JP6849565B2 - Bicycle drive system, bicycle drive unit, and bicycle battery unit - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a bicycle drive system, a bicycle drive unit, and a bicycle battery unit.

As a bicycle drive system, for example, the one of Patent Document 1 is known. In this bicycle drive system, the battery and the control device for driving the motor are connected by a single power supply path, and when the power switch is operated, the mode is changed to assist the propulsion of the bicycle by the motor. ..

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2011-23665

An object of the present invention is to provide a bicycle drive system, a bicycle drive unit, and a bicycle battery unit that can contribute to the improvement of convenience.

A form of a bicycle drive system according to the first aspect of the present invention includes a bicycle drive unit having a motor capable of assisting the propulsion of a bicycle, a bicycle battery unit, and the bicycle drive unit and the bicycle battery unit. Is supplied from the bicycle battery unit to the bicycle drive unit via the first power supply path and at least a part of the first power supply path for supplying power from the bicycle battery unit to the bicycle drive unit. The bicycle drive unit and the bicycle battery unit are provided by the first power supply path and the second power supply path, respectively, including at least a part of a second power supply path that supplies less power than the power supplied. When connected, the bicycle battery unit stops supplying power to the bicycle drive unit via the first power supply path, and connects to the bicycle drive unit via the second power supply path. The first state of supplying power and the second state of supplying power to the bicycle drive unit through at least the first power supply path can be switched by the bicycle battery unit.
According to the first aspect, it is possible to switch between the first state and the second state in which the electric power supplied from the bicycle battery unit is different, which can contribute to the improvement of convenience. From the bicycle battery unit to the bicycle drive unit by switching to the second state when the bicycle drive unit requires a large amount of power, and by switching to the first state when the bicycle drive unit does not require a large amount of power. When power is always supplied, power consumption can be suppressed.

In the bicycle drive system of the second aspect according to the first aspect, the bicycle battery unit is from at least one of the bicycle drive unit and a bicycle component using electric power supplied through the bicycle drive unit. The first state is switched to the second state according to the input signal.
According to the second aspect, the first state can be switched to the second state according to the input signal from at least one of the bicycle drive unit and the bicycle component, so that the first state can be switched to the second state. It is not necessary to provide the operation unit of the bicycle battery unit.

In the bicycle drive system of the third side according to the second side surface, the bicycle battery unit is provided between the battery element, the battery element and the first power supply path, and the battery element and the first power supply path are provided. It includes a first switch unit that switches the connection state with the power supply path, and a first control unit that controls the connection state of the first switch unit in response to the input signal.
According to the third aspect, the first state and the second state can be easily switched by switching the connection state of the first switch unit.

In the bicycle drive system of the fourth side according to the third side surface, the bicycle battery unit is provided between the battery element and the second power supply path, converts the voltage of the battery element, and causes the first. 2 Further includes a first voltage conversion unit that outputs to the power supply path.
According to the fourth aspect, the voltage of the battery element can be converted into a voltage suitable for the second power supply path by the first voltage conversion unit.

In the bicycle drive system of the fifth side surface according to the fourth side surface, the input signal is input to the first control unit via the second power supply path.
According to the fifth aspect, since the input signal is input via the second power supply path, the communication path for acquiring the input signal can be omitted.

In the bicycle drive system of the sixth side according to the fourth side, the bicycle drive unit and the bicycle battery unit are at least a communication path for communicating between the bicycle battery unit and the bicycle drive unit. The input signal is input to the first control unit, including a part, via the communication path.
According to the sixth aspect, the input signal can be acquired via the communication path.

In the bicycle drive system on the seventh side according to the sixth side, the first control unit is configured to perform power line communication via the communication path.
According to the seventh aspect, information can be transmitted and received and power can be supplied via a communication path.

In the bicycle drive system on the eighth side according to any one of the third to seventh sides, the first control unit further includes a receiving unit capable of wirelessly receiving the input signal.
According to the eighth aspect, since the input signal can be received wirelessly, the wiring of the bicycle drive system can be simplified.

In the bicycle drive system on the ninth side surface according to any one of the second to eighth side surfaces, the bicycle battery unit is in the second state, and the motor of the bicycle drive unit is not driven. If the input signal is not input for a predetermined time, the supply of electric power to the bicycle drive unit via the first electric power supply path is stopped.
According to the ninth aspect, when the motor of the bicycle drive unit is not driven and the input signal is not input for a predetermined time, the state is switched to the first state, which can contribute to the reduction of power consumption. ..

In the bicycle drive system on the tenth side according to any one of the second to ninth sides, the bicycle drive unit supplies electric power supplied through the second power supply path to the bicycle component. Further includes at least a part of the third power supply path for the purpose.
According to the tenth aspect, the power of the bicycle battery unit can be supplied to the bicycle component by the third power supply path.

In the bicycle drive system on the eleventh side according to the sixth or seventh side surface, the bicycle drive unit uses a third electric power for supplying electric power supplied through the second electric power supply path to the bicycle component. Further including at least a part of the supply path, the third power supply path is electrically connected to the communication path.
According to the eleventh aspect, the power of the bicycle battery unit can be supplied to the bicycle component by the communication path.

In the bicycle drive system on the twelfth side according to any one of the second to eleventh sides, the bicycle component is further included, and the bicycle component is for operating a cycle computer and other bicycle components. It includes an operating device and at least one of the sensors provided on the bicycle.
According to the twelfth aspect, the bicycle battery unit can be switched from the first state to the second state by the input signals from the cycle computer, the operating device, and the sensor.

In the bicycle drive system on the thirteenth side according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects, the bicycle drive unit includes a second control unit that controls the motor, and the second control unit is the first. It is activated by the power supplied from at least one of the one power supply path and the second power supply path.
According to the thirteenth aspect, the second control unit can be suitably activated by the electric power supplied from at least one of the first electric power supply path and the second electric power supply path.

In the bicycle drive system on the 14th side according to the 13th side, the second control unit is activated by the electric power supplied from the first power supply path.
According to the 14th aspect, the second control unit can be suitably activated by the electric power supplied from the first electric power supply path.

In the bicycle drive system on the fifteenth side according to the thirteenth or fourteenth side surface, the second control unit is configured to perform power line communication with the bicycle component.
According to the fifteenth aspect, the second control unit can supply and communicate power with the bicycle component by power line communication.

In the bicycle drive system on the 16th side according to any one of the 1st to 15th sides, the bicycle drive unit includes a second voltage conversion unit connected to the first power supply path and converting a voltage. ..
According to the 16th aspect, the voltage supplied by the second voltage conversion unit via the first power supply path can be converted into a voltage suitable for the bicycle drive unit.

In the bicycle drive system on the 17th side according to the 16th side surface, the bicycle drive unit includes a third voltage conversion unit that is connected to the second power supply path and converts a voltage, and the third voltage conversion unit of the third voltage conversion unit. The output voltage is substantially equal to the output voltage of the second voltage converter.
According to the 17th aspect, the electronic component that operates with the electric power supplied from the first electric power supply circuit can also be operated with the electric power supplied from the second electric power supply path.

In the bicycle drive system on the 18th side according to any one of the 1st to 17th sides, the bicycle battery unit is connected to the bicycle drive unit via the second power supply path in the second state. Does not supply power.
According to the 18th aspect, the power consumption in the second state can be reduced.

In the bicycle drive system on the 19th side according to any one of the 1st to 17th sides, the bicycle battery unit is connected to the bicycle drive unit via the second power supply path in the second state. Supply power.
According to the 19th aspect, when switching between the first state and the second state, it is possible to prevent the supply of electric power from the bicycle battery unit to the bicycle drive unit from being temporarily stopped.

The bicycle drive system on the 20th side according to any one of the 1st to 19th side surfaces further includes a display unit that displays information representing the first state in the first state.
According to the 20th aspect, it is easy for the user to grasp that the bicycle battery unit is in the first state.

In the bicycle drive system on the 21st side according to any one of the 1st to 20th sides, wireless communication is possible with an external device by using the electric power supplied through the second power supply path. Further including a communication unit, when the wireless communication unit receives a predetermined signal in the first state, the first state is switched to the second state.
According to the 21st aspect, the bicycle battery unit can be switched from the first state to the second state from an external device via the wireless communication unit.

In the bicycle drive system on the 22nd side according to any one of the 1st to 21st sides, wireless communication is possible with an external device by using the electric power supplied through the second power supply path. A communication unit is further included, and in the first state, at least one of the settings and software of the bicycle drive unit can be updated based on information transmitted from the external device via the wireless communication unit.
According to the 22nd aspect, at least one of the setting and the software of the bicycle drive unit can be updated in the first state, so that the convenience is improved.

One form of the bicycle drive unit according to the 23rd aspect of the present invention is a motor capable of assisting the propulsion of the bicycle, a first terminal to which electric power is supplied from the battery unit for electric power, and electric power is supplied from the battery unit for electric power. The first terminal is configured such that electric power larger than the electric power supplied through the second terminal is supplied from the bicycle battery unit.
According to the 23rd aspect, since the first terminal and the second terminal having different electric powers supplied from the bicycle battery unit are included, it is possible to contribute to the improvement of convenience.

The bicycle drive unit on the 24th side surface according to the 23rd side surface further includes a communication unit that communicates with the bicycle battery unit via the second terminal.
According to the 24th aspect, communication is performed via the second terminal, so that the communication terminal can be omitted.

In the bicycle drive unit on the 25th side surface according to the 23rd or 24th side surface, the bicycle battery unit communicates with the bicycle battery unit via the third terminal electrically connected to the bicycle battery unit and the third terminal. Further includes a communication unit.
According to the 25th aspect, the third terminal can communicate with the bicycle battery unit.

In the bicycle drive unit on the 26th side surface according to the 25th side surface, the communication unit is configured to perform power line communication via the third terminal.
According to the 26th aspect, electric power can be obtained from the bicycle battery unit via the third terminal.

In the bicycle drive unit on the 27th side according to the 25th or 26th side surface, the third power supply path includes a third power supply path for supplying the electric power supplied through the third terminal to the bicycle component. Is electrically connected to the third terminal.
According to the 27th aspect, the electric power supplied through the third terminal can be supplied to the bicycle component via the third electric power supply path.

The bicycle drive unit on the 28th side according to any one of the 23rd to 27th sides includes a third power supply path for supplying the electric power supplied through the second terminal to the bicycle component.
According to the 28th aspect, the electric power supplied through the second terminal can be supplied to the bicycle component via the third electric power supply path.

The bicycle drive unit on the 29th side surface according to any one of the 23rd to 28th side surfaces includes a second control unit that controls the motor, and the second control unit is powered by electric power supplied from the first terminal. to start.
According to the 29th aspect, the second control unit can be suitably started by the electric power supplied from the first terminal.

In the bicycle drive unit on the 30th side according to the 29th side surface, the second control unit is configured to perform power line communication with the bicycle component.
According to the thirtieth aspect, the second control unit can supply and communicate power with the bicycle component by power line communication.

In the bicycle drive unit on the 31st side surface according to any one of the 23rd to 30th side surfaces, a second voltage conversion that converts the voltage of the electric power connected to the first terminal and supplied through the first terminal. Includes more parts.
According to the 31st aspect, the voltage supplied by the second voltage conversion unit via the first terminal can be converted into a voltage suitable for the bicycle drive unit.

