CN116353752A

CN116353752A - Assembly for a manually driven vehicle

Info

Publication number: CN116353752A
Application number: CN202211460203.XA
Authority: CN
Inventors: 西川裕辅; 出口雅纪; 野田慎一朗; 吴俊文
Original assignee: Shimano Inc
Current assignee: Shimano Inc
Priority date: 2021-12-27
Filing date: 2022-11-21
Publication date: 2023-06-30
Also published as: DE102022213322A1; JP2023097166A

Abstract

The invention provides a module for a manually driven vehicle capable of performing wireless communication appropriately. The assembly for a manually driven vehicle comprises: a housing having an interior space; and a first communication unit configured to be at least partially disposed in at least one of the internal space and the housing, and to perform at least one of transmitting a wireless signal to the outside of the housing and receiving the wireless signal from the outside of the housing, the housing having a first portion and a second portion smaller than the first portion, the second portion having a higher transmittance of the wireless signal than the first portion.

Description

Assembly for a manually driven vehicle

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to an assembly for a human powered vehicle.

Background

For example, the assembly for a manually driven vehicle disclosed in patent document 1 is configured to be capable of wireless communication with an external device.

Prior art literature

Patent literature

Patent document 1: japanese patent laid-open No. 2019-93904.

Disclosure of Invention

Problems to be solved by the invention

It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a manually driven vehicle assembly capable of suitably performing wireless communication.

Means for solving the problems

The assembly according to the first aspect of the present disclosure is an assembly for a human-powered vehicle, and includes: a housing having an interior space; and a first communication unit configured to be at least partially disposed in at least one of the internal space and the housing, and to perform at least one of transmitting a wireless signal to the outside of the housing and receiving the wireless signal from the outside of the housing, the housing having a first portion and a second portion smaller than the first portion, the second portion having a higher transmittance of the wireless signal than the first portion.

According to the assembly of the first aspect, the wireless signal transmission rate of the second portion of the housing is higher than the first portion of the housing. Thus, the first communication unit at least partially disposed in at least one of the interior space and the housing is capable of wireless communication via the second portion as appropriate.

In the assembly according to the second aspect of the first aspect of the present disclosure, the second portion is formed of a different material than the first portion.

According to the assembly of the second aspect, the second portion can be suitably formed by a material having a higher transmittance of the wireless signal than the first portion.

In the assembly according to the third aspect of the second aspect of the present disclosure, the second portion includes a resin material.

According to the assembly of the third aspect, the second portion can be appropriately formed of a resin material.

In the assembly according to the second or fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the first portion comprises a metallic material.

According to the assembly of the fourth aspect, since the first portion is formed by the metal material, the rigidity of the housing can be ensured.

In the assembly according to the fifth aspect of any one of the second to fourth aspects of the present disclosure, the first portion includes an opening portion, and at least a part of the first communication unit is provided in the opening portion.

According to the assembly of the fifth aspect, since at least a part of the first communication unit is provided in the opening of the first portion, at least a part of the first communication unit can be disposed in the housing at a position close to the outside. Thus, the first communication unit can perform wireless communication appropriately.

In the assembly of the sixth aspect of any one of the first to fifth aspects of the present disclosure, the first communication unit includes a first antenna, at least a portion of which is embedded in the second portion.

According to the assembly of the sixth aspect, since at least a part of the first antenna is buried in the second portion, the housing can be formed appropriately.

In the assembly according to the seventh aspect of the sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the assembly further includes: a circuit board disposed in the internal space; and a cable connecting the first communication unit with the circuit board, at least a portion of the cable being buried in the second portion.

According to the assembly of the seventh aspect, since at least a part of the cable is buried in the second portion, it is possible to dispose at least a part of the cable inside the second portion.

In the assembly according to an eighth aspect of any one of the first to fifth aspects of the present disclosure, the first communication unit includes a first antenna, at least a portion of which is disposed opposite to the second portion in the internal space.

According to the assembly of the eighth aspect, since at least a part of the first antenna is disposed opposite to the second part in the internal space, attenuation of radio waves of a radio signal between at least a part of the first antenna and the second part is suppressed, and appropriate wireless communication can be performed.

In the assembly according to the ninth aspect of any one of the first to eighth aspects of the present disclosure, the housing includes a convex portion protruding from an outer space of the housing, and the second portion is provided to the convex portion.

According to the assembly of the ninth aspect, since the second portion is provided in the convex portion protruding from the outer space of the housing, at least a part of the first communication unit can be arranged in the convex portion. Therefore, the first communication unit is less likely to interfere with the arrangement of the components of the internal space.

In the assembly according to a tenth aspect of any one of the first to eighth aspects of the present disclosure, the housing includes a recess in an outer peripheral portion of the housing, and the second portion is provided in the recess.

According to the assembly of the tenth aspect, by providing the second portion in the recess of the outer peripheral portion of the housing, at least a part of the first communication unit can be disposed in the recess. Therefore, the first communication unit is less likely to interfere with the arrangement of the components within the internal space.

