Article transport bicycle

Abstract

To provide an article transport bicycle which can transport more articles when transporting articles to an upper floor of a building.SOLUTION: An article transport bicycle 100 includes a storage part 1 in which an article 50 is stored, and a frame part 2 provided with a storage-part supporting part 2d supporting the storage part 1 between a handlebar 20 and a front wheel 10a. The storage part 1 is removably attached to the storage-part supporting part 2d.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a bicycle for transporting goods. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Bicycles for transporting goods have been disclosed in the past (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] The above-mentioned Patent Document 1 discloses a bicycle with a frame, a front wheel, a rear wheel, and a basket placed above the front wheel. The bicycle in Patent Document 1 discloses that the frame can be separated into a front frame and a rear frame, and the front frame can be used as a pushcart. The article transport bicycle disclosed in the above-mentioned Patent Document 1 can be used inside a building when the front frame is separated from the rear frame. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Unexamined Utility Model Publication No. 49-58041 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In the article-carrying bicycle disclosed in Patent Document 1, the front separable bicycle section (front frame) separated from the rear separable bicycle section (rear frame) can be used inside a building, but since the front separable bicycle section cannot be operated while climbing stairs, an elevator must be used to transport articles to the upper floors of a building. However, if an elevator is not installed in the building, the driver must stop the front separable bicycle section, remove the articles from the car (storage section), and then carry the articles up the stairs while holding them directly, which creates the problem of not being able to transport many articles.

[0006] This invention was made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and one object of this invention is to provide an article-carrying bicycle that can transport many articles to the upper floors of a building, regardless of whether an elevator is available or not. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, one aspect of the present invention provides an article-transporting bicycle comprising: a storage section for storing articles; wheels including front and rear wheels; a handlebar; and a frame section to which a saddle is attached, and a storage section support section for supporting the storage section on the front wheel side of the handlebar; the frame section including a rear detachable bicycle section consisting of a rear portion to which the saddle and rear wheel are attached; and a front detachable bicycle section consisting of a front portion to which the storage section support section, handlebar, and front wheel are attached, and which is separable from the rear detachable bicycle section; the storage section is attached to the storage section support section in a detachable manner.

[0008] In one aspect of the present invention, the frame includes a rear detachable bicycle section, which is a rear portion of the frame where the saddle and rear wheel are mounted, and a front detachable bicycle section, which is a front portion of the frame where the storage support section, handlebars, and front wheel are mounted and is separable from the rear detachable bicycle section. The storage section is detachably attached to the storage support section. The inclusion of a front detachable bicycle section that is separable from the rear detachable bicycle section allows items to be stored and transported in the storage section supported on the front detachable bicycle section when separated from the rear detachable bicycle section. This allows for transporting a large number of items even in buildings where the bicycle cannot pass through, and also allows for transporting a large number of items to upper floors by using an elevator. Furthermore, because the storage section can be detached by sliding, for example, the driver can store and transport a large number of items in the storage section even in buildings without elevators. As a result, a large number of items can be transported to upper floors of a building regardless of whether an elevator is available.

[0009] In the article transport bicycle according to the above aspect, the storage support section is preferably disposed between the front wheel and the handlebars, with the lower end of the storage section located below the upper end of the front wheel. With this configuration, by providing the storage support section between the front wheel and the handlebars, the storage support section is located rearward of the front wheel, allowing for a longer vertical length of the storage support section compared to providing the storage support section above the front wheel. Furthermore, since the lower end of the storage section is located below the upper end of the front wheel, the vertical length of the storage section can be increased, thereby increasing the storage section's volume. As a result, items can be stored and transported in the storage section even when transporting through areas where it is difficult for the detached front bicycle section to pass through. Furthermore, since the lower end of the storage section is located below the upper end of the front wheel, the center of gravity of the vehicle body is lowered, which increases stability when the front bicycle section is detached and used alone, reducing the burden on the rider during transport.

[0010] The article transport bicycle according to one aspect of the present invention preferably further includes a ground contact member attached to the front wheel of the front detachable bicycle unit and used to both keep the article transport bicycle stationary and allow the detached front detachable bicycle unit to move. The ground contact member includes a stand that contacts the ground to keep the article transport bicycle stationary, and a first training wheel that is integral with the stand and contacts the ground to allow the detached front detachable bicycle unit to move. This configuration simplifies the device configuration while minimizing the number of parts required, unlike when the stand and the first training wheel are provided separately. Furthermore, by changing the portion of the ground contact member that contacts the ground, the article transport bicycle can be easily switched between moving and being stopped.

[0011] In this case, the ground contact member is preferably configured to rotate to switch between a first state in which the stand unit contacts the ground and remains stationary; a second state in which the first training wheel contacts the ground, thereby operating at least one of the separated front and rear bicycle units; and a third state in which both the stand unit and the first training wheel are off the ground on an article transport bicycle with the front and rear bicycle units connected together, and further includes an angle retention mechanism that maintains the tilt angle in each state. With this configuration, the first, second, and third states can be easily switched by rotating the ground contact member. Furthermore, the provision of the angle retention mechanism makes it easy to maintain the first, second, and third states.

[0012] The article transport bicycle according to the above aspect preferably includes a first drive unit disposed on the front detachable bicycle unit, and further includes a first assist mechanism that, when the front detachable bicycle unit separates from the rear detachable bicycle unit, assists the first drive unit in rotating the front wheel. Here, after the front detachable bicycle unit is separated, the rider must push the front detachable bicycle unit to transport it. Therefore, with this configuration, when it is difficult to push the front detachable bicycle unit, such as when the items in the storage compartment are heavy, the rider can easily transport the items by assisting the rotation of the front wheel.

[0013] In this case, preferably, the bicycle system further includes a detector that detects separation of the front bicycle section from the rear bicycle section, and the first assist mechanism is attached to the front wheel and is configured to initiate an assist mode to assist with the rotation of the front wheel when the detector detects that the front bicycle section has separated from the rear bicycle section. With this configuration, when the front bicycle section separates from the rear bicycle section, the assist mode to assist with the rotation of the front wheel is initiated without the rider having to perform any specific operation, thereby reducing the rider's effort.

[0014] The above-described configuration including a detector preferably further includes a second drive unit disposed on the rear bicycle unit, a second assist mechanism that assists rotation of the rear wheel when the front and rear bicycle units are coupled, and a battery that supplies power to the first and second drive units, and is configured so that the battery's power supply is switched from the second drive unit to the first drive unit when the detector detects that the front bicycle unit has separated from the rear bicycle unit. This configuration allows a common battery to be used for both the first and second drive units, thereby minimizing the number of parts. Furthermore, because the battery's power supply is switched from the second drive unit to the first drive unit when the detector detects that the front bicycle unit has separated from the rear bicycle unit, there is no need to switch the power supply source, saving the rider time and effort.

