Transmission for human-powered vehicle and component for human-powered vehicle

Abstract

To provide a transmission for a human-powered vehicle which can contribute to convenience, and to provide a component for a human-powered vehicle.SOLUTION: A transmission for a human-powered vehicle includes a first rotating body to which a human driving force input to a crank shaft is transmitted and further includes: a gear change part having an input rotating body connected to the crank shaft, an output rotating body which outputs torque input to the input rotating body to the first rotating body, and an intermediate rotating body which transmits torque input to the input rotating body to the output rotating body, the gear change part being capable of changing a predetermined ratio which is a ratio of a rotation speed of the output rotating body to a rotation speed of the input rotating body; a power generation part which generates electric power by rotation of the intermediate rotating body; and a control unit including a drive part which is driven by the electric power generated by the power generation part and configured to control the gear change part so as to change the predetermined ratio.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a transmission for a human-powered vehicle and components for a human-powered vehicle.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a transmission for a human-powered vehicle provided with a transmission to which torque is input from a crankshaft.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] One object of the present disclosure is to provide a transmission for a human-powered vehicle and components for a human-powered vehicle that can contribute to convenience.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A transmission according to a first aspect of the present disclosure is a transmission for a human-powered vehicle including a first rotating body to which a human driving force input to a crankshaft is transmitted, the transmission including an input rotating body connected to the crankshaft, an output rotating body that outputs torque input to the input rotating body to the first rotating body, and an intermediate rotating body that transmits torque input to the input rotating body to the output rotating body, the transmission including a speed-changing unit capable of changing a predetermined ratio that is a ratio of the rotational speed of the output rotating body to the rotational speed of the input rotating body, a power generation unit that generates electric power by rotation of the intermediate rotating body, a drive unit driven by electric power generated by the power generation unit, and a control unit that controls the speed-changing unit so as to change the predetermined ratio. According to the transmission device of the first aspect, since it includes a power generation unit and a control unit driven by the power generated by the power generation unit, the predetermined ratio can be changed by the power generated in the transmission device. Therefore, the transmission device can contribute to convenience.

[0006] In the transmission device of the second aspect according to the first aspect of the present disclosure, the speed change unit includes a ratio change unit connected to the crankshaft, and a transmission that is connected to the ratio change unit and transmits the driving force input from the ratio change unit to the output rotating body. The ratio change unit includes a first output rotating body connected to the transmission, and is configured such that a first ratio, which is the ratio of the rotation speed of the first output rotating body to the rotation speed of the crankshaft, becomes a first predetermined ratio. The transmission changes the predetermined ratio by changing a second ratio, which is the ratio of the rotation speed of the output rotating body to the rotation speed of the first output rotating body. The intermediate rotating body is included in the ratio change unit. According to the transmission device of the second aspect, since the intermediate rotating body is included in the ratio change unit, the power generation unit can generate power by the rotation of the intermediate rotating body that rotates at a rotation speed different from the rotation speed of the crankshaft.

[0007] In the transmission device of the third aspect according to the second aspect of the present disclosure, the first predetermined ratio is greater than 1. According to the transmission device of the third aspect, the power generation unit can generate power by the rotation of the intermediate rotating body that rotates at a rotation speed higher than the rotation speed of the crankshaft. Therefore, even when the human driving force is low, the power generation amount can be increased, and the load on the rider can be reduced.

[0008] In the transmission device of the fourth aspect according to the second or third aspect of the present disclosure, the intermediate rotating body is the first output rotating body. According to the transmission device of the fourth aspect, since the power generation unit generates power by the intermediate rotating body before the speed change is performed by the transmission, it is less affected by the power generation due to the change of the predetermined ratio. Therefore, the power generation unit can generate power suitably.

[0009] In a transmission device according to any one of the second to fourth aspects of the present disclosure, the ratio changing unit includes a first ratio changing unit to which driving force is input from the crankshaft, and a second ratio changing unit that outputs the driving force input from the first ratio changing unit to the transmission. According to the transmission device of the fifth aspect, the ratio changing unit can stepwise change the first ratio to a first predetermined ratio by the first ratio changing unit and the second ratio changing unit.

[0010] In a transmission device according to the sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the second ratio changing unit includes a first planetary gear mechanism. According to the transmission device of the sixth aspect, the second ratio changing unit can suitably change the first ratio by the first planetary gear mechanism.

[0011] In a transmission device according to the seventh aspect of the present disclosure, which follows the fifth or sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the transmission device further includes a shaft member different from the crankshaft, and the second ratio changing unit is provided on the shaft member. According to the transmission device of the seventh aspect, since the second ratio changing unit can be arranged on a shaft member different from the crankshaft, the structure of the crankshaft can be simplified.

[0012] In a transmission device according to the eighth aspect of the present disclosure, which follows any one of the second to sixth aspects of the present disclosure, the transmission device further includes a shaft member different from the crankshaft, and the transmission is provided on the shaft member. According to the transmission device of the eighth aspect, since the transmission is provided on a shaft member different from the crankshaft, the structure of the crankshaft can be simplified.

[0013] In a transmission device according to the ninth aspect of the present disclosure, which follows the seventh or eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the power generation unit is provided on the shaft member. According to the transmission device of the ninth aspect, since the power generation unit is provided on the shaft member, the structure of the crankshaft can be made simpler.

[0014] In the transmission device according to the tenth aspect that follows the seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the transmission is provided on the shaft member, the power generation unit is provided on the shaft member, and at least a part thereof is disposed between the second ratio changing unit and the transmission in the axial direction of the shaft member. According to the transmission device of the tenth aspect, since at least a part of the power generation unit is disposed between the second ratio changing unit and the transmission in the axial direction of the shaft member, an increase in the size of the shaft member in the radial direction can be suppressed.

[0015] In the transmission device according to the eleventh aspect that follows any one of the second to tenth aspects of the present disclosure, the transmission includes at least one second planetary gear mechanism. According to the transmission device of the eleventh aspect, the transmission can preferably change a predetermined ratio by at least one second planetary gear mechanism.

[0016] In the transmission device according to the twelfth aspect that follows any one of the first to eleventh aspects of the present disclosure, the transmission device further includes a power storage unit that stores the power generated by the power generation unit. According to the transmission device of the twelfth aspect, since the power storage unit can store the power, the convenience is improved.

[0017] In the transmission device according to the thirteenth aspect that follows any one of the first to twelfth aspects of the present disclosure, the power generation unit includes a generator. According to the transmission device of the thirteenth aspect, power can be preferably generated by the generator.

[0018] In the transmission device according to the fourteenth aspect that follows any one of the first to thirteenth aspects of the present disclosure, the transmission device further includes a power generation control circuit configured to control the power generation unit. According to the transmission device of the fourteenth aspect, the power generation control circuit can preferably control the power generation unit.

[0019] In the transmission device according to the fifteenth aspect that follows the fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the power generation control circuit is configured to control the power generation unit according to at least one of the traveling state of the human-powered vehicle and the traveling environment of the human-powered vehicle. According to the transmission device of the 15th aspect, the power generation control circuit can control the power generation unit to generate power when at least one of the running state of the human-powered vehicle and the running environment of the human-powered vehicle is in a situation suitable for power generation.

[0020] In the transmission device of the 16th aspect according to the 15th aspect of the present disclosure, the transmission device further includes a detection unit that detects at least one of the running state of the human-powered vehicle and the running environment of the human-powered vehicle. According to the transmission device of the 16th aspect, at least one detection unit can preferably acquire at least one of the running state of the human-powered vehicle and the running environment of the human-powered vehicle.

[0021] In the transmission device of the 17th aspect according to the 12th aspect of the present disclosure, the transmission device further includes a power generation control circuit configured to control the power generation unit, and the power generation control circuit is configured to control the power generation unit according to the power storage amount of the power storage unit. According to the transmission device of the 17th aspect, the power generation control circuit can preferably control the power generation unit according to the power storage amount of the power storage unit.

[0022] In the transmission device of the 18th aspect according to any one of the 1st to 17th aspects of the present disclosure, the drive unit includes an electric motor, and the control unit further includes a speed reducer connected to the electric motor. According to the transmission device of the 18th aspect, since the control unit includes a speed reducer, the electric motor can be miniaturized.

[0023] In the transmission device of the 19th aspect according to any one of the 1st to 18th aspects of the present disclosure, the transmission device further includes a crankshaft. According to the transmission device of the 19th aspect, in the transmission device including a crankshaft, convenience can be improved.

[0024] The component of the 20th aspect of the present disclosure is a component for a human-powered vehicle, and includes a transmission device according to any one of the 1st to 19th aspects and a housing that forms a housing space in which the transmission device is accommodated. According to the component of the 20th side, a predetermined ratio can be changed by the electric power generated in the transmission. Therefore, the component can contribute to convenience.

Effect of the Invention

[0025] The transmission for a human-powered vehicle and the component for a human-powered vehicle of the present disclosure can contribute to convenience.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0026]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0027] <First Embodiment> With reference to FIGS. 1 to 13, a transmission 30 for a human-powered vehicle and a component 20 for a human-powered vehicle according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0028] A human-powered vehicle is a vehicle having at least one wheel and capable of being driven by at least human driving force. The human-powered vehicle includes various types of bicycles such as, for example, mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes, hand bikes, and recumbent bikes. The number of wheels of the human-powered vehicle is not limited. The human-powered vehicle includes, for example, vehicles having one wheel and vehicles having two or more wheels. The human-powered vehicle is not limited to a vehicle that can be driven only by human driving force. The human-powered vehicle includes an E-bike that uses the driving force of an electric motor in addition to human driving force for propulsion. The E-bike includes an electric assist bicycle whose propulsion is assisted by an electric motor. Hereinafter, in each embodiment, the human-powered vehicle will be described as a bicycle.

[0029] The human-powered vehicle includes, for example, a vehicle body and wheels. The vehicle body includes, for example, a frame. The wheels are provided on the frame, for example. The wheels include a front wheel and a rear wheel. The human-powered vehicle includes a crankshaft 10 rotatable with respect to the frame. Crank arms 12 are provided at each end in the axial direction A1 of the crankshaft 10. Pedals are connected to each of the crank arms 12. The crankshaft 10 receives human driving force from the crank arms 12 and the pedals.

