Control device for human-powered vehicles

Abstract

To provide a control device for a man-powered vehicle that is able to suitably control a man-powered vehicle component.SOLUTION: A control device for a man-powered vehicle includes a control unit that controls power consumption of at least one of a plurality of man-powered vehicle components to which electric power is supplied from a common battery. The plurality of man-powered vehicle components includes a first component and a second component. The control unit is configured to reduce power consumption of the first component when a remaining battery level is equal to or smaller than a first threshold, and, according to a measurement result of an operating time in which the second component is operated in a state in which the remaining battery level is equal to or smaller than the first threshold value, to be able to change at least one of the first threshold and power consumption of at least one of the first component and the second component in a state in which the remaining battery level is equal to or smaller than the first threshold, such that the operating time is more than a time set in advance.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] For example, the control device for a human-powered vehicle disclosed in Patent Document 1 controls the power consumption of a plurality of components for a human-powered vehicle that are supplied with power from a common battery.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The power consumption of components for a human-powered vehicle differs from other components for a human-powered vehicle or changes depending on individual differences and conditions, etc. The control device of Patent Document 1 does not consider at all the power consumption due to individual differences of components for a human-powered vehicle and the change in power consumption.

[0005] One object of the present disclosure is to provide a control device for a human-powered vehicle that can suitably control components for a human-powered vehicle.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A control device according to a first aspect of the present disclosure is a control device for a human-powered vehicle, comprising a control unit that controls the power consumption of at least one of a plurality of human-powered vehicle components powered from a common battery, wherein the plurality of human-powered vehicle components include a first component and a second component, and the control unit is configured to reduce the power consumption of the first component when the remaining charge of the battery is below a first threshold, and to change at least one of the first threshold and the power consumption of at least one of the first component and the second component when the remaining charge of the battery is below the first threshold, according to a measurement result of the operating time of the second component when the remaining charge of the battery is below the first threshold, such that the operating time is at or above a predetermined time. According to the control device on the first side, when the battery level is below a first threshold, the control unit can change at least one of the first threshold and the power consumption of at least one of the first and second components when the battery level is below the first threshold, according to the measurement result of the operating time of the second component when the battery level is below a first threshold, so that the operating time is equal to or greater than a predetermined time. Therefore, the control unit can make the operating time of the second component equal to or greater than a predetermined time according to the actual measurement result, and thus can suitably control the components for human-powered vehicles.

[0007] In a control device according to a second aspect of the first aspect of this disclosure, the control unit is configured to increase the first threshold if the operating time is shorter than the predetermined time. According to the control device on the second side, if the operating time is shorter than a predetermined time, the first threshold increases, so the control unit can reduce the power consumption of the first component earlier, making it easier to ensure sufficient operating time.

[0008] In a control device of a third aspect according to the first or second aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit is configured to reduce the power consumption of at least one of the first and second components when the operating time is shorter than the predetermined time, and the remaining battery level is below the first threshold. According to the control device on the third side, if the operating time is shorter than a predetermined time, the operating time is more likely to be ensured in order to reduce the power consumption of at least one of the first and second components.

[0009] In a control device according to a fourth aspect of any one of the first to third aspects of this disclosure, the control unit starts measuring the operating time when the remaining charge of the battery falls below the first threshold while the second component is operating. According to the control device on the fourth side, when the battery level falls below the first threshold while the second component is operating, the measurement of the operating time is initiated, thus enabling accurate measurement of the operating time.

[0010] A control device according to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, wherein the second component stops operating when the remaining charge of the battery falls below a second threshold which is less than the first threshold, and the operating time is the time from when the remaining charge of the battery falls below the first threshold until the remaining charge of the battery falls below the second threshold. According to the control device on the fifth side, the first threshold and at least one of the power consumption of at least one of the first and second components when the battery level is below the first threshold can be changed according to the measurement result of the time from when the battery level falls below a first threshold until the battery level falls below a second threshold.

[0011] A control device according to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, wherein the second component stops operating when the battery level falls below a second threshold which is less than the first threshold, and the control unit starts measuring the operating time when the battery level falls below the first threshold while the second component is operating, and does not change the first threshold if the operation of the second component stops after the battery level falls below the first threshold but before the battery level falls below the second threshold. According to the control device on the sixth side, if the operation of the second component stops after the battery level falls below the first threshold but before the battery level falls below the second threshold, the first threshold is not changed, allowing for accurate measurement of the operating time.

