Battery mounting structure for human-powered vehicles, and battery adapter for human-powered vehicles

Abstract

The objective is to provide a battery mounting structure for a human-powered vehicle and a battery adapter for a human-powered vehicle that can be suitably attached to the vehicle body of the human-powered vehicle. [Solution] A battery mounting structure for a human-powered vehicle, for attaching the battery unit of the human-powered vehicle to a battery support portion provided on the vehicle body of the human-powered vehicle, comprises a battery support portion including a latch, a battery unit including a first battery end in a predetermined direction, the first battery end including a latch receiving portion that engages with the latch, and a release member attached to the first battery end so as to be movable relative to the first battery end and for releasing the engagement between the latch and the latch receiving portion, the release member having a release member mounting portion for attaching the release member to the first battery end, and a contact portion configured to contact the first battery end and including a pivot point of the release member when releasing the engagement between the latch and the latch receiving portion, the contact portion being provided away from the release member mounting portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a battery mounting structure for a human-powered vehicle and a battery adapter for a human-powered vehicle.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a mounting structure of a battery unit for attaching a battery unit for a human-powered vehicle to the vehicle body of the human-powered vehicle.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] One object of the present disclosure is to provide a battery mounting structure for a human-powered vehicle and a battery adapter for a human-powered vehicle, which can suitably attach a battery unit for a human-powered vehicle to the vehicle body of the human-powered vehicle.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A battery mounting structure according to a first aspect of the present disclosure is a battery mounting structure for a human-powered vehicle for mounting a battery unit of the human-powered vehicle to a battery support provided on the body of the human-powered vehicle, wherein the battery support includes a latch, the battery unit includes a first battery end in a predetermined direction, the first battery end includes a latch receiver that engages with the latch, and is mounted on the first battery end so as to be movable relative to the first battery end and includes a release member for disengaging the latch from the latch receiver, the release member having a release member mounting portion for mounting the release member to the first battery end, and a contact portion configured to contact the first battery end and including a pivot point for disengaging the latch from the latch receiver, the contact portion being provided away from the release member mounting portion. According to the battery mounting structure on the first side, the battery unit can be removed from the battery support by releasing the engagement between the latch and the latch receiver of the release member. Therefore, the battery mounting structure allows the battery unit to be suitably mounted on the vehicle body so that it can be easily removed from the vehicle body. According to the battery mounting structure on the first side, since the contact portion is provided away from the release member mounting portion, the force applied to the release member mounting portion when releasing the engagement between the latch and the latch receiver is reduced. Therefore, the release member is less likely to deteriorate.

[0006] In a battery mounting structure according to a second aspect of the first aspect of this disclosure, the release member further comprises an operating part provided for user operation. According to the battery mounting structure on the second side, the user can operate the release member by operating the control unit.

[0007] In a battery mounting structure of a third aspect according to the first or second aspect of the present disclosure, the release member has a push portion configured to push the latch toward the battery support portion when disengaging the latch from the latch receiving portion. According to the battery mounting structure on the third side, the engagement between the latch and the latch receiver can be released by the push portion pushing the latch toward the battery support portion.

[0008] In a battery mounting structure according to a fourth aspect of the third aspect of this disclosure, the release member comprises a release member body configured to rotate about the axis of the release member, the release member mounting portion protrudes from the release member body in a direction along the axis of the release member, the contact portion is provided on the release member body, the release member mounting portion has a first dimension in the direction along the axis of the release member, the pressing portion has a second dimension in the direction along the axis of the release member, and the first dimension is less than or equal to the second dimension. According to the battery mounting structure on the fourth side, since the first dimension is less than or equal to the second dimension, the pressing portion can be made larger. Therefore, the pressing portion can effectively release the latch and the latch receiver.

[0009] A fifth battery mounting structure according to any one of the first to third aspects of this disclosure, wherein the release member comprises a release member body configured to rotate about the axis of the release member, the release member mounting portion protrudes from the release member body in a direction along the axis of the release member, and the contact portion is provided on the release member body. According to the battery mounting structure on the fifth side, the release member mounting portion protrudes from the release member body in a direction along the axis of the release member, making it easy to attach the release member to the first battery end.

[0010] In a battery mounting structure according to a sixth aspect of the fourth or fifth aspect of this disclosure, the release member mounting portion is elastically deformable. According to the battery mounting structure on the sixth side, the release member mounting portion is elastically deformed, allowing the release member to be easily attached to the first battery end.

[0011] In a battery mounting structure of a seventh side according to any one of the fourth to sixth sides of the present disclosure, the first battery end includes a mounting portion on which at least a portion of the release member mounting portion is disposed, and in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the release member, the release member mounting portion is separated from the mounting portion by a gap. According to the battery mounting structure on the seventh side, the release member mounting portion and the placement portion are separated by a gap, so that when disengaging the latch and the latch receiver, less force is applied to the release member mounting portion.

[0012] In the battery mounting structure of the eighth aspect according to the seventh aspect of this disclosure, the release member mounting portion is configured to be positioned in the arrangement portion by moving in the predetermined direction when the release member mounting portion is attached to the first battery end. According to the battery mounting structure on the eighth side, the release member mounting portion can be positioned in the placement portion by moving the release member mounting portion in a predetermined direction.

[0013] A battery mounting structure of a ninth side according to the seventh or eighth side of the present disclosure, wherein the arrangement portion has a first arrangement portion and a second arrangement portion continuous with the first arrangement portion in a direction along the axis of the release member, the first arrangement portion includes a hole extending in a direction along the axis of the release member, and the second arrangement portion includes a recess recessed in the predetermined direction. According to the battery mounting structure on the ninth side, the release member mounting portion can be positioned in the mounting portion by fitting the release member mounting portion into the recess from a predetermined direction.

[0014] A battery mounting structure of a tenth side according to any one of the first to ninth sides of this disclosure, wherein the release member mounting portion has at least one free end, the free end including a curved portion. According to the battery mounting structure on the 10th side, a release member, having at least one free end including a curved portion, can be smoothly attached to the first battery end.

[0015] In a battery mounting structure of an eleventh side according to any one of the first to tenth sides of this disclosure, the latch is configured to engage with the latch receiver when the first battery end is attached to the battery support. According to the battery mounting structure on the 11th side, when the first battery end is attached to the battery support, the movement of the first battery support can be suitably restricted by the latch and the latch receiver.

[0016] In a battery mounting structure of a twelfth side according to the third or fourth side of this disclosure, with the first battery end attached to the battery support, at least a portion of the press is configured to face the latch in the predetermined direction. According to the battery mounting structure on the 12th side, when the release member releases the engagement between the latch and the latch receiver, the push portion can effectively push the latch.

[0017] In a battery mounting structure of a thirteenth side according to any one of the first to twelfth sides of this disclosure, the contact portion has a curved surface that protrudes toward the first battery end. According to the battery mounting structure on the 13th side, the contact portion has a curved surface that protrudes toward the first battery end, allowing the release member to move smoothly.

[0018] A battery mounting structure of a 14th side according to any one of the first to 13th sides of this disclosure, comprising a first battery end, wherein the first battery end is integrally formed with the battery unit, and the release member is provided on the battery unit. According to the battery mounting structure on the 14th side, the first battery end is formed integrally with the battery unit, thus reducing the number of parts.

[0019] A battery mounting structure of a 15th side according to any one of the first to 13th sides of this disclosure, comprising the first battery end, wherein the battery unit includes a battery unit body, and the first battery end is detachable from the battery unit body. According to the battery mounting structure of the 15th aspect, since the first battery end portion can be attached to and detached from the battery unit main body, a release member can be attached to the battery unit main body that does not have a release member.

