Control device for human-powered vehicles, and control system for human-powered vehicles

Abstract

To provide a control device for a human-powered vehicle, a detecting device for a human-powered vehicle and a control system for a human-powered vehicle, which can appropriately detect information concerning pedaling by a rider on a human-powered vehicle.SOLUTION: A control device for a human-powered vehicle is provided with a control part that is configured so as to monitor a detection interval between a first detection time during which a first detecting device for detecting a first detection value when a position of a crank of the human-powered vehicle with respect to a frame of the human-powered vehicle is at a first predetermined relative position detects the first detection value, and a second detection time during which a second detecting device for detecting a second detection value when a position of a pedal of the human-powered vehicle with respect to the crank is at a second predetermined relative position detects the second detection value.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] The control device for a human-powered vehicle disclosed in Patent Document 1 is configured to control an assist motor according to the rotational speed of a crank per unit time detected by a detection device for a human-powered vehicle.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] One object of the present disclosure is to provide a control device for a human-powered vehicle, a detection device for a human-powered vehicle, and a control system for a human-powered vehicle that can suitably detect information related to the pedaling of a rider of the human-powered vehicle.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A control device according to a first aspect of the present disclosure is a control device for a human-powered vehicle, and includes a control unit configured to monitor a detection interval between a first detection time when a first detection device that detects a first detection value when a position of a crank of the human-powered vehicle relative to a frame of the human-powered vehicle is at a first predetermined relative position, and a second detection time when a second detection device that detects a second detection value when a position of a pedal of the human-powered vehicle relative to the crank is at a second predetermined relative position. According to the control device on the first side, the control unit can detect changes in the detection interval by monitoring the detection interval between the first detection time and the second detection time. Since the detection interval corresponds to the pedaling of the rider of the human-powered vehicle, the control unit can suitably detect information regarding the pedaling of the rider of the human-powered vehicle.

[0006] In a control device according to a second aspect of the first aspect of this disclosure, the first predetermined relative position is defined at one location for each rotation of the crank. According to the control device on the second side, since the first predetermined relative position is defined once for each rotation of the crank, the control unit can monitor the detection interval based on the first detection value which is detected only once for each rotation of the crank. According to the control device on the second side, since the first detection value is detected only once for each rotation of the crank, the configuration of the first detection device can be simplified.

[0007] In a control device according to a third aspect of the first aspect of this disclosure, the second predetermined relative position is defined at one location for each rotation of the pedal. According to the control device on the third side, since the second predetermined relative position is defined once for each rotation of the pedal, the control unit can monitor the detection interval based on the second detection time, which is detected only once for each rotation of the pedal. According to the control device on the third side, since the second detection value is detected only once for each rotation of the pedal, the configuration of the second detection device can be simplified.

[0008] In a control device according to a fourth aspect of the first aspect of this disclosure, the first predetermined relative position is defined at one location for each rotation of the crank, and the second predetermined relative position is defined at one location for each rotation of the pedal. The control device on the fourth side allows monitoring of a detection interval based on a first detection value detected only once for each rotation of the crank and a second detection time detected only once for each rotation of the pedal. The control device on the fourth side simplifies the configuration of the first and second detection devices.

[0009] A control device according to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, which is any one of the first to fourth aspects, further comprising a display unit capable of displaying display information relating to the detection interval, wherein the control unit is configured to control the display unit to display the display information. According to the control device on the fifth side, the control unit controls the display unit to display the display information, so that the user can understand the displayed information.

[0010] A control device according to the sixth aspect of the fifth aspect of this disclosure further comprises a storage unit for storing a reference interval, and the control unit is configured to create the display information based on the reference interval and the detection interval. According to the control device on the sixth side, the user can understand the display information based on the reference interval and the detection interval.

[0011] In a control device of the seventh aspect according to the sixth aspect of this disclosure, the control unit is configured to create the display information based on the reference interval and the average value of the detection interval. According to the control device on the seventh side, the user can understand the displayed information based on the average value of the reference interval and the detection interval.

[0012] In a control device of the eighth aspect according to the sixth or seventh aspect of this disclosure, the control unit is configured to create the display information based on the difference between the reference interval and the detection interval. According to the control device on the eighth side, the user can understand the display information based on the difference between the reference interval and the detection interval.

[0013] In a control device according to the ninth aspect of the present disclosure, which is any one of the sixth to eighth aspects, the storage unit stores the reference interval in a changeable manner. According to the control device on the ninth side, the memory unit stores the reference interval in a changeable manner, so the control unit can create display information using a suitable reference interval.

[0014] A control device according to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, wherein the control unit further comprises an output unit capable of transmitting information to an external device, and the control unit is configured to control the output unit to output information including the detection interval to the external device. According to the control device on the 10th side, the output unit outputs information including the detection interval to an external device in a suitable manner.

[0015] A control device of the eleventh aspect according to any one of the first to tenth aspects of this disclosure further comprises: a first input unit connected to the first detection device and into which the first detection value is input; and a second input unit connected to the second detection device and into which the second detection value is input. According to the control device on the 11th side, the first input unit and the second input unit can suitably acquire the first detected value and the second detected value.

