JP2019018687A - Bicycle battery unit and module - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a bicycle battery unit and module, capable of facilitating compatibility with bicycles with various specifications.SOLUTION: The bicycle battery unit includes a housing with a battery cell, and a first mounting part installed on the housing. The first mounting part is structured to selectively mount the plurality of types of first modules connectable with a bicycle frame.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

  The present invention relates to a bicycle battery unit and a module.

  The battery unit for bicycles disclosed in Patent Document 1 is attached to a bicycle frame.

JP-A-9-226653

  In order to manufacture bicycles with various specifications, the manufacturer needs to prepare a battery unit for bicycles according to each specification.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a bicycle battery unit and a module that can be easily applied to bicycles of various specifications.

One form of the battery unit for bicycles according to the first aspect of the present invention includes a housing in which battery cells are provided, and a first attachment part provided in the housing, wherein the first attachment part is coupled to a bicycle frame. A plurality of possible types of first modules are configured to be selectively attachable.
According to the first aspect, since the first module attached to the bicycle battery unit can be selected from a plurality of types of first modules, it is easy to deal with bicycles of various specifications.

In the bicycle battery unit on the second side according to the first side, the first attachment portion is provided at a first end portion in the first direction of the housing.
According to the second aspect, the first module can be attached to the first end in the first direction.

The battery unit for bicycles according to the third aspect according to the first or second aspect further includes a second attachment part provided on the housing, wherein the second attachment part is a plurality of types of second parts that can be coupled to a frame of the bicycle. Two modules are configured to be selectively attachable.
According to the third aspect, since the second module attached to the bicycle battery unit can be selected from a plurality of types of second modules, it is easy to deal with bicycles of various specifications.

In the bicycle battery unit on the fourth side according to the third side, the first attachment portion is provided at a first end portion in the first direction of the housing, and the second attachment portion is the first of the housing. At the second end in the direction.
According to the fourth aspect, since the second module can be attached to an end portion different from the side on which the first module is attached in the first direction, the size of the bicycle battery unit increases in the direction intersecting the first direction. This can be suppressed.

In the bicycle battery unit according to the fifth aspect according to the third or fourth aspect, the plurality of types of first modules include at least one module of the same type as a module included in the plurality of types of second modules. .
According to the fifth aspect, two modules of the same type can be attached to the housing.

In the bicycle battery unit of the sixth aspect according to the third or fourth aspect, the plurality of types of first modules do not include the same type of modules as the modules included in the plurality of types of second modules.
According to the sixth aspect, two modules of different types can be attached to the housing.

The bicycle battery unit on the seventh side according to any one of the third to sixth sides further includes one of the plurality of types of second modules.
According to the seventh aspect, a bicycle battery unit including the second module can be provided.

The bicycle battery unit on the eighth side according to any one of the third to seventh sides further includes a second fixing member for fixing the second module to the second mounting portion.
According to the eighth aspect, the second module can be stably attached to the second attachment portion by the second fixing member.

In the ninth aspect of the bicycle battery unit according to the eighth aspect, the second fixing member includes a bolt.
According to the ninth aspect, the second module can be easily and stably attached to the second attachment portion with a bolt.

The bicycle battery unit according to the tenth aspect according to any one of the first to seventh aspects further includes one of the plurality of types of first modules.
According to the tenth aspect, a bicycle battery unit including the first module can be provided.

The bicycle battery unit according to the eleventh aspect according to any one of the first to tenth aspects further includes a first fixing member for fixing the first module to the first attachment portion.
According to the eleventh aspect, the first module can be stably attached to the first attachment portion by the first fixing member.

In the bicycle battery unit according to the twelfth aspect according to the eleventh aspect, the first fixing member includes a bolt.
According to the twelfth aspect, the first module can be easily and stably attached to the first attachment portion by the bolt.

In the bicycle battery unit according to any one of the thirteenth aspects according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects, at least one of the plurality of types of first modules is connectable to a connecting member provided on the bicycle. Including parts.
According to the thirteenth aspect, the bicycle battery unit can be attached to the bicycle via the first module. By changing the type of the first module, the bicycle battery unit can be attached to various bicycles.

In the bicycle battery unit according to the fourteenth aspect according to the thirteenth aspect, the connecting portion includes at least one of a hole, a convex portion, and a concave portion.
According to the fourteenth aspect described above, the bicycle battery unit can be attached to the bicycle by connecting at least one of the hole, the convex portion, and the concave portion of the connecting portion to the connecting member.

In the bicycle battery unit according to the fifteenth aspect according to any one of the first to fourteenth aspects, at least one of the plurality of types of first modules has the first module attached to the first attachment portion. In this state, an electric member electrically connected to the battery cell is included.
According to the fifteenth aspect, the power of the battery cell can be output to the electric member of the first module.

The battery unit for bicycles according to the sixteenth aspect according to the fifteenth aspect further includes a first connector provided on the housing and electrically connected to the battery cell, wherein the electric member includes the first module and the first module. A second connector connected to the first connector in a state of being attached to the one attachment portion is included.
According to the sixteenth aspect, the power of the battery cell can be output to the electric member of the first module by connecting the first connector and the second connector.

The bicycle battery unit according to the seventeenth aspect according to the sixteenth aspect, wherein the electrical member is electrically connected to the second connector, and a third connector for connecting to at least one of a bicycle component and an external power source, a user Further includes at least one of an operation unit capable of operating and a display unit capable of displaying information.
According to the seventeenth aspect, by attaching the first module to the housing, the third connector for connecting to at least one of the bicycle component and the external power source, the operation unit operable by the user, and the information can be displayed. At least one of the display units can be provided in the bicycle battery unit.

In the bicycle battery unit according to the eighteenth aspect according to the seventeenth aspect, the operation unit includes a switch for supplying electric power from the battery cell to the bicycle component from the third connector.
According to the eighteenth aspect, by attaching the first module to the housing, the bicycle battery unit can be provided with a switch for supplying power from the battery cell to the bicycle component from the third connector.

In the bicycle battery unit according to the nineteenth aspect according to the seventeenth or eighteenth aspect, the display unit is configured to display a battery level of the battery cell.
According to the nineteenth aspect, the user can check the remaining battery level of the battery cell using the first module.

