EP2580111A1 - An axle bearing assembly - Google Patents

An axle bearing assembly

Info

Publication number
EP2580111A1
EP2580111A1 EP11725920.0A EP11725920A EP2580111A1 EP 2580111 A1 EP2580111 A1 EP 2580111A1 EP 11725920 A EP11725920 A EP 11725920A EP 2580111 A1 EP2580111 A1 EP 2580111A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
axle
bearing
translation
bearing assembly
assembly according
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP11725920.0A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Bin-Yen Ma
Chih-Ching Yang
Chu-Yung Chen
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Wiz Energy Tech Co Ltd
Original Assignee
Wiz Energy Tech Co Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from TW99118916A external-priority patent/TW201144134A/en
Priority claimed from CN201010204844XA external-priority patent/CN102297736B/en
Application filed by Wiz Energy Tech Co Ltd filed Critical Wiz Energy Tech Co Ltd
Publication of EP2580111A1 publication Critical patent/EP2580111A1/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01L—MEASURING FORCE, STRESS, TORQUE, WORK, MECHANICAL POWER, MECHANICAL EFFICIENCY, OR FLUID PRESSURE
    • G01L3/00—Measuring torque, work, mechanical power, or mechanical efficiency, in general
    • G01L3/02—Rotary-transmission dynamometers
    • G01L3/14—Rotary-transmission dynamometers wherein the torque-transmitting element is other than a torsionally-flexible shaft
    • G01L3/1407—Rotary-transmission dynamometers wherein the torque-transmitting element is other than a torsionally-flexible shaft involving springs
    • G01L3/1428—Rotary-transmission dynamometers wherein the torque-transmitting element is other than a torsionally-flexible shaft involving springs using electrical transducers
    • G01L3/1435—Rotary-transmission dynamometers wherein the torque-transmitting element is other than a torsionally-flexible shaft involving springs using electrical transducers involving magnetic or electromagnetic means
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62M—RIDER PROPULSION OF WHEELED VEHICLES OR SLEDGES; POWERED PROPULSION OF SLEDGES OR SINGLE-TRACK CYCLES; TRANSMISSIONS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR SUCH VEHICLES
    • B62M3/00—Construction of cranks operated by hand or foot
    • B62M3/003—Combination of crank axles and bearings housed in the bottom bracket

