Drive unit for human-powered vehicles

Abstract

To provide a drive unit for human-powered vehicle by which a motor can favorably generate electric power.SOLUTION: A drive unit for human-powered vehicle comprises: a motor with a motor rotary shaft; a power connection part connected to the motor rotary shaft; an output rotation part connected to the motor rotary shaft via the power connection part; and a control part for controlling the motor. The power connection part includes a first rotor, a second rotor, and an intermediate transmission body which is located between the first rotor and the second rotor in a radial direction of the first rotor. A connection state of the power connection part can be switched between a first connection state where transmission of drive power of the motor to the output rotation part is permitted when the motor rotary shaft rotates in a first motor rotational direction, and a second connection state where transmission of external drive power to the motor is permitted when the output rotation part rotates in a first output rotation part rotational direction. The control part controls the motor, thereby switching the connection state between the first connection state and the second connection state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a drive unit for a human-powered vehicle.

Background Art

[0002] For example, a drive unit for a human-powered vehicle disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a motor that performs a regeneration operation.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the drive unit disclosed in Patent Document 1, a separate electric actuator from the motor for the regeneration operation is used to switch whether to transmit the rotational force to the motor for the regeneration operation. One object of the present disclosure is to provide a drive unit for a human-powered vehicle in which a motor can suitably perform a regeneration operation.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A drive unit according to a first aspect of the present disclosure is a drive unit for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: a motor having a motor rotating shaft; a power connection unit connected to the motor rotating shaft; an output rotating unit connected to the motor rotating shaft via the power connection unit; and a control unit configured to control the motor, wherein the power connection unit comprises: a first rotating body having a rotational axis; a second rotating body which overlaps the first rotating body with respect to the rotational axis in the radial direction of the first rotating body at least a portion thereof, is arranged coaxially with the first rotating body, and is connected to the motor via the first rotating body; and in the radial direction of the first rotating body The power connection unit is configured to be switchable between a first connection state in which the driving force of the motor input to the first rotation unit is allowed to be transmitted to the output rotation unit when the motor rotation shaft rotates in the first motor rotation direction, and a second connection state in which the external driving force is allowed to be transmitted to the motor when the output rotation unit rotates in the first output rotation unit rotation direction by an external driving force, and the control unit switches the connection state between the first connection state and the second connection state by controlling the motor. According to the drive unit on the first side, the control unit controls the motor, allowing the connection state of the power connection part to be switched between a first connection state and a second connection state. This enables the transmission of external driving force from the output rotating part to the motor without using an electric actuator separate from the motor, allowing the motor to perform regenerative operation effectively.

[0006] In a drive unit according to a second aspect of the first aspect of this disclosure, the power connection further includes a reduction gear, and the first rotating body, the second rotating body, and the intermediate transmission body are provided in the reduction gear. According to the drive unit on the second side, the connection state of the power connection part in the reduction gear can be switched between a first connection state and a second connection state.

[0007] In a drive unit of a third aspect according to the first or second aspect of the present disclosure, the power connection is configured such that the second connection state is maintained by restricting the relative rotation between the first rotating body and the second rotating body in the second connection state. According to the drive unit on the third side, in the second connection state, the relative rotation between the first rotating body and the second rotating body is restricted, thereby maintaining the second connection state, and allowing the motor to suitably perform regenerative operation with external driving force from the output rotating part.

[0008] A drive unit according to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure is a drive unit for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: a motor having a motor rotating shaft; a power connection unit connected to the motor rotating shaft; an output rotating unit connected to the motor rotating shaft via the power connection unit; and a control unit configured to control the motor, wherein the power connection unit includes a clutch and a reduction gear having at least one rotating shaft, and is configured to switch the connection state of the power connection unit between a first connection state in which the transmission of the motor driving force input from the power connection unit to the output rotating unit is permitted when the motor rotating shaft rotates in a first motor rotation direction, and a second connection state in which the transmission of the external driving force to the motor is permitted when the output rotating unit rotates in the first output rotating unit rotation direction by an external driving force, the clutch is immovable in the axial direction with respect to the at least one rotating shaft, and the control unit switches the connection state of the power connection unit between the first connection state and the second connection state by controlling the motor. According to the drive unit on the fourth side, the control unit controls the motor, allowing the connection state to be switched between a first connection state and a second connection state. This enables the transmission of external driving force from the output rotating part to the motor without using a separate electric actuator, allowing the motor to perform regenerative operation effectively.

[0009] In a drive unit of a fifth aspect according to any one of the first to fourth aspects of this disclosure, if the connection state is the first connection state, the control unit switches the connection state from the first connection state to the second connection state by controlling the motor such that a torque is generated that rotates the motor rotation shaft in a second motor rotation direction opposite to the first motor rotation direction. According to the drive unit on the fifth side, the connection state can be switched from the first connection state to the second connection state by controlling the motor so that torque is generated to rotate it in the second motor rotation direction. According to the drive unit on the fifth side, after the connection state has been switched from the first connection state to the second connection state, if the motor is rotated in the second motor rotation direction by an external driving force, the second connection state is maintained and the motor can rotate smoothly.

[0010] In a drive unit of a sixth aspect according to any one of the first to fifth aspects of this disclosure, if the connection state is the second connection state, the control unit switches the connection state from the second connection state to the first connection state by controlling the motor to generate a first torque that rotates the motor rotation shaft in the first motor rotation direction. According to the drive unit on the sixth side, the connection state is switched from the second connection state to the first connection state by controlling the motor so that a first torque is generated that rotates it in the first motor rotation direction. According to the drive unit on the sixth side, if the motor is continuously rotated in the first motor rotation direction after the connection state has been switched from the second connection state to the first connection state, the first connection state is maintained and the motor can rotate smoothly.

[0011] In a drive unit of the seventh side according to any one of the first to sixth sides of this disclosure, if the connection state is the second connection state, the control unit controls the motor rotation shaft ofAfter controlling the motor to generate a second torque that rotates it in the first motor rotation direction, the connection state is switched from the second connection state to the first connection state by controlling the motor to decrease the second torque. According to the drive unit on the seventh side, the motor rotation shaft of The connection state is switched from the second connection state to the first connection state by controlling the motor to generate a second torque that rotates in the first motor rotation direction, and then controlling the motor to decrease the second torque. According to the drive unit on the seventh side, the motor is controlled to generate a second torque, and then controlled to decrease the second torque, so the shock when the connection state is switched is reduced.

[0012] In a drive unit of the eighth aspect according to any one of the first to seventh aspects of this disclosure, if the connection state is the first connection state and there is a braking request for the human-powered vehicle, the control unit controls the motor to switch the connection state from the first connection state to the second connection state. According to the drive unit on the eighth side, the connection state is switched from the first connection state to the second connection state in response to a braking request, so that braking force can be applied to the human-powered vehicle by the regenerative operation of the motor.