[0030] The human-powered vehicle includes a first rotating body 14 to which the human-powered driving force input to the crankshaft 10 is transmitted. The first rotating body 14 includes, for example, at least one of a sprocket, a pulley, and a bevel gear. The transmission member 16 includes, for example, at least one of a chain, a belt, and a shaft. The first rotating body 14 transmits the driving force to the rear wheel, for example, via a sprocket and a chain. The first rotating body 14 is connected to the driving wheel via the transmission member 16, for example. The driving wheel includes, for example, at least one of a front wheel and a rear wheel. The driving wheel includes, for example, a rear wheel.

[0031] The component 20 for a human-powered vehicle shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is provided on the human-powered vehicle. The component 20 is provided, for example, in the transmission path of the human-powered driving force from the crankshaft 10 to the driving wheels of the human-powered vehicle. The driving wheel may include a front wheel. The component 20 is arranged around the first central axis C1 of the crankshaft 10. The component 20 may be provided on the axle of the driving wheel.

[0032] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the component 20 for a human-powered vehicle includes, for example, a transmission 30 and a housing 22 that forms an accommodation space in which the transmission 30 is accommodated. The transmission 30 is configured to, for example, stepwise change the transmission ratio of the human-powered vehicle. The transmission ratio is, for example, the ratio of the rotational speed of the driving wheel to the rotational speed of the crankshaft 10.

[0033] The housing 22 has, for example, at least one frame attachment portion 22A. The frame attachment portion 22A is attached to the frame of the human-powered vehicle by, for example, bolts or the like. The housing 22 includes a plurality of frame attachment portions 22A. Each of the plurality of frame attachment portions 22A is arranged at intervals around the first central axis C1, for example. The plurality of frame attachment portions 22A are arranged at intervals of 90 degrees or more from each other around the first central axis C1.

[0034] As shown in FIGS. 3 to 7, a transmission 30 for a human-powered vehicle includes a speed-changing section 32, a power generation section 34, and a control section 36. The speed-changing section 32 includes an input rotating body 38, an output rotating body 40, and an intermediate rotating body 42. The input rotating body 38 is connected to the crankshaft 10. The output rotating body 40 outputs the torque input to the input rotating body 38 to the first rotating body 14. The intermediate rotating body 42 transmits the torque input to the input rotating body 38 to the output rotating body 40. The speed-changing section 32 can change a predetermined ratio that is the ratio of the rotational speed of the output rotating body 40 to the rotational speed of the input rotating body 38. The intermediate rotating body 42 is, for example, any rotating body included in the power transmission path of the human driving force from the input rotating body 38 to the output rotating body 40. The intermediate rotating body 42 is, for example, a rotating body that rotates at a rotational speed different from that of the crankshaft 10.

[0035] The speed-changing section 32 includes, for example, a ratio-changing section 44 and a transmission 46. The ratio-changing section 44 is connected to the crankshaft 10. The transmission 46 is connected to the ratio-changing section 44 and transmits the driving force input from the ratio-changing section 44 to the output rotating body 40.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 8, the ratio-changing section 44 includes a first output rotating body 44A connected to the transmission 46. The ratio-changing section 44 is configured such that a first ratio that is the ratio of the rotational speed of the first output rotating body 44A to the rotational speed of the crankshaft 10 becomes a first predetermined ratio. The transmission 46 changes the predetermined ratio by changing a second ratio that is the ratio of the rotational speed of the output rotating body 40 to the rotational speed of the first output rotating body 44A.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 7, the transmission 30 further includes, for example, a crankshaft 10. For example, a human driving force is input to the crankshaft 10. The crankshaft 10 constitutes, for example, a part of the transmission path of the human driving force. The crankshaft 10 has, for example, a first central axis C1.

[0038] The housing 22 further includes, for example, a crankshaft support portion 22B. The crankshaft support portion 22B supports, for example, the crankshaft 10. The crankshaft support portion 22B supports the crankshaft 10 such that, for example, the crankshaft 10 is rotatable relative to the housing 22 about the first central axis C1. The crankshaft support portion 22B supports the crankshaft 10 via, for example, a bearing.

[0039] The transmission 30 includes, for example, an output rotating shaft 30A. The output rotating shaft 30A extends substantially parallel to the crankshaft 10. In this specification, the description of substantially parallel means, for example, the case where it is completely parallel, or the case where it is not completely parallel but can be regarded as completely parallel. The case where it can be regarded as completely parallel is, for example, the case where the function of the component 20 is not significantly affected by not being parallel.

[0040] The output rotating shaft 30A is arranged at a distance from the crankshaft 10, for example, and outputs the driving force input from the transmission 46. The output rotating shaft 30A is provided, for example, in the transmission path of the human driving force. In the transmission path of the human driving force, a transmission 46 and a ratio change portion 44 are provided between the crankshaft 10 and the output rotating shaft 30A.

[0041] The output rotating shaft 30A is configured to output the driving force to the driving wheel, for example. The driving force of the output rotating shaft 30A is transmitted to the driving wheel via, for example, the transmission member 16 shown in FIG. 1. The output rotating body 40 rotates integrally with the output rotating shaft 30A, for example. The output rotating body 40 is formed integrally with the output rotating shaft 30A, for example.

[0042] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 7, the component 20 includes, for example, a first rotating body 14. The first rotating body 14 is attached to, for example, an output rotating shaft 30A. The output rotating shaft 30A includes, for example, a first rotating body attachment portion 30B. The first rotating body attachment portion 30B includes, for example, a sprocket attachment portion. The first rotating body 14 is attached to the first rotating body attachment portion 30B so as to rotate integrally with the output rotating shaft 30A. The first rotating body 14 outputs, for example, the driving force input from the transmission 46 to the first rotating body 14 via the output rotating shaft 30A. The first rotating body 14 is arranged coaxially with the output rotating shaft 30A, for example. The rotation direction of the first rotating body 14 is substantially the same as the rotation direction of the crankshaft 10, for example.

[0043] The output rotating shaft 30A is configured to transmit the driving force to the driving wheel via, for example, the first rotating body 14 and the transmission member 16. In a state where the housing 22 is attached to the frame, the driving force output from the transmission 46 is configured to be transmitted to the driving wheel of the human-powered vehicle via the transmission member 16.

[0044] In the transmission path of the human driving force, a first one-way clutch may be provided between the crankshaft 10 and the first rotating body 14. The first one-way clutch includes at least one of a roller clutch, a claw clutch, and a sprag clutch. The first one-way clutch is provided, for example, on the upstream side of the portion where the power generation unit 34 is provided in the transmission path of the human driving force. The first one-way clutch rotates the first rotating body 14 forward when the crankshaft 10 rotates forward, for example. The first one-way clutch suppresses the reverse rotation of the first rotating body 14 when the crankshaft 10 rotates backward, for example. The forward rotation direction of the crankshaft 10 corresponds to the rotation direction of the crankshaft 10 when the human-powered vehicle moves forward, for example. The forward rotation direction of the first rotating body 14 corresponds to the rotation direction of the first rotating body 14 when the human-powered vehicle moves forward, for example.

[0045] The transmission device 30 further includes, for example, a shaft member 48 different from the crankshaft 10. The shaft member 48 extends, for example, substantially parallel to the crankshaft 10. The shaft member 48 is arranged, for example, at a distance from the crankshaft 10. The shaft member 48 is arranged coaxially with, for example, the output rotating shaft 30A. The end portion of the shaft member 48 on the output rotating shaft 30A side is inserted into the output rotating shaft 30A, for example. The shaft member 48 has, for example, a second central axis C2.

[0046] As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, at least a part of the ratio changing unit 44 is provided on the shaft member 48. The ratio changing unit 44 includes, for example, a first ratio changing unit 50 and a second ratio changing unit 52. The first ratio changing unit 50 receives, for example, a driving force from the crankshaft 10. The second ratio changing unit 52 outputs the driving force input from the first ratio changing unit 50 to the transmission 46. The second ratio changing unit 52 is provided on the shaft member 48, for example. The second ratio changing unit 52 is provided on the shaft member 48 via the transmission 46, for example. The shaft member 48 may extend in the axial direction A1 to a position corresponding to the second ratio changing unit 52.

[0047] When the first predetermined ratio is greater than 1, the ratio changing unit 44 is a speed increasing machine. The ratio changing unit 44 changes, for example, the rotational speed of the crankshaft 10 over two or more stages to change the first ratio to the first predetermined ratio. The first predetermined ratio is greater than 1, for example. The first predetermined ratio is, for example, 3 or more and 20 or less. The first predetermined ratio is, for example, 4 or more and 15 or less. The first predetermined ratio is, for example, 5 or more and 10 or less. The first predetermined ratio is, for example, 6 or more and 7 or less. The first predetermined ratio is, for example, 6.155. The first predetermined ratio may be less than 1.

[0048] The first ratio changing unit 50 changes, for example, the ratio of the rotating body connected to the second ratio changing unit 52 with respect to the rotational speed of the crankshaft 10 to the first set ratio. The first ratio changing unit 50 changes, for example, the ratio of the rotating body connected to the transmission 46 with respect to the rotating body connected to the first ratio changing unit 50 to the second set ratio. The first predetermined ratio is, for example, a value obtained by multiplying the first set ratio and the second set ratio. The first predetermined ratio is, for example, greater than 1 and equal to or less than 3. The first set ratio is, for example, equal to or greater than 1.5 and equal to or less than 2.5. The first set ratio is, for example, 2.130. The second set ratio is, for example, equal to or greater than 2 and equal to or less than 4. The second set ratio is, for example, equal to or greater than 2.5 and equal to or less than 3. The second set ratio is, for example, 2.889.

[0049] The first ratio changing unit 50 includes, for example, a first power transmission gear 50A and a second power transmission gear 50B. The first power transmission gear 50A is arranged coaxially with the crankshaft 10, for example. The first power transmission gear 50A rotates integrally with the crankshaft 10, for example. The first power transmission gear 50A includes a spur gear, for example. In the present embodiment, the input rotating body 38 includes the first power transmission gear 50A.

