DE102022126942A1 - COMPONENT USABLE IN OUTDOOR ACTIVITY - Google Patents

Abstract

A component usable for outdoor activities includes a main body, a Wheatstone bridge circuit, an input unit, an output unit, and a temperature compensation unit. The Wheatstone bridge circuit includes at least one strain gauge provided on the main body. The input unit is electrically connected to the Wheatstone bridge circuit. The output unit is electrically connected to the Wheatstone bridge circuit. The temperature compensation unit is electrically connected to the input unit to reduce a rate of change of a voltage value output from the output unit with respect to a temperature change. The temperature compensation unit includes a resistance element whose electrical resistance changes according to the temperature.

Description

BACKGROUND

This application claims priority from the Japanese application JP 2021-177919 , filed October 29, 2021. The entire disclosure of the Japanese application JP 2021-177919 is hereby incorporated by reference.

The present disclosure relates to a component that can be used in outdoor activities.

The US Patent No. 10076681 discloses a human-powered vehicle component having a strain gauge.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

The output of the strain gauge is affected by the ambient temperature. An object of the present disclosure is to provide a component that can be used in an outdoor activity and obtains strain-related information that is less influenced by the ambient temperature.

A component according to a first aspect of the present disclosure can be used in an outdoor activity. The component includes a main body, a Wheatstone bridge circuit, an input unit, an output unit, and a temperature compensation unit. The Wheatstone bridge circuit includes at least one strain gauge provided on the main body. The input unit is electrically connected to the Wheatstone bridge circuit. The output unit is electrically connected to the Wheatstone bridge circuit. The temperature compensation unit is electrically connected to the input unit to reduce a rate of change of a voltage value output from the output unit with respect to a temperature change. The temperature compensation unit includes a resistance element whose electrical resistance changes according to the temperature. With the component according to the first aspect, the temperature compensation unit reduces the rate of change of the voltage value output from the output unit relative to the temperature change. As a result, expansion-related information is/are obtained, which is/are less influenced by the ambient temperature.

According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the first aspect is configured such that the temperature compensation unit is configured such that the rate of change is less than or equal to 5% in a predetermined temperature range.

The component according to the second aspect obtains accurate strain-related information/s in the predetermined temperature range.

According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the second aspect is configured such that the temperature compensation unit is configured such that the rate of change in the predetermined temperature range is less than or equal to 1%.

The component according to the third aspect obtains accurate strain-related information/s in the predetermined temperature range.

According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the first to third aspects further includes a signal processor and a substrate. The signal processor is electrically connected to the output unit to process an input signal inputted from the output unit. The signal processor is provided on the substrate. The temperature compensation unit is provided on the substrate.

In the component according to the fourth aspect, the temperature compensation unit and the signal processor are provided on the same substrate. Accordingly, the temperature compensation unit and the signal processor are mounted on the substrate in the same process. This improves manufacturing efficiency.

According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the fourth aspect is configured such that the signal processor includes a computer. The computer is configured to calculate information regarding the force applied to the main body based on the input signal.

The component according to the fifth aspect acquires, from the strain-related information(s), information(s) relating to the force applied to the main body.

According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the fourth or fifth aspect further includes a signal output unit. The signal output unit is electrically connected to the signal processor to output an output signal output from the signal processor to an external device.

The component according to the sixth aspect enables the external device to obtain the strain-related information(s).

According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the sixth aspect is configured such that the signal output unit includes a wireless communication unit transmitting the output signal to the external device through wireless communication.

In the component according to the seventh aspect, the external device does not have to be connected to the component via an electric wire in order to obtain the output signal. This improves operability.

According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the first to seventh aspects further includes electric wiring and a flexible printed circuit board. The electrical wiring is electrically connected to the Wheatstone bridge circuit. The electrical wiring is provided on the flexible circuit board. The temperature compensation unit is provided on the flexible circuit board.

In the component according to the eighth aspect, the temperature compensation unit is provided on the flexible circuit board on which the electric wiring is provided. Thus, the temperature compensation unit is attached in the vicinity of the strain gauge.

According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the first to eighth aspects is configured such that the strain gauge has a base material and a resistor provided on the base material.

In the component of the ninth aspect, the resistor is stably supported by the base material on the main body.

According to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the ninth aspect is configured such that the temperature compensation unit is provided on the base material.

In the component according to the tenth aspect, the temperature compensation unit is provided on the base material on which the resistor is provided. Thus, the temperature compensation unit is placed close to the resistor.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the ninth or tenth aspect is configured such that the resistor includes at least one of CuNi, Ni and NiCr.

In the component of the eleventh aspect, the resistor includes at least one of CuNi, Ni, and NiCr. This reduces the electrical resistance of the resistor per unit length.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects is configured such that the resistance element includes Cu.

In the component of the twelfth aspect, the resistance element includes Cu. This reduces the electrical resistance of the resistance element per unit length.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects further includes a cover. The cover is provided on the main body and forms at least a part of an accommodating compartment where the strain gauge and the temperature compensation unit are arranged.

In the component according to the thirteenth aspect, the cover protects at least one of the strain gauge and the temperature compensation unit.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects is configured such that the main body is provided on a support rotatably about a rotation axis.

In the component according to the fourteenth aspect, the strain gauge detects a strain at the support rotating around the axis of rotation.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the fourteenth aspect further includes a rotating state detector detecting a rotating state of the main body.

In the component according to the fifteenth aspect, the rotating state detector detects the rotating state of the main body around the rotating axis.

According to a sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the fourteenth or fifteenth aspect is configured such that the strain gauge is configured to infor mation/s with respect to a force exerted on the main body in the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of rotation.

In the component according to the sixteenth aspect, the strain gauge detects the information on the force applied to the main body in the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of rotation.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the first to sixteenth aspects is configured such that the component includes a component for a human-powered vehicle.

In the component according to the seventeenth aspect, the component for the human-powered vehicle obtains the load-related information(s) which is/are less affected by the ambient temperature.

According to an eighteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the seventeenth aspect is configured such that the main body includes a crank arm.

In the component according to the eighteenth aspect, the crank arm acquires the strain-related information(s) which is/are less influenced by the ambient temperature.

According to a nineteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the first to sixteenth aspects is configured such that the component includes fishing equipment.

With the component of the nineteenth aspect, the fishing equipment obtains the load-related information(s) which is/are less affected by the ambient temperature.

According to a twentieth aspect of the present disclosure, the component of the nineteenth aspect is configured such that the main body includes a fishing rod.

In the component of the twentieth aspect, the fishing rod acquires the strain-related information which is less influenced by the ambient temperature.

The component useful in an outdoor activity according to the present disclosure obtains load-related information that is less affected by ambient temperature.

character list

• 1 14 is a side view showing an example of a human-powered vehicle including an outdoor activity component according to a first embodiment.
• 2 Fig. 14 is a perspective view showing an example of Figs 1 component shown for an outdoor activity.
• 3 is a cross-sectional view of FIG 2 component shown for an outdoor activity.
• 4 Fig. 12 is a block diagram showing the electrical equipment of Figs 2 component shown for an outdoor activity.
• 5 is a block diagram of the in 2 10 shows an outdoor activity component according to a first example, in which a temperature compensating unit is provided on a substrate.
• 6 is a block diagram of the in 2 The outdoor activity component shown in FIG. 2 according to a second example, in which the temperature compensation unit is provided on a flexible circuit board.
• 7 is a block diagram of the in 2 shown component for an outdoor activity according to a third example, in which the temperature compensation unit is provided on a strain gauge.
• 8th is a schematic diagram of the in 4 illustrated strain gauge.
• 9 14 is a perspective view showing an example of an outdoor activity component according to a second embodiment.
• 10 FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing an example of a roller in FIG 9 component shown for an outdoor activity.
• 11 is a cross-sectional view of FIG 10 component shown for an outdoor activity.
• 12 Fig. 12 is a block diagram showing the electrical equipment of Figs 9 component shown for an outdoor activity.

EMBODIMENTS OF THE DISCLOSURE

First embodiment

A component 30 according to a first embodiment will now be described with reference to FIG 1 until 8th described. Below is the Component 30 is described as a component 30 usable in an outdoor activity. The component 30 of the first embodiment can be used for cycling. The component 30 of the first embodiment includes a component 30 for a human-powered vehicle.

A human-powered vehicle 10 is a vehicle including at least one wheel and propelled by at least one human driving force. Examples of a human-powered vehicle 10 include various types of bicycles, such as a mountain bike, a racing bike, a city bike, a cargo bike, a hand bike, and a recumbent bike. The number of wheels of the human-powered vehicle 10 is not limited. The human-powered vehicle 10 also includes, for example, a unicycle or a vehicle having two or more wheels. The human-powered vehicle 10 is not limited to a vehicle that is driven only by human driving force. The human-powered vehicle 10 includes an electric bicycle (e-bike) using driving force of an electric motor for driving in addition to human driving force. The e-bike includes an electric support bike that supports the drive by an electric motor. In the embodiment described below, the human-powered vehicle 10 is referred to as a bicycle.