[0013] In a drive unit of the ninth aspect according to any one of the first to eighth aspects of this disclosure, the human-powered vehicle further includes a battery, and the control unit is configured to charge the battery with power generated by the motor. According to the drive unit on the ninth side, the power generated by the motor charges the battery, thus increasing the available power.

[0014] A drive unit according to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, which is connected to the output rotating part and configured to receive human-powered driving force, further comprises an input rotating part. According to the drive unit on the tenth side, in a drive unit equipped with an input rotating part configured to receive human-powered driving force, the motor can suitably perform regenerative operation.

[0015] In the drive unit of the eleventh aspect according to the tenth aspect of this disclosure, the output rotating part is arranged coaxially with the input rotating part. According to the drive unit on the 11th side, in a drive unit in which the output rotating part is arranged coaxially with the input rotating part, the motor can suitably perform regenerative operation.

[0016] A drive unit of a twelfth aspect according to a tenth or eleventh aspect of the present disclosure further comprises a one-way clutch configured to allow the transmission of the human-powered driving force to the output rotating part when the input rotating part rotates in the rotational direction of the first input rotating part, and to suppress the transmission of the motor's driving force to the input rotating part when the motor rotating shaft rotates in the rotational direction of the first motor. According to the drive unit on the 12th side, the one-way clutch suppresses the transmission of the motor's driving force to the input rotating part when the motor's rotating shaft rotates in the first motor rotation direction. Therefore, when no human power is applied to the input rotating part, the rotation of the input rotating part is suppressed. Consequently, the rider can comfortably ride the human-powered vehicle.

[0017] In a drive unit of a thirteenth aspect according to any one of the tenth to twelfth aspects of this disclosure, the input rotating part includes a crankshaft. According to the drive unit on the 13th side, in a drive unit equipped with a crankshaft, the motor can suitably perform regenerative operation.

[0018] In a drive unit of a fourteenth aspect according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects of this disclosure, the output rotating part includes a hub shell. According to the drive unit on the 14th side, in a drive unit equipped with a hub shell, the motor can suitably perform regenerative operation. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] In the drive unit for a human - powered vehicle of the present disclosure, the motor can suitably perform a regenerative operation.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0020] [Figure 1] It is a block diagram showing the transmission path of the driving force of a human - powered vehicle including the drive unit for a human - powered vehicle according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a block diagram showing the transmission path of the driving force of the motor in FIG. 1. [Figure 3] It is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a human - powered vehicle including the drive unit for a human - powered vehicle in FIG. 1. <00​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​A drive unit 50 for a human-powered vehicle will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 11. A human-powered vehicle is a vehicle having at least one wheel and capable of being 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 for propulsion in addition to human power. E-bikes include electric assist bicycles in which propulsion is assisted by an electric motor. Hereinafter, in each embodiment, the human-powered vehicle will be described as an electric assist bicycle.

[0022] The human-powered vehicle 10 includes at least one wheel 12 and a body. The at least one wheel 12 includes a front wheel and a rear wheel 12R. The body includes a frame. The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a crank into which human power is input. The crank includes a crankshaft 14 rotatable relative to the frame and a pair of crank arms. The first crank arm of the pair of crank arms is provided at the first end of the axial end of the crankshaft 14, and the second crank arm of the pair of crank arms is provided at the second end of the axial end of the crankshaft 14. A pedal is connected to each crank arm.

[0023] A front fork is connected to the frame. A front wheel is mounted to the front fork. A handlebar is connected to the front fork via a stem. The rear wheel 12R is supported by the frame. In this embodiment, the crank is connected to the rear wheel 12R by a drive mechanism. The rear wheel 12R is driven by the rotation of the crankshaft 14. At least one of the front wheel and the rear wheel 12R may be connected to the crank by a drive mechanism.

[0024] The drive mechanism includes a first drive mechanism rotating body connected to a crankshaft 14. In this embodiment, the first drive mechanism rotating body includes a front sprocket 16. The first drive mechanism rotating body may include a pulley or a bevel gear. The drive mechanism further includes a second drive mechanism rotating body and a connecting member. The connecting member is configured to transmit the rotational force of the first drive mechanism rotating body to the second drive mechanism rotating body. For example, the connecting member includes a chain 18. The connecting member may include a belt or a shaft. For example, the second drive mechanism rotating body includes a rear sprocket 20. The second drive mechanism rotating body may include a pulley or a bevel gear.

[0025] For example, the chain 18 is wrapped around the front sprocket 16 and the rear sprocket 20. For example, the second drive mechanism rotor is connected to the rear wheel 12R via the hub shell 22. The rear wheel 12R is configured to rotate in conjunction with the rotation of the second drive mechanism rotor. Torque transmitted to the rear sprocket 20 is transmitted to the rear wheel 12R via the hub shell 22. No one-way clutch is positioned between the rear sprocket 20 and the hub shell 22. For example, the rear sprocket 20 and the hub shell 22 are configured to rotate together in both directions of rotation of the wheel 12.

[0026] For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a braking device 24 and an operating device 26. The braking device 24 generates a braking force to stop the human-powered vehicle 10. For example, the braking device 24 is configured to brake the rotation of at least one wheel 12. For example, the braking device 24 includes at least one front brake and a rear brake. For example, the braking device 24 may be a disc brake that brakes a disc brake rotor mounted on the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0027] For example, the operating device 26 is configured to operate the brake device 24. For example, in response to the operation of the operating device 26, the brake device 24 is driven mechanically or electrically. If the brake device 24 includes an electric brake, the electric brake is separate from the motor 52.

[0028] For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a battery 28. The battery 28 includes one or more battery elements. The battery elements include rechargeable batteries. For example, the battery 28 is configured to be rechargeable with power generated by the motor 52. The control unit 58 is configured to charge the battery 28 with power generated by the motor 52. For example , The battery 28 is configured to be able to be charged up to its charging capacity. The charging capacity is set according to the characteristics of the battery 28.

[0029] For example, the battery 28 is configured to supply power to the drive unit 50. The battery 28 is communicated with the drive unit 50 via an electrical cable or wireless communication device. The battery 28 can communicate with the drive unit 50 by, for example, power line communication (PLC), CAN (Controller Area Network), or UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter).

