TW202225010A - Electric power generator for human-powered vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

An electric power generator is provided for a human-powered vehicle. The electric power generator includes an axle, a stator, a rotor and a first electrical cable. The axle has a first axial end, and a second axial end. The stator has a first axial stator-end that faces the first axial end of the axle with respect to the rotational center axis and a second axial stator-end that faces the second axial end of the axle with respect to the rotational center axis. The rotor is rotatably mounted on the axle to rotate around a rotational center axis of the electric power generator. The first electrical cable is electrically connected to the stator on the first axial stator-end of the stator. The first electrical cable extends axially through the stator toward the second axial stator-end of the stator with respect to the rotational center axis.

Description

Generators for human-powered vehicles

This disclosure generally relates to a generator for a human powered vehicle.

Recently, generators have been installed on human-powered vehicles (eg, bicycles) as power sources for electrical devices. Such generators generate electric power according to the rotation of the wheels of the human-powered vehicle. In some cases, these generators have magnet and coil assemblies. One of the magnet and coil assembly rotates according to the rotation of the wheel, while the other of the magnet and coil assembly is stationary. The generator is sometimes installed in the hub of the human-powered vehicle.

In general, the present disclosure relates to various features of wheel hub assemblies for human-powered vehicles. As used herein, the term "human-powered vehicle" refers to a vehicle capable of being driven by at least human propulsion, but does not include a vehicle that uses propulsion power other than human power alone. In particular, vehicles using only an internal combustion engine as driving power are not included in human-powered vehicles. Human-powered vehicles are generally conceived as compact, lightweight vehicles that sometimes do not require a license for driving on public roads. There is no limit to the number of wheels on a human-powered vehicle. Human-powered vehicles include, for example, unicycles and vehicles with three or more wheels. Human-powered vehicles include, for example, various types of bicycles, such as mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes, recumbent bikes, and electrically assisted bikes (electric bicycles).

In view of the state of the art and in accordance with a first aspect of the present disclosure, a generator is provided for use in a man-powered vehicle. The generator includes a shaft, a stator, a rotor, and a first cable. The shaft has a first axial end and a second axial end. The stator has a first axial stator end and a second axial stator end, the first axial stator end faces the first axial end of the shaft relative to the rotation center axis, and the second axial stator end faces the shaft relative to the rotation center axis. the second axial end. The rotor is rotatably mounted on the shaft to rotate about the central axis of rotation of the generator. A first electrical cable is electrically connected to the stator on a first axial stator end of the stator. The first electrical cable extends axially through the stator relative to the central axis of rotation towards the second axial stator end of the stator.

With the generator according to the first aspect, excessive deflection of the first cable wire can be suppressed.

According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, the generator according to the first aspect is constructed such that the rotor includes at least one magnet.

With the generator according to the second aspect, the rotor can be easily constructed using at least one magnet.

According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, the generator according to the first or second aspect is constructed such that the stator includes an armature, the armature is disposed on the shaft, and the first electrical cable extends axially through the armature.

With the generator according to the third aspect, the first cable wire can easily pass through the armature, so that the deflection of the first cable wire is reduced.

According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the generator according to the third aspect is constructed such that the armature includes a wound coil and a bobbin. The first cable extends axially through the armature at a point radially outward of the wound coil.

With the generator according to the fourth aspect, the first cable wire can be easily connected to the winding coil to reduce deflection of the first cable wire.

According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the generator according to any one of the first to fourth aspects further includes a circuit board. The first cable is electrically connected to the circuit board.

With the generator according to the fifth aspect, it is possible to rectify the generated electric power and transmit the electric power to the circuit board.

According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the generator according to the fifth aspect is constructed such that the circuit board is disposed adjacent to the stator at the second axial stator end of the stator in the axial direction relative to the central axis of rotation.

With the generator according to the sixth aspect, the length of the first cable wire can be minimized while suppressing deflection of the first cable wire.

According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the generator according to the fifth or sixth aspect is constructed such that the circuit board is arranged perpendicular to the rotation center axis. The circuit board has a first axially facing surface facing the stator and a second axially facing surface facing away from the stator.

With the generator according to the seventh aspect, it is possible to increase the degree of freedom in arranging components and facilitate compact arrangement of the circuit board.

According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the generator according to the seventh aspect is constructed such that the first electrical cable is electrically connected to the second axially facing surface of the circuit board.

With the generator according to the eighth aspect, the first electrical cable can be easily connected to the circuit board.

According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, the generator according to any one of the fifth to eighth aspects further includes a housing in which the circuit board is disposed.

With the generator according to the ninth aspect, the circuit board can be more reliably protected in the housing.

According to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, the generator according to the ninth aspect is constructed such that the housing is disposed adjacent to the stator at the second axial stator end of the stator in the axial direction relative to the rotation center axis.

With the generator according to the tenth aspect, the stator and the housing can be provided in a relatively compact configuration.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, the generator according to the ninth or tenth aspect is constructed such that the housing has a first surface facing the second axial stator end of the stator. A first electrical cable extends from the first surface toward the stator.

With the generator according to the eleventh aspect, the stator and the housing can be provided in a relatively compact configuration.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, a hub assembly is configured to include the generator of any one of the fifth to eighth aspects, and further includes a hub body rotatably mounted on a shaft, to rotate around the central axis of rotation of the generator.

With the hub assembly according to the twelfth aspect, a generator can be provided at the hub of a human-powered vehicle to generate electricity.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to the twelfth aspect further includes a second electrical cable electrically connected to the circuit board and extending from the hub body.

With the hub assembly according to the thirteenth aspect, data and/or power can be provided from the hub assembly to the electrical components via the second electrical cable.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the wheel hub assembly according to the twelfth or thirteenth aspect further includes at least one capacitor electrically connected to the circuit board.

With the wheel hub assembly according to the fourteenth aspect, it is possible to supply electric power to the circuit board in a situation where the human-powered vehicle is stopped.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to any one of the twelfth to fourteenth aspects further includes a sprocket support structure that is rotatably disposed about the rotation center axis to The driving force is transmitted to the hub body while rotating about the rotation center axis in the driving rotation direction.

With the hub assembly according to the fifteenth aspect, the sprocket support structure acts as a flywheel to allow the sprocket support structure to stop rotating during taxiing.

According to the sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the wheel hub assembly according to the fifteenth aspect further includes a detected component and a rotation detection sensor, the detected component is coupled to the sprocket support structure, and the rotation detection sensor The device is constructed to detect the detected component to detect the rotation of the sprocket support structure about the central axis of rotation.

With the hub assembly according to the sixteenth aspect, the rotation of the sprocket support structure can be reliably detected.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to the sixteenth aspect is constructed such that the rotation detection sensor is provided in the hub body.

With the hub assembly according to the seventeenth aspect, the rotation detection sensor is provided in the hub body.

Also, other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the disclosed hub assembly will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which in conjunction with the accompanying drawings discloses preferred implementations of the operating device example.

Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the drawings. Those skilled in the art in the field of human-powered vehicles (eg, bicycles) will appreciate from this disclosure that the following descriptions of the embodiments are provided for illustration purposes only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims provided by the accompanying claims. and its equivalents for the purpose of the present invention.