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an axle bearing assembly that is suitable for a chain-driven or belt-driven pedal vehicle, and more particularly to an axle bearing assembly that is suitable for use in sensing axle torque in a pedal vehicle.
  • pedal bicycles with a supplementary propulsion system which supports the propulsion provided by the rider to increase the speed of the vehicle.
  • supplementary propulsion systems are electrically powered, although they might alternatively be powered by an internal combustion engine.
  • a control system that monitors the torque (also referred to as "moment") applied by the rider to the crankshaft axle and to provide supplementary propulsion in correspondence with the applied torque.
  • the supplementary propulsion assistance is programmed to cutout above a threshold vehicle speed. Accordingly there is a need to monitor the level of torque that the rider applies to the crankshaft axle that connects the pedal cranks.
  • EP0983934 discloses an arrangement of rigid ceramic pressure sensors that are provided within the bottom bracket tube of a bicycle frame to monitor strain between the crankshaft axle and the bottom bracket tube, in order to determine the axle torque applied by a rider.
  • an arrangement is mechanically complex, difficult to assemble, expensive to manufacture, and may be vulnerable to damage from mechanical shocks.
  • a pedal cycle comprising an axle bearing assembly for a chain-driven or belt-driven vehicle comprising a bearing arrangement, a housing for the bearing arrangement, an axle having an axle axis and being rotatably supported by the bearing arrangement comprising at least one translation bearing assembly, and a lateral translation sensor configured to sense translation of the axle transverse to its axis and relative to the housing, wherein the axle is biased into a rest position, and the bearing arrangement is configured for lateral translation of the axle relative to the axle axis, and having an electrical control unit configured to receive a signal from the lateral translation sensor.
  • the bearing arrangement may comprise a non-translation bearing configured to prevent lateral translation of the axle, and a translation bearing assembly configured for lateral translation of the axle, and be configured for pivoting of the axle about the non-translation bearing.
  • the bearing arrangement may comprise first and second translation bearing assemblies configured for lateral translation of the axle.
  • the bearing arrangement may comprise first and second translation bearing assemblies configured for lateral translation of the axle, and a non-translation bearing configured to prevent lateral translation of the axle, the non-translation bearing being disposed between the first and second translation bearing assemblies, and wherein the axle is configured to pivot about the non-translation bearing.
  • the or each translation bearing assembly may be configured to bias the axle to the rest position.
  • the or each translation bearing assembly may comprise a translation bearing and a biasing bearing arrangement, wherein the translation bearing is configured for lateral translation of the axle relative to the axle axis and within an axle translation plane, and the biasing bearing arrangement is configured to bias the axle to the rest position.
  • the biasing bearing arrangement may comprise a biased bearing within which the axle is rotationally supported and a resilient member, and a contact portion of the resilient member biases the biased bearing.
  • the resilient member may be hollow and the biased bearing may be located within the resilient member.
  • the contact portion may comprise an internal projection of the resilient member.
  • the housing may comprise an outer housing portion and an inner housing portion having an aperture and rigidly connected to the outer housing, wherein the resilient member is located in an annular space between the inner and outer housings, and the internal projection of the resilient member projects through the aperture.
  • a spacer element may be provided between the resilient member and the outer housing portion remote from the contact portion of the resilient member.
  • the outer housing portion may be the bottom bracket tube of a pedal cycle.
  • a magnet may be connected to the portion of the resilient member, and the lateral translation sensor may be connected to the housing, wherein the axle bearing assembly is configured such that lateral displacement of the axle produces relative displacement of the magnet and lateral translation sensor.
  • the translation bearing may comprise a translatable bearing rotationally supporting the axle and a cup having an elongate aperture configured to slideably support the translatable bearing such that the translatable bearing translates transversely to the cup.
  • the elongate aperture of the cup may have a pair of opposed flat sliding surfaces configured to guide translation of the translatable bearing relative to the cup.
  • the elongate aperture of the cup may be elliptical.
  • the axle bearing assembly may have a first magnetic ring connected to the axle and having a North magnetic field section and a South magnetic field section, and wherein the housing is provided with a crank orientation sensor configured to detect magnetic fields radiating from the first magnetic ring.
  • the axle bearing assembly may have a second magnetic ring connected to the axle and a plurality North magnetic field sections and South magnetic field sections configured in a circumferentially alternating arrangement, and wherein the housing may be provided with a first axle speed sensor configured to detect magnetic fields radiating from the second magnetic ring.
  • the housing may be provided with a second axle speed sensor configured to detect magnetic fields radiating from the second magnetic ring, wherein the first and second axle speed sensors are circumferentially spaced apart with respect to the axle axis.
  • the pedal cycle may be provided with a propulsion system that is configured to supply propulsion in correspondence with a level of torque applied to the axle.
  • the propulsion system may be an electrically powered propulsion system.
  • Figure 1 illustrates a schematic view of a gear train of a pedal bicycle incorporating a device for sensing a torsional force applied to a crankshaft by a rider;
  • Figure 2A illustrates a schematic exploded view of a first embodiment
  • Figure 2B illustrates a schematic assembled view of the first embodiment
  • FIG. 2C illustrates a schematic assembled top view of a sensor and a frame of the first embodiment
  • Figure 2D illustrates a schematic view of an alternative sensor of the first embodiment
  • Figure 2E illustrates a schematic assembled view of a second inner sleeve and a cup of the first embodiment
  • Figure 3A illustrates a vertical sectional view of the first embodiment
  • Figure 3B illustrates a vertical sectional exploded view of the first embodiment
  • Figure 4A illustrates a schematic assembled view of the first embodiment
  • Figure 4B illustrates a schematic assembled view of the first embodiment
  • FIG. 5 illustrates a schematic operation view of a pedal bicycle and rider showing the gear train of the bicycle and incorporating a device for sensing a torsional force applied to a crankshaft axle by a rider;
  • Figure 6A illustrates a schematic exploded view of a second embodiment
  • Figure 6B illustrates a schematic assembled view of the second embodiment
  • Figure 6C illustrates a schematic assembled top view of a sensor and a frame of the second
  • Figure 6D illustrates a schematic view of an alternative sensor of the second embodiment
  • Figure 6E illustrates a schematic assembled view of a second inner sleeve and cup of the second embodiment
  • Figure 7A illustrates a vertical sectional view of the second embodiment
  • Figure 7B illustrates a vertical sectional exploded view of the second embodiment
  • Figure 8A illustrates a schematic assembled view of the second embodiment
  • Figure 8B illustrates a schematic assembled view of the second embodiment
  • Figure 9A illustrates a schematic exploded view of a third embodiment
  • Figure 9B illustrates a vertical sectional view of the third embodiment
  • Figure 9C illustrates a vertical sectional exploded view of the third embodiment
  • Figure 9D illustrates a schematic assembled view of a second bearing component and a second cup of the third embodiment
  • Figure 10A illustrates a schematic assembled view of a fourth embodiment
  • Figure 10B illustrates a schematic exploded view of a fourth embodiment
  • Figure 10C illustrates a further schematic exploded view of a fourth embodiment
  • Figure 1 1A illustrates a sectional view of the fourth embodiment perpendicular to the direction of translation of the axle
  • Figure 1 1 B illustrates a vertical sectional view of the fourth embodiment in the plane of translation of the axle, in the rest position
  • Figure 1 1 C illustrates a vertical sectional view of the fourth embodiment in the plane of translation of the axle, in the full translation position
  • Figure 12A illustrates a sectional view of the translation bearing of the fourth embodiment, perpendicular to the axis of the axle, in the rest position;
  • Figure 12B illustrates a sectional view of the translation bearing of the fourth embodiment, perpendicular to the axis of the axle, in the full translation position;
  • Figure 13A illustrates a sectional view of biasing bearing arrangement of the fourth embodiment, perpendicular to the axis of the axle, in the rest position;
  • Figure 13B illustrates a sectional view of biasing bearing arrangement of the fourth embodiment, perpendicular to the axis of the axle, in the full translation position;
  • Figure 14 illustrates a biasing member of the fourth embodiment
  • Figure 15 illustrates an outer ring having a spring spacing element of the fourth embodiment
  • Figure 16A illustrates a first magnetic ring of the fourth embodiment
  • Figure 16B illustrates a second magnetic ring of the fourth embodiment.
  • FIGs 5 illustrates a pedal bicycle and a rider
  • Figure 1 illustrates part of the gear train assembly of the bicycle in greater detail
  • the gear train assembly comprises pedals 101 rotatably connected to cranks 102, a chainwheel 103 having a radius r and an axle (crankshaft) 10104, which is rotatably supported within a bottom bracket tube (outer housing portion) 10106 of the bicycle frame.
  • the frame has chainstays 10108 (only one chainstay is illustrated).
  • a chain 104 engages with between the chainwheel 103 and a rear sprocket 101 10 mounted concentrically to the rear wheel.
  • the rider provides a force F P onto a pedal 101 .
  • the axis of rotation of the pedal 101 within the crank 102 is a distance L-i from the axis of rotation of the axle 10104.
  • the tension T-i in the upper length of chain 104 i.e.
  • T-i ( F P L-i / r ) cos ⁇ .
  • the upper length of chain 104 makes an angle ⁇ 2 with the line between the axis of rotation of the axle 10104 and the axis of rotation of the rear sprocket 101 10 (e.g. the upper length of chain makes an angle with respect to the chainstay 10108).
  • ⁇ 2 is small, cos ⁇ 2 may be approximated to unity or to a mid-range value.
  • Figures 10A, 10B and 10C illustrate an axle bearing assembly 10100 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 10A illustrates the assembled axle bearing assembly 10100
  • Figure 10B illustrates a partially exploded view comprising an axle subassembly 10102
  • Figure 10C illustrates a fully exploded view.
  • the axle bearing assembly 10100 comprises a left lock ring 101 14, a left cup (left bearing cup) 101 16, first spring clip 101 18, a left bearing 10120, an outer tube (inner housing portion) 10122 having an aperture 10123, a printed circuit board (PCB) 10124, PCB fixing screws 10126, a connecting wire 10128, an axle (crankshaft) 10130, a first magnetic ring 10132, a second magnetic ring 10134, a second spring clip 10136, a middle bearing 10138, a third spring clip 10140, a magnet 10142, a magnet holder 10144, a spring (resilient member) 10146, an inner ring 10148, an outer ring 10150 having a spacer portion 10152, an alignment key 10154, a right cup (right bearing cup) 10156, a right bearing 10158, a fourth spring clip 10160, a dust seal 10162, a right lock ring 10164, and a bicycle frame 10166 having a bottom bracket tube 10106.
  • PCB printed circuit board
  • Figures 1 1 A, 1 1 B and 1 1 C illustrate cross-sectional views through the axle bearing assembly 10100 coplanar with the axis of rotation 10170 of the axle 10130.
  • Figure 1 1A illustrates a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the plane of translation of the axle 10130 (e.g. the view is vertical, for a bicycle in the upright, riding position).
  • Figures 1 1 B and 1 1 C illustrate cross-sectional views coplanar with the plane of translation of the axle 10130 (e.g. the views are horizontal, for a bicycle in the upright, riding position).
  • Figure 1 1 B illustrates the rest position, when no torque is applied to the axle 10130
  • Figure 1 1 C illustrates the maximal translation position, when a substantial torque is applied to the axle 10130.
  • a first Hall sensor (lateral translation sensor) 10172 is an analogue Hall sensor.
  • the second Hall sensor (crank orientation sensor) 10174, third Hall sensor (first axle speed sensor) 10176 and the fourth Hall sensor (second axle speed sensor) 10178 are digital Hall sensors.
  • the wire 10128 provides electrical connection between the Hall sensors and an electrical control system (not illustrated).
  • the maximal angular displacement of the axis 10170 of the axle 10130 is greater than 0.20°, relative to the rest position.
  • the maximum angular displacement may be greater than 0.40°, or greater than 1 .00°, or greater than 1 .50°.
  • the maximal displacement is small, such that displacement of the axle does not affect operation of the pedal cycle by a rider.
  • Displacement of the axle 10130 causes relative movement of the magnet 10142 and the first Hall sensor (lateral translation sensor) 10172.
  • the relative moment causes a change in the magnetic field experienced by the first Hall sensor 10172, which may be sensed to determine the level of axle displacement, and from which the level of torque applied by the rider to the axle 10130 may be determined.
  • Figures 12A and 12B illustrate cross-sectional views through the translation bearing 10188 corresponding to the line A-A in Figures 1 1A to 1 1 C
  • Figures 13A and 13B illustrate cross-sectional views through the biasing bearing arrangement 10190 corresponding to the line B-B in Figures 1 1A to 1 1 C.
  • Figures 12A and 12B illustrate the translation bearing 10188 in the rest position and the maximum translation position, respectively.
  • the right bearing 10158 is slideably supported within the right cup 10156.
  • the right cup 10156 has an oval-shaped internal aperture comprising semi-circular end portions 10192A and 10192B and intermediary flat portions 10194.
  • the right bearing 10158 is biased against the first semi-circular end portion 10192A of the oval aperture, as shown in the rest position in Figure 12A. Under applied torque the axle 10130 slides from the rest position towards the maximal translation position, as shown in Figure 12B, such that the right bearing abuts the second semi-circular end portion 10192B of the oval aperture.
  • the flat portions 10194 restrict the translational movement of the axle 10130 to movement within the displacement plane, which is indicated by the line P-P.
  • the travel of the axle 10130 and right bearing 10158 within the right cup 10156 between the rest position and the maximal translation position is greater than ⁇ ⁇ .
  • the distance of travel may be greater than 200 ⁇ " ⁇ , or greater than ⁇ , or greater than 10 ⁇ .
  • Figures 13A and 13B illustrate the biasing bearing arrangement 10190 in the rest position and at the maximum translation position, respectively.
  • the spring (resilient member) 10146 is hollow and generally oblate cylindrical in shape, and an internal projection 10196 of the spring 10146 biases against the middle bearing 10138 and the axle 10130, which is rotatably supported within the middle bearing.
  • the curved spacing portion 10152 of the outer ring 10150 spaces the spring apart from the bottom bracket tube (outer housing) and towards the outer tube (inner housing) at a location diametrically opposed to the internal projection 10172.
  • FIG. 13B illustrates the axle 10130 at the position of maximal translation, in which the spring 10146 is maximally resiliency deformed.
  • Figures 16A and 16B illustrate side views of the first and second magnetic rings 10132 and 10134.