[0050] The second power transmission gear 50B meshes with the first power transmission gear 50A, for example. The second power transmission gear 50B is arranged coaxially with the shaft member 48, for example. The second power transmission gear 50B includes a spur gear, for example. The second power transmission gear 50B rotates in a direction opposite to that of the crankshaft 10, for example.

[0051] The pitch circle diameter of the first power transmission gear 50A is larger than that of the second power transmission gear 50B, for example. The pitch circle diameter of the first power transmission gear 50A may be smaller than that of the second power transmission gear 50B, for example. The first power transmission gear 50A and the second power transmission gear 50B may each include a helical gear.

[0052] The first ratio changing unit 50 may include, instead of or in addition to the first power transmission gear 50A and the second power transmission gear 50B, a plurality of sprockets and a chain engaged with each of the plurality of sprockets. The first ratio changing unit 50 may include, instead of or in addition to the first power transmission gear 50A and the second power transmission gear 50B, a plurality of pulleys and a belt engaged with each of the plurality of pulleys.

[0053] The second ratio changing unit 52 is disposed, for example, between the second power transmission gear 50B and the transmission 46 in the axial direction A1. The second ratio changing unit 52 includes, for example, the first planetary gear mechanism 54. The second ratio changing unit 52 may include a plurality of first planetary gear mechanisms 54. The first planetary gear mechanism 54 is rotatable, for example, around the second central axis C2 of the shaft member 48.

[0054] The first planetary gear mechanism 54 includes, for example, a power transmission planetary gear 54A, a power transmission sun gear 54B, and a power transmission ring gear 54C. The first planetary gear mechanism 54 includes a plurality of power transmission planetary gears 54A. The first planetary gear mechanism 54 may include a plurality of power transmission sun gears 54B and may include a plurality of power transmission ring gears 54C. When the first planetary gear mechanism 54 includes a plurality of power transmission sun gears 54B and a plurality of power transmission ring gears 54C, the second ratio changing unit 52 changes the second set ratio in multiple stages.

[0055] The first planetary gear mechanism 54 is disposed, for example, between the power transmission sun gear 54B and the power transmission ring gear 54C in the radial direction with respect to the second central axis C2 of the shaft member 48. The power transmission sun gear 54B meshes with, for example, the power transmission planetary gear 54A. The power transmission ring gear 54C meshes with, for example, the power transmission planetary gear 54A.

[0056] The first planetary gear mechanism 54 includes, for example, a power transmission carrier 54D. The first planetary gear mechanism 54 has, for example, a power transmission carrier pin 54E. The power transmission carrier 54D supports, for example, a power transmission planetary gear 54A by means of the power transmission carrier pin 54E. The power transmission carrier pin 54E has, for example, at one end a first power transmission pin end 54F and at the other end a second power transmission pin end 54G in the axial direction A1. The power transmission carrier 54D is supported by the housing 22, for example, such that rotation with respect to the housing 22 is restricted. By restricting the rotation of the power transmission carrier 54D with respect to the housing 22, the revolution of the power transmission planetary gear 54A around the power transmission sun gear 54B is restricted.

[0057] The power transmission carrier 54D has, for example, a first power transmission carrier portion 54H and a second power transmission carrier portion 54K. The first power transmission pin end 54F is arranged, for example, in the first power transmission carrier portion 54H. The second power transmission pin end 54G is arranged, for example, in the second power transmission carrier portion 54K. The power transmission planetary gear 54A is arranged, for example, between the first power transmission carrier portion 54H and the second power transmission carrier portion 54K in the axial direction A1.

[0058] The first planetary gear mechanism 54 includes, for example, a power transmission input portion 54M. The second power transmission gear 50B is provided, for example, on the outer peripheral portion of the power transmission input portion 54M. The rotational force output from the first planetary gear mechanism 54 is input to the power transmission input portion 54M. The power transmission input portion 54M may be integrally formed so as to be one member with the second power transmission gear 50B. When the power transmission input portion 54M is integrally formed with the second power transmission gear 50B, the assembly process is simplified.

[0059] The power transmission input part 54M includes, for example, a power transmission ring gear 54C. The power transmission ring gear 54C is provided, for example, on the inner peripheral part of the power transmission input part 54M. The power transmission ring gear 54C is provided, for example, in the axial direction A1 at a part of the power transmission input part 54M that is different from the second power transmission gear 50B. The pitch circle diameter of the power transmission ring gear 54C is, for example, larger than the pitch circle diameter of the second power transmission gear 50B. The pitch circle diameter of the power transmission ring gear 54C may be, for example, smaller than the pitch circle diameter of the second power transmission gear 50B.

[0060] The first planetary gear mechanism 54 includes, for example, a power transmission output part 54N. The power transmission output part 54N includes, for example, a power transmission sun gear 54B. The power transmission output part 54N is configured to rotate in a direction opposite to that of the power transmission input part 54M. The rotational force input to the power transmission ring gear 54C is output from the power transmission sun gear 54B as a rotational force in the opposite direction, for example, by restricting the rotation of the power transmission carrier 54D with respect to the housing 22.

[0061] The power transmission input part 54M rotates integrally with the second power transmission gear 50B, for example. Since the second power transmission gear 50B rotates in a direction opposite to that of the crankshaft 10, the power transmission input part 54M rotates in a direction opposite to that of the crankshaft 10. Therefore, the rotational direction of the power transmission output part 54N around the second central axis C2 of the shaft member 48 is the same as the rotational direction of the crankshaft 10 around the first central axis C1. In the present embodiment, the first output rotating body 44A includes the second power transmission gear 50B.

[0062] As shown in FIGS. 7, 9, and 10, the transmission 46 is provided, for example, on the shaft member 48. The first planetary gear mechanism 54, the transmission 46, and the first rotating body 14 are arranged in this order, for example, in the axial direction A1 of the shaft member 48.

[0063] The transmission 46 is provided, for example, in the transmission path of the manual driving force. The transmission 46 is connected to the ratio changing unit 44, for example. The manual driving force input to the crankshaft 10 is input to the transmission 46 via the ratio changing unit 44. The transmission 46 is arranged to rotate, for example, around the second central axis C2 of the shaft member 48.

[0064] The transmission 46 can change a predetermined ratio step by step, for example. The transmission 46 is configured to select one of a plurality of predetermined ratios, for example. At least one of the plurality of predetermined ratios may be greater than 1 or less than 1. One of the plurality of predetermined ratios may be 1.

[0065] The transmission 46 has at least one predetermined transmission unit 56, for example. The transmission 46 includes at least one second planetary gear mechanism 56A, for example. The predetermined transmission unit 56 has at least one second planetary gear mechanism 56A, for example. The predetermined transmission unit 56 may include a transmission mechanism other than the planetary gear mechanism as long as it can change a predetermined ratio.

[0066] As shown in FIGS. 8 to 11, the transmission 46 includes at least one predetermined transmission unit 56, for example. In the present embodiment, the transmission 46 has two predetermined transmission units 56, for example. The two predetermined transmission units 56 include a first predetermined transmission unit 58 including a first transmission ratio and a second predetermined transmission unit 60 including a second transmission ratio, for example.

[0067] The transmission 46 can change the second ratio between a minimum second ratio and a maximum second ratio, for example. The minimum second ratio is a ratio corresponding to deceleration, for example. The maximum second ratio is a ratio corresponding to acceleration, for example. The minimum second ratio is greater than 0 and less than 1, for example. The maximum second ratio is greater than 1 and less than or equal to 10, for example. The smaller the minimum second ratio is, the greater the deceleration is when the second ratio is the minimum second ratio. The greater the maximum second ratio is, the greater the acceleration is when the second ratio is the maximum second ratio.

[0068] Each of the plurality of different second ratios is determined, for example, by a combination of one selected from the plurality of first speed ratios and one selected from the plurality of second speed ratios. The second ratio corresponds to, for example, a multiplication value of the first speed ratio and the second speed ratio. The number of the plurality of first speed ratios is, for example, larger than the number of the plurality of second speed ratios. The number of the plurality of first speed ratios may be less than or equal to the number of the plurality of second speed ratios.

[0069] The first predetermined speed change section 58 and the second predetermined speed change section 60 are arranged, for example, on the shaft member 48. Driving force is transmitted from the ratio change section 44 to the first predetermined speed change section 58. Driving force is transmitted from the first predetermined speed change section 58 to the second predetermined speed change section 60. The first predetermined speed change section 58 has, for example, a plurality of second planetary gear mechanisms 56A. Each of the plurality of first speed ratios corresponds to, for example, each of the plurality of second planetary gear mechanisms 56A. The second predetermined speed change section 60 has, for example, a plurality of second planetary gear mechanisms 56A. Each of the plurality of second speed ratios corresponds to, for example, each of the plurality of second planetary gear mechanisms 56A.

[0070] The first predetermined speed change section 58 includes, for example, a first speed change input rotating body 58A and a first speed change output rotating body 58B. The first predetermined speed change section 58 is configured to be able to select the ratio of the rotational speed of the first speed change output rotating body 58B to the rotational speed of the first speed change input rotating body 58A from the plurality of first speed ratios. The first speed change output rotating body 58B includes, for example, the shaft member 48.

[0071] The second predetermined speed change section 60 includes a second speed change input rotating body 60A and a second speed change output rotating body 60B. The second predetermined speed change section 60 is configured to be able to select the ratio of the rotational speed of the second speed change output rotating body 60B to the rotational speed of the second speed change input rotating body 60A from the plurality of second speed ratios. In a state where the housing 22 is attached to the frame, the driving force output from the second speed change output rotating body 60B is configured to be transmitted to the drive wheels of the human-powered vehicle via, for example, the transmission member 16. The second speed change input rotating body 60A includes, for example, the shaft member 48. The second speed change output rotating body 60B includes, for example, the output rotating shaft 30A.

[0072] The first transmission input rotating body 58A is, for example, transmitted with a rotational force from the power transmission output portion 54N shown in FIG. 8. The first transmission input rotating body 58A is, for example, connected to the power transmission output portion 54N. The power transmission output portion 54N includes, for example, a gear or a spline. The first transmission input rotating body 58A includes, for example, a gear or a spline connected to the power transmission output portion 54N.