[0012] A control device according to the seventh aspect of the present disclosure, which is any one of the first to sixth aspects of the present disclosure, further comprising a counter for measuring the operating time and at least one of a real-time clock circuit. According to the control device on the seventh side, the operating time can be measured by a counter and at least one of a real-time clock circuit.

[0013] In a control device according to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit is configured to change the first threshold in response to input information from an external device. According to the control device on the eighth side, the control unit can change the first threshold value to a suitable value in response to input information from an external device.

[0014] In a control device of the ninth aspect according to the eighth aspect of this disclosure, the control unit is configured to acquire identification information of the second component and to change the first threshold in accordance with the identification information. According to the control device on the ninth side, the first threshold can be changed according to the identification information, so the control unit can set a first threshold suitable for the type of second component.

[0015] In the control device according to the tenth aspect that conforms to any one of the first to ninth aspects of the present disclosure, when the remaining amount of the battery becomes equal to or less than the first threshold value, the control unit stops at least a part of the functions of the first component. According to the control device of the tenth aspect, when the remaining amount of the battery becomes equal to or less than the first threshold value, at least a part of the functions of the first component is stopped, so that the power consumption of the first component can be suitably reduced.

[0016] In the control device according to the eleventh aspect that conforms to any one of the first to tenth aspects of the present disclosure, the power of the battery is supplied to the second component via the first component. According to the control device of the eleventh aspect, since the power of the battery is supplied to the second component via the first component, the wiring for power supply can be simplified.

[0017] In the control device according to the twelfth aspect that conforms to any one of the first to eleventh aspects of the present disclosure, the control unit is provided in the first component. According to the control device of the twelfth aspect, the control unit can be provided in the first component.

[0018] In the control device according to the thirteenth aspect that conforms to any one of the first to twelfth aspects of the present disclosure, the second component includes a lamp. According to the control device of the thirteenth aspect, the operating time of the lamp can be made longer than a predetermined time according to the measurement result.

[0019] In the control device according to the fourteenth aspect that conforms to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects of the present disclosure, the first component includes a motor that imparts a driving force to the human-powered vehicle. According to the control device of the fourteenth aspect, when the remaining amount of the battery is equal to or less than the first threshold value, the power consumption of the motor can be reduced.

Advantages of the Invention

[0020] The control device for a human-powered vehicle according to the present disclosure can preferably control components for a human-powered vehicle.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021] [Figure 1] It is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of a human-powered vehicle including the control device for a human-powered vehicle according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a flowchart of a process executed by the control unit in FIG. 1 to control components for a human-powered vehicle. [Figure 3] It is a flowchart of a process executed by the control unit in FIG. 1 to change a first threshold value according to input information from an external device. [Figure 4] It is a flowchart of a process executed by the control unit in FIG. 1 to change a first threshold value according to identification information of a second component.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0022] <Embodiment> Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a control device 30 for a human-powered vehicle will be described. A human-powered vehicle is a vehicle having at least one wheel and capable of being driven by at least human driving force. Human-powered vehicles include various types of bicycles such as mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes, hand bikes, and recumbent bikes. The number of wheels of a human-powered vehicle is not limited. Human-powered vehicles include, for example, vehicles having one wheel and vehicles having two or more wheels. A human-powered vehicle is not limited to a vehicle that can be driven only by human driving force. Human-powered vehicles include E-bikes that utilize the driving force of an electric motor in addition to human driving force for propulsion. E-bikes include electric assist bicycles whose propulsion is assisted by an electric motor. Hereinafter, in the embodiment, the human-powered vehicle will be described as an electric assist bicycle.

[0023] The human-powered vehicle 10 includes a component 12 for multiple human-powered vehicles. The component 12 for multiple human-powered vehicles is powered by a common battery 18. The component 12 for multiple human-powered vehicles includes a first component 14 and a second component 16. The first component 14 has a different function from, for example, the second component 16. The first component 14 has a higher instantaneous maximum power consumption than, for example, the second component 16. The second component 16 operates continuously for a long period of time.

[0024] The human-powered vehicle 10 includes a battery 18. The battery 18 is provided in the human-powered vehicle 10. The battery 18 is provided, for example, in the frame of the human-powered vehicle 10. The battery 18 includes one or more battery elements. The battery elements include rechargeable batteries. The battery 18 is configured, for example, to supply power to the control unit 32 of the control device 30. The battery 18 is communicated with the control unit 32, for example, by wired or wireless means. The battery 18 can communicate with the control unit 32, for example, by power line communication (PLC), CAN (Controller Area Network), or UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter).