Referring first to FIG. 1 , a wheel hub assembly 10 is provided on a man-powered vehicle V. As shown in FIG. In other words, a man-powered vehicle V (ie, a bicycle) is shown equipped with a hub assembly 10 according to the depicted embodiment. Here, in the depicted embodiment, the hub assembly 10 is a bicycle hub. More precisely, the hub assembly 10 is a bicycle rear hub. Again, here, in the depicted embodiment, the hub assembly 10 is a hub dynamo for providing electrical power to one or more components of the bicycle V. However, the hub assembly 10 is not limited to a hub dynamo. In particular, certain aspects of the hub assembly 10 can be provided so as not to generate electrical power. Also, although the hub assembly 10 is shown as a rear hub, certain aspects of the hub assembly 10 can be provided on a front hub. Therefore, the hub assembly 10 is not limited to the rear hub.

Here, the bicycle V is an electrically-assisted bicycle (electric bicycle). Alternatively, bicycle V can be a road bicycle, city bicycle, cargo bicycle, recumbent bicycle, or other type of off-road bicycle like a cyclocross bicycle. As seen in FIG. 1, the bicycle V includes a body VB supported by rear wheels RW and front wheels FW. The vehicle body VB basically includes a front frame body FB and a rear frame body RB (swing arm). The body VB is also provided with a handlebar H and a front fork FF to operate the front wheel FW. The rear frame body RB is swingably mounted to the rear section of the front frame body FB so that the rear frame body RB can pivot relative to the front frame body FB. The rear wheel RW is attached to the rear end of the rear frame body RB. The rear shock absorber RS is operatively provided between the front frame body FB and the rear frame body RB. The rear shock absorber RS is provided between the front frame body FB and the rear frame body RB to control the movement of the rear frame body RB relative to the front frame body FB. That is, the rear shock absorber RS absorbs the shock transmitted from the rear wheel RW. The rear wheel RW is rotatably attached to the rear frame body RB. The front wheel FW is attached to the front frame body FB via the front fork FF. That is, the front wheel FW is attached to the lower end of the front fork FF. The height adjustable seat post ASP is conventionally mounted to the seat tube of the front frame body FB and supports the bicycle seat or saddle S in any suitable manner. The front fork FF is pivotally mounted to the head tube of the front frame body FB. The handlebar H is attached to the upper end of the steering column or the steering tube of the front fork FF. The front fork FF absorbs the shock transmitted from the front wheel FW. Preferably, the rear shock absorber RS and the front fork FF are electrically adjustable suspension devices. For example, the stiffness and/or stroke length of the rear shock RS and front fork FF can be adjusted.

The bicycle V also includes a transmission system DT, and an electric drive unit DU operatively coupled to the transmission system DT. Here, for example, the transmission system DT is a chain drive type, and includes a crank C, a front sprocket FS, a plurality of rear sprockets CS, and a chain CN. The crank C includes a crank shaft CA1 and a pair of crank arms CA2. The crankshaft CA1 is rotatably supported by the front frame body FB via the electric drive unit DU. The crank arms CA2 are provided on opposite ends of the crank shaft CA1. Pedal PD is rotatably coupled to the distal end of each of crank arms CA2. The transmission system DT can be selected from any type and can be belt-driven or shaft-driven.

The electric drive unit DU has an electric motor that supplies a drive assist force to the front sprocket FS. The electric drive unit DU can be actuated in a conventional manner to assist the propulsion of the bicycle V. The electric drive unit DU is actuated eg according to a human driving force applied to the pedal PD. The electric drive unit DU is actuated by power supplied from the main battery pack BP, which is mounted on the down tube of the bicycle V. The main battery pack BP can provide power to other vehicle components such as rear derailleur RD, height adjustable seat post ASP, rear shock absorber RS, front fork FF and any other vehicle components that use electricity.

The bicycle V also includes a cycle computer SC. Here, the bicycle computer SC is attached to the front frame body FB. Alternatively, the bicycle computer SC can be provided on the handlebar H. The bicycle computer SC informs the rider of various travel and/or operating conditions of the bicycle V. The bicycle computer SC can also include various control programs for automatically controlling one or more bicycle components. For example, the bicycle computer SC can be provided with an automatic shifting program for changing the gear position of the rear derailleur RD in accordance with one or more travel and/or operating conditions of the bicycle V.

Here, the bicycle V also includes a rear derailleur RD, which is attached to the rear frame body RB for displacing the chain CN between the rear sprockets CS. The rear derailleur RD is one type of shifter. Here, the rear derailleur RD is an electric derailleur (ie, an electric shifting device or an electric transmission). Here, the rear derailleur RD is provided on the rear side of the rear frame body RB near the hub assembly 10 . When the rider of the bicycle V manually operates the shift operating device or the derailleur SL, the rear derailleur RD can be operated. The rear derailleur RD can also be automatically operated according to the running and/or operating conditions of the bicycle V. The bicycle V can also include a plurality of electrical components. Some or all of these electrical components can be supplied with electrical power produced by the hub assembly 10 during a power generating state, as discussed below.

The structure of the hub assembly 10 will now be discussed with particular reference to FIGS. 2-8 . The hub assembly 10 includes a hub axle 12 . The hub assembly 10 also includes a hub body 14 . The hub axle 12 is constructed to be non-rotatably attached to the vehicle body VB. In this embodiment, the hub axle 12 is constructed to be non-rotatably attached to the rear frame body RB. The hub body 14 is rotatably mounted on the hub axle 12 to rotate about the rotational center axis A1 of the hub assembly 10 . The hub shaft 12 has a center axis coaxial with the rotation center axis A1. The hub body 14 is provided so as to be rotatable about the rotation center axis A1. In other words, the hub body 14 is mounted so as to be rotatable about the hub axle 12 .

As seen in Figures 5 to 7, the hub axle 12 is a rigid member made of a suitable material such as a metallic material. The hub axle 12 has a first axial end 12a and a second axial end 12b. Here, the hub axle 12 is a tubular member. Accordingly, the hub axle 12 has an axial bore 12c extending between the first axial end 12a and the second axial end 12b. The hub axle 12 can be a one-piece, one-piece member or made in several parts. Here, the hub axle 12 is provided with a first end piece or end cap 16 and a second end piece or end cap 18 . The first end cover 16 is mounted on the first axial end 12a of the hub axle 12 (left side in FIGS. 2 to 8 ), and the second end cover 18 is mounted on the second axial end 12b of the hub axle 12 (FIG. 2-8 ) 2 to the right in Figure 8). For example, the first end cap 16 is threaded onto the first axial end 12a of the hub axle 12 and the second end cap 18 is secured by the fixing bolts 20 that are threaded into the axial holes 12c of the hub axle 12 Fastened to the second axial end 12b of the hub axle 12 . In this manner, the first end cap 16 and the securing bolts 20 are received in the mounting openings of the rear frame body RB, as seen in FIG. 2 . Here, the second end cover 18 includes a rotation restricting member 18a, which is also received in one of the mounting openings of the rear frame body RB. The rotation restricting member 18a engages the rear frame body RB so that the rotation of the hub axle 12 relative to the rear frame body RB is restricted.