In the assembly according to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, the housing includes a mounting portion configured to be mounted to a frame of the manually driven vehicle, the first portion being integrally formed with the mounting portion.

According to the assembly of the eleventh aspect, since the first portion is integrally formed with the mounting portion, the second portion can be provided at a portion other than the mounting portion.

In the assembly of the twelfth aspect according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects of the present disclosure, the assembly includes at least one of a transmission unit including a motor configured to apply a propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle, a transmission, an electric brake, an electric suspension, and an electrically-adjustable seatpost.

According to the assembly of the twelfth aspect, in the assembly including at least one of the transmission unit, the transmission, the electric brake, the electric suspension, and the electrically adjustable seat post, wireless communication can be appropriately performed.

In the assembly according to the thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the assembly includes the transmission unit, the housing rotatably supports the crank shaft in such a manner that both ends in an axial direction of the crank shaft protrude outside the housing, respectively, the housing includes a side wall portion extending in a direction intersecting the axial direction, and the second portion is provided to the side wall portion.

According to the assembly of the twelfth aspect, since the second portion is provided to the side wall portion, wireless signals can be appropriately wirelessly communicated.

Effects of the invention

The assembly for a human powered vehicle of the present disclosure is capable of wireless communication as appropriate.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a side view 'of a human-powered vehicle including components of the human-powered vehicle of the first embodiment'

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical structure of a human-powered vehicle including the components of the human-powered vehicle of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the transmission unit of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line D4-D4 of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a schematic view of a first portion of the housing of FIG. 3, a second portion of the housing, a circuit substrate, and a first communication unit;

fig. 6 is a schematic view of a first portion of a housing, a second portion of the housing, a circuit board, and a first communication unit of a first modification;

fig. 7 is a schematic view of a first portion of a case, a second portion of the case, a circuit board, and a first communication unit of a second modification;

fig. 8 is a schematic view of a first portion of a case, a second portion of the case, a circuit board, and a first communication unit according to a third modification.

Detailed Description

Embodiment

Referring to fig. 1 to 5, a module 50 for a manually driven vehicle will be described. A human powered vehicle is a vehicle having at least one wheel, at least capable of being driven by human driving force. Human powered vehicles include various types of bicycles such as mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, freight bikes, manual bikes, recumbent bikes, and the like. The number of wheels of the manually driven vehicle is not limited. Human powered vehicles include, for example, wheelbarrows and vehicles having more than two wheels. The manually driven vehicle is not limited to a vehicle that can be driven only by a manual driving force. A human-powered vehicle includes an E-bike propelled not only by human driving force but also by driving force of an electric motor. E-bike includes an electric assisted bicycle that is propelled assisted by an electric motor. In the following, in each embodiment, a manually driven vehicle will be described as an electric assist bicycle.

The human powered vehicle 10 includes at least one wheel 12, and a vehicle body 14. The at least one wheel 12 includes a front wheel 12F and a rear wheel 12R. The body 14 includes a frame 16. The human powered vehicle 10 also includes a crank 18 for human powered input. The crank 18 includes a crank shaft 20 rotatable relative to the frame 16, and crank

arms

22A and 22B. Each of the

crank arms

22A and 22B is provided at an end of the crank shaft 20 in the axial direction X. The

pedals

24A and 24B are coupled to the crank

arms

22A and 22B, respectively.

The frame 16 has a front fork 26 attached thereto. The front fork 26 mounts the front wheel 12F. The handlebar 28 is coupled to the front fork 26 via a stem 30. The rear wheel 12R is supported on the frame 16. In the present embodiment, the crank 18 is coupled to the rear wheel 12R via a drive mechanism 32. The rear wheel 12R is driven by rotation of the crank shaft 20. At least one of the front wheel 12F and the rear wheel 12R may be coupled to the crank 18 by a drive mechanism 32.

The drive mechanism 32 includes a first rotary body 34 coupled to the crank shaft 20. The first rotating body 34 includes a front sprocket. The first rotating body 34 may include a pulley or a bevel gear. The crank axle 20 may be coupled with the front sprocket via a one-way clutch.

The driving mechanism 32 further includes a second rotating body 36 and a coupling member 38. The coupling member 38 is configured to transmit the rotational force of the first rotating body 34 to the second rotating body 36. The coupling member 38 includes a chain. The coupling member 38 may comprise a belt or a drive shaft. The second rotating body 36 includes a rear sprocket. The second rotating body 36 may include a pulley or a bevel gear. For example, the chain is wound around the front sprocket and the rear sprocket. For example, the second rotating body 36 is coupled to the rear wheel 12R. The rear wheel 12R is configured to rotate with the rotation of the second rotating body 36.

The human powered vehicle 10 includes an assembly 50. For example, the assembly 50 may include at least one of a transmission unit 50A, a transmission 50B, an electric brake 50C, an electric suspension 50D, and an electrically adjustable seatpost 50E. For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 includes an operating device capable of operating at least one of the transmission unit 50A, the transmission 50B, the electric brake 50C, the electric suspension 50D, and the electrically adjustable seatpost 50E.