In one example, the human-powered vehicle 10 includes an input rotating shaft 12, a rear wheel 14A, a front wheel 14B, and a vehicle body 16. The input rotating shaft 12 is, for example, a crank axle. The vehicle body 16 includes a frame 18. The input rotary shaft 12 is disposed on the vehicle body 16 rotatably relative to the frame 18. As shown in FIG. The rear wheel 14A is supported by the frame 18 . In the present embodiment, the rear wheel 14A is connected to the input rotating shaft 12 via a driving mechanism 20 . The rear wheel 14A is driven by rotating the input rotating shaft 12 .

The drive mechanism 20 includes a first rotating body 22. The first rotating body 22 is coupled to the input rotating shaft 12. As shown in FIG. The first rotating body 22 is rotatably coupled to the input rotating shaft 12 integrally. The first rotating body 22 includes a front sprocket. The first rotating body 22 may include a pulley or a bevel gear.

The driving mechanism 20 includes a second rotating body 24 and a link 26. The second rotating body 24 is coupled to the rear wheel 14A. The second rotating body 24 includes a rear sprocket. The second rotating body 24 may include a pulley or a bevel gear. The link 26 transmits the rotational force of the first rotary body 22 to the second rotary body 24. The link 26 includes, for example, a chain, a belt, or a shaft.

The component 30 includes a main body 32, a Wheatstone bridge circuit 34, an input unit 36, an output unit 38 and a temperature compensation unit 40. In the present embodiment, for example, the main body 32 includes a crank arm 42. The crank arm 42 includes a first crank arm 42A and a second Crank Arm 42B. The first crank arm 42A is provided at a first end of the input rotating shaft 12 . The second crank arm 42B is provided at a second end of the input rotating shaft 12 . The main body 32 corresponds to the first crank arm 42A or the second crank arm 42B. In the present embodiment, the Wheatstone bridge circuit 34, the input unit 36, the output unit 38, and the temperature compensation unit 40 are provided on the first crank arm 42A.

In one example, the main body 32 is provided on a support 44 in a rotatable manner about a rotation axis C1. In the present embodiment, the rotation axis C<b>1 coincides with the axis of the input rotation shaft 12 . In the present embodiment, the support 44 corresponds to the input rotating shaft 12. The crank arm 42 is provided on the input rotating shaft 12 to be rotatable about the rotating axis C1. A pedal 12A is provided at each end of the crank arm 42 . The crank arm 42 transmits the human driving force applied to the pedal 12A to the input rotary shaft 12.

The Wheatstone bridge circuit 34 outputs information related to the force applied to the main body 32 in the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of rotation C1. The force applied to the main body 32 in the circumferential direction with respect to the rotation axis C<b>1 corresponds to the force applied to the crank arm 42 , for example. The force applied to the crank arm 42 corresponds to the human driving force applied to the pedal 12A and transmitted to the input rotary shaft 12.

The Wheatstone bridge circuit 34 includes at least one strain gauge 46. In one example, the strain gauge 46 is configured to capture information regarding the force applied to the main body 32 in the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of rotation C1. In the present embodiment, /ent speaks the information regarding the force of extension on the crank arm 42 in the circumferential direction with respect to the input rotating shaft 12 caused to the main body 32 in the circumferential direction with respect to the rotation axis C1. generated and transmitted to the input rotary shaft 12. The at least one strain gauge 46 detects the stress of the crank arm 42 in the circumferential direction with respect to the input rotary shaft 12. The strain gauge 46 outputs electric power corresponding to the detected strain on the crank arm 42. The Wheatstone bridge circuit 34 outputs the electric power, which is output from the strain gauge 46 .

The number of the at least one strain gauges 46 is determined according to a direction in which a strain is detected. In the present embodiment, the number of at least one strain gauge 46 is one. The single strain gauge 46 is arranged to detect strain at the crank arm 42 in the circumferential direction with respect to the input rotating shaft 12 .

In one example, the strain gauge 46 includes a base material 46A and a resistor 46B. The resistor 46B is provided on the base material 46A. The strain gauge 46 includes a gauge wire. The measuring wire is provided on the base material 46A and is electrically connected to the resistor 46B. The measuring wire connects a first resistor 46C and a second resistor 46D. The measuring wire electrically connects the first resistor 46C and the second resistor 46D. In one example, resistor 46B includes at least one of CuNi, Ni, and NiCr.

In one example, resistor 46B includes a plurality of resistors 46B. The resistors 46B include the first resistor 46C and the second resistor 46D. In a case where there are three or more resistors 46B, the first resistor 46C corresponds to any one of the resistors 46B. In a case where there are three or more resistors 46B, the second resistor 46D corresponds to any one of the resistors 46B other than the first resistor 46C. The first resistor 46C and the second resistor 46D are electrically connected to each other. The resistors 46B are provided on the base material 46A to detect a load of the crank arm 42 in the circumferential direction with respect to the input rotating shaft 12 . In the present embodiment, the number of resistors 46B is four.

The at least one strain gauge 46 is provided on the main body 32 . At least a part of the base material 46A is bonded to the main body 32 with an adhesive so that the at least one strain gauge 46 is provided on the main body 32 . The base material 46A is bonded to the main body 32 such that at least the portion of the base material 46A where the resistors 46B are provided is bonded to the main body 32. FIG. In the present embodiment, the at least one strain gauge 46 is glued, for example, to the surface of the crank arm 42 facing the frame 18 of the human-powered vehicle 10 . For example, the at least one strain gauge 46 may be pasted at a position of the crank arm 42 closer to the pedal 12A than the central part in the direction in which the crank arm 42 extends. For example, the at least one strain gauge 46 may be adhered to a position of the crank arm 42 closer to the input rotary shaft 12 than the central part in the direction in which the crank arm 42 extends. In the present embodiment, the at least one strain gauge 46 is bonded to the crank arm 42 at a portion closer to the pedal 12A than the central part in the direction in which the crank arm 42 extends.

The input unit 36 is electrically connected to the Wheatstone bridge circuit 34 . The input unit 36 is electrically connected to the strain gauge 46 . The input unit 36 receives a signal. The signal contains a voltage value. The input signal received from the input unit 36 is input to the Wheatstone bridge circuit 34 and then to the strain gauge 46 . The output unit 38 is electrically connected to the Wheatstone bridge circuit 34 . The output unit 38 is electrically connected to the strain gauge 46 . The output unit 38 outputs a signal. The output includes a voltage value output from the Wheatstone bridge circuit 34. The voltage value output from the Wheatstone bridge circuit 34 corresponds to the strain on the crank arm 42 detected by the strain gauge 46. In the present embodiment, the input unit 36 and the output unit 38 provided on the base material 46A.

In one example, component 30 further includes a signal processing unit 48. In one example, signal processing unit 48 is electrically connected to output unit 38 to process an input signal input from output unit 38. The input signal includes a voltage value corresponding to the strain of the measured by the strain gauge 46 Crank arm 42. The processing of the input signal performed by the signal processing unit 48 includes a procedure related to the calculation of the information/s relating to the force applied to the main body 32. FIG. The method of processing the input signal performed by the signal processing unit 48 includes at least one of amplifying an input signal and converting an input signal from an analog signal to a digital signal. The signal processing unit 48 outputs an output signal obtained by processing an input signal.

The signal processing unit 48 includes at least one of an amplifier 48A and an analog to digital (AD) converter 48B. In the present embodiment, the signal processing unit 48 includes both the amplifier 48A and the AD converter 48B. The amplifier 48A is electrically connected to the output unit 38 to process an input signal inputted from the output unit 38 . Amplifier 48A amplifies the input signal. The AD converter 48B is electrically connected to the amplifier 48A to process the input signal inputted from the amplifier 48A. AD converter 48B converts the input signal from an analog signal to a digital signal. In a case where the signal processing unit 48 does not include the amplifier 48A, the AD converter 48B is electrically connected to the output unit 38 to process the input signal inputted from the output unit 38.

In one example, the signal processing unit 48 includes a computer 48C. The computer 48C includes, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) or a micro processing unit (MPU). Computer 48C may be provided at separate locations. Computer 48C may include one or more microcomputers. Preferably, computer 48C further includes memory. The memory stores various control programs and information/s used for various control methods. The memory can store a processing result of the computer 48C. The memory includes, for example, non-volatile memory and volatile memory. The non-volatile memory includes, for example, at least one of a read only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), and a flash memory. The volatile memory includes, for example, a random access memory (RAM). A signal output unit 50 may be configured to output the processing result of the computer 48C stored in memory.