[0015] In an article transport bicycle in which the ground contact portion includes a first training wheel, the bicycle preferably further includes a second training wheel that is provided on at least one of the front detachable bicycle section and the stand section, is positioned vertically higher than the first training wheel, and is configured to be able to contact a step when the front detachable bicycle section tilts due to the step. With this configuration, when traveling over a step with the front detachable bicycle section separated, the second training wheel can contact the step, making it easier to push the front detachable bicycle section.

[0016] In the article transport bicycle according to the first aspect, the rear detachable bicycle section preferably has a mounting section to which a towed transport vehicle can be attached. By configuring it in this way, attaching a towed transport vehicle allows for stable transport of more articles. Furthermore, when traveling on winding roads, the rear detachable bicycle section can be separated to allow for tight maneuverability with only the front detachable bicycle section.

[0017] In an article transport bicycle equipped with the angle retention mechanism, the angle retention mechanism preferably includes a foot pedal that rotates the ground contact member, and a stopper that is attached to the ground contact member and stops the rotation of the ground contact member by contacting the foot pedal. With this configuration, the rider can easily rotate the ground contact member by operating the foot pedal, simplifying the structure compared to when a drive source and motor are provided to rotate the ground contact member.

[0018] In an article transport bicycle equipped with the above-described angle retention mechanism, the angle retention mechanism preferably further includes an elastic member that returns the first auxiliary wheel to a predetermined position, which is the position of the first auxiliary wheel on a flat surface, when the step causes the first auxiliary wheel to rotate backward. With this configuration, the first auxiliary wheel can be made to abut against the step even when the article transport bicycle tilts due to the first auxiliary wheel rotating backward due to the step. Furthermore, the elastic member allows the first auxiliary wheel to return to the predetermined position, ensuring that the first auxiliary wheel can abut against the ground when traveling on a flat surface after traveling over a step. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] The present invention provides an article carrying bicycle that can carry a large number of articles when transporting articles to the upper floors of a building. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing an article transport bicycle according to a first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a side view showing an article transport bicycle according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] 10 is a view showing the front detachable bicycle section separated from the rear detachable bicycle section in the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the separated front bicycle section in the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 10A and 10B show the connection of the front detachable bicycle section. [Figure 6] 10A and 10B are views showing the connection of the rear detachable bicycle section; [Figure 7] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining a method for fixing the front detachable bicycle part to the rear detachable bicycle part. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a ground contact member. [Figure 9] 1A to 1C are side views showing first to third states. [Figure 10] 4A and 4B are diagrams for explaining an angle holding mechanism in the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an article transport bicycle according to a second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a second auxiliary wheel. [Figure 13] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining an angle holding mechanism in a third embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an article transport bicycle according to a fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0022] [First embodiment] The configuration of an article transport bicycle 100 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 10. The vertical direction (up-down direction) is defined as the Z direction, with the upper side of the vertical direction defined as the Z1 side and the lower side defined as the Z2 side. The front-to-rear direction of the bicycle is defined as the Y direction, with the front defined as the Y2 side and the rear defined as the Y1 side. The left-to-right direction perpendicular to the Y and Z directions is defined as the X direction, with the left side as viewed from the front defined as the X2 side and the right side as viewed from the front defined as the X1 side. In this specification, "along the X direction" refers not only to a direction parallel to the arrow indicating the X direction in the drawings, but also to a direction connecting the X1 side and the X2 side, even if the direction is not parallel to the arrow indicating the X direction in the drawings. Furthermore, "along the Y direction" refers not only to a direction parallel to the arrow indicating the Y direction in the drawings, but also to a direction connecting the Y1 side and the Y2 side, even if the direction is not parallel to the arrow indicating the Y direction in the drawings. Furthermore, when it is stated that something is along the Z direction, it not only refers to a case where it is parallel to the arrow indicating the Z direction shown in the drawing, but also includes a case where it is not parallel to the arrow indicating the Z direction shown in the drawing but connects the Z1 side and the Z2 side.

[0023] (Structure of a bicycle for transporting goods) As shown in FIG. 1, the article transport bicycle 100 is used to transport articles 50 (see FIG. 2). The article transport bicycle 100 may be used for business purposes such as delivery, or for home use. The articles 50 include merchandise and luggage. The article transport bicycle 100 is a two-wheeled bicycle. The article transport bicycle may also be a tricycle with two front or two rear wheels. FIG. 1 shows an example of the article transport bicycle 100 equipped with a towed transportation vehicle 100a and a front storage section 100b. The width W in the left-right direction of the towed transportation vehicle 100a is larger than the maximum width in the left-right direction of the article transport bicycle 100.

[0024] As shown in Figure 2, the goods transport bicycle 100 includes a storage section 1, a frame section 2, a ground contact member 3, and a battery 4. The goods transport bicycle 100 is an electric bicycle that can be assisted by the battery 4.

[0025] (Storage section) The storage section 1 is configured to store one or more items 50. The storage section 1 is, for example, a box-shaped storage bag. The storage section 1 has an openable lid 1a. The storage section 1 is formed to have sufficient strength to prevent deformation when storing the items 50 or when being raised or lowered. For example, the storage section 1 is formed from a strong material such as synthetic resin. As another example, the storage section 1 may be formed from cloth and a reinforcing material (for example, a metal frame). Examples of synthetic resins used for the storage section 1 include nylon, polyvinyl chloride [PVC], polyester, acrylic, polycarbonate, and ABS. Examples of cloth used for the storage section 1 include canvas. It is preferable that the storage section 1 be waterproof. The storage section 1 has an attachment member 11 that is attached to the frame section 2. For example, the attachment member 11 is a hook. Other examples of the attachment member include a hook-and-loop fastener, a zipper, a snap button, and a magnet.

[0026] The storage unit 1 is configured to be detachable from the storage unit support portion 2d of the frame portion 2. One method for attaching and detaching the storage unit 1 is to slide the storage unit 1 in the X direction to detach it from the storage unit support portion 2d. In this case, a sliding mechanism (not shown) is provided on the article transport bicycle 100. As another example, the storage unit can be removed from the storage unit support portion by lifting it in the Z1 direction, and attached to the storage unit support portion by moving it in the Z2 direction.

[0027] (frame part) As shown in Fig. 2, the frame section 2 is configured to extend along the Y direction. The frame section 2 is provided with bearing sections 2a that hold the rotational axes of the wheels 10, including the front wheel 10a and the rear wheel 10b, a first support section 2b that supports the handlebars 20, a second support section 2c that mounts the saddle 30, and a housing support section 2d that supports the housing section 1. Pedals 40 are also attached to the frame section 2. Chains are also attached to the frame section 2 to transmit the force exerted when the pedals 40 are rotated to the rear wheel 10b.

