JP2023150077A - Component and control system for human powered vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a component which enables a user to check the residual quantity of a first battery easily.SOLUTION: A component includes: a wireless communication unit configured to perform wireless communication with an electronic device having a notification part; a battery holding part configured to hold a first battery; and a control unit configured to control the wireless communication unit. The control unit causes the wireless communication unit to automatically output a wireless signal regarding a residual quantity of the first battery according to the residual quantity of the first battery.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

The present invention relates to components and technology for control systems for human-powered vehicles.

Components and control systems for human-powered vehicles are known in the art. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technology for a control system including components including an electric transmission. A signal corresponding to the operation of the operation unit is input to the electric transmission via wireless communication. An electric transmission changes a gear ratio in response to a signal from an operating section. The operation unit is configured to be capable of wireless communication by being supplied with power from the power source. The power source includes, for example, a battery.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2000-95181

In conventional components and control systems, the remaining battery power is not automatically notified, making it difficult for the user to check the remaining battery power.

An object of the present disclosure is to provide a component and a control system for a human-powered vehicle that allow a user to easily check the remaining battery power.

A component according to a first aspect of the present disclosure is a component for a human-powered vehicle, and is configured to hold a wireless communication unit configured to wirelessly communicate with an electronic device having a notification unit, and a first battery. a battery holding section configured to control the wireless communication section; and a control section configured to control the wireless communication section, and the control section transmits a wireless signal regarding the remaining amount of the first battery according to the remaining amount of the first battery. Automatically output to the communication department.
According to the component of the first aspect, the wireless signal regarding the remaining amount of the first battery is automatically sent to the electronic device according to the remaining amount of the first battery without the user performing an operation to notify the remaining amount of the battery. The remaining amount can be easily checked by the user via the electronic device.

In the component of the second aspect according to the first aspect, the control unit is operated by power supplied from the first battery.
According to the component on the second side, the user can easily check the remaining amount of the first battery that supplies power to the control unit.

In the first aspect or the component of the third aspect according to the second aspect, the wireless signal includes a first command for causing the notification unit to start notification.
According to the component of the third aspect, the electronic device can start reporting the remaining amount of the first battery depending on the remaining amount of the first battery.

In the component of the fourth aspect according to any one of the first to third aspects, the wireless signal includes a second command for changing the notification state of the notification unit.
According to the component of the fourth aspect, the user can easily check the remaining amount of the first battery by changing the notification state.

In the component of the fifth aspect according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, the control unit causes the wireless communication unit to output a wireless signal when the remaining amount of the first battery is less than the first threshold.
According to the component of the fifth aspect, the user can easily confirm that the remaining amount of the first battery is less than the first threshold.

In the component of the sixth aspect according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, the control unit transmits the wireless signal to the wireless communication unit when the remaining amount of the first battery decreases from the second threshold or more to less than the second threshold. Output to .
According to the component of the sixth aspect, the user can easily confirm that the remaining capacity of the first battery is lower than the second threshold.

The component of the seventh aspect according to any one of the first to sixth aspects includes an operating device, an electric transmission, an electric seat post, an electric suspension, a drive unit, an air pressure detection device, a power meter, a lamp, a display, and a cycle computer. constitute at least one of the following.
According to the component of the seventh aspect, the output from at least one wireless communication unit of the operating device, the electric transmission, the electric seat post, the electric suspension, the drive unit, the air pressure detection device, the power meter, the lamp, the display, and the cycle computer. The user can check the remaining amount of the first battery by the wireless signal.

The component of the eighth aspect according to any one of the first to seventh aspects further includes an operation section for operating other components mounted on the human-powered vehicle, and the control section operates according to the operation of the operation section. , causes the wireless communication unit to output an operation signal.
According to the component of the eighth aspect, the control unit can perform control regarding notification of the remaining amount of the first battery and control regarding the operation of other components.

In the component of the ninth aspect according to the eighth aspect, the operation signal includes a speed change signal.
According to the component of the eighth aspect, the control unit can perform control related to notification of the remaining amount of the first battery and control related to the speed change operation.

A control system for a human-powered vehicle according to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure includes an electronic device and a component according to any one of the first to ninth aspects.
According to the control system for a human-powered vehicle in the tenth aspect, the electronic device can notify the user of the remaining amount of the first battery in accordance with the remaining amount of the first battery without the user performing an operation to notify the remaining amount of the first battery. Since a wireless signal regarding the amount is automatically transmitted, the user can easily check the remaining amount via the electronic device.

In the control system for a human-powered vehicle according to the eleventh aspect according to the tenth aspect, the electronic device includes at least one of a portable communication device, a display, a cycle computer, a vibration generator, a light generator, and a sound generator. .
According to the control system for a human-powered vehicle according to the tenth aspect, the user is able to 1 You can check the remaining battery power.

According to the components and control system of the present disclosure, a user can easily check the remaining amount of the first battery.

