Electric vehicle

Abstract

To provide an electric vehicle capable of smoothly and properly change its maximum vehicle speed even when the vehicle speed needs to be lowered temporarily down to a threshold or lower so as to change a travel path between two travel paths differing in maximum vehicle speed.SOLUTION: An electric vehicle 10 comprises a first operator 78a for setting its maximum vehicle speed to a first speed, a second operator 78b for setting its maximum vehicle speed to a second speed, a vehicle speed sensor 52 which detects the vehicle speed, and a control part 46. The control part 46 sets a first mode in which the maximum vehicle speed is the first speed when a first requirement that the vehicle speed is equal to or lower than a threshold and a second requirement that the first operator 78a is turned on and the second operator 78b is turned off are met, and also sets a second mode in which the maximum vehicle speed is the second speed when the first requirement and a third requirement that the first operator 78b is turned off and the second operator 78b is turned on are met.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electric vehicle, and more particularly to a specific small motor-equipped bicycle.

Background Art

[0002] According to the current Road Traffic Law, a specific small motor-equipped bicycle can travel at a maximum speed of 20 km / h on a roadway and 6 km / h on a sidewalk. However, when switching the travel route between a sidewalk and a roadway, it must be stopped once and the maximum speed and the indication by the indicator light must be switched.

[0003] Here, as a conventional technique of an electric vehicle, a small electric vehicle is disclosed in Patent Document 1. This small electric vehicle includes a pair of grips provided on a handlebar, a right drive switch and a left drive switch provided around the pair of grips, a motor that variably controls the driving power for self-running according to the number of switches maintained in the ON state among the right drive switch and the left drive switch, and a speed setting switch provided on the handlebar. In this small electric vehicle, when the right drive switch or the left drive switch is turned on, acceleration running in the normal mode is performed, and when the right drive switch and the left drive switch are turned on, acceleration running in the power mode is performed. Also, the maximum speed during self-running control can be switched to any one of low speed, medium speed, and high speed by the speed setting switch.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the small electric vehicle disclosed in Patent Document 1, the maximum vehicle speed is not set by the right drive switch and the left drive switch, but exclusively by the speed setting switch. In this case, by operating the speed setting switch, the maximum vehicle speed can be switched to either low speed, medium speed, or high speed regardless of the actual vehicle speed, and Patent Document 1 does not disclose anything about setting the maximum vehicle speed in consideration of the vehicle speed. Therefore, when applying the technology of Patent Document 1 to a specific small engine-equipped bicycle, if the speed setting switch is operated during driving, the maximum vehicle speed will switch at that moment, so even before stopping the drive and switching the driving path between the sidewalk and the road, the maximum vehicle speed will switch in a flying-like manner, which is not desirable. Thus, the technology of Patent Document 1 is not suitable for the case where it is necessary to once lower the vehicle speed to zero or near zero in order to switch the driving path between two driving paths with different maximum vehicle speeds.

[0006] Therefore, the main object of the present invention is to provide an electric vehicle that can smoothly and appropriately switch the maximum vehicle speed even when it is necessary to once lower the vehicle speed below a threshold value in order to switch the driving path between two driving paths with different maximum vehicle speeds.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, a first operator for setting the maximum vehicle speed to at least a first speed among a first speed and a second speed, a second operator for setting the maximum vehicle speed to the second speed, a vehicle speed detection unit for detecting the vehicle speed, and when a first requirement that the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed detection unit becomes below a threshold value and a second requirement that the first operator is turned on and the second operator is turned off are satisfied, a first mode in which the maximum vehicle speed is set to the first speed is set, while on the other hand, when the first requirement and a third requirement that at least the second operator among the first operator and the second operator is turned on are satisfied, a control unit for setting a second mode in which the maximum vehicle speed is set to the second speed is provided, and an electric vehicle is provided.

[0008] In the present invention, a first mode in which the maximum vehicle speed is set to a first speed is set on the condition that not only a second requirement that the first operator is turned on and the second operator is turned off is satisfied, but also a first requirement that the vehicle speed is equal to or lower than a threshold value is satisfied. On the other hand, a second mode in which the maximum vehicle speed is set to a second speed is set on the condition that not only a third requirement that at least the second operator among the first operator and the second operator is turned on is satisfied, but also the first requirement that the vehicle speed is equal to or lower than the threshold value is satisfied. Thus, by differentiating the combinations of operations of the two operators by the second requirement and the third requirement, the instruction for setting the first mode from the driver and the instruction for setting the second mode are clearly different, and an appropriate instruction from the driver becomes possible. Further, in order to switch the mode between the first mode and the second mode, it is essential to satisfy the first requirement that the vehicle speed is equal to or lower than the threshold value, so the vehicle speed can be switched to the maximum vehicle speed corresponding to the mode after once reducing the vehicle speed to be equal to or lower than the threshold value. Therefore, even when it is necessary to once lower the vehicle speed to be equal to or lower than the threshold value in order to switch the traveling route between two traveling routes with different maximum vehicle speeds, the maximum vehicle speed can be switched smoothly and appropriately without the maximum vehicle speed being switched before the vehicle speed becomes equal to or lower than the threshold value.

