Component for human powered vehicle

Abstract

To provide a component for a human powered vehicle which can preferably supply electric power generated by a power generation section to a power consumption section.SOLUTION: A component for a human powered vehicle includes: an operation section which may be operated by a user; a power generation section configured to generate electric power in response to displacement of the operation section; a power storage section for storing electric power generated by the power generation section; a power consumption section which is supplied with electric power from the power storage section; and a switching section which switches a connection state between the power storage section and the power consumption section according to operation of the operation section performed by the user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Patent Document 1, for example, discloses a generator that generates power from vibrations and a converter that transforms the output voltage of the generator. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-47508 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a component for a human-powered vehicle that can suitably supply electric power generated by a power generation unit to an electric power consumption unit. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A component according to a first aspect of the present disclosure is a component for a human-powered vehicle, and includes an operating unit that can be operated by a user, a power generation unit configured to generate power in response to displacement of the operating unit, a power storage unit that stores the power generated by the power generation unit, a power consumption unit that is supplied with power from the power storage unit, and a switching unit that switches the connection state between the power storage unit and the power consumption unit in response to operation of the operating unit by the user. According to the component of the first aspect, the switching unit can control the amount of power stored in the power storage unit by switching the connection state between the power storage unit and the power consumption unit. Therefore, the switching unit can suitably control the power supplied from the power storage unit to the power consumption unit, and the component can suitably supply the power generated by the power generation unit to the power consumption unit.

[0006] In the component of the second aspect according to the first aspect of the present disclosure, the power consumption unit includes a power conversion unit configured to convert at least one of the voltage and current of the power supplied from the power storage unit. According to the component of the second aspect, the power consumption unit can make optimal use of the power generated by the power generation unit by converting at least one of the voltage and current of the power supplied from the power storage unit using the power conversion unit.

[0007] In a component of a third aspect according to the first or second aspect of the present disclosure, the operation unit is configured to be displaceable between a first operation position and a second operation position different from the first operation position, the connection states include a first connection state in which the storage unit is connected to the power consumption unit and a second connection state in which the storage unit and the power consumption unit are not connected, and the switching unit is configured to switch the connection state between the first connection state and the second connection state in response to an operation on the operation unit by the user. According to the component of the third aspect, the switching unit can switch the connection state between the power storage unit and the power consumption unit when the user operates the operation unit.

[0008] In the component of the fourth aspect according to the third aspect of the present disclosure, the switching unit is configured to set the connection state to the first connection state when the operation unit is in one of the first operation position and the second operation position. According to the component of the fourth aspect, when the operation unit is in one of the first operation position and the second operation position, the switching unit can set the connection state to the first connection state in which the power storage unit is connected to the power consumption unit.

[0009] In the component of the fifth aspect according to the fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the switching unit is configured to change the connection state to the second connection state when the operating unit is displaced from the first operating position to the second operating position, and when the operating unit is displaced from the second operating position to the first operating position. According to the component of the fifth aspect, when the switching unit is displaced from one of the first operation position and the second operation position to the other, it can set the connection state to the second connection state in which the power storage unit is not connected to the power consumption unit.

[0010] In the component of the sixth aspect according to the fourth or fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the switching unit is configured to change the connection state to the second connection state when the operation unit is in the other of the first operation position and the second operation position. According to the component of the sixth aspect, when the operation unit is in the other of the first operation position and the second operation position, the switching unit can set the connection state to the second connection state in which the power storage unit is not connected to the power consumption unit.

[0011] In the component of the seventh aspect according to the third aspect of the present disclosure, the switching unit includes a first contact connected to the storage unit, a second contact connected to the power consumption unit, and a movable contact configured to move in response to operation of the operating unit and to come into contact with the first contact and the second contact. According to the component of the seventh aspect, the switching unit can switch the connection state between the power storage unit and the power consumption unit by the movable contact, the first contact, and the second contact.

[0012] In the component of the eighth aspect according to the seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the switching unit is configured to bring the first contact and the second contact into contact with the movable contact when the operating unit is in one of the first operating position and the second operating position, and to separate the first contact and the second contact from the movable contact when the operating unit is in the other of the first operating position and the second operating position. According to the component of the eighth aspect, the switching unit can connect the storage unit and the power consumption unit by bringing the movable contact into contact with the first contact and the second contact, and can disconnect the storage unit and the power consumption unit by moving the movable contact away from the first contact and the second contact.

[0013] In the component of the ninth aspect according to the eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the switching portion includes an elastically deformable body configured to warp when the operating portion is operated, and the movable contact is provided on the elastically deformable body. According to the component of the ninth aspect, the switching unit can switch the connection between the power storage unit and the power consumption unit by operating the operating unit and bending the elastically deformable body.

[0014] The component of the tenth aspect according to the third aspect of the present disclosure further comprises a detection unit that detects operation of the operation unit, and a switching control unit configured to control the switching unit according to an output of the detection unit. According to the component of the tenth aspect, the switching control unit controls the switching unit in accordance with the output of the detection unit, thereby controlling the switching unit to switch the connection state between the power storage unit and the power consumption unit.

[0015] In the component of the eleventh aspect according to the tenth aspect of the present disclosure, the switching control unit is configured to control the switching unit to change the connection state to the second connection state when the operation unit is in one of the first operation position and the second operation position. According to the component of the eleventh aspect, when the operation unit is in one of the first operation position and the second operation position, the switching control unit can control the switching unit to change the connection state to a second connection state in which the storage unit is not connected to the power consumption unit.

[0016] In a component of a twelfth aspect according to the tenth or eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, the switching control unit is configured to control the switching unit to change the connection state to the second connection state when the operation unit is displaced from one of the first operation position and the second operation position to the other of the first operation position and the second operation position. According to the component of the twelfth aspect, when the operation unit is displaced from one of the first operation position and the second operation position to the other, the switching control unit can control the switching unit to change the connection state to a second connection state in which the storage unit is not connected to the power consumption unit.

[0017] In a component of a thirteenth aspect according to the eleventh or twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, the switching control unit is configured to control the switching unit to change the connection state to the second connection state when the operation unit is in the other of the first operation position and the second operation position. According to the component of the thirteenth aspect, when the operation unit is in the other of the first operation position and the second operation position, the switching control unit can control the switching unit to change the connection state to a second connection state in which the storage unit is not connected to the power consumption unit.

[0018] In the component of the fourteenth aspect according to the thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the switching control unit is configured to control the switching unit to change the connection state to the first connection state when the operation unit is displaced from the first operation position to the second operation position, or when the operation unit is displaced from the second operation position to the first operation position. According to the component of the fourteenth aspect, when the operation unit is displaced from the first operation position to the second operation position, or when the operation unit is displaced from the second operation position to the first operation position, the switching control unit can control the switching unit to change the connection state to the first connection state in which the storage unit is connected to the power consumption unit.

[0019] In the component of the fifteenth aspect according to any one of the tenth to fourteenth aspects of the present disclosure, the detection unit includes a Hall sensor. According to the component of the fifteenth aspect, the operation of the operating unit can be suitably detected by the Hall sensor.

[0020] In the component of the sixteenth aspect according to any one of the third to fifteenth aspects of the present disclosure, the operating unit is configured to be located in the first operating position when the operating unit is not operated by the user. According to the component of the sixteenth aspect, the operating unit is positioned at the first operating position when the operating unit is not operated by the user, and can be displaced from the first operating position to the second operating position when the operating unit is operated by the user.

