Detection device for human-powered vehicle and detection system for human-powered vehicle

Abstract

To provide a detection device for a man-power drive vehicle and a detection system for a man-power drive system, capable of suitably detecting a rotational state of a rotary member.SOLUTION: A detection device for a man-power drive vehicle includes: a reception section which is constituted to receive a radio signal and can be arranged at such a position that signal intensity of the radio signal changes with a rotational state of a rotary member provided at the man-power drive vehicle of the man-power drive vehicles; and a detection section which is constituted to detect the signal intensity of the radio signal received by the reception section.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] For example, the human-powered vehicle disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a drive unit for human-powered vehicles and a cadence sensor. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-142399 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a detection device for a human-powered vehicle and a detection system for a human-powered vehicle that can suitably detect the rotation state of a rotating member. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A detection device according to a first aspect of the present disclosure is a detection device for a human-powered vehicle, and includes: a receiving unit configured to receive a wireless signal and positionable in the human-powered vehicle at a position where the signal strength of the wireless signal changes depending on the rotational state of a rotating member provided on the human-powered vehicle; and a detecting unit configured to detect the signal strength of the wireless signal received by the receiving unit. According to the detection device of the first aspect, the rotation state of the rotating member can be suitably detected from the signal strength of the wireless signal, which changes depending on the rotation state of the rotating member.

[0006] In the detection device of the second aspect according to the first aspect of the present disclosure, the detection unit is configured to calculate at least one of a rotation speed of the rotating member and a rotation phase of the rotating member according to the signal strength. According to the detection device of the second aspect, the detection section can preferably detect the rotation state of the rotating member by calculating at least one of the rotation speed and the rotation phase of the rotating member according to the signal strength.

[0007] In the detection device of the third aspect according to the second aspect of the present disclosure, the detection unit is configured to determine that the rotational phase of the rotating member is a predetermined rotational phase when the signal strength is within a predetermined range. According to the detection device of the third aspect, if the signal strength is within a predetermined range, it can be determined that the rotational phase of the rotating member is a predetermined rotational phase, and therefore the rotational phase of the rotating member can be detected.

[0008] In the detection device of a fourth aspect according to the first to third aspects of the present disclosure, the rotating member includes a crank arm. According to the detection device of the fourth aspect, the rotation state of the crank arm can be suitably detected.

[0009] In the detection device of the fifth aspect according to the fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the receiver is provided at a portion of the human-powered vehicle that can face the crank arm. According to the detection device of the fifth aspect, the receiver is provided in a position that can face the crank arm, so that the rotation state of the crank arm can be suitably detected according to the signal strength when the receiver faces the crank arm.

[0010] In the detection device of the sixth aspect according to the fourth or fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the human-powered vehicle includes a crankshaft and a drive unit arranged around the crankshaft and configured to impart propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle, and the receiving unit is arranged in the drive unit. According to the detection device of the sixth aspect, the rotation state of the crank arm can be suitably detected by the receiver provided in the drive unit.

[0011] In the detection device of the seventh aspect according to the sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the drive unit includes a housing that forms an interior space, and at least a portion of the receiving unit is disposed in the interior space. According to the detection device of the seventh aspect, at least a part of the receiving unit is disposed in the internal space, so that the receiving unit can be protected by the housing of the drive unit.

[0012] In the detection device of the eighth aspect according to the seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the housing includes a base portion and a window portion having a higher transmittance of the radio signal than the base portion, and the receiving portion is arranged at a position corresponding to the window portion. According to the detection device of the eighth aspect, the receiving unit is disposed at a position corresponding to the window, and therefore the receiving unit can receive the radio signal suitably through the window.

[0013] In the detection device of the ninth aspect according to the eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the base portion includes a metal material, and the window portion includes a resin material. According to the detecting device of the ninth aspect, the window portion is made of a resin material, so that the window portion can protect the receiving portion. According to the detecting device of the ninth aspect, the base portion is made of a metal material, so that the rigidity of the housing can be ensured.

[0014] In the detection device according to any one of the fourth to ninth aspects of the present disclosure, the crank arm includes a metal material. According to the detection device of the tenth aspect, since the crank arm is formed from a metal material, the crank arm is likely to attenuate the radio signal, and therefore the signal strength of the radio signal received by the receiving unit can be suitably changed.

[0015] In the detection device of aspect 11 according to any one of aspects 1 to 3 of the present disclosure, the receiving unit is configured to be able to receive the wireless signal from a transmitting unit provided in a part of the human-powered vehicle that can face the crank arm. According to the detection device of the eleventh aspect, the rotation state of the rotating member can be suitably detected by the receiver configured to be able to receive a wireless signal from the transmitter provided in a portion that can face the crank arm.

[0016] A detection system according to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure is a detection system for a human-powered vehicle, and includes a detection device described in any one of the first to tenth aspects and a transmitting unit that transmits the wireless signal to the receiving unit. According to the transmission system of the twelfth aspect, in a detection system for a human-powered vehicle that includes a transmitter and a receiver, the rotation state of a rotating member can be suitably detected.