One form of the module according to the twentieth aspect of the present invention includes an attachment portion attachable to the first attachment portion of the bicycle battery unit of any one of the first to nineteenth aspects.
According to the twentieth aspect, a module that can be attached to the first attachment portion of the housing of the bicycle battery unit can be provided.

  The battery unit and module for a bicycle of the present invention are easily compatible with bicycles of various specifications.

The side view of the bicycle containing the battery unit for bicycles of an embodiment. The disassembled perspective view which shows the attachment structure of the battery unit for bicycles of FIG. The perspective view of the battery unit for bicycles of FIG. The side view of the battery unit for bicycles of FIG. The disassembled perspective view which shows the attachment structure of the housing and 1st module of the battery unit for bicycles of FIG. The disassembled perspective view which shows the attachment structure of the housing and 2nd module of the battery unit for bicycles of FIG. The schematic diagram which shows the 1st procedure which attaches the battery unit for bicycles of FIG. 2 to a flame | frame. The schematic diagram which shows the 3rd procedure which attaches the battery unit for bicycles of FIG. 2 to a flame | frame. The side view of the battery unit for bicycles containing the 1st module and 2nd module of a kind different from FIG. The top view of the battery unit for bicycles of FIG. The side view of the 1st module of the kind different from FIG. 4 and FIG. The side view of the 1st module of the kind different from FIG.4, FIG.9 and FIG.11.

  A bicycle 10 including a bicycle battery unit 60 will be described with reference to FIG. Hereinafter, the battery unit for bicycles is simply referred to as a battery unit. The bicycle 10 may be a mountain bike, a road bike, or a city bike. The bicycle 10 may be a tricycle or a cargo bike.

  The bicycle 10 further includes a frame 12, a front fork 14, a front wheel 16A, a rear wheel 16B, and a handle 18. The frame 12 includes a head tube 12A, a top tube 12B, a down tube 12C, a seat tube 12E, a seat stay 12F, and a chain stay 12G.

  Bicycle 10 further includes a battery unit mounting structure 20. The attachment structure 20 includes a battery attachment portion 22 and a cover 24 (see FIG. 2). The battery attachment portion 22 is provided on the frame 12 of the bicycle 10. In one example, the battery attachment portion 22 constitutes a part of the frame 12. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the battery attachment portion 22 constitutes a part of the down tube 12C. The down tube 12C includes a connecting portion 12D connected to the head tube 12A and a battery mounting portion 22. In one example, one end of the battery mounting portion 22 is connected to the connecting portion 12D, and the other end of the battery mounting portion 22 is connected to the seat tube 12E. A drive unit mounting portion to which a drive unit is mounted may be provided between the battery mounting portion 22 and the seat tube 12E. The connecting portion 12D may be integrally formed with the battery attachment portion 22, may be formed separately from the battery attachment portion 22, and may be integrally joined by welding or adhesion. The battery attachment portion 22 may be provided separately from the frame 12.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the battery attachment portion 22 includes a battery housing portion 26. The material of the battery accommodating part 26 contains a metal or a fiber reinforced resin. In one example, the battery housing part 26 is preferably formed of the same material as at least a part of the frame 12 connected to the battery housing part 26. The battery housing part 26 forms a housing space 26 </ b> A for housing the battery unit 60. The battery housing part 26 extends, for example, in the first direction X1 along the direction in which the frame 12 extends. The battery housing 26 has a shorter second dimension H2 in the second direction Y1 perpendicular to the first direction X1 and along the width direction of the bicycle 10 than the first dimension H1 in the first direction X1. The battery housing portion 26 is shorter in the third dimension H3 in the third direction Z1 perpendicular to the first direction X1 and the second direction Y1 than in the first dimension H1 in the first direction X1. It is preferable that the external shape of the battery housing portion 26 is arbitrarily designed according to the type of the bicycle 10 and the shape of the frame 12.

  The battery housing part 26 further includes a first opening 26B. The first opening 26B is formed in the battery housing portion 26 so as to open downward when the bicycle 10 is placed on a flat ground, for example. The first opening 26 </ b> B is connected to the housing space 26 </ b> A of the battery housing portion 26. The first opening 26B is formed in a size that allows the battery unit 60 to be inserted into the accommodation space 26A. The battery unit 60 is accommodated in the accommodating space 26A via the first opening 26B and attached to the battery attachment portion 22.

  The battery attachment portion 22 further includes a second opening 26C. In a state where the battery unit 60 is attached to the battery attachment portion 22, a connector, a display portion, or a switch provided in the battery unit 60 is exposed from the second opening 26C. The second opening 26C is provided in, for example, a side surface portion of the battery housing portion 26 in the first direction X1. The position of the second opening 26 </ b> C formed in the battery housing part 26 is determined by the arrangement of a connector, a display part, or a switch provided in the battery unit 60. The second opening 26C may be provided for each connector, display unit, and switch. One of the second openings 26 </ b> C is provided in a side surface portion corresponding to the side surface portion of the battery unit 60 in the battery housing portion 26 when the display portion 62 </ b> C (see FIG. 3) is provided in the side surface portion of the battery unit 60. It is done. Another one of the second openings 26 </ b> C is an upper surface corresponding to the upper surface portion of the battery unit 60 in the battery housing portion 26 when the third connector 92 (see FIG. 3) is provided on the upper surface portion of the battery unit 60. Provided in the section.

  The attachment structure 20 further includes a battery holder 28 and a bracket 30. The battery holder 28 is provided in the battery attachment part 22, for example. The battery holder 28 includes a holder 32 and a support portion 34. The holder 32 can hold the battery unit 60. The holder 32 is provided in the battery housing portion 26 so as to be displaceable with respect to the battery mounting portion 22. The support part 34 supports the holder 32 so that the holder 32 can be displaced with respect to the battery mounting part 22.

