Control device for human-powered vehicle, control system for human-powered vehicle, and head protection device for human-powered vehicle

The integration of a control device with a head protection device for human-powered vehicles automatically adjusts vehicle components based on wearing state, addressing user convenience and safety issues.

JP2025156852APending Publication Date: 2025-10-15SHIMANO INC
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2024059573
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-04-02
Publication Date
2025-10-15

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing human-powered vehicle systems lack user convenience in controlling vehicle components based on the wearing state of head protection devices, leading to inefficient operation and potential safety risks.

Method used

A control device and system that integrates with a head protection device to detect its wearing state and adjust vehicle components such as limiting devices and motors accordingly, enhancing user convenience by automating control based on the wearing status.

Benefits of technology

The system provides enhanced user convenience by automatically adjusting vehicle settings based on the wearing state of the head protection device, improving safety and efficiency.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

To provide a control device for a human-powered vehicle, a control system for a human-powered vehicle, and a head protection device for a human-powered vehicle that can contribute to user convenience.SOLUTION: A control device for a human-powered vehicle includes a control unit configured to control a human-powered vehicle component, based on a wearing state of a head protection device that is wearable by a rider of the human-powered vehicle.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3
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Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a control device for a human-powered vehicle, a control system for a human-powered vehicle, and a head protection device for a human-powered vehicle. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a helmet for a human-powered vehicle. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-047854 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a control device for a human-powered vehicle, a control system for a human-powered vehicle, and a head protection device for a human-powered vehicle that can contribute to user convenience. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A control device according to a first aspect of the present disclosure is a control device for a human-powered vehicle, and includes a control unit configured to control components for the human-powered vehicle based on the wearing state of a head protection device that can be worn by a passenger of the human-powered vehicle. According to the control device of the first aspect, components for a human-powered vehicle can be controlled based on the state of wearing of the head protection device, so that the control unit can control the components in a manner suitable for the state of wearing of the head protection device without the user having to operate the components based on the state of wearing of the head protection device. Therefore, the control device can contribute to user convenience.

[0006] In the control device of the second aspect according to the first aspect of the present disclosure, a receiving unit configured to receive predetermined information regarding the wearing state from the head protection device, and the control unit configured to control the component based on the predetermined information. According to the control device of the second aspect, the wearing state of the head protecting device can be suitably determined based on the predetermined information.

[0007] In the control device of a third aspect according to the first or second aspect of the present disclosure, the component includes a limiting device that limits travel of the human-powered vehicle, and the control unit is configured to control the limiting device based on the wearing state. According to the control device of the third aspect, the traveling of the human-powered vehicle can be restricted based on the wearing state of the head protection device.

[0008] In the control device of a fourth aspect according to any one of the first to third aspects of the present disclosure, the component includes a motor that provides propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle, and the control unit is configured to control the motor based on the wearing state. According to the control device of the fourth aspect, the motor can be controlled based on the wearing state of the head protection device.

[0009] In the control device of a fifth aspect according to any one of the first to fourth aspects of the present disclosure, the control unit is configured to change a power consumption state of the component based on the wearing state. According to the control device of the fifth aspect, the power consumption state of the components can be changed based on the wearing state of the head protection device.

[0010] A control system according to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure is a control system for a human-powered vehicle, and includes a control device for a human-powered vehicle according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, and a head protection device for a human-powered vehicle that is equipped with a transmitter capable of transmitting predetermined information regarding the wearing state to the control device. According to the control system of the sixth aspect, the wearing status of the head protection device can be transmitted to the control device, so that the control device can control the appropriate components without the user having to input the wearing status of the head protection device into the control device. Thus, the control system can contribute to user convenience.

[0011] A head protection device according to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure is a head protection device for a human-powered vehicle that can be worn by a passenger of the human-powered vehicle, and includes a wearing detection unit configured to detect whether the head protection device is being worn by the passenger, and a transmitting unit capable of transmitting predetermined information regarding the wearing state detected by the wearing detection unit to an external device. According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, the head protecting device can transmit the wearing state of the head protecting device to an external device, so that the external device can appropriately control the wearing state of the head protecting device without the user having to input the wearing state of the head protecting device into the external device. Therefore, the control system can contribute to user convenience.

[0012] A head protection device according to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure is a head protection device for a human-powered vehicle that can be worn by a passenger of the human-powered vehicle, and comprises: a power source; a wearing detection unit configured to detect whether the head protection device is being worn by the passenger; a display unit configured to display the remaining power of the power source; and a control unit configured to control the display unit, wherein the control unit is configured to control the display unit to change the display state of the remaining power on the display unit based on the wearing state detected by the wearing detection unit. According to the head protecting device of the eighth aspect, the display state of the remaining power on the display unit can be changed based on the state of wearing the head protecting device.

[0013] In the head protection device of a ninth aspect according to the eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the wearing state includes a first wearing state in which the head protection device is worn by the occupant and a second wearing state in which the head protection device is not worn by the occupant, and the control unit is configured to control the display unit to change the display state when the wearing state is changed from one of the first wearing state and the second wearing state to the other of the first wearing state and the second wearing state. According to the head protecting device of the ninth aspect, when the wearing state is changed from one of the first wearing state and the second wearing state to the other of the first wearing state and the second wearing state, the display state can be changed.

[0014] In a head protection device of a tenth aspect according to the ninth aspect of the present disclosure, a motion detection unit is further provided for detecting movement of the head protection device, and the control unit is configured to control the display unit to start displaying the remaining power when movement of the head protection device is detected by the motion detection unit in the second wearing state. According to the head protection device of the tenth aspect, when the movement detection unit detects movement of the head protection device in the second wearing state, the remaining power level begins to be displayed, so that the occupant can know the remaining power level when, for example, they hold the head protection device.

[0015] In a head protecting device of an eleventh aspect according to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, the motion detection section includes at least one of an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor. According to the head protecting device of the eleventh aspect, the movement of the head protecting device can be suitably detected by at least one of the acceleration sensor and the gyro sensor.

[0016] In the head protection device of the twelfth aspect according to the eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit is configured to control the display unit to terminate display of the remaining power when the wearing state is changed from the second wearing state to the first wearing state. According to the head protecting device of the twelfth aspect, when the wearing state is changed from the second wearing state to the first wearing state, the display of the remaining power level is terminated, thereby reducing power consumption.

[0017] In a head protection device of a thirteenth aspect according to any one of the ninth to twelfth aspects of the present disclosure, the control unit is configured to control the display unit to start displaying the remaining power when the wearing state is changed from the first wearing state to the second wearing state. According to the head protection device of the thirteenth aspect, when the wearing state is changed from the first wearing state to the second wearing state, the remaining power level begins to be displayed, so that when the occupant removes the head protection device, the occupant can know the remaining power level.

[0018] A head protection device according to a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure is a head protection device for a human-powered vehicle that can be worn by an occupant of the human-powered vehicle, and comprises a wearing detection unit configured to detect the wearing state of the head protection device by the occupant, an impact mitigation unit, and a control unit configured to control the impact mitigation unit, and the control unit configured to control the impact mitigation unit based on the wearing state detected by the wearing detection unit. According to the head protecting device of the fourteenth aspect, the impact absorbing portion can be controlled based on the wearing state.

[0019] In a head protection device of a fifteenth aspect according to the fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit is configured to control the impact mitigation unit in either a first operating state in which the impact mitigation unit is activated, or a second operating state in which the operation of the impact mitigation unit is suppressed more than in the first operating state, and is configured to control the impact mitigation unit in the second operating state when the head protection device is not being worn. According to the head protection device of the fifteenth aspect, when the head protection device is not being worn, the impact absorbing section is configured to be controlled in the second operating state, thereby preventing the impact absorbing section from operating in the event that the head protection device falls, for example.

[0020] The head protecting device of a sixteenth aspect according to any one of the seventh to fifteenth aspects of the present disclosure further comprises a wireless power receiving unit. According to the head protecting device of the sixteenth aspect, power can be received by the wireless power receiving unit.