[0017] In the detection system of the thirteenth aspect according to the twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, the transmitter is configured to transmit the wireless signal to the receiver at predetermined time intervals. According to the detection system of the thirteenth aspect, it is possible to detect changes in the radio signal at predetermined time intervals, and therefore it is possible to suitably detect the rotation state of the rotating member. [Effects of the Invention]

[0018] The detection device for a human-powered vehicle and the detection system for a human-powered vehicle of the present disclosure can suitably detect the rotational state of a rotating member. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] 1 is a side view of a human-powered vehicle including a detection device for a human-powered vehicle and a detection system for a human-powered vehicle according to an embodiment; [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of a human-powered vehicle including a detection device for a human-powered vehicle and a detection system for a human-powered vehicle according to an embodiment; [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a first side view of the drive unit of FIG. 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is a second side view of the drive unit of FIG. 2. [Figure 5] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line D5-D5 in FIG. 3. [Figure 6] 3 is a graph showing an example of a change in the intensity of a received signal calculated by the detection device of FIG. 2. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] <Embodiment> A detection device 90 for a human-powered vehicle and a detection system 80 for a human-powered vehicle are described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6 . A human-powered vehicle is a vehicle that has at least one wheel and can be propelled at least by human power. Human-powered vehicles include various types of bicycles, such as mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes, hand bikes, and recumbent bikes. The number of wheels a human-powered vehicle has is not limited. Human-powered vehicles also include, for example, one-wheeled vehicles and vehicles with two or more wheels. Human-powered vehicles are not limited to vehicles that can be propelled solely by human power. Human-powered vehicles include E-bikes that use not only human power but also the driving force of an electric motor for propulsion. E-bikes include electrically assisted bicycles whose propulsion is assisted by an electric motor. In the following embodiments, the human-powered vehicle will be described as an electrically assisted bicycle.

[0021] In this specification, the following directional terms "front," "rear," "forward," "backward," "left," "right," "sideways," "upward," and "downward," as well as any other similar directional terms, refer to those directions determined relative to a driver in a reference position (e.g., on a saddle or seat) of the human-powered vehicle facing the handlebars.

[0022] The human-powered vehicle 10 includes at least one wheel 12 and a body 14. The at least one wheel 12 includes a front wheel 12F and a rear wheel 12R. The body 14 includes a frame 16. The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a crank 18 to which human-powered driving force is input. The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a crankshaft 20. The crank 18 includes the crankshaft 20 rotatable relative to the frame 16 and a crank arm 22. The crank arm 22 includes a metal material. The crank arm 22 includes a first crank arm 22A and a second crank arm 22B.

[0023] The crank arms 22 are provided at both axial ends of the crankshaft 20. For example, the first crank arm 22A is provided at a first axial end 20A of the crankshaft 20. For example, the first end 20A is located on the right side of the human-powered vehicle 10. For example, the second crank arm 22B is provided at a second axial end 20B of the crankshaft 20. For example, the second end 20B is located on the left side of the human-powered vehicle 10. Pedals 24 are connected to each crank arm 22. For example, a first pedal 24A is connected to the first crank arm 22A. For example, a second pedal 24B is connected to the second crank arm 22B.

[0024] A front fork 26 is connected to the frame 16. A front wheel 12F is attached to the front fork 26. A handlebar 28 is connected to the front fork 26 via a stem 30. A rear wheel 12R is supported by the frame 16. In this embodiment, the rear wheel 12R is the drive wheel. For example, the crank 18 is connected to the rear wheel 12R by a drive mechanism 32. The rear wheel 12R is driven by the rotation of the crankshaft 20. At least one of the front wheel 12F and the rear wheel 12R may be connected to the crank 18 by the drive mechanism 32.

[0025] The drive mechanism 32 includes a first rotating body 34, a second rotating body 36, and a transmission member 38. For example, the first rotating body 34 is coupled to the crankshaft 20. For example, the first rotating body 34 includes a front sprocket. The first rotating body 34 may include a pulley or a bevel gear. The second rotating body 36 includes a rear sprocket. The second rotating body 36 may include a pulley or a bevel gear. The transmission member 38 is configured to transmit the rotational force of the first rotating body 34 to the second rotating body 36. For example, the transmission member 38 includes a chain. The transmission member 38 may include a belt or a shaft.

[0026] For example, the chain is wound around the front sprocket and the rear sprocket, and the rotational force input to the front sprocket is transmitted in this order to the front sprocket, the chain, the rear sprocket, and the rear wheel 12R.

[0027] For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a battery 40. The battery 40 includes one or more battery elements. The battery element includes a rechargeable battery. For example, the battery 40 is configured to supply power to the detection device 90. The battery 40 is communicatively connected to the detection device 90 via an electric cable or a wireless communication device. The battery 40 can communicate with the detection device 90 via, for example, power line communication (PLC), a controller area network (CAN), or a universal asynchronous receiver / transmitter (UART).

[0028] For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a drive unit 42. The drive unit 42 is disposed around the crankshaft 20 and configured to provide propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle 10. For example, the drive unit 42 includes a housing 44. For example, the drive unit 42 further includes a motor 46, a reducer 48, and an output section 50. The drive unit 42 has a mounting portion 44A for mounting to the frame 16. For example, the mounting portion 44A is disposed on the outer periphery of the housing 44. The mounting portion 44A includes, for example, at least one of a hole and an internal thread portion. For example, the housing 44 is mounted to the frame 16 by a bolt engaging at least one of the hole and the internal thread portion of the mounting portion 44A with the frame 16.

