A method for calculating energy indicators, a program for a calculation device for human-powered vehicles, and a calculation device for human-powered vehicles.

Abstract

To provide an energy index calculation method, a program concerning a calculation system for human power-driven vehicles, and a calculation system for human power-driven vehicles making it possible to calculate an energy index concerning travel of a human power-driven vehicle.SOLUTION: An energy index calculation method includes first processing of calculating an energy index concerning travel of a human power-driven vehicle on the basis of a first parameter concerning the travel of the human power-driven vehicle at a first travel point and a second parameter concerning the travel of the human power-driven vehicle at a second travel point different from the first travel point. The first parameter includes a first vehicle speed and first height at the first travel point, and the second parameter includes a second vehicle speed and second height at the second travel point.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a method for calculating an energy index, a program for a calculation device for a human-powered vehicle, and a calculation device for a human-powered vehicle.

Background Art

[0002] The work rate measuring device for a human-powered vehicle disclosed in Patent Document 1 is configured to measure the work rate that a driver of a human-powered vehicle performs on a pedal when the human-powered vehicle travels by the driver rowing the pedal.

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 method for calculating an energy index, a program for a calculation device for a human-powered vehicle, and a calculation device for a human-powered vehicle that enable the calculation of an energy index related to the travel of a human-powered vehicle.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The method for calculating an energy index according to the first aspect of the present disclosure includes a first process of calculating an energy index related to the travel of the human-powered vehicle based on a first parameter related to the travel of the human-powered vehicle at a first travel point and a second parameter related to the travel of the human-powered vehicle at a second travel point different from the first travel point, the first parameter includes a first vehicle speed and a first altitude at the first travel point, and the second parameter includes a second vehicle speed and a second altitude at the second travel point. According to the method for calculating the energy index of the first aspect, an energy index for the movement of a human-powered vehicle can be calculated based on the vehicle speed and altitude at the first and second travel points, respectively. Since the altitude difference at the first and second travel points is related to potential energy, the method for calculating the energy index of the first aspect can be used to calculate an energy index that reflects potential energy.

[0006] A method for calculating an energy index of a second aspect according to the first aspect of this disclosure, wherein the energy index includes a first energy index relating to the energy loss in the travel of the human-powered vehicle when the human-powered vehicle moves from a first travel point to a second travel point. According to the method for calculating the energy index on the second side, a first energy index relating to the energy loss during the movement of a human-powered vehicle when the vehicle moves from a first travel point to a second travel point can be calculated.

[0007] A method for calculating an energy index of a third aspect according to a second aspect of this disclosure, wherein the first process includes a process for calculating the first energy index based on the first parameter, the second parameter, and a third parameter relating to the weight of at least one of the human-powered vehicle and rider. According to the method for calculating the energy index of the third aspect, the first energy index is calculated based on the third parameter in addition to the first and second parameters, so that the first energy index that reflects the third parameter can be calculated.

[0008] A method for calculating an energy index of a fourth aspect according to a third aspect of this disclosure, wherein the first process includes a process for calculating the first energy index based on the first parameter, the second parameter, and the third parameter, plus at least one of the following: a fourth parameter relating to the driving force of the human-powered vehicle during the period in which the human-powered vehicle moves from a first travel point to a second travel point; a fifth parameter relating to the braking force of the brakes of the human-powered vehicle during the period in which the human-powered vehicle moves from a first travel point to a second travel point; and a sixth parameter relating to the running resistance of the human-powered vehicle during the period in which the human-powered vehicle moves from a first travel point to a second travel point. According to the method for calculating the energy index of the fourth aspect, the first energy index is calculated based on the first, second, and third parameters, as well as at least one of the fourth, fifth, and sixth parameters. Therefore, it is possible to calculate a first energy index that reflects at least one of the fourth, fifth, and sixth parameters.

[0009] In a method for calculating an energy index of the fifth aspect according to the fourth aspect of this disclosure, the fourth parameter is obtained based on the cumulative sum of the driving force during the period in which the human-powered vehicle travels from the first travel point to the second travel point. According to the method for calculating the energy index of the fifth aspect, when calculating the first energy index based on the fourth parameter in the first process, the first energy index can be calculated using the cumulative sum of the driving force of the human-powered vehicle.

[0010] In a method for calculating an energy index of a sixth aspect according to a fourth or fifth aspect of this disclosure, the fifth parameter is obtained based on the vehicle speed before the braking device is activated and the vehicle speed after the braking device is activated during the period in which the human-powered vehicle travels from a first travel point to a second travel point. According to the method for calculating the energy index of the sixth aspect, when calculating the first energy index based on the fifth parameter in the first process, the first energy index can be calculated using the fifth parameter, which is obtained based on the vehicle speed before the braking device is activated and the vehicle speed after the braking device is activated during the period when the human-powered vehicle moves from the first travel point to the second travel point.

[0011] In a method for calculating an energy index of the seventh aspect according to any one of the fourth to sixth aspects of this disclosure, the fifth parameter is obtained based on the detection result of a detection device configured to measure the braking force of the braking device. According to the method for calculating the energy index of the seventh aspect, when calculating the first energy index based on the fifth parameter in the first process, the first energy index can be suitably calculated based on the detection result of a detection device configured to measure the braking force of the braking device.

[0012] A method for calculating an energy index of the eighth aspect according to the second aspect of this disclosure, wherein the first process includes: a process for calculating a first potential energy of the human-powered vehicle and a first kinetic energy of the human-powered vehicle at a first travel point based on a first parameter and a third parameter relating to the weight of at least one of the human-powered vehicle and rider; a process for calculating a second potential energy of the human-powered vehicle and a second kinetic energy of the human-powered vehicle at a second travel point based on a second parameter and a third parameter; and a process for calculating the first energy index based on a first value obtained by subtracting the second sum of the second potential energy and the second kinetic energy from the first sum of the first potential energy and the first kinetic energy. According to the method for calculating the energy index of the eighth aspect, the first energy index can be calculated based on the first value obtained by subtracting the second sum of the second potential energy and the second kinetic energy from the first sum of the first potential energy and the first kinetic energy.

[0013] A method for calculating an energy index of the ninth aspect according to the eighth aspect of this disclosure, wherein the first process includes a process for calculating the first energy index based on the first value and at least one of the driving force of the human-powered vehicle during the period in which the human-powered vehicle moves from the first travel point to the second travel point, the braking force of the braking device of the human-powered vehicle during the period in which the human-powered vehicle moves from the first travel point to the second travel point, and the running resistance of the human-powered vehicle during the period in which the human-powered vehicle moves from the first travel point to the second travel point. According to the method for calculating the energy index of the ninth aspect, the first energy index can be calculated based on a first value and at least one of the following: the driving force of the human-powered vehicle during the period when the human-powered vehicle moves from the first travel point to the second travel point, the braking force of the human-powered vehicle's braking system during the period when the human-powered vehicle moves from the first travel point to the second travel point, and the running resistance of the human-powered vehicle during the period when the human-powered vehicle moves from the first travel point to the second travel point.