In the bicycle drive unit on the 32nd side surface according to the 31st side surface, the third voltage conversion unit including a third voltage conversion unit connected to the second terminal and converting the voltage of the electric power supplied through the second terminal is included. The output voltage of the conversion unit is substantially equal to the output voltage of the second voltage conversion unit.
According to the 32nd aspect, the electronic component operating by the electric power supplied from the first terminal can be operated by using the electric power supplied from the second terminal.

A form of a bicycle battery unit according to the 33rd aspect of the present invention includes a fourth terminal capable of supplying electric power to a bicycle drive unit having a battery element and a motor capable of assisting the propulsion of the bicycle, and the fourth terminal. The supply of electric power to the bicycle drive unit via the fifth terminal and the fourth terminal, which can supply electric power smaller than the electric power supplied from the bicycle drive unit, is stopped, and the electric power is stopped via the fifth terminal. It includes a first control unit capable of switching between a first state of supplying power to the bicycle drive unit and a second state of supplying power to the bicycle drive unit at least via the fourth terminal.
According to the 33rd aspect, since the 4th terminal and the 5th terminal having different electric powers to be supplied to the bicycle drive unit are included, it is possible to contribute to the improvement of convenience.

In the bicycle battery unit on the 34th side according to the 33rd side surface, the first control unit is from at least one of the bicycle drive unit and a bicycle component using electric power supplied through the bicycle drive unit. The first state is switched to the second state according to the input signal.
According to the 34th aspect, the first state can be switched to the second state according to the input signal from at least one of the bicycle drive unit and the bicycle component, so that the first state can be switched to the second state. It is not necessary to provide the operation unit of the bicycle battery unit.

The bicycle battery unit on the 35th side surface according to the 34th side surface includes the battery element and a first switch unit for switching the connection state with the fourth terminal, and the first control unit responds to the input signal. The connection state of the first switch unit is controlled.
According to the 35th aspect, the first state and the second state can be easily switched by switching the connection state of the first switch unit.

The bicycle battery unit on the 36th side according to the 34th or 35th side includes a first voltage conversion unit that converts the voltage of the battery element and outputs the voltage to the fifth terminal.
According to the 36th aspect, the voltage can be converted into a suitable one by the first voltage conversion unit.

In the bicycle battery unit on the 37th side surface according to any one of the 34th to 36th side surfaces, the input signal is input to the first control unit via the fifth terminal.
According to the 37th aspect, since the input signal is input via the 5th terminal, the communication path for acquiring the input signal can be omitted.

The bicycle battery unit on the 38th side surface according to any one of the 34th to 36th side surfaces further includes a sixth terminal, and the input signal is input to the first control unit via the sixth terminal. Will be done.
According to the 38th aspect, since the input signal is input via the sixth terminal, the communication path for acquiring the input signal can be omitted.

In the bicycle battery unit on the 39th side surface according to the 38th side surface, the first control unit is configured to perform power line communication via the sixth terminal.
According to the 39th aspect, information transmission / reception and power supply can be performed via the sixth terminal.

In the bicycle battery unit on the 40th side according to any one of the 34th to 36th sides, the first control unit further includes a receiving unit capable of receiving the input signal wirelessly.
According to the 40th aspect, since the input signal can be received wirelessly, the wiring of the bicycle drive system can be simplified.

In the bicycle battery unit on the 41st side surface according to any one of the 34th to 40th sides, the bicycle battery unit is in the second state, and the motor of the bicycle drive unit is not driven. If the bicycle battery unit does not receive the input signal for a predetermined time, the bicycle battery unit stops supplying electric power from the fourth terminal.
According to the 41st aspect, it is possible to contribute to the reduction of power consumption.

In the bicycle battery unit on the 42nd side according to any one of the 33rd to 41st sides, the bicycle battery unit supplies electric power to the bicycle drive unit via the fifth terminal in the second state. It is configured not to supply.
According to the 42nd aspect, it is possible to contribute to the reduction of power consumption in the second state.

In the bicycle battery unit on the 43rd side according to any one of the 33rd to 41st sides, the bicycle battery unit supplies electric power to the bicycle drive unit via the fifth terminal in the second state. Supply.
According to the 43rd aspect, when switching between the first state and the second state, it is possible to prevent the supply of electric power from the bicycle battery unit to the bicycle drive unit from being temporarily stopped.

A form of a bicycle battery unit according to aspect 44 of the present invention is a bicycle battery unit capable of supplying power to a bicycle component, the housing and a battery element housed in the housing, at least in part. A first electrical connection that is provided in the housing so that it is exposed to the outside and can be electrically connected to the battery element, and a first electrical connection that is provided in the housing so that at least a part of it is exposed to the outside. It includes a second electrical connection unit provided separately from the unit, and a communication unit that is electrically connected to the second electrical connection unit and is capable of power line communication via the second electrical connection unit.
According to the 44th aspect, in addition to the first electrical connection portion, a second electrical connection portion that is electrically connected to the communication unit capable of power line communication is provided, which can contribute to the improvement of convenience.

In the bicycle battery unit on the 45th side surface according to the 44th side surface, a third electrical connection portion provided in the housing so that at least a part thereof is exposed to the outside and electrically connectable to the battery element is further included. The third electrical connection portion is provided separately from the first electrical connection portion and the second electrical connection portion.
According to the 45th aspect, in addition to the first electrical connection and the second electrical connection, a third electrical connection that is electrically connected to the battery element is provided, which can contribute to the improvement of convenience.

In the bicycle battery unit on the 46th side according to the 45th side surface, the first electric connection portion and the third electric connection portion are configured to be able to supply the electric power of the battery element to the same bicycle component.
According to the 46th aspect, the power of the battery element can be supplied to the bicycle component by the first electric connection portion and the third electric connection portion, which can contribute to the improvement of convenience.

In the bicycle battery unit on the 47th side according to the 45th or 46th side surface, the output voltage of the first electric connection part is larger than the output voltage of the third electric connection part.
According to the 47th aspect, the third electrical connection can supply less power to the bicycle component than the first electrical connection.

In the bicycle battery unit on the 48th side according to any one of the 45th to 47th sides, the third electrical connection portion is electrically connected to the battery element, and the remaining level of the battery element is set in advance. When the level is equal to or higher than the specified level, a predetermined first voltage is applied to the third electrical connection portion.
According to the 48th aspect, when the remaining level of the battery element is equal to or higher than a predetermined level, the first voltage can be supplied to the bicycle component from the third electrical connection portion.

In the battery unit for bicycles on the 49th side according to any one of the 45th to 47th sides, the third electrical connection portion is configured to be electrically connectable to the battery element, and the remaining amount level of the battery element. When is equal to or higher than a predetermined level, when an external electrical connection portion is connected to the third electrical connection portion, the third electrical connection portion and the battery element are electrically connected to form the third electric connection. A predetermined first voltage is applied to the connection portion.
According to the 49th aspect, when the remaining level of the battery element is equal to or higher than a predetermined level, the third electrical connection is connected to the bicycle component to generate the first voltage by connecting the external electrical connection. You will be able to supply power.

In the battery unit for bicycles on the 50th side according to any one of the 45th to 47th sides, the third electrical connection portion is configured to be electrically connectable to the battery element, and the remaining amount level of the battery element. When the housing is mounted on a bicycle, the third electrical connection portion and the battery element are electrically connected, and a predetermined first voltage is applied to the third electrical connection portion. It is applied.
According to the 50th aspect, when the remaining level of the battery element is equal to or higher than a predetermined level, the housing is mounted on the bicycle to apply the power of the first voltage from the third electrical connection to the bicycle component. It will be possible to supply.

In the battery unit for a bicycle on the 51st side surface according to any one of the 45th to 50th side surfaces, the first electric connection portion includes a first positive electrode terminal, and the second electrical connection portion is a second positive electrode terminal. The third electrical connection includes a third positive electrode terminal, and at least one of the first electrical connection, the second electrical connection, and the third electrical connection includes a ground terminal.
According to the 51st aspect, the ground terminal can be shared with at least one of the first electrical connection, the second electrical connection, and the third electrical connection.

In the bicycle battery unit on the 52nd side surface according to any one of the 44th to 50th side surfaces, the first electrical connection portion includes a first positive electrode terminal, and the second electrical connection portion is a second positive electrode terminal. At least one of the first electrical connection and the second electrical connection includes a ground terminal.
According to the 51st aspect, the ground terminal can be shared with at least one of the first electrical connection and the second electrical connection.

In the bicycle battery unit on the 53rd side surface according to any one of the 44th to 50th side surfaces, the first electrical connection portion includes a first positive electrode terminal and a first ground terminal, and the second electrical connection. The unit includes a second positive electrode terminal and a second ground terminal.
According to the 53rd aspect, by separating the first positive electrode terminal and the first ground terminal and the second positive electrode terminal and the second ground terminal, it is generated in the first electric connection part and the second electric connection part. Noise can be suppressed.

In the bicycle battery unit on the 54th side according to any one of the 44th to 53rd sides, the second electrical connection portion is electrically connected to the battery element, and the remaining level of the battery element is set in advance. When the level is equal to or higher than the specified level, a predetermined second voltage is applied to the second electrical connection portion.
According to the 54th aspect, when the remaining level of the battery element is equal to or higher than a predetermined level, the second electric connection portion can supply the second voltage to the bicycle component.

In the battery unit for bicycles on the 55th side surface according to any one of the 44th to 53rd side surfaces, the second electrical connection portion is configured to be electrically connectable to the battery element, and the remaining amount level of the battery element. When is equal to or higher than a predetermined level, when an external electrical connection portion is connected to the second electrical connection portion, the second electrical connection portion and the battery element are electrically connected to form the second electric connection. A predetermined second voltage is applied to the connection portion.
According to the 55th aspect, when the remaining level of the battery element is equal to or higher than the predetermined level, the second electric connection portion is connected to the bicycle component to obtain the second voltage. You will be able to supply power.

In the battery unit for bicycles on the 56th side according to any one of the 44th to 53rd sides, the second electrical connection portion is configured to be electrically connectable to the battery element, and the remaining amount level of the battery element. When is equal to or higher than a predetermined level, when the housing is mounted on a bicycle, the second electrical connection portion and the battery element are electrically connected, and a predetermined second voltage is applied to the second electrical connection portion. It is applied.
According to the 56th aspect, when the remaining level of the battery element is equal to or higher than a predetermined level, the housing is mounted on the bicycle to apply the power of the second voltage from the second electrical connection to the bicycle component. It will be possible to supply.

In the bicycle battery unit on the 57th side surface according to any one of the 44th to 56th side surfaces, the output voltage of the first electric connection part is larger than the output voltage of the second electric connection part.
According to the 57th aspect, the second electrical connection can supply less power to the bicycle component than the first electrical connection.

In the bicycle battery unit on the 58th side surface according to the 57th side surface, the output voltage of the first electric connection part is 20V or more and less than 60V, and the output voltage of the second electric connection part is 1V or more and less than 20V. ..
According to the 58th aspect, the bicycle component can be supplied with electric power having an output voltage of 20 V or more and less than 60 V from the first electric connection portion, and can be supplied with electric power having an output voltage of 1 V or more and less than 20 V from the second electric connection portion.