[0029] For example, the housing 44 rotatably supports the crankshaft 20. For example, the housing 44 includes a first housing 52, a second housing 54, and a cover member 56. The first housing 52 includes a first side surface portion 52A. The second housing 54 includes a second side surface portion 54A. The housing 44 forms an internal space S. For example, the first housing 52 and the second housing 54 form the internal space S. For example, the first housing 52 and the second housing 54 are attached to each other with bolts.

[0030] For example, at least a portion of the crankshaft 20, the motor 46, the reducer 48, at least a portion of the output unit 50, etc. are disposed in the internal space S of the housing 44. For example, the first housing 52 functions as a case for the motor 46. For example, the cover member 56 is provided in the first housing 52 and forms a motor disposition space together with the first housing 52. For example, the cover member 56 is attached to the first housing 52 with bolts.

[0031] For example, the housing 44 includes a first hole 52B and a second hole 54B into which the crankshaft 20 is inserted. The first hole 52B and the second hole 54B each communicate between the internal space S of the housing 44 and the external space of the housing 44. The first hole 52B is formed in a first side surface portion 52A of the housing 44 in the axial direction of the crankshaft 20. The second hole 54B is formed in a second side surface portion 54A of the housing 44 in the axial direction of the crankshaft 20.

[0032] For example, the output section 50 has a first central axis of rotation C1. The output section 50 and the crankshaft 20 are arranged coaxially. The output section 50 is configured to transmit the rotational force of the crankshaft 20. For example, the output section 50 has a substantially cylindrical shape. For example, the output section 50 is provided on the outer periphery of the crankshaft 20 around the first central axis of rotation C1.

[0033] For example, the output unit 50 is configured to be connected to the drive wheels of the human-powered vehicle 10 via the transmission member 38. For example, the output unit 50 is configured to be connected to the transmission member 38 via the second rotating body 36. For example, the output unit 50 is configured to be connected to the transmission member 38 via a sprocket, pulley, or bevel gear that constitutes the second rotating body 36.

[0034] For example, the crankshaft 20 is provided with a power transmission member 58. For example, the power transmission member 58 is configured to transmit a rotational force input to the crankshaft 20 to the output portion 50. For example, the power transmission member 58 has a substantially cylindrical shape. For example, the power transmission member 58 is disposed on the crankshaft 20 so as to surround the outer periphery of the crankshaft 20 around the first central axis of rotation C1.

[0035] For example, the drive unit 42 further includes a first one-way clutch 60. For example, the first one-way clutch 60 is configured so that the crankshaft 20 and the output portion 50 rotate together when the crankshaft 20 rotates forward. The first one-way clutch 60 is configured so that the crankshaft 20 and the output portion 50 rotate relative to each other when the crankshaft 20 rotates backward. For example, the first one-way clutch 60 includes a roller clutch, a sprag clutch, or a ratchet clutch. For example, the output portion 50 is connected to a power transmission member 58 via the first one-way clutch 60, and the power transmission member 58 is connected to the crankshaft 20. For example, at least a portion of the first one-way clutch 60 is disposed between an inner peripheral portion of the output portion 50 and an outer peripheral portion of the power transmission member 58.

[0036] For example, the first end 20A of the crankshaft 20 protrudes from the first hole 52B into the external space of the housing 44. For example, the second end 20B of the crankshaft 20 protrudes from the second hole 54B into the external space of the housing 44. For example, a first bearing 62A is disposed in the second hole 54B. For example, the crankshaft 20 is supported by the housing 44 by the first bearing 62A so as to be rotatable relative to the housing 44. For example, the first bearing 62A may be a ball bearing, a roller bearing, or a plain bearing.

[0037] For example, a second bearing 62B is disposed in the first hole 52B. For example, the output unit 50 is provided in the housing 44 by the second bearing 62B so as to be rotatable relative to the housing 44. For example, the second bearing 62B is provided on the outer periphery of the output unit 50. The second bearing 62B may be a ball bearing, a roller bearing, or a plain bearing.

[0038] For example, a third bearing 62C is provided between an inner circumferential portion of the power transmission member 58 and an outer circumferential portion of the crankshaft 20. For example, the power transmission member 58 rotatably supports the crankshaft 20 via the third bearing 62C. For example, a fourth bearing 62D is provided between an inner circumferential portion of the output unit 50 and an outer circumferential portion of the crankshaft 20. For example, the output unit 50 rotatably supports the crankshaft 20 via the fourth bearing 62D. For example, the third bearing 62C and the fourth bearing 62D include needle bearings or sleeves.

[0039] For example, in a direction perpendicular to first rotational axis C1, at least a portion of first one-way clutch 60 is arranged to overlap third bearing 62C. For example, in a direction perpendicular to first rotational axis C1, at least a portion of second bearing 62B is arranged to overlap fourth bearing 62D. For example, in a direction parallel to first rotational axis C1, output portion 50 has third end 50A. For example, a connecting portion that connects first rotor 34 is provided on an outer periphery of third end 50A. For example, the connecting portion has one or more splines extending along the axial direction of crankshaft 20.

