Display device for electrically assisted bicycle and electrically assisted bicycle

Abstract

To easily arrange a plurality of devices near the center of a handle so as not to interfere with each other in a power-assisted bicycle.SOLUTION: A display device 4 for a power-assisted bicycle 10 includes: a tubular connection pipe 5 into which a member coaxial with a steering shaft 2 of the power-assisted bicycle 10 can be inserted; a display unit 6 formed to extend from the connection tube 5 in a radial direction of the connection tube 5, the display unit 6 including a display surface 6a to display a state of the power-assisted bicycle 10; and buttons 7a, 7b disposed on a surface different from the display surface 6a of the display unit 6 so that they can be pressed and operated in a direction orthogonal to the axis of the connection tube 5.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a display device for an electrically assisted bicycle. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, electronic devices such as cycle computers have increasingly been attached to bicycle handlebars. For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2005-138827 describes the attachment of various electronic control components to bicycle handlebars. This document discloses a configuration in which part of the cycle computer is attached inside the steering tube of the bicycle. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-138827 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Electronic devices with functions to display information and accept operational inputs, such as a cycle computer, are sometimes installed on bicycles. The inventors have considered a configuration that allows electronic devices to be installed on electrically assisted bicycles. In the case of electrically assisted bicycles, it is necessary to install a display device that has functions unique to electrically assisted bicycles, such as displaying the status of the electrically assisted bicycle and accepting operational inputs related to assistance.

[0005] The inventors have studied a configuration that allows the placement of the cycle computer and other electronic devices in addition to the display device specific to this electrically assisted bicycle. Taking into consideration the visibility, operability, and mounting configuration of the devices, the inventors found that it is preferable to place multiple devices near the center of the handlebars. In this case, the multiple devices, including the display device of the electrically assisted bicycle, need to be placed in the limited space near the center of the handlebars without interfering with each other.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present application is to provide a display device for an electrically assisted bicycle, and an electrically assisted bicycle, that makes it easy to arrange multiple devices near the center of the handlebars on the electrically assisted bicycle so that they do not interfere with each other. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In an embodiment of the present invention, the display device of an electrically assisted bicycle comprises a tubular connecting tube into which a member coaxial with the steering shaft of the electrically assisted bicycle can be inserted, a display unit formed by extending radially from the connecting tube and having a display surface that displays the status of the electrically assisted bicycle, and a button arranged on a surface of the display unit different from the display surface, the button being pressed in a direction in which the component perpendicular to the axis of the connecting tube is greater than the component in the direction of the axis of the connecting tube. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present disclosure, in an electrically assisted bicycle, it becomes easy to arrange multiple devices near the center of the handlebars so that they do not interfere with each other. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a left side view showing an electrically assisted bicycle according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] 2 is an enlarged perspective view of the vicinity of the display device of the electrically assisted bicycle shown in FIG. [Figure 3]FIG. 3 is a top view showing an example of the configuration of the display device according to this embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a side view of the display device of FIG. 3 as seen from the direction of arrow F3. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a side view of the display device of FIG. 3 as seen from the direction of arrow F1. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the display device of FIG. 3 as seen from below. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a view of the handlebar area of ​​the electrically assisted bicycle as viewed from the axial direction of the steering shaft. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a modified example of the mounting position of the display device. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a display unit that is detachable from a connection unit. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a side view showing an example of adjusting the position of the display unit relative to the connection unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] In an embodiment of the present invention, the display device of an electrically assisted bicycle comprises a tubular connecting tube into which a member coaxial with the steering shaft of the electrically assisted bicycle can be inserted, a display unit formed by extending radially from the connecting tube and having a display surface that displays the status of the electrically assisted bicycle, and a button arranged on a surface of the display unit different from the display surface, the button being pressed in a direction in which the component perpendicular to the axis of the connecting tube is greater than the component in the direction of the axis of the connecting tube.

[0011] According to the above configuration, the display device includes a connecting pipe and a display unit extending radially from the connecting pipe. When the display device is attached to a member coaxial with the steering shaft of the electrically assisted bicycle, the display unit is disposed extending radially from the steering shaft. The position of the display unit in the circumferential direction around the steering shaft can be adjusted by rotating the connecting pipe around the axis during attachment. This allows for a high degree of freedom in the placement of the display surface in the circumferential direction of the steering shaft. Furthermore, the buttons on the display unit are provided on a surface different from the display surface, so that the component of the pressing operation direction perpendicular to the axis of the connecting pipe is larger than the component in the axial direction of the connecting pipe. The component of the pressing operation load direction perpendicular to the steering shaft is larger than the component in the axial direction of the steering shaft. This simplifies the axial load-bearing structure of the display device's connecting pipe. This allows for a smaller display device. Furthermore, by providing the buttons on a surface different from the display surface, the display surface can be made smaller. In this way, the display device is configured to save space and allows for a high degree of freedom in the circumferential position around the steering shaft. By mounting a display device with such a configuration on an electrically assisted bicycle, it becomes easy to arrange multiple devices near the center of the handlebars on the electrically assisted bicycle so that they do not interfere with each other.

[0012] When the display device is attached to the electrically assisted bicycle, a member coaxial with the steering shaft is inserted into the connecting pipe. That is, the connecting pipe is attached to the member so as to surround the outer periphery of the member coaxial with the steering shaft. In this case, the connecting pipe is coaxial with the steering shaft. The member coaxial with the steering shaft to which the connecting pipe is attached may be the steering shaft itself, or a member different from but coaxial with the steering shaft. The member coaxial with the steering shaft is a member supported on the head pipe so as to be rotatable around the steering shaft. For example, the connecting pipe is attached to a member such as the steering shaft or a stem.

[0013] The connecting pipe may have an axial dimension smaller than its radial dimension. The connecting pipe may be annular (ring-shaped) and surround the entire circumferential circumference of the member coaxial with the steering shaft. Alternatively, the connecting pipe may be partially cut out and surround at least half the circumferential circumference of the member coaxial with the steering shaft.