  • the first magnetic ring 10132 has a North magnetic pole section N and a South magnetic pole section S that produce corresponding magnetic fields around the circumference of the ring.
  • the first magnetic ring 10132 is connected to the axle 10130 in an alignment that corresponds with the orientation of the cranks 102, such that a signal from the second Hall sensor (crank orientation sensor) 10174 may be used to determine the orientation of the cranks, and consequently onto which pedal the rider is applying force.
  • a signal from the second Hall sensor (crank orientation sensor) 10174 may be used to determine the orientation of the cranks, and consequently onto which pedal the rider is applying force.
  • the second magnetic ring 10134 has a plurality of North magnetic pole sections N and South magnetic pole sections S that alternate around the circumference of the ring, to produce corresponding magnetic fields.
  • the second magnetic ring 10134 may have 24 magnetic pole sections, comprising 12 North magnetic pole sections alternating with 12 South magnetic pole sections.
  • the second magnetic ring 10134 is connected to the axle 10130 such that a signal from the third and/or fourth Hall sensors (axle speed sensors) 10176 and 10178 may be used to determine the rotational speed of the axle 10130.
  • the third and fourth Hall sensors 10176 and 10178 are arranged such that there is a phase difference between the signals that may be sensed from the third and fourth Hall sensors, and the rotational direction of the axle may be determined.
  • Supplementary propulsion may be provided only when the axle 10130 is rotated in the direction corresponding to forward propulsion of the bicycle by the rider, and not when the rider turns the axle backwards, for example during freewheeling or to engage a pedal operated brake.
  • axle bearing assembly has been described with respect to an arrangement in which a bearing arrangement on a first side prevents the axle from translating, and a bearing arrangement on a second side permits the axle to translate, such that the axle pivots about the first bearing arrangement.
  • both bearing assemblies may permit the axle to translate.
  • the axle may be centrally supported by a bearing arrangement that does not permit the axle to translate, and on either side of the central bearing arrangement a second and third bearing arrangement may be provided that permits the axle to translate.
  • the axle bearing assembly is not mechanically complex, is relatively simple to assemble and inexpensive to manufacture, and is robust against mechanical shocks.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic view of the gear train of a bicycle for sensing a torsional force of an axle (crankshaft).
  • a downward force F p (a stepping force) is applied to a pedal 101
  • a torsional force xi of Fp * Cos9i * L 1 on a axle is generated, wherein xi represents a torsional force of the axle and ⁇ represents an angle between a horizontal line and a crank 102
  • the torsional force is a tensional force ⁇ of a chain 104
  • the magnitude of the tensional force ⁇ is xi/r
  • r represents the radius of a larger chainwheel 103.
  • the axle is applied by a backward pull force F B , the magnitude of the backward pull force F B is TV Cos9 2 .
  • ⁇ 2 is very small, wherein ⁇ 2 is an angle between the chain and a horizontal line, and now, the backward pull force F B is almost equal to the tensional force T Therefore, to determine the backward pull force F B is to know the tensional force T-i of the chain 104. Further, the torsional force of stepping on the pedal 101 can be determined.
  • the principle of the present invention uses that the torsional force generated by stepping on the pedal makes the axle generating a backward displacement proportional to the backward pull force F B , then the axle continuously generates a backward displacement proportional to the torsional force generated by stepping on the pedal via a flexible device, and the displacement may be determined and transformed to electric signals so as to finish the procedures of sensing the torsional force and achieve the auxiliary force control of an electric bicycle.
  • Figure 2A and Figure 2B illustrate a schematic exploded view of a first embodiment of the device for sensing the crank torsional force of the present invention and a schematic assembled view of the first embodiment of the device for sensing the crank torsional force of the present invention.
  • the crank torsional force sensor is mainly disposed on the axle 1 , and two ring concave portions 13 are respectively disposed between a central axis 1 1 of the axle 1 and two crank axle connecting portions 12,
  • the crank torsional force sensor includes two ring concave portion female- connecting devices 2, each of which has a bearing component 21 , a second inner sleeve 22, an ellipse ring piece 23 with the function of lubrication, and an bearing cup 24, wherein the second inner sleeve 22 is female-connected to the bearing component 21 , the bearing cup 24 is female-connected to the front end of the second inner sleeve 22, the diameter of the bearing cup 24 is larger than the second inner sleeve 22, wherein a crescent-shaped aperture 245 is between the second inner sleeve 22 and the bearing cup 24, as shown in Figure 2E, and the two sides of the symmetric crescent-shaped aperture 245 form a crescent-shaped space, the outer rim of the bearing
  • a central axis female-connecting device includes a first inner sleeve 31 , a spring 32, a magnet 33, and an outer sleeve 34, wherein the first inner sleeve 31 is female-connected to the central axis 1 1 and positioned at the two sides of the bearing component 21 in order to make the interlock of the spindle, the outer sleeve 34 is female-connected to the first inner sleeve 31 , after adding the bearing cup 24, the spring 32 and the magnet 33 are disposed on the first inner sleeve 31 , the spring 32 is positioned between the outer ring 243 of the bearing cup 24, and the outer sleeve 34 is female-connected to the first inner sleeve 31 and the spring 32, the bottoms of the first inner sleeve 31 and the outer sleeve 34 have two apertures 31 1 and 341 , as shown in Figure 3A, the two apertures 31 1 and 341 are corresponding to the aperture 61 on the frame 6, as shown in
  • left and right bearing cups 41 and 42 which are female-connected to the inner bushing 24 and the outer sleeve 34 respectively so as to position the inner bushing 24 and the outer sleeve 34;
  • a sensor 5 which is disposed at the frame 6 and through an aperture 61 of the frame 6 and the aperture 341 of the bearing cup 34 so as to be corresponding to the magnet 33 of the first inner sleeve 31 , wherein at least one Hall component is disposed in the sensor 5, the Hall component is able to change sensed electrical signals through the displacement of the magnet, so that when the pedal 101 connected to the crank 102 is stepped on, the crank axle connecting portion 12 may interlock the axle 1 to have a tiny displacement, and through the magnet 33 and the sensor 5, the variety of a magnetic field can be determined in order to acquire the torsional force of a rider 9 stepping on the pedal 101 , as shown in Figure 2A, Figure 2C, Figure 4A, Figure 4B, and Figure 5; further, the outer rim of the bearing cup 34 can be directly installed a sensor 51 , as shown in Figure 2D, so that the outer rim of the frame 6 may not need holes for installing a sensor component in order to facilitate the instalment;
  • the ellipse ring piece 23 is disposed between the second inner sleeve 22 and the bearing cup 24, and the outer diameter of the ellipse ring piece 23 is greater than the second inner sleeve 22, the ring ridges 241 are disposed on the inner rim of the bearing cup 24, and the outer diameter of the ring ridge 241 is equal to the ellipse ring piece 23, so that the ellipse ring piece 23 is able to totally withstand the ring ridges 241 ;
  • a spring fixing hole 344 of the bearing cup 34 is corresponding to a spring fixing hole 312 of the first bearing cup 31 and an spring fixing hole 62 of the frame 6, as shown in Figure 3B and Figure 2C, therefore an spring fixing bolt 7 (fastener) can be through the spring fixing holes 344, 312 and 62 to enter into the frame 6, the bearing cup 34 and the bearing cup 31 , that is, when the rider 9 steps on the pedal 101 to rotate the axle 1 , the bearing cup 31 and the bearing cup 34 may not be rotated randomly to avoid error measurements;
  • the spring 32 is disposed in the crescent-shaped aperture 245, which is between the second inner sleeve 22 and the bearing cup 24, the spring 32 has a shoring portion 321 that is to directly withstand an outer rim of the first inner sleeve 31 , therefore, a backward pull force F B is generated by the rider 9 stepping on the pedal 101 , and the spring 32 may bounce to produce a forward force F F so as to make the first inner sleeve 31 have a tiny displacement along a certain direction, as shown in Figure 2A and Figure 5;
  • Figure 6A and Figure 6B illustrate a schematic exploded view of a second embodiment of the device for sensing the crank torsional force of the present invention and a schematic assembled view of the second embodiment of the device for sensing the crank torsional force of the present invention.
  • a ring concave portion 204 is disposed between a central axis 201 of a axle 20 and a first crank axle connecting portion 202, an extension portion 205 is disposed between the central axis 201 and a second crank axle connecting portion 203, the crank torsional force sensor includes a ring concave portion female-connecting device 30, which has a bearing component 301 and a snap ring 302, wherein the bearing component 301 is female-connected to the ring concave portion 204, and the snap ring 302 is female-connected to that where is between the bearing component 301 and the first crank axle connecting portion 202;
  • the angle magnetic ring has 48 magnetic fields, comparing the magnetic fields of the node magnetic ring 401 with the magnetic fields of the angle magnetic ring 402, the rotation speeds and the angle positions of the crank axle can be determined;
  • an extension portion female-connecting device 50 which is female-connected to the extension portion 205 of the axle 20, wherein the extension portion female-connecting device 50 includes a first bearing kit 501 , a second bearing kit 502 with a magnet 5023 and a third bearing kit 503, wherein the first bearing kit 501 and the third bearing kit 503 have two ring protruding portions 501 1 and 5031 respectively, the second bearing kit 502 has an inner ring rim 5021 , as shown in Figure 7B, thus the ring protruding portions 501 1 and 5031 are able to insert into the inner ring rim 5021 in order to tightly position on the extension portion 205, and a spring (resilient flexible member) 5022 has an adjusting spring anchor 50221 thereon;
  • an outer sleeve being female-connected to the magnetic rings, a bearing sleeve and a spring component
  • an outer sleeve 70 which is female-connected to the two magnetic rings 401 and 402 and the extension portion female-connecting device 50, and the outer sleeve 70 has two apertures 701 and 702, which are corresponding to the adjusting spring anchor 50221 of the spring component 5022 and the magnet 5023 of the second bearing kit 502, as shown in Figure 7A, a connecting sleeve 703 of the outer sleeve 70 toward the bearing component 301 can directly withstand the bearing component 301 , further, a second bearing cup 802 is between the second crank axle connecting portion 203 and the outer sleeve 70;
  • first bearing cup 801 which is female-connected to the bearing component 30 and the connecting sleeve 703 of the outer sleeve 70, the bearing component 30 withstands a ring ridge 801 1 disposed at the inner rim of the first bearing cup 801 ;
  • the second bearing cup 802 can be integrated with the third bearing kit 503 of the extension portion female-connecting device 50, the inner diameter of the second bearing cup 802 is greater than the outer diameter of the third bearing kit 503, while the adjusting spring anchor 50221 tightly fastens the second bearing component 502, a crescent-shaped aperture 8027 between the second bearing component 502 and the second bearing cup 802 is thus happening, as shown in Figure 6E, the second bearing cup 802 is female-connected to an oil seal component 90 and then the second crank axle connecting portion 203, as shown in Figure 9A;
  • the outer diameter of the central axis 201 of the axle 20 is greater than the outer diameter of the ring concave portion 204
  • the ring concave portion 204 is shaped as a taper that is gradually larger from the central axis 201 to the first crank axle connecting portion 202 or another taper that is gradually smaller from the central axis 201 to the first crank axle connecting portion 202
  • the outer diameter of the extension portion 205 is smaller than the outer diameter of the central axis 201 and equal to the outer diameter of the second crank axle connecting portion 203, as shown in Figure 7A and Figure 7B;
  • the frame 60 has four apertures 601 , 602, 603, and 604, the aperture 603 is to accommodate the adjusting spring anchor 50221 of the spring component 5022 and corresponding to the aperture 701 of the outer sleeve 70, the adjusting spring anchor 50221 is to tightly fasten the second bearing component 502, so that when the rider 9 steps on the pedal 101 to make the axle 20 generate a backward pull force F B , a chainwheel 10 of the second crank axle connecting portion 203 is simultaneously driven as well, and the spring component 5022 may bounce to produce a forward force F F so as to make the extension portion female-connecting device 50 have a tiny displacement along a certain direction; the other aperture 604 on the frame 60 is corresponding to the aperture 702 on the bottom of the outer sleeve 70, so that the sensor 605, which has at least a Hall component that can alter sensed electrical signals after having the displacements of the magnet 5023, the node magnetic ring 401 and the angle magnetic ring 402, is inserted through the frame 60 and the aperture 702
  • a set screw 8023 can insert through the apertures 8022, 601 and 602 to go through the frame 60 and the second bearing cup 802 in order to avoid that the second bearing cup 802 is driven while the rider 9 steps on the pedal 101 to rotate the axle 20, therefore a free space for the extension portion female-connecting device 50 moving backward may not be affected and an error result will not happen, as shown in Figure 5, Figure 6A, Figure 6C, and Figure 7A.
  • Figure 9A and Figure 9B illustrate a schematic exploded view of a third embodiment of the device for sensing the crank torsional force of the present invention and a schematic assembled view of the third embodiment of the device for sensing the crank torsional force of the present invention.
  • the extension portion female-connecting device 50 is female-connected to the extension portion 206 of the axle 20 and includes two ring ball components 504, the bearing sleeve 505 and the spring component 506, wherein the two ring ball components 504 are female-connected to the extension portion 206 of the axle 20, then the bearing sleeve 505 with the magnet 509 is female-connected to the two ring ball components 504, the ring concave portion 507 and two positioning protruding portions 508 are on the outer rim of the bearing sleeve 505, as shown in Figure 9A and Figure 9B, the ring concave portion 507 has the spring component 506 that is with the adjusting spring anchor 5061 ;
  • the outer sleeve 70 is female-connected to the two magnetic rings 401 and 402, the bearing sleeve 505 and the spring component 506, the outer sleeve 70 has the apertures 701 and 702 that are corresponding to the adjusting spring anchor 5061 of the spring component 506 and the magnet 509 of the bearing sleeve 505;
  • the outer rim of the second bearing cup 802 toward the outer sleeve 70 has two ring ridges 8024, and two positioning concave portions 8025 are formed simultaneously, hence the two positioning protruding portions 508 can be integrated with the two positioning concave portions 8025 of the second bearing cup 802, the inner diameter of the second bearing cup 802 is greater than the outer diameter of the extension portion female-connecting device 50 so as to have the crescent-shaped aperture 8027, as shown in Figure 9D;
  • the inner rim of the second bearing cup 802 toward the second crank axle connecting portion 203 has a ring positioning portion 8026, as shown in Figure 9C, the oil seal component 90 is through the second crank axle connecting portion 203 and female-connected to the ring positioning portion 8026 of the second bearing cup 802.

