Components for human-powered vehicles

Abstract

To provide a component for a human power driving vehicle which is suitably operable by power supplied from a power source.SOLUTION: A component for a human power driving vehicle includes a first voltage conversion part and a second voltage conversion part which are configured to be connected to a power source, and a control part. Each of the first voltage conversion part and the second voltage conversion part is configured to supply power of the power source to at least one of the control part and a connection part to which other components for the human power driving vehicle are connected. The second voltage conversion part has electric characteristics different from those of the first voltage conversion part. The control part controls the first voltage conversion part and the second voltage conversion part, and is configured to switch operating states of the first voltage conversion part and the second voltage conversion part to a first operating state where only the first voltage conversion part is activated, and a second operating state where only the second voltage conversion part is activated.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to components for human-powered vehicles.

Background Art

[0002] For example, the components for human-powered vehicles disclosed in Patent Document 1 operate by the electric power supplied from a power source.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] One object of this disclosure is to provide a component for a human-powered vehicle that can preferably operate by the electric power supplied from a power source.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A component for a human-powered vehicle according to a first aspect of the present disclosure comprises a first voltage converter configured to be connected to a power source, a second voltage converter configured to be connected to the power source, and a control unit, wherein the first voltage converter is configured to supply power from the power source to the control unit and at least one of the connection parts to which other components for the human-powered vehicle are connected, the second voltage converter is configured to supply power from the power source to the control unit and at least one of the connection parts, the second voltage converter has different electrical characteristics from the first voltage converter, and the control unit is configured to control the first voltage converter and the second voltage converter to switch the operating states of the first voltage converter and the second voltage converter between a first operating state in which only the first voltage converter is activated and a second operating state in which only the second voltage converter is activated. According to the components for the human-powered vehicle on the first side, the operating states of the first and second voltage converters can be switched to an operating state in which only the voltage converters with suitable electrical characteristics are activated, depending on the state of the control unit and at least one of the other components for the human-powered vehicle. Therefore, the first and second voltage converters can operate efficiently, and the components can be suitably operated by the power supplied from the power source.

[0006] In a component of a second aspect according to a first aspect of this disclosure, the electrical characteristics include characteristics relating to quiescent current, wherein the quiescent current of the second voltage converter is smaller than the quiescent current of the first voltage converter. According to the components on the second side, the power consumption of the power supply is reduced by using a second voltage conversion unit.

[0007] In a component of a third aspect relating to the first or second aspect of this disclosure, the electrical characteristics include characteristics relating to output current capacity, wherein the output current capacity of the second voltage converter is smaller than the output current capacity of the first voltage converter. According to the components on the third side, the use of the first voltage conversion unit supplies a large output current to the control unit and at least one of the other components.

[0008] In a component of a fourth aspect according to any one of the first to third aspects of this disclosure, the electrical characteristics include characteristics relating to power efficiency, wherein the first voltage converter has a power efficiency of 80% or more when outputting a current of 1 ampere or more. According to the components on the fourth side, the first voltage conversion unit is used to efficiently output a current of 1 ampere or more.

[0009] In a component of a fifth aspect according to any one of the first to fourth aspects of this disclosure, the electrical characteristics include characteristics relating to power efficiency, wherein the second voltage converter has a power efficiency of 40% or more when outputting a current in the range of 100 microamperes to 500 microamperes. According to the components on the fifth side, the second voltage conversion unit is used to efficiently output currents in the range of 100 microamperes to 500 microamperes.

[0010] In a component of a sixth aspect according to any one of the first to fifth aspects of this disclosure, the control unit and at least one of the other components are configured such that the power consumption state selectively switches between a first power consumption state and a second power consumption state in which the power consumption is lower than that of the first power consumption state. According to the component on the sixth side, the operating states of the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit are switched according to the power consumption state of the control unit and at least one other component.

[0011] In a component of the seventh aspect according to the sixth aspect of this disclosure, the first voltage converter has electrical characteristics suitable for use in the first power consumption state, the second voltage converter has electrical characteristics suitable for use in the second power consumption state, and the control unit is configured to control the first and second voltage converters in the first operating state when the first power consumption state is in effect, and to control the first and second voltage converters in the second operating state when the second power consumption state is in effect. According to the components on the seventh side, the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit are controlled in an operating state suitable for at least one power consumption state of the control unit and other components, so that they can operate efficiently.

[0012] In a component of the eighth aspect according to any one of the first to seventh aspects of this disclosure, the control unit is configured such that when switching the operating state from the first operating state to the second operating state, it activates the second voltage converter in the stopped state and then stops the first voltage converter in the activated state. According to the component on the eighth side, when switching the operating state from the first operating state to the second operating state, fluctuations in the voltage supplied to the control unit and at least one of the other components are suppressed.

[0013] In a component of the ninth aspect according to the eighth aspect of this disclosure, the control unit is configured such that when switching the operating state from the first operating state to the second operating state, it activates the second voltage converter in the stopped state, and then, after a predetermined first period has elapsed, it stops the first voltage converter in the activated state. According to the component on the ninth side, when switching the operating state from the first operating state to the second operating state, fluctuations in the voltage supplied to the control unit and at least one of the other components are more suppressed.

[0014] In a component of the tenth aspect according to any one of the first to ninth aspects of this disclosure, the control unit is configured such that when switching the operating state from the second operating state to the first operating state, it activates the first voltage converter in the stopped state and then stops the second voltage converter in the activated state. According to the component on the tenth side, when switching the operating state from the second operating state to the first operating state, fluctuations in the voltage supplied to the control unit and at least one of the other components are suppressed.

[0015] In a component of the eleventh aspect according to the tenth aspect of this disclosure, the control unit is configured such that when switching the operating state from the second operating state to the first operating state, it activates the first voltage converter in the stopped state, and then, after a predetermined second period has elapsed, it stops the second voltage converter in the activated state. According to the component on the 11th side, when switching the operating state from the second operating state to the first operating state, fluctuations in the voltage supplied to the control unit and at least one of the other components are further suppressed.

[0016] In a component of the twelfth aspect according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects of the present disclosure, the control unit is configured to receive an operation signal from a manually operable operating device, and when the control unit receives the operation signal, it is configured to switch the operating state from one of the first and second operating states to the other of the first and second operating states. According to the component on the 12th side, the rider of the human-powered vehicle operates the control device, thereby switching the operating state of the first voltage converter and the second voltage converter.

[0017] In a component of the 13th aspect according to the 6th or 7th aspect of this disclosure, the control unit is configured to receive an operation signal from a manually operable operating device, and when it receives the operation signal in the first operating state, it is configured to switch the operating state from the first operating state to the second operating state and to transmit a first control signal to the other component to switch the other component from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state. According to the component on the 13th side, when the rider of a human-powered vehicle operates the control device, the operating state of the first voltage converter and the second voltage converter are switched to the second operating state, and the power consumption state of other components is switched to the second power consumption state with lower power consumption.

[0018] In a component of the 14th aspect according to the 6th or 7th aspect of this disclosure, the control unit is configured to receive an operation signal from a manually operable operating device, and when it receives the operation signal in the second operating state, it is configured to switch the operating state from the second operating state to the first operating state and to transmit a second control signal to the other component to switch the other component from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state. According to the component on the 14th side, when the rider of a human-powered vehicle operates the control device, the operating state of the first voltage converter and the second voltage converter are switched to the first operating state, and the power consumption state of the other components is switched to the first power consumption state, which has a high power consumption.

[0019] A component according to any one of the first to fourteenth aspects of the present disclosure further includes a path switching circuit provided in a power line between the first voltage conversion unit, the second voltage conversion unit, and the connection unit. The path switching circuit has a first path and a second path arranged in parallel with the first path and having a resistor. The control unit is configured to control the path switching circuit such that current is supplied to the connection unit through the first path in the first operating state and current is supplied to the connection unit through the second path in the second operating state. According to the component of the fifteenth aspect, when another component is connected to the connection unit in the second operating state, the rush current flowing from the second voltage conversion unit to the connection unit through the second path to charge the capacitance of the other component is suppressed by the resistor.

[0020] A component according to any one of the first to fourteenth aspects of the present disclosure further includes a path switching circuit provided in a power line between the first voltage conversion unit, the second voltage conversion unit, and the connection unit. The path switching circuit has a resistor. The control unit is configured to control the path switching circuit such that the resistor is bypassed and current is supplied to the connection unit in the first operating state and current is supplied to the connection unit through the resistor in the second operating state. According to the component of the sixteenth aspect, when another component is connected to the connection unit in the second operating state, the rush current flowing from the second voltage conversion unit to the connection unit to charge the capacitance of the other component is limited by the resistor.

[0021] A component according to any one of the first to sixteenth aspects of the present disclosure further includes a capacitor and a discharge circuit configured to discharge the capacitor. The capacitor is connected to a power path between the first voltage conversion unit, the second voltage conversion unit, and the power supply. The control unit is configured to activate the discharge circuit when the power supply is disconnected from the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit in the second operating state. According to the component of the seventeenth aspect, when the power supply is disconnected from the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit in the second operating state, the discharge circuit quickly discharges the capacitor. Therefore, within a short period after the power supply is disconnected, the power supply can be reconnected to the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit when the residual charge of the capacitor is low.

