Communication systems for components and human-powered vehicles

Abstract

To provide a component capable of performing appropriate communication and a communication system for a human-powered vehicle. [Solution] The component is a component mounted on a human-powered vehicle and is equipped with a communication unit that receives specified information transmitted from a transmission device of the human-powered vehicle, the specified information including at least a portion of first information received by the transmission device from an operating device mounted on the human-powered vehicle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a communication system for components and human-powered vehicles.

Background Art

[0002] For example, the bicycle component disclosed in Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration of a communication unit that communicates by operating an operation unit.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] An object of the present invention is to provide a component and a communication system for a human-powered vehicle that can perform appropriate communication.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A communication system according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a first communication unit connected to an operating device mounted on a human-powered vehicle, a second communication unit connected to a transmission device of the human-powered vehicle, and a third communication unit connected to a component mounted on the human-powered vehicle different from the operating device and the transmission device. The second communication unit receives first information transmitted from the first communication unit in response to an operation of the operating device, and the third communication unit of the component receives second information including at least a part of the first information transmitted from the second communication unit. According to the communication system of the first aspect, appropriate communication can be executed with respect to the first communication unit connected to the operating device, the second communication unit connected to the transmission device, and the third communication unit connected to the component.

[0006] In a communication system of the second aspect according to the first aspect, the component includes a motor unit configured to provide propulsion to the human-powered vehicle. According to the communication system described in the second aspect above, the first communication unit connected to the operating device can perform appropriate communication with the second communication unit connected to the transmission and the third communication unit connected to the motor unit.

[0007] In a third aspect communication system relating to the first or second aspect, the first information matches the second information. According to the communication system described in the third aspect above, appropriate communication can be performed.

[0008] In the fourth aspect of the communication system according to the third aspect, the first information and the second information include at least one of the information relating to the transmission and the information relating to the components. According to the communication system described in the fourth aspect above, appropriate communication can be performed.

[0009] In the fifth aspect of the communication system according to the third aspect, the first information and the second information include information relating to the transmission and information relating to the components. According to the communication system described in the fifth aspect above, appropriate communication can be performed.

[0010] In a communication system of a sixth aspect according to the first or second aspect, the first information includes information relating to the transmission and information relating to the components, and the second information includes only information relating to the components. According to the communication system described in the sixth aspect above, appropriate communication can be performed.

[0011] A communication system of a seventh aspect that follows any one of the first to sixth aspects further includes a control device that includes a control unit for controlling the first communication unit, the second communication unit, and the third communication unit. According to the communication system described in the seventh aspect above, the control unit can perform appropriate communication.

[0012] In the eighth communication system according to the seventh aspect, the control unit transmits the first information to the second communication unit by wireless or wired signal. According to the communication system described in the eighth aspect above, appropriate communication can be performed using wireless or wired signals.

[0013] In the communication system of the ninth side according to the eighth side, the control unit transmits the first information to the second communication unit by wired signal when the operating device and the transmission are connected by wire, and outputs the first information by wireless signal when the operating device and the transmission are not connected by wire. According to the communication system described in the ninth aspect above, appropriate communication can be performed using wireless or wired signals.

[0014] In a communication system of the tenth side according to the eighth or ninth side, the control unit transmits the second information to the third communication unit by wireless or wired signal. According to the communication system described in the tenth aspect above, appropriate communication can be performed using wireless or wired signals.

[0015] In the communication system of the 11th aspect according to the 10th aspect, the control unit transmits the second information to the 3rd communication unit by wired signal when the transmission and the component are wired connected, and outputs the second information by wireless signal when the transmission and the component are not wired connected. According to the communication system described in the 11th aspect above, appropriate communication can be performed using wireless or wired signals.

[0016] In the communication system of the twelfth side according to the eleventh side, the control unit controls the second communication unit to receive the first information output by a wireless signal, and transmits the second information output by a wired signal to the third communication unit. According to the communication system of the 12th aspect, appropriate communication can be executed by the control unit.

[0017] In the communication system of the 13th aspect that follows any one of the 7th to 12th aspects, the communication system further includes a battery that supplies power to at least one of the operating device, the transmission device, and the component, and the control unit controls the power supply from the battery. According to the communication system of the 13th aspect, at least one of the operating device, the transmission device, and the component is preferably controlled by the control unit.

[0018] In the communication system of the 14th aspect that follows the 13th aspect, the control unit controls the power supply from the battery to at least one of the operating device, the transmission device, and the component based on at least one of the first information and the second information. According to the communication system of the 14th aspect, at least one of the operating device, the transmission device, and the component is preferably controlled by the control unit.

[0019] In the communication system of the 15th aspect that follows the 13th aspect, the battery includes a first battery that supplies power to the operating device and the component, and a second battery that supplies power to the transmission device, and the control unit controls the power supply from the first battery and the second battery based on at least one of the first information and the second information. According to the communication system of the 15th aspect, at least one of the operating device, the transmission device, and the component is preferably controlled by the control unit.

[0020] In a control device according to the 16th aspect of the present invention, a first communication unit connected to an operating device mounted on a human-powered vehicle, a second communication unit connected to a transmission of the human-powered vehicle, and a third communication unit connected to a component of the human-powered vehicle different from the transmission, and a control unit that controls the first communication unit, the second communication unit, and the third communication unit, wherein the control unit controls the first communication unit to output first information in response to an operation of the operating device, receives the first information, controls the second communication unit to output second information including at least a part of the first information, and controls the third communication unit to receive the second information. According to the control device of the 16th aspect, appropriate communication can be executed between the first communication unit connected to the operating device and the third communication unit connected to the component by the control unit.

[0021] In a control device of the 17th aspect according to the 16th aspect, the component includes a motor unit configured to apply a driving force to the human-powered vehicle. According to the control device of the 17th aspect, appropriate communication can be executed between the first communication unit connected to the operating device and the third communication unit connected to the motor unit.

