Braking system for human-powered vehicles

Abstract

To provide a braking device for a human-powered vehicle that can suitably operate a braking part.SOLUTION: A braking device for a human-powered vehicle comprises an input body to which a driving force is inputted, a braking part constituted so as to be capable of coming into contact with a rotating body of the human-powered vehicle, and a power conversion part for converting a rotating force of the input body into a force for moving the braking part toward the rotating body. The power conversion part includes a speed change part constituted so as to be capable of changing the ratio of an amount of movement of the braking part to an output rotation speed of the input body.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a braking device for a human-powered vehicle.

Background Art

[0002] For example, a braking device for a human-powered vehicle disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a braking unit that applies a braking force to a wheel of the human-powered vehicle.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] One object of the present disclosure is to provide a braking device for a human-powered vehicle that can operate the braking unit suitably.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A braking device according to a first aspect of the present disclosure is a braking device for a human-powered vehicle, including an input body to which a driving force is input, a braking unit configured to be contactable with a rotating body of the human-powered vehicle, and a power conversion unit that converts a rotational force of the input body into a force that moves the braking unit toward the rotating body. The power conversion unit includes a speed change unit configured to be able to change a ratio of a moving amount of the braking unit with respect to an output rotation speed of the input body. According to the braking device of the first aspect, since the speed change unit can change the ratio, the braking unit can move at a suitable ratio. Therefore, the braking device can operate the braking unit suitably.

[0006] In a braking device of a second aspect according to the first aspect of the present disclosure, the speed change unit is configured to be able to change the ratio between a first ratio and a second ratio different from the first ratio. According to the braking device on the second side, the gear shift unit can change the ratio between a first ratio and a second ratio different from the first ratio. Therefore, the braking unit can operate using either the first ratio or the second ratio.

[0007] In a braking device according to a third aspect of the second aspect of this disclosure, the gear shifting unit is configured such that, when the braking unit moves toward the rotating body, the ratio becomes the first ratio until the braking unit contacts the rotating body, and the ratio becomes the second ratio when the braking unit contacts the rotating body. According to the braking device on the third side, the braking part can operate in a suitable ratio for both the time until the braking part contacts the rotating body and the state in which the braking part is in contact with the rotating body.

[0008] A braking device according to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure is a braking device for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: an input body to which a driving force is input; a braking unit configured to be in contact with a rotating body of the human-powered vehicle; and a power conversion unit that converts the power of the input body into a force that moves the braking unit toward the rotating body, wherein the power conversion unit includes a speed change unit configured to change the ratio of the amount of movement of the braking unit to the output amount of the input body, and the speed change unit is configured such that when the braking unit moves toward the rotating body, the ratio is a first ratio until the braking unit comes into contact with the rotating body, and the ratio becomes a second ratio when the braking unit comes into contact with the rotating body, the second ratio being different from the first ratio. According to the braking device on the fourth side, the braking part can operate in a suitable ratio to the time it takes for the braking part to contact the rotating body and the time it takes for the braking part to contact the rotating body. Therefore, the braking device can operate the braking part effectively.

[0009] A braking device according to a fifth aspect of any one of the second to fourth aspects of the present disclosure, wherein the gear shifting unit is configured such that when the braking unit moves toward the rotating body, the ratio changes from the first ratio to the second ratio in response to the reaction force caused by the braking unit contacting the rotating body. According to the braking device on the fifth side, the ratio is changed from the first ratio to the second ratio in response to the reaction force caused by the braking part contacting the rotating body. Therefore, when the braking part contacts the rotating body, the braking device can change the ratio from the first ratio to the second ratio without using sensors or the like to detect the contact state between the braking part and the rotating body.

[0010] A braking device according to a sixth aspect of any one of the second to fifth aspects of the present disclosure, wherein the gear shifting unit is configured such that when the braking unit moves toward a direction away from the rotating body, the ratio is the second ratio when the braking unit is in contact with the rotating body, and when the braking unit moves away from the rotating body, the ratio is the first ratio. According to the braking device on the sixth side, when the braking part is in contact with the rotating body, the ratio is configured to be the second ratio, and when the braking part separates from the rotating body, the ratio is configured to be the first ratio. Therefore, the ratio is suitably changed from the second ratio to the first ratio depending on the contact state between the braking part and the rotating body.

[0011] A braking device according to a seventh aspect of any one of the second to sixth aspects of the present disclosure, wherein the gear shifting unit is configured such that when the braking unit moves toward the direction away from the rotating body and the braking unit is in contact with the rotating body, the ratio is maintained at the second ratio by a reaction force applied to the braking unit from the rotating body. According to the braking device on the seventh side, when the braking part moves away from the rotating body and when the braking part is in contact with the rotating body, the gear shifting unit can suitably maintain the ratio at the second ratio by the reaction force applied from the rotating body to the braking part.

[0012] In a braking device of the eighth aspect according to any one of the second to seventh aspects of this disclosure, the first ratio is greater than the second ratio. According to the braking device on the eighth side, the gear shifting unit can make the ratio of the time until the braking unit contacts the rotating body greater than the ratio of the time the braking unit is in contact with the rotating body. Therefore, the braking device can bring the braking unit into contact with the rotating body earlier, and braking when the braking unit is in contact with the rotating body. department Therefore, the braking force generated can be increased.

[0013] In a braking device according to a ninth aspect of any one of the second to eighth aspects of this disclosure, the gear shifting unit is configured to transmit the rotational force of the input body to the braking unit in either a first transmission path configured such that the ratio is the first ratio, or a second transmission path configured such that the ratio is the second ratio. According to the braking device on the ninth side, the transmission unit can change the ratio between the first ratio and the second ratio by selecting either the first transmission path or the second transmission path.

[0014] A braking device according to a tenth aspect of the ninth aspect of this disclosure, wherein the input body includes an input rotating shaft, a first input rotating body provided on the input rotating shaft, and a second input rotating body provided on the input rotating shaft and having a different outer diameter from the first input rotating body, wherein the first input rotating body is configured to transmit rotational force to the first transmission path, and the second input rotating body is configured to transmit rotational force to the second transmission path. According to the braking device on the 10th side, rotational force is transmitted to the first transmission path and the second transmission path, respectively, from input bodies with different outer diameters.

[0015] A braking device according to an eleventh aspect of the tenth aspect of the present disclosure, further comprising a housing, the power conversion unit includes a first shaft having a first central axis and rotatable relative to the housing; a first rotating body provided on the first shaft and engaging with a first input rotating body; a second rotating body provided on the first shaft and engaging with a second input rotating body; a first conversion unit provided on the first shaft for converting rotational motion into linear motion; and a second conversion unit provided on the first shaft for converting rotational motion into linear motion, wherein the first shaft is configured to be movable relative to the first rotating body and the second rotating body in a direction along the first central axis, and the braking unit is provided at the end of the first shaft in a direction along the first central axis. According to the braking device on the 11th side, the power conversion unit can move the braking unit in the direction of the rotating body by converting the rotational motion input from the first input rotating body to the first rotating body and the rotational motion input from the second input rotating body to the second rotating body into linear motion. According to the braking device on the 11th side, both the first conversion unit and the second conversion unit are provided on the first shaft. Therefore, the braking unit provided at the end of the first shaft in the direction along the first central axis can be suitably moved by the linear motion via the first conversion unit and the second conversion unit.

[0016] A braking device according to a twelfth aspect of the eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, wherein the first conversion portion includes a first engagement portion provided on a portion of the first rotating body different from the portion that engages with the first input rotating body, and a second engagement portion provided on the first shaft so as to be movable with respect to the first shaft in a direction along the first central axis and engaging with the first engagement portion, wherein one of the first engagement portion and the second engagement portion includes a female screw, and the other of the first engagement portion and the second engagement portion includes a male screw. According to the braking device on the 12th side, the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion can suitably convert rotational motion into linear motion using female and male threads.

[0017] A braking device according to a thirteenth aspect of the twelfth aspect of this disclosure, wherein the first engaging portion includes the male thread and the second engaging portion includes the female thread. According to the braking device of the 13th side surface, the first conversion unit can preferably convert the rotational motion into the linear motion by the male screw included in the first engaging portion and the female screw included in the second engaging portion.

[0018] In the braking device of the 14th side surface according to the 12th or 13th side surface of the present disclosure, the speed change unit includes a first restricting mechanism configured to be able to restrict the rotation of the second engaging portion with respect to the housing, and a second restricting mechanism configured to be able to restrict the movement of the second engaging portion in the direction along the first central axis with respect to the first engaging portion. According to the braking device of the 14th side surface, the first conversion unit can preferably convert the rotational motion into the linear motion by the first restricting mechanism and the second restricting mechanism.

[0019] In the braking device of the 15th side surface according to the 14th side surface of the present disclosure, the first restricting mechanism allows the rotation of the second engaging portion with respect to the housing when the torque input to the second engaging portion is equal to or greater than the first torque, and restricts the rotation of the second engaging portion with respect to the housing when the torque input to the second engaging portion is less than the first torque. The second restricting mechanism restricts the movement of the second engaging portion in the direction along the first central axis with respect to the first engaging portion when the torque input to the second engaging portion is equal to or greater than the second torque, and allows the movement of the second engaging portion in the direction along the first central axis with respect to the first engaging portion when the torque input to the second engaging portion is less than the second torque. According to the braking device of the 15th side surface, the first restricting mechanism can select either a state of allowing the rotation of the second engaging portion with respect to the housing or a state of restricting the rotation of the second engaging portion with respect to the housing according to the torque input to the second engaging portion. According to the braking device of the 15th side surface, the second restricting mechanism can select either a state of restricting the movement of the second engaging portion in the direction along the first central axis with respect to the first engaging portion or a state of allowing the movement of the second engaging portion in the direction along the first central axis with respect to the first engaging portion according to the torque input to the second engaging portion.

[0020] In the braking device of the 16th aspect according to any one of the 12th to 15th aspects of the present disclosure, the second conversion unit includes a third engagement portion provided on the first shaft so as not to be rotatable with respect to the housing, and a fourth engagement portion provided on the first shaft. The third engagement portion is configured to move along the first central axis together with the second engagement portion with respect to the first shaft. The fourth engagement portion ,before is configured to move along the first central axis with respect to the second engagement portion. According to the braking device of the 16th aspect, the second conversion unit can preferably convert the rotational motion into a linear motion by the third engagement portion and the fourth engagement portion.