[0073] The first predetermined transmission portion 58 has, for example, a first planetary gear unit 62. The second planetary gear mechanism 56A includes, for example, the first planetary gear unit 62. The first planetary gear unit 62 includes, for example, a first planetary gear 64, a first sun gear 66 meshing with the first planetary gear 64, and a first ring gear 68 meshing with the first planetary gear 64.

[0074] The first planetary gear 64 is, for example, one of a plurality of first planetary gears 64. Each of the plurality of first planetary gears 64 is, for example, arranged at intervals around the second central axis C2 of the shaft member 48. The number of the plurality of first planetary gears 64 is, for example, 2 or more and 8 or less. The number of the plurality of first planetary gears 64 is, for example, 4.

[0075] The first planetary gear 64 includes, for example, a first transmission planetary gear 64A and a second transmission planetary gear 64B having a pitch circle diameter larger than that of the first transmission planetary gear 64A. The first transmission planetary gear 64A and the second transmission planetary gear 64B are, for example, integrally formed. The first transmission planetary gear 64A and the second transmission planetary gear 64B may be formed separately and configured to rotate integrally.

[0076] The first sun gear 66 may be one of a plurality of first sun gears 66. The first sun gear 66 meshes with, for example, the second transmission planetary gear 64B. The rotation central axis of the first sun gear 66 is substantially equal to the second central axis C2 of the shaft member 48.

[0077] The first ring gear 68 is, for example, one of a plurality of first ring gears 68. Each of the plurality of first ring gears 68 is rotatable, for example, independently of one another. The plurality of first ring gears 68 includes, for example, a first speed-changing ring gear 68A and a second speed-changing ring gear 68B. The first speed-changing ring gear 68A meshes with, for example, the first speed-changing planetary gear 64A. The second speed-changing ring gear 68B meshes with, for example, the second speed-changing planetary gear 64B.

[0078] The first planetary gear unit 62 includes, for example, a first carrier 70 that supports the first planetary gear 64. The first carrier 70 has, for example, a first carrier portion 72A and a second carrier portion 72B. The first carrier portion 72A is formed integrally with the first speed-changing input rotator 58A.

[0079] The first carrier 70 has, for example, a first carrier pin 70A. The first carrier pin 70A rotatably supports, for example, the first planetary gear 64. The first carrier pin 70A is disposed, for example, in the axial direction A1 between the first carrier portion 72A and the second carrier portion 72B. The first carrier pin 70A may rotatably support the first planetary gear 64 via a bearing.

[0080] The first carrier pin 70A has, for example, a first pin end portion 70B that is one end portion and a second pin end portion 70C that is the other end portion in the axial direction A1. The first pin end portion 70B is supported by, for example, the first carrier portion 72A. The second pin end portion 70C is supported by, for example, the second carrier portion 72B.

[0081] The first carrier pin 70A may have the first pin end 70B fixed to the first carrier portion 72A and the second pin end 70C fixed to the second carrier portion 72B. The first carrier pin 70A may have the first pin end 70B rotatably supported by the first carrier portion 72A and the second pin end 70C rotatably supported by the second carrier portion 72B. When the first pin end 70B is rotatably supported by the first carrier portion 72A and the second pin end 70C is rotatably supported by the second carrier portion 72B, the first planetary gear 64 may be non-rotatably supported by the first carrier pin 70A.

[0082] The second predetermined speed change section 60 has, for example, a plurality of second planetary gear mechanisms 56A. Each of the plurality of second speed change ratios corresponds to, for example, each of the plurality of second planetary gear mechanisms 56A.

[0083] The second predetermined speed change section 60 has, for example, a second planetary gear unit 76. The second planetary gear unit 76 includes, for example, a second planetary gear 78, a second sun gear 80 meshing with the second planetary gear 78, and a second ring gear 82 meshing with the second planetary gear 78.

[0084] The second planetary gear 78 is, for example, one of the plurality of second planetary gears 78. Each of the plurality of second planetary gears 78 is arranged, for example, at intervals around the second central axis C2 of the shaft member 48. The number of the plurality of second planetary gears 78 is, for example, 2 or more and 8 or less. The number of the plurality of second planetary gears 78 is, for example, 4.

[0085] The second planetary gear 78 includes, for example, a third speed change planetary gear 78A and a fourth speed change planetary gear 78B having a smaller pitch circle diameter than the third speed change planetary gear 78A. The third speed change planetary gear 78A and the fourth speed change planetary gear 78B are, for example, integrally formed. The third speed change planetary gear 78A and the fourth speed change planetary gear 78B may be formed separately and configured to rotate integrally.

[0086] The second sun gear 80 may be one of a plurality of second sun gears 80. The second sun gear 80 meshes with, for example, the fourth speed planetary gear 78B. The rotational central axis of the second sun gear 80 is substantially equal to the second central axis C2 of the shaft member 48.

[0087] The second ring gear 82 includes, for example, the third speed ring gear 82A. The second ring gear 82 meshes with, for example, the third speed planetary gear 78A. The second ring gear 82 may be one of a plurality of second ring gears 82. In this case, each of the plurality of second ring gears 82 is rotatable, for example, independently of each other.

[0088] The second planetary gear unit 76 includes, for example, a second carrier 84 that supports the second planetary gear 78. The second carrier 84 has, for example, a third carrier portion 86 and a fourth carrier portion 88.

[0089] The second carrier 84 has, for example, second carrier pins 84A. The second carrier pins 84A rotatably support, for example, the second planetary gear 78. The second carrier pins 84A are arranged, for example, in the axial direction A1 between the third carrier portion 86 and the fourth carrier portion 88. The second carrier pins 84A may rotatably support the second planetary gear 78 via bearings.

[0090] The second carrier pins 84A have, for example, a third pin end 84B that is one end and a fourth pin end 84C that is the other end in the axial direction A1. The third pin end 84B is supported by, for example, the third carrier portion 86. The fourth pin end 84C is supported by, for example, the fourth carrier portion 88.

[0091] The second carrier pin 84A may have the third pin end 84B fixed to the third carrier part 86 and the fourth pin end 84C fixed to the fourth carrier part 88. The second carrier pin 84A may have the third pin end 84B rotatably supported by the third carrier part 86 and the fourth pin end 84C rotatably supported by the fourth carrier part 88. When the third pin end 84B is rotatably supported by the third carrier part 86 and the fourth pin end 84C is rotatably supported by the fourth carrier part 88, the second planetary gear 78 may be non-rotatably supported by the second carrier pin 84A.

[0092] The first predetermined speed change part 58 further has, for example, a third planetary gear unit 90. The second planetary gear mechanism 56A includes, for example, the third planetary gear unit 90. The third planetary gear unit 90 includes, for example, a third planetary gear 92, a third sun gear 94 meshing with the third planetary gear 92, and a third ring gear 96 meshing with the third planetary gear 92.

[0093] The third planetary gear 92 is, for example, one of a plurality of third planetary gears 92. Each of the plurality of third planetary gears 92 is arranged, for example, at intervals around the second central axis C2 of the shaft member 48. The number of the plurality of third planetary gears 92 is, for example, 2 or more and 8 or less. The number of the plurality of third planetary gears 92 is, for example, 4.

[0094] The third planetary gear 92 includes, for example, a fifth speed change planetary gear 92A and a sixth speed change planetary gear 92B having a pitch circle diameter larger than that of the fifth speed change planetary gear 92A. The fifth speed change planetary gear 92A and the sixth speed change planetary gear 92B are, for example, integrally formed. The fifth speed change planetary gear 92A and the sixth speed change planetary gear 92B may be formed separately and configured to rotate integrally.

[0095] The third sun gear 94 may be one of a plurality of third sun gears 94. The third sun gear 94 meshes with, for example, the fifth speed change planetary gear 92A. The rotation center axis of the third sun gear 94 is substantially equal to the second central axis C2 of the shaft member 48.

[0096] The first sun gear 66 and the third sun gear 94 are integrally formed, for example. The first sun gear 66 and the third sun gear 94 may be formed separately and configured to rotate integrally. The pitch circle diameter of the first sun gear 66 is smaller than that of the third sun gear 94, for example.

[0097] The first sun gear 66 and the third sun gear 94 are formed separately from the shaft member 48, for example, and configured to rotate integrally with the shaft member 48. The first sun gear 66 and the third sun gear 94 are formed on the outer peripheral portion of the first cylindrical member 58D, for example. A first engaging portion 58E is formed on the inner peripheral portion of the first cylindrical member 58D, for example. The first engaging portion 58E includes, for example, a spline or serration. The first engaging portion 58E engages with the first shaft member engaging portion 48A of the shaft member 48, for example. The first shaft member engaging portion 48A includes, for example, a spline or serration. The first shaft member engaging portion 48A is formed integrally with the shaft member 48, for example. The first sun gear 66 and the third sun gear 94 may be formed integrally with the shaft member 48.

[0098] The third ring gear 96 is one of a plurality of third ring gears 96, for example. Each of the plurality of third ring gears 96 is rotatable independently of each other, for example. The plurality of third ring gears 96 includes, for example, a fourth shift ring gear 96A and a fifth shift ring gear 96B. The fourth shift ring gear 96A meshes with the fifth shift planet gear 92A, for example. The fifth shift ring gear 96B meshes with the sixth shift planet gear 92B, for example.

[0099] The third planetary gear unit 90 includes, for example, a third carrier 98 that supports the third planetary gear 92. The third carrier 98 has, for example, a first carrier portion 100 and a second carrier portion 102.

[0100] The third carrier 98 has, for example, a third carrier pin 98A. The third carrier pin 98A rotatably supports, for example, the third planetary gear 92. The third carrier pin 98A is disposed, for example, in the axial direction A1 between the first carrier portion 100 and the second carrier portion 102. The third carrier pin 98A may rotatably support the third planetary gear 92 via a bearing.

[0101] The third carrier pin 98A has, for example, a fifth pin end portion 98B which is one end portion and a sixth pin end portion 98C which is the other end portion in the axial direction A1. The fifth pin end portion 98B is supported by, for example, the first carrier portion 100. The sixth pin end portion 98C is supported by, for example, the second carrier portion 102.