  The support part 34 includes a first support part 34A and a second support part 34B. The first support portion 34A and the second support portion 34B are disposed in the accommodation space 26A, for example. The first support portion 34 </ b> A and the second support portion 34 </ b> B are spaced apart from each other in the second direction Y <b> 1 and are fixed to the respective side portions of the battery housing portion 26. In one example, the first support portion 34A and the second support portion 34B are fixed to the battery housing portion 26 by adhesion, welding, or welding. The first support portion 34A and the second support portion 34B may be fixed to the battery housing portion 26 with bolts. When the first support portion 34A and the second support portion 34B are fixed to the battery housing portion 26 with bolts, the battery housing portion 26 is formed with one of a through hole or a screw hole corresponding to the bolt, and the first support portion The other of the through hole or the screw hole corresponding to the bolt is formed in the portion 34A and the second support portion 34B. The first support portion 34A and the second support portion 34B are arranged to face each other in the second direction Y1. The first support portion 34A and the second support portion 34B are each formed with a hole 34C extending in the second direction Y1. The hole 34C opens at least on the mutually opposing surfaces of the first support portion 34A and the second support portion 34B. The hole 34C may be formed so as to penetrate the first support part 34A and the second support part 34B. The holes 34C of the first support portion 34A and the second support portion 34B are formed so as to be aligned in the second direction Y1 when fixed to the battery housing portion 26.

  The holder 32 is supported by the support portion 34 so as to be pivotable about an axis along a direction intersecting the first direction X1. The holder 32 includes a main body portion 36, a first engagement portion 38, a shaft 40, and a plug 42. For example, the first engaging portion 38 is provided at a portion facing one end portion of the battery unit 60 in the first direction X1 in a state where the holder 32 holds the battery unit 60. The first engaging portion 38 can be engaged with a connecting portion 100 provided in the battery unit 60. The first engaging portion 38 includes at least one of a convex portion and a concave portion. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the first engaging portion 38 protrudes from the main body portion 36 toward the connecting portion 12D. The shaft 40 is provided in the main body portion 36. The shaft 40 may be formed as a separate member from the main body 36 or may be formed integrally with the main body 36. The shaft 40 protrudes from both side surfaces of the main body 36 in the second direction Y1, for example. When the shaft 40 is formed of a member different from the main body portion 36, the shaft 40 is provided in the main body portion 36 so as to penetrate the main body portion 36 in the second direction Y1. The shaft 40 is inserted into each hole 34C provided in the first support portion 34A and the second support portion 34B, and is rotatably supported by the support portion 34. The holder 32 is supported by the support portion 34 so as to be rotatable around the axis of the shaft 40. The shaft 40 may be fixed to the main body 36, and may be supported by the main body 36 so as to be rotatable about the axis of the shaft 40. When the shaft 40 is supported by the main body portion 36 so as to be rotatable about the axis of the shaft 40, the shaft 40 may be supported by the support portion 34 so as not to rotate.

  The holder 32 swings between a first position where the battery unit 60 is held at the attachment position of the battery attachment portion 22 and a second position rotated around the axis of the shaft 40 by a predetermined angle from the first position. It is possible. The predetermined angle is selected in the range of 10 degrees to 90 degrees, preferably in the range of 10 degrees to 60 degrees. When the main body portion 36 is displaced from the first position to the second position, the end portion on the first opening 26B side of the battery housing portion 26 in the third direction Z1 is opposite to the connecting portion 12D in the first direction X1. Move to the side. Accordingly, the holder 32 and the battery unit 60 can be easily attached and detached while the main body 36 is displaced to the second position.

  When the shaft 40 is supported by the main body 36 so as to be rotatable around the axis of the shaft 40, the support portion 34 may be omitted and the shaft 40 may function as a support portion. In this case, both end portions of the shaft 40 penetrating the main body portion 36 in the second direction Y1 in the second direction Y1 are coupled to the side surface portions of the battery mounting portion 22. In this case, both end portions of the shaft 40 in the second direction Y1 may be fixed to each side portion by adhesion, welding, or welding, and a screw portion is formed at one end portion, and a head portion is formed at the other end portion. The shaft 40 may be configured by a bolt having a portion, a through hole is formed in one of the side portions, and a screw hole is formed in the other, so that the shaft 40 is fixed to the battery housing portion 26.

  The plug 42 is electrically connected to the third connector 92 (see FIG. 3) of the battery unit 60 in a state where the holder 32 holds the battery unit 60. For example, the plug 42 is provided so as to protrude from the portion of the main body portion 36 different from the first engagement portion 38 toward the connecting portion 12D. The plug 42 is preferably provided on the first opening 26 </ b> B side of the battery housing portion 26 with respect to the first engagement portion 38 in the third direction Z <b> 1. This facilitates insertion of the plug 42 into the third connector 92 of the battery unit 60.

  The battery holder 28 preferably further includes an urging portion (not shown). The urging unit urges the holder 32 so that the holder 32 is disposed at the second position in a state where the battery unit 60 is not held by the holder 32. The urging unit is provided between the holder 32 and the battery housing unit 26, for example. The urging unit may be provided on the support unit 34. The biasing portion includes a torsion spring, a coil spring, a leaf spring, and the like. When the battery unit 60 is held by the holder 32 and the battery unit 60 is attached to the battery attachment portion 22, the holder 32 is displaced from the second position to the first position. When the battery unit 60 is removed from the battery attachment portion 22 and the holder 32, the holder 32 is displaced from the first position to the second position by the biasing portion.

  The bracket 30 is provided on the battery mounting portion 22. For example, the bracket 30 is disposed in the housing space 26 </ b> A of the battery housing portion 26 and is fixed to the inner peripheral portion of the battery housing portion 26. The bracket 30 is disposed at a distance from the battery holder 28 in the first direction X1. The bracket 30 is provided at the end of the battery unit 60 opposite to the end on the battery holder 28 side in the first direction X1 in a state where the battery unit 60 is disposed in the accommodation space 26A. The bracket 30 has a U shape. Both ends of the bracket 30 in the direction intersecting the first direction X1 are fixed to the battery accommodating portion 26, respectively. Both end portions of the bracket 30 are fixed to side surfaces of the battery housing portion 26 in the second direction Y1.

  The bracket 30 positions the battery unit 60 with respect to the battery mounting portion 22 in the second direction Y1. Both end portions of the bracket 30 in the second direction Y1 are fixed to the inner wall of the battery accommodating portion 26, respectively. A pair of bolts 44 are inserted into a pair of through-holes 26D formed in the battery mounting portion 22 and a pair of female screw portions 30A formed at both ends of the bracket 30 in the second direction Y1, whereby the bracket 30 is connected to the battery. It is fixed to the mounting portion 22.