[0030] For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a human-powered force detection unit 30. The human-powered force detection unit 30 includes a torque sensor. The torque sensor is configured to output a signal corresponding to the torque applied to the crankshaft 14 by the human-powered force. The signal corresponding to the torque applied to the crankshaft 14 by the human-powered force includes information about the human-powered force input to the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0031] For example, the torque sensor is located near the crankshaft 14. For example, if the drive unit 50 includes a one-way clutch 76, the torque sensor is located upstream of the one-way clutch 76 in the transmission path of the human-powered drive. The torque sensor includes strain sensors, magnetostrictive sensors, or pressure sensors. The strain sensor includes strain gauges.

[0032] Components included in the transmission path for human-powered driving force include, for example, a crankshaft 14, a crank arm, or a pedal. The torque sensor can have any configuration as long as it can acquire information about human-powered driving force, and may include, for example, a sensor that detects the pressure applied to the pedal, or a sensor that detects the tension of the chain 18.

[0033] For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a crank rotation speed detection unit 32. The crank rotation speed detection unit 32 includes a crank rotation sensor. The crank rotation sensor is configured to detect information corresponding to the rotation speed of the crankshaft 14. The information corresponding to the rotation speed of the crankshaft 14 includes the angular acceleration of the crankshaft 14. The acceleration of the human-powered vehicle 10 is, for example, the angular acceleration of the crankshaft 14. The crank rotation sensor outputs a signal corresponding to the rotation speed of the crankshaft 14.

[0034] The crank rotation sensor includes a magnetic sensor that outputs a signal corresponding to the strength of the magnetic field. The magnetic sensor includes an annular magnet whose magnetic field strength changes in the circumferential direction. The annular magnet whose magnetic field strength changes in the circumferential direction is provided on the crankshaft 14, a member that rotates in conjunction with the crankshaft 14, or in the transmission path between the crankshaft 14 and the rotating body of the first drive mechanism.

[0035] The magnet may be provided on a member that rotates integrally with the crankshaft 14 in the transmission path of human-powered driving force from the crankshaft 14 to the first drive mechanism rotating body. The crank rotation sensor may include an optical sensor, acceleration sensor, gyro sensor, or torque sensor instead of a magnetic sensor.

[0036] For example, the crank rotation sensor is configured such that when the crank rotates in a first direction from a reference phase of the crank, the output value increases in proportion to the amount of crank rotation. For example, the crank rotation sensor may be configured such that when the crank rotates in a first direction from a reference phase of the crank, the output value increases in proportion to the amount of crank rotation during the half-rotation of the crank, and when the crank rotates in a second direction from a reference phase of the crank, the output value decreases in proportion to the amount of crank rotation during the half-rotation of the crank. If the crank rotation sensor includes a vehicle speed sensor, for example, the control unit 58 is configured to calculate the crank rotation speed according to the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor and the gear ratio.

[0037] For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a vehicle speed detection unit 34. The vehicle speed detection unit 34 is configured to detect information corresponding to the rotational speed of the wheels 12 of the human-powered vehicle 10. The information corresponding to the rotational speed of the wheels 12 of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes the vehicle speed. The vehicle speed detection unit 34 is configured, for example, to detect magnets provided on the wheels 12 of the human-powered vehicle 10. The vehicle speed sensor outputs a signal corresponding to the rotational speed of the wheels 12.

[0038] The vehicle speed detection unit 34 includes, for example, a magnetic reed constituting a reed switch, or a Hall element. For example, the vehicle speed detection unit 34 is attached to the chainstay of the frame of the human-powered vehicle 10. The vehicle speed detection unit 34 is configured to detect a magnet attached to the rear wheel 12R. The vehicle speed sensor may be provided on the front fork. If the vehicle speed sensor is provided on the front fork, it may be configured to detect a magnet attached to the front wheel.

[0039] The control unit 58 can calculate the vehicle speed of the human-powered vehicle 10 based on the rotational speed of the wheel 12 and information regarding the circumference of the wheel 12. The circumference of the wheel 12 is, for example, the circumference of the tire. The storage unit 80 stores information regarding the circumference of the wheel 12. The vehicle speed detection unit 34 is not limited to a configuration that detects magnets provided on the wheel 12, but may also include, for example, an optical sensor.

[0040] For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 further includes an operation detection unit 36 ​​capable of detecting rider operations. For example, the operation detection unit 36 ​​is included in the operating device 26. The operation detection unit 36 ​​is configured to detect the displacement state of the operating member of the operating device 26. The operation detection unit 36 ​​includes at least one of a displacement sensor and a pressure sensor.

[0041] The drive unit 50 for a human-powered vehicle comprises a motor 52 having a motor rotating shaft 52A, a power connection unit 54, an output rotating unit 56, and a control unit 58 configured to control the motor 52.

[0042] For example, the drive unit 50 includes a housing 60. For example, the housing 60 is mounted on the frame of the human-powered vehicle 10. For example, the housing 60 includes a mounting portion 60A for mounting to the frame of the human-powered vehicle 10. The mounting portion 60A is provided on the outer circumference of the housing 60. For example, the mounting portion 60A includes at least one of a hole and a female thread. For example, the housing 60 is mounted to the frame of the human-powered vehicle 10 by bolting to at least one of the hole and female thread of the mounting portion 60A and to the frame of the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0043] The housing 60 has an internal space 60S. For example, at least a portion of the motor 52 is housed in the internal space 60S of the housing 60 of the drive unit 50. For example, the motor 52 includes one or more electric motors. The electric motor is, for example, a brushless motor. The motor rotation shaft 52A has a first rotational axis C1.

[0044] For example, the motor 52 is configured to provide thrust to the human-powered vehicle 10. When the motor 52 rotates in a first motor rotation direction M1, the motor 52 outputs torque to provide thrust to the human-powered vehicle 10. The output torque of the motor 52 increases as the supplied power increases. For example, the motor 52 is configured to perform regenerative operation. Regenerative operation includes at least one of regenerative power generation and regenerative braking. For example, the motor 52 may be configured to brake the human-powered vehicle 10 by regenerative braking. When the motor 52 is configured to brake the human-powered vehicle 10 by regenerative braking, it generates a braking force on the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0045] The power connection unit 54 is connected to the motor rotating shaft 52A. The output rotating unit 56 is connected to the motor rotating shaft 52A via the power connection unit 54. The torque output by the motor 52 is output to the output rotating unit 56 via the power connection unit 54.

[0046] The power connection unit 54 is configured to be switchable between a first connection state and a second connection state. In the first connection state, when the motor rotating shaft 52A rotates in the first motor rotation direction M1, the transmission of the driving force of the motor 52 input to the first rotating body 62 to the output rotating unit 56 is permitted. In the second connection state, when the output rotating unit 56 rotates in the first output rotating unit rotation direction Y1 by an external driving force, the transmission of the external driving force to the motor 52 is permitted. The external driving force is, for example, the driving force input from the wheels 12 to the output rotating unit 56 when the human-powered vehicle 10 is coasting, such as when the human-powered vehicle 10 is traveling downhill.