[0028] The bearing portion 2a extends in the Z direction and is inclined toward the Y2 side as it moves from the Z1 side to the Z2 side. The bearing portion 2a is provided on the X1 side and the X2 side of the wheel 10 so as to sandwich the wheel 10.

[0029] The first support column 2b extends in the Z direction. The handlebars 20 are attached to the first support column 2b so as to be movable in the Z direction. The handlebars 20 are held by the rider when driving and are used to operate the front wheels 10a. The handlebars 20 are provided with an operating unit 7. The rider operates the operating unit 7 to switch between a mode in which the battery 4 is driven to assist the rotation of the rear wheels 10b, and an unassisted mode in which the battery 4 is not driven.

[0030] The second support pillar 2c extends in the Z direction and is inclined toward the Y2 side as it moves from the Z1 side to the Z2 side. The saddle 30 is attached to the second support pillar 2c so as to be movable in the Z direction. The saddle 30 is a member on which the driver sits while driving.

[0031] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the storage section support portion 2d is provided between the front wheel 10a and the handlebar 20. The storage section support portion 2d has a U-shape when viewed from the left-right direction. The storage section support portion 2d includes a front-wheel-side frame portion 211d, a handlebar-side frame portion 212d, and a support frame portion 213d. The support frame portion 213d is configured to connect the front-wheel-side frame portion 211d and the handlebar-side frame portion 212d. In addition, auxiliary frame portions 214d that support the sides of the storage section 1 are provided on the left and right sides of the storage section support portion 2d. The auxiliary frame portions 214d are attached to the front-wheel-side frame portion 211d and the handlebar-side frame portion 212d and are configured to be detachable. In another example, the auxiliary frame portions 214d may be configured to rotate in order to release the support for the sides of the storage section 1. In this case, the rotation center of the auxiliary frame portion 214d may be provided in any of the front-wheel-side frame portion 211d, the handlebar-side frame portion 212d, or the storage portion 1. When provided in the storage portion 1, the storage portion 1 may be attached to the support frame portion 213d, and then the auxiliary frame portion 214d may be rotated to abut against the front-wheel-side frame portion 211d or the handlebar-side frame portion 212d. The lower end of the storage portion support portion 2d is located lower than the upper end of the wheel 10.

[0032] When attaching the storage unit 1 to the storage unit support part 2d, the storage unit 1 is attached from above the storage unit support part 2d. The storage unit 1 is disposed between the front wheel side frame part 211d and the handle side frame part 212d of the storage unit support part 2d, and the bottom surface of the storage unit 1 abuts against the support frame part 213d. The storage unit 1 is also attached and fixed to the front wheel side frame part 211d by an attachment member. The sides of the storage unit 1 are also supported by the auxiliary frame parts 214d.

[0033] As shown in FIG. 3, the frame unit 2 includes a rear detachable bicycle unit 22 and a front detachable bicycle unit 21. The rear detachable bicycle unit 22 is made up of the rear portion of the frame unit 2, where the saddle 30 and rear wheel 10b are mounted. The front detachable bicycle unit 21 is made up of the front portion of the frame unit 2, where the storage unit support unit 2d, handlebars 20, and front wheel 10a are mounted. The rear portion of the frame unit 2 is defined as the area behind the first support column 2b. The front detachable bicycle unit 21 can be separated from the rear detachable bicycle unit 22. The separated front detachable bicycle unit 21 can be used as a cart for transporting items 50.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 3, the front and rear detachable bicycle sections 21 and 22 can be separated by lifting the front detachable bicycle section 21 vertically upward relative to the rear detachable bicycle section 22.

[0035] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the front and rear separate bicycle sections 21 and 22 are provided with L-shaped connecting portions 210 and 220, respectively, which connect the front and rear separate bicycle sections 21 and 22. The connecting portions 210 and 220 are also provided with guide portions 21a and 22a that extend vertically. The guide portion 21a is a recess formed in the connecting portion 210. The guide portion 22a is a protrusion formed in the connecting portion 220. The front separate bicycle section 21 can be detached from the rear separate bicycle section 22 by moving the guide portion 21a in the Z direction along the guide portion 22a. In addition, connecting portions 210 and 220 are provided with a connector 25 for transmitting the power of the battery 4 attached to the front detachable bicycle part 21 to the rear detachable bicycle part 22. When the front detachable bicycle part 21 is detached, the connector 25 comes off, and power from the battery 4 is not supplied to the rear wheel 10b.

[0036] The rear separate bicycle section 22 is equipped with a holder 22b that covers the connecting section 210 of the front separate bicycle section 21 and the connecting section 220 of the rear separate bicycle section 22 when the connecting section 210 and the connecting section 220 of the rear separate bicycle section 22 are connected, and a lock section 22c. The holder 22b has an arc shape. The holder 22b is configured to rotate to switch between a state in which it covers the connecting sections 210 and 220 and a state in which it does not cover the connecting sections 210 and 220.

[0037] Figure 7 shows the process for securing the connecting portion 210 of the front separate bicycle unit 21 and the connecting portion 220 of the rear separate bicycle unit 22 in a connected state. First, as shown in Figure 7(A), the connecting portion 210 of the front separate bicycle unit 21 and the connecting portion 220 of the rear separate bicycle unit 22 are connected. Next, as shown in Figure 7(B), the holder 22b is rotated so that the holder 22b covers the connected portion between the connecting portion 210 of the front separate bicycle unit 21 and the connecting portion 220 of the rear separate bicycle unit 22. Then, as shown in Figure 7(C), the locking portion 22c is rotated to engage with the holder 22b, thereby securing the connecting portion 210 of the front separate bicycle unit 21 and the connecting portion 220 of the rear separate bicycle unit 22 in a connected state. Furthermore, when releasing the connected state between the connecting portion 210 of the front separate bicycle section 21 and the connecting portion 220 of the rear separate bicycle section 22, the procedure for fastening them is reversed.

[0038] (Ground contact member) 8 and 9, the ground contact member 3 is provided on the front wheel 10a side of the front detachable bicycle unit 21 and is used both to keep the article carrying bicycle 100 stationary and to allow the detached front detachable bicycle unit 21 to move. The ground contact member 3 includes a stand unit 31 and a first training wheel 32. The ground contact member 3 further includes a rotating member 33 and an installation member 34.