Abstract

An axle bearing assembly (10100) for a chain-driven or belt-driven vehicle comprising a bearing arrangement (10190), a housing (10106) for the bearing arrangement, an axle (10130) having an axle axis (10170) and being rotatably supported by the bearing arrangement comprising at least one translation bearing assembly (10188), and a lateral translation sensor (10172) configured to sense translation of the axle transverse to its axis and relative to the housing, wherein the axle is biased into a rest position (figure 11B), and the bearing arrangement is configured for lateral translation (figure 11C) of the axle relative to the axle axis. A pedal cycle comprising such an axle bearing assembly and having an electrical control unit configured to receive a signal from the lateral translation sensor.

Description

AN AXLE BEARING ASSEMBLY The present invention relates to an axle bearing assembly that is suitable for a chain-driven or belt-driven pedal vehicle, and more particularly to an axle bearing assembly that is suitable for use in sensing axle torque in a pedal vehicle.
BACKGROUND
It is known to provide pedal bicycles with a supplementary propulsion system which supports the propulsion provided by the rider to increase the speed of the vehicle. Typically such supplementary propulsion systems are electrically powered, although they might alternatively be powered by an internal combustion engine. Further, it is known to provide a control system that monitors the torque (also referred to as "moment") applied by the rider to the crankshaft axle and to provide supplementary propulsion in correspondence with the applied torque. Typically, the supplementary propulsion assistance is programmed to cutout above a threshold vehicle speed. Accordingly there is a need to monitor the level of torque that the rider applies to the crankshaft axle that connects the pedal cranks.
EP0983934 discloses an arrangement of rigid ceramic pressure sensors that are provided within the bottom bracket tube of a bicycle frame to monitor strain between the crankshaft axle and the bottom bracket tube, in order to determine the axle torque applied by a rider. However, such an arrangement is mechanically complex, difficult to assemble, expensive to manufacture, and may be vulnerable to damage from mechanical shocks.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
According to a first aspect, there is provided an axle bearing assembly for a chain-driven or belt-driven vehicle comprising a bearing arrangement, a housing for the bearing arrangement, an axle having an axle axis and being rotatably supported by the bearing arrangement comprising at least one translation bearing assembly, and a lateral translation sensor configured to sense translation of the axle transverse to its axis and relative to the housing, wherein the axle is biased into a rest position, and the bearing arrangement is configured for lateral translation of the axle relative to the axle axis. According to a second aspect, there is provided a pedal cycle comprising an axle bearing assembly for a chain-driven or belt-driven vehicle comprising a bearing arrangement, a housing for the bearing arrangement, an axle having an axle axis and being rotatably supported by the bearing arrangement comprising at least one translation bearing assembly, and a lateral translation sensor configured to sense translation of the axle transverse to its axis and relative to the housing, wherein the axle is biased into a rest position, and the bearing arrangement is configured for lateral translation of the axle relative to the axle axis, and having an electrical control unit configured to receive a signal from the lateral translation sensor.
The bearing arrangement may comprise a non-translation bearing configured to prevent lateral translation of the axle, and a translation bearing assembly configured for lateral translation of the axle, and be configured for pivoting of the axle about the non-translation bearing.
The bearing arrangement may comprise first and second translation bearing assemblies configured for lateral translation of the axle.
The bearing arrangement may comprise first and second translation bearing assemblies configured for lateral translation of the axle, and a non-translation bearing configured to prevent lateral translation of the axle, the non-translation bearing being disposed between the first and second translation bearing assemblies, and wherein the axle is configured to pivot about the non-translation bearing. The or each translation bearing assembly may be configured to bias the axle to the rest position.
The or each translation bearing assembly may comprise a translation bearing and a biasing bearing arrangement, wherein the translation bearing is configured for lateral translation of the axle relative to the axle axis and within an axle translation plane, and the biasing bearing arrangement is configured to bias the axle to the rest position.
The biasing bearing arrangement may comprise a biased bearing within which the axle is rotationally supported and a resilient member, and a contact portion of the resilient member biases the biased bearing. The resilient member may be hollow and the biased bearing may be located within the resilient member.
The contact portion may comprise an internal projection of the resilient member.
The housing may comprise an outer housing portion and an inner housing portion having an aperture and rigidly connected to the outer housing, wherein the resilient member is located in an annular space between the inner and outer housings, and the internal projection of the resilient member projects through the aperture.
A spacer element may be provided between the resilient member and the outer housing portion remote from the contact portion of the resilient member.
The outer housing portion may be the bottom bracket tube of a pedal cycle.
A magnet may be connected to the portion of the resilient member, and the lateral translation sensor may be connected to the housing, wherein the axle bearing assembly is configured such that lateral displacement of the axle produces relative displacement of the magnet and lateral translation sensor.
The translation bearing may comprise a translatable bearing rotationally supporting the axle and a cup having an elongate aperture configured to slideably support the translatable bearing such that the translatable bearing translates transversely to the cup. The elongate aperture of the cup may have a pair of opposed flat sliding surfaces configured to guide translation of the translatable bearing relative to the cup.
The elongate aperture of the cup may be elliptical. The axle bearing assembly may have a first magnetic ring connected to the axle and having a North magnetic field section and a South magnetic field section, and wherein the housing is provided with a crank orientation sensor configured to detect magnetic fields radiating from the first magnetic ring. The axle bearing assembly may have a second magnetic ring connected to the axle and a plurality North magnetic field sections and South magnetic field sections configured in a circumferentially alternating arrangement, and wherein the housing may be provided with a first axle speed sensor configured to detect magnetic fields radiating from the second magnetic ring.
The housing may be provided with a second axle speed sensor configured to detect magnetic fields radiating from the second magnetic ring, wherein the first and second axle speed sensors are circumferentially spaced apart with respect to the axle axis.
The pedal cycle may be provided with a propulsion system that is configured to supply propulsion in correspondence with a level of torque applied to the axle. The propulsion system may be an electrically powered propulsion system.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Embodiments of the invention are further described hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
• Figure 1 illustrates a schematic view of a gear train of a pedal bicycle incorporating a device for sensing a torsional force applied to a crankshaft by a rider;
• Figure 2A illustrates a schematic exploded view of a first embodiment ;
• Figure 2B illustrates a schematic assembled view of the first embodiment;
· Figure 2C illustrates a schematic assembled top view of a sensor and a frame of the first embodiment;
• Figure 2D illustrates a schematic view of an alternative sensor of the first embodiment;
• Figure 2E illustrates a schematic assembled view of a second inner sleeve and a cup of the first embodiment;
• Figure 3A illustrates a vertical sectional view of the first embodiment;
• Figure 3B illustrates a vertical sectional exploded view of the first embodiment;
• Figure 4A illustrates a schematic assembled view of the first embodiment;
• Figure 4B illustrates a schematic assembled view of the first embodiment;
· Figure 5 illustrates a schematic operation view of a pedal bicycle and rider showing the gear train of the bicycle and incorporating a device for sensing a torsional force applied to a crankshaft axle by a rider;
• Figure 6A illustrates a schematic exploded view of a second embodiment;
• Figure 6B illustrates a schematic assembled view of the second embodiment;
· Figure 6C illustrates a schematic assembled top view of a sensor and a frame of the second; • Figure 6D illustrates a schematic view of an alternative sensor of the second embodiment;
• Figure 6E illustrates a schematic assembled view of a second inner sleeve and cup of the second embodiment;
• Figure 7A illustrates a vertical sectional view of the second embodiment;
• Figure 7B illustrates a vertical sectional exploded view of the second embodiment;
• Figure 8A illustrates a schematic assembled view of the second embodiment;
• Figure 8B illustrates a schematic assembled view of the second embodiment;
• Figure 9A illustrates a schematic exploded view of a third embodiment;
• Figure 9B illustrates a vertical sectional view of the third embodiment;
• Figure 9C illustrates a vertical sectional exploded view of the third embodiment;
• Figure 9D illustrates a schematic assembled view of a second bearing component and a second cup of the third embodiment;
• Figure 10A illustrates a schematic assembled view of a fourth embodiment;
• Figure 10B illustrates a schematic exploded view of a fourth embodiment;
• Figure 10C illustrates a further schematic exploded view of a fourth embodiment;
• Figure 1 1A illustrates a sectional view of the fourth embodiment perpendicular to the direction of translation of the axle;
• Figure 1 1 B illustrates a vertical sectional view of the fourth embodiment in the plane of translation of the axle, in the rest position;
• Figure 1 1 C illustrates a vertical sectional view of the fourth embodiment in the plane of translation of the axle, in the full translation position;
• Figure 12A illustrates a sectional view of the translation bearing of the fourth embodiment, perpendicular to the axis of the axle, in the rest position;
• Figure 12B illustrates a sectional view of the translation bearing of the fourth embodiment, perpendicular to the axis of the axle, in the full translation position;
• Figure 13A illustrates a sectional view of biasing bearing arrangement of the fourth embodiment, perpendicular to the axis of the axle, in the rest position;
• Figure 13B illustrates a sectional view of biasing bearing arrangement of the fourth embodiment, perpendicular to the axis of the axle, in the full translation position;
• Figure 14 illustrates a biasing member of the fourth embodiment;
• Figure 15 illustrates an outer ring having a spring spacing element of the fourth embodiment;
• Figure 16A illustrates a first magnetic ring of the fourth embodiment; and
