TW202413199A - Motor unit and derailleur - Google Patents

Abstract

A motor unit comprises a torque limiter and a transmitting structure. The torque limiter includes a first member and a second member. The first member and the second member are movable relative to each other in a state where a torque applied to the torque limiter is equal to or higher than a torque threshold. The first member and the second member are movable together with each other in a state where the torque is lower than the torque threshold. The transmitting structure includes a first race, a second race, a first intermediate element at least partially provided between the first race and the second race, and a second intermediate element at least partially provided between the first race and the second race.

Description

Motor unit and decelerator

The present invention relates to a motor unit and a detent.

The human-powered vehicle includes a motor device coupled to a movable part to move the movable part. In the event that the movable part receives an external force caused by physical contact between an obstacle and the movable part, an external torque is input to the motor device. It is preferred to protect the motor device from such external forces.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, a motor unit for a bicycle assembly includes a torque limiter and a transmission structure. The torque limiter includes a first component and a second component. When the torque applied to the torque limiter is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the first component and the second component are movable relative to each other. When the torque is lower than the torque threshold, the first component and the second component are movable together with each other. The transmission structure has a transmission structure rotation axis. The transmission structure includes a first bearing ring, a second bearing ring, a first intermediate element at least partially disposed between the first bearing ring and the second bearing ring, and a second intermediate element at least partially disposed between the first bearing ring and the second bearing ring. The first intermediate element is configured to move toward the first bearing ring in response to the first intermediate element being pushed by the second bearing ring in a first circumferential direction relative to the transmission structure rotation axis. The first intermediate element is configured to move toward the first bearing ring in response to the first intermediate element being pushed by the second bearing ring in a second circumferential direction different from the first circumferential direction. The first intermediate element is configured to move away from the first bearing ring in response to the first intermediate element being pushed by the second intermediate element in the first circumferential direction. The first intermediate element is configured to move away from the first bearing ring in response to the first intermediate element being pushed by the second intermediate element in a second circumferential direction different from the first circumferential direction.

In the motor unit according to the first aspect, when the torque applied to the torque limiter is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the relative movement between the first member and the second member reduces the output torque transmitted through the torque limiter. Furthermore, the transmission structure uses the first bearing ring, the second bearing ring, the first intermediate element, and the second intermediate element to limit the torque from being transmitted from the second bearing ring to the second intermediate element, and allows the torque to be transmitted from the second intermediate element to the second bearing ring. The torque limiter and the transmission structure reduce or block the external force applied to at least one of the movable member and the connecting rod assembly. Therefore, it is possible to protect the electric motor from the external force applied to at least one of the movable member and the connecting rod assembly.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, the motor unit according to the first aspect is constructed so that when the second bearing ring pushes the first intermediate element and the second intermediate element does not push the first intermediate element, the first intermediate element is constructed to rotate together with the first bearing ring.

In the motor unit according to the second aspect, the transmission structure uses the first bearing ring, the second bearing ring, and the first intermediate element to reliably limit the torque from being transmitted from the second bearing ring to the second intermediate element.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the motor unit according to the first or second aspect is constructed so that when the second intermediate element pushes the first intermediate element and the second bearing ring does not push the first intermediate element, the first intermediate element is constructed to rotate relative to the first bearing ring.

In the motor unit according to the third aspect, the transmission structure uses the first bearing ring, the second bearing ring, the first intermediate element, and the second intermediate element to reliably allow the torque to be transmitted from the second bearing ring to the second intermediate element.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the motor unit according to any one of the first to third aspects further comprises an electric motor, an output member, and a speed reducer. The speed reducer couples the electric motor and the output member to transmit the output torque of the electric motor to the output member.

With the motor unit according to the fourth aspect, it is possible to transmit output torque from the electric motor to the output member.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the motor unit according to any one of the first to fourth aspects is constructed so that the speed reducer includes a torque limiter and a transmission structure.

With the motor unit according to the fifth aspect, it is possible to make the motor unit compact while protecting the electric motor from external force.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the motor unit according to any one of the first to fifth aspects is constructed so that the transmission structure is provided on a power transmission path from the electric motor to the output member and between the electric motor and the torque limiter.

With the motor unit according to the sixth aspect, it is possible to reliably protect the electric motor from external force.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the motor unit according to any one of the fourth to sixth aspects is constructed so that the transmission structure is constructed to transmit a first torque in a first load direction defined by the electric motor to the output member. The transmission structure is constructed to transmit a second torque in a second load direction defined by the output member to the electric motor. The first torque is higher than the second torque.

With the motor unit according to the seventh aspect, it is possible to reduce the torque applied to the transmission structure in the second load direction.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the motor unit according to any one of the fourth to seventh aspects is constructed so that the second member is constructed to transmit a third torque to the first member in a second load direction defined by the output member to the electric motor when the external torque input to the output member is lower than the external torque threshold. The second member is constructed to transmit a fourth torque to the first member in the second load direction when the external torque is equal to or greater than the external torque threshold. The third torque is higher than the fourth torque.

With the motor unit according to the eighth aspect, in a state where the external torque input to the output member is equal to or greater than the external torque threshold, it is possible to reliably reduce the torque applied to the torque limiter.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the motor unit according to any one of the first to eighth aspects is constructed so that the torque limiter has a limiter rotation axis, the transmission structure has a transmission structure rotation axis, and the limiter rotation axis does not coincide with the transmission structure rotation axis.

With the motor unit according to the ninth aspect, it is possible to arrange the torque limiter and the transmission structure at different positions. Therefore, it is possible to improve the design flexibility of the motor unit.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the motor unit according to any one of the first to ninth aspects is constructed so that the torque limiter has a limiter rotation axis. The limiter rotation axis is parallel to the transmission structure rotation axis.

With the motor unit according to the tenth aspect, it is possible to more easily arrange the torque limiter and the transmission structure at different positions. Therefore, it is possible to reliably improve the design flexibility of the motor unit.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the motor unit according to any one of the first to tenth aspects is constructed so that the torque limiter has a limiter rotation axis. The limiter rotation axis coincides with the transmission structure rotation axis.

With the motor unit according to the eleventh aspect, it is possible to reduce the space required to install the torque limiter and the transmission structure.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the motor unit according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects is constructed so that when the external torque input to the output member is lower than the external torque threshold, the first member can slidably contact the second member to transmit a third torque between the first member and the second member. When the external torque is equal to or higher than the external torque threshold, the first member can slidably contact the second member to transmit a fourth torque between the first member and the second member. The third torque is higher than the fourth torque.

With the motor unit according to the twelfth aspect, in a state where the external torque input to the output member is lower than the external torque threshold, it is possible to reliably reduce the torque applied to the torque limiter.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the motor unit according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects is constructed so that one of the first member and the second member includes a recess. The other of the first member and the second member includes a protruding portion. The protruding portion is constructed to engage in the recess in a state where the torque is lower than a torque threshold to transmit a third torque between the first member and the second member. The protruding portion is constructed to disengage from the recess in a state where the torque is equal to or higher than the torque threshold to transmit a fourth torque between the first member and the second member. The third torque is higher than the fourth torque.

With the motor unit according to the thirteenth aspect, when the torque is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, it is possible to reduce the torque applied to the torque limiter with a relatively simple structure.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the motor unit according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects further includes a gear fixed to the first member to transmit torque from the transmission structure to the first member.

With the motor unit according to the fourteenth aspect, it is possible to reliably transmit torque from the transmission structure to the first member via the gears.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the motor unit according to any one of the first to fourteenth aspects is constructed so that the torque limiter includes a biasing member, which is constructed to bias at least one of the first member and the second member to maintain a contact state between the first member and the second member.

With the motor unit according to the fifteenth aspect, it is possible to maintain the contact state between the first member and the second member with a relatively simple structure.

According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the motor unit according to any one of the first to fifteenth aspects further comprises a detection object configured to be detected by the detector. The detection object is disposed on a downstream side relative to the transmission structure on the power transmission path.

With the motor unit according to the sixteenth aspect, it is possible to detect the state of the motor unit or the bicycle component using the detection object.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the motor unit according to any one of the first to sixteenth aspects further comprises a detection object configured to be detected by the detector. The detection object is disposed on a downstream side relative to the torque limiter on the power transmission path.

With the motor unit according to the seventeenth aspect, it is possible to detect the state of the motor unit or the bicycle component using the detection object.

According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, the motor unit according to any one of the first to seventeenth aspects is constructed so that the transmission structure is coupled to the torque limiter. The transmission structure is constructed to transmit a first torque to the torque limiter in a state where a first input torque is applied to the transmission structure by a device other than the torque limiter. The transmission structure is constructed to transmit a second torque in a state where a second input torque is applied to the transmission structure by the torque limiter. The first torque is higher than the second torque.

With the motor unit according to the eighteenth aspect, in a state where the second input torque is applied to the transmission structure by the torque limiter, it is possible to reduce the torque applied to the transmission structure by the torque limiter.

According to the nineteenth aspect of the present invention, a retractor comprises a base member, a movable member, a connecting rod assembly, and a motor unit according to any one of the first to eighteenth aspects. The connecting rod assembly movably couples the base member and the movable member. The motor unit is disposed in one of the base member, the movable member, and the connecting rod assembly.

With the pull-down device according to the nineteenth aspect, it is possible to improve the design flexibility of the pull-down device.

According to the twentieth aspect of the present invention, the retractor according to the nineteenth aspect further comprises a power supply attachment structure to which a power source is attached. The power supply attachment structure is provided on one of the base member, the movable member, and the connecting rod assembly.

With the twitch according to the twentieth aspect, it is possible to install the power source via the power supply attachment structure. Therefore, it is possible to omit the cable for supplying power to the motor unit from another power source.

According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, the retractor according to the twentieth aspect is constructed such that the motor unit is provided at one of the base member, the movable member, and the connecting rod assembly, and the power supply attachment structure is provided at the other of the base member, the movable member, and the connecting rod assembly.

With the retractor according to the twenty-first aspect, it is possible to improve the design flexibility of the retractor while omitting the cable.

According to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, the retractor according to the twentieth or twenty-first aspect is constructed so that the motor unit is provided at one of the base member and the connecting rod assembly, and the power supply attachment structure is provided at the other of the base member and the connecting rod assembly.

With the retractor according to the twenty-second aspect, it is possible to reliably improve the design flexibility of the retractor while omitting the cable.

According to the twenty-third aspect of the present invention, a motor unit for a bicycle assembly includes an output member, an electric motor, a torque limiter, and a transmission structure. The electric motor includes an output shaft. The torque limiter is entirely disposed within an outer housing of the motor unit. The transmission structure is configured to transmit a first torque in a first load direction defined by the output shaft to the output member, and is configured to transmit a second torque in a second load direction defined by the output member to the output shaft. The transmission structure is configured to transmit torque in a plurality of rotational directions based on the rotational direction of the output shaft when the transmission structure transmits torque in the first load direction. The first torque is higher than the second torque.

In the motor unit according to the twenty-third aspect, since the torque limiter is disposed in the housing, it is possible to simplify the structure of the motor unit. Furthermore, the transmission structure uses the first bearing ring, the second bearing ring, the first intermediate element, and the second intermediate element to limit the torque from being transmitted from the second bearing ring to the second intermediate element, and allows the torque to be transmitted from the second intermediate element to the second bearing ring. Therefore, it is possible to protect the electric motor from an external force applied to at least one of the movable member and the connecting rod assembly with a relatively simple structure.

According to a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, the motor unit according to the twenty-third aspect is constructed so that the torque limiter is constructed to transmit a third torque when the torque input to the torque limiter is lower than the torque threshold. The torque limiter is constructed to transmit a fourth torque when the torque input to the torque limiter is equal to or higher than the torque threshold. The third torque is higher than the fourth torque.

With the motor unit according to the twenty-fourth aspect, when the torque is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, it is possible to reduce the torque applied to the torque limiter with a relatively simple structure.

According to a twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention, the motor unit according to the twenty-fourth aspect is constructed so that the torque limiter includes a first member and a second member. In a state where the torque is lower than a torque threshold, the first member and the second member contact each other to transmit a third torque between the first member and the second member. In a state where the torque is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the first member and the second member are constructed to transmit a fourth torque between the first member and the second member.

In the motor unit according to the twenty-fifth aspect, when a torque equal to or higher than the torque threshold is applied to the torque limiter, the relative movement between the first member and the second member reduces the output torque transmitted through the torque limiter. Therefore, it is possible to reliably protect the electric motor from an external force applied to at least one of the movable member and the connecting rod assembly with a relatively simple structure.

The specific aspects will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals throughout the various drawings indicate corresponding or identical elements. ＜First specific aspect＞

As shown in FIG. 1 , a bicycle 2 includes a bicycle assembly RD according to a first specific embodiment. The bicycle 2 further includes a vehicle body 2A, a saddle 2B, a handlebar 2C, an operating device 3, an operating device 4, and a drive system DT. The operating devices 3 and 4 are configured to be mounted on the handlebar 2C. The drive system DT includes a crank CR, a front sprocket assembly FS, a rear sprocket assembly RS, a chain C, a bicycle assembly FD, and a bicycle assembly RD. The front sprocket assembly FS is fixed to the crank CR. The rear sprocket assembly RS is rotatably mounted to the vehicle body 2A. The chain C is coupled to the front sprocket assembly FS and the rear sprocket assembly RS. The bicycle component RD is mounted on the vehicle body 2A and is configured to displace the chain C relative to the plurality of sprockets of the rear sprocket assembly RS to change the gear position. The bicycle component FD is configured to displace the chain C relative to the plurality of sprockets of the front sprocket assembly FS.

The bicycle component RD is configured to be operated using the operating device 3. The bicycle component FD is configured to be operated using the operating device 4. The bicycle component RD is configured to be electrically connected to the operating devices 3 and 4. The bicycle component RD is configured to be electrically connected to the bicycle component FD.

In a first specific aspect, the bicycle component RD is configured to be wirelessly connected to the operating devices 3 and 4. The bicycle component RD is configured to be wirelessly connected to the bicycle component FD. The bicycle RD can be configured to wirelessly communicate with the bicycle component FD via at least one of a loop computer, a smart phone, a tablet, and a personal computer. The bicycle component RD is configured to change the gear position in response to the control signal transmitted from the operating device 3. The bicycle component RD is configured to transmit the control signal transmitted from the operating device 4 to the bicycle component FD. The bicycle component FD is configured to change the gear position in response to the control signal transmitted from the operating device 4 via the bicycle component RD. The bicycle components RD and FD each include a power source, such as a battery. However, if needed and/or desired, at least one of the bicycle components RD and FD can be electrically connected to another power source, such as a battery, via a cable. If needed and/or desired, both the bicycle component RD and the bicycle component FD can be electrically connected to another power source, such as a battery, via a cable.

In a first specific aspect, the bicycle component RD includes a retractor, and the bicycle component FD includes a retractor. That is, the bicycle component RD may also be referred to as the retractor RD. The bicycle component FD may also be referred to as the retractor FD. If necessary and/or desired, the structure of the bicycle component RD may be applied to other bicycle components, such as the bicycle component FD.

In the present case, the following directional terms: "front", "rear", "forward", "rearward", "left", "right", "transverse", "upward", "downward" and any other similar directional terms refer to the direction determined based on the user (e.g., rider) facing the handlebar 2C in the standard user position (e.g., on the saddle 2B or seat) of the bicycle 2. Accordingly, these terms, when used to describe the bicycle component RD or other components, should be interpreted relative to the bicycle 2 equipped with the bicycle component RD in an upright riding position, such as on a horizontal surface.

As shown in FIG. 2 , the retractor RD includes a base member 12, a movable member 14, and a connecting rod assembly 16. The base member 12 is configured to be coupled to the vehicle body 2A. The movable member 14 is movable relative to the base member 12. The movable member 14 includes a chain guide 18 and a coupling portion 20. The chain guide 18 is pivotally coupled to the coupling portion 20 around a pivot axis PA. The coupling portion 20 is movably coupled to the base member 12 via the connecting rod assembly 16.

As shown in FIG3 , the chain guide 18 includes a guide plate 22, a guide pulley 24, and a tension pulley 26. The guide plate 22 is pivotally coupled to the coupling portion 20. The guide pulley 24 is rotatably coupled to the guide plate 22. The tension pulley 26 is rotatably coupled to the guide plate 22. The guide pulley 24 is configured to be coupled to the chain C. The tension pulley 26 is configured to be coupled to the chain C. The structure of the movable member 14 is not limited to the above structure.

As shown in FIG. 2 , the connecting rod assembly 16 movably couples the base member 12 and the movable member 14. The connecting rod assembly 16 movably couples the base member 12 and the coupling portion 20. In this embodiment, the connecting rod assembly 16 includes an outer connecting rod 28 and an inner connecting rod 30. The outer connecting rod 28 is pivotally coupled to the base member 12 around a first pivot axis A1. The outer connecting rod 28 is pivotally coupled to the movable member 14 around a second pivot axis A2. The inner connecting rod 30 is pivotally coupled to the base member 12 around a third pivot axis A3. The inner connecting rod 30 is pivotally coupled to the movable member 14 around a fourth pivot axis A4. The first to fourth pivot axes A1 to A4 are parallel to each other. However, if necessary and/or desired, one of the outer link 28 and the inner link 30 may be omitted from the connecting rod assembly 16. The structure of the connecting rod assembly 16 is not limited to the above structure. At least one of the first to fourth pivot axes A1 to A4 may be non-parallel to another of the first to fourth pivot axes A1 to A4.

4, the inner link 30 is at least partially disposed between the outer link 28 and a transverse center plane CP of the bicycle 2. The transverse center plane CP is defined as being perpendicular to the rotation axis RA (see, e.g., FIG. 2) of the rear sprocket assembly RS (see, e.g., FIG. 1).