[0102] The third carrier pin 98A may be such that the fifth pin end portion 98B is fixed to the first carrier portion 100 and the sixth pin end portion 98C is fixed to the second carrier portion 102. The third carrier pin 98A may be such that the fifth pin end portion 98B is rotatably supported by the first carrier portion 100 and the sixth pin end portion 98C is rotatably supported by the second carrier portion 102. When the fifth pin end portion 98B is rotatably supported by the first carrier portion 100 and the sixth pin end portion 98C is rotatably supported by the second carrier portion 102, the third planetary gear 92 may be non-rotatably supported by the third carrier pin 98A.

[0103] A part of the first carrier 70 is formed integrally with, for example, a part of the third carrier 98. The first carrier portion 100 is, for example, a part of the first carrier 70 and also a part of the third carrier 98. The second carrier portion 102 is, for example, a part of the first carrier 70 and also a part of the third carrier 98.

[0104] The third carrier pin 98A is formed as a separate member from, for example, the first carrier pin 70A and is arranged at an interval from the first carrier pin 70A. The first carrier pin 70A is, for example, one of a plurality of first carrier pins 70A corresponding to a plurality of first planet gears 64. The third carrier pin 98A is, for example, one of a plurality of third carrier pins 98A corresponding to a plurality of third planet gears 92. The plurality of first carrier pins 70A and the plurality of third carrier pins 98A are arranged alternately at equal intervals around the second central axis C2 of the shaft member 48, for example.

[0105] The second predetermined speed change unit 60 further includes, for example, a fourth planetary gear unit 104. The fourth planetary gear unit 104 includes, for example, a fourth planetary gear 106, a fourth sun gear 108 that meshes with the fourth planetary gear 106, and a fourth ring gear 110 that meshes with the fourth planetary gear 106.

[0106] The fourth planetary gear 106 is, for example, one of a plurality of fourth planetary gears 106. Each of the plurality of fourth planetary gears 106 is arranged at an interval around the second central axis C2 of the shaft member 48, for example. The number of the plurality of fourth planetary gears 106 is, for example, 2 or more and 8 or less. The number of the plurality of fourth planetary gears 106 is, for example, 4.

[0107] The fourth sun gear 108 may be one of a plurality of fourth sun gears 108. The fourth sun gear 108 meshes with the fourth planetary gear 106, for example. The rotation central axis of the fourth sun gear 108 is substantially equal to the second central axis C2 of the shaft member 48.

[0108] The second sun gear 80 and the fourth sun gear 108 are integrally formed, for example. The second sun gear 80 and the fourth sun gear 108 may be formed separately and configured to rotate integrally.

[0109] The second sun gear 80 and the fourth sun gear 108 are formed separately from the shaft member 48, for example, and rotate integrally with the shaft member 48. The second sun gear 80 and the fourth sun gear 108 are formed on the outer peripheral portion of the second cylindrical member 98D, for example. On the inner peripheral portion of the second cylindrical member 98D, a second engaging portion 98E is formed, for example. The second engaging portion 98E includes, for example, splines or serrations. The second engaging portion 98E engages with the second shaft member engaging portion 48B of the shaft member 48, for example. The second shaft member engaging portion 48B includes, for example, splines or serrations. The second shaft member engaging portion 48B is formed integrally with the shaft member 48, for example. The second sun gear 80 and the fourth sun gear 108 may be formed integrally with the shaft member 48, for example.

[0110] The fourth ring gear 110 includes, for example, a sixth speed change ring gear 110A. The fourth ring gear 110 meshes with the fourth planet gear 106, for example. The fourth ring gear 110 may be one of a plurality of fourth ring gears 110. In this case, each of the plurality of fourth ring gears 110 is rotatable independently of each other, for example.

[0111] The fourth planetary gear unit 104 includes, for example, a fourth carrier 112 that supports the fourth planet gear 106. The fourth carrier 112 has, for example, a third carrier portion 86 and a fourth carrier portion 88.

[0112] The fourth carrier 112 has, for example, a fourth carrier pin 112A. The fourth carrier pin 112A rotatably supports the fourth planet gear 106, for example. The fourth carrier pin 112A is disposed between the third carrier portion 86 and the fourth carrier portion 88 in the axial direction A1, for example. The fourth carrier pin 112A may rotatably support the fourth planet gear 106 via a bearing.

[0113] The fourth carrier pin 112A has, for example, at one end, a seventh pin end 112B and, at the other end, an eighth pin end 112C in the axial direction A1. The seventh pin end 112B is supported by, for example, the third carrier part 86. The eighth pin end 112C is supported by, for example, the fourth carrier part 88.

[0114] For the fourth carrier pin 112A, the seventh pin end 112B may be fixed to the third carrier part 86 and the eighth pin end 112C may be fixed to the fourth carrier part 88. For the fourth carrier pin 112A, the seventh pin end 112B may be rotatably supported by the third carrier part 86 and the eighth pin end 112C may be rotatably supported by the fourth carrier part 88. When the seventh pin end 112B is rotatably supported by the third carrier part 86 and the eighth pin end 112C is rotatably supported by the fourth carrier part 88, the fourth planetary gear 106 may be non-rotatably supported by the fourth carrier pin 112A.

[0115] The fourth carrier 112 is, for example, the same carrier as the second carrier 84. The fourth carrier pin 112A is, for example, the same carrier pin as the second carrier pin 84A. The second planetary gear 78 and the fourth planetary gear 106 are arranged side by side in the axial direction A1, for example. The fourth carrier 112 may be a carrier different from the second carrier 84, for example. The fourth carrier pin 112A may be a carrier pin different from the second carrier pin 84A, for example.

[0116] The second predetermined speed change part 60 further has, for example, a fifth planetary gear unit 114. The fifth planetary gear unit 114 includes, for example, a fifth planetary gear 116, a fifth carrier 118 that supports the fifth planetary gear 116, a fifth sun gear 120 that meshes with the fifth planetary gear 116, and a fifth ring gear 122 that meshes with the fifth planetary gear 116.

[0117] The fifth planetary gear 116 is, for example, one of a plurality of fifth planetary gears 116. Each of the plurality of fifth planetary gears 116 is, for example, arranged at intervals around the second central axis C2 of the shaft member 48. The number of the plurality of fifth planetary gears 116 is, for example, 2 or more and 8 or less. The number of the plurality of fifth planetary gears 116 is, for example, 4.

[0118] The fifth planetary gear 116 includes, for example, an eighth-speed planetary gear 116A and a ninth-speed planetary gear 116B having a pitch circle diameter larger than that of the eighth-speed planetary gear 116A. The eighth-speed planetary gear 116A and the ninth-speed planetary gear 116B are, for example, integrally formed. The eighth-speed planetary gear 116A and the ninth-speed planetary gear 116B may be formed separately and configured to rotate integrally.

[0119] The fifth sun gear 120 may be one of a plurality of fifth sun gears 120. The fifth sun gear 120 meshes with, for example, the ninth-speed planetary gear 116B. The rotation center axis of the fifth sun gear 120 is substantially equal to the second central axis C2 of the shaft member 48.

[0120] The fifth sun gear 120 is, for example, integrally formed with the shaft member 48. The fifth sun gear 120 may be formed separately from the shaft member 48 and connected to rotate integrally with the shaft member 48 by a spline or serration.

[0121] The first sun gear 66, the second sun gear 80, the third sun gear 94, the fourth sun gear 108, and the fifth sun gear 120 are, for example, configured to rotate integrally in a first direction around the second central axis C2 of the shaft member 48. The first sun gear 66, the second sun gear 80, the third sun gear 94, the fourth sun gear 108, and the fifth sun gear 120 may be configured to rotate integrally in a second direction opposite to the first direction around the second central axis C2 of the shaft member 48.

[0122] The pitch circle diameter of the first sun gear 66 is, for example, larger than the pitch circle diameter of the fifth sun gear 120. The pitch circle diameter of the first sun gear 66 is, for example, smaller than the respective pitch circle diameters of the second sun gear 80, the third sun gear 94, and the fourth sun gear 108.

[0123] The pitch circle diameter of the second sun gear 80 is, for example, larger than the respective pitch circle diameters of the first sun gear 66 and the fifth sun gear 120. The pitch circle diameter of the second sun gear 80 is, for example, smaller than the respective pitch circle diameters of the third sun gear 94 and the fourth sun gear 108.

[0124] The pitch circle diameter of the third sun gear 94 is, for example, larger than the respective pitch circle diameters of the first sun gear 66, the second sun gear 80, the fourth sun gear 108, and the fifth sun gear 120.

[0125] The pitch circle diameter of the fourth sun gear 108 is, for example, larger than the respective pitch circle diameters of the first sun gear 66, the second sun gear 80, and the fifth sun gear 120. The pitch circle diameter of the fourth sun gear 108 is, for example, smaller than the third sun gear 94.

[0126] The fifth sun gear 120 is, for example, smaller than the respective pitch circle diameters of the first sun gear 66, the second sun gear 80, the third sun gear 94, and the fourth sun gear 108.

[0127] The fifth ring gear 122 includes, for example, the seventh shift ring gear 122A. The fifth ring gear 122 meshes with, for example, the eighth shift planetary gear 116A. The fifth ring gear 122 may be one of a plurality of fifth ring gears 122. In this case, each of the plurality of fifth ring gears 122 is, for example, rotatable independently of each other.

[0128] A part of the fifth carrier 118 is, for example, integrally formed with a part of the second carrier 84. A part of the fifth carrier 118 is, for example, integrally formed with a part of the fourth carrier 112.

[0129] The fifth carrier 118 has, for example, a fifth carrier pin 118A. The fifth carrier pin 118A rotatably supports, for example, the fifth planet gear 116. The fifth carrier 118 includes, for example, a third carrier portion 86, a fourth carrier portion 88, and a fifth carrier portion 118X. The fifth carrier pin 118A is supported by, for example, the third carrier portion 86, the fourth carrier portion 88, and the fifth carrier portion 118X.