[0021] In the braking device of the 17th aspect according to the 16th aspect of the present disclosure, the second rotating body, the first rotating body, the second engagement portion, the third engagement portion, the fourth engagement portion, and the braking portion are provided on the first shaft in the order of the second rotating body, the first rotating body, the second engagement portion, the third engagement portion, the fourth engagement portion, and the braking portion along the first central axis. According to the braking device of the 17th aspect, the second rotating body, the first rotating body, the second engagement portion, the third engagement portion, the fourth engagement portion, and the braking portion can be provided on the first shaft in the order of the second rotating body, the first rotating body, the second engagement portion, the third engagement portion, the fourth engagement portion, and the braking portion along the first central axis.

[0022] In the braking device of the 18th aspect according to any one of the 1st to 17th aspects of the present disclosure, the braking device further includes an electric actuator configured to transmit the driving force to the input body. According to the braking device of the 18th aspect, the braking portion can brake the rotating body by using the driving force transmitted from the electric actuator to the input body.

[0023] In the braking device of the 19th aspect according to the 18th aspect of the present disclosure, the braking device further includes a speed reducer provided between the electric actuator and the input body. According to the braking device on the 19th side, a reduction gear is provided between the electric actuator and the input body, so an electric actuator with a small rated torque can be used.

[0024] A braking device according to a 20th aspect of the present disclosure, which is provided between the electric actuator and the input body, and further comprises a rotation restricting mechanism that restricts the rotation of the input body when the output torque of the electric actuator is a third torque or greater. According to the braking device on side 20, the rotation regulating mechanism restricts the rotation of the input body when the output torque of the electric actuator is equal to or greater than the third torque, thereby suppressing unnecessary driving of the electric actuator. Consequently, the power consumption of the electric actuator is reduced.

[0025] A braking device according to a 21st aspect of any one of the first to 20 aspects of this disclosure, wherein the braking device includes a disc brake device having a disc rotor, and the rotating body includes the disc rotor. According to the braking device of the 21st side, in a braking device including a disc brake device, the braking section can be operated suitably. [Effects of the Invention]

[0026] The braking device for a human-powered vehicle according to this disclosure allows the braking unit to operate suitably. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0027] [Figure 1] This is a side view of a human-powered vehicle, including a braking device for a human-powered vehicle according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the power transmission path of the braking system for a human-powered vehicle. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a human-powered vehicle, including the braking system for the human-powered vehicle. [Figure 4] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of the input unit, braking unit, power conversion unit, and housing of a braking device for a human-powered vehicle. [Figure 5]Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of the power conversion unit. [Figure 6] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the first axis, first rolling element, third rolling element, and fourth engaging part. [Figure 7] Figure 5 is a front view of the second rotating body. [Figure 8] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the first rotating body and the first transformer. [Figure 9] Figure 5 is a front view of the rotation restricting part and the second engaging part. [Figure 10] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the first member, the third member, and the second rolling element of the third engaging portion. [Figure 11] Figure 5 is a front view of the second member of the third engaging portion. [Figure 12] Figure 5 is a front view of the first support section. [Figure 13] Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the input body, braking unit, power conversion unit, and housing when the braking unit does not come into contact with the rotating body. [Figure 14] Figure 13 shows a cross-sectional view of the input body, braking unit, power conversion unit, and housing when the braking unit moves in the direction of approaching the rotating body. [Figure 15] Figure 14 shows a cross-sectional view of the input body, braking unit, power conversion unit, and housing when the braking unit moves toward the rotating body and comes into contact with it. [Figure 16] Figure 15 shows a cross-sectional view of the input body, braking unit, power conversion unit, and housing when a force is applied to the braking unit that moves the braking unit away from the rotating body. [Figure 17] Figure 16 shows a cross-sectional view of the input body, braking unit, power conversion unit, and housing when the braking unit moves away from the rotating body. [Figure 18] This is a cross-sectional view of the braking device for a human-powered vehicle according to the second embodiment, in its first state. [Figure 19] Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view of the braking system for a human-powered vehicle in its second state. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0028] <First Embodiment> A braking device 50 for a human-powered vehicle will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 17. 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 in addition to human power for propulsion. E-bikes include electric assist bicycles in which propulsion is assisted by an electric motor. Hereinafter, in each embodiment, the human-powered vehicle will be described as a bicycle.

[0029] In this specification, the following directional terms, “front,” “rear,” “forward,” “backward,” “left,” “right,” “side,” “upward,” and “downward,” as well as any other similar directional terms, refer to those directions determined relative to the rider facing the handlebars in a reference position (e.g., on the saddle or seat) of a human-powered vehicle.

[0030] The human-powered vehicle 10 includes at least one wheel 12 and a body 14. The at least one wheel 12 includes a front wheel 12F and a rear wheel 12R. The body 14 includes a frame 16. The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a crank 18 into which human power is input. The crank 18 includes a crankshaft 20 rotatable relative to the frame 16 and crank arms 22A, 22B. The crank arms 22A, 22B are provided at both axial ends of the crankshaft 20. Pedals 24A, 24B are connected to the crank arms 22A, 22B.

[0031] 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, the rear wheel 12R is the drive wheel. For example, the 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.

[0032] The drive mechanism 32 includes a first drive mechanism rotating body 34, a second drive mechanism rotating body 36, and a transmission member 38. For example, the first drive mechanism rotating body 34 is connected to the crankshaft 20. For example, the first drive mechanism rotating body 34 includes a front sprocket. The first drive mechanism rotating body 34 may include a pulley or a bevel gear. The second drive mechanism rotating body 36 includes a rear sprocket. The second drive mechanism rotating body 36 may include a pulley or a bevel gear. The transmission member 38 is configured to transmit the rotational force of the first drive mechanism rotating body 34 to the second drive mechanism rotating body 36. For example, the transmission member 38 includes a chain. The transmission member 38 may include a belt or a shaft.

[0033] For example, the chain is wrapped around the front sprocket and the rear sprocket. For example, the rotational force applied to the front sprocket is configured to be transmitted in the following order: front sprocket, chain, rear sprocket, and rear wheel 12R.

[0034] For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a battery 40. The battery 40 includes one or more battery elements. The battery elements include rechargeable batteries. For example, the battery 40 is configured to supply power to the control unit 46. The battery 40 is communicably connected to the control unit 46 via an electrical cable or a wireless communication device. The battery 40 can communicate with the control unit 46 by, for example, power line communication (PLC), CAN (Controller Area Network), or UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter).

[0035] The braking device 50 for a human-powered vehicle comprises an input body 52 to which driving force is input, a braking unit 54, and a power conversion unit 56. For example, the braking device 50 further comprises a housing 58. For example, the housing 58 has an internal space. For example, at least a part of the braking unit 54, the input body 52, and the power conversion unit 56 are arranged in the internal space of the housing 58. For example, the dashed line in Figure 4 represents the inner wall of the housing 58. The inner self This indicates.

[0036] The braking unit 54 is configured to be able to contact the rotating body 42 of the human-powered vehicle 10. For example, the braking unit 54 is configured to brake the rotating body 42 by contacting it. For example, the braking unit 54 includes a friction member 54A. For example, the braking device 50 further comprises an additional braking unit 50A. For example, the additional braking unit 50A includes an additional friction member 50B. The additional braking unit 50A may be provided in the braking device 50 in place of or in addition to the braking unit 54, or it may be omitted. In this embodiment, the braking device 50 includes both the braking unit 54 and the additional braking unit 50A.

[0037] For example, the friction member 54A is supported by a support portion included in the braking unit 54. For example, the support portion is made of a metallic material. For example, the additional friction member 50B is supported by a support portion included in the additional braking unit 50A. For example, the braking unit 54 and the additional braking unit 50A are arranged such that a rotating body 42 is sandwiched between the braking unit 54 and the additional braking unit 50A.

[0038] For example, the braking unit 54 is configured to be operated by the input unit 52 and the power conversion unit 56. In addition to the braking unit 54, an additional braking unit 50A may be configured to be operated by the input unit 52 and the power conversion unit 56.

[0039] For example, if only the braking unit 54 is configured to be operated by the input body 52 and the power conversion unit 56, the additional braking unit 50A may be provided on the housing 58 so as not to move relative to the housing 58. For example, if only the braking unit 54 is configured to be operated by the input body 52 and the power conversion unit 56, the braking device 50 may include one input body 52 and one power conversion unit 56 corresponding to the braking unit 54. If the braking device 50 includes one input body 52 and one power conversion unit 56, for example, the braking device 50 may include a distribution mechanism that distributes the power of the linear motion of the braking unit 54 to the braking unit 54 and the additional braking unit 50A.

[0040] Both the braking unit 54 and the additional braking unit 50A may be configured to be operated by an input body 52 and a power conversion unit 56. If both the braking unit 54 and the additional braking unit 50A are configured to be operated by an input body 52 and a power conversion unit 56, the braking device 50 may include an input body 52 and a power conversion unit 56 corresponding to the additional braking unit 50A. If the braking device 50 includes an input body 52 and a power conversion unit 56 corresponding to the braking unit 54 and the additional braking unit 50A, respectively, for example, the braking device 50 may include a distribution mechanism that distributes the driving force to the input body 52 corresponding to the braking unit 54 and the input body 52 corresponding to the additional braking unit 50A.

[0041] In this embodiment, The braking device 50 is The system includes one input body 52 and one power conversion unit 56, which correspond to the braking unit 54. For example, the driving force input to the input body 52 moves the braking unit 54 via the power conversion unit 56. For example, the rotating body 42 is braked by operating the braking unit 54 via the input body 52 and the power conversion unit 56 so that the friction member 54A contacts the rotating body 42.

[0042] For example, when the braking device 50 brakes the rotating body 42, the braking unit 54 moves toward the rotating body 42 in a predetermined direction. Braking device 50 When the braking force on the rotating body 42 is released, the braking unit 54 moves away from the rotating body 42 in a predetermined direction. For example, the predetermined direction is a linear direction. For example, the braking force applied by the braking unit 54 to the rotating body 42 changes according to the amount of movement of the braking unit 54 in the predetermined direction.