FIG. 1 is a side view showing a human-powered vehicle including components according to the first embodiment. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a component and an electronic device. A diagram showing relationships between components and electronic devices. 5 is a flowchart showing a control flow in the first embodiment. 5 is a flowchart showing a control flow in a second embodiment. 7 is a flowchart showing a control flow in a third embodiment. 10 is a flowchart showing a control flow in a fourth embodiment. 10 is a flowchart showing a control flow in a fifth embodiment. FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating an example of components and an electronic device according to a sixth embodiment. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of components according to a seventh embodiment. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of a control system according to an eighth embodiment.

(First embodiment)
A human-powered vehicle 1 including a component 90 according to a first embodiment will be explained using FIGS. 1 to 4. The human-powered vehicle 1 is a vehicle that has at least one wheel and can be driven by at least human-powered driving force. The human-powered vehicle 1 includes various types of bicycles, such as a mountain bike, a road bike, a city bike, a cargo bike, a hand bike, and a recumbent bike. The number of wheels that the human-powered vehicle 1 has is not limited. The human powered vehicle 1 includes, for example, a one-wheeled vehicle and a vehicle having two or more wheels. The human-powered vehicle 1 is not limited to a vehicle that can be driven only by human-powered driving force. The human-powered vehicle 1 includes an E-bike that uses not only human-powered driving force but also the driving force of an electric motor for propulsion. E-bikes include electrically assisted bicycles whose propulsion is assisted by an electric motor. Hereinafter, in the embodiment, the human-powered vehicle 1 will be explained as a bicycle.

The human powered vehicle 1 includes a crank 10, a frame 20, a seat 30, a handlebar 40, a fork 50, a front wheel 60, a rear wheel 70, a first battery 80, and a component 90.

The crank 10 shown in FIG. 1 includes a crankshaft 11 that is rotatable with respect to a frame 20, and a pair of crank arms 12 provided at both ends of the crankshaft 11 in the axial direction. A pedal 13 is connected to each of the pair of crank arms 12.

A seat 30 is provided on the frame 20 via a seat post 31. Seat post 31 includes an electric seat post. Frame 20 rotatably supports handlebar 40 and fork 50. Handlebar 40 is configured to be gripped by a user. As the handlebar 40 rotates with respect to the frame 20, the fork 50 rotates, and the traveling direction of the human-powered vehicle 1 changes. The handlebar 40 is provided with a cycle computer 41 and the like.

Front wheel 60 is rotatably attached to fork 50. The front wheel 60 includes a rim 61 to which a tire is attached, a plurality of spokes 62, and a disc rotor 63. The tire valve of the front wheel 60 is provided with an air pressure detection device 64 that detects information regarding the air pressure of the tire. Rear wheel 70 is configured to rotate relative to frame 20. The rear wheel 70 includes a rim 71 to which a tire is attached, a plurality of spokes 72, and a disc rotor 73. An air pressure detection device 74 is provided in the tire valve of the rear wheel 70.

A first battery 80, shown in FIGS. 1-3, provides power to the equipment. The equipment includes components mounted on the human-powered vehicle 1 and peripheral devices of the human-powered vehicle 1. In this embodiment, first battery 80 supplies power to component 90 . The first battery 80 includes, for example, at least one of a non-rechargeable battery and a rechargeable battery. The rechargeable battery is charged by power from an external power source. When supplying power to a plurality of devices, the first battery 80 may include a plurality of batteries that respectively supply power to the plurality of devices. First battery 80 may include one battery that provides power to multiple devices.

The component 90 is a component 90 for a human-powered vehicle, and is configured to hold a wireless communication unit 95 configured to wirelessly communicate with an electronic device 200 having a notification unit 202, and a first battery 80. It includes a battery holding section 92 and a control section 96b configured to control the wireless communication section 95. An example of a component 90 is shown in FIGS. 1-3. The component 90 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 constitutes a shifter for performing a speed change operation to change the speed ratio of the human-powered vehicle 1. The gear ratio indicates the ratio of the rotational speed of the rear wheel 70 to the rotational speed of the crankshaft 11. The gear ratio is calculated by dividing the number of teeth on the front sprocket that the chain engages by the number of teeth on the rear sprocket that the chain engages. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the component 90 includes a base portion 91, a battery holding portion 92, an operation portion 93, a remaining amount detection portion 94, a wireless communication portion 95, and a control device 96.

The base portion 91 shown in FIG. 3 is detachably attached to the handlebar 40. The battery holding section 92 is provided inside the base section 91. The operating section 93 includes a lever configured to swing relative to the base section 91. The user can perform a gear shifting operation by swinging the operating section 93 in a predetermined direction. The electric transmission 100 provided in the human-powered vehicle 1 operates in accordance with the speed change operation.

The electric transmission 100 shown in FIG. 1 changes the gear ratio of the human-powered vehicle 1. Electric transmission 100 includes an exterior transmission. The external transmission includes at least one of a front derailleur and a rear derailleur. In this embodiment, electric transmission 100 includes a front derailleur and a rear derailleur. The front derailleur is configured to drive an electric motor in response to a speed change operation, and to change the chain between a plurality of front sprockets. The rear derailleur is configured to drive an electric motor in response to a speed change operation, and to change the chain between a plurality of rear sprockets.