[0021] In a component of a 17th aspect according to any one of the 3rd to 16th aspects of the present disclosure, the power consumption unit includes a transmitting unit configured to transmit a predetermined signal to another component using power generated by the power generation unit, and a communication control unit configured to control the transmitting unit to transmit the predetermined signal in response to an operation by the user on the operation unit, and the communication control unit is configured to control the transmitting unit to transmit the predetermined signal to the other component when the connection state is switched from the second connection state to the first connection state. According to the component of the seventeenth aspect, when the connection state is switched from the second connection state to the first connection state in response to a user's operation on the operation unit, the communication control unit can transmit a predetermined signal to another component.

[0022] In the component of the eighteenth aspect according to any one of the first to seventeenth aspects of the present disclosure, the power generation unit is configured to generate power by magnetostrictive power generation. According to the component of the eighteenth aspect, the power generating section can suitably generate power by magnetostrictive power generation.

[0023] In the component of the 19th aspect according to the 18th aspect of the present disclosure, the power generating unit includes a swinging unit that swings in response to displacement of the operating unit and has a magnetostrictive member, and a coil that generates power in response to the swinging of the swinging unit. According to the component of the nineteenth aspect, the coil can generate electricity suitably by the oscillation of the oscillation part caused by the displacement of the operation part.

[0024] In a component of a twentieth aspect according to any one of the first to nineteenth aspects of the present disclosure, the component is a gear shift operating device for the human-powered vehicle. According to the component of the twentieth aspect, the gear shift device can suitably supply the electric power generated by the power generation unit to the electric power consumption unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0025] The components for human-powered vehicles of the present disclosure can suitably supply the electric power generated by the power generation unit to the electric power consumption unit. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0026] [Figure 1] 1 is a side view of a human-powered vehicle on which a component for a human-powered vehicle according to a first embodiment is mounted. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a component for the human-powered vehicle of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a plan view showing the interior of the components for the human-powered vehicle of FIG. 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the component for the human-powered vehicle taken along line D4-D4 in FIG. 3. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of components for the human-powered vehicle of FIG. 1. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of a component for a human-powered vehicle according to a second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a component for a human-powered vehicle according to a third embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of components for a human-powered vehicle according to a third embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of a component for a human-powered vehicle according to a modified example. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of a component for a human-powered vehicle according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] First Embodiment 1 to 5, a first embodiment of a component 50 for a human-powered vehicle will be described.

[0028] 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.

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

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] The human-powered vehicle 10 includes, for example, a control system for human-powered vehicles. The control system includes, for example, a component 50 and another component 40. The component 50 is, for example, an operating device for operating the other component 40. The component 50 is, for example, a gear change operating device 50A of the human-powered vehicle 10. The other component 40 is provided, for example, on the vehicle body 14.

[0035] The other component 40 includes, for example, a control unit. The control unit includes a processing unit that executes a predetermined control program. For example, the processing unit included in the control unit includes a central processing unit (CPU) or a micro processing unit (MPU). The control unit is configured to control, for example, the actuator 42 of the other component 40.

[0036] The arithmetic processing units included in the control unit of the other component 40 may be provided in, for example, 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 control unit may include one or multiple microcomputers.

[0037] The other component 40 further includes, for example, a storage unit. The storage unit is, for example, connected to a control unit of the other component 40 so as to be able to communicate with the control unit via wire or wirelessly. The storage unit stores, for example, a control program and information used in the control process. The storage unit includes, for example, a non-volatile memory and a volatile memory. The non-volatile memory includes, for example, 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. The volatile memory includes, for example, a random access memory (RAM).

[0038] The other component 40 includes, for example, an actuator 42 that operates by electricity. The actuator 42 includes, for example, an electric motor. The control unit of the other component 40 is configured to control the actuator 42, for example.

[0039] The other component 40 includes, for example, a receiving unit. The receiving unit is configured to be able to receive a predetermined signal from the component 50. The receiving unit is configured to receive the predetermined signal from the component 50, for example, by wireless communication. The receiving unit may be configured to receive the predetermined signal from the component 50 by wired communication. The other component 40 may further include a transmitting unit. When the other component 40 includes a transmitting unit, the transmitting unit and the receiving unit may be configured as a single communication unit.

[0040] The other components 40 include, for example, a transmission 40A configured to change the gear ratio of the human-powered vehicle 10. The transmission 40A is configured, for example, to be able to change the gear ratio in stages. The transmission 40A is configured to be able to change the gear ratio of the human-powered vehicle 10 according to the number of gears. The gear ratio of the human-powered vehicle 10 is, for example, the ratio of the rotational speed of the rear wheel 12R to the rotational speed of the crankshaft 22.

[0041] The transmission 40A is provided, for example, on the frame 16. The transmission 40A includes, for example, at least one of a rear transmission and a front transmission. The transmission 40A includes, for example, an externally mounted transmission. The transmission 40A includes, for example, a rear derailleur. The transmission 40A may include a front derailleur. The transmission 40A may include an internally mounted transmission. The internally mounted transmission is provided, for example, on the hub of the rear wheel 12R. The transmission 40A may include a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).

[0042] The transmission 40A includes, for example, an electric transmission. The transmission 40A includes, for example, an actuator 42 that is operated by electricity. The gear ratio is changed by driving the actuator 42. The actuator 42 includes, for example, an electric motor.

[0043] The control system includes, for example, a battery that supplies power to the other component 40. The battery includes one or more battery elements. The battery element includes a rechargeable battery. The battery supplies power to, for example, the actuator 42 and at least one of the control units of the other component 40. The battery may be provided in the other component 40, or may be provided in the human-powered vehicle 10 separately from the other component 40.

[0044] The component 50 for a human-powered vehicle includes, for example, an operation unit 52 that can be operated by a user, a power generation unit 54, a power storage unit 56, a power consumption unit 58, and a switching unit 60. The component 50 is attached, for example, to a position on the vehicle body 14 where the component can be operated by hand by the user.

[0045] When the other component 40 includes a transmission 40A, the control system may include a first component having an operating unit 52 for increasing the gear ratio and a second component having an operating unit 52 for decreasing the gear ratio. When the other component 40 includes a transmission 40A, the component 50 may include an operating unit 52 for increasing the gear ratio and an operating unit 52 for decreasing the gear ratio. When the component 50 includes multiple operating units 52, the component 50 may include power generation units 54 corresponding to each of the multiple operating units 52.

[0046] 2 to 4 , the component 50 further includes, for example, a housing 62. The housing 62 is formed, for example, in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The shape of the housing 62 can be changed as appropriate. When the component 50 includes multiple operating units 52, the multiple operating units 52 may be provided in one housing 62, or each of the multiple operating units 52 may be provided in a separate housing 62.

[0047] The housing 62 is attached to the handlebar 28 shown in FIG. 1 , for example. The housing 62 is attached to the handlebar 28 by a clamp (not shown), for example. The housing 62 may be attached to a portion of the human-powered vehicle 10 around the handlebar 28, or may be attached to the frame 16. At least a portion of the housing 62 may be built into the frame 16. The housing 62 may be provided in an additional housing different from the housing 62. When the housing 62 is provided in an additional housing, multiple components 50 may be provided in the additional housing.