  An insertion hole 30 </ b> B is formed in the bracket 30 at a position between the third connector 92 (see FIG. 3) of the battery unit 60 and the second opening 26 </ b> C corresponding to the third connector 92. The insertion hole 30B is configured such that the cap C can be inserted. The cap C is detachably provided on the third connector 92 of the battery unit 60. The cap C is configured to cover the third connector 92 while being attached to the third connector 92. When the third connector 92 is a female connector, the cap C may be configured to be insertable into the third connector 92. When the third connector 92 is a male connector, the cap C may have a recess into which the third connector 92 can be inserted. The cap C is attached to the third connector 92 via the second opening 26C (not shown) formed in the upper part of the battery attachment portion 22 and the insertion hole 30B in a state where the battery unit 60 is attached to the battery attachment portion 22. It is attached. By attaching the cap C to the battery unit 60, the third connector 92 is protected from dust and water. When the cap C is removed from the third connector 92, the charger is connected to the third connector 92 via the second opening 26C and the insertion hole 30B formed in the upper part of the battery mounting portion 22. Thus, the battery cell 76 is charged.

The attachment structure 20 further includes a connecting member 50, a first bolt 52, and a second bolt 54.
The connecting member 50 includes a head portion 50A and a shaft portion 50B continuous with the head portion 50A. A female screw portion 50C is provided at the end of the shaft portion 50B. The shaft portion 50 </ b> B is coupled to the coupling portion 86 of the battery unit 60. The connecting portion 86 includes a hole 86A (see FIG. 3) that penetrates the battery unit 60 in the second direction Y2. The shaft part 50 </ b> B is connected to the connecting part 86 by being inserted into the hole 86 </ b> A of the connecting part 86. The head portion 50 </ b> A of the connecting member 50 is configured to be insertable into a groove 30 </ b> C provided at one end of the bracket 30.

  Battery mounting portion 22 further includes a pair of through holes 26E and 26F. The pair of through holes 26 </ b> E and 26 </ b> F are provided on each of the side surfaces of the battery mounting portion 22 in the second direction Y <b> 1. The first bolt 52 is connected from the outside of the battery mounting portion 22 in a state where the shaft portion 50B of the connecting member 50 is inserted into the hole 86A of the battery unit 60 and the head portion 50A is fitted in the groove 30C of the bracket 30. Is screwed into the female screw portion 50C through the through hole 26E. The second bolt 54 is screwed into the female screw portion 30 </ b> D formed in the bracket 30 from the outside of the battery attachment portion 22 through the other through hole 26 </ b> F. The bracket 30 is fixed to the battery mounting portion 22 by the second bolt 54. When the shaft portion 50B of the connecting member 50 is inserted into the hole 86A of the battery unit 60 and the head portion 50A is fitted in the groove 30C of the bracket 30, the first bolt 52 is screwed into the female screw portion 50C. The connecting member 50 connects the battery unit 60 to the battery mounting portion 22.

  The battery unit 60 can be attached to the battery attachment portion 22. The battery unit 60 is capable of supplying electric power to the electrical elements included in the bicycle 10 while being attached to the battery attachment portion 22. The electrical elements included in the bicycle 10 include electric components. The electric component includes at least one of a drive unit, an electric transmission, an electric suspension, an electric seat post, a display device, a cycle computer, a lamp, and an electric operating device. The drive unit includes a motor that assists the propulsion of the bicycle 10. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the battery unit 60 extends, for example, in the first direction X2. The size of the battery unit 60 in the second direction Y2 perpendicular to the first direction X2 and along the width direction of the bicycle 10 is shorter than the size in the first direction X2. The battery unit 60 has a dimension in the third direction Z2 orthogonal to the first direction X2 and the second direction Y2 shorter than the dimension in the first direction X2. In a state in which the battery unit 60 is attached to the battery attachment portion 22, the first direction X2 of the battery unit 60 substantially coincides with the first direction X1 of the battery accommodation portion 26, and the second direction Y2 of the battery unit 60 is the battery accommodation portion. 26 substantially coincides with the second direction Y1, and the third direction Z2 of the battery unit 60 substantially coincides with the third direction Z1 of the battery housing portion 26.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the battery unit 60 includes a housing 62 and a first attachment portion 64. The bicycle battery unit 60 includes a second mounting portion 66, a first fixing member 68, a second fixing member 70, a first connector 72 (see FIG. 7), a fourth connector 74 (see FIG. 8), a battery cell 76, and a circuit. The unit 78 further includes one of a plurality of types of first modules 80 and one of a plurality of types of second modules 82. The module 80 includes an attachment portion 84 that can be attached to the first attachment portion 64.

  The material of the housing 62 includes a resin material. The housing 62 is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape in which the dimension in the first direction X2 is larger than the dimension in the second direction Y2 and the dimension in the third direction Z2. The housing 62 is provided with a display portion 62C. The display unit 62C displays the remaining battery level of the battery unit 60, for example. The display unit 62C may be omitted.

  The battery cell 76 is provided in the housing 62. The housing 62 accommodates at least a part of the battery cell 76. Preferably, the housing 62 accommodates the entire battery cell 76. There may be one or more battery cells 76. The maximum number of battery cells 76 that can be accommodated in the accommodation space of the housing 62 is the dimension along the first direction X2 of the housing 62, the dimension along the second direction Y2 of the housing 62, and the third direction Z2 of the housing 62. Determined by the dimensions along. Each dimension of the battery unit 60 can be arbitrarily changed within a range that can be accommodated in the accommodation space 26 </ b> A of the battery accommodation unit 26. The battery cell 76 has a cylindrical shape, for example. Battery cell 76 includes a rechargeable battery. Battery cell 76 preferably includes a lithium ion battery.

  The circuit unit 78 is provided in the housing 62. The circuit unit 78 is accommodated in the housing 62. The circuit unit 78 includes a control unit and a storage unit. The control unit includes an arithmetic processing device that executes a predetermined control program. The arithmetic processing unit includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The control unit may include one or a plurality of microcomputers. The storage unit includes a nonvolatile memory. The circuit unit 78 may further include a communication unit. The communication unit includes, for example, a communication circuit for performing power line communication (PLC). The communication unit may be formed integrally with the control unit.

