Operating device for human-powered vehicles, and human-powered vehicle

Abstract

This improves the convenience of an operating device configured to control a controlled object installed in a human-powered vehicle. [Solution] The operating device is an operating device for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: an operating member; a base on which the operating member is provided and which is at least partially embedded in the body of the human-powered vehicle; at least one interface; and a control unit provided on the base and electrically connected to at least one interface, which is configured to output a control command from at least one interface to a controlled object in response to the operation of the operating member, wherein the control unit is configured to change at least one of the controlled object and the control command.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an operating device for a human-powered vehicle and a human-powered vehicle.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an operating device including an operating unit configured to control a control target provided in a 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 improve the convenience of an operating device configured to control a control target provided in a human-powered vehicle.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The operating device according to the first aspect of the present disclosure is an operating device for a human-powered vehicle, including an operating member, a base provided with the operating member and configured to be at least partially embedded in the vehicle body of the human-powered vehicle, at least one interface, and a control unit provided on the base and electrically connected to the at least one interface, and configured to output a control command from the at least one interface to a control target in response to an operation of the operating member. The control unit is configured to be able to change at least one of the control target and the control command. The operating device according to the first aspect can improve convenience because it can change at least one of the control target controlled in response to an operation of the operating member and the control command output from the interface in response to an operation of the operating member according to the user's preference.

[0006] In the operating device of the second side relating to the first side, the control unit is configured to change at least one of the controlled object and the control command in response to a predetermined signal input through the at least one interface. The operating device of the second side can improve convenience because at least one of the controlled object and the control command can be changed from outside the operating device via at least one interface.

[0007] The operating device on the third side, according to the second side, includes a storage unit that stores information relating to at least one of the controlled object and the control command, and the control unit is configured to rewrite at least a portion of the information stored in the storage unit in response to a predetermined signal. The operating device on the third side can further improve convenience because at least one of the controlled object and the control command can be easily changed by rewriting at least a portion of the information stored in the storage unit.

[0008] In the operating device on the fourth side corresponding to the first side, the control unit is configured to change at least one of the controlled object and the control command when the operating member is operated by a predetermined operating method. The operating device on the fourth side can be made even more convenient because at least one of the controlled object and the control command can be easily changed by the operating member.

[0009] In a fifth-sided operating device that conforms to any one of the first to fourth sides, the at least one interface includes a first interface and a second interface, the first interface includes a connector having electrical terminals, and the second interface includes a wireless communication device. The fifth-sided operating device can change at least one of the controlled object and control commands by either wired communication or wireless communication, thereby further improving convenience.

[0010] In a sixth-sided operating device that conforms to any one of the first to fifth sides, the controlled object includes a motor configured to impart propulsion to the human-powered vehicle, and the control command includes a first control command for controlling the motor. The sixth-sided operating device can be made more convenient by changing the controlled object to a motor, thereby enabling the motor to be controlled by the first control command.

[0011] In the seventh side operating device according to the sixth side, the motor is configured to be controlled in one of a plurality of operating states, and the first control command includes a command for selecting one of the plurality of operating states. The seventh side operating device can further improve convenience because one operating state can be selected from a plurality of operating states by operating the operating member.

[0012] The operating device on the eighth side, corresponding to the seventh side, further includes a first status display unit that displays information about the selected operating state among the plurality of operating states. The operating device on the eighth side can notify the rider of the currently selected operating state using the first status display unit, thereby further improving convenience.

[0013] In the operating device on the ninth side corresponding to the eighth side, the first status display unit is configured to display a plurality of colors, and is configured to display the color corresponding to the selected operating state among the plurality of operating states. The operating device on the ninth side can notify the rider of the currently selected operating state of the motor by the difference in the colors displayed by the first status display unit, thereby further improving convenience.

[0014] In a 10th side operating device according to any one of the 1st to 5th, the controlled object includes a display device, and the control command includes a second control command for controlling the display device. By changing the controlled object of the 10th side operating device to a display device, the display device can be controlled by the second control command, thereby further improving convenience.

[0015] In the operating device on the 11th side according to the 10th side, the second control command includes a command for switching at least a portion of the display screen of the display device. The operating device on the 11th side can, for example, switch the screen of the display device, scroll the screen of the display device, or turn the power of the display device on or off by the second control command, thereby further improving convenience.

[0016] In an operating device for a twelfth side that conforms to any one of the first to fifth sides, the controlled object includes a lighting device, and the control command includes a third control command for controlling the lighting device. By changing the controlled object of the operating device for the twelfth side to a lighting device, the lighting device can be controlled by the third control command, thereby further improving convenience.

[0017] In the operating device on the 13th side corresponding to the 12th side, the third control command includes a command for changing the illuminance of the lighting device. Since the operating device on the 13th side can change the illuminance of the lighting device by the third control command, convenience can be further improved.

[0018] An operating device on the 14th side, which corresponds to any one of the 1st to 13th sides, further comprises a second status indicator unit provided at the base and configured to display information regarding the status of the battery provided in the human-powered vehicle. The operating device on the 14th side can further improve convenience by notifying the rider of information regarding the current status of the battery via the second status indicator unit.

[0019] In the operating device on the 15th side according to the 14th side, the second status display unit includes a plurality of light-emitting units, and the control unit is configured to control the plurality of light-emitting units and to illuminate at least one of the plurality of light-emitting units in accordance with the remaining charge of the battery provided in the human-powered vehicle, and is configured to control the plurality of light-emitting units such that the light intensity of each of the at least one light-emitting units when there are N (N is a natural number of 1 or more) at least one light-emitting units is greater than the light intensity of each of the at least one light-emitting units when there are N+1 at least one light-emitting units. The operating device on the 15th side can suppress changes in the amount of light perceived by the user by controlling the light intensity of each light-emitting unit by the control unit, even when adjacent light-emitting units are close together and the number of light-emitting units that light up simultaneously is different.

[0020] An operating device on the 16th side, which corresponds to any one of the 1st to 15th sides, further comprises a power switch provided on the base and configured to switch the power of the controlled object on and off. The operating device on the 16th side can switch the power of the controlled object on and off in response to an operation on the operating member, thereby further improving convenience.

[0021] An operating device on the 17th side, which corresponds to any one of the 1st to 16th sides, further comprises: an engaging portion provided at the first end of the base in a predetermined direction and configured to engage with the body of the human-powered vehicle; and a fastener mounting portion provided at the second end of the base in the predetermined direction and to which a fastener member to be fastened to the body of the human-powered vehicle is attached. The operating device on the 17th side can be stably attached to the body of the human-powered vehicle by fastening the fastener member to the fastener mounting portion with the engaging portion engaged with the body of the human-powered vehicle and fastening it to the body of the human-powered vehicle.

[0022] In the operating device of the 18th side surface according to the 17th side surface, the operating member is disposed between the engaging portion and the fastener mounting portion in the predetermined direction. The operating device of the 18th side surface is likely to suppress the displacement of the base portion with respect to the vehicle body due to the load applied to the base portion generated in response to the operation of the operating member.

[0023] The human-powered vehicle according to the 19th aspect of the present disclosure includes an operating device according to any one of the 1st to 18th aspects. The human-powered vehicle according to the 19th aspect can improve convenience.

[0024] The operating device according to the 20th aspect of the present disclosure is an operating device for a human-powered vehicle, and includes an operating member, a base portion on which the operating member is provided, a plurality of light-emitting portions provided on the base portion, and a control portion configured to control the plurality of light-emitting portions so that at least one of the plurality of light-emitting portions emits light corresponding to the remaining amount of a battery provided in the human-powered vehicle. The control portion is configured to control the plurality of light-emitting portions such that the light amount of each of the at least one light-emitting portions when the number of the at least one light-emitting portions is N (N is a natural number of 1 or more) is larger than the light amount of each of the at least one light-emitting portions when the number of the at least one light-emitting portions is N + 1. The operating device according to the 20th aspect can suppress a change in the light amount felt by the user by controlling the light amount of each light-emitting portion by the control portion even when adjacent light-emitting portions are close to each other and the number of simultaneously lit light-emitting portions is different.

[0025] In the operating device of the 21st side surface according to the 15th or 20th side surface, the plurality of light-emitting portions are arranged side by side at intervals around the operating member. The operating device according to the 21st aspect can improve the visibility of the remaining amount of the battery.