[0048] 2 to 4, the housing 62 includes, for example, a bottom 62A, a wall 62B, and a lid 62C. The bottom 62A and the wall 62B are, for example, integrally formed. The lid 62C may be integrally formed with the bottom 62A and the wall 62B, or may be formed separately from the bottom 62A and the wall 62B. The lid 62C is provided with, for example, a first through-hole 62X in which the operating unit 52 is disposed.

[0049] 4, the housing 62 includes, for example, a partition wall 62D. The partition wall 62D is disposed between the bottom portion 62A and the lid portion 62C. The partition wall 62D is provided with, for example, at least one second through-hole 62Y. In this embodiment, the partition wall 62D is provided with two second through-holes 62Y.

[0050] For example, a first space S1, a second space S2, and a third space S3 are formed inside the housing 62. The first space S1 is a space formed between the lid portion 62C and the partition wall portion 62D. The second space S2 is a space formed between the bottom portion 62A and the partition wall portion 62D. The third space S3 is a space inside the housing 62 where the partition wall portion 62D is not arranged. The third space S3 is a space formed between the bottom portion 62A and the lid portion 62C. The first space S1 and the second space S2 are connected to each other via the third space S3.

[0051] For example, at least a portion of the operation unit 52 is exposed from the housing 62. For example, the operation unit 52 is inserted into a first through-hole 62X of the cover portion 62C. For example, the operation unit 52 includes a first portion 52A. For example, at least a portion of the first portion 52A is disposed outside the housing 62. For example, the operation unit 52 includes a second portion 52B. For example, the second portion 52B is a portion that can come into contact with the power generation unit 54. For example, the operation unit 52 extends in the first direction A1. For example, the operation unit 52 is formed in a columnar shape. For example, the first portion 52A is provided at one end in the first direction A1. For example, the operation unit 52 includes a third portion 52C. For example, the third portion 52C is provided at the other end in the first direction A1. For example, the second portion 52B is provided on a convex portion that protrudes in a third direction A3 that intersects with the first direction A1.

[0052] The operating unit 52 is configured to be displaceable between, for example, a first operating position P1 and a second operating position P2 different from the first operating position P1. For example, at least a portion of the operating unit 52 is disposed in the third space S3. The operating unit 52 is disposed in the first through-hole 62X so that the first portion 52A is disposed outside the housing 62. The first portion 52A is disposed in the housing 62 to be movable in the first direction A1.

[0053] The operation unit 52 is configured to be located at a first operation position P1 when the operation unit 52 is not operated by a user. The operation unit 52 moves along a first direction A1 when the first portion 52A is operated by a user. When the first portion 52A is pressed by a user, the operation unit 52 moves from the cover portion 62C toward the bottom portion 62A.

[0054] The component 50 includes, for example, a biasing member 64. The biasing member 64 is configured, for example, to bias the operating portion 52 from the bottom portion 62A toward the lid portion 62C. For example, when the first portion 52A is not pressed by the user, the biasing member 64 biases the operating portion 52 so that the first portion 52A is exposed from the housing 62 as shown in FIG.

[0055] The biasing member 64 includes, for example, a coil spring. When the user presses the first portion 52A, causing the operation unit 52 to move from the lid portion 62C toward the bottom portion 62A, and then the user releases the first portion 52A, the biasing member 64 moves the operation unit 52 from the bottom portion 62A toward the lid portion 62C.

[0056] The first operation position P1 is, for example, the position of the operation unit 52 in a state where no external force is applied to the operation unit 52. The first operation position P1 is determined by the biasing force of the biasing member 64, for example.

[0057] The second operation position P2 includes, for example, a position where the third portion 52C of the operation unit 52 is closest to the bottom 62A within the movable range of the operation unit 52. The second operation position P2 includes, for example, at least some of the positions where the second portion 52B of the operation unit 52 is closer to the bottom 62A than the swinging portion 66 of the power generation unit 54. The second operation position P2 includes, for example, all of the positions where the second portion 52B of the operation unit 52 is closer to the bottom 62A than the swinging portion 66 of the power generation unit 54.

[0058] The power generation unit 54 is configured to generate power in response to, for example, the displacement of the operation unit 52. The power generation unit 54 is configured to generate power in response to, for example, the displacement of the operation unit 52 when a user operates the operation unit 52. The power generation unit 54 is configured to generate power by, for example, magnetostrictive power generation. The power generation unit 54 is, for example, a vibration power generation device that uses the inverse magnetostrictive effect.

[0059] The power generating unit 54 includes, for example, a swinging unit 66 and a coil 68. The swinging unit 66 swings, for example, due to the displacement of the operating unit 52, and has a magnetostrictive member 70. The coil 68 generates electricity, for example, due to the swinging of the swinging unit 66. The power generating time of the power generating unit 54 depends on the moving speed of the operating unit 52, the force applied to the swinging unit 66 by the operating unit 52, and the vibration time of the swinging unit 66 due to the structure of the swinging unit 66, etc.

[0060] The power generation unit 54 is disposed in the first space S1, for example. The power generation unit 54 includes a support member 72 that supports the magnetostrictive member 70. The support member 72 includes a yoke 74, for example. The yoke 74 is attached to the housing 62, for example. The yoke 74 supports the magnetostrictive member 70, for example. The yoke 74 is formed to at least partially include a magnetic material. In this embodiment, the entire yoke 74 is formed from a magnetic material. The magnetic material is, for example, soft magnetic steel. The magnetic material may be, for example, SS400, which is a type of soft magnetic steel.

[0061] The yoke 74 includes, for example, a first yoke portion 74A and a second yoke portion 74B connected to the first yoke portion 74A. The first yoke portion 74A is formed to extend, for example, in a second direction A2. The second direction A2 is, for example, a direction intersecting the first direction A1. The second direction A2 is, for example, a direction perpendicular to the first direction A1. The first yoke portion 74A is attached, for example, to the wall portion 62B.

[0062] The first yoke portion 74A has, for example, a connecting portion 74X. The connecting portion 74X is connected to, for example, the second yoke portion 74B. The second yoke portion 74B is formed to extend, for example, in the third direction A3. The third direction A3 is, for example, a direction intersecting each of the first direction A1 and the second direction A2. The third direction A3 is, for example, a direction perpendicular to each of the first direction A1 and the second direction A2. One end of the second yoke portion 74B is connected to the connecting portion 74X of the first yoke portion 74A. The first yoke portion 74A has, for example, a support portion 74Y. The support portion 74Y supports, for example, the magnetostrictive member 70. The support portion 74Y supports, for example, one end of the magnetostrictive member 70.

[0063] The yoke 74 includes, for example, a plurality of yoke plates. The support member 72 further includes, for example, a support frame 76. At least a portion of the support frame 76 is disposed between the plurality of yoke plates. The support frame 76 is formed to include, for example, a non-magnetic material. The support frame 76 is formed, for example, at least partially from a non-magnetic material. The support frame 76 is formed, for example, entirely from a non-magnetic material. The support frame 76 is formed, for example, from stainless steel. The support frame 76 may include a magnetic material. It is sufficient that the support frame 76 has non-magnetic properties as a whole.

[0064] Support frame 76 includes a portion of first yoke portion 74A that is disposed between the multiple yoke plates, and an arrangement portion 76A that is exposed from first yoke portion 74A. Arrangement portion 76A is formed to extend from first yoke portion 74A along third direction A3.