Here, as seen in FIGS. 2 and 5 , the wheel hub assembly 10 further includes a wheel holding mechanism 22 for securing the hub axle 12 of the wheel hub assembly 10 to the rear frame body RB. The wheel holding mechanism 22 basically includes a shaft or skewer 22a, a cam body 22b, a cam lever 22c, and an adjustment nut 22d. The cam lever 22c is attached to one end of the through shaft 22a via the cam body 22b, and the adjustment nut 22d is screwed on the other end of the through shaft 22a. The lever 22c is attached to the cam body 22b. The cam body 22b is coupled between the through shaft 22a and the cam lever 22c to move the through shaft 22a relative to the cam body 22b. Therefore, the rod 22c is operated to move the through shaft 22a relative to the cam body 22b in the axial direction of the rotation center axis A1 to change the distance between the cam body 22b and the adjusting nut 22d. Preferably, compression springs are provided at each end of the through shaft 22a. Alternatively, the hub axle 12 can be non-rotatably attached to the rear frame body RB using other attachment structures as needed and/or desired.

As indicated in FIGS. 1 , 3 and 4 , the hub body 14 is rotatably mounted to the hub axle 12 so as to rotate in the driving rotational direction D1 . The driving rotation direction D1 corresponds to the forward driving direction of the rear wheel RW. The hub body 14 is constructed to support the rear wheel RW in a conventional manner. Rather, in the depicted embodiment, the hub body 14 includes a first outer flange 14a and a second outer flange 14b. The first outer flange 14a and the second outer flange 14b extend radially outward from the peripheral surface of the hub body 14 with respect to the rotation center axis A1. The first outer flange 14a and the second outer flange 14b are configured to receive a plurality of spokes ( FIG. 1 ) for attaching the rim of the rear wheel RW ( FIG. 1 ) to the hub body 14 . In this manner, the hub body 14 and the rear wheel RW are coupled to rotate together.

As seen in FIGS. 5 and 6 , the hub assembly 10 also includes a first hub body bearing 24 . The first hub body bearing 24 rotatably supports the hub body 14 . Preferably, the hub assembly 10 also includes a second hub body bearing 26 that rotatably supports one end of the hub body 14 . The first hub body bearing 24 rotatably supports the other end of the hub body 14 with respect to the rotation center axis A1. The first hub body bearing 24 includes a first inner race 24a, a first outer race 24b and a plurality of first roller elements 24c. The first roller element 24c is disposed between the first inner ring 24a and the first outer ring 24b. The second hub body bearing 26 includes a second inner ring 26a, a second outer ring 26b and a plurality of second roller elements 26c. The second roller element 26c is disposed between the second inner ring 26a and the second outer ring 26b. The first hub body bearing 24 and the second hub body bearing 26 are radial ball bearings. Radial ball bearings support forces in a direction perpendicular to the axis. In addition, radial roller bearings can be used in place of radial ball axes. Radial roller bearings include cylindrical roller bearings and needle roller bearings.

Here, the hub assembly 10 also includes bearing spacers 28 . Bearing spacers 28 are provided on the hub axle 12 and support the hub body 14 via the second hub body bearing 26 . The bearing spacer 28 supports the second hub body bearing 26 . The bearing spacer 28 has an inner peripheral end 28a provided on the hub axle 12 and an outer peripheral end 28b radially opposite to the inner peripheral end 28 in the radial direction with respect to the rotation center axis A1. spaced out. The second hub body bearing 26 is provided at the outer peripheral end 28b of the bearing spacer 28 and rotatably supports the hub body 14 . The bearing spacer 28 is not rotatable relative to the hub axle 12 . In particular, as seen in FIG. 4 , inner peripheral end 28a defines a non-circular opening 28a1 that mates with a non-circular portion of hub axle 12 to couple bearing spacer 28 in a non-rotatable manner relative to hub axle 12 . The axial position of the bearing spacer 28 relative to the hub axle 12 can be determined by being sandwiched between a step provided on the hub axle 12 and a nut that is twist-locked to the hub axle 12 . Here, the bearing spacer 28 includes an axial opening 28c.

Here, the hub assembly 10 also includes a sprocket support structure 30 . In the depicted embodiment, the sprocket support structure 30 supports the rear sprocket CS, as seen in FIG. 2 . The sprocket support structure 30 is rotatably provided about the rotation center axis A1 to transmit the driving force to the hub body 14 while being rotated about the rotation center axis A1 in the driving rotation direction. As explained below, the sprocket support structure 30 does not transmit a driving force to the hub body 14 while rotating in the non-driving rotational direction D2 about the rotational center axis A1. The non-driving rotational direction D2 is opposite to the driving rotational direction D1 with respect to the rotational center axis A1. The rotation center axis of the sprocket support structure 30 is arranged concentrically with the rotation center axis A1 of the hub assembly 10 .

Although the sprocket support structure 30 is constructed to non-rotatably support the rear sprocket CS, the sprocket support structure 30 is not limited to the depicted embodiment. Alternatively, one or more of the rear sprockets CS can be integrally formed with the sprocket support structure 30 . In any event, the sprocket support structure 30 and the rear sprocket CS are coupled together for common rotation in both the driving rotational direction Dl and the non-driving rotational direction D2.

The hub assembly 10 also includes a first sprocket support bearing 32 and a second sprocket support bearing 34 . The first sprocket support bearing 32 rotatably supports the first end 30a of the sprocket support structure 30 . The second sprocket support bearing 34 rotatably supports the second end 30b of the sprocket support structure 30 . The first sprocket support bearing 32 and the second sprocket support bearing 34 have an outer diameter that is smaller than the outer peripheral end 28b of the bearing spacer 28 . The inner diameter of the first sprocket support bearing 32 is larger than the inner diameter of the second sprocket support bearing 34 . Therefore, the first sprocket support bearing 32 and the second sprocket support bearing 34 can be mounted on the hub axle 12 from the second axial end 12 b of the hub axle 12 . The first sprocket support bearing 32 includes a first inner ring 32a, a first outer ring 32b and a plurality of first roller elements 32c. The first roller element 32c is disposed between the first inner ring 32a and the second outer ring 32b. The second sprocket support bearing 34 includes a second inner ring 34a, a second outer ring 34b and a plurality of second roller elements 34c. The second roller element 34c is disposed between the second inner ring 34a and the second outer ring 34b. Here, the first sprocket support bearing 32 and the second sprocket support bearing 34 are radial ball bearings. Radial ball bearings support forces in a direction perpendicular to the axis. In addition, radial roller bearings can be used in place of radial ball axes. Radial roller bearings include cylindrical roller bearings and needle roller bearings. A tubular spacer element 35 is provided between the first sprocket support bearing 32 and the second sprocket support bearing 34 .

As seen in FIGS. 5-7 , the hub assembly 10 also includes an electrical assembly 36 . Basically, as seen in FIGS. 9 and 11-14 , the electrical assembly 36 includes an electrical component 38 and a first electrical cable 40 . The first cable 40 includes a pair of wires W1 and W2. Accordingly, the hub assembly 10 also includes electrical components 38 . Although the electrical assembly 38 is part of the wheel hub assembly 10, the electrical assembly 38 can be used with other components of the human-powered vehicle. Therefore, the electric assembly 38 is installed in the man-powered vehicle V.

Here, the hub assembly 10 also includes a housing 42 disposed in the hub body 14 . Housing 42 is part of electrical assembly 38 . In other words, the electrical assembly 38 includes the housing 42 . Here, the hub assembly 10 also includes a spacer 43 disposed between the hub axle 12 and the electrical assembly 38 in the radial direction with respect to the rotational center axis A1 . The spacer 43 is a tubular support having a cylindrical guide portion 43a and an annular abutment portion 43b.