Effect of the Invention

[0026] According to the present disclosure, the convenience of an operating device configured to control a control target provided in a human-powered vehicle can be improved.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0027] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a side view of a human-powered vehicle according to an embodiment of this vehicle. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a top view of a human-powered vehicle according to an embodiment of this vehicle. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a human-powered vehicle according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a top view of the operating device according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a side view of the operating device according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the operating device according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a block diagram showing a modified example of the electrical configuration of the operating device according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the circuit configuration of the light-emitting unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of On-Duty operation in PWM control of the light-emitting unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a timing chart showing an example of the control timing of the light-emitting unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a process performed by the control unit according to the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0028] As shown in Figure 1, the human-powered vehicle 10 is, for example, a mountain bike equipped with an electric drive unit 12. The human-powered vehicle 10 is not limited to a mountain bike, but may be other bicycles such as road bikes, cross bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes, handcycles, and recumbents, as well as unicycles and vehicles with two or more wheels, as long as they can be driven by human power and are equipped with an electric drive unit 12.

[0029] The human-powered vehicle 10 includes a frame 10A. The frame 10A includes a frame 14 and a handlebar 14G. The frame 14 includes, for example, a head tube 14A, a top tube 14B, a down tube 14C, a seat stay 14D, a chain stay 14E, and a seat tube 14F. The head tube 14A, the top tube 14B, the down tube 14C, and the seat tube 14F constitute the front frame. The seat stay 14D and the chain stay 14E constitute the rear frame.

[0030] The human-powered vehicle 10 comprises at least one wheel 16, a drivetrain 18, and a controlled object 20. In this embodiment, the at least one wheel 16 includes a front wheel 16A and a rear wheel 16B. In this embodiment, the electric drive unit 12 includes part of the drivetrain 18.

[0031] The drivetrain 18 is configured to transmit human power to the drive wheels. In this embodiment, the rear wheel 16B is the drive wheel. The drivetrain 18 includes a chain 28. The drivetrain 18 further includes a pair of pedals 22, a crank 24, a front chainwheel 26, and a rear sprocket 30. Between the front chainwheel 26 and the crank 24, for example, is a first one-way clutch. The first one-way clutch transmits rotational force from the crank 24 to the front chainwheel 26 when the crank 24 rotates in a first rotational direction, and allows relative rotation between the crank 24 and the front chainwheel 26 when the crank 24 rotates in a second rotational direction. The first one-way clutch may be omitted. The human power applied to the pair of pedals 22 is transmitted to the rear wheel 16B via the crank 24, the front chainwheel 26, the chain 28, and the rear sprocket 30. In this embodiment, the rear sprocket 30 includes a plurality of sprockets. Rear sprocket 30 includes, for example, multiple sprockets with different numbers of teeth.

[0032] The drivetrain 18 may include pulleys and a belt instead of the front chainwheel 26, rear sprocket 30, and chain 28, and may also include bevel gears and a shaft. The crank 24 includes a crankshaft, a first crank arm connected to the first axial end of the crankshaft, and a second crank arm connected to the second axial end of the crankshaft. The drivetrain 18 may be configured in any way that transmits human power to the drive wheels. The front chainwheel 26 may include multiple chainwheels. For example, the rotation axis of the front chainwheel 26 is coaxial with the rotation axis of the crank 24. The rotation axis of the rear sprocket 30 is coaxial with the rotation axis of the rear wheel 16B.

[0033] The electric drive unit 12 is configured to provide propulsion to the human-powered vehicle 10. The electric drive unit 12 operates in response to human-powered driving force, for example, applied to the pedals 22. The electric drive unit 12 includes a motor 32. The electric drive unit 12 includes a housing 12A. In this embodiment, the electric drive unit 12 further includes a crankshaft and a drive unit output shaft to which the front chainwheel 26 is connected. The rotational axis of the drive unit output shaft is located coaxially with the rotational axis of the crank 24. The drive unit output shaft is connected to the crankshaft via a first one-way clutch. The motor 32 is provided in the housing 12A. The motor 32 includes an electric motor.

[0034] The motor 32 includes, for example, a brushless motor. The motor 32 is driven when the drive wheel is rotating by human power and is configured to assist the rotation of the drive wheel by human power. The electric drive unit 12 preferably further includes a reduction gear. The rotating shaft of the motor 32 is connected to the output shaft of the drive unit via the reduction gear. The motor 32 is powered by electricity supplied from a battery 34. The battery 34 is housed, for example, in a down tube 14C. The electric drive unit 12 may be included in the wheel 16. The electric drive unit 12 may be configured in any way that can drive the wheel 16 directly or indirectly.

[0035] The human-powered vehicle 10 includes a control device 40 for the human-powered vehicle. In this embodiment, the control device 40 is configured to control the motor 32. In other embodiments, the control device 40 does not need to control the motor 32. The control device 40 adjusts the drive current and drive voltage supplied to the motor 32 to control the assist force for propelling the human-powered vehicle 10. The control device 40 may be included in an electric drive unit 12. The control device 40 is housed, for example, in the housing 12A of the electric drive unit 12. The control device 40 may not be included in the electric drive unit 12 and may be provided on the frame 14 of the human-powered vehicle 10. The control device 40 is powered by electricity supplied from a battery 34.

[0036] The controlled object 20 includes a gear shifter 42. The controlled object 20 includes at least one of a front suspension 44 and a rear suspension 46. The controlled object 20 includes a seat post 48. The controlled object 20 includes a chain guide 42B configured to guide a chain 28 and rotatable around a predetermined axis of rotation. The controlled object 20 includes a motor 32 configured to provide propulsion to the human-powered vehicle 10. The controlled object 20 includes a display device 70. The controlled object 20 includes lighting devices 72A and 72B.

[0037] The gear shifter 42 is located in the transmission path for human-powered driving force. The transmission path for human-powered driving force is the path from the pedals 22 to the drive wheels. In this embodiment, the gear shifter 42 includes an external derailleur. The gear shifter 42 includes, for example, a derailleur 42A. In this embodiment, the derailleur 42A includes a rear derailleur. The derailleur 42A may also include a front derailleur. The gear shifter 42 further includes a front chainwheel 26 and a rear sprocket 30. If the derailleur 42A includes a rear derailleur, the rear sprocket 30 includes multiple sprockets. If the derailleur 42A includes a front derailleur, the front chainwheel 26 includes multiple chainwheels. If the derailleur 42A includes a rear derailleur, the gear shifter 42 shifts gears by the derailleur 42A moving the chain 28 from one of the multiple sprockets to another of the multiple sprockets.

[0038] If the derailleur 42A includes a front derailleur, the gear shifter 42 shifts gears by moving the chain 28 from one of the chainwheels to another of the chainwheels. When the gear shifter 42 shifts gears, the gear ratio of the gear shifter 42 is changed. The gear ratio of the gear shifter 42 is the ratio of the rotational speed of the output part of the gear shifter 42 to the rotational speed of the input part of the gear shifter 42 when the driving force is transmitted from the input part of the gear shifter 42 to the output part of the gear shifter 42. If the rotational speed of the input part of the gear shifter 42 is Vi, the rotational speed of the output part of the gear shifter 42 is Vo, and the gear ratio is R, then R is expressed by Equation 1. In this embodiment, Vi corresponds to the rotational speed of the crank 24, and Vo corresponds to the rotational speed of the drive wheel. (Equation 1) R = Vo / Vi

[0039] The transmission 42 may include an internal gear hub instead of an external gear hub, or it may include an internal gear hub in addition to an external gear hub. The internal gear hub is provided, for example, on the hub of the drive wheel. The internal gear hub may be a stepped gear hub or a continuously variable gear hub. The transmission 42 includes a gear state detection device 42a that outputs information about the current gear ratio. The information about the current gear ratio corresponds to information about the current gear stage. If the transmission 42 includes a derailleur 42A, the gear state detection device 42a outputs a signal corresponding to the position of the derailleur 42A. The gear state detection device 42a may also output a signal corresponding to the position of a component included in the first electric actuator 42D. The gear state detection device 42a is electrically connected to the control unit 52.

[0040] In this embodiment, the control device 40 is configured to control the transmission 42. In other embodiments, the control device 40 may be provided on the transmission 42. The control device 40 has a manual shift mode and an automatic shift mode as shift modes for the transmission 42. The control device 40 is configured to change the gear ratio of the transmission 42 by the manual shift mode and the automatic shift mode. The shift mode is switched by the rider. The shift mode may be switched, for example, by operating the shift control device 42C in a predetermined manner, or by operating a different control device than the shift control device 42C. The different shift control device is connected to the control device 40 via an electrical cable or a wireless communication device. The different shift control device includes, for example, a cycle computer, a smartphone, or a tablet computer.

