JP2020163951A - Motor unit and electric bicycle including the same - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a motor unit and an electric bicycle including the same, which can prevent the electric bicycle from being stolen.SOLUTION: A motor unit 2 is a motor unit for an electric bicycle to be attached to a bicycle. The motor unit 2 includes: a housing 21; a motor 36; an output body 33 configured to output power output from an output shaft 39 of the motor 36 to the outer side of the housing 21; a speed reduction mechanism 41 housed in the housing 21; and a contact body switching mechanism 5. The speed reduction mechanism 41 reduces the rotation speed of the output of the motor 36. The contact body switching mechanism 5 includes a contact body 51 switchable between a contact position contacting a predetermined location X1 of any of the speed reduction mechanism 41, the output body 33, and a movable body moved by the power output from the output body 33 and a non-contact position separating from the predetermined location X1. The contact body switching mechanism 5 exerts force to disturb the movement of the output body 33 when the contact body 51 is switched to the contact position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

The present invention relates to a motor unit and an electric bicycle provided with the motor unit.

Patent Document 1 describes a conventional electric bicycle. The electric bicycle described in Patent Document 1 includes a motor drive unit (motor unit). The motor drive unit includes a unit case (housing), a motor, an interlocking body (output body), and a reduction gear that transmits the output of the motor to the interlocking body. The output shaft of the motor is inside the unit case, and the reduction gear that meshes with the output shaft is also housed in the unit case. A drive sprocket is attached to the interlocking body, and an assist force can be output to the rear wheels.

The electric bicycle described in Patent Document 1 is provided with a lock such as a bar that mechanically hinders the rotation of wheels in order to prevent theft. The lock is attached to the frame of the electric bicycle.

International Publication No. 2014/184926

However, the electric bicycle described in Patent Document 1 cannot prevent the electric bicycle from being stolen when the lock is removed from the frame.

An object of the present invention is to provide a motor unit capable of mechanically limiting the operation of the motor unit to prevent the electric bicycle from being stolen, and an electric bicycle provided with the motor unit.

The motor unit of one aspect according to the present invention is a motor unit for an electric bicycle attached to a bicycle, and includes a housing, a motor, an output body, a deceleration mechanism that fits in the housing, and a contact body switching mechanism. , Equipped with. At least a part of the output shaft of the motor is located inside the housing. The output body outputs the power output from the output shaft to the outside of the housing. The deceleration mechanism decelerates the rotation speed of the output of the motor in the motor drive system transmission path from the output shaft to the output body. The contact body switching mechanism has a contact position that contacts a predetermined position of the output body and a moving body that moves by receiving a force output from the output body, and a non-contact position that is separated from the predetermined position. It has a contact body that can be switched between, and by switching the contact body to the contact position, a force that hinders movement is exerted on the output body.

One aspect of the electric bicycle according to the present invention includes a plurality of wheels and the motor unit that outputs rotational power to at least one of the plurality of wheels.

The motor unit and the electric bicycle according to the above aspect according to the present invention have an advantage that the operation of the motor unit can be mechanically restricted and the electric bicycle can be prevented from being stolen.

FIG. 1 is an overall view of an electric bicycle according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the same motor unit. FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view around the crankshaft of the motor unit of the same as above. 4A and 4B are perspective views illustrating the operation of the contact body switching mechanism of the same. FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view of the contact body switching mechanism described above, in which the contact body is in the contact position, as viewed from the side. FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of FIG. 5A. FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view of the contact body switching mechanism described above, in which the contact body is in the non-contact position, as viewed from the side. FIG. 6B is a sectional view taken along line BB of FIG. 6A. FIG. 7 is a sectional view taken along line CC of FIG. 6A. FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the crankshaft of the motor unit according to the first modification. FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view of the contact body switching mechanism described above, in which the contact body is in the contact position, as viewed from the side. 9B is a sectional view taken along line DD of FIG. 9A. FIG. 10A is a cross-sectional view of the contact body switching mechanism described above, in which the contact body is in the non-contact position, as viewed from the side. FIG. 10B is a sectional view taken along line EE of FIG. 10A. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the motor unit according to the second modification. FIG. 12A is a cross-sectional view of the contact body switching mechanism of the same as above, in which the contact body is in the contact position as viewed from the side. FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view of the contact body switching mechanism described above, in which the contact body is in the non-contact position, as viewed from the side. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the contact body switching mechanism in which the contact body is in the contact position in the motor unit according to the modified example 3 as viewed from the side. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the motor unit according to the modified example 4. FIG. 15A is a cross-sectional view taken from the side of the contact body switching mechanism having the contact body in the contact position. FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional view of the contact body switching mechanism described above, in which the contact body is in the non-contact position, as viewed from the side. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the contact body switching mechanism in which the contact body is in the contact position in the motor unit according to the modified example 5 as viewed from the side. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the motor unit according to the modified example 6 in a state where the contact body of the contact body switching mechanism is in the contact position. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the same motor unit in a state where the contact body of the contact body switching mechanism is in the non-contact position.

(1) Embodiment (1.1) Outline As shown in FIG. 1, the motor unit 2 according to the present embodiment is a motor unit 2 for an electric bicycle 1 attached to a bicycle. As shown in FIG. 2, the motor unit 2 includes a housing 21, a motor 36, an output body 33, a speed reduction mechanism 41, and a contact body switching mechanism 5.

At least a part of the output shaft 39 of the motor 36 is located inside the housing 21. The output body 33 outputs the power output from the output shaft 39 to the outside of the housing 21. The reduction mechanism 41 is housed in the housing 21 and reduces the rotation speed of the output of the motor 36 in the motor drive system transmission path. Here, the motor drive system transmission path means a power transmission path from the output shaft 39 to the output body 33.

As shown in FIG. 3, the contact body switching mechanism 5 has a contact body 51. The contact body 51 has a contact position in contact with and a non-contact position in contact with a predetermined position X1 of any of a moving body, an output body 33, and a reduction mechanism 41 that moves by receiving a force output from the output body 33. Can be switched between. The contact position is, for example, the position of the contact body 51 shown in FIG. 5B. The non-contact position is, for example, the position of the contact body 51 shown in FIG. 6B. The contact body switching mechanism 5 is configured to exert a force that hinders the movement of the output body 33 when the contact body 51 is switched to the contact position.

Therefore, according to the motor unit 2 according to the present embodiment, when the contact body 51 is switched to the contact position, a force that hinders the movement is exerted on the output body 33, so that the power of the motor 36 is transferred from the housing 21. Cannot output. Therefore, according to this aspect, if the contact body 51 is in a state of being switched to the contact position, it cannot be normally used as the motor unit 2. In short, according to the motor unit 2 according to the present embodiment, the operation of the motor unit can be mechanically restricted, and the effect of suppressing the theft of the electric bicycle 1 can be expected.

(1.2) Details Hereinafter, the electric bicycle 1 and the motor unit 2 according to the present embodiment will be described in detail. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the traveling surface 100 will be described as being a horizontal plane. However, in reality, the traveling surface 100 does not have to be a horizontal surface, and may be inclined with respect to the horizontal surface or may be an uneven surface. In the present disclosure, the direction in which the electric bicycle 1 travels is referred to as the "forward direction", the direction opposite to the forward direction is referred to as the "rear direction", and the forward direction and the rear direction may be collectively referred to as the "front-back direction". In addition, two directions that are orthogonal to the front-back direction and that are opposite to each other along the horizontal plane are defined as "left-right directions".

However, the definition of these directions does not mean to limit the usage mode of the electric bicycle 1 and the motor unit 2. In addition, the arrows indicating each direction in the drawing are shown only for the purpose of explanation and do not accompany the substance.

(1.2.1) Overall Configuration The electric bicycle 1 is a bicycle capable of traveling on the traveling surface 100 by the power output from the motor 36 (see FIG. 2). In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the electric bicycle 1 is a bicycle to which the motor unit 2 is attached, and is an electrically assisted bicycle including the motor unit 2.

The "electrically assisted bicycle" referred to in the present disclosure means a bicycle having a motor unit 2 that supplements the stepping force of the driver (hereinafter referred to as "stepping force") by a drive assist output. Therefore, the "electrically assisted bicycle" referred to in the present disclosure includes not only the electrically assisted bicycle according to the law but also the bicycle having the motor unit 2 which does not belong to the electrically assisted bicycle according to the law.

In the present embodiment, the electric bicycle 1 is an electrically assisted bicycle as described above. However, in the present disclosure, a bicycle (motor 36 alone) in which the drive system (human power drive system) that gives power to the wheels by pedaling force and the drive system (motor drive system) that gives power to the wheels by the motor 36 are independent. It may be a possible bicycle). In short, the electric bicycle 1 according to the present disclosure may be an electrically assisted bicycle or a bicycle capable of traveling only by the power output from the motor 36.

As shown in FIG. 1, the electric bicycle 1 includes a front fork 6, a handle 64, a plurality of (two in this case) wheels 65 and 66, a frame 7, a saddle 91, a pair of crank arms 92, a pair of pedals 93, and power. It includes a transmitter 8, a battery 9, and a motor unit 2. The "bicycle" as used in the present disclosure means a vehicle body that can run without assistance by an auxiliary drive output. The "bicycle" is composed of a front fork 6, a handle 64, a plurality of wheels 65, 66, a frame 7, a saddle 91, a pair of crank arms 92, a pair of pedals 93, and a power transmitter 8. Therefore, the electric bicycle 1 is configured by attaching at least the motor unit 2 to the bicycle, and in the present embodiment, the battery 9 is further attached.

The plurality of wheels 65 and 66 are members that support the frame 7 on the traveling surface 100. The electric bicycle 1 includes at least one front wheel 65 and at least one rear wheel 66 as a plurality of wheels 65 and 66. The electric bicycle 1 according to the present embodiment includes one front wheel 65 and one rear wheel 66, but the electric bicycle 1 according to the present disclosure includes one front wheel 65 and two rear wheels 66, or two. It may be a three-wheeled bicycle having a front wheel 65 and one rear wheel 66. Further, the electric bicycle 1 according to the present disclosure may be a four-wheeled bicycle provided with two front wheels 65 and two rear wheels 66. Each of the plurality of wheels 65, 66 according to this embodiment has a hub 661,651 in the center.

The front fork 6 supports the front wheel 65. The front fork 6 includes a pair of legs 61, a crown 62 connecting the upper ends of the pair of legs 61, and a steering column 63 protruding from the crown 62. The front wheels 65 are rotatably attached to the pair of legs 61 via a shaft passed through the hub 651. The rotation axis of the front wheel 65 is substantially parallel to the left-right direction, and is the same as the central axis of the shaft that supports the front wheel 65. The protruding direction (longitudinal direction) of the steering column 63 extends from the crown 62 so as to go backward as it goes upward, and is inclined with respect to the traveling surface 100.

The handle 64 is attached to the upper end of the steering column 63 and is fixed to the front fork 6. The steering column 63 is rotatably attached to the frame 7 through a head pipe 71 of the frame 7 described later. The axis of rotation of the steering column 63 is substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the steering column 63. Therefore, the steering wheel 64 can rotate the front wheels 65 with the axis along the longitudinal direction of the steering column 63 as the rotation axis.