The transmission 50B is configured to provide a transmission path of the manual power to the manual drive vehicle 10 and change the gear ratio R. The transmission 50B has a plurality of gear stages. The gear ratios R corresponding to the respective gear stages are different from each other. The number of gear steps is, for example, in the range of 3 to 30.

The speed ratio R is a ratio of the rotational speed W of the drive wheel to the rotational speed C of the crankshaft 20. In the present embodiment, the driving wheel is the rear wheel 12R. The rotation speed W of the drive wheel and the rotation speed C of the crank shaft 20 may be the number of rotations per unit time, respectively. The rotation speed W of the drive wheel may be replaced with the number of teeth of the first rotating body 34, and the rotation speed C of the crank shaft 20 may be replaced with the number of teeth of the second rotating body 36. The relationship among the gear ratio R, the rotation speed W of the drive wheel, and the rotation speed C of the crank shaft 20 is represented by expression (1).

Formula (1): r=w/C

For example, the transmission 50B includes at least one of an internal transmission, a front derailleur, and a rear derailleur. In the case where the transmission 50B includes an internal transmission, the internal transmission is provided to, for example, a hub of the rear wheel 12R. The internal transmission may include CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).

In the case where the transmission 50B includes a front derailleur, the transmission 50B is provided to the first rotating body 34. In the case where the transmission 50B includes a front derailleur, for example, the first rotating body 34 includes a plurality of front sprockets. In the case where the transmission 50B includes a rear derailleur, the transmission 50B is provided to the second rotating body 36. In the case where the transmission 50B includes a rear derailleur, the second rotating body 36 includes a plurality of rear sprockets. The transmission 50B includes an electrically variable transmission configured to be operated by an actuator. The actuator comprises an electric actuator. The actuator comprises, for example, an electric motor.

For example, the electric brake 50C is provided to the frame 16 and the front fork 26, and applies braking force to the wheels 12. The electric brake 50C may be a disc brake, a rim brake, or a roller brake.

For example, the electric suspension 50D includes at least one of a rear suspension and a front suspension. For example, the electric suspension 50D absorbs an impact applied to the wheel 12. The electric suspension 50D may be a hydraulic suspension or an air suspension.

The electric suspension 50D includes: a first suspension portion 50F; and a second suspension portion 50G embedded in the first suspension portion 50F and capable of relative movement with the first suspension portion 50F. For example, the operation state of the electric suspension 50D includes a locked state and an unlocked state.

For example, in the case where the operating state of the electric suspension 50D is the locked state, the relative movement of the first suspension portion 50F and the second suspension portion 50G is restricted. For example, the locked state of the electric suspension 50D includes a state in which the first suspension portion 50F and the second suspension portion 50G slightly move relative to each other when a strong force is applied to the wheel 12. For example, in the case where the operation state of the electric suspension 50D is the unlock state, the relative movement of the first suspension portion 50F and the second suspension portion 50G is allowed. The operating state of the electric suspension 50D may include at least one of a plurality of operating states having different damping forces and a plurality of operating states having different stroke amounts instead of or in addition to the locked state and the unlocked state.

The electric suspension 50D includes an electric actuator for operating the electric suspension 50D. The electric actuator includes an electric motor. The electric actuator may include a solenoid instead of the electric motor. For example, the electric actuator switches the operation state of the electric suspension 50D.

In the case where the electric suspension 50D includes a rear suspension, for example, the rear suspension is provided to the frame 16 of the manually driven vehicle 10. In the case where the electric suspension 50D includes a rear suspension, for example, the rear suspension is provided in the frame 16 between the frame body and the swing arm that supports the rear wheel 12R. The rear suspension absorbs the impact applied to the rear wheel 12R.

In the case where the electric suspension 50D includes a front suspension, for example, the front suspension is configured to be provided between the frame 16 and the front wheel 12F. In the case where the electric suspension 50D includes a front suspension, for example, the front suspension is provided to the front fork 26. The front suspension absorbs the impact applied to the front wheel 12F.

For example, the electrically adjustable seatpost 50E includes an electrically operated actuator. The electric actuator includes an electric motor. The electric actuator may include a solenoid instead of the electric motor. For example, an electrically adjustable seat post 50E is provided on the seat tube. For example, the electrically adjustable seat post 50E is configured to be capable of changing the height of the seat.

For example, the electrically adjustable seatpost 50E includes an electrically operated seatpost or a mechanical seatpost. For example, the electric seat post has a structure in which the seat post expands and contracts due to the force of the electric actuator. For example, the mechanical seat post has a structure in which the valve is controlled by the force of the electric actuator, and thus the seat post is extended by the force of at least one of a spring and air and contracted by the application of a human force. The mechanical seat rod comprises a hydraulic seat rod or a hydraulic and pneumatic seat rod.

For example, the human powered vehicle 10 also includes a battery 40. The battery 40 includes one or more battery elements. The battery element includes a rechargeable battery. For example, the battery 40 is configured to supply power to the assembly 50. The battery 40 is communicatively connected with the assembly 50 via a cable or wireless communication device. The battery 40 can communicate with the assembly 50 by, for example, power line communication (PLC; power Line Communication), CAN (Controller Area Network), or UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter).