[0016] A detection device according to the twelfth aspect of this disclosure is a detection device for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: a first detection device for detecting when the position of the crank of the human-powered vehicle with respect to the frame of the human-powered vehicle is at a first predetermined relative position; and a second detection device for detecting when the position of the pedal of the human-powered vehicle with respect to the crank is at a second predetermined relative position, wherein the first detection device includes a first detection unit and a first detected unit, one of the first detection unit and the first detected unit is provided on the frame, and the other of the first detection unit and the first detected unit is provided on the crank The first detection unit is provided on the crank and is configured to detect a first detection value when the first distance from the first detection unit to the first detected unit is within a first predetermined distance. The second detection device includes a second detection unit and a second detected unit, one of which is provided on the crank and the other is provided on the pedal. The second detection unit is configured to detect a second detection value when the second distance from the second detection unit to the second detected unit is within a second predetermined distance. According to the detection device of the 12th aspect, when the first distance from the first detection unit to the first detected unit is within the first predetermined distance, a first detection unit that detects a first detection value, and when the second distance from the second detection unit to the second detected unit is within the second predetermined distance, information regarding the pedaling of the rider of the human-powered vehicle can be suitably detected by the second detection unit that detects a second detection value.

[0017] In the detection device of the 13th aspect according to the 12th aspect of the present disclosure, the first predetermined relative position is defined at one position for each rotation of the crank. According to the detection device of the 13th aspect, since the first predetermined relative position is defined at one position for each rotation of the crank, the first detection value can be detected only once for each rotation of the crank. According to the control device of the 13th aspect, since the first detection value is detected only once for each rotation of the crank, the configuration of the first detection device can be simplified.

[0018] In the detection device of the 14th aspect according to the 12th aspect of the present disclosure, the second predetermined relative position is defined at one position for each rotation of the pedal. According to the detection device of the 14th aspect, since the second predetermined relative position is defined at one position for each rotation of the pedal, the second detection value can be detected only once for each rotation of the pedal. According to the control device of the 14th aspect, since the second detection value is detected only once for each rotation of the pedal, the configuration of the second detection device can be simplified.

[0019] In the detection device of the 15th aspect according to the 12th aspect of the present disclosure, the first predetermined relative position is defined at one position for each rotation of the crank, and the second predetermined relative position is defined at one position for each rotation of the pedal. According to the detection device of the 15th aspect, the first detection value can be detected only once for each rotation of the crank, and the second detection value can be detected only once for each rotation of the pedal. According to the control device of the 15th aspect, the configurations of the first detection device and the second detection device can be simplified.

[0020] In the detection device of the 16th aspect according to any one of the 12th to 15th aspects of the present disclosure, the first detection unit includes a first magnetic detection unit, and the first detected unit includes a first magnet. According to the detection device of the 16th aspect, the first detection unit can preferably detect the first predetermined relative position by magnetism.

[0021] In the detection device of the 17th aspect according to any one of the 12th to 15th aspects of the present disclosure, the first detection unit includes a first optical detection unit. According to the detection device of the 17th aspect, the first detection unit can preferably detect the first predetermined relative position by light.

[0022] In the detection device of the 18th aspect according to any one of the 12th to 17th aspects of the present disclosure, the second detection unit includes a second magnetic detection unit, and the second detected unit includes a second magnet. According to the detection device of the 18th aspect, the second detection unit can preferably detect the second predetermined relative position by magnetism.

[0023] In the detection device of the 19th aspect according to any one of the 12th to 17th aspects of the present disclosure, the second detection unit includes a second optical detection unit. According to the detection device of the 19th aspect, the second detection unit can preferably detect the second predetermined relative position by light.

[0024] In the detection device of the 20th aspect according to any one of the 12th to 19th aspects of the present disclosure, the crank includes a crank arm, the first detection unit and the second detection unit are respectively provided on the crank arm, and the first detection unit is configured separately from the second detection unit. According to the detection device of the 20th aspect, since the first detection unit and the second detection unit are respectively provided on the crank arm, the first detection unit and the second detection unit can be provided close to each other, or can be provided as a single detection unit.

[0025] A detection device for a 21st aspect according to any one of the 12th to 19th aspects of the present disclosure, wherein the crank includes a crank arm, the first detection unit and the second detection unit are each provided on the crank arm, and the first detection unit is configured integrally with the second detection unit. According to the detection device for the 21st side, the first detection unit and the second detection unit are integrated into a single unit, thus reducing the number of parts.