[0022] In a control device of the 18th aspect according to the 16th or 17th aspect, the operating device is provided in a steering mechanism of the human-powered vehicle, and the steering mechanism includes a handlebar. According to the control device of the 18th aspect, since the operating device is disposed at a suitable location, user-friendliness is improved.

Effects of the Invention

[0023] The present invention no Ko The communication system for components and the human-powered vehicle can execute appropriate communication.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0024] [Figure 1] Side view of a human-powered vehicle including a communication system and a control device of the first embodiment. [Figure 2] A block diagram showing the electrical connection relationships between the control device and various elements of the first embodiment. [Figure 3] A flowchart showing an example of the control performed by the control unit of the first embodiment. [Figure 4] A block diagram showing the electrical connection relationships between the control device and various elements of the second embodiment. [Figure 5] A flowchart showing an example of the control performed by the first control unit of the second embodiment. [Figure 6] A flowchart showing an example of the control performed by the second control unit of the second embodiment. [Figure 7] A flowchart showing an example of the control performed by the third control unit of the second embodiment. [Figure 8] A block diagram showing the electrical connection relationships between the control device and various elements of the third embodiment. [Figure 9] A block diagram showing the electrical connection relationships between the control device and various elements of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 10] A block diagram showing the electrical connection relationships between the control device and various elements of a modified example. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0025] <First Embodiment> A human-powered vehicle A, including a communication system 10, will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 3. Here, a human-powered vehicle means a vehicle that uses human power at least partially for propulsion, and includes vehicles that use electric power to assist human power. Vehicles that use only power other than human power are not included in human-powered vehicles. In particular, vehicles that use only an internal combustion engine as their power source are not included in human-powered vehicles. Typically, human-powered vehicles are assumed to be small, light vehicles that do not require a license to drive on public roads. Specifically, the illustrated human-powered vehicle A is a trekking bike. Human-powered vehicle A further includes a frame A1, a front fork A2, wheels W, handlebars H, and a drivetrain B. Wheels W include a front wheel WF and a rear wheel WR.

[0026] Drivetrain B is, for example, a chain drive type. Drivetrain B includes a crank C, a front sprocket assembly D1, a rear sprocket assembly D2, and a chain D3. Crank C includes a crank axis C1 rotatably supported by frame A1, and a pair of crank arms C2 provided at each end of the crank axis C1. Pedals PD are rotatably attached to the end of each crank arm C2. Drivetrain B can be selected from any type and may be a belt drive type or a shaft drive type.

[0027] The front sprocket assembly D1 is mounted on the crank C so as to rotate integrally with the crank axle C1. The rear sprocket assembly D2 is mounted on the hub HR of the rear wheel WR. The chain D3 is wrapped around the front sprocket assembly D1 and the rear sprocket assembly D2. The human-powered driving force applied to the pedal PD by the rider on the human-powered vehicle A is transmitted to the rear wheel WR via the front sprocket assembly D1, the chain D3, and the rear sprocket assembly D2.

[0028] The communication system 10 includes a first communication unit 12 connected to an operating device 20 mounted on a human-powered vehicle A, a second communication unit 14 connected to a transmission 30 of the human-powered vehicle A, and a third communication unit 16 connected to a component 40 of the human-powered vehicle A that is different from the transmission 30. The third communication unit 16 is connected to a component 40 mounted on the human-powered vehicle A that is different from the operating device 20 and the transmission 30. The operating device 20, the transmission 30, and the component 40 are mounted on one human-powered vehicle A. The component 40 includes configurations mounted on the human-powered vehicle A other than the operating device 20 and the transmission 30. In the communication system 10, the second communication unit 14 receives first information transmitted from the first communication unit 12 in response to the operation of the operating device 20, and the third communication unit 16 of the component 40 receives second information, which includes at least a portion of the first information transmitted from the second communication unit 14.

[0029] The first communication unit 12 includes a transmitting unit configured to transmit signals containing at least information. Preferably, the first communication unit 12 includes a receiving unit configured to receive signals containing information. The second communication unit 14 includes both a transmitting unit configured to transmit signals containing information and a receiving unit configured to receive signals containing information. The third communication unit 16 includes a receiving unit configured to receive signals containing at least information. Preferably, the third communication unit 16 includes a transmitting unit configured to transmit signals containing information. The first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14 are connected in a way that allows communication by wire or wireless. The first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14 can communicate by, for example, power line communication (PLC), CAN (Controller Area Network), or UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter). The second communication unit 14 and the third communication unit 16 are connected in a way that allows communication by wire or wireless.

[0030] The communication system 10 further comprises a battery BT that supplies power to the operating device 20, the transmission 30, and at least one of the components 40. The operating device 20 and the component 40 are connected by a power line. The operating device 20 and the battery BT may also be connected by a power line. The battery BT includes one or more battery elements. The battery elements include rechargeable batteries. The battery BT is communicated with the control unit 52 of the control device 50 by wire or wireless. The battery BT and the control unit 52 of the control device 50 may be connected by connection terminals, the control unit 52 of the control device 50 may be located in the battery BT, and the third communication unit 16 of the component 40 and the control unit 52 may be connected by wire. The battery BT may include a first battery BT1 that supplies power to the operating device 20 and the component 40, and a second battery BT2 that supplies power to the transmission 30. At least one of the first battery BT1 or the second battery BT2 may be configured to supply power to the operating device 20, the transmission 30, and all of the components 40. The operating device 20 and the transmission 30 may be connected by a power line. Battery BT may further include a third battery BT3 that supplies power to the operating device 20 when the operating device 20 is not connected to the first battery BT1 or the second battery BT2 by a power line. The third battery BT3 supplies power to the operating device 20, for example, when the operating device 20 and the transmission 30 communicate wirelessly.

