Components and communication systems for human-powered vehicles

Abstract

The present invention provides a communication system and control device capable of performing appropriate communication. The communication system of the present invention includes: a first communication unit connected to an operating device mounted on a human-powered vehicle; a second communication unit connected to a transmission device of the human-powered vehicle; and a third communication unit connected to a component mounted on the human-powered vehicle that is different from the operating device and the transmission device; wherein the second communication unit receives first information transmitted from the first communication unit according to the operation of the operating device, and the third communication unit of the component receives second information including at least a portion of the first information transmitted from the second communication unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a communication system and control device. Prior Technology

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a bicycle component that discloses a communication unit that enables communication through the operation of an operating unit. [Previous Technical Documents] [Patent Literature]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-39466 Summary of the Invention

[0004] [The problem the invention aims to solve]

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a communication system and control device capable of performing appropriate communications. [Technical means to solve the problem]

[0006] The communication system of the first embodiment of the present invention includes: a first communication unit connected to an operating device mounted on a human-powered vehicle; a second communication unit connected to a transmission device of the human-powered vehicle; and a third communication unit connected to a component mounted on the human-powered vehicle that is different from the operating device and the transmission device; wherein the second communication unit receives first information transmitted from the first communication unit according to the operation of the operating device, and the third communication unit of the component receives second information including at least a portion of the first information transmitted from the second communication unit. According to the communication system of the first state described above, appropriate communication can be performed from the first communication unit connected to the operating device to the second communication unit connected to the transmission device and the third communication unit connected to the component.

[0007] The communication system of the second state of the first state described above, wherein the above components include a motor unit configured to provide propulsion to the human-powered vehicle. According to the communication system of the second state described above, appropriate communication can be performed from the first communication unit connected to the operating device to the second communication unit connected to the transmission device and the third communication unit connected to the motor unit.

[0008] The communication system of the first state or the third state of the second state mentioned above, wherein the first information mentioned above is consistent with the second information mentioned above. According to the communication system described in the third state above, appropriate communication can be performed.

[0009] The communication system of the fourth state of the third state mentioned above, wherein the first information and the second information mentioned above include at least one of the information related to the transmission device and the information related to the components mentioned above. According to the communication system of the fourth state described above, appropriate communication can be performed.

[0010] The communication system of the fifth state of the third state mentioned above, wherein the first information and the second information mentioned above include information related to the transmission device and information related to the components mentioned above. According to the communication system described in the fifth state above, appropriate communication can be performed.

[0011] The communication system of the sixth state of the first state or the second state mentioned above, wherein the first information includes information related to the transmission device and information related to the components, and the second information only includes information related to the components. According to the communication system described in the sixth state above, appropriate communication can be performed.

[0012] The communication system of the seventh state of any one of the first to sixth states mentioned above further includes a control device, which includes a control unit for controlling the first communication unit, the second communication unit, and the third communication unit. According to the communication system described in the 7th state above, appropriate communication can be performed by the control unit.

[0013] In the communication system of the 7th state and the 8th state described above, the control unit transmits the 1st information to the 2nd communication unit via wireless or wired signals. According to the communication system described in the eighth state above, appropriate communication can be performed via wireless or wired signals.

[0014] In the communication system described in the 8th and 9th states above, the control unit sends the first information to the second communication unit via a wired signal when the operating device and the transmission device are wired together, and outputs the first information via a wireless signal when the operating device and the transmission device are not wired together. According to the communication system described in the 9th state above, appropriate communication can be performed via wireless or wired signals.

[0015] In the communication system of the 8th or 9th state above, the control unit transmits the 2nd information to the 3rd communication unit via wireless or wired signals. According to the communication system described in the 10th state above, appropriate communication can be performed via wireless or wired signals.

[0016] In the communication system of the 11th state of the 10th state described above, the control unit sends the second information to the third communication unit via a wired signal when the transmission device and the component are wiredly connected, and outputs the second information via a wireless signal when the transmission device and the component are not wiredly connected. According to the communication system described in state 11 above, appropriate communication can be performed via wireless or wired signals.

[0017] In the communication system of the 12th state of the 11th state described above, the control unit controls the second communication unit by receiving the first information output by the second communication unit via a wireless signal, and sends the second information output by the third communication unit via a wired signal. According to the communication system described in the 12th state above, appropriate communication can be performed by the control unit.

[0018] The communication system of the 13th state of any one of the 7th to 12th states described above further includes a battery that supplies power to at least one of the operating device, the transmission device, and the components, and the control unit controls the power supply from the battery. According to the communication system of the above-mentioned 13th state, at least one of the operating device, transmission device and components can be better controlled by the control unit.

[0019] In the communication system of the 14th state of the 13th state described above, the control unit controls the power supply from the battery to at least one of the operating device, the transmission device, and the components based on at least one of the first information and the second information. According to the communication system of the above-mentioned 14th state, at least one of the operating device, transmission device and components can be better controlled by the control unit.

[0020] In the communication system of the 15th state of the 13th state described above, the battery includes a first battery that supplies power to the operating device and the components, and a second battery that supplies power to the transmission device. The control unit controls the power supply from the first battery and the second battery based on at least one of the first information and the second information. According to the communication system of the above-mentioned 15th state, at least one of the operating device, transmission device and components can be better controlled by the control unit.

[0021] The control device of the 16th embodiment of the present invention includes: a first communication unit connected to an operating device mounted on a human-powered vehicle; a second communication unit connected to a transmission device of the human-powered vehicle; a third communication unit connected to a component of the human-powered vehicle that is different from the transmission device; and a control unit that controls the first communication unit, the second communication unit, and the third communication unit; wherein the control unit controls the first communication unit in such a way as to output first information according to the operation of the operating device, controls the second communication unit in such a way as to receive the first information and output second information including at least a portion of the first information, and controls the third communication unit in such a way as to receive the second information. According to the control device of the 16th state described above, appropriate communication can be performed between the first communication unit connected to the operating device and the third communication unit connected to the component by the control unit.