[0014] The component of the direction of the button press of the display device perpendicular to the axis of the connecting pipe is larger than the component in the direction of the axis of the connecting pipe. Therefore, the angle of the button press direction with respect to the plane perpendicular to the axis of the connecting pipe is less than 45°. This angle of the button press direction is preferably 30° or less, and more preferably 20° or less. For example, the button press direction may be parallel to the plane perpendicular to the axis of the connecting pipe. This parallel state includes not only a state in which the button press direction is strictly parallel to the plane perpendicular to the axial direction of the connecting pipe, but also a state in which the button press direction is deviated within a range that can be considered parallel to the plane perpendicular to the axis of the connecting pipe from the perspective of the load of the press operation.

[0015] The angle of the button pressing direction of the display device relative to the display surface is preferably less than 45°, more preferably 30° or less, and even more preferably 20° or less. By reducing the angle of the button pressing direction relative to the display surface, the display surface is less likely to be obscured by the occupant's hand pressing the button. This allows the display surface to be made smaller, making it easier to miniaturize the display device. For example, by setting the angle of the button pressing direction relative to the display surface to 0° (including cases where the angle is slightly different from 0° in addition to cases where it is strictly 0°), the occupant can press the button from the side of the display surface.

[0016] The display unit may be configured to indicate the state of the electrically assisted bicycle by a sign displayed on the display surface extending diagonally with respect to an imaginary line that passes through the axis of the connecting pipe and bisects the display unit when viewed in the axial direction of the connecting pipe, in which case the longitudinal direction of the sign is diagonal with respect to the imaginary line.

[0017] The inventors have found that a sign displayed diagonally relative to an imaginary line that passes through the axis of the connecting pipe and bisects the display unit is easier to recognize than a sign displayed parallel or perpendicular to the imaginary line. The display device can be attached to the electrically assisted bicycle while rotated at any angle around the steering axis. By arranging the sign on the display unit diagonally relative to the imaginary line, it can be easily recognized regardless of the angle at which the display device is attached.

[0018] The display surface is a plane including the area of ​​the surface of the display unit where information is displayed. For example, if the sign of the display unit is displayed on a display panel such as a liquid crystal panel or an organic panel, the plane including the display area of ​​the display panel is the display surface. If the sign is displayed by light emitted from a lamp such as an LED lamp, the plane including the light-emitting surface of the lamp is the display surface.

[0019] The sign of the display device may be, for example, a plurality of lamps (e.g., LEDs) arranged in a diagonal direction relative to the virtual line, or a linear image extending in the diagonal direction. The angle of the direction of the signs arranged relative to the virtual line is preferably 20° or more, more preferably 30° or more, and even more preferably 40° or more. The angle of the direction of the signs arranged relative to the virtual line is preferably 80° or less, more preferably 70° or less, and even more preferably 60° or less.

[0020] The orientation of the display surface is preferably close to the orientation of a plane perpendicular to the axial direction of the connecting pipe. This improves the visibility of the display surface to a rider when the display device is attached to an electrically assisted bicycle. From this perspective, the angle between the display surface and the plane perpendicular to the axial direction of the connecting pipe is preferably 0 to 45°, more preferably 0 to 30°, and even more preferably 0 to 20°. For example, the display surface can be configured to be parallel to the plane perpendicular to the axial direction of the connecting pipe. This configuration includes not only a configuration in which the display surface is strictly parallel to the plane perpendicular to the axial direction of the connecting pipe, but also a configuration in which the display surface is shifted from the plane perpendicular to the axial direction of the connecting pipe within a range that can be considered parallel from the perspective of visibility.

[0021] When viewed from the axial direction of the connecting pipe, an extension line passing through the center of the depression surface of the button and extending in the direction of the depression operation may intersect with the connecting pipe. By configuring the button in this manner, the load of the button depression operation is borne by the connecting pipe. This makes it possible to suppress the generation of a moment that rotates the display device around the steering axis when the button of a display device attached to an electrically assisted bicycle is pressed. This simplifies the load-bearing structure of the display device.

[0022] The buttons may include a plurality of buttons arranged on the same surface of the display unit. In this case, the plurality of buttons may be configured so that the pressing direction of the plurality of buttons is the same and the pressing surfaces of the plurality of buttons are offset in the pressing direction. This allows the plurality of buttons to be efficiently arranged in a limited space while preventing the operating ranges of the plurality of buttons from interfering with each other.

[0023] When there are multiple buttons, one of the multiple buttons can be, for example, a power button for an electrically assisted bicycle. The power button is a button that switches on / off the power supply to the drive system that controls the assisting force of the electrically assisted bicycle. Even if the depression surfaces of the multiple buttons are positioned at different positions in the depression operation direction, the button whose depression surface is positioned at the most protruding position in the depression operation direction can be used as the power button.

[0024] The display device may further include a connection port for an external terminal provided on a surface different from the display surface of the display unit. The connection port may be configured so that the insertion / removal direction of the external terminal relative to the connection port is such that the component perpendicular to the axis of the connection tube is greater than the component in the axial direction of the connection tube. This makes the component perpendicular to the axis of the connection tube of the load direction during the insertion / removal operation greater than the component in the axial direction of the connection tube. This simplifies the load-bearing structure of the display device in the axial direction of the connection tube.

[0025] The angle of the insertion / removal direction of the external terminal with respect to the connection port of the display device relative to the display surface is preferably less than 45°, more preferably 30° or less, and even more preferably 20° or less. By reducing the angle of the insertion / removal direction relative to the display surface, the display surface is less likely to be obscured by the occupant's hand inserting or removing the external terminal. This allows the display surface to be made smaller, making it easier to miniaturize the display device. For example, by setting the angle of the insertion / removal direction relative to the display surface to 0° (including cases where the angle is strictly 0° as well as cases where it is slightly deviated from 0°), the occupant can insert or remove the external terminal from the side of the display surface.