[0031] In one example, the power capacity of the first battery BT1 is different from the power capacity of the second battery BT2. When the transmission 30 is electrically connected to both the first battery BT1 and the second battery BT2, the control unit 52 may be configured to preferentially supply power to the transmission 30 from the battery BT with the larger power capacity. When the component 40 is electrically connected to both the first battery BT1 and the second battery BT2, the control unit 52 may be configured to preferentially supply power to the component 40 from the battery BT with the larger power capacity. In one example, the power capacity of the first battery BT1 is greater than the power capacity of the second battery BT2. The transmission 30 and the component 40 may be electrically connected to the first battery BT1. In this case, when the power amount of the first battery BT1 falls below a predetermined value, the control unit 52 may be configured to preferentially supply power to either the transmission 30 or the component 40. Preferably, the first battery BT1 and the second battery BT2 are connected by a power line. The system is configured such that if the energy level of either the first battery BT1 or the second battery BT2 falls below a predetermined value, power is supplied from the other battery BT1 or the second battery BT2.

[0032] Human-powered vehicle A includes an operating device 20, a transmission 30, and a component 40 distinct from the operating device 20 and the transmission 30. Component 40 includes a motor unit 42 configured to provide propulsion to human-powered vehicle A. Preferably, component 40 further includes at least one of a braking device 44, a suspension 46, and an adjustable seat post 48.

[0033] The operating device 20 outputs a predetermined signal in response to user input. The operating device 20 is provided in the steering mechanism of the human-powered vehicle A. The steering mechanism includes a handlebar H. The operating device 20 includes at least a gear shift operating device for operating the transmission 30. The gear shift operating device consists of at least one of a shifter or a switch. The gear shift operating device outputs a signal containing information about gear shifting that controls the transmission 30 in response to user input. The gear shift operating device transmits a signal containing information about gear shifting via the first communication unit 12. The operating device 20 further includes a component operating device for operating the components 40 of the human-powered vehicle A. If the component 40 includes a motor unit 42, the component operating device transmits a signal containing information about the motor's output relative to the human-powered driving force via the first communication unit 12. If the component 40 includes a braking device 44, the component operating device transmits a signal containing information about braking via the first communication unit 12. If component 40 includes a suspension 46, the component operating device transmits a signal via the first communication unit 12 containing information regarding the operation of the suspension 46. If component 40 includes an adjustable seatpost 48, the component operating device transmits a signal via the first communication unit 12 containing information regarding the height of the adjustable seatpost 48. The first communication unit 12 connected to the operating device 20 may be connected to multiple operating devices 20 with one first communication unit 12, or two or more first communication units 12 may be connected to multiple operating devices 20.

[0034] The gear shifter 30 includes an external derailleur. The external derailleur is configured to change the gear ratio, which is defined by at least one of the number of teeth and diameter of the front sprocket around which the chain D3 is wound, and the rear sprocket around which the chain D3 is wound. The front sprocket is part of a front sprocket assembly D1 which includes one or more front sprockets. The rear sprocket is part of a rear sprocket assembly D2 which includes one or more rear sprockets. In one example, the gear shifter 30 includes at least one of a front derailleur 32 and a rear derailleur 34. The front derailleur 32 is located near the front sprocket assembly D1. The gear ratio is changed by changing the front sprocket around which the chain D3 is wound as the front derailleur 32 operates. The gear ratio is determined based on the relationship between the number of teeth of the front sprocket and the number of teeth of the rear sprocket. In one example, the gear ratio is defined as the ratio of the rotational speed of the rear sprocket to the rotational speed of the front sprocket. In other words, the gear ratio is defined as the ratio of the number of teeth on the front sprocket to the number of teeth on the rear sprocket. The rear derailleur 34 is mounted on the rear end A3 of the frame A1. As the rear derailleur 34 operates, the rear sprocket around which the chain D3 is wrapped is changed, and the gear ratio is changed. The gear shifter 30 may include an internal gear hub instead of an external gear hub. In this case, the internal gear hub is mounted, for example, on the hub HR of the rear wheel WR. The gear shifter 30 may also include a continuously variable transmission instead of an external gear hub. In this case, the continuously variable transmission is mounted, for example, on the hub HR of the rear wheel WR. The gear shifter 30 changes the gear ratio of the human-powered vehicle A in response to an operation signal from the gear shifting device.

[0035] The motor unit 42 operates to assist the propulsion of the human-powered vehicle A. The motor unit 42 operates in response to human-powered driving force applied, for example, to pedal PD. The motor unit 42 includes a motor. The motor unit 42 is powered by electricity supplied from battery BT mounted on the human-powered vehicle A. The component operating device includes a motor unit operating device for operating the motor unit 42. The motor unit operating device outputs operating signals that change the control state and assist force of the motor unit 42.

[0036] The braking system 44 includes braking systems 44 corresponding to the number of wheels W. The braking system 44 includes a braking system 44 corresponding to the front wheel WF and a braking system 44 corresponding to the rear wheel WR. The two braking systems 44 may have similar configurations to each other. The braking system 44 is, for example, a rim brake system that brakes the rim of a human-powered vehicle A. The component operating device includes a braking operating device. Based on the operating signal output in response to the operation of the braking operating device, the corresponding braking system 44 is electrically driven. The braking system 44 may be a disc brake system that brakes a disc brake rotor mounted on a human-powered vehicle A.

[0037] The suspension 46 includes at least one of a front suspension and a rear suspension. The front suspension operates to mitigate the impact received by the front wheel WF from the ground. The rear suspension operates to mitigate the impact received by the rear wheel WR from the ground. The component operating device includes a suspension operating device. In response to the operation of the suspension operating device, the corresponding suspension 46 is electrically driven. Specifically, based on the operating signal output in response to the operation of the suspension operating device, at least one of the displacement state, travel amount, damping force, and rebound force of the corresponding suspension 46 is changed.