[0039] The rotating member 33 includes a first portion 33a extending in the X direction in a stationary state and a second portion 33b extending in the Z direction. A first training wheel 32 and a stand unit 31 are attached to the left and right ends of the first portion 33a. Note that FIG. 8 illustrates an example in which the first training wheel 32 is located at the X1-side and X2-side ends of the ground contact member 3, and the stand unit 31 is located closer to the center in the X direction than the end where the first training wheel 32 is located. As another example, the stand unit 31 may be located at the end on the X1-side and X2-side of the first training wheel 32. A pair of second portions 33b are provided between the end and the center in the extension direction of the first portion 33a. An installation member 34 is provided at the end of the second portion 33b opposite the end connected to the first portion 33a in the extension direction of the second portion 33b. The installation member 34 is attached to the frame unit 2 so as to sandwich the frame unit 2 from the left and right. The installation member 34 is attached to a frame that connects the front wheel 10a, which is located below the storage unit support portion 2d, and the first support column 2b. The installation member 34 is configured to rotate around a portion that is attached and fixed to the frame that connects the front wheel 10a and the first support column 2b as the center of rotation. In this case, the installation member 34 rotates around an imaginary rotation axis extending along the X direction. As the installation member 34 rotates, the stand unit 31 and the first training wheel 32 rotate together. The connection portion between the installation member 34 and the frame unit 2 serves as the center of rotation when rotating the ground contact member 3. The installation member 34 is an annular member through which a protrusion provided on the frame unit 2 is inserted.

[0040] The stand 31 is configured to abut against the ground to keep the article transport bicycle 100 stationary. In the stationary state shown in Figure 8, the stand 31 is positioned to protrude further toward the Z2 side than the first training wheel 32.

[0041] The first training wheel 32 is configured to rotate around the part that contacts the first portion 33a as the center of rotation. The first training wheel 32 is configured to make contact with the ground to allow the separated front separated bicycle section 21 to travel. The first training wheel 32 protrudes beyond the stand section 31 in a direction perpendicular to both the direction in which the first portion 33a extends and the direction in which the second portion 33b extends. The diameter of the first training wheel 32 is configured to be smaller than the diameter of the front wheel 10a.

[0042] As shown in Figure 9, the ground contact member 3 is configured to rotate to switch between a first state in which the stand portion 31 is in contact with the ground and remains stopped, a second state in which the first training wheel 32 is in contact with the ground, allowing the separated front detachable bicycle portion 21 to move, and a third state in which the stand portion 31 and first training wheel 32 are both off the ground, allowing the article transport bicycle 100, which is made up of the combined front detachable bicycle portion 21 and rear detachable bicycle portion 22, to move.

[0043] In the third state, the stand 31 is configured to extend in the front-rear direction, with the first portion 33a extending in the X direction and the second portion 33b extending in the Y direction.

[0044] When the ground contact member 3 rotates from the third state toward the front wheel 10a, the state switches to the second state in which the first auxiliary wheel 32 contacts the ground. At this time, the first portion 33a extends along the X direction, and the second portion 33b extends along the Z direction.

[0045] As the ground contact member 3 rotates from the second state toward the front wheel 10a, the stand unit 31 switches to the first state in which it is in contact with the ground. At this time, the first portion 33a extends along the X direction, and the second portion 33b extends along the Z direction at a tilt angle different from that in the second state. When the ground contact member 3 rotates from the third state toward the front wheel 10a, the first training wheel 32 contacts the ground before the stand unit 31. Therefore, the stand unit 31 switches from the third state to the second state first, and then to the first state. The tilt angle is the angle between a line extending from the rotation center of the stand unit 31 in the Y1 direction and a line connecting the rotation center of the stand unit 31 and the center of the stand's contact surface. A tilt toward the Z2 side of the line extending from the rotation center of the stand unit 31 in the Y1 direction is represented by a positive value, and a tilt toward the Z1 side of the line extending from the rotation center of the stand unit 31 in the Y1 direction is represented by a negative value. If the tilt angle of the stand 31 in the first state is α, the tilt angle of the stand 31 in the second state is β, and the tilt angle of the stand 31 in the third state is θ, then, for example, α ranges from 100 degrees to 110 degrees, β ranges from 40 degrees to 60 degrees, and θ ranges from 5 degrees to -5 degrees. In Figure 9, θ is 0 degrees.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 10 , the ground contact member 3 further includes an angle retention mechanism 35 that maintains the inclination angle in each state. The angle retention mechanism 35 includes, for example, an air jack and an electric pump. The angle retention mechanism 35 is omitted from figures other than FIG. 10 of the first embodiment. The air jack includes a bag member. The air jack is configured to expand when air is supplied from a pump (not shown) and contract when the air is discharged. The angle retention mechanism 35 switches between a first state, a second state, and a third state depending on the amount of air supplied. FIG. 10(A) shows the first state, and FIG. 10(B) shows the second state. In the first state, a larger amount of air is supplied to the air jack than in the second state. In the third state, no air is supplied to the air jack. Air is supplied by operating the operating unit 7. In this case, a predetermined amount of air is automatically supplied by selecting one of the first to third states.

[0047] As shown in Figure 2, the rear detachable bicycle section 22 has an attachment section 6 to which a towed transportation vehicle 100a for transporting goods 50 can be attached. The attachment section 6 is located behind the saddle 30. The attachment section 6 has a protruding portion to which an annular member provided at the front end of the towed transportation vehicle 100a is attached.

[0048] (First assist mechanism) As shown in Fig. 3, the article transport bicycle 100 has a first assist mechanism 60 disposed in the front detachable bicycle section 21. Note that the first assist mechanism 60 is omitted from figures other than Fig. 3.

[0049] The first assist mechanism 60 includes a first drive unit 60a and a detection unit 60b. The first drive unit 60a is an in-wheel motor. The first assist mechanism 60 is attached to the hub of the front wheel 10a. When the front separate bicycle unit 21 separates from the rear separate bicycle unit 22, the first assist mechanism 60 is configured to activate an assist mode to assist the rotation of the front wheel 10a using the first drive unit 60a, thereby assisting the bicycle's travel. The detection unit 60b is configured to detect the separation of the front separate bicycle unit 21 from the rear separate bicycle unit 22. The detection unit 60b is also configured to detect the contact state between the front separate bicycle unit 21 and the rear separate bicycle unit 22. For example, the detection unit 60b may include a physical switch and be configured to detect the separation state and contact state using the physical switch. As another example, the detection unit 60b may include a Hall element or proximity sensor and be configured to detect the separation state and contact state according to the state of its output signal. The detector 60b is attached to the front separate bicycle section 21.

[0050] The first assist mechanism 60 may be configured to start an assist mode that assists the rotation of the front wheel 10a based on the detection unit 60b detecting that the front separate bicycle unit 21 has separated from the rear separate bicycle unit 22. Specifically, the first drive unit 60a is configured to rotate the front wheel 10a, thereby reducing the force required by the rider to steer the front separate bicycle unit 21.

[0051] (Second assist mechanism) The second assist mechanism 70 includes a second drive unit 70a disposed on the rear separate bicycle unit 22. The second drive unit 70a is attached to the rear wheel 10b. Alternatively, the second drive unit may be attached to the crank. The second assist mechanism 70 assists the rotation of the rear wheel 10b when the front separate bicycle unit 21 and the rear separate bicycle unit 22 are coupled together. Specifically, the second assist mechanism 70 is configured to generate a force that rotates the rear wheel 10b in response to a force that rotates the pedals 40. The second assist mechanism 70 is omitted from figures other than FIG. 3.