In one example, the computer 48C is configured to calculate the information regarding the force applied to the main body 32 based on the input signal. The computer 48C is electrically connected to the output unit 38 to process the input signal input from the output unit 38 . The computer 48C amplifies the input signal. Computer 48C is electrically connected to AD converter 48B to process the input signal inputted from AD converter 48B. In a case where the signal processing unit 48 does not include the AD converter 48B, the computer 48C may be configured to process an input signal, which is an analog signal.

In the present embodiment, the force applied to the main body 32 corresponds to the human driving force applied to the pedal 12A and transmitted to the input rotary shaft 12. In the present embodiment, the computer 48C calculates the human driving force applied to the pedal 12A and based on the input signal transmitted to the input rotary shaft 12. The human driving force detected by the computer 48C is used, for example, to control at least one external device 50B, the main body 32, and an electrically powered device for a human-powered vehicle other than the main body 32.

The electrically powered device for a human-powered vehicle other than the main body 32 includes, for example, an electric unit configured to cause a driving force to the human-powered vehicle 10 . The human driving force obtained from the computer 48C is used to control an output of the driving unit, for example. The electric powered device for a human-powered vehicle other than the main body 32 includes, for example, a transmission of the human-powered vehicle 10. The human driving force obtained by the computer 48C can be used to control the transmission, for example. The external device 50B includes a display, for example. In one example, the display may represent the human driving force obtained from computer 48C.

In one example, the component 30 further includes a signal output unit 50. The signal output unit 50 is electrically connected to the signal processing unit 48 to output an output signal output from the signal processing unit 48 to the external device 50B. In an example, the signal output unit 50 includes a wireless communication unit 50A. The Wireless communication unit 50A transmits the output signal to external device 50B through wireless communication. The wireless communication unit 50A is electrically connected to the signal processing unit 48 to output the output signal output from the signal processing unit 48 to the external device 50B. The wireless communication unit 50A is electrically connected to the computer 48C to output the output signal output from the computer 48C to the external device 50B. The wireless communication unit 50A is electrically connected to the computer 48C via an electrical connector and an electrical cable.

The wireless communication unit 50A includes an antenna section. The wireless communication unit 50A is configured to perform communication, for example, via at least one of Bluetooth (registered trademark), ANT+ (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), and infrared communication. The wireless communication unit 50A may be provided on a substrate 56 . In a case where the wireless communication unit 50A is provided on the substrate 56, the wireless communication unit 50A can be connected to the computer 48C via electrical wiring 60 formed on the substrate 56 without an electrical connector or cable. The wireless communication unit 50A can transmit information via a communication protocol other than Bluetooth, ANT+, Wi-Fi, and versatile infrared communication.

The wireless communication unit 50A is configured to establish wireless communication with the external device 50B. The external device 50B includes a display. The external device 50B includes at least one of an operating device of the human-powered vehicle 10, a cycle computer, a smartphone, a tablet computer, and a personal computer, for example. The external device 50B is configured to display information/s transmitted from the wireless communication unit 50A.

In one example, the component 30 further includes a rotational state detector 52. The rotational state detector 52 detects a rotational state of the main body 32. The rotational state detector 52 detects a rotational state of at least a portion of the main body 32 with respect to the rotational axis C1. The rotating state detected by the rotating state detector 52 includes at least one of rotating speed, rotating acceleration, and rotating direction, for example. In the present embodiment, the rotating state detector 52 detects the rotating speed of the crank arm 42 in the circumferential direction with respect to the rotating axis C1. The rotational state detector 52 includes a magnetic sensor, for example. The magnetic sensor detects, for example, a magnetic force of a magnet provided on the frame 18. The magnetic sensor includes, for example, a reed switch including a magnetic reed. The distance between the magnetic sensor and the magnet changes according to the rotation of the crank arm 42. Thus, the magnetic sensor outputs a signal corresponding to the rotational speed of the crank arm 42. The rotation state detector 52 may be included in the signal processing unit 48 .

The rotational state detector 52 is electrically connected to the computer 48C. The output of the rotational state detector 52 to the computer 48C is a signal related to the rotational speed of the crank arm 42 in the circumferential direction with respect to the rotational axis C1. The output of the signal related to the rotation speed of the crank arm 42 in the circumferential direction with respect to the rotation axis C1 is output from the computer 48C to the wireless communication unit 50A. The wireless communication unit 50A outputs to the external device 50B the signal related to the rotation speed of the crank arm 42 in the circumferential direction with respect to the rotation axis C 1 .

In one example, the component 30 includes a power supply device or power supply unit 54. The power supply device 54 feeds electrical power or electrical current or electrical energy to the Wheatstone bridge circuit 34. The power supply device 54 feeds the Wheatstone bridge circuit 34 via the input unit 36 with electrical power or electrical energy Electricity or electrical energy. The power supply device 54 is set up to supply the strain gauge 46, the signal processing unit 48, the signal output unit 50 and the rotational state detector 52 with electrical power or electrical current or electrical energy. The power supply device 54 includes one or more battery cells. The power supply device 54 includes a rechargeable battery, for example. The power supply device 54 can contain a primary cell, for example a button cell, which only delivers electrical power or electrical current or electrical energy. In the present embodiment, the power supply device 54 is a rechargeable battery. Preferably, the power supply device 54 is detachable from the main body 32 .

The power supply device 54 includes a power input portion 54A, and a power supply device cover 54B. The power input section 54A receives electric power for charging the rechargeable battery. The power input portion 54A includes at least one of an electric terminal, an electric wire, and an electric connector. The power supply device cover 54B is configured to cover the power input portion 54A. The power supply cover 54B is provided to be detachable from the power supply 54 . In one example, the power supply device cover 54B is removed in a case where electric power is input to the power input portion 54A.

In one example, component 30 further includes substrate 56 . In one example, signal processing unit 48 is provided on substrate 56 . In an example, the signal output unit 50 and the rotation state detector 52 are provided on the substrate 56 .

In one example, component 30 further includes a flexible printed circuit board 58. In the present embodiment, flexible printed circuit board 58 includes a first flexible printed circuit board 58A and a second flexible printed circuit board 58B. The first flexible printed circuit board 58A is arranged to connect the Wheatstone bridge circuit 34 and the substrate 56. FIG. The second flexible printed circuit board 58B is arranged to connect the substrate 56 and the power supply device 54 . The first flexible printed circuit board 58A may be integrally formed with the second flexible printed circuit board 58B.

In one example, component 30 further includes electrical wiring or wiring 60 . In one example, electrical wiring 60 is provided on flexible circuit board 58 . Electrical wiring 60 is routed to substrate 56 and flexible circuit board 58 . In one example, electrical wiring 60 is electrically connected to Wheatstone bridge circuit 34 . Electrical wiring 60 electrically connects Wheatstone bridge circuit 34 to substrate 56. Electrical wiring 60 electrically connects input unit 36 to temperature compensation unit 40. Electrical wiring 60 electrically connects output unit 38 to amplifier 48A. Electrical wiring 60 electrically connects power supply device 54 to substrate 56. Electrical wiring 60 electrically connects Wheatstone bridge circuit 34 to power supply device 54.

In one example, component 30 further includes a cover 62. Cover 62 is formed of metal. The cover 62 can be made of plastic. The cover 62 includes a first cover 62A and a second cover 62B. In one example, cover 62 forms at least a portion of storage compartment 62C. The first cover 62A forms at least a part of the storage compartment 62C in a direction parallel to the axial direction of the rotation axis C1. The second cover 62B forms at least a part of the accommodation compartment 62C in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotation axis C1.

In one example, the storage compartment 62C is provided on the main body 32 . The strain gauge 46 and the temperature compensation unit 40 are arranged in the accommodation compartment 62C. The housing compartment 62C houses at least one of the Wheatstone bridge circuit 34, the input unit 36, the output unit 38, the signal processing unit 48, the rotating state detector 52 and the electrical power supply device 54. The housing compartment 62C houses at least one of the substrate 56 , the electrical wiring 60 , and the flexible wired circuit board 58 .

The temperature compensation unit 40 is electrically connected to the power supply device 54 and the Wheatstone bridge circuit 34 . The temperature compensation unit 40 is electrically connected to the input unit 36 . The temperature compensation unit 40 is provided on the electrical wiring 60 connecting the power supply 54 to the Wheatstone bridge circuit 34 . The temperature compensation unit 40 receives the electrical power or electrical current or electrical energy which is fed from the power supply device 54 to the Wheatstone bridge circuit 34 . The temperature compensation unit 40 is connected in series with the Wheatstone bridge circuit 34 . The Wheatstone bridge circuit 34 receives the electrical power or electrical current or electrical energy from the power supply device 54 via the temperature compensation unit 40.