[0014] A method for calculating an energy index of a tenth aspect according to a second aspect of the present disclosure, wherein the energy index includes a second energy index relating to the energy efficiency of the human-powered vehicle as the human-powered vehicle moves from a first travel point to a second travel point, the first process including: a process for calculating a first potential energy of the human-powered vehicle at a first travel point and a first kinetic energy of the human-powered vehicle at a first travel point based on a first parameter and a third parameter relating to the weight of at least one of the human-powered vehicle and rider; a process for calculating a second potential energy of the human-powered vehicle at a second travel point and a second kinetic energy of the human-powered vehicle at a second travel point based on a second parameter and a third parameter; and a process for calculating the second energy index based on the ratio of a first sum of the first potential energy and the first kinetic energy to a second sum of the second potential energy and the second kinetic energy. According to the method for calculating the energy index of the tenth aspect, the first process allows for the calculation of a second energy index based on the ratio of the first sum of the first potential energy and the first kinetic energy to the second sum of the second potential energy and the second kinetic energy.

[0015] A method for calculating an energy index for an eleventh aspect according to any one of the first to tenth aspects of this disclosure, wherein the second travel point is a point where the travel distance from the first travel point is greater than 0m and 10m or less. According to the method for calculating the energy index on the 11th side, the energy index can be calculated for distances greater than 0m and less than or equal to 10m.

[0016] A method for calculating an energy index of a twelfth aspect according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects of this disclosure, wherein the second travel point is a point where the travel time from the first travel point is greater than 0 seconds and 10 seconds or less. According to the method for calculating the energy index on the 12th side, the energy index can be calculated for running times greater than 0 seconds but less than or equal to 10 seconds.

[0017] A method for calculating an energy index of a thirteenth aspect according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects of this disclosure, wherein the first process includes a process for calculating the energy index based on a first and second travel point on a continuous downhill or continuous uphill slope. According to the method for calculating the energy index in Aspect 13, the energy index can be calculated based on the first and second parameters when there is a continuous downhill slope from the first travel point to the second travel point. According to the method for calculating the energy index in Aspect 13, the energy index can be calculated based on the first and second parameters when there is a continuous uphill slope from the first travel point to the second travel point.

[0018] The method for calculating the energy index according to the 14th aspect of the present disclosure includes a second process of calculating an energy index related to the running of the human-powered vehicle based on the difference between the first mechanical energy of the human-powered vehicle including the first potential energy of the human-powered vehicle at the first driving point and the second mechanical energy of the human-powered vehicle including the second potential energy of the human-powered vehicle at a second driving point different from the first driving point. According to the method for calculating the energy index of the 14th aspect, an energy index related to the running of the human-powered vehicle can be calculated based on the difference between the first mechanical energy and the second mechanical energy.

[0019] In the method for calculating the energy index of the 15th aspect according to the 14th aspect of the present disclosure, the first mechanical energy further includes the first kinetic energy of the human-powered vehicle at the first driving point, and the second mechanical energy further includes the second kinetic energy of the human-powered vehicle at the second driving point. According to the method for calculating the energy index of the 15th aspect, an energy index can be calculated based on the difference between the first mechanical energy including the first potential energy and the first kinetic energy and the second mechanical energy including the second potential energy and the second kinetic energy.

[0020] The program of the 16th aspect of the present disclosure is a program related to a calculation device for a human-powered vehicle, and causes the calculation device to execute a process of calculating the energy index by the method for calculating the energy index according to any one of the 1st to 15th aspects. According to the program of the 16th aspect, an energy index related to the running of the human-powered vehicle can be calculated by causing the calculation device to execute a process of calculating the energy index.

[0021] The calculation device of the 17th aspect of the present disclosure is a calculation device for a human-powered vehicle, and includes a calculation unit that calculates the energy index by the method for calculating the energy index according to any one of the 1st to 15th aspects. According to the calculation device of the 17th aspect, the calculation unit can calculate an energy index related to the running of the human-powered vehicle by the method for calculating the energy index.

[0022] A calculation device for the 18th aspect according to the 17th aspect of this disclosure, further comprising a first detection unit for detecting the first parameter and a second detection unit for detecting the second parameter, which is configured to be mountable on the human-powered vehicle. According to the calculation device on side 18, the calculation unit can calculate an energy index related to the movement of a human-powered vehicle using a first parameter detected by the first detection unit and a second parameter detected by the second detection unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0023] The method for calculating energy indicators, the program for a calculation device for human-powered vehicles, and the calculation device for human-powered vehicles described herein enable the calculation of energy indicators related to the operation of human-powered vehicles. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0024] [Figure 1] This is a side view of a human-powered vehicle that includes a calculation device for a human-powered vehicle, which is configured to execute a program relating to the calculation device for a human-powered vehicle of the first embodiment and to calculate an energy index based on an energy index calculation method. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a human-powered vehicle, including the calculation device for the human-powered vehicle. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram showing the first and second travel points on a continuous downhill slope. [Figure 4] This is a flowchart of the process performed by the calculation unit in Figure 2 to calculate the first energy index. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart of the process performed by the calculation unit of the second embodiment to calculate the second energy index. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0025] <First Embodiment> Referring to Figures 1 to 4, the method for calculating the energy index of the first embodiment, the program for the calculation device 60 for a human-powered vehicle, and the calculation device 60 for a human-powered vehicle will be described. A human-powered vehicle is a vehicle having at least one wheel and that can be driven by human power, which is at least the driving force of the human-powered vehicle. 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 that a human-powered vehicle has is not limited. Human-powered vehicles also include, for example, unicycles and vehicles having two or more wheels. Human-powered vehicles are not limited to vehicles that can be driven by human power alone. Human-powered vehicles include e-bikes that use 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 the embodiments, a human-powered vehicle will be described as a bicycle.

[0026] 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 is attached to the frame 16. The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes, for example, a crank 18 into which human power is input. The crank 18 includes, for example, a crankshaft 20 and a crank arm 22. The crankshaft 20 is rotatable, for example, relative to the frame 16.

[0027] A pedal 24 is connected to the crank arm 22, for example. The crank 18 includes, for example, a first crank arm 22A and a second crank arm 22B. The pedal 24 includes, for example, a first pedal 24A and a second pedal 24B. Each of the first crank arm 22A and the second crank arm 22B is provided, for example, at the axial end of the crankshaft 20. The first pedal 24A is connected to the first crank arm 22A. The second pedal 24B is connected to the second crank arm 22B, for example.