[0026] A control system according to the 22nd aspect of this disclosure is a control system for a human-powered vehicle, comprising a control device for a human-powered vehicle according to any one of the first to 11th aspects, and a detection device for a human-powered vehicle according to any one of the 12th to 21st aspects. According to the detection device on the 22nd side, in a control system comprising a control device and a detection device, information regarding the pedaling of a rider of a human-powered vehicle can be suitably detected. [Effects of the Invention]

[0027] The control device for a human-powered vehicle, the detection device for a human-powered vehicle, and the control system for a human-powered vehicle of this disclosure are capable of suitably detecting information regarding the pedaling of a rider of a human-powered vehicle. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0028] [Figure 1] This is a side view of a human-powered vehicle including a control device for a human-powered vehicle, a detection device for a human-powered vehicle, and a control system for a human-powered vehicle according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a human-powered vehicle, including a control device for the human-powered vehicle, a detection device for the human-powered vehicle, and a control system for the human-powered vehicle. [Figure 3] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a detection device for a human-powered vehicle. [Figure 4] Figure 2 shows a timing chart for the first example of monitoring performed by the control unit. [Figure 5] Figure 2 shows a timing chart for a second example of monitoring performed by the control unit. [Figure 6] This block diagram shows the electrical configuration of a human-powered vehicle, including a control device, a detection device, and a control system for a human-powered vehicle, according to the first modified example. [Figure 7] This block diagram shows the electrical configuration of a human-powered vehicle, including a control device, a detection device, and a control system for a human-powered vehicle, according to the second modified example. [Figure 8] This block diagram shows the electrical configuration of a human-powered vehicle, including a control device, a detection device, and a control system for a human-powered vehicle, according to the third modification example. [Figure 9] This block diagram shows the electrical configuration of a human-powered vehicle, including a control device, a detection device, and a control system for a human-powered vehicle, according to the fourth modification example. [Figure 10] This is a schematic diagram of the detection device for a human-powered vehicle according to the fifth modification example. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0029] <Embodiment> A control device 60 for a human-powered vehicle, a detection device 80 for a human-powered vehicle, and a control system 50 for a human-powered vehicle will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. A human-powered vehicle is a vehicle having at least one wheel and that can be driven by at least human power. Human-powered vehicles include various types of bicycles, such as mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes, handbikes, and recumbent bikes. The number of wheels a human-powered vehicle may have is not limited. Human-powered vehicles also include, for example, unicycles and vehicles with two or more wheels. Human-powered vehicles are not limited to vehicles that can be driven solely by human power. Human-powered vehicles include e-bikes that utilize the driving force of an electric motor in addition to human power for propulsion. E-bikes include electric assist bicycles in which propulsion is assisted by an electric motor. Hereinafter, in each embodiment, a human-powered vehicle will be described as a bicycle.

[0030] In this specification, the following directional terms, “front,” “rear,” “forward,” “backward,” “left,” “right,” “side,” “upward,” and “downward,” as well as any other similar directional terms, refer to those directions determined relative to the rider facing the handlebars in a reference position (e.g., on the saddle or seat) of a human-powered vehicle.

[0031] As shown in Figure 1, 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. For example, a saddle 16A is attached to the frame 16. The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a crank 18 to which human power is input. The crank 18 includes, for example, a crank arm 20. The crank 18 further includes, for example, a crank shaft 22 that is rotatable relative to the frame 16. For example, a pedal 24 is connected to the crank arm 20. The crank 18 includes, for example, a first crank arm 20A and a second crank arm 20B. The pedal 24 includes, for example, a first pedal 24A and a second pedal 24B.

[0032] The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a pedal shaft 24C that connects the pedals 24 to the crank arm 20. The pedal shaft 24C includes a pedal shaft 24C that connects the first pedal 24A to the first crank arm 20A, and a pedal shaft 24C that connects the second pedal 24B to the second crank arm 20B. The pedal shaft 24C may be connected to the crank arm 20 in a non-rotatable manner relative to the crank arm 20, or it may be connected to the crank arm 20 in a rotatable manner relative to the crank arm 20. If the pedal shaft 24C is connected to the crank arm 20 in a non-rotatable manner relative to the crank arm 20, the pedal 24 is connected to the pedal shaft 24C in a rotatable manner, for example, relative to the pedal shaft 24C. If the pedal shaft 24C is connected to the crank arm 20 in a rotatable manner relative to the crank arm 20, the pedal 24 is connected to the pedal shaft 24C in a rotatable manner, for example, integrally with the pedal shaft 24C.

[0033] The first crank arm 20A and the second crank arm 20B are each provided, for example, at the axial end of the crankshaft 22. The first pedal 24A is connected to the first crank arm 20A. The second pedal 24B is connected to the second crank arm 20B. The first crank arm 20A and the first pedal 24A are provided, for example, on the left side of the human-powered vehicle 10. The second crank arm 20B and the second pedal 24B are provided, for example, on the right side of the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0034] 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 22. 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.

[0035] The drive mechanism 32 includes a first rotating body 34 connected to the crankshaft 22. The first rotating body 34 includes, for example, a front sprocket. The first rotating body 34 may also include a pulley or a bevel gear. The crankshaft 22 may be connected to the front sprocket via a one-way clutch.

[0036] 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, for example, a chain. The transmission member 38 may also include a belt or a shaft. The second rotating body 36 includes, for example, a rear sprocket. The second rotating body 36 may also include a pulley or a bevel gear. The chain is wrapped around, for example, a front sprocket and a rear sprocket. The second rotating body 36 is connected to, for example, a rear wheel 12R. The rear wheel 12R is configured to rotate, for example, in conjunction with the rotation of the second rotating body 36.