[0026] When viewed from the axial direction of the connecting pipe, an extension line passing through the center of the connection port and extending in the insertion / removal direction may intersect with the connecting pipe. By configuring the connection port in this manner, the connecting pipe is configured to bear the load of the insertion / removal operation of the external terminal into the connection port. This makes it possible to suppress the generation of a moment that rotates the display device about the steering axis when the external terminal is inserted or removed from a display device attached to an electrically assisted bicycle. This simplifies the load-bearing structure of the display device.

[0027] The display surface of the display unit may be positioned so as not to protrude above the connecting pipe in the axial direction of the connecting pipe. This makes it less likely that the display unit will interfere with the rider's operations. For example, the connecting pipe may be positioned below another component, such as a stem, on the steering shaft of an electrically assisted bicycle. In such a case, by positioning the display surface so as not to protrude above the connecting pipe in the axial direction, the display unit will be less likely to interfere with the rider's operations of other components above the connecting pipe.

[0028] The display unit may be detachable from the connecting pipe, which facilitates the installation of the display unit. The configuration for making the display unit detachable is not particularly limited, but for example, the display unit may be detachably attached to the connecting pipe by fasteners such as bolts or screws.

[0029] The display unit may be configured so that the position of the display surface relative to the connecting pipe is changeable, thereby improving the degree of freedom in positioning the display unit. For example, the display unit may be configured so that it can rotate around a pivot axis relative to the connecting pipe and can be fixed at any angle within the rotation range.

[0030] An embodiment of the present invention also includes an electrically assisted bicycle equipped with the above-described display device. The electrically assisted bicycle includes a head pipe, a steering shaft rotatably supported on the head pipe, a stem attached to an upper portion of the steering shaft, and a handlebar supported by the stem. The connecting pipe of the display device is attached to the outer periphery of the steering shaft or the stem. The connecting pipe may be attached directly to the outer periphery of the steering shaft or the stem, or may be attached via another member such as a spacer.

[0031] The display device may be, for example, a device that displays the status of the electrically assisted bicycle and accepts operational inputs related to the electric assistance of the electrically assisted bicycle. The electrically assisted bicycle may include a torque sensor that detects the pedal force, a motor that generates an assisting force to assist the pedal force, and a motor control device that controls the motor's assisting force in accordance with the pedal force. The electrically assisted bicycle may also include a battery that supplies power to the motor. The display device may be configured to operate by receiving power from the battery. In this case, the display device may have a power line connection unit to which wiring that receives power from the battery is connected.

[0032] An electrically assisted bicycle according to an embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, identical or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference numerals, and descriptions of those parts will not be repeated. Furthermore, the dimensions of the components in each drawing do not faithfully represent the actual dimensions of the components or the dimensional ratios of the components. In the following description, the terms "front / back," "left / right," and "up / down" refer to the front / back, left / right, and up / down directions of the electrically assisted bicycle relative to the rider sitting on the saddle (seat 24) and gripping the handlebars 23. The front / back, left / right, and up / down directions of the electrically assisted bicycle are the same as the front / back, left / right, and up / down directions of the body, i.e., the body frame, of the electrically assisted bicycle. Furthermore, the direction of travel of the electrically assisted bicycle is the same as the front / back direction of the electrically assisted bicycle. The following embodiments are illustrative, and the present invention is not limited to these embodiments.

[0033] <Example of the overall configuration of an electric assisted bicycle> 1 is a left side view of an electrically assisted bicycle 10 according to this embodiment. The letters F, B, U, and D in FIG. 1 represent front, rear, top, and bottom, respectively.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 1, the electrically assisted bicycle 10 has a body frame 11. The body frame 11 extends in the front-to-rear direction. The body frame 11 has a head pipe 12, an upper frame 13u, a down frame 13d, a seat frame 14, a pair of chain stays 16, and a pair of seat stays 17. The head pipe 12 is located at the front of the electrically assisted bicycle 10. The front ends of the down frame 13d and the upper frame 13u are connected to the head pipe 12. The down frame 13d and the upper frame 13u extend in the front-to-rear direction. The down frame 13d and the upper frame 13u extend diagonally downward. The upper frame 13u is located above the down frame 13d. The rear end of the upper frame 13u is connected to the seat frame 14. The rear end of the down frame 13d is connected to a bracket 15. The lower end of the seat frame 14 is connected to the bracket 15. The seat frame 14 extends upward and diagonally rearward from the bracket 15. The body frame 11 may have a configuration without the upper frame 13u.

[0035] A steering shaft 2 is rotatably inserted into the head pipe 12. A stem 3 is attached to the upper part of the steering shaft 2. A handlebar 23 is fixed to the stem 3. A front fork 26 is fixed to the lower end of the steering shaft 2. A front wheel 21 is rotatably supported by an axle 27 at the lower end of the front fork 26.

[0036] Grips are attached to the left and right ends of the handlebars 23. A left brake lever 74 is attached to the left part of the handlebars 23, and a right brake lever 74 is attached to the right part of the handlebars 23. The left brake lever 74 is a lever for operating a brake 76 of the rear wheel 22. The right brake lever 74 is a lever for operating a brake 75 of the front wheel 21.

[0037] A seat pipe 28 is inserted into the cylindrical seat frame 14. The seat 24 is provided at the upper end of the seat pipe 28. In this way, the body frame 11 rotatably supports the handlebar stem 25 at the front and rotatably supports the rear wheel 22 at the rear. The seat 24 and a drive unit 40 are also attached to the body frame 11.