[0025] For example, the second component 16 is supplied with power from the battery 18 via the first component 14. The first component 14 and the second component 16 are connected, for example, by power line communication (PLC). The first component 14 supplies power to the second component 16 by power line communication. The voltage of the power supplied from the first component 14 to the second component 16 is lower than, for example, the voltage of the power supplied from the battery 18 to the first component 14.

[0026] The first component 14 includes, for example, a motor 20 that provides propulsion to the human-powered vehicle 10. The first component 14 includes, for example, a housing in which the motor 20 is housed. The motor 20 includes, for example, one or more electric motors. The motor 20 transmits its rotational force to, for example, at least one of the members included in the transmission path of human-powered driving force from the pedals to the wheels. The motor 20 is, for example, mounted on the crankshaft. The motor 20 may be provided on at least one of the front and rear wheels.

[0027] The second component 16 includes, for example, a lamp 22. The lamp 22 includes, for example, at least one of a front lamp and a rear lamp. The front lamp is mounted on the body of the human-powered vehicle 10, for example, to illuminate the area in front of the human-powered vehicle 10. The rear lamp is mounted on the body of the human-powered vehicle 10, for example, to illuminate the area behind the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0028] The control device 30 for a human-powered vehicle includes a control unit 32. The control unit 32 includes, for example, a processing unit that executes a predetermined control program. The processing unit included in the control unit 32 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit).

[0029] In this embodiment, the control unit 32 is provided in the first component 14. The arithmetic processing unit included in the control unit 32 may be provided in multiple locations that are geographically separated from each other. Part of the arithmetic processing unit may be provided in the human-powered vehicle 10, and other parts of the arithmetic processing unit may be provided in a server connected to the Internet. When the arithmetic processing unit is provided in multiple locations that are geographically separated from each other, each part of the arithmetic processing unit is connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other via a wireless communication device. The control unit 32 may include one or more microcomputers.

[0030] The control device 30 further comprises, for example, a storage unit 34. The storage unit 34 is communicated with, for example, the control unit 32 by wire or wireless means. The storage unit 34 stores, for example, control programs and information used for control processing. The storage unit 34 includes, for example, non-volatile memory and volatile memory. The non-volatile memory includes, for example, at least one of ROM (Read-Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), and flash memory. The volatile memory includes, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0031] The control device 30 may further include a drive circuit for the motor 20. The control unit 32 and the drive circuit are, for example, provided in the housing of the drive unit. The control unit 32 and the drive circuit may be provided on the same circuit board. The drive circuit is, for example, communicated with the control unit 32 by wire or wireless means. The drive circuit drives the motor 20 in response to a control signal from the control unit 32, for example.

[0032] The drive circuit is electrically connected to the motor 20, for example. The drive circuit controls the supply of power from the battery 18 to the motor 20, for example. The drive circuit includes, for example, an inverter circuit. The inverter circuit includes, for example, a plurality of transistors. The inverter circuit includes, for example, a configuration in which a plurality of inverter sections, each consisting of a pair of transistors connected in series, are connected in parallel.

[0033] The control device 30 further includes, for example, a counter 36 for measuring operating time and at least one of a real-time clock circuit 38. The counter 36 and the real-time clock circuit 38 are included, for example, in the control unit 32.

[0034] The control unit 32 is configured, for example, to control the motor 20. The control unit 32 is configured, for example, to control the motor 20 according to the state of the human-powered vehicle 10. The control unit 32 is configured, for example, to control the motor 20 so as to change the output of the motor 20 according to the human-powered driving force applied to the human-powered vehicle 10. The control unit 32 is configured, for example, to control the motor 20 so as to change the propulsion force according to the human-powered driving force. The control unit 32 is configured, for example, to control the motor 20 according to the human-powered driving force detected by the human-powered driving force detection unit 26.

[0035] The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes, for example, a crank rotation state detection unit 24. The crank rotation state detection unit 24 is provided, for example, on the first component 14. The crank rotation state detection unit 24 is communicated with, for example, the control unit 32 by wire or wireless means.

[0036] The crank rotation state detection unit 24 is configured to detect, for example, the amount of rotation of the crankshaft and the first rotating body. The first rotating body includes, for example, a front sprocket or a front pulley. The crank rotation state detection unit 24 is configured to detect, for example, at least one of information corresponding to the rotational speed of the crankshaft and information corresponding to the rotational speed of the first rotating body. The information corresponding to the rotational speed of the crankshaft includes, for example, the angular acceleration of the crankshaft. The information corresponding to the rotational speed of the first rotating body includes, for example, the angular acceleration of the first rotating body.