[0028] A front fork 26 is connected to the frame 16. A front wheel 12F is mounted on the front fork 26. A handlebar 28 is connected to the front fork 26 via a stem 30. The rear wheel 12R is supported by the frame 16. In this embodiment, a crank 18 is connected to the rear wheel 12R by a drive mechanism 32. The rear wheel 12R is driven by the rotation of the crankshaft 20. At least one of the front wheel 12F and the rear wheel 12R may be connected to the crank 18 by the drive mechanism 32.

[0029] The drive mechanism 32 includes a first rotating body 34 connected to the crankshaft 20. 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 20 may be connected to the front sprocket via a one-way clutch.

[0030] 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.

[0031] The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes, for example, 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, a calculation unit 62. The battery 40 is communicated with, for example, the calculation unit 62 by wired or wireless means. The battery 40 is configured to communicate with the calculation unit 62 by, for example, power line communication (PLC). The battery 40 may also be configured to communicate with the calculation unit 62 by CAN (Controller Area Network) or UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter).

[0032] The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes, for example, a braking device 42. The braking device 42 is provided on the human-powered vehicle 10 to brake, for example, the wheels 12. The braking device 42 is provided on the human-powered vehicle 10 to brake, for example, at least one of the front wheels 12F and the rear wheels 12R. The braking device 42 is driven, for example, mechanically or electrically in response to operation on a brake operating section provided on the human-powered vehicle 10. The braking device 42 includes, for example, a rim brake for braking the rim of the human-powered vehicle 10. The braking device 42 may also include a disc brake for braking a disc brake rotor provided on the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0033] The human-powered vehicle 10 may further include a motor 54. The motor 54 is configured to drive a transmission member 38. The motor 54 is configured to impart propulsion to the human-powered vehicle 10 in response to the human-powered force input to the human-powered vehicle 10. The motor 54 includes, for example, one or more electric motors. The electric motor included in the motor 54 is, for example, a brushless motor. The motor 54 is configured to transmit rotational force to the power transmission path of the human-powered force from the pedal 24 to the second rotating body 36. The motor 54 drives the transmission member 38 via the first rotating body 34. In this embodiment, the motor 54 is mounted on the frame 16 and configured to transmit rotational force to the first rotating body 34. The motor 54 may be a hub motor mounted on the front wheel 12F or the rear wheel 12R. The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes, for example, a housing in which the motor 54 is mounted. The motor 54 and the housing are included in, for example, a drive unit.

[0034] As shown in Figure 2, the human-powered vehicle 10 further includes, for example, a detection device 44. The detection device 44 is communicated with, for example, a calculation unit 62 by wire or wireless means. The detection device 44 is configured to measure, for example, the braking force of a braking device 42. The detection device 44 includes, for example, a force sensor 46. If the braking device 42 includes a rim brake, the force sensor 46 is configured to detect, for example, the braking force acting on the rim of the human-powered vehicle 10. If the braking device 42 includes a rim brake, the force sensor 46 is provided on a friction member to detect, for example, the pressing force of a friction member that can contact the rim of the human-powered vehicle 10. If the braking device 42 includes a disc brake, the force sensor 46 is configured to detect, for example, the braking force acting on the disc brake rotor of the human-powered vehicle 10. If the braking system 42 includes a disc brake, the force sensor 46 is provided on the friction member to detect, for example, the pressing force of the friction member that can contact the disc brake rotor of the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0035] The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes, for example, a human-powered force detection unit 48. The human-powered force detection unit 48 is communicated with, for example, a calculation unit 62 by wire or wireless means. The human-powered force detection unit 48 is configured to output a signal corresponding to the torque applied to the crankshaft 20 by the human-powered force. The signal corresponding to the torque applied to the crankshaft 20 by the human-powered force includes, for example, information about the human-powered force input to the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0036] The human-powered driving force detection unit 48 is provided, for example, on a member included in the human-powered driving force transmission path or on a member located near a member included in the human-powered driving force transmission path. Members included in the human-powered driving force transmission path include, for example, a crankshaft 20 and a member that transmits human-powered driving force between the crankshaft 20 and the first rotating body 34. The human-powered driving force detection unit 48 is provided, for example, on the outer circumference of the crankshaft 20. The human-powered driving force detection unit 48 includes, for example, a strain gauge, a magnetostrictive sensor, or a pressure sensor. The human-powered driving force detection unit 48 may have any configuration as long as it can acquire information about human-powered driving force.

[0037] The human-powered driving force detection unit 48 is provided on, for example, at least one of the first crank arm 22A, the second crank arm 22B, the first pedal 24A, and the second pedal 24B. If the human-powered driving force detection unit 48 is provided on at least one of the first pedal 24A and the second pedal 24B, the human-powered driving force detection unit 48 may include a sensor that detects the pressure applied to at least one of the first pedal 24A and the second pedal 24B. If the transmission member 38 includes a chain, the human-powered driving force detection unit 48 may be provided on the chain. If the human-powered driving force detection unit 48 is provided on the chain, the human-powered driving force detection unit 48 may include a sensor that detects the tension of the chain.

[0038] If the human-powered vehicle 10 includes a motor 54, it may also include a motor drive force detection unit for detecting the drive force of the motor 54. The motor drive force detection unit may be configured to detect the drive force of the motor 54 by a sensor provided in the motor 54 or in the transmission path of the drive force of the motor 54. The motor drive force detection unit may be configured to acquire control information for a motor control unit configured to control the motor 54. If the human-powered vehicle 10 includes a motor 54 and the human drive force detection unit 48 is provided on a member where the human drive force and the drive force of the motor 54 combine, the human drive force detection unit 48 can detect the human drive force and the drive force of the motor 54.

[0039] The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes, for example, a running resistance detection unit 50. The running resistance detection unit 50 is configured to detect, for example, the running resistance of the human-powered vehicle 10. The running resistance detection unit 50 includes, for example, a calculation processing unit. The calculation processing unit included in the running resistance detection unit 50 may be substantially the same as the calculation processing unit included in the calculation unit 62. The running resistance detection unit 50 includes, for example, a running resistance detection sensor for detecting parameters related to the running resistance of the human-powered vehicle 10. The running resistance detection unit 50 calculates the running resistance, for example, according to the detection result of the running resistance detection sensor.

[0040] The parameters related to the running resistance of the human-powered vehicle 10 include, for example, the air resistance of the human-powered vehicle 10, the rolling resistance of the wheels 12, the gradient resistance of the road the human-powered vehicle 10 travels on, the acceleration resistance of the human-powered vehicle 10, parameters for calculating the air resistance of the human-powered vehicle 10, parameters for calculating the rolling resistance of the wheels 12, parameters for calculating the gradient resistance of the road the human-powered vehicle 10 travels on, and at least one of the parameters for detecting the acceleration resistance of the human-powered vehicle 10. The sensors for detecting running resistance include at least one of a tilt sensor, a wind speed sensor, an acceleration sensor, and an air pressure sensor. The tilt sensor includes, for example, a gyro sensor.