[0020] A battery adapter according to the 16th aspect of the present disclosure is a battery adapter for a human-powered vehicle that is attached to a battery unit main body of the human-powered vehicle. The battery unit main body is attached to a battery support portion provided on the vehicle body of the human-powered vehicle. The battery support portion includes a latch that engages with a latch receiving portion provided on at least one of the battery adapter and the battery unit main body, an adapter main body, an adapter attachment portion provided on the adapter main body and attached so as to be attachable to and detachable from the battery unit main body, and a release member that releases the engagement between the latch and the latch receiving portion. According to the battery adapter of the 16th aspect, the release member releases the engagement between the latch and the latch receiving portion, so that the battery unit can be removed from the battery support portion. Therefore, the battery mounting structure can suitably attach the battery unit to the vehicle body so that the battery unit can be easily removed from the vehicle body.

[0021] A battery adapter according to the 17th aspect of the present disclosure is a battery adapter for a human-powered vehicle that is attached to a battery unit main body of the human-powered vehicle. The battery unit main body is attached to a battery support portion provided on the vehicle body of the human-powered vehicle and includes a first connector. The battery support portion includes a second connector that connects to the first connector. The battery adapter includes an adapter main body, an adapter attachment portion provided on the adapter main body and attached so as to be attachable to and detachable from the battery unit main body, and a connector hole provided on the adapter main body and configured such that at least one of the first connector and the second connector is inserted therein. According to the battery adapter of the 17th aspect, since it has a connector hole, the first connector can be connected to the second connector in a state where the battery adapter is attached to the battery unit main body. Therefore, the battery adapter can suitably attach the battery unit to the vehicle body.

[0022] In the battery adapter of the 18th aspect according to the 17th aspect of the present disclosure, the second connector is configured to be electrically connected to the first connector. According to the battery adapter of the 18th aspect, in a state where the battery adapter is attached to the battery unit main body, the first connector and the second connector can be electrically connected by the connector hole.

[0023] In the battery adapter of the 19th aspect according to any one of the 16th to 18th aspects of the present disclosure, the battery unit main body includes a main body housing extending in a predetermined direction and a main body end portion attached to the main body housing in the predetermined direction. The main body end portion includes a battery main body attachment portion, and the adapter attachment portion is one of a plurality of adapter attachment portions. The plurality of adapter attachment portions are configured to be arranged at positions different from the battery main body attachment portion when viewed from the attachment direction of the battery unit main body of the battery adapter. According to the battery adapter of the 19th aspect, since the plurality of adapter attachment portions are arranged at positions different from the battery main body attachment portion when viewed from the attachment direction of the battery unit main body of the battery adapter, the plurality of adapter attachment portions are less likely to interfere with the battery main body attachment portion.

[0024] In the battery adapter of the 20th aspect according to any one of the 16th to 18th aspects of the present disclosure, the battery unit main body includes a main body housing extending in a predetermined direction and a main body end portion attached to the main body housing in the predetermined direction. The battery adapter has a third dimension in a direction orthogonal to the predetermined direction, the main body end portion has a fourth dimension in a direction orthogonal to the predetermined direction, and the fourth dimension is less than the third dimension. The battery adapter on the 20th side allows the battery unit body of the 4th dimension at the end of the main body to be suitably attached to the battery support portion corresponding to the 3rd dimension.

[0025] A battery adapter of a 21st side according to any one of the 16th to 20th sides of this disclosure further comprises an engaged portion that engages with an engaging portion provided on the battery support portion. According to the 21st side battery adapter, the battery unit and the battery support can be suitably attached by the engagement of the engaging portion and the engaged portion. [Effects of the Invention]

[0026] The battery mounting structure for a human-powered vehicle and the battery adapter for a human-powered vehicle disclosed herein allow a battery unit for a human-powered vehicle to be suitably mounted on the vehicle body of the human-powered vehicle. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0027] [Figure 1] This is a side view of a human-powered vehicle including a battery mounting structure for a human-powered vehicle according to a first embodiment, and a battery adapter for a human-powered vehicle. [Figure 2] This is an exploded perspective view showing the battery unit of the first embodiment and the portion of the human-powered vehicle body to which the battery unit is attached. [Figure 3] Figure 2 is a side view of the battery unit. [Figure 4] Figure 3 is a disassembled perspective view of the battery unit. [Figure 5] Figure 3 is a plan view of the first battery end of the battery unit. [Figure 6] Figure 3 is a plan view of the second battery end of the battery unit. [Figure 7] Figure 3 is a plan view of the first end of the battery unit body. [Figure 8] Figure 3 is a plan view of the second end of the battery unit body. [Figure 9]Figure 3 is a perspective view of the first battery adapter. [Figure 10] Figure 9 is a plan view of the first battery adapter. [Figure 11] Figure 9 is a side view of the first battery adapter. [Figure 12] This is a cross-sectional view along the line D12-D12 in Figure 10. [Figure 13] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the first adapter body. [Figure 14] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the release member. [Figure 15] This is a perspective view of the release member from a different angle than Figure 14. [Figure 16] Figure 9 is a plan view of the release member. [Figure 17] Figure 9 is a side view of the release member. [Figure 18] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the second battery adapter. [Figure 19] Figure 18 is a plan view of the second battery adapter. [Figure 20] Figure 18 is a side view of the second battery adapter. [Figure 21] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing part of the installation procedure for the battery unit. [Figure 22] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing part of the installation procedure for the battery unit. [Figure 23] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing part of the installation procedure for the battery unit. [Figure 24] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the procedure for removing the battery unit. [Figure 25] This is a side view of the battery unit according to the second embodiment. [Figure 26] This is a plan view of the second battery end of the battery unit according to the second embodiment. [Figure 27] This is a side view of the second battery terminal of the third embodiment. [Figure 28] This is a plan view of the second battery end of the third embodiment. [Figure 29]This is a cross-sectional view of the modified battery unit and the part of the vehicle body where the battery unit is installed. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0028] <First Embodiment> Referring to Figures 1 to 24, a battery mounting structure 70 for a human-powered vehicle and a battery adapter 90 for a human-powered vehicle are described. A human-powered vehicle is a vehicle having at least one wheel and capable of being driven by at least human power. Human-powered vehicles include various types of bicycles, such as mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes, handbikes, and recumbent bikes. The number of wheels a human-powered vehicle may have is not limited. Human-powered vehicles also include, for example, unicycles and vehicles with two or more wheels. Human-powered vehicles are not limited to vehicles that can be driven solely by human power. Human-powered vehicles include so-called e-bikes that utilize the driving force of an electric motor in addition to human power for propulsion. E-bikes include electric assist bicycles, in which propulsion is assisted by an electric motor. Hereinafter, human-powered vehicles will be described as electric assist bicycles.

[0029] In this specification, the following directional terms, “front,” “rear,” “forward,” “backward,” “left,” “right,” “side,” “upward,” and “downward,” as well as any other similar directional terms, refer to those directions determined relative to the user facing the handlebars in a reference position (e.g., on the saddle or seat) of a human-powered vehicle.

[0030] As shown in Figure 1, the human-powered vehicle 10 includes at least one wheel 12 and a body 14 of the human-powered vehicle 10. 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. A saddle is attached to the frame 16, for example.

[0031] The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes, for example, a crank 18 into which human power is input. The crank 18 includes, for example, a crankshaft 20 rotatable relative to the frame 16 and crank arms 22. The crank arms 22 include, for example, a first crank arm 22A and a second crank arm 22B. The first crank arm 22A and the second crank arm 22B are, for example, provided at both axial ends of the crankshaft 20, respectively.