The retractor RD includes a motor unit 32. The motor unit 32 is configured to move at least one of the movable member 14 and the connecting rod set 16 relative to the base member 12. In the present embodiment, the motor unit 32 is coupled to the connecting rod set 16 to move the movable member 14 via the connecting rod set 16. The motor unit 32 is configured to generate an actuating force and is coupled to the connecting rod set 16 to transmit the actuating force to the connecting rod set 16. However, if necessary and/or desired, the motor unit 32 may be directly coupled to the movable member 14 to move the movable member 14 relative to the base member 12.

As seen in FIG. 2 , the reel RD further includes a power supply attachment structure 34 to which a power source 36 is to be attached. The power supply attachment structure 34 is configured to detachably hold the power source 36. The power supply attachment structure 34 is electrically connected to the motor unit 32 to supply power to the motor unit 32 from the power source 36. Examples of the power source 36 include batteries, such as primary batteries and secondary batteries. However, if necessary and/or desired, the power supply attachment structure 34 can be omitted from the reel RD. In this embodiment, if necessary and/or desired, the reel RD can be configured to be electrically connected to another power source.

As shown in FIG5 , the power supply attachment structure 34 is provided on one of the base member 12, the movable member 14, and the connecting rod assembly 16. The motor unit 32 is provided on one of the base member 12, the movable member 14, and the connecting rod assembly 16. The power supply attachment structure 34 is provided on the other of the base member 12, the movable member 14, and the connecting rod assembly 16. The motor unit 32 is provided on one of the base member 12 and the connecting rod assembly 16. The power supply attachment structure 34 is provided on the other of the base member 12 and the connecting rod assembly 16.

In the present embodiment, the motor unit 32 is provided at the base member 12. The power supply attachment structure 34 is provided at the connecting rod assembly 16. The power supply attachment structure 34 is provided at the outer connecting rod 28. However, if necessary and/or desired, the motor unit 32 may be provided at one of the movable member 14 and the connecting rod assembly 16. If necessary and/or desired, the motor unit 32 may be provided at one of the outer connecting rod 28 and the inner connecting rod 30. If necessary and/or desired, the power supply attachment structure 34 may be provided at one of the base member 12 and the movable member 14. If necessary and/or desired, the power supply attachment structure 34 may be provided at the inner connecting rod 30. If necessary and/or desired, the power supply attachment structure 34 may be omitted from the motor unit 32.

As shown in FIG6 , the power supply attachment structure 34 includes a holding space 34A. The power source 36 is disposed in the holding space 34A. The power supply attachment structure 34 is configured to detachably hold the power source 36 in the holding space 34A. The structure of the outer connecting rod 28 and the power supply attachment structure 34 is not limited to the specific aspects shown.

The motor unit 32 includes a housing 38. In this embodiment, the housing 38 is a separate component from the base component 12. However, the housing 38 can be at least partially integrated with the base component 12 as a one-piece unitary component.

The base member 12 includes a first base body 40, a second base body 42, and a fastener 44. The first base body 40 is configured to be coupled to the vehicle body 2A by means of a sprocket fastener 46. The second base body 42 is a member separate from the first base body 40. The second base body 42 is fastened to the first base body 40 by means of a fastener 44 such as a screw. The motor unit 32 is disposed between the first base body 40 and the second base body 42. The housing 38 is held between the first base body 40 and the second base body 42.

As shown in FIG. 7 , the housing 38 includes a first housing 50 and a second housing 52. The housing 38 includes an internal space 38S. The first housing 50 and the second housing 52 define the internal space 38S between the first housing 50 and the second housing 52. In this embodiment, the second housing 52 is a separate component from the first housing 50. However, if necessary and/or desired, the second housing 52 can be integrally provided with the first housing 50 as a one-piece unitary component.

The motor unit 32 for the bicycle assembly RD includes an electric motor 54. The electric motor 54 is configured to generate an actuating force using the power supplied from the power source 36 via the power supply attachment structure 34 (see, for example, FIG. 6). The electric motor 54 is electrically connected to the power supply attachment structure 34. The electric motor 54 is disposed in the inner space 38S of the housing 38. The electric motor 54 is disposed between the first housing 50 and the second housing 52.

The motor unit 32 for the bicycle assembly RD includes an output member 56. The electric motor 54 is coupled to the output member 56 to rotate the output member 56 relative to the housing 38 around the output rotation axis A5. The output member 56 extends along the output rotation axis A5. In this embodiment, the output rotation axis A5 coincides with the third pivot axis A3. The output member 56 is rotatable relative to the housing 38 around the third pivot axis A3. The inner connecting rod 30 is rotatable relative to the base member 12 around the output rotation axis A5. However, if necessary and/or desired, the output rotation axis A5 can be offset from the third pivot axis A3.

The inner connecting rod 30 is coupled to the output member 56 to receive the actuating force transmitted to the output member 56 by the electric motor 54. The inner connecting rod 30 is coupled to the output member 56 to rotate together with the output member 56 relative to the outer housing 38 and the base member 12 around the third pivot axis A3. The inner connecting rod 30 includes an inner connecting rod body 30A, an inner connecting rod lever 30B, and a retainer 30C. The inner connecting rod body 30A is pivotally coupled to the base member 12 around the third pivot axis A3. The inner connecting rod body 30A is pivotally coupled to the movable member 14 around the fourth pivot axis A4. The inner link lever 30B is fixed to the inner link body 30A by a fixer 30C. The inner link lever 30B is coupled to the output member 56 to receive the actuating force transmitted by the electric motor 54 from the output member 56. The inner link lever 30B is coupled to the output member 56 to rotate together with the output member 56 relative to the housing 38 and the base member 12 around the third pivot axis A3.

The external force EF is applied to at least one of the movable member 14 and the connecting rod assembly 16 in response to the physical contact between the obstacle and at least one of the movable member 14 and the connecting rod assembly 16. Therefore, the external rotational force ERF having the external torque ET is applied to the output member 56 via the connecting rod assembly 16 in response to the external force EF. It is preferable to limit the external torque ET from being transmitted from at least one of the movable member 14 and the connecting rod assembly 16 to the electric motor 54.

As shown in FIG8 , the motor unit 32 for the bicycle assembly RD includes a torque limiter 60 and a transmission structure 62. The torque limiter 60 is configured to protect the electric motor 54 from damage caused by the external force EF while allowing the necessary force to be transmitted from the electric motor 54 to at least one of the movable member 14 and the connecting rod assembly 16. The transmission structure 62 is configured to protect the electric motor 54 from damage caused by the external force EF while allowing the actuation force generated by the electric motor 54 to be transmitted to at least one of the movable member 14 and the connecting rod assembly 16. The torque limiter 60 has a structure different from that of the transmission structure 62.

The torque limiter 60 and the transmission structure 62 are provided on the power transmission path TP provided from the electric motor 54 to the output member 56 and between the electric motor 54 and the output member 56. The transmission structure 62 is provided on the power transmission path TP provided from the electric motor 54 to the output member 56 and between the electric motor 54 and the torque limiter 60. The torque limiter 60 is provided on the power transmission path TP and between the transmission structure 62 and the output member 56. The power transmission path TP is defined from the electric motor 54 to the output member 56 through the transmission structure 62 and the torque limiter 60.

The torque limiter 60 and the transmission structure 62 are configured to transmit the actuation force generated by the electric motor 54 to at least one of the movable member 14 and the connecting rod assembly 16. The torque limiter 60 is configured to limit the force from being transmitted from one of the movable member 14 and the connecting rod assembly 16 to the transmission structure 62. The transmission structure 62 is configured to limit the force from being transmitted from the torque limiter 60 to the electric motor 54.

The motor unit 32 further includes a speed reducer 63. The speed reducer 63 couples the electric motor 54 and the output member 56 to transmit the output torque T0 of the electric motor 54 to the output member 56. In the present embodiment, the speed reducer 63 includes a torque limiter 60 and a transmission structure 62. However, if necessary and/or desired, one of the torque limiter 60 and the transmission structure 62 may be omitted from the speed reducer 63. If necessary and/or desired, in addition to the torque limiter 60 and the transmission structure 62, the speed reducer 63 may also include a structure other than the torque limiter 60 and the transmission structure 62.

The electric motor 54 includes an output shaft 54A. The electric motor 54 includes a motor gear 54B and a motor housing 54C. The motor gear 54B is fixed to the output shaft 54A. The electric motor 54 is configured to rotate the output shaft 54A relative to the motor housing 54C around the motor rotation axis A9. The electric motor 54 is configured to generate an output torque T0.

As shown in FIG9 , the electric motor 54 is coupled to the transmission structure 62. The electric motor 54 is coupled to the transmission structure 62 via at least one gear. The speed reducer 63 includes gears G1, G2, G3, G4, and G5. That is, the motor unit 32 includes gears G1 to G5. The electric motor 54 is coupled to the transmission structure 62 via gears G1 to G5. Gear G1 is engaged with the motor gear 54B of the electric motor 54. Gear G2 is rotatable together with gear G1 relative to the housing 38 (see, for example, FIG16 ). Gear G2 is engaged with gear G3. Gear G4 is rotatable together with gear G3 relative to the housing 38 (see, for example, FIG16 ). Gear G4 is engaged with gear G5. Transmission structure 62 is coupled to gear G5 to receive the actuating force generated by electric motor 54 via gears G1 to G5.

The transmission structure 62 is coupled to the torque limiter 60. The transmission structure 62 is coupled to the torque limiter 60 via at least one gear. The speed reducer 63 includes gears G6 and G7. That is, the motor unit 32 further includes a gear G7. The transmission structure 62 is coupled to the torque limiter 60 via gears G6 and G7. Gear G6 is coupled to the transmission structure 62 to receive a rotational force from the transmission structure 62. Gear G7 is engaged with gear G6. Gear G7 is coupled to the torque limiter 60 to transmit a rotational force between the torque limiter 60 and gear G7.

As shown in FIG8 , the transmission structure 62 is configured to transmit the first torque T1 in the first load direction LD1 defined by the electric motor 54 toward the output member 56. The transmission structure 62 is configured to transmit the first torque T1 in the first load direction LD1 defined by the output shaft 54A toward the output member 56. When the first input torque T11 is applied to the transmission structure 62 by a device other than the torque limiter 60, the transmission structure 62 is configured to transmit the first torque T1 to the torque limiter 60.

The transmission structure 62 is configured to receive the first input torque T11 from the electric motor 54 via the gear G5 in the first load direction LD1. The transmission structure 62 is configured to transmit the first torque T1 to the gear G6 in the first load direction LD1. The first torque T1 may also be referred to as the first output torque T1. In this embodiment, the first torque T1 is equal to the first input torque T11. However, if necessary and/or desired, the first torque T1 may be different from the first input torque T11.

The transmission structure 62 is configured to transmit the second torque T2 in the second load direction LD2 defined by the output member 56 toward the electric motor 54. The transmission structure 62 is configured to transmit the second torque T2 in the second load direction LD2 defined by the output member 56 toward the output shaft 54A. When the second input torque T21 is applied to the transmission structure 62 by the torque limiter 60, the transmission structure 62 is configured to transmit the second torque T2.

The transmission structure 62 is configured to receive the second input torque T21 from the torque limiter 60 via the gear G6 in the second load direction LD2. The transmission structure 62 is configured to transmit the second torque T2 to the gear G5 in the second load direction LD2. The second torque T2 may also be referred to as a second output torque T2.

In this embodiment, the second torque T2 is lower than the second input torque T12. The second torque T2 may include zero. The second torque T2 may be zero. The transmission structure 62 is configured to reduce the second input torque T21 to the second torque T2 in the second load direction LD2. The transmission structure 62 is configured to limit the second input torque T21 from being transmitted to the gear G5 via the transmission structure 62 in the second load direction LD2. The transmission structure 62 is configured to limit the torque from being transmitted to the gear G5 in the second load direction LD2. Therefore, the transmission structure 62 is configured not to transmit the torque transmitted to the transmission structure 62 in the second load direction LD2 to the electric motor 54. However, if necessary and/or desired, the second torque T2 may be higher than zero.

The first torque T1 is higher than the second torque T2. In other words, the second torque T2 transmitted through the transmission structure 62 in the second load direction LD2 is lower than the first torque T1 transmitted through the transmission structure 62 in the first load direction LD1. However, if necessary and/or desired, the first torque T1 can be equal to or lower than the second torque T2.

As shown in FIG8 , the speed reducer 63 includes a gear G8. The gear G8 is coupled to the torque limiter 60. The output member 56 includes a shaft 56S and an output gear G9. The shaft 56S extends along the output rotation axis A5. The output gear G9 is coupled to the shaft 56S to rotate together with the shaft 56S around the output rotation axis A5. The gear G8 is engaged with the output gear G9.

The torque limiter 60 is configured to receive the third input torque T31 from the gear G7 in the first load direction LD1. The torque limiter 60 is configured to transmit the third output torque T32 or the limited output torque T33 to the gear G8 in the first load direction LD1.

When the third input torque T31 is lower than the torque threshold, the torque limiter 60 is configured to transmit the third output torque T32 equal to the third input torque T31 to the gear G8 in the first load direction LD1. When the third input torque T31 is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the torque limiter 60 is configured to transmit the limited output torque T33 lower than the third input torque T31 to the gear G8 in the first load direction LD1. When the third input torque T31 is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the torque limiter 60 is configured to reduce the third input torque T31 to the limited output torque T33.

In this embodiment, the limited output torque T33 is lower than the torque threshold. The limited output torque T33 may include zero. The limited output torque T33 may be zero or approximately zero. However, if necessary and/or desired, the limited output torque T33 may be higher than zero.

The torque limiter 60 is configured to receive the third input torque T31 from the electric motor 54 via the transmission structure 62 and the gears G1 to G7. The torque threshold is higher than the possible maximum value of the third input torque T31. Therefore, when the torque limiter 60 receives the third input torque T31 from the electric motor 54 via the transmission structure 62 and the gears G1 to G7, the torque limiter 60 is configured to transmit the output torque T33 to the gear G8.

8 , the torque limiter 60 is configured to receive the fourth input torque T41 from the gear G8 in the second load direction LD2. The torque limiter 60 is configured to transmit the fourth output torque T42 or the limited output torque T43 to the gear G7 in the second load direction LD2.

When the fourth input torque T41 is lower than the torque threshold, the torque limiter 60 is configured to transmit the fourth output torque T42 equal to the fourth input torque T41 to the gear G7 in the second load direction LD2. When the fourth input torque T41 is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the torque limiter 60 is configured to transmit the limited output torque T43 lower than the fourth input torque T41 to the gear G7 in the second load direction LD2. When the fourth input torque T41 is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the torque limiter 60 is configured to reduce the fourth input torque T41 to the limited output torque T43.

In this embodiment, the limited output torque T43 is lower than the fourth output torque T42 and the torque threshold. The limited output torque T43 may include zero. The limited output torque T43 may be zero or approximately zero. The fourth output torque T42 may also be referred to as the third torque T42. The limited output torque T43 may also be referred to as the fourth torque T43. The third torque T42 is higher than the fourth torque T43. In other words, the fourth torque T43 is lower than the third torque T42. However, if necessary and/or desired, the limited output torque T43 may be higher than zero.

When the external torque ET is applied to the output member 56 by at least one of the movable member 14 and the connecting rod group 16 , the fourth input torque T41 is applied to the torque limiter 60 by the output member 56 .

In a state where the torque input to the torque limiter 60 is lower than the torque threshold, the torque limiter 60 is configured to transmit the third torque T42. In a state where the fourth input torque T41 is lower than the torque threshold, the torque limiter 60 is configured to transmit the third torque T42 in the second load direction LD2. In a state where the torque input to the torque limiter 60 is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the torque limiter 60 is configured to transmit the fourth torque T43. In a state where the fourth input torque T41 is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the torque limiter 60 is configured to transmit the fourth torque T43 in the second load direction LD2. In other words, in a state where the external torque ET is lower than the external torque threshold, the torque limiter 60 is configured to transmit the third torque T42 in the second load direction LD2. When the external torque ET is equal to or higher than the external torque threshold, the torque limiter 60 is configured to transmit the fourth torque T43 in the second load direction LD2. The external torque threshold is a criterion for determining the external torque ET applied to the output member 56, and the torque threshold is a criterion for determining the fourth input torque T41 applied to the torque limiter 60.

As seen in FIG8 , the torque limiter 60 includes a first member 64 and a second member 66. In a state where the torque applied to the torque limiter 60 is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the first member 64 and the second member 66 are movable relative to each other. In a state where the torque is lower than the torque threshold, the first member 64 and the second member 66 are movable together with each other. In a state where the torque is lower than the torque threshold, the first member 64 and the second member 66 contact each other to transmit a third torque T42 between the first member 64 and the second member 66. In a state where the torque is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the first member 64 and the second member 66 are constructed to transmit a fourth torque T43 between the first member 64 and the second member 66.

In a state where the torque is lower than the torque threshold, the first member 64 and the second member 66 are slidably in contact with each other to transmit the third torque T42 between the first member 64 and the second member 66. In a state where the third input torque T31 applied to the first member 64 is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the first member 64 and the second member 66 are movable relative to each other. In a state where the third input torque T31 applied to the first member 64 is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the first member 64 is movable relative to the second member 66. In a state where the third input torque T31 is lower than the torque threshold, the first member 64 and the second member 66 are movable together with each other.

In a state where the fourth input torque T41 applied to the torque limiter 60 is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the first member 64 and the second member 66 are movable relative to each other. In a state where the fourth input torque T41 applied to the second member 66 is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the second member 66 is movable relative to the first member 64. In a state where the fourth input torque T41 is lower than the torque threshold, the first member 64 and the second member 66 are movable together with each other.

