coil 86C into DC power and outputs it to the strain gauge 66. In one example, the power supply circuit 86K is electrically connected to the first terminal 78A and the third terminal 78C.

[0075] The second circuit board 88 is provided with a second signal processing circuit 88D that processes a signal received by the second coil 88C. The second signal processing circuit 88D includes, for example, a modulation circuit 88E. The modulation circuit 88E demodulates, for example, a modulated wave transmitted from the first coil 86C to the second coil 88C. The modulation circuit 88E converts, for example, DC power supplied from the circuit board 92 into AC power and supplies it to the second coil 88C.

[0076] The component 40 further includes a circuit board 92 on which a control device 90 for controlling the motor 50 is mounted, for example. The circuit board 92 includes, for example, a printed wiring board. The second circuit board 88 is electrically connected to the circuit board 92, for example, via at least one of an electric cable and a connector. The second circuit board 88 may be formed integrally with the circuit board 92. The modulation circuit 88E is electrically connected to, for example, a control unit 94.

[0077] The control device 90 includes, for example, a control unit 94 that controls the motor 50, and a drive circuit 96 that drives the motor 50. The control unit 94 is connected to, for example, the battery 38 and the drive circuit 96 so as to be able to communicate with each other via wire or wirelessly. The drive circuit 96 controls, for example, the supply of power from the battery 38 to the motor 50. The drive circuit 96 includes, for example, an inverter circuit.

[0078] The control unit 94 includes, for example, a processor that executes programs for carrying out various controls. The processor includes, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) or a micro processing unit (MPU). The control unit 94 may include one or more microcomputers. The control unit 94 may include multiple processors that are arranged at multiple locations apart from each other.

[0079] The control device 90 further includes, for example, a storage unit 98. The storage unit 98 stores, for example, programs for executing various controls and information used in the control process. The storage unit 98 includes, for example, at least one of a nonvolatile memory and a volatile memory. The nonvolatile memory includes, for example, 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, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0080] The control unit 94 is configured to drive the motor 50 in response to, for example, the manual driving force. The control unit 94 is configured to drive the motor 50 so that the assisting force of the motor 50 relative to the manual driving force is a predetermined ratio. For example, the control unit 94 drives the motor 50 when the manual driving force becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined driving force. The predetermined driving force is, for example, 5 Nm or greater.

[0081] The control unit 94 obtains the manual driving force according to, for example, the amount of twist detected by the torque detection unit 44. In one example, the storage unit 98 stores a calculation table or a function indicating the correspondence between the amount of twist of the output unit 52 and the manual driving force. The control unit 94 obtains the manual driving force from the amount of twist of the output unit 52 using the calculation table or the function stored in the storage unit 98. The control unit 94 controls the motor 50 according to the obtained manual driving force.

[0082] <Example of change> The description of the embodiments is merely an example of possible forms of components for human-powered vehicles, and is not intended to limit the forms. Components for human-powered vehicles according to the present disclosure may take the forms of, for example, modified examples of the embodiments shown below, or a combination of at least two modified examples that are not mutually contradictory. In the modified examples below, parts that are common to the embodiments are given the same reference numerals as in the embodiments, and descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0083] 8, the first terminal 78A, the second terminal 78B, the third terminal 78C, and the fourth terminal 78D may be disposed radially inward of the shaft member 42 with respect to the first resistor 74A, the second resistor 74B, the third resistor 74C, and the fourth resistor 74D. In this modification, the second arrangement portion 68B, for example, protrudes radially outward from the first arrangement portion 68A. In this modification, the second arrangement portion 68B may be configured to extend in the axial direction X of the shaft member 42 so as to follow the outer periphery of the shaft member 42.

