Transmission Assembly for Mobility Machines

Abstract

The present invention relates to a transmission assembly (700) for a mobility machine (900), said assembly comprising an electric motor (400) and a gearshift device (100) having a plurality (k) of gear ratios between a first gear, designated gear no. 1, and a highest gear, said electric motor (400) being connected to at least one output pinion (30, F) of said gearshift device (100). i ) relating to the assembly.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The field of the invention is that of what is called "soft" mobility, and more specifically that of mobility machines that combine electric propulsion with muscle power, such as electrically assisted bicycles.

[0002] The present invention particularly relates to electrically assisted city bikes, mountain bikes, touring bikes and cargo bikes. [Background technology]

[0003] Environmentally friendly modes of transport such as bicycles have long been popular in certain countries and continue to develop for leisure and sport, as well as for commercial life and the need to transport goods and people. There is a need to improve the performance and reliability of this type of mobility machine, whether electrically assisted or not, as well as to make it easier to manufacture and maintain.

[0004] When traveling by bicycle, power is supplied by the rider (the cyclist) and transmitted to the wheels, typically via a chain, through a crank system that rotates about the axis of a crankset that drives the rear wheel.

[0005] Derailleurs for bicycles are known from the prior art. In particular, FR 2975367 A1 discloses a gear shifting device for bicycles, comprising a derailleur and a sliding shuttle for selecting the gears. The derailleurs and the gears are arranged in a common casing. The connections of the various parts of the casing are provided with seals. There is a need to promote air flow around the gears of a derailleur for mobility machines, in particular for machines powered by a crankset. There is also a need to avoid leakage of lubricant from the gears of a derailleur for bicycles in all situations, both in use and at rest.

[0006] As the variety of lightweight crankset-powered vehicles for transporting goods and people increases, there is also a need for automated electric transmissions that are reliable and easy to manufacture.

[0007] Application DE102009029655A1 describes a method for controlling an auxiliary electric drive of a bicycle, in which a control unit is provided for controlling the auxiliary electric drive, such that a standard driving force is continuously generated from a power component applied by the user and a power component applied by the electric auxiliary drive.

[0008] Application EP 2 480 446 A1 discloses a method intended for recovering and storing energy for a bicycle with an auxiliary electric drive when the direction of rotation of the crankset is directed backwards.

[0009] There is a need to facilitate and improve control of electrically assisted bicycles.

[0010] There is also a need to facilitate energy recovery during use of an electrically assisted bicycle, especially during braking mode.

[0011] A problem found in prior art machines, particularly known electric bicycles, is gear shifting under load. This situation occurs especially when the cyclist starts going uphill and feels the need to gear down because the effort required becomes too great or the pedaling frequency is too low. The derailleur may not be able to change gears due to the high torque passing through it.

[0012] A need exists for improved gear shifting in transmissions for crankset powered mobility machines. Summary of the Invention

[0013] To at least partially meet these needs, the object of the present invention is, according to a first aspect, a transmission assembly for a mobility machine, comprising: The assembly comprises an electric motor particularly configured to provide part of the energy for the propulsion of the machine, and a gear shift device having a number of gear ratios between a first gear ratio, designated gear no. 1, and a highest gear, the electric motor being connected to an output pinion corresponding to one of the gear ratios of the gear shift device.

[0014] The mobility machine is an electrically assisted mobility machine. The electric motor provides part of the propulsion, especially when the instantaneous speed of the mobility machine is below a threshold. In the context of the present invention, the terms "mobility machine" and "machine" are used interchangeably.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the machine comprises at least one wheel. The machine may comprise two, three, four or more wheels.

[0016] In the context of the present invention, the terms "rider", "user" and "cyclist" are equivalent.

[0017] The machine may be used with or without power assist. In a variant, the mobility machine does not include power assist.

[0018] The output pinion of the gearshift device, which is connected to the electric motor, corresponds to one of the gear ratios of the gearshift device. According to different embodiments of the invention, the electric motor is connected to one of the output pinions or to another one. This choice is not limiting.

[0019] Advantageously, the transmission assembly according to the invention has one or another of the following characteristics, taken alone or in combination:

[0020] the transmission assembly comprises a reduction gear, the electric motor being connected via the reduction gear, in particular via a number of pinions of the reduction gear, to the output pinion of the gear shift device, which may comprise five pinions, in particular a first pinion coaxial with the electric motor, a second pinion which is the input pinion of the reduction gear and engages with the first pinion, a third pinion which is the output pinion of the reduction gear and is rotationally fixed to the second pinion and engages with the fourth pinion, and a fifth pinion adapted to engage the output pinion of the gear shift device and is rotationally fixed to the fourth pinion.

[0021] The transmission assembly comprises at least one freewheel. The transmission assembly may comprise a freewheel coupled to the electric motor and / or a freewheel coupled to the crankset.

[0022] In a particular example, the transmission assembly comprises a freewheel coupled to the electric motor, the axis of which is in particular spaced apart from the axis of the electric motor. The freewheel coupled to the electric motor is, for example, located on the fourth pinion. This embodiment is particularly advantageous when the speed of the first and second primary multiplication pinions is equal to or greater than a threshold value corresponding to a threshold speed of the mobility machine. Above the threshold value, the electric motor does not provide power. Due to the freewheel, the first and second primary multiplication pinions are no longer connected to the electric motor, and the user does not need to provide additional power to counter the inertia of the reduction gear and the electric motor.

[0023] The transmission assembly comprises a control unit configured to control at least one of the electric motor and the gear shift device. According to various exemplary embodiments, the control unit is also configured to control at least one of a braking system, a lighting system, a location and / or navigation system, a human-machine interface system, this list being non-exhaustive.