[0065] The magnetostrictive member 70 is formed to include, for example, a magnetostrictive material. The magnetostrictive member 70 is capable of swinging in, for example, a first direction A1. The magnetostrictive member 70 is capable of swinging in, for example, the first direction A1 relative to the housing 62. The magnetostrictive material is, for example, an Fe—Ga alloy. The magnetic permeability of the magnetostrictive member 70 changes as the magnetostrictive member 70 expands and contracts. The magnetization direction of the magnetostrictive member 70 changes as the magnetostrictive member 70 expands and contracts.

[0066] The magnetostrictive member 70 has, for example, a plate shape extending in the third direction A3. One end of the magnetostrictive member 70 in the third direction A3 is disposed between the first yoke portions 74A. The magnetostrictive member 70 is attached, for example, to a placement portion 76A of the support frame 76. The magnetostrictive member 70 is attached to the placement portion 76A by, for example, an adhesive member.

[0067] The support frame 76 is configured to be elastically deformable, for example. The support frame 76 is configured to oscillate in the first direction A1 by elastically deforming in the first direction A1, for example, with a portion disposed on the first yoke portion 74A as a fulcrum. The magnetostrictive member 70 oscillates in the first direction A1 together with the disposition portion 76A, for example.

[0068] The coil 68 generates electricity by the oscillation of the magnetostrictive member 70 in the first direction A1. The coil 68 is wound, for example, around at least one of the magnetostrictive member 70 and the arrangement portion 76A. In this embodiment, the coil 68 is wound around both the magnetostrictive member 70 and the arrangement portion 76A.

[0069] 3 and 4, the power generation unit 54 includes, for example, a magnetic flux forming member 78. In this embodiment, the magnetostrictive member 70 and the yoke 74 form a closed magnetic circuit M1. The magnetic flux forming member 78 is disposed between the yoke 74 and the magnetostrictive member 70 in the second direction A2 so that the magnetic flux of the closed magnetic circuit M1 passes through the magnetic flux forming member 78. The magnetic flux forming member 78 can increase the magnetic flux density of the magnetic flux passing through the magnetostrictive member 70, thereby increasing the generated voltage of the power generation unit 54. The magnetic flux forming member 78 includes, for example, a magnet.

[0070] 3 and 4, the operating unit 52 is provided in the housing 62 so that the second portion 52B can come into contact with at least one of the magnetostrictive member 70 and the arrangement portion 76A. The second portion 52B is, for example, a protrusion that is arranged to overlap with at least one of the magnetostrictive member 70 and the arrangement portion 76A when viewed from the first direction A1. In this embodiment, the second portion 52B is arranged to overlap with both the magnetostrictive member 70 and the arrangement portion 76A when viewed from the first direction A1. The second portion 52B can come into contact with at least one of the magnetostrictive member 70 and the arrangement portion 76A when viewed from the second direction A2, for example.

[0071] For example, when the first portion 52A of the operation unit 52 is operated by a user, the second portion 52B is configured to induce swinging of at least one of the magnetostrictive member 70 and the arrangement portion 76A of the power generation unit 54.

[0072] When the first portion 52A is pressed by the user while the operating unit 52 is located at the first operating position P1, the operating unit 52 moves from the first operating position P1 toward the second operating position P2. For example, the second portion 52B presses at least one of the magnetostrictive member 70 and the arrangement portion 76A as the operating unit 52 moves. When the second portion 52B presses at least one of the magnetostrictive member 70 and the arrangement portion 76A, the at least one of the magnetostrictive member 70 and the arrangement portion 76A moves in the first direction A1.

[0073] When at least one of the magnetostrictive member 70 and the arrangement portion 76A moves in the first direction A1, at least one of the magnetostrictive member 70 and the arrangement portion 76A moves with the portion where the magnetostrictive member 70 and the arrangement portion 76A are arranged on the first yoke portion 74A as a fulcrum. For example, when the second portion 52B moves further in the first direction A1 and passes through a portion corresponding to the magnetostrictive member 70 and the arrangement portion 76A, the magnetostrictive member 70 and the arrangement portion 76A vibrate. As the magnetostrictive member 70 vibrates, the magnetostrictive member 70 expands and contracts, and the magnetic flux passing through the coil 68 changes. As the magnetic flux passing through the coil 68 changes, the coil 68 generates electricity.

[0074] When the user releases the first portion 52A while the operating portion 52 is located at the second operating position P2, the biasing member 64 biases the operating portion 52, causing the operating portion 52 to move toward the first operating position P1. When the second portion 52B passes through the portion corresponding to the magnetostrictive member 70 and the arrangement portion 76A, the magnetostrictive member 70 and the arrangement portion 76A vibrate. As the magnetostrictive member 70 vibrates, the magnetostrictive member 70 expands and contracts, and the magnetic flux passing through the coil 68 changes. As the magnetic flux passing through the coil 68 changes, the coil 68 generates electricity.

[0075] The component 50 includes, for example, a circuit section 80. The circuit section 80 is disposed, for example, in the second space S2. The circuit section 80 includes, for example, an electric board 80A. The electric board 80A has, for example, a plate shape extending along the third direction A3. The electric board 80A is attached, for example, to the partition wall portion 62D.

[0076] 5, the component 50 further includes a rectifier 82 and a smoothing unit 84. The rectifier 82 rectifies the power generated by the coil 68. The rectifier 82 is mounted on, for example, an electric board 80A. The rectifier 82 includes, for example, a diode. The rectifier 82 is disposed, for example, between the coil 68 and the smoothing unit 84 in the power supply path.

[0077] The smoothing unit 84 includes, for example, at least one capacitor. The smoothing unit 84 is disposed, for example, in the power supply path between the rectifying unit 82 and the power storage unit 56. The power generated by the coil 68 is rectified by the rectifying unit 82 and then smoothed by the smoothing unit 84, for example.

[0078] For example, two coil lead wires 68A are drawn out from the coil 68. The coil lead wires 68A electrically connect the coil 68 and the rectifier 82. Each of the two coil lead wires 68A is connected to one end and the other end of the coil wire that forms the coil 68. One of the two coil lead wires 68A is connected to one end of the coil wire that forms the coil 68. The other of the two coil lead wires 68A is connected to the other end of the coil wire that forms the coil 68. The coil lead wire 68A is disposed in the second through-hole 62Y of the partition wall portion 62D so as to extend from the first space S1 toward the second space S2.

[0079] The power storage unit 56 stores, for example, the power generated by the power generation unit 54. The power storage unit 56 is mounted on, for example, an electric board 80A. For example, the power generated by the power generation unit 54 is supplied to the power storage unit 56. The power storage unit 56 includes, for example, a capacitor. The component 50 may include a first battery configured to be able to charge the power of the power storage unit 56.

[0080] 5 is supplied with power from, for example, the power storage unit 56. The power consumption unit 58 includes, for example, a transmission unit 86 and a communication control unit 88. At least a portion of the power consumption unit 58 is mounted on, for example, an electric board 80A. The electric board 80A on which the power consumption unit 58 is mounted may be separate from the electric board 80A on which at least one of the power storage unit 56, the rectification unit 82, and the smoothing unit 84 is mounted.

[0081] The transmitter 86 is mounted on, for example, the electric board 80A. The transmitter 86 is configured to transmit a predetermined signal to the other component 40. The transmitter 86 is configured to transmit a predetermined signal to the other component 40 using, for example, power generated by the power generation unit 54. The transmitter 86 includes, for example, a wireless transmitter. The wireless transmitter is configured, for example, to output an operation signal to the other component 40. The communication method between the wireless transmitter and the other component 40 is not particularly limited. Communication methods between the wireless transmitter and the other component 40 include, for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC (Near Field Communication), ANT (registered trademark), ANT+ (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), and mobile communication systems of various generations. The communication method between the wireless transmitter and the other component 40 may be a proprietary communication standard.