[0032] A pedal 24 is connected to the crank arm 22, for example. The pedal 24 includes, for example, a first pedal 24A and a second pedal 24B. The first pedal 24A is connected to the first crank arm 22A, for example. The second pedal 24B is connected to the second crank arm 22B, for example. A front fork 26 is connected to the frame 16, for example. A front wheel 12F is mounted to the front fork 26, for example. A handlebar 28 is connected to the front fork 26 via a stem 30, for example. The rear wheel 12R is supported by the frame 16, for example.

[0033] In this embodiment, the crank 18 is connected to the rear wheel 12R by a drive mechanism 32. The rear wheel 12R is driven, for example, by the rotation of the crankshaft 20. 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. The drive mechanism 32 includes, for example, at least one first rotating body 34 connected to the crankshaft 20. 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 20 may be connected to the front sprocket via a one-way clutch.

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

[0035] The human-powered vehicle 10 includes, for example, a drive unit 40. The drive unit 40 includes, for example, a motor 40A configured to provide propulsion to the human-powered vehicle 10. The motor 40A is configured to provide propulsion to the human-powered vehicle 10 in accordance with the human power driving force.

[0036] The motor 40A is configured to transmit its rotational force to at least one component included in the transmission path of human-powered driving force from the pedal 24 to at least one second rotating body 36. The motor 40A is configured to be, for example, mounted on the frame 16 and to transmit rotational force to at least one first rotating body 34. The motor 40A may also be mounted on the hub of the human-powered vehicle 10 and to transmit rotational force to at least one second rotating body 36.

[0037] The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes, for example, a battery unit 72. The battery unit 72 has, for example, a longitudinal direction. The battery unit 72 is formed, for example, in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped or a column. The battery unit 72 includes one or more battery elements. The battery elements include a rechargeable battery. The battery unit 72 is configured, for example, to supply power to components for the human-powered vehicle. The components for the human-powered vehicle include, for example, a drive unit 40. The components for the human-powered vehicle may include, in place of or in addition to the drive unit 40, at least one of a gearbox, a wireless communication unit, various sensors, a display device, a lamp, an electrically adjustable seatpost, an electric suspension, and a braking device.

[0038] The battery unit 72 may be configured to supply power to components for a human-powered vehicle other than the drive unit 40 via the drive unit 40. The battery unit 72 is communicated with the drive unit 40, for example, by wired or wireless means. The battery unit 72 is configured to communicate with the drive unit 40, for example, by power line communication (PLC), CAN (Controller Area Network), or UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter).

[0039] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the battery unit 72 is mounted, for example, on the vehicle body 14. The battery unit 72 is mounted, for example, on the frame 16. The frame 16 includes, for example, a down tube 42. The battery unit 72 is mounted, for example, on the down tube 42. The down tube 42 is provided with a housing space 42A for housing the battery unit 72. The down tube 42 is provided with a frame opening 42B that opens downward when the human-powered vehicle 10 is placed on level ground. The frame opening 42B is large enough to insert at least the battery unit 72 into the housing space 42A. The frame 16 includes, for example, a cover 44. The cover 44 closes, for example, the frame opening 42B.

[0040] The battery unit 72 is protected, for example, by a cover 44. The cover 44 is attached, for example, to the battery unit 72. The shape of the cover 44 is formed, for example, to match the shape of the frame opening 42B. The shape of the cover 44 is such that, for example, when the battery unit 72 is attached to the down tube 42 and the cover 44 is attached to the battery unit 72, it is substantially flush with the down tube 42. The cover 44 may be attached to the frame opening 42B.

[0041] The human-powered vehicle 10 includes, for example, a battery support section 48 that supports a battery unit 72. The battery support section 48 is provided on the vehicle body 14. The battery support section 48 includes, for example, a first battery support section 50 and a second battery support section 52. The first battery support section 50 supports, for example, one end of the battery unit 72 in the longitudinal direction. The second battery support section 52 supports, for example, the other end of the battery unit 72 in the longitudinal direction.

[0042] The down tube 42 is provided with, for example, a first battery support mounting portion 46A for attaching the first battery support portion 50. The first battery support mounting portion 46A is attached, for example, to the inner surface 42C of the down tube 42. The first battery support mounting portion 46A is attached, for example, to the upper inner surface 42C of the down tube 42. The first battery support mounting portion 46A is provided with, for example, a threaded hole through which a bolt for attaching the first battery support portion 50 is inserted. The first battery support mounting portion 46A may be attached to the inner surface 42C of the down tube 42 by adhesive, welding, or brazing.

[0043] The down tube 42 is provided with a second battery support mounting portion 46B for attaching, for example, the second battery support portion 52. The second battery support mounting portion 46B is attached, for example, to the inner surface 42C of the down tube 42. The second battery support mounting portion 46B is attached, for example, to the lower inner surface 42C of the down tube 42. The second battery support mounting portion 46B is provided with a threaded hole through which a bolt for attaching the second battery support portion 52 is inserted. The second battery support mounting portion 46B may be attached to the inner surface 42C of the down tube 42 by adhesive, welding, or brazing.

[0044] The first battery support portion 50 includes, for example, a first battery support portion body 54. The first battery support portion body 54 includes, for example, a first surface 54A facing the battery unit 72 when the battery unit 72 is attached to the first battery support portion 50. The battery support portion 48 includes a latch 56. In this embodiment, the first battery support portion 50 includes a latch 56. The latch 56 is provided, for example, on the first surface 54A. The first battery support portion 50 includes, for example, a latch housing portion 54B shown in Figure 22. The latch housing portion 54B includes a recess that is recessed from the first surface 54A. The latch 56 is configured to move between a state in which the entire latch 56 is housed in the latch housing portion 54B and a state in which it protrudes from the first surface 54A toward the battery unit 72. The first battery support portion 50 includes, for example, a latch biasing portion that biases the latch 56 toward the battery unit 72 from the first surface 54A.

[0045] The first battery support unit 50 includes, for example, a latch operating unit 58. The latch operating unit 58 is configured to switch the state of the latch 56 between a restricted state in which the movement of the latch 56 is restricted and a permitted state in which the movement of the latch 56 is permitted. In the restricted state, for example, the movement of the latch 56 is restricted when the latch 56 protrudes from the first surface 54A toward the battery unit 72. The latch operating unit 58 includes, for example, a key cylinder. The user may switch the state of the latch 56 between the restricted state and the permitted state by operating, for example, the latch operating unit 58. If the first battery support unit 50 includes a latch biasing unit, the first battery support unit 50 does not need to include the latch operating unit 58.

[0046] As shown in Figures 2 and 21, the second battery support portion 52 includes, for example, a second battery support portion body 60. The second battery support portion body 60 includes, for example, a second surface 60A facing the battery unit 72 when the battery unit 72 is attached.

[0047] The battery support portion 48 includes, for example, a second connector 62 that connects to the first connector 78C of the battery unit 72. In this embodiment, the second battery support portion 52 includes the second connector 62. The second connector 62 is provided, for example, on the second surface 60A. The second connector 62 includes, for example, a protrusion or a recess. In this embodiment, the second connector 62 includes a recess. The second connector 62 is configured to be electrically connectable to, for example, the first connector 78C. The second connector 62 includes, for example, power terminals for supplying power from the battery unit 72 to components for a human-powered vehicle. The second connector 62 includes, for example, communication terminals for the battery unit 72 and components for a human-powered vehicle to communicate with each other. If the battery unit 72 is connected to components for a human-powered vehicle by power line communication, the power terminals may be integrated with the communication terminals.

[0048] The battery support portion 48 includes, for example, an engaging portion 64. In this embodiment, the second battery support portion 52 includes an engaging portion 64. The engaging portion 64 is provided, for example, on one of the first battery support portion 50 and the second battery support portion 52 on which the second connector 62 is provided. The engaging portion 64 is configured to engage, for example, with the engaged portion 72C of the battery unit 72. The engaging portion 64 includes, for example, a projection 64A that protrudes from the second surface 60A toward the battery unit 72. The engaging portion 64 is provided, for example, on the second surface 60A toward the frame opening 42B side of the second connector 62.

