CN114670972A

CN114670972A - Hub assembly for a human powered vehicle

Info

Publication number: CN114670972A
Application number: CN202111504921.8A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 米田友哉; 井上贤吉; 山崎梓
Original assignee: Shimano Inc
Current assignee: Shimano Inc
Priority date: 2020-12-25
Filing date: 2021-12-10
Publication date: 2022-06-28
Also published as: DE102021132524A1; TW202225032A

Abstract

A hub assembly for a human powered vehicle is provided. The hub assembly includes a hub shaft, a hub body, a cable, and a cable protector. The hub axle has a first axial end and a second axial end. The hub body is rotatably mounted on the hub axle for rotation about a central axis of rotation of the hub assembly. The cable has a first portion disposed inside the hub assembly and a second portion disposed outside the hub assembly. The cable protector is movably disposed between a first position and a second position. The second portion of the cable extends along the central axis of rotation when the cable protector is in the first position. The second portion of the cable is at least partially constrained to an angled position relative to the central axis of rotation when the cable protector is in the second position.

Description

Hub assembly for a human powered vehicle

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to a hub assembly for a human powered vehicle.

Background

Some wheels for human powered vehicles (e.g., bicycles) have a hub, a plurality of spokes, and an annular rim. The hub has a hub axle non-rotatably mounted to a frame of the human-powered vehicle. The hub has a hub body coaxially connected with the hub shaft such that the hub body is disposed radially outward relative to the hub shaft. The bearing is configured and arranged to support the hub body such that the hub body is free to rotate about the hub axis. In almost all types of bicycles, except fixed gear and track racing, the wheels of the bicycle, usually the rear wheel, are provided with a bicycle freewheel which is arranged on a wheel hub. Bicycle flywheels typically have a one-way clutch function, transmitting torque in only one direction. Thus, the use of a flywheel allows the bicycle to go forward freely without any rotation of the pedals (i.e., during coasting). During coasting, the bicycle freewheel is considered to be in an idle state, in which the bicycle wheel can rotate freely while the sprocket remains stationary.

Disclosure of Invention

In general, the present disclosure relates to various features of a hub assembly for a human-powered vehicle. The term "human-powered vehicle" as used herein refers to a vehicle that can be driven at least by human power, but does not include vehicles that use only driving power other than human power. In particular, a vehicle that uses only an internal combustion engine as driving force is not included in a human-powered vehicle. Human-powered vehicles are generally considered to be compact, lightweight vehicles, sometimes without the need for a license to drive on public roads. The number of wheels of a human powered vehicle is not limited. Human-powered vehicles include, for example, unicycles and vehicles having three or more wheels. The human powered vehicles include, for example, various types of bicycles, such as mountain bicycles, road bicycles, city bicycles, freight bicycles, recumbent bicycles, and the like, and electric-assisted bicycles (E-bike).

In view of the state of the art, according to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a hub assembly for a human-powered vehicle is provided. The hub assembly basically comprises a hub shaft, a hub body, a cable and a cable protector. The hub axle has a first axial end and a second axial end. The hub body is rotatably mounted on the hub axle for rotation about a central axis of rotation of the hub assembly. The cable has a first portion disposed inside the hub assembly and a second portion disposed outside the hub assembly. The cable protector is movably arranged relative to the drum shaft between a first position and a second position. With the cable protector in the first position, the second portion of the cable extends along the rotational center axis. With the cable protector in the second position, the second portion of the cable is at least partially constrained to an angled position relative to the central axis of rotation.

With the hub assembly according to the first aspect, the cable may be pulled along the rotational center axis of the hub assembly with the cable protector in the first position, but may be restricted from moving along the rotational center axis of the hub assembly with the cable protector in the second position.

According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to the first aspect is configured such that the cable protector is pivotably mounted relative to the hub shaft between the first position and the second position.

With the hub assembly according to the second aspect, the cable protector can be easily moved between the first position and the second position.

According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to the second aspect is configured such that the cable protector has a pivot shaft extending in a twisted or intersecting relationship with respect to the rotational center axis of the hub main body.

With the hub assembly according to the third aspect, the cable protector can be compactly arranged.

According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to any one of the first to third aspects is configured such that the cable protector is a wire.

With the hub assembly according to the fourth aspect, the cable protector can be manufactured easily and at low cost. The cable protector may be resilient.

According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to any one of the first to fourth aspects is configured such that the first portion of the cable extends at least partially along the central axis of rotation.

With the hub assembly according to the fifth aspect, the cable can be pulled along the rotational center axis of the hub assembly when the cable protector is in the first position.

According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to the fourth aspect is configured such that, in a case where a reference plane completely contains the rotational center axis and is perpendicular to the pivot of the cable protector, the wire has a first end disposed on a first side of the reference plane and a second end disposed on a second side of the reference plane.

With the hub assembly according to the sixth aspect, the cable can be reliably restrained with the cable protector in the second position.

According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to any one of the first to sixth aspects further includes a rotation restricting portion configured to be disposed between the hub shaft and a frame of the human-powered vehicle such that rotation of the hub shaft relative to the frame is restricted.

With the hub assembly according to the seventh aspect, the hub assembly can be easily mounted in an appropriate orientation.

According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to the seventh aspect is configured such that the rotation restricting portion is detachably attached to the hub shaft.

With the hub assembly according to the eighth aspect, the rotation restricting member can be easily and inexpensively manufactured and mounted in an appropriate direction with respect to the cable. The rotation restricting member is easily replaced.