[0130] The fifth carrier pin 118A has, for example, a ninth pin end 118B at one end and a tenth pin end 118C at the other end in the axial direction A1. The ninth pin end 118B is supported by, for example, the third carrier portion 86. The tenth pin end 118C is supported by, for example, the fifth carrier portion 118X. The fourth carrier portion 88 is disposed, for example, between the third carrier portion 86 and the fifth carrier portion 118X. The fourth carrier portion 88 supports, for example, a portion of the fifth carrier pin 118A between the third carrier portion 86 and the fifth carrier portion 118X.

[0131] The fifth carrier pin 118A may be such that, for example, the ninth pin end 118B is fixed to the third carrier portion 86 and the tenth pin end 118C is fixed to the fifth carrier portion 118X. The fifth carrier pin 118A may be such that, for example, the ninth pin end 118B is rotatably supported by the third carrier portion 86 and the tenth pin end 118C is rotatably supported by the fifth carrier portion 118X. When the ninth pin end 118B is rotatably supported by the third carrier portion 86 and the tenth pin end 118C is rotatably supported by the fifth carrier portion 118X, the fifth planet gear 116 may be non-rotatably supported by the fifth carrier pin 118A.

[0132] The fifth carrier pin 118A is formed as a separate member from, for example, the second carrier pin 84A and the fourth carrier pin 112A, and is arranged at an interval from the second carrier pin 84A and the fourth carrier pin 112A. The second carrier pin 84A is, for example, one of a plurality of second carrier pins 84A corresponding to a plurality of second planetary gears 78. The fourth carrier pin 112A is, for example, one of a plurality of fourth carrier pins 112A corresponding to a plurality of fourth planetary gears 106. The fifth carrier pin 118A is, for example, one of a plurality of fifth carrier pins 118A corresponding to a plurality of fifth planetary gears 116. The plurality of second carrier pins 84A and the plurality of fifth carrier pins 118A are arranged alternately at equal intervals around the second central axis C2 of the shaft member 48, for example. The plurality of fourth carrier pins 112A and the plurality of fifth carrier pins 118A are arranged alternately at equal intervals around the second central axis C2 of the shaft member 48, for example.

[0133] For the first predetermined speed change section 58, for example, one of the first ring gear 68 and the third ring gear 96 has its rotational state controlled, whereby one of a plurality of first speed change ratios is selected. For the second predetermined speed change section 60, for example, one of the second ring gear 82, the fourth ring gear 110, and the fifth ring gear 122 has its rotational state controlled, whereby one of a plurality of second speed change ratios is selected. For the transmission 46, for example, one of the first ring gear 68, the second ring gear 82, the third ring gear 96, the fourth ring gear 110, and the fifth ring gear 122 has its rotational state controlled, whereby one of a plurality of second speed change ratios is selected.

[0134] The transmission 46 has, for example, a plurality of transmission paths. The plurality of transmission paths constitute part of the transmission path of the input driving force. The driving force input from the power transmission output part 54N to the first transmission input rotating body 58A is output to the first rotating body 14 via any one of the plurality of transmission paths. The plurality of transmission paths include a first transmission path, a second transmission path, a third transmission path, a fourth transmission path, a fifth transmission path, a sixth transmission path, a seventh transmission path, an eighth transmission path, a ninth transmission path, a tenth transmission path, an eleventh transmission path, and a twelfth transmission path.

[0135] The first transmission path is, for example, a transmission path in which the driving force input to the first transmission input rotating body 58A is output to the first rotating body 14 via the third carrier 98, the sixth transmission planetary gear 92B, the third sun gear 94, the shaft member 48, the fifth sun gear 120, the ninth transmission planetary gear 116B, and the fifth carrier part 118X.

[0136] The second transmission path is, for example, a transmission path in which the driving force input to the first transmission input rotating body 58A is output to the first rotating body 14 via the third carrier 98, the fifth transmission planetary gear 92A, the third sun gear 94, the shaft member 48, the fifth sun gear 120, the ninth transmission planetary gear 116B, and the fifth carrier part 118X.

[0137] The third transmission path is, for example, a transmission path in which the driving force input to the first transmission input rotating body 58A is output to the first rotating body 14 via the first carrier 70, the second transmission planetary gear 64B, the first sun gear 66, the shaft member 48, the fifth sun gear 120, the ninth transmission planetary gear 116B, and the fifth carrier part 118X.

[0138] The fourth transmission path is, for example, a transmission path in which the driving force input to the first transmission input rotating body 58A is output to the first rotating body 14 via the first carrier 70, the first transmission planetary gear 64A, the second transmission planetary gear 64B, the first sun gear 66, the shaft member 48, the fifth sun gear 120, the ninth transmission planetary gear 116B, and the fifth carrier part 118X.

[0139] The fifth transmission path is, for example, a transmission path in which the driving force input to the first transmission input rotating body 58A is output to the first rotating body 14 via the third carrier 98, the sixth transmission planetary gear 92B, the third sun gear 94, the shaft member 48, the fourth sun gear 108, the fourth planetary gear 106, the fourth carrier portion 88, and the fifth carrier portion 118X.

[0140] The sixth transmission path is, for example, a transmission path in which the driving force input to the first transmission input rotating body 58A is output to the first rotating body 14 via the third carrier 98, the fifth transmission planetary gear 92A, the third sun gear 94, the shaft member 48, the fourth sun gear 108, the fourth planetary gear 106, the fourth carrier portion 88, and the fifth carrier portion 118X.

[0141] The seventh transmission path is, for example, a transmission path in which the driving force input to the first transmission input rotating body 58A is output to the first rotating body 14 via the first carrier 70, the second transmission planetary gear 64B, the first sun gear 66, the shaft member 48, the fourth sun gear 108, the fourth planetary gear 106, the fourth carrier portion 88, and the fifth carrier portion 118X.

[0142] The eighth transmission path is, for example, a transmission path in which the driving force input to the first transmission input rotating body 58A is output to the first rotating body 14 via the first carrier 70, the first transmission planetary gear 64A, the second transmission planetary gear 64B, the first sun gear 66, the shaft member 48, the fourth sun gear 108, the fourth planetary gear 106, the fourth carrier portion 88, and the fifth carrier portion 118X.

[0143] The ninth transmission path is, for example, a transmission path in which the driving force input to the first transmission input rotating body 58A is output to the output rotating shaft 30A via the third carrier 98, the sixth transmission planetary gear 92B, the third sun gear 94, the shaft member 48, the second sun gear 80, the fourth transmission planetary gear 78B, the fourth carrier portion 88, and the fifth carrier portion 118X.

[0144] The tenth transmission path is, for example, a transmission path in which the driving force input to the first transmission input rotating body 58A is output to the output rotating shaft 30A via the third carrier 98, the fifth transmission planetary gear 92A, the third sun gear 94, the shaft member 48, the second sun gear 80, the fourth transmission planetary gear 78B, the fourth carrier portion 88, and the fifth carrier portion 118X.

[0145] The eleventh transmission path is, for example, a transmission path in which the driving force input to the first transmission input rotating body 58A is output to the output rotating shaft 30A via the first carrier 70, the second transmission planetary gear 64B, the first sun gear 66, the shaft member 48, the second sun gear 80, the fourth transmission planetary gear 78B, the fourth carrier portion 88, and the fifth carrier portion 118X.

[0146] The twelfth transmission path is, for example, a transmission path in which the driving force input to the first transmission input rotating body 58A is output to the output rotating shaft 30A via the first carrier 70, the first transmission planetary gear 64A, the second transmission planetary gear 64B, the first sun gear 66, the shaft member 48, the second sun gear 80, the fourth transmission planetary gear 78B, the fourth carrier portion 88, and the fifth carrier portion 118X.

[0147] The first to twelfth transmission paths are selected, for example, according to the rotation states of the plurality of transmission ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, 122A. The rotation states of the plurality of transmission ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, 122A are switched, for example, between an allowable state and a regulated state. In the regulated state, the rotation of the plurality of transmission ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, 122A relative to the housing 22 is regulated. In the allowable state, the rotation of the plurality of transmission ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, 122A relative to the housing 22 is allowed. In the regulated state, if only the rotation of the plurality of transmission ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, 122A in one direction around the second central axis C2 of the shaft member 48 is regulated in order for the transmission 46 to transmit the input driving force, the rotation in the other direction may not be regulated.

[0148] Table 1 shows the rotational states of the transmission ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, 122A included in the first predetermined speed change section 58 and the rotational states of the transmission ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, 122A included in the second predetermined speed change section 60 in each transmission path. The transmission ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, 122A included in the first predetermined speed change section 58 include, for example, the first transmission ring gear 68A, the second transmission ring gear 68B, the fourth transmission ring gear 96A, and the fifth transmission ring gear 96B. The transmission ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, 122A included in the second predetermined speed change section 60 include, for example, the third transmission ring gear 82A, the sixth transmission ring gear 110A, and the seventh transmission ring gear 122A. In Table 1, when the rotational states of the first transmission ring gear 68A, the second transmission ring gear 68B, the third transmission ring gear 82A, the fourth transmission ring gear 96A, the fifth transmission ring gear 96B, the sixth transmission ring gear 110A, and the seventh transmission ring gear 122A are in a regulated state, they are indicated by "〇". In Table 1, when the rotational states of the first transmission ring gear 68A, the second transmission ring gear 68B, the third transmission ring gear 82A, the fourth transmission ring gear 96A, the fifth transmission ring gear 96B, the sixth transmission ring gear 110A, and the seventh transmission ring gear 122A are in a permitted state, they are indicated by "×".

[0149]

Table 1

[0150] The regulated and permitted states of the respective shift ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, and 122A are selected by the rotation control unit 124. Each of the shift ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, and 122A has, for example, at least one engaged portion. The at least one engaged portion is provided, for example, on the outer peripheral portion of each of the shift ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, and 122A. The at least one engaged portion includes, for example, a plurality of engaged portions. The plurality of engaged portions are arranged at intervals on the outer peripheral portion of each of the plurality of shift ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, and 122A around the second central axis C2 of the shaft member 48. The engaged portion includes, for example, a concave portion or a convex portion.

[0151] As shown in FIGS. 7, 12, and 13, the control unit 36 includes a drive unit 36A driven by the electric power generated by the power generation unit 34. The control unit 36 controls the transmission unit 32 so as to change a predetermined ratio. The drive unit 36A includes, for example, an electric motor 36B. The control unit 36 further includes, for example, a speed reducer 36C connected to the electric motor 36B.