The frame 7 is a frame to which a plurality of wheels 65, 66, a front fork 6, a handle 64, a saddle 91, a battery 9, and a motor unit 2 are attached. In the present embodiment, the frame 7 is made of an aluminum alloy containing aluminum as a main component. However, in the present disclosure, the frame 7 is not limited to the aluminum alloy, and may be made of, for example, iron, chrome molybdenum steel, high-tensile steel, titanium, magnesium, or the like. Further, the frame 7 according to the present disclosure is not limited to metal, and may be made of carbon, wood, bamboo, fiber reinforced synthetic resin (for example, CFRP; Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastics) or the like.

The frame 7 according to the present embodiment includes a head pipe 71, an upper pipe 72, a lower pipe 74, a vertical pipe 75, a plurality of (two here) seat stays 76, a plurality of (two here) chain stays 77, and a bracket. 78 is provided. The term "pipe" as used herein means an elongated, hollow member. The cross-sectional shape of the pipe according to the present disclosure may be, for example, a circular shape (including a perfect circle, an ellipse, and an ellipse), a rectangular shape (including a square), a hexagonal shape, an octagonal shape, and the like.

The head pipe 71 is a pipe that supports the front fork 6. The central axis of the head pipe 71 is tilted with respect to the traveling surface 100 so as to go backward as it goes upward. A steering column 63 is passed through the head pipe 71 so that the central axis of the head pipe 71 and the central axis of the steering column 63 are aligned with each other. As a result, the head pipe 71 rotatably supports the steering column 63. In this embodiment, the rotation axis of the steering column 63 is the same as the central axis of the head pipe 71.

The upper pipe 72 connects the head pipe 71 and the vertical pipe 75. The longitudinal front end of the upper pipe 72 is connected to the head pipe 71. The longitudinal rear end of the upper pipe 72 is connected to the vertical pipe 75. In the present embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the upper pipe 72 is inclined with respect to the traveling surface 100 so as to go downward as it goes backward. However, in the present disclosure, the upper pipe 72 does not have to be tilted with respect to the traveling surface 100. Further, the electric bicycle 1 according to the present disclosure does not have to include the upper pipe 72.

The electric bicycle 1 according to the present embodiment includes a reinforcing pipe 73 for reinforcing the connecting portion between the vertical pipe 75 and the upper pipe 72. The reinforcing pipe 73 connects the vertical pipe 75 and the upper pipe 72. In the present disclosure, the electric bicycle 1 does not have to be provided with the reinforcing pipe 73.

The vertical pipe 75 holds the saddle 91. The lower end of the vertical pipe 75 in the longitudinal direction is connected to the bracket 78. The central axis of the vertical pipe 75 is inclined with respect to the traveling surface 100 so as to go backward as it goes upward from the lower end. The rear end of the upper pipe 72 in the longitudinal direction is connected to the middle portion of the vertical pipe 75. The "intermediate portion of the vertical pipe 75" as used herein means a portion of the vertical pipe 75 excluding the lower end and the upper end. However, in the present disclosure, the upper pipe 72 may be connected to the upper end of the vertical pipe 75.

A seat pillar 910 is passed through the vertical pipe 75 so as to be along the central axis of the vertical pipe 75. Here, the seat pillar 910 is included in the saddle 91. The seat pillar 910 projects downward from the portion of the saddle 91 where the driver sits. In the present embodiment, the seat pillar 910 is inclined with respect to the traveling surface 100 so as to go forward as it goes downward. The seat pillar 910 is movably attached to the vertical pipe 75 along the central axis of the vertical pipe 75.

The lower pipe 74 connects the bracket 78 and the head pipe 71. The longitudinal front end of the lower pipe 74 is connected to the head pipe 71. The longitudinal rear end of the lower pipe 74 is connected to the bracket 78. The central axis of the lower pipe 74 is inclined with respect to the horizontal plane so as to go upward from the rear end in the longitudinal direction toward the front. In the present embodiment, the battery 9 is detachably attached to the lower pipe 74.

The plurality of chain stays 77 support the shaft of the rear wheel 66. The longitudinal front end of the chain stay 77 is connected to the bracket 78. The longitudinal rear end of the chain stay 77 is connected to the rear end of the seat stay 76. The pair of chain stays 77 are separated from each other in the left-right direction, and the rear wheels 66 are rotatably attached to the rear ends of the pair of chain stays 77 via a shaft passed through the hub 661. The rotation axis of the rear wheel 66 is substantially parallel to the left-right direction, and is the same as the central axis of the shaft that supports the rear wheel 66.

The rear wheel 66 according to the present embodiment includes a rear sprocket 662 that is concentric with the hub 661 and is integrally attached to the hub 661. The rear sprocket 662 is connected to the drive sprocket 35 of the motor unit 2, which will be described later, via the power transmission body 8. Therefore, the rear wheel 66 rotates around the shaft by the output from the motor unit 2.

The plurality of seat stays 76 connect the chain stay 77 and the vertical pipe 75. In the present embodiment, the longitudinal rear end of the seat stay 76 is connected to the longitudinal rear end of the chain stay 77. The longitudinal front end of the seat stay 76 is connected to the intermediate portion of the vertical pipe 75. The pair of seat stays 76 according to the present embodiment are branched from the upper pipe 72 and are integrated with the upper pipe 72. However, the seat stay 76 and the upper pipe 72 may be separate bodies.

The bracket 78 is a portion to which the motor unit 2 is attached. In the present embodiment, the bracket 78 is formed in a substantially C-shape on the side surface 443, and the rear end in the longitudinal direction of the lower pipe 74, the lower end in the longitudinal direction of the vertical pipe 75, and the front end in the longitudinal direction of the chain stay 77 are formed. It is connected. As a result, the rear end in the longitudinal direction of the lower pipe 74, the lower end in the longitudinal direction of the vertical pipe 75, and the front end in the longitudinal direction of the chain stay 77 are fixed to each other.

The battery 9 supplies electric power to the motor unit 2. Further, in the present embodiment, the battery 9 supplies electric power to, for example, a headlight, an ON / OFF operation unit of the motor 36, and the like in addition to the motor 36. In the present embodiment, the battery 9 is detachably attached to the lower pipe 74, but in the present disclosure, the battery 9 may be arranged along the vertical pipe 75 behind the vertical pipe 75.

The motor unit 2 is a device capable of outputting rotational power. In the present embodiment, the motor unit 2 transmits the rotational power obtained by adding the driving auxiliary output to the pedaling force, which is the human-powered driving force, to the rear wheels 66 via the power transmission body 8. The motor unit 2 is a uniaxial type motor unit in this embodiment. However, in the present disclosure, the motor unit 2 may be a biaxial motor unit as shown in the modified examples 2 to 5 described later, or a front hub unit type motor as shown in the modified example 6. It may be a unit (so-called hub motor). Details of the motor unit 2 according to the present embodiment will be described in "(1.2.2) Motor unit" described later.

A pair of crank arms 92 are attached to the crankshaft 28 of the motor unit 2. The longitudinal direction of the crank arm 92 intersects (here, orthogonal) with respect to the rotation axis of the crankshaft 28. The pair of crank arms 92 are aligned in a straight line when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis of the crankshaft 28.

The pedal 93 is attached to an end portion of each crank arm 92 in the longitudinal direction opposite to the crankshaft 28 side. The pedal 93 is rotatably attached to the crank arm 92. The rotation axis of the pedal 93 is substantially parallel to the rotation axis of the crankshaft 28.

The power transmission body 8 transmits the rotational power output from the motor unit 2 to at least one of the plurality of wheels 65 and 66. In the present embodiment, the power transmission body 8 is a chain that can transmit power between the drive sprocket 35 of the motor unit 2 and the rear sprocket 662 of the rear wheel 66. However, in the present disclosure, the power transmission body 8 may be, for example, a belt, a shaft, a wire, a gear, or the like.

(1.2.2) Motor unit The motor unit 2 is a device capable of outputting rotational power as described above. In the motor unit 2, when the driver pedals the pedal 93 and a pedaling force (human-powered driving force) is input to the crankshaft 28 via the crankarm 92, the crankshaft 28 rotates. In the motor unit 2 according to the present embodiment, when the crankshaft 28 receives a pedaling force and rotates, the rotation speed of the crankshaft 28 and the torque generated in the crankshaft 28 are detected, and the motor 36 detects the drive auxiliary output according to the detection result. To generate. As shown in FIG. 2, the motor unit 2 includes a housing 21, a crankshaft 28, a rotating body 29, an output body 33, a motor 36, a speed reduction mechanism 41, a control board 45, a drive sprocket 35, and a contact body switching mechanism 5. .. In the motor unit 2 according to the present embodiment, the pedaling force input to the crankshaft 28 is transmitted to the output body 33. The power transmission path from the crankshaft 28 to the output body 33 is referred to as a "human-powered drive system transmission path". Further, the auxiliary drive output of the motor 36 is transmitted to the output body 33. The power transmission path from the output shaft 39 of the motor 36 to the output body 33 is referred to as a "motor drive system transmission path".

(1.2.2.1) Housing The housing 21 is a hollow body that houses the rotating body 29, the speed reduction mechanism 41, and the control board 45. The housing 21 is made of metal in this embodiment. Examples of the metal forming the housing 21 include aluminum alloy, stainless steel, and steel. However, in the present disclosure, the housing 21 is not limited to metal, and may be made of carbon, wood, bamboo, fiber reinforced synthetic resin (for example, CFRP) or the like. The housing 21 is formed, for example, by casting, and more specifically, by die casting. The housing 21 includes a first divided body 22 and a second divided body 23. The first divided body 22 and the second divided body 23 are arranged in the left-right direction.

The first divided body 22 is formed in a bottomed tubular shape having an opening surface on the right side (the second divided body 23 side). The first partition body 22 has a first side wall 221 and a first peripheral wall 225 protruding to the right from the peripheral edge of the first side wall 221. The first side wall 221 has a first surface 222 facing the outside (leftward) of the housing 21 and a second surface 223 facing the inside of the housing 21. A motor 36 is attached to the first surface 222 of the first side wall 221.

The first peripheral wall 225 has a first mating surface 226. The first mating surface 226 is located on a vertical plane in this embodiment. The first mating surface 226 faces to the right in this embodiment. In short, the first mating surface 226 faces the second divided body 23 side.

The second divided body 23 is formed in a bottomed tubular shape having an opening surface on the left side (the first divided body 22 side). The second divided body 23 has a second side wall 231 and a second peripheral wall 235 projecting to the left from the peripheral edge of the second side wall 231. The second side wall 231 has a first surface 232 facing the outside (rightward direction) of the housing 21 and a second surface 233 facing the inside of the housing 21.

The second peripheral wall 235 has a second mating surface 236. The second mating surface 236 is located on a vertical plane in this embodiment. The second mating surface 236 faces to the left in this embodiment. In short, the second mating surface 236 faces the first partition 22 side.

In the first divided body 22 and the second divided body 23, the first mating surface 226 and the second mating surface 236 face each other, and a seal (not shown) is provided between the first mating surface 226 and the second mating surface 236. ) Is sandwiched between them and fixed to each other with a fixing tool (for example, a bolt).