[0040] For example, the motor 46 is provided in the housing 44. For example, the motor 46 is configured to provide propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle 10. The motor 46 includes one or more electric motors. The electric motor is, for example, a brushless motor. For example, the electric motor is an inner rotor type motor. For example, the motor 46 is configured to transmit motor driving force to the first rotor 34.

[0041] For example, the motor 46 includes a motor output shaft 46A. For example, the crankshaft 20 and the motor output shaft 46A are disposed substantially parallel to each other. For example, the housing 44 functions as a case for the motor 46. The motor 46 may have a case formed separately from the housing 44. When the motor 46 has a case, the case for the motor 46 may be fixed to the housing 44. The case for the motor 46 may be fixed to the outer periphery of the housing 44.

[0042] For example, the reducer 48 includes at least one reduction portion. For example, the at least one reduction portion includes a first reduction portion 64, a second reduction portion 66, and a third reduction portion 68. The reducer 48 may include one, two, or four or more reduction portions. The first reduction portion 64 includes a first gear 64A, a first rotation shaft 64B, and a second gear 64C. The diameter of the first gear 64A is larger than the diameter of the second gear 64C. For example, the first gear 64A may be formed integrally with the output portion 50. For example, the first gear 64A may be provided on the outer periphery of the output portion 50. The first gear 64A and the output portion 50 may be formed separately and attached so as to be non-rotatable relative to each other. For example, the first rotation shaft 64B has a second rotation center axis C2 different from the first rotation center axis C1. For example, the second rotation center axis C2 is substantially parallel to the first rotation center axis C1.

[0043] For example, the second gear 64C is provided on the first rotating shaft 64B. For example, the second gear 64C is formed in an annular shape and is disposed radially outward of the first rotating shaft 64B. For example, the second gear 64C is connected to the first gear 64A. The first reduction gear portion 64 may be indirectly connected by a belt and a pulley instead of the first gear 64A and the second gear 64C. The first reduction gear portion 64 may be indirectly connected by at least one of a sprocket and a chain instead of the first gear 64A and the second gear 64C. For example, the second gear 64C is supported on the first rotating shaft 64B. For example, the second gear 64C is disposed coaxially with the first rotating shaft 64B.

[0044] For example, the first rotating shaft 64B is supported by the housing 44 via a fifth bearing 62E and a sixth bearing 62F so as to be rotatable relative to the housing 44. For example, the fifth bearing 62E is provided in the first housing 52. For example, the sixth bearing 62F is provided in the second housing 54. For example, the fifth bearing 62E and the sixth bearing 62F support both axial ends of the first rotating shaft 64B, respectively. For example, the fifth bearing 62E supports a fourth axial end 64D of the first rotating shaft 64B. For example, the sixth bearing 62F supports a fifth axial end 64E of the first rotating shaft 64B. For example, the fifth bearing 62E and the sixth bearing 62F may be ball bearings, roller bearings, or plain bearings.

[0045] For example, the second reduction gear portion 66 is provided between the motor 46 and the first reduction gear portion 64. For example, the second reduction gear portion 66 includes a third gear 66A, a second rotating shaft 66B, and a fourth gear 66C. For example, the diameter of the third gear 66A is larger than the diameter of the fourth gear 66C. For example, the third gear 66A is provided on the first rotating shaft 64B. For example, the third gear 66A is provided on the fifth end 64E of the first rotating shaft 64B. For example, the third gear 66A is configured to rotate integrally with the first rotating shaft 64B. For example, the diameter of the third gear 66A is smaller than the diameter of the second gear 64C. For example, the third gear 66A and the first rotating shaft 64B are formed separately and attached so as to be non-rotatable relative to each other. The third gear 66A and the first rotating shaft 64B may be formed integrally.

[0046] For example, the second gear 64C and the third gear 66A are disposed between the fifth bearing 62E and the sixth bearing 62F in the axial direction of the first rotation shaft 64B. For example, the second gear 64C is disposed adjacent to the fifth bearing 62E. For example, the third gear 66A is disposed adjacent to the sixth bearing 62F.

[0047] For example, the fourth gear 66C is configured to rotate integrally with the second rotation shaft 66B. For example, the fourth gear 66C is connected to the third gear 66A. For example, the fourth gear 66C is formed integrally with the second rotation shaft 66B. The fourth gear 66C and the second rotation shaft 66B may be formed separately and attached so as to be unable to rotate relative to each other.

[0048] For example, the second rotation shaft 66B has a third rotation center axis C3 that is different from the first rotation center axis C1 and the second rotation center axis C2. For example, the third rotation center axis C3 is substantially parallel to the first rotation center axis C1 and the second rotation center axis C2. The second reduction gear portion 66 may be indirectly connected by a belt and a pulley instead of the third gear 66A and the fourth gear 66C. The second reduction gear portion 66 may be indirectly connected by a sprocket and a chain instead of the third gear 66A and the fourth gear 66C.