[0084] The number of the plurality of pattern portions 70, the arrangement of the plurality of pattern portions 70, and the length of each of the plurality of pattern portions 70 in the circumferential direction of the shaft member 42 can be changed as appropriate. The strain gauge 66 in FIG. 9 includes a first pattern portion 70A and a second pattern portion 70B. In FIG. 9, the second pattern portion 70B is arranged radially inward of the shaft member 42 from the first pattern portion 70A. In FIG. 9, each of the plurality of pattern portions 70 is provided, for example, over 180 degrees or more and 360 degrees or less in the circumferential direction of the shaft member 42. In FIG. 9, the first terminal 78A is connected to one end of the first pattern portion 70A and one end of the second pattern portion 70B. In FIG. 9, the second terminal 78B is connected to the other end of the first pattern portion 70A and the other end of the second pattern portion 70B. In the strain gauge 66 of FIG. 10, the first pattern portion 70A, the second pattern portion 70B, the third pattern portion 70C, and the fourth pattern portion 70D are arranged side by side in the circumferential direction of the shaft member 42. In FIG. 10, each of the multiple pattern portions 70 is provided, for example, over an angle of 60 degrees or more and 90 degrees or less in the circumferential direction of the shaft member 42. The strain gauge 66 of FIG. 11 includes the first pattern portion 70A and the second pattern portion 70B. In FIG. 11, the first pattern portion 70A and the second pattern portion 70B are arranged side by side in the circumferential direction of the shaft member 42. In FIG. 11, the first terminal 78A is connected to one end of the first pattern portion 70A and one end of the second pattern portion 70B. In FIG. 11, the second terminal 78B is connected to the other end of the first pattern portion 70A and the other end of the second pattern portion 70B.

[0085] The strain gauge 66 may include only one pattern portion 70. In Fig. 12, the first terminal 78A is connected to one end of the first pattern portion 70A and the other end of the first pattern portion 70A. In this modification, the first pattern portion 70A is provided over an angle of 60 degrees or more and 360 degrees or less in the circumferential direction of the shaft member 42, for example.

[0086] The strain gauge 66 may include a plurality of flexible substrates 68. Each of the plurality of flexible substrates 68 is formed, for example, in an arc shape. Each of the plurality of flexible substrates 68 is provided, for example, over an area of ​​90 degrees or more and 180 degrees or less in the circumferential direction of the shaft member 42. The plurality of flexible substrates 68 are, for example, continuously arranged in the circumferential direction so as to surround the shaft member 42. Each of the plurality of flexible substrates 68 is provided with, for example, one or more pattern portions 70.

[0087] The shaft member 42 may include an inward protruding portion that protrudes radially inward from the shaft body portion 62. In this modification, the intersecting surface 42X may be provided on the inward protruding portion.

[0088] The shaft member 42 may be formed integrally with at least one of the crankshaft 48 and the output portion 52.

[0089] The one-way clutch 60 may be omitted. In this modification, the shaft member 42 is configured to rotate integrally with the output portion 52.

[0090] The shaft member 42 may be the output shaft or the rotor 50B of the motor 50, or may be a shaft member included in the reducer 56.

[0091] The component 40 can be modified as appropriate as long as it is a component 40 including a shaft member 42 to which torque is input. The component 40 may include a hub shell, for example, and the shaft member 42 may include a hub shell. The component 40 may include a steering device, for example, and the shaft member 42 may include the front fork 22.

[0092] The term "at least one" as used herein means "one or more" of the desired options. As an example, the term "at least one" as used herein means "only one option" or "both of two options" if the number of options is two. As another example, the term "at least one" as used herein means "only one option" or "any combination of two or more options" if the number of options is three or more.

[0093] As used in this specification, ordinal numbers such as "first, second, and third" are used merely to distinguish between multiple elements having the same name and do not have any special meaning. [Explanation of symbols]

[0094] 10... human-powered vehicle, 40... component, 42... shaft member, 42C... crankshaft connection portion, 42X... intersection surface, 44... torque detection portion, 48... crankshaft, 50... motor, 54... transmission member, 60... one-way clutch, 60A... outer ring, 60B... inner ring, 60C... switching member, 62... shaft main body portion, 64... protrusion portion, 66... ​​strain gauge, 68... flexible substrate, 70... pattern portion, 72... conductive wire, 72A... first portion , 72B...second part, 74A...first resistor, 74B...second resistor, 74C...third resistor, 74D...fourth resistor, 76...Wheatstone bridge circuit, 78A...first terminal, 78B...second terminal, 78C...third terminal, 78D...fourth terminal, 82...electronic component, 84...electrical connection part, 86...first circuit board, 86A...power receiving part, 86B...first communication part, 88...second circuit board, 88A...power transmitting part, 88B...second communication part.

Claims

1. A component for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: A shaft member extending in an axial direction; a torque detection unit that detects a torque input to the shaft member, The shaft member includes an intersecting surface extending in a direction intersecting the axial direction, The torque detection portion includes a strain gauge provided on the intersecting surface.

2. The shaft member is A shaft main body portion, a protrusion protruding radially outward from the shaft body, The component of claim 1 , wherein the protrusion includes the intersecting surface.