[0009] Preferably, when the first requirement is satisfied after the second requirement is satisfied, the control unit sets the first mode, while when the first requirement is satisfied after the third requirement is satisfied, the control unit sets the second mode. In this case, after the second requirement or the third requirement is satisfied in advance, the first mode or the second mode is set by the first requirement being satisfied thereafter. Therefore, the switching of the maximum vehicle speed can be reserved, and when the vehicle speed then becomes equal to or lower than the threshold value, the mode is immediately switched and the maximum vehicle speed is set to the first speed or the second speed, so that the mode can be switched in a shorter time compared with the case where a switching operation is required after the vehicle speed becomes equal to or lower than the threshold value. In particular, when frequently switching the traveling route between two traveling routes with different maximum vehicle speeds, it is effective because the time loss at the time of switching the traveling route can be reduced.

[0010] Preferably, when the second requirement is satisfied before the third requirement in a state where the first requirement is satisfied, the control unit sets the first mode. On the other hand, when the third requirement is satisfied before the second requirement in a state where the first requirement is satisfied, the control unit sets the second mode. In this case, after the first requirement is satisfied, the mode is set to the first mode or the second mode according to the requirement that is satisfied first among the second requirement and the third requirement. That is, after the vehicle speed becomes equal to or lower than the threshold value, when the second requirement is satisfied first, the first mode is set and the maximum vehicle speed becomes the first speed. On the other hand, when the third requirement is satisfied first, the second mode is set and the maximum vehicle speed becomes the second speed.

[0011] More preferably, the third requirement is satisfied when the first operator is turned off and the second operator is turned on. In this case, regarding the second requirement that requires the first operator to be turned on and the second operator to be turned off, and the third requirement that requires the first operator to be turned off and the second operator to be turned on, on and off are reversed. Therefore, the instruction for setting the first mode and the instruction for setting the second mode from the driver are more clearly different, and a more appropriate and smooth instruction from the driver becomes possible.

[0012] Preferably, each of the first operator and the second operator includes an operator capable of adjusting the operation amount. In the first mode, the control unit adjusts the vehicle speed within the range up to the first speed based on the operation of the first operator. In the second mode, the control unit adjusts the vehicle speed within the range up to the second speed based on the operation of the second operator. In this case, both the first operator and the second operator are used for both mode setting and vehicle speed adjustment. Also, in the first mode, the vehicle speed can be adjusted up to the first speed by the first operator. In the second mode, the vehicle speed can be adjusted up to the second speed by the second operator. Thus, although the maximum vehicle speed is different between the first mode and the second mode, the vehicle speed can be easily adjusted up to the maximum vehicle speed of the corresponding mode by the first operator and the second operator.

[0013] Also preferably, both the first operator and the second operator are turned on to satisfy the third requirement. In this case, the second requirement requires that the first operator be turned on and the second operator be turned off, whereas the third requirement requires that not only the first operator but also the second operator be turned on. That is, the second requirement is a simple operation of operating only the first operator, whereas the third requirement involves operating both the first operator and the second operator. Therefore, the second requirement and the third requirement differ in whether the second operator is operated, and the instruction for setting the first mode and the instruction for setting the second mode from the driver are clearly different, enabling an appropriate and smooth instruction from the driver.

[0014] More preferably, the first operator includes an operator whose operation amount can be adjusted, the second operator includes an operator that outputs a binary value of on / off, and the control unit adjusts the vehicle speed within a range up to a first vehicle speed based on the operation of the first operator in the first mode, and adjusts the vehicle speed within a range up to a second vehicle speed based on the operation of the first operator in the second mode. In this case, the vehicle speed adjustment in the first mode and the second mode can be performed only with the first operator.

[0015] Preferably, the second operator is turned on at least somewhere within the period when the first operator is turned on. In this case, if the second operator is turned on somewhere within the period when the first operator is turned on and there is a point (period) when the first operator and the second operator are turned on simultaneously, the third requirement is satisfied. The second operator may be turned off after being turned on within the on period of the first operator. Thus, since it is not necessary to continuously operate the second operator, the third requirement can be easily satisfied.

[0016] Also preferably, the threshold value is zero. In this case, in order to switch the mode between the first mode and the second mode, it is necessary to stop the running of the electric vehicle with the vehicle speed becoming zero, so the maximum vehicle speed does not change before the running of the electric vehicle stops.

[0017] More preferably, the first speed is smaller than the second speed. In this case, the first mode can be used for low speed and the second mode can be used for high speed.

[0018] Preferably, it further includes a notification unit that notifies whether the mode set by the control unit is the first mode or the second mode. In this case, it is possible to easily notify whether the set mode is the first mode or the second mode by the notification unit.

[0019] Also preferably, it further includes a handle to which the first operator and the second operator are attached. In this case, the operation of the first operator and the second operator becomes easier.

[0020] More preferably, the first operator is attached to one side of the handle, and the second operator is attached to the other side of the handle. In this case, the operation of the first operator and the second operator using both hands becomes even easier.

[0021] Preferably, either one of the first operator and the second operator is a foot pedal. In this case, by using the foot for the operation of the first operator or the second operator, one hand can be freed from the operation of the operator.

[0022] This invention can be suitably used for a bicycle with a specific small prime mover.