[0049] As shown in Figures 2 to 4, the human-powered vehicle 10 includes a battery mounting structure 70 for the human-powered vehicle for attaching the battery unit 72 of the human-powered vehicle 10 to a battery support 48. The battery mounting structure 70 is provided on the battery unit 72. The battery unit 72 includes a first battery end 72A in a predetermined direction X1. The predetermined direction X1 corresponds, for example, to the longitudinal direction of the battery unit 72. The battery unit 72 further includes, for example, a second battery end 72B opposite to the first battery end 72A in the predetermined direction X1. The battery unit 72 includes, for example, a direction X2 perpendicular to the predetermined direction X1. Direction X2 includes a height direction X21 corresponding to the vertical direction of the human-powered vehicle 10 when the battery unit 72 is mounted on the vehicle body 14. Direction X2 includes a width direction X22 corresponding to the lateral direction of the human-powered vehicle 10 when the battery unit 72 is mounted on the vehicle body 14.

[0050] The first battery end 72A is attached, for example, to the first battery support 50. The second battery end 72B is attached, for example, to the second battery support 52. The first battery end 72A is positioned, for example, in the state where the battery unit 72 is attached to the vehicle body 14, to the front of the human-powered vehicle 10 compared to the second battery end 72B. The first battery end 72A is positioned, in the state where the battery unit 72 is attached to the vehicle body 14, to the upper side of the human-powered vehicle 10 compared to the second battery end 72B.

[0051] As shown in Figures 3 to 6, the battery unit 72 includes, for example, a battery unit body 74. The battery unit body 74 includes, for example, a first body end 78A and a second body end 78B in a predetermined direction X1. The battery unit 72 also includes, for example, a battery adapter 90. The battery adapter 90 is attached, for example, to the battery unit body 74. The battery unit 72 of this embodiment is configured by attaching the battery adapter 90 to the battery unit body 74.

[0052] As shown in Figures 3 to 8, the battery unit body 74 includes, for example, a body housing 76 and a body end 78. The body housing 76 extends, for example, in a predetermined direction X1. The body end 78 is attached to the body housing 76 in, for example, the predetermined direction X1. The body end 78 is configured separately from the body housing 76, for example. The body end 78 may be configured integrally with the body housing 76. The battery unit body 74 includes, for example, a body end 78 attached to one end of the body housing 76 in the predetermined direction X1, and a body end 78 attached to the other end. The body end 78 includes, for example, a battery body mounting portion 80. The battery body mounting portion 80 attaches the body end 78 to the body housing 76. The body end 78 includes, for example, a plurality of battery body mounting portions 80. The body end 78 includes, for example, four battery body mounting portions 80. The battery body mounting portion 80 includes, for example, a through hole into which a bolt is inserted. The housing body is provided with, for example, a female threaded portion that engages with a bolt inserted into the battery body mounting portion 80.

[0053] As shown in Figures 3 to 6, Figure 9, and Figure 10, the battery adapter 90 comprises, for example, an adapter body 90A and an adapter mounting portion 90B. The adapter mounting portion 90B is provided, for example, on the adapter body 90A. The adapter mounting portion 90B is attached, for example, to the battery unit body 74 so as to be detachable. The battery adapter 90 comprises, for example, a plurality of adapter mounting portions 90B. The battery adapter 90 comprises, for example, four adapter mounting portions 90B.

[0054] The battery unit 72 includes, for example, an adapter mounting member 72D for attaching the adapter mounting portion 90B to the battery unit body 74. The adapter mounting member 72D includes, for example, a bolt. The adapter mounting portion 90B includes, for example, a through hole. The battery unit body 74 includes, for example, a body mounting portion 82 corresponding to the adapter mounting portion 90B. The body mounting portion 82 is provided, for example, at the body end 78. The body mounting portion 82 includes, for example, a female thread.

[0055] As shown in Figures 4 to 8, the adapter mounting portion 90B is one of a plurality of adapter mounting portions 90B. The plurality of adapter mounting portions 90B are configured to be positioned differently from the battery body mounting portion 80 when viewed, for example, from the mounting direction of the battery unit body 74 of the battery adapter 90. All of the adapter mounting portions 90B are configured to be positioned differently from any of the battery body mounting portions 80 when viewed, for example, from the mounting direction of the battery unit body 74 of the battery adapter 90.

[0056] One of the four adapter mounting sections 90B is provided, for example, at the central part of the adapter body 90A in the height direction X21 and at the right end in the width direction X22. One of the four adapter mounting sections 90B is provided, for example, at the central part of the adapter body 90A in the height direction X21 and at the left end in the width direction X22. One of the four adapter mounting sections 90B is provided, for example, at the upper end of the adapter body 90A in the height direction X21 and between the center and one end in the width direction X22. One of the four adapter mounting sections 90B is provided, for example, at the lower end of the adapter body 90A in the height direction X21 and between the center and the other end in the width direction X22.

[0057] The four adapter mounting sections 90B are arranged, for example, at the four corners of the main body end section 78. The four battery main body mounting sections 80 are arranged, for example, at the main body end section 78 so as to be symmetrical with respect to a line segment that passes through the center of the width direction X22 and extends in the height direction X21.

[0058] As shown in Figure 4, the battery adapter 90 includes, for example, a first battery adapter 92 that is detachably attached to the first main body end 78A. The battery adapter 90 also includes, for example, a second battery adapter 94 that is detachably attached to the second main body end 78B.

[0059] In this embodiment, the first battery adapter 92 includes a first battery end 72A. The first battery end 72A is substantially equivalent to, for example, the first battery adapter 92. The first battery end 72A is configured to be detachable from the battery unit body 74. In this embodiment, the second battery adapter 94 includes a second battery end 72B. The second battery end 72B is substantially equivalent to, for example, the second battery adapter 94. The second battery end 72B is configured to be detachable from the battery unit body 74.

[0060] As shown in Figures 5 and 9 to 12, the first battery end 72A includes, for example, a latch receiving portion 98. As shown in Figure 22, when the first battery end 72A is attached to the battery support portion 48, the latch 56 is configured to engage with, for example, the latch receiving portion 98. The latch receiving portion 98 shown in Figures 5 and 9 to 12 is provided on at least one of the battery adapter 90 and the battery unit body 74. In this embodiment, the latch receiving portion 98 is provided on the first adapter body 96. When the first battery end 72A is attached to the battery support portion 48, the latch 56 is configured to engage with the latch receiving portion 98. The latch receiving portion 98 is provided on, for example, a protrusion 96C projecting from the first battery end 72A. The latch receiving portion 98 includes, for example, a planar portion provided downward in the height direction X21 of the protrusion 96C. The upper surface of the protrusion 96C in the height direction X21 is configured to be inclined with respect to the width direction X22.

[0061] As shown in Figures 9 to 13, the first battery adapter 92 includes a first adapter body 96. The first adapter body 96 includes, for example, a first adapter end 96A that contacts the first surface 54A of the first battery support portion 50. The first adapter body 96 also includes, for example, a second adapter end 96B that contacts the first body end 78A of the battery unit body 74.

[0062] As shown in Figure 2 and Figures 9 to 17, the battery mounting structure 70 includes a release member 100. The release member 100 releases the engagement between the latch 56 and the latch receiver 98. In this embodiment, the battery adapter 90 includes, for example, a release member 100. The release member 100 is, for example, attached to the first battery end 72A so as to be movable relative to the first battery end 72A, and is configured to release the engagement between the latch 56 and the latch receiver 98.