The remaining amount detection section 94 shown in FIG. 2 is configured to detect the remaining amount of the first battery 80. The remaining amount detection section 94 is configured to be able to communicate with the control section 96b by wire or wirelessly. The remaining amount detection section 94 outputs a signal according to the remaining amount of the first battery 80 to the control section 96b. The signal output from the remaining amount detection section 94 may include first remaining amount information indicating the remaining amount of the first battery 80 itself, and second remaining amount information different from the first remaining amount information may be included. May be included. The second remaining amount information includes, for example, information used by the control unit 96b to detect and/or calculate the remaining amount of the first battery 80. For example, when the signal output from the remaining amount detection section 94 includes second remaining amount information indicating the voltage value of the first battery 80, the control section 96b determines the remaining amount of the first battery 80 based on the voltage value. It can be calculated. The remaining amount detection section 94 may be arranged separately from the component 90.

The wireless communication unit 95 is connected to the electronic device 200 by wireless communication. The wireless communication unit 95 can output a wireless signal to the electronic device 200. The wireless communication unit 95 may be configured to communicate according to existing communication standards such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) and ANT+ (registered trademark), or may be configured to communicate according to an original communication standard. .

The control device 96 includes a storage section 96a and a control section 96b. The storage unit 96a stores various control programs and information used for various control processes. The storage unit 96a includes, for example, nonvolatile memory and volatile memory.

The control unit 96b is configured to perform control regarding the component 90. The control unit 96b includes an arithmetic processing unit that executes a predetermined control program. The arithmetic processing device includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The control unit 96b may include one or more microcomputers.

The control unit 96b is operated by power supplied from the first battery 80. The control unit 96b is configured to be able to communicate with the wireless communication unit 95 by wire or wirelessly. The control unit 96b controls the wireless communication unit 95 by outputting a signal to the wireless communication unit 95. For example, the control unit 96b controls the wireless communication unit 95 to cause the wireless communication unit 95 to output a wireless signal regarding the remaining amount of the first battery 80 to the electronic device 200.

The electronic device 200 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 is configured to be able to broadcast various information. Electronic device 200 includes at least one of a component mounted on human-powered vehicle 1 and a peripheral device of human-powered vehicle 1 . In this embodiment, the electronic device 200 includes peripheral equipment of the human-powered vehicle 1. Electronic device 200 includes a smartphone. Electronic device 200 is supplied with power from a second battery 280 that is different from first battery 80 . In this embodiment, the second battery 280 is built into the electronic device 200. Electronic device 200 includes a wireless communication section 201 and a notification section 202.

The wireless communication unit 201 is configured similarly to the wireless communication unit 95 of the component 90. The notification unit 202 is configured to notify various information. The notification section 202 includes at least one of a vibration generation section 202a, a light generation section 202b, and a sound generation section 202c. In this embodiment, the notification section 202 includes a vibration generation section 202a, a light generation section 202b, and a sound generation section 202c.

The vibration generator 202a generates vibrations. The vibration generator 202a includes, for example, an electric motor equipped with an eccentric weight. The light generating section 202b generates light. The light generating unit 202b includes, for example, a display unit that displays information, an irradiation unit that irradiates illumination, and the like. The light generating section 202b includes, for example, at least one of a liquid crystal panel, an organic EL panel, and a light emitting diode. The sound generator 202c generates sound. The sound generator 202c includes, for example, at least one of a buzzer and a speaker.

In this embodiment, the control unit 96b causes the wireless communication unit 95 to automatically output a wireless signal regarding the remaining amount of the first battery 80, depending on the remaining amount of the first battery 80. An example of control executed by the control unit 96b will be explained. FIG. 4 is used to explain an example of control executed by the control unit 96b. The control unit 96b starts the first control flow according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 4 when a predetermined condition is satisfied. For example, in a case where one of the wireless communication section 95 of the component 90 and the wireless communication section 201 of the electronic device 200 always outputs a predetermined wireless signal, the wireless communication section 95 of the component 90 and the wireless communication section 201 of the electronic device 200 When the other part 201 receives a predetermined wireless signal, the control part 96b starts the first control flow. The control unit 96b repeatedly executes the first control flow at predetermined time intervals until a predetermined condition is satisfied. For example, the control unit 96b may cause the component 90 and the electronic device 200 to become unresponsive to a request from one of the components 90 and the electronic device 200 due to separation between the component 90 and the electronic device 200. The first control flow is repeatedly executed at predetermined time intervals until.

In step S1, the control section 96b obtains the remaining amount of the first battery 80 based on the signal from the remaining amount detecting section 94. After performing the process in step S1, the control unit 96b moves to step S2.

In step S2, the control unit 96b controls the wireless communication unit 95 according to the remaining amount of the first battery 80 obtained in step S1. For example, when the remaining amount satisfies a predetermined condition, the control unit 96b causes the wireless communication unit 95 to output a wireless signal regarding the remaining amount acquired in step S1. After performing the process of step S2, the control unit 96b ends the first control flow.