Examples of the "seal" referred to in the present disclosure include gaskets, packings, labyrinth seals and the like. Examples of the gasket include a soft gasket and a metal gasket. Examples of the packing include squeeze packing (O-ring, X-ring, T-ring, etc.), squeeze packing, lip packing, oil seal, mechanical seal, gland packing and the like. Actually, the seal used for the stationary surface and the seal used for the moving surface are appropriately used, but in the present disclosure, the seal used for the stationary surface and the seal used for the moving surface are both "seals". Is expressed.

(1.2.2.2) Crankshaft The crankshaft 28 is a shaft that rotates by receiving a human force (treading force) which is an external force. The rotation axis of the crankshaft 28 is substantially parallel in the left-right direction and is the same as the central axis of the crankshaft 28. The crankshaft 28 is passed through a hole 224 formed in the first side wall 221 and a hole 234 formed in the second side wall 231 and penetrates the housing 21 in the left-right direction.

As shown in FIG. 3, the crankshaft 28 is a housing consisting of a bearing 46a attached to the first divided body 22 and a bearing 46b provided between the inner peripheral surface of the rotating body 29 and the crankshaft 28. It is rotatably attached to 21.

Examples of the "bearing" referred to in the present disclosure include rolling bearings, slide bearings, fluid bearings and the like. Examples of rolling bearings include ball bearings and roller bearings. The bearing is appropriately used depending on the shape, application, motion characteristics, etc. of the rotating object to be supported. The bearings 46a and 46b that support the crankshaft 28 are all rolling bearings in this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 3, both ends of the crankshaft 28 in the longitudinal direction protrude from the housing 21. A crank arm 92 is attached to each of both ends of the crankshaft 28. The crank arm 92 is fixed to the crank shaft 28, and when the driver pedals the pedal 93, the rotational power is transmitted to the crank shaft 28.

(1.2.2.3) Rotating body The rotating body 29 transmits the rotational power of the crankshaft 28 to the output body 33. As shown in FIG. 3, the rotating body 29 is arranged concentrically with the crankshaft 28 and rotates together with the crankshaft 28. The rotating shaft of the rotating body 29 is the same as the rotating shaft of the crankshaft 28. The rotating body 29 includes a transmission member 30, a human-powered drive system one-way clutch 31, and a torque sensor 32.

The torque sensor 32 detects the torque of the crankshaft 28. The torque sensor 32 is a magnetostrictive torque sensor in this embodiment. The torque sensor 32 is attached along the outer circumference of the first member 301 of the transmission member 30. In the present embodiment, the torque sensor 32 detects the torque of the crankshaft 28 by detecting the torque of the first member 301. The torque sensor 32 may be configured to detect the torque of the crankshaft 28 by using, for example, a planetary gear mechanism and a potentiometer. In addition, the strain detection sensor may be used to detect the torque of the crankshaft 28.

The transmission member 30 is formed in a tubular shape, and the crankshaft 28 is passed along the central axis of the transmission member 30. The transmission member 30 and the output body 33 are aligned in the axial direction of the crankshaft 28, and a human-powered drive system one-way clutch 31 is attached between the transmission member 30 and the output body 33. The transmission member 30 is coupled to the crankshaft 28, and the rotational power of the crankshaft 28 is transmitted in the order of the transmission member 30, the human-powered drive system one-way clutch 31, and the output body 33. The transmission member 30 is composed of a first member 301 and a second member 303. The inner peripheral surface of the first member 301 and the outer peripheral surface of the crankshaft 28 are connected. The coupling between the first member 301 and the crankshaft 28 is realized by, for example, a spline coupling, a keyway-key coupling, a wedge coupling, a fitting coupling, a screw coupling, or the like.

The "spline coupling" referred to in the present disclosure includes, for example, a coupling by a square spline, an involute spline, a ball spline, a triangular mountain serration, an involute serration, or the like.

The second member 303 is aligned with the first member 301 in the axial direction of the crankshaft 28. The second member 303 has a fitting portion 304. The fitting portion 304 according to the present embodiment is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the left end portion of the second member 303. The first member 301 has a fitted portion 302. The fitted portion 302 according to the present embodiment is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the right end portion of the first member 301. The fitting portion 304 and the fitting portion 302 are coupled to each other. The coupling between the fitting portion 304 and the fitted portion 302 is a spline coupling. However, the first member 301 and the second member 303 are not limited to the spline connection, and may be, for example, a connection between a key groove and a key, a connection by a wedge, a connection by fitting, a connection by a screw, or the like. As a result, the second member 303 rotates together with the first member 301.

The human-powered drive system one-way clutch 31 is arranged between the second member 303 and the output body 33. Here, the left end of the output body 33 is located outside the right end of the second member 303 in a direction (radial direction) orthogonal to the axial direction of the crankshaft 28. The human-powered drive system one-way clutch 31 is arranged between the left end of the output body 33 and the right end of the second member 303.

The human-powered drive system one-way clutch 31 is, for example, a ratchet type one-way clutch. The human-powered drive system one-way clutch 31 allows only the transmission of rotational power from the second member 303 to the output body 33 when the output body 33 rotates in one direction. The "one direction" here is the direction of rotation of the output body 33 when the electric bicycle 1 is moved forward. In this embodiment, the rotation shaft of the output body 33 is the same as the rotation shaft of the crankshaft 28.

Specifically, the human-powered drive system one-way clutch 31 outputs from the second member 303 when the rotation speed of the second member 303 is faster than the rotation speed of the output body 33 when the electric bicycle 1 moves forward. Rotational power is transmitted to the body 33. On the other hand, the human-powered drive system one-way clutch 31 has the output body 33 to the second member 303 when the rotation speed of the second member 303 is slower than the rotation speed of the output body 33 when the electric bicycle 1 moves forward. Does not transmit rotational power to.

As a result, when the output body 33 rotates with the rotational power output from the motor 36 (see FIG. 2), even if the driver stops pedaling the pedal 93 (see FIG. 1), the output body 33 rotates. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the crankshaft 28 from continuing to rotate.

(1.2.2.4) Output body The output body 33 outputs the power (that is, drive auxiliary output) output from the output shaft 39 of the motor 36 to the outside of the housing 21. Since the motor unit 2 according to the present embodiment is a uniaxial motor unit 2 as described above, the output body 33 is based on the pedaling force input to the crankshaft 28 in addition to the drive auxiliary output output from the motor 36. Rotational power is also transmitted. Therefore, in the motor unit 2 according to the present embodiment, the output body 33 receives the rotational power which is the total force of the drive auxiliary output output from the motor 36 and the rotational power input to the crankshaft 28. Output to the outside of the body 21.

As described above, the left end of the output body 33 is located outside the crankshaft 28 in the radial direction with respect to the second member 303. As shown in FIG. 2, the left end of the output body 33 has an output body tooth portion 331 that meshes with the gear portion 422 of the speed reduction mechanism 41 described later. The right end of the output body 33 penetrates the second side wall 231 of the second split body 23 and projects to the right from the second side wall 231 of the second split body 23. A drive sprocket 35 is attached to the right end of the output body 33. The drive sprocket 35 is fixed to the output body 33.

The pedaling force (external force) input to the crankshaft 28 by the driver pedaling the pedal 93 rotates the crankshaft 28, and the first member 301, the second member 303, the human-powered drive system one-way clutch 31 and the output body 33 The drive sprocket 35 is rotated in order. The rotation shaft of the drive sprocket 35 is the same as the rotation shaft of the crankshaft 28.

(1.2.2.5) Motor The motor 36 is an electric motor capable of outputting rotational power. The motor 36 according to this embodiment is attached to the housing 21. In the present embodiment, the motor 36 is attached to the first surface 222 of the first side wall 221 of the first partition 22 of the housing 21, but in the present disclosure, the motor 36 is the first partition 22 of the housing 21. It may be mounted on two sides 223. In short, the motor 36 may be mounted so as to fit inside the housing 21. The motor 36 has a stator 37, a rotor 38, and an output shaft 39.

The central axis of the output shaft 39 is along the left-right direction. The rotation axis of the output shaft 39 is the same as the central axis of the output shaft 39, and is substantially parallel to the rotation axis of the crankshaft 28. The output shaft 39 is rotatably attached to the housing 21 by the bearing 46e attached to the first divided body 22 and the bearing 46f attached to the second divided body 23. The output shaft 39 is fixed to the rotor 38 in a state of penetrating in the left-right direction.

The rotor 38 rotates along the inner peripheral surface of the stator 37. The rotation axis of the rotor 38 is the same as the rotation axis of the output shaft 39. A stator 37 is arranged around the rotor 38.

The stator 37 rotates the rotor 38. The stator 37 is attached to the motor cup 40 and fixed to the motor cup 40. Examples of the stator 37 include a distributed winding stator, a centralized winding stator, an inductor type stator, a permanent magnet type stator, and the like.

A part of the output shaft 39 of the motor 36 is located inside the housing 21. A tooth portion 391 having a plurality of teeth is formed in a portion of the output shaft 39 located inside the housing 21 (here, a portion protruding from the rotor 38). In the present embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the tooth streaks of the tooth portion 391 of the output shaft 39 is substantially parallel to the rotation axis of the output shaft 39. However, in the present disclosure, the tooth streaks of the tooth portion 391 of the output shaft 39 may be inclined with respect to the rotation axis of the output shaft 39. Further, the motor 36 according to the present disclosure may be housed in the housing 21, in which case the entire output shaft 39 is located inside the housing 21.

(1.2.2.6) Deceleration mechanism The deceleration mechanism 41 fits inside the housing 21. The speed reduction mechanism 41 transmits the auxiliary drive output output from the output shaft 39 of the motor 36 to the output body 33 after slowing down the rotation speed. In this embodiment, the reduction mechanism 41 includes a reduction gear 44, a motor drive system one-way clutch 43, and a transmission shaft 42.

The reduction gear 44 reduces the rotational speed of the auxiliary drive output of the motor 36 between the motor drive system transmission paths. The reduction gear 44 meshes with the tooth portion 391 of the output shaft 39. The reduction gear 44 is attached to the transmission shaft 42 via a motor drive system one-way clutch 43. The transmission shaft 42 is rotatably attached to the housing 21. Therefore, the reduction gear 44 is rotatably attached to the housing 21. The rotation axis of the reduction gear 44 is substantially parallel in the left-right direction and is the same as the central axis of the transmission shaft 42. In this embodiment, the rotation shaft of the reduction gear 44 is substantially parallel to the rotation shaft of the output shaft 39 and the rotation shaft of the crankshaft 28. The reduction gear 44 has a tooth portion 442. The tooth portion 442 is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the reduction gear 44. The tooth streaks of the tooth portion 442 are substantially parallel to the rotation axis of the reduction gear 44, and the tooth portion 442 meshes with the tooth portion 391 of the output shaft 39. As a result, the reduction gear 44 is rotated by the rotational power of the output shaft 39. The number of teeth of the tooth portion 442 of the reduction gear 44 is larger than the number of teeth of the output body tooth portion 331.

In the present embodiment, the reduction gear 44 is a spur gear, but in the reduction gear 44 according to the present disclosure, the tooth streaks of the tooth portion 391 of the output shaft 39 are tilted with respect to the rotation axis of the output shaft 39. In this case, it may be a helical gear.