[0049] For example, the second rotating shaft 66B is supported by the housing 44 via a seventh bearing 62G and an eighth bearing 62H so as to be rotatable relative to the housing 44. For example, the seventh bearing 62G is provided in the second housing 54. For example, the eighth bearing 62H is provided in the cover member 56. For example, the seventh bearing 62G and the eighth bearing 62H support both axial ends of the second rotating shaft 66B, respectively. For example, the seventh bearing 62G supports a sixth axial end 66D of the second rotating shaft 66B. For example, the eighth bearing 62H supports a seventh axial end 66E of the second rotating shaft 66B. The seventh bearing 62G and the eighth bearing 62H may be ball bearings, roller bearings, or plain bearings.

[0050] For example, the third reduction gear portion 68 includes a fifth gear 68A and a sixth gear 68B. For example, the diameter of the fifth gear 68A is larger than the diameter of the sixth gear 68B. For example, the fifth gear 68A is disposed closer to the cover member 56 than the fourth gear 66C in the axial direction of the second rotation shaft 66B. For example, the fifth gear 68A is provided on the second rotation shaft 66B so as to rotate integrally with the second rotation shaft 66B. For example, the fifth gear 68A is formed separately from the second rotation shaft 66B and attached to the second rotation shaft 66B. The fifth gear 68A may be formed integrally with the second rotation shaft 66B.

[0051] For example, the fourth gear 66C and the fifth gear 68A are disposed between the seventh bearing 62G and the eighth bearing 62H in the axial direction of the second rotation shaft 66B. For example, the fourth gear 66C is disposed adjacent to the seventh bearing 62G. For example, the fifth gear 68A is disposed adjacent to the eighth bearing 62H.

[0052] For example, the sixth gear 68B is provided on the motor output shaft 46A so as to rotate integrally with the motor output shaft 46A. For example, the sixth gear 68B may be formed integrally with the motor output shaft 46A. For example, the sixth gear 68B may be formed separately from the motor output shaft 46A and attached to the motor output shaft 46A. The third reduction gear portion 68 may be indirectly connected by a belt and pulley instead of the fifth gear 68A and the sixth gear 68B. The third reduction gear portion 68 may be indirectly connected by a sprocket and chain instead of the fifth gear 68A and the sixth gear 68B.

[0053] For example, the motor output shaft 46A has a fourth rotational center axis C4. For example, the fourth rotational center axis C4 is different from the first rotational center axis C1, the second rotational center axis C2, and the third rotational center axis C3. For example, the fourth rotational center axis C4 is substantially parallel to the first rotational center axis C1, the second rotational center axis C2, and the third rotational center axis C3. For example, the motor output shaft 46A is supported by the housing 44 via a ninth bearing 62J and a tenth bearing 62K so as to be rotatable relative to the housing 44. The ninth bearing 62J and the tenth bearing 62K may be ball bearings, roller bearings, or plain bearings.

[0054] For example, the ninth bearing 62J is provided in the cover member 56. For example, the tenth bearing 62K is provided in the first housing 52. For example, the ninth bearing 62J supports an intermediate portion between the eighth end 46B and the ninth end 46C in the axial direction of the motor output shaft 46A. For example, the tenth bearing 62K supports the ninth end 46C.

[0055] For example, the drive unit 42 includes a second one-way clutch 70. For example, the second one-way clutch 70 is provided in the reducer 48. For example, the second one-way clutch 70 is provided in the first reduction gear portion 64. For example, the second one-way clutch 70 is provided between the outer periphery of the first rotating shaft 64B and the inner periphery of the second gear 64C. The second one-way clutch 70 may be provided in the second reduction gear portion 66 or in the third reduction gear portion 68.

[0056] For example, the second one-way clutch 70 is configured to transmit the rotation of the motor output shaft 46A to the output unit 50 when the output unit 50 rotates in a first output unit rotation direction. For example, the first output unit rotation direction corresponds to the rotation direction of the output unit 50 when the human-powered vehicle 10 moves forward. For example, the second one-way clutch 70 is configured to allow relative rotation between the output unit 50 and the motor output shaft 46A when the output unit 50 rotates in a second output unit rotation direction that is opposite to the first output unit rotation direction. For example, the second one-way clutch 70 includes a roller clutch, a sprag clutch, or a ratchet clutch.

[0057] For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a human-powered driving force detection unit 72. For example, the human-powered driving force detection unit 72 includes a torque sensor. For example, the torque sensor is configured to output a signal corresponding to the torque applied to the crankshaft 20 by the human-powered driving force. For example, the signal corresponding to the torque applied to the crankshaft 20 by the human-powered driving force includes information related to the human-powered driving force input to the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0058] For example, the torque sensor is provided near the crankshaft 20. For example, the torque sensor is provided upstream of the first one-way clutch 60 in the transmission path of the manual driving force. For example, the torque sensor is provided in at least one of the crankshaft 20, the crank arm 22, and the pedal 24. For example, the torque sensor includes a strain sensor, a magnetostrictive sensor, or a pressure sensor. For example, the strain sensor includes a strain gauge. For example, the torque sensor may have any configuration as long as it can acquire information about the manual driving force. For example, the torque sensor may include a sensor that detects the pressure applied to the pedal 24, or a sensor that detects the tension of the chain.