[0082] The communication control unit 88 is mounted on, for example, the electric board 80A. The communication control unit 88 includes an arithmetic processing unit that executes a predetermined control program. The arithmetic processing unit includes, for example, a CPU or an MPU. The communication control unit 88 may include one or more microcomputers. The communication control unit 88 may include multiple arithmetic processing units that are located at multiple locations. The communication control unit 88 operates using power supplied from, for example, the power storage unit 56.

[0083] The power consumption unit 58 may include a storage unit. The storage unit is mounted on, for example, the electrical board 80A. The storage unit stores, for example, a control program and information used in the control process. The storage unit includes, for example, a non-volatile memory and a volatile memory.

[0084] The power consumption unit 58 includes, for example, a power conversion unit 90. The power conversion unit 90 is mounted on, for example, an electric board 80A. The power conversion unit 90 converts the power supplied from the power storage unit 56, for example, so that the power becomes suitable for the power consumption unit 58. The power conversion unit 90 is configured, for example, to convert at least one of the voltage and current of the power supplied from the power storage unit 56.

[0085] The power consumption unit 58 includes, for example, a capacitor 92. The capacitor 92 stores the power supplied from the power storage unit 56 via, for example, the switching unit 60. The capacitor 92 is mounted on, for example, an electric board 80A. The power consumption unit 58 may include a second battery configured to be able to charge surplus power out of the power supplied to the power consumption unit 58.

[0086] The power conversion unit 90 is configured to convert, for example, at least one of the current and voltage of the power supplied from the capacitor 92. In this embodiment, the power conversion unit 90 converts, for example, the voltage of the power supplied from the capacitor 92. The power conversion unit 90 includes, for example, a DC / DC conversion circuit.

[0087] The switching unit 60 shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 switches the connection state between the power storage unit 56 and the power consumption unit 58 in response to, for example, a user's operation on the operation unit 52. The switching unit 60 includes, for example, a momentary switch. The switching unit 60 includes, for example, a tactile switch. The switching unit 60 includes, for example, a contact unit 94 that can come into contact with the operation unit 52. The contact unit 94 is disposed, for example, between the operation unit 52 and the bottom 62A in the third space S3. The switching unit 60 is provided, for example, on an electric board 80A.

[0088] The connection state includes, for example, a first connection state in which the power storage unit 56 is connected to the power consumption unit 58, and a second connection state in which the power storage unit 56 is not connected to the power consumption unit 58. The switching unit 60 is configured to switch the connection state between the first connection state and the second connection state in response to, for example, an operation on the operation unit 52 by the user.

[0089] The switching unit 60 is configured to set the connection state to the first connection state when the operation unit 52 is in one of the first operation position P1 and the second operation position P2, for example. In this embodiment, the switching unit 60 is configured to set the connection state to the second connection state when the operation unit 52 is in the first operation position P1. The switching unit 60 is configured to set the connection state to the second connection state when the operation unit 52 is in the other of the first operation position P1 and the second operation position P2, for example. In this embodiment, the switching unit 60 is configured to set the connection state to the first connection state when the operation unit 52 is in the second operation position P2.

[0090] The switching unit 60 is configured to change the connection state to the second connection state, for example, when the operation position of the operation unit 52 is displaced. The switching unit 60 is configured to change the connection state to the second connection state, for example, when the operation unit 52 is displaced from the first operation position P1 to the second operation position P2, and when the operation unit 52 is displaced from the second operation position P2 to the first operation position P1.

[0091] The switching unit 60 includes, for example, a first contact 96, a second contact 98, and a movable contact 100. The first contact 96 is connected, for example, to the power storage unit 56. The second contact 98 is connected, for example, to the power consumption unit 58. The movable contact 100 is configured to move in response to an operation on the operating unit 52, for example, and to come into contact with the first contact 96 and the second contact 98.

[0092] The movable contact 100 is provided, for example, on the contact portion 94. The movable contact 100 includes, for example, a first movable contact 100A that contacts the first contact 96 and a second movable contact 100B that contacts the second contact 98. The movable contact 100 contacts the first contact 96 and the second contact 98 at the first movable contact 100A and the second movable contact 100B.

[0093] For example, when the operation unit 52 is in one of the first operation position P1 and the second operation position P2, the switching unit 60 is configured to bring the first contact 96 and the second contact 98 into contact with the movable contact 100. In this embodiment, when the operation unit 52 is in the second operation position P2, the switching unit 60 is configured to bring the first contact 96 and the second contact 98 into contact with the movable contact 100. For example, when the contact unit 94 is pressed by the operation unit 52, the movable contact 100 comes into contact with the first contact 96 and the second contact 98.

[0094] For example, when the operation unit 52 is in the second operation position P2, the switching unit 60 is configured to bring the first movable contact 100A into contact with the first contact 96 and bring the second movable contact 100B into contact with the second contact 98. For example, the switching unit 60 brings the first movable contact 100A into contact with the first contact 96 and brings the second movable contact 100B into contact with the second contact 98, thereby switching the connection state between the power storage unit 56 and the power consumption unit 58 to the first connection state.

[0095] For example, when the operating unit 52 is in the other of the first operating position P1 and the second operating position P2, the switching unit 60 is configured to separate the first contact 96 and the second contact 98 from the movable contact 100. In this embodiment, when the operating unit 52 is in the first operating position P1, the switching unit 60 is configured to separate the first contact 96 and the second contact 98 from the movable contact 100. For example, when the operating unit 52 is separated from the contact unit 94, the movable contact 100 is separated from the first contact 96 and the second contact 98.

[0096] For example, when the operation unit 52 is in the first operation position P1, the switching unit 60 is configured to move the first movable contact 100A away from the first contact 96. For example, when the operation unit 52 is in the first operation position P1, the switching unit 60 is configured to move the second movable contact 100B away from the second contact 98. For example, the switching unit 60 moves the movable contact 100 away from at least one of the first contact 96 and the second contact 98, thereby switching the connection state between the power storage unit 56 and the power consumption unit 58 to the second connection state.

[0097] When the connection state is the second connection state, the power storage unit 56 stores the power generated by the power generation unit 54. Therefore, when the connection state between the power storage unit 56 and the power consumption unit 58 is the second connection state, the power generated by the power generation unit 54 is not supplied to the power consumption unit 58. The power generation unit 54 generates power when the operation unit 52 is displaced from the first operation position P1 to the second operation position P2, and when the operation unit 52 is displaced from the second operation position P2 to the first operation position P1. In the present embodiment, when the operation unit 52 is displaced from the first operation position P1 to the second operation position P2, the connection state is the second connection state, and therefore the power generated by the power generation unit 54 when the operation unit 52 is displaced from the first operation position P1 to the second operation position P2 is stored in the power storage unit 56. When operation unit 52 moves to second operation position P2, the connection state changes from the second connection state to the first connection state, and the power stored in power storage unit 56 is supplied to power consumption unit 58. Therefore, connection between power storage unit 56 and power consumption unit 58 is suppressed when the amount of stored power in power storage unit 56 is low, and power can be suitably supplied from power storage unit 56 to power consumption unit 58.