[0038] The adjustable seatpost 48 operates to change the saddle height relative to frame A1. The component operating device includes an adjustable seatpost operating device. The adjustable seatpost 48 is electrically driven based on an operating signal output in response to the operation of the adjustable seatpost operating device.

[0039] The communication system 10 further includes a control device 50 which includes a control unit 52 that controls the first communication unit 12, the second communication unit 14, and the third communication unit 16. The control unit 52 controls the operating device 20, the transmission 30, and at least one of the components 40 mounted on the human-powered vehicle A.

[0040] The control unit 52 includes at least one of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The control unit 52 can also control the transmission 30 in response to the operation of the transmission control device. The control device 50 further includes a storage unit 54 for storing various types of information. The storage unit 54 includes non-volatile memory and volatile memory. The non-volatile memory includes, for example, at least one of ROM (Read-Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), and flash memory. The volatile memory includes, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory). The storage unit 54 stores, for example, various programs for control and pre-set information.

[0041] In the first example, the control device 50 is provided in at least the transmission 30. The control device 50 is provided in at least either the front derailleur 32 or the rear derailleur 34. The control unit 52 receives first information via wired or wireless communication through the second communication unit 14. The control unit 52 transmits a signal containing second information from the second communication unit 14 via wired or wireless communication, and the third communication unit 16 located in the component 40 is configured to receive the signal transmitted from the second communication unit 14. In the first example, the operating device 20 and the component 40 each have a control unit different from the control unit 52 of the control device 50. In the second example, the control device 50 is provided in the component 40. If the component 40 includes a motor unit 42, the control device 50 is provided, for example, in the motor unit 42. In one example, The control device 50 is The motor unit 42 is housed within the housing 42A. In the second example, the operating device 20 and the transmission 30 each have a control unit different from the control unit 52 of the control device 50. The control unit 52 receives signals containing second information via wired or wireless communication through the third communication unit 16. In the third example, the control device 50 is located in the battery BT. In the third example, the control unit 52 may be located in the housing of the battery BT and connected to the battery BT by terminals. In the third example, the control unit 52 controls the battery BT and the component 40 based on the information received by the third communication unit 16. The control unit 52 may be configured to transmit control-related information via wired or wireless communication to a control unit different from the control unit 52 located in the component 40, and the control unit 52 may process the information contained in the signals received by the third communication unit 16 located in the component 40 and transmit signals to other control units of the component 40. In this case, based on the signals from the control unit 52, a signal containing third information may be transmitted to the third communication unit 16 located in the component 40. The control device 50 operates on power supplied from the battery BT. The control device 50 is configured to communicate with at least one of the first communication unit 12, the second communication unit 14, and the third communication unit 16 via wired or wireless communication. Figure 2 discloses the configuration of the control device 50 in a first example.

[0042] The control unit 52 controls the first communication unit 12 to output first information in response to the operation of the operating device 20, controls the second communication unit 14 to receive the first information and output second information which includes at least a part of the first information, and controls the third communication unit 16 to receive the second information.

[0043] First information and second information will now be described. First information and second information include at least one of the following: information about the transmission 30 and information about the component 40. Information about the transmission 30 includes at least one of the following: information about the control state of the transmission 30 and information for the control unit 52 to control the transmission 30. Information about the control state of the transmission 30 includes information about the current gear ratio. Information for the control unit 52 to control the transmission 30 includes information about operation signals related to changing the gear ratio. Information about the component 40 includes at least one of the following: information about the control state of the component 40 and information for the control unit 52 to control the component 40. If the component 40 includes a motor unit 42, information about the motor unit 42 includes at least one of the following: information about the control state of the motor unit 42 and information for the control unit 52 to control the motor unit 42. The control state of the motor unit 42 includes a first control state and a second control state which is different from the first control state in terms of assist force. The assist force includes at least one of the following: the motor's maximum output value, the motor's minimum output value, the motor's maximum output torque, the motor's minimum output torque, the motor's response speed, the ratio of the motor's output to the human-powered torque input to the human-powered vehicle A, and the motor's driving force relative to the human-powered driving force input to the human-powered vehicle A. The information that the control unit 52 uses to control the motor unit 42 includes information regarding the assist force.

[0044] In the first example, the first information matches the second information. In one example, the first information and the second information include information about the transmission 30 and information about the component 40. In another example, the first information and the second information include either information about the transmission 30 or information about the component 40. In the second example, the first information is different from the second information. The control unit 52 is configured to change the content of the second information. In one example, the first information includes information about the transmission 30 and information about the component 40, and the second information includes only information about the component 40. In another example, the first information includes only information about the transmission 30, and the second information includes information about the transmission 30 and information about the component 40.

[0045] The method by which the control unit 52 transmits the first information and the second information will now be described. The control unit 52 transmits the first information to the second communication unit 14 by wireless or wired signal. The control unit 52 transmits the first information from the transmitting unit of the first communication unit 12. When the operating device 20 and the transmission 30 are connected by wire, the control unit 52 transmits the first information to the second communication unit 14 by wired signal, and when the operating device 20 and the transmission 30 are not connected by wire, the control unit 52 outputs the first information by wireless signal.

[0046] The control unit 52 transmits the second information to the third communication unit 16 by wireless or wired signal. The control unit 52 transmits the second information from the transmitting unit of the second communication unit 14. When the transmission unit 30 and the component 40 are connected by wire, the control unit 52 transmits the second information to the third communication unit 16 by wired signal, and when the transmission unit 30 and the component 40 are not connected by wire, the control unit 52 outputs the second information by wireless signal.