Also, the hub assembly 10 also includes a circuit board 44 disposed in the hub body 14 . In particular, the circuit board 44 is provided in the housing 42 . Again, a cover 46 is attached to the housing 42 for encasing the circuit board 44 within the housing 42 . Here, the cover member 46 is bonded to the housing 42 by adhesive or welding. However, the cover 46 can be attached to the housing 42 by threaded fasteners, rivets, or the like. Preferably, the housing 42 and cover 46 are rigid members made of suitable materials. For example, the case 42 and the cover 46 are made of resin material. For example, the housing 42 and the cover 46 can each be injection molded components. In the depicted embodiment, bearing spacer 28 is fixedly attached to housing 42 and cover 46 by a plurality of threaded fasteners 47 .

The housing 42 is not rotatable relative to the hub axle 12 . In the depicted embodiment, the circuit board 44 is disposed in a housing 42 that is not rotatable relative to the hub axle 12 . The housing 42 is constructed to accommodate the circuit board 44 and other article components. Specifically, the housing 42 has an outer peripheral surface 42a defining an interior space 42b in which the circuit board 44 is disposed. As seen in FIGS. 7 and 8 , a cover 46 is coupled to the housing 42 to protect the circuit board 44 and other components housed in the housing 42 . The cover 46 covers the inner space 42b of the housing 42 . Therefore, at least the housing 42 , the circuit board 44 , the capacitor 54 and the cover 46 can be considered to constitute the electrical unit provided in the hub body 14 . The inner space 42b has a doughnut shape in which the hub axle 12 passes through the central area of the housing 42 . In this manner, the circuit board 44 is not rotatable relative to the hub axle 12 . The circuit board 44 is arranged perpendicular to the rotation center axis A1. Circuit board 44 is part of electrical assembly 38 . The housing 42 includes an end wall portion 42c. The end wall portion 42c of the housing 42 includes a plurality of keying projections 42d. As described later, the keying projection 42d can be configured to engage a non-rotatable member provided to the hub axle 12 to non-rotatably couple the housing 42 to the hub axle 12 .

As seen in FIG. 9, in the depicted embodiment, the circuit board 44 has an arcuate shape. Here, the circuit board 44 has a first peripheral end portion 44a and a second peripheral end portion 44b. The circuit board 44 also has at least one curved edge extending at least partially from the first peripheral end portion 44a to the second peripheral end portion 44b. Here, the at least one curved edge includes at least one of an inner curved edge 44c and an outer curved edge 44d relative to the rotation center axis A1. The circuit board 44 also includes an electronic controller 48 disposed on the circuit board 44 . The electronic controller 48 is configured to receive the detection signal from the rotation detection sensor 52 . Electronic controller 48 includes at least one processor that executes predetermined control programs. The at least one processor can be, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessing unit (MPU). As used herein, the term "electronic controller" refers to hardware that executes software programs and does not include humans. Preferably, the circuit board 44 further includes an information storage device (memory) disposed on the circuit board 44 . The data storage device (memory) stores various control programs and information, which are used in various control processes including power generation control, power storage control, wheel hub rotation detection control, and the like. A data processing device includes any computer storage device or any transient computer-readable medium other than a transient transmission signal. For example, data processing devices include non-volatile memory and volatile memory. Non-volatile memories include, for example, read only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), electronically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), and flash memory at least one of. Volatile memory includes, for example, random access memory (RAM).

As seen in FIG. 8 , the hub assembly 10 also includes a detected component 50 that is coupled to the sprocket support structure 30 . Specifically, the detected part 50 is fixed to the sprocket support structure 30 such that the detected part 50 and the sprocket support structure 30 rotate together about the hub axle 12 . The hub assembly 10 also includes a rotation detection sensor 52 configured to detect the detected component 50 to detect the rotation of the sprocket support structure 30 about the rotation center axis A1. The rotation detection sensor 52 is provided in the hub body 14 . In other words, the rotation detection sensor 52 is configured to detect the detected component 50 disposed on the sprocket support structure 30 . Specifically, the rotation detection sensor 52 is provided in the inner space 42 b of the housing 42 . In this way, the rotation detection sensor 52 is non-rotatably mounted to the hub axle 12 . Therefore, the rotation detection sensor 52 does not rotate with the hub body 14 . The rotation detection sensor 52 is also part of the electrical assembly 38 . The rotation detection sensor 52 is electrically connected to the circuit board 44 . As seen in FIG. 7 , a rotation detection sensor 52 is provided in the hub body 14 at a location spaced radially outward from the hub axle 12 .

As in FIGS. 4 , 8 and 16 , the rotation detection sensor 52 is provided at a position axially aligned within the axial opening 28 c of the bearing spacer 28 . In this way, the bearing spacer 28 does not interfere with the rotation detection sensor 52 that detects the detected component 50 disposed on the sprocket support structure 30 . As seen in FIGS. 8 and 16 , the rotation detection sensor 52 is provided at a location separate from the circuit board 44 . In particular, the rotation detection sensor 52 is provided at a position separated from the circuit board 44 in the direction parallel to the rotation center axis A1. The rotation detection sensor 52 is electrically connected to the circuit board 44 .

In the depicted embodiment, the rotation detection sensor 52 includes a magnetic sensor, and the detected component 50 includes a magnet. Thus, the magnetic sensor detects the movement of the magnet that rotates with the sprocket support structure 30 . In other words, with this configuration, the rotation detection sensor 52 is constructed to detect the detected member 50 to detect the rotation of the sprocket support structure 30 about the rotation center axis A1. The electronic controller 48 is configured to receive the detection signal from the rotation detection sensor 52 .

Here, the magnet of the detected component 50 is a ring-shaped member having staggered S-pole segments and N-pole segments. In this way, the rotation detection sensor 52 can detect the rotation amount and rotation direction of the sprocket support structure 30 . However, the detected component 50 is not limited to the depicted annular member. For example, the detected member 50 can be formed with a single non-ring-shaped magnet or with two or more magnets spaced around the central axis of rotation A1. In the case where two or more circumferentially spaced magnets are used, a back yoke can be provided, and circumferentially spaced magnets can be provided to the back yoke. In this way, the circumferentially spaced magnets can be easily installed in the hub 10 . As used herein, the term "sensor" refers to a hardware device or device that is configured to detect a particular event, the presence or absence of an object, substance, or a change in its environment, and to emit a signal as a respond. The term "sensor" as used herein does not include humans.

The electrical components 38 include, among other things, a circuit board 44, at least one conductor, and at least one capacitor. The hub assembly 10 also includes at least one capacitor 54 that is electrically connected to the circuit board 44 . At least one capacitor is electrically connected to the at least one conductor. Here, the electrical component 38 contains two capacitors 54 . Capacitor 54 is an example of electrical power storage for electrical component 38 . In other words, capacitor 54 is also part of electrical component 38 . Capacitor 54 is preferably located in housing 42 of hub assembly 10 . Therefore, the capacitor 54 is non-rotatably supported on the hub axle 12 by the housing 42 .