[0021] The head protecting device of the seventeenth aspect according to the sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure further comprises a position adjusting unit that adjusts the position of the wireless power receiving unit relative to a wireless power transmitting device that supplies power to the wireless power receiving unit. According to the head protecting device of the seventeenth aspect, the position adjustment unit allows the wireless power receiving unit to receive power in a suitable manner.

[0022] The head protecting device of the eighteenth aspect according to any one of the seventeenth to seventeenth aspects of the present disclosure further comprises a wired power receiving unit to which a power supply line is attached. According to the head protecting device of the eighteenth aspect, power can be received by the wired power receiving section.

[0023] In a head protecting device of a nineteenth aspect according to any one of the seventh to eighteenth aspects of the present disclosure, the wearing detection unit is configured to be able to detect a position of the head of the occupant relative to the head protecting device. According to the head-protecting device of the nineteenth aspect, the wearing state can be suitably detected based on the position of the occupant's head relative to the head-protecting device.

[0024] In the head protecting device of the twentieth aspect according to the nineteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the wearing detection unit is configured to detect the position based on information from a sensor that detects a reflected signal. According to the head-protecting device of the twentieth aspect, the wearing state can be suitably detected based on information from a sensor that detects reflected signals.

[0025] In a head protection device of a 21st aspect according to any one of the 7th to 20th aspects of the present disclosure, a belt for attaching the head protection device to the occupant is further provided, and the wearing detection unit is configured to be able to detect the connection state of the belt. According to the head-protecting device of the twenty-first aspect, the wearing state can be suitably detected based on the connection state of the belt. [Effects of the Invention]

[0026] The control device for a human-powered vehicle, the control system for a human-powered vehicle, and the head-protecting device for a human-powered vehicle of the present disclosure can contribute to user convenience. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0027] [Figure 1] 1 is a side view of a human-powered vehicle and a passenger on which a control device for a human-powered vehicle according to a first embodiment and a control system for a human-powered vehicle having a head protecting device for a human-powered vehicle are mounted. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the head protection device for the human-powered vehicle of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the control system for the human-powered vehicle of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] 4 is a flowchart of a process executed by the second control unit of FIG. 3 to transmit predetermined information. [Figure 5] 4 is a flowchart of a process executed by the first control unit of FIG. 3 to change the control state of a component. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a head-protecting device for a human-powered vehicle according to a second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a head-protecting device for a human-powered vehicle according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8] 8 is a first part of a flowchart of a process executed by the second control unit in FIG. 7 to control the display unit. [Figure 9] 8 is a second part of the flowchart of the process executed by the second control unit in FIG. 7 to control the display unit. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a head-protecting device for a human-powered vehicle according to a third embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a head-protecting device for a human-powered vehicle according to a third embodiment. [Figure 12] 12 is a second part of the flowchart of the process executed by the second control unit in FIG. 11 to control the impact absorbing unit. [Figure 13] 12 is a second part of the flowchart of the process executed by the second control unit in FIG. 11 to determine the wearing state. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a head-protecting device for a human-powered vehicle according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a head-protecting device for a human-powered vehicle according to a fourth embodiment attached to a support device. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a head-protecting device for a human-powered vehicle according to a first modified example. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a head-protecting device for a human-powered vehicle according to a second modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0028] First Embodiment A control system 40 for a human-powered vehicle, a control device 60 for a human-powered vehicle, and a head protection device 70 for a human-powered vehicle according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0029] A human-powered vehicle is a vehicle that has at least one wheel and can be propelled at least by human power. Human-powered vehicles include various types of bicycles, such as mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes, hand bikes, and recumbents. There is no limit to the number of wheels a human-powered vehicle has. Human-powered vehicles also include, for example, one-wheeled vehicles and vehicles with two or more wheels. Human-powered vehicles are not limited to vehicles that can be propelled solely by human power. Human-powered vehicles include E-bikes that use not only human power but also the driving force of an electric motor for propulsion. E-bikes include electrically assisted bicycles, the propulsion of which is assisted by an electric motor. In the following embodiments, the human-powered vehicle will be described as an electrically assisted bicycle.

[0030] The human-powered vehicle 10 includes at least one wheel 12 and a body 14. The at least one wheel 12 includes, for example, a front wheel 12F and a rear wheel 12R. The body 14 includes a frame 16. For example, a saddle 16A is attached to the frame 16.

[0031] The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes, for example, a crank 18 to which human-powered driving force is input. The crank 18 includes, for example, crank arms 20 and a crank shaft 22. The crank shaft 22 is rotatable with respect to, for example, the frame 16. The crank arms 20 are connected to, for example, pedals 24. The crank arms 20 are provided, for example, at each of the axial ends of the crank shaft 22.

[0032] A front fork 26 is connected to the frame 16. A front wheel 12F is attached to the front fork 26. A handlebar 28 is connected to the front fork 26 via a stem 30. A rear wheel 12R is supported by the frame 16. In this embodiment, the crank 18 is connected to the rear wheel 12R by a drive mechanism 32. The rear wheel 12R is driven by the rotation of the crankshaft 22. At least one of the front wheel 12F and the rear wheel 12R may be connected to the crank 18 by the drive mechanism 32.

[0033] The drive mechanism 32 includes at least one first rotating body 34 connected to the crankshaft 22. The at least one first rotating body 34 includes, for example, a front sprocket. The at least one first rotating body 34 may include a pulley or a bevel gear. The crankshaft 22 may be connected to the front sprocket via a one-way clutch.

[0034] The drive mechanism 32 further includes at least one second rotating body 36 and a transmission member 38. The transmission member 38 is configured to transmit the rotational force of the at least one first rotating body 34 to the at least one second rotating body 36. The transmission member 38 includes, for example, a chain. The transmission member 38 may also include a belt or a shaft. The at least one second rotating body 36 includes, for example, a rear sprocket. The at least one second rotating body 36 may also include a pulley or a bevel gear. The chain is wound around, for example, a front sprocket and a rear sprocket. The at least one second rotating body 36 is connected to, for example, the rear wheel 12R. The rear wheel 12R is configured to rotate in conjunction with the rotation of the at least one second rotating body 36.

[0035] The control system 40 for a human-powered vehicle includes a control device 60 for a human-powered vehicle and a head protection device 70 for a human-powered vehicle. The control system 40 for a human-powered vehicle further includes, for example, a component 42 for a human-powered vehicle.

[0036] The control device 60 for a human-powered vehicle includes a control unit 62. In this embodiment, the control unit 62 of the control device 60 may be referred to as a first control unit 62. For example, the first control unit 62 includes an arithmetic processing device that executes a predetermined control program. For example, the arithmetic processing device included in the first control unit 62 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The first control unit 62 is configured to control the component 42, for example.

[0037] For example, the arithmetic processing units included in the first control unit 62 may be provided in multiple locations that are separate from one another. When the arithmetic processing units are provided in multiple locations that are separate from one another, the respective parts of the arithmetic processing units may be connected to each other so that they can communicate with each other via a wireless communication device. The first control unit 62 may include one or more microcomputers.

[0038] For example, the control device 60 further includes a first storage unit 64. For example, the first storage unit 64 is communicably connected to the first control unit 62 via wire or wirelessly. For example, the first storage unit 64 stores a control program and information used in the control process. For example, the storage unit 64 includes, for example, a nonvolatile memory and a volatile memory. For example, the nonvolatile memory includes at least one of a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), and a flash memory. For example, the volatile memory includes a random access memory (RAM).

[0039] The control system 40 further includes, for example, a battery 44 that supplies power to the control device 60. In this embodiment, the battery 44 that supplies power to the control device 60 may be referred to as the first battery 44. The first battery 44 includes one or more battery elements. The battery elements include rechargeable batteries. For example, the first battery 44 is configured to supply power to the control device 60 and the components 42. For example, the first battery 44 is connected to the control device 60 so as to be able to communicate with it via a wired or wireless connection. For example, the first battery 44 can communicate with the control device 60 via power line communication (PLC), a controller area network (CAN), or a universal asynchronous receiver / transmitter (UART).