In the bicycle battery unit on the 59th side surface according to any one of the 44th to 58th side surfaces, switching for switching the connection state between the first electrical connection unit and the battery element according to the communication result of the communication unit. The switch section is further included.
According to the 59th aspect, the connection state between the first electric connection unit and the battery element can be switched by the changeover switch unit, which can contribute to energy saving.

One form of a bicycle drive system according to the 60th aspect of the present invention is a bicycle drive system including a motor that assists the propulsion of the bicycle, and is electrically connected to the first communication unit and the first communication unit. A plurality of bicycle battery units each including a first control unit that controls the output of electric power supplied to the motor, a second communication unit capable of communicating with the first communication unit via a power line, and the above. The first control unit includes a control unit that is electrically connected to the second communication unit and includes a second control unit that outputs electric power supplied to the motor.
According to the 60th aspect, each of the plurality of bicycle battery units and the control unit can communicate with each other. In addition, the second control unit can output the electric power supplied to the motor for each of the plurality of bicycle battery units.

In the bicycle drive system of the 61st side surface according to the 60th side surface, the power line is further included, and the power line is configured to be detachably attached to at least one of the bicycle battery unit and the control unit.
According to the 61st aspect, the connection between the bicycle battery unit and the control unit can be easily disconnected by attaching and detaching the power line.

In the bicycle drive system on the 62nd side surface according to the 60th or 61st side surface, the second control unit controls the motor.
According to the 62nd aspect, the motor is suitably controlled by the second control unit.

A form of a bicycle drive unit according to the 63rd aspect of the present invention includes a motor capable of assisting the propulsion of a bicycle, a second control unit for controlling the motor, and a communication unit capable of wirelessly communicating with an external device. Including, the second control unit can operate in a third state in which the motor can be driven and a fourth state in which the power consumption is lower than that in the third state and the motor is not driven, and the second control When the communication unit receives an input signal when operating in the fourth state, the unit switches the operating state from the fourth state to the third state.
According to the 63rd aspect, the bicycle drive unit can be switched from the 4th state to the 3rd state by an external device, so that the convenience is improved. Even if the user operates an external device from a position away from the bicycle, the bicycle drive unit can be in a state where it can assist the propulsion of the bicycle.

A form of a bicycle drive unit according to aspect 64 of the present invention is capable of communicating with a motor capable of assisting the propulsion of the bicycle, a second control unit for controlling the motor, and an operating device for operating the electric component for the bicycle. The second control unit can operate in a third state in which the motor can be driven and a fourth state in which the power consumption is lower than that in the third state and the motor is not driven. When the communication unit receives an input signal when the second control unit is operating in the fourth state, the second control unit switches the operating state from the fourth state to the third state.
According to the 64th aspect, the bicycle drive unit can be switched from the 4th state to the 3rd state when the input signal is received, so that the convenience is improved. By the user moving the operating device for operating the electric component for the bicycle, the drive unit for the bicycle can be put into a state in which the propulsion of the bicycle can be assisted.

In the bicycle drive unit on the 65th side according to the 64th side, the electric component for the bicycle includes at least one of a transmission, a suspension and a seat post.
According to the 65th aspect, the user can bring the bicycle drive unit into a state in which it can assist the propulsion of the bicycle by moving at least one of the transmission, the suspension and the seat post.

The bicycle drive system, the bicycle drive unit, and the bicycle battery unit of the present invention can contribute to the improvement of convenience.

A side view of a bicycle including the bicycle drive system of the first embodiment. The block diagram which shows the electrical structure of the drive system for a bicycle of FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the bicycle drive unit and the bicycle battery unit of FIG. 2. The flowchart which shows the procedure of the switching process in the bicycle battery unit of the bicycle drive system of FIG. The block diagram which shows the electric structure of the drive system for a bicycle of 2nd Embodiment. The block diagram which shows the electric structure of the power supply system for a bicycle of 3rd Embodiment. The block diagram which shows the electrical structure of the bicycle battery unit of 3rd Embodiment. The block diagram which shows the electrical structure of the bicycle drive system of the 1st modification. The block diagram which shows the electric structure of the bicycle drive system of the 2nd modification.

(First Embodiment)
The bicycle drive system 10 of the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4.
As shown in FIG. 1, the bicycle B includes a bicycle drive system 10.
As shown in FIG. 2, the bicycle drive system 10 includes a bicycle drive unit 20 and a bicycle battery unit 50. The bicycle drive system 10 further includes a bicycle component 12. The bicycle drive system 10 further includes a display unit 14M. Hereinafter, the bicycle drive unit will be referred to as a drive unit. Hereinafter, the battery unit for a bicycle will be referred to as a battery unit.

The bicycle component 12 includes a cycle computer 14A, an operating device 14B for operating the other bicycle component 12, and at least one of the sensors 14C provided on the bicycle B. The bicycle component 12 includes a bicycle electric component 16. The bicycle component 12 uses electric power supplied through the drive unit 20.

The cycle computer 14A includes a display unit 14M. The display unit 14M is configured to display information about the bicycle B. The cycle computer 14A is attached to the handlebar H of the bicycle B. The cycle computer 14A can communicate with the second control unit 24 of the drive unit 20. The cycle computer 14A is wirelessly connected to the second control unit 24 so as to be able to communicate with the second control unit 24. The cycle computer 14A can communicate with the first control unit 56 of the battery unit 50 by, for example, power line communication (PLC). The cycle computer 14A displays the information received from at least one of the other bicycle component 12 and the drive unit 20 on the display unit 14M. The cycle computer 14A includes a communication unit (not shown) that outputs a signal and receives a signal from an external device.

The cycle computer 14A may include a wireless communication unit and wirelessly communicate with the drive unit 20. When the drive unit 20 wirelessly communicates with the cycle computer 14A, the drive unit 20 includes a wireless communication unit. In this case, it is desirable that the cycle computer 14A includes a battery.

The operating device 14B is configured to be operable by the rider. The operation device 14B includes a sensor for detecting the movement of the operation unit provided in the operation device 14B, and a communication unit for outputting a signal to the communication unit 32 of the drive unit 20 and the electric component 16 for a bicycle in response to the output signal of the sensor. Included (all not shown).

The operating device 14B includes a first operating device 15 for operating the electric bicycle component 16. The first operating device 15 is attached to the handlebar H of the bicycle B. The first operating device 15 can communicate with the second control unit 24 of the drive unit 20. The first operating device 15 is wirelessly connected to the second control unit 24 so as to be able to communicate with the second control unit 24. The first operating device 15 can communicate with the second control unit 24 by power line communication. The first operating device 15 is wirelessly connected to the electric bicycle component 16. The first operating device 15 can communicate with the electric component 16 for a bicycle by power line communication. When the first operating device 15 is operated by the rider, the first operating device 15 transmits an output signal to the electric component 16 for the bicycle and the communication unit 32 of the drive unit 20. The second control unit 24 controls the operation of the electric bicycle component 16. When the communication unit 32 receives the output signal from the first operation device 15, the second control unit 24 may operate the electric bicycle component 16 according to a predetermined control program, and the second control unit 24 receives the bicycle from the communication unit 32. The electric component 16 is made to output an operation command. The electric bicycle component 16 operates when it receives an operation command from the communication unit 32. The communication unit 32 functions as a master in power line communication.

The operating device 14B may further include a second operating device for operating the drive unit 20. The second operating device is attached to the handlebar H of the bicycle B. The second operating device can communicate with the second control unit 24 of the drive unit 20. The second operating device is connected to the second control unit 24 by wire so as to be communicable. The second operating device can communicate with the second control unit 24 by power line communication. By operating the operation device 14B, for example, a plurality of operation modes of the drive unit 20 can be changed. The plurality of operation modes of the drive unit 20 include, for example, a plurality of assist modes having different assist forces and an off mode for turning off the assist.

The sensor 14C includes a vehicle speed sensor 14D. The sensor 14C can communicate with the second control unit 24 of the drive unit 20 by, for example, power line communication. The sensor 14C transmits an output signal to the second control unit 24. The sensor 14C includes a communication unit (not shown) that outputs a signal to the communication unit 32. The vehicle speed sensor 14D may be connected to the second control unit 24 by a general communication line instead of the power line communication, and may be configured to be able to communicate with the second control unit 24. The vehicle speed sensor 14D may be configured to be able to communicate with the second control unit 24 by wireless communication instead of power line communication.

The vehicle speed sensor 14D detects the rotational speed of the wheels. As shown in FIG. 1, the vehicle speed sensor 14D is attached to the front fork of the frame F. The vehicle speed sensor 14D outputs a signal to the second control unit 24 according to a change in the relative position between the magnet M attached to the wheel and the vehicle speed sensor 14D. The vehicle speed sensor 14D preferably includes a magnetic lead or a Hall element that constitutes a reed switch. The vehicle speed sensor 14D may be attached to the chain stay of the frame F.

The electric bicycle component 16 shown in FIG. 2 includes at least one of a transmission, a suspension and a seat post. The transmission includes an actuator for changing the gear ratio of the bicycle B. The suspension includes an actuator for changing at least one of the hardness, damping rate, and height of the suspension of the bicycle B. The seatpost includes an actuator for changing the height of the seatpost of the bicycle B. The seatpost actuator may control the valve of the seatpost that extends using hydraulic or air. The electric bicycle component 16 includes a communication unit (not shown) that receives a signal from the first operating device 15 and a signal from the communication unit 32. The transmission includes at least one of a front derailleur, a rear derailleur, and an internal derailleur. Suspension includes at least one of front suspension and rear suspension. When the electric bicycle component 16 includes a transmission, the operating device 14B includes a shifting operating device. When the electric bicycle component 16 includes a suspension, the operating device 14B includes a suspension operating device. When the electric bicycle component 16 includes a seatpost, the operating device 14B includes a seatpost operating device. The actuator includes an electric motor, preferably further including a speed reducer that reduces the rotation of the electric motor.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the drive unit 20 has a motor 22 capable of assisting the propulsion of the bicycle. The motor 22 includes an electric motor. The drive unit 20 is provided so as to transmit rotation to the transmission path of the human-powered driving force from the pedal P to the rear wheel WR or to the front wheel WF. The drive unit 20 is provided on the frame F of the bicycle B, the rear wheel WR, or the front wheel WF. In one example, the drive unit 20 is coupled to a power transmission path from the crankshaft CA to the front rotating body. In this case, the drive unit 20 may be configured to include a member constituting a power transmission path from the crankshaft CA to the front rotating body.

In one example, the drive unit 20 includes a second control unit 24, a communication unit 32, a first terminal 34, a second terminal 36, a third terminal 38, and a seventh terminal 40. It is preferable that the drive unit 20 further includes a second voltage conversion unit 26, a third voltage conversion unit 28, and a fifth voltage conversion unit 30. The drive unit 20 further includes an eighth terminal 41.

The second control unit 24 and the communication unit 32 may be configured to include separate microcomputers, may be configured to include only one common microcomputer, and each includes a plurality of microcomputers. It may be composed of. The microcomputer includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a memory for storing a predetermined program.