Effect of the Invention

[0023] According to this invention, an electric vehicle can be obtained that can smoothly and appropriately switch the maximum vehicle speed even when it is necessary to once lower the vehicle speed below a threshold value in order to switch the traveling road between two traveling roads with different maximum vehicle speeds.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0024]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0026] Referring to FIG. 1, an electric vehicle 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is a so-called bicycle with a specific small prime mover.

[0027] Here, regarding a bicycle with a specific small prime mover, the Enforcement Regulations of the Road Traffic Act stipulate as follows. (1) The size of the vehicle body shall not exceed a length of 190 cm and a width of 60 cm. (2) As the prime mover, an electric motor with a rated output of 0.60 kilowatts or less shall be used. (3) It shall not be able to achieve a speed exceeding 20 km / h. (4) During driving, the setting of the maximum speed shall not be changeable. (5) An AT mechanism shall be adopted. (6) It shall be equipped with a maximum speed indicator light.

[0028] The electric vehicle 10 includes a frame 12. The frame 12 includes a bottom bracket 14, a down tube 16, a seat post 18, a pair of seat stays 20, a pair of chain stays 22, a head tube 24, and a front fork 26.

[0029] The down tube 16 curves and extends obliquely upward and forward from the bottom bracket 14, the seat post 18 extends upward while tilting slightly backward from the bottom bracket 14, and a pair of chain stays 22 extend rearward from the bottom bracket 14. A pair of seat stays 20 connect the upper part of the seat post 18 and the rear end portions of the pair of chain stays 22. The head tube 24 is connected to the front end portion of the down tube 16. The front fork 26 is rotatably inserted into the head tube 24 and is provided so as to tilt slightly backward.

[0030] A handle stem 28 is attached to the upper end portion of the front fork 26, and the handle 30 is supported by the handle stem 28. The saddle 32 is supported by the seat post 18. The front wheel 34 is rotatably supported by the lower end portion of the front fork 26, and the rear wheel 36 is rotatably supported by the rear end portions of the pair of chain stays 22.

[0031] A drive unit 38 is attached to the bottom bracket 14. The drive unit 38 includes a motor 40, a crank 42, a drive sprocket (not shown), and a pair of pedals 44. The crank 42 is rotatably supported by the bottom bracket 14. The drive sprocket is attached to the central portion in the width direction of the crank 42 and is interlocked with the crank 42. The pair of pedals 44 are attached to both end portions of the crank 42. The rear wheel 36 has a rear sprocket (not shown). The drive sprocket and the rear sprocket are connected via a chain (not shown).

[0032] Referring also to FIG. 2, near the bottom bracket 14, a control unit 46 composed of a CPU and an inverter device 48 are provided, and a battery 50 is attached to the seat post 18. Near the rear wheel 36, a vehicle speed sensor 52 for detecting the vehicle speed based on the rotational speed of the rear wheel 36 is provided. The control unit 46 determines whether the first requirement is satisfied based on a comparison between the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor 52 and a threshold value, and determines whether the second requirement and the third requirement are satisfied based on the outputs from a first operator 78a and a second operator 78b, which will be described later. Further, the control unit 46 instructs based on the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor 52 so that the vehicle speed does not exceed the maximum vehicle speed. Furthermore, the control unit 46 controls a maximum speed indicator light 74, which will be described later. The inverter device 48 converts the DC power from the battery 50 into AC power based on an instruction from the control unit 46 and supplies it to the motor 40. The motor 40 generates a driving force corresponding to the input AC power and transmits it to the drive sprocket. Also, when there is an input of a pedaling force from the pedal 44, the drive sprocket rotates along with the rotation of the crank 42 and can supplement the output from the motor 40. That is, in this embodiment, the electric vehicle 10 can basically travel in a full electric mode by the motor 40 without pedaling the pedal 40, but the output from the motor 40 can be assisted by pedaling the pedal 40. The drive unit 38 transmits the output from the motor 40 and, if necessary, the pedaling force from the pedal 44 and the crank 42 to the drive sprocket. The power transmitted to the drive sprocket is transmitted to the rear wheel 36 via a chain.

[0033] Referring to FIG. 1, a front basket 54 is provided above the front wheel 34 and in front of the head tube 24. A rear carrier 56 is provided above the rear wheel 36. A front fender 58 is provided so as to cover the front wheel 34 from above to the rear, and a rear fender 60 is provided so as to cover the rear wheel 36 from the front through above to the rear.

[0034] In addition, a braking device 62 is provided on the front wheel 34, and a braking device 64 is provided on the rear wheel 36. A headlight 66 is provided below the front basket 54. A tail light / brake light 68 and a rear reflector 70 are provided at the rear of the rear fender 60. A license plate 72 is attached to the rear of the rear carrier 56.