[0037] The human-powered vehicle 10 may further include a battery 40 for the human-powered vehicle. The battery 40 includes, for example, one or more battery elements. The battery elements include, for example, rechargeable batteries. The battery 40 is configured to supply power to, for example, the control unit 62. The battery 40 is communicated with, for example, the control unit 62 by wire or wireless means. The battery 40 is configured to communicate with the control unit 62 by, for example, power line communication (PLC). The battery 40 may be configured to communicate with the control unit 62 by CAN (Controller Area Network) or UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter).

[0038] As shown in Figure 2, the control system 50 for the human-powered vehicle comprises a control device 60 for the human-powered vehicle and a detection device 80 for the human-powered vehicle. The control system 50 is configured to detect, for example, information regarding the pedaling of the rider of the human-powered vehicle 10. The information regarding the pedaling of the rider of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes, for example, at least one of a first detection time, a detection interval between second detection times, and a change in the detection interval. The first detection time is, for example, the time at which a first detection value is detected when the position of the crank 18 with respect to the frame 16 is at a first predetermined relative position. The second detection time is, for example, the time at which a second detection value is detected when the position of the pedal 24 with respect to the crank 18 is at a second predetermined relative position. The information regarding the pedaling of the rider of the human-powered vehicle 10 may include the angle of the rider's ankle during pedaling.

[0039] The control system 50 is a system for monitoring, for example, the relationship between the rotation angle of the crank 18 around the first central axis C1 of the crank axis 22 and the rotation angle of the pedal axis 24C of the pedal 24 around the second central axis C2 during pedaling. The rotation angle of the pedal axis 24C of the pedal 24 around the second central axis C2 corresponds, for example, to the angle of the rider's ankle. The relationship between the rotation angle of the crank 18 around the first central axis C1 of the crank axis 22 and the angle of the rider's ankle during pedaling is related, for example, to the rider's pedaling. In the control system 50, the control device 60 calculates information regarding the pedaling of the rider of the human-powered vehicle 10 based on the detection signal received from the detection device 80.

[0040] The detection device 80 for the human-powered vehicle comprises a first detection device 82 and a second detection device 84. The first detection device 82 detects when the position of the crank 18 of the human-powered vehicle 10 relative to the frame 16 of the human-powered vehicle 10 is at a first predetermined relative position.

[0041] In this embodiment, the first predetermined relative position is defined, for example, once for each rotation of the crank 18. The first detection device 82 detects a first detection value when the position of the crank 18 of the human-powered vehicle 10 relative to the frame 16 of the human-powered vehicle 10 is at the first predetermined relative position. The first detection value is detected, for example, once for each rotation of the crank 18. The first detection value corresponds, for example, to the output value of the first detection device 82 when the position of the crank 18 relative to the frame 16 is at the first predetermined relative position. The output value includes, for example, at least one of a voltage value and a current value.

[0042] The first detection device 82 includes a first detection unit 86 and a first detected unit 88. One of the first detection unit 86 and the first detected unit 88 is provided on the frame 16. The other of the first detection unit 86 and the first detected unit 88 is provided on the crank 18. For example, the first detection unit 86 is provided on the frame 16, and the first detected unit 88 is provided on the crank arm 20.

[0043] The first detection unit 86 is provided, for example, on a portion of the frame 16 that faces at least a part of the crank arm 20. The first detection unit 86 is provided, for example, on the left side of the frame 16. The first detection unit 86 may be provided on the right side of the frame 16. The first detection unit 86 may be provided on both sides of the frame 16.

[0044] The first detected part 88 is provided, for example, in a position on the crank arm 20 that can face the first detection part 86. The first detected part 88 is provided, for example, in a position that faces the first detection part 86 when the position of the crank 18 with respect to the frame 16 is in a first predetermined relative position. When the first detection part 86 is provided on the left side of the frame 16, for example, the first detected part 88 is provided on the first crank arm 20A. When the first detection part 86 is provided on the right side of the frame 16, for example, the first detected part 88 is provided on the second crank arm 20B. When the first detection part 86 is provided on both sides of the frame 16, for example, the first detected part 88 is provided on both the first crank arm 20A and the second crank arm 20B.

[0045] The first detection unit 86 is configured to detect a first detection value when the first distance from the first detection unit 86 to the first detected unit 88 is within a first predetermined distance. The case where the first distance from the first detection unit 86 to the first detected unit 88 is within a first predetermined distance includes the case where the position of the crank 18 with respect to the frame 16 is at a first predetermined relative position.

[0046] The first detection unit 86 includes, for example, a first magnetic detection unit 86A. The first detected unit 88 includes, for example, a first magnet 88A. The first magnetic detection unit 86A outputs, for example, a signal corresponding to the magnetic field strength of the first magnet 88A. The first magnetic detection unit 86A includes, for example, a reed switch. The first magnetic detection unit 86A may also include a Hall IC. The first magnetic detection unit 86A is configured to detect a first detection value when the first distance from the first magnetic detection unit 86A to the first magnet 88A is within a first predetermined distance. The first predetermined distance includes, for example, a distance at which the first magnetic detection unit 86A can detect a magnetic field of first magnetic field strength or greater from the first magnet 88A.