• Figure 16B illustrates a second magnetic ring of the fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Figures 5 illustrates a pedal bicycle and a rider, and Figure 1 illustrates part of the gear train assembly of the bicycle in greater detail. The gear train assembly comprises pedals 101 rotatably connected to cranks 102, a chainwheel 103 having a radius r and an axle (crankshaft) 10104, which is rotatably supported within a bottom bracket tube (outer housing portion) 10106 of the bicycle frame. The frame has chainstays 10108 (only one chainstay is illustrated). A chain 104 engages with between the chainwheel 103 and a rear sprocket 101 10 mounted concentrically to the rear wheel.
In use, the rider provides a force FP onto a pedal 101 . The axis of rotation of the pedal 101 within the crank 102 is a distance L-i from the axis of rotation of the axle 10104. The rider's force FP on the pedal 101 makes an angle of ( 90° - θι ) to the line between the axis of rotation of the pedal and the axis of the axle 10104 (e.g. the crank 102 makes an angle θι with the chainstay 10108), and so the rider's force FP provides a torque (moment) of xi = FP L-i cos θι about the axle 10104. Accordingly, the tension T-i in the upper length of chain 104 (i.e. the section running directly between the chainwheel 103 and the rear sprocket 101 10) is given by: T-i = ( FP L-i / r ) cos θι. The upper length of chain 104 makes an angle θ2 with the line between the axis of rotation of the axle 10104 and the axis of rotation of the rear sprocket 101 10 (e.g. the upper length of chain makes an angle with respect to the chainstay 10108). In the case that θ2 is small, cos θ2 may be approximated to unity or to a mid-range value. The axle 10104 experiences a force due to the tension T-i in the upper length of chain 104, which has a component FB directed towards the axis of rotation of the rear sprocket 101 10 (e.g. parallel with the chainstay 10108), and given by: FB = ( FP U / r ) cos θι cos θ2. From the resultant force FB on the axle it is possible to determine the torque xi applied by the rider to the axle 10104. Accordingly, the level of supplementary propulsion provided by a supplementary propulsion system may be controlled in correspondence with the level of applied torque xi , for example by an electric motor mounted within a wheel hub of the bicycle.
Figures 10A, 10B and 10C illustrate an axle bearing assembly 10100 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10A illustrates the assembled axle bearing assembly 10100, Figure 10B illustrates a partially exploded view comprising an axle subassembly 10102, and Figure 10C illustrates a fully exploded view.
The axle bearing assembly 10100 comprises a left lock ring 101 14, a left cup (left bearing cup) 101 16, first spring clip 101 18, a left bearing 10120, an outer tube (inner housing portion) 10122 having an aperture 10123, a printed circuit board (PCB) 10124, PCB fixing screws 10126, a connecting wire 10128, an axle (crankshaft) 10130, a first magnetic ring 10132, a second magnetic ring 10134, a second spring clip 10136, a middle bearing 10138, a third spring clip 10140, a magnet 10142, a magnet holder 10144, a spring (resilient member) 10146, an inner ring 10148, an outer ring 10150 having a spacer portion 10152, an alignment key 10154, a right cup (right bearing cup) 10156, a right bearing 10158, a fourth spring clip 10160, a dust seal 10162, a right lock ring 10164, and a bicycle frame 10166 having a bottom bracket tube 10106. Figures 1 1 A, 1 1 B and 1 1 C illustrate cross-sectional views through the axle bearing assembly 10100 coplanar with the axis of rotation 10170 of the axle 10130. Figure 1 1A illustrates a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the plane of translation of the axle 10130 (e.g. the view is vertical, for a bicycle in the upright, riding position). Figures 1 1 B and 1 1 C illustrate cross-sectional views coplanar with the plane of translation of the axle 10130 (e.g. the views are horizontal, for a bicycle in the upright, riding position). Figure 1 1 B illustrates the rest position, when no torque is applied to the axle 10130, and Figure 1 1 C illustrates the maximal translation position, when a substantial torque is applied to the axle 10130.
Four Hall sensors are provided on the printed circuit board 10124. A first Hall sensor (lateral translation sensor) 10172 is an analogue Hall sensor. The second Hall sensor (crank orientation sensor) 10174, third Hall sensor (first axle speed sensor) 10176 and the fourth Hall sensor (second axle speed sensor) 10178 are digital Hall sensors. The wire 10128 provides electrical connection between the Hall sensors and an electrical control system (not illustrated).
At rest, when no torque is applied to the axle 10130, the spring 10146 biases the axle into the rest position, illustrated in Figure 1 1 B. Under load, torque applied to the axle 10130 causes tension in upper length of the chain 104, such that the axis 10170 of the axle translates towards the hub of the driven (rear) wheel. The left bearing 10120 does not permit translation of the left hand end of the axle 10130, but the translation bearing 10188 and biasing bearing arrangement 10190 do permit translation of the right hand end of the axle, so that under application of torque, the axis 10170 of the axle 10130 pivots to a displaced position 10170' that is angularly displaced by an angle φ relative to the axis rest position 10170 (Figure 1 1 B).
The maximal angular displacement of the axis 10170 of the axle 10130 is greater than 0.20°, relative to the rest position. The maximum angular displacement may be greater than 0.40°, or greater than 1 .00°, or greater than 1 .50°. The maximal displacement is small, such that displacement of the axle does not affect operation of the pedal cycle by a rider.
Displacement of the axle 10130 causes relative movement of the magnet 10142 and the first Hall sensor (lateral translation sensor) 10172. The relative moment causes a change in the magnetic field experienced by the first Hall sensor 10172, which may be sensed to determine the level of axle displacement, and from which the level of torque applied by the rider to the axle 10130 may be determined. To further illustrate the operation of the axle bearing assembly, Figures 12A and 12B illustrate cross-sectional views through the translation bearing 10188 corresponding to the line A-A in Figures 1 1A to 1 1 C, and Figures 13A and 13B illustrate cross-sectional views through the biasing bearing arrangement 10190 corresponding to the line B-B in Figures 1 1A to 1 1 C.
Figures 12A and 12B illustrate the translation bearing 10188 in the rest position and the maximum translation position, respectively. The right bearing 10158 is slideably supported within the right cup 10156. The right cup 10156 has an oval-shaped internal aperture comprising semi-circular end portions 10192A and 10192B and intermediary flat portions 10194. The right bearing 10158 is biased against the first semi-circular end portion 10192A of the oval aperture, as shown in the rest position in Figure 12A. Under applied torque the axle 10130 slides from the rest position towards the maximal translation position, as shown in Figure 12B, such that the right bearing abuts the second semi-circular end portion 10192B of the oval aperture. The flat portions 10194 restrict the translational movement of the axle 10130 to movement within the displacement plane, which is indicated by the line P-P.
The travel of the axle 10130 and right bearing 10158 within the right cup 10156 between the rest position and the maximal translation position is greater than Ι ΟΟμηη. The distance of travel may be greater than 200μη"ΐ, or greater than δθθμηη, or greater than 10ΟΟμηη.
Figures 13A and 13B illustrate the biasing bearing arrangement 10190 in the rest position and at the maximum translation position, respectively. As is illustrated further in Figure 14, the spring (resilient member) 10146 is hollow and generally oblate cylindrical in shape, and an internal projection 10196 of the spring 10146 biases against the middle bearing 10138 and the axle 10130, which is rotatably supported within the middle bearing. As is illustrated further in Figure 15, the curved spacing portion 10152 of the outer ring 10150 spaces the spring apart from the bottom bracket tube (outer housing) and towards the outer tube (inner housing) at a location diametrically opposed to the internal projection 10172. Under torque, the axle 10130 is displaced towards the internal projection 10196, and away from the curved spacing portion 10152, resiliency deforming the spring 10146. Figure 13B illustrates the axle 10130 at the position of maximal translation, in which the spring 10146 is maximally resiliency deformed.
Figures 16A and 16B illustrate side views of the first and second magnetic rings 10132 and 10134. The first magnetic ring 10132 has a North magnetic pole section N and a South magnetic pole section S that produce corresponding magnetic fields around the circumference of the ring. The first magnetic ring 10132 is connected to the axle 10130 in an alignment that corresponds with the orientation of the cranks 102, such that a signal from the second Hall sensor (crank orientation sensor) 10174 may be used to determine the orientation of the cranks, and consequently onto which pedal the rider is applying force.
The second magnetic ring 10134 has a plurality of North magnetic pole sections N and South magnetic pole sections S that alternate around the circumference of the ring, to produce corresponding magnetic fields. For example the second magnetic ring 10134 may have 24 magnetic pole sections, comprising 12 North magnetic pole sections alternating with 12 South magnetic pole sections. The second magnetic ring 10134 is connected to the axle 10130 such that a signal from the third and/or fourth Hall sensors (axle speed sensors) 10176 and 10178 may be used to determine the rotational speed of the axle 10130. Further, the third and fourth Hall sensors 10176 and 10178 are arranged such that there is a phase difference between the signals that may be sensed from the third and fourth Hall sensors, and the rotational direction of the axle may be determined. Supplementary propulsion may be provided only when the axle 10130 is rotated in the direction corresponding to forward propulsion of the bicycle by the rider, and not when the rider turns the axle backwards, for example during freewheeling or to engage a pedal operated brake.
The axle bearing assembly has been described with respect to an arrangement in which a bearing arrangement on a first side prevents the axle from translating, and a bearing arrangement on a second side permits the axle to translate, such that the axle pivots about the first bearing arrangement. However, it will be appreciated that in alternative embodiments both bearing assemblies may permit the axle to translate. In a further alternative embodiment, the axle may be centrally supported by a bearing arrangement that does not permit the axle to translate, and on either side of the central bearing arrangement a second and third bearing arrangement may be provided that permits the axle to translate.
Although described with reference an arrangement in which displacement of the axle is determined by sensing the relative movement of a magnet and a magnetic lateral translation sensor, it will be appreciated that translation of the axle in the axle bearing assembly in not limited to such a method of sensing.
Advantageously, the axle bearing assembly is not mechanically complex, is relatively simple to assemble and inexpensive to manufacture, and is robust against mechanical shocks.