The transmission shaft 42 is a shaft that supports the reduction gear 44. The transmission shaft 42 is rotatably attached to the housing 21. The rotation axis of the transmission shaft 42 is substantially parallel in the left-right direction and is the same as the central axis of the transmission shaft 42. The transmission shaft 42 is supported by a bearing 46c attached to the first divided body 22 and a bearing 46d attached to the second divided body 23.

The transmission shaft 42 includes a gear mounting portion 421 and a gear portion 422. The gear mounting portion 421 is a portion on which the reduction gear 44 is mounted on the outer circumference thereof. The gear portion 422 has a plurality of teeth that mesh with the output body tooth portion 331. The rotational power of the transmission shaft 42 is transmitted from the gear portion 422 to the output body 33.

In the present embodiment, the gear portion 422 is formed on the outer peripheral portion of the transmission shaft 42, but in the present disclosure, the gear portion 422 may be formed by attaching a gear to the outer peripheral surface of the transmission shaft 42.

The gear portion 422 meshes with the output body tooth portion 331. As a result, the rotational power of the gear portion 422 is transmitted to the output body 33. The number of teeth of the gear portion 422 may be the same as or less than the number of teeth of the tooth portion 442 of the reduction gear.

The motor drive system one-way clutch 43 is provided between the motor 36 and the output body 33 in the motor drive system transmission path. In the present embodiment, the motor drive system one-way clutch 43 is arranged between the transmission shaft 42 and the reduction gear 44. The motor drive system one-way clutch 43 is, for example, a ratchet type one-way clutch. The motor drive system one-way clutch 43 allows only the transmission of rotational power from the reduction gear 44 to the transmission shaft 42 when the output body 33 rotates in one direction. The "one direction" here is the direction of rotation of the output body 33 when the electric bicycle 1 is moved forward.

Specifically, the motor drive system one-way clutch 43 is provided from the reduction gear 44 to the transmission shaft 42 when the rotation speed of the reduction gear 44 is faster than the rotation speed of the transmission shaft 42 when the electric bicycle 1 moves forward. The rotational power is transmitted to. On the other hand, in the motor drive system one-way clutch 43, when the electric bicycle 1 advances in the forward direction and the rotation speed of the reduction gear 44 is slower than the rotation speed of the transmission shaft 42, the reduction gear 44 with respect to the transmission shaft 42. Does not transmit rotational power (cuts off power transmission).

As a result, for example, when the motor 36 is stopped and the driver pedals the pedal 93 (see FIG. 1), the rotational power is not transmitted from the crankshaft 28 to the output shaft 39 and the rotor 38. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the pedaling force of the pedal 93 may be smaller than that in the case where the rotational power is transmitted from the transmission shaft 42 to the rotor 38, and the pedaling force required to rotate the wheels 65 and 66 is suppressed. be able to.

When the rotational power of the reduction gear 44 is transmitted to the transmission shaft 42 through the motor drive system one-way clutch 43, the rotational power output from the output shaft 39 causes the reduction gear 44, the motor drive system one-way clutch 43, and the transmission shaft 42. It is transmitted to the output body 33. Therefore, when the driver is pedaling the pedal 93 (see FIG. 1) and the motor 36 is operating, the rotational power of the second member 303 rotated by the pedaling force and the rotational power of the transmission shaft 42 rotated by the motor 36. The output body 33 is rotated by the combined force (combined force). As shown in FIG. 1, the rotational power of the output body 33 is transmitted to the wheels via the power transmission body 8 to move the electric bicycle 1.

(1.2.2.7) Control board The control board 45 has a control unit that controls the motor 36. The control board 45 is a printed circuit board in this embodiment. The thickness direction of the control board 45 is substantially parallel to the left-right direction. The control board 45 is located on the left side of the first mating surface 226 and the second mating surface 236 of the housing 21.

The control unit mainly comprises a microcontroller having one or more processors and one or more memories. That is, the function of the control unit is realized by the processor of the microcontroller executing the program recorded in the memory of the microcontroller. The program may be pre-recorded in a memory, or may be recorded and provided on a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card. A battery 9 (see FIG. 1) is electrically connected to the control unit, and power is supplied from the battery 9. A stator 37 is electrically connected to the control unit.

(1.2.2.8) Drive sprocket The drive sprocket 35 is attached to the output body 33 and rotates by the rotational power transmitted from the output body 33. In the present embodiment, the drive sprocket 35 is connected to the rear sprocket 662 of the rear wheel 66 so as to be able to transmit power via the power transmission body 8. In the present embodiment, the drive sprocket 35 is coupled to a portion of the output body 33 protruding from the housing 21 (the right end of the output body 33). The coupling between the drive sprocket 35 and the output body 33 is realized by, for example, a spline coupling, a keyway-key coupling, a wedge coupling, a fitting coupling, a screw coupling, or the like.

In the present embodiment, the right end of the output body 33 protrudes from the housing 21, and the power output from the motor 36 is output to the outside of the housing 21 by the output body 33. However, in the present disclosure, the right end of the output body 33 in the present embodiment may be located inside the housing 21, and the power output from the motor 36 by the drive sprocket 35 is transmitted to the housing 21. It may be output to the outside. In this case, the output body that does not protrude from the housing 21 and the drive sprocket 35 form the "output body" referred to in the present disclosure.

(1.2.2.9) Contact body switching mechanism The contact body switching mechanism 5 is a mechanism that exerts a force that impedes movement on the output body 33 of the electric bicycle 1. The "force that hinders movement" as used in the present disclosure means a force that resists the movement of an object. Therefore, the "force that hinders movement" as used in the present disclosure includes a force applied to a moving object and a force applied to a stationary object. Further, "obstructing the movement" here includes, for example, applying a braking force to the object, limiting the range of motion of the object, keeping the object in a stationary state, and the like. Therefore, to "apply a force that hinders movement" as used in the present disclosure, for example, a force that hinders movement is applied to a moving object, and a stationary object is locked so as to stay in that state. Including things such as.

The contact body switching mechanism 5 brings the contact body 51 into contact with any predetermined portion X1 of the speed reduction mechanism 41, the output body 33, and the moving body that moves in response to the force output from the output body 33, whereby the contact body 51 is brought into contact with the predetermined position X1. , A force that hinders movement is exerted on the output body 33. As shown in FIG. 3, the contact body switching mechanism 5 according to the present embodiment brings the contact body 51 into contact with a predetermined portion X1 of the output body 33. The "predetermined location X1" according to the present embodiment is included in the output body 33, and more specifically, a plurality of ribs 332 extending along the radial direction (radial direction) around the rotation axis of the output body 33. However, the "predetermined location X1" referred to in the present disclosure may be the reduction gear 44, or may be a location different from the teeth (tooth portion 442) of the reduction gear 44. In the tooth portion 442 of the reduction gear 44, the number of teeth and the module are determined in order to set the rotation speed and torque of the output body 33 as target values. Therefore, when the contact body 51 is brought into contact with the tooth portion 442 of the reduction gear 44 to exert a force that hinders the movement on the output body 33, the design of the contact body 51 is performed while maintaining the number of teeth and the module. This is necessary and limits the strength design. On the other hand, if the contact body 51 is configured to come into contact with a portion different from the teeth of the reduction gear 44, the design ensures the strength of the contact body 51 without being affected by the design of the teeth of the reduction gear 44. Easy to do. In short, the degree of freedom in design of the contact body switching mechanism 5 can be improved.

The "predetermined location X1" referred to in the present disclosure may be any of the reduction mechanism reduction 41 such as the transmission shaft 42, or may be the rotor 38 of the motor 36, and as will be described in the modification described later. It may be a moving body that moves by receiving a force output from the output body 33.

The contact body switching mechanism 5 includes a contact body 51 that can move between a contact position and a non-contact position, a switching member 54 that switches the position of the contact body 51, a switching motor 55 that drives the switching member 54, and an elastic body. 56 and. Here, the "contact position" as used in the present disclosure means, for example, the position of the contact body 51 in contact with the predetermined position X1 as shown in FIG. 5B. The “non-contact position” means, for example, the position of the contact body 51 away from the predetermined position X1 as shown in FIG. 6B. Therefore, when the contact body 51 is in the non-contact position, the contact body switching mechanism 5 does not exert a force that hinders the movement of the predetermined portion X1. When the contact body 51 is in the contact position, the contact body switching mechanism 5 exerts a force that hinders the movement of the predetermined portion X1. The "contact position" does not need to be in constant contact with the predetermined location X1, and includes a position where the contact body 51 comes into contact only after the predetermined location X1 moves.

5A and 6A show a cross-sectional view of the contact body switching mechanism 5. The cross-sectional views of FIGS. 5A and 6A are views assuming that the crankshaft 28 is cut in a plane orthogonal to the central axis.

The switching motor 55 drives the switching member 54. The switching motor 55 operates by being supplied with electric power from the battery 9. The switching motor 55 is formed so as to be rotatable forward and reverse. The switching motor 55 includes a pinion gear 551 attached to the output shaft 553. The pinion gear 551 meshes with the outer peripheral teeth 543 formed on the outer peripheral portion of the switching member 54. The rotational power output from the switching motor 55 drives the switching member 54.

The switching member 54 is a member that switches the contact body 51 between a contact position and a non-contact position. In this embodiment, the switching member 54 is rotatably attached to the housing 21. The rotation axis of the switching member 54 is substantially parallel in the left-right direction and is the same as the central axis of the crankshaft 28. The switching member 54 rotates by receiving rotational power from the switching motor 55.

The switching member 54 according to this embodiment is formed in a ring shape. The switching member 54 includes a plurality of guide holes 541, outer peripheral teeth 543, and a plurality of (here, three) protrusions 544.

The plurality of guide holes 541 penetrate the switching member 54 in the direction along the rotation axis (here, the left-right direction). The plurality of guide holes 541 have an arc shape and are formed along a circle centered on the rotation axis of the switching member 54. As shown in FIG. 7, a retaining member 542 is inserted into each guide hole 541. The retaining member 542 is fixed to the inner surface of the housing 21 and allows the switching member 54 to move around the rotation axis, but limits the movement along the rotation axis. As a result, the switching member 54 is rotatably attached to the housing 21 in a certain range around the rotation axis while being restricted from moving in the direction along the rotation axis.

As shown in FIG. 5A, the protrusion 544 is a portion that protrudes from the inner peripheral surface of the switching member 54 toward the center and hits the contact body 51. The protrusion 544 overlaps the inclined portion 53 of the contact body 51 when viewed in the direction along the rotation axis. The plurality of protrusions 544 are formed at intervals along the circumferential direction around the rotation axis of the switching member 54.

The outer peripheral teeth 543 mesh with the pinion gear 551 of the switching motor 55. The outer peripheral teeth 543 are formed on the outer peripheral portion of the switching member 54 in the present embodiment. Therefore, when the switching motor 55 operates and the pinion gear 551 rotates, the switching member 54 rotates, and the protrusion 544 rotates around the rotation axis as the switching member 54 rotates.

The contact body 51 is a member that can move between the contact position and the non-contact position. In the present embodiment, the contact body 51 is switched to a contact position or a non-contact position by the switching member 54. In the present embodiment, the contact body 51 can move in the direction along the rotation axis of the output body 33 (the rotation axis of the switching member 54). Of the range of movement in the direction along the rotation axis of the output body 33, the end on the side approaching the output body 33 is the contact position, and the end on the side away from the output body 33 is the non-contact position. The contact body 51 includes a contact body main body 52 having a plurality of contact portions 521 and an inclined portion 53.