The assembly 50 for a human powered vehicle includes a housing 52 and a first communication unit 54. In this embodiment, the assembly 50 for a human powered vehicle includes a transmission unit 50A. The transmission unit 50A includes a motor 56 configured to apply propulsion to the human-powered vehicle 10. For example, motor 56 includes one or more electric motors. The electric motor is, for example, a brushless motor. In the case where the motor 56 rotates in the first motor rotation direction, the motor 56 outputs a motor driving force to apply a propulsive force to the manually-driven vehicle 10. As the supplied electric power increases, the motor driving force output by the motor 56 also increases.

For example, the housing 52 includes a first housing 52A and a second housing 52B. The first housing 52A and the second housing 52B are mounted to each other by, for example, bolts or the like. For example, the housing 52 has an inner space IS. For example, the first housing 52A and the second housing 52B form an internal space IS. For example, the motor 56 IS disposed in the internal space IS.

For example, the transmission unit 50A further includes a crank shaft 20. For example, the housing 52 rotatably supports the crank shaft 20 such that both

end portions

20A,20B of the crank shaft 20 in the axial direction X protrude outside the housing 52. For example, the housing 52 includes a side wall portion 58, and the side wall portion 58 extends in a direction intersecting the axial direction X. For example, the side wall portion 58 includes a first side wall portion 58A and a second side wall portion 58B. For example, the housing 52 further includes a peripheral wall portion 58C that extends in a direction along the axial direction X of the crank axle 20 and connects the first side wall portion 58A and the second side wall portion 58B.

For example, the housing 52 includes a mounting portion 60, the mounting portion 60 being configured to be mounted to the frame 16 of the human-powered vehicle 10. For example, the mounting portion 60 is provided to the peripheral wall portion 58C. For example, the housing 52 includes a plurality of mounting portions 60. For example, the mounting portion 60 is provided to the peripheral wall portion 58C so as to protrude in the circumferential direction of the crank shaft 20. For example, the mounting portion 60 includes at least one of a hole and an internal thread. For example, the housing 52 is mounted to the frame 16 by being engaged with at least one of the hole and the female screw portion of the mounting portion 60 by a bolt.

For example, the transmission unit 50A includes an output 62. For example, the output unit 62 is configured to output the torque output from the motor 56 and the manual driving force input to the crankshaft 20 to the first rotating body 34 in a resultant force. For example, the output portion 62 is coupled to the crankshaft 20 so as to rotate integrally with the crankshaft 20. For example, the output 62 and the crank shaft 20 may be connected via a one-way clutch. For example, the output portion 62 is coaxial with the crank shaft 20 and provided on the crank shaft 20 so as to surround an outer peripheral portion of the crank shaft 20.

For example, the transmission unit 50A also includes a decelerator 64. For example, the speed reducer 64 is provided between the motor 56 and the output portion 62. For example, in the gear shift stage of 1 or more, the speed reducer 64 is configured to reduce the rotation speed of the output unit as compared with the rotation speed of the input unit to which the driving force of the motor 56 is input. For example, the speed reducer 64 is constituted by a plurality of gears.

For example, transmission unit 50A includes one-way clutch 66. For example, the one-way clutch 66 is provided between the speed reducer 64 and the output portion 62. For example, the one-way clutch 66 includes a roller clutch. For example, one-way clutch 66 includes an inner wheel, an outer wheel, and a plurality of rollers. For example, a plurality of rollers are provided between the inner wheel and the outer wheel. The one-way clutch 66 may include a dog clutch or a sprag clutch.

For example, the one-way clutch 66 is configured to transmit the rotation of the motor 56 to the output unit 62 when the motor 56 rotates, and to permit the relative rotation between the crankshaft 20 and the speed reducer 64 when the crankshaft 20 rotates. For example, the driving force of the motor 56 is transmitted to the output portion 62 through the one-way clutch 66. For example, the manual driving force input from the crank shaft 20 is not transmitted to the motor 56 through the one-way clutch 66.

For example, the transmission unit 50A includes a first control portion 68. The first control unit 68 includes an arithmetic processing device that executes a predetermined control program. The arithmetic processing device included in the first control unit 68 includes, for example, CPU (Central Processing Unit) or MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The arithmetic processing unit included in the first control unit 68 may be provided at a plurality of places separated from each other. The first control portion 68 may include one or more microcomputers. The first control unit 68 is connected to the battery 40 in a wired or wireless communication manner, and is configured to supply electric power from the battery 40.

For example, the transmission unit 50A further includes a first storage portion 70. The first storage unit 70 stores a control program and information for controlling processing. The first storage unit 70 includes, for example, a nonvolatile memory and a volatile memory. The nonvolatile 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).

For example, the transmission unit 50A further includes a manual driving force detection portion 72. The manual driving force detection unit 72 is configured to output a signal corresponding to the torque applied to the crankshaft 20 by the manual driving force. The signal corresponding to the torque applied to the crank shaft 20 by the manual driving force contains information related to the manual driving force input to the manually driven vehicle 10.