[0063] As shown in Figures 9 to 17, the release member 100 has a release member mounting portion 106 and a contact portion 104B. The release member mounting portion 106 attaches the release member 100 to the first battery end 72A, for example. The contact portion 104B is configured to contact the first battery end 72A. The first battery end 72A includes, for example, a release member support portion 102 that supports the release member 100. The release member support portion 102 includes, for example, a contact portion support portion 102A that the contact portion 104B of the release member 100 contacts. The contact portion support portion 102A has, for example, a recess. The recess has, for example, a curved surface.

[0064] The first battery end 72A includes, for example, an arrangement portion 112 on which at least a part of the release member mounting portion 106 is located. The arrangement portion 112 is provided, for example, in a portion of the first battery end 72A that is different from the contact portion support portion 102A.

[0065] The release member 100 comprises, for example, a release member body 104 configured to rotate about a release member axis 100A. The release member axis 100A extends, for example, in the width direction X22. The release member body 104 extends, for example, in the height direction X21. The release member body 104 has, for example, release member recesses 104A at each end in the width direction X22. The release member recesses 104A are provided on the release member body 104 to correspond to the release member mounting portion 106, for example, so that the release member mounting portion 106 can be easily deformed.

[0066] The contact portion 104B is provided away from the release member mounting portion 106. The contact portion 104B is provided, for example, on the release member body 104. The contact portion 104B includes the pivot point of the release member 100 when disengaging the latch 56 from the latch receiving portion 98. The pivot point of the release member 100 is included, for example, in the portion of the contact portion 104B that contacts the first battery end 72A in a cross section perpendicular to the direction along the release member axis 100A. The contact portion 104B has, for example, a curved surface that protrudes toward the first battery end 72A. The contact portion 104B has, for example, a shape corresponding to the contact support portion 102A of the release member support portion 102. When disengaging the latch 56 from the latch receiving portion 98, the release member 100 rotates around the release member axis 100A while the contact portion 104B is in contact with the contact support portion 102A.

[0067] The release member 100 has, for example, an operating section 108. The operating section 108 is provided, for example, to allow the user to operate the release member 100. The operating section 108 is provided, for example, at the lower end of the release member body 104 in the height direction X21. At least a portion of the operating section 108 is configured, for example, to be located below the lower end of the first battery end 72A in the height direction X21. The operating section 108 is configured to be operated by the user, for example, when the battery unit 72 is attached to the battery support section 48.

[0068] The release member 100 has, for example, a push portion 110. The push portion 110 is configured to push the latch 56 toward the battery support portion 48 when releasing the engagement between the latch 56 and the latch receiving portion 98. The push portion 110 is provided, for example, at the upper end of the release member body 104 in the height direction X21. When the first battery end 72A is attached to the battery support portion 48, at least a part of the push portion 110 is configured to face the latch 56 in a predetermined direction X1, for example. When releasing the engagement between the latch 56 and the latch receiving portion 98, the portion of the push portion 110 that contacts the latch 56 is in the same position as the portion where the latch 56 and the latch receiving portion 98 contact each other in a direction Y1 along the release member axis 100A.

[0069] The release member mounting portion 106 is configured to protrude, for example, from the release member body 104 in a direction Y1 along the release member axis 100A. The release member mounting portion 106 is configured to protrude, for example, from the release member body 104 in each of the directions Y1 along the release member axis 100A. The release member mounting portion 106 has, for example, a connecting portion 106A that is connected to the release member body 104. The release member mounting portion 106 has, for example, an intermediate portion 106B that is continuous with the end of the connecting portion 106A opposite to the release member body 104. The release member mounting portion 106 has, for example, at least one free end 106C. The free end 106C is continuous with, for example, the end of the intermediate portion 106B opposite to the connecting portion 106A. In this embodiment, the release member mounting portion 106 has two free ends 106C. The free ends 106C are provided at both ends of the release member mounting portion 106 in the direction Y1 along the release member axis 100A.

[0070] The connecting portion 106A extends, for example, in a direction Y1 along the release member axis 100A. The intermediate portion 106B extends, for example, in a direction perpendicular to the direction Y1 along the release member axis 100A. The free end 106C extends, for example, in a direction Y1 along the release member axis 100A. The central axis of the free end 106C coincides, for example, with the release member axis 100A. The central axis of the free end 106C of the release member 100 does not have to coincide with the release member axis 100A. The free end 106C includes, for example, a curved portion 106D. In this embodiment, for example, the free end 106C has a spherical portion.

[0071] As shown in Figure 16, the release member mounting portion 106 has, for example, a first dimension L1 in the direction Y1 along the release member axis 100A. The first dimension L1 corresponds, for example, to the distance from one free end 106C to the other free end 106C. The push portion 110 has, for example, a second dimension L2 in the direction Y1 along the release member axis 100A. The first dimension L1 is, for example, less than or equal to the second dimension.

[0072] As shown in Figures 9 to 13, the arrangement portion 112 has, for example, a first arrangement portion 112A and a second arrangement portion 112B. The second arrangement portion 112B is configured to be continuous with the first arrangement portion 112A in a direction Y1 along the release member axis 100A. The first arrangement portion 112A includes, for example, a hole 112D extending in a direction Y1 along the release member axis 100A. The second arrangement portion 112B includes, for example, a recess 112C that is recessed in a predetermined direction X1. The recess 112C extends, for example, from above to below in the height direction X21 as it moves from the first battery end 72A to the second battery end 72B. At least a portion of the free end 106C is arranged in, for example, the first arrangement portion 112A. At least a portion of the intermediate portion 106B is arranged in, for example, the second arrangement portion 112B. In the direction Y2 perpendicular to the axis 100A of the release member, the release member mounting portion 106 is separated from the placement portion 112, for example, by a gap. The outer diameter of the placement portion 112 is, for example, larger than the outer diameter of the release member mounting portion 106. The release member mounting portion 106 is, for example, only partially in contact with the placement portion 112.

[0073] The release member mounting portion 106 is, for example, elastically deformable. The release member mounting portion 106 is configured to be elastically deformable by the shape and dimensions of at least one of the connecting portion 106A and the intermediate portion 106B. The release member mounting portion 106 may include an elastic member. The release member mounting portion 106 is configured to be positioned in the positioning portion 112 by moving in a predetermined direction X1 when the release member mounting portion 106 is attached to the first battery end 72A. The release member mounting portion 106 is configured to be positioned in the positioning portion 112 by elastically deforming when the release member mounting portion 106 is attached to the first battery end 72A.

[0074] The release member mounting portion 106 and the placement portion 112 are configured such that, for example, if a force is applied to the operating portion 108 of the release member 100 from below the battery unit 72 in the opposite direction to the direction that releases the engagement between the latch 56 and the latch receiving portion 98, the release member mounting portion 106 will easily detach from the placement portion 112. When a force is applied to the operating portion 108 of the release member 100 from below the battery unit 72 in the opposite direction to the direction that releases the engagement between the latch 56 and the latch receiving portion 98, the release member mounting portion 106 will detach from the placement portion 112 by moving, for example, along the direction in which the recess 112C extends. Therefore, when a force is applied to the operating portion 108 of the release member 100 from below the battery unit 72 in the opposite direction to the direction that releases the engagement between the latch 56 and the latch receiving portion 98, the release member 100 is less likely to deform.

[0075] The release member mounting portion 106 and the arrangement portion 112 are configured such that, for example, when a force is applied to the operating portion 108 of the release member 100 from a predetermined direction X1 in a direction that releases the engagement between the latch 56 and the latch receiving portion 98, the force applied from the contact portion 104B to the first battery end 72A is greater than the force applied from the release member mounting portion 106 to the arrangement portion 112. The rigidity of the contact portion 104B is, for example, higher than the rigidity of the release member mounting portion 106. Therefore, when a force is applied to the operating portion 108 of the release member 100 from a predetermined direction X1 in a direction that releases the engagement between the latch 56 and the latch receiving portion 98, the release member 100 is less likely to deform.