The contact body 52 is a portion that forms the main body of the contact body 51. In the present embodiment, the contact body 52 is formed in a ring shape when viewed in a direction along the rotation axis of the crankshaft 28. The contact body 52 is arranged concentrically with the boss 24 formed in the housing 21. Here, the boss 24 has a tubular shape and projects from the inner surface of the housing 21 in a direction along the rotation axis of the crankshaft 28 (that is, in the left-right direction). The outer diameter of the boss 24 is smaller than the inner diameter of the contact body 52. On the outer peripheral surface of the boss 24, a plurality of ridges 241 extending in a direction along the rotation axis of the crankshaft 28 are formed. The ridge 241 is inserted into the guide groove 522 formed in the contact body 52. The ridges 241 limit the rotation of the contact body 52 around the rotation axis of the crankshaft 28 and allow the contact body 52 to move along the rotation axis of the crankshaft 28.

As shown in FIG. 5B, the contact portion 521 is a portion capable of contacting the predetermined portion X1. In the present embodiment, the contact portion 521 at the contact position is arranged around the rotation axis of the output body 33 (here, the rotation axis of the crankshaft 28) with respect to the rib 332 of the output body 33 as the predetermined position X1. In other words, the contact portion 521 has a surface facing the rib 332 of the output body 33 as the predetermined position X1 in the rotation direction of the output body 33. Therefore, the movement of the rib 332 of the output body 33 is limited to a certain range by the contact portion 521 at the contact position. In short, the contact portion 521 exerts a force that hinders the movement of the output body 33.

As shown in FIG. 4A, the contact portion 521 projects from the other portion of the contact body body 52 along the rotation axis direction of the crankshaft 28.

The inclined portion 53 is a portion having an inclined surface 531 that is inclined with respect to a plane orthogonal to the moving direction of the contact body main body 52 (the direction along the rotation axis of the crankshaft 28). The inclined surface 531 faces a part of the switching member 54.

An elastic body 56 (FIG. 5B) is arranged between the contact body 51 and the housing 21. The elastic body 56 applies a force to the contact body 51 on the inner side (here, the output body tooth portion 331 side) of the crankshaft 28 in the rotation axis direction (left-right direction). The elastic body 56 is a torsion coil spring in this embodiment, but may be, for example, rubber, a leaf spring, or the like.

As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, when the switching member 54 rotates in one direction, the switching member 54 moves along the inclined surface 531 and does not contact the contact body 51 while resisting the elastic force of the elastic body 56. Push it toward the position to switch the contact body 51 to the non-contact position. On the other hand, when the switching member 54 rotates in the other direction, the switching member 54 moves along the inclined surface 531. Then, the contact body 51 moves to the contact position by the elastic force of the elastic body 56.

As described above, the contact body switching mechanism 5 according to the present embodiment can exert a force that hinders the movement (rotational movement) of the predetermined portion X1 included in the output body 33. The predetermined location X1 is located closer to the output body 33 than the motor drive system one-way clutch 43 in the motor drive system transmission path. Further, the predetermined location X1 is located closer to the output body 33 than the human-powered drive system one-way clutch 31 in the human-powered drive system transmission path.

Therefore, even when the motor unit 2 is removed from the bracket 78, a force that hinders rotational movement in both directions of rotation can be mechanically applied to the output body 33. Therefore, for example, the motor unit 2 is stolen. However, it cannot be used normally as the motor unit 2. As a result, the deterrent power against the theft of the electric bicycle 1 is improved. In the present embodiment, both the motor drive system transmission path and the human-powered drive system transmission path have a predetermined location X1, but the predetermined location X1 may be located in only one of the transmission paths.

In the present disclosure, in both the motor drive system transmission path and the human power drive system transmission path, the predetermined location X1 may be located on the side opposite to the output body 33 side with respect to the one-way clutches 31 and 43. Good. Although the output body 33 rotates in at least one direction, the drive auxiliary output of the motor 36 is not transmitted, so that the output body 33 cannot be normally used as the motor unit 2. Therefore, even in this embodiment, deterrence against theft of the electric bicycle 1 can be expected.

By the way, when the motor unit 2 is attached to the electric bicycle 1, the contact body switching mechanism 5 hinders the movement in the forward direction, but the freewheel built in the hub 661 of the rear wheel 66 prevents the movement in the backward direction. , Can be moved. However, since the movement in the forward direction is hindered, the deterrent effect against the theft of the electric bicycle 1 can be sufficiently expected.

Further, in the present embodiment, the contact body 51 at the contact position is configured not to completely stop the rotation of the output body 33 (so-called lock), but to rotate when a certain force is applied. That is, in the present embodiment, the force that hinders the movement is set by the elastic body 56, but when a force exceeding the force by the elastic body 56 is applied to the contact body 51, the rib 332 of the output body 33 gets over the contact body 51. , The output body 33 rotates. Therefore, even if the contact body switching mechanism 5 is activated during traveling and the contact body 51 is switched to the contact position, it is possible to prevent the output body 33 from completely stopping.

(2) Modified Example The above embodiment is only one of various embodiments of the present disclosure. In the embodiment, various changes can be made depending on the design and the like as long as the object of the present disclosure can be achieved. The modifications described below can be applied in combination as appropriate.

(2.1) Modification 1
The contact body switching mechanism 5 according to the above embodiment is a mechanism for bringing the contact body 51 into contact with a predetermined location X1 inside the housing 21, but in this modification, a predetermined location outside the housing 21 The contact body 51 can be brought into contact with X1. As shown in FIG. 8, in this modification, the predetermined portion X1 is included in the drive sprocket 35 that moves in response to the force output from the output body 33. In this modification, the contact body switching mechanism 5 can exert a force that hinders movement (here, rotation) on the drive sprocket 35.

In the present disclosure, a member that moves by receiving a force output from the output body 33 is referred to as a "moving body". Examples of the moving body include a drive sprocket 35, a sprocket body 351 and a mounting member 352, and a power transmission body 8. Further, in the biaxial motor unit 2a described later, examples of the moving body include a drive body 34 (FIG. 11), a power transmission body 8, a tensioner, and the like.

In this modification, the drive sprocket 35 includes a sprocket body 351 and a mounting member 352 including a predetermined portion X1.

The sprocket body 351 constitutes the main body of the drive sprocket 35. A power transmission body 8 (see FIG. 1) for transmitting power to the wheels 65 and 66 is attached to the sprocket body 351. The sprocket body 351 according to the present embodiment is made of, for example, aluminum, an aluminum alloy, or the like. The sprocket body 351 includes a disk portion 351a and a tubular mounting portion 351b projecting from the central portion of the disk portion 351a in one direction in the left-right direction. The power transmission body 8 is hung on the outer peripheral portion of the disk portion 351a. The tubular mounting portion 351b is mounted at the right end of the output body 33.

The mounting member 352 is fixed to the sprocket body 351. In the present embodiment, the mounting member 352 is made of a material harder than the sprocket body 351. For example, a material such as chrome steel, nickel chrome steel, or carbon steel, or an aluminum alloy is heat-treated by quenching or the like. It is composed of materials. In the present embodiment, the mounting member 352 has a fixing portion 352a coupled to the tubular mounting portion 351b and an extending portion 352b extending from the fixing portion 352a on a plane orthogonal to the rotation axis of the drive sprocket 35. Be prepared. A plurality of holes 352c are formed in the extending portion 352b. The plurality of holes 352c are configured so that the contact body 51 at the contact position is inserted.

The contact body switching mechanism 5 includes a contact body 51, a switching member 54, a switching motor 55, and an elastic body 56. In the contact body switching mechanism 5 according to the present modification, for example, as shown in FIG. 9B, the contact body 51 at the contact position protrudes from the housing 21, and for example, as shown in FIG. 10B, the contact body 51 is in the non-contact position. The body 51 does not protrude from the housing 21. However, in the present disclosure, the contact body 51 in the non-contact position does not necessarily have to be non-protruding from the housing 21. Since the switching motor 55 is the same as that of the above embodiment, the description thereof will be omitted.

The switching member 54 is a member capable of switching the contact body 51 between a contact position and a non-contact position. As shown in FIG. 9A, the switching member 54 is formed in a ring shape as in the above embodiment. The switching member 54 is formed with a spiral groove 544a instead of the protrusion 544 (see FIG. 5A) in the above embodiment. Other configurations of the switching member 54 are the same as those in the above embodiment.

The groove 544a moves the contact body 51 along the rotation axis of the crankshaft 28 (the rotation axis of the output body 33). The groove 544a is spirally formed around the rotation axis of the crankshaft 28. The flange portion 513 of the connecting pin 511 of the contact body 51 is movably inserted into the groove 544a.

The contact body 51 includes a connecting pin 511 and a contact portion 521. The connecting pin 511 moves along the rotation axis of the crankshaft 28 by the rotation of the switching member 54. Specifically, the connecting pin 511 includes a pin 512 and a flange portion 513. The flange portion 513 enters the groove 544a of the switching member 54 and is attached so as to be relatively movable with respect to the groove 544a. Therefore, when the switching member 54 rotates, the connecting pin 511 moves along the rotation axis of the crankshaft 28.

The contact portion 521 is movably attached to the connecting pin 511 along the rotation axis of the crankshaft 28. The elastic body 56 is arranged between the connecting pin 511 and the contact portion 521. The elastic body 56 applies a force to the contact portion 521 toward the outside in the direction along the rotation axis of the crankshaft 28. Therefore, the contact portion 521 moves toward the connecting pin 511 when a constant force is applied from the outside to the inside in the direction along the rotation axis of the crankshaft 28.

When the switching motor 55 operates and the switching member 54 rotates in one direction, the contact body 51 moves along the rotation axis of the crankshaft 28 and is switched to the contact position, as shown in FIG. 9B. Then, the contact portion 521 enters the hole 352c (that is, the predetermined location X1) of the mounting member 352 of the drive sprocket 35. As a result, the contact body switching mechanism 5 can exert a force on the drive sprocket 35 to prevent rotational movement. As a result, a force that hinders the movement of the output body 33 fixed to the drive sprocket 35 can be exerted.

When the switching member 54 rotates in the other direction, the contact body 51 moves along the rotation axis of the crankshaft 28 and is switched to the non-contact position as shown in FIG. 10B. Then, the contact portion 521 exits from the hole 352c (that is, the predetermined location X1) of the mounting member 352 of the drive sprocket 35. As a result, the force exerted on the output body 33 that hinders the rotational movement is released.

In this modification, the hole of the mounting member 352 is the predetermined location X1, but in the present disclosure, the hole may not be present. That is, among the main surfaces of the mounting member 352, the surface facing the housing 21 may be pressed by the contact body 51 to exert a force that hinders the movement of the output body 33.

(2.2) Modification 2
In the above embodiment, the motor unit 2 is a uniaxial type, but in this modification, it is a biaxial motor unit 2a.