[0040] The component 42 includes, for example, a limiting device 46 that limits the travel of the human-powered vehicle 10. The limiting device 46 is configured, for example, to restrict rotation of the wheels 12 and at least one of the rotating bodies included in the drive mechanism 32. The limiting device 46 may include a braking device that brakes the wheels 12. The limiting device 46 is configured to switch its state, for example, between a limiting state that limits the travel of the human-powered vehicle 10 and a release state that releases the restriction on the travel of the human-powered vehicle 10. The first control unit 62 is configured, for example, to control the limiting device 46 so that the state of the limiting device 46 can be switched between the limiting state and the release state. For example, when a release operation is performed using a key in a keyhole provided in the limiting device 46, the first control unit 62 controls the limiting device 46 to switch its state from the limiting state to the release state. For example, when release information is input to the operating device, the first control unit 62 controls the limiting device 46 to switch its state from the limiting state to the release state. The unlocking information includes, for example, at least one of a password and biometric authentication of the user.

[0041] The component 42 includes, for example, a motor 48 that provides propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle 10. When the component 42 includes the motor 48, the control device 60 may further include a drive circuit for the motor 48. For example, the first control unit 62 and the drive circuit are provided with the motor 48. The first control unit 62 and the drive circuit may be provided on the same circuit board. For example, the drive circuit is connected to the first control unit 62 so as to be able to communicate with each other via a wire or wirelessly. For example, the drive circuit drives the motor 48 in response to a control signal from the first control unit 62.

[0042] For example, the drive circuit is electrically connected to the motor 48. For example, the drive circuit controls the supply of power from the first battery 44 to the motor 48. For example, the drive circuit includes an inverter circuit. For example, the inverter circuit includes a plurality of transistors. For example, the inverter circuit includes a configuration in which a plurality of inverter units, each consisting of a pair of transistors connected in series, are connected in parallel. For example, the inverter circuit may have a current sensor that detects the current flowing through the inverter circuit. For example, the current sensor is connected to the first control unit 62 so as to be able to communicate with it via wire or wirelessly.

[0043] The first control unit 62 is configured to control the motor 48. The first control unit 62 is configured, for example, to control the motor 48 in accordance with the state of the human-powered vehicle 10. The first control unit 62 is configured, for example, to control the motor 48 so as to change the output of the motor 48 in accordance with the human-powered driving force applied to the human-powered vehicle 10. The first control unit 62 is configured, for example, to control the motor 48 so as to change the propulsion force in accordance with the human-powered driving force. The first control unit 62 is configured, for example, to control the motor 48 in accordance with the human-powered driving force detected by the human-powered driving force detection unit.

[0044] The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes, for example, a human-powered driving force detection unit. The human-powered driving force detection unit is, for example, connected to the first control unit 62 so that they can communicate with each other via wire or wirelessly. The human-powered driving force detection unit is configured to output, for example, a signal corresponding to the torque applied to the crankshaft 22 by the human-powered driving force. The signal corresponding to the torque applied to the crankshaft 22 by the human-powered driving force includes information related to the human-powered driving force input to the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0045] The manual driving force detection unit is provided, for example, on a member included in the transmission path of the manual driving force or on a member included in the vicinity of a member included in the transmission path of the manual driving force. The manual driving force detection unit includes a strain sensor, a magnetostrictive sensor, or a pressure sensor. The strain sensor includes a strain gauge. The manual driving force detection unit may have any configuration as long as it can acquire information related to the manual driving force.

[0046] The manual driving force detection unit may be provided, for example, in at least one of the crank arm 20 and the pedal 24. When the manual driving force detection unit is provided in the pedal 24, the manual driving force detection unit may include a sensor that detects pressure applied to the pedal 24. The manual driving force detection unit may be provided in the chain. When the manual driving force detection unit is provided in the chain, the manual driving force detection unit may include a sensor that detects tension in the chain.

[0047] The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes, for example, a vehicle speed detection unit. The vehicle speed detection unit is, for example, connected to the first control unit 62 so that they can communicate with each other via wire or wirelessly. The vehicle speed detection unit is configured, for example, to detect information related to the vehicle speed of the human-powered vehicle 10. The vehicle speed detection unit is configured, for example, to detect information related to the rotational speed of the wheels 12. The vehicle speed detection unit is configured, for example, to detect a magnet provided on at least one of the front wheels 12F and the rear wheels 12R.

[0048] The vehicle speed detection unit is configured to output a detection signal a predetermined number of times during one rotation of the wheel 12, for example. The predetermined number is, for example, 1. The vehicle speed detection unit outputs a signal corresponding to the rotation speed of the wheel 12. The first control unit 62 can calculate the vehicle speed of the human-powered vehicle 10 based on the signal corresponding to the rotation speed of the wheel 12 and information related to the circumference of the wheel 12. The memory unit 64 stores, for example, information related to the circumference of the wheel 12.

[0049] The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes, for example, a crank rotation state detector. The crank rotation state detector is provided, for example, in the drive unit 44A. The crank rotation state detector is connected, for example, to the first control unit 62 so as to be able to communicate with it via wire or wirelessly.

[0050] The crank rotation state detection unit is configured to detect, for example, the amount of rotation of the crankshaft 22 and the amount of rotation of the first rotating body 34. The first rotating body 34 includes, for example, a front sprocket or a front pulley. The crank rotation state detection unit is configured to detect, for example, at least one of information corresponding to the rotation speed of the crankshaft 22 and information corresponding to the rotation speed of the first rotating body 34. The information corresponding to the rotation speed of the crankshaft 22 includes, for example, the angular acceleration of the crankshaft 22. The information corresponding to the rotation speed of the first rotating body 34 includes, for example, the angular acceleration of the first rotating body 34.

[0051] The crank rotation state detection unit is configured to output, for example, at least one of a signal corresponding to the rotation speed of the crankshaft 22 and a signal corresponding to the rotation speed of the first rotor 34. The crank rotation state detection unit is configured to output, for example, at least one of a detection signal corresponding to the rotation angle of the crankshaft 22 and a detection signal corresponding to the rotation angle of the first rotor 34 during one rotation of the crankshaft 22 and the first rotor 34.

[0052] The crank rotation state detection unit includes, for example, a magnetic sensor that outputs a signal corresponding to the strength of the magnetic field. The crank rotation state detection unit includes, for example, an annular magnet with multiple magnetic poles arranged in the circumferential direction. The annular magnet is provided, for example, on the crankshaft 22. The annular magnet includes, for example, one south pole and one north pole. The one south pole and the one north pole each extend continuously for 180 degrees in the circumferential direction of the rotational axis of the crankshaft 22. The crank rotation state detection unit may include, instead of the magnetic sensor, an optical sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a torque sensor, or the like.

[0053] The crank rotation state detection unit may be configured to detect the amount of rotation of the second rotating body 36. The second rotating body 36 includes, for example, a rear sprocket or a rear pulley. The crank rotation state detection unit may be configured to detect information corresponding to the rotation speed of the second rotating body 36. The information corresponding to the rotation speed of the second rotating body 36 includes, for example, the angular acceleration of the second rotating body 36. The crank rotation state detection unit may be configured to output a signal corresponding to the rotation speed of the second rotating body 36.

[0054] The crank rotation state detection unit may be configured to include a vehicle speed sensor. When the crank rotation state detection unit includes a vehicle speed sensor, the first control unit 62 may be configured to calculate the rotation speed of the crankshaft 22 based on the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor and the gear ratio.

[0055] The first control unit 62 is configured to control the motor 48 in accordance with at least one of the rotation speed of the crankshaft 22 and the rotation speed of the first rotor 34, which are detected by a crank rotation state detection unit, for example. The first control unit 62 is configured to control the motor 48 in accordance with the vehicle speed of the human-powered vehicle 10, which is detected by a vehicle speed detection unit, for example.

[0056] For example, when the vehicle speed of the human-powered vehicle 10 is lower than a predetermined vehicle speed, the first control unit 62 is configured to drive the motor 48 to apply a propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle 10 in accordance with at least one of the human-powered driving force and the rotational speed of the crankshaft 22. The predetermined vehicle speed is, for example, a speed prescribed by law in each country. The predetermined vehicle speed is, for example, 24 km / h, 25 km / h, 30 km / h, 32 km / h, or 45 km / h.