[0024] The transmission assembly is housed in a casing that is located specifically at the height of the crankset.

[0025] the gear shift device has between 2 and 12 gear ratios, or between 5 and 9 gear ratios;

[0026] When the highest gear is engaged, the output speed of the gearshift device is 3 to 6 times, in particular 4.5 times, greater than the input speed of the gearshift device.

[0027] the jump in the reduction ratio between two successive gear ratios of the gearshift device is between 10% and 50%, in particular between 15% and 40%, in particular between 20% and 40%.

[0028] - The gear shift device also has a neutral gear which, when engaged, disables any movement of the crankset which propels the mobility machine.

[0029] The gear shift device is in particular - a set of input pinions arranged to rotate freely about a selection shaft; a set of output pinions fixed in rotation to a hollow shaft adapted in particular to surround the axis of the crankset of the mobility machine; a gear shift actuator configured to engage a selected gear ratio; Equipped with.

[0030] Each gear has a particular ratio between the output speed and the input speed of the gearshift device.

[0031] The gear shift actuator advantageously also comprises electrical means for engaging the gear ratios, in particular a gear motor. The control unit of the transmission assembly is for example arranged to control the gear motor of the gear shift actuator.

[0032] The gear shift actuator also comprises mechanical means for engaging the gears, for example a shuttle translatable within the selection shaft 200, as described in application FR2975367A1.

[0033] According to another aspect, the object of the present invention is a casing capable of accommodating a gear shift device for a mobility machine, said casing comprising a first housing for accommodating at least a gear of said gear shift device, said casing comprising a vent for the first housing to the outside air.

[0034] According to this aspect, the invention keeps the gears of the gear shift device breathable in all situations, both in use and at rest of the mobility machine. Oil leakage is avoided in all orientations of the casing.

[0035] The most common orientation of the casing is: - horizontal orientation for use on level roads; - the two possible vertical orientations when the mobility machine is stowed suspended by its front or rear wheels, - upside down, for example when a cyclist transports their bike on the roof of a car, or when the bike is turned upside down for repair or maintenance, - depending on the inclination of the ground, for example when the mobility machine is placed on the ground and on the pedals, It is.

[0036] Advantageously, the casing according to the invention has one or another of the following characteristics, either alone or in combination:

[0037] The vent is located in a cavity of the casing remote from the first housing.

[0038] - for all orientations of the casing, the volume inside the first housing which corresponds to the volume of gear lubricant for the gear shift device is located below the ventilation opening.

[0039] - said casing comprises at least one passage between the cavity and the first housing, in particular allowing air to pass through, said passage being spaced from the ventilation opening. Advantageously, the casing comprises an upper passage and a lower passage.

[0040] - the casing comprises at least one second housing for accommodating an electric motor, a reduction gear, a gear shift actuator and / or a control unit, in particular for a mobility machine.

[0041] the cavity is separate from the second housing or housings; the cavity is advantageously central; the cavity is located in the casing between the first housing and the second housing or housings.

[0042] The cavity is positioned such that the natural oil level in the first housing does not reach the passageway to the cavity in any orientation of the casing. Thus, the cavity does not fill with oil. A passageway or passageways allowing air to flow between the first housing and the cavity may allow oil to pass through in some orientations. However, if oil becomes temporarily trapped in the cavity, it will return to the first housing as soon as the passageways are in a position to allow gravity to drain the cavity.

[0043] The vent is located in the cavity area away from any potential oil pools, thus preventing oil aspiration.

[0044] According to another aspect, the invention relates to an anti-theft method for a mobility machine, said machine comprising an electric motor arranged to provide all or part of the propulsion of said machine, a gear shift device having a number of gear ratios between a first gear, called gear no. 1, and a highest gear, each of said gears having a ratio, said gear shift device also having a neutral gear that when engaged disables movement of the crankset propelling the mobility machine, and a gear shift actuator arranged to engage gears selected from the neutral gear, and different gear ratios between gear no. 1 and the highest gear.

[0045] According to another aspect, the present invention provides a control unit for a mobility machine, comprising: said machine comprising an electric motor arranged to provide all or part of the propulsive force of said machine, and a gear shifting device having a number of gear ratios between a first gear, designated gear no. 1, and a highest gear, The control unit relates to a control unit configured to control at least one of the electric motor and the gear shift device.

[0046] Preferably, the control unit is arranged to control the electric motor and the gearshift device.

[0047] The control unit is configured to receive instructions from a user of the mobility machine. The instructions are in particular reverse driving instructions, which may be gradual in speed. In another example, the instructions are regenerative braking instructions. According to other exemplary embodiments, the instructions are instructions to activate a "pedestrian" assist mode, or lock or unlock to activate or deactivate, respectively, an anti-theft function.

[0048] In a particular embodiment, the control unit comprises: - Brake system, - lighting systems, - location system, - Human-machine interface systems, The human-machine interface system is adapted to control at least one of the following: a) a gear change instruction for changing gears, b) a gear shift instruction for changing gears, c) a gear change command for changing gears, and d) a gear change instruction for changing gears. The human-machine interface system is adapted to inform a user and / or take into account a request of the user. The human-machine interface system is in particular adapted to transmit to the control unit the above-mentioned signal corresponding to a gear change instruction. According to an embodiment, the human-machine interface system is capable of presenting to the user information received from the control unit.

[0049] Advantageously, the control unit may comprise or be connected to at least one device for determining the position of the crankset, for example a system for measuring said position by means of a sensor.

[0050] In a variant, the control unit comprises such a device for determining the position of the crankset and estimates the crankset position by calculation.