[0022] In a component according to an eighteenth aspect of the seventeenth aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit is configured to execute a startup process for shifting the operating state to the second operating state when the power supply is connected to the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit. When the control unit executes the startup process, the control unit is configured to activate the discharge circuit. According to the component of the eighteenth aspect, since the discharge circuit discharges the capacitor during the execution of the startup process, the residual charge of the capacitor decreases when the power supply is disconnected from the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit during the execution of the startup process. Therefore, within a short period after the power supply is disconnected, the power supply can be reconnected to the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit when the residual charge of the capacitor is low.

[0023] In a component according to a nineteenth aspect of the seventeenth or eighteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit is configured to activate the discharge circuit when executing a return process for switching the operating state from the second operating state to the first operating state. According to the component on the 19th side, the discharge circuit discharges the capacitor during the recovery process, so that the residual charge on the capacitor is reduced when the power supply is disconnected from the first and second voltage converters during the recovery process. Therefore, the power supply can be reconnected to the first and second voltage converters within a short period of time after disconnection, with the residual charge on the capacitor being low.

[0024] A component of the 20th aspect according to any one of the 17th to 19th aspects of this disclosure further comprises a detection unit for detecting the connection between the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit and the power supply. According to the component on the 20th side, the control unit can activate the discharge circuit according to the detection result of the detection unit.

[0025] A component of the 21st aspect according to any one of the first to 20th aspects of this disclosure further comprises a motor configured to provide propulsion to the human-powered vehicle. According to the component of the 21st side, a component comprising a motor configured to impart propulsion to a human-powered vehicle can be suitably operated by power supplied from a power source. [Effects of the Invention]

[0026] The components for human-powered vehicles of this disclosure can be suitably operated by power supplied from a power source. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0027] [Figure 1] A side view of a human-powered vehicle including components for a human-powered vehicle according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] A block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the human-powered vehicle in Figure 1. [Figure 3] The first part of the flowchart showing an example of switching control performed by the components for a human-powered vehicle in the first power consumption state, as shown in Figure 2. [Figure 4]The second part of the flowchart in Figure 2 shows an example of switching control performed by the components for a human-powered vehicle in the second power consumption state. [Figure 5] Timing charts showing examples of operating states and power consumption states that change due to the switching control shown in Figures 3 and 4. [Figure 6] A block diagram showing the route switching circuit and its surrounding electrical configuration, which are included in the components for a human-powered vehicle according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] A block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a human-powered vehicle, including components for a human-powered vehicle according to a third embodiment. [Figure 8] A flowchart showing an example of discharge control performed by the components for a human-powered vehicle, as shown in Figure 7. [Figure 9] Figure 7 shows a timing chart illustrating an example of discharge control performed by a component for a human-powered vehicle when the power supply is connected. [Figure 10] Figure 7 shows a timing chart illustrating an example of discharge control performed by a component for a human-powered vehicle when the power supply is disconnected. [Figure 11] Figure 7 shows a timing chart illustrating an example of discharge control performed by the components for a human-powered vehicle when connecting power to the charger. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0028] <First Embodiment> Referring to Figures 1 to 5, components for a human-powered vehicle according to the first embodiment will be described. The human-powered vehicle 10 is a vehicle having at least one wheel and capable of being driven by at least human power. The human-powered vehicle 10 includes various types of bicycles, such as mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes, handbikes, and recumbent bikes. The number of wheels that the human-powered vehicle 10 has is not limited. The human-powered vehicle 10 also includes vehicles with two or more wheels, such as unicycles. The human-powered vehicle 10 is not limited to vehicles that can be driven solely by human power. The human-powered vehicle 10 includes e-bikes that utilize the driving force of an electric motor for propulsion in addition to human power. E-bikes include electric assist bicycles in which propulsion is assisted by an electric motor. Hereinafter, the human-powered vehicle 10 will be described as an electric assist bicycle.

[0029] The human-powered vehicle 10 includes at least one wheel 12 and a body 14. The at least one wheel 12 includes a front wheel 12F and a rear wheel 12R. The body 14 includes a frame 16. The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a crank 18 into which human power is input. The crank 18 includes a crankshaft 20 rotatable relative to the frame 16 and crank arms 22A, 22B. Each of the crank arms 22A, 22B is provided at the axial end of the crankshaft 20, respectively. Pedals 24A, 24B are connected to the crank arms 22A, 22B.

[0030] A front fork 26 is connected to the frame 16. A front wheel 12F is mounted on the front fork 26. A handlebar 28 is connected to the front fork 26 via a stem 30. The rear wheel 12R is supported by the frame 16. In this embodiment, a crank 18 is connected to the rear wheel 12R by a drive mechanism 32. The rear wheel 12R is driven by the rotation of the crankshaft 20. At least one of the front wheel 12F and the rear wheel 12R may be connected to the crank 18 by the drive mechanism 32.

[0031] The drive mechanism 32 includes a first rotating body 34 connected to the crankshaft 20. The first rotating body 34 includes a front sprocket. The first rotating body 34 may also include a pulley or a bevel gear. The crankshaft 20 may be connected to the front sprocket via a one-way clutch.

[0032] The drive mechanism 32 further includes a second rotating body 36 and a transmission member 38. The transmission member 38 is configured to transmit the rotational force of the first rotating body 34 to the second rotating body 36. The transmission member 38 includes a chain. The transmission member 38 may also include a belt or a shaft. The second rotating body 36 includes a rear sprocket. The second rotating body 36 may also include a pulley or a bevel gear. For example, the chain is wrapped around the front sprocket and the rear sprocket. For example, the second rotating body 36 is connected to the rear wheel 12R. The rear wheel 12R is configured to rotate in conjunction with the rotation of the second rotating body 36.

[0033] The human-powered vehicle 10 comprises a power supply 40, a first component 60, at least one other component 50 different from the first component 60, and an operating device 90. In Figure 2, two other components 50 are shown. The power supply 40 is configured to supply power to the first component 60, the other components 50, and the operating device 90. For example, the power supply 40 is a battery. The battery includes one or more battery elements. The battery elements include rechargeable batteries. The power supply 40 outputs a first voltage. For example, the first voltage is 36V.

[0034] Other components 50 are electrically connected to the power supply 40 and the first component 60. For example, other components 50 include at least one of a gearbox and a cycle computer.

[0035] The first component 60 includes a first voltage conversion unit 62 configured to be connected to a power supply 40, a second voltage conversion unit 64 configured to be connected to a power supply 40, and a control unit 66. The first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64 are connected in parallel to the power supply 40. For example, the first voltage conversion unit 62, the second voltage conversion unit 64, and the control unit 66 are provided on a circuit board of the first component 60. The first component 60 further includes a first connection unit 68 to which the power supply 40 is connected, and a second connection unit 70 to which other components 50 and the operating device 90 are connected.

[0036] For example, the first component 60 includes a reverse current prevention component 72. The reverse current prevention component 72 prevents current from flowing back into the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64. For example, one reverse current prevention component 72 is provided downstream of the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64. For example, the reverse current prevention component 72 is a Schottky barrier diode (SBD) or a field effect transistor (FET).

[0037] For example, the first component 60 includes an LDO (Low Drop Out) regulator 74. For example, the control unit 66 is connected to the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64 via the LDO regulator 74. The LDO regulator 74 converts the voltage of the power supplied from the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64. For example, the LDO regulator 74 converts the 8V voltage supplied from the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64 to 3.3V.

[0038] For example, the first component 60 further comprises a motor 76 configured to provide propulsion to the human-powered vehicle 10. For example, the first component 60 is a drive unit 60A. The drive unit 60A comprises a motor 76 and an inverter 78. For example, the drive unit 60A further comprises a housing 60B. The motor 76 is housed in the housing 60B. For example, the motor 76 is configured to transmit driving force to the crankshaft 20. For example, the motor 76 is connected to a power supply 40 via an inverter 78. For example, the inverter 78 is supplied with a first voltage from the power supply 40. For example, the inverter 78 is controlled by a control unit 66.

[0039] For example, the first component 60, the other components 50, and the operating device 90 are interconnected by power lines 42. For example, the first component 60 includes a communication unit 80. For example, the communication unit 80 is electrically connected to the control unit 66, the other components 50, and the operating device 90 via power lines 42. For example, the communication unit 80 is configured to perform power line communication (PLC). When the communication unit 80 performs power line communication, power lines 42 also function as communication lines used for PLC. The communication unit 80 may perform CAN (Controller Area Network) communication or UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter) communication. When the communication unit 80 performs CAN communication or UART communication, the human-powered vehicle 10 has communication lines different from power lines 42, and the communication unit 80 communicates via communication lines different from power lines 42. The first component 60 may be configured to wirelessly communicate with at least one of the other components 50 and the operating device 90.