[0041] The transmission 42 includes a first electric actuator 42D. The first electric actuator 42D includes an electric motor. The first electric actuator 42D may also include an electric motor and a reduction gear connected to the electric motor. In this embodiment, the first electric actuator 42D may be mounted on the derailleur 42A, or it may be spaced apart from the derailleur 42A and connected to the derailleur 42A by a Bowden cable. If the transmission 42 includes an internal gear hub, the first electric actuator 42D may be mounted on the internal gear hub, or it may be spaced apart from the internal gear hub and connected to the derailleur 42A by a Bowden cable.

[0042] When the gear shift mode is manual gear shift mode, for example, in response to the operation of the gear shift operating device 42C, the control device 40 drives the first electric actuator 42D, and the driving force of the first electric actuator 42D drives at least one of the derailleur 42A and the internal gear shift. The first electric actuator 42D is powered by the battery 34. The gear shift device 42 may be powered by a dedicated battery for the gear shift device 42.

[0043] When the gear shift mode is automatic gear shift mode, the control device 40 drives the first electric actuator 42D according to the driving state of the human-powered vehicle 10, and drives the derailleur 42A and at least one of the internal gear hub by the driving force of the first electric actuator 42D. The driving state of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes at least one of the cadence of the crank 24, the speed of the human-powered vehicle 10, and the human power driving force. Cadence is, for example, the number of rotations of the crank 24 per minute. The control device 40 controls the gear shift 42, for example, so that the cadence is maintained within a predetermined range. If the cadence is less than the lower limit of the predetermined range, the control device 40 controls the gear shift 42 so that the gear ratio of the gear shift 42 decreases. If the cadence is greater than a predetermined upper limit within a predetermined range, the control device 40 controls the transmission 42 so that the gear ratio of the transmission 42 increases. The control device 40 may also control the transmission 42 in accordance with the human-powered driving force acting on the drivetrain 18 of the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0044] The front suspension 44 rotatably supports the hub of the front wheel 16A. The front suspension 44 includes a shock absorber that extends and contracts longitudinally. The front suspension 44 is configured to dampen shocks transmitted from the road surface to the front wheel 16A by the shock absorber. The front suspension 44 is controlled by a control device 40.

[0045] The control device 40 is configured to change at least one of the following: the initial length of the front suspension 44, the stroke amount of the front suspension 44, and the stiffness of the front suspension 44. The front suspension 44 includes a second electric actuator 44a. The second electric actuator 44a includes at least one electric motor or at least one solenoid. The control device 40 controls the second electric actuator 44a. The second electric actuator 44a is powered by the battery 34. The stroke amount of the front suspension 44 is the length over which the shock absorber can extend and retract. The stiffness of the front suspension 44 is the damping force of the shock absorber. The configuration of the front suspension 44 is a general structure and therefore will not be described.

[0046] The second electric actuator 44a is directly or indirectly connected to a control valve provided on the front suspension 44. The front suspension 44, which may be connected to the control valve of the front suspension 44 via a cable, includes a first sensor that outputs information about the initial length of the front suspension 44 and a second sensor that outputs information about the stiffness of the front suspension 44. The first and second sensors are electrically connected to the control unit 52. The first and second sensors may be configured to output signals corresponding to the state of the control valve, or they may output signals corresponding to the state of the second electric actuator 44a. The first and second sensors include, for example, magnetic sensors, potentiometers, or optical sensors.

[0047] The rear suspension 46 has a first end in the extension / retraction direction connected to the front frame and a second end in the extension / retraction direction connected to the rear frame. The front and rear frames are configured to rotate around a predetermined axis of rotation. The rear frame forms a swing arm. The rear suspension 46 includes a shock absorber that extends and retracts in the longitudinal direction. The rear suspension 46 is configured to dampen shocks transmitted from the road surface to the rear wheel 16B by the shock absorber. The rear suspension 46 is powered by electricity supplied from the battery 34. The rear suspension 46 is controlled by a control device 40.

[0048] The control device 40 is configured to change at least one of the following: the initial length of the rear suspension 46, the stroke amount of the rear suspension 46, and the stiffness of the rear suspension 46. The rear suspension 46 includes a third electric actuator 46a. The third electric actuator 46a includes at least one electric motor or at least one solenoid. The control device 40 controls the third electric actuator 46a. The third electric actuator 46a is powered by the battery 34. The stroke amount of the rear suspension 46 is the length over which the shock absorber can extend and retract. The stiffness of the rear suspension 46 is the damping force of the shock absorber. The configuration of the rear suspension 46 is a general structure and therefore will not be described.

[0049] The third electric actuator 46a is directly or indirectly connected to a control valve provided in the front suspension 44. The third electric actuator 46a may also be connected via a cable to a control valve of the rear suspension 46. The rear suspension 46 includes a third sensor that outputs information regarding the initial length of the rear suspension 46 and a fourth sensor that outputs information regarding the stiffness of the rear suspension 46. The third and fourth sensors are electrically connected to the control unit 52. The third and fourth sensors may be configured to output signals corresponding to the state of the control valve, or they may output signals corresponding to the state of the third electric actuator 46a. The third and fourth sensors include, for example, magnetic sensors, potentiometers, or optical sensors.

[0050] The seatpost 48 is attached to the seat tube 14F. The saddle 48A is attached to the seatpost 48. The seatpost 48 is configured to adjust the height from the road surface to the saddle 48A by changing the length of the portion that protrudes from the seat tube 14F. The seatpost 48 is powered by electricity supplied from the battery 34. The seatpost 48 is controlled by the control unit 40. The seatpost 48 includes a fourth electric actuator 48a. The fourth electric actuator 48a includes at least one electric motor or at least one solenoid. The control unit 40 controls the length of the seatpost 48 by the fourth electric actuator 48a. The fourth electric actuator 48a is powered by the battery 34. The seatpost 48 includes a dropper or an adjustable seatpost. The configurations of dropper and adjustable seatposts are general structures and will not be described.

[0051] The fourth electric actuator 48a is connected, for example, directly or indirectly to a control valve included in the seatpost 48. The fourth electric actuator 48a may also be connected to the control valve of the seatpost 48 via a cable. The seatpost 48 extends hydraulically when the control valve is open, for example, and maintains its length by closing the control valve. Rather than controlling the control valve, the fourth electric actuator 48a may be configured to extend or retract the seatpost 48 by the driving force of the fourth electric actuator 48a. The seatpost 48 includes a fifth sensor that outputs information about the length of the seatpost 48. The fifth sensor is electrically connected to the control unit 52. The fifth sensor may be configured to output a signal depending on the state of the control valve, or it may output a signal depending on the state of the fourth electric actuator 48a. The fifth sensor includes, for example, a magnetic sensor, a potentiometer, or an optical sensor.

[0052] The chain guide 42B is included in the derailleur 42A. The chain guide 42B includes a resistance member. The resistance member provides rotational resistance around the rotation axis to the chain guide 42B, which rotates around a predetermined rotation axis. The resistance member includes, for example, an electric motor, a hydraulic damper, or a friction plate. The chain guide 42B is powered by the battery 34. The chain guide 42B is controlled by the control device 40. The control device 40 controls the chain guide 42B in accordance with the total driving force, which includes the human driving force acting on the drivetrain 18 of the human-powered vehicle 10 and the assist force from the motor 32.

[0053] The structure of the chain guide 42B can be described in, for example, U.S. Patent Publication 8202182 and U.S. Patent Publication 9377089, so a detailed explanation is omitted. The control device 40 controls the resistance member to change the rotational resistance of the chain guide 42B around a predetermined axis of rotation. The chain guide 42B includes a sixth sensor that outputs information regarding the rotational resistance of the chain guide 42B. The sixth sensor is electrically connected to the control unit 52. The sixth sensor may be configured to output a signal corresponding to the state of the rotational resistance of the chain guide 42B.

[0054] The display device 70 is mounted at the longitudinal center of the handlebar 14G, as shown in Figure 2. The display device 70 may be mounted at a position other than the longitudinal center of the handlebar 14G. The display device 70 may be mounted on the stem connecting the handlebar 14G and the frame 14. The display device 70 is powered by an internal battery. The display device 70 may be configured to be powered by a battery 34. The display device 70 is communicatively connected to the control device 40. The display device 70 may be connected to the control device 40 via an electrical cable or via a wireless communication device.