  The first attachment portion 64 is provided on the housing 62. The first attachment portion 64 is configured to selectively attach a plurality of types of first modules 80 that can be coupled to the frame 12 of the bicycle 10. The first attachment portion 64 is provided at the first end portion 62 </ b> A in the first direction X <b> 2 of the housing 62. In one example, the first attachment portion 64 includes a female screw portion 64A.

  The second attachment portion 66 is provided on the housing 62. The second attachment portion 66 is configured to selectively attach a plurality of types of second modules 82 that can be coupled to the frame 12 of the bicycle 10. The second attachment portion 66 is provided at the second end 62 </ b> B in the first direction X <b> 2 of the housing 62. In one example, the second attachment portion 66 includes a female screw portion 66A.

The first fixing member 68 is configured to fix the first module 80 to the first mounting portion 64. The first fixing member 68 includes a bolt 68A.
The second fixing member 70 is configured to fix the second module 82 to the second attachment portion 66. The second fixing member 70 includes a bolt 70A.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the first connector 72 is provided in the housing 62. The first connector 72 is provided at the first end 62A of the housing 62 in the first direction X2. The first connector 72 includes one or more terminals. The first connector 72 is provided on the surface to which the first module 80 is attached. The first connector 72 includes a convex portion or a concave portion. As shown in FIG. 4, the first connector 72 is electrically connected to the battery cell 76. The first connector 72 and the battery cell 76 are connected by an electric wire L1. The first connector 72 is electrically connected to the circuit unit 78. The 1st connector 72 and the circuit part 78 are connected by the electric wire L2. When the circuit unit 78 performs power line communication through the electric wire L2, the electric wire L2 includes a power communication line. Each of the electric wires L1 and L2 may include a plurality of electric wires.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the fourth connector 74 is provided in the housing 62. The fourth connector 74 is provided at the second end 62B of the housing 62 in the first direction X2. The fourth connector 74 includes one or more terminals. The fourth connector 74 is provided on the surface to which the second module 82 is attached. The fourth connector 74 includes a convex portion or a concave portion. As shown in FIG. 4, the fourth connector 74 is electrically connected to the battery cell 76. The fourth connector 74 and the battery cell 76 are connected by an electric wire L1. The fourth connector 74 is electrically connected to the circuit unit 78. The 4th connector 74 and the circuit part 78 are connected by the electric wire L2.

  The plurality of types of first modules 80 are different in at least one of functions and shapes included in the first modules 80. The first module 80 includes an attachment portion 84 for attaching to the first attachment portion 64. In one example, the attachment portion 84 may include a hole 84A into which the bolt 68A of the first fixing member 68 is inserted. In one example, at least one of the plurality of types of first modules 80 may include a connecting portion 86. The connecting portion 86 may be configured to be connectable to a connecting member 50 provided in the bicycle 10. The connecting portion 86 includes at least one of a hole, a convex portion, and a concave portion. In one example, at least one of the multiple types of first modules 80 may include an electrical member 88. The electrical member 88 is electrically connected to the battery cell 76 in a state where the first module 80 is mounted on the first mounting portion 64. In one example, the electrical member 88 may include a second connector 90. The second connector 90 is connected to the first connector 72 in a state where the first module 80 is attached to the first attachment portion 64. In one example, the electrical member 88 includes at least one of a third connector 92, an operation unit 94 (see FIG. 11) that can be operated by the user, and a display unit 96 (see FIG. 11) that can display information. Also good. The third connector 92 is electrically connected to the second connector 90 and is connected to at least one of the bicycle component and the external power source. The third connector 92 is configured to be connectable to a charger plug connected to an external power source. The battery cell 76 can be charged via the third connector 92. In one example, the operation unit 94 may include a switch 98 (see FIG. 11) for supplying power from the battery cell 76 to the bicycle component from the third connector 92.

  The first module 80A illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 represents one first module 80A among the plurality of types of first modules 80. The first module 80 </ b> A includes a mounting portion 84, a connecting portion 86, and an electric member 88. The connecting portion 86 includes a hole 86A that extends in the second direction Y2. In one example, the hole 86A of the connecting portion 86 passes through the first module 80 in the second direction Y2.

  The electrical member 88 includes a second connector 90 and a third connector 92. The second connector 90 is provided at the other end of the first module 80 in the first direction X2. The second connector 90 includes one or more terminals. The third connector 92 includes one or more terminals. The second connector 90 includes a recess or protrusion that can be fitted into the protrusion or recess of the first connector 72. The second connector 90 and the third connector 92 are electrically connected by an electric wire L3. Second connector 90 is electrically connected to battery cell 76 via first connector 72 and electric wire L3. The second connector 90 and the third connector 92 are electrically connected by an electric wire L4. The second connector 90 is electrically connected to the circuit unit 78 via the first connector 72 and the electric wire L4. When the circuit unit 78 performs power line communication through the electric wire L4, the electric wire L4 includes a power communication line.

  The plurality of types of second modules 82 differ in at least one of the functions and shapes included in the second modules 82. The second module 82 includes an attachment portion 85 for attaching to the second attachment portion 66. In one example, the attachment portion 85 may include a hole 85A into which the bolt 70A of the second fixing member 70 is inserted. In one example, at least one of the plurality of types of second modules 82 may include the connecting portion 100. The connecting portion 100 is configured to be connectable to a holder 32 provided on the bicycle 10. The connecting portion 86 includes at least one of a hole, a convex portion, and a concave portion. In one example, at least one of the plurality of types of second modules 82 includes the electrical member 102. The electrical member 102 is electrically connected to the battery cell 76 in a state where the second module 82 is mounted on the second mounting portion 66. In one example, the electrical member 102 may include a fifth connector 104. The fifth connector 104 is connected to the fourth connector 74 in a state where the second module 82 is attached to the second attachment portion 66. In one example, the electrical member 102 may include at least one of a sixth connector 106, an operation unit operable by a user, and a display unit capable of displaying information. The sixth connector 106 is electrically connected to the fifth connector 104 and is connected to at least one of the bicycle component and the external power source. When the plug 42 is connected to the sixth connector 106, the battery unit 60 can supply power to the electric component. In one example, the operation unit may include a switch for supplying power from the battery cell 76 to the bicycle component from the sixth connector 106.