[0040] For example, the first component 60 is connected to the power supply 40 in a communicative manner. For example, the control unit 66 communicates with the power supply 40 by at least one of power line communication, CAN, and UART. The first component 60 may also be configured to communicate wirelessly with the power supply 40.

[0041] The first voltage conversion unit 62 is configured to supply power from the power supply 40 to the control unit 66 and at least one of the second connection unit 70 to which other components 50 are connected. The second voltage conversion unit 64 is configured to supply power from the power supply 40 to the control unit 66 and at least one of the second connection unit 70. The second voltage conversion unit 64 has different electrical characteristics from the first voltage conversion unit 62. For example, the electrical characteristics include characteristics related to quiescent current, and the quiescent current of the second voltage conversion unit 64 is smaller than that of the first voltage conversion unit 62. For example, the quiescent current of the first voltage conversion unit 62 is 100 microamperes (μA) or more, and the quiescent current of the second voltage conversion unit 64 is about 15 microamperes. For example, the electrical characteristics include characteristics related to output current capacity, and the output current capacity of the second voltage conversion unit 64 is smaller than that of the first voltage conversion unit 62. For example, the output current capacity of the first voltage conversion unit 62 is 3.5 amperes or more, and the output current capacity of the second voltage conversion unit 64 is approximately 0.8 amperes. For example, the electrical characteristics include characteristics related to power supply efficiency, and the first voltage conversion unit 62 has a power supply efficiency of 80% or more when outputting a current of 1 ampere or more. For example, the second voltage conversion unit 64 has a power supply efficiency of 40% or more when outputting a current in the range of 100 microamperes to 500 microamperes.

[0042] The first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64 are both connected to the first connection unit 68 and convert the voltage of the power input from the power supply 40. For example, the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64 convert the first voltage supplied from the power supply 40 to a second voltage. For example, the second voltage is 8V. For example, the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64 include a converter. The converter includes a step-down DC / DC converter. For example, the second voltage conversion unit 64 is a converter whose switching method is pulse skip mode.

[0043] The control unit 66 includes an arithmetic processing unit that executes a predetermined control program. The arithmetic processing unit included in the control unit 66 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The arithmetic processing units included in the control unit 66 may be located in multiple locations that are far apart from each other. The control unit 66 may include one or more microcomputers. The control unit 66 is communicated with the power supply 40 by wire or wireless means. The control unit 66 is configured to receive power from the power supply 40.

[0044] For example, the control unit 66 includes a storage unit. The storage unit stores control programs and information used for control processing. The storage unit includes, for example, 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).

[0045] The control unit 66 is configured to control the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64. The control unit 66 is configured to control the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64 to switch the operating states of the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64. For example, the control unit 66 switches the operating states of the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64 between a first operating state in which only the first voltage conversion unit 62 is activated and a second operating state in which only the second voltage conversion unit 64 is activated.

[0046] For example, when the control unit 66 switches the operating state from a first operating state to a second operating state, it is configured to activate the second voltage converter 64, which is in a stopped state, and then to stop the first voltage converter 62, which is in an activated state. Preferably, the control unit 66 is configured to activate the second voltage converter 64, which is in a stopped state, and then to stop the first voltage converter 62, which is in an activated state, after a predetermined first period has elapsed. For example, the first period is set to be longer than the period that is expected to be necessary for the activation of the second voltage converter 64 to be completed.

[0047] For example, when the control unit 66 switches the operating state from the second operating state to the first operating state, it is configured to activate the first voltage conversion unit 62, which is in a stopped state, and then to stop the second voltage conversion unit 64, which is in an activated state. Preferably, the control unit 66 is configured to activate the first voltage conversion unit 62, which is in a stopped state, and then to stop the second voltage conversion unit 64, which is in an activated state, after a predetermined second period has elapsed. For example, the second period is set to be longer than the period that is expected to be required for the activation of the first voltage conversion unit 62 to be completed. The time required for the activation of the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64 differs depending on the electrical characteristics of each voltage conversion unit 62 and 64. For example, the first voltage conversion unit 62 takes longer to activate than the second voltage conversion unit 64. Therefore, the second period is set to be longer than the first period.

[0048] For example, the control unit 66 and at least one of the other components 50 are configured to selectively switch between a first power consumption state and a second power consumption state in which power consumption is lower than that of the first power consumption state. For example, the control unit 66 and at least one of the other components 50 are configured to perform normal operation in the first power consumption state. For example, the control unit 66 and at least one of the other components 50 are configured to have restricted operation in the second power consumption state. For example, the control unit 66 and at least one of the other components 50 are configured not to perform normal operation while not receiving a communication signal in the second power consumption state. For example, the control unit 66 and at least one of the other components 50 start up in the second power consumption state when connected to the power supply 40.

[0049] For example, the first voltage conversion unit 62 has electrical characteristics suitable for use in a first power consumption state. For example, in the first power consumption state, the first voltage conversion unit 62 is required to output a current of several amperes or more. For example, the first voltage conversion unit 62 has an output current capacity of 3.5 amperes (A) or more. For example, the second voltage conversion unit 64 has electrical characteristics suitable for use in a second power consumption state. For example, in the second power consumption state, the second voltage conversion unit 64 is required to output a current of tens to hundreds of microamperes and have high power efficiency. For example, when the second voltage conversion unit 64 outputs a current in the range of 100 microamperes to 500 microamperes, it has a relatively high power efficiency of 40% or more.

[0050] For example, the control unit 66 is configured to control the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64, which are in a first operating state, when the first power consumption state is in effect. For example, when the first power consumption state is in effect, the control unit 66 activates the first voltage conversion unit 62 and stops the second voltage conversion unit 64. The first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64 are controlled in a first operating state suitable for the first power consumption state. The control unit 66 is configured to control the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64, which are in a second operating state, when the second power consumption state is in effect. For example, when the second power consumption state is in effect, the control unit 66 activates the second voltage conversion unit 64 and stops the first voltage conversion unit 62. The first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64 are controlled in a second operating state suitable for the second power consumption state.

[0051] For example, the control unit 66 and at least one of the other components 50 enter a second power-off state instead of a power-off state where they completely stop operating. In the second power-off state, the control unit 66 activates the second voltage converter 64, which has a low self-consumption current, thereby reducing the power consumption of the power supply 40. As a result, the power supply 40 can be used for a long period of time.

[0052] For example, the control unit 66 is configured to receive operation signals from a manually operable operating device 90. For example, the operating device 90 is configured to operate at least one of the first component 60 and other components 50. For example, the operating device 90 is configured to operate at least one of the drive unit 60A, the transmission, and the cycle computer. For example, the operating device 90 includes at least one switch. For example, each switch includes an electrical switch. If each switch includes an electrical switch, the switching state of the electrical switch may be switched, the electrical contacts of the electrical switch may be connected, or the electrical contacts of the electrical switch may be opened in response to the movement of an operating member provided on the operating device 90. The operating device 90 outputs an operation signal in response to manual operation. For example, the operation signal includes at least one of an operation signal to turn the drive unit 60A on or off, an operation signal to change the assist mode of the drive unit 60A, and an operation signal to switch the gear shift stage of the transmission.

[0053] For example, when the control unit 66 receives an operation signal, the control unit 66 is configured to switch the power consumption state from one of the first power consumption state and the second power consumption state to the other of the first power consumption state and the second power consumption state. For example, when the control unit 66 receives an operation signal in the first power consumption state, it is configured to switch the power consumption state from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state. For example, when the control unit 66 receives an operation signal in the second power consumption state, it is configured to switch the power consumption state from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state.

[0054] For example, when the control unit 66 receives an operation signal, the control unit 66 is configured to switch the operating state from one of the first operating state and the second operating state to the other of the first operating state and the second operating state.

[0055] For example, when the control unit 66 receives an operation signal in the first operating state, it switches the operating state from the first operating state to the second operating state and transmits a first control signal to the other component 50 to switch the other component 50 from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state. For example, when the control unit 66 receives an operation signal in the first operating state, it switches the operating state from the first operating state to the second operating state. Preferably, after switching the operating state, the control unit 66 transmits a first control signal to the other component 50 and switches from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state. The other component 50 switches from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state in response to receiving the first control signal.

[0056] For example, when the control unit 66 receives an operation signal in the second operating state, it is configured to switch the operating state from the second operating state to the first operating state and to transmit a second control signal to the other component 50 to switch the other component 50 from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state. For example, when the control unit 66 receives an operation signal in the second operating state, it transmits a second control signal to the other component 50 and switches from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state. The other component 50 switches from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state in response to receiving the second control signal. Preferably, after the control unit 66 and the other component 50 have finished switching to the first power consumption state, the control unit 66 switches the operating state from the second operating state to the first operating state.