As shown in FIG. 11, the motor unit 2a of this modified example includes a housing 21, a crankshaft 28, a rotating body 29, a drive body 34, a human-powered drive system one-way clutch 31, a drive sprocket 35, a control board 45, and a motor 36. A speed reduction mechanism 41a, an output body 33a, and a contact body switching mechanism 5 are provided. The housing 21, the crankshaft 28, the rotating body 29, the human-powered drive system one-way clutch 31, the drive sprocket 35, the control board 45, and the motor 36 are the same as those in the above embodiment.

The drive body 34 transmits the external force (treading force) applied to the crankshaft 28 via the rotating body 29, and outputs the transmitted force to the outside of the housing 21. A drive sprocket 35 (here, referred to as a first drive sprocket 35) is attached to a right end portion (a portion protruding from the housing 21) of the drive body 34. The drive body 34 is rotatably attached to the housing 21. The rotation shaft of the drive body 34 is the same as the rotation shaft of the crankshaft 28.

The speed reduction mechanism 41a transmits the auxiliary drive output output from the output shaft 39 of the motor 36 to the output body 33a after slowing down the rotation speed. The reduction mechanism 41a according to this modification includes a reduction gear 44a and a motor drive system one-way clutch 43. The reduction gear 44a is rotatably attached to the housing 21. The rotation axis of the reduction gear 44a is the same as the central axis of the output body 33a, and is along the left-right direction. In this embodiment, the rotation shaft of the reduction gear 44a is substantially parallel to the rotation shaft of the crankshaft 28.

A tooth portion 442a is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the reduction gear 44a. The tooth portion 442a meshes with the tooth portion 391 of the output shaft 39 of the motor 36. As a result, the rotational power of the output shaft 39 is transmitted to the reduction gear 44a, and the reduction gear 44a rotates together with the output shaft 39. The number of teeth of the tooth portion 442a is larger than the number of teeth of the tooth portion 391 of the output shaft 39.

The output body 33a is supported by a bearing 46g attached to the first divided body 22 and a bearing 46h attached to the second divided body 23. As a result, the output body 33a is rotatably attached to the housing 21. The rotation axis of the output body 33a is along the left-right direction and is substantially parallel to the rotation axis of the output shaft 39. Therefore, the rotation axis of the output body 33a is substantially parallel to the rotation axis of the crankshaft 28. A motor drive system one-way clutch 43 is arranged between the output body 33a and the reduction gear 44a.

The motor drive system one-way clutch 43 is a ratchet type one-way clutch in this modification. The motor drive system one-way clutch 43 moves from the reduction gear 44a to the output 33a when the rotation speed of the reduction gear 44a is faster than the rotation speed of the output 33a when the output 33a is rotating in one direction. Transmits rotational power. On the other hand, the motor drive system one-way clutch 43 has an output body from the reduction gear 44a when the rotation speed of the reduction gear 44a is slower than the rotation speed of the output body 33a when the output body 33a is rotating in one direction. Do not transmit rotational power to 33a. The term "when rotating in one direction" as used herein means that the output body 33a is rotating in the direction in which the electric bicycle 1 is moved forward.

That is, the motor drive system one-way clutch 43 allows only the transmission of rotational power from the reduction gear 44a to the output body 33a when the electric bicycle 1 is moving in the forward direction, and allows the transmission of rotational power from the output body 33a to the reduction gear 44a. Does not allow the transmission of rotational power. Therefore, for example, when the motor 36 is stopped and the driver pedals the pedal 93 (see FIG. 1), the rotation of the output shaft 39 and the rotor 38 is suppressed.

The right end of the output body 33a projects from the second side wall 231 of the second split body 23. A second drive sprocket 35a is fixed to the right end of the output body 33a that protrudes to the outside of the housing 21.

When the rotational force of the reduction gear 44a is transmitted to the output body 33a through the motor drive system one-way clutch 43, the rotational power of the output shaft 39 is transmitted to the reduction gear 44a, the motor drive system one-way clutch 43, and the output body 33a in this order. Then, it is transmitted to the second drive sprocket 35a. In this modification, the drive auxiliary output is output from the output body 33a and transmitted to the second drive sprocket 35a.

In the motor unit 2a according to this modification, the power transmission body 8 is hung on the first drive sprocket 35, the second drive sprocket 35a, and the rear sprocket 662. The drive auxiliary output output from the second drive sprocket 35a and the pedaling force output from the first drive sprocket 35 are combined by the power transmission body 8 to form a resultant force, which is transmitted to the rear sprocket 662.

As shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, a plurality of position-regulating recesses 341 are formed on the outer peripheral portion of the drive body 34. In this modification, the position-regulating recesses 341 are formed at equal intervals around the rotation axis. The plurality of position-regulating recesses 341 are "predetermined locations X1" as referred to in the present disclosure. In short, the drive body 34 includes a predetermined location X1. Here, the human-powered drive system transmission path according to this modification is the crankshaft 28, the rotating body 29, the human-powered drive system one-way clutch 31, the drive body 34, the first drive sprocket 35, the power transmission body 8, and the second drive sprocket 35a. And the output body 33a are connected in this order. Therefore, the predetermined location X1 according to this modification is located closer to the output body 33a than the human-powered drive system one-way clutch 31 in the human-powered drive system transmission path. Further, the drive body 34 is connected to the output body 33a via the power transmission body 8. Therefore, the drive body 34 is a moving body that moves in response to the force output from the output body 33a.

As shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, the contact body switching mechanism 5 includes a switching motor 55, a switching member 54, an elastic body 56, and a contact body 51. Similar to the above embodiment, the contact body switching mechanism 5 exerts a force that hinders the movement of the output body 33 by bringing the contact body 51 into contact with the predetermined portion X1. The contact body switching mechanism 5 according to this modification brings the contact body 51 into contact with the position regulation recess 341 by moving the contact body 51 along a virtual plane orthogonal to the rotation axis of the crankshaft 28. .. As a result, the contact body switching mechanism 5 exerts a force on the drive body 34 to prevent rotation. As described above, the drive body 34 is attached to the first drive sprocket 35 and is connected to the second drive sprocket 35a via the power transmission body 8. Therefore, in the contact body switching mechanism 5 according to the present modification, by applying a force that hinders rotation to the driving body 34, a force that hinders movement can be exerted on the output body 33.

A plate cam 54a, which is a switching member 54, is attached to the output shaft 553 of the switching motor 55. The rotation shaft of the switching member 54 is the same as the rotation shaft of the output shaft 553 of the switching motor 55. The plate cam 54a includes a long-diameter portion having a first dimension L1 from the rotating shaft to the outer peripheral end, and a minor-diameter portion having a second dimension L2 from the rotating shaft to the outer peripheral end. The first dimension L1 is longer than the second dimension L2. The switching member 54 switches the contact body 51 between the contact position and the non-contact position according to the rotation position.

The contact body 51 is rotatably attached to the housing 21. The rotation axis of the contact body 51 is substantially parallel to the rotation axis of the crankshaft 28, and is substantially parallel to the rotation axis of the output shaft 553 of the switching motor 55. The contact body 51 is formed in a substantially L shape when viewed along the rotation axis of the contact body 51. The contact body 51 includes a drive arm 571, a driven arm 572, and a contact portion 521.

The drive arm 571 is a portion to which a force is applied from the plate cam 54a. When a force is applied to the drive arm 571 from the plate cam 54a, a moment around the rotation axis is generated in the contact body 51, and the contact body 51 rotates. In this modification, the drive arm 571 is formed in a rod shape extending in one direction.

The driven arm 572 is integrally formed with the drive arm 571. The driven arm 572 extends in a direction intersecting the drive arm 571. In this modification, the driven arm 572 is displaced by the same amount when a force is applied from the plate cam 54a to the drive arm 571 to displace it. In this modification, the driven arm 572 extends in a direction intersecting the drive arm 571, but may be located in a straight line.

The contact portion 521 can be switched between a position where the contact portion 521 fits into the position restricting recess 341 (contact position) and a position where the contact portion 521 exits from the position regulation recess 341 (non-contact position). The contact portion 521 is provided on the driven arm 572, and more specifically, the contact portion 521 projects in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the driven arm 572. The contact portion 521 at the contact position can be fitted into the position restricting recess 341 to prevent the drive body 34 from rotating.

The elastic body 56 applies a force to the contact body 51 toward the contact position. Therefore, when a force in the opposite direction exceeding the force applied from the elastic body 56 to the contact body 51 is applied to the contact portion 521, the contact portion 521 moves while resisting the force from the elastic body 56, and the driving body 34 Rotates.

When a force is applied to the drive arm 571 from the major axis portion of the plate cam 54a, the driven arm 572 rotates and the contact portion 521 is switched to the non-contact position as shown in FIG. 12B. Further, when the plate cam 54a rotates so that the short diameter portion corresponds to the drive arm 571, the driven arm 572 rotates and the contact portion 521 is switched to the contact position as shown in FIG. 12A.

(2.3) Modification 3
The motor unit 2a according to the present modification has almost the same structure as the motor unit 2a according to the modification 2. As shown in FIG. 13, the motor unit 2a according to the present modification has a different structure of the position-regulating recess 341 and the contact portion 521 as compared with the motor unit 2a of the modification 2, and the position-regulating recess 341 and the contact portion 341 and the contact portion. The structure is the same except for 521. In this modification, the configurations corresponding to the modification 2 in FIG. 13 are designated by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will be omitted.

In the motor unit 2a according to the modification 2, the contact portion 521 is fitted into the position regulation recess 341 to hinder the movement of the drive body 34, but in the motor unit 2a according to the modification 3, the position regulation recess 341 is fitted. By pressing the contact portion 521 against a part of the 341, the movement of the drive body 34 is hindered. The side surface 341b of the position-regulating recess 341 according to this modification is inclined with respect to the bottom surface 341a. Further, the contact portion 521 has a pressure contact surface 521a corresponding to the side surface.

The contact portion 521 is switched between a position in contact with the position restricting recess 341 (contact position) and a position away from the position regulation recess 341 (non-contact position). When the contact portion 521 is switched to the contact position, the pressure contact surface 521a of the contact portion 521 is pressed against the side surface 341b. As described above, in the motor unit 2a according to the present modification, the contact portion 521 can apply a braking force to the rotation of the drive body 34, and the movement of the drive body 34 is hindered. As a result, the motor unit 2a according to the present modification can exert a force that hinders the movement of the output body 33a.

(2.4) Modification 4
This modified example is a biaxial motor unit as in the modified example 2. However, in this modification, the “predetermined location X1” to which the contact body can come into contact is different from that of modification 2. It is the same as the modification 2 except for the arrangement position of the contact body switching mechanism 5 and the configuration related to the predetermined location X1.

As shown in FIG. 14, the predetermined portion X1 according to this modification is located on the output body 33a, and specifically, is the outer peripheral portion of the output body 33a. A plurality of position-regulating recesses 341 are formed on the outer peripheral portion of the output body 33a. In this modification, the position-regulating recesses 341 are formed at equal intervals around the rotation axis. The plurality of position-regulating recesses 341 are "predetermined locations X1" as referred to in the present disclosure. In short, the output body 33a includes a predetermined portion X1.

The human-powered drive system transmission path according to this modification includes a crankshaft 28, a rotating body 29, a human-powered drive system one-way clutch 31, a drive body 34, a first drive sprocket 35, a power transmission body 8, a second drive sprocket 35a, and an output body. It is a route connecting in the order of 33a. Therefore, the predetermined portion according to this modification is located closer to the output body 33a than the human-powered drive system one-way clutch 31 in the human-powered drive system transmission path.