[0022] The control device of the 17th state of the 16th state described above, wherein the above components include a motor unit configured to impart propulsion to the above-mentioned human-powered vehicle. According to the control device of the 17th state described above, appropriate communication can be performed between the first communication unit connected to the operating device and the third communication unit connected to the motor unit.

[0023] The control device of the 16th or 17th state of the above-mentioned control device is provided in the steering mechanism of the above-mentioned human-powered vehicle, and the steering mechanism includes a handlebar. According to the control device of the above-mentioned 18th state, since the operating device is located in a better place, its availability is improved. [Effects of the Invention]

[0024] According to the communication system and control device of the present invention, appropriate communication can be performed. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0025] Figure 1 is a side view of a human-powered vehicle including the communication system and control device of the first embodiment. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical connection relationship between the control device and various components in the first embodiment. Figure 3 is a flowchart showing an example of control performed by the control unit in the first embodiment. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the electrical connection relationship between the control device and various components in the second embodiment. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of control performed by the first control unit in the second embodiment. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of control performed by the second control unit in the second embodiment. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of control performed by the third control unit in the second embodiment. Figure 8 is a block diagram showing the electrical connection relationship between the control device and various components in the third embodiment. Figure 9 is a block diagram showing the electrical connection relationship between the control device and various components in the fourth embodiment. Figure 10 is a block diagram showing the electrical connection relationship between the control device and various components in the variation example. Implementation

[0026] <First Implementation Form> Referring to Figures 1 to 3, the human-powered vehicle A, which includes the communication system 10, will be described. Here, "human-powered vehicle" refers to a vehicle that uses at least partial human power for its propulsion, including vehicles with electric assistance. Vehicles that use only power sources other than human power are not included in the category of human-powered vehicles. In particular, vehicles that use only an internal combustion engine as their power source are not included in the category of human-powered vehicles. Generally, human-powered vehicles are envisioned as small, lightweight vehicles that do not require a license to operate on public roads. Specifically, the human-powered vehicle A illustrated is a touring motorcycle. Human-powered vehicle A further includes a frame A1, a front fork A2, wheels W, handlebars H, and a drivetrain B. Wheel W includes a front wheel WF and a rear wheel WR.

[0027] Drivetrain B is, for example, a chain-driven type. Drivetrain B includes crank C, front sprocket assembly D1, rear sprocket assembly D2, and chain D3. Crank C includes a crankshaft C1 rotatably supported by frame A1, and a pair of crank arms C2 located at each end of crankshaft C1. Pedals PD are rotatably mounted at the front end of each crank arm C2. Drivetrain B can be of any type, including belt-driven and shaft-driven types.

[0028] The front sprocket assembly D1 is mounted on crank C, rotating integrally with crankshaft C1. The rear sprocket assembly D2 is mounted on the hub HR of the rear wheel WR. The chain D3 is wound around the front sprocket assembly D1 and the rear sprocket assembly D2. The human driving force applied to the pedal PD by the passenger of the manually driven vehicle A is transmitted to the rear wheel WR via the front sprocket assembly D1, the chain D3, and the rear sprocket assembly D2.

[0029] The communication system 10 includes a first communication unit 12 connected to an operating device 20 mounted on a human-powered vehicle A, a second communication unit 14 connected to a transmission device 30 of the human-powered vehicle A, and a third communication unit 16 connected to a component 40, which is different from the transmission device 30, mounted on the human-powered vehicle A. The third communication unit 16 is connected to the component 40, which is different from the operating device 20 and the transmission device 30, mounted on the human-powered vehicle A. The operating device 20, the transmission device 30, and the component 40 are mounted on a human-powered vehicle A. The component 40 includes components mounted on the human-powered vehicle A other than the operating device 20 and the transmission device 30. The communication system 10 receives first information transmitted from the first communication unit 12 according to the operation of the operating device 20 via the second communication unit 14, and receives second information, which includes at least a portion of the first information transmitted from the second communication unit 14, via the third communication unit 16 of the component 40.

[0030] The first communication unit 12 includes at least a transmitting unit configured to transmit signals containing information. Preferably, the first communication unit 12 includes a receiving unit configured to receive signals containing information. The second communication unit 14 includes both a transmitting unit configured to transmit signals containing information and a receiving unit configured to receive signals containing information. The third communication unit 16 includes at least a receiving unit configured to receive signals containing information. Preferably, the third communication unit 16 includes a transmitting unit configured to transmit signals containing information. The first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14 are communicatively connected via wired or wireless means. The first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14 can communicate via, for example, power line communication (PLC), CAN (Controller Area Network), or UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter). The second communication unit 14 and the third communication unit 16 are communicatively connected via wired or wireless means.

[0031] The communication system 10 further includes a battery BT that supplies power to at least one of the operating device 20, the transmission device 30, and the component 40. The operating device 20 and the component 40 are connected via power lines. The operating device 20 and the battery BT can also be connected via power lines. The battery BT includes one or more battery elements. The battery elements include rechargeable batteries. The battery BT is communicatively connected to the control unit 52 of the control device 50 via wired or wireless means. The battery BT and the control unit 52 of the control device 50 can be connected via a connection terminal, or the control unit 52 of the control device 50 can be disposed on the battery BT, and the third communication unit 16 of the component 40 can be wiredly connected to the control unit 52. The battery BT may also include a first battery BT1 that supplies power to the operating device 20 and the component 40, and a second battery BT2 that supplies power to the transmission device 30. At least one of the first battery BT1 or the second battery BT2 may be configured to supply power to all of the operating device 20, the transmission device 30, and the component 40. The operating device 20 and the transmission device 30 can also be connected by a power line. The battery BT may further include a third battery BT3, which supplies power to the operating device 20 when it is not connected to the first battery BT1 or the second battery BT2 via a power line. The third battery BT3 also supplies power to the operating device 20, for example, when the operating device 20 and the transmission device 30 communicate wirelessly.