[0038] A pair of chain stays 16 are connected to the rear end of the bracket 15. The pair of chain stays 16 are arranged to sandwich the rear wheel 22 from the left and right. One end of a seat stay 17 is connected to the rear end of each chain stay 16. The pair of seat stays 17 are arranged to sandwich the rear wheel 22 from the left and right. The other end of each seat stay 17 is connected to the upper part of the seat frame 14. The rear wheel 22 is rotatably supported by an axle 29 at the rear ends of the pair of chain stays 16.

[0039] The front fork 26 is provided with a vehicle speed sensor (speed sensor) 61 that detects the rotation of the front wheel 21. The vehicle speed sensor 61 has, for example, a detectable element that rotates together with the front wheel 21, and a detecting element that is fixed to the body frame 11 and detects the rotation of the detectable element. The detecting element detects the detectable element mechanically, magnetically, or optically. Note that the vehicle speed sensor 61 is not limited to the front wheel 21, and may also detect the rotation of a rotating body that rotates as the electrically assisted bicycle 10 travels, such as the rear wheel 22, motor 30, crankshaft 41, transmission gear, or chain. Furthermore, the electrically assisted bicycle 10 may be provided with a sensor that detects the state of the vehicle in addition to the vehicle speed sensor. The electrically assisted bicycle 10 may be provided with, for example, an angular velocity sensor (gyro sensor) or an acceleration sensor.

[0040] The drive unit 40 is attached below the bracket 15 with fasteners (not shown). The drive unit 40 has a housing 51 that forms the outer shape of the drive unit 40. The motor 30 is housed inside the housing 51. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the crankshaft 41 passes through the housing 51 in the left-right direction. Note that the crankshaft 41 may also be provided outside the drive unit 40.

[0041] A torque sensor 62 is provided around the crankshaft 41 to detect the pedaling force of the occupant. The torque sensor 62 detects the torque that rotates the crankshaft 41 around its axis. The torque sensor 62 may be, for example, a non-contact type such as a magnetostrictive type, or a contact type such as an elastic displacement detection type. The magnetostrictive torque sensor has a magnetostrictive effect and includes a magnetostrictive material that receives the rotational force of the crankshaft, and a detection coil that detects changes in magnetic permeability due to the force of the magnetostrictive material.

[0042] Crank arms 31 are attached to both ends of the crankshaft 41. Pedals 33 are attached to the ends of the crank arms 31, respectively. When the rider steps on the pedals 33, the crankshaft 41 rotates. Although not shown, the electrically assisted bicycle 10 is provided with a drive sprocket that rotates together with the crankshaft 41 and a driven sprocket that rotates together with the rear wheel 22. A chain 46 is wound between the drive sprocket and the driven sprocket. Note that a belt, a shaft, or the like may be used instead of the chain 46.

[0043] A transmission mechanism (not shown) that transmits the rotation of the motor 30 to the drive sprocket (or chain 46) is provided within the drive unit 40. The transmission mechanism includes, for example, a reducer (reduction gear). The reducer reduces the rotation of the motor before transmitting it to the drive sprocket. The transmission mechanism also includes a combining mechanism that combines the rotation of the crankshaft 41 and the rotation of the motor 30 and transmits the combined rotation to the drive sprocket. The combining mechanism has, for example, a cylindrical member. The crankshaft 41 is disposed inside the cylindrical member. The drive sprocket is attached to the combining mechanism. The combining mechanism rotates around the same rotation axis as the crankshaft 41 and the drive sprocket. One-way clutches may be provided on the rotation transmission path from the crankshaft 41 to the combining mechanism and on the rotation transmission path from the motor 30 to the combining mechanism. The rotational force transmitted from the motor 30 to the drive sprocket via the transmission mechanism serves as auxiliary force for the motor 30.

[0044] The drive sprocket and the auxiliary sprocket transmit driving force to the rear wheel 22 via the chain 46. Specifically, the pedaling force generated by the rider depressing the pedal 33 rotates the drive sprocket in the forward rotation direction, and is transmitted via the chain 46 as driving force that rotates the rear wheel 22 in the forward rotation direction. In addition, the rotational force generated by the operation of the motor 30 rotates the crankshaft 41 in the forward rotation direction. As a result, the rotational force output from the motor 30 assists (supports) the pedaling force generated by the rider depressing the pedal 33.

[0045] Although not shown, the drive unit 40 has a motor control device that controls the motor. For example, the motor control device is configured by electronic devices mounted on a board inside the housing 51 of the drive unit 40. The electronic devices include, for example, a processor or an electronic circuit. The motor control device is electrically connected to the vehicle speed sensor, the torque sensor, and the motor.

[0046] A battery unit 35 is disposed on the down frame 13d. The battery unit 35 supplies power to the motor 30 of the drive unit 40. The battery unit 35 includes a battery and a battery control unit (not shown). The battery is a rechargeable battery that can be charged and discharged. The battery control unit controls the charging and discharging of the battery and monitors the output current and remaining capacity of the battery. The battery unit 35 may be disposed on the seat frame 14 or the upper frame 13u.

[0047] Although not shown, the electrically assisted bicycle 10 may also be provided with a gear change mechanism. The gear change mechanism is a mechanism that changes the gear ratio in response to the rider's operation of a gear change operating device. The gear change operating device is provided, for example, on the handlebars 23. The gear change mechanism can be configured, for example, by making at least one of the drive sprocket and the driven sprocket a multi-stage sprocket. The multi-stage sprocket around which the chain 46 is wound changes in response to the operation of the gear change operating device. The gear change mechanism may be an external gear change mechanism like this, or an internal gear change mechanism.