[0041] The gradient resistance of the road on which the human-powered vehicle 10 travels is calculated by the calculation processing unit, for example, based on the detection result of the inclination sensor. The air resistance of the human-powered vehicle 10 is calculated by the calculation processing unit, for example, based on the detection result of the wind speed sensor. The acceleration resistance of the human-powered vehicle 10 is calculated by the calculation processing unit, for example, based on the detection result of the acceleration sensor. The driving resistance detection unit 50 may be configured to calculate the driving resistance according to the human-powered driving force, the driving force of the motor 54 provided on the human-powered vehicle 10 and configured to impart propulsion to the human-powered vehicle 10, and the vehicle speed of the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0042] The calculation device 60 for a human-powered vehicle includes a calculation unit 62. The calculation unit 62 calculates an energy index according to an energy index calculation method. The calculation device 60 is configured to be mounted on, for example, a human-powered vehicle 10. The calculation device 60 may also be provided on, for example, a component for a human-powered vehicle that is configured to be mounted on a human-powered vehicle 10.

[0043] The calculation unit 62 includes, for example, an arithmetic processing unit that executes a predetermined control program. The predetermined control program includes, for example, a program relating to the calculation device 60 for a human-powered vehicle. The program relating to the calculation device 60 for a human-powered vehicle causes the calculation device 60 to perform a process of calculating an energy index according to an energy index calculation method. The arithmetic processing unit includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The calculation unit 62 may include one or more microcomputers. The calculation unit 62 may include multiple arithmetic processing units located in separate locations. The program relating to the calculation device 60 for a human-powered vehicle is stored, for example, in a storage medium. Calculation unit 62 For example, this involves executing a program relating to a calculation device 60 for a human-powered vehicle, which calculates an energy index according to an energy index calculation method. Execute The storage medium includes, for example, a storage unit 64.

[0044] The calculation device 60 further comprises, 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 stores, for example, a program relating to the calculation device 60 for a human-powered vehicle. 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 calculation unit 62 by wired or wireless means. The program relating to the calculation device 60 for a human-powered vehicle is stored in, for example, the storage unit 64.

[0045] The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes, for example, a communication unit 52. The communication unit 52 is configured to communicate with, for example, an external device. Yes By at least one of wire and wireless te The communication unit 52 is configured to transmit, for example, information about the energy index calculated by the calculation unit 62 to an external device. The external device includes, for example, at least one of a personal computer, a smartphone, and a tablet computer. The external device is configured to display, for example, display information about the energy index. The external device is configured to create, for example, display information about the energy index based on the energy index. The display information includes, for example, information for displaying the energy index by at least one of numbers, characters, and graphics. If the display information includes information for displaying the energy index by graphics, the energy index may be displayed together with a map.

[0046] The human-powered vehicle 10 may include a display unit in place of, or in addition to, the communication unit 52. The display unit may include, for example, at least one of a cycle computer and a smartphone. The display unit may be configured to display, for example, display information relating to an energy index. If the human-powered vehicle 10 includes a display unit, the calculation unit 62 may be configured to create, for example, display information relating to an energy index based on the energy index.

[0047] The method for calculating the energy index includes a first process for calculating an energy index related to the movement of the human-powered vehicle 10 based on a first parameter related to the movement of the human-powered vehicle 10 at a first travel point P1 and a second parameter related to the movement of the human-powered vehicle 10 at a second travel point P2 different from the first travel point P1. The first parameter includes a first vehicle speed V1 and a first altitude H1 at the first travel point P1. The second parameter includes a second vehicle speed V2 and a second altitude H2 at the second travel point P2.

[0048] The calculation device 60 further comprises, for example, a first detection unit 66A and a second detection unit 66B. The first detection unit 66A detects a first parameter. The second detection unit 66B detects a second parameter. The first detection unit 66A and the second detection unit 66B are each composed of, for example, one detection unit 66. The first detection unit 66A and the second detection unit 66B may be configured separately. When the first detection unit 66A and the second detection unit 66B are configured separately, the first detection unit 66A and the second detection unit 66B each have, for example, a configuration similar to that of the detection unit 66.

[0049] The detection unit 66 is communicated with, for example, the calculation unit 62 by wire or wireless means. The detection unit 66 includes, for example, a vehicle speed detection unit. The vehicle speed detection unit is configured to detect, for example, information relating to the vehicle speed of the human-powered vehicle 10. The vehicle speed detection unit is configured to detect, for example, information relating to the rotational speed of the wheels 12. The vehicle speed detection unit is configured to detect, for example, a magnet provided on at least one of the front wheel 12F and the rear wheel 12R.

[0050] The vehicle speed detection unit is configured to output a predetermined number of detection signals during one rotation of the wheel 12. The predetermined number of signals is, for example, 1. The vehicle speed detection unit outputs a signal corresponding to the rotational speed of the wheel 12. The calculation unit 62 can calculate the vehicle speed of the human-powered vehicle 10 based on the signal corresponding to the rotational speed of the wheel 12 and information regarding the circumference of the wheel 12. The storage unit 64 stores information regarding the circumference of the wheel 12, for example.

[0051] The detection unit 66 further includes, for example, an altitude detection unit. The altitude detection unit is configured to detect, for example, information regarding the altitude of the human-powered vehicle 10. The altitude detection unit includes, for example, a pressure sensor for detecting atmospheric pressure. If the altitude detection unit includes a pressure sensor, the storage unit 64 stores, for example, a table relating to atmospheric pressure and altitude. If the altitude detection unit includes a pressure sensor, the calculation unit 62 is configured to obtain the altitude of the human-powered vehicle 10 based, for example, the atmospheric pressure detected by the pressure sensor and the table relating to atmospheric pressure and altitude. The altitude detection unit may be configured to detect a relative altitude according to the difference between the atmospheric pressure at a reference altitude and the atmospheric pressure at the current altitude of the human-powered vehicle 10. The reference altitude is, for example, pre-stored in the storage unit 64. The reference altitude is set to, for example, the altitude of the starting point or the ending point of the human-powered vehicle 10's journey.

[0052] The altitude detection unit may include a location information acquisition unit configured to acquire location information in place of, or in addition to, the barometric pressure sensor. The location information acquisition unit is configured to acquire location information by, for example, receiving radio waves from outside the human-powered vehicle 10. The location information acquisition unit includes, for example, a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver. For example, the GNSS receiver includes a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver. The GNSS receiver may also include a receiver for a satellite positioning system other than GPS. Satellite positioning systems other than GPS include, for example, Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS), GLONASS (Global Navigation Satellite System), and Galileo. If the location information acquisition unit includes a GPS receiver, the radio waves it receives include radio waves from GPS satellites. The location information acquisition unit acquires the current location of the human-powered vehicle 10. If the altitude detection unit includes a GPS receiver, the storage unit 64 stores, for example, map information including altitude information. If the altitude detection unit includes a GPS receiver, the calculation unit 62 is configured to acquire the altitude of the human-powered vehicle 10 based, for example, the location information of the human-powered vehicle 10 and the map information.