[0047] The second detection device 84 detects when the position of the pedal 24 of the human-powered vehicle 10 relative to the crank 18 is at a second predetermined relative position. In this embodiment, the second predetermined relative position is defined, for example, one for each rotation of the pedal 24. The second detection device 84 detects a second detection value when the position of the pedal 24 of the human-powered vehicle 10 relative to the crank 18 is at the second predetermined relative position.

[0048] The second detection value is detected, for example, once for each rotation of the pedal 24. The second detection value corresponds, for example, to the output value of the second detection device 84 when the position of the pedal 24 relative to the crank 18 is at a second predetermined relative position. The output value includes, for example, at least one of a voltage value and a current value.

[0049] The second detection device 84 includes a second detection unit 90 and a second detected unit 92. One of the second detection unit 90 and the second detected unit 92 is provided on the crank 18. The other of the second detection unit 90 and the second detected unit 92 is provided on the pedal 24. In this embodiment, the second detection unit 90 is provided on the crank arm 20, and the second detected unit 92 is provided on the pedal 24.

[0050] The second detection unit 90 is provided, for example, on a portion of the crank arm 20 that faces at least a part of the pedal 24. The second detected unit 92 is provided, for example, on the pedal 24 at a position that can face the second detection unit 90. The second detected unit 92 is provided at a position that faces the second detection unit 90 when the position of the pedal 24 with respect to the crank 18 is at a second predetermined relative position.

[0051] The second detection unit 90 is configured to detect a second detection value when the second distance from the second detection unit 90 to the second detected unit 92 is within a second predetermined distance. The case where the second distance from the second detection unit 90 to the second detected unit 92 is within a second predetermined distance includes the case where the position of the pedal 24 relative to the crank 18 is at a second predetermined relative position.

[0052] The second detection unit 90 includes, for example, a second magnetic detection unit 90A. The second detected unit 92 includes, for example, a second magnet 92A. The second magnetic detection unit 90A outputs, for example, a signal corresponding to the magnetic field strength of the second magnet 92A. The second magnetic detection unit 90A includes, for example, a reed switch. The second magnetic detection unit 90A may also include a Hall IC. The second magnetic detection unit 90A is configured to detect a second detection value when the second distance from the second magnetic detection unit 90A to the second magnet 92A is within a second predetermined distance. The second predetermined distance includes, for example, a distance at which the second magnetic detection unit 90A can detect a magnetic field from the second magnet 92A that is equal to or greater than a second magnetic field strength.

[0053] Referring to Figure 3, the rotation of the crank arm 20 and the pedal 24 when the rider is pedaling is explained. The crank arm 20 rotates relative to the frame 16 about the first central axis C1 of the crank axle 22. The pedal 24 rotates relative to the crank arm 20 about the second central axis C2 of the pedal axle 24C of the pedal 24.

[0054] When a rider pedals to move the human-powered vehicle 10 forward, for example, the crank arm 20 rotates in a first rotational direction X1 and the pedal 24 rotates in a second rotational direction X2. One of the first rotational direction X1 and the second rotational direction X2 is clockwise, and the other is counterclockwise. When the crank arm 20 rotates in the first rotational direction X1, the first detection unit 86 detects a first detection value when the first distance is within a first predetermined distance. When the pedal 24 rotates in the second rotational direction X2, the second detection unit 90 detects a second detection value when the second distance is within a second predetermined distance.

[0055] The control device 60 includes, for example, a cycle computer. The control device 60 may also include a smart device. The smart device includes, for example, at least one of a smartphone, a smartwatch, and a tablet computer. The control device 60 for a human-powered vehicle includes a control unit 62. The control unit 62 includes, for example, an arithmetic processing unit that executes a predetermined control program. The arithmetic processing unit includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The control unit 62 may include one or more microcomputers. The control unit 62 may include multiple arithmetic processing units located in separate locations.

[0056] The control device 60 further includes, for example, a storage unit 64. The storage unit 64 stores, for example, control programs and information used in control processing. The storage unit 64 includes, for example, at least one of non-volatile memory and volatile memory. The non-volatile memory includes, for example, at least one of ROM (Read-Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), and flash memory. The volatile memory includes, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory). The storage unit 64 is configured to communicate with, for example, the control unit 62 by wired or wireless means.

[0057] The control device 60 further comprises, for example, a first input unit 66 and a second input unit 68. The first input unit 66 is connected to, for example, a first detection device 82 and receives a first detection value as input. The first input unit 66 is connected to, for example, a control unit 62. The control unit 62 and the first detection device 82 are connected, for example, via the first input unit 66. If the control unit 62 and the first detection device 82 are connected by wire, the first input unit 66 includes, for example, at least one of a cable and a connector. If the control unit 62 and the first detection device 82 are connected wirelessly, the first input unit 66 includes, for example, a wireless communication unit.

[0058] The second input unit 68 is connected, for example, to a second detection device 84, and a second detection value is input to it. The second input unit 68 is connected, for example, to a control unit 62. The control unit 62 and the second detection device 84 are connected, for example, via the second input unit 68. When the control unit 62 and the second detection device 84 are connected by wire, the second input unit 68 includes, for example, at least one cable and connector. When the control unit 62 and the second detection device 84 are connected wirelessly, the second input unit 68 includes, for example, a wireless communication unit.