Gear G7 is fixed to the first member 64 to transmit torque from the transmission structure 62 to the first member 64. In this embodiment, gear G7 and the first member 64 are integrally formed as a one-piece unitary member. However, if necessary and/or desired, gear G7 can be a member separated from the first member 64.

When the external torque ET input to the output member 56 is lower than the external torque threshold, the second member 66 is configured to transmit the third torque T42 to the first member 64 in the second load direction LD2 defined by the output member 56 toward the electric motor 54. When the external torque ET is equal to or greater than the external torque threshold, the second member 66 is configured to transmit the fourth torque T43 to the first member 64 in the second load direction LD2.

When the external torque ET input to the output member 56 is lower than the external torque threshold, the first member 64 may slidably contact the second member 66 to transmit the third torque T42 between the first member 64 and the second member 66. When the external torque ET is equal to or higher than the external torque threshold, the first member 64 may slidably contact the second member 66 to transmit the fourth torque T43 between the first member 64 and the second member 66.

The torque limiter 60 has a limiter rotation axis A6. The first member 64 is rotatable relative to the housing 38 (see, for example, FIG. 7 ) about the limiter rotation axis A6. The second member 66 is rotatable relative to the housing 38 (see, for example, FIG. 7 ) about the limiter rotation axis A6. When the torque applied to the torque limiter 60 is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the first member 64 and the second member 66 are rotatable relative to each other about the limiter rotation axis A6. When the torque applied to the torque limiter 60 is lower than the torque threshold, the first member 64 and the second member 66 are rotatable together with each other about the limiter rotation axis A6.

As shown in FIG. 10 , the torque limiter 60 includes a support shaft 67. The support shaft 67 extends along the limiter rotation axis A6. The support shaft 67 is rotatably supported by the housing 38 (see, for example, FIG. 7 ). The first member 64 is rotatable relative to the support shaft 67 around the limiter rotation axis A6. The second member 66 is coupled to the support shaft 67 to rotate together with the support shaft 67 around the limiter rotation axis A6. The support shaft 67 movably supports the second member 66. The second member 66 is movable relative to the support shaft 67 along the limiter rotation axis A6.

Gear G8 is coupled to support shaft 67. In this embodiment, gear G8 and support shaft 67 are integrally formed as a one-piece unitary component. However, if necessary and/or desired, gear G8 can be a component separate from support shaft 67.

The gear G8 is engaged with the output gear G9 of the output member 56. Therefore, the output member 56 rotates around the output rotation axis A5 in response to the rotation of the second member 66 and the support shaft 67 around the limiter rotation axis A6. The second member 66 and the support shaft 67 rotate around the limiter rotation axis A6 in response to the rotation of the output member 56 around the output rotation axis A5.

As seen in Fig. 10, the torque limiter 60 includes a guide member 76. The guide member 76 is coupled to the support shaft 67 to guide the second member 66 along the limiter rotation axis A6. The guide member 76 is coupled to the support shaft 67 to rotate around the limiter rotation axis A6 together with the support shaft 67. The guide member 76 is fixed to the support shaft 67.

The support shaft 67 includes a bolt groove portion 67A. The guide member 76 includes a bolt groove hole 76A. The bolt groove portion 67A of the support shaft 67 is engaged with the bolt groove hole 76A of the guide member 76. The bolt groove portion 67A is fixed to the bolt groove hole 76A by a fixing structure such as press fitting and adhesive. Therefore, the guide member 76 is fixed to the support shaft 67 via the bolt groove portion 67A and the bolt groove hole 76A. The guide member 76 is coupled to the support shaft 67 to rotate together with the support shaft 67 around the limiter rotation axis A6.

The guide member 76 includes a guide base 76B and at least one first guide portion 76G. The guide base 76B includes a bolt slot 76A. The guide base 76B is annular. In this embodiment, the guide member 76 includes at least two first guide portions 76G. The first guide portion 76G extends from the guide base 76B along the limiter rotation axis A6. The at least two first guide portions 76G are circumferentially spaced from each other around the limiter rotation axis A6.

The second component 66 includes a base portion 66A and a second guide portion 66G. The base portion 66A is annular. In this embodiment, the second component 66 includes at least two second guide portions 66G. The second guide portion 66G extends from the base portion 66A along the limiter rotation axis A6. The at least two second guide portions 66G are circumferentially spaced from each other around the limiter rotation axis A6.

In this embodiment, the total number of the first guide portions 76G is three. The total number of the second guide portions 66G is three. However, the total number of the first guide portions 76G is not limited to three. The total number of the second guide portions 66G is not limited to three.

As shown in FIG. 11 , at least two second guide portions 66G are joined to at least two first guide portions 76G. The second guide portion 66G is circumferentially disposed between two adjacent guide portions of the at least two first guide portions 76G. The first guide portion 76G is circumferentially disposed between two adjacent guide portions of the at least two second guide portions 66G. Therefore, the second member 66 is movable relative to the support shaft 67 and the guide member 76 along the limiter rotation axis A6, but does not rotate relative to the support shaft 67.

The torque limiter 60 includes a biasing member 78. The biasing member 78 is configured to bias at least one of the first member 64 and the second member 66 to maintain a contact state between the first member 64 and the second member 66. The biasing member 78 is configured to bias at least one of the first member 64 and the second member 66 to maintain a slidable contact state between the first member 64 and the second member 66. The biasing member 78 is disposed between the second member 66 and the guide member 76. The biasing member 78 is disposed between the base portion 66A and the guide base 76B. The first guide portion 76G and the second guide portion 66G are disposed in the biasing member 78.

As seen in FIG. 12 , in this embodiment, the biasing member 78 comprises a coil wave spring. However, if necessary and/or desired, the biasing member 78 may comprise other members, such as a disc spring, a coil spring, a resilient member (e.g., rubber), in place of or in addition to the coil wave spring. In FIGS. 8 to 11 , the biasing member 78 is shown in a simplified manner.

11 , the biasing member 78 is configured to bias the second member 66 toward the first member 64 to maintain the contact state between the first member 64 and the second member 66. The biasing member 78 is configured to bias the second member 66 toward the first member 64 to maintain the slidable contact state between the first member 64 and the second member 66.

However, if needed and/or desired, the biasing member 78 can be configured to bias the first member 64 toward the second member 66 to maintain contact between the first member 64 and the second member 66. If needed and/or desired, the biasing member 78 can be configured to bias the first member 64 and the second member 66 toward each other to maintain contact between the first member 64 and the second member 66. If needed and/or desired, the biasing member 78 can be configured to bias the first member 64 toward the second member 66 to maintain slidable contact between the first member 64 and the second member 66. If needed and/or desired, the biasing member 78 can be configured to bias the first member 64 and the second member 66 toward each other to maintain slidable contact between the first member 64 and the second member 66.

As seen in FIGS. 13 and 14 , one of the first member 64 and the second member 66 includes a recess. The other of the first member 64 and the second member 66 includes a protrusion. In this embodiment, the first member 64 includes a recess 64R. The second member 66 includes a recess 66R. The base portion 66A of the second member 66 includes a recess 66R. The first member 64 includes a protrusion 64P. The second member 66 includes a protrusion 66P. The base portion 66A of the second member 66 includes a protrusion 66P.

More specifically, the first member 64 includes at least two recesses 64R. The second member 66 includes at least two recesses 66R. The base portion 66A of the second member 66 includes at least two recesses 66R. The first member 64 includes at least two protrusions 64P. The second member 66 includes at least two protrusions 66P. The base portion 66A of the second member 66 includes at least two protrusions 66P. The recess 64R is disposed between two adjacent protrusions of the at least two protrusions 64P. The recess 66R is disposed between two adjacent protrusions of the at least two protrusions 66P. However, if needed and/or desired, only one of the first member 64 and the second member 66 may include a recess. If needed and/or desired, only the other of the first member 64 and the second member 66 may include a protrusion.

11 , when the torque (e.g., the fourth input torque T41) is lower than the torque threshold, the protrusion 64P is configured to engage in the recess 66R to transmit the third torque T42 between the first member 64 and the second member 66. When the torque (e.g., the fourth input torque T41) is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the protrusion 64P is configured to disengage from the recess 66R to transmit the fourth torque T43 between the first member 64 and the second member 66.

When the torque (e.g., the fourth input torque T41) is lower than the torque threshold, the protrusion 66P is configured to engage in the recess 64R to transmit the third torque T42 between the first member 64 and the second member 66. When the torque (e.g., the fourth input torque T41) is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the protrusion 66P is configured to disengage from the recess 64R to transmit the fourth torque T43 between the first member 64 and the second member 66.

As shown in FIG15 , the protrusion 64P includes a first inclined surface 64PA and a second inclined surface 64PB. The first inclined surface 64PA and the second inclined surface 64PB at least partially define the recess 64R. The first inclined surface 64PA is non-parallel and non-perpendicular to the limiter rotation axis A6. The second inclined surface 64PB is non-parallel and non-perpendicular to the limiter rotation axis A6.

The protrusion 66P includes a first inclined surface 66PA and a second inclined surface 66PB. The first inclined surface 66PA and the second inclined surface 66PB at least partially define the recess 66R. The first inclined surface 66PA is non-parallel and non-perpendicular to the limiter rotation axis A6. The second inclined surface 66PB is non-parallel and non-perpendicular to the limiter rotation axis A6.

The first inclined surface 64PA may contact the first inclined surface 66PA. The second inclined surface 64PB may contact the second inclined surface 66PB. In a state where the protrusion 64P is disposed in the recess 66R and the protrusion 66P is disposed in the recess 64R, the first inclined surface 64PA contacts the first inclined surface 66PA. In a state where the protrusion 64P is disposed in the recess 66R and the protrusion 66P is disposed in the recess 64R, the second inclined surface 64PB contacts the second inclined surface 66PB.

As shown in FIG. 15 , the second member 66 is movable between a first position P11 and a second position P12 relative to the first member 64 in an axial direction D1 parallel to the limiter rotation axis A6. For example, the first position P11 and the second position P12 are defined based on the end of the protruding portion 66P. However, the first position P11 and the second position P12 may be defined based on another portion of the second member 66.

When the second member 66 is at the first position P11 relative to the first member 64, the protrusion 64P is configured to engage in the recess 66R to transmit the third torque T42 between the first member 64 and the second member 66. When the second member 66 is at the first position P11 relative to the first member 64, the protrusion 66P is configured to engage in the recess 64R to transmit the third torque T42 between the first member 64 and the second member 66. Specifically, when the second member 66 is at the first position P11 relative to the first member 64, the protrusion 64P is configured to be at least partially disposed between two adjacent protrusions of the protrusion 66P to transmit the third torque T42 between the first member 64 and the second member 66. When the second member 66 is at the first position P11 relative to the first member 64, the protrusion 66P is configured to be at least partially disposed between two adjacent protrusions of the protrusion 64P to transmit the third torque T42 between the first member 64 and the second member 66. More specifically, when the second member 66 is at the first position P11 relative to the first member 64, the first inclined surface 64PA contacts the second inclined surface 66PA to transmit the third torque T42 between the first member 64 and the second member 66. When the second member 66 is at the first position P11 relative to the first member 64, the first inclined surface 64PB contacts the second inclined surface 66PB to transmit the third torque T42 between the first member 64 and the second member 66.

When the second member 66 is in the first position P11, the protrusion 64P is disposed in the recess 66R. When the second member 66 is in the first position P11, the protrusion 66P is disposed in the recess 64R. When no torque is input to the first member 64 and the second member 66, the second member 66 is maintained in the first position P11 by the biasing force of the biasing member 78.

When torque is input to one of the first member 64 and the second member 66, one of the first inclined surface 64PA and the second inclined surface 64PB of the protruding portion 64P guides the protruding portion 66P to the axial end of the protruding portion 64P in a state where the torque is equal to or higher than the torque threshold so that the protruding portion 66P is separated from the recess 64R. That is, when torque is input to one of the first member 64 and the second member 66, one of the first inclined surface 64PA and the second inclined surface 64PB of the protruding portion 64P guides the protruding portion 66P to the axial end of the protruding portion 64P in a state where the torque is equal to or higher than the torque threshold so as to move the second member 66 from the first position P11 to the second position P12 against the biasing force of the biasing member 78.

In a state where the torque is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the protrusion 66P moves from the axial end of the protrusion 64P to the recess 66R along one of the first inclined surface 64PA and the second inclined surface 64PB of the protrusion 64P, and the second member 66 moves from the second position P12 to the first position P11. While one of the first member 64 and the second member 66 receives a torque equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the protrusion 66P repeatedly disengages from and engages with the recess 64R, allowing the first member 64 and the second member 66 to rotate relative to each other about the limiter rotation axis A6.

While the protrusion 66P and the recess 64R are repeatedly disengaged and engaged, the fourth torque T43 is transmitted between the first member 64 and the second member 66. While the first member 64 and the second member 66 rotate relative to each other, the fourth torque T43 depends on the rotational resistance generated by the protrusion 64P, the protrusion 66P, the recess 64R, and the recess 66R. For example, the fourth torque T43 is substantially zero.

The structure of the torque limiter 60 is not limited to the specific embodiment shown. The torque limiter 60 may have other structures, such as a friction torque limiter and a ball clutch.

As seen in FIG16 , the torque limiter 60 is entirely disposed within the housing 38 of the motor unit 32. The torque limiter 60 is entirely disposed within the interior space 38S of the housing 38. However, if necessary and/or desired, the torque limiter 60 may be partially disposed within the housing 38 of the motor unit 32. If necessary and/or desired, the torque limiter 60 may be partially disposed within the interior space 38S of the housing 38.

The transmission structure 62 has a transmission structure rotation axis A7. In this embodiment, the limiter rotation axis A6 does not coincide with the transmission structure rotation axis A7. The limiter rotation axis A6 is offset from the transmission structure rotation axis A7. The limiter rotation axis A6 is parallel to the transmission structure rotation axis A7. However, if needed and/or desired, the limiter rotation axis A6 can be non-parallel to the transmission structure rotation axis A7. If needed and/or desired, the limiter rotation axis A6 can coincide with the transmission structure rotation axis A7.

As shown in FIG. 17 , the transmission structure 62 includes a first bearing ring 80 and a second bearing ring 81. The first bearing ring 80 is fixed to the housing 38. The second bearing ring 81 extends along the transmission structure rotation axis A7. The second bearing ring 81 is rotatable relative to the first bearing ring 80 around the transmission structure rotation axis A7. The first bearing ring 80 is at least partially disposed radially outward of the second bearing ring 81. The second bearing ring 81 is at least partially disposed radially inward of the first bearing ring 80.

The first bearing ring 80 includes an outer bearing ring 83 in an annular shape. The second bearing ring 81 includes an inner bearing ring 81A. The inner bearing ring 81A is at least partially disposed radially inward of the outer bearing ring 83. The first bearing ring 80 includes a hole 80H. The second bearing ring 81 extends through the hole 80H along the transmission structure rotation axis A7. The second bearing ring 81 includes a rod portion 81B. The rod portion 81B extends from the inner bearing ring 81A along the transmission structure rotation axis A7. The rod portion 81B extends through the hole 80H of the first bearing ring 80 along the transmission structure rotation axis A7.

The transmission structure 62 includes a first intermediate element 84. The first intermediate element 84 is at least partially disposed between the first bearing ring 80 and the second bearing ring 81. In this embodiment, the first intermediate element 84 is entirely disposed between the first bearing ring 80 and the second bearing ring 81. However, if needed and/or desired, the first intermediate element 84 can be partially disposed between the first bearing ring 80 and the second bearing ring 81.

As shown in FIG. 18 , the first intermediate element 84 includes a first rotatable member 84A and a second rotatable member 84B. In this embodiment, the first intermediate element 84 includes at least two first rotatable members 84A and at least two second rotatable members 84B. The total number of the first rotatable members 84A is six. The total number of the second rotatable members 84B is six. The first rotatable member 84A is cylindrical. The second rotatable member 84B is cylindrical.

However, the total number of the first rotatable members 84A is not limited to six. The total number of the second rotatable members 84B is not limited to six. The structure of the first intermediate element 84 is not limited to the first rotatable member 84A and the second rotatable member 84B. If necessary and/or desired, one of the first rotatable member 84A and the second rotatable member 84B can be omitted from the first intermediate element 84. If necessary and/or desired, the first rotatable member 84A can have a non-columnar shape. If necessary and/or desired, the second rotatable member 84B can have a non-columnar shape.

The first rotatable member 84A is at least partially disposed between the first bearing ring 80 and the second bearing ring 81. The second rotatable member 84B is at least partially disposed between the first bearing ring 80 and the second bearing ring 81. In this embodiment, the first rotatable member 84A is entirely disposed between the first bearing ring 80 and the second bearing ring 81. The second rotatable member 84B is entirely disposed between the first bearing ring 80 and the second bearing ring 81. However, if needed and/or desired, the first rotatable member 84A can be partially disposed between the first bearing ring 80 and the second bearing ring 81. If needed and/or desired, the second rotatable member 84B can be partially disposed between the first bearing ring 80 and the second bearing ring 81.

The first rotatable member 84A and the second rotatable member 84B are alternately arranged in the circumferential direction D3 around the transmission structure rotation axis A7. The first rotatable member 84A and the second rotatable member 84B are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction D3.

The first bearing ring 80 includes an inner peripheral surface 80A. The second bearing ring 81 includes at least two contact surfaces 81C. The total number of the contact surfaces 81C is six. The contact surfaces 81C include flat surfaces. However, the total number of the contact surfaces 81C is not limited to six. If necessary and/or desired, the contact surface 81C may have a shape of a non-flat surface.

The first rotatable member 84A and the second rotatable member 84B are provided between the inner peripheral surface 80A of the first bearing ring 80 and the contact surface 81C of the second bearing ring 81. The first rotatable member 84A and the second rotatable member 84B may contact the inner peripheral surface 80A of the first bearing ring 80 and the contact surface 81C of the second bearing ring 81.