[0057] Referring to Figures 3 and 4, an example of the switching control of the operating state and power consumption state performed by the control unit 66 in this embodiment will be described. When power is supplied from the power supply 40, the control unit 66 proceeds to step S11 and starts processing. The control unit 66 performs the switching control shown in Figures 3 and 4 at predetermined intervals. When the power supply from the power supply 40 is stopped, the control unit 66 stops processing.

[0058] As shown in Figure 3, in step S11, the control unit 66 determines whether its power consumption state is the first power consumption state. If the power consumption state is the first power consumption state (YES), the control unit 66 proceeds to step S12. In step S12, the control unit 66 determines whether it has received an operation signal from the operating device 90. If it has received an operation signal (YES), the control unit 66 proceeds to step S13. If it has not received an operation signal (NO), the control unit 66 terminates processing.

[0059] In step S13, the control unit 66 activates the second voltage conversion unit 64. The control unit 66 proceeds to step S14 and determines whether the first period has elapsed since the start of activation of the second voltage conversion unit 64. If the first period has elapsed (YES), the control unit 66 proceeds to step S15. In this embodiment, if the first period has elapsed since the start of activation of the second voltage conversion unit 64, it corresponds to the completion of activation of the second voltage conversion unit 64. If the first period has not elapsed since the start of activation of the second voltage conversion unit 64 (NO), the control unit 66 repeats the process in step S14.

[0060] In step S15, the control unit 66 stops the first voltage conversion unit 62. The control unit 66 proceeds to step S16 and transmits a first control signal to the other component 50. In response to receiving the first control signal, the other component 50 switches from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state. The other component 50 may transmit a switching completion signal to the control unit 66 when the power consumption state switching is complete. The control unit 66 proceeds to step S17 and switches the power consumption state of the control unit 66 from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state, and terminates the process.

[0061] As a result of the above process, the second voltage conversion unit 64 is activated and the first voltage conversion unit 62 is stopped. Therefore, the operating state of the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64 is switched from the first operating state to the second operating state. After the operating state is switched, the power consumption state of the control unit 66 and other components 50 is switched from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state.

[0062] In step S11 of Figure 3, if the power consumption state of the control unit 66 is not the first power consumption state (NO), the control unit 66 proceeds to step S18 of Figure 4. In this embodiment, if the power consumption state of the control unit 66 is not the first power consumption state, it corresponds to the second power consumption state. In step S18, the control unit 66 determines whether or not it has received an operation signal from the operating device 90. If an operation signal is received (YES), the control unit 66 proceeds to step S19. If an operation signal is not received (NO), the control unit 66 terminates processing.

[0063] In step S19, the control unit 66 transmits a second control signal to the other component 50. In response to receiving the second control signal, the other component 50 switches from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state. The control unit 66 proceeds to step S20 and determines whether the control unit 66 and the other component 50 have completed switching from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state. For example, the control unit 66 determines that the other component 50 has completed switching to the first power consumption state when it receives a switching completion signal from the other component 50. In step S20, if the switch to the first power consumption state is complete (YES), the control unit 66 proceeds to step S21. If the switch to the first power consumption state is not complete (NO), the control unit 66 repeats the process in step S20.

[0064] In step S21, the control unit 66 activates the first voltage conversion unit 62. The control unit 66 proceeds to step S22 and determines whether a second period has elapsed since the start of activation of the first voltage conversion unit 62. If the second period has elapsed (YES), the control unit 66 proceeds to step S23. In this embodiment, if a second period has elapsed since the start of activation of the first voltage conversion unit 62, it corresponds to the completion of activation of the first voltage conversion unit 62. If the second period has not elapsed (NO), the control unit 66 repeats the process in step S22. In step S23, the control unit 66 stops the second voltage conversion unit 64 and terminates the process.

[0065] As a result of the above process, the first voltage conversion unit 62 is activated and the second voltage conversion unit 64 is stopped. Therefore, the operating state of the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64 is switched from the second operating state to the first operating state. The switching of the operating state is performed after the control unit 66 and other components 50 have completed switching from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state.

[0066] Referring to Figure 5, an example of changes in the operating state and power consumption state resulting from the switching control shown in Figures 3 and 4 is explained. Figure 5 shows the change in the power consumption state of the control unit 66, but the timing of the changes in the power consumption state of the other components 50 is substantially the same as the timing of the changes in the power consumption state of the control unit 66.

[0067] When an operation signal is received by the control unit 66 at time t11, a switch from the first operating state to the second operating state and a switch from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state occur during the period from time t11 to time t15.

[0068] At time t11, the second voltage conversion unit 64 begins to activate. At time t12, the activation of the second voltage conversion unit 64 is completed. At time t13, after the first period has elapsed from time t11, the first voltage conversion unit 62 begins to stop. The first period is set so that the time t13, when the first voltage conversion unit 62 begins to stop, is the same as or later than the time t12, when the activation of the second voltage conversion unit 64 is completed. At time t14, the shutdown of the first voltage conversion unit 62 is completed. Therefore, the switching of the operating states of the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64 from the first operating state to the second operating state is completed. Subsequently, at time t15, the power consumption state of the control unit 66 is switched from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state.

[0069] When an operation signal is received by the control unit 66 at time t16, a switch from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state and a switch from the second operating state to the first operating state occur during the period from time t16 to time t20.

[0070] At time t16, the power consumption state of the control unit 66 is switched from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state. After the power consumption state switch is complete, at time t17, the first voltage conversion unit 62 starts to activate. At time t18, the activation of the first voltage conversion unit 62 is completed. At time t19, after the second period has elapsed from time t17, the second voltage conversion unit 64 starts to stop. The second period is set so that the time t19 when the second voltage conversion unit 64 starts to stop is the same as or later than the time t18 when the activation of the first voltage conversion unit 62 is completed. At time t20, the shutdown of the second voltage conversion unit 64 is completed. Therefore, the switching of the operating states of the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64 from the second operating state to the first operating state is completed.

[0071] For example, when the control unit 66 switches the operating state of the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64, it activates one of the voltage conversion units 62 and 64 that is in a stopped state, and then stops the other voltage conversion unit 62 and 64 that is in an activated state.

[0072] As shown in Figure 5, the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64 output predetermined voltages V1 and V2, respectively, when activated. For example, voltages V1 and V2 are equal. By switching the operating state as described above, the voltage in the power line 42 used for PLC communication is maintained at a predetermined voltage V3. For example, voltages V1, V2, and V3 are 8V. For example, the voltage output from the LDO regulator 74 to the control unit 66 is maintained at a predetermined voltage V4. For example, voltage V4 is 3.3V.

[0073] For example, the other component 50 and the LDO regulator 74 are configured to reset if the supplied power is interrupted. Therefore, the control unit 66 can prevent the other component 50 and the LDO regulator 74 from resetting by maintaining the voltage supplied from the voltage conversion units 62 and 64 to the other component 50 and the LDO regulator 74 at a predetermined value V3.

[0074] The voltage conversion units 62 and 64 are prone to generating ripple in the power line 42 at the point when the output voltage begins to rise from 0V and at the point when the output voltage begins to fall from voltages V1 and V2. The ripple is transmitted to the communication unit 80 via the power line 42. The communication unit 80 may mistakenly recognize the transmitted ripple as a communication signal.

[0075] For example, the control unit 66 is configured to switch the operating states of the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64 in the first power consumption state. The control unit 66 is configured not to switch the operating states in the second power consumption state. Therefore, the generation of ripple by the voltage conversion units 62 and 64 is suppressed in the second power consumption state. Therefore, the frequency with which the communication unit 80 mistakenly recognizes ripple as a communication signal is suppressed in the second power consumption state. For example, in the second power consumption state, the control unit 66 and at least one of the other components 50 are configured not to perform normal operation when not receiving a communication signal. Therefore, in the second power consumption state, the operation of the control unit 66 and at least one of the other components 50 due to ripple is suppressed.

[0076] <Second Embodiment> The components for a human-powered vehicle according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 2 and 6. Components common to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and redundant descriptions are omitted. Figure 6 corresponds to the part indicated by reference numeral 6 in Figure 2.

[0077] The first component 60 of this embodiment further comprises a path switching circuit 100 provided in the power line 44 between the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64 and the second connection unit 70. The path switching circuit 100 has a resistor 102. For example, the control unit 66 is configured to control the path switching circuit 100 such that in the first operating state, current is supplied to the second connection unit 70 by bypassing the resistor 102, and in the second operating state, current is supplied to the second connection unit 70 via the resistor 102.

[0078] For example, the path switching circuit 100 includes a first path 104 and a second path 106 arranged in parallel with the first path 104 and having a resistor 102. For example, the control unit 66 is configured to control the path switching circuit 100 such that current is supplied to the second connection 70 via the first path 104 in the first operating state, and current is supplied to the second connection 70 via the second path 106 in the second operating state.