The wireless signal output from the wireless communication unit 95 in step S2 is input to the electronic device 200. The notification unit 202 of the electronic device 200 operates in response to a wireless signal from the wireless communication unit 95 to perform a notification operation to notify information regarding the remaining amount. When notifying information regarding the remaining battery power, the vibration generating unit 202a of the notification unit 202 generates a vibration pattern corresponding to the remaining battery level of the first battery 80 acquired by the control unit 96b in step S1, for example. The light generating unit 202b displays information such as a number indicating the remaining amount, for example. The light generating section 202b may emit light of a color or pattern depending on the remaining amount. For example, the light generating section 202b may emit blue light when the remaining amount is 10% or more, and may emit red light when the remaining amount is less than 10%. The light generating unit 202b may turn on the light when the remaining amount is 10% or more, and may turn on the light when the remaining amount is less than 10%. The sound generating unit 202c generates a sound including a message indicating the remaining amount, for example. The sound generator 202c may generate different types of buzzer sounds depending on the remaining amount.

When the control unit 96b executes the first control flow, information regarding the remaining capacity of the first battery 80 is automatically notified from the notification unit 202 in accordance with the remaining capacity of the first battery 80. The user can easily check the remaining amount of the first battery 80 by the notification from the notification unit 202. By charging or replacing the first battery 80 according to the confirmed remaining capacity, the user can suppress problems caused by the consumption of the first battery 80. For example, the user can replace the first battery 80 before the battery runs out and the gear ratio of the human-powered vehicle 1 cannot be changed.

(Second embodiment)
A component 90 of the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 5 is used to explain the component 90 of the second embodiment. Components that are common to the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

In this embodiment, the wireless signal output by the wireless communication unit 95 includes a first command for causing the notification unit 202 to start notification. The notification unit 202 is configured to start a notification operation based on a wireless signal including the first command.

An example of control executed by the control unit 96b will be explained. FIG. 5 is used to explain an example of control executed by the control unit 96b. The control unit 96b starts the second control flow according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 5 when a predetermined condition is satisfied. The control unit 96b repeatedly executes the second control flow at predetermined time intervals until a predetermined condition is satisfied. The conditions for starting the second control flow and the conditions for repeatedly executing it are the same as in the first embodiment.

In step S11, the control section 96b obtains the remaining amount of the first battery 80 based on the signal from the remaining amount detecting section 94. After performing the process in step S11, the control unit 96b moves to step S12.

In step S12, the control unit 96b controls the wireless communication unit 95 according to the remaining amount of the first battery 80 obtained in step S11. The control unit 96b causes the wireless communication unit 95 to output a wireless signal including the first command, for example, when the remaining amount satisfies a predetermined condition. After performing the process of step S12, the control unit 96b ends the second control flow.

By the control unit 96b executing the second control flow, a notification operation is started according to the remaining amount of the first battery 80. By starting the notification operation, the user can easily check the remaining amount of the first battery 80.

(Third embodiment)
A component 90 of a third embodiment will be described. FIG. 6 is used to explain the component 90 of the third embodiment. Configurations common to the first embodiment and the second embodiment are given the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment and the second embodiment, and redundant explanation will be omitted.

In this embodiment, the wireless signal output by the wireless communication unit 95 includes a second command for changing the notification state of the notification unit 202. For example, the notification state may be changed by at least one of the following: changing the number of times the remaining amount of the first battery 80 is notified, changing the color that displays the remaining amount, changing the volume, and changing the device that notifies the remaining amount. include. When changing the notification state, the notification unit 202 causes the wireless communication unit 95 to output a wireless signal including the second command. When the wireless signal is input, the electronic device 200 changes the notification state after the wireless signal is input to a different state from the notification state before the wireless signal is input.

For example, the vibration generating unit 202a changes the number of times the first battery 80 is notified of the remaining amount by changing the number of times it repeatedly generates vibrations in a pattern that corresponds to the remaining amount of the first battery 80. When displaying information such as numbers indicating the remaining amount, the light generating unit 202b changes the color in which the remaining amount is displayed by changing at least one of the color of the number and the color of the background. When emitting illumination in a pattern corresponding to the remaining amount, the light generating unit 202b changes the color in which the remaining amount is displayed by changing the color of the irradiation. The sound generating unit 202c changes the number of times the remaining amount is notified by, for example, changing the number of times the sound is generated. The sound generator 202c may change the volume.

When the notification unit 202 includes at least two of the vibration generation unit 202a, the light generation unit 202b, and the sound generation unit 202c, the notification state may be changed by switching the device that reports the remaining amount. . For example, the notification unit 202 may switch from a state in which the remaining amount is notified by sound from the vibration generation unit 202a to a state in which the remaining amount is notified by vibration from the vibration generation unit 202a.

When the electronic device 200 includes a plurality of devices, the notification unit 202 may change the notification state by changing the device that reports the remaining amount. For example, when the electronic device 200 includes a smartphone and the cycle computer 41, the notification unit 202 changes from a state where one of the smartphone and the cycle computer 41 reports the remaining amount to a state where the other of the smartphone and the cycle computer 41 reports the remaining amount. You may switch to a state where the remaining amount is notified.

An example of control executed by the control unit 96b will be explained. FIG. 6 is used to explain an example of control executed by the control unit 96b. The control unit 96b starts the third control flow according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 6 when a predetermined condition is satisfied. The control unit 96b repeatedly executes the third control flow at predetermined time intervals until a predetermined condition is satisfied. The conditions for starting the third control flow and the conditions for repeatedly executing it are the same as in the first embodiment.