The first intermediate element 84 includes at least one intermediate member group 84G, and the intermediate member group 84G is composed of a first rotatable member 84A and a second rotatable member 84B. In this specific aspect, the first intermediate element 84 includes six intermediate member groups 84G, each of which is composed of a first rotatable member 84A and a second rotatable member 84B. The intermediate member group 84G is at least partially arranged between the inner circumferential surface 80A of the first bearing ring 80 and the contact surface 81C of the second bearing ring 81. The intermediate member groups 84G are separated from each other in the circumferential direction D3. The intermediate member groups 84G correspond to the contact surface 81C of the second bearing ring 81, respectively. However, the total number of the intermediate member groups 84G composed of the first rotatable member 84A and the second rotatable member 84B is not limited to six.

The transmission structure 62 includes at least one biasing element 85. The biasing element 85 is configured to bias the first rotatable member 84A and the second rotatable member 84B to move away from each other. In this embodiment, the transmission structure 62 includes at least two biasing elements 85. The biasing element 85 is disposed between the first rotatable member 84A and the second rotatable member 84B of the intermediate member group 84G to bias the first rotatable member 84A and the second rotatable member 84B to move away from each other. The total number of biasing elements 85 is six. The biasing element 85 includes a spring, such as a coil spring and a leaf spring. However, if necessary and/or desired, the biasing element 85 may include a non-spring member (e.g., an elastic member, such as rubber). The total number of bias elements 85 is not limited to six.

The contact surface 81C of the second bearing ring 81 includes a first circumferential end 81C1 and a second circumferential end 81C2. The contact surface 81C extends between the first circumferential end 81C1 and the second circumferential end 81C2. The first circumferential end 81C1 is closer to the first rotatable member 84A than the second circumferential end 81C2. The second circumferential end 81C2 is closer to the second rotatable member 84B than the first circumferential end 81C1.

The first radial distance DS1 is radially defined between the inner circumferential surface 80A of the first bearing ring 80 and the first circumferential end 81C1 of the contact surface 81C of the second bearing ring 81. The second radial distance DS2 is radially defined between the inner circumferential surface 80A of the first bearing ring 80 and the second circumferential end 81C2 of the contact surface 81C of the second bearing ring 81. The first rotatable member 84A has a first diameter DM1. The second rotatable member 84B has a second diameter DM2. The first radial distance DS1 is shorter than the first diameter DM1. The second radial distance DS2 is shorter than the second diameter DM2.

Because the biasing element 75 has a biasing force, the biasing element 85 biases the first rotatable member 84A to keep the first rotatable member 84A in contact with the inner peripheral surface 80A of the first bearing ring 80 and the contact surface 81C of the second bearing ring 81. Because the biasing element 85 has a biasing force, the biasing element 85 biases the second rotatable member 84B to keep the second rotatable member 84B in contact with the inner peripheral surface 80A of the first bearing ring 80 and the contact surface 81C of the second bearing ring 81.

As shown in FIG19 , the transmission structure 62 includes a second intermediate element 86. The second intermediate element 86 is at least partially disposed between the first bearing ring 80 and the second bearing ring 81. In this embodiment, the second intermediate element 86 is partially disposed between the first bearing ring 80 and the second bearing ring 81. However, the second intermediate element 86 may be entirely disposed between the first bearing ring 80 and the second bearing ring 81.

The second intermediate element 86 is rotatable about the transmission structure rotation axis A7 relative to the first bearing ring 80. The second intermediate element 86 includes a shaft 88. The shaft 88 extends along the transmission structure rotation axis A7. The second bearing ring 81 includes a support hole 81H. The shaft 88 is rotatably disposed in the support hole 81H.

The second intermediate element 86 includes a coupling member 90. The coupling member 90 is fastened to the shaft 88. The coupling member 90 is a member separate from the shaft 88. However, if necessary and/or desired, the coupling member 90 can be integrally provided with the shaft 88 as a one-piece unitary member.

The coupling member 90 includes a base portion 92, at least two intermediate portions 94, and at least two transmission portions 96. The base portion 92 is fastened to the shaft 88. The base portion 92 extends radially outward from the shaft 88. The intermediate portion 94 extends from the base portion 92 along the transmission structure rotation axis A7. The intermediate portion 94 is at least partially disposed between the first bearing ring 80 and the second bearing ring 81. The second bearing ring 81 includes at least two transmission holes 81D. The transmission portion 96 is disposed in the transmission hole 81D of the second bearing ring 81. The transmission portion 96 can contact the second bearing ring 81 to transmit rotation between the second bearing ring 81 and the second intermediate member 86 around the transmission structure rotation axis A7.

As shown in FIG. 18 , the total number of the intermediate portions 94 is six. The total number of the transmission portions 96 is six. The total number of the transmission holes 81D is six. However, the total number of the intermediate portions 94 is not limited to six. The total number of the transmission portions 96 is not limited to six. The total number of the transmission holes 81D is not limited to six.

The middle portion 94 is at least partially disposed between two adjacent middle member groups 84G in the circumferential direction D3. The middle portion 94 is at least partially disposed between the first rotatable member 84A of one middle member group 84G and the second rotatable member 84B of another middle member group 84G in the circumferential direction D3.

In the present embodiment, the base portion 92, the at least two middle portions 94, and the at least two transmission portions 96 are integrally formed as a one-piece unitary component. However, if necessary and/or desired, at least one of the base portion 92, the at least two middle portions 94, and the at least two transmission portions 96 can be a separate component from another of the base portion 92, the at least two middle portions 94, and the at least two transmission portions 96.

As shown in FIG. 20 , the second intermediate element 86 can rotate from a neutral position P20 in the first circumferential direction D21 to a first rotation position P21 relative to the second bearing ring 81 around the transmission structure rotation axis A7. As shown in FIG. 21 , the second intermediate element 86 can rotate from a neutral position P20 in a second circumferential direction D22 different from the first circumferential direction D21 to a second rotation position P22 relative to the second bearing ring 81 around the transmission structure rotation axis A7. In this embodiment, the second circumferential direction D22 is a direction opposite to the first circumferential direction D21. However, the second circumferential direction D22 may be a direction opposite to the first circumferential direction D21.

As shown in Figures 18, 20, and 21, the transmission portion 96 can contact the inner peripheral surface of the transmission hole 81D. As shown in Figure 18, when the second intermediate element 86 is in the initial state of the neutral position P20, the transmission portion 96 is separated from the inner peripheral surface of the transmission hole 81D. As shown in Figure 20, when the second intermediate element 86 is in the first rotation state of the first rotation position P21, the transmission portion 96 contacts the inner peripheral surface of the transmission hole 81D. As shown in Figure 21, when the second intermediate element 86 is in the second rotation state of the second rotation position P22, the transmission portion 96 contacts the inner peripheral surface of the transmission hole 81D.

As shown in Figures 18, 20, and 21, the middle portion 94 can contact each of the first rotatable member 84A and the second rotatable member 84B. As shown in Figure 18, when the second intermediate element 86 is in the initial state of the neutral position P20, the middle portion 94 is separated from each of the first rotatable member 84A and the second rotatable member 84B. As shown in Figure 20, when the second intermediate element 86 is in the first rotation state of the first rotation position P21, the middle portion 94 contacts the first rotatable member 84A. As shown in Figure 21, when the second intermediate element 86 is in the second rotation state of the second rotation position P22, the middle portion 94 contacts the second rotatable member 84B.

As shown in FIG. 18 , when the second bearing ring 81 receives the first rotational force F11 having the second input torque T21 in the first circumferential direction D21, the first intermediate element 84 is configured to restrict the second bearing ring 81 from rotating relative to the transmission structure rotation axis A7 in the first circumferential direction D21 and relative to the first bearing ring 80. When the second bearing ring 81 receives the second rotational force F12 having the second input torque T21 in the second circumferential direction D22, the first intermediate element 84 is configured to restrict the second bearing ring 81 from rotating relative to the transmission structure rotation axis A7 in the second circumferential direction D22 and relative to the first bearing ring 80.

The first intermediate element 84 is configured to move toward the first bearing ring 80 in response to the first intermediate element 84 being pushed by the second bearing ring 81 in the first circumferential direction D21 relative to the transmission structure rotation axis A7. The first intermediate element 84 is configured to move toward the first bearing ring 80 in response to the first intermediate element 84 being pushed by the second bearing ring 81 in the second circumferential direction D22 different from the first circumferential direction D21. In a state where the second bearing ring 81 pushes the first intermediate element 84 and the second intermediate element 86 does not push the first intermediate element 84, the first intermediate element 84 is configured to rotate together with the first bearing ring 80. When the second bearing ring 81 pushes the first intermediate element 84 and the second intermediate element 86 does not push the first intermediate element 84, since the first bearing ring 80 is fastened to the outer housing 38 of the motor unit 32, the first bearing ring 80 and the first intermediate element 84 are stationary relative to the outer housing 38 (see, for example, FIG. 16 ).

When the second bearing ring 81 receives the first rotational force F11 in the first circumferential direction D21, the first rotatable component 84A is configured to restrict the second bearing ring 81 from rotating relative to the transmission structure rotation axis A7 in the first circumferential direction D21 and relative to the first bearing ring 80. When the second bearing ring 81 receives the second rotational force F12 in the second circumferential direction D22, the second rotatable component 84B is configured to restrict the second bearing ring 81 from rotating relative to the transmission structure rotation axis A7 in the second circumferential direction D22 and relative to the first bearing ring 80.

As shown in FIG18 , when the second bearing ring 81 receives the first rotational force F11 in the first circumferential direction D21, the contact surface 81C of the second bearing ring 81 is configured to press the first rotatable member 84A against the inner circumferential surface 80A of the first bearing ring 80. When the second bearing ring 81 receives the first rotational force F11 in the first circumferential direction D21, the first bearing ring 80 and the second bearing ring 81 are locked by the first rotatable member 84A. When the second bearing ring 81 receives the first rotational force F11 in the first circumferential direction D21, the first rotatable member 84A is configured to restrict the second bearing ring 81 from rotating relative to the first bearing ring 80 in the first circumferential direction D21 around the transmission structure rotation axis A7. Therefore, the first bearing ring 80 fastened to the housing 38 (see, for example, FIG. 16 ) receives the first rotational force F11 transmitted to the second bearing ring 81.

When the second bearing ring 81 receives the second rotational force F12 in the second circumferential direction D22, the contact surface 81C of the second bearing ring 81 is configured to press the second rotatable member 84B against the inner circumferential surface 80A of the first bearing ring 80. When the second bearing ring 81 receives the second rotational force F12 in the second circumferential direction D22, the first bearing ring 80 and the second bearing ring 81 are locked by the second rotatable member 84B. When the second bearing ring 81 receives the second rotational force F12 in the second circumferential direction D22, the second rotatable member 84B is configured to restrict the second bearing ring 81 from rotating relative to the first bearing ring 80 in the second circumferential direction D22 around the transmission structure rotation axis A7. Therefore, the first bearing ring 80 fastened to the housing 38 (see, for example, FIG. 16 ) receives the second rotational force F12 transmitted to the second bearing ring 81.

When the second bearing ring 81 receives the second rotational force F12 in the second circumferential direction D22, the contact surface 81C of the second bearing ring 81 is configured not to press the first rotatable member 84A against the inner circumferential surface 80A of the first bearing ring 80. When the second bearing ring 81 receives the second rotational force F12 in the second circumferential direction D22, the first rotatable member 84A is configured not to restrict the second bearing ring 81 from rotating relative to the first bearing ring 80 in the second circumferential direction D22 around the transmission structure rotation axis A7.

When the second bearing ring 81 receives the first rotational force F11 in the first circumferential direction D21, the contact surface 81C of the second bearing ring 81 is configured not to press the second rotatable member 84B against the inner circumferential surface 80A of the first bearing ring 80. When the second bearing ring 81 receives the first rotational force F11 in the first circumferential direction D21, the second rotatable member 84B is configured to restrict the second bearing ring 81 from rotating relative to the first bearing ring 80 in the first circumferential direction D21 around the transmission structure rotation axis A7.

As shown in FIG. 20 , the first intermediate element 84 is configured to move away from the first bearing ring 80 in response to the first intermediate element 84 being pushed by the second intermediate element 86 in the first circumferential direction D21. In a state where the second intermediate element 86 pushes the first intermediate element 84 and the second bearing ring 81 does not push the first intermediate element 84, the first intermediate element 84 is configured to rotate relative to the first bearing ring 80. The first intermediate element 84 is configured to move radially inward relative to the transmission structure rotation axis A7 in response to the first intermediate element 84 being pushed by the second intermediate element 86 in the first circumferential direction D21.

When the second intermediate element 86 receives the first rotational force F21 having the first input torque T11 in the first circumferential direction D21, the second intermediate element 86 is configured to move the first intermediate element 84 relative to the second bearing ring 81 in the first circumferential direction D21 to allow the second bearing ring 81 to rotate relative to the first bearing ring 80 in the first circumferential direction D21 together with the second intermediate element 86. When the second intermediate element 86 receives the first rotational force F21 in the first circumferential direction D21, the first intermediate element 84 is configured to rotate together with the second bearing ring 81 and the second intermediate element 86 relative to the first bearing ring 80 in the first circumferential direction D21 around the transmission structure rotation axis A7.

The middle portion 94 of the second intermediate element 86 is configured to move the first rotatable member 84A relative to the second bearing ring 81 in the first circumferential direction D21 in response to the first rotation of the second intermediate element 86 from the neutral position P20 to the first rotation position P21 in the first circumferential direction D21. The transmission portion 96 of the second intermediate element 86 is configured to rotate the second bearing ring 81 relative to the first bearing ring 80 in the first circumferential direction D21 in response to the first rotation of the second intermediate element 86 from the first rotation position P21 in the first circumferential direction D21. When the second intermediate element 86 receives the first rotational force F21 having the first input torque T11 in the first circumferential direction D21, the second bearing ring 81, the first intermediate element 84, and the second intermediate element 86 rotate relative to the first bearing ring 80 in the first circumferential direction D21.

As shown in FIG. 21 , the first intermediate element 84 is configured to move away from the first bearing ring 80 in response to the first intermediate element 84 being pushed by the second intermediate element 86 in the second circumferential direction D22 different from the first circumferential direction D21. In a state where the second intermediate element 86 pushes the first intermediate element 84 and the second bearing ring 81 does not push the first intermediate element 84, the first intermediate element 84 is configured to rotate relative to the first bearing ring 80. The first intermediate element 84 is configured to move radially inward relative to the transmission structure rotation axis A7 in response to the first intermediate element 84 being pushed by the second intermediate element 86 in the second circumferential direction D22.

When the second intermediate element 86 receives the second rotational force F22 having the first input torque T11 in the second circumferential direction D22, the second intermediate element 86 is configured to move the first intermediate element 84 relative to the second bearing ring 81 in the second circumferential direction D22 to allow the second bearing ring 81 to rotate relative to the first bearing ring 80 in the second circumferential direction D22 together with the second intermediate element 86. When the second intermediate element 86 receives the second rotational force F22 in the second circumferential direction D22, the first intermediate element 84 is configured to rotate relative to the first bearing ring 80 in the second circumferential direction D22 around the transmission structure rotation axis A7.

The middle portion 94 of the second intermediate element 86 is configured to move the second rotatable member 84B relative to the second bearing ring 81 in the second circumferential direction D22 in response to the second rotation of the second intermediate element 86 from the neutral position P20 to the second rotation position P22 in the second circumferential direction D22. The transmission portion 96 of the second intermediate element 86 is configured to rotate the second bearing ring 81 relative to the first bearing ring 80 in the second circumferential direction D22 in response to the second rotation of the second intermediate element 86 from the second rotation position P22 in the second circumferential direction D22. When the second intermediate element 86 receives the second rotational force F22 having the first input torque T11 in the second circumferential direction D22, the second bearing ring 81, the first intermediate element 84, and the second intermediate element 86 rotate relative to the first bearing ring 80 in the second circumferential direction D22.

As shown in FIGS. 8, 20, and 21, when the transmission structure 62 transmits torque in the first load direction LD1, the transmission structure 62 is configured to transmit torque in multiple rotational directions based on the rotational direction of the output shaft 54A. The multiple rotational directions are defined around the transmission structure rotation axis A7. The multiple rotational directions include a first circumferential direction D21 and a second circumferential direction D22. When the transmission structure 62 transmits the first torque T1 in the first load direction LD1, the transmission structure 62 is configured to transmit the first torque T1 in the first circumferential direction D21 based on the first rotational direction D31 of the output shaft 54A. When the transmission structure 62 transmits the first torque T1 in the first load direction LD1, the transmission structure 62 is configured to transmit the first torque T1 in the second circumferential direction D22 based on the second rotation direction D32 of the output shaft 54A. The second rotation direction D32 is opposite to the first rotation direction D31.

As seen in FIG. 16 , the motor unit 32 further includes a detection object 100. The motor unit 32 includes a detector 102 configured to detect the detection object 100. The detection object 100 is configured to be detected by the detector 102. The detector 102 is configured to detect the position of the detection object 100. The detection object 100 is coupled to the support shaft 67 to rotate together with the support shaft 67 around the limiter rotation axis A6. The detector 102 is configured to detect the rotation position of the detection object 100. Therefore, the detector 102 is configured to detect the rotation position of the support shaft 67 of the torque limiter 60. The rotational position of the support shaft 67 corresponds to the position of the movable member 14 and the gear position of the retractor RD. Therefore, the detector 102 is configured to detect the position of the movable member 14 and the gear position of the retractor RD.