[0048] <Example of display device configuration> In the electrically assisted bicycle 10 of this embodiment, the display device 4 is attached to a member coaxial with the steering shaft 2. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the periphery of the display device 4 attached to the electrically assisted bicycle 10 of Figure 1. The display device 4 includes a connecting pipe 5 and a display unit 6. The connecting pipe 5 is attached to the outer periphery of a member coaxial with the steering shaft 2 (the steering shaft 2 in the example of Figure 2). The display unit 6 is formed by extending from the connecting pipe 5 in the radial direction of the connecting pipe 5. In the display device 4 attached to the electrically assisted bicycle 10, the axial direction of the connecting pipe 5 and the axial direction of the steering shaft 2 are the same.

[0049] Fig. 3 is a top view of the display device 4 of Fig. 2 as seen from the axial direction of the connecting pipe 5. Fig. 4 is a side view of the display device 4 of Fig. 3 as seen from the direction of arrow F3. Fig. 5 is a side view of the display device 4 of Fig. 3 as seen from the direction of arrow F1 (the pressing direction of button 7a).

[0050] In the example of Figure 3, the display unit 6 has a display surface 6a and buttons 7a and 7b. The display surface 6a displays the status of the electrically assisted bicycle 10. The buttons 7a and 7b are arranged on a surface different from the display surface 6a. The buttons 7a and 7b are configured to be pressable in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the connecting tube 5. The buttons 7a and 7b are configured so that the component of the pressing direction perpendicular to the axis of the connecting tube 5 is larger than the component in the axial direction of the connecting tube 5. This allows the display surface 6a and the buttons 7a and 7b to be arranged efficiently, and the display device 4 can be made smaller. If the buttons were arranged concentrated on the display surface 6a, a structure capable of withstanding axial loads would be required. This could hinder efforts to reduce the size of the display device.

[0051] The direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the connecting pipe 5 is the direction in a plane perpendicular to the axial direction of the connecting pipe 5. The extension lines (imaginary lines) of the direction (pressing direction) of the pressing operation of the buttons 7a and 7b do not necessarily have to pass through the axis C1 of the connecting pipe 5. In the example of Fig. 3, the extension lines of the arrows F1 and F2 are the extension lines L2 and L3 of the pressing direction of the buttons 7a and 7b.

[0052] The display unit 6 is connected to the radially outer side of the connecting pipe 5. The display unit 6 and the connecting pipe 5 are aligned in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the connecting pipe 5. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the axial thickness t2 of the connecting pipe 5 can be the same as or smaller than the axial thickness t1 of the display unit 6. The thickness t2 is not particularly limited, but can be, for example, 10 mm or less, preferably 5 mm or less. From the perspective of miniaturization, the thickness t1 of the display unit 6 is, for example, preferably 5 times or less, more preferably 4 times or less, and even more preferably 3 times or less, the thickness t2 of the connecting pipe 5.

[0053] The display unit 6 has an upper surface 6a, 6b, side surfaces 6c to 6g, 6g1, and a lower surface 6h. The upper surface includes the display surface 6a. Buttons 7a, 7b are provided on the side surface 6e. The buttons 7a, 7b may be provided on a side surface other than the side surface 6e, for example, the side surface 6c or 6f.

[0054] In the example shown in FIG. 3, at least a portion of a side surface 6g opposite in the pressing direction to a side surface 6e on which the buttons 7a and 7b are provided is connected to the connecting pipe 5. When viewed from the axial direction of the connecting pipe 5, extension lines L2 and L3 passing through the centers of the pressing surfaces of the buttons 7a and 7b (the centers in the direction perpendicular to the pressing direction) and extending in the pressing direction (arrows F1 and F2) intersect with the connecting pipe 5. In other words, an imaginary line passing through the centers of the pressing surfaces of the buttons 7a and 7b and extending in the pressing direction passes through the connecting pipe 5. This results in a structure in which the pressing load of the buttons 7a and 7b is applied to the connecting pipe 5. When the occupant presses the buttons 7a and 7b, a moment that rotates the display unit 6 around the axis of the connecting pipe 5 (around the steering axis) is unlikely to be generated.

[0055] In the example shown in FIG. 3, multiple buttons 7a, 7b are provided on the same side surface 6e. The multiple buttons 7a, 7b have the same pressing direction. The pressing surfaces of the multiple buttons 7a, 7b are offset in the pressing direction. That is, the position of the pressing surface of button 7a and the position of the pressing surface of button 7b in the pressing direction are different. This results in the operation surfaces of the multiple buttons 7a, 7b being staggered. In the example shown in FIG. 3, multiple buttons 7a, 7b are provided on a side surface 6e that is inclined with respect to the pressing direction. As a variant, the side surface 6e may be formed in a staircase shape with two or more steps. In this case, a button can be provided on each step of the side surface. The arrangement of buttons is not limited to one surface. Buttons may be provided on multiple surfaces of the display device 4.

[0056] The functions of each of buttons 7a and 7b are not particularly limited. For example, two of the following button functions may be assigned to buttons 7a and 7b: a button for turning the power of the electrically assisted bicycle on / off, a button for turning on / off the lights of the electrically assisted bicycle (for example, the headlight 43 or taillight), a button for changing the level of assistance of the electrically assisted bicycle, and a button for changing the riding mode of the electrically assisted bicycle.

[0057] For example, among the multiple buttons provided on the display unit 6, the button closest to the imaginary line L1 that passes through the axis C1 of the connecting pipe 5 and bisects the display surface 6a (i.e., the button closest to the center) may be used as the power button. This makes it less likely that the occupant will accidentally press the power button due to their knees, etc. Also, the power button can be located in a position that makes it easy for the occupant to press it intentionally.

[0058] From another perspective, among the multiple buttons, the one located further outward in the radial direction (i.e., at a position farther from the connecting pipe 5) may be used as the power button. This improves the operability of the power button, which is operated frequently. In this case, for example, the function of the power button may be set so that the power is turned off when the power button is pressed and held down. This makes it less likely that the power button will be operated accidentally.