[0032] In one example, the capacitance of the first battery BT1 is different from that of the second battery BT2. When the transmission 30 is electrically connected to both the first battery BT1 and the second battery BT2, the control unit 52 can also be configured to preferentially supply power from the battery BT with the larger capacitance to the transmission 30. When the assembly 40 is electrically connected to both the first battery BT1 and the second battery BT2, the control unit 52 can also be configured to preferentially supply power from the battery BT with the larger capacitance to the assembly 40. In one example, the capacitance of the first battery BT1 is greater than that of the second battery BT2. The transmission 30 and the assembly 40 can also be electrically connected to the first battery BT1. In this case, if the capacitance of the first battery BT1 does not reach a specific value, power can still be preferentially supplied to either the transmission 30 or the assembly 40. Preferably, the first battery BT1 and the second battery BT2 are connected by a power line. If the electrical power of one of the first battery BT1 and the second battery BT2 does not reach a certain value, power shall be supplied from the other of the first battery BT1 and the second battery BT2.

[0033] The human-powered vehicle A includes an operating device 20, a transmission device 30, and a component 40 that is different from the operating device 20 and the transmission device 30. The component 40 includes a motor unit 42 configured to provide propulsion to the human-powered vehicle A. Preferably, the component 40 further includes at least one of a braking device 44, a shock absorber 46, and an adjustable seat post 48.

[0034] The operating device 20 outputs specific signals upon user operation. The operating device 20 is installed in the steering mechanism of the manually driven vehicle A. The steering mechanism includes a handlebar H. The operating device 20 includes at least a gear shifting device for operating the transmission 30. The gear shifting device consists of at least one of a gear lever or a switch. The gear shifting device outputs signals containing information related to the gear shifting of the transmission 30 upon user operation. The gear shifting device transmits signals containing gear shifting-related information via the first communication unit 12. The operating device 20 further includes a component operating device for operating the component 40 of the manually driven vehicle A. If the component 40 includes a motor unit 42, the component operating device transmits signals containing information related to the output of the motor relative to the human-powered driving force via the first communication unit 12. If the component 40 includes a braking device 44, the component operating device transmits signals containing braking-related information via the first communication unit 12. When component 40 includes a shock absorber 46, the component operating device transmits a signal containing information related to the operation of the shock absorber 46 via the first communication unit 12. When component 40 includes an adjustable seat post 48, the component operating device transmits a signal containing information related to the height of the adjustable seat post 48 via the first communication unit 12. The first communication unit 12 connected to the operating device 20 can be connected to one first communication unit 12 for multiple operating devices 20, or two or more first communication units 12 can be connected to multiple operating devices 20.

[0035] The derailleur 30 includes an external derailleur. The external derailleur is configured to change the gear ratio, defined by at least one of the number of teeth and diameter of both the front sprocket wound with chain D3 and the rear sprocket wound with chain D3. The front sprocket is part of a front sprocket assembly D1 comprising one or more front sprockets. The rear sprocket is part of a rear sprocket assembly D2 comprising one or more rear sprockets. In one example, the derailleur 30 includes at least one of a front derailleur 32 and a rear derailleur 34. The front derailleur 32 is located near the front sprocket assembly D1. With the operation of the front derailleur 32, the front sprocket wound with chain D3 is changed, thereby changing the gear ratio. The gear ratio is determined based on the relationship between the number of teeth on the front sprocket and the number of teeth on the rear sprocket. In one example, the gear ratio is defined as the ratio of the rotational speed of the rear sprocket to the rotational speed of the front sprocket. That is, the gear ratio is defined as the ratio of the number of teeth on the rear sprocket to the number of teeth on the front sprocket. The rear derailleur 34 is located at the rear fork end A3 of the frame A1. With the operation of the rear derailleur 34, the rear sprocket with the chain D3 is changed, thereby changing the gear ratio. The derailleur 30 can also replace an external derailleur and include an internal derailleur. In this case, the internal derailleur is located, for example, at the hub HR of the rear wheel WR. The derailleur 30 can also replace an external derailleur and include a continuously variable transmission (CVT). In this case, the CVT is located, for example, at the hub HR of the rear wheel WR. The derailleur 30 changes the gear ratio of the manually driven bicycle A according to the operation signal from the shifting operation device.

[0036] Motor unit 42 operates to assist in the propulsion of the manually driven vehicle A. Motor unit 42 operates based on the human driving force applied, for example, to pedal PD. Motor unit 42 includes a motor. Motor unit 42 operates using power supplied by the battery BT installed in the manually driven vehicle A. The component operating device includes a motor unit operating device for operating motor unit 42. The motor unit operating device outputs operating signals that change the control state and assist force of motor unit 42.

[0037] The braking device 44 includes braking devices 44 corresponding to the number of wheels W. The braking device 44 includes braking devices 44 corresponding to the front wheels WF and braking devices 44 corresponding to the rear wheels WR. The two braking devices 44 may also have the same configuration. The braking device 44 is a wheel brake device for braking, for example, the wheel rims of a manually driven vehicle A. The component operating device includes a brake operating device. Based on the operating signal output according to the operation of the brake operating device, the corresponding braking device 44 is electrically driven. The braking device 44 may also be a disc brake device for braking a disc brake rotor mounted on a manually driven vehicle A.

[0038] The shock absorber 46 includes at least one of a front shock absorber and a rear shock absorber. The front shock absorber operates to mitigate impacts borne by the front wheel (WF) from the ground. The rear shock absorber operates to mitigate impacts borne by the rear wheel (WR) from the ground. The component operating device includes a shock absorber operating device. Based on the operation of the shock absorber operating device, the corresponding shock absorber 46 is electrically driven. Specifically, based on the operating signal output according to the operation of the shock absorber operating device, at least one of the following changes is made to the displacement state, stroke, damping force, and reaction force of the corresponding shock absorber 46.

[0039] The adjustable seatpost 48 operates to change the height of the seat relative to the frame A1. The component operating device includes an adjustable seatpost operating device. The adjustable seatpost 48 is electrically driven based on the operating signal output according to the operation of the adjustable seatpost operating device.