The temperature compensation unit 40 reduces a rate of change of a voltage value output from the output unit 38 relative to a temperature change. The temperature compensation unit 40 reduces a rate of change of an output unit 38 output voltage value relative to a temperature change by correcting a voltage value received from the temperature compensation unit 40 . The temperature compensation unit 40 is set up to correct the received voltage value according to the temperature. The temperature compensation unit 40 sends the electric power corresponding to the voltage value after the temperature is corrected to the input unit 36. The temperature compensation unit 40 includes a thin-film temperature sensor. For example, a resistance temperature sensor for temperature compensation is used as the temperature compensation unit 40 . For example, LP73 (product name) manufactured by KOA Corporation is used as the resistance temperature sensor.

The temperature compensation unit 40 includes a resistance element 40A. The electric power inputted to the temperature compensation unit 40 is received by the resistance element 40A. The electric resistance of the resistance element 40A changes according to the temperature. In one example, the electrical resistance of the resistance element 40A changes according to temperature in a predetermined temperature range. Since the electric resistance of the resistance element 40A changes according to the temperature, the voltage output from the temperature compensation unit 40 is corrected according to the temperature. In one example, resistive element 40A includes Cu. In one example, at least a portion of resistive element 40A is formed of Cu.

In one example, the temperature compensation unit 40 is configured to make the rate of change less than or equal to 5% in the predetermined temperature range. In one example, the temperature compensation unit 40 is configured to make the rate of change less than or equal to 1% in the predetermined temperature range. The predetermined temperature range is between -10°C and 50°C, for example. The temperature range of -10°C to 50°C corresponds to a temperature range of the environment in which the human-powered vehicle 10 is used.

As in the 5 until 7 As illustrated, the temperature compensation unit 40 may be provided at various positions. As in 5 For example, as shown, the temperature compensation unit 40 is provided on the substrate 56 . The temperature compensation unit 40 is mounted on the substrate 56 . As in 6 For example, as shown, the temperature compensation unit 40 is provided on the flexible circuit board 58 . The temperature compensation unit 40 is provided on the first flexible circuit board 58A, for example. As in 7 1, the temperature compensation unit 40 is provided at the Wheatstone bridge circuit 34, for example. The temperature compensation unit 40 is provided on the base material 46A, for example.

The output of the stress value of the strain gauge 46 corresponding to the detected strain varies depending on the ambient temperature. The output of the stress value of the strain gauge 46 corresponding to the strain is smaller in an example where the ambient temperature is -10°C than in a case where the ambient temperature is 20°C. In an example where the ambient temperature is 50°C, the stress value output from the strain gauge 46 corresponding to the strain is larger than in a case where the ambient temperature is 20°C. The computer 48C calculates information on the force applied to the main body 32 based on the input signal corresponding to the strain. In this case, the computer 48C needs to perform the calculation considering the influence of the ambient temperature on the strain gauge 46 in order to reduce the influence. For example, when a temperature sensor or the like is provided to detect the ambient temperature of the strain gauge 46, the number of parts increases.

The temperature compensation unit 40 of the present embodiment corrects the electric power output to the Wheatstone bridge circuit 34 to reduce an amount of change in an output of the strain gauge 46 relative to the temperature of the environment in which the strain gauge 46 is used . In one example, the temperature compensation unit 40 corrects the voltage value to make the voltage value larger in a case where the ambient temperature is -10°C than in a case where the ambient temperature is 20°C. In one example, the temperature compensation unit 40 corrects the voltage value so that the voltage value in a case where the ambient temperature is 50°C is smaller than in a case where the ambient temperature is 20°C. Even if the output of a strain gauge changes according to the ambient temperature at which the strain gauge 46 is used, the temperature compensation unit 40 corrects the output of the strain gauge. Therefore, the on force exerted on the main body 32 is accurately detected without using a temperature sensor or the like.

Second embodiment

A component 30 according to a second embodiment will now be described with reference to FIG 9 until 12 described. The component 30 of the second embodiment is the same as the component 30 of the first embodiment except that the main body is a fishing rod. The components of the second embodiment that are the same as the corresponding components of the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals. Such components are not described in detail.

As in 9 As shown, the component 30 of the second embodiment includes a fishing tackle 70. The component 30 of the second embodiment is useful for fishing. The fishing equipment 70 includes a main body 72, a Wheatstone bridge circuit 34X, an input unit 36X, an output unit 38X and the temperature compensation unit 40. In the present embodiment, the main body 72 includes, for example, a fishing rod 74. The fishing rod 74 includes a reel 76 and rod body 78.

In one example, fishing rod 74 includes rod bodies 78 connected together. Each of the rod bodies 78 is tapered. The rod bodies 78 include a rod base 78A, a rod waist 78B and a rod tip 78C. The rod base 78A is the portion closest to the base end of the fishing rod 74 and has a large diameter. The rod center 78B is that point which is toward the rod tip from the rod base 78A. The rod tip 78C is that portion which is from the middle part 78B towards the rod tip. The rod bodies 78 are connected to one another in a known manner, such as telescopically or articulated.

In one example, a reel seat 78D is provided on an outer peripheral portion of the rod base 78A to accommodate the reel 76 . In one example, line guides 78E are provided on the rod bodies 78 at intervals in the axial direction of the fishing rod 74 . In one example, an upper guide 78F is provided at the end of the rod body 78 . The top guide 78F is attached to the top of the rod tip 78C. A fishing line L drawn from the spool 76 is passed through the line guides 78E and threaded. Preferably, the rod bodies 78 are formed by firing a prepreg material in which a reinforced fiber, such as carbon fiber or glass fiber, is impregnated with a thermosetting plastic, such as an epoxy resin. The rod tip 78C is preferably made of a rigid material.

In one example, reel 76 is a flat, dual bearing, bait casting reel. In one example, the reel 76 includes a handle assembly 80 of the reel 76, a handle shaft 80C of the handle assembly 80, a spool 82, a brake assembly 84 braking rotation of the spool 82, and a housing 86 of the reel 76. The handle assembly 80 is on the Housing 86 arranged to rotate the spool 82. On the side of the grip unit 80 facing the housing 86 there is a brake star 88A for regulating the traction.

In one example, the handle assembly 80 includes an arm 80A and handles 80B. The handles 80B are rotatably attached to both ends of the arm 80A, respectively. The handle unit 80 is a double handle unit. The arm 80A is attached to one end of the handle shaft 80C and is rotatable integrally with the handle shaft 80C. The arm 80A is connected to the handle shaft 80C by a nut 80D.

In one example, housing 86 includes a lightweight metal, such as a magnesium alloy. In one example, the housing 86 includes a frame 86A, a first side cover 86B, and a second side cover 86C. The first side cover 86B and the second side cover 86C are attached to both lateral and lateral sides of the frame 86A, respectively. Inside the housing 86, the spool 82 for winding the fishing line L is rotatably provided with respect to the housing 86 by means of a spool shaft 82D.

In one example, the frame 86A houses the spool 82, a clutch lever 86D, and a level winding mechanism 86E. The clutch lever 86D is a lever on which a thumb is put to perform a thumb operation. The level winding mechanism 86E is a mechanism for winding the fishing line L around the spool 82 evenly.

In one example, a gear mechanism 90, a clutch mechanism 92, a clutch control mechanism 92A, a brake mechanism 88, and an ejection control mechanism 94 are disposed between the frame 86A and the second side cover 86C. The gear mechanism 90 transmits the rotational force received from the handle unit 80 to the spool 82 and the clutch lever 86D. The clutch mechanism 92 switches the connection and disconnection of the spool 82 and the handle unit 80. The clutch control mechanism 92A controls the clutch mechanism 92 in response to the operation of the clutch lever 86D. The drag mechanism 88 brakes the spool 82. The cast-out control mechanism 94 regulates the drag force generated as the spool 82 rotates. The braking unit 84 for the spool 82 is electrically controlled and is located between the frame 86A and the first side cover 86B. The drag unit 84 is a unit for preventing backlash from occurring when casting a fishing rod.

In one example, the frame 86A includes a first side panel 86F, a second side panel 86G, and connecting portions 86H. The first side plate 86F and the second side plate 86G face each other at a predetermined distance. The connecting portions 86H integrally connect the first side plate 86F and the second side plate 86G to each other. The first side panel 86F includes a circular opening 86J. A bobbin support 86K is releasably secured in opening 86J. The spool support 86K forms part of the housing 86. The spool support 86K includes a bearing seat 86M in which a first bearing 82M is received. First bearing 82M supports one end of spool 82. Spool support 86K includes male threads having female threads formed in opening 86J. The coil support 86K is attached to the opening 86J and fixed therein.