[0051] The control unit may comprise or be connected to at least one sensor selected from a sensor for the instantaneous speed of the mobility machine, an accelerometer, an incline sensor, a pedal rate sensor, a cyclist torque sensor, and a sensor for measuring the attitude of the mobility machine.

[0052] In this application, the terms "pedal rate," "pedal frequency," and "pedal velocity" are used interchangeably.

[0053] In the context of this application, the term "crankset", for example in relation to an electric bicycle, should be understood broadly and is used to refer to any input means of torque supplied by a user of the mobility machine.

[0054] The control unit is particularly adapted to carry out the methods described herein.

[0055] According to another aspect, the present invention also relates to a transmission assembly for a mobility machine, said assembly comprising an electric motor as described herein, a gear shift device and a control unit.

[0056] According to another aspect, the present invention provides a method for producing a method for manufacturing a pharmaceutical composition comprising: - a gear shift device, a control unit configured to control said gear shift device; An anti-theft system for a mobility machine comprising: The gear shift device comprises: a. a plurality k of gear ratios between a first gear ratio designated gear no. 1 and a highest gear, each of said gears having a specific reduction ratio between an input shaft configured to connect to a crankset of the mobility machine and an output shaft of said gear shifting device when the corresponding gear is engaged; b. a neutral gear that, when engaged, disables motion of a crankset that propels the mobility machine; and The present invention also relates to an anti-theft system for a mobility machine, comprising:

[0057] The anti-theft system according to the invention may comprise or be connected to a control element, for example a button or a key set in a user interface.

[0058] According to yet another aspect, the invention also relates to a mobility machine comprising a gear shift device, and / or a transmission assembly as described above, and / or a control unit as described above, and / or a casing.

[0059] Mobility machines are, for example: a sensor for determining the position of the crankset; a sensor for the rotational speed of the crankset, a sensor for the speed of the mobility machine; an accelerometer for measuring the acceleration of the mobility machine; - an inclination sensor for measuring the inclination of the driving area; a torque sensor for measuring the torque generated by the user; The sensor includes at least one sensor selected from the following:

[0060] The control unit is configured to receive, for example, instructions from a user and / or data from sensors and / or a location / navigation system. The instruction from the user is in particular a reverse drive instruction, which may be gradual in speed. In another example, the instruction is a regenerative braking instruction.

[0061] According to yet another aspect, the invention relates to a mobility machine comprising a gear shift device housed in a casing as described above.

[0062] The machine may include a battery or other rechargeable device for supplying the electric motor and / or the actuator of the gearshift device.

[0063] The machine comprises, inter alia, an electric motor, a lighting system, a crankset, a location and / or navigation system, and a battery or other rechargeable device known to those skilled in the art for providing the necessary energy to supply the human-machine interface system.

[0064] According to another aspect, the invention also relates to a method for controlling a mobility machine comprising an electric motor arranged to provide all or part of the propulsion of said machine, and a gearshift device having a number of gear ratios between a first gear, designated gear no. 1, and a highest gear, each of said gears having a ratio, said gearshift device comprising a gearshift actuator arranged to engage a selected gear having a ratio, said method making it possible in particular to control at least one of said electric motor and said gearshift device.

[0065] The mobility machine is an electrically assisted mobility machine. The electric motor provides, inter alia, a portion of the propulsive power for the mobility machine when the instantaneous speed of the mobility machine is below a threshold value. In the context of this application, "bicycle", "mobility machine" and "machine" are used interchangeably.

[0066] According to this aspect, the invention allows to control a gearshift device of a mobility machine, in particular an electric bicycle, in which gear changes are performed smoothly and without the need for user activation.

[0067] More precisely, the control of the electric assist motor according to the invention facilitates gear changes in this same gearshift device.

[0068] This control method according to the invention allows the incorporation of an electric assist motor and an automatically adapting gearshift device in the crankset. Thus, the bicycle adapts to the cyclist, rather than the cyclist adapting to the bicycle. The gear change is automatic and the method according to the invention adjusts instantly the level of electric assistance required by the cyclist, both while riding and at the first pedal stroke. In automatic mode, the control unit determines the level of assistance and the optimal gear ratio. The user always retains the option to switch to manual mode and in particular to select a specific gear ratio. Advantageously, the electric motor is arranged upstream of the gearshift device, in particular in the torque transmission chain, and is for example connected to the output shaft of the gearshift device.

[0069] Unless otherwise specified, the electric motor is configured to rotate in a direction corresponding to forward travel of the mobility machine. In some embodiments of the invention, the electric motor rotates in an opposite direction corresponding to reverse travel of the mobility machine.

[0070] Because the electric motor is located upstream of the gearshift device, the motor torque can be generated without passing through this same gearshift device. The gearshift actuator can operate without any additional blocking force from the electric motor.

[0071] By controlling the electric motor torque to its maximum instantaneously, the transmission chain upstream of the gearshift device can be accelerated, which reduces the tension between the input and output of the same device, resulting in a smaller blocking force being experienced by the gearshift actuator.

[0072] Advantageously, the control method according to the invention comprises one or another of the following steps, taken alone or in combination, for the control of the gearshift device or for the control of the electric motor: - at least one step of enhancing the torque of the electric motor in response to a signal, in particular corresponding to a gear change request. The signal corresponds, for example, to a gear change instruction from a user of the mobility machine. In a variant, the signal is generated by a step of calculating the optimal ratio, as will be explained below. This step of enhancing the torque of the electric motor (also called a "boost" step) can be triggered automatically according to the method according to the invention. This automatic triggering is performed when the control unit determines that the gear change to be performed requires further assistance, in particular at peaks of motor power over a certain period of time, so as to provide a supplementary assistance without jerking the cyclist.