The contact body switching mechanism according to this modification includes a switching motor 55, a switching member 54, an elastic body 56, and a contact body 51. Since the contact body switching mechanism 5 according to the present modification has the same structure as the contact body switching mechanism 5 according to the modification 2, description thereof will be omitted.

In this modified example, the contact body switching mechanism 5 exerts a force that hinders the movement (rotational movement) of the output body 33a by bringing the contact body 51 into contact with the output body 33a, as shown in FIG. 15A. As shown in FIG. 15B, the switching motor 55 separates the contact body 51 from the position regulation recess 341, so that the force applied to the output body 33a can be released.

(2.5) Modification 5
The motor unit 2a according to the present modification has almost the same structure as the motor unit 2a according to the modification 4. As shown in FIG. 16, the motor unit 2a according to the present modification has a different structure of the position-regulating recess 341 and the contact portion 521 as compared with the motor unit 2a according to the modification 4, and the position-regulating recess 341 and the contact The structure is the same except for the part 521. In this modification, the configurations corresponding to the modification 4 in FIG. 16 are designated by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will be omitted.

In the motor unit 2a according to the modified example 4, the contact portion 521 was fitted into the position restricting recess 341 to hinder the movement of the output body 33a, but in the motor unit 2a according to the modified example 4, the position restricting recess 341 By pressing the contact portion 521 against a part of the output body 33a, the movement of the output body 33a is hindered. The side surface 341b of the position-regulating recess 341 according to this modification is inclined with respect to the bottom surface 341a. Further, the contact portion 521 has a pressure contact surface 521a corresponding to the side surface.

The contact portion 521 is switched between a position in contact with the position restricting recess 341 (contact position) and a position away from the position regulation recess 341 (non-contact position). When the contact portion 521 is switched to the contact position, the pressure contact surface 521a of the contact portion 521 is pressed against the side surface 341b. As described above, in the motor unit 2a according to the present modification, the contact portion 521 can apply a braking force to the rotation of the output body 33a, and can exert a force to hinder the movement of the output body 33a. ..

(2.6) Modification 6
The motor units 2 and 2a according to the above embodiment and the modified examples 2 to 5 are so-called center unit type motor units attached to the bracket 78, but in this modified example, they are front hub unit type motor units. Is different. In this modification, the same reference numerals are given to the configurations corresponding to the above-described embodiments in FIG. 17, and the description thereof will be omitted.

As shown in FIG. 17, the motor unit 2b according to this modification is concentrically attached to the rotation shaft of the front wheel 65 (see FIG. 1). As shown in FIG. 17, the motor unit 2b includes a pair of fixed shafts 26, a motor 36, a housing 21a, a speed reduction mechanism 41, and a contact body switching mechanism 5.

The fixed shaft 26 extends along the rotation axis of the front wheel 65. The fixed shaft 26 is attached to a pair of legs 61 and is fixed to the pair of legs 61.

The motor 36 is housed in the housing 21a. That is, all of the output shafts 39 of the motor 36 are located inside the housing 21. The motor 36 outputs rotational power. The motor 36 includes a motor case 361, a stator 37, and a rotor 38. The motor case 361 is fixed to a pair of fixed shafts 26. The stator 37 is attached to the motor case 361 and fixed to the motor case 361. The rotor 38 is rotatably attached to the motor case 361. The rotation axis of the rotor 38 is located on the same straight line as the central axis of the pair of fixed axes 26. An output shaft 39 is attached to the rotor 38. When the rotor 38 rotates, the output shaft 39 rotates on the rotation shaft of the rotor 38. A tooth portion 391 is formed on the outer circumference of the output shaft 39.

When the drive auxiliary output output from the motor 36 is input, the speed reduction mechanism 41 slows down the rotation speed and rotates the housing 21a. The reduction mechanism 41 includes a plurality of reduction gears 44b. The plurality of reduction gears 44b are arranged around the output shaft 39 and mesh with the tooth portion 391. In this modification, the plurality of reduction gears 44b do not revolve around the output shaft 39, but may be composed of revolving planetary gears. The speed reduction mechanism 41 is arranged inside the housing 21a. The reduction gear 44 meshes with the tooth portion 391 and also meshes with the inner peripheral surface of the housing 21a.

The housing 21a is rotatably attached to the fixed shaft 26. In this modification, the housing 21a can rotate with respect to the motor case 361. The rotation axis of the housing 21a is the same as the rotation axis of the output shaft 39 of the motor 36. The spokes 67 included in the wheels of the front wheels 65 are attached to the housing 21a. The housing 21a rotates with the rotation of the front wheels 65 even if the motor 36 is not operating.

When the output shaft 39 of the motor 36 rotates, the rotational power is transmitted to the speed reduction mechanism 41, and the speed reduction mechanism 41 rotates the housing 21a. The rotated housing 21a can rotate the wheels to apply a drive auxiliary output to the front wheels 65 (see FIG. 1). In this modification, the output body 33a also serves as the housing 21a. In short, the housing 21a has a function as an output body 33b.

The contact body switching mechanism 5 according to this modification includes a switching motor 55, a switching member 54, an elastic body 56, and a contact body 51.

The switching motor 55 drives the switching member 54. The switching motor 55 operates by being supplied with electric power from the battery 9. The switching motor 55 is formed so as to be rotatable forward and reverse. The switching motor 55 includes a bevel gear 552 attached to the output shaft 553. The rotation axis of the bevel gear 552 is orthogonal to the rotation axis of the housing 21a. The bevel gear 552 meshes with the switching member 54. The rotational power output from the switching motor 55 drives the switching member 54.

The switching member 54 is a member capable of switching the contact body 51 between a contact position and a non-contact position. The switching member 54 includes a first switching unit 58 and a second switching unit 59. The first switching portion 58 is rotatably attached to the fixed shaft 26. The rotation axis of the first switching unit 58 is substantially parallel in the left-right direction, and is the same as the rotation axis of the housing 21a. The first switching unit 58 rotates by receiving rotational power from the switching motor 55. For example, a spiral guide groove is formed on the surface of the first switching unit 58 on the side of the second switching unit 59.

The second switching unit 59 changes the position of the first switching unit 58 in the direction along the rotation axis according to the rotation of the first switching unit 58. A stop member 545 such as an E-ring is provided at an end portion of the second switching portion 59 opposite to the first switching portion 58. When the first switching unit 58 rotates in one direction, the second switching unit 59 moves in one direction along the rotation axis of the first switching unit 58, and when the first switching unit 58 rotates in the other direction, the second switching unit 59 is second. The switching unit 59 moves in the other direction along the rotation axis of the first switching unit 58.

The contact body 51 is slidably attached to the second switching portion 59 in the direction along the rotation axis of the housing 21a. The contact body 51 contacts the convex portion 27 formed on the inner peripheral surface of the housing 21 and exerts a force that hinders the movement (rotational movement) of the housing 21a. Therefore, the predetermined portion X1 according to this modification is the convex portion 27. The elastic body 56 is arranged between the contact body 51 and the first switching portion 58, and pushes the contact body 51 toward the inner surface of the housing 21a in the direction along the rotation axis of the housing 21a.

As shown in FIG. 17, when the first switching portion 58 rotates in one direction, the contact body 51 causes the second switching portion 59 to move along the rotation axis of the housing 21a on the inner surface of the housing 21a. Move in the direction of approaching. Further, as shown in FIG. 18, when the first switching unit 58 rotates in the direction opposite to one direction, the contact body 51 causes the second switching unit 59 to move in the direction along the rotation axis of the housing 21a. It moves in a direction away from the inner side surface of the housing 21a. In short, in this modification, the contact body 51 is switched between the contact position and the non-contact position by the switching member 54.

(2.7) Other Modification Examples The following are modifications of the embodiments.

In the above-described embodiment and modified example, when a constant force is applied to the contact body 51 of the contact body switching mechanism 5, the contact body 51 at the contact position is configured to temporarily move. , The contact body 51 may completely stop the movement of the predetermined position X1. In short, the output body 33 may be locked.

In the above embodiment and the modified example, the contact body switching mechanism 5 may be interlocked with the handle lock. For example, the motor unit 2 may be provided with a mechanism for pulling the wire for operating the handle lock, and the contact body 51 may be switched to the contact position at the same time by pulling the wire to realize the handle lock. According to this, the effect of preventing theft of the electric bicycle 1 can be further expected.

In the above embodiment and the modified example, the electric bicycle 1 has a control unit capable of controlling the operation of the contact body switching mechanism 5. The control unit is configured to be able to communicate with a terminal device owned by the user via a communication unit provided on the electric bicycle 1. The user can operate the contact body switching mechanism 5 by operating the terminal device. Further, when the terminal device approaches the communication unit of the electric bicycle 1 within a predetermined distance (within a predetermined range) such as a communicable range, the contact body 51 is switched to the non-contact position by the contact body switching mechanism 5. May be good. Further, the contact body 51 may be switched to the contact position in the contact body switching mechanism 5 by locating the terminal device outside a predetermined range such as a communicable range from the communication unit of the electric bicycle 1.

The "terminal device" referred to here may be, for example, a dedicated terminal device such as a smart key, a smartphone, a tablet, a PDA (Personal Data Assistant), a notebook PC, or the like.

The predetermined location X1 may be a moving body that moves in response to the force output from the output body 33. The predetermined location X1 on the moving body may be, for example, the teeth of the drive sprocket 35. When the tensioner is attached to the motor unit 2, the tensioner may be a tensioner including the predetermined portion X1 and the contact body 51 may be brought into contact with the teeth of the tensioner to prevent the tensioner from rotating. Further, the power transmission body 8 including the predetermined portion X1 may be used. By bringing the contact body 51 into contact with the power transmission body 8, it is possible to exert a force that hinders the movement of the output body 33. That is, the member including the predetermined portion X1 is not limited to the above-described embodiment and the modified example, and may be a moving body that moves by receiving a force output from the output body 33 in addition to the reduction mechanism 41 and the output body 33.

In the electric bicycle 1 according to the above embodiment, the frame is not provided with a lock such as a bar, but in the electric bicycle 1 according to the present disclosure, a lock such as a bar may be provided on the frame. In this case, the effect of preventing theft of the electric bicycle 1 can be further enhanced.

In the electric bicycle 1 according to the above embodiment, the hub 661 of the rear wheel 66 has a freewheel, that is, the electric bicycle 1 according to the above embodiment transmits power from the power transmission body 8 to the rear wheel 66. It has a one-way clutch on the route. However, the electric bicycle 1 according to the present disclosure does not have to have a freewheel. The electric bicycle 1 according to one modification does not have a freewheel, in other words, does not have a one-way clutch in the power transmission path from the power transmission body 8 to the wheels (here, the rear wheel 66). According to the electric bicycle 1 according to one modification, the output body 33 is subjected to a force that hinders the movement to limit the rotation of the wheels (here, the rear wheels 66) in both directions around the rotation axis. Can be done.

In the present disclosure, expressions with "abbreviation" such as "substantially parallel" or "substantially orthogonal" may be used. For example, "substantially parallel" means that it is substantially "parallel", and includes not only a strictly "parallel" state but also an error of about several percent. The same applies to other expressions with "abbreviations".