In this embodiment, the detector 102 includes a non-contact detector, such as an encoder. Examples of encoders include magnetic sensors (such as Hall sensors) and optical sensors (such as photo sensors). The detection object 100 includes a magnetic body (such as a magnet) and a light emitter (such as a light emitting diode [LED]). However, if necessary and/or desired, the detector 102 may include a contact detector. The detection object 100 may include a portion of a non-magnetic body or light emitter.

As shown in FIG8 , the detection object 100 is disposed on the downstream side of the power transmission path TP relative to the transmission structure 62. The detection object 100 is disposed on the downstream side of the power transmission path TP relative to the torque limiter 60. The detection object 100 is disposed on the downstream side of the power transmission path TP relative to the transmission structure 62 in the first load direction LD1. The detection object 100 is disposed on the downstream side of the power transmission path TP relative to the torque limiter 60 in the first load direction LD1.

As shown in FIG22 , the motor unit 32 includes an electronic controller 104, a motor driver 106, a communicator 108, a notification device 110, and an electric switch SW. The electronic controller 104 is electrically connected to the detector 102, the motor driver 106, the communicator 108, and the notification device 110. The power supply attachment structure 34 is electrically connected to the detector 102, the electronic controller 104, the motor driver 106, the communicator 108, and the notification device 110. The power source 36 is electrically connected to the detector 102 , the electronic controller 104 , the motor driver 106 , the communicator 108 , and the notification device 110 via the power supply attachment structure 34 , so as to supply power to the detector 102 , the electronic controller 104 , the motor driver 106 , the communicator 108 , and the notification device 110 via the power supply attachment structure 34 .

As shown in FIG22 , the electronic controller 104 includes a processor 104P, a memory 104M, a circuit board 104C, and a bus 104D. The processor 104P and the memory 104M are electrically mounted on the circuit board 104C. The processor 104P and the memory 104M are electrically connected to the circuit board 104C via the bus 104D. The processor 104P is electrically connected to the memory 104M via the circuit board 104C and the bus 104D.

For example, the processor 104P includes at least one of a central processing unit (CPU), a micro processing unit (MPU), and a memory controller. The memory 104M is electrically connected to the processor 104P. For example, the memory 104M includes at least one of a volatile memory and a non-volatile memory. Examples of volatile memory include random-access memory (RAM) and dynamic random-access memory (DRAM). Examples of non-volatile memory include read only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), and a hard disc drive (HDD). The memory 104M includes storage areas each having an address. The processor 104P is configured to control the memory 104M to store data in the storage area of the memory 104M and read data from the storage area of the memory 104M. The processor 104P may also be referred to as a hardware processor 104P. The memory 104M may also be referred to as a hardware memory 104M. The memory 104M may also be referred to as a computer-readable storage medium 104M.

The electronic controller 104 is programmed to execute at least one control algorithm of the dialer RD. The memory 104M (such as ROM) stores at least one program, including at least one program instruction. The at least one program is read into the processor 104P, and based on the at least one program, at least one control algorithm of the dialer RD is executed. The electronic controller 104 can also be called an electronic controller circuit 104. The electronic controller 104 can also be called a hardware electronic controller 104.

The structure of the electronic controller 104 is not limited to the above structure. The structure of the electronic controller 104 is not limited to the processor 104P, the memory 104M, and the bus 104D. The electronic controller 104 can be implemented by hardware alone or a combination of hardware and software. The processor 104P and the memory 104M can be integrated into a chip, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field programmable gate array (FPGA).

The communicator 108 is configured to communicate with other devices (e.g., operating devices 3 and 4, dialer FD). The communicator 108 includes a wireless communicator WC. The electronic controller 104 is electrically connected to the wireless communicator WC to control the wireless communicator WC. The electronic controller 104 is configured to control the wireless communicator WC to perform pairing between the wireless communicator WC and other wireless communicators such as the operating devices 3 and 4 and the dialer FD.

The wireless communicator WC is electrically connected to the processor 104P and the memory 104M via the circuit board 104C and the bus 104D. The wireless communicator WC includes a signal transmission circuit and a signal reception circuit. Therefore, the wireless communicator WC may also be referred to as a wireless communicator circuit WC.

The wireless communicator WC is constructed to use a predetermined wireless communication protocol to superimpose a digital signal on a carrier to transmit the signal wirelessly. In a first specific embodiment, the wireless communicator WC is constructed to encrypt the signal using a password key to generate an encrypted wireless signal. The wireless communicator WC includes at least one antenna. The wireless communicator WC is constructed to transmit a wireless signal via at least one antenna. The wireless communicator WC may include at least two antennas. In the case where the wireless communicator WC includes at least two antennas, the wireless communicator WC can be constructed to wirelessly communicate with another device of the bicycle 2 via one of the at least two antennas, and to wirelessly communicate with a wireless device (e.g., a smart phone, a tablet computer, a personal computer) via the other of the at least two antennas.

The wireless communicator WC is configured to receive wireless signals via an antenna. In a first embodiment, the wireless communicator WC is configured to decode the wireless signals to identify signals transmitted by other wireless communicators. The wireless communicator WC is configured to decrypt the wireless signals using a cryptographic key.

The operating device 3 is configured to generate a control signal in response to a user input. For example, the operating device 3 includes a first electrical switch, a first additional electrical switch, and a first communicator. The first electrical switch is configured to receive a first user input. The first additional electrical switch is configured to receive a first additional user input. The first communicator is configured to wirelessly transmit a control signal CS11 in response to the first user input received by the first electrical switch. The first communicator is configured to wirelessly transmit a control signal CS12 in response to the first additional user input received by the first additional electrical switch. For example, the control signal CS11 indicates an upshift of the dray RD. The control signal CS12 indicates a downshift of the dray RD. If necessary and/or desired, the operating device 3 can be configured to transmit the control signal via a cable.

The operating device 4 is configured to generate a control signal in response to a user input. For example, the operating device 4 includes a second electrical switch, a second additional electrical switch, and a second communicator. The second electrical switch is configured to receive a second user input. The second additional electrical switch is configured to receive a second additional user input. The second communicator is configured to wirelessly transmit a control signal CS21 in response to the second user input received by the second electrical switch. The second communicator is configured to wirelessly transmit a control signal CS22 in response to the second additional user input received by the second additional electrical switch. For example, the control signal CS21 indicates an upshift of the dray FD. The control signal CS22 indicates a downshift of the dray FD. If necessary and/or desired, the operating device 4 can be configured to transmit the control signal via a cable.

The wireless communicator WC is configured to wirelessly receive control signals CS11, CS12, CS21, CS22 transmitted from the operating devices 3 and 4. The electronic controller 104 is configured to receive control signals CS11, CS12, CS21, CS22 transmitted wirelessly from the operating devices 3 and 4 via the wireless communicator WC. The wireless communicator WC is configured to wirelessly communicate with the wireless communicator of the dial-up device FD. The wireless communicator WC is configured to wirelessly transmit the control signals CS21 and CS22 transmitted from the operating device 4 to the dial-up device FD. If necessary and/or desired, the communicator 108 may include a wired communicator configured to communicate with another wired communicator via a cable.

The motor driver 106 is electrically connected to the electric motor 54 and the electronic controller 104 to control the electric motor 54 based on the control signal transmitted from the electronic controller 104. The motor driver 106 is configured to control the power supplied by the power source 36 based on the control signals CS11 and CS12 transmitted from the electronic controller 104. That is, the electronic controller 104 is configured to control the electric motor 54 based on the control signals CS11 and CS12 transmitted from the operating devices 3 and 4.

The wireless communicator WC has a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode, the power consumption of the wireless communicator WC is the first power consumption. In the second mode, the power consumption of the wireless communicator WC is the second power consumption. The second power consumption is lower than the first power consumption. For example, in the first mode, the electronic controller 104 controls the power to be supplied from the power source 36 to the signal receiving circuit and the signal transmitting circuit of the wireless communicator WC. In the second mode, the electronic controller 104 controls the power to be supplied from the power source 36 to the signal receiving circuit of the wireless communicator WC but not to the signal transmitting circuit of the wireless communicator WC. Therefore, in the second mode, the wireless communicator WC is constructed to recognize the control signals CS11, CS12, CS21, CS22 without sending the control signals CS21 and CS22.

In the first mode, the electronic controller 104 is configured to control the electric motor 54 based on the control signal CS11 received from the operating device 3 via the wireless communicator WC to move the movable member 14 from the current gear position to the target gear position in the upshift direction. In the first mode, the electronic controller 104 is configured to control the electric motor 54 based on the control signal CS12 received from the operating device 3 via the wireless communicator WC to move the movable member 14 from the current gear position to the target gear position in the downshift direction.

In the first mode, the electronic controller 104 is configured to transmit control signals CS21 and CS22 received from the operating device 4 via the wireless communicator WC to the dialer FD via the wireless communicator WC. In the first mode, the dialer FD is configured to change the gear position of the dialer FD based on the control signals CS21 and CS22 received from the operating device 4 via the wireless communicator WC. However, if necessary and/or desired, the dialer FD can be configured to receive control signals from the operating device 4.

If the wireless communicator WC does not recognize any of the control signals CS11, CS12, CS21, CS22 for a determined time, the electronic controller 104 is configured to change the mode of the wireless communicator WC from the first mode to the second mode.

If the wireless communicator WC recognizes one of the control signals CS11, CS12, CS21, CS22 in the second mode, the electronic controller 104 is configured to change the mode of the wireless communicator WC from the second mode to the first mode. For example, if the wireless communicator WC receives a wireless signal in the second mode, the electronic controller 104 is configured to control the power to be supplied from the power source 36 to the signal transmission circuit of the wireless communicator WC. If the electronic controller 104 receives a signal from the wake-up sensor for a predetermined time, the electronic controller 104 can be configured to change the mode of the wireless communicator WC from the second mode to the first mode. The wake-up sensor is configured to detect the movement of the bicycle 2. Examples of wake-up sensors include acceleration sensors and vibration sensors. If the electronic controller 104 does not receive a signal from the wake-up sensor for a predetermined time, the electronic controller 104 may be configured to change the mode of the wireless communicator WC from the first mode to the second mode.

The notification device 110 is configured to notify the user of information about the dialer RD. The notification device 110 includes an indicator configured to indicate the information. For example, the indicator includes a light-emitting diode. The information includes at least one of the state of the dialer RD, the state of the motor unit 32, the state of the power source 36, the state of the electric motor 54, the state of the electronic controller 104, and the state of the communicator 108. If necessary and/or desired, the notification device 110 can be omitted from the motor unit 32. If necessary and/or desired, the notification device 110 can include other devices, such as a speaker, instead of or in addition to the indicator.

The electrical switch SW is configured to receive a user input from a user. The electrical switch SW is configured to be activated in response to the user input. The electrical switch SW is electrically connected to the electronic controller 104. The electronic controller 104 is configured to recognize the activation of the electrical switch SW. The user input includes a normal pressure, a long pressure, and a double press of the electrical switch SW. The electrical switch SW is configured to recognize a normal pressure, a long pressure, and a double press of the electrical switch SW. For example, a normal pressure indicates a mode change of the dialer RD, a temporary shift operation of the dialer RD during maintenance, or waking up the wireless communicator WC. A long press indicates power ON or OFF of the dialer RD or pairing mode (wherein the wireless communicator WC is paired with another wireless communicator such as the operating devices 3 and 4 and the dialer FD). The electrical switch SW may be omitted from the motor unit 32 if necessary and/or desired.

The electronic controller 104 is electrically connected to the detector 102 to receive the detection result of the detector 102. The electronic controller 104 is configured to monitor the current gear position of the dial RD based on the detection result of the detector 102. The electronic controller 104 is configured to store the current gear position in the memory 104M.

In a state where the external torque ET is equal to or higher than the external torque threshold, the torque limiter 60 allows the output member 56 to rotate. Therefore, the movable member 14 can be moved unintentionally due to the external force EF caused by the physical contact between the obstacle and at least one of the movable member 14 and the connecting rod assembly 16. The motor unit 32 is constructed to automatically return the movable member 14 to the previous gear position (the position before the movable member 14 was moved by the external force EF).

The electronic controller 104 is configured to periodically monitor the current gear position based on the detection result of the detector 102. The electronic controller 104 is configured to periodically determine whether the movable member 14 is moved away from the current gear position by the external force EF based on the detection result of the detector 102. If the detection result of the detector 102 indicates that the movable member 14 is moved and at the same time the electronic controller 104 does not receive the control signals CS11 and CS12 generated by the operating device 3, the electronic controller 104 is configured to determine that the movable member 14 is moved away from the current gear position by the external force EF.

If the electronic controller 104 determines that the movable member 14 is moved away from the current gear position by the external force EF, the electronic controller 104 controls the electric motor 54 to return the movable member 14 to the previous gear position. The electronic controller 104 is configured to control the notification device 110 to notify the user that the movable member 14 is moved by the external force EF. ＜Second specific aspect＞

A bicycle assembly or retractor RD2 according to a second embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 23 to 40 . The bicycle assembly or retractor RD2 has the same structure and/or architecture as the electric assembly or retractor RD, except for the motor unit 32. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, the elements that are substantially the same as those of the first embodiment will be numbered the same and will not be described and/or illustrated in detail.

As shown in Figures 23 and 24, the derailleur RD2 includes a base member 212, a movable member 14, and a connecting rod assembly 216. The base member 212 is configured to be coupled to the vehicle body 2A. The movable member 14 is movable relative to the base member 212. The coupling portion 20 is movably coupled to the base member 212 via the connecting rod assembly 216.

As shown in FIG. 23 , the connecting rod group 216 movably couples the base member 212 and the movable member 14. The connecting rod group 216 movably couples the base member 212 and the coupling portion 20. In this embodiment, the connecting rod group 216 includes an outer connecting rod 228 and an inner connecting rod 230. The outer connecting rod 228 is pivotally coupled to the base member 212 around a first pivot axis A21. The outer connecting rod 228 is pivotally coupled to the movable member 14 around a second pivot axis A22. The inner connecting rod 230 is pivotally coupled to the base member 212 around a third pivot axis A23. The inner connecting rod 230 is pivotally coupled to the movable member 14 around the fourth pivot axis A24. The first to fourth pivot axes A21 to A24 are parallel to each other. However, if necessary and/or desired, one of the outer connecting rod 228 and the inner connecting rod 230 may be omitted from the connecting rod assembly 216. The structure of the connecting rod assembly 216 is not limited to the above structure. At least one of the first to fourth pivot axes A21 to A24 may be non-parallel to another one of the first to fourth pivot axes A21 to A24.

The retractor RD2 includes a buffer 231. The buffer 231 is a member separate from the connecting rod assembly 216. The buffer 231 is a member separate from the outer link 228 and the inner link 230. The buffer 231 is detachably and reattachably attached to the connecting rod assembly 216 with a buffer holder 231A. The buffer 231 is detachably and reattachably attached to the outer link 228 of the connecting rod assembly 216 with a buffer holder 231A. The buffer 231 is attached to the outer link 228 to reduce contact between the outer link 228 and an obstacle. However, if needed and/or desired, the buffer 231 may be omitted from the reciprocating device RD2.

As seen in FIG. 25 , the inner link 230 is at least partially disposed between the outer link 228 and the transverse center plane CP of the bicycle 2 .

The retractor RD2 includes a motor unit 232. The motor unit 232 is configured to move at least one of the movable member 14 and the connecting rod set 216 relative to the base member 212. In the present embodiment, the motor unit 232 is coupled to the connecting rod set 216 to move the movable member 14 via the connecting rod set 216. The motor unit 232 is configured to generate an actuating force and is coupled to the connecting rod set 216 to transmit the actuating force to the connecting rod set 216. However, if necessary and/or desired, the motor unit 232 may be directly coupled to the movable member 14 to move the movable member 14 relative to the base member 212. If necessary and/or desired, the motor unit 232 may be configured to transmit the actuating force to the movable member 14.

In the second embodiment, as shown in Figures 23 to 25, the reel RD2 does not include a power supply attachment structure to which a power source is to be attached. However, like the reel RD of the first embodiment, the reel RD2 may include a power supply attachment structure to which a power source is to be attached if necessary and/or desired.

As shown in Fig. 26, the motor unit 232 includes an electrical connector 237 to which the cable EC is to be detachably connected. The motor unit 232 is configured to be electrically connected to the power source PS via the electrical connector 237 and the cable EC. For example, the power source PS is mounted on the vehicle body 2A.

The motor unit 232 is provided in one of the base member 212, the movable member 14, and the connecting rod assembly 216. The motor unit 232 is provided in one of the base member 212 and the connecting rod assembly 216. In this embodiment, the motor unit 232 is provided in the connecting rod assembly 216. The motor unit 232 is provided in the inner connecting rod 230. However, if necessary and/or desired, the motor unit 232 can be provided in one of the movable member 14 and the connecting rod assembly 216. If necessary and/or desired, the motor unit 232 can be provided in the outer connecting rod 228 of the connecting rod assembly 216.

27, the motor unit 232 includes a housing 238. The housing 238 is a separate member from the base member 212. However, the housing 238 may be at least partially integrated with the base member 212 as a one-piece unitary member.

The base member 212 includes a first base body 240, a second base body 242, and a fastener 44. The first base body 240 is configured to be coupled to the vehicle body 2A by means of a sprocket fastener 46. The second base body 242 is a member separated from the first base body 240. The second base body 242 is fixed to the first base body 240 by means of a fastener 44 such as a screw. The motor unit 232 is disposed between the first base body 240 and the second base body 242. The housing 238 of the motor unit 232 is disposed between the first base body 240 and the second base body 242.

As shown in FIG. 28 , the housing 238 includes a first housing 250 and a second housing 252. The housing 238 includes an interior space 238S. The first housing 250 and the second housing 252 define the interior space 238S between the first housing 250 and the second housing 252. The second housing 252 is fastened to the first housing 250, for example, by a fastener. The second housing 252 is a separate component from the first housing 250. However, if necessary and/or desired, the second housing 252 can be integrally provided with the first housing 250 as a one-piece unitary component.