[0040] The communication system 10 further includes a control device 50, which includes a control unit 52 that controls the first communication unit 12, the second communication unit 14, and the third communication unit 16. The control unit 52 controls at least one of the operating device 20, the transmission device 30, and the component 40 mounted on the human-powered vehicle A.

[0041] The control unit 52 includes at least one of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The control unit 52 can also control the transmission device 30 according to the operation of the transmission operating device. The control device 50 further includes a memory unit 54 for storing various information. The memory unit 54 includes non-volatile memory and volatile memory. 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. Volatile memory includes, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory). The memory unit 54 stores, for example, various programs used for control and preset information.

[0042] In the first example, the control device 50 is at least provided in the transmission 30. The control device 50 is at least provided in either the front derailleur 32 or the rear derailleur 34. The control unit 52 receives the first information via a second communication unit 14 through wired or wireless communication. The control unit 52 is configured to transmit a signal containing the second information from the second communication unit 14 via wired or wireless communication, and a third communication unit disposed in the assembly 40 can receive the signal transmitted from the second communication unit. In the first example, the operating device 20 and the assembly 40 each have a control unit different from the control unit 52 of the control device 50. In the second example, the control device 50 is provided in the assembly 40. When the assembly 40 includes a motor unit 42, the control device 50 is provided in, for example, the motor unit 42, and for example, is housed within the housing 42A of the motor unit 42. In the second example, the operating device 20 and the transmission device 30 each have a control unit different from the control unit 52 of the control device 50. The control unit 52 receives signals containing the second information via wired or wireless communication through the third communication unit 16. In the third example, the control device 50 is installed in the battery BT. In the third example, the control unit 52 may also be installed inside the housing of the battery BT and connected to the battery BT via terminals. In the third example, the control unit 52 controls the battery BT and the assembly 40 based on the information received by the third communication unit 16. The control unit 52 may be configured to send control-related information to a control unit different from the control unit 52 installed in the assembly 40 via wired or wireless communication, or the control unit 52 may process the information contained in the signals received by the third communication unit 16 installed in the assembly 40 and send signals to other control units of the assembly 40. In this case, a signal containing third information can also be sent to the third communication unit 16 configured in component 40 based on the signal from control unit 52. Control device 50 operates by power supplied from battery BT. Control device 50 is configured to communicate with at least one of the first communication unit 12, the second communication unit 14, and the third communication unit 16 via wired or wireless means. Figure 2 shows the configuration of control device 50 in the first example.

[0043] The control unit 52 controls the first communication unit 12 in a manner that outputs first information according to the operation of the operating device 20, controls the second communication unit 14 in a manner that receives the first information and outputs second information containing at least a portion of the first information, and controls the third communication unit 16 in a manner that receives the second information.

[0044] The first and second information are explained below. The first and second information include at least one of the following: information related to the transmission 30 and information related to the component 40. The information related to the transmission 30 includes at least one of the following: information related to the control state of the transmission 30 and information used by the control unit 52 to control the transmission 30. The information related to the control state of the transmission 30 includes information on the current gear ratio. The information used by the control unit 52 to control the transmission 30 includes information on operating signals related to changes in the gear ratio. The information related to the component 40 includes at least one of the following: information related to the control state of the component 40 and information used by the control unit 52 to control the component 40. In the case where the component 40 includes a motor unit 42, the information related to the motor unit 42 includes at least one of the following: information related to the control state of the motor unit 42 and information used by the control unit 52 to control the motor unit 42. The control state of the motor unit 42 includes a first control state and a second control state where the auxiliary force differs from the first control state. The auxiliary force includes at least one of the following: the maximum output value of the motor, the minimum output value of the motor, the maximum output torque of the motor, the minimum output torque of the motor, the response speed of the motor, the ratio of the motor output to the human torque input to the human-powered vehicle A, and the driving force of the motor relative to the human driving force input to the human-powered vehicle A. The information used by the control unit 52 to control the motor unit 42 includes information related to the auxiliary force.

[0045] In the first example, the first information and the second information are identical. In one example, the first and second information include information related to the transmission device 30 and information related to the component 40. In another example, the first and second information include one of the information related to the transmission device 30 and information related to the component 40. In the second example, the first and second information are different. The control unit 52 can be configured by changing the content of the second information. In one example, the first information includes information related to the transmission device 30 and information related to the component 40, while the second information only includes information related to the component 40. In another example, the first information only includes information related to the transmission device 30, while the second information includes information related to the transmission device 30 and information related to the component 40.

[0046] The method for transmitting the first and second information executed by the control unit 52 is described below. The control unit 52 transmits the first information to the second communication unit 14 via a wireless signal or a wired signal. The control unit 52 transmits the first information from the transmitting unit of the first communication unit 12. When the operating device 20 and the transmission device 30 are wired connected, the control unit 52 transmits the first information to the second communication unit 14 via a wired signal; when the operating device 20 and the transmission device 30 are not wired connected, the control unit 52 outputs the first information via a wireless signal.

[0047] The control unit 52 transmits the second information to the third communication unit 16 via wireless or wired signals. The control unit 52 also transmits the second information from the transmitting unit of the second communication unit 14. When the transmission device 30 and the component 40 are connected by wired connection, the control unit 52 transmits the second information to the third communication unit 16 via wired signal; when the transmission device 30 and the component 40 are not connected by wired connection, the control unit 52 outputs the second information via wireless signal.

[0048] The combination of wireless and wired signals transmitted by the control unit 52 is arbitrary. In the first example, the control unit 52 controls the second communication unit 14 by receiving the first information output from the first communication unit via a wired signal from the second communication unit 14, and transmits the second information output from the second communication unit via a wired signal to the third communication unit 16. In the second example, the control unit 52 controls the second communication unit 14 by receiving the first information output from the first communication unit via a wireless signal from the second communication unit 14, and transmits the second information output from the second communication unit via a wireless signal to the third communication unit 16. In the third example, the control unit 52 controls the second communication unit 14 by receiving the first information output from the first communication unit via a wired signal from the second communication unit 14, and transmits the second information output from the second communication unit via a wireless signal to the third communication unit 16. In the fourth example, the control unit 52 controls the second communication unit 14 by receiving the first information output from the first communication unit via a wireless signal, and sends the second information output from the second communication unit via a wired signal to the third communication unit 16.