[0053] The first travel point P1 is set, for example, anywhere between the starting point and ending point of the human-powered vehicle 10. The first travel point P1 may also be set at the starting point of the human-powered vehicle 10. The second travel point P2 is set, for example, anywhere between the starting point and ending point of the human-powered vehicle 10, and further from the starting point than the first travel point P1. The second travel point P2 may also be set at the ending point of the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0054] The route from the starting point to the ending point of the human-powered vehicle 10 may include a plurality of first travel points P1 and a plurality of second travel points P2. The first process includes, for example, a process for calculating an energy index for the entire section from the starting point to the ending point of the human-powered vehicle 10. The calculation unit 62 sets, for example, the starting point of the human-powered vehicle 10 as the first first travel point P1, and sets a first predetermined point that is further from the starting point of the human-powered vehicle 10 than the first first travel point P1 as the first second travel point P2. The calculation unit 62 sets, for example, a first predetermined point as the second first travel point P1, and sets a second predetermined point that is further from the starting point of the human-powered vehicle 10 than the second first travel point P1 as the second second travel point P2. The calculation unit 62 calculates the energy index for the entire section from the starting point to the ending point of the human-powered vehicle 10 by sequentially setting the first travel point P1 and the second travel point P2 for the entire section from the starting point to the ending point of the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0055] The second travel point P2 is, for example, a point where the travel distance from the first travel point P1 is greater than 0m and 10m or less. The calculation device 60 may include a distance detection unit for detecting the travel distance. The distance detection unit may include a vehicle speed detection unit. If the distance detection unit includes a vehicle speed detection unit, the distance detection unit may be configured integrally with the vehicle speed detection unit included in the detection unit 66. The second travel point P2 may also be a point where the travel time from the first travel point P1 is greater than 0 seconds and 10 seconds or less. The calculation device 60 may include a timer.

[0056] The first process may include a process for calculating an energy index based on a first travel point P1 and a second travel point P2 on a continuous downhill or continuous uphill slope. The first process may include a process for calculating an energy index based only on the first travel point P1 and the second travel point P2 on a continuous downhill or continuous uphill slope. If the first process includes a process for calculating an energy index based only on the first travel point P1 and the second travel point P2 on a continuous downhill or continuous uphill slope, the calculation unit 62 calculates the energy index only for the section that is a continuous downhill or continuous uphill slope out of the entire section from the starting point to the ending point of the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0057] The calculation unit 62 determines, for example, that if the pitch angle of the human-powered vehicle 10 is always negative from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2, it is a continuous downhill slope. The calculation unit 62 determines, for example, that if the pitch angle of the human-powered vehicle 10 is always positive from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2, it is a continuous uphill slope. The calculation unit 62 determines, for example, that if the second altitude H2 is lower than the first altitude H1, and the section corresponding to the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2 on the map does not include flat roads or uphill slopes. The calculation unit 62 determines, for example, that if the second altitude H2 is higher than the first altitude H1, and the section corresponding to the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2 on the map does not include flat roads or downhill slopes.

[0058] The energy index is, for example, an indicator of the rider's driving skill. The energy index includes, for example, a first energy index relating to the energy loss during the travel of the human-powered vehicle 10 when the human-powered vehicle 10 moves from a first travel point P1 to a second travel point P2. The first energy index is set to a value that increases as the energy loss increases, for example. For example, when the human-powered vehicle 10 travels from a first travel point P1 to a second travel point P2, if the rider shakes the handlebars 28 or puts their feet on the ground and is unable to operate the vehicle body 14 properly, the energy loss will increase. If the second altitude H2 is lower than the first altitude H1, the potential energy due to the altitude difference from the first altitude H1 to the second altitude H2 can be used as driving energy. Therefore, the more efficiently the rider utilizes the driving force and potential energy of the human-powered vehicle 10, the smaller the energy loss will be.

[0059] The first process includes, for example, a process for calculating a first energy index based on a first parameter, a second parameter, and a third parameter relating to at least one weight of the human-powered vehicle 10 and the rider. The third parameter includes the sum of the weight of the human-powered vehicle 10 and the weight of the rider. The third parameter is measured in advance and stored in the storage unit 64, for example. The third parameter may be measured in advance and stored in a storage medium other than the storage unit 64.

[0060] The first process may include a process for calculating a first energy index based on the first, second, and third parameters, as well as at least one of the following: a fourth parameter relating to the driving force of the human-powered vehicle 10 during the period when the human-powered vehicle 10 moves from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2; a fifth parameter relating to the braking force of the human-powered vehicle 10's braking device 42 during the period when the human-powered vehicle 10 moves from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2; and a sixth parameter relating to the running resistance of the human-powered vehicle 10 during the period when the human-powered vehicle 10 moves from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2. When the braking device 42 is operating, the driving energy is converted into braking energy by the braking device 42. By reducing the influence of the braking force of the braking device 42 in the calculation of the first energy index, the first energy index becomes an index that better reflects the rider's operating technique of the vehicle body 14. If the human-powered vehicle 10 includes a motor 54, the driving force of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes, for example, at least one of the human-powered driving force and the driving force of the motor 54. If the human-powered vehicle 10 includes a motor 54, the driving force of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes, for example, both the human-powered driving force and the driving force of the motor 54.

[0061] The first process may include: a process of calculating a first potential energy and a first kinetic energy of the human-powered vehicle 10 at a first travel point P1 based on a first parameter and a third parameter relating to the weight of at least one of the human-powered vehicle 10 and the rider; a process of calculating a second potential energy and a second kinetic energy of the human-powered vehicle 10 at a second travel point P2 based on a second parameter and a third parameter; and a process of calculating a first energy index based on a first value obtained by subtracting the second sum of the second potential energy and the second kinetic energy from the first sum of the first potential energy and the first kinetic energy.

[0062] The first process may include a process for calculating a first energy index based on a first value and at least one of the following: the driving force of the human-powered vehicle 10 during the period when the human-powered vehicle 10 moves from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2; the braking force of the braking device 42 of the human-powered vehicle 10 during the period when the human-powered vehicle 10 moves from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2; and the running resistance of the human-powered vehicle 10 during the period when the human-powered vehicle 10 moves from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2.

[0063] The fourth parameter is obtained, for example, based on the cumulative sum of the driving force of the human-powered vehicle 10 during the period when the human-powered vehicle 10 moves from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2. The fourth parameter may also be obtained based on the integral value of the driving force of the human-powered vehicle 10 during the period when the human-powered vehicle 10 moves from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2. The fourth parameter includes, for example, the energy supplied by the driving force of the human-powered vehicle 10 during the period when the human-powered vehicle 10 moves from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2. If the human-powered vehicle 10 includes a motor 54, the fourth parameter includes, for example, both the energy supplied by the human-powered driving force and the energy supplied by the driving force of the motor 54 during the period when the human-powered vehicle 10 moves from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2.