[0073] In the case of an electrically assisted machine, the constraints in the gearshift device can be optimally relaxed at the moment when the gearshift actuator proceeds to change gears by instantaneously applying maximum motor torque at the moment when the cyclist is exerting the least effort. Similarly, a position sensor or estimator can define the instantaneous optimum ratio as a function of time (via a measured profile of the cyclist's torque or speed).

[0074] In a variation of this step, this step is performed following a command from the user (e.g., via a handlebar control element) to benefit from a momentary increase in electric motor torque, for example to facilitate overtaking or climbing.

[0075] Such an instruction in particular triggers a step of intensifying the power for a preprogrammed duration, for example 10 seconds. In a variant, the effective duration of the step is determined by continuously holding a control element, for example a button or lever of a user interface, remaining less than the maximum duration.

[0076] - Reducing the torque of the electric motor: Before the above steps, it may be advantageous to reduce the motor torque before a larger increase in the motor torque.

[0077] - a step of engaging the selected gear ratio by the gear shift device, in particular following said step of selecting said gear ratio, in which the control unit controls the gear shift actuator on the basis of an instruction from the user indicating the selected gear, in a preferred variant the instruction being the result of a calculation carried out by the control unit.

[0078] - Calculating the optimum gear ratio of the gear shift device.

[0079] - engaging a neutral gear in which the output of the gear shift device does not connect to the crankset. Such a neutral gear can for example be engaged after a command from the user. The user can decide to activate the "pedestrian" assist mode, for example if he decides to push the bike. This feature is particularly useful when carrying luggage.

[0080] - a regenerative braking step, where the gearshift device is in particular in neutral gear. The movement of the wheels rotates an electric motor which acts as a generator and recharges the battery if it is partially discharged. In a variant, the regenerative braking step is followed by a mechanical braking step, where the control unit controls the brake system.

[0081] - controlling the electric motor in a reverse direction, i.e. in a direction corresponding to a reverse drive of the mobility machine. The gear shift device is in particular in neutral gear. In a particular embodiment, the user may walk alongside the machine as it is reversing.

[0082] - Blocking at least one wheel of the machine, either the front or the rear wheel. This step results in a very simple to implement anti-theft solution for mobility machines.

[0083] - Managing a low battery: for example, if the battery capacity runs out, the control unit supporting the method according to the invention switches to the second gear ratio of the gearshift device.

[0084] In an advantageous embodiment, the method according to the invention is adaptive: according to this particular embodiment, it gathers the needs of the user not only in the form of instructions from the user, but also by analysing the riding style and road constraints.

[0085] Gear changes of the gearshift device are carried out smoothly. The user may in particular select a fully automatic control mode of the transmission system, in which no further action is required on the part of the user.

[0086] According to yet another of its aspects, the invention relates to a regenerative braking method for a mobility machine, implemented using the above-mentioned transmission assembly, which in particular comprises a step of motor braking, which may follow the step of engaging the neutral gear, meaning that in this step the motor is no longer driving the wheels, which drive the motor and allow recharging of the battery or rechargeable device supplying the electric motor.

[0087] Advantageously, the motor braking step is followed by a mechanical braking step in which the mechanical braking system is activated.

[0088] In the motor braking step, the speed of the motor is inverse to the torque.

[0089] According to yet another of its aspects, the present invention relates to a reverse driving method for a mobility machine implemented using the above mentioned transmission assembly, the reverse driving method comprising in particular a step of engaging a neutral gear followed by a step of controlling the electric motor in a reverse direction, i.e. in a direction corresponding to reverse driving of the mobility machine.

[0090] According to yet another aspect, the invention relates to an anti-theft method for a mobility machine, said machine comprising an electric motor configured to provide all or part of the propulsion of said machine, a gear shift device having a number of gear ratios between a first gear, designated gear no. 1, and a highest gear, each of said gears having a ratio, said gear shift device also having a neutral gear that when engaged disables movement of a crankset propelling the mobility machine, and a gear shift actuator configured to engage gears selected from the neutral gear, and different gear ratios between gear no. 1 and the highest gear.

[0091] Examples of specific situations In the described example, the electric motor is a 48V brushless electric motor, although the invention is not limited to this choice of motor.

[0092] With a torque of 133 Nm (Newton-meters), the motor used in the following example can increase the cyclist's force by, for example, 8 or 9 times.

[0093] Example 1: Hill Start - Tilt Sensor Implementation In a variant, the control unit is equipped with an accelerometer or is configured to receive signals from an accelerometer or a tilt sensor, the tilt sensor being for example integrated into the casing of the electric motor, so that the control unit receives real-time information regarding the gradient on which the mobility machine is located or travelling.

[0094] On an uphill gradient, the cyclist must provide a high torque to move the bike. Upon starting off, the tilt sensor provides the control unit with information about the gradient on which the bike is located.

[0095] Knowing the maximum torque that the gearshift device can withstand when changing gears, the control unit instructs the actuator of the gearshift device to place the gearshift device in a gear ratio called optimal gear, which corresponds to the optimal combination of user torque and pedalling frequency performed by the cyclist, even before the user has stepped on the pedal.

[0096] Example 2: Detecting and predicting slopes using on-the-go location and / or navigation systems In this example, the control unit comprises or is connected to a satellite positioning sensor and optionally a sensor provided for characterising the pedalling behaviour of the cyclist, for example a pedalling frequency sensor.

[0097] The satellite position sensors are, for example, located in a casing that also houses the transmission assembly.