[0047] The combination of wireless and wired signals transmitted by the control unit 52 is arbitrary. In the first example, the control unit 52 controls the second communication unit 14 so that it receives the first information output from the first communication unit 12 via a wired signal, and transmits the second information output from the second communication unit 14 via a wired signal to the third communication unit 16. In the second example, the control unit 52 controls the second communication unit 14 so that it receives the first information output from the first communication unit 12 via a wireless signal, and transmits the second information output from the second communication unit 14 via a wireless signal to the third communication unit 16. In the third example, the control unit 52 controls the second communication unit 14 so that it receives the first information output from the first communication unit 12 via a wired signal, and transmits the second information output from the second communication unit 14 via a wireless signal to the third communication unit 16. In the fourth example, the control unit 52 controls the second communication unit 14 so that it receives the first information output from the first communication unit 12 via a wireless signal, and transmits the second information output from the second communication unit 14 via a wired signal to the third communication unit 16.

[0048] The control of the operating device 20, the transmission 30, and the component 40 performed by the control unit 52 will now be described. The control unit 52 controls the power supply from the battery BT. The control unit 52 controls the power supply from the battery BT to the operating device 20, the transmission 30, and at least one of the component 40 based on first information and at least one of second information. In one example, if the first information and at least one of the second information include information about the transmission 30, the control unit 52 supplies power from the battery BT to the operating device 20 and the transmission 30. If both the first information and the second information include information about the transmission 30, the control unit 52 changes at least one of the amounts of power supplied from the battery BT to the operating device 20 and the transmission 30 compared to the case where information about the transmission 30 is not included. For example, if the first communication unit 12 of the operating device 20 and the second communication unit 14 of the transmission 30 are wired together and include information about the transmission 30, the control unit 52 increases the amount of power supplied to the operating device 20 and the transmission 30 compared to the case where the information about the transmission 30 is not included. If the first communication unit 12 of the operating device 20 and the second communication unit 14 of the transmission 30 are wirelessly connected and include information about the transmission 30, the control unit 52 increases the amount of power supplied to the transmission 30 compared to the case where the information about the transmission 30 is not included. The control unit 52 controls the operation to supply power to the operating device 20 while power is being supplied from the battery BT. If the second information includes information about component 40, the control unit 52 supplies power to component 40 from the battery BT. If the second information does not include information about component 40, the control unit 52 may change the amount of power supplied to component 40 from the battery BT compared to the case where information about component 40 is included.

[0049] The control unit 52 controls the power supply from the first battery BT1 and the second battery BT2 based on the first information and at least one of the second information. In one example, if the first information and at least one of the second information include information about the transmission 30, the control unit 52 supplies power to the transmission 30 from the second battery BT2. If both the first information and the second information include information about the transmission 30, the control unit 52 changes the amount of power supplied to the transmission 30 from the second battery BT2 compared to the case where the information does not include information about the transmission 30. In one example, if the information includes information about the transmission 30, the control unit 52 increases the amount of power supplied to the transmission 30 compared to the case where the information does not include information about the transmission 30. If the second information includes information about component 40, the control unit 52 supplies power to component 40 from the first battery BT1. If the second information does not include information about component 40, the control unit 52 may change the amount of power supplied to component 40 from the first battery BT1 compared to the case where the information includes information about component 40.

[0050] The control unit 52 controls the transmission 30 and the component 40 based on the first information and at least one of the second information. For example, if the first information and at least one of the second information include information for controlling the transmission 30, the control unit 52 controls the transmission 30 based on the information for controlling the transmission 30. If the second information includes information for controlling the component 40, the control unit 52 controls the component 40 based on the information for controlling the component 40.

[0051] Referring to Figure 3, an example of the control performed by the control unit 52 of the first embodiment will be described. The control unit 52 periodically performs the processes from steps S11 to S18 while power is supplied from the battery BT.

[0052] In step S11, the control unit 52 determines whether or not the operating device 20 has been operated. If the determination is positive, the control unit 52 executes the process in step S12. If the determination is negative, the control unit 52 executes the process in step S11 again.

[0053] In step S12, the control unit 52 determines whether the operating device 20 and the transmission 30 are connected by a wire. The control unit 52 may, for example, detect which battery BT supplies power to the operating device 20 and determine whether the operating device 20 and the transmission 30 are connected by a wire. If the determination is positive, the control unit 52 executes the process in step S13. If the determination is negative, the control unit 52 executes the process in step S14.

[0054] In step S13, the control unit 52 outputs the first information as a wired signal from the first communication unit 12. After the completion of step S13, the control unit 52 executes the process of step S15. In step S14, the control unit 52 outputs the first information as a wireless signal from the first communication unit 12. After the completion of step S14, the control unit 52 executes the process of step S15.

[0055] In step S15, the control unit 52 determines whether the transmission 30 and the component 40 are connected by a wire. If the determination is positive, the control unit 52 executes the process in step S16. If the determination is negative, the control unit 52 executes the process in step S17.

[0056] In step S16, the control unit 52 outputs second information via wired signal from the second communication unit 14. After the completion of step S16, the control unit 52 executes the process of step S18. In step S17, the control unit 52 outputs second information via wireless signal from the second communication unit 14. 2nd The information is output. After step S17 is completed, the control unit 52 executes the process of step S18.

[0057] In step S18, the control unit 52 controls the transmission 30 and component 40 based on the first information and at least one of the second information. After step S18 is completed, the control unit 52 terminates the control.

[0058] <Second Embodiment> Referring to Figures 4 to 7, the communication system 10 and control device 50 of the second embodiment will be described. The communication system 10 and control device 50 of the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment, except for the configuration of the control unit 52 and the battery BT. Components common to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0059] As shown in Figure 4, the control unit 52 includes a first control unit 52A, a second control unit 52B, and a third control unit 52C. The first control unit 52A controls the operating device 20, the first communication unit 12 connected to the operating device 20, and the notification unit 56. The second control unit 52B controls the transmission 30 and the second communication unit 14 connected to the transmission 30. The third control unit 52C controls the component 40 and the third communication unit 16 connected to the component 40.