[0057] The first control unit 62 is configured, for example, to control the motor 48 so that the assist force by the motor 48 becomes a predetermined assist force. The assist force includes, for example, at least one of the ratio of the output of the motor 48 to the human-powered driving force input to the human-powered vehicle 10, and the upper limit value of the output of the motor 48.

[0058] The manual driving force is expressed by at least one of torque and power, for example. When the manual driving force is expressed by torque, for example, the manual driving force is referred to as manual torque. When the manual driving force is expressed by power, for example, the manual driving force is referred to as manual power. The manual power is, for example, the product of the torque applied to the crankshaft 22 and the rotational speed of the crankshaft 22.

[0059] The assist force is expressed by at least one of torque and power, for example. When the assist force is expressed by torque, for example, the assist force is referred to as assist torque. When the assist force is expressed by power, for example, the assist force is referred to as assist power. The ratio of the assist force to the manual driving force may be the ratio of the assist torque to the manual torque, or the ratio of the assist power to the manual power.

[0060] The control device 60 further includes a receiver 66A configured to receive predetermined information related to the wearing state of the head protection device 70 from the head protection device 70. In this embodiment, the receiver 66A of the control device 60 may be referred to as a first receiver 66A. The control device 60 may further include a first transmitter 66B configured to transmit information to the head protection device 70. The first receiver 66A and the first transmitter 66B constitute, for example, a first communication unit 66. The first communication unit 66 is configured to be capable of wireless communication, for example.

[0061] The head protection device 70 is, for example, a helmet that can be worn by a passenger of the human-powered vehicle 10. If the human-powered vehicle 10 includes a seat other than the driver's, such as a child seat, the passenger includes at least one of the driver and a passenger. The head protection device 70 may include something other than a helmet as long as it protects the passenger's head. The head protection device 70 may include, for example, an airbag that inflates to cover the passenger's head when at least one of the passenger and the human-powered vehicle 10 is subjected to an impact. If the head protection device 70 includes an airbag, the head protection device 70 may be worn on at least one of the passenger's neck and back.

[0062] The head protection device 70 for a human-powered vehicle can be worn by a passenger of the human-powered vehicle 10. The head protection device 70 includes, for example, a main body 72. The main body 72 is configured to be wearable on the body of the passenger. The head protection device 70 further includes a belt 74 for attaching the head protection device 70 to the passenger. When the head protection device 70 includes a helmet, the belt 74 is configured to be attached to the passenger's chin, for example.

[0063] The head protection device 70 includes, for example, a control unit 76. In this embodiment, the control unit 62 of the head protection device 70 may be referred to as a second control unit 76. For example, the second control unit 76 includes a processing unit that executes a predetermined control program. For example, the processing unit included in the second control unit 76 includes a CPU or an MPU.

[0064] For example, the arithmetic processing units included in the second control unit 76 may be provided in multiple locations that are separate from one another. When the arithmetic processing units are provided in multiple locations that are separate from one another, the respective parts of the arithmetic processing units may be connected to each other so that they can communicate with each other via a wireless communication device. The second control unit 76 may include one or more microcomputers.

[0065] For example, the head protection device 70 further includes a second memory unit 78. For example, the second memory unit 78 is communicably connected to the second control unit 76 by wire or wirelessly. For example, the second memory unit 78 stores a control program and information used in the control process. For example, the memory unit 64 includes, for example, a nonvolatile memory and a volatile memory. For example, the nonvolatile memory includes at least one of a ROM, an EPROM, an EEPROM, and a flash memory. For example, the volatile memory includes a RAM.

[0066] The head protection device 70 includes, for example, a wearing detection unit 80 configured to detect whether the head protection device 70 is being worn by the occupant, and a transmission unit 82 capable of transmitting predetermined information relating to the wearing state detected by the wearing detection unit 80 to an external device. The external device includes the control device 60. Instead of or in addition to the control device 60, the external device may include at least one of a personal computer, a smartphone, a tablet computer, and a server.

[0067] The wearing detection unit 80 outputs a signal corresponding to the wearing state of the head protection device 70 by the occupant. The wearing detection unit 80 is provided, for example, in a portion of the main body 72 facing the body of the occupant. The wearing detection unit 80 is configured, for example, to be able to detect the position of the occupant's head relative to the head protection device 70. The wearing detection unit 80 may be configured, for example, to detect the position of the occupant's head relative to the head protection device 70 based on information from a sensor that detects a reflected signal. The wearing detection unit 80 includes, for example, a signal emitting unit and a signal detecting unit. The signal emitting unit, for example, emits light. The signal detecting unit, for example, receives the reflected light. The wearing detection unit 80 is configured, for example, to be able to detect at least one of the occupant's body and the distance to the occupant's body. The wearing detection unit 80 includes, for example, at least one of an optical sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, and a distance sensor. The wearing detection unit 80 may be configured to output a signal corresponding to contact between the inner surface of the main body 72 and the occupant's head. When the wearing detection unit 80 is configured to output a signal in response to contact between the inner surface of the main body 72 and the occupant's head, the wearing detection unit 80 includes, for example, at least one of a pressure sensor and a switch. The wearing detection unit 80 may be configured to detect the connection state of the belt 74. The wearing detection unit 80 is configured, for example, to detect the attachment state of the belt 74. For example, when the belt 74 includes a free end, the attachment state of the belt 74 includes the attachment state of the free end of the belt 74 and a belt connection part. The belt connection part is provided, for example, on the main body 72 or the free end of an additional belt attached to the main body 72.

[0068] The head protection device 70 includes a transmitter 82 capable of transmitting, for example, predetermined information relating to the wearing state to the control device 60. In this embodiment, the transmitter 82 of the head protection device 70 may be referred to as a second transmitter 82. The head protection device 70 may further include a second receiver 84 configured to receive information. The second transmitter 82 and the second receiver 84 constitute, for example, a second communication unit 86. The second communication unit 86 is configured to be capable of wireless communication, for example.

[0069] The head protection device 70 further includes, for example, a power source 88 that supplies power to the second control unit 76. The power source 88 includes, for example, a second battery 90. The second battery 90 includes one or more battery elements. The battery element includes a rechargeable battery. For example, the second battery 90 is configured to supply power to the second control unit 76, the wearing detection unit 80, and the communication unit 86. The second battery 90 may be communicably connected to the second control unit 76 by wire or wirelessly. For example, the second battery 90 can communicate with the second control unit 76 via power line communication, CAN, or UART.

[0070] The wearing state includes, for example, a first wearing state in which the head protection device 70 is worn by the occupant and a second wearing state in which the head protection device 70 is not worn by the occupant. The predetermined information includes, for example, information indicating whether the wearing state is the first wearing state or the second wearing state. The second control unit 76 is configured, for example, to control the second transmission unit 82 to transmit the predetermined information when the wearing state changes. The predetermined information includes at least one of information that the wearing state is the first wearing state and information that the wearing state is the second wearing state. The predetermined information may include at least one of attachment information indicating that the wearing state has changed from the second wearing state to the first wearing state and detachment information indicating that the wearing state has changed from the first wearing state to the second wearing state. The second control unit 76 is configured, for example, to control the second transmission unit 82 to transmit detachment information when the wearing state changes from the first wearing state to the second wearing state. The second control unit 76 is configured, for example, to control the second transmission unit 82 so that when the second reception unit 84 receives a request to transmit the predetermined information from the control device 60, the second reception unit 84 transmits the predetermined information.