[0059] The control unit 62 is configured to monitor the detection interval between the first detection time when the first detection device 82 detects a first detection value and the second detection time when the second detection device 84 detects a second detection value. The control unit 62 may also be configured to determine rider fatigue based on the difference between a reference interval and the detection interval. For example, the control unit 62 determines that the rider is fatigued if the difference between the reference interval and the detection interval is greater than or equal to a predetermined difference.

[0060] The reference interval includes, for example, a detection interval corresponding to at least one of the rider's ideal pedaling and pedaling when the rider is not fatigued. The reference interval may be calculated by the control unit 62 according to at least one of the riding state of the human-powered vehicle 10 and the riding environment of the human-powered vehicle 10. The reference interval may be set by the user of the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0061] The memory unit 64 stores, for example, a reference interval. The reference interval corresponds to, for example, the detection interval for normal pedaling or ideal pedaling. Normal pedaling is, for example, pedaling when the rider is not fatigued and the rider's load is within a predetermined range. Ideal pedaling is set, for example, based on the pedaling of a professional rider.

[0062] The storage unit 64 stores, for example, a reference interval that can be changed. The reference interval may be one of a plurality of reference intervals. The storage unit 64 may store a plurality of reference intervals and store at least one of the plurality of reference intervals in a changeable manner. The control device 60 may include an operation unit for updating the reference interval. The control unit 62 may be configured to receive information about the reference interval from the external device 42 and change the reference interval stored in the storage unit 64. The control unit 62 may be configured to allow selection of a setting mode for setting the reference interval. The control unit 62 may be configured to set the reference interval based on the detection interval when the setting mode is selected.

[0063] The control device 60 further includes a display unit 70 capable of displaying information relating to the detection interval, for example. The display unit 70 includes, for example, a display. The display includes, for example, a liquid crystal display. The display may also include a segment display or an organic EL display. The display unit 70 may also include a light-emitting unit such as an LED (Light-Emitting Diode). The display information includes, for example, at least one of graphs, numerical values, gauges, characters, and light.

[0064] The control unit 62 is configured to control the display unit 70 to display display information. The display unit 70, for example, displays the display information on a display. The display unit 70 is configured to communicate with the control unit 62, for example, by wired or wireless means.

[0065] The control unit 62 is configured to create display information based, for example, on a reference interval and a detection interval. The control unit 62 may also be configured to create display information based on the reference interval and the average value of the detection intervals. The control unit 62 may also be configured to create display information based on the difference between the reference interval and the detection interval.

[0066] The control unit 62 may be configured to create display information based, for example, on the difference between a reference interval and the average value of the detection interval. The control unit 62 may also be configured to create display information based, for example, on the difference between one of a plurality of reference intervals and the average value of the detection interval. The average value of the detection interval is, for example, the average value of the detection interval when the detection interval is monitored at least twice.

[0067] The displayed information is shown on the display unit 70, for example, to make it easier for the user to understand information about pedaling. The displayed information is shown by at least one of a graph, numerical value, gauge, character, sound, and light, for example, so that the user can understand that abnormal pedaling occurs when the difference between the reference interval and the detection interval is large. The displayed information may be configured to show the difference between the reference interval and the detection interval in stages, for example. When the rider is fatigued, the difference between the reference interval and the detection interval is likely to occur. For example, when the rider is fatigued, the relationship between the rotation angle of the crank 18 and the angle of the rider's ankle changes from the normal pedaling state. Therefore, the displayed information may be displayed in a way that makes it easy for the user to understand the rider's fatigue.

[0068] The control unit 62 monitors the detection interval, for example, by counting the time from when the first detected value is detected until the second detected value is detected. The control unit 62 monitors the detection interval, for example, by storing the detection interval in the storage unit 64. The control unit 62 monitors the detection interval, for example, by comparing the detection interval with a reference interval each time the detection interval is calculated. When the control unit 62 monitors the detection interval by comparing the detection interval with a reference interval each time the detection interval is calculated, the detection interval does not need to be stored in the storage unit 64.

[0069] An example of monitoring by the control unit 62 is described with reference to Figures 4 and 5. Figure 4 illustrates the case where the detection interval is the first detection interval T1. The first detection interval T1 corresponds to, for example, the detection interval during normal pedaling by the rider. In Figure 4, the rider is pedaling at a constant pace. The first detection interval T1 in Figure 4 substantially coincides with, for example, the reference interval. Figure 5 illustrates the case where the detection interval is the second detection interval T2. In Figure 5, the rider is pedaling at a constant pace. The second detection interval T2 corresponds to, for example, the detection interval during pedaling when the rider is fatigued, after time t15 in Figure 4. The second detection interval T2 in Figure 5 is shorter than the first detection interval T1. The second detection interval T2 in Figure 5 is deviated from the reference interval.

[0070] Time t10 indicates the time when the first detection value is detected by the first detection device 82. Time t10 corresponds to the first detection time. At time t10, the control unit 62 starts counting the detection interval.