[0076] As shown in Figures 2 and 21, the battery unit body 74 is attached, for example, to a battery support section 48 provided on the vehicle body 14. The battery unit body 74 includes, for example, a first connector 78C. The first connector 78C is configured to be connectable to a second connector 62 of the battery support section 48. The second connector 62 is configured to be electrically connectable to, for example, the first connector 78C. The first connector 78C includes, for example, power terminals for supplying power from the battery unit 72 to components for a human-powered vehicle. The first connector 78C also includes, for example, communication terminals for the battery unit 72 and the components for a human-powered vehicle to communicate with each other. If the battery unit 72 is connected to the components for a human-powered vehicle by power line communication, the power terminals may be integrated with the communication terminals.

[0077] The first connector 78C includes, for example, at least one of a protrusion and a recess. The first connector 78C has, for example, a shape corresponding to the second connector 62. In this embodiment, the first connector 78C protrudes from the second body end 78B of the battery unit body 74. In this embodiment, the first connector 78C includes a recess provided at the second battery end 72B of the battery unit 72.

[0078] As shown in Figure 2 and Figures 18 to 21, the second battery adapter 94 includes a second adapter body 94A. The second adapter body 94A includes, for example, a connector hole 114. The connector hole 114 is configured to accept, for example, at least one of a first connector 78C and a second connector 62. In this embodiment, the first connector 78C, which protrudes from the second body end 78B of the battery unit body 74, is inserted into the connector hole 114.

[0079] The battery adapter 90 includes an engaged portion 72C that engages with an engaging portion 64 provided on the battery support portion 48, for example. The engaged portion 72C is provided on the second battery adapter 94, for example. In this embodiment, the engaged portion 72C includes a through hole extending in a predetermined direction X1. The battery unit body 74 is provided with an engaged portion recess 78D that is continuous with the engaged portion 72C. The recess formed by the engaged portion 72C and the engaged portion recess 78D corresponds, for example, to the shape of the engaging portion 64. The recess formed by the engaged portion 72C and the engaged portion recess 78D is configured to guide the engaging portion 64 when, for example, the battery unit 72 is attached to the battery support portion 48.

[0080] The second adapter body 94A includes, for example, a notch 116. The second adapter body 94A may include a plurality of notches 116. The notches 116 may be through holes extending in a predetermined direction X1.

[0081] Referring to Figures 21 to 23, the procedure for attaching the battery unit 72 to the vehicle body 14 will be described. The procedure for attaching the battery unit 72 to the vehicle body 14 includes, for example, a first attachment procedure, a second attachment procedure, and a third attachment procedure. The first to third attachment procedures are the procedures for attaching the battery unit 72 to the vehicle body 14 using the battery attachment structure 70.

[0082] As shown in Figure 21, in the first mounting procedure, the engaged portion 72C of the second battery end 72B moves toward the second battery support portion 52 while being guided by the engaging portion 64. In the first mounting procedure, for example, with the user holding the battery unit 72, the protruding portion 64A is inserted into the recess of the engaged portion 72C. In the first mounting procedure, the engaging portion 64 is guided by the engaged portion 72C. Through the first mounting procedure, the first connector 78C is connected to the second connector 62.

[0083] As shown in Figure 22, in the second mounting procedure, the inclined surface of the protrusion 96C of the first battery end 72A moves toward the housing space 42A shown in Figure 2, while contacting the latch 56 on the first surface 54A of the first battery support 50. Because the protrusion 96C of the first battery end 72A pushes the latch 56 toward the first surface 54A, at least a portion of the latch 56 is housed in the latch housing 54B.

[0084] As shown in Figure 23, when the protrusion 96C moves to the latch receiving portion 98, the latch 56 moves from the latch housing portion 54B toward the first battery end portion 72A by the biasing member. As the latch 56 moves toward the first battery end portion 72A, a state is formed in which the push portion 110 of the release member 100 is pressed against the first battery end portion 72A. With the first battery end portion 72A attached to the battery support portion 48, for example, at least a part of the push portion 110 is configured to face the latch 56 in a predetermined direction X1.

[0085] In the third installation procedure, the user attaches the cover 44 to the frame 16 after the second installation procedure. After the second or third installation procedure, the user may restrict the movement of the latch 56 using, for example, the latch operating unit 58.

[0086] Referring to Figure 24, the procedure for removing the battery unit 72 from the vehicle body 14 is described. If the movement of the latch 56 is restricted using the latch operating part 58, the user changes the state to allow the movement of the latch 56 using the latch operating part 58. The user removes the cover 44 from the frame 16.

[0087] The user rotates the release member 100 around the release member axis 100A by operating the operating unit 108. To release the engagement between the latch 56 and the latch receiving unit 98, the push unit 110 pushes the latch 56 toward the first battery support unit 50. By pushing the latch 56 toward the first battery support unit 50, the push unit 110 moves the latch 56 toward the latch housing unit 54B. As the latch 56 is housed in the latch housing unit 54B, the battery unit 72 becomes able to move downward in the height direction X21. The user removes the battery unit 72 from the vehicle body 14 by, for example, performing the reverse procedure of the second installation procedure and the reverse procedure of the first installation procedure.

[0088] <Second Embodiment> A battery mounting structure 70 for a human-powered vehicle according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 25 and 26. The same reference numerals as in the first embodiment will be used for the battery mounting structure 70 for a human-powered vehicle according to the second embodiment, and redundant descriptions will be omitted.

[0089] The battery unit 72 of the second embodiment is configured without including the battery adapter 90 of the first embodiment. The battery mounting structure 70 of the second embodiment includes, for example, a first battery end 72A. The first battery end 72A is formed integrally with the battery unit 72. The first battery end 72A of the second embodiment is provided, for example, on the first body end 78A. The release member 100 is provided on the battery unit 72. The battery mounting structure 70 of the second embodiment includes, for example, a second battery end 72B. The second battery end 72B is formed integrally with the battery unit 72. The second battery end 72B of the second embodiment is provided, for example, on the second body end 78B.

[0090] The battery capacity of the battery unit 72 in the second embodiment is configured to be different from, for example, the battery capacity of the battery unit 72 in the first embodiment. The battery capacity of the battery unit 72 in the second embodiment is larger than, for example, the battery capacity of the battery unit 72 in the first embodiment. The volume of the battery unit 72 in the second embodiment is configured to be different from, for example, the volume of the battery unit 72 in the first embodiment. The volume of the battery unit 72 in the second embodiment is larger than, for example, the volume of the battery unit 72 in the first embodiment. The battery unit 72 in the second embodiment is configured such that, for example, the length A21 in a predetermined direction X1 is equal to the length A11 in a predetermined direction X1 of the battery unit 72 in the first embodiment shown in Figure 3. The battery unit 72 in the second embodiment is configured such that, for example, the length A21 in a predetermined direction X1 is longer than the length A16 in a predetermined direction X1 of the first embodiment shown in Figure 6.