[0037] The crank rotation state detection unit 24 is configured to output, for example, at least one signal corresponding to the rotational speed of the crankshaft and at least one signal corresponding to the rotational speed of the first rotating body. The crank rotation state detection unit 24 is configured to output, for example, at least one detection signal corresponding to the rotation angle of the crankshaft and at least one detection signal corresponding to the rotation angle of the first rotating body while the crankshaft and the first rotating body complete one rotation.

[0038] The crank rotation state detection unit 24 includes, for example, a magnetic sensor that outputs a signal corresponding to the strength of the magnetic field. The crank rotation state detection unit 24 includes, for example, an annular magnet with multiple magnetic poles arranged in the circumferential direction. The annular magnet is, for example, mounted on the crankshaft. The annular magnet includes, for example, one south pole and one north pole. The one south pole and the one north pole each extend continuously for 180° in the circumferential direction of the rotation center axis of the crankshaft. The crank rotation state detection unit 24 may include an optical sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, or a torque sensor instead of the magnetic sensor.

[0039] The crank rotation state detection unit 24 may be configured to detect the amount of rotation of the second rotating body. The second rotating body includes, for example, a rear sprocket or a rear pulley. The crank rotation state detection unit 24 may be configured to detect information corresponding to the rotational speed of the second rotating body. The information corresponding to the rotational speed of the second rotating body includes, for example, the angular acceleration of the second rotating body. The crank rotation state detection unit 24 may be configured to output a signal corresponding to the rotational speed of the second rotating body.

[0040] The crank rotation state detection unit 24 may include a vehicle speed sensor. If the crank rotation state detection unit 24 includes a vehicle speed sensor, the control unit 32 may be configured to calculate the rotational speed of the crankshaft according to the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor and the gear ratio. The gear ratio is, for example, the ratio of the rotational speed of the wheels to the rotational speed of the crankshaft.

[0041] The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes, for example, a human-powered force detection unit 26. The human-powered force detection unit 26 is communicated with, for example, a control unit 32 by wire or wireless means. The human-powered force detection unit 26 is configured to output a signal corresponding to the torque applied to the crankshaft by the human-powered force. The signal corresponding to the torque applied to the crankshaft by the human-powered force includes information about the human-powered force input to the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0042] The human-powered driving force detection unit 26 is provided, for example, on a member included in the human-powered driving force transmission path or on a member located near a member included in the human-powered driving force transmission path. The human-powered driving force detection unit 26 includes a strain sensor, a magnetostrictive sensor, or a pressure sensor. The strain sensor includes a strain gauge. The human-powered driving force detection unit 26 may have any configuration as long as it can acquire information about the human-powered driving force.

[0043] The human-powered driving force detection unit 26 may be provided on, for example, at least one of the crank arm and the pedal. If the human-powered driving force detection unit 26 is provided on the pedal, it may include a sensor that detects the pressure applied to the pedal. The human-powered driving force detection unit 26 may be provided on the chain. If the human-powered driving force detection unit 26 is provided on the chain, it may include a sensor that detects the tension of the chain.

[0044] The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes, for example, a vehicle speed detection unit 28. The vehicle speed detection unit 28 is communicated with, for example, a control unit 32 by wire or wireless means. The vehicle speed detection unit 28 is configured to detect, for example, information relating to the vehicle speed of the human-powered vehicle 10. The vehicle speed detection unit 28 is configured to detect, for example, information relating to the rotational speed of the wheels. The vehicle speed detection unit 28 is configured to detect, for example, a magnet provided on at least one of the front and rear wheels.

[0045] The vehicle speed detection unit 28 is configured to output a predetermined number of detection signals during one rotation of the wheel. The predetermined number is, for example, 1. The vehicle speed detection unit 28 outputs a signal corresponding to the rotational speed of the wheel. The control unit 32 can calculate the vehicle speed of the human-powered vehicle 10 based on the signal corresponding to the rotational speed of the wheel and information regarding the circumference of the wheel. The storage unit 34 stores, for example, information regarding the circumference of the wheel.

[0046] The control unit 32 is configured to control the motor 20 in accordance with, for example, at least one of the rotational speed of the crankshaft and the rotational speed of the first rotating body, as detected by the crank rotation state detection unit 24. The control unit 32 is configured to control the motor 20 in accordance with, for example, the vehicle speed of the human-powered vehicle 10, as detected by the vehicle speed detection unit 28.