[0060] The first control unit 52A is provided on the operating device 20. The first control unit 52A outputs first information in response to the operation of the operating device 20. When the first communication unit 12 receives third information, the first control unit 52A controls the notification unit 56 so that the third information is displayed on the notification unit 56.

[0061] The notification unit 56 includes a display unit. The display unit includes, for example, a display panel. The notification unit 56 includes, for example, at least one of a portable electronic device, a display, a smartphone, a tablet computer, and a cycle computer. The notification unit 56 may also include a speaker. The notification unit 56 is configured to be able to communicate with at least the first communication unit 12 by wired or wireless means.

[0062] Battery BT further comprises a third battery BT3 that supplies power to at least one of the first communication unit 12, the operating device 20, the first control unit 52A, and the notification unit 56. The third battery BT3 has a smaller power capacity than the first battery BT1 and the second battery BT2. In one example, the third battery BT3 is made up of a lithium-ion battery. In another example, the third battery BT3 is made up of a button cell battery.

[0063] The second control unit 52B is provided in the transmission 30. In one example, The second control unit 52B is, It is provided on either the front derailleur 32 or the rear derailleur 34. The second control unit 52B controls the gear shifting device 30. When the second control unit 52B receives the first information, it outputs the second information to the third communication unit 16. When the second control unit 52B receives the third information, it outputs the third information to the first communication unit 12.

[0064] The third control unit 52C is provided in component 40. If multiple components 40 are provided in the human-powered vehicle A, the third control unit 52C may be provided in each component 40, or it may be provided in only one of them. The third control unit 52C controls component 40. The third control unit 52C transmits third information from the third communication unit 16. When the third communication unit 16 and the second communication unit 14 are communicating by wire, the third control unit 52C transmits from the third communication unit 16. Third The information is output to the second communication unit 14. The third information includes information about the state of the component 40. For example, if the component 40 includes a motor unit 42, it includes information about the motor's control state and assist force. If the component 40 includes a braking device 44, it includes information about the braking force. If the component 40 includes a suspension 46, it includes information about the displacement state, travel amount, damping force, and rebound force. If the component 40 includes an adjustable seatpost 48, it includes information about the saddle height relative to the frame A1.

[0065] Referring to Figure 5, an example of the control performed by the first control unit 52A will be described. The first control unit 52A repeatedly executes the processes from step S21 to step S26 while power is supplied from the battery BT.

[0066] In step S21, the first control unit 52A determines whether or not the operating device 20 has been operated. If the determination is positive, the first control unit 52A executes the process in step S22. If the determination is negative, the first control unit 52A executes the process in step S25.

[0067] In steps S22 to S24, the processing performed by the first control unit 52A is the same as the processing performed by the control unit 52 in steps S12 to S14 of the first embodiment.

[0068] In step S25, the first control unit 52A determines whether or not it has received the third information. If the determination is positive, the first control unit 52A executes the process in step S26. If the determination is negative, the first control unit 52A terminates control.

[0069] In step S26, the first control unit 52A outputs the third information to the notification unit 56. After step S26 is completed, the first control unit 52A terminates control.

[0070] Referring to Figure 6, an example of the control performed by the second control unit 52B will be described. The second control unit 52B repeatedly executes the processes from step S31 to step S37 while power is supplied from the battery BT.

[0071] In step S31, the second control unit 52B determines whether or not the first information has been received. If the determination is positive, the second control unit 52B executes the process in step S32. If the determination is negative, the second control unit 52B executes the process in step S36.

[0072] In steps S32 to S34, the processing performed by the second control unit 52B is the same as the processing performed by the control unit 52 in the first embodiment in steps S15 to S17.

[0073] In step S35, the second control unit 52B controls the transmission 30 based on the first information. After the completion of step S35, the second control unit 52B executes the process of step S36.

[0074] In step S36, the second control unit 52B determines whether or not it has received the third information. If the determination is positive, the second control unit 52B executes the process in step S37. If the determination is negative, the second control unit 52B terminates control.

[0075] In step S37, the second control unit 52B outputs the third information from the second communication unit 14 to the first communication unit 12. After step S37 is completed, the second control unit 52B terminates control.

[0076] Referring to Figure 7, an example of the control performed by the third control unit 52C will be described. The third control unit 52C repeatedly executes the processes from step S41 to step S44 while power is supplied from the battery BT.

[0077] In step S41, the third control unit 52C determines whether or not the second information has been received. If the determination is positive, the third control unit 52C executes the process in step S42. If the determination is negative, the third control unit 52C terminates control.

[0078] In step S42, the third control unit 52C determines whether or not information about component 40 is included. If the determination is positive, the third control unit 52C executes the process in step S43. If the determination is negative, the third control unit 52C terminates control.

[0079] In step S43, the third control unit 52C controls the component 40 based on the second information. After the completion of step S43, the third control unit 52C executes the process in step S44.

[0080] In step S44, the third control unit 52C outputs third information from the third communication unit 16 to the second communication unit 14. After step S44 is completed, the third control unit 52C terminates control.