[0059] For example, the torque sensor is configured to output a detection signal a predetermined number of times during one rotation of the crankshaft 20. For example, the predetermined number of times is 2 or more. For example, the predetermined number of times is 4 or more. For example, the predetermined number of times is a multiple of 4. For example, the predetermined number of times is 8, 12, or 16.

[0060] For example, the drive unit 42 further includes a first control unit 74A. The first control unit 74A includes an arithmetic processing device that executes a predetermined control program. The arithmetic processing device included in the first control unit 74A includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The arithmetic processing devices included in the first control unit 74A may be provided in multiple locations that are separate from each other. The first control unit 74A may include one or multiple microcomputers. The first control unit 74A is connected to the battery 40 so as to be able to communicate with it via wire or wirelessly. The first control unit 74A is configured to be supplied with power from the battery 40.

[0061] For example, the drive unit 42 further includes a first storage unit 74B. The first storage unit 74B stores control programs and information used in the control process. The first storage unit 74B includes, for example, a nonvolatile memory and a volatile memory. The nonvolatile memory includes, for example, at least one of a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), and a flash memory. The volatile memory includes, for example, a random access memory (RAM).

[0062] For example, the first control unit 74A is connected to the motor 46, the battery 40, and the manual driving force detection unit 72 by wire or wirelessly. When the first control unit 74A communicates with the motor 46, the battery 40, and the manual driving force detection unit 72 by wire, the first control unit 74A communicates by, for example, power line communication (PLC), a controller area network (CAN), or a universal asynchronous receiver / transmitter (UART). When the first control unit 74A communicates with another device wirelessly, the first control unit 74A communicates by, for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark), ANT+ (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), or infrared communication.

[0063] The drive unit 42 may further include a drive circuit. The drive circuit is electrically connected to the motor 46. The drive circuit controls the supply of power from the battery 40 to the motor 46. The drive circuit includes an inverter circuit. The inverter circuit includes a plurality of transistors. In one example, the inverter circuit includes a configuration in which a plurality of inverter units, each consisting of a pair of transistors connected in series, are connected in parallel. The inverter circuit may have a current sensor that detects the current flowing through the inverter circuit. The current sensor is connected to the first control unit 74A so as to be able to communicate with it via wire or wirelessly.

[0064] For example, a detection system 80 for a human-powered vehicle includes a detection device 90 and a transmitter 82 that transmits a wireless signal to a receiver 92A. For example, the detection device 90 and the transmitter 82 are provided as separate components. In this embodiment, the detection device 90 is provided in the drive unit 42, and the transmitter 82 is provided in an external device 84. For example, the external device 84 includes another device with which the first control unit 74A communicates wirelessly.

[0065] The detection device 90 for a human-powered vehicle includes a receiver 92A and a detector 94. The receiver 92A is configured to receive a wireless signal. The receiver 92A can be placed in a position on the human-powered vehicle 10 where the signal strength of the wireless signal changes depending on the rotational state of a rotating member 76 provided on the human-powered vehicle 10. The detector 94 is configured to detect the signal strength of the wireless signal received by the receiver 92A.

[0066] The detection unit 94 may be electrically connected to the receiving unit 92A and the first control unit 74A, or may be included in the first control unit 74A. For example, the detection unit 94 includes a processing unit that executes a predetermined control program. The processing unit included in the detection unit 94 includes, for example, a CPU or an MPU. The detection unit 94 may include a logic circuit. For example, the detection unit 94 is connected to the first control unit 74A by wire.

[0067] For example, the detection device 90 further includes a first wireless communication unit 92. For example, the first wireless communication unit 92 includes a receiving unit 92A. The first wireless communication unit 92 further includes a transmitting unit 92B and a first antenna 92C. For example, the first wireless communication unit 92 is provided on the circuit board 42A. For example, the first wireless communication unit 92 is connected to the detection unit 94 and the first control unit 74A by wire. For example, the first antenna 92C is configured to be able to transmit and receive wireless signals. For example, the first wireless communication unit 92 is configured to be able to transmit and receive wireless signals via Bluetooth, ANT+, Wi-Fi, or infrared communication. The first wireless communication unit 92 may be configured to communicate using a unique wireless communication method.

[0068] For example, the receiver 92A converts the wireless signal received by the first antenna 92C into a wired signal format that can be processed by the first control unit 74A. For example, the receiver 92A transmits a wired signal including information contained in the wireless signal received by the first antenna 92C to the first control unit 74A. For example, the detector 94 calculates the signal strength of the wireless signal received by the receiver 92A via the first antenna 92C. When the detector 94 is included in the first control unit 74A, the receiver 92A may be configured to transmit information regarding the signal strength of the wireless signal received by the first antenna 92C to the first control unit 74A. The transmitter 92B is configured to be able to transmit wireless signals. For example, the transmitter 92B converts information output from the first control unit 74A into a wireless signal format and transmits it to the first antenna 92C.