[0047] The control unit 32 is configured to drive the motor 20 to impart propulsion to the human-powered vehicle 10 in accordance with at least one of the human-powered driving force or the rotational speed of the crankshaft, for example, when the vehicle speed of the human-powered vehicle 10 is less than a predetermined vehicle speed. The predetermined vehicle speed is, for example, the speed stipulated by law in each country. The predetermined vehicle speed is, for example, 24 km / h, 25 km / h, 30 km / h, 32 km / h, or 45 km / h.

[0048] The control unit 32 is configured to control the motor 20 so that the assist force provided by the motor 20 becomes a predetermined assist force. The assist force includes, for example, the ratio of the output of the motor 20 to the human-powered driving force input to the human-powered vehicle 10, and at least one of the upper limit of the output of the motor 20. The control unit 32 is configured to control the motor 20 so that the ratio of the assist force to the human-powered driving force becomes a predetermined ratio.

[0049] Human-powered driving force can be expressed by, for example, torque and at least one of power. When human-powered driving force is expressed by torque, for example, it is written as human-powered torque. When human-powered driving force is expressed by power, for example, it is written as human-powered power. Human-powered power is, for example, the product of the torque applied to the crankshaft and the rotational speed of the crankshaft.

[0050] The assisting force is expressed, for example, by at least one of torque and power. When the assisting force is expressed by torque, for example, the assisting force is written as assisting torque. When the assisting force is expressed by power, for example, the assisting force is written as assisting power. The ratio of the assisting force to the human-powered driving force may be the ratio of the assisting torque to the human-powered torque, or the ratio of the assisting power to the human-powered power.

[0051] The control unit 32 controls, for example, the power consumption of at least one of the multiple human-powered vehicle components 12. The control unit 32 reduces the power consumption of the first component 14 when the remaining charge of the battery 18 is below a first threshold. When the remaining charge of the battery 18 falls below a first threshold, the control unit 32 disables, for example, at least some of the functions of the first component 14. When the remaining charge of the battery 18 falls below a first threshold, the control unit 32 prohibits the operation of the motor 20. When the motor 20 is running, the control unit 32 stops the motor 20 when the remaining charge of the battery 18 falls below a first threshold.

[0052] The control unit 32 is configured to change at least one of the following: the first threshold and the power consumption of at least one of the first component 14 and the second component 16 when the battery level 18 is below the first threshold, according to the measurement result of the operating time of the second component 16 when the battery level 18 is below the first threshold, so that the operating time is equal to or greater than a predetermined time. The predetermined time is stored, for example, in the memory unit 34. If the second component 16 includes a lamp 22, the predetermined time is set, for example, based on the continuous lighting time of the lamp 22 as stipulated by law. The predetermined time is, for example, longer than the continuous lighting time of the lamp 22 as stipulated by law.

[0053] The control unit 32 may be configured to change only the first threshold value, according to the measurement result of the operating time when the second component 16 operates when the remaining charge of the battery 18 is below the first threshold value, so that the operating time is equal to or greater than a predetermined time. The control unit 32 may be configured to change only the power consumption of the first component 14 when the remaining charge of the battery 18 is below the first threshold value, according to the measurement result of the operating time when the second component 16 operates when the remaining charge of the battery 18 is below the first threshold value, so that the operating time is equal to or greater than a predetermined time. The control unit 32 may be configured to change only the power consumption of the second component 16 when the remaining charge of the battery 18 is below the first threshold value, according to the measurement result of the operating time when the second component 16 operates when the remaining charge of the battery 18 is below the first threshold value, so that the operating time is equal to or greater than a predetermined time.

[0054] When changing the power consumption of the first component 14 when the remaining charge of the battery 18 is below a first threshold, the control unit 32 is configured to control the first component 14 so that its power consumption is below a predetermined level when the remaining charge of the battery 18 is below a first threshold.

[0055] When changing the power consumption of the first component 14 when the remaining charge of the battery 18 is below a first threshold, the control unit 32 changes the power consumption of the first component 14, for example, by changing the number of functions that are stopped in the first component 14. When changing the power consumption of the first component 14 when the remaining charge of the battery 18 is below a first threshold, and the first component 14 includes a first electrical component whose power consumption changes, the control unit 32 changes the power consumption of the first component 14, for example, by reducing the power consumption of the first electrical component. The first electrical component includes, for example, a motor 20. When changing the power consumption of the first component 14 when the remaining charge of the battery 18 is below a first threshold, and the first component 14 includes a motor 20, the control unit 32 changes the power consumption of the first component 14, for example, by changing the assist force and the upper limit of the assist force.