[0035] Referring to FIG. 3, a maximum speed indicator light 74 is provided at the center of the handle 30. The maximum speed indicator light 74 notifies whether the mode set by the control unit 46 is the first mode or the second mode according to an instruction from the control unit 46. The first mode is a mode in which the maximum vehicle speed is the first speed, and the second mode is a mode in which the maximum vehicle speed is the second speed. For example, the maximum speed indicator light 74 blinks in the first mode and lights up in the second mode. On one side of the handle 30 (the left side in this embodiment), a direction indicator 76a and a first operator 78a are attached. On the other side of the handle 30 (the right side in this embodiment), a direction indicator 76b, a second operator 78b, and a siren 80 including a bell are attached. The first operator 78a is operated to set the maximum vehicle speed to the first speed, and the second operator 78b is operated to set the maximum vehicle speed to the second speed. Both the first operator 78a and the second operator 78b are operators capable of adjusting the operation amount, and more specifically, are constituted by a rotary operator in the form of a thumb throttle that can be operated by the thumb. The control unit 46 adjusts the vehicle speed within the range up to the first speed based on the operation of the first operator 78a in the first mode, and adjusts the vehicle speed within the range up to the second speed based on the operation of the second operator 78b in the second mode.

[0036] In this embodiment, the maximum speed indicator light 74 corresponds to the notification unit. The vehicle speed sensor 52 corresponds to the vehicle speed detection unit.

[0037] An example of the operation of such an electric vehicle 10 will be described.

[0038] Referring to FIG. 4, when the first requirement that the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor 52 is equal to or lower than the threshold value and the second requirement that the first operator 78a is turned on and the second operator 78b is turned off are satisfied, the control unit 46 sets a first mode in which the maximum vehicle speed is the first speed. Here, the fact that the first operator 78a is turned on and the second operator 78b is turned off means that as long as the turning on of the first operator 78a and the turning off of the second operator 78b are simultaneously established regardless of the order (before or after).

[0039] On the other hand, when the first requirement that the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor 52 is equal to or lower than the threshold value and the third requirement that the first operator 78a is turned off and the second operator 78b is turned on are satisfied, the control unit 46 sets a second mode in which the maximum vehicle speed is the second speed. Here, the fact that the first operator 78a is turned off and the second operator 78b is turned on means that as long as the turning off of the first operator 78a and the turning on of the second operator 78b are simultaneously established regardless of the order (before or after).

[0040] Note that the mode at system startup may be fixed to either the first mode or the second mode, or may be set to the mode at the previous shutdown.

[0041] As methods for switching the mode in this way, there are a switching reservation mode and a first-move priority mode.

[0042] In the switching reservation mode, when the first requirement is satisfied after the second requirement is satisfied, the control unit 46 sets the first mode. On the other hand, when the first requirement is satisfied after the third requirement is satisfied, the control unit 46 sets the second mode.

[0043] Also, in the first-move priority mode, when the second requirement is satisfied before the third requirement in a state where the first requirement is satisfied, the control unit 46 sets the first mode. On the other hand, when the third requirement is satisfied before the second requirement in a state where the first requirement is satisfied, the control unit 46 sets the second mode.

[0044] A more specific description will be given for such a switching reservation mode and a first-move priority mode. Here, the first speed is less than the second speed, the first speed is 6 km / h, the second speed is 20 km / h, the threshold value is zero, and it is assumed that an electric vehicle 10, which is a specific small-engine bicycle, switches the traveling route and travels between a sidewalk (maximum vehicle speed of 6 km / h) and a roadway (maximum vehicle speed of 20 km / h). Therefore, the electric vehicle 10 travels in a first mode for low speed with a maximum vehicle speed of 6 km / h on the sidewalk, and travels in a second mode for high speed with a maximum vehicle speed of 20 km / h on the roadway. During traveling, switching of the traveling mode (maximum vehicle speed) is prohibited.

[0045] First, the switching reservation mode will be described.

[0046] While the electric vehicle 10 is traveling in the first mode on the sidewalk, the first operator 78a is turned on and the second operator 78b is turned off, that is, only the first operator 78a is operated. When attempting to switch the traveling route from the sidewalk to the roadway during traveling in this state, if the first operator 78a is turned off and the second operator 78b is turned on even for an instant before the vehicle speed becomes zero (traveling stops), that is, if only the second operator 78b is operated even for an instant, the control unit 46 completes the switching reservation from the first mode to the second mode. Although the switching reservation is completed in this way, since the mode at that time remains the first mode, subsequent operations of the second operator 78b are invalid, and only the first operator 78a is operated and the vehicle travels. At this time, if the first operator 78a continues to be turned off, the electric vehicle 10 will coast and decelerate. Also, on an uphill slope, the electric vehicle 10 may decelerate even if the first operator 78a continues to be turned on. After that, when the vehicle speed becomes zero, the control unit 46 immediately switches to the second mode, and the electric vehicle 10 can travel on the roadway in the second mode. In the second mode, only the second operator 78b is operated.

[0047] When attempting to switch the driving route from the road to the sidewalk while driving in that state, if the first operator 78a is turned on and the second operator 78b is turned off even for an instant before the vehicle speed becomes zero (the driving stops), that is, if only the first operator 78a is operated even for an instant, the control unit 46 completes the reservation for switching from the second mode to the first mode. Although the reservation for switching is thus completed, since the mode at that time remains the second mode, subsequent operations of the first operator 78a are invalid, and only the second operator 78b is operated and the vehicle will continue to drive. At this time, if the second operator 78b continues to be turned off, the electric vehicle 10 will coast and decelerate. Also, if it is an uphill slope, there is a possibility that the electric vehicle 10 will decelerate even if the second operator 78b continues to be turned on. Thereafter, when the vehicle speed becomes zero, the control unit 46 immediately switches to the first mode, and the electric vehicle 10 can drive on the sidewalk in the first mode. In the first mode, only the first operator 78a is operated.