  The second module 82A illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 6 represents one second module 82A among the plurality of types of second modules 82. The second module 82 </ b> A includes a mounting portion 85, a connecting portion 100, and an electric member 102. The connecting portion 100 is provided at one end of the second module 82 in the first direction X2. The connecting portion 100 includes a recess that is recessed toward the other side of the second module 82 in the first direction X1. The connecting portion 100 includes a shape corresponding to the first engaging portion 38 (see FIG. 2) of the holder 32. The connecting portion 100 may include a convex portion that protrudes toward one side in the first direction X1 of the second module 82 instead of the concave portion. When the connection part 100 contains a convex part, it is preferable that the 1st engaging part 38 of the holder 32 contains the recessed part corresponding to the convex part of the connection part 100. FIG.

  The electrical member 102 includes a fifth connector 104 and a sixth connector 106. The fifth connector 104 is provided at one end of the second module 82 in the first direction X2. The fifth connector 104 includes one or more terminals. The sixth connector 106 includes one or more terminals. The fifth connector 104 includes a concave portion or a convex portion that can be fitted into the convex portion or the concave portion of the fourth connector 74. The fifth connector 104 and the sixth connector 106 are electrically connected by an electric wire L5. The sixth connector 106 is electrically connected to the battery cell 76 via the fourth connector 74 and the electric wire L5. The fifth connector 104 and the sixth connector 106 are electrically connected by an electric wire L6. The sixth connector 106 is electrically connected to the circuit unit 78 via the fifth connector 104 and the electric wire L6. When the circuit unit 78 performs power line communication through the electric wire L6, the electric wire L6 includes a power communication line.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the battery unit 60 further includes a cover attachment portion 108. The cover attachment portion 108 is configured to be able to attach the cover 24. Cover attaching portion 108 includes a female screw portion 108A.

  The cover 24 is configured to be detachable from the battery unit 60. The cover 24 includes a cover body 24A and a plurality of through holes 24B. The cover main body 24 </ b> A is preferably configured so as to be able to close the first opening 26 </ b> B of the battery housing portion 26 in a state where the battery unit 60 is attached to the battery attachment portion 22. For example, when the surface of the battery unit 60 facing the cover body 24A is curved, the shape of the cover body 24A may include a curved portion along the shape of the battery unit 60. The cover main body 24A may be configured to cover only a part of the battery unit 60.

  The plurality of through holes 24B are formed so that the bolts 25 can be inserted therethrough. The plurality of through holes 24B are provided in the cover body 24A. The plurality of through holes 24B are respectively provided at positions facing the female screw portions 108A in the cover main body 24A in a state where the cover main body 24A is attached to the battery unit 60. The cover 24 is attached to the battery unit 60 by inserting the plurality of bolts 25 into the female screw portion 108A through the plurality of through holes 24B. In a state where the battery unit 60 is housed in the housing space 26 </ b> A of the battery housing portion 26, the battery unit 60 is protected from the outside by the battery housing portion 26 and the cover 24.

  In one example, the cover attachment portion 108 is provided on at least one of the first module 80 and the second module 82. Cover attaching portion 108 includes a plurality of female screw portions 108A. The plurality of female screw portions 108 </ b> A are exposed from the first opening 26 </ b> B of the battery housing portion 26 in a state where the battery unit 60 is attached to the battery attachment portion 22. The number and arrangement of the female screw portions 108A can be arbitrarily changed. When the cover attaching portion 108 is provided on at least one of the first module 80 and the second module 82, the cover attaching portion 108 can be attached to the battery unit 60 by changing the type of the first module 80 and the second module 82 included in the battery unit 60. The type of cover 24 can be changed. The cover attaching portion 108 may be provided in the housing 62 instead of or in addition to at least one of the first module 80 and the second module 82.

  A procedure for attaching the battery unit 60 to the battery attachment portion 22 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2, 7, and 8. 7 and 8 are cross-sectional views of the mounting structure 20 along the first direction X1.

  The battery unit 60 is attached to the battery attachment portion 22 through the following procedure, for example. As shown in FIG. 7, in the first procedure, the user fits the connecting portion 100 of the battery unit 60 into the first engaging portion 38 of the battery mounting portion 22 and the sixth connector 106 is held in the holder 32. The battery unit 60 is rotated with respect to the battery mounting portion 22. Specifically, in a state in which the user holds the battery unit 60 on the holder 32, the battery unit with the shaft 40 of the holder 32 as a turning fulcrum so that the holder 32 is displaced from the first position to the second position. 60 is turned.

  In the second procedure, the user inserts the head portion 50A of the connecting member 50 into the groove 30C (see FIG. 2) so that the battery unit 60 is accommodated in the accommodating space 26A of the battery accommodating portion 26.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 and 8, in the third procedure, the user inserts the first bolt 52 into the through hole 26 </ b> E in a state where the battery unit 60 is housed in the housing space 26 </ b> A of the battery housing portion 26. Then, the connecting member 50 is connected to the female screw portion 50C. By tightening the first bolt 52, the head portion 50A of the connecting member 50 and the groove 30C of the bracket 30 are engaged. In a state where the first bolt 52 and the connecting member 50 are connected, the position of the connecting portion 100 along the third direction Z1 with respect to the battery housing portion 26 is held by the first engaging portion 38. In the fourth procedure, the user attaches the cover 24 to the battery unit 60. Through the above procedure, the battery unit 60 is attached to the battery attachment portion 22. The fourth procedure may be performed before the first procedure.

  In a state where the battery unit 60 is attached to the battery attachment portion 22, the display portion 62 </ b> C and the third connector 92 are exposed from the second opening 26 </ b> C of the battery housing portion 26. Further, the cap C is detached from the third connector 92 and the charger is connected to the third connector 92, whereby the battery cell 76 (see FIG. 4) accommodated in the battery accommodating portion 26 is charged.