[0069] The external device 84 may be a component provided in the human-powered vehicle 10, or may be a smartphone or the like. The components provided in the human-powered vehicle 10 include, for example, at least one of a cycle computer, an operating device, a gearbox, and a battery 40. For example, the external device 84 further includes a second control unit 84A, a second storage unit 84B, and a second wireless communication unit 86. For example, the second control unit 84A includes a processing unit that executes a predetermined control program. The processing unit included in the second control unit 84A includes, for example, a CPU or MPU. The processing units included in the second control unit 84A may be provided in multiple locations that are separate from one another. The second control unit 84A may include one or more microcomputers. The second control unit 84A is connected to the battery 40 so as to be able to communicate with it via a wired or wireless connection. The second control unit 84A may be configured to receive power from the battery 40, or may have its own battery.

[0070] For example, the second storage unit 84B stores control programs and information used in the control process. The second storage unit 84B includes, for example, a nonvolatile memory and a volatile memory. The nonvolatile memory includes, for example, at least one of a ROM, an EPROM, an EEPROM, and a flash memory. The volatile memory includes, for example, a RAM.

[0071] For example, the second wireless communication unit 86 includes a transmitter 82, a receiver 86A, and a second antenna 86B. The transmitter 82 is configured to be able to transmit wireless signals. For example, the second wireless communication unit 86 is configured to be able to send and receive wireless signals via Bluetooth, ANT+, Wi-Fi, or infrared communication. The second wireless communication unit 86 may be configured to communicate using a unique wireless communication method.

[0072] For example, the second wireless communication unit 86 is connected to the second control unit 84A by wire. For example, the second antenna 86B is configured to be able to transmit and receive wireless signals. For example, the transmitting unit 82 converts information output from the second control unit 84A into a wireless signal format and transmits it to the second antenna 86B. For example, the receiving unit 86A converts the wireless signal received by the second antenna 86B into a wired signal format that can be processed by the second control unit 84A.

[0073] For example, the rotating member 76 includes the crank arm 22. For example, the receiver 92A is provided on a portion of the human-powered vehicle 10 that can face the crank arm 22. For example, the receiver 92A is provided on the drive unit 42. For example, at least a portion of the receiver 92A is disposed in the internal space S of the drive unit 42. For example, the receiver 92A is provided on a circuit board 42A of the drive unit 42. For example, the circuit board 42A is provided in the internal space S, between the eighth end 46B of the motor output shaft 46A and the second housing 54.

[0074] For example, the housing 44 includes a base portion 44B and a window portion 44C that has a higher transmittance for wireless signals than the base portion 44B. The receiver 92A is disposed at a position corresponding to the window portion 44C. For example, the receiver 92A is provided on the circuit board 42A at a position corresponding to the window portion 44C. For example, the first antenna 92C is provided in the internal space S of the housing 44 at a position close to the window portion 44C. The first antenna 92C may be provided in the window portion 44C.

[0075] For example, the base portion 44B includes a metal material. For example, the base portion 44B includes at least one of an aluminum alloy and a magnesium alloy. For example, the base portion 44B may be made of a material other than a metal, as long as the window portion 44C has a higher transmittance of wireless signals than the base portion 44B and the two are made of a different material. The window portion 44C includes a resin material. For example, the window portion 44C includes a thermosetting resin such as polyester resin or epoxy resin. For example, the window portion 44C may be made of a material other than a resin, as long as the window portion 44C has a higher transmittance of wireless signals than the base portion 44B and the two are made of a different material.

[0076] For example, the window 44C is provided in a portion of the housing 44 that can face the crank arm 22. For example, the window 44C is provided in at least one of the right and left walls of the housing 44 that extend in a direction parallel to the axial direction of the crankshaft 20. For example, the window 44C is configured to be large enough that the crank arm 22 can cover the entire window 44C when the crank arm 22 passes a position facing the window 44C as the crank arm 22 rotates. For example, when the crank arm 22 faces the window 44C, the distance from the crank arm 22 to the window 44C is greater than 0 mm and within 50 mm.

[0077] For example, the detection unit 94 is configured to calculate at least one of the rotational speed and the rotational phase of the rotating member 76 according to the signal strength. For example, the detection unit 94 is configured to determine that the rotational phase of the rotating member 76 is a predetermined rotational phase when the signal strength is within a predetermined range. For example, the predetermined range is set according to the signal strength when the crank arm 22 passes a position corresponding to the window portion 44C.

[0078] For example, the transmitting unit 82 is configured to transmit a wireless signal to the receiving unit 92A at predetermined time intervals. For example, the predetermined time interval is not less than 0.001 seconds and not more than 0.02 seconds. For example, the predetermined time interval is not less than 0.001 seconds and not more than 0.01 seconds. For example, the transmitting unit 82 is configured to transmit a wireless signal for checking the communication status with the receiving unit 92A at predetermined time intervals. For example, the transmitting unit 82 is configured to transmit a wireless signal at a constant intensity to the receiving unit 92A at predetermined time intervals.