With reference to Figure 1 , which illustrates a schematic view of the gear train of a bicycle for sensing a torsional force of an axle (crankshaft). As shown in Figure 1 , while a downward force Fp (a stepping force) is applied to a pedal 101 , a torsional force xi of Fp*Cos9i*L1 on a axle is generated, wherein xi represents a torsional force of the axle and θι represents an angle between a horizontal line and a crank 102, the torsional force is a tensional force ΤΊ of a chain 104, the magnitude of the tensional force ΤΊ is xi/r, wherein r represents the radius of a larger chainwheel 103. After analyzing the dynamics, the axle is applied by a backward pull force FB, the magnitude of the backward pull force FB is TV Cos92. When the upper chain 104 is almost horizontal, θ2 is very small, wherein θ2 is an angle between the chain and a horizontal line, and now, the backward pull force FB is almost equal to the tensional force T Therefore, to determine the backward pull force FB is to know the tensional force T-i of the chain 104. Further, the torsional force of stepping on the pedal 101 can be determined. The principle of the present invention uses that the torsional force generated by stepping on the pedal makes the axle generating a backward displacement proportional to the backward pull force FB, then the axle continuously generates a backward displacement proportional to the torsional force generated by stepping on the pedal via a flexible device, and the displacement may be determined and transformed to electric signals so as to finish the procedures of sensing the torsional force and achieve the auxiliary force control of an electric bicycle.
With references to Figure 2A and Figure 2B, which illustrate a schematic exploded view of a first embodiment of the device for sensing the crank torsional force of the present invention and a schematic assembled view of the first embodiment of the device for sensing the crank torsional force of the present invention. As shown in Figure 2A and Figure 2B, the crank torsional force sensor is mainly disposed on the axle 1 , and two ring concave portions 13 are respectively disposed between a central axis 1 1 of the axle 1 and two crank axle connecting portions 12, the crank torsional force sensor includes two ring concave portion female- connecting devices 2, each of which has a bearing component 21 , a second inner sleeve 22, an ellipse ring piece 23 with the function of lubrication, and an bearing cup 24, wherein the second inner sleeve 22 is female-connected to the bearing component 21 , the bearing cup 24 is female-connected to the front end of the second inner sleeve 22, the diameter of the bearing cup 24 is larger than the second inner sleeve 22, wherein a crescent-shaped aperture 245 is between the second inner sleeve 22 and the bearing cup 24, as shown in Figure 2E, and the two sides of the symmetric crescent-shaped aperture 245 form a crescent-shaped space, the outer rim of the bearing cup 24 toward the central axis 1 1 has two outer ring 243 and two outer semicircle convex ring 244, the outer rim of the bearing cup 24 toward the crank axle connecting portion 12 has two ring ridges 241 and two positioning concave portions 242;
a central axis female-connecting device includes a first inner sleeve 31 , a spring 32, a magnet 33, and an outer sleeve 34, wherein the first inner sleeve 31 is female-connected to the central axis 1 1 and positioned at the two sides of the bearing component 21 in order to make the interlock of the spindle, the outer sleeve 34 is female-connected to the first inner sleeve 31 , after adding the bearing cup 24, the spring 32 and the magnet 33 are disposed on the first inner sleeve 31 , the spring 32 is positioned between the outer ring 243 of the bearing cup 24, and the outer sleeve 34 is female-connected to the first inner sleeve 31 and the spring 32, the bottoms of the first inner sleeve 31 and the outer sleeve 34 have two apertures 31 1 and 341 , as shown in Figure 3A, the two apertures 31 1 and 341 are corresponding to the aperture 61 on the frame 6, as shown in Figure 2C, two positioning convex portions 342 and 343 disposed at the two sides of the outer sleeve 34 may be integrated with the two positioning concave portions 242;
left and right bearing cups 41 and 42, which are female-connected to the inner bushing 24 and the outer sleeve 34 respectively so as to position the inner bushing 24 and the outer sleeve 34;
a sensor 5, which is disposed at the frame 6 and through an aperture 61 of the frame 6 and the aperture 341 of the bearing cup 34 so as to be corresponding to the magnet 33 of the first inner sleeve 31 , wherein at least one Hall component is disposed in the sensor 5, the Hall component is able to change sensed electrical signals through the displacement of the magnet, so that when the pedal 101 connected to the crank 102 is stepped on, the crank axle connecting portion 12 may interlock the axle 1 to have a tiny displacement, and through the magnet 33 and the sensor 5, the variety of a magnetic field can be determined in order to acquire the torsional force of a rider 9 stepping on the pedal 101 , as shown in Figure 2A, Figure 2C, Figure 4A, Figure 4B, and Figure 5; further, the outer rim of the bearing cup 34 can be directly installed a sensor 51 , as shown in Figure 2D, so that the outer rim of the frame 6 may not need holes for installing a sensor component in order to facilitate the instalment;
the ellipse ring piece 23 is disposed between the second inner sleeve 22 and the bearing cup 24, and the outer diameter of the ellipse ring piece 23 is greater than the second inner sleeve 22, the ring ridges 241 are disposed on the inner rim of the bearing cup 24, and the outer diameter of the ring ridge 241 is equal to the ellipse ring piece 23, so that the ellipse ring piece 23 is able to totally withstand the ring ridges 241 ;
a spring fixing hole 344 of the bearing cup 34 is corresponding to a spring fixing hole 312 of the first bearing cup 31 and an spring fixing hole 62 of the frame 6, as shown in Figure 3B and Figure 2C, therefore an spring fixing bolt 7 (fastener) can be through the spring fixing holes 344, 312 and 62 to enter into the frame 6, the bearing cup 34 and the bearing cup 31 , that is, when the rider 9 steps on the pedal 101 to rotate the axle 1 , the bearing cup 31 and the bearing cup 34 may not be rotated randomly to avoid error measurements;
the spring 32 is disposed in the crescent-shaped aperture 245, which is between the second inner sleeve 22 and the bearing cup 24, the spring 32 has a shoring portion 321 that is to directly withstand an outer rim of the first inner sleeve 31 , therefore, a backward pull force FB is generated by the rider 9 stepping on the pedal 101 , and the spring 32 may bounce to produce a forward force FF so as to make the first inner sleeve 31 have a tiny displacement along a certain direction, as shown in Figure 2A and Figure 5;
when the rider 9 steps on the pedal 101 , the backward displacement proportional to the torsional force of stepping on the pedal 101 in the axle of the frame 6 is happening, such displacement drives the inner sleeve 31 simultaneously so as to drive a permanent magnet 33 as well, and the magnet 33 has a displacement relative to the Hall component on the axle of the frame, the Hall component can further alter the sensed electrical signals, that is, an electrical signal changeable with the torsional force can be acquired, and the electrical signal read from the Hall component can drive a motor for providing auxiliary power, as shown in Figure 2A and Figure 5. With references to Figure 6A and Figure 6B, which illustrate a schematic exploded view of a second embodiment of the device for sensing the crank torsional force of the present invention and a schematic assembled view of the second embodiment of the device for sensing the crank torsional force of the present invention. A ring concave portion 204 is disposed between a central axis 201 of a axle 20 and a first crank axle connecting portion 202, an extension portion 205 is disposed between the central axis 201 and a second crank axle connecting portion 203, the crank torsional force sensor includes a ring concave portion female-connecting device 30, which has a bearing component 301 and a snap ring 302, wherein the bearing component 301 is female-connected to the ring concave portion 204, and the snap ring 302 is female-connected to that where is between the bearing component 301 and the first crank axle connecting portion 202;
two magnetic rings, which are a node magnetic ring 401 and an angle magnetic ring 402 and are female-connected to the central axis 201 , the angle magnetic ring has 48 magnetic fields, comparing the magnetic fields of the node magnetic ring 401 with the magnetic fields of the angle magnetic ring 402, the rotation speeds and the angle positions of the crank axle can be determined;
an extension portion female-connecting device 50, which is female-connected to the extension portion 205 of the axle 20, wherein the extension portion female-connecting device 50 includes a first bearing kit 501 , a second bearing kit 502 with a magnet 5023 and a third bearing kit 503, wherein the first bearing kit 501 and the third bearing kit 503 have two ring protruding portions 501 1 and 5031 respectively, the second bearing kit 502 has an inner ring rim 5021 , as shown in Figure 7B, thus the ring protruding portions 501 1 and 5031 are able to insert into the inner ring rim 5021 in order to tightly position on the extension portion 205, and a spring (resilient flexible member) 5022 has an adjusting spring anchor 50221 thereon;
an outer sleeve, being female-connected to the magnetic rings, a bearing sleeve and a spring component;
an outer sleeve 70, which is female-connected to the two magnetic rings 401 and 402 and the extension portion female-connecting device 50, and the outer sleeve 70 has two apertures 701 and 702, which are corresponding to the adjusting spring anchor 50221 of the spring component 5022 and the magnet 5023 of the second bearing kit 502, as shown in Figure 7A, a connecting sleeve 703 of the outer sleeve 70 toward the bearing component 301 can directly withstand the bearing component 301 , further, a second bearing cup 802 is between the second crank axle connecting portion 203 and the outer sleeve 70;
a first bearing cup 801 , which is female-connected to the bearing component 30 and the connecting sleeve 703 of the outer sleeve 70, the bearing component 30 withstands a ring ridge 801 1 disposed at the inner rim of the first bearing cup 801 ;
a second bearing cup 802, the outer rim of which toward the outer sleeve 70 has a ring ridge 8021 , the second bearing cup 802 can be integrated with the third bearing kit 503 of the extension portion female-connecting device 50, the inner diameter of the second bearing cup 802 is greater than the outer diameter of the third bearing kit 503, while the adjusting spring anchor 50221 tightly fastens the second bearing component 502, a crescent-shaped aperture 8027 between the second bearing component 502 and the second bearing cup 802 is thus happening, as shown in Figure 6E, the second bearing cup 802 is female-connected to an oil seal component 90 and then the second crank axle connecting portion 203, as shown in Figure 9A;
the outer diameter of the central axis 201 of the axle 20 is greater than the outer diameter of the ring concave portion 204, the ring concave portion 204 is shaped as a taper that is gradually larger from the central axis 201 to the first crank axle connecting portion 202 or another taper that is gradually smaller from the central axis 201 to the first crank axle connecting portion 202, on the other hand, the outer diameter of the extension portion 205 is smaller than the outer diameter of the central axis 201 and equal to the outer diameter of the second crank axle connecting portion 203, as shown in Figure 7A and Figure 7B;