[0043] For example, the rotating body 42 is braked when the friction member 54A contacts the rotating body 42. For example, the friction member 54A causes the rotating body 42 to flex when it contacts the rotating body 42. For example, the flexing of the rotating body 42 causes the rotating body 42 to contact the additional friction member 50B. For example, the rotating body 42 is braked when the friction member 54A and the additional friction member 50B come into contact with the rotating body 42.

[0044] For example, the position of the additional friction member 50B relative to the rotating body 42 can be adjusted by a tool or the like. For example, by adjusting the position of the additional friction member 50B relative to the rotating body 42, the braking force of the braking device 50 can be adjusted.

[0045] For example, the braking system 50 includes a front braking system that is provided on the front wheel 12F and brakes a rotating body 42 that rotates integrally with the front wheel 12F. The braking system 50 may also include a rear braking system that is provided on the rear wheel 12R and brakes a rotating body 42 that rotates integrally with the rear wheel 12R. The braking system 50 may include only one of the front braking system and the rear braking system, or both. In this embodiment, the braking system 50 includes only one of the front braking system and the rear braking system. In this embodiment, the braking system 50 includes a front braking system.

[0046] In this embodiment, the braking device 50 includes a disc brake device 60. For example, the disc brake device 60 has a disc rotor 60A. For example, the rotating body 42 includes the disc rotor 60A. For example, the disc rotor 60A is provided on the hub 12A of the wheel 12. For example, the braking unit 54 includes brake pads.

[0047] For example, the braking device 50 may include a rim brake device or a roller brake device. For example, if the braking device 50 includes a rim brake device, the rotating body 42 includes the rim of the wheel 12. For example, if the braking device 50 includes a roller brake, the rotating body 42 includes a drum. The braking device 50 can be modified as appropriate, as long as it is capable of braking the rotating body 42 of the human-powered vehicle 10. For example, the braking unit 54 may include brake shoes.

[0048] The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes an operating device 44 for operating the braking device 50. For example, the operating device 44 is mounted on the handlebar 28. For example, the operating device 44 includes a lever. For example, the braking device 50 is driven in response to the operation of the operating device 44.

[0049] For example, the operating device 44 is provided on at least one of the right side and left side of the handlebar 28. For example, if the braking system 50 includes both a front brake and a rear brake, the operating device 44 corresponding to the front brake is provided on the right side of the handlebar 28, and the operating device 44 corresponding to the rear brake is provided on the left side of the handlebar 28. For example, if the braking system 50 includes both a front brake and a rear brake, the operating device 44 corresponding to the front brake may be provided on the left side of the handlebar 28, and the operating device 44 corresponding to the rear brake may be provided on the right side of the handlebar 28.

[0050] In this embodiment, front braking The device and its corresponding operating device 44 are located on the right side of the handlebar 28. braking The device and the corresponding operating device 44 may be located on the left side of the handlebar 28. The operating device 44 is mounted on the handlebar 28 so that the rider can operate it while holding the handlebar 28.

[0051] For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a control unit 46. For example, the control unit 46 includes an arithmetic processing unit that executes a predetermined control program. For example, the arithmetic processing unit included in the control unit 46 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The arithmetic processing units included in the control unit 46 may be provided in multiple locations that are far apart from each other. The control unit 46 may include one or more microcomputers.

[0052] For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a storage unit 48. For example, the storage unit 48 stores control programs and information used for control processing. For example, the storage unit 48 includes non-volatile memory and volatile memory. The non-volatile memory includes, for example, at least one of ROM (Read-Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), and flash memory. For example, the volatile memory includes RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0053] For example, the control unit 46 is configured to communicate with the operating device 44 by at least one of wireless and wired means. In this embodiment, the control unit 46 is configured to communicate with the operating device 44 by wire. The control unit 46 is communicated with the battery 40 by wire. The control unit 46 is configured to be powered by the battery 40. The control unit 46 may be communicated with the battery 40 by wireless means.

[0054] For example, the braking device 50 further comprises an electric actuator 62. The electric actuator 62 is configured to transmit driving force to the input body 52. ​​For example, the electric actuator 62 includes an electric motor. The electric actuator 62 may include a solenoid instead of an electric motor. For example, the electric actuator 62 includes an output shaft that rotates when the electric actuator 62 is driven. For example, the electric actuator 62 is communicated wirelessly or wired with the control unit 46. In this embodiment, the electric actuator 62 is communicated wired with the control unit 46. The control unit 46 is configured to control the electric actuator 62.

[0055] For example, the braking device 50 further includes a reduction gear 64 provided between the electric actuator 62 and the input body 52. ​​For example, the reduction gear 64 is configured such that, in one or more stages, the rotational speed of the output part of the reduction gear 64 is lower than the rotational speed of the input part of the reduction gear 64 to which the driving force of the electric actuator 62 is input. The reduction gear 64 may be composed of multiple gears, a belt and pulleys, or a chain and sprockets.

[0056] For example, the braking device 50 further includes a rotation restricting mechanism 66. For example, the rotation restricting mechanism 66 is provided between the electric actuator 62 and the input body 52. ​​For example, the rotation restricting mechanism 66 restricts the rotation of the input body 52 when the output torque of the electric actuator 62 is greater than or equal to the third torque.

[0057] For example, the rotation restricting mechanism 66 includes a worm gear. The rotation restricting mechanism 66 includes a locking type torque diode. (Registered trademark) It may include the following. For example, the rotation restricting mechanism 66 restricts the movement of the braking unit 54 by restricting the rotation of the input body 52 when the output torque of the electric actuator 62 changes from less than the third torque to the third torque or more. For example, when the friction member 54A is in contact with the rotating body 42, the movement of the braking unit 54 is restricted, and the state in which the friction member 54A is in contact with the rotating body 42 is maintained. For example, the control unit 46 is configured to control the electric actuator 62 so that the output torque of the electric actuator 62 is less than or equal to the fourth torque. For example, the fourth torque is greater than or equal to the third torque.

[0058] For example, the electric actuator 62 is provided in the housing 58. For example, at least a portion of the electric actuator 62, at least a portion of the reduction gear 64, and at least a portion of the rotation regulating mechanism 66 are arranged in the internal space of the housing 58. For example, the driving force of the electric actuator 62 is transmitted in the following order: reduction gear 64, rotation regulating mechanism 66, input body 52, power conversion unit 56, and braking unit 54.

[0059] For example, the input body 52 includes an input rotating shaft 52A, a first input rotating body 52B provided on the input rotating shaft 52A, and a second input rotating body 52C provided on the input rotating shaft 52A. For example, the first input rotating body 52B and the second input rotating body 52C are supported by the input rotating shaft 52A. For example, the first input rotating body 52B and the second input rotating body 52C are spaced apart in the axial direction of the input rotating shaft 52A.

[0060] For example, the first input rotating body 52B is formed integrally with the input rotating shaft 52A. For example, the first input rotating body 52B may be formed separately from the input rotating shaft 52A and attached to the input rotating shaft 52A in a manner that prevents relative rotation. For example, the second input rotating body 52C is formed integrally with the input rotating shaft 52A. For example, the second input rotating body 52C may be formed separately from the input rotating shaft 52A and attached to the input rotating shaft 52A in a manner that prevents relative rotation.

[0061] For example, the second input rotating body 52C has a different outer diameter from the first input rotating body 52B. For example, the outer diameter of the first input rotating body 52B is larger than the outer diameter of the second input rotating body 52C. For example, the first input rotating body 52B and the second input rotating body 52C include gears. For example, the number of teeth on the gear of the first input rotating body 52B is greater than the number of teeth on the gear of the second input rotating body 52C.

[0062] For example, the power conversion unit 56 includes a first shaft 68 rotatable relative to the housing 58, a first rotating body 70, a second rotating body 72, a first conversion unit 74, and a second conversion unit 76. For example, the first rotating body 70 is provided on the first shaft 68. For example, the second rotating body 72 is provided on the first shaft 68.

[0063] For example, the first rotating body 70 and the second rotating body 72 are supported by the first shaft 68. For example, the first rotating body 70 is formed separately from the first shaft 68. For example, the second rotating body 72 is formed separately from the first shaft 68. For example, the power conversion unit 56 has a first central axis C1. For example, the rotational axis of the first shaft 68 coincides with the first central axis C1. For example, the input rotating shaft 52A has a second central axis C2. The second central axis C2 is substantially parallel to the first central axis C1.

[0064] For example, the second rotating body 72 has a different outer diameter from the first rotating body 70. For example, the outer diameter of the first rotating body 70 is smaller than the outer diameter of the second rotating body 72. For example, the first rotating body 70 and the second rotating body 72 each contain gears. For example, the number of teeth on the gear of the first rotating body 70 is less than the number of teeth on the gear of the second rotating body 72. For example, the first rotating body 70 engages with the first input rotating body 52B. For example, the second rotating body 72 engages with the second input rotating body 52C.

[0065] When rotational force is transmitted from the gear of the first input rotating body 52B to the gear of the first rotating body 70, the gear of the first input rotating body 52B and the gear of the first rotating body 70 constitute a speed increaser or a reduction gear. When rotational force is transmitted from the gear of the second input rotating body 52C to the gear of the second rotating body 72, the gear of the second input rotating body 52C and the gear of the second rotating body 72 constitute a speed increaser or a reduction gear.

[0066] When the gears of the first input rotating body 52B and the gears of the first rotating body 70 constitute a speed increaser, the rotational speed of the first rotating body 70 is greater than the rotational speed of the first input rotating body 52B. When the gears of the first input rotating body 52B and the gears of the first rotating body 70 constitute a reduction gear, the rotational speed of the first rotating body 70 is less than the rotational speed of the first input rotating body 52B.

[0067] When the gears of the second input rotating body 52C and the gears of the second rotating body 72 constitute a speed increaser, the rotational speed of the second rotating body 72 is greater than the rotational speed of the second input rotating body 52C. When the gears of the second input rotating body 52C and the gears of the second rotating body 72 constitute a reduction gear, the rotational speed of the second rotating body 72 is less than the rotational speed of the second input rotating body 52C.

[0068] If the rotational speeds of the first input rotating body 52B and the second input rotating body 52C are the same, the rotational speed of the second rotating body 72 is greater than the rotational speed of the first rotating body 70. For example, the gears of the first input rotating body 52B and the gears of the first rotating body 70 constitute a speed increaser, and the gears of the second input rotating body 52C and the gears of the second rotating body 72 constitute a reduction gear.