The motor 22, the second control unit 24, the second voltage conversion unit 26, the third voltage conversion unit 28, the fifth voltage conversion unit 30, and the communication unit 32 are housed in the housing 20A of the drive unit 20. The second control unit 24, the communication unit 32, the second voltage conversion unit 26, the third voltage conversion unit 28, and the fifth voltage conversion unit 30 are mounted on one or a plurality of circuit boards. Although the second control unit 24 and the communication unit 32 are shown separately in FIG. 3, the communication unit 32 may be included in the second control unit 24. The eighth terminal 41 is electrically connected to the ground of the circuit board provided in the drive unit 20.

The first terminal 34, the second terminal 36, the third terminal 38, the seventh terminal 40, and the eighth terminal 41 are provided in the housing 20A so that at least a part thereof is exposed to the outside of the housing 20A of the drive unit 20. At least one of the first terminal 34, the second terminal 36, the third terminal 38, the seventh terminal 40, and the eighth terminal 41 may be housed in the housing 20A of the drive unit 20 as a whole. The drive unit 20 may be provided with a configuration other than the motor 22, and may be provided with, for example, a speed reducer that reduces the rotation of the motor 22 and outputs the speed. The motor 22 is driven by the electric power supplied through the first electric power supply path 80. The input terminal of the motor 22 is preferably connected to the first terminal 34 via the inverter 31. The inverter 31 is controlled by the second control unit 24.

The drive unit 20 is further provided with at least one of a crank rotation sensor 21A for detecting the rotation of the crank C (see FIG. 1) and a torque sensor 21B for detecting the human-powered driving force input to the bicycle B (see FIG. 1). Is preferable. The crank rotation sensor 21A is configured to output a signal to the second control unit 24 in response to the rotation of the crank C. The torque sensor 21B is configured to output a signal to the second control unit 24 according to the human-powered driving force input to the crank C. The crank rotation sensor 21A and the torque sensor 21B are communicably connected to the second control unit 24 by wire or wirelessly. Electric power may be supplied to the crank rotation sensor 21A and the torque sensor 21B from the second control unit 24, and at least one of the second voltage conversion unit 26, the fifth voltage conversion unit 30, and the third voltage conversion unit 28. Power may be supplied from one. At least one of the crank rotation sensor 21A and the torque sensor 21B may be provided separately from the drive unit 20. The crank rotation sensor 21A and the torque sensor 21B provided separately from the drive unit 20 may be included in the sensor 14C and the bicycle component 12.

The drive unit 20 may be configured by omitting the second voltage conversion unit 26, or may be configured by omitting the third voltage conversion unit 28. When the second voltage conversion unit 26 is omitted, the first terminal 34 is not electrically connected to the seventh terminal 40, and the second control unit 24 and the communication unit 32 are connected to the second control unit 24 and the communication unit 32 via the second power supply path 82. Power is always supplied from the battery unit 50. When the third voltage conversion unit 28 is omitted, the second terminal 36 is connected to the inductor 29.

The battery unit 50 includes a battery element 52, a first switch unit 54, and a first control unit 56. In one example, the battery unit 50 includes a first voltage conversion unit 58, a fourth voltage conversion unit 60, a communication unit 62, a fourth terminal 64, a fifth terminal 66, and a sixth terminal 68. The battery unit 50 further includes a ninth terminal 69. The fourth terminal 64, the fifth terminal 66, and the sixth terminal 68 include positive electrode terminals 64A, 66A, and 68A, respectively.

The battery element 52, the first switch unit 54, the first control unit 56, the first voltage conversion unit 58, the fourth voltage conversion unit 60, and the communication unit 62 are housed in the housing 50A of the battery unit 50. The first switch unit 54, the first voltage conversion unit 58, the first control unit 56, the fourth voltage conversion unit 60, the communication unit 62, the diode 70, and the capacitor 72 are mounted on one or more circuit boards. .. Although the first control unit 56 and the communication unit 62 are shown separately in FIG. 3, the communication unit 62 may be included in the first control unit 56. The ninth terminal 69 is electrically connected to the ground of the circuit board. The ninth terminal 69 includes a ground terminal.

The fourth terminal 64, the fifth terminal 66, the sixth terminal 68, and the ninth terminal 69 are provided on the housing 50A so that at least a part of the fourth terminal 64, the fifth terminal 66, the sixth terminal 68, and the ninth terminal 69 are exposed to the outside of the housing 50A of the battery unit 50. At least one of the fourth terminal 64, the fifth terminal 66, the sixth terminal 68, and the ninth terminal 69 may be housed in the housing 50A of the battery unit 50 as a whole. The battery element 52 includes a plurality of battery cells.

The first control unit 56 and the communication unit 62 may be configured to include separate microcomputers, may be configured to include only one common microcomputer, and each includes a plurality of microcomputers. It may be composed of. The microcomputer includes a CPU and a memory for storing a predetermined program.

The drive unit 20 and the battery unit 50 include at least a part of the first power supply path 80 and at least a part of the second power supply path 82, respectively. In one example, the drive unit 20 and the battery unit 50 further include at least a portion of the third power supply path 84 and at least a portion of the communication path 86.

The first power supply path 80 supplies power from the battery unit 50 to the drive unit 20. The first power supply path 80 includes a first terminal 34, a fourth terminal 64, and a first connection portion 80A that electrically connects the first terminal 34 and the fourth terminal 64. The fourth terminal 64 can supply electric power to the bicycle drive unit 20. Power is supplied to the first terminal 34 from the battery unit 50.

The second electric power supply path 82 supplies electric power smaller than the electric power supplied from the battery unit 50 to the drive unit 20 through the first electric power supply path 80. The second power supply path 82 includes a second terminal 36, a fifth terminal 66, and a second connection portion 82A that electrically connects the second terminal 36 and the fifth terminal 66. Power is supplied to the second terminal 36 from the battery unit 50. The fifth terminal 66 can supply the drive unit 20 with electric power smaller than the electric power supplied from the fourth terminal 64. The first terminal 34 is configured so that a power larger than the power supplied via the second terminal 36 is supplied from the battery unit 50.

The communication path 86 is configured to communicate between the battery unit 50 and the drive unit 20. The communication path 86 includes a third terminal 38, a sixth terminal 68, and a fourth connection portion 86A that electrically connects the third terminal 38 and the sixth terminal 68. The communication path 86 carries signals output from the communication unit 62 of the battery unit 50, the communication unit 32 of the drive unit 20, and the bicycle component 12. The third terminal 38 is electrically connected to the battery unit 50. The third power supply path 84 is electrically connected to the communication path 86. The communication path 86 is configured as a power supply path for supplying power to the third power supply path 84. Power line communication is performed via the communication path 86.

The drive unit 20 and the battery unit 50 further include at least a part of the ground path 87. The ground path 87 includes an eighth terminal 41, a ninth terminal 69, and a fifth connection portion 87A that electrically connects the eighth terminal 41 and the ninth terminal 69.

At least one of the first connection portion 80A, the second connection portion 82A, the fourth connection portion 86A, and the fifth connection portion 87A may be configured to include an electric plug and an electric cable. The electrical plug may include at least one of a first electrical plug connected to the battery unit 50 and a second electrical plug connected to the drive unit 20. When connecting the first electric plugs of the connection portions 80A, 82A, 86A, 87A to the fourth terminal 64, the fifth terminal 66, the sixth terminal 68, and the ninth terminal 69, the terminal 64 is connected to one first electric plug. , 66, 68, 69 are provided with a plurality of terminals individually connected, and the first electric plug is preferably configured to be detachably attached to the battery unit 50. When connecting the second electric plug to the first terminal 34, the second terminal 36, the third terminal 38, and the eighth terminal 41, the terminals 34, 36, 38, 41 are individually connected to one second electric plug. It is preferable that a plurality of terminals are provided so that the second electric plug can be attached to and detached from the drive unit 20. Four first electrical plugs may be provided so as to be individually connected to terminals 64, 66, 68, 69. Also, two or three first electrical plugs are provided, and each first electrical plug is provided with one or more terminals that are individually connected to one or more of the terminals 64, 66, 68, 69. May be done. Four second electrical plugs may be provided so as to be individually connected to the terminals 34, 36, 38, 41. Also, two or three second electrical plugs are provided, and each second electrical plug is provided with one or more terminals that are individually connected to one or more of the terminals 34, 36, 38, 41. May be done.

When the first connection portion 80A, the second connection portion 82A, the fourth connection portion 86A, and the fifth connection portion 87A include an electric cable, the electric cable is preferably composed of one electric cable having a plurality of cores. .. Of course, the electric cables included in the first connection portion 80A, the second connection portion 82A, the fourth connection portion 86A, and the fifth connection portion 87A may be configured by separate cables. Further, even if any plurality of electric cables included in the first connection portion 80A, the second connection portion 82A, the fourth connection portion 86A, and the fifth connection portion 87A are configured by one electric cable having a plurality of cores. Good.

The first connection portion 80A, the second connection portion 82A, the fourth connection portion 86A, and the fifth connection portion 87A may include a battery holder for holding the battery unit 50. The battery holder includes battery terminals that are individually connected to terminals 64, 66, 68, 69. The battery terminals are connected to the terminals 34, 36, 38, 41 via an electric cable.

The connection portions 80A, 82A, 86A, 87A are omitted from the paths 80, 82, 84, 86, 87, and the terminals 34, 36, 38, 41 and the terminals 64, 66 corresponding to the terminals 34, 36, 38, 41, The configuration may be such that 68 and 69 are directly connected. An electric cable may be provided directly to the drive unit 20 by omitting terminals 34, 36, 38, 41 from the drive unit 20. Terminals 64, 66, 68, 69 may be omitted from the battery unit 50, and an electric cable may be provided directly to the battery unit 50.

The first terminal 34 and the fourth terminal 64 preferably have a shape suitable for transmitting electric power larger than that of the second terminal 36 and the fifth terminal 66. The battery unit 50 further includes a first protection circuit electrically connected to the first power supply path 80 and a second protection circuit electrically connected to the second power supply path 82. The first protection circuit includes an IC that monitors the voltage and current supplied to the first power supply path 80. The second protection circuit may include an IC that monitors the voltage and current supplied to the second power supply path 82, or may be composed of only logic circuit elements. The first protection circuit is configured to prevent overcharging and overdischarging of the battery element 52. Since the power supplied to the first power supply path 80 is larger than the power supplied to the second power supply path 82, the first protection circuit requires a higher protection function than the second protection circuit. Therefore, the power consumption of the first protection circuit is higher than that of the second protection circuit. When power is being supplied to the first power supply path 80, the first protection circuit is operated, and when power is not being supplied to the first power supply path 80, the operation of the first protection circuit is stopped. When power is not supplied to the first power supply path 80, power consumption can be suppressed.

The third electric power supply path 84 supplies the electric power supplied through the second electric power supply path 82 to the bicycle component 12. The third power supply path 84 includes a seventh terminal 40, a terminal 12A of the bicycle component 12, and a third connection portion 84A that electrically connects the seventh terminal 40 and the terminal 12A. The seventh terminal 40 is electrically connected to the battery unit 50. The third power supply path 84 is electrically connected to the third terminal 38. The third power supply path 84 supplies the electric power supplied through the third terminal 38 to the bicycle component 12. The third connection portion 84A may be configured to include an electrical plug and an electrical cable. The electric plug preferably includes a terminal connected to the seventh terminal 40 and is detachably configured to be attached to and detached from the battery unit 50. The electric plug preferably further includes a terminal connected to the terminal 12A and is detachably configured to be attached to and detached from the bicycle component 12. In another example, the third connection portion 84A may be omitted, and the third terminal 38 and the terminal 12A may be directly connected. An electric cable may be provided directly to the battery unit 50 by omitting the seventh terminal 40. An electrical cable may be provided directly to the bicycle component 12 by omitting the terminal 12A.