[0098] Alternatively, the satellite positioning sensor is located on the frame of the mobility machine.

[0099] From the information received from the position sensor and the prediction of the cyclist's route and from the changes in altitude of the upcoming metric, the control unit calculates whether the predicted pedal torque is greater than the gear shift device can withstand when changing gear.

[0100] The method determines, in particular, the gear ratio of the gearshift device, i.e. the optimum gear that corresponds to the optimum combination of torque and pedaling frequency that the cyclist has to provide.

[0101] Example 3: Carrying luggage when leaving a parking lot (14% gradient) In this example, the mobility machine is a cargo bike with a load of 150 kg.

[0102] The electric motor used in the present invention can provide additional power for a limited time to facilitate the operation of the mobility machine in extreme situations. Parking lot slopes constitute a particularly difficult urban environment due to their steep gradient. The present invention allows the cargo bike to be easily used in both forward and reverse travel. When climbing uphill, the method according to the present invention automatically provides additional power, allowing the cyclist to easily climb a 14% gradient. On the downhill slope, the present invention activates a regenerative braking function, among other things, to recharge the battery.

[0103] The characteristics, details and advantages of the invention will emerge more clearly from reading the description given below, by way of example only, with reference to the drawings, in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0104] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a mobility machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows a transmission assembly of the mobility machine of FIG. [Diagram 3]FIG. 3 shows a cross section of the torque path for a particular embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3a] FIG. 3a shows a detail of a variant of the embodiment of FIG. [Figure 3b] FIG. 3b shows a detail of a variant of the embodiment of FIG. [Figure 3c] FIG. 3c shows a detail of a variation of the embodiment of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows a casing housing a transmission assembly according to the invention. [Figure 4a] Figure 4a shows diagrammatically the casing of Figure 4 in various orientations. [Figure 4b] Figure 4b shows diagrammatically the casing of Figure 4 in various orientations. [Figure 4c] Figure 4c shows diagrammatically the casing of Figure 4 in various orientations. [Figure 4d] Figure 4d shows diagrammatically the casing of Figure 4 in various orientations. [Figure 5a] FIG. 5a shows a specific embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5b] FIG. 5b shows a specific embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6a] FIG. 6a shows another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6b] FIG. 6b shows another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of an implementation of a control method according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows in a block diagram the various steps of the control method according to the invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 shows in a block diagram the various steps of the control method according to the invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 shows in a block diagram the various steps of the control method according to the invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the method according to the invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the method according to the invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 shows a curve illustrating the relationship between the threshold force that a cyclist should provide and the level of instantaneous available assistance. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 graphically illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0105] FIG. 1 shows a mobility machine 900 according to one embodiment of the present invention, where the machine 900 is rotatable about an axis of rotation X m The electric motor is configured to provide a portion of the propulsion of the machine.

[0106] When riding without power assistance, power is supplied by the cyclist and transmitted to the wheel 950 via two pedals rotating about the axis Xp of the crankset which drives the rear wheel via a chain.

[0107] With reference to FIG. 3, the torque paths when the electric assist is used and when it is not used will be described below.

[0108] As shown in Fig. 1, the machine 900 comprises a control unit 800 and a number of sensors 80. The sensors 80 are arranged in particular on the crankset, on the bicycle frame or on the wheels. The control unit 800 is arranged in particular to control the electric motor 400 and / or the gear shift device 100.

[0109] Here, the machine 900 further comprises an energy storage device in the form of a battery 910, a lighting system 920, a crankset 940 with an axis Xp, a location and / or navigation system 980 and a human-machine interface system 990 with a touch screen capable of displaying information and / or taking into account requests from said user. The human-machine interface system 990 in particular connects to the location system 908 and acts as a navigation interface. The invention is not limited to a particular human-machine interface system and may comprise any system known to the person skilled in the art.

[0110] The wheel 950 is equipped with a braking system 960 having, inter alia, a disc brake 965 .

[0111] The machine 900 comprises a transmission assembly 700 as shown in Figure 2. The transmission assembly 700 comprises a gear shift device 100 and an electric motor 400 having a rotation axis Xm for providing part of the power for propelling the machine.

[0112] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the gear shift device 100 is housed in a casing 600, which is shown in more detail in Figure 4. Here, the casing 600 is disposed at the same height as the crankset 940, and its axis is aligned with the output shaft X of the gear shift device 100. 3 It matches.

[0113] Gear shift device 100 has a plurality of k gear ratios between a first gear, known as gear No. 1, and a highest gear, known as gear k.

[0114] As shown in FIG. 3, the illustrated gear shift device 100 includes: - a set of input pinions 20 arranged to rotate freely around a selection shaft 200; a set of output pinions 30 fixed in rotation to a hollow shaft 230 adapted in particular to surround the axis of the crankset 200p of the mobility machine 900; a gear shift actuator configured to engage a selected gear ratio; It is equipped with:

[0115] The gear shift actuator comprises mechanical means for engaging the gear ratios, for example here a shuttle 155 translatable within a hollow selection shaft 200, and electrical means for engaging the gear ratios, specifically a position P corresponding to neutral gear. 0 and position P corresponding to gears 1 to 7 1 ~P 7 and a gear motor that moves the shuttle 155 between the

[0116] 3 shows in solid lines the torque path Cwu of the user provided torque, specifically in the absence of power assist. Torque input is effected via the crankset shaft 200p, and the torque passes through the first primary multiplier pinion 11 which engages the second primary multiplier pinion 12. The first primary multiplier pinion 11 is rotationally fixed to the crankset shaft 200p, and the second primary multiplier pinion 12 is rotationally fixed to the primary shaft 200. There is a permanent reduction ratio between the crankset shaft 200p and the primary shaft 200.