[0056] When changing the power consumption of the second component 16 when the remaining charge of the battery 18 is below a first threshold, the control unit 32 is configured to control the second component 16 so that its power consumption is below a predetermined level when the remaining charge of the battery 18 is below the first threshold.

[0057] When changing the power consumption of the second component 16 when the remaining charge of the battery 18 is below a first threshold, the control unit 32 changes the power consumption of the second component 16, for example, by changing the number of functions that are stopped in the second component 16. When changing the power consumption of the second component 16 when the remaining charge of the battery 18 is below a first threshold, and the second component 16 includes a second electrical component whose power consumption changes, the control unit 32 changes the power consumption of the second component 16, for example, by reducing the power consumption of the second electrical component. The second electrical component includes, for example, a lamp 22. When changing the power consumption of the second component 16 when the remaining charge of the battery 18 is below a first threshold, and the second component 16 includes a lamp 22, the control unit 32 changes the power consumption of the second component 16, for example, by changing the luminous intensity of the lamp 22.

[0058] The control unit 32 is configured to increase the first threshold if, for example, the operating time is shorter than a predetermined time. The control unit 32 is configured to increase the first threshold so that, for example, the operating time becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined time. The control unit 32 changes the first threshold according to the difference between the measured operating time and a predetermined time.

[0059] The control unit 32 is configured, for example, to reduce the power consumption of at least one of the first component 14 and the second component 16 when the operating time is shorter than a predetermined time, and the remaining charge of the battery 18 is below a first threshold. The control unit 32 is configured, for example, to reduce a predetermined power consumption so that the operating time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time. The control unit 32 changes a predetermined power consumption according to the difference between the measured operating time and a predetermined time, for example.

[0060] The control unit 32 starts measuring the operating time when, for example, the remaining charge of the battery 18 falls below a first threshold while the second component 16 is operating. The second component 16 stops operating when, for example, the remaining charge of the battery 18 falls below a second threshold, which is smaller than the first threshold. The operating time is, for example, the time from when the remaining charge of the battery 18 falls below the first threshold until the remaining charge of the battery 18 falls below the second threshold. The control unit 32 measures, for example, the first time from when the remaining charge of the battery 18 falls below the first threshold until the remaining charge of the battery 18 falls below the second threshold while the second component 16 is operating. The first time is the result of the operating time measurement. The control unit 32 may also measure the second time from when the remaining charge of the battery 18 falls below the first threshold until the second component 16 stops operating. The second time is the result of the operating time measurement.

[0061] The control unit 32 does not change the first threshold if, for example, the operation of the second component 16 stops after the battery 18's remaining charge falls below the first threshold but before the battery 18's remaining charge falls below the second threshold. The control unit 32 stops measuring the operating time if, for example, the operation of the second component 16 stops after the battery 18's remaining charge falls below the first threshold but before the battery 18's remaining charge falls below the second threshold. The second component 16 stops operating, for example, when a user operates the operating device. The second component 16 stops operating, for example, when the human-powered vehicle 10 comes to a stop. The control unit 32 may be configured to control the storage unit 34 so as not to store the measurement results in the storage unit 34 when the measurement of the operating time is stopped.

[0062] Referring to Figure 2, the process by which the control unit 32 controls the human-powered vehicle component 12 will be explained. For example, when power is supplied to the control unit 32, it starts processing and proceeds to step S11 of the flowchart shown in Figure 2. When the flowchart in Figure 2 is completed, the control unit 32 repeats the processing from step S11 at predetermined intervals, for example, until the power supply is stopped.

[0063] In step S11, the control unit 32 determines whether the remaining charge of the battery 18 is below a first threshold. If the remaining charge of the battery 18 is not below the first threshold, the control unit 32 terminates the process. If the remaining charge of the battery 18 is below the first threshold, the control unit 32 proceeds to step S12.

[0064] In step S12, the control unit 32 reduces the power consumption of the first component 14 and proceeds to step S13. If the first component 14 includes a motor 20 and the motor 20 is running, the control unit 32 stops the motor 20 in step S12, for example. If the first component 14 includes a motor 20 and the motor 20 is stopped, the control unit 32 maintains the state in which the motor 20 is stopped in step S12. From step S12 onward, the control unit 32 controls the first component 14 to maintain a state in which the power consumption of the first component 14 is reduced.

[0065] In step S13, the control unit 32 determines whether the second component 16 is operating or not. If the second component 16 is not operating, the control unit 32 terminates the process. If the second component 16 is operating, the control unit 32 proceeds to step S14.