The electrical configuration of the battery unit 50 will be described.
The first switch unit 54 is provided between the battery element 52 and the first power supply path 80. The first switch unit 54 switches the connection state between the battery element 52 and the first power supply path 80. The first switch unit 54 is provided between the battery element 52 and the fourth terminal 64. The first switch unit 54 switches the connection state between the battery element 52 and the fourth terminal 64. The first switch unit 54 is configured to be switchable between on and off by the first control unit 56. When the first switch unit 54 is turned off, the supply of electric power from the battery element 52 to the parts downstream of the first switch unit 54 is stopped. The components on the downstream side of the first switch unit 54 are the components of the drive unit 20 including the fourth terminal 64, the first connection portion 80A, and the first terminal 34. The first switch unit 54 includes a FET (Field effect transistor) in one example.

The first voltage conversion unit 58 is provided between the battery element 52 and the fifth terminal 66. The first voltage conversion unit 58 converts the voltage of the battery element 52 and outputs it to the second power supply path 82. The first voltage conversion unit 58 converts the voltage of the battery element 52 and outputs it to the fifth terminal 66. The first voltage conversion unit 58 includes, for example, a linear regulator. Linear regulators include, for example, LDOs (Low Drop Outs). A diode 70 is provided between the first voltage conversion unit 58 and the fifth terminal 66. The anode of the diode 70 is connected to the first voltage conversion unit 58, and the cathode of the diode 70 is connected to the fifth terminal 66.

The fourth voltage conversion unit 60 is provided between the battery element 52 and the sixth terminal 68. The fourth voltage conversion unit 60 converts the voltage of the battery element 52 and outputs it to the third power supply path 84. The first voltage conversion unit 58 includes, for example, a linear regulator. For example, linear regulators include LDOs. The output of the fourth voltage conversion unit 60 is given to the sixth terminal 68 via the inductor.

The output of the fourth voltage conversion unit 60 is given to the communication unit 62. The communication unit 62 operates by the electric power given from the fourth voltage conversion unit 60. The fourth voltage conversion unit 60 may be connected to the first control unit 56 so as to give power for operating the first control unit 56 to the first control unit 56. The communication unit 62 transmits / receives information by power line communication. The information input to the communication unit 62 is transmitted to the first control unit 56 connected to the communication unit 62. The information output from the first control unit 56 is transmitted to the sixth terminal 68 via the communication unit 62, and is transmitted from the communication path 86 via the sixth terminal 68. The communication unit 62 is connected to the sixth terminal 68 via the capacitor 72.

The input signal S is input to the first control unit 56 via the sixth terminal 68. The input signal S may be related to the signal output from the bicycle component 12. The signals output from the bicycle component 12 are, for example, a signal output from the operation device 14B when an operation is input to the operation device 14B and a signal output from the vehicle speed sensor 14D when the bicycle B starts traveling. Related to at least one of. The input signal S may be related to a signal output from a sensor provided in the drive unit 20. The signals output from the sensor provided in the drive unit 20 are the signal output from the torque sensor 21B when a human-powered driving force is applied to the crank C, and the signal output from the crank rotation sensor 21A when the crank C is rotated. Contains at least one of the signals. The first control unit 56 is configured to perform power line communication via the sixth terminal 68. The first control unit 56 is configured to perform power line communication via the communication path 86. The first control unit 56 may be configured to perform power line communication via the fifth terminal 66 and the second power supply path 82. The first control unit 56 may further include a receiving unit capable of receiving the input signal S wirelessly. The receiving unit can also be provided in the communication unit 62.

The positive electrode of the battery element 52 is connected to the first switch unit 54. The negative electrode of the battery element 52 is connected to the ninth terminal 69.

The bicycle drive system 10 is configured to be able to switch between the first state and the second state when the drive unit 20 and the battery unit 50 are connected by the first power supply path 80 and the second power supply path 82. To. In the first state, the battery unit 50 stops supplying electric power to the drive unit 20 via the first electric power supply path 80, and supplies electric power to the drive unit 20 via the second electric power supply path 82. In the second state, the battery unit 50 supplies power to the drive unit 20 via at least the first power supply path 80.

In the second state, the bicycle drive system 10 can control the bicycle electric component 16 and perform power line communication via the communication path 86 and the third power supply path 84. In the second state, the bicycle drive system 10 can detect the human-powered driving force by the torque sensor 21B and detect the rotation of the crank C by the crank rotation sensor 21A. In the first state, the bicycle drive system 10 controls the electric component 16 for the bicycle, performs power line communication via the communication path 86 and the third power supply path 84, drives the motor 22, and displays the cycle computer 14A 14M. You can switch the display contents of.

The battery unit 50 switches from the first state to the second state according to the input signal S from at least one of the drive unit 20 and the bicycle component 12 using the electric power supplied through the drive unit 20. The input signal S from the bicycle component 12 is input to the first control unit 56 via the third power supply path 84. The input signal S from the drive unit 20 and the bicycle component 12 is input to the first control unit 56 via the communication path 86.

The first control unit 56 can switch between the first state and the second state. In the first state, the supply of electric power to the drive unit 20 via the fourth terminal 64 is stopped, and the electric power is supplied to the drive unit 20 via the fifth terminal 66. In the second state, power is supplied to the drive unit 20 via at least the fourth terminal 64. The first control unit 56 switches from the first state to the second state according to the input signal S from at least one of the drive unit 20 and the bicycle component 12. The first control unit 56 controls the connection state of the first switch unit 54 in response to the input signal S.

The electrical configuration of the drive unit 20 will be described.
The second voltage conversion unit 26 is connected to the first terminal 34. The second voltage conversion unit 26 is connected to the first power supply path 80 to convert the voltage. The second voltage conversion unit 26 converts the voltage of the electric power supplied via the first terminal 34. The output of the second voltage conversion unit 26 is given to the terminal 40 via the inductor. The output of the second voltage conversion unit 26 is also given to the communication unit 32, and is further given to the terminal 38 via the capacitor 44. The second voltage conversion unit 26 includes, for example, a converter. The converter includes a step-down DC / DC converter. The capacitor 44 may be omitted.

The third voltage conversion unit 28 is connected to the second terminal 36. The third voltage conversion unit 28 is connected to the second power supply path 82 to convert the voltage. The third voltage conversion unit 28 converts the voltage of the electric power supplied via the second terminal 36. The output voltage of the third voltage conversion unit 28 is substantially equal to the output voltage of the second voltage conversion unit 26. The output of the third voltage conversion unit 28 is given to the terminal 40 via the inductor, and is further given to the terminal 38 via the capacitor 44. The third voltage converter 28 includes, for example, a linear regulator. For example, linear regulators include LDOs.

The fifth voltage conversion unit 30 includes a linear regulator. For example, linear regulators include LDOs. The fifth voltage conversion unit 30 is connected to the second voltage conversion unit 26 and the second terminal 36, and converts the voltage output from the second voltage conversion unit 26 and the voltage input to the second terminal 36. Then, it is given to the communication unit 32. The communication unit 32 operates by the electric power given from the second voltage conversion unit 26. The second voltage conversion unit 26 may be connected to the second control unit 24 so as to provide the second control unit 24 with electric power for operating the second control unit 24.

The communication unit 32 communicates with the battery unit 50 via the third terminal 38. The communication unit 32 is configured to perform power line communication via the third terminal 38. The communication unit 32 can communicate with the operation device 14B. The communication unit 32 may be configured to be able to wirelessly communicate with an external device. The external device may be a smartphone or the like, or may be a bicycle component 12. A capacitor 42 is provided between the 7th terminal 40 and the 3rd terminal 38. A capacitor 44 is provided between the communication unit 32 and the third terminal 38.

The second control unit 24 is configured to perform power line communication with the bicycle component 12. The second control unit 24 controls the motor 22. The second control unit 24 can operate in a third state in which the motor 22 can be driven and a fourth state in which the power consumption is lower than that in the third state and the motor 22 is not driven. The second control unit 24 is activated by the electric power supplied from at least one of the first electric power supply path 80 and the second electric power supply path 82. When the battery unit 50 and the drive unit 20 are not electrically connected to each other and the battery unit 50 and the drive unit 20 are electrically connected, power is supplied from the second connection portion 82A. As a result, the second control unit 24 is activated and operates in the fourth state. In the fourth state, the second control unit 24 controls the motor 22 according to a signal output from at least one of the torque sensor 21B, the crank rotation sensor 21A, and the speed sensor. The second control unit 24 drives or stops the motor 22 by controlling the inverter 31.

When the communication unit 32 receives the input signal S when the second control unit 24 is operating in the fourth state, the second control unit 24 switches the operating state from the fourth state to the third state. When the communication unit 32 receives the input signal S and the power is supplied via the first power supply path 80 when the second control unit 24 is operating in the fourth state, the second control unit 24 starts from the fourth state. The operating state may be switched to the third state.

In the second state, when the motor 22 of the drive unit 20 is not driven and the input signal S is not input for a predetermined time, the battery unit 50 powers the drive unit 20 via the first power supply path 80. Stop the supply of. When the battery unit 50 is in the second state, the motor 22 of the drive unit 20 is not driven and does not receive the input signal S for a predetermined time, the battery unit 50 supplies power from the fourth terminal 64. Stop.

In the present embodiment, the battery unit 50 supplies electric power to the drive unit 20 via the second electric power supply path 82 even in the second state. When switching the power supply path, the power supply to the second control unit 24 is interrupted and the second control unit 24 needs to be restarted depending on the switching timing. However, the drive unit 20 is routed through the second power supply path 82. By constantly supplying electric power to the power supply, it is possible to prevent the second control unit 24 from stopping even when switching from the second state to the first state.

The battery unit 50 may be configured not to supply electric power to the bicycle drive unit 20 via the second electric power supply path 82 in the second state. The battery unit 50 may be configured not to supply electric power to the bicycle drive unit 20 via the fifth terminal 66 in the second state. In this case, the first control unit 56 controls the power supply by providing, for example, a second switch unit between the battery element 52 and the first voltage conversion unit 58.

A switching process for switching the bicycle drive system 10 from the first state to the second state will be described with reference to FIG. The first control unit 56 executes the switching process at predetermined intervals. When the power supply from the battery element 52 is started, the first control unit 56 starts and starts the process. The first control unit 56 starts processing when the battery unit 50 and the drive unit 20 are not electrically connected to the state where the battery unit 50 and the drive unit 20 are electrically connected. It may be configured. When power is supplied via the second power supply path 82, the second control unit 24 starts in the fourth state in which the motor 22 is not driven.

The first control unit 56 determines whether or not the input signal S transmitted from the drive unit 20 or the bicycle component 12 is received by inputting the operation to the bicycle component 12 in step S11. When the first control unit 56 determines that the input signal S has been received, the first control unit 56 proceeds to step S12. When the first control unit 56 determines that the input signal S has not been received, the first control unit 56 re-executes the process of step S11 after a predetermined cycle.