[0069] For example, if the gears of the first input rotating body 52B and the gears of the first rotating body 70 constitute a reduction gear, and the gears of the second input rotating body 52C and the gears of the second rotating body 72 also constitute a reduction gear, then the first reduction ratio when rotational force is transmitted from the gears of the first input rotating body 52B to the gears of the first rotating body 70 is smaller than the second reduction ratio when rotational force is transmitted from the gears of the second input rotating body 52C to the gears of the second rotating body 72.

[0070] For example, the first shaft 68 is configured to be movable in a direction X along the first central axis C1 relative to the first rotating body 70 and the second rotating body 72. A bearing including a needle bearing or a sleeve may be provided between the first rotating body 70 and the first shaft 68.

[0071] For example, a first groove 72B is formed in the inner circumference 72A of the second rotating body 72. For example, the first groove 72B extends in a direction X along the first central axis C1. 2 Rotating body 7 2 It is formed on the inner circumference 72A. For example, a second groove 68B is formed on the outer circumference 68A of the first shaft 68. For example, the second groove 68B is formed on the outer circumference 68A of the first shaft 68 so as to extend in the direction X along the first central axis C1.

[0072] For example, the first groove 72B is provided on the inner circumference 72A of the second rotating body 72 so as to correspond to the second groove 68B. For example, at least one first groove 72B is formed on the inner circumference 72A of the second rotating body 72. For example, at least one second groove 68B is formed on the outer circumference 68A of the first shaft 68. For example, three first grooves 72B are formed on the inner circumference 72A of the second rotating body 72. For example, three second grooves 68B are formed on the outer circumference 68A of the first shaft 68. The number of first grooves 72B and second grooves 68B may be one each or multiple, as long as the number of first grooves 72B and second grooves 68B match.

[0073] For example, a first rolling element 78 is provided between a first groove 72B and a second groove 68B. For example, one first rolling element 78 is provided between one first groove 72B and one second groove 68B. For example, the first rolling element 78 includes a ball. For example, the first rolling element 78 is positioned in the second groove 68B so as to be movable between the first end 68C and the second end 68D of the second groove 68B. For example, the first rolling element 78 supports the second rotating body 72 so as to be rotatable integrally with the first shaft 68 in the circumferential direction of the first central axis C1, and so as to be movable in a direction X along the first central axis C1 relative to the first shaft 68. For example, the first rolling element 78 is configured to transmit the rotational force of the second rotating body 72 to the first shaft 68. For example, the second rotating body 72, the first rolling element 78, and the first shaft 68 constitute a ball spline.

[0074] For example, the first conversion unit 74 is provided on the first shaft 68 and converts rotational motion into linear motion. For example, the first conversion unit 74 includes a first engagement portion 74A and a second engagement portion 74B. For example, the first engagement portion 74A is provided on a portion 70A of the first rotating body 70 that is different from the portion that engages with the first input rotating body 52B.

[0075] For example, portion 70A extends in a direction X along the first central axis C1. A bearing including a needle bearing or a sleeve may be provided between portion 70A and the first shaft 68.

[0076] For example, the second engaging portion 74B is provided on the first shaft 68 so as to be movable in a direction X along the first central axis C1 relative to the first shaft 68. For example, the second engaging portion 74B engages with the first engaging portion 74A. For example, the second engaging portion 74B has a cylindrical shape. For example, the second engaging portion 74B is formed separately from the first shaft 68.

[0077] For example, one of the first engaging portion 74A and the second engaging portion 74B includes a female thread, and the other of the first engaging portion 74A and the second engaging portion 74B includes a male thread. In this embodiment, the first engaging portion 74A includes a male thread, and the second engaging portion 74B includes a female thread. For example, the female thread is provided on the inner circumference 74C of the second engaging portion 74B. For example, a ball bearing may be provided between the first engaging portion 74A and the second engaging portion 74B. In this case, the first engaging portion 74A and the second engaging portion 74B may constitute a ball screw via the ball bearing.

[0078] For example, the second conversion unit 76 is provided on the first shaft 68 and converts rotational motion into linear motion. For example, the second conversion unit 76 includes a third engaging unit 76A provided on the first shaft 68 so as to be non-rotatable relative to the housing 58, and a fourth engaging unit 76B provided on the first shaft 68.

[0079] For example, the third engaging portion 76A is configured to move in a direction X along the first central axis C1 relative to the first shaft 68, integrally with the second engaging portion 74B. For example, the third engaging portion 76A is formed separately from the first shaft 68. For example, the third engaging portion 76A includes a first member 82 and a second member 84. For example, the third engaging portion 76A is provided on the housing 58 so as not to rotate relative to the housing 58.

[0080] For example, the first member 82 has a cylindrical shape and is provided on the first shaft 68 so as to pass through the first central axis C1. For example, the second member 84 is positioned on the outer circumference 82A of the first member 82 so as to pass through the first central axis C1. For example, the third engaging portion 76A includes a third member 82B that engages with the fourth engaging portion 76B. For example, the third member 82B is formed integrally with the first member 82. The third member 82B is circular when viewed from a direction X along the first central axis C1. For example, the outer diameter of the third member 82B is larger than the outer diameter of the first member 82.

[0081] For example, a third groove 82C is formed on the outer circumference 82A of the first member 82. For example, the third groove 82C is formed on the outer circumference 82A of the first member 82 so as to extend in a direction X along the first central axis C1. For example, a fourth groove 84B is formed on the inner circumference 84A of the second member 84. For example, the fourth groove 84B is formed on the inner circumference 84A of the second member 84 so as to extend in a direction X along the first central axis C1.

[0082] For example, the third groove 82C corresponds to the fourth groove 84B, 1 Component 8 2 of outside Periphery 8 2 It is provided in A. For example, at least one third groove 82C is formed on the outer circumference 82A of the first member 82. For example, at least one fourth groove 84B is formed on the inner circumference 84A of the second member 84. For example, three third grooves 82C are formed on the outer circumference 82A of the first member 82. For example, three fourth grooves 84B are formed on the inner circumference 84A of the second member 84. As long as the number of third grooves 82C and the number of fourth grooves 84B are the same, the number of third grooves 82C and the number of fourth grooves 84B may be one each or multiple each.

[0083] For example, a second rolling element 86 is provided between the third groove 82C and the fourth groove 84B. For example, the same number of second rolling elements 86 are provided between the third groove 82C and the fourth groove 84B as there are third grooves 82C and fourth groove 84B. For example, the second rolling elements 86 include balls. The second rolling elements 86 may also include rollers. For example, the second rolling elements 86 are configured to be movable between the third end 82D of the third groove 82C and the third member 82B.

[0084] For example, in the direction X along the first central axis C1, a rotational force conversion structure 82E is provided between the first member 82 and the fourth engaging portion 76B. The rotational force conversion structure 82E includes a cam structure or a screw structure. The rotational force conversion structure 82E converts the rotational motion caused by the rotational force transmitted from the second rotating body 72 to the first shaft 68 into linear motion.

[0085] For example, the fourth engagement portion 76B is , the The second engaging portion 74B is configured to move in a direction X along the first central axis C1. For example, the fourth engaging portion 76B is formed integrally with the first axis 68. 1st axis 68 These may be formed separately and mounted so as not to rotate relative to each other. For example, the fourth engaging portion 76B is circular when viewed from a direction X along the first central axis C1. For example, the outer diameter of the fourth engaging portion 76B is larger than the outer diameter of the first shaft 68.

[0086] For example, the braking portion 54 is provided at the end portion 68E of the first shaft 68 in a direction X along the first central axis C1. For example, the second rotating body 72, the first rotating body 70, the second engaging portion 74B, the third engaging portion 76A, the fourth engaging portion 76B, and the braking portion 54 are provided on the first shaft 68 in the order of second rotating body 72, first rotating body 70, second engaging portion 74B, third engaging portion 76A, fourth engaging portion 76B, and braking portion 54 in a direction X along the first central axis C1.

[0087] For example, the second rotating body 72 is positioned on the part of the first shaft 68 furthest from the end 68E. For example, the first rotating body 70 is positioned on the part of the first shaft 68 closer to the end 68E than the second rotating body 72. For example, the second engaging portion 74B is positioned on the part of the first shaft 68 closer to the end 68E than the first rotating body 70. For example, the third engaging portion 76A is positioned on the part of the first shaft 68 closer to the end 68E than the second engaging portion 74B.

[0088] For example, in a direction X along the first central axis C1, a first support portion 80A is positioned between the second engaging portion 74B and the third engaging portion 76A. The first support portion 80A is configured to reduce the frictional force between the second engaging portion 74B and the third engaging portion 76A when the second engaging portion 74B rotates relative to the third engaging portion 76A. The first support portion 80A includes, for example, a plurality of rolling elements and a first retainer that holds the rolling elements. For example, the rolling elements include balls.

[0089] For example, the fourth engaging portion 76B is located on the first shaft 68, closer to the end portion 68E than the third engaging portion 76A. For example, the third member 82B of the third engaging portion 76A has a fifth groove 88A. For example, the fifth groove 88A is formed on the surface 82F of the third member 82B that faces the fourth engaging portion 76B. For example, the fifth groove 88A extends in the circumferential direction of the surface 82F. For example, the fourth engaging portion 76B has a sixth groove 88B. For example, the sixth groove 88B is formed on the surface 76C of the fourth engaging portion 76B that faces the third member 82B. For example, the sixth groove 88B extends in the circumferential direction of the surface 76C.

[0090] For example, the fifth groove 88A is formed on surface 82F so as to correspond to the sixth groove 88B. For example, the sixth groove 88B is formed on surface 76C so as to correspond to the fifth groove 88A. For example, multiple fifth grooves 88A are formed on surface 82F so as not to be connected. For example, three fifth grooves 88A are formed on surface 82F so as not to be connected. For example, multiple sixth grooves 88B are formed on surface 76C so as not to be connected. For example, three sixth grooves 88B are formed on surface 76C so as not to be connected.

[0091] For example, the fifth groove 88A and the sixth groove 88B include a cam structure. For example, the cam structure of the fifth groove 88A and the sixth groove 88B converts the rotational motion caused by the rotational force transmitted from the second rotating body 72 to the first shaft 68 into linear motion.

[0092] For example, a third rolling element 90 is provided between the fifth groove 88A and the sixth groove 88B. For example, the same number of third rolling elements 90 are provided between the fifth groove 88A and the sixth groove 88B as there are third rolling elements 88A and the sixth groove 88B. The third rolling elements 90 include balls. The third rolling elements 90 may also include rollers.