As shown in Figures 27 and 29, the inner connecting rod 230 includes a first inner connecting rod body 230A, a second inner connecting rod body 230B, and a fastener 230C. The second inner connecting rod body 230B is fastened to the first inner connecting rod body 230A by the fastener 230C. The motor unit 232 includes a cover 253. The cover 253 is held between the outer shell 238 and the second inner connecting rod body 230B.

As seen in FIGS. 28 and 29 , the motor unit 232 is at least partially disposed between the first inner connecting rod body 230A and the second inner connecting rod body 230B. The housing 238 is at least partially disposed between the first inner connecting rod body 230A and the second inner connecting rod body 230B. In this embodiment, the motor unit 232 is partially disposed between the first inner connecting rod body 230A and the second inner connecting rod body 230B. The housing 238 is partially disposed between the first inner connecting rod body 230A and the second inner connecting rod body 230B. However, if needed and/or desired, the motor unit 232 can be entirely disposed between the first inner connecting rod body 230A and the second inner connecting rod body 230B. If needed and/or desired, the housing 238 may be disposed entirely between the first inner tie body 230A and the second inner tie body 230B.

As shown in FIG30 , the housing 238 includes a positioning protrusion 255. The positioning protrusion 255 protrudes from the first housing 250. The first inner connecting rod body 230A includes a positioning hole 230H. The positioning protrusion 255 is at least partially disposed in the positioning hole 230H.

As shown in FIG31 , the motor unit 232 for the bicycle assembly RD2 includes an electric motor 54. The electric motor 54 is configured to generate an actuating force using the electric power supplied from the power source PS via the cable EC (see, for example, FIG26 ). The electric motor 54 is disposed in the inner space 238S of the housing 238 (see, for example, FIG28 ). The electric motor 54 is disposed between the first housing 250 and the second housing 252.

The motor unit 232 for the bicycle assembly RD2 includes an output member 256. The electric motor 54 is coupled to the output member 256 to rotate the output member 256 relative to the housing 238 about the output rotation axis A25. The output member 256 extends along the output rotation axis A25.

As shown in FIG. 28 , the output member 256 includes a first end 256A and a second end 256B. The output member 256 extends along an output rotation axis A25 between the first end 256A and the second end 256B. The base member 212 includes a first support hole 212A and a second support hole 212B. The first end 256A is disposed in the first support hole 212A. The second end 256B is disposed in the second support hole 212B. The output member 256 is rotatable relative to the base member 212 around the output rotation axis A25.

The inner connecting rod 230 includes a first hole 230D and a second hole 230E. The first inner connecting rod body 230A includes the first hole 230D. The second inner connecting rod body 230B includes the second hole 230E. The output member 256 extends through the first hole 230D and the second hole 230E. The inner connecting rod 230 is rotatably supported by the output member 256 around the output rotation axis A25. Therefore, the output rotation axis A25 coincides with the third pivot axis A23. The output member 256 is rotatable relative to the outer housing 238 around the third pivot axis A23. However, if necessary and/or desired, the output rotation axis A25 can be offset from the third pivot axis A23.

As shown in FIG. 30 , the output member 256 is separated from the positioning protrusion 255 of the housing 238. The positioning protrusion 255 is coupled to the housing 238 to restrict the housing 238 from rotating relative to the inner connecting rod 230 around the output rotation axis A25. Therefore, the housing 238 and the inner connecting rod 230 are integrated as a single unit. As shown in FIG. 25 , the inner connecting rod 230 and the motor unit 232 can move together relative to the base member 212 and the movable member 14. The inner connecting rod 230 and the motor unit 232 can pivot together relative to the base member 212 around the third pivot axis A23. The inner connecting rod 230 and the motor unit 232 can pivot together with respect to the movable member 14 around the fourth pivot axis A24.

As shown in FIG31 , the motor unit 32 includes a coupling arm 257. The coupling arm 257 is coupled to the output member 256 to rotate with the output member 256 relative to the housing 238 around the output rotation axis A25. The coupling arm 257 includes a first arm end 257A and a second arm end 257B. The coupling arm 257 extends between the first arm end 257A and the second arm end 257B. The first arm end 257A is coupled to the output member 256.

As shown in FIG. 32 , the first arm end 257A includes a bolt slot hole 257C. The output member 256 includes a bolt slot portion 256C. The bolt slot portion 256C of the output member 256 is engaged with the bolt slot hole 257C of the first arm end 257A. The bolt slot portion 256C is fixed to the bolt slot hole 257C by a fixing structure such as press fitting and adhesive. Therefore, the coupling arm 257 is fixed to the output member 256 via the bolt slot portion 256C and the bolt slot hole 257C. The coupling arm 257 is coupled to the output member 256 to rotate together with the output member 256 about the output rotation axis A25 relative to the inner connecting rod 230 and the outer housing 238.

29 and 30 , the output member 256 rotates about the output rotation axis A25 relative to the housing 238 in response to the actuation force generated by the motor unit 232. Therefore, the coupling arm 257 rotates about the output rotation axis A25 relative to the housing 238 in response to the actuation force generated by the motor unit 232.

As seen in FIG. 31 , the second arm end 257B includes a coupling hole 257D. As seen in FIG. 27 , the second arm end 257B is coupled to the first base body 240 of the base member 212. The first base body 240 is partially disposed in the coupling hole 257D of the second arm end 257B. As seen in FIG. 28 , the first arm end 257A is coupled to the base member 212 via the output member 256. Therefore, the coupling arm 257 is coupled to the base member 212 to be stationary relative to the base member 212. The inner link 230 and the motor unit 232 pivot relative to the base member 212 about the third pivot axis A23 in response to the actuation force generated by the motor unit 232.

As seen in FIG27 , an external force EF is applied to at least one of the movable member 14 and the connecting rod assembly 216 in response to the physical contact between the obstacle and at least one of the movable member 14 and the connecting rod assembly 216. Therefore, an external rotational force ERF having an external torque ET is applied to the output member 256 via the connecting rod assembly 216 in response to the external force EF. It is preferable to limit the external torque ET from being transmitted from at least one of the movable member 14 and the connecting rod assembly 216 to the electric motor 54 (see, for example, FIG31 ).

As shown in FIG31 , the motor unit 232 for the bicycle assembly RD2 includes a torque limiter 260 and a transmission structure 62. The torque limiter 260 is configured to protect the electric motor 54 from damage caused by the external force EF while allowing the necessary force to be transmitted from the electric motor 54 to at least one of the movable member 14 and the connecting rod assembly 216. The transmission structure 62 is configured to protect the electric motor 54 from damage caused by the external force EF while allowing the actuating force generated by the electric motor 54 to be transmitted to at least one of the movable member 14 and the connecting rod assembly 216. The torque limiter 260 has a structure different from that of the transmission structure 62.

The torque limiter 260 and the transmission structure 62 are disposed on the power transmission path TP2 from the electric motor 54 to the output member 256 and between the electric motor 54 and the output member 256. The transmission structure 62 is disposed on the power transmission path TP2 from the electric motor 54 to the output member 256 and between the electric motor 54 and the torque limiter 260. The torque limiter 260 is disposed on the power transmission path TP2 and between the transmission structure 62 and the output member 256. The power transmission path TP2 is defined by the electric motor 54 to the output member 256 through the transmission structure 62 and the torque limiter 260.

The torque limiter 260 and the transmission structure 62 are configured to transmit the actuation force generated by the electric motor 54 to at least one of the movable member 14 and the connecting rod assembly 216. For example, in a normal state where the movable member 14 can move in response to the actuation force transmitted through the torque limiter 260, the torque limiter 260 is configured to transmit the actuation force to the movable member 14 through the connecting rod assembly 216. However, in an abnormal state where at least one of the movable member 14 and the connecting rod assembly 216 is stuck due to foreign matter, the torque limiter 260 is configured to limit the actuation force from being transmitted to the movable member 14 through the connecting rod assembly 216. The torque limiter 260 is configured to block the actuation force in an abnormal state. The torque limiter 260 is configured to limit the force from being transmitted from one of the movable member 14 and the connecting rod assembly 216 to the transmission structure 62. The transmission structure 62 is configured to limit the force from being transmitted from the torque limiter 260 to the electric motor 54.

The motor unit 232 further includes a reducer 263. The reducer 263 couples the electric motor 54 and the output member 256 to transmit the output torque T0 of the electric motor 54 to the output member 256. The reducer 263 has a structure substantially the same as that of the reducer 63.

In this embodiment, the speed reducer 263 includes the torque limiter 260 and the transmission structure 62. However, if necessary and/or desired, one of the torque limiter 260 and the transmission structure 62 can be omitted from the speed reducer 263. If necessary and/or desired, in addition to the torque limiter 260 and the transmission structure 62, the speed reducer 263 can also include a structure other than the torque limiter 260 and the transmission structure 62.

As shown in FIG31 , the electric motor 54 is coupled to the transmission structure 62. The electric motor 54 is coupled to the transmission structure 62 via at least one gear. The speed reducer 263 includes gears G1, G2, G3, G4, and G5. In other words, the motor unit 232 includes gears G1 to G5.

The transmission structure 62 is coupled to the torque limiter 260. The transmission structure 62 is coupled to the torque limiter 260 via at least one gear. The speed reducer 263 includes gears G6, G27, G28, and G29. That is, the motor unit 232 further includes a gear G29. The transmission structure 62 is coupled to the torque limiter 260 via gears G6, G27, G28, and G29. Gear G6 is coupled to the transmission structure 62 to receive a rotational force from the transmission structure 62. Gear G27 is engaged with gear G6. Gear G28 can rotate together with gear G27. Gear G28 is engaged with gear G29. Gear G29 is coupled to the torque limiter 260 to transmit rotational force between the torque limiter 260 and gear G29.

As shown in FIG31 , the transmission structure 62 is configured to transmit the first torque T1 in the first load direction LD1 defined by the electric motor 54 toward the output member 256. The transmission structure 62 is configured to transmit the first torque T1 in the first load direction LD1 defined by the output shaft 54A toward the output member 256. When the first input torque T11 is applied to the transmission structure 62 by a device other than the torque limiter 260, the transmission structure 62 is configured to transmit the first torque T1 to the torque limiter 260.

The transmission structure 62 is configured to receive the first input torque T11 from the electric motor 54 via the gear G5 in the first load direction LD1. The transmission structure 62 is configured to transmit the first torque T1 to the gear G6 in the first load direction LD1.

The transmission structure 62 is configured to transmit the second torque T2 in the second load direction LD2 defined by the output member 256 toward the electric motor 54. The transmission structure 62 is configured to transmit the second torque T2 in the second load direction LD2 defined by the output member 256 toward the output shaft 54A. When the second input torque T21 is applied to the transmission structure 62 from the torque limiter 260, the transmission structure 62 is configured to transmit the second torque T2.

The transmission structure 62 is configured to receive the second input torque T21 from the torque limiter 260 via the gear G6 in the second load direction LD2. The transmission structure 62 is configured to transmit the second torque T2 to the gear G5 in the second load direction LD2.

In this embodiment, the second torque T2 is lower than the second input torque T12. The second torque T2 may include zero. The second torque T2 may be zero. The transmission structure 62 is configured to reduce the second input torque T21 to the second torque T2 in the second load direction LD2. The transmission structure 62 is configured to limit the second input torque T21 from being transmitted to the gear G5 via the transmission structure 62 in the second load direction LD2. However, the second torque T2 may be higher than zero if needed and/or desired.

The first torque T1 is higher than the second torque T2. In other words, the second torque T2 transmitted through the transmission structure 62 in the second load direction LD2 is lower than the first torque T1 transmitted through the transmission structure 62 in the first load direction LD1. However, if necessary and/or desired, the first torque T1 can be equal to or lower than the second torque T2.

The torque limiter 260 is configured to receive the third input torque T31 from the gear G29 in the first load direction LD1. The torque limiter 260 is configured to transmit the third output torque T32 or limit the output torque T33 to the gear G8 in the first load direction LD1.

When the third input torque T31 is lower than the torque threshold, the torque limiter 260 is configured to transmit the third output torque T32 equal to the third input torque T31 to the gear G8 in the first load direction LD1. When the third input torque T31 is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the torque limiter 260 is configured to transmit the limited output torque T33 lower than the third input torque T31 to the gear G8 in the first load direction LD1. When the third input torque T31 is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the torque limiter 260 is configured to reduce the third input torque T31 to the limited output torque T33.

In this embodiment, the limited output torque T33 is lower than the torque threshold. The limited output torque T33 may include zero. The limited output torque T33 may be zero or approximately zero. However, if necessary and/or desired, the limited output torque T33 may be higher than zero.

The torque limiter 260 is configured to receive the third input torque T31 from the electric motor 54 via the transmission structure 62 and the gears G1 to G6, G27, G28, G29. The torque threshold is higher than the possible maximum value of the third input torque T31. Therefore, when the torque limiter 260 receives the third input torque T31 from the electric motor 54 via the transmission structure 62 and the gears G1 to G6, G27, G28, G29, the torque limiter 260 is configured to transmit the output torque T33 to the gear G8.

The torque limiter 260 is configured to receive the fourth input torque T41 from the gear G8 in the second load direction LD2. The torque limiter 260 is configured to transmit the fourth output torque T42 in the second load direction LD2 or limit the output torque T43 to the gear G29.

As shown in FIG. 31 , when the fourth input torque T41 is lower than the torque threshold, the torque limiter 260 is configured to transmit the fourth output torque T42 equal to the fourth input torque T41 to the gear G29 in the second load direction LD2. When the fourth input torque T41 is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the torque limiter 260 is configured to transmit the limited output torque T43 lower than the fourth input torque T41 to the gear G29 in the second load direction LD2. When the fourth input torque T41 is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the torque limiter 260 is configured to reduce the fourth input torque T41 to the limited output torque T43.

In this embodiment, the limited output torque T43 is lower than the fourth output torque T42 and the torque threshold. The limited output torque T43 may include zero. The limited output torque T43 may be zero or approximately zero. The fourth output torque T42 may also be referred to as the third torque T42. The limited output torque T43 may also be referred to as the fourth torque T43. The third torque T42 is higher than the fourth torque T43. In other words, the fourth torque T43 is lower than the third torque T42. However, if necessary and/or desired, the limited output torque T43 may be higher than zero.

When the external torque ET is applied to the output member 256 from at least one of the movable member 14 and the link group 216 , the fourth input torque T41 is applied from the output member 256 to the torque limiter 260 .

In a state where the torque input to the torque limiter 260 is lower than the torque threshold, the torque limiter 260 is configured to transmit the third torque T42. In a state where the fourth input torque T41 is lower than the torque threshold, the torque limiter 260 is configured to transmit the third torque T42 in the second load direction LD2. In a state where the torque input to the torque limiter 260 is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the torque limiter 260 is configured to transmit the fourth torque T43. In a state where the fourth input torque T41 is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the torque limiter 260 is configured to transmit the fourth torque T43 in the second load direction LD2. In other words, in a state where the external torque ET is lower than the external torque threshold, the torque limiter 260 is configured to transmit the third torque T42 in the second load direction LD2. When the external torque ET is equal to or higher than the external torque threshold, the torque limiter 260 is configured to transmit the fourth torque T43 in the second load direction LD2. The external torque threshold is a criterion for determining the external torque ET applied to the output member 256, and the torque threshold is a criterion for determining the fourth input torque T41 applied to the torque limiter 260.

As shown in Fig. 31, the torque limiter 260 includes a first member 264 and a second member 266. The first member 264 has a structure substantially the same as the first member 64 of the torque limiter 60 described in the first embodiment. The second member 266 has a structure substantially the same as the second member 66 of the torque limiter 60 described in the second embodiment.

In a state where the torque applied to the torque limiter 260 is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the first member 264 and the second member 266 are movable relative to each other. In a state where the torque is lower than the torque threshold, the first member 264 and the second member 266 are movable together with each other. In a state where the torque is lower than the torque threshold, the first member 264 and the second member 266 contact each other to transmit the third torque T42 between the first member 264 and the second member 266. In a state where the torque is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the first member 264 and the second member 266 are constructed to transmit the fourth torque T43 between the first member 264 and the second member 266.

In a state where the torque is lower than the torque threshold, the first member 264 and the second member 266 are slidably in contact with each other to transmit the third torque T42 between the first member 264 and the second member 266. In a state where the third input torque T31 applied to the first member 264 is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the first member 264 and the second member 266 are movable relative to each other. In a state where the third input torque T31 applied to the first member 264 is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the first member 264 is movable relative to the second member 266. In a state where the third input torque T31 is lower than the torque threshold, the first member 264 and the second member 266 are movable together with each other.

In a state where the fourth input torque T41 applied to the torque limiter 260 is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the first member 264 and the second member 266 are movable relative to each other. In a state where the fourth input torque T41 applied to the second member 266 is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the second member 266 is movable relative to the first member 264. In a state where the fourth input torque T41 is lower than the torque threshold, the first member 264 and the second member 266 are movable together with each other.

Gear G29 is fixed to the first member 264 to transmit torque from the transmission structure 62 to the first member 264. In this embodiment, the gear G29 and the first member 264 are integrally formed as a one-piece unitary member. However, if necessary and/or desired, the gear G29 can be a member separated from the first member 264.

When the external torque ET input to the output member 256 is lower than the external torque threshold, the second member 266 is configured to transmit the third torque T42 to the first member 264 in the second load direction LD2 defined by the output member 256 toward the electric motor 54. When the external torque ET is equal to or greater than the external torque threshold, the second member 266 is configured to transmit the fourth torque T43 to the first member 264 in the second load direction LD2.