[0048] Thereafter, each time the driving route is switched, the above-described operation is performed.

[0049] Next, the first-priority mode will be described.

[0050] While the electric vehicle 10 is driving on the sidewalk in the first mode, the first operator 78a is turned on and the second operator 78b is turned off, that is, only the first operator 78a is operated. When attempting to switch the driving route from the sidewalk to the road while driving in that state, when the first operator 78a is turned off, the electric vehicle 10 will coast and decelerate. Also, if it is an uphill slope, there is a possibility that the electric vehicle 10 will decelerate even if the first operator 78a continues to be turned on. And when the vehicle speed becomes zero (the driving stops), in that state, if the first operator 78a is turned off and the second operator 78b is turned on, that is, if only the second operator 78b is operated, the control unit 46 immediately switches from the first mode to the second mode. Therefore, thereafter, the electric vehicle 10 can drive on the road in the second mode. In the second mode, only the second operator 78b is operated.

[0051] When attempting to switch the driving route from a roadway to a sidewalk while the vehicle is in motion in that state, when the second operator 78b is turned off, the electric vehicle 10 coasts and decelerates. Also, if it is an uphill slope, there is a possibility that the electric vehicle 10 will decelerate even if the second operator 78b remains turned on. And when the vehicle speed becomes zero (travel stops), in that state, if the first operator 78a is turned on and the second operator 78b is turned off, that is, if only the first operator 78a is operated, the control unit 46 immediately switches from the second mode to the first mode. Therefore, thereafter, the electric vehicle 10 can travel on the sidewalk in the first mode. In the first mode, only the first operator 78a is operated.

[0052] Thereafter, the above-described operation is performed each time the driving route is switched.

[0053] In this embodiment, the control unit 46 may be configured not to permit travel when the first operator 78a and the second operator 78b are turned on simultaneously.

[0054] According to such an electric vehicle 10, not only is the second requirement that the first operator 78a is turned on and the second operator 78b is turned off satisfied, but also the first requirement that the vehicle speed is below the threshold is satisfied. On this condition, a first mode with the maximum vehicle speed being the first speed is set. On the other hand, not only is the third requirement that at least the second operator 78b among the first operator 78a and the second operator 78b is turned on satisfied, but also the first requirement that the vehicle speed is below the threshold is satisfied. On this condition, a second mode with the maximum vehicle speed being the second speed is set. In this way, by making the combinations of operations of the two operators different according to the second requirement and the third requirement, the instruction for setting the first mode from the driver and the instruction for setting the second mode are clearly different, enabling an appropriate instruction from the driver. Also, to switch the mode between the first mode and the second mode, it is essential to satisfy the first requirement that the vehicle speed is below the threshold. Therefore, it is possible to switch to the maximum vehicle speed corresponding to the mode after once reducing the vehicle speed below the threshold. Thus, even when it is necessary to once reduce the vehicle speed below the threshold to switch the driving route between two driving routes with different maximum vehicle speeds, the maximum vehicle speed can be switched smoothly and appropriately. Also, a dedicated switch for mode switching becomes unnecessary.

[0055] In the switching reservation mode, after the second requirement or the third requirement is satisfied in advance, and then the first requirement is satisfied, the first mode or the second mode is set. Therefore, the switching of the maximum vehicle speed can be reserved, and then when the vehicle speed becomes below the threshold, the mode is immediately switched and the maximum vehicle speed is set to the first speed or the second speed. Thus, compared with the case where a switching operation is required after the vehicle speed becomes below the threshold, the mode can be switched in a short time. Particularly, when frequently switching the driving route between two driving routes with different maximum vehicle speeds, it is effective as it can reduce the time loss during route switching.

[0056] In the first-move priority mode, after the first requirement is satisfied, the mode is set to the first mode or the second mode according to the requirement that is satisfied first among the second requirement and the third requirement. That is, after the vehicle speed becomes equal to or lower than the threshold value, if the second requirement is satisfied first, the first mode is set and the maximum vehicle speed becomes the first speed, while if the third requirement is satisfied first, the second mode is set and the maximum vehicle speed becomes the second speed.

[0057] By setting the threshold value to zero, in order to switch the mode between the first mode and the second mode, it is necessary to stop the running of the electric vehicle 10 when the vehicle speed becomes zero, so the maximum vehicle speed does not change before the running of the electric vehicle 10 stops.

[0058] By making the first speed smaller than the second speed, the first mode can be used for low speed and the second mode can be used for high speed.

[0059] The set mode can be easily notified as being the first mode or the second mode by the maximum speed indicator lamp 74.

[0060] By attaching the first operator 78a and the second operator 78b to the steering wheel 30, the operation of the first operator 78a and the second operator 78b becomes easier.

[0061] In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 5(a) to 5(d) described later, the above-described effects can also be achieved.

[0062] Since the first operator 78a is attached to one side of the steering wheel 30 and the second operator 78b is attached to the other side of the steering wheel 30, the operation of the first operator 78a and the second operator 78b becomes even easier using both hands. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 5(c) and 5(d) described later, the same effects can also be achieved.