3. The strain gauge includes a plurality of pattern portions formed by conductive wires and formed in an arc shape or an annular shape, The component according to claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of pattern portions is provided over an area of ​​60 degrees or more and 360 degrees or less in a circumferential direction of the shaft member.

4. The component of claim 3 , wherein the conductive lines are formed by printing.

5. the conductive wire includes, in a circumferential direction of the shaft member, a plurality of first portions along the circumferential direction and a second portion connecting two adjacent ones of the plurality of first portions, the second portion is disposed so as to be inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to a radial direction of the shaft member, The component of claim 3 , wherein the predetermined angle is greater than 30 degrees and less than 60 degrees.

6. The component of claim 1 , wherein the strain gauge further comprises an electrically insulating, flexible substrate.

7. The component according to claim 6 , wherein the flexible substrate is formed in an arc shape or an annular shape and is provided over an angle of 90 degrees or more and 360 degrees or less in a circumferential direction of the shaft member.

8. An output unit; A transmission member that transmits the torque of the shaft member to the output portion, The component according to claim 1 , wherein the intersecting surface is provided on a portion of the shaft member that is connected to the transmission member.

9. a one-way clutch that transmits the torque of the shaft member to the output portion, The transmission member constitutes a part of the one-way clutch, The one-way clutch is a torque transmitting mechanism configured to transmit a torque of the shaft member to the output portion when the shaft member rotates in a first direction, and to allow a relative rotation between the output portion and the shaft member when the output portion rotates in the first direction; An outer ring that rotates integrally with the output portion; An inner ring provided on the shaft member; a switching member disposed between the outer ring and the inner ring, The component according to claim 8 , wherein the intersecting surface is provided on a portion of the shaft member corresponding to the inner ring.

10. The component of claim 1 , wherein the shaft member is connected to a crankshaft of the human powered vehicle.

11. the shaft member includes a crankshaft connection portion that is connected to the crankshaft, The component according to claim 10 , wherein the intersecting surface is provided at a position away from the crankshaft connection portion in an axial direction of the shaft member.

12. Further comprising electronic components; The torque detection unit further includes an electrical connection unit that electrically connects the strain gauge and the electronic component, The component of claim 1 , wherein the electrical connection is disposed radially outward of the shaft member from the strain gauge.

13. the electronic component includes a first circuit board extending in a direction intersecting the shaft member, The component of claim 12 , wherein the first circuit board extends in the radial direction opposite the intersecting plane.

14. Further comprising a second circuit board electrically connectable to the first circuit board, the second circuit board includes a power transmission unit, the first circuit board includes a power receiving unit capable of receiving power from the power transmitting unit, The component of claim 13 , wherein the torque detection unit is configured to operate with power received by the power receiving unit.

15. Further comprising a second circuit board electrically connectable to the first circuit board, the first circuit board includes a first communication unit, the second circuit board includes a second communication unit capable of communicating with the first communication unit, The component according to claim 13 , wherein the second communication unit is configured to transmit a detection result of the strain gauge to the first communication unit.

16. the strain gauge includes a first resistor, a second resistor, a third resistor, and a fourth resistor; The component of claim 1 , wherein the first resistor, the second resistor, the third resistor, and the fourth resistor are bridge connected.

17. the first resistor, the second resistor, the third resistor, and the fourth resistor constitute at least a part of a Wheatstone bridge circuit; the torque detection unit further includes a first terminal, a second terminal, a third terminal, and a fourth terminal constituting four terminals of the Wheatstone bridge circuit, The component of claim 16 , wherein the first terminal, the second terminal, the third terminal, and the fourth terminal are positioned radially outward of the axial member relative to the first resistor, the second resistor, the third resistor, and the fourth resistor.

18. the first resistor, the second resistor, the third resistor, and the fourth resistor constitute at least a part of a Wheatstone bridge circuit; the torque detection unit further includes a first terminal, a second terminal, a third terminal, and a fourth terminal constituting four terminals of the Wheatstone bridge circuit, The component of claim 16 , wherein the first terminal, the second terminal, the third terminal, and the fourth terminal are positioned radially inward of the axial member relative to the first resistor, the second resistor, the third resistor, and the fourth resistor.

19. The component of claim 1 , wherein the strain gauges are attached to the intersecting surfaces by adhesive.

20. 20. The component of claim 1, further comprising a motor that provides propulsion to the human powered vehicle.

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