[0066] In step S14, the control unit 32 starts measuring the operating time of the second component 16 and proceeds to step S15. In step S15, the control unit 32 determines whether the remaining charge of the battery 18 is below the second threshold. If the remaining charge of the battery 18 is below the second threshold, the control unit 32 proceeds to step S16.

[0067] In step S16, the control unit 32 finishes measuring the operating time of the second component 16 and proceeds to step S17. In step S17, the control unit 32 determines whether the operating time is shorter than a predetermined time. If the operating time is not shorter than a predetermined time, the control unit 32 terminates the process. If the operating time is shorter than a predetermined time, the control unit 32 proceeds to step S18.

[0068] In step S18, the control unit 32 changes one of the first threshold value and a predetermined power consumption value according to the measurement result, and then terminates the process.

[0069] If, in step S15, the control unit 32 determines that the remaining charge of the battery 18 is not below the second threshold, it proceeds to step S19. In step S19, the control unit 32 determines whether the measurement termination condition is met. For example, the control unit 32 determines that the measurement termination condition is met if the operation of the second component 16 stops. For example, the control unit 32 determines that the measurement termination condition is met if the battery 18 is charged and the remaining charge of the battery 18 increases. If the measurement termination condition is met, the control unit 32 terminates the process. If the measurement termination condition is not met, the control unit 32 proceeds to step S15.

[0070] The control unit 32 is configured to change a first threshold in response to input information from an external device 40, for example. The external device 40 includes, for example, at least one of a personal computer, a tablet computer, a smartphone, and a cycle computer. When an operator replaces, for example, a first component 14, a second component 16, and at least one of the battery 18, they operate the control unit of the external device 40. The external device 40 transmits a first threshold to the control unit 32 based on the replaced first component 14, second component 16, and at least one of the battery 18. The control unit 32 changes the first threshold in response to the received first threshold.

[0071] The control unit 32 may be configured to reset the first threshold to its default value in response to input information from the external device 40, for example, if the first threshold has been changed according to the measurement results of the operating time.

[0072] Referring to Figure 3, the process by which the control unit 32 changes the first threshold value in response to input information from the external device 40 is described. For example, when power is supplied to the control unit 32, it starts processing and proceeds to step S21 of the flowchart shown in Figure 3. When the flowchart in Figure 3 is completed, the control unit 32 repeats the processing from step S21 at predetermined intervals, for example, until the power supply is stopped.

[0073] In step S21, the control unit 32 determines whether or not it has received input information from the external device 40. If the control unit 32 has not received input information from the external device 40, it terminates the process. If the control unit 32 has received input information from the external device 40, it proceeds to step S22. In step S22, the control unit 32 changes the first threshold value according to the input information and terminates the process.

[0074] The control unit 32 is configured, for example, to acquire identification information of the second component 16 and to change the first threshold according to the identification information. The storage unit 34 stores, for example, default values ​​of the first threshold corresponding to multiple pieces of identification information. The control unit 32 is configured, for example, to change the first threshold to the default value corresponding to the acquired identification information when the acquired identification information changes, such as when the second component 16 is replaced.

[0075] Referring to Figure 4, the process by which the control unit 32 changes the first threshold according to the identification information is explained. For example, when power is supplied to the control unit 32, it starts processing and moves to step S31 of the flowchart shown in Figure 4. When the flowchart in Figure 4 ends, the control unit 32 repeats the processing from step S31 at predetermined intervals, for example, until the power supply is stopped.

[0076] In step S31, the control unit 32 determines whether or not it has acquired identification information for the second component 16. If the control unit 32 has not acquired identification information for the second component 16, it terminates the process. If the control unit 32 has acquired identification information for the second component 16, it proceeds to step S32. The control unit 32 may also proceed to step S32 in step S31 if the acquired identification information for the second component 16 is different from the previously acquired identification information.

[0077] In step S32, the control unit 32 changes the first threshold value according to the identification information and terminates the process. For example, the control unit 32 sets the default value of the first threshold value corresponding to the acquired identification information as the first threshold value from the default values ​​of the first threshold values ​​corresponding to multiple pieces of identification information stored in the storage unit 34.

[0078] <Example of changes> The description of embodiments is illustrative of possible forms of control devices for human-powered vehicles according to this disclosure, and is not intended to limit such forms. Control devices for human-powered vehicles according to this disclosure may take, for example, the modified embodiments shown below, and combinations of at least two non-inconsistent modifications. In the following modifications, parts common to the embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the embodiments, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0079] The control unit 32 may temporarily suspend the measurement of operating time if the operation of the second component 16 stops after the battery level of 18 falls below the first threshold but before the battery level of 18 falls below the second threshold. For example, if the second component 16 starts operating again when the battery level of 18 is below the first threshold, the control unit 32 will resume measuring the operating time.