For example, the manual driving force detection unit 72 is provided in the transmission path or in the vicinity of a member included in the transmission path. The transmission path includes, for example, the crank shaft 20 and a member for transmitting a manual driving force between the crank shaft 20 and the first rotating body 34. The manual driving force detection unit 72 is provided between the one-way clutch 66 and the crank shaft 20, for example.

The manual driving force detection unit 72 includes a strain sensor, a magnetostrictive sensor, a pressure sensor, or the like. The strain gauge sensor includes a strain gauge. The human driving force detection unit 72 may have any configuration as long as information on the human driving force can be acquired.

The manual driving force detection unit 72 may be provided outside the transmission unit 50A. In the case where the manual driving force detection portion 72 is provided outside the transmission unit 50A, the manual driving force detection portion 72 may be provided on the crank arms 22A and 2B or the

pedals

24A and 24B. In the case where the manual driving force detection portion 72 is provided to the pedal 24A and the pedal 24B, for example, the manual driving force detection portion 72 may include a sensor for detecting the pressure applied to the pedal 24A and the pedal 24B. For example, in the case where the manual driving force detection portion 72 is provided to the chain, the manual driving force detection portion 72 may include a sensor for detecting the tension of the chain.

For example, the transmission unit 50A further includes a crank speed detecting portion 74. The crank rotation speed detecting unit 74 is configured to detect information corresponding to the rotation speed C of the crankshaft 20. The information corresponding to the rotational speed C of the crank shaft 20 includes the angular acceleration of the crank shaft 20. The acceleration of the manually driven vehicle 10 is, for example, the angular acceleration of the crankshaft 20.

For example, the crank rotation speed detecting portion 74 includes a magnetic sensor for outputting a signal corresponding to the strength of the magnetic field. The magnetic sensor includes a ring magnet whose magnetic field strength varies in the circumferential direction. The ring magnet whose magnetic field strength varies in the circumferential direction is provided between the crank shaft 20, a member that rotates in conjunction with the crank shaft 20, or a transmission path from the crank shaft 20 to the first rotating body 34.

For example, the crank rotation speed detecting portion 74 outputs a signal corresponding to the rotation speed C of the crank shaft 20. The magnet may be provided on a member that rotates integrally with the crank shaft 20 in a transmission path of the manual driving force from the crank shaft 20 to the first rotating body 34. The crank rotation sensor may include an optical sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a torque sensor, or the like instead of the magnetic sensor.

For example, the crank rotation speed detecting portion 74 is configured to output a detection signal a predetermined number of times during one rotation of the crank shaft 20. The predetermined number of times is, for example, 2 or more. Preferably, the predetermined number of times is 4 or more. The predetermined number of times is preferably a multiple of 4. Preferably, the predetermined number of times is 8, 12, or 16.

The crank rotation speed detecting portion 74 may be provided outside the transmission unit 50A. In the case where the crank rotation speed detecting portion 74 is provided outside the transmission unit 50A, the crank rotation speed detecting portion 74 is provided on, for example, the frame 16 of the manually driven vehicle 10. In the case where the crank rotation speed detection portion 74 is provided outside the transmission unit 50A, for example, the crank rotation speed detection portion 74 may be configured to include a vehicle speed sensor. In the case where the crank rotation speed detecting portion 74 includes a vehicle speed sensor, for example, the first control portion 68 is configured to calculate the rotation speed C of the crank shaft 20 based on the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor and the speed ratio R.

For example, in the case where the assembly 50 includes the transmission unit 50A, the first control portion 68 is configured to control the motor 56. For example, the first control section 68 includes a drive circuit. The drive circuit is electrically connected to the motor 56. The drive circuit controls the supply of power from the battery 40 to the motor 56. The driving circuit includes an inverter circuit. The inverter circuit includes a plurality of transistors. In an example, the inverter circuit includes a structure in which a plurality of inverter sections constituted by a pair of transistors connected in series are connected in parallel. The inverter circuit may have a current sensor for detecting a current flowing through the inverter circuit. For example, the current sensor is communicably connected to the first control portion 68 by wire or wireless.

For example, the first control unit 68 is configured to control the motor 56 in accordance with the state of the manually driven vehicle 10. For example, the first control unit 68 is configured to control the motor 56 so as to change the propulsive force according to the manual driving force input to the manual driving vehicle 10. For example, the first control unit 68 is configured to control the motor 56 based on the manual driving force detected by the manual driving force detection unit 72. For example, the first control unit 68 is configured to control the motor 56 based on the rotational speed C of the crankshaft 20 detected by the crank rotational speed detecting unit 74. For example, the first control portion 68 may be configured to drive the motor 56 according to information transmitted from the outside of the transmission unit 50A. The information transmitted from the outside of the transmission unit 50A includes, for example, at least one of the speed of the manually driven vehicle 10 and an operation signal of the operation device.