[0064] The human-powered driving force corresponds to the propulsion force of the human-powered vehicle 10 generated, for example, by the user rotating the crankshaft 20. The human-powered driving force corresponds to the driving force input to at least one first rotating body 34 by the user rotating the crankshaft 20. The human-powered driving force is represented, for example, by at least one of torque and power. The power of the human-powered driving force is, for example, the product of the torque applied to the crankshaft 20 and the rotational speed of the crankshaft 20. The calculation unit 62 calculates the propulsion force applied to the human-powered vehicle 10 by the human-powered driving force, for example, based on the detection result of the human-powered driving force detection unit 48.

[0065] The driving force of the motor 54 corresponds, for example, to the thrust force applied to the human-powered vehicle 10 by the motor 54. The driving force of the motor 54 is represented, for example, by at least one of torque and power. The power of the driving force of the motor 54 is, for example, the product of the torque applied to the transmission member 38 by the motor 54 and the rotational speed of the motor 54. The calculation unit 62 calculates, for example, the thrust force applied to the human-powered vehicle 10 by the motor 54 based on the detection result of the motor driving force detection unit.

[0066] The fifth parameter is obtained, for example, based on the vehicle speed before the braking device 42 is activated and the vehicle speed after the braking device 42 is activated during the period when the human-powered vehicle 10 moves from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2. The fifth parameter may also be obtained based on the detection result of a detection device 44 configured to measure the braking force of the braking device 42. The fifth parameter may also be obtained based on the cumulative sum of the braking force of the braking device 42 during the period when the human-powered vehicle 10 moves from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2. The fifth parameter includes, for example, the energy lost due to the operation of the braking device 42 during the period when the human-powered vehicle 10 moves from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2.

[0067] The sixth parameter is obtained, for example, based on at least one of the following: the air resistance of the human-powered vehicle 10, the rolling resistance of the wheels 12, the gradient resistance of the road the human-powered vehicle 10 travels on, the acceleration resistance of the human-powered vehicle 10, parameters for calculating the air resistance of the human-powered vehicle 10, parameters for calculating the rolling resistance of the wheels 12, parameters for calculating the gradient resistance of the road the human-powered vehicle 10 travels on, and parameters for detecting the acceleration resistance of the human-powered vehicle 10, during the period when the human-powered vehicle 10 travels from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2. The sixth parameter includes, for example, the energy lost due to the travel resistance during the period when the human-powered vehicle 10 travels from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2.

[0068] As shown in Figure 3, for example, if the first travel point P1 and the second travel point P2 are set on a continuous downhill slope, the first travel point P1 is set closer to the starting point of the downhill slope than the second travel point P2. In this embodiment, the first energy index is calculated by the calculation unit 62 based on a first value calculated by the first parameter, the second parameter, and the third parameter, and at least one of the fourth parameter, the fifth parameter, and the sixth parameter.

[0069] The first process includes, for example, the calculation of the first sum by equation (1). In equation (1), m represents the sum of the weight of the human-powered vehicle 10 and the weight of the rider. In equation (1), g represents the acceleration due to gravity. In equation (1), V1 represents the first vehicle speed V1. In equation (1), H1 represents the first altitude H1. In equation (1), A1 represents the first sum. The unit of the first sum is, for example, joules (J). The term expressed as (m × V1 × V1) / 2 in equation (1) represents the first potential energy. The term expressed as m × g × H1 in equation (1) represents the first kinetic energy. Formula (1): A1={(m×V1×V1) / 2+m×g×H1}

[0070] The first process includes, for example, the calculation of the second sum using equation (2). In equation (2), m represents the sum of the weight of the human-powered vehicle 10 and the weight of the rider. In equation (2), g represents the acceleration due to gravity. In equation (2), V2 represents the second vehicle speed V2. In equation (2), H2 represents the second altitude H2. In equation (2), A2 represents the second sum. The unit of the second sum is, for example, joules (J). The term expressed as (m × V2 × V2) / 2 in equation (2) represents the second potential energy. The term expressed as m × g × H2 in equation (2) represents the second kinetic energy. Formula (2): A2={(m×V2×V2) / 2+m×g×H2}

[0071] The first process includes, for example, the process of calculating the first value using equation (3). In equation (3), B1 represents the first value. The unit of the first value is, for example, joules (J). Formula (3): B1=A1-A2

[0072] The first process includes, for example, the calculation of the first energy index by equation (4). In equation (4), X1 represents the fourth parameter. In equation (4), X2 represents the fifth parameter. In equation (4), X3 represents the sixth parameter. In equation (4), E1 represents the first energy index. The unit of the first energy index is, for example, joules (J). Formula (4): E1=B1+X1-X2-X3

[0073] In the process of calculating the first energy index by equation (4), the term relating to the sixth parameter may be omitted. In this case, the first energy index is calculated in the first process by equation (4-1). When the first energy index is calculated by equation (4-1), the energy index relating to the sixth parameter is included, for example, in the first energy index. Formula (4-1): E1=B1+X1-X2

[0074] In the process of calculating the first energy index by equation (4-1), at least one of the terms relating to the fourth and fifth parameters may be omitted. If the terms relating to the fourth and fifth parameters are omitted, the first energy index calculated by equation (4-1) in the first process is the same as the first value.

[0075] Referring to Figure 4, an example of the first process in which the calculation unit 62 calculates the first energy index will be described. The calculation unit 62, for example, is operated by Place etc.When an operation to calculate the first energy index is performed, the calculation unit 62 starts processing and proceeds to step S11 of the flowchart shown in Figure 4. If the first processing includes the process of calculating the energy index for the entire section from the starting point to the ending point of the human-powered vehicle 10, the calculation unit 62 may sequentially calculate the first energy index for each section. If the calculation unit 62 calculates the first energy index while the human-powered vehicle 10 is running, the calculation unit 62 starts processing and proceeds to step S11 of the flowchart shown in Figure 4, for example, when power is supplied to the calculation unit 62. If the calculation unit 62 calculates the first energy index while the human-powered vehicle 10 is running, the calculation unit 62 repeats the processing from step S11 at predetermined intervals after the flowchart in Figure 4 is completed, for example, until the power supply is stopped.

[0076] In step S11, the calculation unit 62 determines whether the human-powered vehicle 10 has moved from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2. The calculation unit 62 determines that the human-powered vehicle 10 has moved from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2 in at least one of the following cases: when the human-powered vehicle 10 has traveled a predetermined distance, or when the human-powered vehicle 10 has traveled for a predetermined time. The calculation unit 62 may also determine that the human-powered vehicle 10 has moved from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2 based on an external signal. The calculation unit 62 may also determine that the human-powered vehicle 10 has moved from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2 based on location information. If the calculation unit 62 determines that the human-powered vehicle 10 has moved from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2 in step S11, it proceeds to step S12. If, in step S11, the calculation unit 62 has not moved from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2, it terminates the process.