Further, in the present disclosure, expressions that distinguish between "... end" and "... end" are used, such as "front end" and "front end". For example, the "front end" means a portion having a certain range including the "front end". The same applies to other expressions with "... end".

Further, the "inclined" and "inclined surface" referred to in the present disclosure are not limited to straight lines or planes, but also include curved lines or curved surfaces.

(3) Aspects As described above, the motor unit (2,2a, 2b) according to the first aspect is a motor unit (2,2a, 2b) for an electric bicycle (1) attached to a bicycle. The motor unit (2,2a, 2b) includes a housing (21,21a), a motor (36), an output body (33,33a, 33b), and a reduction mechanism (41) that fits in the housing (21,21a). ) And a contact body switching mechanism (5). At least a part of the output shaft (39) of the motor (36) is located inside the housing (21, 21a). The output bodies (33, 33a, 33b) output the power output from the output shaft (39) to the outside of the housing (21,21a). The deceleration mechanism (41) decelerates the rotation speed of the output of the motor (36) in the motor drive system transmission path from the output shaft (39) to the output bodies (33, 33a, 33b). The contact body switching mechanism (5) has a contact body (51). The contact body (51) is a predetermined portion of any of a speed reduction mechanism (41), an output body (33, 33a, 33b), and a moving body that moves by receiving a force output from the output body (33, 33a, 33b). It is possible to switch between a contact position in contact with (X1) and a non-contact position away from a predetermined position (X1). The contact body switching mechanism (5) is configured to exert a force that hinders the movement of the output bodies (33, 33a, 33b) when the contact body (51) is switched to the contact position.

According to this aspect, when the contact body (51) is switched to the contact position, a force that hinders the movement is exerted on the output bodies (33, 33a, 33b), so that the power of the motor (36) is supplied to the housing (36). It cannot be output to the outside of 21,21a). Therefore, according to this aspect, if the contact body (51) is switched to the contact position, it cannot be normally used as the motor unit (2, 2a, 2b), and the electric bicycle (1) is prevented from being stolen. The effect can be expected.

In the motor unit (2, 2a) according to the second aspect, in the first aspect, the motor drive provided between the output shaft (39) and the output body (33, 33a) in the motor drive system transmission path. A system one-way clutch (43) is further provided. The predetermined location (X1) is located closer to the output body (33, 33a) than the motor drive system one-way clutch (43) in the motor drive system transmission path.

According to this aspect, the rotational movement of the output body (33, 33a) in both directions can be prevented. Therefore, if the output body (33, 33a) is rotated, the contact body (51) may be in the contact position. It can be understood as a physical experience, and the effect of preventing theft of the motor unit (2, 2a) can be expected.

The motor unit (2, 2a) according to the third aspect further includes a crankshaft (28) and a human-powered drive system one-way clutch (31) in the first or second aspect. The crankshaft (28) penetrates the housing (21) and rotates with respect to the housing (21) by pedaling force. The human-powered drive system one-way clutch (31) is provided between the crankshaft (28) and the output body (33, 33a) in the human-powered drive system transmission path from the crankshaft (28) to the output body (33, 33a). Be done. The predetermined location (X1) is located closer to the output body (33, 33a) than the human-powered drive system one-way clutch (31) in the human-powered drive system transmission path.

According to this aspect, if the output body (33, 33a) is rotated, the contact body (51) is felt to be in the contact position, and the effect of preventing the theft of the motor unit (2, 2a) can be expected. ..

In the motor unit (2, 2a) according to the fourth aspect, in any one of the first to third aspects, the reduction mechanism (41) includes a gear (reduction gear 44) having a tooth portion (442). .. The predetermined position (X1) is located at a position different from the tooth portion (442) in the gear.

According to this aspect, by applying a mechanical force to the gear (reduction gear 44), the movement of the gear can be hindered, and the force that hinders the movement of the output bodies (33, 33a, 33b) is applied. Can exert.

In the motor unit (2) according to the fifth aspect, in any one of the first to third aspects, the predetermined portion (X1) is located outside the housing (21).

According to this aspect, it is possible to visually confirm that the contact body (51) is in the contact position or the non-contact position.

In the motor unit (2) according to the sixth aspect, in the fifth aspect, the predetermined portion (X1) is the drive sprocket (35) attached to the output body (33).

According to this aspect, since the contact body (51) can be brought into contact with the drive sprocket (35), the output body (33) can be brought into contact with the output body (33) regardless of the force due to the motor drive system transmission path or the force due to the human power drive system transmission path. ) Can exert a force that hinders movement.

In the motor unit (2) according to the seventh aspect, in the sixth aspect, the drive sprocket (35) has a sprocket body (351) and a mounting member (352). The sprocket body (351) is attached with a power transmission body (8) for transmitting power to the wheels (65) and (66). The mounting member (352) is fixed to the sprocket body (351). The predetermined location (X1) is included in the mounting member (352).

According to this aspect, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of wear, scratches, etc. due to the contact body (51) with respect to the sprocket body (351).

In the motor unit (2) according to the eighth aspect, in the seventh aspect, the mounting member (352) is harder than the sprocket body (351).

According to this aspect, the occurrence of wear, scratches, etc. can be suppressed as compared with the case where the contact body (51) is brought into contact with the sprocket body (351).

In the motor unit (2, 2b) according to the ninth aspect, in any one of the first to eighth aspects, the contact body switching mechanism (5) has the contact body (51) and the output body (33, 33a). ) Is moved in the direction along the rotation axis to switch between the contact position and the non-contact position.

According to this aspect, the moving range of the contact body (51) can be made as small as possible.

In the motor unit (2a) according to the tenth aspect, in any one of the first to eighth aspects, the contact body switching mechanism (5) uses the contact body (51) as the rotation axis of the motor (36). By moving along the orthogonal virtual planes, the contact position and the non-contact position are switched.

According to this aspect, since the moving space of the contact body (51) can be taken in the front-rear direction, the contact body switching mechanism (5) can be realized while utilizing the dead space.

The electric bicycle (1) according to the eleventh aspect includes a plurality of wheels (65) (66) and a motor unit (2) according to any one of the first to tenth aspects. The motor unit (2,2a, 2b) outputs rotational power to at least one wheel (65) (66) of the plurality of wheels (65) (66).

According to this aspect, the effect of preventing theft of the motor unit (2) can be expected, and the theft of the electric bicycle (1) can also be prevented.

The electric bicycle (1) according to the twelfth aspect further includes a power transmitter (8) for transmitting the output of the motor unit (2, 2a, 2b) to the wheels (65) and (66) in the eleventh aspect. .. A predetermined location (X1) is included in the power transmitter (8).

According to this aspect, theft of the electric bicycle (1) can be suppressed.

The electric bicycle (1) according to the thirteenth aspect further includes a power transmitter (8) for transmitting the output of the motor unit (2,2a, 2b) to the wheels (65) and (66) in the eleventh aspect. .. The moving body is configured to move in response to the movement of the power transmission body (8). A predetermined location (X1) is included in the moving body.

According to this aspect, theft of the electric bicycle (1) can be suppressed.

The electric bicycle (1) according to the fourteenth aspect further includes a power transmitter (8) that transmits the output of the motor unit (2,2a, 2b) to the wheels (65) and (66) in the eleventh aspect. .. A one-way clutch is not provided in the power transmission path from the power transmission body (8) to the rear wheels (66).

According to this aspect, by exerting a force that hinders the movement on the output body (33), it is possible to limit the rotation of the wheels (65) and (66) in both directions around the rotation axis, and it is electric. The theft of the bicycle (1) can be further suppressed.

The configuration according to the second to tenth aspects is not an essential configuration for the motor unit (2, 2a, 2b), and the configuration according to the twelfth to fourteenth aspects is the electric bicycle (1). It is not an essential configuration and can be omitted as appropriate.

1 Electric bicycle 2,2a, 2b Motor unit 21 Housing 28 Crankshaft 31 Human-powered drive system one-way clutch 33, 33a Output body 35 Drive sprocket (moving body)
351 Sprocket body 352 Mounting member 36 Motor 39 Output shaft 41 Reduction mechanism 43 Motor drive system One-way clutch 44 Reduction gear (gear)
442 Tooth part 5 Contact body switching mechanism 51 Contact body 521 Contact part 65 Front wheel (wheel)
66 Rear wheels (wheels)
8 Power transmission body (moving body)
X1 Predetermined place

Claims (14)

A motor unit for electric bicycles that can be attached to a bicycle.
With the housing
A motor in which at least a part of the output shaft is located inside the housing,
An output body that outputs the power output from the output shaft to the outside of the housing, and
A deceleration mechanism that fits in the housing and decelerates the rotation speed of the output of the motor in the motor drive system transmission path from the output shaft to the output body.
Switching between a contact position that contacts a predetermined position of the deceleration mechanism, the output body, and a moving body that moves in response to a force output from the output body, and a non-contact position that separates from the predetermined position. A contact body switching mechanism that has a possible contact body and exerts a force that hinders movement on the output body by switching the contact body to the contact position.
To prepare
Motor unit. In the motor drive system transmission path, a motor drive system one-way clutch provided between the output shaft and the output body is further provided.
The predetermined location is located closer to the output body than the motor drive system one-way clutch in the motor drive system transmission path.
The motor unit according to claim 1. A crankshaft that penetrates the housing and rotates with respect to the housing by pedaling force.
In the human-powered drive system transmission path from the crankshaft to the output body, a human-powered drive system one-way clutch provided between the crankshaft and the output body,
With more
The predetermined location is located closer to the output body than the human-powered drive system one-way clutch in the human-powered drive system transmission path.
The motor unit according to claim 1 or 2. The reduction mechanism includes gears having teeth.
The predetermined portion is located at a portion different from the tooth portion in the gear.
The motor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The predetermined location is located outside the housing,
The motor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The predetermined location is a drive sprocket attached to the output body.
The motor unit according to claim 5. The drive sprocket
The sprocket body to which the power transmission body for transmitting power to the wheels is attached,
The mounting member fixed to the sprocket body and
Have,
The predetermined location is included in the mounting member.
The motor unit according to claim 6. The mounting member is harder than the sprocket body,
The motor unit according to claim 7. The contact body switching mechanism switches between the contact position and the non-contact position by moving the contact body in a direction along the rotation axis of the output body.
The motor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 8. The contact body switching mechanism switches between the contact position and the non-contact position by moving the contact body along a virtual plane orthogonal to the rotation axis of the motor.
The motor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 8. With multiple wheels
The motor unit according to any one of claims 1 to 10, which outputs rotational power to at least one of the plurality of wheels.
To prepare
Electric bicycle. A power transmission body that transmits the output of the motor unit to the wheels is further provided.
The predetermined location is included in the power transmission body.
The electric bicycle according to claim 11. A power transmission body that transmits the output of the motor unit to the wheels is further provided.
The moving body is configured to move in response to the movement of the power transmission body.
The predetermined location is included in the moving body.
The electric bicycle according to claim 11. A power transmission body that transmits the output of the motor unit to the wheels is further provided.
A one-way clutch is not provided in the power transmission path from the power transmission body to the wheels.
The electric bicycle according to claim 11.

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