The first communication unit 54 is configured to perform at least one of transmitting a wireless signal to the outside of the housing 52 and receiving a wireless signal from the outside of the housing 52. For example, the first communication unit 54 is configured to perform both of transmitting a wireless signal to the outside of the housing 52 and receiving a wireless signal from the outside of the housing 52. For example, the first communication unit 54 is configured to communicate by using a communication system of at least one of Bluetooth (registered trademark), wi-Fi (registered trademark), zigBee (registered trademark), ANT (registered trademark), ant+ (registered trademark), RFID, and public wireless communication 3G, public wireless communication 4G, and public wireless communication 5G. The first communication unit 54 may be configured to communicate by a communication system other than Bluetooth, wi-Fi, zigBee, ANT, ANT +, RFID, and at least one of public wireless communication 3G, public wireless communication 4G, and public wireless communication 5G. The first communication unit 54 may also be configured to communicate using a unique communication scheme.

For example, the first communication unit 54 includes a first antenna 54A. For example, the first antenna 54A is configured to receive wireless signals from the external device 42. For example, the first antenna 54A is configured to transmit a wireless signal to the external device 42. The external device 42 includes, for example, at least one of a stopwatch, a smartphone, and a tablet computer. External device 42 may include an operating device. For example, the operation device is configured to output a wireless signal for switching the assist mode. Where the assembly 50 includes a transmission unit 50A, the external device 42 may include at least one of a transmission 50B, an electric brake 50C, an electric suspension 50D, and an electrically adjustable seatpost 50E.

For example, the external device 42 includes a second control section 44. The second control unit 44 includes an arithmetic processing unit that executes a predetermined control program. The arithmetic processing device included in the second control unit 44 includes, for example, a CPU or MPU. The arithmetic processing unit included in the second control unit 44 may be provided at a plurality of places separated from each other. The second control section 44 may include one or more microcomputers. In the case where the external device 42 includes an operation device, for example, the second control section 44 is configured to. Is communicably connected with the battery 40 by wire or wireless, and is supplied with electric power from the battery 40.

For example, the external device 42 further includes a second storage portion 46. The second storage unit 46 stores a control program and information for controlling the processing. The second storage 46 includes, for example, a nonvolatile memory and a volatile memory. The nonvolatile memory includes, for example, at least one of ROM, EPROM, EEPROM and flash memory. Volatile memory includes, for example, RAM.

The external device 42 further includes a second communication unit 48. The second communication unit 48 is configured to perform at least one of transmitting a wireless signal to the outside of the external device 42 and receiving a wireless signal from the outside of the external device 42. For example, the second communication unit 48 is configured to perform both transmission of a wireless signal to the outside of the external device 42 and reception of a wireless signal from the outside of the external device 42. The second communication unit 48 includes a second antenna 48A. The second antenna 48A is configured to receive wireless signals from the first communication unit 54. For example, the second antenna 48A is configured to transmit wireless signals to the first communication unit 54.

For example, the first communication unit 54 includes a position information tracker. The location information tracker includes, for example, a GPS (Global Positioning System) tracker. In the case where the first communication unit 54 includes a GPS tracker, the first communication unit 54 also includes a GPS receiver and a public wireless communication device. The GPS receiver acquires the current position of the human powered vehicle 10. For example, the public wireless communication device is configured to be capable of communicating with the outside through at least one of public wireless communication 3G, public wireless communication 4G, public wireless communication 5G. The public wireless communication device may be configured to include a first antenna 54A.

In the case where the first communication unit 54 includes a position information tracker, the first communication unit 54 is configured to be able to transmit the position information of the first communication unit 54 to the external device 42. In the case where the first communication unit 54 includes a position information tracker, for example, the first control unit 68 may be configured to transmit the position information of the first communication unit 54 to the external device 42 in accordance with the wireless signal received from the external device 42. For example, in the case where the manually driven vehicle 10 is stolen, the position of the manually driven vehicle 10 can be determined by the position information tracker and the external device 42.

The first communication unit 54 IS at least partially disposed within at least one of the interior space IS and the housing 52. For example, the inside of the housing 52 is a portion between the outer peripheral portion 52C and the inner peripheral portion 52D in the housing 52. The outer peripheral portion 52C includes an outer surface of the housing 52. The inner peripheral portion 52D includes an inner surface defining an inner space IS in the housing 52.

For example, the module 50 further includes a circuit board 76. For example, the circuit board 76 IS disposed in the internal space IS. For example, the circuit board 76 is provided with at least a part of the first control portion 68. For example, the circuit board 76 is provided with at least a part of the first storage section 70.

For example, the module 50 further includes a circuit board 76 and a cable 78, and the cable 78 connects the first communication unit 54 and the circuit board 76. For example, the first communication unit 54 is electrically connected to the first control unit 68 via the cable 78 and the circuit board 76.

The housing 52 has a first portion 80 and a second portion 82. The second portion 82 is smaller than the first portion 80 and has a higher transmission of wireless signals than the first portion 80. For example, the second portion 82 is smaller in size than the first portion 80. In the case where a radio wave used for a radio signal passes through a material having a high transmittance of the radio signal, the radio wave is not easily attenuated. For example, the second portion 82 is provided from the outer peripheral portion 52C to the inner peripheral portion 52D in the housing 52. For example, a part of the outer peripheral portion 52C and a part of the inner peripheral portion 52D are constituted by the second portion 82.