[0079] For example, as shown in Figure 6, the path switching circuit 100 has field-effect transistors (FETs) 108A and 108B provided in the first path 104. The field-effect transistors 108A and 108B are, for example, a first P-channel field-effect transistor 108A and a second P-channel field-effect transistor 108B connected in series with each other to form a series connection. The path switching circuit 100 also has two first resistors 110 connected to the first end of the series connection and two second resistors 112 connected to the second end of the series connection. The two first resistors 110 are connected in series with each other. The two second resistors 112 are connected in series with each other. The gate of the first P-channel field-effect transistor 108A is connected between the two first resistors 110. The gate of the second P-channel field-effect transistor 108B is connected between the two second resistors 112. The path switching circuit 100 further includes a first N-channel field-effect transistor 108C connected in series with the first resistor 110, and a second N-channel field-effect transistor 108D connected in series with the second resistor 112.

[0080] For example, the control unit 66 is configured to switch the first N-channel field-effect transistor 108C and the second N-channel field-effect transistor 108D to the ON state by inputting ON signals to the gates of the first N-channel field-effect transistor 108C and the second N-channel field-effect transistor 108D in the first operating state. When the first N-channel field-effect transistor 108C and the second N-channel field-effect transistor 108D are switched to the ON state, the first P-channel field-effect transistor 108A and the second P-channel field-effect transistor 108B are also switched to the ON state. Therefore, as the first path 104 conducts, current flows through the first path 104, while it does not flow through the second path 106 which has the resistor 102.

[0081] For example, in the second operating state, the control unit 66 is configured to switch the first N-channel field-effect transistor 108C and the second N-channel field-effect transistor 108D to the off state by inputting an off signal to the gate of the first N-channel field-effect transistor 108C and the gate of the second N-channel field-effect transistor 108D. When the first N-channel field-effect transistor 108C and the second N-channel field-effect transistor 108D are switched to the off state, the first P-channel field-effect transistor 108A and the second P-channel field-effect transistor 108B are also switched to the off state. Therefore, with the first path 104 blocked, current does not flow through the first path 104 but flows through the second path 106 which has a resistor 102.

[0082] When the power line 42 to which the other component 50 or the operating device 90 is connected is connected to the second connection part 70, a relatively large current for charging the capacitor of the other component 50 or the capacitor of the operating device 90 is supplied from the first voltage conversion unit 62 or the second voltage conversion unit 64 to the second connection part 70 via the power line 44. This relatively large current for charging the capacitor of the other component 50 or the capacitor of the operating device 90 is called the inrush current. The communication unit 80 connected to the power line 44 includes a voltage conversion circuit with a relatively small current capacity used in the second power consumption state. When the first component 60 is in the second power consumption state, the operating state of the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64 is the second operating state.

[0083] In the second operating state, when the power line 42 is connected to the second connection part 70, there is a possibility that an inrush current exceeding the current capacity will flow through the voltage conversion circuit of the communication unit 80. In this embodiment, in the second operating state in which only the second voltage conversion unit 64 is activated, the control unit 66 controls the path switching circuit 100 so that current is supplied to the second connection part 70 via the resistor 102. Therefore, the magnitude of the inrush current is limited by the resistor 102, and the inrush current exceeding the current capacity flowing through the voltage conversion circuit of the communication unit 80 is suppressed.

[0084] <Third Embodiment> The components for a human-powered vehicle according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 7 to 10. Components common to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0085] The first component 60 of this embodiment further comprises a capacitor 120 and a discharge circuit 130 configured to discharge the capacitor 120. The capacitor 120 is connected to the power path between the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64 and the power supply 40. For example, the first connection part 68 of the first component 60 has a first positive terminal 68A and a first negative terminal 68B. For example, the power supply 40 comprises a third connection part 122. The third connection part 122 has a second positive terminal 122A and a second negative terminal 122B. The first positive terminal 68A is connected to the second positive terminal 122A via a positive power line 124, and the first negative terminal 68B is connected to the second negative terminal 122B via a negative power line 126. For example, capacitor 120 is an electrolytic capacitor and has a positive terminal connected to the first positive terminal 68A and a negative terminal connected to the first negative terminal 68B. The negative terminal is connected to ground. When the power supply 40 is connected to the first component 60, capacitor 120 is charged by the power from the power supply 40.

[0086] For example, the discharge circuit 130 is connected to the power path between the control unit 66 and the LDO regulator 74. For example, the discharge circuit 130 includes a field-effect transistor 132 and a resistor 134. The field-effect transistor 132 controls the current flowing through the resistor 134. The resistor 134 is connected to ground. The control unit 66 activates the discharge circuit 130 by controlling the voltage applied to the gate of the field-effect transistor 132. When the discharge circuit 130 is activated, the power path between the control unit 66 and the LDO regulator 74 conducts to ground. In this embodiment, when a voltage is applied to the gate of the field-effect transistor 132, it interrupts the flow of current in the discharge circuit 130. The discharge circuit 130 is activated to allow discharge when no voltage is applied to the gate of the field-effect transistor 132. The control unit 66 activates the discharge circuit 130 by stopping the application of voltage to the gate of the field-effect transistor 132. Since the current capacity in the power path between the control unit 66 and the LDO regulator 74 is relatively small, the size and cost of the field-effect transistor 132 and resistor 134 of the discharge circuit 130 can be reduced.

[0087] For example, the first component 60 further comprises a third terminal 142 and a fourth terminal 144. The third terminal 142 and the fourth terminal 144 are provided in the first connection part 68. For example, the power supply 40 comprises a fifth terminal 146 and a sixth terminal 148. The fifth terminal 146 and the sixth terminal 148 are provided in the third connection part 122. For example, the power supply 40 and the control unit 66 are communicated together by a first communication line 150 and a second communication line 152. The first communication line 150 connects the power supply 40 and the control unit 66 via the third terminal 142 and the fifth terminal 146. The second communication line 152 connects the power supply 40 and the control unit 66 via the fourth terminal 144 and the sixth terminal 148. For example, the power supply 40 and the control unit 66 perform UART communication or CAN communication via the first communication line 150 and the second communication line 152. For example, the power supply 40 transmits a signal to the control unit 66 via the first communication line 150. The control unit 66 transmits a signal to the power supply 40 via the second communication line 152.

[0088] For example, the first component 60 further includes a detection unit 154 that detects the connection between the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64 and the power supply 40. For example, the detection unit 154 is connected to the first communication line 150. For example, the detection unit 154 includes a first detection terminal 154A and a second detection terminal 154B. The first detection terminal 154A is connected to the first communication line 150. The second detection terminal 154B is connected to ground. The detection unit 154 has a contact circuit. The contact circuit is configured to switch between an ON state in which the first detection terminal 154A and the second detection terminal 154B are electrically connected and an OFF state in which the first detection terminal 154A and the second detection terminal 154B are electrically disconnected. For example, the contact circuit is a normally closed contact circuit. For example, the contact circuit includes a photoMOS relay or a D-MOS, etc. For example, the first component 60 has a power supply IC 82 that transmits a signal to the contact circuit. For example, when power is supplied from the LDO regulator 74, the power supply IC 82 transmits a signal to the contact circuit. For example, the power supply IC 82 outputs a negative voltage as a signal to the contact circuit. For example, when the contact circuit receives a signal from the power supply IC 82, it switches from an on state to an off state.

[0089] For example, the fifth terminal 146 of the power supply 40 is maintained at a pull-up voltage. When the power supply 40 is connected to the first component 60, the fifth terminal 146 is connected to the detection unit 154, whose contact circuit is in the ON state. Therefore, the pull-up voltage of the fifth terminal 146 drops to ground level. For example, the power supply 40 determines that it is connected to the first component 60 by detecting the drop in the pull-up voltage of the fifth terminal 146 to ground level. When the power supply 40 determines that it is connected to the first component 60, it is configured to supply power to the first positive terminal 68A. When power is supplied to the first component 60, the power supply IC 82 sends a signal to the contact circuit of the detection unit 154. When the contact circuit receives the signal from the power supply IC 82, it switches from the ON state to the OFF state, and the pull-up voltage of the fifth terminal 146 returns from ground level.

[0090] When the power supply 40 is disconnected from the first component 60, the fifth terminal 146, which has a pull-up voltage, is disconnected, causing the voltage level of the first communication line 150 in the first component 60 to drop to ground level. The control unit 66 detects the drop in the voltage level of the first communication line 150 to ground level and determines that the power supply 40 has been disconnected from the first component 60.

[0091] When the power supply 40 is disconnected from the first component 60, the capacitor 120 begins to discharge. While the capacitor 120 is discharging, power is supplied to the power supply IC 82, so the contact circuit of the detection unit 154 is in the off state. Therefore, if the power supply 40 is reconnected to the first component 60 before the discharge of the capacitor 120 is complete, the pull-up voltage of the fifth terminal 146 will not drop to ground level, and the power supply 40 will not be able to detect that it has been connected to the first component 60. For this reason, it is desirable to discharge the capacitor 120 as quickly as possible when the power supply 40 is disconnected from the first component 60.