[0152] As shown in FIGS. 5, 11, and 12, the control unit 36 has, for example, a rotation control unit 124 that controls a predetermined transmission unit 56. The rotation control unit 124 has, for example, a camshaft 126, a cam portion 128, and a control member 130. The control member 130 is provided for each of the shift ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, and 122A. The control member 130 operates between the cam portion 128 and the shift ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, and 122A. For example, by controlling the rotation state of the shift ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, and 122A by the control member 130, one of a plurality of different second ratios is selected.

[0153] The control member 130 includes, for example, a contact portion that contacts the cam portion 128 and an engagement portion that engages with the engaged portion. The contact portion and the engagement portion are integrally formed. The engagement portion includes, for example, a convex portion or a concave portion.

[0154] The rotation control unit 124 restricts the rotation of the speed change ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, 122A, for example, by the engagement portion of the control member 130 engaging with the engaged portions of the speed change ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, 122A. In this case, the speed change ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, 122A are in a restricted state. The rotation control unit 124 allows the rotation state of the speed change ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, 122A, for example, by the engagement between the engagement portion of the control member 130 and the engaged portions of the speed change ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, 122A being released. In this case, the speed change ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, 122A are in an allowed state.

[0155] The rotation control unit 124 switches, for example, the rotation state of the speed change ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, 122A between an allowed state and a restricted state, thereby switching from one of the plurality of transmission paths to another one of the plurality of transmission paths.

[0156] The rotation control unit 124 includes, for example, a first rotation control unit 124A corresponding to the first predetermined speed change unit 58 and a second rotation control unit 124B corresponding to the second predetermined speed change unit 60.

[0157] The first rotation control unit 124A includes, for example, the first camshaft 126A and controls the first predetermined speed change unit 58. The first rotation control unit 124A is configured to select, for example, one of a plurality of first speed change ratios of the first predetermined speed change unit 58 in accordance with the rotation of the first camshaft 126A. The first rotation control unit 124A is configured to select, for example, one of a plurality of first speed change ratios of the first predetermined speed change unit 58 by controlling the rotation state of the first ring gear 68 in accordance with the rotation of the first camshaft 126A.

[0158] The cam portion 128 and the control member 130 are provided, for example, for each of the plurality of transmission ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, 122A. The first rotation control unit 124A restricts the rotation of the first transmission ring gear 68A, for example, by engaging the engaging portion of the control member 130 with the engaged portion of the first transmission ring gear 68A. The first rotation control unit 124A restricts the rotation of the second transmission ring gear 68B, for example, by engaging the engaging portion of the control member 130 with the engaged portion of the second transmission ring gear 68B.

[0159] The control unit 36 includes, for example, an interlocking mechanism 132. The interlocking mechanism 132 includes, for example, a control shaft 132A. The control member 130 is rotatably supported, for example, about the rotation axis of the control shaft 132A. The interlocking mechanism 132 includes, for example, a biasing member. The biasing member biases the control member 130 about the rotation axis of the control shaft 132A so that the control member 130 contacts the cam portion 128, for example. The biasing member includes, for example, a torsion coil spring. The biasing member may include, for example, a coil spring.

[0160] The control unit 36 includes, for example, a drive shaft 134 that rotates the first camshaft 126A and the second camshaft 126B via the interlocking mechanism 132. The interlocking mechanism 132 interlocks the first camshaft 126A and the second camshaft 126B, for example. The drive shaft 134 extends parallel to the first camshaft 126A and the second camshaft 126B, for example.

[0161] The interlocking mechanism 132 is configured to interlock the first camshaft 126A and the second camshaft 126B so that the rotations of the first ring gear 68 and the second ring gear 82 are restricted regardless of the rotational phase of the drive shaft 134. The interlocking mechanism 132 is configured to interlock the first camshaft 126A and the second camshaft 126B so that the rotation of any one of the first ring gear 68, the second ring gear 82, the third ring gear 96, the fourth ring gear 110, and the fifth ring gear 122 is restricted regardless of the rotational phase of the drive shaft 134.

[0162] The drive unit 36A is connected to the drive shaft 134 via, for example, a speed reducer 36C. When the electric motor of the drive unit 36A is driven, the drive shaft 134 rotates. The drive unit 36A switches, for example, the rotational states of the shift ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, 122A between a restricted state and a permitted state by rotating the drive shaft 134, and selects one of a plurality of transmission paths. The drive unit 36A switches, for example, the rotational states of the shift ring gears 68A, 68B, 82A, 96A, 96B, 110A, 122A between a restricted state and a permitted state while the drive shaft 134 makes three rotations, and selects any one of the first to twelfth transmission paths.

[0163] As shown in FIGS. 7 and 11, the power generation unit 34 generates power by the rotation of the intermediate rotating body 42. The intermediate rotating body 42 is included in, for example, the ratio changing unit 44. The intermediate rotating body 42 is, for example, a member that rotates integrally with the first output rotating body 44A. The intermediate rotating body 42 shown in FIG. 7 is the first transmission input rotating body 58A that rotates integrally with the first output rotating body 44A. The intermediate rotating body 42 may be, for example, the first output rotating body 44A. The power generation unit 34 is provided, for example, on the shaft member 48. The power generation unit 34 is disposed, for example, at least partially between the second ratio changing unit 52 and the transmission 46 in the axial direction A1 of the shaft member 48.

[0164] The power generation unit 34 includes, for example, a generator 34A. The generator 34A includes, for example, a rectifier circuit. The generator 34A includes, for example, a dynamo. The generator 34A includes, for example, a stator and a rotor that rotates as the intermediate rotating body 42 rotates. One of the stator and the rotor includes a coil, and the other of the stator and the rotor includes a magnet. The generator 34A may include a DC generator, an AC generator, an eddy current generator, etc. The power generation unit 34 may include an inverter circuit.

[0165] The power generation unit 34 includes, for example, a transmission mechanism 34B that connects the generator 34A and the intermediate rotating body 42. The transmission mechanism 34B may include a plurality of gears, may include a pulley and a belt, and may include a sprocket and a chain. The transmission mechanism 34B is configured such that, for example, the rotational speed of the rotor is equal to or higher than the rotational speed of the intermediate rotating body 42. The transmission mechanism 34B may be configured such that the rotational speed of the rotor is smaller than the rotational speed of the intermediate rotating body 42.

[0166] As shown in FIG. 13, the speed change device 30 further includes, for example, a power storage unit 136 in which the power generated by the power generation unit 34 is stored. The power storage unit 136 includes, for example, at least one of a battery and a capacitor. The battery may be a primary battery or a secondary battery.

[0167] The speed change device 30 further includes, for example, a power generation control circuit 138. The power generation control circuit 138 is supplied with, for example, the power generated by the power generation unit 34. The power generation control circuit 138 is supplied with, for example, the power of the power storage unit 136.

[0168] The power generation control circuit 138 includes, for example, a power generation control device 138A. The power generation control device 138A is provided, for example, on one or a plurality of circuit boards. The power generation control device 138A includes, for example, an arithmetic processing unit that executes a predetermined control program. The arithmetic processing unit includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The arithmetic processing units may be provided at a plurality of locations separated from each other. The power generation control device 138A may include one or a plurality of microcomputers.

[0169] The power generation control device 138A includes, for example, a storage unit. Various control programs and information used for various control processes are stored in the storage unit. The storage unit includes, for example, at least one of a non-volatile memory and a volatile memory. The non-volatile 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).

[0170] The power generation control circuit 138 is configured to control, for example, the power generation unit 34. The power generation control circuit 138 is configured to control, for example, the power generation unit 34. The power generation control circuit 138 is configured to switch, for example, the power generation state of the power generation unit 34 between an on state in which the power generation unit 34 can generate power and an off state in which the power generation unit 34 cannot generate power.

[0171] The power generation control circuit 138 is configured to control the power generation unit 34 according to, for example, at least one of the running state of the human-powered vehicle and the running environment of the human-powered vehicle. The power generation control circuit 138 controls the power generation unit 34 so that the power generation state of the power generation unit 34 becomes the on state, for example, at least one of during acceleration, low-speed running, deceleration, and downhill running of the human-powered vehicle.

[0172] The power generation control circuit 138 is configured to control the power generation unit 34, for example, according to the power storage amount of the power storage unit 136. When the power storage amount of the power storage unit 136 becomes equal to or less than a predetermined power storage amount, the power generation control circuit 138 controls the power generation unit 34 so that the power generation state of the power generation unit 34 becomes an on state. When the voltage of the power storage unit 136 becomes equal to or less than a predetermined voltage, the power generation control circuit 138 controls the power generation unit 34 so that the power generation state of the power generation unit 34 becomes an on state.

[0173] The drive unit 36A may further include a shift control circuit 140 that controls the electric motor 36B. The shift control circuit 140 is supplied with the electric power generated by the power generation unit 34, for example. The shift control circuit 140 is supplied with the electric power of the power storage unit 136, for example. The shift control circuit 140 may include an inverter circuit that controls the electric motor 36B.

[0174] The shift control circuit 140 includes a shift control device 140A, for example. The shift control device 140A is provided on one or a plurality of circuit boards, for example. The shift control device 140A is configured to control the drive unit 36A, for example. The shift control device 140A includes an arithmetic processing unit that executes a predetermined control program, for example. The arithmetic processing unit includes a CPU or an MPU, for example. The arithmetic processing units may be provided at a plurality of locations separated from each other. The shift control device 140A may include one or a plurality of microcomputers.

[0175] The shift control device 140A includes a storage unit, for example. Various control programs and information used for various control processes are stored in the storage unit. The storage unit includes at least one of a non-volatile memory and a volatile memory, for example. The non-volatile memory includes at least one of a ROM, an EPROM, an EEPROM, and a flash memory, for example. The volatile memory includes a RAM, for example.

[0176] At least a part of the shift control circuit 140 may be configured integrally with at least a part of the power generation control circuit 138, and the entire shift control circuit 140 may be configured separately from the power generation control circuit 138. The shift control circuit 140 may be provided on a single substrate with the power generation control circuit 138, or may be provided on different substrates. The shift control device 140A may be configured integrally with at least a part of the power generation control device 138A, or the entire shift control device 140A may be configured separately.