[0098] In the present embodiment, when the operation unit 52 is displaced from the second operation position P2 to the first operation position P1, and when the operation unit 52 is in the first operation position P1, the connection state is the second connection state, and therefore the power generated by the power generation unit 54 when the operation unit 52 is displaced from the second operation position P2 to the first operation position P1 is stored in the power storage unit 56 until the operation unit 52 moves again to the second operation position P2. Therefore, the power storage unit 56 and the power consumption unit 58 are further prevented from being connected when the amount of stored power in the power storage unit 56 is low.

[0099] The communication control unit 88 is configured to, for example, control the transmission unit 86 to transmit a predetermined signal in response to a user's operation on the operation unit 52. The communication control unit 88 is configured to, for example, control the transmission unit 86 to transmit a predetermined signal to the other component 40 when the connection state is switched from the second connection state to the first connection state. The predetermined signal includes, for example, an operation command for operating the other component 40.

[0100] The communication control unit 88 is configured to, for example, control the transmitter 86 to transmit a predetermined signal when the operation unit 52 is operated. The communication control unit 88 is configured to, for example, control the transmitter 86 to transmit a predetermined signal when the connection state is switched from the second connection state to the first connection state as the operation unit 52 is displaced from the first operation position P1 to the second operation position P2. The communication control unit 88 is configured to, for example, control the transmitter 86 to transmit a predetermined signal when power is supplied to the power consumption unit 58 as a result of the connection state being switched from the second connection state to the first connection state.

[0101] The component 50 may further include an operation detection unit that is configured separately from the switching unit 60 and detects the operation state of the operation unit 52. The operation detection unit is disposed, for example, near the contact portion 94 of the switching unit 60. The operation detection unit includes, for example, an element that consumes power. The power consumption unit 58 may include the operation detection unit. The operation detection unit operates, for example, using power supplied from the power storage unit 56. The operation detection unit includes, for example, a momentary switch. The operation detection unit includes, for example, a tactile switch. The operation detection unit may include a hall sensor or an optical sensor. The operation detection unit may include any sensor as long as it can detect the operation state of the operation unit 52.

[0102] The operation detection unit outputs a detection signal to the circuit unit 80 in response to, for example, movement of the operation unit 52. The operation detection unit is configured to transmit the detection signal to the switching unit 60 when, for example, the operation unit 52 is located at the second operation position P2. The detection signal is, for example, an ON signal.

[0103] When the component 50 includes an operation detection unit, the communication control unit 88 may be configured to control the transmission unit 86 to transmit a predetermined signal when it is determined, based on a detection signal from the operation detection unit, that the operation unit 52 has been displaced from the first operation position P1 to the second operation position P2, and when the connection state is switched from the second connection state to the first connection state. When the component 50 includes an operation detection unit, the communication control unit 88 may be configured to control the transmission unit 86 to transmit a predetermined signal when it is determined, based on a detection signal from the operation detection unit, that the operation unit 52 has been displaced from the second operation position P2 to the first operation position P1, and when the connection state is switched from the second connection state to the first connection state.

[0104] If the other component 40 includes the transmission 40A, the predetermined signal includes, for example, a gear shift command for operating the transmission 40A to change the gear ratio. If the other component 40 includes the transmission 40A and the operating unit 52 is an operating unit 52 for increasing the gear ratio, the predetermined signal includes, for example, a first gear shift command for increasing the gear ratio. If the other component 40 includes the transmission 40A and the operating unit 52 is an operating unit 52 for decreasing the gear ratio, the predetermined signal includes, for example, a second gear shift command for decreasing the gear ratio.

[0105] The predetermined signal may include a first predetermined signal and a second predetermined signal. The first predetermined signal is, for example, a signal for driving the actuator 42 of the other component 40. The second predetermined signal is, for example, a signal for stopping the actuator 42 of the other component 40.

[0106] The communication control unit 88 is configured to, for example, control the transmitting unit 86 to transmit a first predetermined signal when the connection state is switched from the second connection state to the first connection state. The communication control unit 88 may also be configured to control the transmitting unit 86 to transmit a second predetermined signal when the connection state is switched from the first connection state to the second connection state.

[0107] When the component 50 includes an operation detection unit, the communication control unit 88 is configured to control the transmission unit 86 to transmit a first predetermined signal, for example, when a detection signal from the operation detection unit determines that the operation unit 52 has been displaced from the first operation position P1 to the second operation position P2, and when the connection state is switched from the second connection state to the first connection state. When the component 50 includes an operation detection unit, the communication control unit 88 is configured to control the transmission unit 86 to transmit a second predetermined signal, for example, when a detection signal from the operation detection unit determines that the operation unit 52 has been displaced from the second operation position P2 to the first operation position P1, and when the connection state is switched from the second connection state to the first connection state.

[0108] The first predetermined signal may be the same as or different from the second predetermined signal. When the first predetermined signal is the same as the second predetermined signal, for example, the control unit of the other component 40 may determine whether the predetermined signal received by the receiving unit of the other component 40 is the first predetermined signal or the second predetermined signal. The component 50 may be configured not to transmit the second predetermined signal. When the component 50 is configured not to transmit the second predetermined signal, the control unit of the other component 40 may be configured to receive the first predetermined signal, operate the actuator 42, and then stop the actuator 42 of the other component 40 in accordance with a predetermined condition.

[0109] Second Embodiment A component 50 for a human-powered vehicle according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 5 and 6. With respect to the component 50 for a human-powered vehicle according to the second embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0110] The switching unit 60 of this embodiment includes, for example, an elastically deformable body 102 configured to bend when the operating unit 52 is operated. The elastically deformable body 102 includes, for example, a leaf spring. The housing 62 includes, for example, an elastically deformable body support portion 104 that supports one end of the elastically deformable body 102, and an electric board support portion 106 on which the electric board 80A is provided. The elastically deformable body 102 is pressed by the third portion 52C of the operating unit 52. The movable contact 100 is provided, for example, on the elastically deformable body 102. The first contact 96 and the second contact 98 are provided, for example, on the electric board support portion 106.

[0111] The first operation position P1 in this embodiment is, for example, the position of the operation unit 52 when no external force is applied to the operation unit 52. The first operation position P1 is determined, for example, by the biasing force of the biasing member 108. One end of the biasing member 108 is attached to the first portion 52A of the operation unit 52. The other end of the biasing member 108 is attached to the electric board support portion 106.

[0112] The second operation position P2 includes, for example, a position where the third portion 52C of the operation unit 52 is closest to the bottom 62A within the movable range of the operation unit 52. The second operation position P2 includes, for example, a position where the other end of the elastically deformable body 102 is closest to the bottom 62A within the movable range of the operation unit 52.

[0113] The switching unit 60 of this embodiment is configured to bring the first contact 96 and the second contact 98 into contact with the movable contact 100 when the operating unit 52 is in the first operating position P1. The switching unit 60 of this embodiment is configured to separate the first contact 96 and the second contact 98 from the movable contact 100 when the operating unit 52 is in the second operating position P2.