[0059] In the example shown in FIG. 4, the display surface 6a is approximately perpendicular to the side surface 6e on which the buttons 7a and 7b are provided. In other words, the display surface 6a is approximately parallel to a plane perpendicular to the axis of the connecting pipe 5. This allows the display surface 6a to be located in a position that is easily visible to the occupant. The display surface 6a may be tilted with respect to a plane perpendicular to the axial direction of the connecting pipe 5 as long as visibility is ensured. In the example shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the angles of the pressing directions F1 and F2 of the buttons 7a and 7b with respect to the display surface 6a are approximately 0°. The occupant can press the buttons from a direction lateral to the display surface 6a.

[0060] In the example shown in Fig. 4, the top surface of the display device 4 has an inclined surface 6b between the display surface 6a and a side surface 6e on which the buttons 7a and 7b are provided. The inclined surface 6b is inclined with respect to both the display surface 6a and the side surface 6e. The inclined surface 6b is inclined so that the thickness of the display unit 6 becomes thinner as it approaches the side surface 6e. The inclined surface 6b makes it easier for the occupant to recognize the buttons 7a and 7b.

[0061] As shown in the example in Figures 3 to 5, the display device 4 may further include a connection port 8 for an external terminal. The connection port 8 is provided on a surface different from the display surface 6a. The connection port 8 is configured so that the component of the insertion / removal direction of the external terminal relative to the connection port 8 (arrow F3) in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the connecting tube 5 is larger than the component in the axial direction of the connecting tube 5. The insertion / removal direction is determined by the inner shape of the connection port 8. By making the insertion / removal direction of the connection port 8 close to a direction perpendicular to the axis of the connecting tube 5, as well as the pressing direction of the buttons 7a and 7b, the load-bearing structure of the display device 4 in the axial direction of the connecting tube 5 can be simplified.

[0062] The connection port 8 is a port for connecting an external electronic device to the display device 4. The connection port 8 is not limited to this, but may be, for example, a connection port for a USB terminal. For example, the connection port 8 may be an external power supply port for supplying power from the display device 4 to the external device.

[0063] The position and insertion / removal direction of the connection port 8 may be determined so that an extension line L4 that passes through the center of the connection port 8 (the center in the insertion / removal direction) and extends in the insertion / removal direction passes through the connection pipe 5. In the example of FIG. 3, at least a part of the side surfaces 6g, 6g1, which are opposite in the insertion / removal direction to the side surface 6d on which the connection port 8 is provided, is connected to the connection pipe 5. This results in a configuration in which the load of the insertion / removal operation of the external terminal is borne by the connection pipe 5. This makes it possible to suppress the generation of a moment that rotates the display device 4 about the steering shaft 2 when the external terminal is connected to or removed from the connection port 8.

[0064] The connection port 8 is provided on the side surface 6d. The side surface 6d is the side surface adjacent to the side surface 6e on which the buttons 7a and 7b are provided. The side surface 6e of the buttons 7a and 7b is inclined with respect to the side surface 6d of the connection port 8. In this way, by providing the connection port 8 and the buttons 7a and 7b on two surfaces that are different from the display surface 6a and are adjacent but not parallel to each other, the connection port 8 and the buttons 7a and 7b can be efficiently arranged while ensuring operability for insertion, removal, and pressing. In the example shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the angle F3 of the insertion and removal direction of the external terminal into the connection port 8 with respect to the display surface 6a is approximately 0°. The occupant can insert and remove the external terminal into and from the connection port 8 from a direction lateral to the display surface 6a.

[0065] The display device 4 has a connection portion 9 to which a power supply line 37 is connected. The connection portion 9 is provided on a surface different from the display surface 6a and the surface (side surface 6e) on which the buttons 7a and 7b are provided. In the example shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the connection portion 9 is provided on the bottom surface 6h, which is opposite the display surface 6a in the axial direction of the connecting tube 5. The connection portion 9 has a hole inclined with respect to the axial direction of the connecting tube 5. The power supply line 37 is inserted into the connection portion 9 at an angle with respect to the axial direction of the connecting tube 5. In other words, the connection portion 9 is an outlet through which the power supply line 37 from the display device 4 is extracted at an angle with respect to the axis. This reduces interference of the power supply line 37 with other devices and components above and below the axial direction of the connecting tube 5 of the display device 4. In the example shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the power supply line 37 is extracted at an angle with respect to the bottom surface 6h.

[0066] 4 and 5, in addition to the power supply line 37, an external device (switch unit) connection line 36 is also connected to the connection part 9. Like the power supply line 37, the external device connection line 36 is also drawn out from the display device 4 in a direction oblique to the axial direction of the connection pipe 5. Note that at least one of the power supply line 37 and the external device connection line 36 may be omitted.

[0067] Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the display device 4 of Figs. 3 to 5, seen from below. In Fig. 6, the power supply line 37 and the external device connection line 36 are not shown. In the example of Fig. 6, the connection part 9 has a line outlet that is a hole recessed obliquely into the lower surface 6h. The connection part 9 is provided at the end of the lower surface 6h, and is configured to draw out the power supply line 37 obliquely from the end outward.

[0068] 3, the display unit 6 displays the status of the electrically assisted bicycle 10 using signs 6a1 and 6a2 displayed on the display surface 6a. When viewed from the axial direction of the connecting pipe 5, the signs 6a1 and 6a2 are displayed side by side in a diagonal direction with respect to an imaginary line L1 that passes through the axis C1 of the connecting pipe 5 and bisects the display surface 6a. By arranging the signs 6a1 and 6a2 in a diagonal direction with respect to the imaginary line L1, the rider can easily recognize the information displayed by the signs 6a1 and 6a2 regardless of the angle at which the display device 4 is attached.