[0093] For example, the third rolling element 90 is configured to move in the circumferential direction of the surface 82F of the third member 82B that faces the fourth engaging portion 76B, through the fifth groove 88A and the sixth groove 88B. For example, the third rolling element 90 is sized to engage with the fifth groove 88A and the sixth groove 88B even when the fourth engaging portion 76B moves toward the braking portion 54 in the direction X along the first central axis C1.

[0094] For example, a second support portion 80B is positioned between the fourth engagement portion 76B and the braking portion 54. The second support portion 80B is configured to reduce the frictional force between the fourth engagement portion 76B and the braking portion 54 when the fourth engagement portion 76B rotates relative to the braking portion 54. The second support portion 80B includes, for example, a plurality of rolling elements and a second retainer that holds the rolling elements. For example, the rolling elements include balls.

[0095] For example, the power conversion unit 56 converts the power of the input body 52 into a force that moves the braking unit 54 toward the rotating body 42. The power conversion unit 56 includes a speed change unit 92. The speed change unit 92 is configured to change the ratio R of the amount of movement of the braking unit 54 to the output amount of the input body 52. ​​The amount of movement of the braking unit 54 is the amount of movement in a predetermined direction. In this embodiment, the predetermined direction substantially coincides with the direction X along the first central axis C1. For example, the power of the input body 52 includes rotational force.

[0096] For example, the power conversion unit 56 converts the rotational force of the input body 52 into a force that moves the braking unit 54 toward the rotating body 42. The speed change unit 92 is configured to change the ratio R of the amount of movement of the braking unit 54 to the output rotational speed of the input body 52. ​​The power of the input body 52 may include power other than rotational force. Power other than rotational force may include, for example, linear motion power. If the power of the input body 52 includes linear motion power, in this embodiment, for example, a mechanism is provided between the input body 52 and the first rotating body 70, and between the input body 52 and the second rotating body 72 to convert the linear motion power into rotational force.

[0097] For example, the gear shifting unit 92 includes a first restricting mechanism 94 and a second restricting mechanism 96. For example, the first restricting mechanism 94 is configured to restrict the rotation of the second engaging portion 74B relative to the housing 58. The first restricting mechanism 94 is configured to allow the rotation of the second engaging portion 74B relative to the housing 58 when the torque input to the second engaging portion 74B is greater than or equal to a first torque, and to restrict the rotation of the second engaging portion 74B relative to the housing 58 when the torque input to the second engaging portion 74B is less than the first torque.

[0098] For example, the first regulating mechanism 94 includes a rotation regulating portion 98. For example, the rotation regulating portion 98 is provided on the housing 58 so as to be non-rotatable relative to the housing 58. For example, the rotation regulating portion 98 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The rotation regulating portion 98 is provided on the outer circumference 74D of the second engaging portion 74B so as to surround the second engaging portion 74B.

[0099] For example, the rotation restricting portion 98 includes a holding portion 98A, a biasing portion 98B, a pressing portion 98C, and a contact portion 98D. For example, the holding portion 98A is configured as a cylindrical shape extending in a direction X along the first central axis C1. For example, the holding portion 98A has a hole 98G that connects the outer circumference 98E of the holding portion 98A and the inner circumference 98F of the holding portion 98A. For example, the hole 98G is diameter It is formed to extend in the direction. For example, the pressing portion 98C is positioned in the hole 98G. For example, the pressing portion 98C is formed in a cylindrical shape, and the holding portion 98A diameterIt is positioned in hole 98G so as to extend in that direction.

[0100] For example, a contact portion 98D is provided between the pressing portion 98C and the second engaging portion 74B. For example, the contact portion 98D is provided on the pressing portion 98C so as to be rotatable relative to the pressing portion 98C. For example, the second engaging portion 74B includes a seventh groove 74E. For example, the seventh groove 74E is formed on the outer circumference 74D of the second engaging portion 74B. For example, the seventh groove 74E is formed on the outer circumference 74D of the second engaging portion 74B so as to extend in a direction X along the first central axis C1. For example, the rotation of the second engaging portion 74B is restricted by the placement of the contact portion 98D in the seventh groove 74E.

[0101] For example, the contact portion 98D includes a ball. The contact portion 98D may also include a roller. For example, the contact portion 98D is provided at one end of the pressing portion 98C. For example, the biasing portion 98B is provided at the other end of the pressing portion 98C. For example, the biasing portion 98B includes a coil spring. The biasing portion 98B may also include a leaf spring. The biasing portion 98B may include anything other than a coil spring and a leaf spring, as long as it can bias the pressing portion 98C to the second engaging portion 74B. For example, one end of the biasing portion 98B is attached to the pressing portion 98C. For example, the other end of the biasing portion 98B is attached to the housing 58.

[0102] For example, hole 98G includes at least one hole 98G. For example, biasing portion 98B includes at least one biasing portion 98B. For example, pressing portion 98C includes at least one pressing portion 98C. For example, contact portion 98D includes at least one contact portion 98D. For example, one of the at least one pressing portion 98C is positioned in one of the at least one hole 98G. For example, one of the at least one biasing portion 98B and one of the at least one contact portion 98D are attached to one of the at least one pressing portion 98C.

[0103] For example, at least one hole 98G may include two or more holes 98G. For example, there may be three at least one hole 98G. For example, the three holes 98G may be provided at equal intervals in the circumferential direction on the holding portion 98A. For example, the rotation restricting portion 98 may include one each of the holes 98G, biasing portion 98B, pressing portion 98C, and contact portion 98D, and the seventh groove 74E may include at least one seventh groove 74E. For example, the rotation restricting portion 98 may include one each of the holes 98G, biasing portion 98B, pressing portion 98C, and contact portion 98D, and the seventh groove 74E may include three seventh grooves 74E.

[0104] When the torque input to the second engaging portion 74B is less than the first torque, the contact portion 98D fits into the seventh groove 74E, thereby restricting the rotation of the second engaging portion 74B relative to the housing 58. When the torque input to the second engaging portion 74B increases from less than the first torque to greater than or equal to the first torque, the contact portion 98D moves from the seventh groove 74E to the outside of the seventh groove 74E, thereby allowing the second engaging portion 74B to rotate relative to the housing 58.

[0105] For example, the second restricting mechanism 96 is configured to restrict the movement of the second engaging portion 74B in the direction X along the first central axis C1 relative to the first engaging portion 74A. For example, the second restricting mechanism 96 is configured to restrict the movement of the second engaging portion 74B in the direction X along the first central axis C1 relative to the first engaging portion 74A when the torque input to the second engaging portion 74B is greater than or equal to the second torque, and to allow the movement of the second engaging portion 74B in the direction X along the first central axis C1 relative to the first engaging portion 74A when the torque input to the second engaging portion 74B is less than the second torque.

[0106] For example, the second regulating mechanism 96 includes a first engaging portion 74A and a second engaging portion 74B. For example, the second regulating mechanism 96 includes a self-locking mechanism. For example, the self-locking mechanism includes a mechanism that restricts the linear movement of the female screw relative to the male screw when a torque greater than a predetermined torque is applied to the male screw. For example, the self-locking mechanism may include a mechanism that restricts the linear movement of the male screw relative to the female screw when a torque greater than a predetermined torque is applied to the female screw. In this embodiment, the predetermined torque is the second torque. For example, the effect of the self-locking mechanism can be increased by reducing the lead angle of the screw.

[0107] For example, the second restricting mechanism 96 includes a first engaging portion 74A and a second engaging portion 74B. For example, the second restricting mechanism 96 restricts the movement of the second engaging portion 74B in the direction X along the first central axis C1 relative to the first engaging portion 74A when the lead angle of the male screw of the first engaging portion 74A is smaller than a predetermined lead angle and the torque input to the second engaging portion 74B is greater than or equal to the second torque. For example, the second restricting mechanism 96 allows the movement of the second engaging portion 74B in the direction X along the first central axis C1 relative to the first engaging portion 74A when the lead angle of the male screw of the first engaging portion 74A is smaller than a predetermined lead angle and the torque input to the second engaging portion 74B is less than the second torque. For example, the first torque and the second torque may be the same value or different values.

[0108] For example, the gear shifting unit 92 is configured to change the ratio R between a first ratio R1 and a second ratio R2. The second ratio R2 is different from the first ratio R1. For example, the first ratio R1 is greater than the second ratio R2. For example, the amount of movement of the braking unit 54 when the ratio R is the first ratio R1 is greater than the amount of movement of the braking unit 54 when the ratio R is the second ratio R2. For example, the speed of movement of the braking unit 54 is faster when the ratio R is the first ratio R1 than when the ratio R is the second ratio R2.

[0109] For example, the gear shifting unit 92 is configured such that when the braking unit 54 moves toward the rotating body 42, the ratio R is a first ratio R1 until the braking unit 54 makes contact with the rotating body 42, and when the braking unit 54 makes contact with the rotating body 42, the ratio R becomes a second ratio R2. The gear shifting unit 92 is configured such that when the braking unit 54 moves toward the rotating body 42, the ratio R is changed from the first ratio R1 to the second ratio R2 in response to the reaction force caused by the braking unit 54 making contact with the rotating body 42.

[0110] For example, the gear shifting unit 92 is configured such that when the braking unit 54 moves away from the rotating body 42, the ratio R becomes the second ratio R2 when the braking unit 54 is in contact with the rotating body 42, and when the braking unit 54 moves away from the rotating body 42, the ratio R becomes the first ratio R1. For example, when the gear shifting unit 92 moves away from the rotating body 42, and when the braking unit 54 is in contact with the rotating body 42, the ratio R is maintained at the second ratio R2 by the reaction force applied from the rotating body 42 to the braking unit 54.

[0111] For example, the gear shifting unit 92 is configured to transmit the rotational force of the input body 52 to the braking unit 54 in either a first transmission path configured such that the ratio R is a first ratio R1, or a second transmission path configured such that the ratio R is a second ratio R2.

[0112] For example, the first input rotating body 52B is configured to transmit rotational force to the first transmission path, and the second input rotating body 52C is configured to transmit rotational force to the second transmission path. For example, power is transmitted in the first transmission path in the order of the first rotating body 70, the first conversion unit 74, the second conversion unit 76, and the braking unit 54. For example, power is transmitted in the second transmission path in the order of the second rotating body 72, the first shaft 68, the fourth engagement unit 76B, and the braking unit 54.