[0063] For a second requirement that the first operator 78a needs to be turned on and the second operator 78b needs to be turned off, and a third requirement that the first operator 78a needs to be turned off and the second operator 78b needs to be turned on, on and off are reversed. Therefore, the instruction for setting the first mode and the instruction for setting the second mode from the driver are more clearly different, enabling a more appropriate and smooth instruction from the driver.

[0064] Both the first operator 78a and the second operator 78b are used for both mode setting and vehicle speed adjustment. Also, in the first mode, the vehicle speed can be adjusted to the first speed by the first operator 78a, and in the second mode, the vehicle speed can be adjusted to the second speed by the second operator 78b. In this way, although the maximum vehicle speeds are different between the first mode and the second mode, the vehicle speed can be easily adjusted to the maximum vehicle speed of the corresponding mode by the first operator 78a and the second operator 78b.

[0065] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5(b) described later, these effects can also be achieved.

[0066] In the above embodiment, the first operator 78a composed of a thumb throttle attached to one side (the left side in this embodiment) of the steering wheel 30 and the second operator 78b composed of a thumb throttle attached to the other side (the right side in this embodiment) of the steering wheel 30 are used, but it is not limited thereto. As shown in FIG. 5(a), the first operator 82a and the second operator 82b both attached to one side (the right side in this embodiment) of the steering wheel 30 may be used. The first operator 82a is composed of a thumb throttle and functions in the same way as the first operator 78a. The second operator 82b is composed of a grip throttle that can be operated by grasping and twisting and functions in the same way as the second operator 78b.

[0067] Further, as shown in FIG. 5(b), a first operator 84a and a second operator 84b, both of which are attached to one side (the right side in this embodiment) of the handle 30, may be used. The first operator 84a is operated to set the maximum vehicle speed to the first speed and the second speed, and the second operator 84b is operated to set the maximum vehicle speed to the second speed. The first operator 84a is composed of an operator whose operation amount can be adjusted, and more specifically, is composed of a rotary operator such as a thumb throttle. The second operator 84b is composed of an operator that outputs two values of on / off, and more specifically, is composed of a lever that can be operated with the index finger. The control unit 46 adjusts the vehicle speed within the range up to the first vehicle speed based on the operation of the first operator 84a in the first mode, and adjusts the vehicle speed within the range up to the second vehicle speed based on the operation of the first operator 84a in the second mode.

[0068] An operation example in this case will be described.

[0069] Referring to FIG. 6, the control unit 46 sets the first mode in which the maximum vehicle speed is the first speed when the first requirement that the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor 52 is equal to or lower than the threshold value and the second requirement that the first operator 84a is turned on and the second operator 84b is turned off are satisfied. Here, the fact that the first operator 84a is turned on and the second operator 84b is turned off means that the turning on of the first operator 84a and the turning off of the second operator 84b may be established simultaneously regardless of the order (before or after).

[0070] On the other hand, the control unit 46 sets the second mode in which the maximum vehicle speed is the second speed when the first requirement that the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor 52 is equal to or lower than the threshold value and the third requirement that both the first operator 84a and the second operator 84b are turned on are satisfied. Here, the fact that both the first operator 84a and the second operator 84b are turned on means that the turning on of the first operator 84a and the turning on of the second operator 84b may be established simultaneously regardless of the order (before or after). Further, in this embodiment, the third requirement is satisfied if the second operator 84b is turned on at least somewhere within the period when the first operator 84a is turned on.

[0071] Note that the mode at the time of system startup is preferably set to the mode when the second operator is off (in this example, the first mode).

[0072] As methods for switching modes in this way, there are a reserved switching mode and a first-move priority mode.

[0073] Similar to the previous embodiment, in the reserved switching mode, when the first requirement is satisfied after the second requirement is satisfied in a state where the second requirement is satisfied, the control unit 46 sets the first mode, while when the first requirement is satisfied after the third requirement is satisfied in a state where the third requirement is satisfied, the control unit 46 sets the second mode.

[0074] Also, similar to the previous embodiment, in the first-move priority mode, when the second requirement is satisfied before the third requirement in a state where the first requirement is satisfied, the control unit 46 sets the first mode, while when the third requirement is satisfied before the second requirement in a state where the first requirement is satisfied, the control unit 46 sets the second mode.

[0075] The reserved switching mode and the first-move priority mode will be described more specifically. Here too, the first speed is smaller than the second speed, the first speed is 6 km / h, the second speed is 20 km / h, the threshold value is zero, and it is assumed that the electric vehicle 10, which is a specific small engine-equipped bicycle, switches the traveling route between a sidewalk (maximum vehicle speed 6 km / h) and a roadway (maximum vehicle speed 20 km / h) and travels. Therefore, the electric vehicle 10 travels in the first mode with a maximum vehicle speed of 6 km / h on the sidewalk and travels in the second mode with a maximum vehicle speed of 20 km / h on the roadway, and switching of the traveling mode (maximum vehicle speed) is prohibited during traveling.

[0076] First, the reserved switching mode will be described.