For example, since the second portion 82 IS smaller in size than the first portion 80, the electronic device disposed in the internal space IS of the module 50 IS less susceptible to external interference. For example, the electronic device disposed in the internal space IS includes at least one of the motor 56, the manual driving force detecting unit 72, the crank rotation speed detecting unit 74, the circuit board 76, the first control unit 68, and the first storage unit 70.

For example, the second portion 82 is formed of a different material than the first portion 80. For example, the first portion 80 comprises a metallic material. For example, the first portion 80 includes at least one of an aluminum alloy and a magnesium alloy. For example, the first portion 80 may be made of a material other than a metal material as long as the transmittance of the wireless signal of the second portion 82 is higher than that of the first portion 80 and the two are different materials from each other. For example, the second portion 82 includes a resin material. For example, the second portion 82 includes a thermosetting resin such as a polyester resin or an epoxy resin. For example, the second portion 82 may be made of a material other than a resin material as long as the transmittance of the wireless signal of the second portion 82 is higher than that of the first portion 80 and the two are different materials from each other.

For example, the first portion 80 is integrally formed with the mounting portion 60. For example, the second portion 82 is provided to the side wall portion 58. For example, the second portion 82 is provided on the second side wall portion 58B. The second portion 82 may be provided on the first side wall portion 58A or the peripheral wall portion 58C. For example, the first portion 80 includes all but the second portion 82 of the housing 52. For example, the second portion 82 has a size corresponding to the size of the first communication unit 54 or the first antenna 54A.

For example, the first portion 80 includes an opening 84. For example, at least a part of the first communication unit 54 is provided in the opening 84. For example, the opening 84 is a through hole penetrating from the outer peripheral portion 52C to the inner peripheral portion 52D. For example, the opening 84 is provided in the side wall 58. For example, the opening 84 is provided in the second side wall 58B. For example, the opening 84 is provided with the second portion 82.

For example, the first portion 80 is formed separately from the second portion 82. For example, the second portion 82 formed separately from the first portion 80 is fitted into the opening 84 and attached to the opening 84 by an adhesive. For example, in the case where the second portion 82 is fitted into the opening 84 and attached to the opening 84 by an adhesive, the second portion 82 is formed to have substantially the same size as the opening 84. The second portion 82 may be fitted into the opening 84 by pressing. The first portion 80 and the second portion 82 may be formed by insert molding. The second portion 82 may be formed larger than the opening 84 and attached to the outer peripheral portion 52C or the inner peripheral portion 52D of the first portion 80 by bolts or the like so as to cover the opening 84.

For example, the first communication unit 54 IS disposed entirely in the internal space IS. The first communication unit 54 may be provided on the circuit board 76 or may be disposed in the internal space IS separately from the circuit board 76. When the first communication unit 54 IS disposed apart from the circuit substrate 76 in the internal space IS, for example, it may be provided in the inner peripheral portion 52D of the housing 52. When the first communication unit 54 IS disposed apart from the circuit substrate 76 in the internal space IS, for example, it may be provided at the inner peripheral portion 52D of the second portion 82.

For example, the first communication unit 54 IS provided in the internal space IS at a position near the second portion 82. For example, the first communication unit 54 IS provided in the internal space IS at a position corresponding to the second portion 82. For example, the first communication unit 54 IS disposed in the internal space IS at a position where it IS easy to transmit and receive wireless signals via the second portion 82. For example, at least a part of the first communication unit 54 IS disposed in the internal space IS so as to face the second portion 82. For example, at least a portion of the first antenna 54A IS disposed opposite the second portion 82 in the internal space IS. For example, the first antenna 54A is configured to transmit wireless signals to the second portion 82.

< modification >

The description of the embodiments is an example of the manner in which the components of the human powered vehicle of the present disclosure may take and is not intended to be limiting in its manner. The assembly for a manually driven vehicle of the present disclosure may be configured by combining at least two modifications of the embodiments described below, which are not contradictory to each other, for example. In the following modification, the same reference numerals as those in the embodiment are given to the portions common to the embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted.

The second portion 82 may be made of the same material as the first portion 80 as long as the transmittance of the wireless signal is higher than that of the first portion 80. For example, the second portion 82 may be formed thinner than the first portion 80, may include a slit, or the like.

The second portion 82 may comprise a through hole. For example, in the case where the second portion 82 includes a through hole, a peripheral portion of the opening 84 corresponds to the second portion 82.

As shown in fig. 6, at least a portion of the first communication unit 54 may be embedded in the second portion 82. For example, at least a portion of the first antenna 54A is embedded in the second portion 82. For example, the entire first antenna 54A is buried in the second portion 82. For example, at least a portion of the cable 78 may be buried in the second portion 82. Where at least a portion of the first antenna 54A is embedded in the second portion 82, at least a portion of the cable 78 may be embedded in the second portion 82. For example, in the case where at least a part of the first antenna 54A is embedded in the second portion 82, at least a part of the first antenna 54A is enclosed in the second portion 82 in advance. For example, where at least a portion of the cable 78 is embedded in the second portion 82, at least a portion of the cable 78 is pre-enclosed in the second portion 82. For example, in a case where at least a part of the first antenna 54A is embedded in the second portion 82, the second portion 82 is attached to the first portion 80 in a state where at least a part of the first antenna 54A is enclosed in the second portion 82.