In one example, the spool 82 includes a flange 82A at two axial ends of the spool 82. In one example, the spool 82 includes a cylindrical spool trunk 82B disposed between the flanges 82A. The flange 82A located toward the first side cover 86B includes an outer peripheral surface located on the inner wall side of the opening 86J with a slight clearance therebetween so as not to catch the fishing line L. The spool 82 is non-rotatably attached to the spool shaft 82D, such as by a splined connection. The spool shaft 82D extends through the bobbin trunk 82B on the inner peripheral side.

In one example, the spool shaft 82D includes a non-magnetic metal such as SUS304 or the like. The spool shaft 82D extends through the second side plate 86G and out of the second side cover 86C. The end of the spool shaft 82D extending out of the second side cover 86C is rotatably supported by a bracket 86L having a second bearing 82N. The bracket 86L is attached to the second side cover 86C. The other end of the spool shaft 82D is rotatably supported by the housing 86 with the first bearing 82M. The spool shaft 82D includes a large-diameter portion 82E in a central part. A first small-diameter portion 82F and a second small-diameter portion 82G are formed at two ends of the large-diameter portion 82E. The first small-diameter portion 82F and the second small-diameter portion 82G are supported by the housing 86 via the first bearing 82M and the second bearing 82N. The first bearing 82M and the second bearing 82N are rolling bearings each including a rolling element, an inner ring, and an outer ring. The first bearing 82M and the second bearing 82N are made of SUS404C, for example, with the surfaces modified for improved corrosion resistance.

In one example, a magnet attachment portion 82H is formed between the large-diameter portion 82E and the first small-diameter portion 82F, located toward the first side cover 86B. The magnet attachment portion H has an outer diameter larger than that of the first small-diameter portion 82F and smaller than that of the large-diameter portion 82E. A magnet holding portion 82J is non-rotatably attached to the magnet attachment portion H, for example, by spline bonding. The magnet holding portion 82J is formed, for example, by electroless nickel plating on a surface of a ferrous material, such as SUM, which is subjected to extrusion, machining, or the like. The magnet holding portion 82J is a quadrangular post-like member having a square cross section. The magnet holding portion 82J includes a through hole 82K in the central part. The magnet attachment portion 82H extends through the through hole 82K. The method of coupling the magnet holding portion 82J to the magnet attachment portion H is not limited to the serration, and may include various types of methods such as spline connection or spline connection.

The end of the large-diameter portion 82E of the spool shaft 82D, located toward the second side cover 86C, is located where the large-diameter portion 82E extends through the second side plate 86G. An engaging pin 82L is fixed to the end of the large-diameter portion 82E of the spool shaft 82D, located toward the second side cover 86C. The engaging pin 82L is a part of the clutch mechanism 92. The engaging pin 82L extends through the large-diameter portion 82E in the radial direction so that both ends of the engaging pin 82L protrude from the large-diameter portion 82E in the radial direction.

The clutch lever 86D is located behind the spool 82 between the first side plate 86F and the second side plate 86G. The clutch lever 86D is connected to the clutch control mechanism 92A. In a case where the clutch lever 86D is slid between the first side plate 86F and the second side plate 86G, the clutch mechanism 92 is switched between a connected state and a disconnected state.

In one example, the gear mechanism 90 includes the handle shaft 80C, a drive wheel 90A, and a pinion 90B. The drive gear 90A is fixed to the handle shaft 80C. The pinion 90B is cylindrical and meshes with the drive wheel 90A. The handle shaft 80C is rotatably attached to the second side plate 86G and the second side cover 86C. A roller one-way clutch 90G and a claw one-way clutch 90H prevent the handle shaft 80C from rotating in a fishing-line releasing direction. The one-way clutch 90G is provided between the second side cover 86C and the handle shaft 80C. The drive gear 90A is rotatably attached to the handle shaft 80C. The drive gear 90A is coupled to the handle shaft 80C with the brake mechanism 88 interposed therebetween.

The pinion gear 90B is a cylindrical member extending inward from the outside of the second side plate 86G. The spool shaft 82D extends through the center portion of the pinion gear 90B. The pinion gear 90B is attached to the spool shaft 82D movably in the axial direction relative to the spool shaft 82D. The end of the pinion gear 90B located toward the first side cover 86B is supported by the second side plate 86G with a bearing 90C so that the pinion gear 90B is rotatable relative to the second side plate 86G and movable in the axial direction. In one example, the end of the pinion gear 90B located toward the first side cover 86B includes an engagement groove 90D which engages with the engagement pin 82L. The engagement groove 90D and the engagement pin 82L constitute the clutch mechanism 92. In one example, the pinion gear 90B includes a narrowed portion 90E at an intermediate portion. The pinion gear 90B further includes a gear portion 90F at the end opposite to the meshing groove 90D for meshing with the drive gear 90A.

In one example, the clutch control mechanism 92A includes a clutch yoke 92B that is moved in a direction in which the spool shaft 82D extends. In one example, the clutch control mechanism 92A includes a clutch return mechanism setting the clutch mechanism 92 in an engaged state in cooperation with the rotation of the spool 82 in a fishing-line winding direction.

In one example, chute control mechanism 94 includes friction plates 94A and a brake cap 94B. The friction plates 94A clamp both ends of the spool shaft 82D. Brake cap 94B adjusts the clamping force applied by friction plates 94A to spool shaft 82D. The friction plate 94A, located near the first side cover 86B, is attached to the inside of the reel support 86K.

In one example, the fishing equipment 70 further includes the spinning state detector 52X detecting a spinning state of at least a portion of the main body 72. In one example, a spool braking mechanism 84E includes the braking unit 84, the spinning state detector 52X, a spool control unit 84F and a mode button 84G. The drag unit 84 is provided on the spool 82 and the case 86 . The rotational state detector 52X detects the rotational speed of the spool 82. The spool control unit 84F of the spool is arranged to control the braking unit 84. FIG. The mode button 84G is provided for selecting one of four braking modes to control the braking unit 84 .

The braking unit 84 is electrically controllable and set up to brake the coil 82 by generating electricity. In one example, the braking unit 84 includes a rotor 84A, coils 84B, and a switching element 84C. The rotor 84A includes magnets juxtaposed in the direction of rotation of the spool shaft 82D. The coils 84B are connected in series and arranged to face the outer peripheral portion of the rotor 84A. The switching element 84C is connected to both ends of the series-connected coils 84B. The number of magnets is four, for example. The number of coils 84B is four, for example. The braking unit 84 is set up to brake the coil 82 by changing a duty cycle. The braking unit 84 changes a duty cycle by using the switching element 84C to turn off the electric current generated by the relative rotation of the magnets and the coils 84B. The braking force generated by the braking unit 84 increases as the length of time during which the switching element 84C is on becomes longer. The on-time increases as the length of time that the switching element 84C is on increases.

For example, the four magnets of the rotor 84A are arranged in the circumferential direction such that the polarities of the adjacent magnets are different. Every magnet is essentially are the same length as the magnet holding portion 82J. The magnet holding portion 82J includes a flat inner surface and an outer surface arcuate in cross section. The inner surface of the magnet holding portion 82J is arranged to contact the outer surface of the spool shaft 82D.

A sleeve 84D is attached to the inner surface of the bobbin trunk 82B at a position facing the magnets. The sleeve 84D includes, for example, a magnetic body obtained by electroless nickel plating on a surface of a ferrous material such as SUM, which is subjected to extrusion, machining, or the like. The sleeve 84D is secured to the inner surface of the bobbin trunk 82B by any suitable fastening means such as press fitting, gluing or the like. The sleeve 84D containing the magnet body is positioned facing the magnets to focus the magnetic flux of the magnets and direct it through the coils 84B. This improves the efficiencies when generating electrical power and when braking.

In one example, the coreless spools 84B are used to limit cogging and maintain smooth rotation of the spool 82 . In one example, coils 84B do not include a yoke. The coils 84B are wound into a substantially rectangular configuration such that the core wires face the magnets and are in the magnetic field of the magnets. The four coils 84B are connected in series, and both ends of each coil 84B are connected to the switching element 84C. The coils 84B are arcuately curved in the direction of rotation of the coil 82 and are substantially concentric with respect to the axis of rotation of the coil shaft 82D such that the distance between the coils 84B and the outer surface of the magnets is substantially constant. In other words, the distance between the coils 84B and the rotating magnets is kept constant. In one example, the coils 84B are mounted on a circuit board 82P.

In one example, switching element 84C includes two field effect transistors (FETs) connected in parallel and configured to perform high-speed on/off control. The series connected inductors 84B are connected to the respective drains of the FETs. In one example, switching element 84C is mounted on circuit board 82P.