As explained below, additional conductors electrically connect the rotation detection sensor 52 and the circuit board 44 . Here, the electrical component 38 includes a first conductor 56A and a pair of second conductors 56B. The rotation detection sensor 52 is electrically connected to the circuit board 44 through the first conductor 56A. Here, the first conductor 56A is a flexible strip conductor. The first conductor 56A can be a conductive lead. On the other hand, the circuit board 44 is electrically connected to the capacitor 54 through the second conductor 56B. The second conductor 56B extends from one of the first peripheral end portion 44a and the second peripheral end portion 44b. Here, one of the second conductors 56B extends from the first peripheral end portion 44a to electrically connect one of the capacitors 54 to the circuit board 44 . The other of the second conductors 56B extends from the second peripheral end portion 44b to electrically connect the other of the capacitors 54 to the circuit board 44 . Here, the second conductor 56B is a flexible strip conductor. The second conductor 56B can be a conductive lead. The capacitors 54 are provided in the interior space of the housing 42 at positions other than on the circuit board 44 . Capacitor 54 may be held in housing 42 using an adhesive or the like. Cover 46 is coupled to housing 42 to protect capacitor 54 .

The circuit board 44 is electrically connected to the rotation detection sensor 52 and the capacitor 54 . In this manner, capacitor 54 provides power to circuit board 44 and other electrical components that are electrically connected to circuit board 44 . For example, capacitor 54 provides power to rotation detection sensor 52 . Also, the electronic controller 48 of the circuit board 44 is configured to control the input and output of power from the capacitor 54 .

5-8 , the hub assembly 10 also includes a one-way clutch 58 formed between the hub body 14 and the sprocket support structure 30 . The one-way clutch 58 includes a plurality of pawls 58A disposed between the hub body 14 and the sprocket support structure 30 . The one-way clutch 58 also includes a biasing member 58B that couples the pawl 58A to the sprocket support structure 30 . The one-way clutch 58 also includes a plurality of ratchet teeth 58C. The ratchet teeth 58C are provided on a fixing ring 58D fixed to the hub body 14 . Ratchet teeth 58C are provided on the inner peripheral surface of the fixing ring 58D. The retaining ring 58D is twist-locked to the hub body 14 . The fixing ring 58D is made of a hard material like metal. The fixed ring 58D abuts the outer ring 26b of the second hub body bearing 26 in the axial direction with respect to the rotation center axis A1. The outer ring 26 b of the second hub body bearing 26 abuts the step formed in the hub body 14 on the opposite side in the axial direction. The outer ring 26b of the second hub body bearing 26 is restricted from axial movement by the retaining ring 58D and the stepped portion formed in the hub body 14 . Biasing element 58B biases pawl 58A into engagement with ratchet teeth 58C of retaining ring 58D. Biasing element 58B pushes pawl 54 against top sprocket support structure 30 such that pawl 54 pivots toward engagement with ratchet teeth 58C of retaining ring 58D. The sealing member 58E is provided on the fixing ring 58D. The sealing member 58E is formed in an annular shape. The tongue portion of the sealing member 58E is in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the sprocket supporter 30 .

In this way, the sprocket support structure 30 is coupled to the hub body 14 to rotate together in the drive rotational direction D1 about the rotational center axis A1. Also, in the case where the sprocket support structure 30 is rotated in the non-driven rotational direction D2 , the ratchet teeth 58C of the sprocket support structure 18 push the pawl 58A and pivot the pawl 58A against the sprocket support structure 30 . retracted position. Therefore, the sprocket support structure 30 is constructed to rotate in the non-driving rotational direction D2 about the rotational center axis A1 with respect to the hub body 14 . In this manner, the sprocket support structure 30 and the one-way clutch 58 form a flywheel typically used in bicycles. Since the basic operation of the flywheel is fairly conventional, the flywheel will not be discussed or illustrated in more detail.

As seen in FIGS. 5-8 and 10-12 , the hub assembly 10 includes a generator 60 . Therefore, the generator 60 is installed in the man-powered vehicle V. Here, the generator 60 is considered part of the electrical assembly 36 . In other words, the electrical assembly 36 includes the generator 60 . As explained below, the electrical assembly 38 and the first electrical cable 40 are considered part of the generator 60 . Accordingly, the electrical component 38 and the first cable 40 are also considered part of the electrical assembly 36 . Here, the first cable 40 includes a pair of electric wires W1 and W2. The wires W1 and W2 are electrically connected to the circuit board 44 . Here, the wires W1 and W2 extend through openings in the end wall portion 42c of the housing 42 and then through the generator 60, as explained below.

The generator 60 is provided in the hub body 14 and is configured to generate electric power by the rotation of the hub body 14 . Rather, the generator 60 is provided to the hub body 14 between the hub axle 12 and the central portion of the hub body 14 . In the illustrated embodiment, the hub body 14 is rotatably mounted on the shaft 12 for rotation about the central axis A1 of rotation of the generator 60 . The generator 60 is configured to generate electrical power by rotation of the hub body 14 relative to the hub axle 12 . The electronic controller 48 of the circuit board 44 is electrically connected to the generator 60 for controlling the power output of the generator 60 . Thus, the power generated by the generator 60 can be stored and/or directly supplied to other components such as the rotation detection sensor 52, the rear derailleur RD, and the like.

Although the generator 60 is shown and described as part of the wheel hub assembly 10 , the generator 60 can be applied to various components of the human-powered vehicle V. Generally, the generator 60 includes a shaft, a stator, a rotor, and a first electrical cable. Preferably, the generator 60 also includes a circuit board. More preferably, the generator 60 also includes a housing in which the circuit board is disposed. Accordingly, the following description of the generator 60 is not limited to being used as part of a wheel hub assembly. Rather, the following description of the generator 60 can be employed with other components of the human-powered vehicle V for generating electrical power.

In the depicted embodiment, generator 60 also includes a stator 62 and a rotor 64 . The stator 62 is not rotatable relative to the hub axle 12 . On the other hand, the rotor 64 is rotatably mounted to the hub shaft 12 so as to rotate about the rotation center axis A1 of the generator 60 . In particular, the rotor 64 is provided to the hub body 14 for rotation with the hub body 14 . Thus, as the hub body 14 rotates relative to the hub axle 12, the rotor 64 rotates relative to the stator 62 for generating electricity. That is, an induced electromotive force is generated on the stator 62 by the rotation of the rotor 64 , and current flows out of the stator 62 of the generator 60 . Current from the stator 62 is supplied to the electrical assembly 38 via the first electrical cable 40 . In particular, as seen in FIG. 9 , the first electrical cable 40 is electrically connected to the circuit board 44 . More precisely, the stator 62 has a pair of wires W3 and W4. The electric wire W3 is electrically connected to the electric wire W1 of the first cable wire 40 , and the electric wire W4 is electrically connected to the electric wire W2 of the first electric cable wire 40 .

Thus, in the depicted embodiment, the generator 60 includes the hub shaft 12 , the stator 62 , the rotor 64 and the first electrical cable 40 . Also, in the depicted embodiment, generator 60 also includes electrical components 38 . Thus, in the depicted embodiment, the generator 60 also includes the circuit board 44 and the housing 42 in which the circuit board 44 is disposed.

As seen in FIGS. 6 , 7 , 10 and 11 , the stator 62 has a first axial stator end 68A and a second axial stator end 68B, the first axial stator end 68A facing the shaft 12 relative to the central axis of rotation The first axial end 12a of A1, the second axial stator end 68B faces the second axial end 12b of the shaft 12 relative to the central axis of rotation A1. Here, the stator 62 includes an armature provided on the shaft 12 . The armature of the stator 62 includes a winding coil 62A and a bobbin 62B.