[0071] Time t11 indicates the time when the second detection value is detected by the second detection device 84. Time t12 corresponds to the second detection time. At time t11, the control unit 62 stores, for example, the first detection interval T1, which is the count result of the detection interval, in the storage unit 64. At time t11, the control unit 62 resets the detection interval counter.

[0072] Time t12 indicates the time when the first detection value is detected by the first detection device 82. Time t12 corresponds to the first detection time. At time t12, the control unit 62 starts counting the detection interval.

[0073] Time t13 indicates the time when the second detection value is detected by the second detection device 84. Time t13 corresponds to the second detection time. At time t13, the control unit 62 stores, for example, the first detection interval T1, which is the count result of the detection interval, in the storage unit 64. At time t13, the control unit 62 resets the detection interval counter.

[0074] Time t14 indicates the time when the first detection device 82 detects the first detection value. Time t14 corresponds to the first detection time. At time t14, the control unit 62 starts counting the detection interval.

[0075] Time t15 indicates the time when the second detection value is detected by the second detection device 84. Time t15 corresponds to the second detection time. At time t15, the control unit 62 stores, for example, the first detection interval T1, which is the count result of the detection interval, in the storage unit 64. At time t15, the control unit 62 resets the detection interval counter.

[0076] Time t20 indicates, for example, a time after time t15 when the rider is fatigued. Time t20 indicates the time when the first detection value is detected by the first detection device 82. Time t20 corresponds to the first detection time. At time t20, the control unit 62 starts counting the detection interval.

[0077] Time t21 indicates the time when the second detection value is detected by the second detection device 84. Time t21 corresponds to the second detection time. At time t21, the control unit 62 stores, for example, the second detection interval T2, which is the count result of the detection interval, in the storage unit 64. At time t21, the control unit 62 resets the detection interval counter.

[0078] Time t22 indicates the time when the first detection value is detected by the first detection device 82. Time t22 corresponds to the first detection time. At time t22, the control unit 62 starts counting the detection interval.

[0079] Time t23 indicates the time when the second detection value is detected by the second detection device 84. Time t23 corresponds to the second detection time. At time t23, the control unit 62 stores, for example, the second detection interval T2, which is the count result of the detection interval, in the storage unit 64. At time t23, the control unit 62 resets the detection interval counter.

[0080] Time t24 indicates the time when the first detection value is detected by the first detection device 82. Time t24 corresponds to the first detection time. At time t24, the control unit 62 starts counting the detection interval.

[0081] Time t25 indicates the time when the second detection value is detected by the second detection device 84. Time t25 corresponds to the second detection time. At time t25, the control unit 62 stores, for example, the second detection interval T2, which is the count result of the detection interval, in the storage unit 64. At time t25, the control unit 62 resets the detection interval counter.

[0082] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the second detection interval T2 is shorter than the first detection interval T1. For example, as fatigue accumulates in the rider, the rider's heels drop during pedaling, so the second detection interval T2 becomes shorter than the first detection interval T1. The control unit 62 can detect changes in the detection interval, for example, by monitoring the detection interval. The control unit 62 can determine the rider's fatigue, for example, in response to changes in the detection interval. The control unit 62 can determine the rider's fatigue, for example, in response to the difference between the detection interval and the reference interval.

[0083] The control device 60 monitors the detection interval using a second detection device 84 that detects a second predetermined rotational position defined once for each rotation of the pedal 24. Therefore, a second detection device 84 with a simpler structure can be used, compared to, for example, a detection device 80 that outputs a signal corresponding to the rotation angle of the pedal 24 to detect the relationship between the rotation angle of the crank 18 and the rotation angle of the pedal 24.

[0084] <Example of changes> The description of embodiments is illustrative of possible forms of control devices, detection devices, and control systems for human-powered vehicles according to this disclosure, and is not intended to limit them. Control devices, detection devices, and control systems for human-powered vehicles according to this disclosure may take, for example, the following modifications of the embodiments, and combinations of at least two non-inconsistent modifications. In the following modifications, parts common to the embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the embodiments, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0085] As shown in Figure 6, the control device 60 may further include an output unit 72 capable of transmitting information to an external device 42. If the control device 60 includes an output unit 72, the display unit 70 may be omitted. The external device 42 includes, for example, a smart device. The external device 42 may also include a cycle computer. The output unit 72 is configured to communicate with the external device 42 by wire or wireless. The control unit 62 is configured to control the output unit 72 to output information, for example, the detection interval, to the external device 42. The control unit 62 may be configured to control the output unit 72 to output display information to the external device 42.

[0086] As shown in Figure 7, the first detection unit 86 may include a first photodetector 86B. If the first detection unit 86 includes the first photodetector 86B, the first magnetic detection unit 86A may be omitted. If the first detection unit 86 includes the first photodetector 86B, for example, the first detected unit 88 includes the first light-emitting unit 88B. The first photodetector 86B outputs a signal corresponding to the amount of light received, for example. The first photodetector 86B is configured to detect a first detection value when the first distance from the first photodetector 86B to the first light-emitting unit 88B is within a first predetermined distance.