[0055] The display device 70 includes a display panel. The display panel is, for example, a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL display panel. The display device 70 displays at least one piece of information on the display panel regarding the state of the human-powered vehicle 10. The display device 70 is configured to display the power or torque applied to the crank 24 by the rider in response to a signal output by the human-powered force detection unit 60. The display device 70 is configured to display the vehicle speed of the human-powered vehicle 10 in response to a signal received from the vehicle speed sensor 62. The display device 70 is configured to display the cadence of the crank 24 in response to a signal output by the crank rotation sensor 64. The display device 70 is configured to display the acceleration of the human-powered vehicle 10 in response to a signal output by the acceleration sensor 66.

[0056] The display device 70 is configured to display information indicating the status of the gear shift 42 in response to a signal output from the gear shift 42. The display device 70 is configured to display information indicating the status of the front suspension 44 in response to a signal output from the front suspension 44. The display device 70 is configured to display information indicating the status of the rear suspension 46 in response to a signal output from the rear suspension 46. The display device 70 is configured to display information indicating the status of the seat post 48 in response to a signal output from the seat post 48. The display device 70 is configured to display information indicating the status of the electric drive unit 12 in response to a signal output from the electric drive unit 12. The display device 70 may include, for example, a cycle computer, a smartphone, or a tablet computer.

[0057] Lighting device 72A is mounted, for example, on the handlebar 14G. Lighting device 72A may also be mounted on the front suspension 44 or the stem. Lighting device 72A is a headlight. Lighting device 72A emits light using power from an internal battery. Lighting device 72A may also be configured to emit light using power supplied from battery 34. Lighting device 72B is mounted, for example, on the seatpost 48. Lighting device 72B is a taillight. Lighting device 72B emits light using power from an internal battery. Lighting device 72A may also be configured to emit light using power supplied from battery 34.

[0058] The operating device 74 is an operating device 74 for a human-powered vehicle 10, and comprises an operating member 80 and a base 76 on which the operating member 80 is provided. For example, the operating device 74 comprises an operating member 80, a base 76 on which the operating member 80 is provided and which is configured to be embedded in at least a part of the vehicle body 10A of the human-powered vehicle 10, at least one interface 94 and a control unit 96. The control unit 96 is provided on the base 76 and electrically connected to at least one interface 94, and is configured to output a control command from at least one interface 94 to the controlled object 20 in response to the operation of the operating member 80. The control unit 96 is configured to change at least one of the controlled object 20 and the control command.

[0059] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the operating device 74 is embedded, for example, in the top tube 14B of the frame 14. Preferably, the operating device 74 is positioned on the top tube 14B closer to the handlebars 14G than to the saddle 48B. The base 76 of the operating device 74 is embedded in the top tube 14B, for example, so that the operating member 80 is exposed from the top tube 14B. The operating member 80 is positioned at the upper end of the top tube 14B. The operating device 74 is powered by electricity supplied from the battery 34. The operating device 74 may be provided in a location other than the top tube 14B, as long as it is in a position that can be operated by the rider. For example, the operating device 74 may be provided on the handlebars 14G, the down tube 14C, or the seat tube 14F, etc.

[0060] As shown in Figure 3, the control device 40 includes a storage unit 50 in addition to the control unit 52. The storage unit 50 includes, for example, storage devices such as non-volatile memory and volatile memory. The non-volatile memory includes, for example, at least one of ROM (Read Only Memory), flash memory, and hard disk. The volatile memory includes, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory). The storage unit 50 stores software for controlling the controlled object 20.

[0061] The control unit 52 includes, for example, at least one arithmetic unit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The control unit 52 is configured to control the operation of the controlled object 20 by, for example, at least one arithmetic unit executing a control program stored in ROM using RAM as a working area. If the control unit 52 includes multiple arithmetic units, the multiple arithmetic units may be located far apart from each other, and for example, one of the multiple arithmetic units may be configured to communicate with other arithmetic units via a wireless communication device, or it may be configured to communicate with other arithmetic units via the Internet.

[0062] The human-powered vehicle 10 is equipped with a human-powered driving force detection unit 60, a vehicle speed sensor 62, a crank rotation sensor 64, and an acceleration sensor 66. The control unit 52 is connected to the human-powered driving force detection unit 60, the vehicle speed sensor 62, the crank rotation sensor 64, the acceleration sensor 66, the gear shift operating device 42C, the setting operating device 68, and the operating device 74 via at least one of an electrical cable and a wireless communication device. The control unit 52 is connected to the battery 34 via an electrical cable. The human-powered driving force detection unit 60, the crank rotation sensor 64, and the acceleration sensor 66 may be included in the electric drive unit 12.

[0063] Preferably, the control unit 52 includes a first interface 52A. The first interface 52A is configured to input information detected by the human power driving force detection unit 60. Preferably, the control unit 52 includes a second interface 52B. The second interface 52B is configured to input information detected by the vehicle speed sensor 62. Preferably, the control unit 52 includes a third interface 52C. The third interface 52C is configured to input information detected by the crank rotation sensor 64. Preferably, the control unit 52 includes a fourth interface 52D. The fourth interface 52D is configured to input information detected by the acceleration sensor 66. Preferably, the control unit 52 includes a fifth interface 52E. The fifth interface 52E is configured to input gear shift commands from the gear shift operating device 42C. Preferably, the control unit 52 includes a sixth interface 52F. The sixth interface 52F is configured to input setting commands from the setting operating device 68. Preferably, the control unit 52 includes a seventh interface 52G. The seventh interface 52F is configured to receive control commands from the operating device 74.

[0064] The first to seventh interfaces 52A, 52B, 52C, 52D, 52E, 52F, and 52G include, for example, at least one cable connection port and a wireless communication device. The wireless communication device includes, for example, a short-range wireless communication unit. The short-range wireless communication unit is configured to wirelessly communicate based on, for example, a wireless communication standard such as Bluetooth® and ANT+, or a proprietary wireless communication standard. When an electrical cable is connected to the first to seventh interfaces A, 52B, 52C, 52D, 52E, 52F, and 52G, the cable connection port may be omitted and the electrical cable may be fixed in place.

[0065] The human-powered driving force detection unit 60 is configured to output information regarding the human-powered driving force to the control unit 52. The human-powered driving force detection unit 60 is configured to output a signal corresponding to the human-powered driving force applied to the crank 24, for example. The human-powered driving force detection unit 60 is provided in the human-powered driving force transmission path from the rotation axis of the crank 24 to the front chainwheel 26. The human-powered driving force detection unit 60 may be provided on the rotation axis of the crank 24 or on the front chainwheel 26. The human-powered driving force detection unit 60 may be provided on the crank 24 or on the pedal 22. The human-powered driving force detection unit 60 can be implemented using, for example, a strain sensor, a magnetostrictive sensor, an optical sensor, and a pressure sensor. The human-powered driving force detection unit 60 can be any sensor that outputs a signal corresponding to the human-powered driving force applied to the crank 24 or the pedal 22.

[0066] The vehicle speed sensor 62 is configured to output information regarding the speed of the human-powered vehicle 10 to the control unit 52. The vehicle speed sensor 62 is configured to output a signal corresponding to the rotational speed of the wheel 16. The vehicle speed sensor 62 is installed, for example, on the chainstay 14E of the human-powered vehicle 10. The vehicle speed sensor 62 includes a magnetic sensor. The vehicle speed sensor 62 is configured to detect the magnetic field of one or more magnets attached to the spokes, disc brake rotor, or hub of the wheel 16. The vehicle speed sensor 62 is configured to output a signal when it detects a magnetic field. The control unit 52 is configured to calculate the travel speed of the human-powered vehicle 10 based, for example, the time interval or width of the signal output from the vehicle speed sensor 62 as the wheel 16 rotates, and information regarding the circumference of the wheel 16. The vehicle speed sensor 61 is not limited to a magnetic sensor and may include other sensors such as optical sensors, acceleration sensors, or GPS receivers, as long as it is configured to output information regarding the speed of the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0067] The crank rotation sensor 64 is configured to output information corresponding to the rotation state of the crank 24 to the control unit 52. For example, the crank rotation sensor 64 is configured to output a signal corresponding to the rotation angle of the crank 24. The crank rotation sensor 64 includes a magnetic sensor that outputs a signal corresponding to the strength of the magnetic field. An annular magnet whose magnetic field strength changes in the circumferential direction is provided on the rotation axis of the crank 24, on a member that rotates in conjunction with the rotation axis of the crank 24, or in the power transmission path between the rotation axis of the crank 24 and the front chainwheel 26. The member that rotates in conjunction with the rotation axis of the crank 24 may include the output shaft of the motor 32. For example, the magnet may be provided on the front chainwheel 26 if a one-way clutch is not provided between the crank 24 and the front chainwheel 26. The crank rotation sensor 64 may include an optical sensor instead of a magnetic sensor. The control unit 52 can calculate the rotation speed of the crank 24 based on the amount of change in the rotation angle of the crank 24 per unit time.