The winding coil 62A is wound on the bobbin 62B for supporting the winding coil 62A. The wound coil 62A is made of a conductive metal wire such as copper wire or aluminum alloy wire. The wires W3 and W4 are electrically connected to both ends of the winding coil 62A. In this embodiment, the wires W3 and W4 are both ends of the wound coil 62A. The wire W3 is electrically connected to the wire W1 of the first cable 40 by the first electrical connector EC1. The wire W4 is electrically connected to the wire W2 of the first cable 40 by the second electrical connector EC2. In this manner, the power generated in the wire wound coil 62A is transmitted to the circuit board 44 of the electrical assembly 38 via the first electrical cable 40 . The circuit board 44 then rectifies the power received from the wound coil 62A to selectively store the power in the capacitor 54 and/or selectively transmit the power out of the wheel hub assembly 10 via the second cable 70 .

The spool 62B is non-rotatably coupled to the hub axle 12 . The bobbin 62B has a cylindrical trunk portion, a first flange portion, and a second flange portion. The cylindrical trunk portion has an outer periphery on which the winding coil 62A is wound. The first flange portion and the second flange portion are formed on both the axial end portions of the cylindrical trunk portion.

In the depicted embodiment, the housing 42 is disposed between the sprocket support structure 30 and the stator 62 . The housing 42 has a first surface 42c1 facing the second axial stator end 68B of the stator 62 . The first surface 42c1 is formed by the outer surface of the end wall portion 42c of the housing 42 . Preferably, the housing 42 is positioned adjacent the stator 62 at the second axial stator end 68B of the stator 62 in the axial direction relative to the central axis of rotation A1. The first cable 40 extends from the first surface 42c1 toward the stator 62 .

Here, the circuit board 44 is disposed adjacent to the stator 62 at the second axial stator end 68B of the stator 62 in the axial direction relative to the rotation center axis A1. The first cable 40 is connected to the circuit board 44 . In particular, the circuit board 44 has a first axially facing surface 44e facing the stator 62 and a second axially facing surface 44f facing away from the stator 62 . Here, the first electrical cable 40 is electrically connected to the second axially facing surface 44f of the circuit board 44 .

The armature of the stator 62 further includes a plurality of first yokes 62C and a plurality of second yokes 62D. The first yoke 62C is arranged in the circumferential direction of the hub shaft 12 . Likewise, the second yoke 62D is arranged in the circumferential direction of the hub shaft 12 and intersects with the first yoke 62C. The wound coil 62A is located between the first yoke 62C and the second yoke 62D in the axial direction of the hub shaft 12 . Here, the first yoke 62C and the second yoke 62D are fitted to the grooves of the bobbin 62B so that the first yoke 62C and the second yoke 62D are staggered in the circumferential direction around the rotation center axis A1. The first yoke 62C and the second yoke 62D can be attached to the bobbin 62B by, for example, an adhesive.

Each of the first yokes 62C can be a laminated yoke of a plurality of ply pieces, or can be a single piece. In the case of the laminated yoke, the ply pieces of the first yoke 62C are laminated together in the circumferential direction around the rotation center axis A1. The layered piece of the first yoke 62C is made of, for example, a silicon steel sheet (more precisely, a non-oriented silicon steel sheet), and an oxide layer has been formed on the surface of the silicon steel sheet. The ply piece of the first yoke 62C is an example of a plate-like member.

Likewise, the second yoke 62D can be a laminated yoke of a plurality of ply pieces, or can be a single piece. In the case of the laminated yoke, the ply pieces of the second yoke 62D are laminated together in the circumferential direction around the rotation center axis A1. The layered piece of the second yoke 62D is made of, for example, a silicon steel sheet (more precisely, a non-oriented silicon steel sheet), and an oxide layer has been formed on the surface of the silicon steel sheet. The ply piece of the second yoke 62D is an example of a plate-like member.

Rotor 64 includes at least one magnet. Here, in the depicted embodiment, the rotor 64 includes a plurality of first magnet members 64A and a plurality of second magnet members 64B disposed inside the tubular support 64C. The tubular support 64C is fixedly coupled to the inside of the hub body 14 so that the magnet 64 and the hub body 14 rotate together about the hub axle 12 . The tubular support 64C functions as a back yoke. The back yoke is a member with high magnetic permeability, which is arranged on the opposite side of the magnetized surface. By using the back yoke, a high generating magnetic field can be obtained. The tubular support 64C can be omitted. Alternatively, the hub body 14 can have magnets 64 such that the hub body 14 partially forms the generator 60 . The first magnet member 64A and the second magnet member 64B are arranged so that the S poles and the N poles of the first magnet member 64A and the second magnet member 64B are alternately arranged in the circumferential direction of the hub shaft 12 . Therefore, the S pole of the first magnet member 64A is not aligned with the S pole of the second magnet member 64B in the axial direction of the hub shaft 12, and the N pole of the first magnet member 64A is not aligned with the N pole of the second magnet member 64B Extremely aligned.

As mentioned above, the wound coil 62A is shown fixed relative to the hub axle 12 , and the magnet 64 is shown fixed relative to the hub body 14 . Alternatively, the wire wound coil 62A can be fixed relative to the hub body 14 and the magnet 64 can be fixed relative to the hub axle 12 .

As seen in FIGS. 6 and 10-12 , the first electrical cable 40 is electrically connected to the stator 62 at the first axial stator end 68A of the stator 62 . The first electrical cable 40 extends axially through the armature of the stator 62 relative to the central axis of rotation A1 towards the second axial stator end 68B of the stator 62 . In particular, the first electrical cable 40 extends axially through the armature of the stator 62 . More precisely, the wires W1 and W2 of the first cable wire 40 extend axially between the first yoke 62C and the second yoke 62D of the stator 62 . The wires W1 and W2 of the first cable 40 extend axially between the first axial stator end 68A and the second axial stator end 68B of the stator 62 . Thus, the first cable 40 extends axially through the armature 62 at a point radially outward of the wound coil 62A. The first cable 40 extends axially through the armature 62 at a point radially outward of the bobbin 62B.

Also, the hub assembly 10 further includes a second cable 70 . The second cable 70 is electrically connected to the circuit board 44 and extends from the hub body 14 . Therefore, the second cable 70 is electrically connected to the generator 60 via the circuit board 44 . The other end of the second cable 70 is electrically connected to another electrical component of the human-powered vehicle V, such as a rear derailleur RD, a battery pack BP, or an electrical wiring portion. In this manner, the second electrical cable 70 can provide power generated by the hub assembly 10 to the rear derailleur RD, the battery pack BP, or another electrical component. The second cable 70 can also be used to transmit signals from the electronic controller 48 of the circuit board 44 to the rear derailleur RD or another electrical component by using power line communication (PLC).

The second electrical cable 70 enters the hub body 10 through the opening 18b of the end cap 18 . The second electrical cable 70 then extends axially along the hub axle 12 and through the bearing spacer 28 . The second electrical cable 70 enters the housing 42 of the electrical assembly 38 through the cover 46 . Inside the housing 42 of the electrical assembly 38 , a second electrical cable 70 is electrically connected to the circuit board 44 . Preferably, as in the depicted embodiment, the second electrical cable 70 is provided in an axially extending recess or groove 12d of the hub axle 12 . The axially extending recess or groove 12d extends from at least the second axial end 12b to the inside of the housing 42 of the electrical assembly 38 . Here, the groove 12d extends beyond the generator 60 from the second axial end 12b.