In step S21, the control section 96b obtains the remaining amount of the first battery 80 based on the signal from the remaining amount detecting section 94. After performing the process in step S21, the control unit 96b moves to step S22.

In step S22, the control unit 96b controls the wireless communication unit 95 according to the remaining amount of the first battery 80 obtained in step S21. The control unit 96b causes the wireless communication unit 95 to output a wireless signal including the second command, for example, when the remaining amount satisfies a predetermined condition. After performing the process of step S22, the control unit 96b ends the third control flow.

By the control unit 96b executing the third control flow, the notification state of the notification unit 202 is changed according to the remaining amount of the first battery 80. For example, the notification unit 202 outputs a sound once when the remaining capacity of the first battery 80 is less than 10%, twice when it is less than 5%, and three times when the remaining capacity is less than 3%. By changing the notification state, the user can easily check the remaining amount.

(Fourth embodiment)
A component 90 of the fourth embodiment will be described. FIG. 7 is used to explain the component 90 of the fourth embodiment. Configurations common to the first to third embodiments are given the same reference numerals as those in the first to third embodiments, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

In this embodiment, the control unit 96b causes the wireless communication unit 95 to output a wireless signal when the remaining amount of the first battery 80 is less than the first threshold. An example of control executed by the control unit 96b will be explained. FIG. 7 is used to explain an example of control executed by the control unit 96b. The control unit 96b starts the fourth control flow according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 7 when a predetermined condition is satisfied. The control unit 96b repeatedly executes the fourth control flow at predetermined time intervals until a predetermined condition is satisfied. The conditions for starting the fourth control flow and the conditions for repeatedly executing it are the same as in the first embodiment.

In step S31, the control section 96b obtains the remaining amount of the first battery 80 based on the signal from the remaining amount detecting section 94. After performing the process in step S31, the control unit 96b moves to step S32.

In step S32, the control unit 96b acquires a predetermined first threshold value by reading information stored in the storage unit 96a. If the remaining amount acquired in step S31 is less than the first threshold, the control unit 96b moves to step S33. The control unit 96b ends the fourth control flow when the remaining amount is equal to or greater than the first threshold.

In step S33, the control unit 96b causes the wireless communication unit 95 to output a wireless signal regarding the remaining amount acquired in step S31. After performing the process of step S33, the control unit 96b ends the fourth control flow.

By executing the fourth control flow by the control unit 96b, when the remaining capacity of the first battery 80 is less than the first threshold value, information regarding the remaining capacity is automatically notified from the notifying unit 202. By the notification from the notification unit 202, the user can easily confirm that the remaining amount of the first battery 80 is less than the first threshold value.

(Fifth embodiment)
A component 90 of the fifth embodiment will be described. FIG. 8 is used to explain the component 90 of the fifth embodiment. Configurations common to the first to fourth embodiments are given the same reference numerals as those in the first to fourth embodiments, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

In this embodiment, the control unit 96b causes the wireless communication unit 95 to output a wireless signal when the remaining amount of the first battery 80 decreases from the second threshold value or more to less than the second threshold value. An example of control executed by the control unit 96b will be explained. FIG. 8 is used to explain an example of control executed by the control unit 96b. The control unit 96b starts the fifth control flow according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 8 when a predetermined condition is satisfied. The control unit 96b repeatedly executes the fifth control flow at predetermined time intervals until a predetermined condition is satisfied. The conditions for starting the fifth control flow and the conditions for repeatedly executing it are the same as in the first embodiment.

In step S41, the control section 96b obtains the remaining amount of the first battery 80 based on the signal from the remaining amount detecting section 94. The control unit 96b causes the storage unit 96a to store the obtained remaining amount. After performing the process in step S41, the control unit 96b moves to step S42.

In step S42, the control unit 96b reads the information stored in the storage unit 96a, thereby determining the remaining amount of the first battery 80 stored in the storage unit 96a during the previous execution of the fifth control flow and the predetermined amount. Obtain a second threshold. The control unit 96b compares the remaining amount of the first battery 80 obtained in steps S41 and S42 with the second threshold value obtained in step S42. When the remaining amount decreases from more than the second threshold value to less than the second threshold value, the control unit 96b moves to step S43. The control unit 96b ends the fifth control flow when the remaining amount does not decrease from the second threshold value or more to less than the second threshold value.

In step S43, the control unit 96b causes the wireless communication unit 95 to output a wireless signal regarding the remaining amount acquired in step S41. After performing the process of step S43, the control unit 96b ends the fifth control flow.

When the remaining amount of the first battery 80 decreases below the second threshold by the control section 96b executing the fifth control flow, the notification section 202 automatically notifies information regarding the remaining amount. By the notification from the notification unit 202, the user can easily confirm that the remaining amount of the first battery 80 has decreased below the second threshold.

(Sixth embodiment)
A component 300 of the sixth embodiment will be described. FIGS. 1 and 4 to 9 are used to explain the component 300 of the sixth embodiment. Configurations common to the first to fifth embodiments are given the same reference numerals as those in the first to fifth embodiments, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

In this embodiment, the component 300 constitutes a component mounted on the human-powered vehicle 1. As shown in FIG. 9, the components 300 include an operating device 311, an electric transmission 100, an electric seat post 312, an electric suspension 313, a drive unit 314, air pressure detection devices 64 and 74, a power meter 315, a lamp 316, a display 317, and constitutes at least one of the cycle computers 41.