[0113] An example of the operation of the braking device 50 will be explained with reference to Figures 13 to 17. Figure 13 shows the state in which no power is transmitted to the first input rotating body 52B and the second input rotating body 52C. When no power is transmitted to the first input rotating body 52B and the second input rotating body 52C, the braking unit 54 is in a first position in which the friction member 54A does not contact the rotating body 42.

[0114] Figure 14 shows the state in which power is transmitted to the first input rotating body 52B and the second input rotating body 52C, causing the braking unit 54 to move toward the rotating body 42, but without contact with the rotating body 42. In the state shown in Figure 13, when rotational force in the first rotation direction A1 is transmitted from the electric actuator 62 to the first input rotating body 52B and the second input rotating body 52C, the first rotating body 70 and the second rotating body 72 rotate. The first rotating body 70 increases the rotational force input from the first input rotating body 52B by a predetermined speed increase ratio, or reduces it by a first reduction ratio. For example, the second rotating body 72 reduces the rotational force input from the second input rotating body 52C by a second reduction ratio.

[0115] Power is transmitted to the braking part 54 by the first transmission path until the braking part 54 contacts the rotating body 42. The rotational force of the first rotating body 70 is transmitted to the first engaging part 74A. Since the male thread of the first engaging part 74A is engaged with the female thread of the second engaging part 74B, the rotational force of the first engaging part 74A is input to the second engaging part 74B. If the torque input to the second engaging part 74B is smaller than the first torque, the rotation of the second engaging part 74B is restricted by the first regulating mechanism 94. If the torque input to the second engaging part 74B is smaller than the second torque, the second regulating mechanism 96 allows the second engaging part 74B to move in the direction X along the first central axis C1 relative to the first engaging part 74A. Therefore, if the torque input to the second engagement portion 74B is smaller than the first torque and also smaller than the second torque, the second engagement portion 74B moves toward the third engagement portion 76A in the direction X along the first central axis C1.

[0116] As the second engaging portion 74B moves toward the third engaging portion 76A in a direction X along the first central axis C1, the third engaging portion 76A moves toward the fourth engaging portion 76B in a direction X along the first central axis C1 by being pushed by the second engaging portion 74B via the first support portion 80A. As the third engaging portion 76A moves toward the fourth engaging portion 76B in a direction X along the first central axis C1, the fourth engaging portion 76B rotates and moves toward the braking portion 54 in a direction X along the first central axis C1 as the third rolling element 90 moves within the fifth groove 88A and the sixth groove 88B. When the fourth engaging portion 76B moves toward the braking portion 54 in a direction X along the first central axis C1, the braking portion 54 is pushed by the fourth engaging portion 76B via the second support portion 80B and moves toward the rotating body 42 in a direction X along the first central axis C1.

[0117] Figure 15 shows the state in which the braking part 54 comes into contact with the rotating body 42 as it moves further toward the rotating body 42 from Figure 14. When the braking part 54 comes into contact with the rotating body 42, a reaction force from the rotating body 42 acts on the braking part 54. The reaction force from the rotating body 42 increases the torque transmitted in the first transmission path. When the torque transmitted in the first transmission path increases and the torque input to the second engagement part 74B becomes equal to or greater than the second torque, the second regulating mechanism 96 restricts the movement of the second engagement part 74B in the direction X along the first central axis C1 relative to the first engagement part 74A. When the torque transmitted in the first transmission path increases and the torque input to the second engagement part 74B becomes equal to or greater than the first torque, the first regulating mechanism 94 allows the rotation of the second engagement part 74B. Therefore, when the torque input to the second engagement portion 74B is greater than or equal to the first torque and greater than or equal to the second torque, the second engagement portion 74B rotates integrally with the first engagement portion 74A around the first shaft 68 and stops moving in the direction X along the first central axis C1.

[0118] When the braking portion 54 is in contact with the rotating body 42, the rotational force transmitted to the second rotating body 72 via the second transmission path causes the fourth engaging portion 76B to rotate and move toward the braking portion 54 in the direction X along the first central axis C1, via movement within the fifth groove 88A and sixth groove 88B of the third rolling element 90. The second ratio R2 via the second transmission path is smaller than the first ratio R1 via the first transmission path. Therefore, when the braking portion 54 is in contact with the rotating body 42, the braking force generated by the braking portion 54 can be increased.

[0119] Figure 16 shows the state in which the braking unit 54 is in contact with the rotating body 42, and rotational force in the second rotation direction A2 is transmitted from the electric actuator 62 to the first input rotating body 52B and the second input rotating body 52C. In Figure 16, the first rotating body 70 and the second rotating body 72 rotate in the opposite direction to that in Figures 14 and 15. If the state in which the braking unit 54 is in contact with the rotating body 42 is maintained, and the torque input to the second engaging unit 74B is maintained to be greater than or equal to the second torque, the second restricting mechanism 96 continues to restrict the movement of the second engaging unit 74B in the direction X along the first central axis C1 relative to the first engaging unit 74A. If the state in which the braking unit 54 is in contact with the rotating body 42 is maintained, and the torque input to the second engaging unit 74B is maintained to be greater than or equal to the first torque, the first restricting mechanism 94 continues to restrict the movement of the second engaging unit 74B Allowable rotation relative to housing 58 This continues. Therefore, until the torque input to the second engagement portion 74B is smaller than the first torque and smaller than the second torque, the rotational force transmitted to the second rotating body 72 via the second transmission path moves the braking portion 54 away from the rotating body 42 in the direction X along the first central axis C1 via the fourth engagement portion 76B.

[0120] Even when rotational force in the first rotational direction A1 is transmitted from the electric actuator 62 to the first input rotating body 52B and the second input rotating body 52C, the rotational force transmitted to the second rotating body 72 via the second transmission path moves the braking unit 54 away from the rotating body 42 in the direction X along the first central axis C1, until the torque input to the second engaging unit 74B is smaller than the first torque and smaller than the second torque.

[0121] Figure 17 shows the state in which the braking part 54 moves further away from the rotating body 42 from Figure 16, and the braking part 54 no longer contacts the rotating body 42. When the braking part 54 no longer contacts the rotating body 42, no reaction force from the rotating body 42 acts on the braking part 54. Therefore, the torque input to the second engagement part 74B decreases. As the torque transmitted in the first transmission path decreases, the torque input to the second engagement part 74B becomes smaller than the second torque, and the second regulating mechanism 96 allows the second engagement part 74B to move in the direction X along the first central axis C1 relative to the first engagement part 74A. As the torque transmitted in the first transmission path decreases, the torque input to the second engagement part 74B becomes smaller than the first torque, and the first regulating mechanism 94 restricts the rotation of the second engagement part 74B. Therefore, when the torque input to the second engagement portion 74B is smaller than the first torque and also smaller than the second torque, the second engagement portion 74B moves the braking portion 54 away from the rotating body 42 in the direction X along the first central axis C1 by the rotational force in the second rotation direction A2 input from the electric actuator 62 to the second input rotating body 52C.

[0122] The braking device 50 allows for early braking of the rotating body 42 because, until the braking unit 54 contacts the rotating body 42, the braking unit 54 moves toward the rotating body 42 by a first ratio R1. Once the braking unit 54 contacts the rotating body 42, the braking unit 54 moves toward the rotating body 42 by a second ratio R2, which is smaller than the first ratio R1. Therefore, the braking force generated by the braking unit 54 can be increased when the braking unit 54 is in contact with the rotating body 42.

[0123] <Second Embodiment> The braking device 50 of the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 2, 18, and 19. In the second embodiment, components common to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0124] The power conversion unit 56 of this embodiment includes a second shaft 102, a third rotating body 104, a third conversion unit 106, a fourth conversion unit 108, a first speed change unit 110, a second speed change unit 112, and a third shaft 114, instead of the first shaft 68, first rotating body 70, second rotating body 72, first conversion unit 74, and second conversion unit 76 of the first embodiment.

[0125] For example, the power conversion unit 56 of this embodiment further includes a conversion mechanism that converts rotational motion into linear motion. For example, the rotational force of the input body 52 in this embodiment is transmitted to the conversion mechanism that converts rotational motion into linear motion via either the third conversion unit 106 or the fourth conversion unit 108. For example, in this embodiment, the braking unit 54 is attached to the conversion mechanism. The linear motion converted from rotational motion by the conversion mechanism causes the braking unit 54 to move toward the rotating body 42. For example, the conversion mechanism includes a rack and pinion or a ball screw. For example, the conversion mechanism is provided on the first conversion shaft 120 of the third conversion unit 106.

[0126] In this embodiment, the second shaft 102, third rotating body 104, third conversion unit 106, fourth conversion unit 108, first speed change unit 110, second speed change unit 112, and third shaft 114 correspond to a speed change unit 92 configured to change the ratio R of the amount of movement of the braking unit 54 with respect to the output rotational speed of the input body 52. ​​The second shaft 102, third rotating body 104, third conversion unit 106, fourth conversion unit 108, first speed change unit 110, second speed change unit 112, and third shaft 114 are configured to change the ratio R between a first ratio R1 and a second ratio R2 which is different from the first ratio R1.

[0127] In this embodiment, the power transmission path via the third conversion unit 106 corresponds to the first transmission path configured such that the ratio R is the first ratio R1. In this embodiment, the power transmission path via the fourth conversion unit 108 corresponds to the second transmission path configured such that the ratio R is the second ratio R2.

[0128] For example, in this embodiment, the input body 52 includes a third input rotating body 100 instead of the first input rotating body 52B and the second input rotating body 52C. For example, the third input rotating body 100 is formed integrally with the input rotating shaft 52A. The third input rotating body 100 may be formed separately from the input rotating shaft 52A and attached to the input rotating shaft 52A in a manner that prevents relative rotation. For example, the third input rotating body 100 includes a gear.

[0129] For example, the second shaft 102 has a third central axis C3 substantially parallel to the second central axis C2. For example, the second shaft 102 includes a male thread. For example, the male thread of the second shaft 102 is provided on the outer circumference 102A of the second shaft 102. For example, the third rotating body 104 is formed separately from the second shaft 102. For example, the third rotating body 104 includes a female thread. For example, the female thread is provided on the inner circumference of the third rotating body 104. For example, the third rotating body 104 is attached to the central portion of the second shaft 102. For example, the male thread of the second shaft 102 and the female thread of the third rotating body 104 may constitute a ball screw.