[0052] (battery) The battery 4 is configured to supply power to the first drive unit 60a and the second drive unit 70a. The battery 4 is configured to switch the power supply destination from the second drive unit 70a to the first drive unit 60a based on the detection unit 60b detecting that the front separate bicycle unit 21 has separated from the rear separate bicycle unit 22. For example, the switching is configured to be performed by switching the circuit. Furthermore, the battery 4 is configured to switch the power supply destination from the first drive unit 60a to the second drive unit 70a based on the detection unit 60b detecting that the front separate bicycle unit 21 has joined with the rear separate bicycle unit 22. The article transport bicycle 100 is equipped with a control unit (not shown) that controls the switching of the power supply destination from the battery 4 from the first drive unit 60a to the second drive unit 70a. In FIG. 3, the electrical connections are indicated by dashed lines.

[0053] (Example of using a bicycle to transport goods) An example of how the article transport bicycle 100 is used will be described. After storing articles 50 in the storage unit 1 and the towed transport vehicle 100a in a warehouse (not shown) where the articles to be transported are kept, the driver drives the article transport bicycle 100. Then, when it is difficult for the towed transport vehicle 100a to pass through, for example, when transporting articles into a building such as an apartment building or office building, the front detachable bicycle unit 21 is separated from the rear detachable bicycle unit 22. Furthermore, when it is difficult for the front detachable bicycle unit 21 to pass through, for example, stairs, the storage unit 1 is separated from the front detachable bicycle unit 21. This makes it possible to transport articles 50 even via stairs that are difficult for the article transport bicycle 100 to pass through.

[0054] (Effects of the first embodiment) In the first embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0055] In the first embodiment, as described above, the frame 2 includes a rear detachable bicycle section 22 consisting of the rear portion of the frame 2 where the saddle 30 and rear wheel 10b are mounted, and a front detachable bicycle section 21 consisting of the front portion of the frame 2 where the storage section support section 2d, handlebars 20, and front wheel 10a are mounted, and which is separable from the rear detachable bicycle section 22. The storage section 1 is detachably attached to the storage section support section 2d. By including the front detachable bicycle section 21 that is separable from the rear detachable bicycle section 22, articles 50 can be stored and transported in the storage section 1 supported by the front detachable bicycle section 21 separated from the rear detachable bicycle section 22. This allows articles 50 to be transported in a smaller space, even in buildings where the article transport bicycle 100 cannot pass through. Furthermore, articles 50 can be easily transported to upper floors by using a transport device installed in the building, such as an elevator. Furthermore, for example, since the storage section 1 can be detached by sliding it, even in a building without an elevator or the like, the driver can store many articles 50 in the storage section 1 and transport the articles 50. As a result, many articles 50 can be transported to the upper floors of a building regardless of whether an elevator or the like is installed.

[0056] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, as described above, the storage support portion 2d is disposed between the front wheel 10a and the handlebars 20, and the lower end of the storage portion 1 is located below the upper end of the front wheel 10a. By providing the storage support portion 2d between the front wheel 10a and the handlebars 20, the storage support portion 2d is located rearward of the front wheel 10a, allowing for a greater vertical length of the storage support portion 2d compared to providing the storage support portion 2d above the front wheel 10a. Furthermore, because the lower end of the storage portion 1 is located below the upper end of the front wheel 10a, the vertical length of the storage portion 1 can be increased, thereby increasing the volume of the storage portion 1. As a result, the storage portion 1 can store and transport items 50 even when transporting the separated front bicycle portion 21 through areas where it is difficult for the bicycle to pass through. Furthermore, since the lower end of the storage section 1 is located lower than the upper end of the front wheel 10a, the center of gravity of the vehicle body is lower, which increases stability when the front detachable bicycle section 21 is separated and used alone, reducing the burden on the driver when transporting.

[0057] As described above, the first embodiment further includes a ground contact member 3 provided on the front wheel 10a of the front detachable bicycle unit 21 and used to both keep the article transport bicycle 100 stationary and allow the detached front detachable bicycle unit 21 to move. The ground contact member 3 includes a stand unit 31 that contacts the ground to keep the article transport bicycle 100 stationary, and a first training wheel 32 that is integral with the stand unit 31 and contacts the ground to allow the detached front detachable bicycle unit 21 to move. This allows the ground contact member 3 to both keep the article transport bicycle 100 stationary and allow the detached front detachable bicycle unit 21 to move. This simplifies the device configuration while minimizing the number of parts, as opposed to providing the stand unit 31 and the first training wheel 32 separately. Furthermore, by changing the part of the ground contact member 3 that contacts the ground, the article transport bicycle 100 can easily be switched between moving and being stopped.

[0058] In the first embodiment, as described above, the ground contact member 3 is configured to rotate to switch between a first state in which the stand unit 31 contacts the ground and remains stationary; a second state in which the first training wheel 32 contacts the ground, thereby operating at least one of the separated front bicycle unit 21 or rear bicycle unit 22; and a third state in which the stand unit 31 and the first training wheel 32 are both off the ground, allowing the article transport bicycle 100 to travel with the front bicycle unit 21 and rear bicycle unit 22 connected. The ground contact member 3 further includes an angle retention mechanism 35 that maintains the inclination angle in each state. This allows easy switching between the first, second, and third states by rotating the ground contact member 3. Furthermore, the angle retention mechanism 35 makes it easy to maintain the first, second, and third states.

[0059] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, as described above, the bicycle vehicle includes a first drive unit 60a disposed on the front separate bicycle unit 21, and further includes a first assist mechanism 60 that uses the first drive unit 60a to assist the rotation of the front wheel when the front separate bicycle unit 21 is separated from the rear separate bicycle unit 22. Here, after the front separate bicycle unit 21 is separated, the rider needs to push the front separate bicycle unit 21 to transport it. Therefore, in cases where it is difficult to push the front separate bicycle unit 21, such as when the weight of the items 50 in the storage unit 1 is large, the rider can easily transport the items 50 by assisting the rotation of the front wheel 10a.

[0060] Furthermore, as described above, the first embodiment further includes a detector 60b that detects separation of the front separate bicycle unit 21 from the rear separate bicycle unit 22, and the first assist mechanism 60 is attached to the front wheel 10a and is configured to initiate an assist mode that assists the rotation of the front wheel 10a based on the detector 60b detecting that the front separate bicycle unit 21 has separated from the rear separate bicycle unit 22. As a result, when the front separate bicycle unit 21 separates from the rear separate bicycle unit 22, the assist mode that assists the rotation of the front wheel 10a is initiated without the rider having to perform any specific operation, thereby reducing the rider's effort. Furthermore, the start of the assist mode may be controlled, for example, by an operating switch (not shown) that switches the assist mode between on and off.