When the first control unit 56 determines that the input signal S has been received in step S11, the first control unit 56 determines in step S12 whether or not it is in the first state. When the first control unit 56 determines in step S12 that it is in the second state, the first control unit 56 omits step S13 and proceeds to step S14. When the first control unit 56 is in the first state, the first switch unit 54 switches the first switch unit 54 from the off state to the on state in step S13. As a result, the battery unit 50 is switched from the first state to the second state, and power is supplied to the drive unit 20 by the first power supply path 80. The second control unit 24 of the drive unit 20 switches from the fourth state in which the motor 22 is not driven to the third state in which the motor 22 is driven by the electric power supplied by the first power supply path 80.

Next, the first control unit 56 determines in step S14 whether the motor 22 of the drive unit 20 is not driven in the second state and has not received the input signal S for a predetermined time. In step S14, at least one determination of determining that the motor 22 of the drive unit 20 is being driven in the second state and determining that the input signal S is being received within a predetermined time in the second state is established. In this case, the process of step S14 is executed again after a predetermined cycle. If it is determined in step S14 that the motor 22 of the drive unit 20 is not driven in the second state and the input signal S is not received for a predetermined time, the first control unit 56 first in step S15. The switch unit 54 is switched from the on state to the off state. As a result, the battery unit 50 is switched from the second state to the first state, and the power supply from the first power supply path 80 to the drive unit 20 is stopped. When the process of step S15 is executed, the display unit 14M of the cycle computer 14A shown in FIG. 2 displays information representing the first state in the first state. An example of the information representing the first state includes character information such as "standby mode". When the process of step S15 is executed, the second control unit 24 of the drive unit 20 stops the supply of electric power from the first electric power supply path 80, so that the motor 22 is moved from the third state of driving the motor 22. It switches to the fourth state where it is not driven. The display unit 14M may be configured so that the user selects whether or not to display the information representing the first state in the first state. The user can set the content to be displayed on the display unit 14M by using, for example, an operation switch provided on the cycle computer 14A or an external device.

(Second Embodiment)
The bicycle drive system 110 of the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The bicycle drive system 110 of the second embodiment is the same as the bicycle drive system 10 of the first embodiment except that the second power supply path 88 is included in place of the second power supply path 82 and the communication path 86. Therefore, the configurations common to the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals as those of the first embodiment, and duplicate description will be omitted.

The bicycle drive system 110 includes a first power supply path 80 and a second power supply path 88. The second power supply path 88 includes the same configuration as the communication path 86 (see FIG. 3). The bicycle drive system 110 includes the first voltage conversion unit 58, the diode 70, the fifth terminal 66, the second power supply path 82, the second terminal 36, and the third voltage conversion unit from the bicycle drive system 10 of the first embodiment. 28, the inductor 29 is omitted, and the inductor 90 is included. The inductor 90 is provided between the third terminal 38 and the seventh terminal 40 and the fifth voltage conversion unit 30, and is used to supply electric power to the fifth voltage conversion unit 30. The second power supply path 88 is used to supply electric power from the battery unit 50 to the drive unit 20, and is used to perform power line communication between the battery unit 50, the drive unit 20, and the bicycle component 12.

In the second state, the battery unit 50 supplies electric power to the drive unit 20 via the second electric power supply path 88. In the second state, the battery unit 50 supplies electric power to the drive unit 20 via the sixth terminal 68.

(Third Embodiment)
The bicycle power supply system 120 of the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. The bicycle power supply system 120 of the third embodiment is the same as the bicycle drive system 10 of the first embodiment except that the battery unit 130 can be directly connected to the bicycle component 122 other than the drive unit 20. Therefore, the configuration common to the first embodiment of the bicycle power supply system 120 of the third embodiment is designated by the same reference numerals as those of the first embodiment, and duplicate description will be omitted.

As shown in FIG. 6, the bicycle power supply system 120 includes a battery unit 130. The battery unit 130 is configured to be able to supply power to the bicycle component 122. The bicycle component 122 includes at least one of the cycle computer 14A, the operating device 14B, the sensor 14C, the electric bicycle component 16 and the bicycle drive unit 20 shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 7, the battery unit 130 includes a housing 50A, a battery element 52, a first electrical connection unit 132, a second electrical connection unit 134, and a communication unit 62. The battery unit 130 further includes a third electrical connection unit 136 and a changeover switch unit 138. In one example, the battery unit 130 further includes a first switch unit 54, a first control unit 56, a first voltage conversion unit 58, a fourth voltage conversion unit 60, a diode 70, and a capacitor 72.

The first electrical connection portion 132 is provided in the housing 50A so that at least a part thereof is exposed to the outside. The first electrical connection portion 132 is configured to be electrically connectable to the battery element 52. The first electrical connection portion 132 includes the same configuration as the fourth terminal 64 of the first embodiment.

The second electrical connection portion 134 is provided in the housing 50A so that at least a part thereof is exposed to the outside. The second electrical connection portion 134 is provided separately from the first electrical connection portion 132. The second electrical connection portion 134 includes the same configuration as the sixth terminal 68 of the first embodiment. The communication unit 62 is electrically connected to the second electrical connection unit 134, and is configured to enable power line communication via the second electrical connection unit 134.

The third electrical connection portion 136 is provided in the housing 50A so that at least a part thereof is exposed to the outside. The third electrical connection unit 136 is configured to be electrically connectable to the battery element 52. The third electrical connection unit 136 is provided separately from the first electrical connection unit 132 and the second electrical connection unit 134. The third electrical connection unit 136 includes the same configuration as the fifth terminal 66 of the first embodiment.

The first electrical connection portion 132 and the third electrical connection portion 136 are configured to be able to supply the electric power of the battery element 52 to the same bicycle component 122. The output voltage of the first electrical connection unit 132 is larger than the output voltage of the third electrical connection unit 136. The output voltage of the first electrical connection unit 132 is larger than the output voltage of the second electrical connection unit 134. The output voltage of the first electrical connection portion 132 is 20 V or more and less than 60 V. The output voltage of the second electrical connection unit 134 is 1 V or more and less than 20 V.

The third electrical connection unit 136 is electrically connected to the battery element 52. When the remaining amount level of the battery element 52 is equal to or higher than a predetermined level, a predetermined first voltage is applied to the third electrical connection unit 136. In one example, the first voltage is 5V or more and less than 9V.

The second electrical connection portion 134 is electrically connected to the battery element 52. When the remaining amount level of the battery element 52 is equal to or higher than a predetermined level, a predetermined second voltage is applied to the second electrical connection portion 134. In one example, the second voltage is 1 V or more and less than 20 V.

The first electrical connection portion 132 includes a first positive electrode terminal 132A. The second electrical connection portion 134 includes a second positive electrode terminal 134A. The third electrical connection portion 136 includes a third positive electrode terminal 136A. At least one of the first electrical connection 132, the second electrical connection 134, and the third electrical connection 136 includes a ground terminal. Battery unit 130 of the present embodiment, the first electrical connection unit 132, a first positive terminal 132A, the first and a ground terminal 132B, the second electrical connection part 13 4, a second positive terminal 13 4 A , and a second ground terminal 13 4 B, the third electrical connection section 136, and a third positive terminal 136A, and a third ground terminal 136B.

As shown in FIG. 6, the bicycle component 122 includes a housing 122A, a fourth electrical connection 124A, a fifth electrical connection 124B, and a sixth electrical connection 124C.

The fourth electrical connection portion 124A is provided in the housing 122A so that at least a part thereof is exposed to the outside. The fourth electrical connection unit 124A is configured to be electrically connectable to the first electrical connection unit 132. The fourth electrical connection unit 124A is connected to the first electrical connection unit 132 by a power line 126A. The battery unit 130 and the bicycle component 122 transmit and receive information via the fourth electrical connection unit 124A and the first electrical connection unit 132.

The fifth electrical connection portion 124B is provided in the housing 122A so that at least a part thereof is exposed to the outside. The fifth electrical connection unit 124B is configured to be electrically connectable to the second electrical connection unit 134. The fifth electrical connection unit 124B is connected to the second electrical connection unit 134 by the power communication line 126B. The battery unit 130 and the bicycle component 122 transmit and receive information and supply electric power from the battery unit 130 to the bicycle component 122 via the fifth electric connection unit 124B and the second electric connection unit 134.

The sixth electrical connection portion 124C is provided in the housing 122A so that at least a part thereof is exposed to the outside. The sixth electrical connection unit 124C is configured to be electrically connectable to the third electrical connection unit 136. The sixth electrical connection unit 124C is connected to the third electrical connection unit 136 by the power line 126C. The battery unit 130 and the bicycle component 122 transmit and receive information and supply electric power from the battery unit 130 to the bicycle component 122 via the sixth electrical connection unit 124C and the third electrical connection unit 136.

The changeover switch unit 138 has the same configuration as the first switch unit 54 of the first embodiment. The changeover switch unit 138 switches the connection state between the first electric connection unit 132 and the battery element 52 according to the communication result of the communication unit 62. For example, when a signal for stopping the operation of the bicycle component 122 is input to the communication unit 62 via an operation on the cycle computer 14A (see FIG. 2) or the like, the first control unit 56 uses the changeover switch unit 138. Insulates the first electrical connection portion 132 from the battery element 52. When a signal for starting the operation of the bicycle component 122 is input to the communication unit 62 in a state where the first electric connection unit 132 and the battery element 52 are insulated by the changeover switch unit 138, the first control unit 56 , The changeover switch unit 138 electrically connects the first electric connection unit 132 and the battery element 52.

(Modification example)
Description of the above embodiments, bicycle drive system according to the present invention, a bicycle drive unit, and are illustrative of the form that this can take is the bicycle battery unit, not intended to limit its form. Bicycle drive system according to the present invention, a bicycle drive unit, and, the bicycle battery unit, a modification of the above embodiments for example, shown below, and, in combination at least two modifications not mutually inconsistent It can take the form. In the following modification, the parts common to the embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals as those in the embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

-In the first embodiment, the first control unit 56, the second control unit 24, and the bicycle component 12 may perform general wired communication instead of power line communication. In this case, the communication units 62 and 32 and the communication unit of the bicycle component 12 are electrically connected by a communication line provided separately from the wiring for supplying electric power.

-In the second embodiment, the battery unit 50 may not supply power to the drive unit 20 via the second power supply path 82 in the second state. In this case, the battery unit 50 does not supply power to the drive unit 20 via the fifth terminal 66 in the second state. In this case, the first control unit 56 controls the power supply by providing, for example, a second switch unit between the battery element 52 and the first voltage conversion unit 58.

The bicycle drive systems 10 and 110 may further include the wireless communication unit 92 shown in FIG. The wireless communication unit 92 can wirelessly communicate with an external device by using the electric power supplied through the second electric power supply paths 82 and 88. Similar to the bicycle component 12, the wireless communication unit 92 is connected to the third power supply path 84, and power is supplied from the third power supply path 84. In the first state, the battery unit 50 switches from the first state to the second state when the wireless communication unit 92 receives a predetermined signal. External devices include, for example, smartphones, tablet PCs, cycle computers, or personal computers. When the user inputs an operation for switching the operating state of the battery unit 50 from the second state to the first state to the external device, a predetermined signal is input to the wireless communication unit 92. The wireless communication unit 92 may be provided integrally with at least one of the bicycle component 12 and the drive unit 20.