[0068] The acceleration sensor 66 is configured to output information regarding the acceleration of the human-powered vehicle 10 in the direction of travel to the control unit 52. The operating device 74 is configured to control the controlled object 20 by outputting control commands to the control unit 52 in response to operations performed by the rider. The operating device 74 displays information regarding the state of the controlled object 20 that is input from the control unit 52. For example, the operating device 74 displays information regarding the assist mode of the motor 32, which will be described later. The operating device 74 also displays information regarding the remaining charge of the battery 34 that is input from the battery 34.

[0069] The control unit 52 is electrically connected to the controlled object 20. Preferably, the control unit 52 further includes an inverter circuit electrically connected to the motor 32. The inverter circuit may not be included in the control unit 52 and may be provided separately from the control unit 52. The control unit 52 is communicably connected to the controlled object 20 by an electrical cable or a wireless communication device.

[0070] The control unit 52 is configured to control the motor 32 by a plurality of operating states in which the maximum assist force of the motor 32 is mutually different. Preferably, the motor 32 is configured to be controlled in one of the plurality of operating states. The control unit 52 has, for example, a first assist mode, a second assist mode, and a third assist mode as a plurality of operating states in which the maximum assist force of the motor 32 is mutually different. The maximum assist force in the first assist mode is greater than the maximum assist force in the second assist mode. The maximum assist force in the second assist mode is greater than the maximum assist force in the third assist mode.

[0071] The first to third assist modes are set by the rider operating a setting control device 68. The setting control device 68 is mounted, for example, on the handlebar 14G of the human-powered vehicle 10. The setting control device 68 may be located at any position on the human-powered vehicle 10, such as on the top tube 14B, as long as it can be operated by the rider of the human-powered vehicle 10. The setting control device 68 includes, for example, an electric switch that can be operated by the user. The setting control device 68 is connected to the control device 40 via an electric cable or a wireless communication device.

[0072] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the operating device 74 includes a base 76. The base 76 includes a housing 76A that houses a control unit 96 inside. At least a portion of the interface 94 may be housed in the housing 76A. An opening 76B is formed in the housing 76A, and the electrical terminals 94C of the interface 94 are exposed through the opening 76B. Preferably, the operating device 74 includes an engaging portion 88. The engaging portion 88 is provided at the first end 74A of the base 76 in a predetermined direction X1 and is configured to engage with the body 10A of the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0073] Preferably, the operating device 74 further comprises a fastener mounting portion 90B. The fastener mounting portion 90B is provided at the second end 74B of the base portion 76 in a predetermined direction X1, and a fastener member 90A, which is fastened to the body 10A of the human-powered vehicle 10, is attached to it. When the operating device 74 is attached to the top tube 14B, the predetermined direction X1 is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the top tube 14B. The shape of the engaging portion 88 and the fastener mounting portion 90B is not particularly limited and may be other shapes as long as they are configured to fix the operating device 74 to the body 10A.

[0074] The base 76 includes a first portion 76C located outside the vehicle body 10A when attached to the vehicle body 10A, and a second portion 76D located within the internal space of the vehicle body 10A. The internal space of the vehicle body 10A includes, for example, the internal space of the frame 14, the internal space of the handlebars 14G, and the internal space of the stem. The engaging portion 88 is made of an elastic material, such as rubber. The engaging portion 88 is provided on the second portion 76D. The engaging portion 88 is configured to contact an inner circumferential surface formed in the vehicle body 10A that defines an opening into which the second portion 76D is inserted. The engaging portion 88 has a tapered shape in which the overhang width decreases from the second end 74B to the first end 74A of the base 76 as it approaches the first portion 76C. The engaging portion 88 functions as a retainer for the base 76 to detach from the vehicle body 10A after it has been attached to the vehicle body 10A of the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0075] A through-hole is formed in the fastener mounting portion 90B, passing through the first portion 76C. The fastener member 90A is, for example, a bolt. The head of the bolt has a tool engagement portion into which a tool such as a hex wrench or Torx® engages. A threaded hole is formed in the top tube 14B of the human-powered vehicle 10, which is coupled to the fastener member 90A. The base portion 76 is fixed to the top tube 14B of the human-powered vehicle 10 by the fastener member 90A, which is inserted into the through-hole of the fastener mounting portion 90B, when the engagement portion 88 is engaged with the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0076] The operating device 74 includes an operating member 80. The operating member 80 is positioned between the engaging portion 88 and the fastener mounting portion 90B in a predetermined direction X1. The first portion 76C of the base portion 76 has an operating member placement surface 76E on which at least a portion of the operating member 80 is positioned. The operating member placement surface 76E substantially follows the outer surface of the vehicle body 10A. The operating member 80 may include part of an electrical switch and may be connected to an electrical switch. The electrical switch is, for example, a mechanical electrical switch whose connection state is changed when the operating member 80 is pressed by a rider. The electrical switch may be, for example, a touch panel.

[0077] Preferably, the operating device 74 further includes a power switch 82 provided on the base 76 and configured to switch the power of the controlled object 20 on and off. The power switch 82 is provided on the first portion 76C of the base 76. The power switch 82 is positioned on the operating member arrangement surface 76E. The power switch 82 is a mechanical electric switch whose connection state is changed when pressed by, for example, a lighter. The power switch 82 may be, for example, a touch panel. The power switch 82 turns on the power of the controlled object 20 if it is operated continuously for a predetermined first hour or longer while the power of the controlled object 20 is off. The power switch 82 turns off the power of the controlled object 20 if it is operated continuously for a predetermined second hour or longer while the power of the controlled object 20 is on. Preferably, the predetermined second hour is longer than the predetermined first hour. The power switch 82 may be omitted. The power switch 82 is positioned at intervals from the operating member 80 in a predetermined direction X1.

[0078] Preferably, the operating device 74 further includes a first status display unit 84 that displays information about the selected operating state among a plurality of operating states of the motor 32. The first status display unit 84 is configured to display a plurality of colors and to display a color corresponding to the selected operating state among a plurality of operating states of the motor 32. The first status display unit 84 can display an assist mode selected by the operation of the operating member 80. The first status display unit 84 includes an LED (Light Emitting Diode) whose light emission color can be changed. The first status display unit 84 is configured to emit light from the LED from a first translucent portion formed on the operating member placement surface 76E. The first status display unit 84 may be omitted.

[0079] The first status indicator unit 84 displays the selected assist mode by a difference in the color of its illumination. For example, the first status indicator unit 84 illuminates blue when the first assist mode is selected. For example, the first status indicator unit 84 illuminates yellow when the second assist mode is selected. For example, the first status indicator unit 84 illuminates red when the third assist mode is selected. For example, the first status indicator unit 84 turns off when a mode that does not drive the motor 32 is selected. For example, the first status indicator unit 84 illuminates or blinks green when the walk mode is selected. Information regarding the color for each mode is stored in the storage unit 92 in a changeable manner, and the user may set the color corresponding to each mode. The first status indicator unit 84 is positioned between the power switch 82 and the operating member 80 in a predetermined direction X1.

[0080] Preferably, the operating device 74 further includes a second status indicator 86 provided on the base 76 and configured to display information regarding the status of the battery 34 provided in the human-powered vehicle 10. The second status indicator 86 includes a plurality of light-emitting units 5. The plurality of light-emitting units 5 are provided on the base 76. For example, the plurality of light-emitting units 5 include a first light-emitting unit 86A, a second light-emitting unit 86B, a third light-emitting unit 86C, a fourth light-emitting unit 86D, and a fifth light-emitting unit 86E. Each of the plurality of light-emitting units 5 includes a second light-transmitting portion 87 provided on the base 76 and at least one light-emitting element. The second light-transmitting portion 87 is formed on the operating member placement surface 76E. The second light-transmitting portion 87 is configured to emit light from at least one light-emitting element. The second status indicator 86 may be omitted. The first to fifth light-emitting units 86A, 86B, 86C, 86D, and 86E each include an LED. The second status display unit 86 displays the remaining battery level of the battery 34 by the number of first to fifth light-emitting units 86A, 86B, 86C, 86D, and 86E that light up when the power supply of the controlled device 20 is ON.