[0080] The second component 16 may be supplied with power from the battery 18 without going through the first component 14. For example, the battery 18 may be electrically connected to both the first component 14 and the second component 16.

[0081] The control unit 32 may be configured to limit the output of the motor 20 when the remaining charge of the battery 18 falls below a first threshold. The control unit 32 reduces the assist force when the remaining charge of the battery 18 falls below a first threshold. The control unit 32 reduces the assist force when the remaining charge of the battery 18 falls below a first threshold.

[0082] If the remaining charge of the battery 18 falls below the first threshold and the second component 16 is not operating, the control unit 32 may start operating the second component 16 before starting to measure the operating time.

[0083] The control unit 32 may be configured to decrease the first threshold if, for example, the operating time is longer than a predetermined time. The control unit 32 may also be configured to decrease the first threshold if, for example, the operating time is longer than a predetermined time, such as a third time or more.

[0084] The control unit 32 may be configured to increase a predetermined power consumption if, for example, the operating time is longer than a predetermined time. The control unit 32 may be configured to increase a predetermined power consumption if, for example, the operating time is longer than a predetermined time, for a fourth time or more.

[0085] The first component 14 may include, in place of or in addition to, the motor 20, an electric gear shifter, an electric seatpost, an electric brake, an electric adjustable seatpost, an electric suspension, a cycle computer, a display device, and at least one of these sensors.

[0086] The second component 16 may include, in place of or in addition to, the ramp 22, at least one of the following: an electric gear shifter, an electric seatpost, an electric brake, an electric adjustable seatpost, an electric suspension, a cycle computer, a display device, and a sensor.

[0087] The first component 14 may include one of the front lamp and the rear lamp, and the second component 16 may include the other of the front lamp and the rear lamp.

[0088] 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.

[0089] The ordinal numbers such as "first, second, and third" used in this specification are simply used to distinguish between multiple members having the same name and do not have any special meaning. [Explanation of symbols]

[0090] 10...Human-powered vehicle, 12...Components for human-powered vehicle, 14...First component, 16...Second component, 18...Battery, 20...Motor, 22...Lamp, 30...Control device, 32...Control unit, 36...Counter, 38...Real-time clock circuit, 40...External device.

Claims

1. A control device for a human-powered vehicle, It includes a control unit that controls the power consumption of at least one of several human-powered vehicle components that are powered from a common battery, The aforementioned plurality of human-powered vehicle components include a first component and a second component, The control unit, When the remaining charge of the battery is below a first threshold, the power consumption of the first component is reduced. A control device configured to change at least one of the following: the first threshold and the power consumption of at least one of the first and second components when the battery level is below the first threshold, in accordance with the measurement result of the operating time when the second component operates when the battery level is below the first threshold, so that the operating time is equal to or greater than a predetermined time.

2. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to increase the first threshold when the operating time is shorter than the predetermined time.

3. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to reduce the power consumption of at least one of the first component and the second component when the operating time is shorter than the predetermined time, and the remaining battery level is below the first threshold.

4. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit starts measuring the operating time when the remaining battery charge falls below the first threshold while the second component is operating.

5. The second component stops operating when the remaining battery level falls below a second threshold, which is smaller than the first threshold. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the operating time is the time from when the remaining charge of the battery falls below the first threshold until the remaining charge of the battery falls below the second threshold.

6. The second component stops operating when the remaining battery level falls below a second threshold, which is smaller than the first threshold. The control unit, When the second component is operating, if the remaining battery level falls below the first threshold, the measurement of the operating time is started. The control device according to claim 1, wherein if the operation of the second component is stopped after the remaining charge of the battery falls below the first threshold but before the remaining charge of the battery falls below the second threshold, the first threshold is not changed.

7. The control device according to claim 1, further comprising a counter for measuring the operating time and at least one real-time clock circuit.

8. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to change the first threshold in accordance with input information from an external device.

9. The control device according to claim 8, wherein the control unit is configured to acquire identification information of the second component and to change the first threshold according to the identification information.

10. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit stops the functions of at least some of the first components when the remaining battery level falls below the first threshold.

11. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the second component is supplied with power from the battery via the first component.

12. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is provided in the first component.

13. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the second component includes a lamp.

14. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the first component includes a motor that provides propulsion to the human-powered vehicle.

Images