[0061] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, as described above, the bicycle bicycle includes the second drive unit 70a disposed on the rear separate bicycle unit 22, and further includes a second assist mechanism 70 that assists the rotation of the rear wheel 10b when the front separate bicycle unit 21 and the rear separate bicycle unit 22 are coupled, and a battery 4 that supplies power to the first drive unit 60a and the second drive unit 70a, and is configured so that the supply of power from the battery 4 is switched from the second drive unit 70a to the first drive unit 60a based on the detection unit 60b detecting that the front separate bicycle unit 21 has been separated from the rear separate bicycle unit 22. This allows the first drive unit 60a and the second drive unit 70a to use a common battery 4, thereby preventing an increase in the number of parts. Furthermore, the battery 4 is configured so that the power supply destination is switched from the second drive unit 70a to the first drive unit 60a based on the detection unit 60b detecting that the front detachable bicycle unit 21 has been separated from the rear detachable bicycle unit 22. This eliminates the need to switch the power supply source, thereby reducing the rider's workload.

[0062] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, as described above, the rear detachable bicycle section 22 has an attachment section 6 to which a transport vehicle 100a for transporting articles 50 can be attached. By attaching the transport vehicle 100a, it is possible to stably transport a greater number of articles 50. Furthermore, when traveling on winding roads, the rear detachable bicycle section 22 can be separated to allow only the front detachable bicycle section 21 to maneuver easily.

[0063] [Second embodiment] The configuration of an article transport bicycle 200 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 11 and 12. In the second embodiment, the article transport bicycle 200 has a first step-use wheel 81 and a second step-use wheel 82. Note that detailed description of the same configuration as in the first embodiment will be omitted in the second embodiment. Note that the first step-use wheel and the second step-use wheel are examples of the "second training wheels" set forth in the claims.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 11, the article transport bicycle 200 of the second embodiment further includes a first step-use wheel 81 and a second step-use wheel 82. In FIG. 11, one wheel each is provided on both the front separate bicycle unit 21 and the stand unit 31. Note that multiple wheels may be provided on both the front separate bicycle unit and the stand unit. The first step-use wheel 81 and the second step-use wheel 82 are configured to be positioned vertically higher than the first training wheel 32 in the second state in which the first training wheel 32 comes into contact with the ground, causing the separated front separate bicycle unit 21 to travel.

[0065] 12, the first step portion wheel 81 and the second step portion wheel 82 are provided as a pair in the left-right direction, similar to the first training wheel 32. At the inclined portion, at least one of the first training wheel 32 and the first step portion wheel 81 or the second step portion wheel 82 is configured to abut against the inclined portion.

[0066] The second step wheel 82 attached to the stand 31 is configured to rotate together with the stand 31. The first step wheel 81 attached to the front detachable bicycle unit 21 is attached closer to the front wheel 10a than the stand 31 and does not move.

[0067] As shown in FIG. 11 , the diameters of the first step-use wheel 81 and the second step-use wheel 82 are configured to be equal to or smaller than the diameter of the first training wheel 32. The diameters of the first step-use wheel 81 and the second step-use wheel 82 may be the same or different. When the diameters of the first step-use wheel 81 and the second step-use wheel 82 are made different, the diameters may be determined appropriately so that each wheel abuts on the step. As an example, the diameter of the first training wheel 32 may be 8 centimeters, and the diameters of the first step-use wheel 81 and the second step-use wheel 82 may both be 5 centimeters. In the second embodiment, as an example, motors are not mounted on the wheel portions of the first step-use wheel 81 and the second step-use wheel 82. As another example, a motor may be mounted on the wheel portions of the first and second step-use wheels to drive the first and second step-use wheels and assist the front and rear separate bicycle units. This makes it easier to move over steps. The other configurations of the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0068] (Effects of the second embodiment) In the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the frame 2 includes a rear separate bicycle section 22 consisting of the rear portion of the frame 2 where the saddle 30 and rear wheel 10b are provided, and a front separate bicycle section 21 consisting of the front portion of the frame 2 where the storage section support section 2d, handlebars 20, and front wheel 10a are provided, and which is separable from the rear separate bicycle section 22, and the storage section 1 is detachably attached to the storage section support section 2d. As a result, by including the front separate bicycle section 21 that is separable from the rear separate bicycle section 22, articles 50 can be stored and transported in the storage section 1 supported by the front separate bicycle section 21 separated from the rear separate bicycle section 22, so articles 50 can be easily transported even in buildings where the article transport bicycle 200 cannot pass, and many articles 50 can be transported to upper floors by using an elevator or the like. Furthermore, because the storage unit 1 is detachable, even in a building without an elevator or the like, the driver can store the article 50 in the storage unit 1 and transport the article 50. As a result, it is possible to transport many articles 50 to the upper floors of a building regardless of whether an elevator or the like is installed.

[0069] Furthermore, as described above, the second embodiment further includes a first step-use wheel 81 and a second step-use wheel 82 that are provided on at least one of the front detachable bicycle unit 21 and the stand unit 31, are positioned vertically higher than the first training wheel 32, and are configured to be able to abut against a step when the front detachable bicycle unit 21 tilts due to the step. As a result, when the front detachable bicycle unit 21 is separated and traveled over a step, at least one of the first step-use wheel 81 and the second step-use wheel 82 abuts against the step, making it easy to push the front detachable bicycle unit 21 and travel. Note that other effects of the second embodiment are similar to those of the first embodiment.

[0070] [Third embodiment] The configuration of an article carrying bicycle 300 according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 9 and 13. In the third embodiment, the angle retention mechanism 35 includes a foot pedal 35a instead of an air jack. Note that detailed description of the same components as those in the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 13, the angle retention mechanism 35 includes a foot pedal 35a, a stopper 35b, and a biasing member 35c. The foot pedal 35a is configured to rotate the ground contact member 3. The foot pedal 35a includes a contact portion 351a, a mounting portion 352a, and a rotation center portion 353a. The contact portion 351a is configured to contact the stopper 35b or the frame portion 2 as the foot pedal 35a rotates. The mounting portion 352a is where the rider places their foot to operate the foot pedal 35a. The rotation center portion 353a attaches the foot pedal 35a to the frame portion 2 and serves as the center of rotation for the foot pedal 35a. When the item transport bicycle 300 is in a third state, in which the foot pedal 35a is traveling, the foot pedal 35a extends along the Y direction.

[0072] In the third state, the stopper 35b is provided on the installation member 34 so as to protrude in the Z2 direction from the installation member 34 of the ground contact member 3. The stopper 35b is configured to stop the rotation of the ground contact member 3 by coming into contact with the foot pedal 35a.