the frame 60 has four apertures 601 , 602, 603, and 604, the aperture 603 is to accommodate the adjusting spring anchor 50221 of the spring component 5022 and corresponding to the aperture 701 of the outer sleeve 70, the adjusting spring anchor 50221 is to tightly fasten the second bearing component 502, so that when the rider 9 steps on the pedal 101 to make the axle 20 generate a backward pull force FB, a chainwheel 10 of the second crank axle connecting portion 203 is simultaneously driven as well, and the spring component 5022 may bounce to produce a forward force FF so as to make the extension portion female-connecting device 50 have a tiny displacement along a certain direction; the other aperture 604 on the frame 60 is corresponding to the aperture 702 on the bottom of the outer sleeve 70, so that the sensor 605, which has at least a Hall component that can alter sensed electrical signals after having the displacements of the magnet 5023, the node magnetic ring 401 and the angle magnetic ring 402, is inserted through the frame 60 and the aperture 702 of the outer sleeve 70 in order to be corresponding to the magnetic rings, including the node magnetic ring 401 and the angle magnetic ring 402, and the magnet 5023 of the second bearing component 502, thus the variety of a magnetic field and the torsional force of stepping on the pedal are acquired via the magnet 5023 of the second bearing component 502 and the sensor 605, on the other hand, while the axle 20 is rotated, the variety frequency of the magnetic field will be obtained by means of the magnetic rings 401 and 402 female-connected to the central axis 201 and the sensor 605 so as to know the rotation speeds, as shown in Figure 5, Figure 6C, Figure 7A, Figure 8A, and Figure 8B; The sensor 52 can be directly mounted on the outer rim of the outer sleeve 70, as shown in Figure 6D, hence there is no need to punch holes on the outer rim of the frame 6 for installing the sensor;
positioning holes 8022 of the second bearing cup 802 and the positioning holes 601 and 602 are corresponding to each other, a set screw 8023 can insert through the apertures 8022, 601 and 602 to go through the frame 60 and the second bearing cup 802 in order to avoid that the second bearing cup 802 is driven while the rider 9 steps on the pedal 101 to rotate the axle 20, therefore a free space for the extension portion female-connecting device 50 moving backward may not be affected and an error result will not happen, as shown in Figure 5, Figure 6A, Figure 6C, and Figure 7A.
With references to Figure 9A and Figure 9B, which illustrate a schematic exploded view of a third embodiment of the device for sensing the crank torsional force of the present invention and a schematic assembled view of the third embodiment of the device for sensing the crank torsional force of the present invention. As shown in Figure 9A and Figure 9B, the most differences between the third embodiment and the second embodiment are the extension portion female-connecting device 50 and the second bearing cup 802, the extension portion female-connecting device 50 is female-connected to the extension portion 206 of the axle 20 and includes two ring ball components 504, the bearing sleeve 505 and the spring component 506, wherein the two ring ball components 504 are female-connected to the extension portion 206 of the axle 20, then the bearing sleeve 505 with the magnet 509 is female-connected to the two ring ball components 504, the ring concave portion 507 and two positioning protruding portions 508 are on the outer rim of the bearing sleeve 505, as shown in Figure 9A and Figure 9B, the ring concave portion 507 has the spring component 506 that is with the adjusting spring anchor 5061 ;
the outer sleeve 70 is female-connected to the two magnetic rings 401 and 402, the bearing sleeve 505 and the spring component 506, the outer sleeve 70 has the apertures 701 and 702 that are corresponding to the adjusting spring anchor 5061 of the spring component 506 and the magnet 509 of the bearing sleeve 505;
the outer rim of the second bearing cup 802 toward the outer sleeve 70 has two ring ridges 8024, and two positioning concave portions 8025 are formed simultaneously, hence the two positioning protruding portions 508 can be integrated with the two positioning concave portions 8025 of the second bearing cup 802, the inner diameter of the second bearing cup 802 is greater than the outer diameter of the extension portion female-connecting device 50 so as to have the crescent-shaped aperture 8027, as shown in Figure 9D;
the inner rim of the second bearing cup 802 toward the second crank axle connecting portion 203 has a ring positioning portion 8026, as shown in Figure 9C, the oil seal component 90 is through the second crank axle connecting portion 203 and female-connected to the ring positioning portion 8026 of the second bearing cup 802.
The figures provided herein are schematic and not to scale. Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words "comprise" and "contain" and variations of them mean "including but not limited to", and they are not intended to (and do not) exclude other moieties, additives, components, integers or steps. Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context otherwise requires. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as singularity, unless the context requires otherwise.
Features, integers, characteristics, compounds, chemical moieties or groups described in conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment or example of the invention are to be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or example described herein unless incompatible therewith. All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive. The invention is not restricted to the details of any foregoing embodiments. The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.
The reader's attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1 . An axle bearing assembly for a chain-driven or belt-driven vehicle comprising
a bearing arrangement,
a housing for the bearing arrangement,
an axle having an axle axis and being rotatably supported by the bearing arrangement comprising at least one translation bearing assembly, and
a lateral translation sensor configured to sense translation of the axle transverse to its axis and relative to the housing, wherein
the axle is biased into a rest position, and
the bearing arrangement is configured for lateral translation of the axle relative to the axle axis.
2. An axle bearing assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the bearing arrangement comprises
a non-translation bearing configured to prevent lateral translation of the axle, and
a translation bearing assembly configured for lateral translation of the axle,
and being configured for pivoting of the axle about the non-translation bearing.
3. An axle bearing assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the bearing arrangement comprises first and second translation bearing assemblies configured for lateral translation of the axle.
4. An axle bearing assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the bearing arrangement comprises
first and second translation bearing assemblies configured for lateral translation of the axle, and a non-translation bearing configured to prevent lateral translation of the axle,
the non-translation bearing being disposed between the first and second translation bearing assemblies, and wherein the axle is configured to pivot about the non-translation bearing.
5. An axle bearing assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the or each translation bearing assembly is configured to bias the axle to the rest position.
6. An axle bearing assembly according to claim 5, wherein the or each translation bearing assembly comprises
a translation bearing and
a biasing bearing arrangement, wherein the translation bearing is configured for lateral translation of the axle relative to the axle axis and within an axle translation plane, and
the biasing bearing arrangement is configured to bias the axle to the rest position.
7. An axle bearing assembly according to claim 6, wherein the biasing bearing arrangement comprises
a biased bearing within which the axle is rotationally supported and
a resilient member, and
a contact portion of the resilient member biases the biased bearing.
8. An axle bearing assembly according to claim 7, wherein the resilient member is hollow and the biased bearing is located within the resilient member.
9. An axle bearing assembly according to claim 8, wherein the contact portion comprises an internal projection of the resilient member.
10. An axle bearing assembly according to claim 9, wherein the housing comprises an outer housing portion and
an inner housing portion having an aperture and rigidly connected to the outer housing, wherein
the resilient member is located in an annular space between the inner and outer housings, and
the internal projection of the resilient member projects through the aperture.
1 1 . An axle bearing assembly according to claim 10, wherein a spacer element is provided between the resilient member and the outer housing portion remote from the contact portion of the resilient member.
12. An axle bearing assembly according to claims 10 or 1 1 , wherein the outer housing portion is the bottom bracket tube of a pedal cycle.
13. An axle bearing assembly according to any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein a magnet is connected to the portion of the resilient member, and the lateral translation sensor is connected to the housing, wherein the axle bearing assembly is configured such that lateral displacement of the axle produces relative displacement of the magnet and lateral translation sensor.
14. An axle bearing assembly according to any one of claims 6 to 13,
wherein the translation bearing comprises
a translatable bearing rotationally supporting the axle and
a cup having an elongate aperture configured to slideably support the translatable bearing such that the translatable bearing translates transversely to the cup.
15. An axle bearing assembly according to claim 14, wherein the elongate aperture of the cup has a pair of opposed flat sliding surfaces configured to guide translation of the translatable bearing relative to the cup.
16. An axle bearing assembly according to claim 14, wherein the elongate aperture of the cup is elliptical.
17. An axle bearing assembly according to any preceding claim, having
a first magnetic ring connected to the axle and having a North magnetic field section and a South magnetic field section, and wherein
the housing is provided with a crank orientation sensor configured to detect magnetic fields radiating from the first magnetic ring.
18. An axle bearing assembly according to any preceding claim, having
a second magnetic ring connected to the axle and a plurality North magnetic field sections and South magnetic field sections configured in a circumferentially alternating arrangement, and wherein
the housing is provided with a first axle speed sensor configured to detect magnetic fields radiating from the second magnetic ring.
19. An axle bearing assembly according to claim 18, wherein the housing is provided with a second axle speed sensor configured to detect magnetic fields radiating from the second magnetic ring, wherein
the first and second axle speed sensors are circumferentially spaced apart with respect to the axle axis.
20. A pedal cycle comprising an axle bearing assembly according to any preceding claim, having an electrical control unit configured to receive a signal from the lateral translation sensor.
21 . A pedal cycle according to claim 20, wherein the pedal cycle is provided with a propulsion system that is configured to supply propulsion in correspondence with a level of torque applied to the axle.
22. An axle bearing assembly substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying description and any one of the Figures.
23. A pedal cycle substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying description and any one of the Figures.
EP11725920.0A 2010-06-10 2011-06-10 An axle bearing assembly Withdrawn EP2580111A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
TW99118916A TW201144134A (en) 2010-06-10 2010-06-10 Crank torsion sensing device and detection method thereof
CN201010204844XA CN102297736B (en) 2010-06-22 2010-06-22 Crank torsion sensing device
PCT/EP2011/059748 WO2011154546A1 (en) 2010-06-10 2011-06-10 An axle bearing assembly