[0049] The control of the operating device 20, transmission device 30, and component 40 performed by the control unit 52 will be described. The control unit 52 controls the power supply from the battery BT. Based on at least one of the first and second pieces of information, the control unit 52 controls the power supply from the battery BT to at least one of the operating device 20, transmission device 30, and component 40. In one example, if at least one of the first and second pieces of information includes information related to the transmission device 30, the control unit 52 supplies power from the battery BT to the operating device 20 and transmission device 30. When both the first and second pieces of information include information related to the transmission device 30, compared to when neither information related to the transmission device 30 is included, the control unit 52 changes at least one of the electrical forces supplied from the battery BT to the operating device 20 and transmission device 30. In one example, when the first communication unit 12 of the operating device 20 and the second communication unit of the transmission device 30 are wired and contain information related to the transmission device 30, compared to the case where such information is not included, the control unit 52 increases the electrical power supplied to the operating device 20 and the transmission device 30. When the first communication unit 12 of the operating device 20 and the second communication unit of the transmission device 30 are wirelessly connected and contain information related to the transmission device 30, compared to the case where such information is not included, the control unit 52 increases the electrical power supplied to the transmission device 30. The control unit 52 controls the power supply to the operating device 20 during power supply from the battery BT. When the second information includes information related to the component 40, the control unit 52 supplies power to the component 40 from the battery BT. In the case where the second information does not include information related to component 40, compared to the case where information related to component 40 is included, the control unit 52 can also change the electrical power supplied from battery BT to component 40.

[0050] Based on at least one of the first information and the second information, the control unit 52 controls the power supply from the first battery BT1 and the second battery BT2. In one example, if at least one of the first and second information includes information related to the transmission device 30, the control unit 52 supplies power to the transmission device 30 from the second battery BT2. When both the first and second information include information related to the transmission device 30, compared to when it does not, the control unit 52 changes the power supplied from the second battery BT2 to the transmission device 30. In one example, when information related to the transmission device 30 is included, compared to when it does not, the control unit 52 increases the power supplied to the transmission device 30. When the second information includes information related to the component 40, the control unit 52 supplies power to the component 40 from the first battery BT1. In the case where the second information does not include information related to component 40, compared to the case where it includes information related to component 40, the control unit 52 can also change the electrical power supplied from the first battery BT1 to component 40.

[0051] The control unit 52 controls the transmission device 30 and the component 40 based on at least one of the first information and the second information. In one example, if at least one of the first information and the second information includes information for controlling the transmission device 30, the control unit 52 controls the transmission device 30 based on the information for controlling the transmission device 30. If the second information includes information for controlling the component 40, the control unit 52 controls the component 40 based on the information for controlling the component 40.

[0052] Referring to FIG3, an example of the control performed by the control unit 52 in the first embodiment will be described. During the period when power is supplied from the battery BT, the control unit 52 periodically performs the processing steps S11 to S18.

[0053] In step S11, the control unit 52 determines whether the operating device 20 has been operated. If the determination is affirmative, the control unit 52 executes the processing of step S12. If the determination is negative, the control unit 52 executes the processing of step S11 again.

[0054] In step S12, the control unit 52 determines whether there is a wired connection between the operating device 20 and the transmission device 30. The control unit 52 can also detect, for example, which battery BT supplies power to the operating device 20 and determine whether there is a wired connection between the operating device 20 and the transmission device 30. If the determination is affirmative, the control unit 52 executes the processing in step S13. If the determination is negative, the control unit 52 executes the processing in step S14.

[0055] In step S13, the control unit 52 outputs first information from the first communication unit 12 using a wired signal. After step S13 is completed, the control unit 52 executes the processing of step S15. In step S14, the control unit 52 outputs first information from the first communication unit 12 using a wireless signal. After step S14 is completed, the control unit 52 executes the processing of step S15.

[0056] In step S15, the control unit 52 determines whether there is a wired connection between the transmission device 30 and the component 40. If the determination is affirmative, the control unit 52 executes the processing in step S16. If the determination is negative, the control unit 52 executes the processing in step S17.

[0057] In step S16, the control unit 52 outputs second information from the second communication unit 14 using a wired signal. After step S16, the control unit 52 executes the processing of step S18. In step S17, the control unit 52 outputs second information from the second communication unit 14 using a wireless signal. After step S17, the control unit 52 executes the processing of step S18.

[0058] In step S18, the control unit 52 controls the transmission device 30 and the component 40 based on at least one of the first information and the second information. After step S18 is completed, the control unit 52 terminates the control.

[0059] <Second Implementation Form> Referring to Figures 4 to 7, the communication system 10 and control device 50 of the second embodiment will be described. Except for the configuration of the control unit 52 and the battery BT, the communication system 10 and control device 50 of the second embodiment are the same as those of the communication system 10 and control device 50 of the first embodiment. For configurations common to the first embodiment, the same symbols as in the first embodiment are used, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0060] As shown in Figure 4, the control unit 52 includes a first control unit 52A, a second control unit 52B, and a third control unit 52C. The first control unit 52A controls the operating device 20, a first communication unit 12 connected to the operating device 20, and a notification unit 56. The second control unit 52B controls the transmission device 30 and a second communication unit 14 connected to the transmission device 30. The third control unit 52C controls the component 40 and a third communication unit 16 connected to the component 40.

[0061] The first control unit 52A is provided in the operating device 20. The first control unit 52A outputs first information according to the operation of the operating device 20. The first control unit 52A controls the notification unit 56 to display the third information when the first communication unit 12 receives the third information.