The operating device 311 is configured to accept input from a user. The operating device 311 includes, for example, a gear shifting operating device, a seat post operating device, a suspension operating device, an assist operating device, and the like. The operating device 311 is provided on the frame 20, the handlebar 40, and the like. The operating device 311 includes an operating section configured to be operated by a user's hand or finger. The operating section includes at least one of a lever and a button. The lever includes at least one of a lever that swings relative to a predetermined member and a lever that rotates around a predetermined rotation axis. The buttons include at least one of a push button and a button displayed on the touch panel. By being supplied with power from the first battery 80, the operating device 311 can output an operating signal according to a user's operation to other components.

The operation signals include, for example, a speed change signal regarding the gear ratio of the human-powered vehicle 1, a brake signal regarding the brake, an operation signal regarding the height of the seat 30, an operation signal regarding the operating parameter, an operation signal regarding the assist mode, and the like.

The electric transmission 100 is operated by outputting the speed change signal to the electric transmission 100. The brake device is operated by outputting the brake signal to the brake device. The electric seat post 312 is operated by outputting an operation signal regarding the height of the seat 30 to the electric seat post 312. The operating parameters of the electric suspension 313 are changed by outputting an operation signal related to the operating parameters to the electric suspension 313. The operation mode of the drive unit 314 is changed by outputting an operation signal related to the assist mode to the drive unit 314.

Powered seat post 312 is configured to change the height of seat 30. Electric seat post 312 includes an electric actuator. Electric actuators include electric motors, solenoids, and the like. The electric seat post 312 is configured so that the seat post 31 can be expanded and contracted by driving an electric actuator. As the seat post 31 expands and contracts, the height of the seat 30 relative to the frame 20 is changed.

The electric suspension 313 is configured to absorb shocks applied to the human-powered vehicle 1. Electric suspension 313 includes an electric actuator. The electric suspension 313 is configured so that its operating parameters can be changed by driving an electric actuator. Operating parameters include damping rate, stroke amount, and lockout condition. The electric suspension 313 is provided on at least one of the front wheel 60 and the rear wheel 70.

The drive unit 314 is configured to provide propulsion to the human-powered vehicle 1 . The drive unit 314 is configured to apply propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle 1 in accordance with the human-powered driving force input to the human-powered vehicle 1 . The drive unit 314 is arranged near the bottom bracket of the human-powered vehicle 1, for example. Drive unit 314 may be arranged near front wheel 60 and rear wheel 70. Drive unit 314 includes an electric motor. The electric motor is provided in a power transmission path for human-powered driving force from the pedals 13 to the rear wheel 70 or to transmit rotation to the front wheel 60. In addition to the electric motor, the drive unit 314 may include a reduction gear that connects the electric motor and the crank 10.

The air pressure detection devices 64 and 74 shown in FIGS. 1 and 9 are provided at the tire valve of the front wheel 60 and the tire valve of the rear wheel 70. The air pressure detection devices 64 and 74 output signals according to tire air pressure to other devices via wireless communication. A first battery 80 is mounted on each of the air pressure detection devices 64 and 74. For example, the air pressure detection devices 64 and 74 each have a built-in battery.

Power meter 315 shown in FIG. 9 is configured to detect the amount of work input to human-powered vehicle 1. Power meter 315 shown in FIG. Power meter 315 is attached to at least one of crankshaft 11, crank arm 12, pedal 13, and rear wheel 70. The power meter 315 detects the amount of work by, for example, measuring the strain of the component to which the power meter 315 is attached. Power meter 315 outputs a signal according to the amount of work to other devices via wireless communication. The power meter 315 is equipped with a first battery 80 . For example, the power meter 315 has a built-in battery.

Lamp 316 is configured to emit illumination. Lamp 316 is attached to at least one of frame 20 and handlebar 40. The lamp 316 includes at least one of a front lamp that illuminates the front of the human-powered vehicle 1 and a rear lamp that illuminates the rear of the human-powered vehicle 1 . A first battery 80 is mounted on the lamp 316 . For example, lamp 316 has a built-in battery.

Display 317 is configured to display various information. The display 317 is attached to the handlebar 40 or the like. The display 317 includes, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, and the like.

The cycle computer 41 shown in FIGS. 1 and 9 is configured to display various information and/or output sounds related to the various information. The cycle computer 41 is equipped with a first battery 80 . For example, the cycle computer 41 has a built-in battery.

The electronic device 400 shown in FIG. 9 constitutes at least one of a component mounted on the human-powered vehicle 1 and a peripheral device of the human-powered vehicle 1. The electronic device 400 includes a portable communication device 411 , an electric transmission 100 , an electric seat post 312 , an electric suspension 313 , a drive unit 314 , air pressure detection devices 64 and 74 , a power meter 315 , a lamp 316 , a display 317 , and a cycle computer 41 At least one of the devices is configured. In this embodiment, a device configured by the electronic device 400 is different from the component 300.