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2580111A1 true EP2580111A1 (en) 2013-04-17

Family

ID=44541525

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP11725920.0A Withdrawn EP2580111A1 (en) 2010-06-10 2011-06-10 An axle bearing assembly

Country Status (2)

Country Link
EP (1) EP2580111A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2011154546A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN102785747A (en) * 2012-07-28 2012-11-21 成都宽和科技有限责任公司 Sensing element with non-uniform distribution of multiple magnetic block positions and magnetic flux in casing
GB2522019A (en) * 2014-01-08 2015-07-15 Chun-Hsiang Liu Drive Assembly of an electric bicycle
DE202014101083U1 (en) * 2014-03-11 2015-06-12 Rose Bikes Gmbh Bicycle with an electric motor
US20170259880A1 (en) * 2016-03-11 2017-09-14 Gates Corporation Crankset
US10940910B2 (en) * 2017-08-04 2021-03-09 Shimano Inc. Bicycle component and mounting structure for bicycle component
JP6921718B2 (en) * 2017-08-04 2021-08-18 株式会社シマノ Bicycle components and mounting structure of bicycle components
CN110445312A (en) * 2018-05-03 2019-11-12 天津迪思科博科技发展有限公司 Hub motor of electric bicycle with built-in power-assisted sensor

Family Cites Families (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5758736A (en) * 1995-03-29 1998-06-02 Suzuki Kabushiki Kaisha Power assist apparatus of power assisted bicycle
JPH09193876A (en) * 1996-01-17 1997-07-29 Sanyo Electric Co Ltd Bicycle with electric motor
TW409104B (en) 1998-09-01 2000-10-21 Shimano Kk Torque sensor for bicycle and crankshaft assembly for bicycle
JP4722271B2 (en) * 2000-09-06 2011-07-13 株式会社ジェイテクト Torque detection device
DE10061923A1 (en) * 2000-12-12 2002-06-13 Feo Elektronik Gmbh ergometer
US6935157B2 (en) * 2002-10-11 2005-08-30 Larry D. Miller Anti-bob system for cycles
DE10339304A1 (en) * 2003-08-27 2005-05-19 Feo Elektronik Gmbh sensor support

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
See references of WO2011154546A1 *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2011154546A1 (en) 2011-12-15

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP2580111A1 (en) An axle bearing assembly
JP4750796B2 (en) Rotation detector and torque sensor
US9027691B2 (en) Driving unit and electric assist bicycle
TWI585379B (en) Crank arm
US8797027B2 (en) Bottom bracket with a torque sensor unit
US10787032B2 (en) Bicycle hub
US9631717B2 (en) Planetary gear train for transmission of motor
AU2016295803C1 (en) Measuring assembly for measuring the torque on a shaft, crank drive and vehicle
KR101731660B1 (en) Force Measuring Device For a Bicycle
JP5479436B2 (en) Torque detection device
CA3139317C (en) Wheel hub, vehicle with auxiliary drive, said vehicle comprising the wheel hub, and clamping assembly
CN104010936B (en) Driver element and electric assisted bicycle
CN112955374B (en) Power transmission unit of electric bicycle and electric bicycle
TWI226433B (en) Pedaling force detector for motor-assisted bicycle
KR20140094735A (en) Hub motor structure for electric bicycle
US20130020854A1 (en) Traction motor
KR101168855B1 (en) Torque sensor for Power Assist System
US20230348008A1 (en) Cycle driving device having a torque sensor
JP2006143216A (en) Power-assisted bicycle
JP2000006876A (en) Assist power transmission system for power assist vehicle
CN114683766A (en) Wheel hub for a human powered vehicle
JP2013036838A (en) Torque detection apparatus
JP2007100727A (en) Rotation detection device

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20121219

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

RIN1 Information on inventor provided before grant (corrected)

Inventor name: YANG, CHIH-CHING

Inventor name: MA, BIN-YEN

Inventor name: CHEN, CHU-YUNG

DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)
STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE APPLICATION HAS BEEN WITHDRAWN

18W Application withdrawn

Effective date: 20170627