[0114] In the present embodiment, when the operation unit 52 is displaced from the first operation position P1 to the second operation position P2, the connection state changes from the first connection state to the second connection state, and therefore the power generated by the power generation unit 54 when the operation unit 52 is displaced from the first operation position P1 to the second operation position P2 is stored in the power storage unit 56. When the operation unit 52 is located at the second operation position P2, the connection state is the second connection state, and therefore the power stored in the power storage unit 56 is not supplied to the power consumption unit 58. When the operation unit 52 is displaced from the second operation position P2 to the first operation position P1, the connection state is the second connection state, and therefore the power generated by the power generation unit 54 when the operation unit 52 is displaced from the second operation position P2 to the first operation position P1 is stored in the power storage unit 56. When operation unit 52 moves to first operation position P1, the connection state changes from the second connection state to the first connection state, and the power stored in power storage unit 56 is supplied to power consumption unit 58. Therefore, connection between power storage unit 56 and power consumption unit 58 is suppressed when the amount of stored power in power storage unit 56 is low, and power can be suitably supplied from power storage unit 56 to power consumption unit 58.

[0115] Third Embodiment A component 50 for a human-powered vehicle according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 7 and 8. With regard to the component 50 for a human-powered vehicle according to the third embodiment, the same components as those in the first and second embodiments are designated by the same reference numerals as those in the first and second embodiments, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0116] The component 50 of the present embodiment further includes, for example, a detection unit 110 that detects operation of the operation unit 52, and a switching control unit 112 that is configured to control the switching unit 60 in accordance with the output of the detection unit 110. The detection unit 110 is, for example, electrically connected to the switching control unit 112. The detection unit 110 operates using power supplied from, for example, a power storage unit 56. The power of the power storage unit 56 may be supplied to the detection unit 110 via the switching control unit 112. The detection unit 110 includes, for example, a Hall sensor 110A. The detection unit 110 may include a reed sensor. When the detection unit 110 includes a reed sensor, the detection unit 110 does not need to receive power from the power storage unit 56. The detection unit 110 may be the same as the operation detection unit.

[0117] The detection unit 110 outputs a detection signal to the switching control unit 112, for example, in response to movement of the operation unit 52. The detection unit 110 is configured to output a detection signal to the switching control unit 112, for example, when the operation unit 52 is located at one of the first operation position P1 and the second operation position P2.

[0118] The detection unit 110 is configured to transmit a second operation position detection signal to the switching control unit 112 when the operation unit 52 is located at the second operation position P2, for example. The detection unit 110 may be configured to output a detection signal according to the distance from the operation unit 52 to the detection unit 110. The distance from the operation unit 52 to the detection unit 110 corresponds to the operation position of the operation unit 52, for example. When the detection unit 110 includes a momentary switch, the second operation position detection signal is, for example, an ON signal. When the second operation position detection signal is an ON signal, the detection unit 110 is configured not to conduct electricity to the switching control unit 112 when the operation unit 52 is located at the first operation position P1, and to conduct electricity to the switching control unit 112 when the operation unit 52 is located at the second operation position P2, for example.

[0119] The detection unit 110 may be configured to output a first operation position detection signal to the switching control unit 112 when the operation unit 52 is located at the first operation position P1. If the detection unit 110 includes a momentary switch, the first operation position detection signal may be an OFF signal. When the first operation position detection signal is an OFF signal, the detection unit 110 may be configured, for example, to conduct electricity to the switching unit 60 when the operation unit 52 is located at the first operation position P1, and not conduct electricity to the switching unit 60 when the operation unit 52 is located at the second operation position P2.

[0120] The switching control unit 112 is mounted on, for example, the electric board 80A. The switching control unit 112 includes an arithmetic processing unit that executes a predetermined control program. The arithmetic processing unit includes, for example, a CPU or an MPU. The switching control unit 112 may include one or more microcomputers. The switching control unit 112 may include multiple arithmetic processing units that are arranged at multiple locations. The switching control unit 112 operates using power supplied from, for example, the power storage unit 56.

[0121] The switching control unit 112 is configured, for example, to control the switching unit 60 to change the connection state to the second connection state when the operation unit 52 is in one of the first operation position P1 and the second operation position P2. The switching control unit 112 is configured, for example, to control the switching unit 60 to change the connection state to the second connection state when the operation unit 52 is in the other of the first operation position P1 and the second operation position P2. The switching control unit 112 is configured, for example, to control the switching unit 60 to change the connection state to the second connection state when the operation unit 52 is in the first operation position P1 and the second operation position P2.

[0122] The switching control unit 112 is configured to control the switching unit 60 to change the connection state to the second connection state, for example, when the operation unit 52 is displaced from one of the first operation position P1 and the second operation position P2 to the other of the first operation position P1 and the second operation position P2. The switching control unit 112 is configured to control the switching unit 60 to change the connection state to the first connection state, for example, when the operation unit 52 is displaced from the first operation position P1 to the second operation position P2, or when the operation unit 52 is displaced from the second operation position P2 to the first operation position P1.

[0123] The switching control unit 112 is configured to, for example, control the switching unit 60 to change the connection state to the first connection state when the second operation position detection signal is input from the detection unit 110. The switching control unit 112 may be configured to, for example, control the switching unit 60 to change the connection state to the first connection state when the first operation position detection signal is input from the detection unit 110.

[0124] In this embodiment, for example, when the operation unit 52 is located at the first operation position P1, the switching control unit 112 controls the switching unit 60 to change the connection state to the second connection state. When the operation unit 52 is displaced from the first operation position P1 to the second operation position P2, the switching control unit 112 controls the switching unit 60 to maintain the connection state in the second connection state. For example, when the operation unit 52 is located at the second operation position P2, the switching control unit 112 controls the switching unit 60 to maintain the connection state in the second connection state. When the operation unit 52 is displaced from the second operation position P2 to the first operation position P1, the switching control unit 112 controls the switching unit 60 to change the connection state from the second connection state to the first connection state.

[0125] The switching control unit 112 may be configured to control the switching unit 60 to change the connection state to the first connection state when the operation unit 52 is in one of the first operation position P1 and the second operation position P2. The switching control unit 112 may be configured to control the switching unit 60 to change the connection state to the second connection state when the operation unit 52 is in the other of the first operation position P1 and the second operation position P2. The switching control unit 112 may be configured to control the switching unit 60 to change the connection state to the second connection state when the operation unit 52 is displaced from the first operation position P1 to the second operation position P2 and when the operation unit 52 is displaced from the second operation position P2 to the first operation position P1.

[0126] <Example of change> The descriptions of each embodiment are intended to exemplify possible forms of components for human-powered vehicles and are not intended to limit the forms. Components for human-powered vehicles according to the present disclosure may take the form of, for example, modified examples of the embodiments described 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 descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0127] The operation unit 52 may be configured to be located at the second operation position P2 when the operation unit 52 is not operated by the user. When the operation unit 52 is configured to be located at the second operation position P2 when the operation unit 52 is not operated by the user, for example, the operation unit 52 is configured to move along the first direction A1 when the first portion 52A is pulled by the user. When the operation unit 52 is configured to move along the first direction A1 when the first portion 52A is pulled by the user, for example, the first operation position P1 corresponds to the second operation position P2 shown in FIG. 4, and the second operation position P2 corresponds to the first operation position P1 shown in FIG. 4. In the first embodiment, when the operation unit 52 is configured to be located at the second operation position P2 when the operation unit 52 is not operated by the user, for example, the switching unit 60 may be configured in the same manner as the switching unit 60 of the second embodiment, so that when the operation unit 52 is at the first operation position P1, the connection state is set to the second connection state, and when the operation unit 52 is at the second operation position P2, the connection state is set to the first connection state.