Portable communication device 411 is configured to be able to communicate with other devices. The portable communication device 411 can output the results of arithmetic processing by at least one of the following: displaying a message on the display, generating vibrations using a vibrator function, outputting light from a lamp, and outputting audio from a speaker. The portable communication device 411 may be provided in the human-powered vehicle 1 or carried by the user of the human-powered vehicle 1 . Portable communication device 411 includes, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, and the like.

In this embodiment, the control unit 96b executes at least one of the first to fifth control flows shown in FIGS. 4 to 8. The control unit 96b causes the electronic device 400 different from the component 300 to notify the remaining amount of the first battery 80 that supplies power to the component 300 by executing the control flow.

In this embodiment, the user can easily check the remaining amount of the first battery 80, which is installed in a location where it is difficult to check the remaining amount. For example, the remaining capacity of the first battery 80 built into the air pressure detection devices 64, 74 shown in FIG. 1 can be easily checked on the cycle computer 41 provided on the handlebar 40.

(Seventh embodiment)
A component 500 of the seventh embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 and FIG. 10 are used to explain the component 500 of the seventh embodiment. Configurations common to the first to sixth embodiments are given the same reference numerals as those in the first to sixth embodiments, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

The component 500 further includes an operating section 507 for operating another component C mounted on the human-powered vehicle 1. In this embodiment, other components C include at least one of the electric transmission 100, the electric seat post 312, the electric suspension 313, and the drive unit 314. In this embodiment, other components C include at least the electric transmission 100.

An example of a component 500 is shown in FIG. The component 500 shown in FIG. 10 includes a battery holding section 92, a remaining power detection section 94, a control device 96, an operation section 507, an operation state detection section 508, and a wireless communication section 509.

The operation unit 507 includes at least one of a lever and a button. The operation unit 507 includes a shift operation unit for operating the electric transmission 100, a seat post operation unit for operating the electric seat post 312, a suspension operation unit for operating the electric suspension 313, It includes at least one operation section for assisting in operating the drive unit 314. In this embodiment, the operating section 507 includes at least an operating section for shifting. The shift operation section includes a shifter operation section 93 shown in FIG. 3 .

The operation state detection unit 508 shown in FIG. 10 is configured to detect the operation of the operation unit 507. The operation of the operation unit 507 includes at least one of a lever operation and a button operation. In this embodiment, the operation of the operation unit 507 includes at least the operation of a lever. The operation of the lever includes an operation in which the lever is moved from a standby position to an operation position. The operation state detection unit 508 detects the operation of the lever based on the amount of movement of the lever, the acceleration of movement, and the like. The button operation includes an operation in which the button is turned on. The operation state detection unit 508 detects a button operation based on a signal output when the button is turned on.

The operation state detection unit 508 is configured to be able to communicate with the control unit 96b by wire or wirelessly. The operation state detection section 508 outputs a signal according to the operation of the operation section 507 to the control section 96b. The signal output from the operation state detection unit 508 may include first operation information that directly indicates that the operation unit 507 has been operated, and second operation information different from the first operation information may be included. May be included. The second operation information includes information used by the control unit 96b to detect and/or calculate the operation of the operation unit 507. For example, when the signal output from the operation state detection section 508 includes second operation information indicating the amount of movement of the lever, the control section 96b can detect the operation of the operation section 507 based on the amount of movement.

The wireless communication unit 509 is connected to other components C by wireless communication. The wireless communication unit 509 is configured to be able to output operation signals to other components C. In this embodiment, the operation signal includes a speed change signal. The wireless communication unit 509 can output a speed change signal to the electric transmission 100.

In this embodiment, the control unit 96b causes the wireless communication unit 95 to output an operation signal in response to the operation of the operation unit 507. For example, the control unit 96b detects the operation of the operation unit 507 based on a signal from the operation state detection unit 508. When detecting an operation on the operation section 507, the control section 96b causes the wireless communication section 95 to output an operation signal. For example, when detecting an operation of the shifter operation section 93, the control section 96b causes the wireless communication section 95 to output a speed change signal. The operation signal is input to another component C. Other components C operate according to the operation signals. For example, the electric transmission 100 changes the gear ratio of the human-powered vehicle 1 according to the gear shift signal.

When the other component C includes the electric seat post 312, the control unit 96b causes the wireless communication unit 95 to continuously output an operation signal regarding the height of the seat 30 while detecting the operation of the seat post operation unit. You can. The electric seat post 312 changes the height of the seat 30 by operating in response to an operation signal from the wireless communication unit 509.

When the other component C includes the electric suspension 313, the control unit 96b may cause the wireless communication unit 509 to output an operation signal related to the operating parameter when detecting the operation of the suspension operation unit. The electric suspension 313 changes operating parameters by operating in response to an operation signal from the wireless communication unit 509.

When the other component C includes the drive unit 314, the control unit 96b may cause the wireless communication unit 509 to output an operation signal related to the assist mode when detecting an operation of the assist operation unit. Drive unit 314 switches the assist mode in response to an operation signal from wireless communication section 509.