[0071] When the wearing detection unit 80 is configured to be able to detect the position of the occupant's head relative to the head protection device 70, the second control unit 76 determines that the wearing state is in the first state, for example, when the occupant's head is within a predetermined distance from the head protection device 70. When the wearing detection unit 80 is configured to be able to detect the position of the occupant's head relative to the head protection device 70, the second control unit 76 determines that the wearing state is in the second state, for example, when the occupant's head is out of the predetermined distance from the head protection device 70. When the wearing detection unit 80 is configured to output a signal in response to contact between the inner surface of the main body 72 and the occupant's head, the second control unit 76 determines that the wearing state is in the first state, for example, when the output signal from the wearing detection unit 80 is a signal corresponding to a state in which the inner surface of the main body 72 and the occupant's head are in contact. When the wearing detection unit 80 is configured to output a signal corresponding to contact between the inner surface of the main body 72 and the occupant's head, the second control unit 76 determines that the wearing state is the second state, for example, when the output signal of the wearing detection unit 80 is a signal corresponding to a state in which the inner surface of the main body 72 and the occupant's head are not in contact. When the wearing detection unit 80 is configured to be able to detect the connection state of the belt 74, the second control unit 76 determines that the wearing state is the first state, for example, when the belt 74 is connected to the belt attachment part. When the wearing detection unit 80 is configured to be able to detect the connection state of the belt 74, the second control unit 76 determines that the wearing state is the second state, for example, when the belt 74 is not connected to the belt attachment part.

[0072] The control unit 62 of the control device 60 is configured to control the component 42 for the human-powered vehicle based on, for example, the wearing state of the head protection device 70 that can be worn by a passenger of the human-powered vehicle 10. The control unit 62 is configured to control the component 42 to change the control state of the component 42 between a first control state and a second control state based on, for example, the wearing state. The control unit 62 of the control device 60 is configured to control the component 42 based on, for example, predetermined information. The control unit 62 is configured to control the component 42 to change the control state of the component 42 between the first control state and the second control state based on, for example, the predetermined information. For example, when the wearing state is the first wearing state, the control unit 62 sets the control state of the component 42 to the first control state. For example, when the wearing state is the second wearing state, the control unit 62 sets the control state of the component 42 to the second control state.

[0073] When the component 42 includes the restriction device 46, the control unit 62 is configured to control the restriction device 46 based on, for example, the wearing state. When the component 42 includes the restriction device 46, the first control state includes, for example, a release state. When the component 42 includes the restriction device 46, the second control state includes, for example, a restricted state. The first control unit 62 is configured to control the restriction device 46 to switch the state of the restriction device 46 from the restricted state to the release state when the wearing state is the first wearing state. The first control unit 62 is configured to control the restriction device 46 to maintain the state of the restriction device 46 in the restricted state when the wearing state is the second wearing state. The first control unit 62 is configured to control the restriction device 46 to maintain the state of the restriction device 46 in the restricted state when the wearing state is the second wearing state. The first control unit 62 is configured to control the restriction device 46 so that, for example, when the wearing state is the second wearing state, the state of the restriction device 46 is maintained in the restricted state even if a release operation is performed using a key or release information is input.

[0074] When the component 42 includes the limiting device 46, the control unit 62 is configured to control the motor 48 based on the wearing state, for example. When the component 42 includes the motor 48, the first control unit 62 is configured to control the motor 48, for example, in the second control state so that the assist force of the motor 48 is smaller than that in the first control state. When the wearing state is the second wearing state, for example, the first control unit 62 is configured to control the motor 48 so that the motor 48 does not provide propulsion force to the human-powered vehicle 10. The first control unit 62 is configured to control the motor 48 so that the assist force of the motor 48 when the wearing state is the second wearing state is smaller than the assist force of the motor 48 when the wearing state is the first wearing state.

[0075] The control unit 62 may be configured to change the power consumption state of the component 42 based on the wearing state. The power consumption states include, for example, a first power consumption state and a second power consumption state in which power consumption is lower than that of the first power consumption state. The first control state includes, for example, the first power consumption state. The second control state includes, for example, the second power consumption state. The second power consumption state corresponds, for example, to a sleep mode. When the power consumption state is the second power consumption state, for example, at least some of the functions of the component 42 are limited compared to when the power consumption state is the first power consumption state. For example, when the wearing state is the first wearing state, the first control unit 62 sets the power consumption state to the first power consumption state. For example, when the wearing state is the second wearing state, the first control unit 62 sets the power consumption state to the second power consumption state. For example, when the wearing state changes from the second wearing state to the first wearing state in the second power consumption state, the first control unit 62 switches the power consumption state from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state. For example, when the wearing state changes from the first wearing state to the second wearing state in the first power consumption state, the first control unit 62 switches the power consumption state from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state.

[0076] The process of transmitting predetermined information by the second control unit 76 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. For example, when power is supplied to the second control unit 76, the second control unit 76 starts the process and proceeds to step S11 of the flowchart shown in Fig. 4. When the flowchart of Fig. 4 ends, the second control unit 76 repeats the process from step S11 after a predetermined period, for example, until the supply of power is stopped.

[0077] In step S11, the second control unit 76 determines whether the wearing state is the first wearing state. If the wearing state is the first wearing state, the second control unit 76 proceeds to step S12. In step S12, the second control unit 76 selects the first communication state from the communication state of the second communication unit 86 with the first communication unit 66, and proceeds to step S13. The first communication state is, for example, a state in which the second communication unit 86 can communicate with the first communication unit 66. For example, in step S16, if the communication state of the second communication unit 86 with the first communication unit 66 is the second communication state, the control unit 76 switches the communication state from the second communication state to the first communication state. In step S13, the second control unit 76 transmits predetermined information and ends the process. The predetermined information transmitted in step S13 includes information that the wearing state is the first wearing state.

[0078] If the wearing state is not the first wearing state in step S11, the second control unit 76 proceeds to step S14. In step S14, the second control unit 76 determines whether the wearing state has transitioned from the first wearing state to the second wearing state. If the wearing state has transitioned from the first wearing state to the second wearing state, the second control unit 76 proceeds to step S15. In step S13, the second control unit 76 transmits removal information and proceeds to step S16. In step S16, the control unit 76 selects the second communication state from the communication state of the second communication unit 86 with the first communication unit 66 and ends the processing. The second communication state is, for example, a state in which the second communication unit 86 does not communicate with the first communication unit 66. In step S16, the control unit 76 switches the communication state of the second communication unit 86 with the first communication unit 66 from the first communication state to the second communication state.

[0079] If the wearing state has not transitioned from the first wearing state to the second wearing state in step S14, the second control unit 76 ends the process. The cases in which the second control unit 76 determines that the wearing state has not transitioned from the first wearing state to the second wearing state include, for example, the cases in which the wearing state is maintained in the second wearing state.

[0080] In the process of FIG. 4 , when the wearing state is the first wearing state, the second control unit 76 may be configured to transmit predetermined information including information that the wearing state is the first wearing state to the control device 60 at predetermined intervals, but may also be configured to control the second transmission unit 82 to transmit the predetermined information to the control device 60 only when the wearing state transitions from the second wearing state to the first wearing state. The second control unit 76 may be configured to control the second transmission unit 82 to transmit the predetermined information to the control device 60 only once when the wearing state transitions from the second wearing state to the first wearing state. For example, instead of the process of step S11, the second control unit 76 is configured to determine whether the wearing state transitions from the second wearing state to the first wearing state. For example, when the wearing state transitions from the second wearing state to the first wearing state, the second control unit 76 proceeds to step S12. For example, when the wearing state transitions from the second wearing state to the first wearing state, the second control unit 76 may transmit the attachment information and proceed to step S12. For example, if the wearing state has not shifted from the second wearing state to the first wearing state, the second control unit 76 proceeds to step S14.

[0081] The process by which the first control unit 62 changes the control state of the component 42 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. For example, when power is supplied to the first control unit 62, the first control unit 62 starts the process and proceeds to step S21 of the flowchart shown in Fig. 5. When the flowchart of Fig. 5 ends, the first control unit 62 repeats the process from step S21 after a predetermined period, for example, until the supply of power is stopped.

[0082] In step S21, the first control unit 62 determines whether or not predetermined information has been received. For example, when the first control unit 62 receives information indicating that the wearing state is the first wearing state or predetermined information including attachment information, the first control unit 62 determines that the predetermined information has been received. When the first control unit 62 receives the predetermined information, the first control unit 62 proceeds to step S22. In step S22, the first control unit 62 switches the control state to the first control state and ends the processing.