  The manufacturer of the battery unit 60 selects one first module 80 from the plurality of types of first modules 80 according to the specifications required for the battery unit 60 and attaches the first module 80 to the housing 62. A plurality of types of battery units 60 can be manufactured by selecting one second module 82 and attaching it to the housing 62. The specifications required for the battery unit 60 include at least one of the shape and function of the battery unit 60. The plurality of types of first modules 80 provided by the manufacturer of the battery unit 60 may include at least one module 80 of the same type as the module 82 included in the plurality of types of second modules 82. Further, the plurality of types of first modules 80 provided by the manufacturer of the battery unit 60 may not include the same type of modules 80 as the modules 82 included in the plurality of types of second modules 82. When the user attaches the battery unit 60 to another bicycle 10 or replaces the battery cell 76, the user replaces at least one of the first module 80 and the second module 82 with other types of the first module 80 and the second module 82. The module 82 can be replaced, or only the housing 62 can be replaced.

  The first mounting portion 64 of the housing 62 may be configured so that the first module 80 can be mounted in a state where the first module 80 is rotated by a predetermined angle around an axis extending in the first direction X1. The second mounting portion 66 of the housing 62 may be configured so that the second module 82 can be mounted in a state where the second module 82 is rotated by a predetermined angle around an axis extending in the first direction X1. The predetermined angle includes one or more angles. 9 and 10 are attached to the housing 62 in a state where the first module 80 and the second module 82 of the battery unit 60 shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 are rotated by 90 ° about the axis extending in the first direction X1. The battery unit 60A is shown in a state where The first attachment portion 64 includes a plurality of internal thread portions 64A so that the first module 80 can be attached in a state where the first module 80 is rotated by a predetermined angle around an axis extending in the first direction X1. The first connector 72 and the second connector 90 are configured to be connected in a state where the first module 80 is rotated by a predetermined angle around an axis extending in the first direction X1. For example, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the first connector 72 is disposed in the center of the first end 62A of the housing 62, and the shape viewed from the first end 62A side has fourfold symmetry. In this case, the second connector 90 has a shape corresponding to the first connector 72, and is provided at a position that can be connected to the first connector 72 in the first module 80. The second attachment portion 66 includes a plurality of female screw portions 64A so that the second module 82 can be attached in a state where the second module 82 is rotated by a predetermined angle around an axis extending in the first direction X1. The fourth connector 74 and the fifth connector 104 are configured to be connected in a state where the second module 82 is rotated by a predetermined angle around an axis extending in the first direction X1. For example, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the fourth connector 74 is disposed at the center of the second end 62B of the housing 62, and the shape viewed from the second end 62B side has fourfold symmetry. In this case, the fifth connector 104 has a shape corresponding to the fourth connector 74, and is provided at a position where it can be connected to the fourth connector 74 in the second module 82.

  FIG. 11 shows the first module 80 </ b> C among the plurality of types of first modules 80. In the first module 80C, in addition to the configuration of the first module 80A, the electric member 88 further includes an operation unit 94 and a display unit 96. The operation unit 94 includes a switch 98. The display unit 96 is configured to display the battery level of the battery cell 76. In the example of FIG. 11, the display unit 96 and the switch 98 are provided at one end of the first module 80 in the second direction Y2. Switch 98 is connected to electric wire L3. The switch 98 is configured to be able to switch between electrical connection and insulation of a part of the electric wire L3. The display unit 96 includes, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode), a liquid crystal panel, an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) panel, or electronic paper. The display unit 96 is electrically connected to an electric wire different from the electric wire L4 or a circuit unit 78 provided in the housing 62 by the electric wire L4. The circuit unit 78 controls the display unit 96 so that a display corresponding to the battery level of the battery cell 76 is obtained. When the display unit 96 is electrically connected to the circuit unit 78 by the electric wire L4, the first module 80C is provided with a control unit that controls the display unit 96 and a communication unit that can communicate with the control unit of the circuit unit 78. It is done.

  FIG. 12 shows the first module 80D among the plurality of types of first modules 80. In the first module 80D, the first module 80C includes an electric member 88 including a display unit 96 and an operation unit 94A in addition to the configuration of the first module 80A. The operation unit 94A is electrically connected to an electric wire different from the electric wire L4 or a circuit unit 78 provided in the housing 62 by the electric wire L4. The operation unit 94A outputs an operation signal to the circuit unit 78 when an operation by the user is performed. When the operation unit 94A is electrically connected to the circuit unit 78 by the electric wire L4, the first module 80C is provided with a communication unit that can communicate with the control unit of the circuit unit 78.

(Modification)
The description related to the above embodiment is an example of a form that the bicycle battery unit and module according to the present invention can take, and is not intended to limit the form. The battery unit and module for a bicycle according to the present invention can take a form in which, for example, a modification of the above-described embodiment described below and at least two modifications not contradicting each other are combined. In the following modified examples, the same reference numerals as those in the embodiment are given to portions common to the embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted.

  The second module 82 may be attached to the first attachment portion 64 of the housing 62, and the second module 82 may be used as the first module 80. In this case, the holder 32 corresponds to a connecting member, the fifth connector 104 corresponds to a second connector, and the sixth connector 106 corresponds to a third connector. The first module 80 may be attached to the second attachment portion of the housing 62, and the first module 80 may be used as the second module 82. In this case, the first module 72 and the fourth connector 74 include the same structure, and the second connector 90 and the fifth connector 104 include the same structure. And the second module 82 can be used.

  The second module 82 may be omitted. In this case, the connecting portion 100 is provided at the second end portion 62 </ b> B of the housing 62. The fourth connector 74 of the housing 62 may be configured to be connectable to the plug 42 of the battery holder 28.

  The first module 80 may be omitted. In this case, the connecting member 50 may be provided at the first end 62 </ b> A of the housing 62. When the first module 80 is omitted, the first connector 72 of the housing 62 may be configured to be directly connectable to the charger or may be omitted. The battery unit 60 from which the first module 80 is omitted can be attached to the bicycle 10 including the frame 12 in which the support portion for supporting the housing 62 is provided on the battery attachment portion 22.

  -You may provide the 1st attaching part 64 in the edge part of the direction which cross | intersects the 1st direction X2 of the housing 62. FIG. In this case, the first module 80 is attached to an end of the housing 62 in a direction intersecting the first direction X2.