[0073] The biasing member 35c connects the frame portion 2 and the ground contact member 3. In the first and second states, the biasing member 35c biases the ground contact member 3 to rotate clockwise from the Y1 side toward the Y2 side around a rotation axis extending in the X direction. In the third state, the biasing member 35c biases the ground contact member 3 to rotate counterclockwise from the Z2 side toward the Z1 side around a rotation axis extending in the X direction. The biasing member 35c is a spring. The clockwise and counterclockwise directions are based on the state when viewed from the X1 side to the X2 side in FIG. 13.

[0074] As shown in FIG. 13 , when the driver operates (depresses) the mounting portion 352a of the foot pedal 35a from the third state, the foot pedal 35a rotates in a direction away from the stopper 35b. Furthermore, the operation of the foot pedal 35a rotates the ground contact member 3. When the stopper 35b comes into contact with the foot pedal 35a, the rotation of the ground contact member 3 stops, and the state switches to the second state. When the driver depresses the mounting portion 352a of the foot pedal 35a from the second state, the foot pedal 35a rotates in a direction away from the stopper 35b. When the ground contact member 3 rotates to a position where the stopper 35b comes into contact with the frame portion 2, the state switches to the first state. The state switches from the first state to the third state by the biasing force of the biasing member 35c, without the need to operate the foot pedal 35a. In this case, in order to release the stopper 35b from contacting the frame portion 2, the driver may kick the ground contact member 3 rearward in the first state, or may move the vehicle body forward using the contact point of the ground contact member 3 as a fulcrum. The other configurations of the third embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0075] (Effects of the third embodiment) In the third embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the frame 2 includes a rear separate bicycle section 22 consisting of the rear portion of the frame 2 where the saddle 30 and rear wheel 10b are provided, and a front separate bicycle section 21 consisting of the front portion of the frame 2 where the storage section support section 2d, handlebars 20, and front wheel 10a are provided, and which is separable from the rear separate bicycle section 22, and the storage section 1 is detachably attached to the storage section support section 2d. As a result, by including the front separate bicycle section 21 that is separable from the rear separate bicycle section 22, many articles 50 can be stored and transported in the storage section 1 supported by the front separate bicycle section 21 separated from the rear separate bicycle section 22, so many articles 50 can be transported even in buildings where the article transport bicycle 300 cannot pass, and many articles 50 can be transported to upper floors by using an elevator. Furthermore, because the storage unit 1 is detachable, even in a building without an elevator, the driver can store many articles 50 in the storage unit 1 and transport the articles 50. As a result, many articles 50 can be transported to the upper floors of a building regardless of whether an elevator is installed.

[0076] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, as described above, the angle holding mechanism 35 includes a foot pedal 35a that rotates the ground contacting member 3, and a stopper 35b that is provided on the ground contacting member 3 and stops the rotation of the ground contacting member 3 by contacting the foot pedal 35a. This allows the driver to easily rotate the ground contacting member 3 by operating the foot pedal 35a, thereby simplifying the structure compared to when a drive source and a motor are provided to rotate the ground contacting member 3. Note that other effects of the third embodiment are similar to those of the first embodiment.

[0077] [Fourth embodiment] The configuration of an article carrying bicycle 400 according to a fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 9 and 14. In the fourth embodiment, the angle retention mechanism 35 includes an elastic member 51. Note that in the fourth embodiment, detailed description of the same configuration as in the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0078] As shown in Fig. 14, in the fourth embodiment, the ground contact member 3 is configured to rotate backward due to a step portion. For example, the ground contact member 3 may be configured to be prevented from rotating toward the Y1 side (rearward) on a flat portion, and to rotate toward the Y1 side (rearward) when the article carrying bicycle 400 is tilted. In this case, a rotation suppressing member (not shown) may be provided on the frame portion 2. One example of the rotation suppressing member is a spring, which stops rotation when the spring is in a contracted position.

[0079] The angle holding mechanism 35 includes an elastic member 51. One example of the elastic member 51 is a spring. Another example of the elastic member 51 is rubber. The elastic member 51 is configured to return the first training wheel 32 to a predetermined position, which is the position of the first training wheel on a flat portion, when the position of the first training wheel 32 rotates toward the Y1 side (rearward) due to a step portion. The predetermined position is a position where both the front wheel 10a and the first training wheel 32 contact the ground. The elastic member 51 biases the ground contact member 3 to rotate toward the Y2 side.

[0080] As shown in Figures 14(A) and 14(B), when going from a flat area to a step area, the ground contact member rotates backward, and the first auxiliary wheel rotates backward. Also, when returning to a flat area as shown in Figure 14(C), the ground contact member rotates forward and returns to its original position due to the biasing force of the elastic member 51. The other configurations of the fourth embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0081] (Effects of the fourth embodiment) In the fourth embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the frame 2 includes a rear separate bicycle section 22 consisting of the rear portion of the frame 2 where the saddle 30 and rear wheel 10b are provided, and a front separate bicycle section 21 consisting of the front portion of the frame 2 where the storage section support section 2d, handlebars 20, and front wheel 10a are provided, and which is separable from the rear separate bicycle section 22. The storage section 1 is detachably attached to the storage section support section 2d. Thus, by including the front separate bicycle section 21 that is separable from the rear separate bicycle section 22, items 50 can be stored and transported in the storage section 1 supported by the front separate bicycle section 21 separated from the rear separate bicycle section 22. This allows the item 50 to be transported even in buildings where the item transport bicycle 400 cannot pass, and the item 50 can be transported to upper floors by using an elevator. Furthermore, because the storage section 1 is detachable, the driver can store the item 50 in the storage section 1 and transport the item 50 even in buildings where there is no elevator. As a result, the item 50 can be transported to the upper floors of a building regardless of whether an elevator is available.

[0082] In the fourth embodiment, as described above, the angle holding mechanism 35 further includes an elastic member 51 that returns the first training wheel 32 to a predetermined position, which is the position of the first training wheel 32 on a flat surface, when the first training wheel 32 rotates backward due to a step. This allows the first training wheel 32 to abut against the step even when the article transport bicycle 400 tilts due to the first training wheel 32 rotating backward due to a step. Furthermore, because the elastic member 51 returns the first training wheel 32 to a predetermined position, the first training wheel 32 can reliably abut against the ground when traveling on a flat surface after traveling over a step. Note that other effects of the fourth embodiment are similar to those of the first embodiment.

[0083] (Variation) The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not by the description of the above embodiments, and includes all modifications (modifications) that are equivalent to the claims and fall within the scope of the claims.

[0084] For example, in the first to fourth embodiments, the article transport bicycle is an electric bicycle equipped with a battery, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the article transport bicycle may be a bicycle that does not have a battery.

[0085] In addition, although the first to fourth embodiments have been described as examples in which the ground contact portion includes the stand portion and the first training wheel, the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the ground contact portion may include only either the stand portion or the first training wheel.