[0130] For example, the third rotating body 104 includes a gear. For example, the gear of the third rotating body 104 engages with the gear of the third input rotating body 100. The rotational force of the third input rotating body 100 is transmitted to the third rotating body 104. For example, the outer diameter of the third rotating body 104 is larger than that of the third input rotating body 100. For example, the third rotating body 104 is mounted to the housing 58 so as not to move in the axial direction of the third central axis C3. For example, the second shaft 102 is configured to move in the axial direction of the third central axis C3 relative to the third rotating body 104.

[0131] For example, the third conversion unit 106 includes a first key portion 116, a first key groove portion 118, and a first conversion shaft 120. For example, the fourth conversion unit 108 includes a second key portion 122, a second key groove portion 124, and a second conversion shaft 126. For example, the first key portion 116 is provided at one end of the second shaft 102, and the second key portion 122 is provided at the other end of the second shaft 102.

[0132] For example, the rotational axis of the first conversion shaft 120 substantially coincides with the third central axis C3. For example, the rotational axis of the second conversion shaft 126 substantially coincides with the third central axis C3. The first conversion shaft 120 is positioned parallel to the second shaft 102 at one end of the second shaft 102. The second conversion shaft 126 is positioned parallel to the second shaft 102 at the other end of the second shaft 102.

[0133] For example, the first key groove 118 is provided on the first conversion shaft 120. For example, the first key groove 118 and the first conversion shaft 120 are formed integrally. For example, the first key groove 118 is configured to be engageable with the first key portion 116.

[0134] For example, the second key groove 124 is provided on the second conversion shaft 126. For example, the second key groove 124 and the second conversion shaft 126 are formed integrally. For example, the second key groove 124 is configured to be engageable with the second key portion 122.

[0135] For example, the third shaft 114 has a fourth central axis C4 that is substantially parallel to the third central axis C3. For example, the first gearbox 110 includes a fourth rotating body 128 and a fifth rotating body 130. For example, the fourth rotating body 128 and the fifth rotating body 130 each include gears. The fourth rotating body 128 is mounted on the first conversion shaft 120. The fifth rotating body 130 is mounted on the third shaft 114. For example, the fourth rotating body 128 engages with the fifth rotating body 130. For example, the outer diameter of the fourth rotating body 128 is larger than the outer diameter of the fifth rotating body 130.

[0136] For example, the second gearbox 112 includes a sixth rotating body 132 and a seventh rotating body 134. For example, the sixth rotating body 132 and the seventh rotating body 134 each include gears. The sixth rotating body 132 is mounted on the second conversion shaft 126. For example, the seventh rotating body 134 is mounted on the third shaft 114. For example, the sixth rotating body 132 engages with the seventh rotating body 134. For example, the outer diameter of the seventh rotating body 134 is larger than the outer diameter of the sixth rotating body 132.

[0137] For example, when the rotational force of the third rotating body 104 is transmitted to the second shaft 102, a force F1 toward the second conversion shaft 126 is generated on the second shaft 102 by the male thread of the second shaft 102 and the female thread of the third rotating body 104.

[0138] For example, the power conversion unit 56 of this embodiment further includes a biasing member configured to apply a force F2 toward the first key groove 118 to the second shaft 102. If the input body 52 does not rotate, the biasing member causes the first key groove 116 of the second shaft 102 to be the first key groove Part 11 8 It engages with.

[0139] For example, the first key portion 116 includes a first inclined surface inclined with respect to the third central axis C3. The first key groove portion 118 includes a second inclined surface inclined with respect to the third central axis C3. The first key portion 116 and the first key groove portion 118 are engaged, and the first key portion 116 rotates in a direction corresponding to the first rotation direction A1, so that the first and second inclined surfaces engage. The first and second inclined surfaces are configured such that, when the first and second inclined surfaces are engaged, the second shaft 102 rotates the first conversion shaft 120, thereby generating a force F3A on the second shaft 102 toward the first conversion shaft 120.

[0140] For example, the first key portion 116 includes a third inclined surface that is inclined with respect to the third central axis C3. The first key groove portion 118 includes a fourth inclined surface that is inclined with respect to the third central axis C3. The third and fourth inclined surfaces are configured to engage when the first key portion 116 and the first key groove portion 118 are engaged and the first key portion 116 rotates in a direction corresponding to the second rotation direction A2. The third and fourth inclined surfaces are configured such that, when the third and fourth inclined surfaces are engaged, the second shaft 102 rotates the first conversion shaft 120, thereby generating a force F3B on the second shaft 102 toward the first conversion shaft 120.

[0141] For example, the second key portion 122 includes a fifth inclined surface that is inclined with respect to the third central axis C3. The second key groove portion 124 includes a sixth inclined surface that is inclined with respect to the third central axis C3. The fifth and sixth inclined surfaces are configured to engage when the second key portion 122 and the second key groove portion 124 are engaged and the second key portion 122 rotates in a direction corresponding to the first rotation direction A1. The fifth and sixth inclined surfaces are configured such that, when the fifth and sixth inclined surfaces are engaged, the second shaft 102 rotates the second conversion shaft 126, thereby generating a force F4A on the second shaft 102 toward the second conversion shaft 126.

[0142] For example, the second key portion 122 includes a seventh inclined surface that is inclined with respect to the third central axis C3. The second key groove portion 124 includes an eighth inclined surface that is inclined with respect to the third central axis C3. The seventh and eighth inclined surfaces are configured to engage when the second key portion 122 and the second key groove portion 124 are engaged and the second key portion 122 rotates in a direction corresponding to the second rotation direction A2. The seventh and eighth inclined surfaces are configured such that, when the seventh and eighth inclined surfaces are engaged, the second shaft 102 rotates the second conversion shaft 126, thereby generating a force F4B on the second shaft 102 toward the second conversion shaft 126.

[0143] In the first transmission path, the rotational force input to the input body 52 is transmitted in the following order: third input rotating body 100, third rotating body 104, second shaft 102, and first conversion shaft 120. In the second transmission path, the rotational force input to the input body 52 is transmitted in the following order: third input rotating body 100, third rotating body 104, second shaft 102, second conversion shaft 126, sixth rotating body 132, seventh rotating body 134, third shaft 114, fifth rotating body 130, fourth rotating body 128, and first conversion shaft 120.

[0144] For example, when the first key portion 116 of the second shaft 102 is engaged with the first key groove portion 118, and a rotational force in the first rotational direction A1 is transmitted to the input body 52, the second shaft 102 and the first key portion 116 rotate together with the third rotating body 104. Since the first key portion 116 is engaged with the first key groove portion 118, the first key groove portion 118 and the first conversion shaft 120 rotate together with the first key portion 116. As the first conversion shaft 120 rotates, the braking portion 54 moves toward the rotating body 42 via the conversion mechanism.

[0145] For example, until the braking portion 54 contacts the rotating body 42, the sum of force F2 and force F3A is greater than force F1. Therefore, the engagement between the first key portion 116 and the first key groove portion 118 is maintained until the braking portion 54 contacts the rotating body 42.

[0146] As the braking part 54 moves toward the rotating body 42, when the braking part 54 comes into contact with the rotating body 42, a reaction force is generated from the rotating body 42 toward the braking part 54. This reaction force from the rotating body 42 toward the braking part 54 increases the torque transmitted in the first transmission path. This increase in torque transmitted in the first transmission path increases the force F1. When the force F1 becomes greater than the sum of the forces F2 and F3A, the second shaft 102 begins to move toward the second conversion shaft 126. Consequently, the engagement between the first key part 116 and the first key groove part 118 is released.

[0147] As the second shaft 102 moves toward the second conversion shaft 126, the second key portion 122 and the second key groove portion 124 engage, causing the second shaft 102 and the second key portion 122 to rotate together with the second conversion shaft 126 and the sixth rotating body 132. Since the sixth rotating body 132 is engaged with the seventh rotating body 134, the rotation of the sixth rotating body 132 causes the third shaft 114 and the fifth rotating body 130 to rotate. Since the fifth rotating body 130 is engaged with the fourth rotating body 128, the fourth rotating body 128 and the first conversion shaft 120 rotate. As the first conversion shaft 120 rotates, the braking portion 54 moves toward the rotating body 42 via the conversion mechanism.

[0148] For example, when the second key portion 122 of the second shaft 102 is engaged with the second key groove portion 124, and the braking portion 54 is in contact with the rotating body 42, and a rotational force in the first rotational direction A1 is transmitted to the input body 52, the sum of force F4A and force F1 is greater than force F2. Therefore, the engagement between the second key portion 122 and the second key groove portion 124 is maintained.

[0149] For example, when the second key portion 122 of the second shaft 102 is engaged with the second key groove portion 124 and the braking portion 54 is in contact with the rotating body 42, and a rotational force in the second rotational direction A2 is transmitted to the input body 52, the sum of force F4B and force F1 is greater than force F2. Therefore, the engagement between the second key portion 122 and the second key groove portion 124 is maintained. When the second key portion 122 of the second shaft 102 is engaged with the second key groove portion 124 and the braking portion 54 is in contact with the rotating body 42, and a rotational force in the second rotational direction A2 is transmitted to the input body 52, the braking portion 54 moves away from the rotating body 42 via the conversion mechanism as the first conversion shaft 120 rotates.

[0150] As the braking part 54 moves away from the rotating body 42, and the braking part 54 no longer contacts the rotating body 42, the reaction force from the rotating body 42 to the braking part 54 disappears, and the torque transmitted in the second transmission path decreases. The decrease in torque transmitted in the second transmission path reduces the force F2. When the sum of force F4B and force F1 becomes less than force F2, the second shaft 102 begins to move toward the first conversion shaft 120. Therefore, the engagement between the second key part 122 and the second key groove part 124 is released.

[0151] As the second shaft 102 moves toward the first conversion shaft 120 and the first key portion 116 and the first key groove portion 118 engage, the second shaft 102 and the first key portion 116 rotate together with the first conversion shaft 120. As the first conversion shaft 120 rotates, the braking portion 54 moves away from the rotating body 42 via the conversion mechanism.