[0083] If the first control unit 62 has not received the predetermined information in step S21, it proceeds to step S23. In step S23, the first control unit 62 determines whether or not detachment information has been received. If the first control unit 62 has received the detachment information, it proceeds to step S24. In step S24, the first control unit 62 switches the control state to the second control state and ends the processing. If the first control unit 62 has not received the detachment information in step S23, it ends the processing.

[0084] For example, instead of the processing of step S23, the first control unit 62 may determine whether or not predetermined information including information indicating that the wearing state is the second wearing state has been received. If the first control unit 62 has received predetermined information including information indicating that the wearing state is the second wearing state, the first control unit 62 proceeds to step S24. If the first control unit 62 has not received predetermined information including information indicating that the wearing state is the second wearing state, the first control unit 62 ends the processing.

[0085] Second Embodiment A head-protecting device 70 for a human-powered vehicle according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 6 to 9. In the head-protecting device 70 according to the second embodiment, components common to those in the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0086] The head protection device 70 of this embodiment includes a power source 88, a wearing detection unit 80, a display unit 92, and a control unit 76. The display unit 92 is configured to be able to display the remaining power of the power source 88. The control unit 76 is configured to control the display unit 92. The control unit 76 is configured to control the display unit to change the display state of the remaining power on the display unit 92 based on the wearing state detected by the wearing detection unit 80. In this embodiment, the head protection device 70 does not need to include the second communication unit 86.

[0087] The display unit 92 is provided, for example, on the outer surface of the head protection device 70. The display unit 92 is provided, for example, in a position on the main body 72 that is visible to the occupant when the occupant is not wearing the head protection device 70. The display unit 92 includes, for example, a light-emitting unit. The light-emitting unit includes, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode). The display unit 92 may include a liquid crystal display. When the display unit 92 includes a light-emitting unit, the remaining power is represented, for example, by at least one of a lit state, a flashing state, an off state, and a lit color.

[0088] Head protection device 70 further includes, for example, a motion detection unit 94 that detects motion of head protection device 70. Motion detection unit 94 is configured to be able to detect, for example, when head protection device 70 is in a stationary state. The stationary state is, for example, when head protection device 70 is placed in a storage location. Motion detection unit 94 includes, for example, at least one of an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor.

[0089] The control unit 76 is configured to control the display unit 92 to change the display state, for example, when the wearing state is changed from one of the first wearing state and the second wearing state to the other of the first wearing state and the second wearing state. The second control unit 76 is configured to control the display unit 92 to display the remaining power, for example, when the wearing state is changed from one of the first wearing state and the second wearing state to the other of the first wearing state and the second wearing state. The second control unit 76 is configured to control the display unit 92 to display the remaining power, for example, when the wearing state is changed from the first wearing state to the second wearing state. The second control unit 76 is configured to control the display unit 92 to change from an off state to one of an on state and a flashing state, for example, when the wearing state is changed from the first wearing state to the second wearing state. The second control unit 76 is configured to control the display unit 92 to display the remaining power, for example, when the occupant prepares the head protection device 70 to wear it and when the occupant removes the head protection device 70 from their body.

[0090] The control unit 76 is configured, for example, in the second wearing state, to control the display unit 92 to start displaying the remaining power when the movement detection unit 94 detects movement of the head protection device 70. The second control unit 76 is configured, for example, to control the display unit 92 to start displaying the remaining power when the head protection device 70 changes from a stationary state to a non-stationary state. The control unit 76 is configured, for example, to control the display unit 92 to end displaying the remaining power when the wearing state is changed from the second wearing state to the first wearing state. The second control unit 76 is configured, for example, in the first wearing state, to control the display unit 92 not to start displaying the remaining power even when the movement detection unit 94 detects movement of the head protection device 70. The second control unit 76 is configured, for example, in the first wearing state, to control the display unit 92 not to start displaying the remaining power even when the head protection device 70 changes from a stationary state to a non-stationary state.

[0091] The control unit 76 is configured to, for example, control the display unit 92 to start displaying the remaining power when the wearing state is changed from the first wearing state to the second wearing state. The control unit 76 is configured to, for example, control the display unit 92 to stop displaying the remaining power when the head protecting device 70 becomes stationary after the wearing state is changed from the first wearing state to the second wearing state.

[0092] 8 and 9, a process in which the second control unit 76 controls the display unit 92 will be described. For example, when power is supplied to the second control unit 76, the second control unit 76 starts the process and proceeds to step S31 of the flowchart shown in Fig. 8. When the flowcharts of Fig. 8 and 9 end, the second control unit 76 repeats the process from step S31 after a predetermined period, for example, until the supply of power is stopped.

[0093] In step S31, the second control unit 76 determines whether the head protection device 70 is in a stationary state. For example, if the wearing state is the first wearing state, the second control unit 76 determines that the head protection device 70 is not in a stationary state. The second control unit 76 may determine that the head protection device 70 is in a stationary state if the wearing state is the second wearing state and the remaining power amount is not displayed on the display unit 92. The second control unit 76 may determine that the head protection device 70 is in a stationary state if a predetermined time has passed since the wearing state changed from the first wearing state to the second wearing state. If the head protection device 70 is in a stationary state, the second control unit 76 proceeds to step S32.

[0094] In step S32, the second control unit 76 determines whether or not motion has been detected. For example, the second control unit 76 determines that motion has been detected when the detection value of the motion detection unit 94 is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value, and when the state in which the detection value of the motion detection unit 94 is equal to or greater than a second predetermined value continues for equal to or greater than a first predetermined time. If motion has not been detected, the second control unit 76 ends the process. If motion has been detected, the second control unit 76 proceeds to step S33.

[0095] In step S33, the second control unit 76 causes the display unit 92 to display the remaining battery power, and proceeds to step S34. In step S34, the second control unit 76 determines whether a first predetermined time has elapsed. For example, the second control unit 76 determines that the first predetermined time has elapsed if the first predetermined time has elapsed since the second control unit 76 caused the display unit 92 to display the remaining battery power in step S33. If the first predetermined time has elapsed, the second control unit 76 proceeds to step S36. If the first predetermined time has not elapsed, the second control unit 76 proceeds to step S35. In step S35, the second control unit 76 determines whether the wearing state has changed from the second wearing state to the first wearing state. If the wearing state has not changed from the second wearing state to the first wearing state, the second control unit 76 proceeds to step S34. If the wearing state has changed from the second wearing state to the first wearing state, the second control unit 76 proceeds to step S36.

[0096] In step S36, the second control unit 76 controls the display unit 92 to end the display of the remaining battery power, and ends the process. When the processes of steps S34 and S35 determine that at least one of the first predetermined time has elapsed and the wearing state has changed from the second wearing state to the first wearing state, the second control unit 76 can end the display of the remaining battery power.

[0097] If the second control unit 76 determines in step S31 that the device is not in a stationary state, the process proceeds to step S37. In step S37, the second control unit 76 determines whether the wearing state has changed from the first wearing state to the second wearing state. If the wearing state has not changed from the first wearing state to the second wearing state, the second control unit 76 ends the process. If the wearing state has changed from the first wearing state to the second wearing state, the second control unit 76 proceeds to step S38.

[0098] In step S38, the second control unit 76 causes the display unit 92 to display the remaining power, and proceeds to step S39. In step S39, the second control unit 76 determines whether a second predetermined time has elapsed. If the second predetermined time has not elapsed, the second control unit 76 repeats the processing of step S39. If the second predetermined time has elapsed, the second control unit 76 proceeds to step S40. In step S40, the second control unit 76 controls the display unit 92 to end the display of the remaining battery power, and ends the processing. In this embodiment, the second predetermined time is different from the first predetermined time. The second predetermined time may be the same as the first predetermined time.