[0081] Multiple light-emitting units 5 are arranged in a line around the operating member 80 with intervals between them. The first to fifth light-emitting units 86A, 86B, 86C, 86D, and 86E are arranged in a predetermined direction, in the order of first to fifth light-emitting units 86A, 86B, 86C, 86D, and 86E, with intervals between them. For example, the first to fifth light-emitting units 86A, 86B, 86C, 86D, and 86E are arranged in an arc shape around the operating member 80. The operating member 80 includes a power switch 82. For example, the second light-transmitting portion 87 included in each of the first to fifth light-emitting units 86A, 86B, 86C, 86D, and 86E are arranged in an arc shape around the power switch 82. The first status indicator unit 84 may be omitted.

[0082] The second status indicator unit 86 is controlled so that all of the first to fifth light-emitting units 86A, 86B, 86C, 86D, and 86E light up when the battery 34 is fully charged. The second status indicator unit 86 is controlled so that the fifth light-emitting unit 86E, fourth light-emitting unit 86D, third light-emitting unit 86C, second light-emitting unit 86B, and first light-emitting unit 86A turn off in that order as the battery 34's charge decreases from a fully charged state. The second status indicator unit 86 is controlled so that all of the first to fifth light-emitting units 86A, 86B, 86C, 86D, and 86E turn off when the battery 34's charge is at its lowest. The operating member 80, power switch 82, first status indicator unit 84, and second status indicator unit 86 are provided on the base 72 so as to be exposed on the upper surface of the base 76, which serves as the operating surface.

[0083] As shown in Figure 6, the operating device 74 comprises an operating member 80, at least one interface 94, and a control unit 96. The control unit 96 is provided on the base 76. The control unit 96 is electrically connected to at least one interface 94 and is configured to output control commands from at least one interface 94 to the controlled object 20 in response to the operation of the operating member 80. The control unit 96 is configured to modify the controlled object 20 and at least one of the control commands to the controlled object 20. The control unit 96 may also be configured to modify the control commands without modifying the controlled object 20.

[0084] The operating device 74 further comprises a power switch 82, a first status indicator 84, and a second status indicator 86. The operating device 74 includes a storage unit 92 that stores information relating to the controlled object 20 and at least one of the control commands. The operating member 80, the power switch 82, the first status indicator 84, the second status indicator 86, and the storage unit 92 are electrically connected to the control unit 96. The control unit 96 is electrically connected to the interface 94. The interface 94 is communicatively connected to the control device 40 and the external device 98 by an electrical cable or a wireless communication device 94D.

[0085] The external device 98 includes a personal computer, cycle computer, smartphone, or tablet computer. An application program for changing the controlled object 20 of the operating device 74 is installed on the external device 98. By operating the external device 98, the rider can activate the application program and send a predetermined signal from the external device 98 to the operating device 74 to change the controlled object 20 of the operating device 74. The external device 98 can also send a predetermined signal to the operating device 74 to change the control command that the operating device 74 outputs to the controlled object 20.

[0086] The control unit 96 is configured to change at least one of the controlled object 20 and control commands in response to a predetermined signal input via at least one interface 94. The predetermined signal is input to the control unit 96 from an external device 98 via the interface 94. The control unit 96 stores information regarding at least one of the controlled object 20 and control commands corresponding to the input predetermined signal in the storage unit 92. The control unit 96 is configured to rewrite at least a portion of the information stored in the storage unit 92 in response to the predetermined signal. The control unit 96 rewrites at least a portion of the information stored in the storage unit 92 each time a new predetermined signal for changing at least one of the controlled object 20 and control commands is input. Instead of rewriting the information stored in the storage unit 92, the control unit 96 may store a flag in the storage unit 92 that can distinguish the modified controlled object 20 and control command.

[0087] The control unit 96 may be configured to change at least one of the controlled object 20 and the control command when the operating member 80 is operated by a predetermined operating method. The control unit 96 may be configured to switch the controlled object 20 in a predetermined order while the operating member 80 is operated continuously for a predetermined third time or more. For example, when the motor 32 is selected as the controlled object 20, the control unit 96 changes the controlled object 20 from the motor 32 to the lighting devices 72A and 72B when the operating member 80 is operated continuously for a predetermined third time or more. When the lighting devices 72A and 72B are selected as the controlled object 20, the control unit 96 changes the controlled object 20 from the lighting devices 72A and 72B to the display device 70 when the operating member 80 is operated continuously for a predetermined third time or more. When the display device 70 is selected as the controlled object 20, the control unit 96 changes the controlled object 20 from the display device 70 to the motor 32 when the operating member 80 is operated continuously for a predetermined third time or more. The predetermined order in which the controlled objects 20 are switched may be set by the user.

[0088] The control unit 96 outputs a control command to the controlled object 20 from the interface 94 in response to the operation of the operating member 80. If the controlled object 20 is changed to the motor 32, the control unit 96 outputs a control command to the motor 32 in response to the operation of the operating member 80. When the motor 32 is selected as the controlled object 20, the control command includes a first control command for controlling the motor 32. The first control command includes a command for selecting one of several operating states of the motor 32. For example, when the operating member 80 is pressed, the control unit 96 outputs the first control command to the motor 32.

[0089] For example, when the operating member 80 is pressed while the first assist mode is selected, the control unit 96 outputs a first control command to the motor 32 to change the operating state of the motor 32 from the first assist mode to the second assist mode. When the operating member 80 is pressed while the second assist mode is selected, the control unit 96 outputs a first control command to the motor 32 to change the operating state of the motor 32 from the second assist mode to the third assist mode. When the operating member 80 is pressed while the third assist mode is selected, the control unit 96 outputs a first control command to the motor 32 to change the operating state of the motor 32 from the third assist mode to the first assist mode. Information regarding the currently set assist mode among the first to third assist modes is stored in the storage unit 50. In addition to selecting the assist mode, the control unit 96 can output at least one of the following to the motor 32: a first control command to switch the motor 32 on or off according to the operation, and a first control command to change to walk mode.

[0090] When the control unit 96 changes the controlled object 20 to the display device 70, it outputs a control command to the display device 70 in response to the operation on the operating member 80. When the display device 70 is selected as the controlled object 20, the control command includes a second control command for controlling the display device 70. The second control command includes a command for switching at least a portion of the display screen of the display device 70. For example, when the operating member 80 is pressed, the control unit 96 outputs the second control command to the display device 70.

[0091] The control unit 96 may, for example, output a second control command to the display device 70 to scroll the display screen while the operating member 80 is pressed, and to stop scrolling when the pressing operation is released, while the display screen is displayed on the display device 70. In addition to scrolling the display screen, the control unit 96 may also output a second control command to the display device 70 to switch the display of the display screen on and off in response to the operation. The control unit 96 may also output a second control command to the display device 70 to switch the display screen. When switching the display screen, the control unit 96 switches between a plurality of setting display screens in sequence. The setting display screens include, for example, information regarding the speed of the human-powered vehicle 10, information regarding the distance traveled, and information regarding the remaining battery level.

[0092] When the control unit 96 changes the controlled object 20 to the lighting devices 72A and 72B, it outputs control commands to the lighting devices 72A and 72B in response to the operation of the operating member 80. When the lighting devices 72A and 72B are selected as the controlled object 20, the control commands include a third control command for controlling the lighting devices 72A and 72B. The third control command includes a command for changing the illuminance of the lighting devices 72A and 72B. For example, when the operating member 80 is pressed, the control unit 96 outputs the third control command to the display device 70.

[0093] The control unit 96 may, for example, output a third control command to the lighting devices 72A and 72B to gradually increase their illuminance while the operating member 80 is pressed, when the lighting devices 72A and 72B are turned off. The control unit 96 may also output a third control command to the lighting devices 72A and 72B to gradually decrease their illuminance after the illuminance of the lighting devices 72A and 72B has reached its maximum, while the operating member 80 is pressed. The control unit 96 may also output a third control command to the lighting devices 72A and 72B to turn them on when the operating member 80 is pressed once, when the lighting devices 72A and 72B are turned off. The control unit 96 may output a third control command to the lighting devices 72A and 72B to turn off the lighting devices 72A and 72B when the operating member 80 is pressed once while the lighting devices 72A and 72B are lit.