[0117] The primary shaft 200 carries a series of input pinions 20 arranged to engage a series of output pinions 30. The number of input pinions 20 and output pinions 30 corresponds to the number of gear ratios of the gearshift device, here equal to 7. In this example, depending on the selected gear ratio i, the input pinions 20 are marked Fri from Fr1 to Fr7 and the output pinions 30 are marked Fi from F1 to F7. The input pinions 20 are freely rotatable and the output pinions 30 are fixed with respect to the output shaft 230. All output pinions 30 are therefore connected to the chain pinion 955 via the output shaft 230.

[0118] In the context of this application, the terms "freely" and "fixed" mean "freely rotatable about its axis" and "fixed with respect to rotation about its axis", respectively.

[0119] The first primary multiplier pinion 11, the second primary multiplier pinion 12, the input pinions Fr1 to Fr7, and the output pinions F1 to F7 form gears of the gear shift device 100 here.

[0120] The torque passes through the free pinion Fri which engages the output pinion Fi corresponding to the selected gear ratio i. In the example of FIG. 3, gear no. 1 is selected and the free pinion Fr 1 is the output pinion F 1 Here, gear no. 1 corresponds to a ratio of 1, but this value is not intended to be limiting of the invention.

[0121] Finally, the torque is transmitted to the wheels 950 by rims 955 connected by a chain or belt.

[0122] Similarly, the torque path Cwa for the power assist is shown as a dotted line. The torque coming from the user is the same as before, however this time it is combined with that from the electric motor 400.

[0123] In the illustrated example, the electric motor 400 is connected to an output pinion F1 which corresponds to gear no.

[0124] The electric motor 400 is connected to the output pinion F1 through a number of pinions 40 of the reduction gear 300. In the described example, the number of pinions 40 is five, namely: a first pinion 41 coaxial with the electric motor 400, a second pinion 42 which engages with the first pinion and which is the input pinion of the reduction gear 300; a third pinion 43 which is the output pinion of the reduction gear 300 and which is fixed in rotation with respect to the second pinion 42; a fourth pinion 44 engaged with the third pinion 43; a fifth pinion 45 engaging the third pinion 43 and fixed in rotation with respect to the fourth pinion; It is formed by:

[0125] The gear shift actuator 150 comprises mechanical means for engaging the gear ratios, for example a shuttle 155 here translatable within a hollow selection shaft 200, and electrical means for engaging the gear ratios, specifically positions P x and a gear motor for moving the shuttle 155 between the

[0126] In the variant of the invention shown in FIG. 3a, the transmission assembly 700 comprises a freewheel 430 of axis Y, which is connected to the electric motor 400, which axis Y is now spaced apart from the axis Xm of the electric motor. The freewheel connected to the electric motor is now arranged on a fourth pinion 44 of axis X, which coincides with axis Y. Due to the freewheel, when the user drives the machine 900 above a threshold speed at which the electric motor 400 no longer supplies power, the first primary multiplication pinion 11 and the second primary multiplication pinion 12 no longer connect to the electric motor 400. The user therefore does not need to supply additional power to counter the inertia of the reduction gear 300 and the electric motor 400.

[0127] In a variant of the invention, the neutral gear of the gear shift device 100, i.e. gear 0, may be engaged. This configuration is shown in Figure 3b. The shuttle 155 is in position P 0 None of the pinions Fri engages the output pinion and movement of the crankset 940 makes it impossible to drive the wheels 950.

[0128] FIG. 4 shows the casing 600 for the mobility machine 900 of FIG. 1 in more detail.

[0129] The casing 600 comprises a case 660 defining a first housing 610 and a second housing spaced apart from each other. The first housing 610 is adapted to accommodate the gears of the gearshift device 100. The second housings 640, 630, 615 and 680 are adapted to accommodate the electric motor 400, the reduction gear 300, the gearshift actuator 150 and the control unit 800, respectively, of the mobility machine. The second housings, in particular the one adapted to house the control unit 800, are preferably sealed.

[0130] The casing 660 housing the gear shift device 100 is closed by two lateral flanges 667. In order to make the various first and second housings more clearly visible, the casing 600 is shown in Figures 4, 5a-5d in an empty state and with only one flange 667. The first housing 610 has two facing holes in the lateral flanges 667 for receiving the spindles of the crankset of the mobility machine 900.

[0131] Figures 4a and 4d show an orientation of the casing 600 corresponding to a bicycle, for example the mobility machine 900 from Figure 1, suspended by the front wheel 950 or the rear wheel 950, respectively. The orientation of the casing 600 in Figure 5c corresponds to running on a flat road.

[0132] The orientation of the casing 600 in Fig. 5b corresponds to a bicycle resting on the ground by the pedals with the wheels upwards relative to the crankset 940. The level L corresponds to the surface of a volume Vi filled with lubricating oil for the gears of the gear shift device 100 in various positions of the mobility machine, corresponding to various orientations of the casing 600. Under gravity, the oil is located in the volume Vi at the bottom of the first housing 610. The oil volume Vi is in particular between 50 ml and 60 ml.

[0133] In these orientations of the casing, and in any other orientation of the casing 600 as shown, the volume Vi is located below the vent 655. The volume Vi is also located below the upper and lower passages 651, 652, preventing oil from flowing between the first housing 610 and the cavity 650.

[0134] Although the above-described embodiments relate to an electrically assisted vehicle, the present invention is not limited to any type of mobility machine.