In the modified example shown in FIG. 8, in the first state, at least one of the settings of the drive unit 20 and the software can be updated based on the information transmitted from the external device via the wireless communication unit 92. You may.

-The first control unit 56, the second control unit 24, and the bicycle component 12 of each embodiment may perform wireless communication instead of power line communication. In this case, the communication units 62 and 32 and the communication unit of the bicycle component 12 are configured to include the wireless communication unit. In the first embodiment, when the first control unit 56 and the second control unit 24 wirelessly communicate with each other, and when the second control unit 24 and the communication unit of the bicycle component 12 wirelessly communicate with each other, the communication path 86 Is omitted.

The second control unit 24 may be activated by the electric power supplied from the first electric power supply path 80. In this case, the second control unit 24 is activated by the electric power supplied from the first terminal 34.

-The battery unit 50 may be provided with a switch for switching between supplying power to the drive unit 20 from the second power supply path 82 and stopping the supply of power.

-In the third embodiment, when the remaining amount level of the battery element 52 is equal to or higher than a predetermined level, when an external electric connection part is connected to the third electric connection part 136, the third electric connection part 136 and the battery element are connected. The 52 may be electrically connected to each other so that a predetermined first voltage is applied to the third electrical connection unit 136. The first control unit 56 is configured to detect the remaining level of the battery element 52. The first control unit 56 includes at least one of a voltage sensor that detects the voltage of the battery element 52, a current sensor that detects the current output from the battery element 52, and a current sensor that detects the current input to the battery element 52. This sensor detects the remaining level of the battery element 52. The first control unit 56 is configured to detect at least one of the voltage and the current of the third electrical connection unit 136. The first control unit 56 includes a sensor that detects at least one of the voltage and the current of the third electrical connection unit 136. The first control unit 56 determines whether or not an external electrical connection unit is connected according to at least one of the voltage and the current of the third electrical connection unit 136. The external electrical connection corresponds to the sixth electrical connection 124C of the bicycle component 122. In this modification, at least one of the third electrical connection unit 136 and the sixth electrical connection unit 124C and the power line 126C may be detachably configured.

-In the third embodiment, when the remaining amount level of the battery element 52 is equal to or higher than a predetermined level, when the housing 50A is mounted on the bicycle B, the third electrical connection portion 136 and the battery element 52 are electrically connected. Therefore, a predetermined first voltage may be applied to the third electrical connection unit 136. The first control unit 56 is configured to detect the remaining level of the battery element 52. The first control unit 56 includes at least one of a voltage sensor that detects the voltage of the battery element 52, a current sensor that detects the current output from the battery element 52, and a current sensor that detects the current input to the battery element 52. This sensor detects the remaining level of the battery element 52. The housing 50A is provided with a sensor for detecting that the housing 50A is mounted on the bicycle B. The sensor for detecting that the housing 50A is mounted on the bicycle B includes, for example, a mounting detection switch that contacts the bicycle B with the housing 50A mounted on the bicycle B. The mounting detection switch includes, for example, a tact switch, and is configured to close the contacts when the housing 50A is mounted on the bicycle B. Sensor for detecting that the housing 50A is mounted on the bicycle B, for example, may be output according to the distance between the bicycle B is contains a ruse capacitors to change, when it is mounted to the bicycle B and , A sensor whose output changes depending on whether it is removed from the bicycle B may be included. A changeover switch controlled by the first control unit 56 is provided in the electrical connection path between the third electrical connection unit 136 and the battery element 52. When the first control unit 56 determines that the housing 50A is mounted on the bicycle B by the mounting detection switch, the first control unit 56 controls the changeover switch to apply a predetermined first voltage to the third electrical connection unit 136.

-In the third embodiment, when the remaining amount level of the battery element 52 is equal to or higher than a predetermined level, when an external electric connection part is connected to the second electric connection part 134, the second electric connection part 134 and the battery element The 52 may be electrically connected to each other so that a predetermined second voltage is applied to the second electrical connection portion 134. The first control unit 56 is configured to detect the remaining level of the battery element 52. The first control unit 56 includes at least one of a voltage sensor that detects the voltage of the battery element 52, a current sensor that detects the current output from the battery element 52, and a current sensor that detects the current input to the battery element 52. This sensor detects the remaining level of the battery element 52. The first control unit 56 is configured to detect at least one of the voltage and the current of the second electrical connection unit 134. The first control unit 56 includes a sensor that detects at least one of the voltage and the current of the second electrical connection unit 134. The first control unit 56 determines whether or not an external electrical connection unit is connected according to at least one of the voltage and the current of the second electrical connection unit 134. The external electrical connection corresponds to the fifth electrical connection 124B of the bicycle component 122. In this modification, at least one of the second electric connection portion 134 and the fifth electric connection portion 124B and the power communication line 126B may be detachably configured.

-In the third embodiment, when the remaining amount level of the battery element 52 is equal to or higher than a predetermined level, when the housing 50A is mounted on the bicycle B, the second electrical connection portion 134 and the battery element 52 are electrically connected. Therefore, a predetermined second voltage may be applied to the second electrical connection portion 134. The first control unit 56 is configured to detect the remaining level of the battery element 52. The first control unit 56 includes at least one of a voltage sensor that detects the voltage of the battery element 52, a current sensor that detects the current output from the battery element 52, and a current sensor that detects the current input to the battery element 52. This sensor detects the remaining level of the battery element 52. The housing 50A is provided with a sensor for detecting that the housing 50A is mounted on the bicycle B. The sensor for detecting that the housing 50A is mounted on the bicycle B includes, for example, a mounting detection switch that contacts the bicycle B with the housing 50A mounted on the bicycle B. The mounting detection switch includes, for example, a tact switch, and is configured to close the contacts when the housing 50A is mounted on the bicycle B. Sensor for detecting that the housing 50A is mounted on the bicycle B, for example, may be output according to the distance between the bicycle B is contains a ruse capacitors to change, when it is mounted to the bicycle B and , A sensor whose output changes depending on whether it is removed from the bicycle B may be included. A changeover switch controlled by the first control unit 56 is provided in the electrical connection path between the second electrical connection unit 134 and the battery element 52. When the first control unit 56 determines that the housing 50A is mounted on the bicycle B by the mounting detection switch, the first control unit 56 controls the changeover switch to apply a predetermined second voltage to the second electrical connection unit 134.

In the first and second embodiments and modifications thereof, the fourth terminal 64 may include the first positive electrode terminal 64A and the first ground terminal 64B shown by the alternate long and short dash line in FIG. Further, in the first embodiment and its modification, the fifth terminal 66 may include the second positive electrode terminal 66A and the second ground terminal 66B shown by the alternate long and short dash line in FIG. Further, in the first and second embodiments and modifications thereof, the sixth terminal 68 may include the third positive electrode terminal 68A and the third ground terminal 68B shown by the alternate long and short dash line in FIG. In the first embodiment and its modifications, when the fourth terminal 64, the fifth terminal 66, and the sixth terminal 68 include the ground terminals 64B, 66B, 68B, respectively, the ninth terminal 69 is omitted. In the second embodiment and its modifications, when the fourth terminal 64 and the sixth terminal 68 include the ground terminals 64B and 68B, respectively, the ninth terminal 69 is omitted.

-In the third embodiment and its modification, one of the first ground terminal 132B and the second ground terminal 134B may be omitted. In this case, the first electrical connection portion 132 includes the first positive electrode terminal 132A, the second electrical connection portion 134 includes the second positive electrode terminal 134A, and one of the first electrical connection portion 132 and the second electrical connection portion 134. Includes ground terminals 132B, 134B.

-In the third embodiment and its modification, at least one of the first ground terminal 132B, the second ground terminal 134B, and the third ground terminal 136B may be omitted. In this case, the first electrical connection portion 132 includes the first positive electrode terminal 132A, the second electrical connection portion 134 includes the second positive electrode terminal 134A, and the third electrical connection portion 136 includes the third positive electrode terminal 136A. , The first electrical connection 132, the second electrical connection 134, and one or two of the third electrical connection 136 include ground terminals 132B, 134B, 136B.

-From the third embodiment, the third electrical connection unit 136, the first voltage conversion unit 58, and the diode 70 may be omitted.

-As shown in FIG. 9, a bicycle drive system 140 in which a plurality of battery units 50 are connected to the drive unit 20 may be used. The bicycle drive system 140 includes a motor 22 (see FIG. 2), a plurality of battery units 50, and a control unit 142. The bicycle drive system 140 further includes a power line 144. Each of the plurality of battery units 50 includes a communication unit 62 and a first control unit 56. The communication unit 62 corresponds to the first communication unit to which the first control unit 56 is electrically connected. The first control unit 56 controls the output of the electric power supplied to the motor 22. The control unit 142 includes a communication unit 32 and a second control unit 24. The control unit 142 includes a motor 22. The communication unit 32 corresponds to a second communication unit capable of communicating with the first communication unit via the power line 144. The control unit 142 is included in the bicycle drive unit 20. The second control unit 24 is electrically connected to the communication unit 32, and causes the first control unit 56 to output the electric power supplied to the motor 22. When a plurality of battery units 50 are connected to the drive unit 20, the plurality of battery units 50 are connected in parallel by branching the paths 80, 82, 86, and 87. Upon receiving the input signal S, the plurality of battery units 50 may be switched from the second state to the first state, or only one battery unit 50 may be switched from the second state to the first state. Good. When switching only one battery unit 50 from the second state to the first state, in addition to the input signal S, the second control unit 24 sets a designated signal for designating one battery unit 50 to each first control unit. Give to 56. Each first control unit 56 determines whether or not to switch from the second state to the first state according to the designated signal. When a plurality of battery units 50 are connected to the drive unit 20, for example, the remaining battery level of one battery unit becomes low, the first state is switched to the second state, and the other one battery unit is changed from the second state. Even when switching to the first state, power is always supplied to the drive unit 20 via the second power supply path 82. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the second control unit 24 from stopping.

In the modified example shown in FIG. 9, the power line 144 may be configured to be detachably attached to at least one of the battery unit 50 and the control unit 142.

The first control unit 56 does not switch from the second state to the first state even if the input signals S from the vehicle speed sensor 14D, the torque sensor 21B, and the crank rotation sensor 21A are input, and responds to the operation of the operating device 14B. Only then may the configuration be such that the second state is switched to the first state.

The input voltage of the first terminal 34 is set to, for example, 32 to 42∨. The output voltages of the first voltage conversion unit 58, the third voltage conversion unit 28, and the fourth voltage conversion unit 60 are set to, for example, 8∨. The output voltages of the fourth voltage conversion unit 60 and the fifth voltage conversion unit 30 are set to, for example, 5∨.

-The bicycle component 12 may not include the vehicle speed sensor 14D, and the drive unit 20 may include the vehicle speed sensor 14D. When the drive unit 20 includes the vehicle speed sensor 14D, the vehicle speed sensor 14D is communicably connected to the second control unit 24 by wire or wirelessly. In this case, the signals output from the sensor provided in the drive unit 20 in relation to the input signal S are output from the vehicle speed sensor 14D, the signal output from the torque sensor 21B, and the crank rotation sensor 21A. It may contain at least one of the signals.