The rotating state detector 52X uses a photoelectric switch, for example. The photoelectric switch is a light emitting/light receiving type including a light emitting portion and a light receiving portion. A tubular detecting portion 82C is formed integrally with the outer surface of the flange 82A of the coil 82 facing the circuit board 82P. The tubular detection portion 82C includes slits arranged at intervals in the direction of rotation. The rotating state detector 52X is arranged so that the light emitting portion and the light receiving portion face each other with the tubular detecting portion 82C interposed therebetween. The rotational state detector 52X is arranged to detect the rotational speed of the spool 82 from the light passing through the slits.

In one example, the mode button 84G is provided for selecting one of four braking modes. In one example, the four braking modes include L mode, M mode, A mode, and W mode. A first braking force and a second braking force are set in the four braking modes and are different in the four braking modes. L mode is a long-distance mode, M mode is a medium-distance mode, A mode is an all-round mode, and W mode is a wind mode.

The L mode is for using a fishing line L having a low specific gravity. L mode is a long range mode used for casting very long distances in preferred downwind conditions using a heavy, low drag terminal or end tackle (bait) such as a spoon bait, metal clamp assembly, vibrating bait or similar. In L mode, the energy is used to the maximum immediately after ejection. The L mode is to extend the flying distance of the terminal by maximally increasing the maximum rotating speed of the spool 82 and allowing the spool 82 to rotate almost freely in the middle and subsequent stages of casting. The first braking force of the L mode is set as the smallest among the four braking modes.

The M mode is set to use a lower drag wobbler such as a moving wobbler, a pencil bait, a vibrating wobbler or the like. The M mode is set to increase the flight distance of the terminal while preventing hunting immediately after casting and narrowly preventing backlash by appropriately correcting the rotation of the spool 82 in the middle and subsequent phases of casting . Preferably, the M mode is set as the default when fishing line L based on low specific gravity polyamide resins is used.

A mode is designed to maximize the use of energy immediately after ejection, with an emphasis on extending the flight distance of the terminal device in the later stage of ejection. The A mode is operable in almost all conditions, regardless of the type of fishing line L and terminal equipment and the direction of the wind. In particular, it is preferable that the A mode is set as the standard when a fluorocarbon-based fishing line L with a high specific gravity is used.

The W mode is to extend the terminal distance by preventing the game as much as possible, even under the condition that the terminal distance is reduced in full headwind. The second braking force of the W mode is set as the largest among the four braking modes. W mode is set for optimal casting into headwinds with a fixed center of gravity minnow bait or a flat crankbait, slightly spinning and slowing in flight. The W mode is set to reliably limit the backlash even in a case where the spool 82 is rotated at a low speed in short-distance casting such as pitch-casting, skip-casting or the like.

The mode button 84G is pivotally mounted on the first side cover 86B. The mode button 84G can be positioned in one of four rotational positions corresponding to braking modes. A magnet is provided on the mode button 84G. A mode button position sensor is mounted on circuit board 82P. The mode button position sensor includes two Hall elements spaced apart in a region over which the magnet rotates. The mode button position sensor detects the rotational phase of the mode button 84G by turning on and off the two Hall elements caused by the passing of the magnet. Specifically, the switching states of the Hall elements include "one both ON state", "one one ON and the other OFF state", "one one OFF and the other OFF state" and "one both OFF state". Each of the four braking modes is set by a control unit after the rotation phase of the mode knob 84G.

In one example, the coil controller 84F includes the circuit board 82P and controller. The circuit board 82P is attached to a surface of the coil support 86K facing the flange 82A of the coil 82. FIG. The control unit is mounted on the circuit board 82P.

The circuit board 82P is an annular plate having the shape of a washer with a circular opening in the central part. The circuit board 82P is arranged on the outer peripheral side of the bearing seat 86M substantially concentrically with the spool shaft 82D. The circuit board 82P is attached to the coil support 86K rotatably with respect to the coil support 86K. The circuit board 82P is in a predetermined position with respect to the opening 86J. Thus, the circuit board 82P is arranged in a constant phase even when the coil support 86K is rotated and removed from the opening 86J.

The circuit board 82P is provided on the surface of the coil support 86K facing the flange 82A of the coil 82, thereby enabling the coils 84B around the rotor 84A to be attached directly to the circuit board 82P. This obviates the need for a lead wire to connect the coils 84B and the circuit board 82P. Accordingly, insulation failure between the coils 84B and the circuit board 82P is reduced. The coils 84B are mounted on the circuit board 82P to which the coil support 86K is attached. Thus, in a case where the circuit board 82P is attached to the coil support 86K, the coils 84B are also attached to the coil support 86K. This facilitates assembly of the spool drag mechanism 84E. The circuit board 82P is mounted on the coil support 86K rotatably relative to the coil support 86K. Further, the circuit board 82P is arranged in a predetermined position with respect to the opening 86J. Therefore, the phase between the circuit board 82P and the case 86 is not changed. This enables the Hall elements to always detect the magnet in the same positional relationship even when the Hall elements are provided on the circuit board 82P and the magnet is provided on the mode button 84G attached to the first side cover 86B which is opened and can be closed.

The control unit includes a CPU or MPU, for example. The control unit can be provided at separate positions. The control unit may include one or more microcomputers. Preferably, the control unit further includes a memory. The memory stores various control programs and information/s used for various control methods. A processing result of the control can be stored in the memory. The memory includes, for example, non-volatile memory and volatile memory. The non-volatile memory includes, for example, at least one of a ROM, an EPROM, an EEPROM, and a flash memory. The volatile memory includes a RAM. The non-volatile memory of the control unit stores control programs and a variety of data related to the four braking modes and used for two braking procedures drive. The various data include information regarding the first braking force, information regarding the second braking force used, timers, and the like. The non-volatile memory of the control unit also stores setting values for the reference voltage, the initial voltage and the like in each braking mode.

The control unit is connected to the rotational state detector 52X and the mode button position sensor, detecting a pivotal position of the mode button 84G. The control unit is connected to the gates of the respective FETs of switching element 84C. The control unit is configured to perform on-off control of the switching element 84C of the brake unit 84, using, for example, a pulse width modulation signal (PWM signal) with a cycle of 1/1000 second based on inputs from the rotation state detector 52X and the position sensor of the mode button and a control program is used. The control unit is configured to carry out the on-off control of the switching element 84C with a duty ratio in a selected braking mode. The duty cycle is reduced according to the rotation speed. The control unit receives the electric power from a power supply device 54X. Preferably, the control unit is set up to detect that the terminal is in a water landing state. In a case where the terminal is in the water landing state, the control unit notifies an angler of this state by an acoustic signal.

In one example, the control unit includes a coil controller, a voltage detector, a water landing determination part, and a water landing notification part as functional components implemented by software. The controller is set up to carry out a braking procedure. The tension detector is set up to calculate the tension on the fishing line L . The tension detector calculates the tension on the fishing line L according to, for example, the information on the force applied to the spool shaft 82D. The water landing determination part includes a non-acceleration state determination section, a non-acceleration time determination section, and a speed determination section as functional components. The non-acceleration state determination section is configured to determine a non-acceleration state in which the spool 82 is not accelerated. The non-accelerating state includes a constant speed spinning state and a decelerating spinning state. The non-acceleration state determination section is configured to determine the non-acceleration state from time-series outputs of the rotation state detector 52X. The non-acceleration time determination section is configured to determine whether the non-acceleration state has continued for a predetermined period of time. The predetermined period of time is, for example, 0.05 to 0.5 seconds. The speed determining section is arranged to determine whether the rotational speed of the spool 82 has reached a very low terminal speed set as a reference for determining the water landing state. In a case where the water landing determination part determines that the terminal is in the water landing state, the water landing notification part is set up to convert the frequency for a work control or duty control into a frequency in the audible range and a work-related or duty-related tone, that is a duty control sound to inform the angler of the determination result that the terminal is in the water landing state.

In the present embodiment, a power storage element 54Y includes an electrolytic capacitor, for example. The power storage element 54Y is connected to a rectifier circuit. The rectifier circuit is connected to switching element 84C. The rectifier circuit converts the AC power from the braking unit 84 into DC power and stabilizes the voltage to supply the power storage element 54Y with the stabilized voltage. The braking unit 84 includes the rotor 84A and the coils 84B and serves as a power generator. In the present embodiment, the power supply device 54X further includes the braking unit 84 and the rectifying circuit.

In one example, rectifier circuitry and power storage element 54Y are mounted on circuit board 82P. The parts mounted on the circuit board 82P, such as the coils 84B, are covered with an insulating sheet 82Q made of a plastic insulator. The insulating sheet 82Q has a cylindrical configuration with a rim. The insulating sheet 82Q covers the coils 84B, the circuit board 82P, and the electronic components mounted on the circuit board 82P. The light emitting and receiving portions of the rotating state detector 52X are exposed to the outside of the insulating sheet 82Q.