By causing the control unit 96b to output an operation signal to the wireless communication unit 95, the control unit 96b can collectively perform control regarding the operation of other components C and control regarding notification of the remaining amount of the first battery 80.

(Eighth embodiment)
A control system 600 according to an eighth embodiment will be described. FIGS. 4 to 11 are used to explain the control system 600 of the eighth embodiment. The control system 600 is applied to the human-powered vehicle 1 having the same configuration as the first embodiment. Configurations common to the first to seventh embodiments are given the same reference numerals as those in the first to seventh embodiments, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

As shown in FIG. 11, control system 600 includes an electronic device 610 and a component 90. Control system 600 may include one of component 300 shown in FIG. 9 and component 500 shown in FIG. 10 instead of component 90.

An electronic device 610 shown in FIG. 11 is provided in the human-powered vehicle 1. For example, electronic device 610 is mounted on handlebar 40. Electronic device 610 includes at least one of a portable communication device 411 , a display 317 , a cycle computer 41 , a vibration generator 611 , a light generator 612 , and a sound generator 613 .

The vibration generator 611 generates vibrations. The vibration generator 611 includes a wireless communication unit 201, an electric motor with an eccentric weight, and the like. Light generating device 612 generates light. Light generating device 612 includes a wireless communication section 201 and a display section that displays information. The light generating device 612 may include an irradiation unit that irradiates illumination instead of the display unit. Sound generator 613 generates sound. Sound generator 613 includes a wireless communication unit 201 and a buzzer. The sound generating device 613 may include a speaker instead of a buzzer.

The control unit 96b executes at least one of the first to fifth control flows shown in FIGS. 4 to 8. As the control unit 96b executes the control flow, the electronic device 610 reports information regarding the remaining amount on the handlebar 40, which is relatively close to the face of the user seated on the seat 30. The user can easily check the remaining amount of the first battery 80.

(Modified example)
The description regarding each embodiment is an illustration of the forms that the present invention can take, and is not intended to limit the present invention. The present invention may take the form of, for example, a modification of each embodiment shown below, or a combination of at least two modifications that are not mutually contradictory.

For example, the configuration of the human-powered vehicle 1 in each embodiment is an example, and the human-powered vehicle 1 may include various devices not shown in each embodiment, and may include some of the various devices shown in each embodiment. It is also possible to have a configuration that does not include this. For example, the human-powered vehicle 1 may have a configuration that does not include the air pressure detection devices 64 and 74.

The various threshold values used in the control illustrated in each embodiment are not limited and may be set arbitrarily. Various threshold values may be arbitrarily changed by operating a predetermined operating device.

The configurations illustrated in each embodiment may be combined with each other to the extent that they do not contradict each other. For example, the processing contents and processing order of the flowcharts illustrated in each embodiment are merely examples, and the processing contents and processing order can be changed as appropriate within the scope of the present invention.

The expression "at least one" as used herein means "one or more" of the desired options. As an example, the expression "at least one" as used herein means "only one option" or "both of the two options" if there are two options. As another example, the expression "at least one" as used herein means "only one option" when there are three or more options, or "a combination of any two or more options". ” means.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1... Human-driven vehicle, 41... Cycle computer, 64... Air pressure detection device, 74... Air pressure detection device, 80... First battery, 90... Component, 92... Battery holding part, 93... Operation part, 95... Wireless communication part, 96b... Control unit, 100... Electric transmission, 200... Electronic device, 202... Notification unit, 311... Operating device, 312... Electric seat post, 313... Electric suspension, 314... Drive unit, 315... Power meter, 316... Lamp, 317...Display, 411...Portable communication device, 600...Control system, 611...Vibration generator, 612...Light generator, 613...Sound generator, C...Other components

Claims (11)

A component for a human-powered vehicle,
a wireless communication unit configured to wirelessly communicate with an electronic device having a notification unit;
a battery holding part configured to hold a first battery;
a control unit configured to control the wireless communication unit,
The control unit is a component that causes the wireless communication unit to automatically output a wireless signal regarding the remaining amount of the first battery depending on the remaining amount of the first battery. The component of claim 1, wherein the controller is operated by power supplied from the first battery. The component according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the wireless signal includes a first command for causing the notification unit to start notification. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the wireless signal includes a second command for changing the notification state of the notification unit. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the control unit causes the wireless communication unit to output the wireless signal when the remaining amount of the first battery is less than a first threshold. Any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the control unit causes the wireless communication unit to output the wireless signal when the remaining amount of the first battery decreases from a second threshold value or more to less than a second threshold value. Components listed in. According to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising at least one of an operating device, an electric transmission, an electric seat post, an electric suspension, a drive unit, an air pressure detection device, a power meter, a lamp, a display, and a cycle computer. Components listed. further comprising an operation unit for operating other components installed in the human-powered vehicle,
The component according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the control unit causes the wireless communication unit to output an operation signal in response to an operation of the operation unit. 9. The component of claim 8, wherein the operating signal includes a gear shift signal. the electronic device;
A control system for a human-powered vehicle, comprising a component according to any one of claims 1 to 9. The control system for a human-powered vehicle according to claim 10, wherein the electronic device includes at least one of a portable communication device, a display, a cycle computer, a vibration generator, a light generator, and a sound generator.

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