  The first mounting portion 64 may include a first fitting portion that fits into the first module 80 instead of or in addition to the female screw portion 64A. The first fitting portion is provided at the first end 62A. The first fitting part may include at least one of a claw part, a groove, a concave part, and a hole. When the first fitting portion includes a claw portion, the claw portion fits into a groove, a recess, or a hole formed in the first module 80. When the first fitting portion includes a groove, a concave portion, or a hole, the groove, the concave portion, or the hole is fitted into a claw portion formed in the first module 80. The first fitting portion is a protrusion that fits into a groove that fits into the first module 80 or a groove that is formed in the first module 80 by sliding the first module 80 in a direction that intersects the first direction X1. May be included. In this case, the groove and the convex portion are configured such that the first module 80 cannot move relative to the housing 62 in the first direction X1 in a state where the first module 80 is fitted to the first fitting portion. ing. When providing a 1st fitting part, the 1st fixing member 68 may be abbreviate | omitted.

  The second mounting portion 66 may be provided at the end of the housing 62 in the direction intersecting the first direction X2. In this case, the second module 82 is attached to the end of the housing 62 in the direction intersecting the first direction X2.

  The second mounting portion 66 may include a second fitting portion that fits into the second module 82 instead of or in addition to the female screw portion 66A. The second fitting portion is provided at the second end 62B. The second fitting portion may include at least one of a claw portion, a groove, a concave portion, and a hole. When the second fitting part includes a claw part, the claw part fits into a groove, a recess, or a hole formed in the second module 82. When the second fitting portion includes a groove, a concave portion, or a hole, the groove, the concave portion, or the hole is fitted into a claw portion formed in the second module 82. The second fitting part is a groove that fits into the second module 82 by sliding the second module 82 in a direction crossing the first direction X1 or a protrusion that fits into a groove formed in the second module 82. May be included. In this case, the groove and the convex portion are configured such that the second module 82 cannot move relative to the housing 62 in the first direction X1 in a state where the second module 82 is fitted to the second fitting portion. ing. When providing a 2nd fitting part, the 2nd fixing member 70 may be abbreviate | omitted.

  The circuit unit 78 may be provided in the first module 80 or the second module 82. Further, the circuit unit 78 may be provided in a distributed manner in the housing 62 and at least one of the first module 80 and the second module 82.

  -The connection member 50 can also be comprised with one volt | bolt. In this case, one bolt is inserted into the through hole 26E of the battery mounting portion 22 from one end portion in the second direction Y2, passes through the hole 86A of the connecting portion 86, and is inserted into the through hole 26F of the battery mounting portion 22. Is done. A female screw to which a bolt is coupled is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the battery mounting portion 22 that forms the through hole 26F. In this case, the through hole 26F may be changed to a blind hole. In short, as long as the battery unit 60 can be attached to the frame 12, the structure of the connecting member 50 and the connecting portion 86 can be changed as appropriate.

  The battery attachment portion 22 may be omitted from the bicycle 10. In this case, for example, the battery holder 28 and the bracket 30 may be attached to the outer peripheral surface of the frame 12.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Bicycle, 12 ... Frame, 50 ... Connection member, 60 ... Bicycle battery unit, 62 ... Housing, 64 ... 1st attaching part, 66 ... 2nd attaching part, 68 ... 1st fixing member, 68A ... Bolt, 70 ... second fixing member, 70A ... bolt, 72 ... first connector, 76 ... battery cell, 80, 80A, 80B, 80C, 80D ... first module (module), 82, 82A, 82B ... second module, 84 ... Attachment part 86 ... Connection part 88 ... Electric member 90 ... Second connector 92 ... Third connector 94, 94A ... Operation part 96 ... Display part 98 ... Switch

Claims (20)

A housing in which a battery cell is provided;
A first mounting portion provided on the housing,
The first attachment portion is a bicycle battery unit configured to selectively attach a plurality of types of first modules that can be coupled to a bicycle frame.   The bicycle battery unit according to claim 1, wherein the first attachment portion is provided at a first end portion in a first direction of the housing. A second mounting portion provided on the housing;
The bicycle battery unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second attachment portion is configured to selectively attach a plurality of types of second modules that can be coupled to the bicycle frame. The first attachment portion is provided at a first end portion in the first direction of the housing,
The bicycle battery unit according to claim 3, wherein the second attachment portion is provided at a second end portion in the first direction of the housing.   The bicycle battery unit according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the plurality of types of first modules include at least one module of the same type as the modules included in the plurality of types of second modules.   The bicycle battery unit according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the plurality of types of first modules do not include modules of the same type as the modules included in the plurality of types of second modules.   The bicycle battery unit according to any one of claims 3 to 6, further comprising one of the plurality of types of second modules.   The bicycle battery unit according to any one of claims 3 to 7, further comprising a second fixing member for fixing the second module to the second attachment portion.   The bicycle battery unit according to claim 8, wherein the second fixing member includes a bolt.   The bicycle battery unit according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising one of the plurality of types of first modules.   The bicycle battery unit according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising a first fixing member for fixing the first module to the first attachment portion.   The bicycle battery unit according to claim 11, wherein the first fixing member includes a bolt.   The bicycle battery unit according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein at least one of the plurality of types of first modules includes a connecting portion connectable to a connecting member provided on the bicycle.   The bicycle battery unit according to claim 13, wherein the connection portion includes at least one of a hole, a convex portion, and a concave portion.   2. The at least one of the plurality of types of first modules includes an electrical member electrically connected to the battery cell in a state where the first module is mounted on the first mounting portion. The bicycle battery unit according to any one of claims 14 to 14. A first connector provided on the housing and electrically connected to the battery cell;
The bicycle battery unit according to claim 15, wherein the electrical member includes a second connector connected to the first connector in a state where the first module is attached to the first attachment portion.   The electrical member is electrically connected to the second connector, and a third connector for connecting to at least one of a bicycle component and an external power source, an operation unit operable by a user, and a display capable of displaying information The bicycle battery unit according to claim 16, further comprising at least one of the parts.   The bicycle battery unit according to claim 17, wherein the operation unit includes a switch for supplying electric power from the battery cell to the bicycle component from the third connector.   The bicycle battery unit according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the display unit is configured to display a battery level of the battery cell.   The module containing the attaching part which can be attached to the said 1st attaching part of the battery unit for bicycles as described in any one of Claims 1-19.