[0087] As shown in Figure 8, the second detection unit 90 may include a second photodetector 90B. If the second detection unit 90 includes a second photodetector 90B, the second magnetic detection unit 90A may be omitted. If the second detection unit 90 includes a second photodetector 90B, for example, the second detected unit 92 includes a second light-emitting unit 92B. The second photodetector 90B outputs a signal corresponding to the amount of light received, for example. The second photodetector 90B is configured to detect a second detection value when the second distance from the second photodetector 90B to the second light-emitting unit 92B is within a second predetermined distance.

[0088] As shown in Figure 9, the first detection device 82 may include a first photodetector 86B and a first light-emitting unit 88B instead of the first magnetic detection unit 86A and the first magnet 88A, and the second detection device 84 may include a second photodetector 90B and a second light-emitting unit 92B instead of the second magnetic detection unit 90A and the second magnet 92A.

[0089] As shown in Figure 10, the first detection unit 86 and the second detection unit 90 may each be provided on the crank arm 20. For example, the first detection unit 86 is configured integrally with the second detection unit 90. When the first detection unit 86 is configured integrally with the second detection unit 90, each of the first detection unit 86 and the second detection unit 90 may include separate sensors provided in a single housing. When the first detection unit 86 is configured integrally with the second detection unit 90, the first detection unit 86 and the second detection unit 90 may each be provided in a single sensor. The first detection unit 86 may be configured separately from the second detection unit 90. When the first detection unit 86 is configured separately from the second detection unit 90, for example, the first detection unit 86 and the second detection unit 90 may each be provided in separate housings.

[0090] Multiple first predetermined relative positions may be defined for each rotation of the crank 18. If multiple first predetermined relative positions are defined for each rotation of the crank 18, for example, the first detected value will be detected multiple times for each rotation of the crank 18. If multiple first predetermined relative positions are defined for each rotation of the crank 18, for example, the first detected unit 88 will be provided corresponding to the first predetermined relative position.

[0091] • Multiple second predetermined relative positions may be defined for each rotation of the pedal 24. If multiple second predetermined relative positions are defined for each rotation of the pedal 24, for example, the second detection value will be detected multiple times for each rotation of the pedal 24. If multiple second predetermined relative positions are defined for each rotation of the pedal 24, for example, the second detection unit 92 will be provided corresponding to the second predetermined relative position.

[0092] The display unit 70 may include a speaker in place of or in addition to the display. The speaker displays the display information by sound, for example. If the display unit 70 includes a speaker, the display information includes, for example, voice, melody, and beeps.

[0093] The control unit 62 may also use the results of monitoring the detection interval for purposes other than creating display information. For example, the control unit 62 may be configured to control components for a human-powered vehicle based on the results of monitoring the detection interval.

[0094] 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]

[0095] 10...Human-powered vehicle, 16...Frame, 18...Crank, 20...Crank arm, 24...Pedal, 42...External device, 50...Control system, 60...Control device, 62...Control unit, 64...Storage unit, 66...First input unit, 68...Second input unit, 70...Display unit, 72...Output unit, 80...Detection device, 82...First detection device, 84...Second detection device, 86...First detection unit, 86A...First magnetic detection unit, 86B...First optical detection unit, 88...First detected unit, 88A...First magnet, 90...Second detection unit, 90A...Second magnetic detection unit, 90B...Second optical detection unit, 92...Second detected unit, 92A...Second magnet.

Claims

1. A control device for a human-powered vehicle, A control device comprising a first detection device that detects a first detection value when the position of the crank of the human-powered vehicle with respect to the frame of the human-powered vehicle is at a first predetermined relative position, and a control unit configured to monitor the detection interval between the first detection time for detecting the first detection value and the second detection device that detects a second detection value when the position of the pedal of the human-powered vehicle with respect to the crank is at a second predetermined relative position, and the second detection time for detecting the second detection value.

2. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the first predetermined relative position is defined at one location for each rotation of the crank.

3. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the second predetermined relative position is defined at one location for each rotation of the pedal.

4. The first predetermined relative position is defined at one location for each rotation of the crank, The control device according to claim 1, wherein the second predetermined relative position is defined at one location for each rotation of the pedal.

5. The system further includes a display unit capable of displaying information related to the aforementioned detection interval, The control device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to control the display unit to display the display information.

6. It further includes a memory unit that stores a reference interval, The control device according to claim 5, wherein the control unit is configured to create the display information based on the reference interval and the detection interval.

7. The control device according to claim 6, wherein the control unit is configured to create the display information based on the reference interval and the average value of the detection interval.

8. The control device according to claim 6, wherein the control unit is configured to create the display information based on the difference between the reference interval and the detection interval.

9. The control device according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the storage unit stores the reference interval in a manner that can be changed.

10. It further includes an output unit capable of transmitting information to an external device. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to control the output unit to output information including the detection interval to the external device.

11. A first input unit connected to the first detection device, into which the first detection value is input, The control device according to claim 1, further comprising a second input unit connected to the second detection device and into which the second detection value is input.

12. A control system for human-powered vehicles, A control device for a human-powered vehicle according to claim 1, A control system comprising: a detection device for a human-powered vehicle, which includes the first detection device and the second detection device; and a control system.

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