When casting, an angler pushes down the clutch lever 86D to set the clutch mechanism 92 in a disengaged state. In the disengaged state, the spool 82 is in a free rotating state. In a case where casting is performed in this state, the fishing line L is spooled out from the spool 82 with great momentum due to the weight of the terminal. In a case where the spool 82 is rotated upon ejection, the magnets on the inner peripheral side of the spools 84B are rotated. Accordingly, the switching element 84C is turned on and the electric current flows through the coils 84B. As a result, the spool 82 is braked. During casting, the speed of rotation of the spool 82 increases rapidly and then gradually decreases after reaching its maximum value.

In a case where the terminal enters the water landing state, the work control tone sounds to let the angler know that the terminal has landed on the water. The angler, having recognized that the terminal has landed on the water, turns the handle unit 80 in the direction of winding the fishing line. Accordingly, the clutch return mechanism places the clutch mechanism 92 in an engaged state. The angler waits for a fish bite while holding the housing 86 in his hand.

Actuation of the brake control performed by the control unit upon casting will now be summarized.

In a case where the ejection starts and the electric power of the control unit is supplied from the power supply device 54X, a plurality of positions are set in the control unit according to the position of the mode button 84G. The items include a first initial braking force, a second initial braking force, a gain, a decay rate, and a timer value. The first initial braking force is for a first braking method corresponding to an associated braking mode. The second initial braking force is for a second braking procedure. The gain corresponds to the second braking force and includes a range of 1.2 to 2.5, for example. The rate of attenuation is associated with the second braking force and includes a range of 0.2 to 0.6, for example. The timer value is associated with the corrective braking timer and includes, for example, a range of 0.05 to 0.5 seconds. Further, at least one of a reference voltage and an initial voltage is set in the controller. The reference voltage is used as a comparison reference with respect to a detected voltage. The initial voltage is used to determine when braking begins. The gain for the second braking force is set to 1.5, for example.

The tension is calculated from an output of a strain gauge 46X provided on the spool shaft 82D.

A terminal tilts its position and flies stably before the rotational speed of the spool 82 reaches its peak when a large braking force is applied to the spool 82 in a case where the tension, which is gradually reduced from the start of casting, is less than or becomes equal to a predetermined value (starting voltage). The control unit executes the following control to allow the terminal to have a stable position by braking the spool 82 before the rotation speed of the spool 82 reaches its peak. Specifically, the control unit performs the first braking process to reverse the position of the terminal by applying strong braking force for a short period of time at the start of casting. Following the first braking process, the spool 82 is gradually decelerated by the combination of the first gradually reduced braking force and the second braking force until water landing of the terminal is determined. The first braking force decreases from the braking force in a case where braking starts in proportion to the square of the rotational speed of the spool 82. Further, the second braking force decreases at the set decay rate from an initial value obtained by multiplying the first braking force by the predetermined gain.

The control of the control piston is set up to carry out the two braking processes, namely the first braking process and the second braking process. In the second braking method, the sensed voltage is compared to the reference voltage, adjusted to at least temporarily achieve a reduction over time. In a case where the detected voltage becomes less than or equal to the reference voltage, the control of the spool brakes the spool 82 with the second braking force. The second braking force is obtained by increasing the first braking force by a predetermined amount and decreasing at the rate of decay. In particular, when the detected voltage becomes/became less than or equal to the reference voltage, the timer (N=1, 2, 3...) is activated. In a case where the timer ends the count, the control of the spool brakes the spool 82 with the second braking force. The second braking force is obtained by increasing the first braking force, which is obtained by a predetermined amount in a case where the detected voltage is less than or equal to the reference voltage. In a case where the sensed voltage exceeds the reference voltage, the timer is reset before the timer finishes counting. Accordingly, the second braking force obtaining process by increasing the first braking force by a predetermined amount is not executed. In other words, the voltage decreases at the decay rate, corresponding to an amount of time until the sensed voltage exceeds the reference voltage before the timer stops counting.

In determining whether the terminal has landed on the water, the spool controller instantaneously increases the braking force to determine whether the terminal is in the water landing state based on the rotational speed of the spool 82 after braking is released. The spool controller determines whether the terminal is in the water landing state based on the rate of rotation of the spool 82 after braking is released. Thus, in the case where the reel 76 is an electrically controllable dual bearing reel, the spool control in the drag unit 84 accurately determines the water landing of the terminal.

In a case where the reel controller determines that the terminal is in the water landing state, the reel controller outputs the working control tone to inform the angler of this state. In this way, the angler can recognize the water landing of the terminal even when the water landing of the terminal cannot be confirmed visually, such as when fishing at night. Therefore, the angler can perform a thumb operation and an engagement operation at a preferable timing after the terminal lands on the water.

The control unit is connected to a wireless communication receiver, for example. The wireless communication receiver is configured to establish communication with, for example, a wireless communication unit 50Y. The wireless communication receiver receives information on the force applied to the spool shaft 82D from the wireless communication unit 50Y and sends the information to the control unit. The controller calculates the tension from the information(s) relating to the force applied to the spool shaft 82D received from the wireless communicator.

Component 30 includes fishing rod 74, Wheatstone bridge circuit 34X, input unit 36X, output unit 38X, and temperature compensation unit 40. In one example, at least a portion of fishing rod 74 is provided on support 44X for rotation about axis of rotation C1. In the present embodiment, the spool shaft 82D is provided on the support 44X rotatably about the rotation axis C1. The axis of the input rotating shaft 12 coincides with the rotating axis C1. In the present embodiment, the support 44X corresponds to the housing 86.

In one example, the fishing gear 70 further includes a cover 62Y provided on the main body 72 and defining an accommodation compartment 62X. The accommodation compartment 62X is a chamber surrounded by the cover 62Y. The cover 62Y is provided on the spool shaft 82D, for example. The accommodation compartment 62C is defined in the main body 72 to accommodate the strain gauge 46X and the temperature compensation unit 40 . The housing compartment 62X houses at least one of the Wheatstone bridge circuit 34X, the input unit 36X, the output unit 38X, a signal processing unit 48X, the rotating state detector 52, and the power supply device 54X. The housing compartment 62X accommodates at least one of a substrate 56X, electrical wiring 60X, and a flexible circuit board 58X.

As in 12 As shown, the Wheatstone bridge circuit 34X outputs information related to the force applied to the main body 32 in the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of rotation C1. In the present embodiment, the number of the strain gauges 46X includes one to detect the rotation relative to the spool shaft 82D in the circumferential direction. The Wheatstone bridge circuit 34X of the present embodiment is the same as the Wheatstone bridge circuit 34 of the first embodiment except that the strain gauge 46X is provided on the spool shaft 82D.

The Wheatstone bridge circuit 34X includes at least one strain gauge 46X. The strain gauge 46X of the present embodiment is the same as the strain gauge 46X of the first embodiment except that the base material 46A is bonded to the surface of the spool shaft 82D. The strain gauge 46X is configured to acquire information regarding the force applied to the main body 72 in the circumferential direction with respect to the rotation axis C1. In the present embodiment, the information relating to the force applied to the main body 72 in the circumferential direction with respect to the rotation axis C1 corresponds to the stretch with respect to the spool shaft 82D in the circumferential direction.

In one example, the fishing gear 70 further includes the signal processing unit 48X. An amplifier 48Y and an AD converter 48Z of the above The present embodiment are the same as the amplifier 48A and AD converter 48B of the first embodiment. In one example, the signal processing unit 48X includes a computer 48W. In the present embodiment, the computer 48W calculates the human driving force applied to the grip unit 80 based on an input signal. The signal processing unit 48X of the present embodiment is the same as the signal processing unit 48 of the first embodiment, except that the computer 48W calculates the human driving force applied to the grip unit 80 based on an input signal.

In one example, the fishing gear 70 further includes a signal output unit 50X. The signal output unit 50X includes the wireless communication unit 50Y. The wireless communication unit 50Y sends an input signal to the wireless communication receiver connected to the control unit. The signal output unit 50X of the present embodiment is the same as the signal output unit 50 of the first embodiment except that the wireless communication unit 50Y transmits an input signal to the wireless communication receiver connected to the control unit. The wireless communication unit 50Y is configured to establish wireless communication with an external device 50Z. The external device 50Z includes a display. The external device 50Z includes at least one of a smartphone, a tablet computer, and a personal computer, for example. The external device 50Z is configured to display the information(s) transmitted from the wireless communication unit 50Y.

In one example, fishing gear 70 includes power supply 54X. In the present embodiment, the power supply device 54X is provided on the main body 72 . The power supply device 54X includes, for example, the power storage element 54Y. The control unit receives the electric power from the power storage element 54Y. The electric power of the power storage element 54Y is also supplied to the rotation state detector 52X and the mode button position sensor. The power storage element 54Y is provided on the case 86 . The power storage element 54Y may include a battery and/or a capacitor. The power supply device 54X of the present embodiment is the same as the power supply device 54 of the first embodiment, except that the power supply device 54X includes the power storage element 54Y and supplies the electric power to the control unit.