[0081] <Third Embodiment> Referring to Figure 8, the communication system 10 and control device 50 of the third embodiment will be described. The communication system 10 and control device 50 of the third embodiment further include a fourth communication unit 18 provided in the transmission 30. Components common to the first and second embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first and second embodiments, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0082] The communication system 10 further includes a fourth communication unit 18. The fourth communication unit 18 is provided on the gear shift 30. The fourth communication unit 18 includes a receiving unit configured to receive signals containing at least information. Preferably, the fourth communication unit 18 includes a transmitting unit configured to transmit signals containing information. The fourth communication unit 18 is provided on either the front derailleur 32 or the rear derailleur 34 of the gear shift 30, with the second communication unit 14 provided on the other. In one example, the second communication unit 14 is provided on the rear derailleur 34, and the fourth communication unit 18 is provided on the front derailleur 32. The fourth communication unit 18 is configured to communicate with the third communication unit 16 via wired or wireless communication. The fourth communication unit 18 may also be configured to communicate with at least one of the first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14 via wired or wireless communication. In one example, the fourth communication unit 18 is configured to communicate with the second communication unit 14. If the second communication unit 14 can communicate with the third communication unit 16 and the fourth communication unit 18, the third communication unit 16 and the fourth communication unit 18 may be configured not to communicate with each other.

[0083] The flow of signals containing information in the communication system 10 of the third embodiment will now be described. Transmission and reception by each communication unit are controlled by the control unit 52 of the control device 50 or by the control units provided in the operating device 20 (not shown), the transmission 30, and the component 40.

[0084] The first communication unit 12 communicates with the second communication unit 14, which is located on the rear derailleur 34, via wired or wireless communication. In one example, the first communication unit 12 communicates with the second communication unit 14 via wireless communication. The first communication unit 12 transmits a signal containing first information to the second communication unit 14. The first information includes at least one of the following: information about the gear shifter 30 and information about the component 40.

[0085] The second communication unit 14 communicates with the third communication unit 16, which is located on the component 40, via wired or wireless communication. In one example, the second communication unit 14 communicates with the third communication unit 16 via wired communication. The second communication unit 14 transmits a signal containing second information to the third communication unit 16. The second information includes at least one of the following: information about the transmission 30 and information about the component 40. The second communication unit 14 may also transmit the second information to the fourth communication unit 18 via an electrically connected second battery BT2 and power lines. The second battery BT2 further comprises a communication unit including both a transmitting unit configured to transmit a signal containing information and a receiving unit configured to receive a signal containing information.

[0086] The third communication unit 16 communicates with the second communication unit 14 and at least one of the fourth communication unit 18 located on the front derailleur 32. The third communication unit 16 communicates with the fourth communication unit 18 via wired or wireless communication. In one example, the third communication unit 16 communicates with the fourth communication unit 18 via wired communication. If the second information received by the third communication unit 16 includes information about the gear shift 30, it transmits a signal containing information about the gear shift 30 to at least one of the second communication unit 14 and the fourth communication unit 18. When the second communication unit 14 and the fourth communication unit 18 are communicating, the third communication unit 16 may be configured not to perform wired or wireless communication with the fourth communication unit 18.

[0087] The first battery BT1 supplies power to component 40 and the third communication unit 16. The second battery BT2 supplies power to at least the front derailleur 32, the rear derailleur 34, the second communication unit 14, and the fourth communication unit 18. The third battery BT3 supplies power to the operating device 20 and the first communication unit 12. The third battery BT3 is composed of, for example, a button cell. If the first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14 are connected by a power line capable of power line communication, the second battery BT2 supplies power to the operating device 20 and the first communication unit 12.

[0088] <Fourth Embodiment> Referring to Figure 9, the communication system 10 and control device 50 of the fourth embodiment will be described. In the communication system 10 and control device 50 of the fourth embodiment, the configuration of the second battery BT2 of the third embodiment is omitted. Components common to the first to third embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first to third embodiments, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0089] The flow of signals containing information in the communication system 10 of the fourth embodiment will now be described. Transmission and reception from each communication unit are controlled by the control unit 52 of the control device 50 or by the control units provided in the operating device 20 (not shown), the transmission 30, and the component 40.

[0090] The first communication unit 12 communicates with the second communication unit 14, which is located on the rear derailleur 34, via wired or wireless communication. In one example, the first communication unit 12 communicates with the second communication unit 14 via wireless communication. The first communication unit 12 transmits a signal containing first information to the second communication unit 14. The first information includes at least one of the following: information about the gear shifter 30 and information about the component 40.

[0091] The second communication unit 14 communicates with the third communication unit 16, which is located on the component 40, via wired or wireless communication. In one example, the second communication unit 14 communicates with the third communication unit 16 via wired communication. The second communication unit 14 transmits a signal containing second information to the third communication unit 16. The second information includes at least one of the following: information concerning the transmission 30 and information concerning the component 40. The second communication unit 14 may also transmit the second information to the fourth communication unit 18 via an electrically connected power line.

[0092] The third communication unit 16 communicates with the second communication unit 14 and at least one of the fourth communication unit 18 located on the front derailleur 32. The third communication unit 16 communicates with the fourth communication unit 18 via wired or wireless communication. In one example, the third communication unit 16 communicates with the fourth communication unit 18 via wired communication. If the second information received by the third communication unit 16 includes information about the gear shift 30, it transmits a signal containing information about the gear shift 30 to at least one of the second communication unit 14 and the fourth communication unit 18. When the second communication unit 14 and the fourth communication unit 18 are communicating, the third communication unit 16 may be configured not to perform wired or wireless communication with the fourth communication unit 18.

[0093] The first battery BT1 supplies power to the component 40, the front derailleur 32, the rear derailleur 34, the second communication unit 14, the third communication unit 16, and the fourth communication unit 18. The second battery BT2 is either omitted or integrated with the first battery BT1. The third battery BT3 supplies power to the operating device 20 and the first communication unit 12. The third battery BT3 is composed of, for example, a button cell battery. If the first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14 are connected by a power line capable of power line communication, the first battery BT1 supplies power to the operating device 20 and the first communication unit 12.