[0069] The signs 6a1 and 6a2 can be configured to indicate the state of the vehicle by the length of the signs 6a1 in the direction extending diagonally from the virtual line L1. In the example shown in Fig. 3, the length of the sign 6a1 in the direction of extension indicates the assist level, and the length of the sign 6a2 in the direction of extension indicates the remaining battery capacity. The display unit 6 may be a lamp such as an LED, or may include a display such as an LCD. The signs 6a1 and 6a2 can be displayed, for example, by lamps arranged in a line, or by a linear image on a display.

[0070] Fig. 7 is a view of the handlebar area of ​​an electrically assisted bicycle to which a display device 4 is attached, viewed from the axial direction of the connecting tube 5 (steering shaft 2). In Fig. 7, modified mounting positions of the display device 4 are indicated by dashed lines. As shown in Fig. 7, the position of the display unit 6 in the circumferential direction around the steering shaft 2 can be adjusted by rotating the connecting tube 5 around the axis during mounting. This makes it easier to avoid interference between the display device 4 and other devices arranged near the center of the handlebar 23.

[0071] 3, signs 6a1 and 6a2 extending diagonally with respect to the imaginary line L1 are displayed on the display unit 6. By arranging the signs 6a1 and 6a2 diagonally, the signs 6a1 and 6a2 are easy to see no matter where the display unit 6 is located in the circumferential direction of the steering shaft 2. For example, by arranging the signs 6a1 and 6a2 diagonally, the information indicated by the signs 6a1 and 6a2 can be easily distinguished no matter where the display unit 6 is located in front of the stem 3, behind the stem 3, to the right of the stem 3, or to the left of the stem 3, as seen from the rider.

[0072] In the example shown in FIG. 7, a switch unit 39 is attached to the handlebar 23. The switch unit 39 receives an operation from the rider to switch the assist level of the electrically assisted bicycle 10. The switch unit 39 has a switch for switching the assist level. The switch unit 39 is attached near the grip of the handlebar 23. The rider can operate the switch of the switch unit 39 with their hands holding the grip of the handlebar 23. The switch unit 39 is connected to the display device 4 via the external device connection line 36.

[0073] The switch unit 39 may be formed integrally with the display device 4. For example, a switch for switching the assist level may be provided on the display device 4. Alternatively, one of the buttons 7a and 7b on the display device 4 may be used as the button for switching the assist level. In this case, the external device connection line 36 is not required.

[0074] The display device 4 receives power from the battery unit 35 via a power supply line 37. The display device 4 may also receive power from the battery unit 35 via the drive unit 40. In this case, the display device 4 is connected to the drive unit 40 via the power supply line 37. The power supply line 37 may transmit control information in addition to power. For example, the display device 4 may notify the drive unit 40 of operation information input via the switch unit 39 via the power supply line 37. Information regarding the status of the electrically assisted bicycle 10 may also be received from the drive unit 40 via the power supply line 37. The display device 4 may also be connected to a headlight 43 attached to the electrically assisted bicycle 10. In this case, the headlight 43 may be configured to be turned on / off by a button 7a or 7b on the display device 4. The headlight 43 is attached to the front of the electrically assisted bicycle 10, for example, on the handlebars 23, the stem 3, the head pipe 12, or the front fork 26.

[0075] 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 7. In the example of FIG. 7, a bearing 12a (headset) that rotatably supports the steering shaft 2 is attached to the head pipe 12. A stem 3 is clamped to the upper part of the steering shaft 2 that is rotatably supported by the head pipe 12. The stem 3 extends forward from the steering shaft 2. The handlebars 23 are inserted into the front end of the stem 3. The upper end of the steering shaft 2 is closed by a top cap 38. The top cap 38 is fixed to an anchor 38b embedded inside the upper end of the steering shaft 2 by a fastener 38a.

[0076] The connecting pipe 5 of the display device 4 is arranged on the upper part of the stem 3 so as to surround the outer periphery of the steering shaft 2. The steering shaft 2 passes through the connecting pipe 5. The connecting pipe 5 is arranged and fixed between the stem 3 and the top cap 38. In other words, the top cap 38 prevents the connecting pipe 5 from coming off the steering shaft 2.

[0077] In the example of Fig. 8, the connecting pipe 5 of the display device 4 is attached to the stem 3. The attachment position of the display device 4 is not limited to this example. For example, the connecting pipe 5 may be disposed at the position indicated by the dashed line in Fig. 8, i.e., between the stem 3 and the head pipe 12.

[0078] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing an example in which the display device 4 is attached below the stem 3. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the connecting tube 5 of the display device 4 contacts the lower end of the stem 3. Note that other members such as a spacer may be inserted between the lower end of the stem 3 and the connecting tube 5. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the display surface 6a of the display device 4 is positioned so as not to protrude above the connecting tube 5 in the axial direction of the connecting tube 5. This ensures the space necessary for the occupant to operate the fastener 3a of the stem 3 above the connecting tube 5. The display device 4 does not interfere with the operation of the fastener 3a of the stem 3.

[0079] The display unit 6 may be configured to be detachable from the connecting pipe 5. FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an example of a display unit 6 configured to be detachable from the connecting pipe 5. In the example shown in FIG. 10, a through hole 6J is formed in the side of the display unit 6, and a through hole 5a is also formed in the connecting pipe 5. A fastener 42 is inserted into the through hole 6J of the display unit 6 and the through hole 5a of the connecting pipe 5. The fastener 42 fastens the display unit 6 to the connecting pipe 5. In this way, the display unit 6 is fixed to the connecting pipe 5. The fastener 42 may be, for example, a bolt and nut. Alternatively, the fastener 42 may be configured so that a male thread on the outer periphery and a female thread on the inner surface of the through hole 6J, 5a, are threadedly engaged with each other.