[0047] For example, at least a portion of the power connection section 54 is housed in the internal space 60S of the housing 60. For example, the entire power connection section 54 is housed in the internal space 60S of the housing 60. The power connection section 54 includes a first rotating body 62 having a rotational axis C2, a second rotating body 64, and an intermediate transmission body 66. The second rotating body 64 is arranged coaxially with the first rotating body 62, with at least a portion overlapping the first rotating body 62 radially with respect to the rotational axis C2. The second rotating body 64 is connected to the motor 52 via the first rotating body 62. The intermediate transmission body 66 is positioned between the first rotating body 62 and the second rotating body 64 in the radial direction of the first rotating body 62. For example, the intermediate transmission body 66 includes at least one ball, at least one roller, at least one needle, and at least one sprag.

[0048] For example, the power connection section 54 further includes a reduction gear 68. The reduction gear 68 reduces the rotational speed of the motor rotating shaft 52A and transmits the thrust of the motor 52 to the output rotating section 56. For example, the first rotating body 62, the second rotating body 64, and the intermediate transmission body 66 are provided in the reduction gear 68.

[0049] For example, the power connection 54 includes a clutch 70. The reduction gear 68 has at least one rotating shaft 72. For example, the clutch 70 switches the connection state of the power connection 54. The at least one rotating shaft 72 has at least one rotational axis. For example, the clutch 70 is immovable in the axial direction with respect to at least one rotating shaft 72. For example, the clutch 70 includes a first rotating body 62, a second rotating body 64, and an intermediate transmission body 66. For example, the first rotating body 62, the second rotating body 64, and the intermediate transmission body 66 are immovable in the axial direction with respect to at least one rotating shaft 72. For example, the clutch 70 includes a reverse input cutoff clutch. For example, the reverse input cutoff clutch includes a torque diode (registered trademark). For example, the torque diode may include a free-type torque diode. The clutch 70 has a configuration similar to, for example, the clutch disclosed in "Compact Free-Type Torque Diode," NTN TECHNICAL REVIEW No. 77 (2009), pp. 83-86. The clutch 70 may also have a configuration similar to the clutch disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 3914778, Japanese Patent Publication No. 4283167, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2006-200606, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-098916, or Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-003104.

[0050] For example, the reduction gear 68 is configured such that, in one or more stages, the rotational speed of the output section decreases below the rotational speed of the input section to which the driving force of the motor rotating shaft 52A is input. In this embodiment, the reduction gear 68 is configured such that, in three stages, the rotational speed of the output section decreases below the rotational speed of the input section to which the driving force of the motor rotating shaft 52A is input. For example, the reduction gear 68 includes a first reduction section 68A, a second reduction section 68B, and a third reduction section 68C. For example, the reduction gear 68 includes a first rotating shaft 72A and a second rotating shaft 72B.

[0051] In this embodiment, at least one rotating shaft 72 includes a motor rotating shaft 52A, a first rotating shaft 72A, a second rotating shaft 72B, and an output rotating section 56. The first rotating shaft 72A has a rotational axis C2. The second rotating shaft 72B has a third rotational axis C3. The first rotating shaft 72A is rotatably mounted in the housing 60. The second rotating shaft 72B is rotatably mounted in the housing 60.

[0052] The first reduction gear section 68A includes a first gear 68D provided on the motor rotating shaft 52A and a second gear 68E provided on the first rotating shaft 72A. The first gear 68D meshes with the second gear 68E. The second reduction gear section 68B includes a third gear 68F provided on the first rotating shaft 72A and a fourth gear 68G provided on the second rotating shaft 72B. The third gear 68F meshes with the fourth gear 68G. The third reduction gear section 68C includes a fifth gear 68H provided on the second rotating shaft 72B and a sixth gear 68J provided on the output rotating section 56. The fifth gear 68H meshes with the sixth gear 68J. The reducer 68 may include pulleys and belts, or sprockets and chains, in place of or in addition to the gears.

[0053] For example, the clutch 70 is provided between a gear included in the reduction gear 68 and a rotating shaft 72 on which the gear is mounted. For example, the clutch 70 is provided between the first gear 68D and the motor rotating shaft 52A, between the second gear 68E and the first rotating shaft 72A, between the third gear 68F and the first rotating shaft 72A, between the fourth gear 68G and the second rotating shaft 72B, between the fifth gear 68H and the second rotating shaft 72B, and between the sixth gear 68J and the output rotating part 56. In this embodiment, the clutch 70 is provided between the second gear 68E and the first rotating shaft 72A. The first rotating shaft 72A includes a first part 72C that rotates integrally with the second gear 68E and a second part 72D that rotates together with the third gear 68F. The first part 72C and the second part 72D are rotatable relative to each other. In this embodiment, the first rotating body 62 includes a second gear 68E, and the second rotating body 64 includes a second portion 72D. For example, the first portion 72C is at least a part of the first rotating body 62. For example, the second portion 72D is at least a part of the second rotating body 64.

[0054] For example, the clutch 70 further includes a biasing member 70A, a retainer 70B, rolling elements 70C, and a clutch housing 70D. The intermediate transmission body 66 includes rolling elements 70C. For example, the clutch housing 70D is mounted on the housing 60 so as to be immovable relative to the housing 60. For example, the clutch housing 70D is attached to the housing 60 by bolts or the like. The clutch housing 70D may be formed integrally with the housing 60.

[0055] At least a portion of the first rotating body 62 is positioned within the internal space of the clutch housing 70D. For example, the first rotating body 62 includes a first member 62A and a second member 62B. For example, the first member 62A is formed separately from the second member 62B and configured to rotate integrally with the second member 62B. The first member 62A and the second member 62B may be formed integrally. For example, a portion of the first member 62A is housed within the internal space of the clutch housing 70D. For example, the entire second member 62B is housed within the internal space of the clutch housing 70D.

[0056] For example, the first rotating body 62 has a first end portion 62C in a direction parallel to the rotational axis C2. For example, the first end portion 62C is provided on the first member 62A. For example, the first end portion 62C is exposed to the outside of the clutch housing 70D. In this embodiment, a second gear 68E is provided on the first end portion 62C. For example, the first rotating body 62 has a second end portion 62D. For example, the second end portion 62D is provided on the second member 62B. For example, the second end portion 62D is located in the internal space of the clutch housing 70D.