[0077] In step S12, the calculation unit 62 calculates the first sum of the first potential energy and the first kinetic energy based on the first and third parameters, and then proceeds to step S13. In step S12, the calculation unit 62 calculates the first sum of the first potential energy and the first kinetic energy based on, for example, equation (1). In step S13, the calculation unit 62 calculates the second sum of the second potential energy and the second kinetic energy based on the second and third parameters, and then proceeds to step S14. In step S13, the calculation unit 62 calculates the second sum of the second potential energy and the second kinetic energy based on, for example, equation (2).

[0078] In step S14, the calculation unit 62 calculates the first value by subtracting the second sum from the first sum and proceeds to step S15. In step S14, the calculation unit 62 calculates the first value, for example, by formula (3), and proceeds to step S15. In step S15, the calculation unit 62 calculates the first energy index based on the first value and at least one of the fourth parameter, the fifth parameter, and the sixth parameter, and terminates the process. In step S15, the calculation unit 62 calculates the first energy index by formula (4). In step S15, the calculation unit 62 may also calculate the first energy index by formula (4-1). Step S15 may be omitted. If step S15 is omitted, the calculation unit 62 considers the first value to be the first energy index and terminates the process after step S14.

[0079] <Second Embodiment> The calculation device 60 for a human-powered vehicle of the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 4 and 5. Components of the calculation device 60 for a human-powered vehicle of the second embodiment that are common with the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0080] In this embodiment, the energy index includes a second energy index relating to the energy efficiency of the human-powered vehicle 10 when the human-powered vehicle 10 moves from a first travel point P1 to a second travel point P2. The second energy index is set as a value that increases or decreases as the energy efficiency increases, for example. For example, when the human-powered vehicle 10 travels from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2, the energy efficiency increases if the rider can operate the vehicle body 14 well without wobbling the handlebars 28 or putting their feet on the ground. If the second altitude H2 is lower than the first altitude H1, the potential energy due to the altitude difference from the first altitude H1 to the second altitude H2 can be used as driving energy. Therefore, the more efficiently the rider utilizes the driving force and potential energy of the human-powered vehicle 10, the greater the energy efficiency.

[0081] In this embodiment, the first process includes, for example, a process for calculating the first potential energy of the human-powered vehicle 10 and the first kinetic energy of the human-powered vehicle 10 at a first travel point P1 based on a first parameter and a third parameter relating to at least one weight of the human-powered vehicle 10 and the rider; a process for calculating the second potential energy of the human-powered vehicle 10 at a second travel point P2 and the second kinetic energy of the human-powered vehicle 10 at a second travel point P2 based on a second parameter and a third parameter; and a process for calculating a second energy index based on the ratio of the first sum of the first potential energy and the first kinetic energy to the second sum of the second potential energy and the second kinetic energy.

[0082] If the energy index includes a second energy index, the first process includes a process of calculating the second energy index by, for example, equation (5-1) or equation (5-2). In equations (5-1) and (5-2), E2 represents the second energy index. The unit of the second energy index is, for example, joules (J). In equation (5-1), A1 is greater than A2. In equation (5-2), A2 is greater than A1. Formula (5-1): E2=A2 / A1 Formula (5-2): E2=A1 / A2

[0083] Referring to Figures 4 and 5, an example of the first process by which the calculation unit 62 calculates the second energy index will be described. When an operation for calculating the first energy index is performed, for example, by operating an operating device, the calculation unit 62 starts processing and proceeds to step S11 of the flowchart shown in Figure 4. If the first process includes the process of calculating the energy index for the entire section from the starting point of travel of the human-powered vehicle 10 to the ending point of travel of the human-powered vehicle 10, the calculation unit 62 may sequentially calculate the second energy index for each section. When the calculation unit 62 calculates the second energy index while the human-powered vehicle 10 is traveling, the calculation unit 62 starts processing and proceeds to step S11 of the flowchart shown in Figure 4, for example, when power is supplied to the calculation unit 62. When the calculation unit 62 calculates the second energy index while the human-powered vehicle 10 is traveling, after the flowcharts in Figures 4 and 5 are completed, the calculation unit 62 repeats the process from step S11 at predetermined intervals, for example, until the power supply is stopped.

[0084] The calculation unit 62 performs the same processing as in the first embodiment in steps S11 to S13 of Figure 4. After processing in step S13 of Figure 4, the calculation unit 62 proceeds to step S21 of Figure 5. In step S21, the calculation unit 62 calculates the second energy index based on the ratio of the first sum of the first potential energy and the first kinetic energy to the second sum of the second potential energy and the second kinetic energy, and then terminates the processing. ,vinegar In step S21, the second energy index is calculated, for example, by equation (5-1) or equation (5-2).

[0085] <Example of changes> The descriptions of each embodiment are illustrative of possible forms of the energy index calculation method, the program for the calculation device for a human-powered vehicle, and the calculation device for a human-powered vehicle according to this disclosure, and are not intended to limit their forms. The energy index calculation method, the program for the calculation device for a human-powered vehicle, and the calculation device for a human-powered vehicle according to this disclosure may take, for example, forms of modifications of the embodiments shown below, and combinations of at least two non-inconsistent modifications. In the following modifications, parts common to each embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as in each embodiment, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0086] The calculation device 60 may be a device not mounted on the human-powered vehicle 10. The calculation device 60 may be at least one of a personal computer, a smartphone, and a tablet computer. If the calculation device 60 is a device not mounted on the human-powered vehicle 10, the calculation device 60 is configured to acquire, for example, information detected by the first detection unit 66A and information detected by the second detection unit 66B. The calculation device 60 may include an acquisition unit that acquires information for calculating the first energy index from a storage unit 64 that stores information for calculating the first energy index, and may also include a receiving unit that receives information for calculating the first energy index while the human-powered vehicle 10 is running. The information for calculating the first energy index includes, for example, the detection result of the first detection unit 66A and the detection result of the second detection unit 66B.

[0087] The method for calculating the energy index may include a second process for calculating an energy index related to the movement of the human-powered vehicle 10 based on the difference between the first mechanical energy of the human-powered vehicle 10, including the first potential energy of the human-powered vehicle 10, at a first travel point P1, and the second mechanical energy of the human-powered vehicle 10, including the second potential energy of the human-powered vehicle 10, at a second travel point P2 different from the first travel point P1. The first mechanical energy further includes, for example, the first kinetic energy of the human-powered vehicle 10 at the first travel point P1. The second mechanical energy further includes, for example, the second kinetic energy of the human-powered vehicle 10 at the second travel point P2.