In one example, the fishing gear 70 further includes the substrate 56X. The substrate 56X of the present embodiment is the same as the substrate 56 of the first embodiment. In one example, the fishing gear 70 further includes the flexible printed circuit board 58X. The flexible printed circuit board 58X of the present embodiment is the same as the flexible printed circuit board 58 of the first embodiment. In one example, the fishing gear 70 further includes the electrical wiring 60X. The electrical wiring 60X of the present embodiment is the same as the electrical wiring 60 of the first embodiment. The temperature compensation unit 40 of the present embodiment is the same as the temperature compensation unit 40 of the first embodiment.

Modified examples

The description related to the above embodiments illustrates, without intending to limit, applicable forms of a component according to the present disclosure. In addition to the above-described embodiments, the component according to the present disclosure is applicable to, for example, modified examples of the above-described embodiments described below and combinations of at least one of the modified examples, not mutually exclusive. In the modified examples described below, those components which are identical to the corresponding components in the above embodiments are given the same reference numerals. Such components are not described in detail.

The component 30 can include more than one temperature compensation unit 40 . In a case where the component 30 includes more than one temperature compensation unit 40, the component 30 includes the main body 32, the Wheatstone bridge circuit 34, the input unit 36, the output unit 38 and the temperature compensation units 40. At least one of the temperature compensation units 40 is at one provided by the substrate 56, 56X, the flexible circuit board 58, 58X, and the base material 46A. In a case where the number of the temperature compensating units 40 is three or more, the temperature compensating units 40 may be mounted on each of the flexible conductor substrates 56, 56X plate 58, 58X and the base material 46A.

The signal processing unit 48, 48X need not be provided on the substrate 56, 56X. In a case where the signal processing unit 48, 48X is not provided on the substrate 56, 56X, the signal processing unit 48, 48X is provided on the external device 50B.

The signal processing unit 48, 48X need not include the computer 48C. In a case where the signal processing unit 48, 48X does not include the computer 48C, the signal processing unit 48, 48X outputs information on the force detected by the strain gauge 46 output from the output unit 38, 38X as an output signal.

The signal output unit 50, 50X need not include the wireless communication unit 50A. In a case where the signal output unit 50, 50X does not include the wireless communication unit 50A, the signal output unit 50, 50X is configured to be connected to the external device 50B through an electric wire and establish communication with the external device 50B. In a case where the signal output unit 50, 50X is connected to the external device 50B via an electric wire, the signal output unit 50, 50X includes a connector.

In the first embodiment, the main body 32 may include the pedal 12A. In a case where the main body 32 includes the pedal 12A, the strain gauge 46 is configured to detect an amount of strain on the pedal 12A generated by a driver's depression of the pedal 12A.

In the first embodiment, the main body 32 may include a hub. In a case where the main body 32 includes a hub, the hub includes a hub shell, a first one-way clutch, a first coupling member, and a hub shaft. The one-way clutch connects an inner peripheral surface of the hub shell and an outer peripheral surface of the first link. The first one-way clutch is connected to the hub body and the first link. The first one-way clutch is arranged between the inner peripheral surface of the hub body and the outer peripheral surface of the first link so that the hub body can be rotated integrally with the first link. The first coupling element is cylindrical. At least a part of the first link is connected to the outer peripheral surface of the hub shaft to integrally rotate the first link with the hub shaft. The first one-way clutch can be a ratchet clutch or a roller clutch. The Wheatstone bridge circuit 34 is provided in a power transmission path between a portion of the first link connected to the outer peripheral surface of the hub shaft and a portion of the first link connected to the one-way clutch. The strain gauge 46 is bonded to an outer peripheral portion of the first link.

In the second embodiment, the strain gauge 46X may be provided on at least one of the grip unit 80, the spool 82, the spool shaft 82D, the case 86, the main body 72, and the upper guide 78F.

As used in this disclosure, the phrase "at least one of" means "one or more" of a desired selection. For example, as used in this disclosure, the phrase "at least one of" means "only a single choice" or "both of two choices" when the number of choices is two. In another example, the phrase "at least one of" used in this disclosure means "only a single choice" or "any combination of at least two choices" when the number of choices is three or more.

Reference List

(10)

human-powered vehicle

(30)

component

(32; 72)

main body

(34; 34X)

Wheatstone bridge circuit

(36; 36X)

input unit

(38; 38X)

output unit

(40)

temperature compensation unit

(40A)

resistance element

(42)

crank arm

(44; 44X)

support

(46; 46X)

strain gauges

(46A)

base material

(46B)

Resistance

(48; 48X)

signal processing unit

(48C; 48W)

computer

(50; 50X)

signal output unit

(50A; 50Y)

wireless communication unit

(50B; 50Z)

external device

(52; 52X)

rotation state detector

(56; 56X)

substrate

(58; 58X)

flexible printed circuit board

(60; 60X)

electrical wiring

(62; 62Y)

cover

(62C; 62X)

accommodation compartment

(70)

fishing equipment

(72)

main body

(74)

fishing rod

QUOTES INCLUDED IN DESCRIPTION

This list of documents cited by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent Literature Cited

• JP 2021177919 [0001]
• US10076681 [0003]

Claims (17)

Component (30) useable in an outdoor activity, the component (30) comprising: a main body (32; 72); a Wheatstone bridge circuit (34; 34X) including at least one strain gauge (46; 46X) provided on the main body (32; 72); an input unit (36; 36X) electrically connected to the Wheatstone bridge circuit (34; 34X); an output unit (38; 38X) electrically connected to the Wheatstone bridge circuit (34; 34X); and a temperature compensation unit (40) electrically connected to the input unit (36; 36X) to reduce a rate of change of a voltage value output from the output unit (38; 38X) relative to a temperature change, wherein the temperature compensation unit (40) includes a resistance element (40A) in which the electrical resistance changes according to temperature. Component (30) after claim 1 , wherein the temperature compensation unit (40) is set up so that the rate of change is less than or equal to 5% in a predetermined temperature range. Component (30) after claim 2 , wherein the temperature compensation unit (40) is arranged so that the rate of change is less than or equal to 1% in the predetermined temperature range. Component (30) according to one of Claims 1 until 3 , further comprising: a signal processor electrically connected to the output unit (38; 38X) for processing an input signal inputted from the output unit (38; 38X); and a substrate (56; 56X) on which the signal processor is provided, wherein the temperature compensation unit (40) is provided on the substrate (56; 56X). Component (30) after claim 4 wherein the signal processor includes a computer (48C; 48W), and the computer (48C; 48W) is arranged to calculate information regarding a force applied to the main body (32; 72) based on the input signal. Component (30) accordingly claim 4 or 5 , further comprising a signal output unit (50; 50X) electrically connected to said signal processor for outputting an output signal outputted from said signal processor to an external device (50B; 50Z). Component (30) after claim 6 wherein the signal output unit (50; 50X) includes a wireless communication unit (50A; 50Y) transmitting the output signal to the external device (50B; 50Z) through wireless communication. Component (30) according to one of Claims 1 until 7 , further comprising: electrical wiring (60; 60X) electrically connected to the Wheatstone bridge circuit (34; 34X); and a flexible printed circuit board (58; 58X) on which the electrical wiring (60; 60X) is provided, wherein the temperature compensation unit (40) is provided on the flexible printed circuit board (58; 58X). Component (30) according to one of Claims 1 until 8th wherein the strain gauge (46; 46X) includes a base material (46A) and a resistor (46B) provided on the base material (46A), preferably wherein the temperature compensation unit (40) is provided on the base material (46A). component after claim 9 , wherein the resistor (46B) includes at least one of CuNi, Ni, and NiCr. Component (30) according to one of Claims 1 until 10 , in which the resistance element (40A) includes Cu. component after one of Claims 1 until 11 , further comprising a cover (62; 62Y) provided on the main body (32; 72) and forming at least part of an accommodating compartment (62C; 62X) in which the strain gauge (46; 46X) and the temperature compensation unit (40) are arranged. Component (30) according to one of Claims 1 until 12 wherein the main body (32; 72) is provided on a support (44; 44X) rotatably about a pivot axis. Component (30) after Claim 13 , further comprising a rotational state detector (52; 52X) detecting a rotational state of said main body (32; 72). Component (30) after Claim 13 or 14 wherein the strain gauge (46; 46X) is arranged to detect information regarding a force applied to the main body (32; 72) in the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of rotation. Component (30) according to one of Claims 1 until 15 wherein the component (30) includes a human-powered vehicle component, preferably the main body (32;72) includes a crank arm (42). Component (30) according to one of Claims 1 until 15 wherein the component includes fishing tackle (70), preferably the main body (32;72) includes a fishing rod (74).

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