[0135] 5a shows diagrammatically the control method P according to the invention when reverse driving is being performed. The gearshift device 100 is in particular in neutral gear. The crankset is not connected to the electric motor 400 nor to the output of the gearshift device 100. The user is pedalling with a pedal speed Sp corresponding to an input torque Tp of the gearshift device 100 but is not delivering any useful torque.

[0136] At this time, the only useful torque comes from the electric motor 400. When the user U pedals, the torque resulting from the movement of the crankset 940 is not transmitted to the wheel. The electric motor 400 rotates in the reverse direction, driving the wheel in the reverse direction. Here, the speed and torque are negative.

[0137] The electric motor 400 is rotating at a speed Sm. It is associated with a reduction gear 300 having a ratio Ra. The output speed of the reduction gear S'=Sm / Ra and the torque delivered is equal to the motor torque multiplied by the ratio of the reduction gear 300, i.e. T'm=Tm*Ra.

[0138] Figure 5b shows in a block diagram the steps of a method for following a user instruction for reverse driving. The control unit 800 first commands the engagement of neutral gear by the gearshift device 100 in step 803. The control unit controls the gearshift device actuator 150 such that the free pinion 20 of the gearshift device is not engaged.

[0139] Once the gearshift device 100 is in neutral gear, the control unit 800 in step 807 controls the electric motor 400 to propel the mobility machine 900 in a reverse direction.

[0140] In one embodiment, the transmission assembly includes a potentiometer connected to a sensor for reverse command, so that the user U can continuously select the speed of the electric motor 400 up to the maximum speed for reverse driving. In a variant, the speed of the motor for reverse driving can take a single value or multiple discrete values, according to the user U's command.

[0141] FIG. 6a shows diagrammatically the control method P according to the invention during regenerative braking. The gearshift device 100 is in particular in neutral gear. The torque path diagram is reversed during the motor braking step. The movement of the wheels 950 rotates the electric motor 400 acting as a generator, which can charge the battery 910 until it is fully charged. The speed and the torque are both reversed here. Regenerative braking can be utilized in particular in forward driving, i.e. with a positive speed and a negative motor torque, or in reverse driving, i.e. with a negative speed and a positive motor torque.

[0142] Figure 6b shows the steps of the method for following a braking command from a user U. The control unit 800 first commands, in step 803, engagement of neutral gear by the gearshift device 100. The control unit controls the actuator 150 of the gearshift device such that the free pinion 20 of the gearshift device is not engaged.

[0143] Once the gearshift device 100 is in neutral gear, the control unit 800 controls the electric motor 400 for motor braking in step 805 .

[0144] FIG. 7 illustrates diagrammatically a control method P according to the invention.

[0145] During operation of the mobility machine 900 in a riding mode, the user pedals at a pedal speed Sp that corresponds to an input torque Tp of the gear shift device 100. i As a function of the selected gear ratio Gi having a ratio r i It is equal to the pedal speed divided by r i.e. S'p=Sp / r i It is.

[0146] The electric motor 400 is rotating at a speed Sm. It is associated with a reduction gear 300 having a ratio Ra. The output speed of the reduction gear S'm=Sm / Ra and the torque delivered is equal to the motor torque multiplied by the ratio of the reduction gear 300, i.e. T'm=Tm*Ra.

[0147] Figure 6 shows the steps of the method for following a user instruction for reverse driving. The control unit 800 first commands the engagement of neutral gear by the gearshift device 100 in step 803. The control unit controls the actuator 150 of the gearshift device such that the free pinion 20 of the gearshift device is not engaged.

[0148] Once the gear shift device 100 is in neutral gear, the control unit 800 controls the electric motor 400 in step 807 to propel the mobility machine 900 in reverse. The useful torque then comes only from the electric motor 400. When the user U pedals, the torque resulting from the movement of the crankset 940 is not transmitted to the wheels. The electric motor 400 rotates in reverse and drives the wheels in reverse. In one embodiment, the transmission assembly comprises a potentiometer connected to a sensor for reverse drive commands. The user U can thus continuously select the speed of the electric motor 400 up to the maximum speed for reverse drive. In a variant, the speed of the motor for reverse drive can take a single value or multiple discrete values ​​according to the user U's instructions.

[0149] Figure 9 corresponds to figure 4 during reverse travel. In the neutral position, the gearshift device 100 is not connected to the electric motor 400 and the user is not providing any useful torque.

[0150] Figure 7 shows the steps of a method for following a braking command from a user U. The control unit 800 first commands, in step 803, engagement of neutral gear by the gearshift device 100. The control unit controls the actuator 150 of the gearshift device such that the free pinion 20 of the gearshift device is not engaged.

[0151] Once the gearshift device 100 is in neutral gear, the control unit 800 controls the electric motor 400 for motor braking in step 805 .

[0152] 8 shows the steps of a method for following instructions to activate and lock the anti-theft features of a mobility machine. The control unit 800 first commands, in step 803, the engagement of neutral gear by the gearshift device 100. The control unit controls the actuator 150 of the gearshift device such that the free pinion 20 of the gearshift device is not engaged.

[0153] Once the gear shift device 100 is in neutral gear, the control unit 800 performs a step 809 for blocking at least one of the wheels of the machine.

[0154] As shown in Figure 10, the gear shift device 100 in neutral position has no connection to the electric motor 400 and the torque path diagram is reversed during a motor braking step 805. The movement of the wheels 950 rotates the electric motor 400 which acts as a generator and allows the battery 910 to charge until it is fully charged. When the battery 910 is fully charged or during an extended braking indication, the motor braking step 805 is followed by a mechanical braking step 806 where the control unit controls the braking system 960.