[0062] The notification unit 56 includes a display unit. The display unit may include, for example, a display panel. The notification unit 56 may include, for example, at least one of a portable electronic device, a display, a smartphone, a tablet computer, and a bicycle speedometer. The notification unit 56 may also include a speaker. The notification unit 56 may be configured to communicate with the first communication unit 12 via wired or wireless means.

[0063] The battery BT further includes a third battery BT3 that supplies power to at least one of the first communication unit 12, the operating device 20, the first control unit 52A, and the notification unit 56. The capacitance of the third battery BT3 is smaller than that of the first battery BT1 and the second battery BT2. In one example, the third battery BT3 is constructed using a lithium-ion battery. In another example, the third battery BT3 is constructed using a button cell battery.

[0064] The second control unit 52B is disposed in the transmission 30. In one example, it is disposed in either the front derailleur 32 or the rear derailleur 34. The second control unit 52B controls the transmission 30. When the second control unit 52B receives the first information, it outputs the second information to the third communication unit 16. When the second control unit 52B receives the third information, it outputs the third information to the first communication unit 12.

[0065] The third control unit 52C is installed in component 40. In the case where multiple components 40 are installed in the manually driven vehicle A, the third control unit 52C can be installed in each component 40, or in any one of them. The third control unit 52C controls component 40. The third control unit 52C sends third information from the third communication unit 16. In the case where the third communication unit 16 and the second communication unit 14 are in wired communication, the third control unit 52C outputs second information from the third communication unit 16 to the second communication unit 14. The third information includes information related to the status of component 40. In one example, if component 40 includes a motor unit 42, it includes the motor's control status and auxiliary force. If component 40 includes a braking device 44, it includes information related to braking force. If component 40 includes a shock absorber 46, it includes information related to displacement status, stroke, damping force, and reaction force. In the case of component 40 including adjustable seat post 48, information related to the height of the seat relative to frame A1 is included.

[0066] Referring to FIG5, an example of the control performed by the first control unit 52A will be described. During the period when power is supplied from the battery BT, the first control unit 52A repeatedly performs the processes of steps S21 to S26.

[0067] In step S21, the first control unit 52A determines whether the operating device 20 has been operated. If the determination is affirmative, the first control unit 52A executes the processing of step S22. If the determination is negative, the first control unit 52A executes the processing of step S25.

[0068] In steps S22 to S24, the processing performed by the first control unit 52A is the same as the processing performed by the control unit 52 in steps S12 to S14 in the first embodiment.

[0069] In step S25, the first control unit 52A determines whether the third information has been received. If the determination is positive, the first control unit 52A executes the processing in step S26. If the determination is negative, the first control unit 52A terminates control.

[0070] In step S26, the first control unit 52A outputs the third information to the notification unit 56. After step S26 is completed, the first control unit 52A terminates control.

[0071] Referring to Figure 6, an example of the control performed by the second control unit 52B is described. During the period when power is supplied from the battery BT, the second control unit 52B repeatedly executes the processes from steps S31 to S37.

[0072] In step S31, the second control unit 52B determines whether the first information has been received. If the determination is affirmative, the second control unit 52B executes the processing in step S32. If the determination is negative, the second control unit 52B executes the processing in step S36.

[0073] In steps S32 to S34, the processing performed by the second control unit 52B is the same as the processing performed by the control unit 52 in steps S15 to S17 in the first embodiment.

[0074] In step S35, the second control unit 52B controls the transmission device 30 based on the first information. After step S35 is completed, the second control unit 52B executes the processing of step S36.

[0075] In step S36, the second control unit 52B determines whether the third information has been received. If the determination is affirmative, the second control unit 52B executes the processing in step S37. If the determination is negative, the second control unit 52B terminates control.

[0076] In step S37, the second control unit 52B outputs the third information from the second communication unit 14 to the first communication unit 12. After step S37 is completed, the second control unit 52B ends control.

[0077] Referring to Figure 7, an example of control performed by the third control unit 52C is described. During the period when power is supplied from the battery BT, the third control unit 52C repeatedly executes the processes from step S41 to step S44.

[0078] In step S41, the third control unit 52C determines whether the second information has been received. If the determination is positive, the third control unit 52C executes the processing in step S42. If the determination is negative, the third control unit 52C terminates control.

[0079] In step S42, the third control unit 52C determines whether information related to component 40 is contained. If the determination is affirmative, the third control unit 52C executes the processing in step S43. If the determination is negative, the third control unit 52C terminates control.

[0080] In step S43, the third control unit 52C controls component 40 based on the second information. After step S43 is completed, the third control unit 52C executes the processing of step S44.

[0081] In step S44, the third control unit 52C outputs third information from the third communication unit 16 to the second communication unit 14. After step S44 is completed, the third control unit 52C terminates control.

[0082] <Third Implementation Form> Referring to FIG8, the communication system 10 and control device 50 of the third embodiment will be described. The communication system 10 and control device 50 of the third embodiment further include a fourth communication unit 18 provided in the transmission device 30. Regarding the configurations common to the first and second embodiments, the same symbols as in the first and second embodiments are used, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0083] The communication system 10 further includes a fourth communication unit 18. The fourth communication unit 18 is disposed on the derailleur 30. The fourth communication unit 18 includes at least a receiving unit configured to receive signals containing information. Preferably, the fourth communication unit 18 includes a transmitting unit configured to transmit signals containing information. The fourth communication unit 18 is disposed on one of the front derailleur 32 and the rear derailleur 34 of the derailleur 30, and a second communication unit 14 is disposed on the other. In one example, the second communication unit 14 is disposed on the rear derailleur 34, and the fourth communication unit 18 is disposed on the front derailleur 32. The fourth communication unit 18 can be configured to communicate with the third communication unit 16 via wired or wireless means. The fourth communication unit 18 can also be configured to communicate via wired or wireless means with at least one of the first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14. In one example, the fourth communication unit 18 and the second communication unit 14 are communicatively configured. The situation where the second communication unit 14 can communicate with the third communication unit 16 and the fourth communication unit 18 can also be construed as the third communication unit 16 and the fourth communication unit 18 not communicating.