[0057] For example, the first member 62A has a cylindrical shape. For example, the second member 62B has a cylindrical shape. The inner diameter of the first member 62A is smaller than the inner diameter of the second member 62B. The outer diameter R1 of the portion of the first member 62A in which the second member 62B is located and the inner diameter R2 of the portion of the second member 62B located inside the first member 62A are substantially the same size. The outer circumference of the portion of the first member 62A in which the second member 62B is located and the inner circumference of the portion of the second member 62B located inside the first member 62A are connected to each other. For example, the outer circumference of the first member 62A and the inner circumference of the second member 62B are connected to each other by spline or serration fitting.

[0058] For example, the clutch 70 further includes a ball 70E. The ball 70E is provided between the second end 62D and the clutch housing 70D. For example, the ball 70E is provided between the second end 62D and the clutch housing 70D in a direction parallel to the rotational axis C2. The ball 70E rotatably supports the second end 62D relative to the clutch housing 70D.

[0059] A biasing member 70A is provided between the connecting portion 62E of the first member 62A and the second member 62B and the clutch housing 70D. The second member 62B is positioned between the biasing member 70A and the ball 70E in the axial direction with respect to the rotation center axis C2. The biasing member 70A biases the second member 62B toward the ball 70E.

[0060] For example, a portion of the second rotating body 64 is positioned on the inner circumference of the second member 62B. For example, the portion of the second rotating body 64 that is exposed from the second member 62B is provided with the second part 72D of the first rotating shaft 72A and the third gear 68F.

[0061] The rolling elements 70C are arranged between the inner circumference of the second member 62B and the outer circumference of the second rotating body 64. For example, the rolling elements 70C are rollers. The rolling elements 70C may also be balls. For example, the clutch 70 includes a plurality of rolling elements 70C. The plurality of rolling elements 70C are arranged in a circumferential direction with respect to the rotational axis C2 between the inner circumference of the second member 62B and the outer circumference of the second rotating body 64.

[0062] For example, the retainer 70B is configured to hold a plurality of rolling elements 70C. For example, the retainer 70B is provided in a portion separate from the portion supporting the rolling elements 70C and includes a ball support portion that supports the balls 70E. The retainer 70B rotatably supports the balls 70E. The balls 70E and the biasing member 70A provide the retainer 70B and the rolling elements 70C with rotational resistance to the first rotating body 62 in the circumferential direction with respect to the rotational axis C2.

[0063] For example, a plurality of grooves 70F are formed in at least one of the inner circumference of the second member 62B and the outer circumference of the second rotating body 64. For example, the plurality of grooves 70F formed in the inner circumference of the second member 62B are arranged in a circumferential direction with respect to the rotational axis C2. For example, the number of grooves 70F is equal to the number of rolling elements 70C.

[0064] For example, the drive unit 50 further comprises an input rotating section 74. The input rotating section 74 is connected to an output rotating section 56. The input rotating section 74 is configured to receive human-powered driving force. For example, the input rotating section 74 has a fourth rotational axis C4. In this embodiment, the input rotating section 74 includes a crankshaft 14.

[0065] For example, the output rotating unit 56 includes an output unit 56A connected to the front sprocket 16. For example, the output rotating unit 56 is arranged coaxially with the input rotating unit 74. For example, the output rotating unit 56 is configured to output a combination of the motor driving force output by the motor 52 and the human driving force input to the crankshaft 14. For example, the output rotating unit 56 includes an output unit 56A. For example, the output unit 56A is configured to output a combination of the motor driving force output by the motor 52 and the human driving force input to the crankshaft 14 to the front sprocket 16.

[0066] For example, the first rotational axis C1, the rotational axis C2, the third rotational axis C3, and the fourth rotational axis C4 are all substantially parallel. For example, the first rotational axis C1, the rotational axis C2, the third rotational axis C3, and the fourth rotational axis C4 are all located in different positions when viewed from the axial direction with respect to the rotational axis C2. For example, the first rotational axis C1, the rotational axis C2, and the fourth rotational axis C4 are located at the vertices of a triangle when viewed from the axial direction with respect to the rotational axis C2. For example, the first rotational axis C1, the third rotational axis C3, and the fourth rotational axis C4 are located at the vertices of a triangle when viewed from the axial direction with respect to the rotational axis C2.

[0067] For example, the drive unit 50 further includes a one-way clutch 76. The one-way clutch 76 is configured to allow the transmission of human-powered driving force to the output rotating part 56 when the input rotating part 74 rotates in the first input rotating part rotation direction X1. The one-way clutch 76 is configured to suppress the transmission of the driving force of the motor 52 to the input rotating part 74 when the motor rotating shaft 52A rotates in the first motor rotation direction M1. For example, the first input rotating part rotation direction X1 is the direction of human-powered vehicle 10 of This corresponds to the direction of rotation of wheel 12.

[0068] For example, the one-way clutch 76 includes a roller clutch. For example, the one-way clutch 76 includes an inner ring, an outer ring, and a plurality of rollers provided between the inner ring and the outer ring. For example, the one-way clutch 76 may include a plurality of balls instead of or in addition to the plurality of rollers. The one-way clutch 76 may include a claw clutch or a sprag clutch.

[0069] For example, the crankshaft 14 is connected to the output unit 56A via a one-way clutch 76. For example, the one-way clutch 76 is provided between the crankshaft 14 and the output unit 56A in the radial direction of the crankshaft 14. For example, if the input rotating unit 74 includes the crankshaft 14, when a human-powered driving force is applied to the crankshaft 14 and the crankshaft 14 rotates in the first input rotating unit rotation direction X1, torque is transmitted from the crankshaft 14 to the output unit 56A by the one-way clutch 76. For example, if the input rotating unit 74 includes the crankshaft 14, when a human-powered driving force is applied to the crankshaft 14 and the crankshaft 14 rotates in the second input rotating unit rotation direction X2, torque is not transmitted from the crankshaft 14 to the output unit 56A by the one-way clutch 76. The second input rotating unit rotation direction X2 is the opposite direction to the first input rotating unit rotation direction X1.

[0070] For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a motor current detection unit 38. For example, the motor current detection unit 38 detects the current and voltage generated by the motor 52 when the motor 52 is generating power. For example, the motor current detection unit 38 is provided on the lead wires of the motor 52. For example, the motor current detection unit 38 includes a current sensor and a voltage sensor. The control unit 58 may be configured to calculate the rotational speed of the motor 52 from the current detected by the current sensor or the voltage detected by the voltage sensor.

[0071] For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a motor rotation speed detection unit 40. For example, the motor rotation speed detection unit 40 is configured to detect the rotation speed of at least one of the rotor and motor rotation shaft 52A of the motor 52. For example, the motor rotation speed detection unit 40 includes a magnetic pole sensor. The magnetic pole sensor is provided near the motor 52 of the drive unit 50. The magnetic pole sensor is configured to detect the rotation speed of the motor 52.