[0155] The method according to the invention determines the threshold force Tp to be applied by the cyclist. 0 is permanently adjusted to the instantaneously available assist level Tm according to the rules shown in FIG.

[0156] As a function of the riding parameters established by the sensors during use of the machine 900, the threshold force Tp that should be applied by the cyclist when he is in the zone below the curve shown 0 is adjusted in real time to be on the curve with the available assist level Tm.

[0157] The curves giving the speed Sp of the crankset 940 as a function of the engagement gear ratio Gi shown in Figure 7 correspond to three examples of the method according to the invention. These examples relate in particular to the above-mentioned machine 900, whose gearshift device has seven gear ratios. For each gear ratio Gi, the method P in particular adaptively calculates R 1 ~R 7 Speed ​​range of mobility machines up to R i This section stipulates:

[0158] The solid curve E1 corresponds to a first exemplary embodiment in which the pedal speed range Sp is approximately 60 rpm, for example 50 rpm to 70 rpm, which is advantageous for upshifting.

[0159] The dotted curve E2 corresponds to a second exemplary embodiment in which the pedal speed range Sp is approximately 70 rpm, for example 60 rpm to 80 rpm, which is particularly advantageous for downshifting.

[0160] Curve E3 corresponds to a third exemplary embodiment with a direct start with a gear ratio of 3 in a speed range Sp of approximately 60 rpm.

[0161] Since gear changes are always spaced apart, the control unit knows that the cyclist is inevitably in a stable gear. - in the center of the range (in this case the shift law followed by the cyclist is perfectly adapted), - is there an offset towards the upper edge of the range (in which case the method suggests a higher speed range), - is there an offset towards the lower edge of the range (in which case the method suggests a lower speed range), Analyze.

[0162] The method according to the invention takes into account the riding conditions in particular, in particular when climbing a riding zone, the pedaling speed is increased so as to reduce the muscular forces.

Claims

1. A transmission assembly (700) for a mobility machine (900), comprising: The assembly comprises an electric motor (400) and a gear shift device (100) having a number (k) of gear ratios between a first gear ratio, called gear no. 1, and a highest gear, The electric motor (400) is connected to at least one output pinion (30, F) of the gear shift device (100). ｉ ) and The gear shift device also has a neutral gear, An assembly, wherein the neutral gear, when engaged, disables movement of a crankset (940) that propels the mobility machine (900).

2. The assembly comprises a reduction gear (300); The electric motor (400) is connected to the output pinion (30, F) of the gear shift device via the reduction gear (300). ｉ 2. The assembly of claim 1 .

3. 3. An assembly according to claim 1 or 2, comprising at least one freewheel, in particular a freewheel (430) connected to said electric motor (400).

4. The axis of the freewheel (Y) is aligned with the axis of the electric motor (X ｍ 4. The assembly of claim 3, wherein the first and second electrodes are spaced apart from each other.

5. The assembly of claim 4, wherein the freewheel (430) is located on a fourth pinion (44).

6. An assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the gear shift device has between 2 and 12 gear ratios, or between 5 and 9 gear ratios.

7. 7. An assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein when the highest gear is engaged, the output speed of the gearshift device (100) is 3 to 6 times, in particular 4.5 times, greater than the input speed of the gearshift device (100).

8. 8. An assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the jump in reduction ratio between two successive gear ratios of the gear shift device is between 10% and 50%, in particular between 15% and 40%, in particular between 20% and 40%.

9. A control unit (800) for a mobility machine (900), comprising: The mobility machine comprises an electric motor (400) configured to ensure at least a part of the propulsion of the mobility machine, and a gear shift device (100) having a number k of gear ratios between a first gear ratio, called gear no. 1, and a highest gear, called gear k, The control unit is configured to control at least one of the electric motor (400) and the gear shift device (100); The gear shift device also has a neutral gear, The neutral gear, when engaged, disables movement of a crankset (940) that propels the mobility machine (900), a control unit (800).

10. A casing (600) capable of housing a gear shift device (100) for a mobility machine (900) having a crankset (940) with at least one wheel (950), comprising: The gear shift device (100) comprises gears (11, 12, 20, 30, Fri, Fi), The casing (600) comprises a first housing (610) for accommodating at least the gears (11, 12, 20, 30, Fri, Fi) of the gear shift device (100), Torque input to the gear shift device is effected via the shaft (200p) of the crankset (940); the casing comprises a vent (655) to the outside air for the gears of the gearshift device, The gear shift device also has a neutral gear, the neutral gear, when engaged, disables movement of the crankset (940) that propels the mobility machine (900); A casing (600).

11. A mobility machine (900) comprising a transmission assembly according to any of claims 1 to 8, and / or a control unit according to claim 9, and / or a casing according to claim 10.

12. A method for controlling a mobility machine (900), comprising: The mobility machine comprises an electric motor (400) configured to provide all or part of the propulsion of the mobility machine, and a gear shift device (100) having a plurality of k gear ratios between a first gear, designated gear no. 1, and a highest gear, designated gear k, Each of the k gears has a ratio (R １ , R ｉ , R ｋ ) The gear shift device has a ratio (R ｓｅｌ a gear shift actuator (150) configured to engage a selected gear having a The method makes it possible to control at least one of the electric motor (400) and the gearshift device (100), The gear shift device also has a neutral gear, wherein the neutral gear, when engaged, disables movement of a crankset (940) that propels the mobility machine (900).

13. The electric motor (400) is connected to at least one output pinion (30, F) of the gear shift device (100). ｉ 13. The method of claim 12, further comprising connecting to a

14. 14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, comprising at least one step (820) of enhancing the torque of the electric motor (400) in response to a signal which corresponds in particular to a gear change request.

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