[0094] As shown in Figure 7, at least one interface 94 provided by the modified operating device 74 includes a first interface 94A and a second interface 94B. The first interface 94A includes a connector having an electrical terminal 94C. The second interface 94B includes a wireless communication device 94D. When the electrical terminal 94C and the control device 40 are connected by a communication cable, the control unit 96 can output control commands for the motor 32, lighting devices 72A, 72B, and display device 70 to the control device 40 via wired communication through the first interface 94A. When the electrical terminal 94C and the external device 98 are connected by a communication cable, the control unit 96 can receive predetermined signals from the external device 98 via wired communication through the first interface 94A.

[0095] When communication between the wireless communication device 94D and the control device 40 is established, the control unit 96 may output control commands for the motor 32, lighting devices 72A and 72B, and display device 70 to the control device 40 via wireless communication through the second interface 94B. When wireless communication between the wireless communication device 94D and the external device 98 is established, the control unit 96 can receive predetermined signals from the external device 98 via wireless communication through the second interface 94B. The second interface 94B may be omitted.

[0096] The first status display unit 84 and the second status display unit 86 may each be composed of a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL panel. When the first status display unit 84 and the second status display unit 86 are composed of a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL panel, the first status display unit 84 and the second status display unit 86 may be composed of a single liquid crystal display panel or a single organic EL panel.

[0097] The controlled object 20 may include only one, two, or three or more of the following: the gear shifter 42, the front suspension 44, the rear suspension 46, the seat post 48, the chain guide 42B, the motor 32, the display device 70, the lighting device 72A, and the lighting device 72B.

[0098] As shown in Figure 8, the second state indicator unit 86 comprises first to fifth light-emitting units 86A, 86B, 86C, 86D, and 86E. The first light-emitting unit 86A comprises two light-emitting elements RD and GD. For example, the light-emitting element RD is an LED that lights up red when energized. For example, the light-emitting element GD is an LED that lights up green when energized. The anodes of the light-emitting elements RD and GD are connected to a power supply line with a predetermined first voltage, for example. Protection diodes TD are connected between the cathodes of the light-emitting elements RD and GD and the power supply line, respectively. The cathodes of the light-emitting elements RD and GD are connected to one end of different resistors R. The other end of each resistor R is connected to the collector of a different transistor TR. The emitter of each transistor TR is connected to ground GND, and the base is connected to the control unit 96. The predetermined first voltage is, for example, 5.0V.

[0099] The second to fifth light-emitting sections 86B, 86C, 86D, and 86E each include a light-emitting element GD. The anode of each light-emitting element GD is connected to a power supply line of a predetermined first voltage, for example. A protection diode TD is connected between the cathode of each light-emitting element GD and the power supply line. The cathode of each light-emitting element GD is connected to one end of a different resistor R. The other end of each resistor R is connected to the collector of a different transistor TR. The emitter of each transistor TR is connected to ground GND, and the base is connected to the control unit 96.

[0100] The control unit 96 controls multiple light-emitting units 5 and is configured to illuminate at least one of the multiple light-emitting units 5 in accordance with the remaining charge of the battery 34 provided in the human-powered vehicle 10. For example, the control unit 96 illuminates at least one of the first to fifth light-emitting units 86A, 86B, 86C, 86D, and 86E by controlling it with PWM (Pulse Width Modulation).

[0101] The control unit 96 turns on the transistor TR connected to the light-emitting element RD of the first light-emitting unit 86A by outputting a high-level signal to the base of the transistor TR, thereby turning on the light-emitting element RD and illuminating it red. The control unit 96 turns off the transistor TR by outputting a low-level signal to the base of the transistor TR connected to the light-emitting element RD of the first light-emitting unit 86A, thereby turning off the light-emitting element RD. The high-level signal corresponds to a predetermined first voltage signal. The low-level signal corresponds to a predetermined second voltage signal. The predetermined second voltage is the ground voltage.

[0102] The control unit 96 turns on the transistor TR connected to the light-emitting element GD of the first light-emitting unit 86A by outputting a high-level signal to the base of the transistor TR, thereby turning on the light-emitting element GD and illuminating it green. The control unit 96 turns off the transistor TR by outputting a low-level signal to the base of the transistor TR connected to the light-emitting element GD of the first light-emitting unit 86A, thereby turning off the light-emitting element GD.

[0103] The control unit 96 turns on the transistor TR connected to the light-emitting element GD of the second to fifth light-emitting units 86B, 86C, 86D, and 86E by outputting a high-level signal to the base of the transistor TR, thereby turning on the light-emitting element GD and illuminating it green. The control unit 96 turns off the transistor TR, thereby turning off the light-emitting element GD, by outputting a low-level signal to the base of the transistor TR connected to the light-emitting element GD of the second to fifth light-emitting units 86B, 86C, 86D, and 86E by outputting a low-level signal to the base of the transistor TR, thereby turning off the light-emitting element GD.

[0104] The control unit 96 is configured to control multiple light-emitting units 5 such that when the number of at least one light-emitting units 5 that are emitted simultaneously is N (where N is a natural number of 1 or more), the light intensity of each at least one light-emitting unit 5 is greater than the light intensity of each at least one light-emitting unit 5 when the number of at least one light-emitting units 5 that are emitted simultaneously is N+1.

[0105] For example, as shown in Figure 9, when the number of at least one light-emitting unit 5 to be lit simultaneously is 1, the control unit 96 sets the On-Duty period for the PWM control of the LED of each light-emitting unit 5 to 100%. For example, as shown in Figure 9, when the number of at least one light-emitting unit 5 to be lit simultaneously is 2, the control unit 96 sets the On-Duty period for the PWM control of the LED of each light-emitting unit 5 to 90%. For example, as shown in Figure 9, when the number of at least one light-emitting unit 5 to be lit simultaneously is 3, the control unit 96 sets the On-Duty period for the PWM control of the LED of each light-emitting unit 5 to 80%. For example, as shown in Figure 9, when the number of at least one light-emitting unit 5 to be lit simultaneously is 4, the control unit 96 sets the On-Duty period for the PWM control of the LED of each light-emitting unit 5 to 70%. For example, as shown in Figure 9, if the number of light-emitting units 5 to be lit simultaneously is five, the control unit 96 sets the On-Duty period in the PWM control of the LED of each light-emitting unit 5 to 50%.

[0106] The control unit 96 includes a counter. The counter performs a predetermined number of counts, for example, within a predetermined period T. In this embodiment, the predetermined period is a period of 100 Hz (10 msec), and the predetermined number of counts is 10. The counter repeats the operation of counting from 1 to 10 every 1 / 10 msec. The counting period and the number of counts of the counter are not particularly limited.

[0107] As shown in Figure 10, when the control unit 96 simultaneously lights up the five LEDs included in the light-emitting unit 5, for example, it outputs a high-level signal to the first to fifth light-emitting units 86A, 86B, 86C, 86D, and 86E for a period of 5 / 10 msec from count 0 to 5. After that, the control unit 95 outputs a low-level signal to the first to fifth light-emitting units 86A, 86B, 86C, 86D, and 86E.

[0108] For example, when the control unit 96 lights up the four LEDs included in the light-emitting unit 5 simultaneously, it outputs a high-level signal to the first to fourth light-emitting units 86A, 86B, 86C, and 86D for a period of 7 / 10 msec from count 0 to 7. After that, the control unit 95 outputs a low-level signal to the first to fourth light-emitting units 86A, 86B, 86C, and 86D.

[0109] For example, when the control unit 96 lights up the three LEDs included in the light-emitting unit 5 simultaneously, it outputs a high-level signal to the first to third light-emitting units 86A, 86B, and 86C for a period of 8 / 10 msec from count 0 to 8. After that, the control unit 95 outputs a low-level signal to the first to third light-emitting units 86A, 86B, and 86C.

[0110] For example, when the control unit 96 lights up two LEDs included in the light-emitting unit 5 simultaneously, it outputs a high-level signal to the first and second light-emitting units 86A and 86B for a period of 9 / 10 msec from count 0 to 9. After that, the control unit 95 outputs a low-level signal to the first and second light-emitting units 86A and 86B. For example, when the control unit 96 lights up one LED included in the light-emitting unit 5 simultaneously, it continuously outputs a high-level signal to the first light-emitting unit 86A.