[0077] When the electric vehicle 10 is traveling on the sidewalk in the first mode, the first operator 84a is turned on and the second operator 84b is turned off, that is, only the first operator 84a is operated. When trying to switch the driving path from the sidewalk to the roadway during driving in this state, if the first operator 84a and the second operator 84b are both turned on even for an instant, that is, if the first operator 84a and the second operator 84b are operated simultaneously even for an instant, before the vehicle speed becomes zero (the driving stops), the control unit 46 completes the reservation for switching from the first mode to the second mode. Although the reservation for switching is completed in this way, since the mode at that time remains the first mode, the subsequent operation of the second operator 84b is invalid, and only the first operator 84a is operated and the vehicle continues to drive. At this time, if the first operator 84a continues to be turned off, the electric vehicle 10 coasts and decelerates. Also, if it is an uphill slope, the electric vehicle 10 may decelerate even if the first operator 84a continues to be turned on. After that, when the vehicle speed becomes zero, the control unit 46 immediately switches to the second mode, and the electric vehicle 10 can drive on the roadway in the second mode. In the second mode, both the first operator 84a and the second operator 84b are operated. That is, the first operator 84a is operated with the second operator 84b constantly turned on.

[0078] When attempting to switch the driving path from the roadway to the sidewalk while driving in that state, if the first operator 84a is turned on and the second operator 84b is turned off even for an instant before the vehicle speed becomes zero (the driving stops), that is, if the second operator 84b is turned off while the first operator 84a is operated even for an instant, the control unit 46 completes the reservation for switching from the second mode to the first mode. Although the switching reservation is completed in this way, since the mode at that time remains the second mode, the vehicle will continue to drive when the first operator 84a is operated with the second operator 84b turned on. At this time, if the first operator 84a continues to be turned off with the second operator 84b turned on, the electric vehicle 10 will coast and decelerate. Also, if it is an uphill slope, the electric vehicle 10 may decelerate even if the first operator 84a continues to be turned on with the second operator 84b turned on. After that, when the vehicle speed becomes zero, the control unit 46 immediately switches to the first mode, and the electric vehicle 10 can drive on the sidewalk in the first mode. In the first mode, only the first operator 84a is operated.

[0079] After that, the above operation is performed each time the driving path is switched.

[0080] Next, the first - priority mode will be described.

[0081] While the electric vehicle 10 is traveling on the sidewalk in the first mode, the first operator 84a is turned on and the second operator 84b is turned off, that is, only the first operator 84a is operated. When trying to switch the driving path from the sidewalk to the roadway during traveling in that state, if the first operator 84a is turned off, the electric vehicle 10 will coast and decelerate. Also, if it is an uphill slope, there is a possibility that the electric vehicle 10 will decelerate even if the first operator 84a remains turned on. And when the vehicle speed becomes zero (traveling stops), in that state, if the first operator 84a and the second operator 84b are turned on, that is, if the first operator 84a and the second operator 84b are operated simultaneously, the control unit 46 will immediately switch from the first mode to the second mode. Therefore, thereafter, the electric vehicle 10 can travel on the roadway in the second mode. In the second mode, both the first operator 84a and the second operator 84b are operated.

[0082] When trying to switch the driving path from the roadway to the sidewalk during traveling in that state, if the first operator 84a is turned off, the electric vehicle 10 will coast and decelerate. Also, if it is an uphill slope, there is a possibility that the electric vehicle 10 will decelerate even if the first operator 84a remains turned on. And when the vehicle speed becomes zero (traveling stops), in that state, if the first operator 84a is turned on and the second operator 84b is turned off, that is, if only the first operator 84a is operated, the control unit 46 will immediately switch from the second mode to the first mode. Therefore, thereafter, the electric vehicle 10 can travel on the sidewalk in the first mode. In the first mode, only the first operator 84a is operated.

[0083] Thereafter, the above-described operation is performed each time the driving path is switched.

[0084] According to this embodiment, in the second requirement, it is necessary that the first operator 84a is turned on and the second operator 84b is turned off, while in the third requirement, not only the first operator 84a but also the second operator 84b needs to be turned on. That is, in the second requirement, it is a simple operation of operating only the first operator 84a, while in the third requirement, operations of both the first operator 84a and the second operator 84b are performed. Therefore, the second requirement and the third requirement differ in whether the second operator 84b is operated, and the instruction from the driver for setting the first mode and the instruction for setting the second mode are clearly different, enabling appropriate and smooth instructions from the driver.

[0085] The vehicle speed adjustment of the first mode and the second mode can be performed only by the first operator 84a.

[0086] If the second operator 84b is turned on somewhere within the period when the first operator 84a is turned on and there is a point (period) when the first operator 84a and the second operator 84b are simultaneously turned on, the third requirement is satisfied. The second operator 84b may be turned off after being turned on within the on period of the first operator 84a. In this way, since it is not necessary to continuously operate the second operator 84b, the third requirement can be easily satisfied.

[0087] Instead of the first operator 84a and the second operator 84b shown in FIG. 5(b), the first operator 86a and the second operator 86b shown in FIG. 5(c) may be used. The first operator 86a consists of a thumb throttle attached to one side (the right side in this embodiment) of the steering wheel 30 and functions in the same manner as the first operator 84a. The second operator 86b consists of a push button attached to the other side (the left side in this embodiment) of the steering wheel 30 and functions in the same manner as the second operator 84b.