[0079] For example, as shown in FIG. 6, when the crank arm 22 rotates, the strength of the received signal changes over time. When a wireless signal is transmitted from the transmitter 82 to the receiver 92A at predetermined time intervals, the first antenna 92C receives the wireless signal at the predetermined time intervals. The strength of the received signal input to the receiver 92A via the first antenna 92C decreases when the crank arm 22 passes a position facing the window 44C. For example, times t1 and t2 in FIG. 6 indicate a case where the crank arm 22 is positioned facing the window 44C. When the crank arm 22 is positioned facing the window 44C, the wireless signal transmitted from the transmitter 82 is attenuated by the crank arm 22. Therefore, when the crank arm 22 is positioned facing the window 44C, the strength of the received signal received by the receiver 92A decreases below a predetermined threshold T. For example, when the crank arm 22 is not positioned opposite the window portion 44C, the strength of the received signal remains substantially constant at or above the threshold value T even when the crank arm 22 is rotating.

[0080] In the detection device 90 of this embodiment, for example, the transmitter 82 can detect the rotation state of the crank arm 22 using a wireless signal for confirming the communication state with the receiver 92A. Therefore, a sensor for detecting the rotation state of the crank arm 22 or the crankshaft 20 can be omitted from the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0081] <Example of change> The descriptions of the embodiments are merely examples of possible forms that a detection device for a human-powered vehicle and a detection system for a human-powered vehicle according to the present disclosure may take, and are not intended to limit the forms. The detection device for a human-powered vehicle and a detection system for a human-powered vehicle according to the present disclosure may take the form of, for example, modified examples of the embodiments shown below, or a combination of at least two mutually consistent modified examples. In the modified examples below, parts that are common to the embodiments are designated by the same reference numerals as the embodiments, and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0082] The rotating member 76 may include a hub shell that is provided in the human-powered vehicle 10. For example, if the rotating member 76 includes a hub shell, the receiving unit 92A is provided inside the hub shell of the human-powered vehicle 10. If the rotating member 76 includes a hub shell, for example, a window 44C is provided in the hub shell at a position that can face the frame 16 of the human-powered vehicle 10 as the hub shell rotates, and the receiving unit 92A is provided inside the hub shell at a position close to the window 44C.

[0083] For example, the receiver may be configured to receive a wireless signal from a transmitter provided in a portion of the human-powered vehicle 10 that can face the crank arm 22. If the receiver 86A can receive a wireless signal from a transmitter 92B provided in a portion that can face the crank arm 22, for example, the detector 94 may be configured to calculate at least one of the rotational speed of the rotating member 76 and the rotational phase of the rotating member 76 in accordance with changes in the signal strength of the wireless signal transmitted by the transmitter. If the receiver 86A can receive a wireless signal from a transmitter provided in a portion that can face the crank arm 22, for example, the receiver may be the receiver 86A provided in the external device 84, and the transmitter may be the transmitter 92B provided in the drive unit 42.

[0084] The phrase "at least one" as used herein means "one or more" of the desired options. As an example, the phrase "at least one" as used herein means "only one option" or "both of two options" when the number of options is two. As another example, the phrase "at least one" as used herein means "only one option" or "any combination of two or more options" when the number of options is three or more. [Explanation of symbols]

[0085] 10...human-powered vehicle, 20...crankshaft, 22...crank arm, 42...drive unit, 44...housing, 44B...base portion, 44C...window portion, 76...rotating member, 80...detection system, 82, 92B...transmitting portion, 90...detection device, 86A, 92A...receiving portion, 94...detecting portion.

Claims

1. A detection device for a human-powered vehicle, a receiving unit configured to receive a wireless signal and capable of being arranged in a position on the human-powered vehicle where the signal strength of the wireless signal changes depending on the rotation state of a rotating member provided on the human-powered vehicle; a detector configured to detect the signal strength of the wireless signal received by the receiver; The signal strength is attenuated by the rotating member.

2. The detection device according to claim 1 , wherein the detection unit is configured to calculate at least one of a rotation speed of the rotating member and a rotation phase of the rotating member in response to the signal strength.

3. The detection device according to claim 2 , wherein the detection unit is configured to determine that the rotational phase of the rotating member is a predetermined rotational phase when the signal strength is within a predetermined range.

4. The detection device according to claim 1 , wherein the rotating member includes a crank arm.

5. 5. The detection device according to claim 4, wherein the receiver is provided at a portion of the human-powered vehicle that can face the crank arm.

6. the human-powered vehicle includes a crankshaft and a drive unit provided around the crankshaft and configured to impart a propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle; The detection device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the receiving unit is provided in the drive unit.

7. the drive unit includes a housing that defines an interior space; The detection device according to claim 6 , wherein at least a portion of the receiver is disposed in the interior space.

8. the housing includes a base portion and a window portion having a higher transmittance for the wireless signal than the base portion, The detection device according to claim 7 , wherein the receiving portion is disposed at a position corresponding to the window portion.

9. the base portion includes a metal material; The detection device according to claim 8 , wherein the window portion includes a resin material.

10. The detection device according to claim 4 , wherein the crank arm comprises a metallic material.

11. 4. The detection device according to claim 1, wherein the receiver is configured to receive the wireless signal from a transmitter provided at a portion of the human-powered vehicle that is capable of facing a crank arm.

12. 1. A detection system for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: A detection device according to any one of claims 1 to 10; a transmitter that transmits the wireless signal to the receiver.

13. The detection system according to claim 12 , wherein the transmitter is configured to transmit the radio signal to the receiver at predetermined time intervals.

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