[0072] For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a control device 78. For example, the control device 78 comprises a control unit 58, a memory unit 80, and a drive circuit 82 for the motor 52. At least a portion of the control device 78 is housed in a drive unit 50.

[0073] The control unit 58 includes an arithmetic processing unit that executes a predetermined control program. The arithmetic processing unit included in the control unit 58 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The arithmetic processing units included in the control unit 58 may be located in multiple locations that are far apart from each other. The control unit 58 may include one or more microcomputers. The control unit 58 is communicated with the battery 28 by wire or wireless means. The control unit 58 is configured to be powered by the battery 28.

[0074] For example, the drive unit 50 further comprises a storage unit 80. The storage unit 80 stores various control programs and information used for various control processes. The storage unit 80 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).

[0075] For example, the control unit 58 is configured to communicate with other devices by wire or wireless means. For example, other devices include a battery 28, a brake device 24, an operating device 26, a human-powered drive force detection unit 30, a crank rotation speed detection unit 32, a vehicle speed detection unit 34, an operation detection unit 36, a motor current detection unit 38, and a motor rotation speed detection unit 40. When the control unit 58 communicates with other devices by wire, it communicates by, for example, power line communication (PLC), CAN (Controller Area Network), or UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter). When the control unit 58 communicates with other devices wirelessly, it communicates by, for example, Bluetooth®, ANT+®, Wi-Fi®, or infrared communication.

[0076] For example, the control device 78 includes a drive circuit 82. The drive circuit 82 is electrically connected to the motor 52. The drive circuit 82 controls the supply of power from the battery 28 to the motor 52. The drive circuit 82 includes an inverter circuit. The inverter circuit includes a plurality of transistors. In one example, the inverter circuit includes a configuration in which a plurality of inverter sections, each consisting of a pair of transistors connected in series, are connected in parallel. The inverter circuit may have a current sensor that detects the current flowing through the inverter circuit. The current sensor is communicated with the control unit 58 by wire or wireless means.

[0077] The control unit 58 is configured to control the motor 52. For example, the control unit 58 is configured to control the motor 52 according to the state of the human-powered vehicle 10. For example, the control unit 58 is configured to control the motor 52 according to the output of the motor current detection unit 38 and the motor rotation speed detection unit 40. For example, the control unit 58 is configured to control the motor 52 so as to change the thrust force according to the human-powered force input to the human-powered vehicle 10. For example, the control unit 58 is configured to control the motor 52 so that the thrust force increases as the human-powered force increases until the human-powered force input to the human-powered vehicle 10 reaches a predetermined value.

[0078] The control unit 58 switches the connection state between a first connection state and a second connection state by controlling the motor 52. For example, the connection state includes a first connection state, a second connection state, and a third connection state. For example, the connection state of the power connection unit 54 is selected from one of the first connection state, the second connection state, and the third connection state. For example, the connection state of the power connection unit 54 is switched by the clutch 70. For example, when the connection state is the first connection state and the motor rotation shaft 52A rotates in the first motor rotation direction M1, the motor 52 provides propulsion to the human-powered vehicle 10 by rotating the output rotation unit 56 in the first output rotation direction Y1. For example, when the connection state is the second connection state and the output rotation unit 56 rotates in the first output rotation direction Y1, the output rotation unit 56 rotates the motor 52 in the first motor rotation direction M1, causing the motor 52 to regenerate power.

[0079] In the first connection state shown in Figure 8, for example, the control unit 58 supplies power to the motor 52, causing the motor 52 to rotate in the first motor rotation direction M1, thereby maintaining the first connection state. For example, in the first connection state, the motor rotation shaft 52A rotates in the first motor rotation direction M1, causing the first rotating body 62 to rotate in the direction P1 corresponding to the first motor rotation direction M1. In the first connection state, when the first rotating body 62 rotates in the direction P1 corresponding to the first motor rotation direction M1, the rolling element 70C comes into contact with the shallow portion 70G of the groove 70F on the upstream side of direction P1, and also comes into contact with the outer circumference of the second rotating body 64. Therefore, as the first rotating body 62 rotates in the direction P1, the second rotating body 64 rotates in the same direction as direction P1. direction Rotate to P2.

[0080] In the second connection state shown in Figure 9, the second connection state is maintained by, for example, the rotation of the second rotating body 64 in a direction P2 corresponding to the rotation direction M1 of the first motor due to an external driving force. For example, in the second connection state, when the second rotating body 64 rotates in a direction P2 corresponding to the rotation direction Y1 of the first output rotating part due to an external driving force, the rolling element 70C comes into contact with the shallow portion 70H of the groove 70F downstream of direction P2, and also comes into contact with the outer circumference of the second rotating body 64. Therefore, as the second rotating body 64 rotates in direction P2, the first rotating body 62 rotates in the same direction as direction P2. direction It rotates in direction P1. For example, in the second connection state, if the output rotating part 56 rotates in the rotation direction Y1 of the first output rotating part by an external driving force, and the torque of the external driving force is maintained to be greater than the torque of the motor rotating shaft 52A, the shallow portion 70H of the groove 70F on the downstream side of direction P2 is held in contact with the intermediate transmission body 66.

[0081] For example, if the input of external driving force to the second rotating body 64 stops when the connection state is the second connection state, the connection state switches from the second connection state to the third connection state shown in Figure 10. For example, in the third connection state, the rolling element 70C is positioned in the deeper part of the groove 70F, and relative rotation between the first rotating body 62 and the second rotating body 64 is permitted. For example, when the connection state is the third connection state, the transmission of external driving force to the motor 52 is suppressed. For example, if the rotation of the motor 52 in the first motor rotation direction M1 stops when the connection state is the first connection state, the connection state switches from the first connection state to the third connection state.

[0082] For example, when the connection state is the second connection state, the control unit 58 switches the connection state from the second connection state to the first connection state by controlling the motor 52 so that a first torque is generated that rotates the motor rotation shaft 52A in the first motor rotation direction M1. For example, when the connection state is the second connection state, if a human-powered driving force is input to the crankshaft 14 to rotate the crankshaft 14 in the first input rotation direction X1, the control unit 58 switches the connection state from the second connection state to the first connection state by controlling the motor 52 so that a first torque is generated. For example, the first torque is the torque used to switch from the second connection state to the first connection state.

[0083] When the connection state is the second connection state, the control unit 58 controls the motor rotation shaft 52A ofThe connection state may be switched from the second connection state to the first connection state by controlling the motor 52 so that a second torque is generated that rotates in the first motor rotation direction M1, and then controlling the motor 52 so that the second torque decreases. For example, the second torque is the torque required to switch from the second connection state to the third connection state. For example, if the connection state is the second connection state, when the rotational speed of the first rotating body 62, which is rotated by the second torque, becomes greater than the rotational speed of the second rotating body 64, the connection state switches from the second connection state to the third connection state and then to the first connection state. For example, when the connection state switches from the second connection state to the third connection state, the control unit 58 controls the motor 52 so that the second torque decreases, thereby switching the connection state from the second connection state to the third connection state and then to the first connection state.