The hub assembly 10 also includes two fixing plates 76 and 78 disposed on the hub axle 12 for non-rotatably coupling the stator 62 of the generator 60 to the hub axle 12 . Fixed plates 76 and 78 are provided on opposite ends of the generator 60 . The fixing plates 76 and 78 have a plate shape. The fixing plate 76 includes a plurality of projections 76a, and the fixing plate 78 includes a plurality of projections 78a. One of the projections 76 a of the fixing plate 76 is provided in the groove 12 d of the hub axle 12 . Likewise, one of the projections 78 a of the fixing plate 78 is provided in the groove 12 d of the hub axle 12 . The other of the projections 76a and 78a are provided in the other two axially extending grooves 12e of the hub axle 12 . By inserting the projections 76 a and 78 a into these grooves 12 d and 12 e of the hub axle 12 , the fixed plates 76 and 78 do not rotate relative to the hub axle 12 . The stator 62 of the generator 60 does not rotate relative to the hub axle 12 with the stator 62 engaged with the projections projecting from the axially facing surfaces of the stationary plates 76 and 78 . The fixing plates 76 and 78 are arranged to sandwich the stator 62 of the generator 60 from both sides in the axial direction of the stator 62 of the generator 60 . Alternatively, rotation of the fixed plates 76 and 78 relative to the hub axle 12 can also be inhibited by providing D-cuts that match the corresponding outer surfaces of the hub axle 12 . Alternatively, one of the pair of fixing plates 76 and 78 can be omitted.

Also, the housing 42 can be non-rotatably coupled to one of the stationary plates 78 for inhibiting rotation of the housing 42 relative to the hub axle 12 . For example, the keying protrusion 42d of the housing 42 is configured to engage the opening 78b of the fixing plate 78 which is keyed to the groove 12d of the hub axle 12 . The fixing plate 78 includes a plurality of openings 78b corresponding to the keying protrusions 42d. In this manner, the housing 42 is prevented from rotating relative to the hub axle 12 . Alternatively, the housing 42 can be attached to the bearing spacer 28 that is non-rotatably coupled to the hub axle 12 . Nut 80 is threaded onto hub axle 12 for maintaining stator 64 and housing 42 on hub axle 12 .

In understanding the scope of the invention, the term "comprising" and its derivatives as used herein are intended as open-ended terms to define the occurrence of said features, elements, components, groups, integers, and/or steps, but The presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and/or steps is not excluded. The foregoing also applies to words of similar meaning, such as the terms "comprising", "having" and their derivatives. Also, the terms "portion," "section," "portion," "member," or "element" when used in the singular can have the dual meaning of a single element or a plurality of elements unless indicated otherwise.

The following directional terms used here are "facing the frame side", "not facing the frame side", "forward", "rearward", "front", "rear", "upper", "lower", " above, below, up, down, top, bottom, side, vertical, horizontal, vertical and transverse, and any other similar Directional terms refer to those directions in the field of human-powered vehicles (eg, bicycles) in an upright riding position and equipped with a hub assembly. Accordingly, these directional terms employed to describe the hub should be interpreted relative to the field of human-powered vehicles (eg, bicycles) equipped with hub assemblies in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface. The terms "left" and "right" are used to designate "right" when referring to the right side when viewed from behind the field of man-powered vehicles (eg, bicycles), and when viewed from behind the field of man-powered vehicles (eg, bicycles) In the case of viewing, specify "left" when referring to the left side.

As used in this disclosure, the phrase "at least one of" means a desired selection of "one or more." For an example, the term "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "only a single choice" or "two choices of both" if the number of choices is two. For another example, the term "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "only a single choice" or "equal to or greater than two choices" if the number of choices is equal to or greater than three random combination". Also, the term "and/or" as used in this disclosure means "either or both."

Also, it will be understood that, although the terms "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another. Thus, for example, a first element discussed above could be termed a second element, and vice versa, without departing from the teachings of the present invention.

The terms "attached" and "attached" as used herein encompass: a configuration in which an element is directly secured to another element by directly securing the element to the other element; An element is secured to an intermediate member and then the intermediate member is secured to another element such that the element is indirectly secured to the configuration of the other element; and an element is integrally formed with another element (ie, an element is essentially is part of another component). This definition also applies to words of similar meaning, such as: "joined", "connected", "coupled", "mounted", "bonded", "fixed" and derivatives thereof. Finally, terms of degree such as "substantially," "approximately," and "approximately," as used herein, mean an amount of variation in the modified term such that the end result does not change significantly.

While only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the invention is not deviated from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims Below, various variations and modifications can be made here. For example, unless specifically stated otherwise, the size, shape, location, or orientation of the various components can be changed as needed and/or desired so long as such changes do not materially affect their intended functions. Unless specifically stated otherwise, components shown as being directly connected or in contact with each other can have intervening structures disposed therebetween, so long as such changes do not materially affect their intended function. The functions of one element may be performed by two elements, and vice versa, unless specifically stated otherwise. The structures and functions of one embodiment can be adopted in another embodiment. All advantages need not be present in a particular embodiment at the same time. Each feature that is unique from the prior art, whether alone or in combination with other features, should also be considered a separate description of further inventions by the applicant, including the structural and/or functionality embodied by such feature concept. Accordingly, the foregoing descriptions of embodiments in accordance with the present invention are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

10: Wheel hub assembly 12: Hub axle 12a: first axial end 12b: Second axial end 12c: Axial hole 12d: Groove 12e: Groove 14: hub body 14a: First outer flange 14b: Second outer flange 16: The first end cap 18: Second end cap 18a: Rotation limit part 18b: Opening 20: fixing bolts 22: Wheel holding mechanism 22a: Through shaft 22b: Cam body 22c: Cam lever 22d: Adjusting nut 24: The first hub body bearing 24a: The first inner ring 24b: The first outer ring 24c: First Roller Element 26: Second hub body bearing 26a: Second inner ring 26b: Second outer ring 26c: Second roller element 28: Bearing spacer 28a: inner peripheral end 28a1: non-circular opening 28b: Outer peripheral end 28c: Axial opening 30: Sprocket support structure 30a: First end 30b: second end 32: First sprocket support bearing 32a: first inner ring 32b: The first outer ring 32c: first roller element 34: Second sprocket support bearing 34a: Second inner ring 34b: Second outer ring 34c: Second roller element 35: Tubular Spacer Elements 36: Electric assembly 38: Electrical Components 40: The first cable 42: Shell 42a: Outer peripheral surface 42b: Internal space 42c: end wall section 42c1: First surface 42d: keyed protrusion 43: Spacer 43a: Cylindrical guide part 43b: annular abutting part 44: circuit board 44a: First peripheral end portion 44b: Second peripheral end portion 44c: Inward curved edge 44d: Outward curved edge 44e: First Axial Facing Surface 44f: Second Axial Facing Surface 46: Cover 47: Threaded fasteners 48: Electronic controller 50: Detected parts 52: Rotation detection sensor 54: Capacitor 56A: first conductor 56B: Second conductor 58: One-way clutch 58A: Pawl 58B: Bias element 58C: Ratchet teeth 58D: Retaining ring 58E: Sealing member 60: Generator 62: Stator 62A: Winding Coil 62B: Winder 62C: First Yoke 62D: Second Yoke 64: Rotor 64A: First magnet part 64B: Second magnet part 64C: Tubular Support 68A: First axial stator end 68B: Second axial stator end 70: Second cable 76: Fixed plate 76a: Raised 78: Fixed plate 78a: Raised 78b: Opening 80: Nut A1: Rotation center axis ASP: Height Adjustable Seat Post BP: Main battery pack C: crank CA1: Crankshaft CA2: Crank Arm EN:chain CS: Rear sprocket D1: Drive rotation direction D2: Non-driven rotation direction DT: Transmission System DU: Electric Drive Unit EC1: first electrical connector EC2: Second electrical connector FB: Front Frame Body FF: front fork FS: Front sprocket FW: Front Wheel H: handlebar PD: pedal RB: rear frame body RD: rear derailleur RS: Rear shock absorber RW: rear wheel S: Saddle SC: Bicycle computer SL: Transmission V: Human-powered vehicles, bicycles VB: Body W1: Wire W2: Wire W3: Wire W4: Wire