[0177] The shift control circuit 140 is configured to control the drive unit 36A, for example, in response to a shift signal from a shift operation device. The shift control circuit 140 may be connected to the shift operation device via a wireless communication device, or may be connected via an electric cable. Instead of or in addition to the shift signal from the shift operation device, the shift control circuit 140 may control the drive unit 36A to change the second ratio in response to a signal from a sensor mounted on the human-powered vehicle. The signal from the sensor mounted on the human-powered vehicle relates to, for example, the running state of the human-powered vehicle and the running environment of the human-powered vehicle.

[0178] The transmission 30 further includes a detection unit 142 that detects at least one of, for example, the running state of the human-powered vehicle and the running environment of the human-powered vehicle. The detection unit 142 is configured to transmit a detection signal to the power generation control circuit 138, for example. The power generation control circuit 138 is configured to control the power generation unit 34, for example, in response to the detection signal received from the detection unit 142. The detection unit 142 is configured to transmit a detection signal to the shift control circuit 140, for example. The shift control circuit 140 is configured to control the drive unit 36A, for example, in response to the detection signal received from the detection unit 142. The detection unit 142 is supplied with, for example, the power generated by the power generation unit 34. The detection unit 142 may be supplied with power from a power supply unit different from the power generation unit 34.

[0179] The detection unit 142 includes, for example, a torque sensor. The torque sensor detects information regarding the input driving force, for example. The torque sensor includes a strain sensor, a magnetostrictive sensor, a pressure sensor, or the like, for example. The torque sensor is provided, for example, on a member included in the transmission path of the input driving force. The torque sensor is provided, for example, on the power transmission carrier 54D. The torque sensor may be provided on the crankshaft 10, may be provided on the transmission 46, or may be provided on the output rotation shaft 30A.

[0180] Instead of or in addition to the torque sensor, the detection unit 142 may include at least one of a crank rotation state detection unit, an acceleration detection unit, an inclination detection unit, and a vehicle speed detection unit. The crank rotation state detection unit is configured to detect, for example, the rotation speed of the crankshaft 10. The acceleration detection unit is configured to detect, for example, the acceleration in the traveling direction of the human-powered vehicle. The inclination detection unit is configured to detect at least one of the pitch angle, roll angle, and yaw angle of the human-powered vehicle, for example. The vehicle speed detection unit is configured to detect, for example, the rotation speed of the wheels. The vehicle speed detection unit is provided, for example, at a position in the housing 22 where the rotation speed of the wheels can be detected.

[0181] <Modification example> The description of each embodiment is an exemplification of forms that components for a human-powered vehicle and a transmission for a human-powered vehicle according to the present disclosure can take, and is not intended to limit such forms. Components for a human-powered vehicle and a transmission for a human-powered vehicle according to the present disclosure can take, for example, modification examples of each of the embodiments shown below, and forms in which at least two non-conflicting modification examples are combined. In the following modification examples, parts common to the forms of each embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in each embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted.

[0182] · As shown in FIG. 14, the generator 34A may be disposed between the second ratio changing unit 52 and the transmission 46. In the modification example of FIG. 14, for example, the magnet of the generator 34A is attached to the first output rotating body 44A, and the coil of the generator 34A is disposed so as to surround the first output rotating body 44A.

[0183] · The power storage unit 136 may be omitted from the transmission 30. When the transmission 30 does not include the power storage unit 136, the power generation control circuit 138 may be configured to control the power generation unit 34 so that the power generation unit 34 generates power when driving the drive unit 36A.

[0184] · The shaft member 48 may be coaxial with the crankshaft 10. When the shaft member 48 is coaxial with the crankshaft 10, the shaft member 48 may be, for example, a hollow member surrounding the crankshaft 10.

[0185] · In the transmission path of the manual driving force, for example, a second one-way clutch may be provided between the first rotating body 14 and the drive wheel. The second one-way clutch includes, for example, at least one of a roller clutch, a claw clutch, and a sprag clutch. The second one-way clutch rotates the drive wheel forward, for example, when the first rotating body 14 rotates forward. The second one-way clutch suppresses the reverse rotation of the drive wheel, for example, when the first rotating body 14 rotates backward. The forward rotation direction of the drive wheel corresponds to, for example, the rotation direction of the drive wheel when the manual driven vehicle moves forward. In this modification example, the power generation unit 34 is configured to generate power when the intermediate rotating body 42 rotates by the manual driving force.

[0186] · At least one of the minimum second ratio and the maximum second ratio of the transmission 46 can be changed as appropriate. The minimum second ratio of the transmission 46 may be greater than 1. The maximum second ratio of the transmission 46 may be 1 or less.

[0187] · The transmission 46 may omit the first predetermined transmission unit 58, and may omit the second predetermined transmission unit 60. The transmission 46 may include three or more predetermined transmission units 56.

[0188] · Instead of or in addition to the predetermined transmission unit 56, the transmission 46 may include a transmission unit having a transmission mechanism different from the planetary gear mechanism. The transmission 46 may include, for example, a transmission unit having a manual transmission including a clutch, or may include a transmission unit having a continuously variable transmission.

[0189] · The component 20 may be provided on the axle of the wheel of the human-powered vehicle. In this modification example, the component 20 is provided, for example, on the wheel axle of the drive wheel. The drive wheel includes, for example, the rear wheel. The shaft member 48 includes, for example, a hub shaft. The output rotating body 40 includes, for example, a hub shell. The output rotating shaft 30A is formed integrally with the output rotating body 40, for example. The hub shell is formed integrally with the housing 22, for example. The hub shell may be formed separately from the housing 22 and configured to rotate integrally. The component 20 is provided, for example, on the rear hub of the rear wheel.

[0190] As used herein, the expression "at least one" means "one or more" of the desired options. As an example, as used herein, the expression "at least one" means "only one option" or "both of the two options" if the number of options is two. As another example, as used herein, the expression "at least one" means "only one option" or "any combination of two or more options" if the number of options is three or more.

[0191] As for the ordinal numbers such as "first", "second", and "third" used herein, they are merely used to distinguish a plurality of members having the same name and do not have a special meaning.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0192] 10…Crankshaft, 14…First rotating body, 20…Component, 22…Housing, 30…Transmission, 32…Shifting section, 34…Power generation section, 34A…Generator, 36…Control section, 36A…Drive section, 36B…Electric motor, 36C…Reducer, 38…Input rotating body, 40…Output rotating body, 42…Intermediate rotating body, 44…Ratio changing section, 44A…First output rotating body, 46…Transmission, 48…Shaft member, 50…First ratio changing section, 52…Second ratio changing section, 54…First planetary gear mechanism, 56A…Second planetary gear mechanism, 136…Power storage section, 138…Power generation control circuit, 142…Detection section.

Claims

1. A speed change device for a human-powered vehicle including a first rotating body to which a human driving force input to a crankshaft is transmitted, including an input rotating body connected to the crankshaft, an output rotating body that outputs torque input to the input rotating body to the first rotating body, and an intermediate rotating body that transmits torque input to the input rotating body to the output rotating body, and a speed change unit capable of changing a predetermined ratio that is a ratio of the rotational speed of the output rotating body to the rotational speed of the input rotating body, a power generation unit that generates power by rotation of the intermediate rotating body, including a drive unit driven by electric power generated by the power generation unit, and a control unit that controls the speed change unit so as to change the predetermined ratio. A speed change device.

2. The speed change unit includes a ratio change unit connected to the crankshaft, and a transmission connected to the ratio change unit and transmitting the driving force input from the ratio change unit to the output rotating body, the ratio change unit includes a first output rotating body connected to the transmission, and a first ratio that is a ratio of the rotational speed of the first output rotating body to the rotational speed of the crankshaft is configured to be a first predetermined ratio, the transmission changes the predetermined ratio by changing a second ratio that is a ratio of the rotational speed of the output rotating body to the rotational speed of the first output rotating body, the intermediate rotating body is included in the ratio change unit. The speed change device according to claim 1.

3. The first predetermined ratio is greater than 1. The speed change device according to claim 2.

4. The intermediate rotating body is the first output rotating body. The speed change device according to claim 2.

5. The ratio change unit includes a first ratio change unit to which a driving force is input from the crankshaft, and a second ratio change unit that outputs the driving force input from the first ratio change unit to the transmission. The speed change device according to claim 2.

6. The second ratio change unit includes a first planetary gear mechanism. The speed change device according to claim 5.

7. further comprising a shaft member different from the crankshaft, the second ratio change unit is provided on the shaft member. The speed change device according to claim 5.

8. further comprising a shaft member different from the crankshaft, the transmission is provided on the shaft member. The speed change device according to claim 2.

9. The power generation unit is provided on the shaft member. The speed change device according to claim 7.

10. The transmission is provided on the shaft member, The power generation unit is provided on the shaft member, and at least a part thereof is disposed between the second ratio change unit and the transmission in the axial direction of the shaft member, according to the transmission device of claim 7.

11. The transmission includes at least one second planetary gear mechanism, according to the transmission device of claim 2.

12. The transmission device according to claim 1 further includes a power storage unit for storing the power generated by the power generation unit.

13. The power generation unit includes a generator, according to the transmission device of claim 1.

14. The transmission device according to claim 1 further includes a power generation control circuit configured to control the power generation unit.

15. The power generation control circuit is configured to control the power generation unit according to at least one of the running state of the human-powered vehicle and the running environment of the human-powered vehicle, according to the transmission device of claim 14.

16. The transmission device according to claim 15 further includes a detection unit for detecting at least one of the running state of the human-powered vehicle and the running environment of the human-powered vehicle.

17. The transmission device further includes a power generation control circuit configured to control the power generation unit, The power generation control circuit is configured to control the power generation unit according to the power storage amount of the power storage unit, according to the transmission device of claim 12.

18. The drive unit includes an electric motor, The control unit further includes a speed reducer connected to the electric motor, according to the transmission device of claim 1.

19. The transmission device according to claim 1 further includes the crankshaft.

20. A component for a human-powered vehicle, The transmission device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, and A housing forming a housing space for accommodating the transmission device.

Images