[0094] <Variation> The descriptions of each embodiment are illustrative of possible forms of communication systems and control devices according to the present invention and are not intended to limit their forms. Communication systems and control devices according to the present invention may take forms such as variations of each embodiment shown below, and combinations of at least two non-inconsistent variations. In the following variations, parts common to the embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the embodiments and their descriptions are omitted.

[0095] The receiving and transmitting sections of the second communication unit 14 may be configured separately. In one example, the receiving section of the second communication unit 14 is provided on the front derailleur 32, and the transmitting section of the second communication unit 14 is provided on the rear derailleur 34. In another example, the receiving section of the second communication unit 14 is provided on the rear derailleur 34, and the transmitting section of the second communication unit 14 is provided on the front derailleur 32.

[0096] The third communication unit 16 may be located in the battery BT. In one example, the third communication unit 16 is located in the first battery BT1. The third communication unit 16 and the control unit 52 that controls the component 40 are connected by a wire.

[0097] In the communication system 10 of the third embodiment and the communication system 10 of the fourth embodiment, if the first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14 are connected by a wire, the system may be configured to allow switching between wired communication and wireless communication. The control unit that controls the operating device 20 and the first communication unit 12 transmits a wireless signal to the second communication unit 14 even when the first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14 are connected by a wire. In this case, the operating device 20 and the first communication unit 12 may be configured to be powered by a wired connection to a first battery BT1 or a second battery BT2. The system is configured to switch between wired communication and wireless communication, for example, by operation of the operating device 20.

[0098] In the communication system 10 of the third embodiment and the communication system 10 of the fourth embodiment, the second communication unit 14 and the fourth communication unit 18 may be configured to communicate via wired or wireless connection. In this case, one of the second communication unit 14 or the fourth communication unit 18 transmits a signal containing the information it has received to the other of the second communication unit 14 or the fourth communication unit 18.

[0099] The modified communication system 10 shown in Figure 10 is configured such that the first battery BT1 or the second battery BT2 can supply power to the operating device 20. The first battery BT1 and the operating device 20 may not be directly connected by a power line. The first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14 are connected by a power line capable of power line communication. The first battery BT1 or the second battery BT2 supplies power to the operating device 20 via the transmission 30. The second battery BT2 may be omitted. Alternatively, the first battery BT1 may supply power only to component 40, and only the second battery BT2 may supply power to the operating device 20 via the transmission 30.

[0100] In the communication system 10 including the fourth communication unit 18, the first information from the first communication unit 12 may be received by both the second communication unit 14 and the fourth communication unit 18, or it may be configured to be received by whichever of the two units capable of wired communication with the first communication unit 12. The output to the third communication unit 16 is preferably output by whichever of the second communication unit 14 and the fourth communication unit 18 is capable of wired communication with the third communication unit 16.

[0101] In the communication system 10, even when connected via a wired connection, it may be configured to output a wireless signal. In the first embodiment, after completing the processing in step S11, the control unit 52 omits the processing in step S12 and executes the processing in step S14. The control unit 52 omits the processing in step S15 and executes the processing in step S17. In the communication system 10 of the second embodiment, the first control unit 52A and the second control unit 52B perform the same processing.

[0102] In the second embodiment, one of the first control unit 52A, the second control unit 52B, and the third control unit 52C may be omitted. If the first control unit 52A is omitted, the second control unit 52B controls the first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14. If the second control unit 52B is omitted, the first control unit 52A controls the first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14. If the third control unit 52C is omitted, the second control unit 52B controls the second communication unit 14 and the third communication unit 16.

[0103] In the second embodiment, the second control unit 52B is the 3 emotions The transmission 30 may be controlled based on the report. In one example, 3 emotions The report includes information regarding the output of the motor unit 42. The second control unit 52B controls the transmission 30 so that the gear ratio becomes smaller when the output of the motor unit 42 is large, and controls the transmission 30 so that the gear ratio becomes larger when the output of the motor unit 42 is small.

[0104] In the second embodiment, the second control unit 52B may be configured to omit the processing in step S35 and, after the processing in step S36, control the transmission 30 based on the information about the transmission 30 contained in the third information.

[0105] As used herein, the expression "at least one" means "one or more" of the desired options. For example, as used herein, if there are two options, the expression "at least one" means "only one option" or "both of the two options." As another example, as used herein, the expression "at least one" means "only one option" or "any combination of two or more options" if there are three or more options. [Explanation of symbols]

[0106] 10...Communication system, 12...First communication unit, 14...Second communication unit, 16...Third communication unit, 20...Operating device, 30...Transmission device, 40...Component, 42...Motor unit, A...Human-powered vehicle, H...Handlebar.

Claims

1. A component installed in a human-powered vehicle, The vehicle includes a communication unit that receives predetermined information transmitted from the transmission of the aforementioned human-powered vehicle, The predetermined information includes information about the component, which is at least a part of the first information received by the transmission from the operating device mounted on the human-powered vehicle. The component includes a motor unit configured to provide propulsion to the human-powered vehicle.

2. The component according to claim 1, wherein the communication unit receives the predetermined information by wireless signal.

3. The component according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the operating device communicates with the transmission by wireless signal.

4. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the communication unit communicates with the transmission by wired signal.

5. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first information includes information relating to the transmission and information relating to the component.

6. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the predetermined information includes information relating to the transmission and information relating to the component.

7. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first information matches the predetermined information.

8. A communication system for human-powered vehicles, A component according to any one of claims 1 to 7, A communication system comprising the aforementioned components, the operating device, and at least one battery that supplies power to at least one of the transmissions.

9. The communication system according to claim 8, wherein the battery supplies power to the components and the transmission.

10. The communication system according to claim 9, wherein the battery supplies power to the components and the operating device.

11. The aforementioned battery is The transmission and the first battery that supplies power to the components, A communication system according to any one of claims 8 to 10, comprising a third battery that supplies power to the operating device.

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