[0084] The flow of signals containing information in the communication system 10 of the third embodiment will be described. The transmission and reception of each communication unit are controlled by the control unit 52 of the control device 50 or by control units (not shown) provided in the operating device 20, the speed change device 30, and the component 40.

[0085] The first communication unit 12 communicates with the second communication unit 14, which is located on the rear derailleur 34, via wired or wireless means. In one example, the first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14 communicate wirelessly. The first communication unit 12 sends a signal containing first information to the second communication unit 14. The first information includes at least one of information related to the transmission 30 and information related to the component 40.

[0086] The second communication unit 14 communicates with the third communication unit 16 disposed in component 40 via wired or wireless means. In one example, the second communication unit 14 communicates with the third communication unit 16 via wired means. The second communication unit 14 transmits a signal containing second information to the third communication unit 16. The second information includes at least one of information related to the transmission device 30 and information related to component 40. The second communication unit 14 can also transmit the second information to the fourth communication unit 18 via the electrically connected second battery BT2 and power lines. The second battery BT2 further includes a communication unit, which includes both a transmitting unit configured to transmit signals containing information and a receiving unit configured to receive signals containing information.

[0087] The third communication unit 16 communicates with at least one of the second communication unit 14 and the fourth communication unit 18 disposed on the front derailleur 32. The third communication unit 16 and the fourth communication unit 18 communicate via wired or wireless means. In one example, the third communication unit 16 communicates with the fourth communication unit 18 via wired means. When the second information received includes information related to the derailleur 30, the third communication unit 16 sends a signal containing information related to the derailleur 30 to at least one of the second communication unit 14 and the fourth communication unit 18. When the second communication unit 14 communicates with the fourth communication unit 18, the third communication unit 16 may also be configured not to perform wired or wireless communication with the fourth communication unit 18.

[0088] The first battery BT1 supplies power to assembly 40 and the third communication unit 16. The second battery BT2 supplies power to at least the front derailleur 32, the rear derailleur 34, the second communication unit 14, and the fourth communication unit 18. The third battery BT3 supplies power to the operating device 20 and the first communication unit 12. The third battery BT3 is, for example, a button cell battery. In the case where the first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14 are connected by a power line capable of power line communication, the second battery BT2 supplies power to the operating device 20 and the first communication unit 12.

[0089] <Fourth Implementation Form> Referring to FIG9, the communication system 10 and control device 50 of the fourth embodiment will be described. The configuration of the second battery BT2 of the third embodiment is omitted in the communication system 10 and control device 50 of the fourth embodiment. For configurations common to the first to third embodiments, the same symbols as in the first to third embodiments are used, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0090] The flow of information-containing signals in the communication system 10 of the fourth embodiment will be described. The transmission and reception from each communication unit are controlled by the control unit 52 of the control device 50 or by various control units (not shown) provided in the operating device 20, the speed change device 30, and the component 40.

[0091] The first communication unit 12 communicates with the second communication unit 14, which is located on the rear derailleur 34, via wired or wireless means. In one example, the first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14 communicate wirelessly. The first communication unit 12 sends a signal containing first information to the second communication unit 14. The first information includes at least one of information related to the transmission 30 and information related to the component 40.

[0092] The second communication unit 14 communicates with the third communication unit 16 disposed in component 40 via wired or wireless means. In one example, the second communication unit 14 communicates with the third communication unit 16 via wired means. The second communication unit 14 transmits a signal containing second information to the third communication unit 16. The second information includes at least one of information related to the transmission device 30 and information related to component 40. The second communication unit 14 may also transmit the second information to the fourth communication unit 18 via an electrically connected power line.

[0093] The third communication unit 16 communicates with at least one of the second communication unit 14 and the fourth communication unit 18 disposed on the front derailleur 32. The third communication unit 16 and the fourth communication unit 18 communicate via wired or wireless means. In one example, the third communication unit 16 communicates with the fourth communication unit 18 via wired means. When the second information received includes information related to the derailleur 30, the third communication unit 16 sends a signal containing information related to the derailleur 30 to at least one of the second communication unit 14 and the fourth communication unit 18. When the second communication unit 14 communicates with the fourth communication unit 18, the third communication unit 16 may also be configured not to perform wired or wireless communication with the fourth communication unit 18.

[0094] The first battery BT1 supplies power to assembly 40, front derailleur 32, rear derailleur 34, second communication unit 14, third communication unit 16, and fourth communication unit 18. The second battery BT2 is omitted or is integrated with the first battery BT1. The third battery BT3 supplies power to operating device 20 and first communication unit 12. The third battery BT3 is, for example, a button cell battery. In the case where the first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14 are connected by a power line capable of power line communication, the first battery BT1 supplies power to operating device 20 and first communication unit 12.

[0095] <Example of Change> The descriptions related to each embodiment are illustrative of the forms obtainable by the communication system and control device of the present invention, and are not intended to limit its forms. The communication system and control device according to the present invention can obtain, for example, variations of the embodiments shown below, and forms obtained by combining at least two non-contradictory variations. In the following variations, the parts common to the forms of the embodiments are marked with the same symbols as in the embodiments, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0096] The receiving and transmitting sections of the second communication unit 14 can also be configured separately. In one example, the receiving section of the second communication unit 14 is located on the front derailleur 32, and the transmitting section of the second communication unit 14 is located on the rear derailleur 34. In another example, the receiving section of the second communication unit 14 is located on the rear derailleur 34, and the transmitting section of the second communication unit 14 is located on the front derailleur 32.

[0097] • The third communication unit 16 may also be located in the battery BT. In one example, the third communication unit 16 is located in the first battery BT1. The third communication unit 16 is wiredly connected to the control unit 52 of the control assembly 40.