[0152] When the first key portion 116 and the first key groove portion 118 are engaged, and the braking portion 54 is not in contact with the rotating body 42, and a rotational force in the second rotational direction A2 is transmitted to the input body 52, the sum of force F3B and force F2 is greater than force F1. Therefore, the engagement between the first key portion 116 and the first key groove portion 118 is maintained.

[0153] In the second embodiment of the braking device 50, the braking unit 54 moves toward the rotating body 42 by a first ratio R1 until the braking unit 54 makes contact with the rotating body 42, thus enabling early braking of the rotating body 42. Therefore, the braking force generated by the braking unit 54 can be increased when the braking unit 54 is in contact with the rotating body 42.

[0154] <Example of changes> The descriptions of each embodiment are illustrative of possible forms of braking systems for human-powered vehicles according to this disclosure, and are not intended to limit their forms. Braking systems for human-powered vehicles according to this disclosure may take, for example, forms of modifications of each embodiment 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 the embodiment, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0155] The electric actuator 62 may be omitted. If the electric actuator 62 is omitted, the input body 52 may be configured to transmit human power. For example, the human power is transmitted in the following order: reduction gear 64, rotation regulating mechanism 66, input body 52, power conversion unit 56, and braking unit 54. For example, the operating device 44 and the input body 52 are connected by a cable. For example, the input body 52 is configured to rotate in a first rotation direction A1 when the cable moves in a first direction due to the operation of the operating device 44. For example, the input body 52 is configured to rotate in a second rotation direction A2 when the cable moves in a second direction due to the release of the operation of the operating device 44.

[0156] The first input rotating body 52B and the first rotating body 70 may include pulleys and belts instead of gears. The second input rotating body 52C and the second rotating body 72 may include pulleys and belts instead of gears. The third input rotating body 100 and the third rotating body 104 may include pulleys and belts instead of gears. The fourth rotating body 128 and the fifth rotating body 130 may include pulleys and belts instead of gears. The sixth rotating body 132 and the seventh rotating body 134 may include pulleys and belts instead of gears.

[0157] The first input rotating body 52B and the first rotating body 70 may include sprockets and chains instead of gears. The second input rotating body 52C and the second rotating body 72 may include sprockets and chains instead of gears. The third input rotating body 100 and the third rotating body 104 may include sprockets and chains instead of gears. The fourth rotating body 128 and the fifth rotating body 130 may include sprockets and chains instead of gears. The sixth rotating body 132 and the seventh rotating body 134 may include sprockets and chains instead of gears.

[0158] 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]

[0159] 10...Human-powered vehicle, 42...Rotating body, 50...Braking device, 52...Input body, 52A...Input rotating shaft, 52B...First input rotating body, 52C...Second input rotating body, 54...Braking unit, 56...Power conversion unit, 58...Housing, 60...Disc brake device, 60A...Disc rotor, 62...Electric actuator, 64...Reduction gear, 66...Rotation regulating mechanism, 68...First shaft, 68E...End, 70...First rotating body, 70A...Part, 72...Second rotating body, 74...First conversion unit, 74A...First engaging unit, 74B...Second engaging unit, 76...Second conversion unit, 76A...Third engaging unit, 76B...Fourth engaging unit, 92...Speed ​​change unit, 94...First regulating mechanism, 96...Second regulating mechanism.

Claims

1. A braking device for a human-powered vehicle, An input body to which the driving force is input, A braking unit configured to be able to contact the rotating body of the aforementioned human-powered vehicle, A power conversion unit that converts the rotational force of the input body into a force that moves the braking unit toward the rotating body, Equipped with a housing, The power conversion unit includes a speed change unit configured to change the ratio of the amount of movement of the braking unit to the output rotational speed of the input unit, The gear shifting unit is configured to change the ratio between a first ratio and a second ratio different from the first ratio. The input body includes an input rotating shaft, a first input rotating body provided on the input rotating shaft, and a second input rotating body provided on the input rotating shaft and having a different outer diameter from the first input rotating body. The power conversion unit includes a first shaft having a first central axis and rotatable relative to the housing, a first rotating body provided on the first shaft and engaging with the first input rotating body, a second rotating body provided on the first shaft and engaging with the second input rotating body, a first conversion unit provided on the first shaft that converts the rotational motion of the first rotating body into linear motion, and a second conversion unit provided on the first shaft that converts the rotational motion of the second rotating body into linear motion. The first axis is configured to be movable in a direction along the first central axis relative to the first and second rotating bodies, The first conversion unit is, The first ratio is defined, A first engagement portion is provided on a portion of the first rotating body that is different from the portion that engages with the first input rotating body, It includes a second engaging portion that engages with the first engaging portion and is provided on the first shaft so as to be movable in a direction along the first central axis relative to the first shaft, One of the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion includes a female thread, The other of the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion includes a male screw, The second conversion unit is, The second ratio is defined, It includes a third engaging portion provided on the first shaft so as to be non-rotatable with respect to the housing, and a fourth engaging portion provided on the first shaft, The third engaging portion is configured to move integrally with the second engaging portion in a direction along the first central axis relative to the first axis, The fourth engaging portion is configured to move relative to the second engaging portion in a direction along the first central axis, The braking portion is a braking device provided at the end of the first shaft in a direction along the first central axis.

2. The braking device according to claim 1, wherein the gear shifting unit is configured such that when the braking unit moves toward the rotating body, the ratio becomes the first ratio until the braking unit contacts the rotating body, and the ratio becomes the second ratio when the braking unit contacts the rotating body.

3. A braking device for a human-powered vehicle, An input body to which the driving force is input, A braking unit configured to be able to contact the rotating body of the aforementioned human-powered vehicle, A power conversion unit that converts the power of the input body into a force that moves the braking unit toward the rotating body, Equipped with a housing, The power conversion unit includes a speed change unit configured to change the ratio of the amount of movement of the braking unit to the output amount of the input unit, The gear shifting unit is configured such that, when the braking unit moves toward the rotating body, the ratio becomes a first ratio until the braking unit contacts the rotating body, and when the braking unit contacts the rotating body, the ratio becomes a second ratio, and the second ratio is different from the first ratio. The input body includes an input rotating shaft, a first input rotating body provided on the input rotating shaft, and a second input rotating body provided on the input rotating shaft and having a different outer diameter from the first input rotating body. The power conversion unit includes a first shaft having a first central axis and rotatable relative to the housing, a first rotating body provided on the first shaft and engaging with the first input rotating body, a second rotating body provided on the first shaft and engaging with the second input rotating body, a first conversion unit provided on the first shaft that converts the rotational motion of the first rotating body into linear motion, and a second conversion unit provided on the first shaft that converts the rotational motion of the second rotating body into linear motion. The first axis is configured to be movable in a direction along the first central axis relative to the first and second rotating bodies, The first conversion unit is, The first ratio is defined, A first engagement portion is provided on a portion of the first rotating body that is different from the portion that engages with the first input rotating body, It includes a second engaging portion that engages with the first engaging portion and is provided on the first shaft so as to be movable in a direction along the first central axis relative to the first shaft, One of the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion includes a female thread, The other of the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion includes a male screw, The second conversion unit is, The second ratio is defined, It includes a third engaging portion provided on the first shaft so as to be non-rotatable with respect to the housing, and a fourth engaging portion provided on the first shaft, The third engaging portion is configured to move integrally with the second engaging portion in a direction along the first central axis relative to the first axis, The fourth engaging portion is configured to move relative to the second engaging portion in a direction along the first central axis, The braking portion is a braking device provided at the end of the first shaft in a direction along the first central axis.

4. The braking device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the gear shifting unit is configured such that when the braking unit moves toward the rotating body, the ratio changes from the first ratio to the second ratio in accordance with the reaction force caused by the braking unit contacting the rotating body.

5. The braking device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the gear shifting unit is configured such that when the braking unit moves toward the direction away from the rotating body, the ratio becomes the second ratio when the braking unit is in contact with the rotating body, and when the braking unit moves away from the rotating body, the ratio becomes the first ratio.

6. The braking device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the gear shifting unit is configured such that when the braking unit moves toward the direction away from the rotating body and the braking unit is in contact with the rotating body, the ratio is maintained at the second ratio by the reaction force applied to the braking unit from the rotating body.

7. The braking device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first ratio is greater than the second ratio.

8. The braking device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the gear shifting unit is configured to transmit the rotational force of the input body to the braking unit in either a first transmission path configured such that the ratio is the first ratio, or a second transmission path configured such that the ratio is the second ratio.

9. The first input rotating body is configured to transmit rotational force to the first transmission path, The braking device according to claim 8, wherein the second input rotating body is configured to transmit rotational force to the second transmission path.

10. The first engaging portion includes the male screw, The braking device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the second engaging portion includes the female screw.

11. The braking device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the gear shifting unit includes a first restricting mechanism configured to restrict the rotation of the second engaging unit relative to the housing, and a second restricting mechanism configured to restrict the movement of the second engaging unit in a direction along the first central axis relative to the first engaging unit.

12. The first regulating mechanism allows rotation of the second engaging portion relative to the housing when the torque input to the second engaging portion is equal to or greater than the first torque, and restricts rotation of the second engaging portion relative to the housing when the torque input to the second engaging portion is less than the first torque. The braking device according to claim 11, wherein the second restricting mechanism is configured to restrict the movement of the second engaging portion in the direction along the first central axis relative to the first engaging portion when the torque input to the second engaging portion is greater than or equal to the second torque, and to allow the movement of the second engaging portion in the direction along the first central axis relative to the first engaging portion when the torque input to the second engaging portion is less than the second torque.

13. The braking device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the second rotating body, the first rotating body, the second engaging portion, the third engaging portion, the fourth engaging portion, and the braking portion are provided on the first shaft in the order of the second rotating body, the first rotating body, the second engaging portion, the third engaging portion, the fourth engaging portion, and the braking portion in a direction along the first central axis.

14. Equipped with an electric actuator, The braking device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the electric actuator is configured to transmit the driving force to the input body.

15. The braking device according to claim 14, further comprising a reduction gear provided between the electric actuator and the input body.

16. The braking device according to claim 14 or 15, further comprising a rotation restricting mechanism provided between the electric actuator and the input body, which restricts the rotation of the input body when the output torque of the electric actuator is a third torque or greater.

17. The braking device includes a disc brake device having a disc rotor, The braking device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the rotating body includes the disc rotor.

Images