Referring now to the accompanying drawings which form part of this original disclosure:

[ FIG. 1 ] is a side view of a man-powered vehicle (ie, a bicycle) equipped with a hub assembly (ie, a bicycle hub assembly) according to the first embodiment;

[ FIG. 2 ] is a longitudinal view of the wheel hub assembly attached to the body of the human-powered vehicle depicted in FIG. 1 ;

[Fig. 3] is a perspective view of the wheel hub assembly shown in Fig. 1;

[FIG. 4] is a perspective view of the hub assembly depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3, but with selected components removed to show bearing spacers;

[Fig. 5] is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the wheel hub assembly shown in Figs. 2 to 4 along the section line 5-5 in Fig. 3;

[FIG. 6] is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the first portion of the hub assembly depicted in FIG. 5;

[Fig. 7] is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the second part of the hub assembly shown in Fig. 5;

[Fig. 8] is a perspective view of the hub assembly shown in Figs. 2 to 5, in which a portion of the hub is cut away;

[FIG. 9] is an end view of the hub assembly depicted in FIGS. 2-5 with selected components;

[FIG. 10] is a first perspective view of the electrical assembly for the hub assembly depicted in FIGS. 2 to 5;

[ FIG. 11 ] is a second perspective view of the electrical assembly shown in FIG. 10 ;

[Fig. 12] is a partially exploded perspective view of the electrical assembly shown in Figs. 10 and 11;

[FIG. 13] is a perspective view of selected components of the electrical assembly depicted in FIGS. 10 and 11 with the generator removed;

[FIG. 14] is a first end view of selected components of the electrical assembly depicted in FIG. 13 with the generator removed;

[FIG. 15] is a first end view of selected components of the electrical assembly depicted in FIGS. 13 and 14; and

[ FIG. 16 ] is a partially exploded perspective view of the electrical components and bearing spacers of the wheel hub assembly shown in FIGS. 2 to 5 .

10: Wheel hub assembly

12: Hub axle

12c: Axial hole

14: hub body

14a: First outer flange

14b: Second outer flange

22a: Through shaft

24: The first hub body bearing

24a: The first inner ring

24b: The first outer ring

24c: First Roller Element

26: Second hub body bearing

26a: Second inner ring

26b: Second outer ring

26c: Second roller element

28: Bearing spacer

28a: inner peripheral end

28b: Outer peripheral end

30: Sprocket support structure

32: First sprocket support bearing

35: Tubular Spacer Elements

36: Electric assembly

38: Electrical Components

42: Shell

42a: Outer peripheral surface

42c: end wall section

42c1: First surface

42d: keyed protrusion

43: Spacer

46: Cover

50: Detected parts

58: One-way clutch

58B: Bias element

58C: Ratchet teeth

58D: Retaining ring

58E: Sealing member

60: Generator

62: Stator

62A: Winding Coil

62B: Winder

62C: First Yoke

62D: Second Yoke

64: Rotor

64A: First magnet part

64B: Second magnet part

64C: Tubular Support

68A: First axial stator end

68B: Second axial stator end

76: Fixed plate

78: Fixed plate

78b: Opening

80: Nut

EC2: Second electrical connector

W2: Wire

W4: Wire

Claims (17)

A generator for a human-powered vehicle, the generator comprising: a shaft having a first axial end and a second axial end; A stator having a first axial stator end and a second axial stator end, the first axial stator end facing the first axial end of the shaft relative to the rotational center axis, and the second axial stator end opposite facing the second axial end of the shaft on the central axis of rotation; a rotor rotatably mounted on the shaft for rotation about the central axis of rotation of the generator; and a first electrical cable electrically connected to the stator on the first axial stator end of the stator, the first electrical cable being axially relative to the central axis of rotation towards the second axial stator end of the stator extends through the stator. A generator for a man-powered vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein The rotor includes at least one magnet. A generator for a man-powered vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein The stator includes an armature disposed on the shaft, and The first cable extends axially through the armature. A generator for a man-powered vehicle as claimed in claim 3, wherein the armature includes a wound coil and a bobbin, and The first cable extends axially through the armature at a point radially outward of the wire coil. A generator for a human-powered vehicle as described in claim 1, further comprising circuit board, which The first cable is electrically connected to the circuit board. A generator for a man-powered vehicle as claimed in claim 5, wherein The circuit board is disposed adjacent the stator at the second axial stator end of the stator in an axial direction relative to the central axis of rotation. A generator for a man-powered vehicle as claimed in claim 5, wherein The circuit board is arranged perpendicular to the rotation center axis, the circuit board has a first axially facing surface facing the stator and a second axially facing surface facing away from the stator. A generator for a man-powered vehicle as claimed in claim 7, wherein The first electrical cable is electrically connected to the second axially facing surface of the circuit board. A generator for a human-powered vehicle as described in claim 5, further comprising A housing in which the circuit board is disposed. A generator for a man-powered vehicle as claimed in claim 9, wherein The housing is positioned adjacent the stator at the second axial stator end of the stator in the axial direction relative to the central axis of rotation. A generator for a man-powered vehicle as claimed in claim 9, wherein the housing has a first surface facing the second axial stator end of the stator, and The first cable extends from the first surface towards the stator. A wheel hub assembly comprising the generator for a human-powered vehicle as described in claim 5, and further comprising A hub body that is rotatably mounted on the shaft to rotate about a central axis of rotation of the generator. The wheel hub assembly of claim 12, further comprising A second cable is electrically connected to the circuit board and extends from the hub body. The wheel hub assembly of claim 12, further comprising At least one capacitor is electrically connected to the circuit board. The wheel hub assembly of claim 12, further comprising A sprocket support structure is provided so as to be rotatable about the rotation center axis to transmit a driving force to the hub body while being rotated about the rotation center axis in a driving rotation direction. The wheel hub assembly of claim 15, further comprising a detected component coupled to the sprocket support structure, and A rotation detection sensor configured to detect the detected component to detect the rotation of the sprocket support structure about the rotation center axis. The wheel hub assembly of claim 16, wherein The rotation detection sensor is arranged in the hub body.

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