When the external torque ET input to the output member 256 is lower than the external torque threshold, the first member 264 may slidably contact the second member 266 to transmit the third torque T42 between the first member 264 and the second member 266. When the external torque ET is equal to or higher than the external torque threshold, the first member 264 may slidably contact the second member 266 to transmit the fourth torque T43 between the first member 264 and the second member 266.

The torque limiter 260 has a limiter rotation axis A26. The first member 264 is rotatable relative to the housing 238 around the limiter rotation axis A26 (see, for example, FIG. 28). The second member 266 is rotatable relative to the housing 238 around the limiter rotation axis A26 (see, for example, FIG. 28). In a state where the torque applied to the torque limiter 260 is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the first member 264 and the second member 266 are rotatable relative to each other around the limiter rotation axis A26. In a state where the torque applied to the torque limiter 260 is lower than the torque threshold, the first member 264 and the second member 266 are rotatable together with each other around the limiter rotation axis A26.

In this embodiment, the limiter rotation axis A26 coincides with the output rotation axis A25 and the third pivot axis A23. However, if necessary and/or desired, the limiter rotation axis A26 can be offset from at least one of the output rotation axis A25 and the third pivot axis A23.

As shown in FIG32, the torque limiter 260 includes a guide member 276. The guide member 276 is coupled to the output member 256 to guide the second member 266 along the limiter rotation axis A26. The guide member 276 is coupled to the output member 256 to rotate around the limiter rotation axis A26 together with the output member 256. The guide member 276 is movably supported by the output member 256.

The output member 256 includes a bolt slot portion 256D. The guide member 276 includes a bolt slot hole 276A. The bolt slot portion 256D of the output member 256 is engaged with the bolt slot hole 276A of the guide member 276. The bolt slot portion 256D is fixed to the bolt slot hole 276A with a fixing structure such as press fitting and adhesive. Therefore, the guide member 276 is fixed to the output member 256 via the bolt slot portion 267D and the bolt slot hole 276A. The guide member 276 is fixed to the output member 256 with a fixing structure such as press fitting and adhesive. The guide member 276 is coupled to the output member 256 to rotate together with the output member 256 around the limiter rotation axis A26.

The guide member 276 includes a guide base 276B and at least one first guide portion 276G. The guide base 276B includes a bolt slot 276A. The guide base 276B is annular. In this embodiment, the guide member 276 includes at least two first guide portions 276G. The first guide portion 276G extends from the guide base 276B along the limiter rotation axis A26. The at least two first guide portions 276G are circumferentially spaced from each other around the limiter rotation axis A26.

The second component 266 includes a base portion 266A and a second guide portion 266G. The base portion 266A is annular. In this embodiment, the second component 266 includes at least two second guide portions 266G. The second guide portion 266G extends from the base portion 266A along the limiter rotation axis A26. The at least two second guide portions 266G are circumferentially spaced from each other around the limiter rotation axis A26.

In this embodiment, the total number of the first guide portions 276G is three. The total number of the second guide portions 266G is three. However, the total number of the first guide portions 276G is not limited to three. The total number of the second guide portions 266G is not limited to three.

As shown in FIG. 33 , at least two second guide portions 266G are joined to at least two first guide portions 276G. The second guide portion 266G is circumferentially disposed between two adjacent guide portions of the at least two first guide portions 276G. The first guide portion 276G is circumferentially disposed between two adjacent guide portions of the at least two second guide portions 266G. Therefore, the second member 266 is movable relative to the output member 256 and the guide member 276 along the limiter rotation axis A26, but does not rotate relative to the output member 256.

The torque limiter 260 includes a biasing member 78. The biasing member 78 is configured to bias at least one of the first member 264 and the second member 266 to maintain a contact state between the first member 264 and the second member 266. The biasing member 78 is configured to bias at least one of the first member 264 and the second member 266 to maintain a slidable contact state between the first member 264 and the second member 266. The biasing member 78 is disposed between the second member 266 and the guide member 276. The biasing member 78 is disposed between the base portion 266A and the guide base 276B. The first guide portion 276G and the second guide portion 266G are disposed in the biasing member 78.

In this embodiment, the biasing member 78 includes a coil wave spring. However, if necessary and/or desired, the biasing member 78 may include other members, such as a disc spring, a coil spring, a resilient member (such as rubber), to replace or add to the coil wave spring. In Figures 31 to 33, the biasing member 78 is shown in a simplified manner.

As shown in FIG32, the motor unit 232 includes an adjustment member 279, a first intermediate member 281, and a second intermediate member 283. The adjustment member 279 is rotatably coupled to the output member 256. The adjustment member 279 is coupled to the output member 256 to change the distance between the adjustment member 279 and the second member 266 in response to the rotation of the adjustment member 279 relative to the output member 256 about the limiter rotation axis A26. The adjustment member 279 includes a threaded hole 279A. The output member 256 includes an external threaded portion 256E. The external threaded portion 256E is threadedly engaged with the threaded hole 279A. The external threaded portion 256E and the threaded hole 279A are configured to convert the rotation of the adjustment member 279 into the axial movement of the adjustment member 279 along the limiter rotation axis A26. The biasing member 78 is provided between the adjustment member 279 and the second member 266. Therefore, the adjustment member 279 is configured to change the biasing force applied from the biasing member 78 to the second member 266.

The first intermediate member 281 is disposed between the adjustment member 279 and the biasing member 78. The first intermediate member 281 is movably coupled to the output member 256 along the limiter rotation axis A26. The first intermediate member 281 contacts the adjustment member 279 to apply rotation resistance to the adjustment member 279. The adjustment member 279 includes a first friction portion 279B. The first intermediate member 281 includes a second friction portion 281B. The second friction portion 281B slidably contacts the first friction portion 279B. The first friction portion 279B is annular. The second friction portion 281B is annular. For example, the first friction portion 279B includes at least two recesses. The second friction portion 281B includes at least two protrusions. The at least two recesses of the first friction portion 279B and the at least two protrusions of the second friction portion 281B are configured to generate rotational resistance between the adjustment member 279 and the first intermediate member 281 and to position the adjustment member 279 at one of at least two rotational positions relative to the first intermediate member 281 .

The first intermediate member 281 includes at least two limiting portions 281C. The at least two limiting portions 281C extend from the second friction portion 281B toward the guide member 276. The guide base 276B includes at least two limiting recesses 276C. The limiting portions 281C are disposed in the limiting recesses 276C to limit the first intermediate member 281 from rotating relative to the guide member 276 around the limiter rotation axis A26, while allowing the first intermediate member 281 to move relative to the guide member 276 along the limiter rotation axis A26.

The second intermediate member 283 is annular and is disposed between the biasing member 78 and the second member 266.

As shown in FIG33 , the second intermediate member 283 is disposed between the biasing member 78 and the second guide portion 266G. The second intermediate member 283 contacts the second guide portion 266G. The biasing force of the biasing member 78 is applied to the second member 266 via the second intermediate member 283.

34, in a state where the second intermediate member 283 contacts the second guide portion 266G of the second member 266, the second intermediate member 283 is spaced apart from the first guide portion 276G of the guide member 276. Therefore, the biasing force of the biasing member 78 is applied to the second member 266 via the second intermediate member 283 but not to the guide member 276.

35, the biasing member 78 is configured to bias the second member 266 toward the first member 264 to maintain the contact state between the first member 264 and the second member 266. The biasing member 78 is configured to bias the second member 266 toward the first member 264 to maintain the slidable contact state between the first member 264 and the second member 266.

However, if needed and/or desired, the biasing member 78 can be configured to bias the first member 264 toward the second member 266 to maintain contact between the first member 264 and the second member 266. If needed and/or desired, the biasing member 78 can be configured to bias the first member 264 and the second member 266 toward each other to maintain contact between the first member 264 and the second member 266. If needed and/or desired, the biasing member 78 can be configured to bias the first member 264 toward the second member 266 to maintain slidable contact between the first member 264 and the second member 266. If needed and/or desired, the biasing member 78 can be configured to bias the first member 264 and the second member 266 toward each other to maintain a slidable contact state between the first member 264 and the second member 266.

As seen in FIGS. 36 and 37 , one of the first member 264 and the second member 266 includes a recess. The other of the first member 264 and the second member 266 includes a protrusion. In this embodiment, the first member 264 includes a recess 264R. The second member 266 includes a recess 266R. The base portion 266A of the second member 266 includes the recess 266R. The first member 264 includes a protrusion 264P. The second member 266 includes a protrusion 266P. The base portion 266A of the second member 266 includes a protrusion 266P.

More specifically, the first member 264 includes at least two recesses 264R. The second member 266 includes at least two recesses 266R. The base portion 266A of the second member 266 includes at least two recesses 266R. The first member 264 includes at least two protrusions 264P. The second member 266 includes at least two protrusions 266P. The base portion 266A of the second member 266 includes at least two protrusions 266P. The recess 264R is disposed between two adjacent protrusions of the at least two protrusions 264P. The recess 266R is disposed between two adjacent protrusions of the at least two protrusions 266P. However, if needed and/or desired, only one of the first member 264 and the second member 266 may include a recess. If needed and/or desired, only the other of the first member 264 and the second member 266 may include a protrusion.

33 , when the torque (e.g., the fourth input torque T41) is lower than the torque threshold, the protrusion 264P is configured to engage in the recess 266R to transmit the third torque T42 between the first member 264 and the second member 266. When the torque (e.g., the fourth input torque T41) is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the protrusion 264P is configured to disengage from the recess 266R to transmit the fourth torque T43 between the first member 264 and the second member 266.

When the torque (e.g., the fourth input torque T41) is lower than the torque threshold, the protrusion 266P is configured to engage in the recess 264R to transmit the third torque T42 between the first member 264 and the second member 266. When the torque (e.g., the fourth input torque T41) is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the protrusion 266P is configured to disengage from the recess 264R to transmit the fourth torque T43 between the first member 264 and the second member 266.

As shown in FIG38, the protrusion 264P includes a first inclined surface 264PA and a second inclined surface 264PB. The first inclined surface 264PA and the second inclined surface 264PB at least partially define the recess 264R. The first inclined surface 264PA is non-parallel and non-perpendicular to the limiter rotation axis A26. The second inclined surface 264PB is non-parallel and non-perpendicular to the limiter rotation axis A26.

The protrusion 266P includes a first inclined surface 266PA and a second inclined surface 266PB. The first inclined surface 266PA and the second inclined surface 266PB at least partially define the recess 266R. The first inclined surface 266PA is non-parallel and non-perpendicular to the limiter rotation axis A26. The second inclined surface 266PB is non-parallel and non-perpendicular to the limiter rotation axis A26.

The first inclined surface 264PA may contact the first inclined surface 266PA. The second inclined surface 264PB may contact the second inclined surface 266PB. In a state where the protrusion 264P is disposed in the recess 266R and the protrusion 266P is disposed in the recess 264R, the first inclined surface 264PA contacts the first inclined surface 266PA. In a state where the protrusion 264P is disposed in the recess 266R and the protrusion 266P is disposed in the recess 264R, the second inclined surface 264PB contacts the second inclined surface 266PB.

38, the second member 266 is movable between a first position P11 and a second position P12 relative to the first member 264 in the axial direction D1 parallel to the limiter rotation axis A26. When the second member 266 is in the first position P11 relative to the first member 264, the protrusion 264P is configured to engage in the recess 266R to transmit the third torque T42 between the first member 264 and the second member 266. When the second member 266 is in the first position P11 relative to the first member 264, the protrusion 266P is configured to engage in the recess 264R to transmit the third torque T42 between the first member 264 and the second member 266.

When the second member 266 is in the first position P11, the protrusion 264P is disposed in the recess 266R. When the second member 266 is in the first position P11, the protrusion 266P is disposed in the recess 264R. When no torque is input to the first member 264 and the second member 266, the second member 266 is maintained in the first position P11 by the biasing force of the biasing member 78.

When torque is input to one of the first member 264 and the second member 266, one of the first inclined surface 264PA and the second inclined surface 264PB of the protrusion 264P guides the protrusion 266P to the axial end of the protrusion 264P so that the protrusion 266P is disengaged from the recess 264R when the torque is equal to or higher than the torque threshold. That is, when torque is input to one of the first member 264 and the second member 266, one of the first inclined surface 264PA and the second inclined surface 264PB of the protrusion 264P guides the protrusion 266P to the axial end of the protrusion 264P to move the second member 266 from the first position P11 to the second position P12 under a state where the torque is equal to or higher than the torque threshold and resist the biasing force of the biasing member 78.

In a state where the torque is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the protrusion 266P moves from the axial end of the protrusion 264P into the recess 266R along one of the first inclined surface 264PA and the second inclined surface 264PB of the protrusion 264P, thereby moving the second member 266 from the second position P12 to the first position P11. While one of the first member 264 and the second member 266 receives a torque equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the protrusion 266P repeatedly disengages from and engages with the recess 264R, thereby allowing the first member 264 and the second member 266 to rotate relative to each other around the limiter rotation axis A26.

While the protrusion 266P and the recess 264R are repeatedly disengaged and engaged, the fourth torque T43 is transmitted between the first member 264 and the second member 266. The fourth torque T43 depends on the rotational resistance generated by the protrusion 264P, the protrusion 266P, the recess 264R, and the recess 266R while the first member 264 and the second member 266 rotate relative to each other. For example, the fourth torque T43 is substantially zero.

The structure of the torque limiter 260 is not limited to the specific embodiment shown. The torque limiter 260 may have other structures, such as a friction torque limiter and a ball clutch.

As seen in FIG28 , the torque limiter 260 is entirely disposed within the housing 238 of the motor unit 232. The torque limiter 260 is entirely disposed within the interior space 238S of the housing 238. However, if necessary and/or desired, the torque limiter 260 may be partially disposed within the housing 238 of the motor unit 232. If necessary and/or desired, the torque limiter 260 may be partially disposed within the interior space 238S of the housing 238.

The transmission structure 62 is entirely disposed within the outer shell 238 of the motor unit 232. The transmission structure 62 is entirely disposed within the inner space 238S of the outer shell 238. However, if necessary and/or desired, the transmission structure 62 may be partially disposed within the outer shell 238 of the motor unit 232. If necessary and/or desired, the transmission structure 62 may be partially disposed within the inner space 238S of the outer shell 238.

The transmission structure 62 of the motor unit 232 is the same as the transmission structure 62 of the motor unit 32 described in the first embodiment. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, it will not be described and illustrated in detail here.

As seen in FIG. 39 , the motor unit 232 further includes a detection object 100. The motor unit 232 includes a detector 102 configured to detect the detection object 100. The detection object 100 is configured to be detected by the detector 102. The detection object 100 is coupled to the gears G27 and G28 to rotate along with the gears G27 and G28 around the rotation axis A28. The detector 102 is configured to detect the rotational position of the gears G27 and G28. The gear G28 is engaged with the gear G29, and the gear G29 is coupled to the first member 264. Therefore, the detector 102 is configured to detect the rotational position of the output member 256 via the torque limiter 260. The rotational position of the output member 256 corresponds to the position of the connecting rod assembly 216. Therefore, the detector 102 is configured to detect the position of the connecting rod assembly 216.

As shown in FIG31 , the detection object 100 is disposed on the upstream side of the power transmission path TP2 relative to the torque limiter 260. The detection object 100 is disposed on the upstream side of the power transmission path TP2 relative to the torque limiter 260 in the first load direction LD1. However, like the motor unit 32 of the first embodiment, the detection object 100 may be disposed on the downstream side of the power transmission path TP2 relative to the torque limiter 260 if necessary and/or desired.

As shown in FIG. 40 , the motor unit 232 includes the electronic controller 104, the motor driver 106, the communicator 108, the notification device 110, and the electric switch SW. In the motor unit 232, the detection result of the detector 102 indicates the current position of the first member 264. However, since the detection object 100 is provided on the upstream side relative to the torque limiter 60 on the power transmission path TP2, the detection result of the detector 102 does not indicate the current position of the movable member 14 after the second member 266 slides along with the first member 264. Therefore, the return control (the motor unit 232 automatically returns the movable member 14 to the previous gear position [the position before the movable member 14 is moved by the external force EF]) can be omitted from the control of the electronic controller 104.

The communicator 108 includes a wired communicator WD. The wired communicator WD is configured to communicate with another wired communicator of another device such as a dial-up FD via a wired communication structure WS including a cable EC. The wired communicator WD is electrically connected to the electronic controller 104. The motor unit 232 is electrically connected to the power source PS and the dial-up FD via the wired communication structure WS. The dial-up FD and the power source PS are powered.

The wired communicator WD is constructed to communicate with another wired communicator of another device via a wired communication structure WS using power line communication (PLC) technology. More specifically, the wired communication structure WS includes a ground line and a voltage line, which are separably connected to a serial bus formed by a communication interface. In this embodiment, the wired communicator WD is constructed to communicate with the dial-up device FD via a voltage line using PLC technology. Since PLC technology is known, it will not be described in detail here for the sake of brevity.

If the wireless communicator WC wirelessly receives the control signal CS21 from the operating device 4, the electronic controller 104 is configured to control the wired communicator WD to transmit the control signal CS21 to the dialer FD via the wired communication structure WS. If the wireless communicator WC wirelessly receives the control signal CS22 from the operating device 4, the electronic controller 104 is configured to control the wired communicator WD to transmit the control signal CS22 to the dialer FD via the wired communication structure WS. ＜Modification Example＞

In the first specific aspect and its modified example, the torque limiter 60 of the first specific aspect includes a first member 64, and the first member 64 includes a protrusion 64P and a recess 64R. The second member 66 includes a protrusion 66P and a recess 66R. The protrusion 64P is provided in the recess 66R. The protrusion 66P is provided in the recess 64R. However, the structure of the torque limiter 60 is not limited to the structure described in the first and second specific aspects and their modified examples.