[0098] In the communication system 10 of the third and fourth embodiments, the first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14 can be wiredly connected, allowing switching between wired and wireless communication. When the control unit of the control operating device 20 and the control unit of the first communication unit 12 are connected to the second communication unit 14 via a wire, a wireless signal is also transmitted to the second communication unit 14. In this case, power can also be supplied from the first battery BT1 or the second battery BT2 connected to the operating device 20 and the first communication unit 12 via a wire. The wired and wireless communication can be switched via, for example, operation of the operating device 20.

[0099] In the communication system 10 of the third and fourth embodiments, the second communication unit 14 and the fourth communication unit 18 may also be configured to conduct wired or wireless communication. In this case, the signal containing information received by one of the second communication unit 14 or the fourth communication unit 18 is transmitted to the other of the second communication unit 14 or the fourth communication unit 18.

[0100] The communication system 10 shown in Figure 10 is configured such that either the first battery BT1 or the second battery BT2 can supply power to the operating device 20. The first battery BT1 and the operating device 20 may also be configured not to be directly connected by a power line. The first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14 are connected via a power line capable of power line communication. The first battery BT1 or the second battery BT2 supplies power to the operating device 20 via a speed change device 30. The second battery BT2 may also be omitted. Alternatively, the first battery BT1 may only supply power to the component 40, and only the second battery BT2 may supply power to the operating device 20 via the speed change device 30.

[0101] In the communication system 10 including the fourth communication unit 18, the first information from the first communication unit 12 can be received by both the second communication unit 14 and the fourth communication unit 18, or it can be configured to be received by either of the communication units that can communicate with the first communication unit 12 via wired connection. For the output to the third communication unit 16, it is preferable that either of the second communication unit 14 or the fourth communication unit 18 is able to output the information.

[0102] In the communication system 10, it can also be configured to output wireless signals even when a wired connection is established. In the first embodiment, after the processing in step S11, the control unit 52 skips step S12 and executes step S14. The control unit 52 skips step S15 and executes step S17. In the second embodiment, the first control unit 52A and the second control unit 52B in the communication system 10 also perform the same processing.

[0103] In the second embodiment, any one of the first control unit 52A, the second control unit 52B, and the third control unit 52C may be omitted. If the first control unit 52A is omitted, the second control unit 52B controls the first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14. If the second control unit 52B is omitted, the first control unit 52A controls the first communication unit 12 and the second communication unit 14. If the third control unit 52C is omitted, the second control unit 52B controls the second communication unit 14 and the third communication unit 16.

[0104] In the second embodiment, the second control unit 52B can also control the transmission device 30 based on the third information. In one example, the third information includes information related to the output of the motor unit 42. When the output of the motor unit 42 is large, the second control unit 52B controls the transmission device 30 by decreasing the gear ratio; when the output of the motor unit 42 is small, it controls the transmission device 30 by increasing the gear ratio.

[0105] In the second embodiment, the second control unit 52B may omit the processing of step S35, and after the processing of step S36, control the transmission device 30 based on the information related to the transmission device 30 contained in the third information.

[0106] The term "at least one" as used in this specification means "one or more" of the desired options. For example, if the number of options is two, "at least one" means "only one option" or "both of the two options." As another example, if the number of options is three or more, "at least one" means "only one option" or "a combination of any two or more options."

[0107] 10: Communication System 12: First Communications Department 14: Second Communications Department 16: Third Communications Department 18: 4th Communications Department 20: Operating device 30: Speed ​​Transmission 32: Front derailleur 34: Rear derailleur 40: Components 42: Motor Unit 42A: Housing 44: Braking device 46: Shock absorber 48: Adjustable seat post 50: Control device 52: Control Department 52A: First Control Unit 52B: Second Control Unit 52C: Third Control Unit 54: Memory Department 56: Reporting Department A: Human-powered vehicle A1: Chassis A2: Front fork A3: Rear fork end B: Drive system BT: Battery BT1: Battery No. 1 BT2: Second Battery BT3: Third Battery C: Crankshaft C1: Crankshaft C2: Crank arm D1: Front sprocket assembly D2: Rear sprocket assembly D3: Chain H: Handlebar HR: Wheel hub PD: Pedal S11~S18: Steps S21~S26: Steps S31~S37: Steps S41~S44: Steps W: Wheel WF: Front wheel WR: Rear wheel

Claims

1. A component mounted on a human-powered vehicle, the component comprising: The communications unit receives second information transmitted by the transmission mechanism of the aforementioned human-powered vehicle, wherein the aforementioned components include a motor unit configured to impart propulsion to the aforementioned human-powered vehicle, and wherein... The second information mentioned above includes at least some of the first information received by the transmission device from the operating device mounted on the manual-drive vehicle, such that when the control unit changes the gear ratio of the transmission device in response to the first information, the control unit controls the motor unit in response to the second information.

2. As in request item 1, wherein the aforementioned communication unit receives the aforementioned second information via a wireless signal.

3. The component of request item 1 or 2, wherein the operating device communicates with the transmission device via wireless signals.

4. As in request item 1 or 2, wherein the communication unit communicates with the transmission device via a wired signal.

5. The component of request item 1 or 2, wherein the first information mentioned above includes at least one of the information related to the transmission device and the information related to the component mentioned above.

6. The component of request item 1 or 2, wherein the second information mentioned above includes at least one of the information related to the transmission device and the information related to the component mentioned above.

7. Components of request item 1 or 2, wherein the first information above is consistent with the second information above.

8. The component of claim 1 or 2, wherein the component is configured to receive signals transmitted by the operating device.

9. The component of claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit includes a second control unit disposed in the transmission device and a third control unit disposed in the component.

10. A communication system for a human-powered vehicle, the communication system comprising: Components of any of the requests in items 1 through 9; At least one battery supplies power to at least one of the aforementioned components, operating devices, or transmission devices.

11. The communication system of claim 10, wherein the battery supplies power to the components and the transmission device.

12. The communication system of claim 11, wherein the battery supplies power to the components and the operating device.

13. The communication system of any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the battery comprises: a first battery supplying power to the transmission device and the components; and a third battery supplying power to the operating device.

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