[0086] In the second embodiment, the second training wheels are provided on both the front bicycle section and the stand section, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the second training wheels may be provided on either the front bicycle section or the stand section.

[0087] In addition, although the first to fourth embodiments have been described as examples in which a detection unit is provided, the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the detection unit may not be provided, and the assist mode may be started or the battery power supply destination may be switched by the driver's operation via the operation unit.

[0088] In addition, in the first to fourth embodiments, the article transport bicycle is shown as being equipped with a first assist mechanism and a second assist mechanism, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the article transport bicycle may be equipped with only one of the first assist mechanism and the second assist mechanism, or neither.

[0089] In the first to fourth embodiments, the first assist mechanism is configured to initiate an assist mode that assists the rotation of the front wheel when it detects that the front bicycle section has separated from the rear bicycle section, but this is not limited to this. In the present invention, the first assist mechanism may assist the rotation of the front wheel even when the front and rear bicycle sections are connected. In this case, the bicycle travel may be assisted by both the first assist mechanism and the second assist mechanism, or the bicycle travel may be assisted without the second assist mechanism.

[0090] In addition, in the first to fourth embodiments, an example has been shown in which the battery is common to the first assist mechanism and the second assist mechanism, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, a battery may be provided for each of the first assist mechanism and the second assist mechanism.

[0091] In addition, in the first to fourth embodiments, the battery power supply destination is switched between the second drive unit and the first drive unit based on the detection of the detection unit, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the battery power supply destination may be switched between the first drive unit and the second drive unit by the driver changing the position of the battery.

[0092] The biasing member of the third embodiment may be configured in the same manner as the elastic member of the fourth embodiment. In other words, the biasing member of the third embodiment is not limited to a spring, and may be made of rubber.

[0093] The second to fourth embodiments are examples having the configuration of the first embodiment, but the present invention is not limited to this. The present invention may have a configuration in which the second to fourth embodiments are combined.

[0094] In the third embodiment, an example was described in which the second training wheels included the first step-use wheel 81 and the second step-use wheel 82, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, to simplify the configuration, only one of them may be provided. For example, a configuration may be provided in which only the first step-use wheel is provided and no second step-use wheel is provided, and movement is performed using two wheels, the first step-use wheel and the first training wheel. Furthermore, when the second training wheels are only the first step-use training wheel, the diameter of the first step-use training wheel may be configured to be larger than the diameter of the first training wheel. In this case, for example, the diameter of the first step-use training wheel is 12 cm. [Explanation of symbols]

[0095] 1. Storage section 2 Frame section 2d Storage section support section 3 Ground contact member 4 Battery 6 Mounting part 7 Control section 10 wheels 10a front wheel 10b rear wheel 20 Handle 21 Front separated bicycle section 22 Rear separated bicycle section 30 Saddle 31 Stand section 32 First training wheel 35 Angle holding mechanism 35a Foot Pedal 35b stopper 50 Goods 51 Elastic member 60 First assist mechanism 60a First drive unit 60b Detection unit 70 Second assist mechanism 70a Second drive unit 81 First wheel for step section (second auxiliary wheel) 82 Second wheel for step (second training wheel) 100, 200, 300, 400 Goods transport bicycle 100a Transport tow vehicle

Claims

1. a storage section in which an article is stored; a frame portion to which wheels including a front wheel and a rear wheel, a handlebar, and a saddle are attached, and in which a storage portion support portion for supporting the storage portion is provided on the front wheel side of the handlebar; the frame portion includes a rear separate bicycle portion consisting of a rear portion of the frame portion on which the saddle and the rear wheel are provided, and a front separate bicycle portion consisting of a front portion of the frame portion on which the storage section support portion, the handlebars, and the front wheel are provided, and which is separable from the rear separate bicycle portion; The storage section is detachably attached to the storage section support section.

2. the storage support portion is disposed between the front wheel and the handle, 2. The bicycle for transporting goods according to claim 1, wherein a lower end of the storage section is located lower than an upper end of the front wheel.

3. a ground contact member provided on the front wheel side of the front detachable bicycle section, the ground contact member being used to both keep the article transport bicycle stationary and to allow the separated front detachable bicycle section to move; 2. The article transport bicycle according to claim 1, wherein the ground contact member includes a stand portion that contacts the ground to maintain the article transport bicycle in a stopped state, and a first training wheel that is integral with the stand portion and contacts the ground to allow the separated front detached bicycle portion to move.

4. The goods transport bicycle of claim 3, further comprising an angle holding mechanism that holds the tilt angle in each state; the ground contact member is configured to rotate to switch between a first state in which the stand unit is in contact with the ground and maintained in a stopped state; a second state in which the first training wheel is in contact with the ground, thereby operating at least one of the separated front detachable bicycle unit or the separated rear detachable bicycle unit; and a third state in which the stand unit and the first training wheel are both off the ground, allowing the goods transport bicycle, formed by the combined front and rear detachable bicycle units, to travel.

5. 2. The article transport bicycle according to claim 1, further comprising a first drive unit disposed on the front detachable bicycle unit, and a first assist mechanism that assists the rotation of the front wheel by the first drive unit when the front detachable bicycle unit is separated from the rear detachable bicycle unit.

6. a detector configured to detect separation of the front bicycle section from the rear bicycle section; 6. The article transport bicycle according to claim 5, wherein the first assist mechanism is attached to the front wheel and is configured to initiate an assist mode that assists rotation of the front wheel based on the detection unit detecting that the front detachable bicycle unit has separated from the rear detachable bicycle unit.

7. a second assist mechanism including a second drive unit disposed in the rear separate bicycle unit, and which assists the rotation of the rear wheel when the front separate bicycle unit and the rear separate bicycle unit are coupled together; a battery that supplies power to the first drive unit and the second drive unit; 7. The article transport bicycle according to claim 6, wherein the supply of power from the battery is switched from the second drive unit to the first drive unit when the detection unit detects that the front detachable bicycle unit has been separated from the rear detachable bicycle unit.

8. 4. The article transport bicycle of claim 3, further comprising a second training wheel provided on at least one of the front detachable bicycle section and the stand section, positioned vertically higher than the first training wheel, and configured to be able to abut against a step portion when the front detachable bicycle section is tilted by the step portion.

9. 2. The article transport bicycle according to claim 1, wherein the rear detachable bicycle section has a mounting section to which a towable transport vehicle for transporting articles can be attached.

10. 5. The article-carrying bicycle according to claim 4, wherein the angle-maintaining mechanism includes a foot pedal that rotates the ground contact member, and a stopper that is provided on the ground contact member and stops the rotation of the ground contact member by contacting the foot pedal.

11. 5. The article transport bicycle according to claim 4, wherein the angle holding mechanism further includes an elastic member that returns the first training wheel to a predetermined position, which is the position of the first training wheel on the flat portion, when the position of the first training wheel rotates rearward due to a step portion.

Images