[0080] In the example of FIG. 10, the orientation (angle) of the display surface 6a of the display unit 6 relative to the connecting pipe 5 is adjustable. As shown in FIG. 11, the display unit 6 can be rotated relative to the connecting pipe 5 around the axis of the through hole 6J (fastener 42) and fixed at a position of any rotation angle. This makes it possible to change the position of the display surface 6a relative to the connecting pipe 5. This further increases the degree of freedom in the position of the display unit. In the example of FIG. 10, the axis of the through hole 5a is perpendicular to the axis of the connecting pipe 5. This allows the display surface 6a to be fixed at any angle relative to a plane perpendicular to the axis of the connecting pipe 5.

[0081] <Other variations> The shape of the display device 4 is not limited to the above example. In the above example, the connecting pipe 5 has a closed ring shape when viewed in the axial direction, but the connecting pipe 5 may also have an open ring shape. The connecting pipe 5 may also have a portion of the ring missing when viewed in the axial direction. In this case, for example, the connecting pipe 5 may be configured so that the inner diameter of the ring can be reduced by a fastener. In other words, the connecting pipe 5 may be configured so that the fastener can clamp the connecting pipe 5 to a member coaxial with the steering shaft 2.

[0082] In the above example, the connection pipe 5 of the display device 4 is attached to the steering shaft 2. The connection pipe 5 is not limited to being attached to the steering shaft 2, but can be attached to a stem, a handle, or other members. In the example shown in FIG. 8, the stem 3 is a threadless stem that is clamped to the steering shaft 2. Alternatively, a quill-type stem may be used. In this case, for example, the connection pipe 5 of the display device 4 can be attached to the outer periphery of the stem.

[0083] 3 to 5, the display unit 6 is parallel to a plane perpendicular to the axis of the connecting pipe 5. The display unit 6 may be tilted relative to the plane perpendicular to the axis of the connecting pipe 5. For example, the display surface 6a of the display unit 6 and the pressing direction of the buttons 7a and 7b may be tilted relative to the plane perpendicular to the axis of the connecting pipe 5.

[0084] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the above-described embodiments are merely examples for carrying out the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and the above-described embodiments can be appropriately modified and carried out without departing from the spirit of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0085] 2: Steering shaft, 3: Stem, 4: Display device, 5: Connection pipe, 6: Display unit, 6a: Display surface, 7a, 7b: Buttons, 8: Connection port, 9: Connection unit, 10: Electrically assisted bicycle

Claims

1. A display device for an electric assist bicycle, a tubular connecting pipe into which a member coaxial with the steering shaft of the electrically assisted bicycle can be inserted; a display unit formed to extend radially from the connecting pipe, the display unit having a display surface that displays the state of the electrically assisted bicycle; a button that is disposed on a surface different from the display surface of the display unit, and that is pressed in a direction in which a component perpendicular to the axis of the connecting pipe is greater than a component in the direction of the axis of the connecting pipe; The connecting pipe has an axial dimension smaller than a radial dimension, A display device for an electrically assisted bicycle, wherein, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the axis of the connecting tube and perpendicular to the direction in which the button is pressed, an extension line passing through the center of the pressing surface of the button and extending in the pressing direction intersects the connecting tube without intersecting the display surface.

2. 2. The display device for an electrically assisted bicycle according to claim 1, 2. A display device for an electrically assisted bicycle as described in claim 1, wherein the display unit indicates the state of the electrically assisted bicycle by a sign displayed on the display surface that extends diagonally with respect to an imaginary line that passes through the axis of the connecting pipe and bisects the display unit when viewed in the axial direction of the connecting pipe.

3. 3. The display device for an electrically assisted bicycle according to claim 1 or 2, A display device for an electrically assisted bicycle, wherein, when viewed in the axial direction of the connecting pipe, an extension line passing through the center of the pressing surface of the button and extending in the pressing operation direction intersects with the connecting pipe.

4. A display device for an electric assist bicycle, a tubular connecting pipe into which a member coaxial with the steering shaft of the electrically assisted bicycle can be inserted; a display unit formed to extend radially from the connecting pipe, the display unit having a display surface that displays the state of the electrically assisted bicycle; a button that is disposed on a surface different from the display surface of the display unit, and that is pressed in a direction in which a component perpendicular to the axis of the connecting pipe is greater than a component in the direction of the axis of the connecting pipe; A display device for an electrically assisted bicycle, wherein the buttons include a plurality of buttons arranged on the same surface of the display unit, the direction of pressing the plurality of buttons is the same, and the pressing surfaces of the plurality of buttons are positioned offset in the direction of pressing the buttons.

5. The display device for an electrically assisted bicycle according to any one of claims 1 to 4, a connection port for an external terminal provided on a surface different from the display surface of the display unit; A display device for an electrically assisted bicycle, wherein the direction of insertion and removal of the external terminal into and from the connection port is a direction in which a component perpendicular to the axis of the connection pipe is greater than a component in the direction of the axis of the connection pipe.

6. The display device for an electrically assisted bicycle according to any one of claims 1 to 5, A display device for an electrically assisted bicycle, wherein the display surface of the display unit is positioned so as not to protrude above the connecting pipe in the axial direction of the connecting pipe.

7. The display device for an electrically assisted bicycle according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The display unit is detachable from the connecting pipe.

8. An electrically assisted bicycle, Head pipe and a steering shaft rotatably supported by the head pipe; a stem attached to an upper portion of the steering shaft; a handle supported by the stem; a display device, The display device includes: a tubular connecting pipe attached to the steering shaft or the stem coaxially with the steering shaft; a display unit formed to extend radially from the connecting pipe, the display unit having a display surface that displays the state of the electrically assisted bicycle; a button that is disposed on a surface different from the display surface of the display unit, and that is pressed in a direction in which a component perpendicular to the axis of the connecting pipe is greater than a component in the direction of the axis of the connecting pipe; The connecting pipe has an axial dimension smaller than a radial dimension, When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the axis of the connecting pipe and perpendicular to the pressing direction of the button, an extension line passing through the center of the pressing surface of the button and extending in the pressing direction intersects the connecting pipe without intersecting the display surface.

Images