[0092] When the power supply 40 is disconnected from the first component 60 in the first operating state, the first component 60 is in a first power consumption state with high power consumption. Therefore, the power remaining in the capacitor 120 is quickly consumed by the first component 60, and the discharge of the capacitor 120 is completed quickly. When the power supply 40 is disconnected from the first component 60 in the second operating state, the first component 60 is in a second power consumption state with low power consumption. Therefore, the power remaining in the capacitor 120 is not quickly consumed by the first component 60, and it takes time for the discharge of the capacitor 120 to be completed.

[0093] In this embodiment, the control unit 66 is configured to activate the discharge circuit 130 when the power supply 40 is disconnected from the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64 in the second operating state. When the power supply 40 is disconnected from the first component 60 in the second operating state, the control unit 66 activates the discharge circuit 130 to discharge the capacitor 120. The power remaining in the capacitor 120 is quickly discharged through the activated discharge circuit 130.

[0094] For example, in the second operating state, the control unit 66 maintains the discharge circuit 130 in a deactivated state by applying a voltage to the gate of the field-effect transistor 132 of the discharge circuit 130. When the control unit 66 detects a drop in the voltage level of the first communication line 150 to ground level while the discharge circuit 130 is in a deactivated state, it determines that the power supply 40 has been disconnected from the first component 60. When the control unit 66 determines that the power supply 40 has been disconnected from the first component 60, it activates the discharge circuit 130 by stopping the application of voltage to the gate of the field-effect transistor 132 of the discharge circuit 130.

[0095] For example, the control unit 66 is configured to perform a startup process to transition the operating state to the second operating state when the power supply 40 is connected to the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64. When the control unit 66 performs the startup process, it is configured to activate the discharge circuit 130. For example, when the power supply 40 is connected to the first component 60 and power is supplied to the first component 60, the control unit 66 performs the startup process and transitions the operating state to the second operating state. If the power supply 40 is disconnected from the first component 60 while the startup process is in progress, the capacitor 120 begins to discharge.

[0096] During the startup process, the power consumption of the first component 60 is small, so it takes time for the capacitor 120 to discharge. Therefore, when the startup process is executed, the control unit 66 activates the discharge circuit 130 to quickly discharge the capacitor 120. For example, the control unit 66 activates the discharge circuit 130 by stopping the application of voltage to the gate of the field-effect transistor 132 of the discharge circuit 130 while the startup process is being executed. When the startup process is complete, the control unit 66 transitions the operating state to the second operating state and deactivates the discharge circuit 130 by applying voltage to the gate of the field-effect transistor 132.

[0097] For example, the control unit 66 is configured to activate the discharge circuit 130 when it performs a recovery process to switch the operating state from the second operating state to the first operating state. For example, when the control unit 66 receives a recovery interrupt signal in the second operating state, it performs a recovery process to switch the operating state to the first operating state. Signals that the control unit 66 recognizes as a recovery interrupt signal include, for example, an operation signal output by the operating device 90 and a low-level pulse signal output from the power supply 40 via the first communication line 150. The operation signal output by the operating device 90 is, for example, a voltage signal exceeding a predetermined amplitude. For example, the low-level pulse signal output from the power supply 40 continues for a predetermined time, for example, 10 milliseconds or more. For example, when the recovery condition is met during the execution of the recovery process, the control unit 66 switches the operating state from the second operating state to the first operating state. When the recovery condition is not met after a predetermined time has elapsed during the execution of the recovery process, the control unit 66 maintains the operating state in the second operating state. The recovery condition is met, for example, when the signal recognized as a recovery interrupt signal can be identified as an operation signal output by the operating device 90.

[0098] For example, if the connection between the power supply 40 and the first component 60 is disconnected, or if the power supply from the power supply 40 to the first component 60 is stopped, the control unit 66 receives a low-level pulse signal that lasts for a predetermined time or longer via the first communication line 150. In order to detect that the power supply from the power supply 40 has been restored, it is necessary to discharge the capacitor 120 quickly. However, during the recovery process, the power consumption of the first component 60 is small, so the discharge time of the capacitor 120 becomes long. Therefore, the control unit 66 activates the discharge circuit 130 during the recovery process.

[0099] For example, the control unit 66 is configured to activate the discharge circuit 130 when the power supply 40 is connected to the charger. For example, when the power supply 40 is connected to the charger, the capacitor 120 is discharged. Once the discharge of the capacitor 120 is complete, charging of the power supply 40 begins. Therefore, in order to start charging quickly after the power supply 40 is connected to the charger, the control unit 66 activates the discharge circuit 130 when the power supply 40 is connected to the charger.

[0100] Referring to Figure 8, the discharge control performed by the control unit 66 in this embodiment will be described. When power is supplied from the power supply 40, the control unit 66 proceeds to step S31 and starts processing. The control unit 66 performs the discharge control shown in Figure 8 at predetermined intervals. When the power supply from the power supply 40 is stopped, the control unit 66 stops processing.

[0101] In step S31, the control unit 66 determines whether or not the startup process is currently being executed. If the startup process is currently being executed (YES), the control unit 66 proceeds to step S36. If the startup process is not currently being executed (NO), the control unit 66 proceeds to step S32.

[0102] In step S32, the control unit 66 determines whether the power supply 40 is connected to the charger. If the power supply 40 is connected to the charger (YES), the control unit 66 proceeds to step S36. If the power supply 40 is not connected to the charger (NO), the control unit 66 proceeds to step S33.

[0103] In step S33, the control unit 66 determines whether the operating state is the second operating state. If the operating state is the second operating state (YES), the control unit 66 proceeds to step S34. If the operating state is not the second operating state (NO), the control unit 66 terminates the process.

[0104] In step S34, the control unit 66 determines whether the power supply 40 has been disconnected from the first component 60. If the power supply 40 has been disconnected from the first component 60 (YES), the control unit 66 proceeds to step S36. If the power supply 40 has not been disconnected from the first component 60 (NO), the control unit 66 proceeds to step S35.

[0105] In step S35, the control unit 66 determines whether or not it has received a reset interrupt signal. If it has received a reset interrupt signal (YES), the control unit 66 proceeds to step S36. If it has not received a reset interrupt signal (NO), the control unit 66 terminates processing. In step S36, the control unit 66 activates the discharge circuit 130. As a result of the processing in step S36, the capacitor 120 is discharged.

[0106] The discharge control performed by the control unit 66 will be described with reference to Figures 9 to 11. Figure 9 shows an example of discharge control performed when the power supply 40 is connected to the first component 60.

[0107] At time t21, the power supply 40 is connected to the first component 60. When the power supply 40 is connected to the first component 60, power is supplied from the power supply 40 to the first positive terminal 68A, so the potential at the first positive terminal 68A begins to rise. At time t21, the fifth terminal 146, which is maintained at a pull-up voltage, is connected to the detection unit 154, whose contact circuit is in the ON state, so the potential at the fifth terminal 146 begins to drop to ground level.

[0108] The power supplied from the power supply 40 to the first positive terminal 68A is converted by the second voltage conversion unit 64. Therefore, at time t22, the voltage output by the second voltage conversion unit 64 begins to rise. The power supplied from the power supply 40, converted by the second voltage conversion unit 64, is then converted by the LDO regulator 74. Therefore, at time t22, the voltage output by the LDO regulator 74 begins to rise.

[0109] At time t23, the voltage output by the second voltage conversion unit 64 and the LDO regulator 74 has finished rising. Once the voltage output by the LDO regulator 74 has finished rising, the power supply IC 82 begins to send a signal to the contact circuit of the detection unit 154, so the potential output by the power supply IC 82 begins to decrease. At time t23, the potential in the control unit 66 has finished rising, so the potential of the second communication line 152, which transmits a signal from the control unit 66 to the power supply 40, begins to rise. Consequently, the potentials of the fourth terminal 144 and the sixth terminal 148 begin to rise.

[0110] At time t24, the potential of the second communication line 152 has finished rising, and therefore the potentials of the fourth terminal 144 and the sixth terminal 148 have finished rising. At time t24, the potential output by the power supply IC 82 has finished decreasing. Once the potential output by the power supply IC 82 has finished decreasing, the contact circuit of the detection unit 154 turns off, and the pull-up voltage of the fifth terminal 146 begins to rise. Consequently, the potential of the third terminal 142 and the potential of the first communication line 150 begin to rise.

[0111] The discharge circuit 130 is activated from time t24 until time t25, when a predetermined time has elapsed. Until time t25, the control unit 66 does not apply a voltage to the gate of the field-effect transistor 132 of the discharge circuit 130. At time t25, the control unit 66 applies a voltage to the gate of the field-effect transistor 132 of the discharge circuit 130. For example, the predetermined time from time t24 to time t25 is the time it takes for the startup process to be completed. For example, the predetermined time is approximately 1 second.

[0112] Figure 10 shows an example of discharge control performed when the power supply 40 is disconnected from the first component 60 in the second operating state. At time t31, the power supply 40 is disconnected from the first component 60. Since power is no longer supplied from the power supply 40 to the first component 60, the capacitor 120 begins to discharge. Consequently, the potential of the first positive terminal 68A begins to decrease. At time t31, the potential of the sixth terminal 148 begins to decrease. At time t31, the potential of the third terminal 142 begins to decrease. Consequently, the potential of the first communication line 150 in the first component 60 begins to decrease. The potential of the fourth terminal 144 is maintained by the residual charge of the capacitor 120.