[0128] The configuration of the operation unit 52 can be modified as appropriate as long as it can cause the power generation unit 54 to generate power. The operation unit 52 may be, for example, the operation unit 114 shown in FIGS. 9 and 10. The operation unit 114 is configured so that a portion of the operation unit 114 moves in a direction different from the swing direction of the swing unit 66. The operation unit 114 includes a first portion 114A, a second portion 114B, and a third portion 114C. The first portion 114A includes, for example, a portion disposed outside the housing 62. The second portion 114B is, for example, a portion that transmits the movement of the first portion 114A to the third portion 114C. The third portion 114C is, for example, a portion that can come into contact with the power generation unit 54. The second portion 114B is configured to move in a direction intersecting the first direction A1 when the user presses the first portion 114A in the first direction A1. The third portion 114C is configured to rotate due to movement of the second portion 114B in a direction intersecting the first direction A1. As the third portion 114C rotates, the third portion 114C comes into contact with the swinging portion 66, causing the swinging portion 66 to swing. In this modified example, the operation detection unit is configured to detect, for example, movement of the second portion 114B in a direction intersecting the first direction A1. The operation detection unit may also be configured to detect the position of the second portion 114B in the direction intersecting the first direction A1.

[0129] The power generating unit 54 can be modified as appropriate as long as it is configured to generate electricity in response to the displacement of the operation unit 52. The power generating unit 54 may include a magnet and a coil whose relative position changes depending on the displacement of the operation unit 52. The power generating unit 54 may include a piezoelectric element to which pressure is applied depending on the displacement of the operation unit 52. The power generating unit 54 may include a Peltier element that generates electricity using a temperature difference caused by the displacement of the operation unit 52.

[0130] The other components 40 may include at least one of an adjustable seatpost, a suspension, an assist unit, a braking device, and a lamp, instead of or in addition to the transmission 40A. The adjustable seatpost is configured, for example, to change the height of the saddle 16A relative to the frame 16 in response to a predetermined signal. The suspension includes, for example, at least one of a front suspension and a rear suspension. The suspension is configured, for example, to change the maximum length of the suspension in response to a predetermined signal. The assist unit is configured, for example, to change the ratio of the motor driving force to the human-powered driving force in response to a predetermined signal. The braking device includes, for example, at least one of a front braking device that brakes the front wheel 12F and a rear braking device that brakes the rear wheel 12R. The braking device is configured, for example, to change the braking force applied to the human-powered vehicle 10 in response to a predetermined signal. The lamp is configured, for example, to change the illumination state of the light source in response to a predetermined signal.

[0131] The capacitor 92 may be omitted. When the capacitor 92 is omitted, the switching unit 60 is electrically connected to the power conversion unit 90.

[0132] The connection state may include a third connection state in addition to the first connection state and the second connection state. The third connection state is, for example, a state in which the power supplied from the power storage unit 56 to the power consumption unit 58 is less than the power supplied from the power storage unit 56 to the power consumption unit 58 in the first connection state. The second connection state may be the third connection state.

[0133] 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.

[0134] 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]

[0135] 10...human-powered vehicle, 40...other components, 50...component, 50A...speed change operation device, 52...operation unit, 54...power generation unit, 56...energy storage unit, 58...power consumption unit, 60...switching unit, 66...oscillating unit, 68...coil, 70...magnetostrictive member, 86...transmitting unit, 88...communication control unit, 90...power conversion unit, 96...first contact, 98...second contact, 100...movable contact, 102...elastically deformable body, 110...detection unit, 110A...Hall sensor, 112...switching control unit, 114...operation unit.

Claims

1. A component for a human-powered vehicle, an operation unit operable by a user; a power generation unit configured to generate power in response to a displacement of the operation unit; a power storage unit that stores the power generated by the power generation unit; a power consumption unit that receives power from the power storage unit; a switching unit that switches a connection state between the power storage unit and the power consumption unit in response to an operation on the operation unit by the user.

2. The component according to claim 1 , wherein the power consumption unit includes a power conversion unit configured to convert at least one of a voltage and a current of the power supplied from the power storage unit.

3. the operating portion is configured to be displaceable between a first operating position and a second operating position different from the first operating position, the connection state includes a first connection state in which the power storage unit is connected to the power consumption unit, and a second connection state in which the power storage unit and the power consumption unit are not connected, The component according to claim 1 , wherein the switching unit is configured to switch the connection state between the first connection state and the second connection state in response to an operation on the operation unit by the user.

4. The component according to claim 3 , wherein the switching unit is configured to set the connection state to the first connection state when the operation unit is in one of the first operation position and the second operation position.

5. The component of claim 4 , wherein the switching unit is configured to change the connection state to the second connection state when the operation unit is displaced from the first operation position to the second operation position, and when the operation unit is displaced from the second operation position to the first operation position.

6. The component according to claim 4 , wherein the switching unit is configured to change the connection state to the second connection state when the operation unit is in the other of the first operation position and the second operation position.

7. 4. The component according to claim 3, wherein the switching unit includes a first contact connected to the power storage unit, a second contact connected to the power consumption unit, and a movable contact configured to move in response to an operation on the operating unit and to come into contact with the first contact and the second contact.

8. The switching unit is When the operation portion is in one of the first operation position and the second operation position, the first contact and the second contact are brought into contact with the movable contact; The component of claim 7 , wherein the operating portion is configured to separate the first contact and the second contact from the movable contact when the operating portion is in the other of the first operating position and the second operating position.

9. the switching unit includes an elastically deformable body configured to bend when the operating unit is operated, The component according to claim 8 , wherein the movable contact is provided on the elastically deformable body.

10. a detection unit that detects an operation of the operation unit; The component of claim 3 , further comprising: a switching control unit configured to control the switching unit in response to an output of the detection unit.

11. The component according to claim 10 , wherein the switching control unit is configured to control the switching unit to change the connection state to the second connection state when the operation unit is in one of the first operation position and the second operation position.

12. The component of claim 10 , wherein the switching control unit is configured to control the switching unit to change the connection state to the second connection state when the operation unit is displaced from one of the first operation position and the second operation position to the other of the first operation position and the second operation position.

13. The component according to claim 11 , wherein the switching control unit is configured to control the switching unit to change the connection state to the second connection state when the operation unit is in the other of the first operation position and the second operation position.

14. The component of claim 13 , wherein the switching control unit is configured to control the switching unit to change the connection state to the first connection state when the operation unit is displaced from the first operation position to the second operation position, or when the operation unit is displaced from the second operation position to the first operation position.

15. The component of claim 10 , wherein the sensing portion includes a Hall sensor.

16. The component of claim 3 , wherein the operating unit is configured to be in the first operating position when the operating unit is not operated by the user.

17. The power consumption unit a transmitting unit configured to transmit a predetermined signal to another component using the power generated by the power generating unit; a communication control unit configured to control the transmission unit to transmit the predetermined signal in response to an operation by the user on the operation unit, The component according to claim 3 , wherein the communication control unit is configured to control the transmission unit to transmit the predetermined signal to the other component when the connection state is switched from the second connection state to the first connection state.

18. The component according to claim 1 , wherein the power generation unit is configured to generate power by magnetostrictive power generation.

19. The power generation unit is a swinging unit that swings in response to displacement of the operating unit and has a magnetostrictive member; The component according to claim 18 , further comprising: a coil that generates electricity by the oscillation of the oscillation portion.

20. The component according to claim 1 , wherein the component is a gear shift operating device of the human-powered vehicle.

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