[0091] The second battery end 72B of the first and second embodiments will be described with reference to Figures 6 and 26. The shapes and arrangements of the first connector 78C and the engaged portion 72C in the second battery end 72B of the second embodiment correspond, for example, to the shapes and arrangements of the first connector 78C and the engaged portion 72C in the first embodiment. The length A22 from the top surface of the battery unit 72 to the upper end of the first connector 78C in the second embodiment is equal, for example, to the length A12 from the top surface of the battery unit 72 to the upper end of the first connector 78C in the first embodiment. The length A23 from the top surface of the battery unit 72 to the lower end of the first connector 78C in the second embodiment is equal, for example, to the length A13 from the top surface of the battery unit 72 to the lower end of the first connector 78C in the first embodiment. The length A24 from the top surface of the battery unit 72 to the upper end of the engaged portion 72C in the second embodiment is equal to, for example, the length A14 from the top surface of the battery unit 72 to the upper end of the engaged portion 72C in the first embodiment. The length A25 from the top surface of the battery unit 72 to the lower end of the engaged portion 72C in the second embodiment is equal to, for example, the length A15 from the top surface of the battery unit 72 to the lower end of the engaged portion 72C in the first embodiment.

[0092] The battery unit 72 of the second embodiment can be mounted, for example, on the same battery support portion 48 as the battery unit 72 of the first embodiment. By attaching the battery adapter 90 to the battery unit body 74 of the first embodiment, the battery unit 72 of the first embodiment can be mounted on the battery support portion 48 corresponding to the battery unit 72 of the second embodiment. Therefore, the user can select and use the desired battery unit 72 from a plurality of battery units 72 with different battery capacities.

[0093] <Third Embodiment> A battery adapter 90 for a human-powered vehicle according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 27 and 28. The battery adapter 90 for a human-powered vehicle according to the third embodiment is denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and redundant descriptions will be omitted.

[0094] The battery adapter 90 of the third embodiment has a third dimension L3 in a direction X2 perpendicular to a predetermined direction X1. The main body end 78 has a fourth dimension L4 in a direction X2 perpendicular to the predetermined direction X1. The fourth dimension L4 is less than the third dimension L3. The third dimension L3 and the fourth dimension L4 are, for example, dimensions in the height direction X21. The battery adapter 90 having the third dimension L3 is, for example, the second battery adapter 94. The battery adapter 90 having the third dimension L3 may also be the first battery adapter 92.

[0095] At least a portion of the engaged portion 72C is located below the main body end portion 78 in the height direction X21. The second battery adapter 94 includes, for example, a protruding portion in the middle portion in the width direction X22 that protrudes downward. At least a portion of the engaged portion 72C is provided on the protruding portion.

[0096] Because the third dimension L3 is larger than the fourth dimension L4, the battery adapter 90 can easily position the necessary structures for the first battery end 72A or the second battery end 72B in a suitable location, even when the area of ​​the main body end 78 of the battery unit body 74 is small. Because the third dimension L3 is larger than the fourth dimension L4, the battery adapter 90 can increase the distance from the engaged portion 72C to the first connector 78C, for example.

[0097] <Example of changes> The descriptions of each embodiment are illustrative of possible forms of the battery mounting structure for a human-powered vehicle and the battery adapter for a human-powered vehicle according to this disclosure, and are not intended to limit their forms. The battery mounting structure for a human-powered vehicle and the battery adapter for a human-powered vehicle according to this disclosure may take the following forms, for example, variations of the embodiments shown below, and combinations of at least two non-inconsistent variations. In the following variations, parts common to the embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the embodiments and their descriptions are omitted.

[0098] As shown in Figure 29, the cover 44 may be shaped to correspond to the shape of the battery unit 72 to be housed. Figure 29 shows, for example, a state in which the battery unit 72 of the first embodiment is installed in a housing space 42A that is compatible with the battery unit 72 of the second embodiment. When the battery unit 72 of the second embodiment is installed in a housing space 42A that is compatible with the battery unit 72 of the first embodiment, the cover 44 may be configured to bulge outward from the frame opening 42B.

[0099] The engaging portion 64 of the battery support portion 48 may include a recess instead of a protruding portion 64A, and the engaged portion 72C may include a convex portion corresponding to the engaging portion 64.

[0100] The release member body 104 does not necessarily have to include the release member recess 104A. If the release member body 104 does not include the release member recess 104A, the lateral outer surface of the release member body 104 is configured as, for example, a flat surface.

[0101] The release member 100 does not necessarily have an operating section 108. In this modified example, for example, the battery mounting structure 70 includes an electric actuator for moving the release member 100. The battery unit 72 or the vehicle body 14 may include a switch or button for operating the electric actuator.

[0102] The first dimension L1 may be larger than the second dimension L2.

[0103] The release member mounting portion 106 may be configured not to undergo elastic deformation. In this modified example, for example, the placement portion 112 may have a size and shape such that the release member mounting portion 106 is positioned without elastic deformation, or the placement portion 112 may be configured to undergo elastic deformation.

[0104] In the direction Y2 perpendicular to the axis 100A of the release member, the release member mounting portion 106 may be positioned in the positioning portion 112 without any gaps. The release member mounting portion 106 may also be positioned so as to be in contact with the positioning portion 112. For example, in a predetermined cross-section in the direction Y2 perpendicular to the axis 100A of the release member, the entire circumference of the release member mounting portion 106 may be in contact with the positioning portion 112.

[0105] The release member mounting portion 106 may be configured to be positioned in the placement portion 112 by moving in a direction different from the predetermined direction X1 when the release member mounting portion 106 is attached to the first battery end 72A.

[0106] The arrangement section 112 does not necessarily have to have a second arrangement section 112B.

[0107] The free end 106C does not have to include the curved portion 106D. If the free end 106C does not include the curved portion 106D, the free end 106C may include, for example, a flat portion.

[0108] - When the first battery end 72A is attached to the battery support portion 48, the latch 56 may be configured not to engage with the latch receiving portion 98. In this modified example, for example, when the first battery end 72A is attached to the battery support portion 48, the battery mounting structure 70 is configured such that the push portion 110 of the release member 100 is positioned between the latch 56 and the latch receiving portion 98.

[0109] • When the first battery end 72A is attached to the battery support portion 48, the push portion 110 may be configured so as not to face the latch 56 in a predetermined direction X1. In this modified example, for example, the push portion 110 may be configured to release the engagement between the latch 56 and the latch receiving portion 98 by pushing a member that moves integrally with the latch 56.

[0110] The contact portion 104B does not necessarily have to have a curved surface that protrudes toward the first battery end 72A. In this modified example, the contact portion 104B may have, for example, a corner that protrudes toward the first battery end 72A.

[0111] The second connector 62 may be configured not to be electrically connected to the first connector 78C. The second connector 62 may be a connector that is mechanically connected to the first connector 78C, for example. The mechanical connection may include, for example, a hook and a hook receiver.

[0112] At least one of the multiple adapter mounting portions 90B may be provided in the same position as the battery body mounting portion 80 when viewed from the mounting direction of the battery unit body 74 of the battery adapter 90.

[0113] The battery mounting structure 70 does not need to have an engaged portion 72C. In this modified example, the battery support portion 48 does not need to have an engaged portion 64.

[0114] The storage space 42A may be provided in a part of the frame 16 other than the down tube 42, or in a part of the vehicle body 14 other than the frame 16. The direction in which the frame 16 extends may be the direction in which the part of the frame 16 other than the down tube 42 extends.

[0115] The frame opening 42B may be configured to open upward or to the side when the human-powered vehicle 10 is placed on level ground.

[0116] The battery unit 72 may be mounted on the surface of the frame 16.

[0117] In the human-powered vehicle 10, the battery support portion 48 may be formed integrally with the frame 16. When the battery support portion 48 is formed integrally with the frame 16, for example, the battery support portion 48 is provided on a portion that protrudes from the inner surface 42C of the down tube 42.

[0118] In the second embodiment, one of the first battery end 72A and the second battery end 72B may be formed integrally with the battery unit 72, and the other of the first battery end 72A and the second battery end 72B may be configured to be detachable from the battery unit body 74. In this modified example, the other of the first battery end 72A and the second battery end 72B is configured, for example, as a battery adapter 90.