[0088] Alternatively, instead of the first operator 84a and the second operator 84b shown in FIG. 5(b), the first operator 88a and the second operator 88b shown in FIG. 5(d) may be used. The first operator 88a consists of a grip throttle attached to one side (the right side in this embodiment) of the handle 30 and functions in the same manner as the first operator 84a. The second operator 88b consists of a push button attached to the other side (the left side in this embodiment) of the handle 30 and functions in the same manner as the second operator 84b.

[0089] When using the first operator 86a and the second operator 86b shown in FIG. 5(c), and when using the first operator 88a and the second operator 88b shown in FIG. 5(d), the same effects as when using the first operator 84a and the second operator 84b shown in FIG. 5(b) can be obtained.

[0090] In the above-described embodiment, both the first operator and the second operator are attached to the handle 30, but it is not limited thereto. Either one of the first operator and the second operator may be, for example, a foot pedal (not shown) provided in the vicinity of the bottom bracket 14. In this case, by using the foot to operate the first operator or the second operator, one hand can be freed from operating the operator.

[0091] To enhance convenience, there may be three or more operators. For example, a first operator and a second operator attached to the handle 30 and a third operator consisting of a foot pedal may be used.

[0092] As the first operator and the second operator, a lever whose operation amount can be adjusted to adjust the vehicle speed or a button whose operation amount can be adjusted to adjust the vehicle speed may be used.

[0093] In the above-described embodiment, the first mode is for low speed and the second mode is for high speed, but it is not limited thereto. Considering convenience and the like, if necessary, the first mode may be for high speed and the second mode may be for low speed.

[0094] Whether the vehicle is running in either the first mode or the second mode may be notified by sound or display.

[0095] The vehicle speed sensor 52 may be provided near the front wheel 34. Also in this case, the vehicle speed can be detected in the same manner as when the vehicle speed sensor 52 is provided near the rear wheel 36.

[0096] The present invention is not limited to the electric vehicle 10, and can be suitably used for any specific small motor-equipped bicycle such as an electric kick scooter or a pedal-less bicycle.

[0097] Further, the present invention is not limited to a specific small motor-equipped bicycle, and can also be applied to other electric vehicles. In this case, the threshold value compared with the vehicle speed is not limited to zero.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0098] 10 Electric vehicle 12 Frame 30 Handlebar 38 Drive unit 40 Motor 46 Control unit 50 Battery 52 Vehicle speed sensor 62, 64 Braking device 66 Headlight 68 Tail light · Brake light 70 Rear reflector 72 License plate 74 Maximum speed indicator light 76a, 76b Direction indicator 78a, 82a, 84a, 86a, 88a First operator 78b, 82b, 84b, 86b, 88b Second operator 80 Siren

Claims

1. A first operator for setting the maximum vehicle speed to at least the first speed among a first speed and a second speed; a second operator for setting the maximum vehicle speed to the second speed; a vehicle speed detection unit for detecting the vehicle speed; When a first requirement that the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed detection unit is equal to or lower than a threshold value and a second requirement that the first operator is turned on and the second operator is turned off are satisfied, a first mode in which the maximum vehicle speed is set to the first speed is set. On the other hand, when the first requirement and at least a third requirement that the second operator among the first operator and the second operator is turned on are satisfied, a control unit that sets a second mode in which the maximum vehicle speed is set to the second speed, an electric vehicle.

2. When the first requirement is satisfied after the second requirement is satisfied in a state where the second requirement is satisfied, the control unit sets the first mode. On the other hand, when the first requirement is satisfied after the third requirement is satisfied in a state where the third requirement is satisfied, the electric vehicle according to claim 1, which sets the second mode.

3. When the second requirement is satisfied before the third requirement in a state where the first requirement is satisfied, the control unit sets the first mode. On the other hand, when the third requirement is satisfied before the second requirement in a state where the first requirement is satisfied, the electric vehicle according to claim 1, which sets the second mode.

4. The electric vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first operator is turned off and the second operator is turned on to satisfy the third requirement.

5. Each of the first operator and the second operator includes an operator capable of adjusting an operation amount, In the first mode, the control unit adjusts the vehicle speed within a range up to the first speed based on the operation of the first operator, and in the second mode, adjusts the vehicle speed within a range up to the second speed based on the operation of the second operator. The electric vehicle according to claim 4.

6. The electric vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein both the first operator and the second operator are turned on to satisfy the third requirement.

7. The first operator includes an operator capable of adjusting an operation amount, The second operator includes an operator that outputs a binary value of on / off. The control unit adjusts the vehicle speed within a range up to the first vehicle speed based on the operation of the first operator in the first mode, and adjusts the vehicle speed within a range up to the second vehicle speed based on the operation of the first operator in the second mode, for the electric vehicle according to claim 6.

8. The second operator is turned on at least somewhere within a period during which the first operator is turned on, for the electric vehicle according to claim 6 or 7.

9. The threshold value is zero, for the electric vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The first speed is less than the second speed, for the electric vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The electric vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 10 further includes a notification unit that notifies whether the mode set by the control unit is the first mode or the second mode.

12. The electric vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 11 further includes a handle to which the first operator and the second operator are attached.

13. The first operator is attached to one side of the handle, and the second operator is attached to the other side of the handle, for the electric vehicle according to claim 12.

14. Either one of the first operator and the second operator consists of a foot pedal, for the electric vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. The electric vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 14 is a specific bicycle with a small prime mover.

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