[0111] When the control unit 96 displays the remaining charge of the battery 34 using the second status display unit 86, it executes the process shown in Figure 11. The control unit 96 determines whether the remaining charge of the battery 34 is between 81% and 100% (step S1). If the control unit 96 determines that the remaining charge of the battery 34 is between 81% and 100% (step S1; Yes), it determines whether the count is 5 or greater (step S2). If the control unit 96 determines that the count is not 5 or greater (step S2; No), it lights up the first to fifth light-emitting units 86A, 86B, 86C, 86D, and 86E to terminate the process (step S3). For example, the control unit 96 lights up the light-emitting element GD of the first to fifth light-emitting units 86A, 86B, 86C, 86D, and 86E in green to terminate the process. If the control unit 96 determines that the count is 5 or more (step S2; Yes), it turns off the first to fifth light-emitting units 86A, 86B, 86C, 86D, and 86E and terminates the process (step S4).

[0112] If the control unit 96 determines that the remaining charge of the battery 34 is not between 81% and 100% (Step S1; No), it determines whether the remaining charge of the battery 34 is between 61% and 80% (Step S5). If the control unit 96 determines that the remaining charge of the battery 34 is between 61% and 80% (Step S5; Yes), it determines whether the count is 7 or greater (Step S6). If the control unit 96 determines that the count is not 7 or greater (Step S6; No), it lights up the first to fourth light-emitting units 86A, 86B, 86C, and 86D and terminates the process (Step S7). For example, the control unit 96 lights up the light-emitting element GD of the first to fourth light-emitting units 86A, 86B, 86C, and 86D in green and terminates the process. If the control unit 96 determines that the count is 7 or greater (Step S6; Yes), it turns off the first to fourth light-emitting units 86A, 86B, 86C, and 86D and terminates the process (Step S8).

[0113] If the control unit 96 determines that the remaining charge of the battery 34 is not between 61 and 80% (step S5; No), it determines whether the remaining charge of the battery 34 is between 41 and 60% (step S9). If the control unit 96 determines that the remaining charge of the battery 34 is between 41 and 60% (step S9; Yes), it determines whether the count is 8 or greater (step S10). If the control unit 96 determines that the count is not 8 or greater (step S10; No), it lights up the first to third light-emitting units 86A, 86B, and 86C and terminates the process (step S11). For example, the control unit 96 lights up the light-emitting element GD of the first to third light-emitting units 86A, 86B, and 86C in green and terminates the process. If the control unit 96 determines that the count is 8 or greater (step S10; Yes), it turns off the first to third light-emitting units 86A, 86B, and 86C and terminates the process (step S12).

[0114] If the control unit 96 determines that the remaining charge of the battery 34 is not between 41 and 60% (step S9; No), it determines whether the remaining charge of the battery 34 is between 21 and 40% (step S13). If the control unit 96 determines that the remaining charge of the battery 34 is between 21 and 40% (step S13; Yes), it determines whether the count is 9 or greater (step S14). If the control unit 96 determines that the count is not 9 or greater (step S14; No), it lights up the first and second light-emitting units 86A and 86B and terminates the process (step S15). For example, the control unit 96 lights up the light-emitting element GD of the first and second light-emitting units 86A and 86B in green and terminates the process. If the control unit 96 determines that the count is 9 or greater (step S14; Yes), it turns off the first and second light-emitting units 86A and 86B and terminates the process (step S16).

[0115] If the control unit 96 determines that the remaining charge of the battery 34 is not between 21% and 40% (step S13; No), it lights up the first light-emitting unit 86A and terminates the process. For example, the control unit 96 lights up the light-emitting element GD of the first light-emitting unit 86A in green and terminates the process. The control unit 96 may be configured to light up the light-emitting element GD of the first light-emitting unit 86A in green when the remaining charge of the battery 34 is between 11% and 20%, and to light up the light-emitting element RD of the first light-emitting unit 86A in red when the remaining charge of the battery 34 is 10%.

[0116] 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. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0117] 10...Human-powered vehicle, 10A...Vehicle body, 20...Controlled object, 32...Motor, 34...Battery, 40...Control device, 5...Light-emitting part, 70...Display device, 72A, 72B...Lighting device, 74...Operating device, 74A...First end, 74B...Second end, 76...Base, 76A...Housing, 76B...Opening, 76C...First part, 76D...Second part, 76E...Operating member placement surface, 80...Operating member, 82...Power switch, 84...First state Display unit, 86...Second status display unit, 86A...First light-emitting unit, 86B...Second light-emitting unit, 86C...Third light-emitting unit, 86D...Fourth light-emitting unit, 86E...Fifth light-emitting unit, 87...Second light-transmitting part, 88...Engaging part, 90A...Fastener member, 90B...Fastener mounting part, 92...Storage unit, 94...Interface, 94A...First interface, 94B...Second interface, 96...Control unit, 98...External device, X1...Determined direction

Claims

1. A control device for a human-powered vehicle, Operating member and The base is provided with the aforementioned operating member and is configured to be embedded in at least a portion of the body of the human-powered vehicle, At least one interface, The base is provided and electrically connected to the at least one interface, and the control unit is configured to output a control command from the at least one interface to the controlled object in response to the operation of the operating member, The control unit is configured to change at least one of the controlled object and the control command, and is an operating device.

2. The operating device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to change at least one of the controlled object and the control command in response to a predetermined signal input via the at least one interface.

3. It includes a storage unit that stores information relating to at least one of the controlled object and the control command, The operating device according to claim 2, wherein the control unit is configured to rewrite at least a portion of the information stored in the storage unit in accordance with the predetermined signal.

4. The operating device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to change at least one of the controlled object and the control command when the operating member is operated by a predetermined operating method.

5. The aforementioned at least one interface includes a first interface and a second interface, The first interface includes a connector having electrical terminals, The operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the second interface includes a wireless communication device.

6. The controlled object includes a motor configured to impart propulsion to the human-powered vehicle, The operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the control command includes a first control command for controlling the motor.

7. The motor is configured to be controlled in one of a plurality of operating states, The operating device according to claim 6, wherein the first control command includes a command for selecting one of the plurality of operating states.

8. The operating device according to claim 7, further comprising a first status display unit that displays information regarding the selected operating state among the plurality of operating states.

9. The operating device according to claim 8, wherein the first status display unit is configured to display a plurality of colors, and is configured to display a color corresponding to the selected operating state among the plurality of operating states.

10. The controlled object includes a display device, The operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the control command includes a second control command for controlling the display device.

11. The operating device according to claim 10, wherein the second control command includes a command for switching at least a portion of the display screen of the display device.

12. The controlled object includes a lighting device, The operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the control command includes a third control command for controlling the lighting device.

13. The operating device according to claim 12, wherein the third control command includes a command for changing the illuminance of the lighting device.

14. The operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising a second status display unit provided on the base and configured to display information relating to the status of a battery provided in the human-powered vehicle.

15. The second status indicator unit includes a plurality of light-emitting units, The control unit, The system controls the plurality of light-emitting units and is configured to illuminate at least one of the plurality of light-emitting units in accordance with the remaining charge of the battery provided in the human-powered vehicle. The operating device according to claim 14, configured to control the plurality of light-emitting units such that the amount of light from each of the at least one light-emitting units when the number of at least one light-emitting units is N (where N is a natural number of 1 or more) is greater than the amount of light from each of the at least one light-emitting units when the number of at least one light-emitting units is N+1.

16. The operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, further comprising a power switch provided on the base and configured to switch the power of the controlled object on and off.

17. An engaging portion provided at the first end of the base in a predetermined direction and configured to engage with the body of the human-powered vehicle, The operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, further comprising: a fastener mounting portion provided at the second end of the base in the predetermined direction, to which a fastener member to be fastened to the body of the human-powered vehicle is attached.

18. The operating device according to claim 17, wherein the operating member is arranged between the engaging portion and the fastener mounting portion in the predetermined direction.

19. A human-powered vehicle comprising the operating device described in any one of claims 1 to 18.

20. A control device for a human-powered vehicle, Operating member and The base on which the operating member is provided, Multiple light-emitting parts provided on the base, The system includes a control unit configured to control the plurality of light-emitting units and to cause at least one of the plurality of light-emitting units to emit light in accordance with the remaining charge of the battery provided in the human-powered vehicle, An operating device wherein the control unit is configured to control the plurality of light-emitting units such that the amount of light from each of the at least one light-emitting units when the number of at least one light-emitting units is N (where N is a natural number of 1 or more) is greater than the amount of light from each of the at least one light-emitting units when the number of at least one light-emitting units is N+1.

21. The operating device according to claim 15 or claim 20, wherein the plurality of light-emitting units are arranged in a line around the operating member with intervals between them.

Images