[0088] When the human-powered vehicle 10 travels on a course that includes multiple areas with different driving environments, the first travel point P1 and the second travel point P2 may be set for each of the multiple areas. When the human-powered vehicle 10 travels on a course that includes multiple areas with different driving environments, the memory unit 64 may be configured to store information that links, for example, the energy index calculated in each area with a course map pre-stored in the memory unit 64. When the human-powered vehicle 10 travels on a course that includes multiple areas with different driving environments, the memory unit 64 may be configured to store information that links an ideal energy index with a course map pre-stored in the memory unit 64. The ideal energy index is set, for example, based on the energy index when a professional rider travels from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2.

[0089] The calculation unit 62 may be configured to integrate the energy index for the entire section from the starting point of the human-powered vehicle 10 to the ending point of the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0090] - In the case where the entire section from the starting point of the human-powered vehicle 10 to the ending point of the human-powered vehicle 10 is a continuous downhill slope, or in the case where the section from the first travel point P1 to the second travel point P2 is a continuous downhill slope, the calculation unit 62 may be configured to calculate the energy index only when the rider is not pedaling.

[0091] 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]

[0092] 10...Human-powered vehicle, 42...Braking device, 44...Detection device, 60...Calculation device, 62...Calculation unit, 66A...First detection unit, 66B...Second detection unit.

Claims

1. A method for calculating an energy index performed by a calculation device for a human-powered vehicle, The system includes a first process for calculating an energy index related to the movement of a human-powered vehicle based on a first parameter related to the movement of the human-powered vehicle at a first travel point and a second parameter related to the movement of the human-powered vehicle at a second travel point different from the first travel point. The first parameter includes a first vehicle speed and a first altitude at the first travel point. The second parameter is a method for calculating an energy index, which includes a second vehicle speed and a second altitude at the second travel point.

2. The method for calculating an energy index according to claim 1, wherein the energy index includes a first energy index relating to the energy loss during the travel of the human-powered vehicle when the human-powered vehicle moves from a first travel point to a second travel point.

3. The method for calculating an energy index according to claim 2, wherein the first process includes a process for calculating the first energy index based on the first parameter, the second parameter, and a third parameter relating to the weight of at least one of the human-powered vehicle and rider.

4. A method for calculating an energy index according to claim 3, wherein the first process includes a process of calculating the first energy index based on, in addition to the first parameter, the second parameter, and the third parameter, a fourth parameter relating to the driving force of the human-powered vehicle during the period in which the human-powered vehicle moves from a first travel point to a second travel point, a fifth parameter relating to the braking force of the braking device of the human-powered vehicle during the period in which the human-powered vehicle moves from a first travel point to a second travel point, and a sixth parameter relating to the running resistance of the human-powered vehicle during the period in which the human-powered vehicle moves from a first travel point to a second travel point.

5. The method for calculating an energy index according to claim 4, wherein the fourth parameter is obtained based on the cumulative sum of the driving force during the period in which the human-powered vehicle moves from a first travel point to a second travel point.

6. The method for calculating an energy index according to claim 4, wherein the fifth parameter is obtained based on the vehicle speed before the braking device is activated and the vehicle speed after the braking device is activated during the period when the human-powered vehicle moves from the first travel point to the second travel point.

7. The method for calculating an energy index according to claim 4, wherein the fifth parameter is obtained based on the detection result of a detection device configured to measure the braking force of the braking device.

8. The first process is, A process for calculating the first potential energy of the human-powered vehicle at the first travel point and the first kinetic energy of the human-powered vehicle at the first travel point, based on the first parameter and a third parameter relating to the weight of at least one of the human-powered vehicle and rider, A process for calculating the second potential energy of the human-powered vehicle at the second travel point and the second kinetic energy of the human-powered vehicle at the second travel point based on the second parameter and the third parameter, A method for calculating an energy index according to claim 2, comprising the process of calculating the first energy index based on a first value obtained by subtracting the second sum of the second potential energy and the second kinetic energy from the first sum of the first potential energy and the first kinetic energy.

9. The method for calculating an energy index according to claim 8, wherein the first process includes a process for calculating the first energy index based on the first value and at least one of the driving force of the human-powered vehicle during the period in which the human-powered vehicle moves from the first travel point to the second travel point, the braking force of the braking device of the human-powered vehicle during the period in which the human-powered vehicle moves from the first travel point to the second travel point, and the running resistance of the human-powered vehicle during the period in which the human-powered vehicle moves from the first travel point to the second travel point.

10. The energy index includes a second energy index relating to the energy efficiency of the human-powered vehicle when the human-powered vehicle moves from the first travel point to the second travel point. The first process is, A process for calculating the first potential energy of the human-powered vehicle at the first travel point and the first kinetic energy of the human-powered vehicle at the first travel point, based on the first parameter and a third parameter relating to the weight of at least one of the human-powered vehicle and rider, A process for calculating the second potential energy of the human-powered vehicle at the second travel point and the second kinetic energy of the human-powered vehicle at the second travel point based on the second parameter and the third parameter, A method for calculating an energy index according to claim 2, comprising the process of calculating the second energy index based on the ratio of the first sum of the first potential energy and the first kinetic energy to the second sum of the second potential energy and the second kinetic energy.

11. The method for calculating an energy index according to claim 1, wherein the second travel point is a point located at a distance greater than 0 m and less than or equal to 10 m from the first travel point.

12. The method for calculating an energy index according to claim 1, wherein the second travel point is a point where the travel time from the first travel point is greater than 0 seconds and 10 seconds or less.

13. The method for calculating an energy index according to claim 1, wherein the first process includes a process of calculating the energy index based on the first and second travel points on a continuous downhill or continuous uphill slope.

14. A method for calculating an energy index performed by a calculation device for a human-powered vehicle, A method for calculating an energy index, comprising a second process of calculating an energy index related to the movement of a human-powered vehicle based on the difference between a first mechanical energy of the human-powered vehicle, including a first potential energy of the human-powered vehicle, at a first travel point, and a second mechanical energy of the human-powered vehicle, including a second potential energy of the human-powered vehicle, at a second travel point different from the first travel point.

15. The first mechanical energy further includes the first kinetic energy of the human-powered vehicle at the first travel point, The method for calculating an energy index according to claim 14, wherein the second mechanical energy further includes the second kinetic energy of the human-powered vehicle at the second travel point.

16. A program relating to a calculation device for a human-powered vehicle, A program that causes the calculation device to perform a process of calculating the energy index according to the method for calculating the energy index described in any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. A calculation device for a human-powered vehicle, A calculation device comprising a calculation unit that calculates an energy index by the method for calculating an energy index described in any one of claims 1 to 13.

18. It is configured to be mountable on the aforementioned human-powered vehicle, A first detection unit for detecting the first parameter, The calculation device according to claim 17, further comprising a second detection unit for detecting the second parameter.

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