[0113] At time t32, the potential of the sixth terminal 148 is reduced. At time t32, the potential of the third terminal 142 is reduced. Therefore, the potential of the first communication line 150 in the first component 60 is reduced. The control unit 66 detects the decrease in the potential of the first communication line 150 in the first component 60 and determines that the power supply 40 has been disconnected from the first component 60. When the control unit 66 determines that the power supply 40 has been disconnected from the first component 60 at time t32, it activates the discharge circuit 130 and starts discharging the capacitor 120.

[0114] At time t33, a certain amount of time has elapsed since time t32, the discharge of capacitor 120 is completed. As the discharge of capacitor 120 is complete, the voltage output by the second voltage conversion unit 64 and the voltage output by the LDO regulator 74 begin to decrease. At time t33, the voltage output by the power supply IC 82 begins to return from a negative value to zero. At time t33, power is no longer supplied from capacitor 120, so the potential of the fourth terminal 144 begins to decrease. The time from time t32, when the discharge of capacitor 120 begins, to time t33, when the discharge of capacitor 120 is completed, is, for example, 400 milliseconds.

[0115] Figure 11 shows an example of discharge control performed when the power supply 40 is connected to the charger in the second operating state. The differences from Figure 10 will be explained below.

[0116] At time t31, the power supply 40 is connected to the charger. When the power supply 40 is connected to the charger, the power supply 40 stops transmitting signals to the first communication line 150. Therefore, at time t31, the potential of the fifth terminal 146 begins to decrease. Until the discharge of the capacitor 120 is complete, a signal is transmitted from the control unit 66 to the power supply 40 via the second communication line 152. Therefore, at time t33, when the discharge of the capacitor 120 is complete, the potential of the sixth terminal 148 begins to decrease.

[0117] <Example of changes> The descriptions of each embodiment are illustrative of possible forms of components for human-powered vehicles according to this disclosure, and are not intended to limit their forms. Components for human-powered vehicles according to this disclosure may take the following forms, for example, variations of each embodiment, and combinations of at least two non-inconsistent variations. In the following variations, parts common to the forms of each embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the respective embodiments, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0118] The control unit 66 may be configured to control the voltage converters 62 and 64 so that when one of the voltage converters 62 and 64, which is in a stopped state, starts to activate and then completes its activation, the other voltage converter 62 and 64, which is in an activated state, starts to stop.

[0119] The control unit 66 may be configured to control the voltage conversion units 62 and 64 so that the timing at which one of the voltage conversion units 62 and 64 that is in a stopped state becomes active is the same as the timing at which the other voltage conversion unit 62 and 64 that is in an activated state becomes stopped.

[0120] The switching timing of at least one power consumption state of the control unit 66 and other components 50 may be the same as the switching timing of the operating states of the voltage conversion units 62 and 64.

[0121] In the second embodiment, the configuration of the path switching circuit 100 is not limited to the illustrated configuration. The path switching circuit 100 only needs to be configured to switch between a state in which current is supplied to the second connection part 70 by bypassing the resistor 102, and a state in which current is supplied to the second connection part 70 via the resistor 102.

[0122] In the third embodiment, the discharge circuit 130 does not have to be connected to the power path between the control unit 66 and the LDO regulator 74. For example, the discharge circuit 130 may be connected to the power path between the capacitor 120 and the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64. The discharge circuit 130 may be connected to the power path between the first voltage conversion unit 62 and the second voltage conversion unit 64 and the second connection unit 70.

[0123] As used herein, the expression "at least one" means "one or more" of the desired options. For example, as used herein, "at least one" means "only one option" or "both of the two options" if there are two options. As another example, as used herein, "at least one" means "only one option" or "a combination of two or more any options" if there are three or more options. [Explanation of symbols]

[0124] 10...Human-powered vehicle, 40...Power supply, 44...Power line, 50...Other components, 60...First component, 62...First voltage conversion unit, 64...Second voltage conversion unit, 66...Control unit, 70...Second connection unit, 76...Motor, 90...Operating device, 100...Path switching circuit, 102...Resistor, 104...First path, 106...Second path, 120...Capacitor, 130...Discharge circuit, 154...Detection unit.

Claims

1. A component for a human-powered vehicle, A first voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to a power supply, A second voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to the aforementioned power supply, It comprises a control unit and, The first voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to the control unit and at least one of the connection parts to which other components for the human-powered vehicle are connected. The second voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to at least one of the control unit and the connection unit. The second voltage conversion unit has different electrical characteristics from the first voltage conversion unit. A component for a human-powered vehicle, wherein the control unit is configured to control the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit to switch the operating states of the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit between a first operating state in which the first voltage conversion unit is activated and the second voltage conversion unit is stopped, and a second operating state in which the second voltage conversion unit is activated and the first voltage conversion unit is stopped.

2. The aforementioned electrical characteristics include characteristics related to self-consumption current, The component according to claim 1, wherein the self-consumption current of the second voltage conversion unit is smaller than the self-consumption current of the first voltage conversion unit.

3. The aforementioned electrical characteristics include characteristics relating to output current capacity, The component according to claim 1, wherein the output current capacity of the second voltage conversion unit is smaller than the output current capacity of the first voltage conversion unit.

4. The aforementioned electrical characteristics include characteristics related to power supply efficiency, The component according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first voltage conversion unit has a power efficiency of 80% or more when outputting a current of 1 ampere or more.

5. The aforementioned electrical characteristics include characteristics related to power supply efficiency, The component according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the second voltage conversion unit has a power efficiency of 40% or more when outputting a current in the range of 100 microamperes to 500 microamperes.

6. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the control unit and at least one of the other components are configured to selectively switch the power consumption state between a first power consumption state and a second power consumption state in which the power consumption is less than that of the first power consumption state.

7. The first voltage conversion unit has electrical characteristics suitable for use in the first power consumption state, The second voltage conversion unit has electrical characteristics suitable for use in the second power consumption state, The control unit, In the first power consumption state, the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit in the first operating state are controlled. The component according to claim 6, configured to control the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit in the second operating state when the second power consumption state is in place.

8. The control unit, It is configured to receive operation signals from a manually operable control device. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the control unit is configured to switch the operating state from one of the first operating state and the second operating state to the other of the first operating state and the second operating state when it receives the operation signal.

9. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a motor configured to impart propulsion to the human-powered vehicle.

10. A component for a human-powered vehicle, A first voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to a power supply, A second voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to the aforementioned power supply, It comprises a control unit and, The first voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to the control unit and at least one of the connection parts to which other components for the human-powered vehicle are connected. The second voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to at least one of the control unit and the connection unit. The second voltage conversion unit has different electrical characteristics from the first voltage conversion unit. The control unit, The system is configured to control the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit to switch the operating state of the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit between a first operating state in which only the first voltage conversion unit is activated and a second operating state in which only the second voltage conversion unit is activated. A component for a human-powered vehicle, configured such that when switching the operating state from the first operating state to the second operating state, the second voltage converter, which is in a stopped state, is activated, and then the first voltage converter, which is in an activated state, is stopped.

11. A component for a human-powered vehicle, A first voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to a power supply, A second voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to the aforementioned power supply, It comprises a control unit and, The first voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to the control unit and at least one of the connection parts to which other components for the human-powered vehicle are connected. The second voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to at least one of the control unit and the connection unit. The second voltage conversion unit has different electrical characteristics from the first voltage conversion unit. The control unit, The system is configured to control the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit to switch the operating state of the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit between a first operating state in which only the first voltage conversion unit is activated and a second operating state in which only the second voltage conversion unit is activated. A component for a human-powered vehicle, configured such that when switching the operating state from the first operating state to the second operating state, the second voltage converter, which is in a stopped state, is activated, and then, after a predetermined first period has elapsed, the first voltage converter, which is in an activated state, is stopped.

12. A component for a human-powered vehicle, A first voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to a power supply, A second voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to the aforementioned power supply, It comprises a control unit and, The first voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to the control unit and at least one of the connection parts to which other components for the human-powered vehicle are connected. The second voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to at least one of the control unit and the connection unit. The second voltage conversion unit has different electrical characteristics from the first voltage conversion unit. The control unit, The system is configured to control the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit to switch the operating state of the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit between a first operating state in which only the first voltage conversion unit is activated and a second operating state in which only the second voltage conversion unit is activated. A component for a human-powered vehicle, configured such that when switching the operating state from the second operating state to the first operating state, the first voltage converter, which is in a stopped state, is activated, and then the second voltage converter, which is in an activated state, is stopped.