In the present case, "comprising" and its derivatives as used herein are intended to be open-ended terms, indicating the presence of stated features, elements, components, groups, integers and/or steps, but not excluding the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers and/or steps. This concept also applies to terms with similar meanings, such as "have", "include" and their derivatives.

The words “member,” “section,” “portion,” “part,” “element,” “body,” and “structure” when used in the singular can have the dual meaning of a single part or plural parts.

The ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" used in this case are merely identifiers and have no other meanings, for example, no particular order and the like. Furthermore, for example, the term "first element" itself does not imply the existence of a "second element", and the term "second element" itself does not imply the existence of a "first element".

As used herein, the term "a pair of" may also encompass a structure in which a pair of elements have shapes or structures different from each other, in addition to a structure in which a pair of elements have the same shape or structure as each other.

The terms “a” or “an”, “one or more”, “at least one”, etc. may be used interchangeably herein.

As used in this disclosure, the phrase “at least one of” means “one or more” of the desired choices. For example, as used in this disclosure, the phrase “at least one of” means “only one single choice” or “both of two choices” if the number of choices is two. For another example, as used in this disclosure, the phrase “at least one of” means “only one single choice” or “any combination of equal to or more than two choices” if the number of choices is equal to or greater than three. For example, the phrase “at least one of A and B” covers: (1) only A, (2) only B, and (3) both A and B. The phrase “at least one of A, B, and C” covers: (1) only A, (2) only B, (3) only C, (4) both A and B, (5) both B and C, (6) both A and C, and (7) all of A, B, and C. In other words, the phrase “at least one of A and B” in the present disclosure does not mean “at least one of A and at least one of B”.

Finally, as used herein, words of degree such as "substantially", "about", and "approximately" mean a reasonable deviation of the modified term so that the final result is not significantly changed. All numerical values described in this case can be interpreted to include words such as "substantially", "about", and "approximately".

Obviously, the present invention is susceptible to numerous modifications and variations in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the present invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein.

2: Bicycle 2A: Vehicle body 2B: Saddle 2C: Handlebar 3: Operating device 4: Operating device 12: Base member 14: Movable member 16: Linkage 18: Chain guide 20: Coupling part 22: Guide plate 24: Guide pulley 26: Tension pulley 28: Outer link 30: Inner link 30A: Inner link body 30B: Inner link lever 30C: Fixer 32: Motor unit 34: Power supply attachment structure 34A: Holding space 36: Power source 38: Outer casing 38S: Inner space 40: First base body 42: Second base body 44: Fixer 46: Sprocket fixer 50: First housing 52: Second housing 54: Electric motor 54A: Output shaft 54B: Motor gear 54C: Motor housing 56: Output member 56S: Shaft 60: Torque limiter 62: Transmission structure 63: Speed reducer 64: First member 64P: Protrusion 64PA: First inclined surface 64PB: Second inclined surface 64R: Recess 66: Second member 66A: Base portion 66G: Second guide portion 66P: Protrusion 66PA: First inclined surface 66PB: second inclined surface 66R: recess 67: support shaft 67A: bolt groove portion 76: guide member 76A: bolt groove hole 76B: guide base 76G: first guide portion 78: biasing member 80: first bearing ring 80A: inner peripheral surface 80H: hole 81: second bearing ring 81A: inner bearing ring 81B: rod portion 81C: contact surface 81C1: first circumferential end 81C2: second circumferential end 81D: transmission hole 81H: support hole 83: outer bearing ring 84: first intermediate element 84A: first rotatable member 84B: second rotatable member 84G: intermediate member assembly 85: biasing element 86: second intermediate element 88: shaft 90: coupling member 92: base portion 94: intermediate portion 96: transmission portion 100: detection object 102: detector 104: electronic controller 104C: circuit board 104D: bus bar 104M: memory 104P: processor 106: motor driver 108: communicator 110: notification device 212: base member 212A: first support hole 212B: second support hole 216: connecting rod assembly 228: external connecting rod 230: Inner connecting rod 230A: First inner connecting rod body 230B: Second inner connecting rod body 230C: Fixer 230D: First hole 230E: Second hole 230H: Positioning hole 231: Buffer 231A: Buffer holder 232: Motor unit 237: Electrical connector 238: Housing 238S: Internal space 240: First base body 242: Second base body 250: First housing 252: Second housing 253: Cover 255: Positioning protrusion 256: Output member 256A: First end 256B: Second end 256C: Bolt groove part 256D: bolt groove portion 256E: external threaded portion 257: coupling arm 257A: first arm end 257B: second arm end 257C: bolt groove hole 257D: coupling hole 260: torque limiter 263: speed reducer 264: first member 264P: protruding portion 264PA: first inclined surface 264PB: second inclined surface 264R: recess 266: second member 266A: base portion 266G: second guide portion 266P: protruding portion 266PA: first inclined surface 266PB: second inclined surface 266R: recess 276: guide member 276A: bolt groove hole 276B: guide base 276C: Restriction recess 276G: First guide portion 279: Adjustment member 279A: Threaded hole 279B: First friction portion 281: First intermediate member 281B: Second friction portion 281C: Restriction portion 283: Second intermediate member A1: First pivot axis A2: Second pivot axis A3: Third pivot axis A4: Fourth pivot axis A5: Output rotation axis A6: Limiter rotation axis A7: Transmission structure rotation axis A9: Motor rotation axis A21: First pivot axis A22: Second pivot axis A23: Third pivot axis A24: Fourth pivot axis A25: Output rotation axis A26: Limiter rotation axis A28: Rotation axis C: Chain CP: Central plane CR: Crank CS11, CS12: Control signal CS21, CS22: Control signal D1: Axial direction D21: First circumferential direction D22: Second circumferential direction D3: Circumferential direction D31: First rotation direction D32: Second rotation direction DM1: First diameter DM2: Second diameter DS1: First radial distance DS2: Second radial distance DT: Drive system EC: Cable EF: External force ERF: External rotational force ET: External torque F11: Second rotational force F12: Second rotational force F21: First rotational force F22: Second rotational force FD: Bicycle components FS: Front sprocket assembly G1~G9: Gears G27~G29: Gears LD1: First load direction LD2: Second load direction P11: First position P12: Second position P20: Neutral position P21: First rotation position P22: Second rotation position PA: Pivot axis PS: Power source RA: Rotation axis RD, RD2: Bicycle components RS: Rear sprocket assembly SW: Electric switch T0: Output torque T1: First torque T2: Second torque T11: First input torque T21: Second input torque T31: Third input torque T32: Third output torque T33: Limited output torque T41: Fourth input torque T42: Fourth output torque T43: Limited output torque TP, TP2: Power transmission path WC: Wireless communicator WD: Wired communicator WS: Wired communication structure

A more complete appreciation of the present invention and the many advantages achieved thereof will be readily obtained as the same become better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a side view of a bicycle including a derailleur according to a first embodiment.

[FIG. 2] is a side view of the derailleur of the bicycle shown in FIG. 1.

[Figure 3] is a side view of the derailleur shown in Figure 2.

[Figure 4] is a rear view of the derailleur shown in Figure 2.

[FIG. 5] is a top view of the detent shown in FIG. 2.

[Figure 6] is a three-dimensional exploded view of the detent shown in Figure 2.

[Figure 7] is a three-dimensional exploded view of the detent shown in Figure 2.

[Figure 8] is a three-dimensional diagram of the internal structure of the motor unit of the detent shown in Figure 2.

[Figure 9] is a three-dimensional diagram of the internal structure of the motor unit of the detent shown in Figure 2.

FIG. 10 is a three-dimensional exploded view of the internal structure of the motor unit of the detent shown in FIG. 2 .

[Fig. 11] is a perspective view of the torque limiter of the motor unit of the retractor shown in Fig. 2.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the biasing member of the torque limiter of the motor unit shown in FIG. 8 .

FIG. 13 is a perspective exploded view of the first component and the second component of the torque limiter of the motor unit shown in FIG. 8 .

FIG. 14 is a perspective exploded view of the first component and the second component of the torque limiter of the motor unit shown in FIG. 8 .

FIG. 15 is a side view of the first member and the second member of the torque limiter of the motor unit shown in FIG. 8 .

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the detent shown in FIG. 2 .

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the retractor shown in FIG. 2 .

[Fig. 18] is a cross-sectional view (neutral position) of the transmission structure of the motor unit shown in Fig. 8.

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the retractor shown in FIG. 8 .

[Fig. 20] is a cross-sectional view of the transmission structure of the motor unit shown in Fig. 8 (first rotation position).

[Fig. 21] is a cross-sectional view of the transmission structure of the motor unit shown in Fig. 8 (second rotation position).

[Figure 22 is a schematic block diagram of the detent shown in Figure 2.

FIG. 23 is a side view of the retractor according to the second embodiment.

[Figure 24] is a side view of the retractor shown in Figure 23.

FIG. 25 is a rear view of the retractor shown in FIG. 23.

[Figure 26] is a three-dimensional view of the retractor shown in Figure 23.

[Figure 27] is a three-dimensional exploded view of the detent shown in Figure 23.

FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of the retractor shown in FIG. 23.

[Fig. 29] is a three-dimensional diagram of the inner connecting rod and motor unit of the pull chain illustrated in Fig. 23.

[Fig. 30] is a three-dimensional diagram of the inner connecting rod and motor unit of the pull chain illustrated in Fig. 23.

FIG. 31 is a three-dimensional diagram of the internal structure of the motor unit of the detent shown in FIG. 23.

FIG. 32 is a three-dimensional exploded view of the internal structure of the motor unit of the detent shown in FIG. 23.

[Fig. 33] is a perspective view of the torque limiter of the motor unit of the sprocket illustrated in Fig. 23.

FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional view of the torque limiter of the motor unit of the retractor shown in FIG. 23 .

FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view of the torque limiter of the motor unit of the sprocket illustrated in FIG. 23 .

FIG. 36 is a perspective exploded view of the first component and the second component of the torque limiter of the motor unit shown in FIG. 31 .

FIG. 37 is a perspective exploded view of the first component and the second component of the torque limiter of the motor unit shown in FIG. 31 .

FIG. 38 is a side view of the first member and the second member of the torque limiter of the motor unit shown in FIG. 31 .

FIG. 39 is a cross-sectional view of the slinger shown in FIG. 23.

[Fig. 40] is a schematic block diagram of the retractor illustrated in Fig. 23.

16: Connecting rod assembly

30: Inner connecting rod

30A: Inner connecting rod body

30B: Inner link lever

32: Motor unit

54: Electric motor

54A: Output shaft

54B: Motor gear

54C: Motor housing

56: Output components

56S: Shaft

60: Torque limiter

62: Transmission structure

63: Reducer

64: First component

66: Second component

76:Guide component

78: Biased component

100: Detect objects

A3: The third pivot axis

A5: Output rotation axis

A6: Limiter rotation axis

A7: Transmission structure rotation axis

A9: Motor rotation axis

D21: First circumferential direction

D22: Second circumferential direction

D31: First rotation direction

D32: Second rotation direction

ET: External torque

G1, G3, G5~G9: Gears

LD1: First load direction

LD2: Second load direction

T0: output torque

T1: First torque

T2: Second torque

T11: First input torque

T21: Second input torque

T31: Third input torque

T32: Third output torque

T33: Limit output torque

T41: Fourth input torque

T42: Fourth output torque

T43: Limit output torque

TP: Power Transmission Path

Claims (25)

A motor unit for a bicycle assembly, comprising: a torque limiter, comprising a first member and a second member, wherein the first member and the second member are movable relative to each other when the torque applied to the torque limiter is equal to or higher than a torque threshold; and the first member and the second member are movable together with each other when the torque is lower than the torque threshold; a transmission structure, having a transmission structure rotation axis, the transmission structure comprising: a first bearing ring; a second bearing ring; a first intermediate element, at least partially disposed between the first bearing ring and the second bearing ring; and a second intermediate element, at least partially disposed between the first bearing ring and the second bearing ring; The first intermediate element is configured to move toward the first bearing ring in response to the first intermediate element being pushed by the second bearing ring in a first circumferential direction relative to the transmission structure rotation axis; The first intermediate element is configured to move toward the first bearing ring in response to the first intermediate element being pushed by the second bearing ring in a second circumferential direction different from the first circumferential direction; The first intermediate element is configured to move away from the first bearing ring in response to the first intermediate element being pushed by the second intermediate element in the first circumferential direction; and The first intermediate element is configured to move away from the first bearing ring in response to the first intermediate element being pushed by the second intermediate element in the second circumferential direction different from the first circumferential direction. A motor unit according to claim 1, wherein: In a state where the second bearing ring pushes the first intermediate element and the second intermediate element does not push the first intermediate element, the first intermediate element is constructed to rotate together with the first bearing ring. A motor unit according to claim 1, wherein: In a state where the second intermediate element pushes the first intermediate element and the second bearing ring does not push the first intermediate element, the first intermediate element is constructed to rotate relative to the first bearing ring. The motor unit according to claim 1 further comprises: an electric motor; an output member; and a reducer coupling the electric motor and the output member to transmit the output torque of the electric motor to the output member. A motor unit according to claim 4, wherein: The speed reducer includes the torque limiter and the transmission structure. A motor unit according to claim 5, wherein: The transmission structure is arranged on a power transmission path from the electric motor to the output member and between the electric motor and the torque limiter. A motor unit according to claim 4, wherein: the transmission structure is configured to transmit a first torque in a first load direction defined by the electric motor toward the output member, the transmission structure is configured to transmit a second torque in a second load direction defined by the output member toward the electric motor, and the first torque is higher than the second torque. A motor unit according to claim 4, wherein: the second member is configured to transmit a third torque to the first member in a second load direction defined by the output member toward the electric motor when the external torque input to the output member is lower than the external torque threshold, the second member is configured to transmit a fourth torque to the first member in the second load direction when the external torque is equal to or greater than the external torque threshold, and the third torque is higher than the fourth torque. A motor unit according to claim 1, wherein: the torque limiter has a limiter rotation axis, the transmission structure has a transmission structure rotation axis, and the limiter rotation axis does not coincide with the transmission structure rotation axis. A motor unit according to claim 1, wherein: the torque limiter has a limiter rotation axis, and the limiter rotation axis is parallel to the transmission structure rotation axis. A motor unit according to claim 1, wherein: the torque limiter has a limiter rotation axis, and the limiter rotation axis coincides with the transmission structure rotation axis. A motor unit according to claim 1, wherein: When the external torque input to the output member is lower than the external torque threshold, the first member can slidably contact the second member to transmit a third torque between the first member and the second member, When the external torque is equal to or higher than the external torque threshold, the first member can slidably contact the second member to transmit a fourth torque between the first member and the second member, and The third torque is higher than the fourth torque. A motor unit according to claim 1, wherein: one of the first member and the second member includes a recess, the other of the first member and the second member includes a protrusion, the protrusion is configured to engage in the recess when the torque is lower than the torque threshold to transmit a third torque between the first member and the second member, the protrusion is configured to disengage from the recess when the torque is equal to or higher than the torque threshold to transmit a fourth torque between the first member and the second member, and the third torque is higher than the fourth torque. The motor unit according to claim 1 further comprises: A gear fixed to the first component to transmit the torque from the transmission structure to the first component. A motor unit according to claim 1, wherein: The torque limiter includes a biasing member configured to bias at least one of the first member and the second member to maintain a contact state between the first member and the second member. The motor unit according to claim 1 further comprises: A detection object, configured to be detected by a detector, wherein: The detection object is located on the downstream side relative to the transmission structure on the power transmission path. The motor unit according to claim 1 further comprises: A detection object, configured to be detected by a detector, wherein: The detection object is located on the downstream side relative to the torque limiter on the power transmission path. A motor unit according to claim 1, wherein: the transmission structure is coupled to the torque limiter, the transmission structure is configured to transmit a first torque to the torque limiter when a first input torque is applied to the transmission structure by a device other than the torque limiter, the transmission structure is configured to transmit a second torque when a second input torque is applied to the transmission structure by the torque limiter, and the first torque is higher than the second torque. A retractor comprises: a base member; a movable member; a connecting rod assembly that movably couples the base member and the movable member; and a motor unit according to claim 1, the motor unit being disposed in one of the base member, the movable member, and the connecting rod assembly. The retractor according to claim 19 further comprises: A power supply attachment structure to which a power source is attached, the power supply attachment structure being disposed on one of the base member, the movable member, and the connecting rod assembly. A retractor according to claim 20, wherein: the motor unit is disposed in one of the base member, the movable member, and the connecting rod assembly, and the power supply attachment structure is disposed in the other of the base member, the movable member, and the connecting rod assembly. A retractor according to claim 20, wherein: the motor unit is disposed on one of the base member and the connecting rod assembly, and the power supply attachment structure is disposed on the other of the base member and the connecting rod assembly. A motor unit for a bicycle assembly, comprising: an output member; an electric motor including an output shaft; a torque limiter, which is entirely disposed within the housing of the motor unit; a transmission structure, which is configured to transmit a first torque in a first load direction defined by the output shaft to the output member, and is configured to transmit a second torque in a second load direction defined by the output member to the output shaft; the transmission structure is configured to transmit the torque in a plurality of rotational directions based on the rotational direction of the output shaft when the transmission structure transmits the torque in the first load direction; and the first torque is higher than the second torque. A motor unit according to claim 23, wherein: the torque limiter is configured to transmit a third torque when the torque input to the torque limiter is lower than a torque threshold, the torque limiter is configured to transmit a fourth torque when the torque input to the torque limiter is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, and the third torque is higher than the fourth torque. A motor unit according to claim 24, wherein: the torque limiter includes a first member and a second member, when the torque is lower than the torque threshold, the first member and the second member contact each other to transmit the third torque between the first member and the second member, and when the torque is equal to or higher than the torque threshold, the first member and the second member are constructed to transmit the fourth torque between the first member and the second member.

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