[0119] The battery mounting structure 70 is attached to the first battery end 72A so as to be movable relative to the first battery end 72A and includes a release member 100 for disengaging the latch 56 from the latch receiving portion 98, the release member 100 having a release member mounting portion 106 for attaching the release member 100 to the first battery end 72A and a contact portion 104B configured to contact the first battery end 72A and including a pivot point for the release member 100 when disengaging the latch 56 from the latch receiving portion 98, the contact portion 104B is provided away from the release member mounting portion 106, and other configurations may be omitted.

[0120] The battery adapter 90 includes an adapter body 90A, an adapter mounting portion 90B provided on the adapter body 90A and detachably attached to the battery unit body 74, and a release member 100 that releases the engagement between the latch 56 and the latch receiving portion 98. Other components may be omitted. In this modified example, for example, the contact portion 104B may be the same as the release member mounting portion 106.

[0121] The battery adapter 90 includes an adapter body 90A, an adapter mounting portion 90B provided on the adapter body 90A and detachably attached to the battery unit body 74, and a connector hole 114 provided on the adapter body 90A and configured so that at least one of the first connector 78C and the second connector 62 is inserted. Other components may be omitted. In this modified example, for example, the contact portion 104B may be the same as the release member mounting portion 106.

[0122] As used herein, the expression "at least one" means "one or more" of the desired options. For example, as used herein, "at least one" means "only one option" or "both of the two options" if there are two options. As another example, as used herein, "at least one" means "only one option" or "a combination of two or more any options" if there are three or more options.

[0123] The ordinal numbers such as "1st" and "2nd" used in this specification are used simply to distinguish identical names and have no special meaning. [Explanation of symbols]

[0124] 10...Human-powered vehicle, 14...Vehicle body, 48...Battery support section, 56...Latch, 62...Second connector, 64...Engaging section, 70...Battery mounting structure, 72...Battery unit, 72A...First battery end, 72C...Engaged section, 74...Battery unit body, 76...Body housing, 78...Body end, 78C...First connector, 80...Battery body mounting section, 90...Battery adapter, 90A ...Adapter body, 90B...Adapter mounting part, 98...Latch receiving part, 100...Release member, 100A...Release member axis, 104...Release member body, 104B...Contact part, 106...Release member mounting part, 106C...Free end, 106D...Bent part, 108...Operation part, 110...Pressing part, 112...Placement part, 112A...First placement part, 112B...Second placement part, 112C...Recess, 112D...Hole, 114...Connector hole.

Claims

1. A battery mounting structure for a human-powered vehicle, for attaching the battery unit of the human-powered vehicle to a battery support portion provided on the vehicle body of the human-powered vehicle, The battery support portion includes a latch, The battery unit includes a first battery end in a predetermined direction, The first battery terminal includes a latch receiving portion that engages with the latch, A release member is attached to the first battery end so as to be movable relative to the first battery end, and is provided for disengaging the latch from the latch receiving portion. The release member is A release member mounting portion for attaching the release member to the first battery end, It is configured to contact the first battery end and has a contact portion that includes the pivot point of the release member when the engagement between the latch and the latch receiving portion is released, The contact portion is provided separately from the release member mounting portion in the battery mounting structure.

2. The battery mounting structure according to claim 1, wherein the release member further comprises an operating part provided for user operation.

3. The battery mounting structure according to claim 1, wherein the release member has a pressing portion configured to push the latch toward the battery support portion when disengaging the latch from the latch receiving portion.

4. The release member comprises a release member body configured to rotate around the axis of the release member, The release member mounting portion protrudes from the release member body in a direction along the axis of the release member, The contact portion is provided on the release member body, The release member mounting portion has a first dimension in the direction along the axis of the release member, The pressing portion has a second dimension in the direction along the axis of the release member, The battery mounting structure according to claim 3, wherein the first dimension is less than or equal to the second dimension.

5. The release member comprises a release member body configured to rotate around the axis of the release member, The release member mounting portion protrudes from the release member body in a direction along the axis of the release member, The battery mounting structure according to claim 1, wherein the contact portion is provided on the release member body.

6. The battery mounting structure according to claim 5, wherein the release member mounting portion is elastically deformable.

7. The first battery terminal includes an arrangement portion on which at least a part of the release member mounting portion is arranged. The battery mounting structure according to claim 5, wherein the release member mounting portion is separated from the arrangement portion by a gap in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the release member.

8. The battery mounting structure according to claim 7, wherein the release member mounting portion is configured to be positioned in the arrangement portion by moving in the predetermined direction when the release member mounting portion is attached to the first battery end.

9. The arrangement portion has a first arrangement portion and a second arrangement portion that is continuous with the first arrangement portion in a direction along the axis of the release member. The first arrangement portion includes a hole extending in a direction along the axis of the release member, The battery mounting structure according to claim 7, wherein the second arrangement portion includes a recess that is recessed in the predetermined direction.

10. The release member mounting portion has at least one free end, The battery mounting structure according to claim 1, wherein the free end includes a curved portion.

11. The battery mounting structure according to claim 1, wherein the latch is configured to engage with the latch receiving portion when the first battery end is attached to the battery support portion.

12. The battery mounting structure according to claim 3, wherein, when the first battery end is attached to the battery support portion, at least a portion of the pressing portion is configured to face the latch in the predetermined direction.

13. The battery mounting structure according to claim 1, wherein the contact portion has a curved surface that protrudes toward the first battery end.

14. The first battery terminal is provided, The first battery terminal is formed integrally with the battery unit. The release member is provided on the battery unit, as described in claim 1.

15. The first battery terminal is provided, The aforementioned battery unit includes the battery unit body, The battery mounting structure according to claim 1, wherein the first battery terminal is detachable from the battery unit body.

16. A battery adapter for a human-powered vehicle, which is attached to the battery unit body of a human-powered vehicle, The battery unit body is attached to a battery support portion provided on the body of the human-powered vehicle. The battery support portion includes a latch that engages with a latch receiving portion provided on at least one of the battery adapter and the battery unit body. A battery adapter comprising: an adapter body; an adapter mounting portion provided on the adapter body and detachably attached to the battery unit body; and a release member for releasing the engagement between the latch and the latch receiving portion.

17. A battery adapter for a human-powered vehicle, which is attached to the battery unit body of a human-powered vehicle, The battery unit body is attached to a battery support portion provided on the body of the human-powered vehicle and includes a first connector. The battery support portion includes a second connector that connects to the first connector. The adapter body and The adapter body is provided with an adapter mounting portion that can be attached to the battery unit body so as to be detachable from it, A battery adapter comprising: a connector hole provided in the adapter body, configured such that at least one of the first connector and the second connector is inserted into it.

18. The battery adapter according to claim 17, wherein the second connector is configured to be electrically connected to the first connector.

19. The battery unit body includes a body housing extending in a predetermined direction and a body end attached to the body housing in the predetermined direction, The end portion of the main body includes the battery mounting portion, The adapter mounting portion is one of a plurality of adapter mounting portions, The battery adapter according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the plurality of adapter mounting portions are configured to be positioned differently from the battery body mounting portion when viewed from the mounting direction of the battery adapter to the battery unit body.

20. The battery unit body includes a body housing extending in a predetermined direction and a body end attached to the body housing in the predetermined direction, The battery adapter has a third dimension in a direction perpendicular to the predetermined direction, The end portion of the main body has a fourth dimension in a direction perpendicular to the predetermined direction, The battery adapter according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the fourth dimension is less than the third dimension.

21. The battery adapter according to claim 16 or 17, further comprising an engaged portion that engages with an engaging portion provided on the battery support portion.

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