13. A component for a human-powered vehicle, A first voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to a power supply, A second voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to the aforementioned power supply, It comprises a control unit and, The first voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to the control unit and at least one of the connection parts to which other components for the human-powered vehicle are connected. The second voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to at least one of the control unit and the connection unit. The second voltage conversion unit has different electrical characteristics from the first voltage conversion unit. The control unit, The system is configured to control the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit to switch the operating state of the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit between a first operating state in which only the first voltage conversion unit is activated and a second operating state in which only the second voltage conversion unit is activated. A component for a human-powered vehicle, configured such that when switching the operating state from the second operating state to the first operating state, the first voltage converter, which is in a stopped state, is activated, and then, after a predetermined second period has elapsed, the second voltage converter, which is in an activated state, is stopped.

14. A component for a human-powered vehicle, A first voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to a power supply, A second voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to the aforementioned power supply, It comprises a control unit and, The first voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to the control unit and at least one of the connection parts to which other components for the human-powered vehicle are connected. The second voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to at least one of the control unit and the connection unit. The second voltage conversion unit has different electrical characteristics from the first voltage conversion unit. The control unit is configured to control the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit to switch the operating state of the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit between a first operating state in which only the first voltage conversion unit is activated and a second operating state in which only the second voltage conversion unit is activated. The control unit and at least one of the other components are configured to selectively switch the power consumption state between a first power consumption state and a second power consumption state in which the power consumption is lower than that of the first power consumption state. The control unit, It is configured to receive operation signals from a manually operable control device. A component for a human-powered vehicle, configured to receive the operation signal in the first operating state, switch the operating state from the first operating state to the second operating state, and transmit a first control signal to the other component to switch the other component from a first power consumption state to a second power consumption state.

15. A component for a human-powered vehicle, A first voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to a power supply, A second voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to the aforementioned power supply, It comprises a control unit and, The first voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to the control unit and at least one of the connection parts to which other components for the human-powered vehicle are connected. The second voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to at least one of the control unit and the connection unit. The second voltage conversion unit has different electrical characteristics from the first voltage conversion unit. The control unit is configured to control the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit to switch the operating state of the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit between a first operating state in which only the first voltage conversion unit is activated and a second operating state in which only the second voltage conversion unit is activated. The control unit and at least one of the other components are configured to selectively switch the power consumption state between a first power consumption state and a second power consumption state in which the power consumption is lower than that of the first power consumption state. The control unit, It is configured to receive operation signals from a manually operable control device. A component for a human-powered vehicle, configured to receive the operation signal in the second operating state, switch the operating state from the second operating state to the first operating state, and transmit a second control signal to the other component to switch the other component from the second power consumption state to the first power consumption state.

16. A component for a human-powered vehicle, A first voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to a power supply, A second voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to the aforementioned power supply, It comprises a control unit and, The first voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to the control unit and at least one of the connection parts to which other components for the human-powered vehicle are connected. The second voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to at least one of the control unit and the connection unit. The second voltage conversion unit has different electrical characteristics from the first voltage conversion unit. The control unit is configured to control the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit to switch the operating state of the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit between a first operating state in which only the first voltage conversion unit is activated and a second operating state in which only the second voltage conversion unit is activated. The aforementioned electrical characteristics include characteristics related to self-consumption current, The self-consumption current of the second voltage conversion unit is smaller than the self-consumption current of the first voltage conversion unit. The system further includes a path switching circuit provided in the power line between the first voltage conversion unit, the second voltage conversion unit, and the connection unit, The aforementioned path switching circuit includes a first path and a second path arranged in parallel with the first path and having a resistor. A component for a human-powered vehicle, wherein the control unit is configured to control the path switching circuit such that current is supplied to the connection via the first path in the first operating state, and current is supplied to the connection via the second path in the second operating state.

17. A component for a human-powered vehicle, A first voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to a power supply, A second voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to the aforementioned power supply, It comprises a control unit and, The first voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to the control unit and at least one of the connection parts to which other components for the human-powered vehicle are connected. The second voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to at least one of the control unit and the connection unit. The second voltage conversion unit has different electrical characteristics from the first voltage conversion unit. The control unit is configured to control the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit to switch the operating state of the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit between a first operating state in which only the first voltage conversion unit is activated and a second operating state in which only the second voltage conversion unit is activated. The aforementioned electrical characteristics include characteristics relating to output current capacity, The output current capacity of the second voltage conversion unit is smaller than the output current capacity of the first voltage conversion unit. The system further includes a path switching circuit provided in the power line between the first voltage conversion unit, the second voltage conversion unit, and the connection unit, The aforementioned path switching circuit includes a first path and a second path arranged in parallel with the first path and having a resistor. A component for a human-powered vehicle, wherein the control unit is configured to control the path switching circuit such that current is supplied to the connection via the first path in the first operating state, and current is supplied to the connection via the second path in the second operating state.

18. A component for a human-powered vehicle, A first voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to a power supply, A second voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to the aforementioned power supply, It comprises a control unit and, The first voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to the control unit and at least one of the connection parts to which other components for the human-powered vehicle are connected. The second voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to at least one of the control unit and the connection unit. The second voltage conversion unit has different electrical characteristics from the first voltage conversion unit. The control unit is configured to control the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit to switch the operating state of the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit between a first operating state in which only the first voltage conversion unit is activated and a second operating state in which only the second voltage conversion unit is activated. The aforementioned electrical characteristics include characteristics related to self-consumption current, The self-consumption current of the second voltage conversion unit is smaller than the self-consumption current of the first voltage conversion unit. The system further includes a path switching circuit provided in the power line between the first voltage conversion unit, the second voltage conversion unit, and the connection unit, The aforementioned path switching circuit has a resistor, A component for a human-powered vehicle, wherein the control unit is configured to control the path switching circuit such that in the first operating state, current is supplied to the connection by bypassing the resistor, and in the second operating state, current is supplied to the connection via the resistor.

19. A component for a human-powered vehicle, A first voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to a power supply, A second voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to the aforementioned power supply, It comprises a control unit and, The first voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to the control unit and at least one of the connection parts to which other components for the human-powered vehicle are connected. The second voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to at least one of the control unit and the connection unit. The second voltage conversion unit has different electrical characteristics from the first voltage conversion unit. The control unit is configured to control the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit to switch the operating state of the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit between a first operating state in which only the first voltage conversion unit is activated and a second operating state in which only the second voltage conversion unit is activated. The aforementioned electrical characteristics include characteristics relating to output current capacity, The output current capacity of the second voltage conversion unit is smaller than the output current capacity of the first voltage conversion unit. The system further includes a path switching circuit provided in the power line between the first voltage conversion unit, the second voltage conversion unit, and the connection unit, The aforementioned path switching circuit has a resistor, A component for a human-powered vehicle, wherein the control unit is configured to control the path switching circuit such that in the first operating state, current is supplied to the connection by bypassing the resistor, and in the second operating state, current is supplied to the connection via the resistor.

20. A component for a human-powered vehicle, A first voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to a power supply, A second voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to the aforementioned power supply, It comprises a control unit and, The first voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to the control unit and at least one of the connection parts to which other components for the human-powered vehicle are connected. The second voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to at least one of the control unit and the connection unit. The second voltage conversion unit has different electrical characteristics from the first voltage conversion unit. The control unit is configured to control the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit to switch the operating state of the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit between a first operating state in which only the first voltage conversion unit is activated and a second operating state in which only the second voltage conversion unit is activated. The aforementioned electrical characteristics include characteristics related to self-consumption current, The self-consumption current of the second voltage conversion unit is smaller than the self-consumption current of the first voltage conversion unit. The system further comprises a capacitor and a discharge circuit configured to discharge the capacitor, The capacitor is connected to the power path between the first voltage conversion unit, the second voltage conversion unit, and the power supply. The control unit is configured to activate the discharge circuit when the power supply is disconnected from the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit in the second operating state, and is a component for a human-powered vehicle.

21. A component for a human-powered vehicle, A first voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to a power supply, A second voltage conversion unit configured to be connected to the aforementioned power supply, It comprises a control unit and, The first voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to the control unit and at least one of the connection parts to which other components for the human-powered vehicle are connected. The second voltage conversion unit is configured to supply power from the power supply to at least one of the control unit and the connection unit. The second voltage conversion unit has different electrical characteristics from the first voltage conversion unit. The control unit is configured to control the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit to switch the operating state of the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit between a first operating state in which only the first voltage conversion unit is activated and a second operating state in which only the second voltage conversion unit is activated. The aforementioned electrical characteristics include characteristics relating to output current capacity, The output current capacity of the second voltage conversion unit is smaller than the output current capacity of the first voltage conversion unit. The system further comprises a capacitor and a discharge circuit configured to discharge the capacitor, The capacitor is connected to the power path between the first voltage conversion unit, the second voltage conversion unit, and the power supply. The control unit is configured to activate the discharge circuit when the power supply is disconnected from the first voltage conversion unit and the second voltage conversion unit in the second operating state, and is a component for a human-powered vehicle.

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