[0099] Third Embodiment A head-protecting device 70 for a human-powered vehicle according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 10 to 13. With regard to head-protecting device 70 according to the third embodiment, components common to those of the first and second embodiments are designated by the same reference numerals as those of the first and second embodiments, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0100] Head protection device 70 of this embodiment includes a wearing detection unit 80 configured to detect whether head protection device 70 is being worn by a passenger, an impact mitigation unit 96, and a control unit 76 configured to control impact mitigation unit 96. In this embodiment, head protection device 70 does not necessarily have to include second communication unit 86.

[0101] The head protection device 70 further includes, for example, an impact detection unit 98. For example, when an impact is detected by the impact detection unit 98, the second control unit 76 operates the impact mitigation unit 96 to mitigate the impact on the occupant's head. The impact mitigation unit 96 includes, for example, an airbag. For example, the airbag is provided on at least one of the outer peripheral surface and the top surface of the main body 72. The airbag may also be provided on the surface of the main body 72 that faces the occupant's body.

[0102] The control unit 76 is configured to control the impact mitigation unit 96 based on the wearing state detected by the wearing detection unit 80, for example. The control unit 76 is configured to control the impact mitigation unit 96 in either a first operating state in which the impact mitigation unit 96 is activated or a second operating state in which the activation of the impact mitigation unit 96 is suppressed more than in the first operating state. The control unit 76 is configured to control the impact mitigation unit 96 in the second operating state, for example, when the head protection device 70 is not being worn. When the operating state of the impact mitigation unit 96 is the second operating state, the second control unit 76 is configured to control the impact mitigation unit 96 so as not to activate the impact mitigation unit 96, for example, even if an impact is detected by the impact detection unit 98. When the wearing state is the second wearing state, the second control unit 76 may prevent the impact mitigation unit 96 from activating by controlling the impact detection unit 98 to stop the impact detection by the impact detection unit 98.

[0103] The process of the second control unit 76 controlling the impact absorbing unit 96 will be described with reference to Fig. 12. For example, when power is supplied to the second control unit 76, the second control unit 76 starts the process and proceeds to step S51 of the flowchart shown in Fig. 12. When the flowchart of Fig. 12 ends, the second control unit 76 repeats the process from step S51 after a predetermined period, for example, until the supply of power is stopped.

[0104] In step S51, the second control unit 76 determines whether the wearing state is the first wearing state. If the wearing state is the first wearing state, the second control unit 76 proceeds to step S52. In step S52, the second control unit 76 sets the operation state of the impact absorbing unit 96 to the first operation state, and proceeds to step S53.

[0105] In step S53, the second control unit 76 determines whether or not an impact has been detected. If an impact has not been detected, the second control unit 76 ends the process. If an impact has been detected, the second control unit 76 proceeds to step S54. In step S54, the second control unit 76 activates the impact absorbing unit 96 and ends the process.

[0106] If the second control unit 76 determines in step S51 that the wearer is not in the first wearing state, the second control unit 76 proceeds to step S55. In step S55, the second control unit 76 sets the operating state of the impact absorbing unit 96 to the second operating state, and ends the process.

[0107] The second control unit 76 may be configured to determine whether the wearing state is the first wearing state or the second wearing state based on the wearing state stored in the second storage unit 78. The second control unit 76 is configured to control the impact absorbing unit 96 based on the determination result of the wearing state based on the wearing state stored in the second storage unit 78, for example.

[0108] The second control unit 76 is configured to store, for example, in the second memory unit 78, a determination result of the wearing state corresponding to the number of times a wearing signal is received from the wearing detection unit 80. The wearing detection unit 80 may be configured, for example, to transmit a wearing signal to the second control unit 76 at predetermined intervals when the occupant is wearing the head protection device 70. The predetermined interval is, for example, equal to the detection interval of the wearing detection unit 80. The second control unit 76 may be configured to determine the wearing state corresponding to the number of times a wearing signal is received from the wearing detection unit 80. The second control unit 76 may be configured to control the impact mitigation unit 96 based on the determination result of the wearing state corresponding to the number of times a wearing signal is received from the wearing detection unit 80.

[0109] 13, a process in which the second control unit 76 determines the wearing state depending on the number of times the wearing signal is received from the wearing detection unit 80 will be described. For example, when power is supplied to the second control unit 76, the second control unit 76 starts the process and proceeds to step S61 of the flowchart shown in Fig. 13. When the flowchart in Fig. 13 ends, the second control unit 76 repeats the process from step S61 after a predetermined period, for example, until the supply of power is stopped.

[0110] In step S61, the second control unit 76 determines whether or not a wearing signal has been received from the wearing detection unit 80. If the second control unit 76 has received a wearing signal from the wearing detection unit 80, the process proceeds to step S62. In step S62, the second control unit 76 determines whether or not the wearing signal has been received N times in succession, where N is any natural number. If the second control unit 76 has received the wearing signal N times in succession, the process proceeds to step S63. In step S63, the second control unit 76 saves the first wearing state and ends the process. For example, the second control unit 76 stores information that the current wearing state is the first wearing state in the second storage unit 78.

[0111] If the second control unit 76 has not received the wearing signal N times in succession in step S62, the second control unit 76 proceeds to step S64. In step S64, the second control unit 76 saves the previous wearing state and ends the process. The second control unit 76 stores, for example, information in the second storage unit 78 that the current wearing state remains the same as the previously saved wearing state.

[0112] If the second control unit 76 has not received a wearing signal from the wearing detection unit 80 in step S61, the second control unit 76 proceeds to step S65. In step S65, the second control unit 76 determines whether the wearing signal has not been received N consecutive times. For example, in the wearing signal reception cycle, the second control unit 76 determines YES in step S65 if the wearing signal has not been received even once since the Nth reception cycle before. For example, in the wearing signal reception cycle, the second control unit 76 determines NO in step S65 if the wearing signal has been received at least once since the Nth reception cycle before. If the determination in step S65 is YES, the second control unit 76 proceeds to step S66.

[0113] In step S66, the second control unit 76 saves the second wearing state and proceeds to step S67. For example, the second control unit 76 stores information that the current wearing state is the second wearing state in the second memory unit 78. In step S67, the second control unit 76 determines whether the head protection device 70 is in a stationary state. If the head protection device 70 is in a stationary state, the second control unit 76 proceeds to step S68. In step S68, the second control unit 76 sets the second control unit 76 to a sleep state and ends the process. If the head protection device 70 is not in a stationary state in step S67, the second control unit 76 does not proceed to step S68 and ends the process.

[0114] If the determination in step S65 is NO, the second control unit 76 proceeds to step S69. In step S69, the second control unit 76 saves the previous wearing state and ends the process. The second control unit 76 stores, for example, information in the second storage unit 78 that the current wearing state remains the previously saved wearing state.

[0115] <Fourth embodiment> A head-protecting device 70 for a human-powered vehicle according to a fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 14 and 15. With regard to head-protecting device 70 according to the fourth embodiment, components common to the first, second, and third embodiments are designated by the same reference numerals as those in the first, second, and third embodiments, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0116] The head protecting device 70 of this embodiment further includes a wireless power receiving unit 100. The wireless power receiving unit 100 is configured to be able to receive power by wireless power feeding. The power received by the wireless power receiving unit 100 is charged into, for example, a second battery 90. The wireless power receiving unit 100 is provided in, for example, the main body 72.

[0117] The control device 60 further includes, for example, a wireless power transmitting device 68. The wireless power transmitting device 68 transmits power to, for example, the wireless power receiving unit 100. The first control unit 62 is configured to, for example, control the wireless power transmitting device 68 so as to transmit power to the wireless power receiving unit 100. The wireless power transmitting device 68 is provided in, for example, the frame 16. The wireless power transmitting device 68 may be provided in the first battery 44.

[0118] The control system 40 may include, for example, a holding device 50 that holds the head protection device 70 on the human-powered vehicle 10. The holding device 50 is configured to hold the head protection device 70, for example, near the wireless power transmission device 68. The wireless power transmission device 68 may be provided in the holding device 50. When the wireless power transmission device 68 is provided in the holding device 50, the wireless power transmission device 68 is provided in the frame 16, for example, by attaching the holding device 50 to the frame 16.