10,110,140 ... bicycle drive system 12, 12 2 ... bicycle components, 14A ... cycle computer, 14B ... operating device, 14C ... sensor, 14D ... vehicle speed sensor, 16 ... motorized bicycle component, 20 ... drive unit ( Bicycle drive unit), 22 ... motor, 24 ... second control unit, 26 ... second voltage conversion unit, 28 ... third voltage conversion unit, 32 ... communication unit, 34 ... first terminal, 36 ... second terminal, 38 ... 3rd terminal, 50, 130 ... Battery unit (bicycle battery unit), 52 ... Battery element, 54 ... 1st switch unit, 56 ... 1st control unit, 58 ... 1st voltage conversion unit, 62 ... Communication unit, 64 ... 4th terminal, 6 6 ... 5th terminal, 80 ... 1st power supply path, 82, 88 ... 2nd power supply path, 84 ... 3rd power supply path, 86 ... communication path, 92 ... wireless communication unit, 132 ... 1st electrical connection, 134 ... 2nd electrical connection, 136 ... 3rd electrical connection, 138 ... Changeover switch, 142 ... Control unit.

Claims (41)

A bicycle drive unit with a motor that can assist the propulsion of the bicycle,
Includes a bicycle battery unit,
The bicycle drive unit and the bicycle battery unit include at least a part of a first power supply path for supplying electric power from the bicycle battery unit to the bicycle drive unit, and from the bicycle battery unit to the bicycle drive unit. Each includes at least a part of a second power supply path that supplies less power than the power supplied through the first power supply path.
When the bicycle drive unit and the bicycle battery unit are connected by the first power supply path and the second power supply path, the bicycle battery unit is connected via the first power supply path. The first state in which the supply of electric power to the bicycle drive unit is stopped and the electric power is supplied to the bicycle drive unit through the second electric power supply path, and the bicycle battery unit at least the first electric power supply path. The second state of supplying power to the bicycle drive unit via the bicycle drive unit is configured to be switchable according to a signal output from at least one of the operating device, the crank rotation sensor, and the torque sensor.
The bicycle battery unit is a bicycle drive system that does not supply power to the bicycle drive unit via the second power supply path in the second state. A bicycle drive unit with a motor that can assist the propulsion of the bicycle,
Includes a bicycle battery unit,
The bicycle drive unit and the bicycle battery unit include at least a part of a first power supply path for supplying electric power from the bicycle battery unit to the bicycle drive unit, and from the bicycle battery unit to the bicycle drive unit. Each includes at least a part of a second power supply path that supplies less power than the power supplied through the first power supply path.
When the bicycle drive unit and the bicycle battery unit are connected by the first power supply path and the second power supply path, the bicycle battery unit is connected via the first power supply path. The first state in which the supply of electric power to the bicycle drive unit is stopped and the electric power is supplied to the bicycle drive unit via the second electric power supply path, and the bicycle battery unit passes through the second electric power supply path. A bicycle drive system configured to stop supplying electric power to the bicycle drive unit and switch between a second state of supplying electric power to the bicycle drive unit via the first electric power supply path. The bicycle battery unit is from the first state to the second state according to an input signal from at least one of the bicycle drive unit and a bicycle component using electric power supplied through the bicycle drive unit. The bicycle drive system according to claim 1 or 2 , which is switched to. The bicycle battery unit is
Battery element and
A first switch unit provided between the battery element and the first power supply path to switch the connection state between the battery element and the first power supply path, and
The bicycle drive system according to claim 3 , further comprising a first control unit that controls a connection state of the first switch unit in response to the input signal. The bicycle battery unit is provided between the battery element and the second power supply path, and further includes a first voltage conversion unit that converts the voltage of the battery element and outputs the voltage to the second power supply path. , The drive system for a bicycle according to claim 4. The bicycle drive system according to claim 5 , wherein the first control unit receives the input signal via the second power supply path. The bicycle drive unit and the bicycle battery unit include at least a part of a communication path for communicating between the bicycle battery unit and the bicycle drive unit.
The bicycle drive system according to claim 5 , wherein the first control unit receives the input signal via the communication path. The bicycle drive system according to claim 7 , wherein the first control unit is configured to perform power line communication via the communication path. The bicycle drive system according to any one of claims 4 to 8 , wherein the first control unit further includes a receiving unit capable of receiving the input signal wirelessly. When the motor of the bicycle drive unit is not driven and the input signal is not input for a predetermined time in the second state, the bicycle battery unit has passed through the first power supply path. The bicycle drive system according to any one of claims 3 to 9 , wherein the supply of electric power to the bicycle drive unit is stopped. Any of claims 3 to 10 , wherein the bicycle drive unit further includes at least a part of a third power supply path for supplying power supplied through the second power supply path to the bicycle component. The bicycle drive system described in item 1. The bicycle drive unit further includes at least a part of a third power supply path for supplying power supplied through the second power supply path to the bicycle component.
The bicycle drive system according to claim 7 or 8 , wherein the third power supply path is electrically connected to the communication path. Including the bicycle component further,
The bicycle according to any one of claims 3 to 12 , wherein the bicycle component includes at least one of a cycle computer, an operating device for operating other bicycle components, and a sensor provided on the bicycle. For drive system. The bicycle drive unit includes a second control unit that controls the motor.
The bicycle drive system according to any one of claims 1 to 13 , wherein the second control unit is activated by electric power supplied from at least one of the first electric power supply path and the second electric power supply path. The bicycle drive system according to claim 14 , wherein the second control unit is activated by electric power supplied from the first electric power supply path. The bicycle drive system according to claim 14 or 15 , wherein the second control unit is configured to perform power line communication with a bicycle component. The bicycle drive system according to any one of claims 1 to 16 , wherein the bicycle drive unit is connected to the first power supply path and includes a second voltage conversion unit that converts a voltage. The bicycle drive unit includes a third voltage conversion unit that is connected to the second power supply path and converts a voltage.
The bicycle drive system according to claim 17 , wherein the output voltage of the third voltage conversion unit is substantially equal to the output voltage of the second voltage conversion unit. The bicycle drive system according to any one of claims 1 to 18 , further comprising a display unit that displays information representing the first state in the first state. It further includes a wireless communication unit capable of wirelessly communicating with an external device using the electric power supplied through the second power supply path.
The bicycle drive system according to any one of claims 1 to 19 , wherein when the wireless communication unit receives a predetermined signal in the first state, the first state is switched to the second state. It further includes a wireless communication unit capable of wirelessly communicating with an external device using the electric power supplied through the second power supply path.
In the first state, at least one of the settings and software of the bicycle drive unit can be updated based on the information transmitted from the external device via the wireless communication unit, according to claims 1 to 20 . The bicycle drive system according to any one item. A motor that can assist the propulsion of the bicycle and
The first terminal, which is supplied with power from the bicycle battery unit,
Includes a second terminal to which power is supplied from the bicycle battery unit.
The first terminal is configured such that electric power larger than the electric power supplied through the second terminal is supplied from the bicycle battery unit, and is supplied via the first terminal of the bicycle battery unit. A bicycle drive unit capable of switching between a first state in which power is not supplied and a second state in which power is supplied via the first terminal and power is not supplied from the second terminal. The bicycle drive unit according to claim 22 , further comprising a communication unit that communicates with the bicycle battery unit via the second terminal. A third terminal that is electrically connected to the bicycle battery unit,
The bicycle drive unit according to claim 22 or 23 , further comprising a communication unit that communicates with the bicycle battery unit via the third terminal. The bicycle drive unit according to claim 24 , wherein the communication unit is configured to perform power line communication via the third terminal. Includes a third power supply path for supplying power supplied through the third terminal to the bicycle component.
The bicycle drive unit according to claim 24 or 25 , wherein the third power supply path is electrically connected to the third terminal. The bicycle drive unit according to any one of claims 22 to 26 , which includes a third electric power supply path for supplying electric power supplied through the second terminal to a bicycle component. Includes a second control unit that controls the motor
The bicycle drive unit according to any one of claims 22 to 27 , wherein the second control unit is activated by electric power supplied from the first terminal. The bicycle drive unit according to claim 28 , wherein the second control unit is configured to perform power line communication with a bicycle component. The bicycle drive unit according to any one of claims 22 to 29 , further comprising a second voltage conversion unit connected to the first terminal and converting the voltage of electric power supplied through the first terminal. Includes a third voltage converter that is connected to the second terminal and converts the voltage of the power supplied through the second terminal.
The bicycle drive unit according to claim 30 , wherein the output voltage of the third voltage conversion unit is substantially equal to the output voltage of the second voltage conversion unit. Has a battery element,
A fourth terminal that can supply power to a bicycle drive unit that has a motor that can assist the propulsion of the bicycle,
A fifth terminal capable of supplying electric power smaller than the electric power supplied from the fourth terminal to the bicycle drive unit, and
A first state in which the supply of power to the bicycle drive unit via the fourth terminal is stopped and power is supplied to the bicycle drive unit via the fifth terminal, and at least the fourth terminal is used. The second state of supplying power to the bicycle drive unit can be switched according to the input signal from the bicycle drive unit related to the signal output from at least one of the operating device, the crank rotation sensor, and the torque sensor. only including a first control unit such, the,
A bicycle battery unit configured so as not to supply electric power to the bicycle drive unit via the fifth terminal in the second state. Has a battery element,
A fourth terminal that can supply power to a bicycle drive unit that has a motor that can assist the propulsion of the bicycle,
A fifth terminal capable of supplying electric power smaller than the electric power supplied from the fourth terminal to the bicycle drive unit, and
The first state in which the supply of electric power to the bicycle drive unit via the fourth terminal is stopped and the electric power is supplied to the bicycle drive unit via the fifth terminal, and the bicycle via the fourth terminal. A bicycle battery unit including a first control unit that can switch between a second state in which electric power is supplied to the drive unit for bicycle and power is not supplied to the bicycle drive unit via the fifth terminal. The first control unit is from the first state to the second state in response to an input signal from at least one of the bicycle drive unit and a bicycle component using electric power supplied through the bicycle drive unit. The bicycle battery unit according to claim 32 or 33 , which is switched to. The battery element and the first switch unit for switching the connection state with the fourth terminal are included.
The bicycle battery unit according to claim 34 , wherein the first control unit controls a connection state of the first switch unit in response to the input signal. The bicycle battery unit according to claim 34 or 35 , which includes a first voltage conversion unit that converts the voltage of the battery element and outputs the voltage to the fifth terminal. The bicycle battery unit according to any one of claims 34 to 36 , wherein the first control unit receives the input signal via the fifth terminal. Including the 6th terminal
The bicycle battery unit according to any one of claims 34 to 37 , wherein the input signal is input to the first control unit via the sixth terminal. The bicycle battery unit according to claim 38 , wherein the first control unit is configured to perform power line communication via the sixth terminal. The bicycle battery unit according to any one of claims 34 to 36 , wherein the first control unit further includes a receiving unit capable of receiving the input signal wirelessly. When the bicycle battery unit is in the second state, the motor of the bicycle drive unit is not driven, and the input signal is not received for a predetermined time, the bicycle battery unit is the first. The bicycle battery unit according to any one of claims 34 to 39 , which stops the supply of electric power from the four terminals.

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