As shown in fig. 7, the housing 52 may include a protrusion 86 protruding from the outer space ES of the housing 52. For example, the second portion 82 is provided on the protrusion 86. In the case where the housing 52 includes the protrusion 86, at least a portion of the first communication unit 54 may be buried in the second portion 82. In the case where the housing 52 includes the protrusion 86, the entire first communication unit 54 may be buried in the second portion 82. Where the housing 52 includes the protrusion 86, at least a portion of the first antenna 54A may be embedded in the second portion 82. Where the housing 52 includes the protrusion 86, the entire first antenna 54A may be embedded in the second portion 82. Where the housing 52 includes the protrusion 86, at least a portion of the cable 78 may be embedded in the second portion 82. The protruding portion 86 may have a shape such that the first antenna 54A can efficiently transmit or receive a wireless signal.

As shown in fig. 8, the housing 52 may include a recess 88 in the outer peripheral portion 52C of the housing 52. For example, the second portion 82 is provided in the recess 88. Where the housing 52 includes the recess 88, at least a portion of the first communication unit 54 may be buried in the second portion 82. Where the housing 52 includes the recess 88, the entire first communication unit 54 may be embedded in the second portion 82. Where the housing 52 includes the recess 88, at least a portion of the first antenna 54A may be buried in the second portion 82. Where the housing 52 includes the recess 88, the entire first antenna 54A may be buried in the second portion 82. Where the housing 52 includes a recess 88, at least a portion of the cable 78 may be buried in the second portion 82. The recess 88 may be configured to be such that the first antenna 54A can efficiently transmit or receive wireless signals.

The expression "at least one" as used in this specification refers to "one or more" of the desired options. As an example, the expression "at least one" as used in this specification refers to "only one option" or "both options" if the number of options is two. As other examples, the expression "at least one" as used in the present specification refers to "one only option" or "a combination of any of two or more options" if the number of options is three or more.

Symbol description:

10 … human powered vehicle, 16 … frame, 20 … crank axle, 20a,20B … ends, 50 … assembly, 50a … transmission unit, 50B … transmission, 50C … electric brake, 50D … electric suspension, 50E … electric adjustable seatpost, 52 … housing, 52C … outer periphery, 54 … first communication unit, 54a … first antenna, 56 … motor, 58 … side wall portion, 60 … mounting portion, 76 … circuit substrate, 78 … cable, 80 … first portion, 82 … second portion, 84 … opening portion, 86 … male portion, 88 … female portion.

Claims

1. An assembly for a manually driven vehicle, comprising:

a housing having an interior space;

a first communication unit configured to be at least partially disposed in at least one of the internal space and the housing, and to perform at least one of transmitting a wireless signal to the outside of the housing and receiving the wireless signal from the outside of the housing,

the housing has a first portion and a second portion smaller than the first portion, the second portion having a higher transmittance of the wireless signal than the first portion.

2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein,

the second portion is formed of a different material than the first portion.

3. The assembly of claim 2, wherein,

the second portion comprises a resin material.

4. An assembly according to claim 2 or 3, wherein,

the first portion comprises a metallic material.

5. The assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein,

the first portion includes an opening portion and,

at least a part of the first communication unit is provided in the opening.

6. The assembly of any one of claims 1-5, wherein,

the first communication unit comprises a first antenna,

at least a portion of the first antenna is embedded in the second portion.

7. The assembly of claim 6, wherein,

the assembly further comprises:

a circuit board disposed in the internal space; and

a cable connecting the first communication unit with the circuit board,

at least a portion of the cable is embedded in the second portion.

8. The assembly of any one of claims 1-5, wherein,

the first communication unit comprises a first antenna,

at least a portion of the first antenna is disposed opposite the second portion in the interior space.

9. The assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein,

the housing includes a protrusion protruding from an outer space of the housing,

the second portion is provided on the convex portion.

10. The assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein,

the housing includes a recess at an outer peripheral portion of the housing,

the second portion is disposed in the recess.

11. The assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein,

the housing includes a mounting portion configured to be mounted to a frame of the human-powered vehicle,

the first portion is integrally formed with the mounting portion.

12. The assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein,

the assembly includes at least one of a transmission unit, a transmission, an electric brake, an electric suspension, and an electrically adjustable seatpost, wherein the transmission unit includes a motor configured to apply a propulsion force to the human-powered vehicle.

13. The assembly of claim 12, wherein,

the assembly comprises the transmission unit and the transmission unit,

the housing rotatably supports the crank shaft in such a manner that both ends of the crank shaft in the axial direction protrude from the outside of the housing, respectively,

the housing includes a side wall portion extending in a direction intersecting the axial direction,

the second portion is provided on the side wall portion.