[0084] For example, when the connection state is switched from the second connection state to the first connection state, the rolling element 70C and the retainer 70B rotate in a direction P1 corresponding to the first motor rotation direction M1 at approximately half the speed of the first rotating body 62 due to the second torque transmitted from the groove 70F. For example, the ball 70E supported by the retainer 70B rolls between the inner circumference of the first rotating body 62 and the clutch housing 70D, with resistance provided by the biasing member 70A. The rolling element 70C moves to a position where it contacts the groove 70F due to the difference in rotational speed between the first rotating body 62 and the retainer 70B.

[0085] For example, if the connection state is the first connection state, the control unit 58 switches the connection state from the first connection state to the second connection state by controlling the motor 52 so that a torque is generated that rotates the motor rotation shaft 52A in the second motor rotation direction M2, which is opposite to the first motor rotation direction M1. For example, if the connection state is the first connection state and the rotation of the motor 52 in the first motor rotation direction M1 stops, the connection state will go through the third connection state to the second connectionThe state switches. For example, if the connection state is the first connection state, the control unit 58 switches the connection state to the third connection state by stopping the rotation of the motor 52 in the first motor rotation direction M1 when the input of human power is stopped. For example, after stopping the rotation of the motor 52, the control unit 58 switches the connection state from the third connection state to the second connection state by controlling the motor 52 so that a torque is generated that rotates it in the second motor rotation direction M2.

[0086] For example, when the connection state is switched from the first connection state to the second connection state, if the motor 52 is driven to generate a torque that rotates in the second motor rotation direction M2, the first rotating body 62 rotates in the direction P3 opposite to direction P1. When the first rotating body 62 rotates in the direction P3 opposite to direction P1, and the shallow portion 70H downstream of the groove 70F in direction P1 comes into contact with the rolling element 70C, the torque that rotates the second rotating body 64 in direction P2 due to the external driving force is transmitted to the first rotating body 62 via the rolling element 70C, and the second connection state is formed.

[0087] For example, the power connection section 54 is configured such that the second connection state is maintained by restricting the relative rotation between the first rotating body 62 and the second rotating body 64 in the second connection state. For example, in the second connection state, if the output rotating section 56 is maintained to rotate in the rotation direction Y1 of the first output rotating section by an external driving force, the rolling element 70C is maintained to contact the shallow portion 70H on the downstream side of direction P2 of the groove 70F, and thus the second connection state is maintained. For example, when the connection state switches from the first connection state or the third connection state to the second connection state, the control unit 58 stops the rotation of the motor 52 in the second motor rotation direction M2. The control unit 58 may also stop the rotation of the motor 52 in the second motor rotation direction M2 after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the motor 52 was rotated to rotate in the second motor rotation direction M2.

[0088] For example, if the connection state is the first connection state and there is a braking request for the human-powered vehicle 10, the control unit 58 controls the motor 52 to switch the connection state from the first connection state to the second connection state. For example, the control unit 58 is configured to control the motor 52 so that the second connection state is formed when no human-powered driving force is input to the crankshaft 14 and the human-powered vehicle 10 is coasting downhill. For example, the control unit 58 is configured to control the motor 52 so that the second connection state is formed when there is a braking request.

[0089] Referring to Figure 11, the process by which the control unit 58 switches the connection state when a braking request is received is explained. For example, when power is supplied to the control unit 58, the control unit 58 starts processing and moves to step S11 of the flowchart shown in Figure 11. When the flowchart in Figure 11 is completed, the control unit 58 repeats the process from step S11 at predetermined intervals, for example, until the power supply is stopped.

[0090] In step S11, the control unit 58 determines whether the connection state is the first connection state. For example, the control unit 58 determines that the connection state is the first connection state if the motor 52 is providing thrust to the human-powered vehicle 10. If the connection state is the first connection state, the control unit 58 proceeds to step S12. If the connection state is not the first connection state, the control unit 58 terminates the process.

[0091] In step S12, the control unit 58 determines whether or not there is a braking request. For example, the control unit 58 determines that there is a braking request if the operating device 26 is operated. If there is a braking request, the control unit 58 proceeds to step S13. If there is no braking request, the control unit 58 terminates the process.

[0092] In step S13, the control unit 58 controls the motor 52 to switch the connection state from the first connection state to the second connection state, and then proceeds to step S14. 3In this process, the motor 52 is controlled so that a torque is generated that rotates the motor rotation shaft 52A in the second motor rotation direction M2. For example, the control unit 58 performs step S1 3 In this configuration, the motor 52 is driven for a predetermined period of time such that a torque is generated that rotates the motor shaft 52A in the second motor rotation direction M2.

[0093] In step S14, the control unit 58 determines whether or not there is a braking request. For example, if the braking request determined in step S12 is still active, the control unit 58 determines that there is a braking request. For example, if the braking request determined in step S12 has been released, the control unit 58 determines that there is no braking request. If there is a braking request, the control unit 58 repeats the process in step S14. If there is no braking request, the control unit 58 proceeds to step S15.

[0094] In step S15, the control unit 58 controls the motor 52 to switch the connection state from the second connection state to the first connection state, and then terminates the process. In step S15, the control unit 58 controls the motor 52 to generate torque that rotates the motor rotation shaft 52A in the first motor rotation direction M1. In step S15, if no human power is input, the control unit 58 controls the second connection state. connection From state to 1 connection It may be configured to wait for a switch to the second state. In step S15, the control unit 58 is configured to wait for a switch to the second state if no human-powered driving force is input. connection From state to 1 connection If configured to wait for a switch to a state, then the first connection Until switching to state 3 connection A state is selected.

[0095] <Example of changes> The description of embodiments is illustrative of possible forms of a drive unit for a human-powered vehicle according to this disclosure, and is not intended to limit such forms. A drive unit for a human-powered vehicle according to this disclosure may take the following modified embodiments, and at least two non-inconsistent modified embodiments combined. In the following modified embodiments, parts common to the embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the embodiments and their descriptions are omitted.