[0119] The head protection device 70 further includes, for example, a position adjustment unit 102 that adjusts the position of the wireless power receiving unit 100 relative to the wireless power transmitting device 68 that supplies power to the wireless power receiving unit 100. The position adjustment unit 102 is provided, for example, on the main body 72. The position adjustment unit 102 is configured, for example, to be attachable to the holding device 50. The holding device 50 includes, for example, an attachment member 52 for attaching the head protection device 70 to the human-powered vehicle 10. The attachment member 52 is configured, for example, to engage with the position adjustment unit 102. The attachment member 52 is formed, for example, in a strip shape. The position adjustment unit 102 includes, for example, a hole into which the attachment member 52 can be inserted. The position adjustment unit 102 may be configured, for example, as one unit with an air hole of the main body 72. By inserting the attachment member 52 into the position adjustment unit 102, the head protection device 70 is attached to the human-powered vehicle 10 with the wireless power receiving unit 100 positioned corresponding to the wireless power transmitting device 68.

[0120] <Example of change> The descriptions of each embodiment are intended to exemplify possible forms of a control device for a human-powered vehicle, a control system for a human-powered vehicle, and a head protection device for a human-powered vehicle, and are not intended to limit the forms. A control device for a human-powered vehicle, a control system for a human-powered vehicle, and a head protection device for a human-powered vehicle according to the present disclosure may, for example, be modified examples of the embodiments shown below, or a combination of at least two mutually consistent modified examples. In the following modified examples, parts common to each embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals as in each embodiment, and their description will be omitted.

[0121] At least a part of the first control unit 62 may be provided in the head protection device 70. When the first control unit 62 is provided in the head protection device 70, at least a part of the first control unit 62 may be configured as an integral part with the second control unit 76. In this modified example, the first control unit 62 may be configured to be able to communicate with the component 42, for example, via wireless communication.

[0122] As shown in Fig. 16, the head protecting device 70 may further include a wired power receiving unit 104 to which a power supply line 110 is attached. In the modified example of Fig. 16, the head protecting device 70 does not need to include the wireless power receiving unit 100.

[0123] 17, in the third embodiment, at least one of the impact absorbing unit 96 and the impact detecting unit 98 may be configured separately from the head protecting device 70. In this modification, for example, the head protecting device 70 is configured to be attached to the head, and the impact absorbing unit 96 is configured to be attachable to a part of the occupant other than the head.

[0124] In the first and second embodiments, the second control unit 76 may be configured to determine whether the wearing state is the first wearing state or the second wearing state based on the wearing state stored in the second storage unit 78. The second control unit 76 is configured to control the impact absorbing unit 96 based on the result of the wearing state determination based on the wearing state stored in the second storage unit 78, for example. In this modified example, the process of the flowchart in Fig. 13 of the third embodiment may be used to determine the wearing state, for example.

[0125] The component 42 may include, for example, at least one of a transmission, a braking device, an adjustable seat post, a suspension, a lamp, a display device, and a battery 44 instead of or in addition to at least one of the limiting device 46 and the motor 48. The display device may include, for example, a cycle computer. When the component 42 includes the display device, the first control unit 62 may be configured to control the display device to display the remaining charge of the second battery 90 when the wearing state is the first wearing state.

[0126] The phrase "at least one" as used herein means "one or more" of the desired options. As an example, the phrase "at least one" as used herein means "only one option" or "both of two options" when the number of options is two. As another example, the phrase "at least one" as used herein means "only one option" or "any combination of two or more options" when the number of options is three or more.

[0127] As used in this specification, ordinal numbers such as "first, second, and third" are used merely to distinguish between multiple elements having the same name and do not have any special meaning. [Explanation of symbols]

[0128] 10...human-powered vehicle, 40...control system, 42...component, 46...limiting device, 48...motor, 60...control device, 62...control unit, 66A...receiving unit, 68...wireless power transmission device, 70...head protection device, 74...belt, 76...control unit, 80...wearing detection unit, 82...transmitting unit, 92...display unit, 88...power source, 94...motion detection unit, 96...impact mitigation unit, 100...wireless power receiving unit, 102...position adjustment unit, 104...wired power receiving unit.

Claims

1. A control device for a human-powered vehicle, A control device comprising: a control unit configured to control components for the human-powered vehicle based on a wearing state of a head protection device wearable by a passenger of the human-powered vehicle.

2. a receiving unit configured to receive predetermined information regarding the wearing state from the head protection device, The control device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit is configured to control the component based on the predetermined information.

3. the component includes a limiting device that limits travel of the human-powered vehicle; The control device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit is configured to control the restriction device based on the wearing state.

4. the components include a motor that provides propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle; The control device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit is configured to control the motor based on the wearing state.

5. The control device of claim 1 , wherein the control unit is configured to change a power consumption state of the component based on the wearing state.

6. 1. A control system for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: A control device for a human-powered vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 5; a head protection device for a human-powered vehicle, the head protection device including a transmitter capable of transmitting predetermined information regarding the wearing state to the control device.

7. A head protection device for a human-powered vehicle that can be worn by a passenger of the human-powered vehicle, a wearing detection unit configured to detect a wearing state of the head protection device by the occupant; a transmitter capable of transmitting predetermined information relating to the wearing state detected by the wearing detector to an external device.

8. A head protection device for a human-powered vehicle that can be worn by a passenger of the human-powered vehicle, Power supply and a wearing detection unit configured to detect a wearing state of the head protection device by the occupant; a display unit configured to display the remaining power of the power source; a control unit configured to control the display unit, A head protection device, wherein the control unit is configured to control the display unit to change the display state of the remaining power on the display unit based on the wearing state detected by the wearing detection unit.

9. the wearing state includes a first wearing state in which the head protection device is worn by the occupant, and a second wearing state in which the head protection device is not worn by the occupant, 9. The head protection device according to claim 8, wherein the control unit is configured to control the display unit to change the display state when the wearing state is changed from one of the first wearing state and the second wearing state to the other of the first wearing state and the second wearing state.

10. A movement detection unit that detects movement of the head protection device is further provided.

10. The head protection device according to claim 9, wherein the control unit is configured to control the display unit to start displaying the remaining power when the movement detection unit detects movement of the head protection device in the second wearing state.

11. The head protecting device according to claim 10, wherein the motion detecting unit includes at least one of an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor.

12. 12. The head protection device according to claim 11, wherein the control unit is configured to control the display unit to terminate display of the remaining power when the wearing state is changed from the second wearing state to the first wearing state.

13. 10. The head protection device according to claim 9, wherein the control unit is configured to control the display unit to start displaying the remaining power when the wearing state is changed from the first wearing state to the second wearing state.

14. A head protection device for a human-powered vehicle that can be worn by a passenger of the human-powered vehicle, a wearing detection unit configured to detect a wearing state of the head protection device by the occupant; A shock absorbing part; a control unit configured to control the impact absorbing unit, The control unit is configured to control the impact absorbing unit based on the wearing state detected by the wearing detection unit.

15. The control unit The impact absorbing unit is controlled in either a first operating state in which the impact absorbing unit is activated or a second operating state in which the activation of the impact absorbing unit is suppressed more than in the first operating state, The head protection device according to claim 14, configured to control the impact absorbing portion in the second operating state when the head protection device is not being worn.

16. The head protection device according to any one of claims 7 to 15, further comprising a wireless power receiving unit.

17. The head protection device according to claim 16, further comprising a position adjustment unit that adjusts the position of the wireless power receiving unit relative to a wireless power transmitting device that supplies power to the wireless power receiving unit.

18. 16. The head protection device according to claim 7, further comprising a wired power receiving section to which a power supply line is attached.

19. The head-protecting device according to claim 7 , wherein the wearing detection unit is configured to be able to detect a position of the head of the occupant relative to the head-protecting device.

20. The head protection device according to claim 19, wherein the wearing detection unit is configured to detect the position based on information from a sensor that detects a reflected signal.

21. a belt for attaching the head protection device to the occupant; The head protecting device according to claim 7 , wherein the wearing detection unit is configured to be able to detect a connection state of the belt.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Helmet provided with airbag

    JP2010047854A