[0096] As shown in Figure 12, the output rotating part 56 may include a hub shell 22. If the output rotating part 56 includes a hub shell 22, the input rotating part 74 includes a rear sprocket 20. If the output rotating part 56 includes a hub shell 22, the drive unit 50 is configured as a hub motor provided on the wheel 12 of the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0097] For example, in step S13, the control unit 58 may determine whether or not the human-powered vehicle 10 is going downhill. For example, if the human-powered vehicle 10 is maintaining a state of going downhill, the control unit 58 may control the motor 52 to switch the connection state from the first connection state to the second connection state. For example, once the human-powered vehicle 10 has finished going downhill, the control unit 58 may control the motor 52 to switch the connection state from the second connection state to the first connection state.

[0098] The drive unit 50 includes a power connection section 54 which comprises a first rotating body 62 having a rotational axis C2, a second rotating body 64 which is arranged coaxially with the first rotating body 62 and overlaps the first rotating body 62 radially with respect to the rotational axis C2, and is connected to the motor 52 via the first rotating body 62, and an intermediate transmission body 66 which is arranged between the first rotating body 62 and the second rotating body 64 in the radial direction of the first rotating body 62, and when the motor rotation shaft 52A rotates in the first motor rotation direction M1, The power connection unit 54 is configured to be switchable between a first connection state in which the driving force of the motor 52 input to the rotating body 62 is allowed to be transmitted to the output rotating unit 56, and a second connection state in which the transmission of the external driving force to the motor 52 is allowed when the output rotating unit 56 is rotated in the first output rotating unit rotation direction Y1 by an external driving force, and the control unit 58 controls the motor 52 to switch the connection state between the first and second connection states, as other configurations may be omitted as appropriate.

[0099] The drive unit 50 is configured such that the power connection section 54 includes a clutch 70 and a reduction gear 68 having at least one rotating shaft 72, and the connection state of the power connection section 54 can be switched between a first connection state in which the transmission of the driving force of the motor 52 input from the power connection section 54 to the output rotating section 56 is permitted when the motor rotating shaft 52A rotates in a first motor rotation direction M1, and a second connection state in which the transmission of the external driving force to the motor 52 is permitted when the output rotating section 56 rotates in a first output rotating section rotation direction Y1 by an external driving force, and the clutch 70 is immovable in the axial direction with respect to at least one rotating shaft 72, and the control unit 58 switches the connection state of the power connection section 54 between the first connection state and the second connection state by controlling the motor 52. Other components may be omitted as appropriate.

[0100] 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]

[0101] 10...Human-powered vehicle, 14...Crankshaft, 22...Hub shell, 28...Battery, 50...Drive unit, 52...Motor, 52A...Motor rotating shaft, 54...Power connection part, 56...Output rotating part, 58...Control unit, 62...First rotating body, 64...Second rotating body, 66...Intermediate transmission body, 68...Reduction gear, 70...Clutch, 72...Rotating shaft, 74...Input rotating part, 76...One-way clutch.

Claims

1. A drive unit for a human-powered vehicle, A motor having a motor rotation shaft, A power connection part connected to the motor rotating shaft, An output rotating unit connected to the motor rotating shaft via the power connection unit, The system includes a control unit configured to control the motor, The aforementioned power connection part is A first rotating body having a rotational axis, A second rotating body is positioned coaxially with the first rotating body, with respect to the axis of rotation, at least a portion of which overlaps the first rotating body radially, and is connected to the motor via the first rotating body. The first rotating body includes an intermediate transmission body disposed between the first rotating body and the second rotating body in the radial direction of the first rotating body, The intermediate transmission body includes a plurality of rolling elements, When the motor rotation shaft rotates in the first motor rotation direction, a first connection state is permitted in which the driving force of the motor input to the first rotating body is transmitted to the output rotating part, The connection state of the power connection is configured to be switchable between a second connection state in which the transmission of the external driving force to the motor is permitted when the output rotating part rotates in the rotation direction of the first output rotating part by an external driving force, and The control unit switches the connection state between a first connection state and a second connection state by controlling the motor. The output rotating section is configured to be coaxial with the crankshaft, and is a drive unit.

2. The power connection section further includes a reduction gear, The drive unit according to claim 1, wherein the first rotating body, the second rotating body, and the intermediate transmission body are provided in the reduction gear.

3. The drive unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the power connection section is configured such that the second connection state is maintained by restricting the relative rotation between the first rotating body and the second rotating body in the second connection state.

4. A drive unit for a human-powered vehicle, A motor having a motor rotation shaft, A power connection part connected to the motor rotating shaft, An output rotating unit connected to the motor rotating shaft via the power connection unit, The system includes a control unit configured to control the motor, The aforementioned power connection part is Includes a clutch and a reduction gear having at least one rotating shaft, When the motor rotation shaft rotates in the first motor rotation direction, a first connection state is permitted in which the driving force of the motor input from the power connection part is allowed to be transmitted to the output rotation part, The connection state of the power connection is configured to be switchable between a second connection state in which the transmission of the external driving force to the motor is permitted when the output rotating part rotates in the rotation direction of the first output rotating part by an external driving force, and The aforementioned clutch is It includes a first rotating body, a second rotating body, and an intermediate transmission body. The first rotating body, the second rotating body, and the intermediate transmission body are immovable in the axial direction with respect to at least one rotation axis. The control unit is a drive unit that switches the connection state between a first connection state and a second connection state by controlling the motor.

5. The drive unit according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, when the connection state is the first connection state, the control unit controls the motor to generate a torque that rotates the motor rotation shaft in a second motor rotation direction opposite to the first motor rotation direction, thereby switching the connection state from the first connection state to the second connection state.

6. The drive unit according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, when the connection state is the second connection state, the control unit controls the motor to generate a first torque that rotates the motor rotation shaft in the first motor rotation direction, thereby switching the connection state from the second connection state to the first connection state.

7. The drive unit according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, when the connection state is the second connection state, the control unit controls the motor to generate a second torque that rotates the motor rotation shaft in the first motor rotation direction, and then controls the motor to decrease the second torque, thereby switching the connection state from the second connection state to the first connection state.

8. The drive unit according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, when the connection state is the first connection state, if there is a request to brake the human-powered vehicle, the control unit controls the motor to switch the connection state from the first connection state to the second connection state.

9. The aforementioned human-powered vehicle further includes a battery, The drive unit according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the control unit is configured to charge the battery with the power generated by the motor.

10. The drive unit according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising an input rotating section connected to the output rotating section and configured to receive human-powered driving force.

11. The drive unit according to claim 10, wherein the output rotating section is arranged coaxially with the input rotating section.

12. The drive unit according to claim 10 or 11, further comprising a one-way clutch configured to allow the transmission of the human-powered driving force to the output rotating part when the input rotating part rotates in the rotation direction of the first input rotating part, and to suppress the transmission of the motor's driving force to the input rotating part when the motor rotating shaft rotates in the rotation direction of the first motor.

13. The drive unit according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the input rotating part includes a crankshaft.

Images