According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to the seventh or eighth aspect is configured such that the rotation restricting portion includes a cable guide structure configured to guide the second portion of the cable in a direction angled with respect to the rotation center axis.

With the hub assembly according to the ninth aspect, the cable can be guided appropriately to avoid interference with other components of the human powered vehicle.

According to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to the ninth aspect is configured such that the cable guide structure is further configured to guide the cable in a radial direction of the hub shaft.

With the hub assembly according to the tenth aspect, the cable may be guided to avoid contact with other parts of the human-powered vehicle.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to the ninth or tenth aspect is configured such that the cable guide structure includes a groove configured to guide the cable.

With the hub assembly according to the eleventh aspect, it is possible to provide the cable guide structure with a simple configuration at low cost.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to the eleventh aspect is configured such that the cable protector is attached to the inside of the groove of the cable guide structure.

With the hub assembly according to the twelfth aspect, the cable protector can be easily attached to the rotation restricting portion.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to the eleventh or twelfth aspect is configured such that the cable protector includes a cable restricting portion wider than a width of the cable.

With the hub assembly according to the thirteenth aspect, the cable protector can be reliably restrained with the cable protector in the second position.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to any one of the seventh to thirteenth aspects is configured such that the rotation restricting portion includes a recess, and the cable protector is releasably retained in the recess with the cable protector in the second position.

With the hub assembly according to the fourteenth aspect, the cable protector can be easily attached to the rotation restricting portion, and the cable protector can be easily placed at the second position with respect to the rotation restricting portion.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to the fourteenth aspect is configured such that the cable protector is elastically deformed as the cable protector moves in and out of the recess.

With the hub assembly according to the fifteenth aspect, the cable protector can be easily mounted on and dismounted from the rotation restricting portion. The cable protector may be coverably retained in either the first position or the second position.

According to a sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to any one of the first to fifteenth aspects further comprises an electric component non-rotatably provided with respect to the hub shaft, and wherein the cable is an electric cable electrically connected to the electric component.

With the hub assembly according to the sixteenth aspect, power may be delivered to and/or from the hub.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to the sixteenth aspect is configured such that the electromotive part includes an electronic circuit board, and the cable is electrically connected to the electronic circuit board.

With the hub according to the seventeenth aspect, it is possible to obtain various information about the components of the hub using the electronic circuit board.

According to an eighteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to any one of the first to seventeenth aspects further includes an electric power generator provided to the hub main body and configured to generate electric power by rotation of the hub main body.

With the hub assembly according to the eighteenth aspect, electric power can be generated by rotation of the hub.

According to a nineteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to any one of the first to eighteenth aspects further includes a sprocket support structure rotatably provided about the rotation center axis to transmit a driving force to the hub main body when rotated in a driving rotation direction about the rotation center axis.

With the hub assembly according to the nineteenth aspect, the sprocket support structure functions as a freewheel to allow the sprocket support structure to stop rotating during coasting.

According to a twentieth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a hub assembly for a human-powered vehicle, substantially comprising a hub axle, a hub body, a cable, and a cable protector. The hub axle has a first axial end and a second axial end. The hub body is rotatably mounted on the hub axle for rotation about a central axis of rotation of the hub assembly. The cable has a first portion disposed inside the hub assembly and a second portion disposed outside the hub assembly. The cable protector is a wire and is disposed on the hub shaft. The second portion of the cable is at least partially constrained in an angled position relative to the central axis of rotation.

With the hub assembly according to the twentieth aspect, the cable may be constrained in a position to avoid interference with other components of the human powered vehicle.

Further, other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the disclosed hub will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses preferred embodiments of the hub.

Drawings

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

FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of a human-powered vehicle (i.e., a bicycle) equipped with a hub assembly (i.e., a bicycle hub assembly) in accordance with a first embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a longitudinal elevational view of a hub assembly attached to a vehicle body of the human-powered vehicle shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the hub assembly shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the hub assembly shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, but with optional components removed to show the bearing spacer;

FIG. 5 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the hub assembly shown in FIGS. 2-4 as seen along section line 5-5 in FIG. 3;

FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a first portion of the hub assembly shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a second portion of the hub assembly shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the flower drum assembly shown in FIGS. 2-5, with selected portions of the flower drum broken away;

FIG. 9 is an end elevational view of the hub assembly illustrated in FIGS. 2-5, with selected portions of the hub removed;

FIG. 10 is a partially exploded perspective view of the motorized assembly of the hub assembly shown in FIGS. 2-5;

FIG. 11 is a partial side elevational view of the end portion of the hub assembly shown in FIGS. 2-5, with the cable at least partially restrained in an angled position relative to the central axis of rotation of the hub assembly with the cable protector in the second (restraining) position;

FIG. 12 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the end portion shown in FIG. 11 with the cable protector in a second (restricted) position;

FIG. 13 is a partial side elevational view of the end portion illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12, but with the cable protector in a first (non-limiting) position in which the cable is free to move parallel to the center of rotation of the hub assembly;

FIG. 14 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the end portion shown in FIGS. 11-13 with the cable protector in a first (non-limiting) position;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the end portion shown in FIGS. 11-14, but with the cable protector in a first (non-limiting) position;

FIG. 16 is a partial end elevational view of the end portion illustrated in FIGS. 11 to 15 with the cable protector in a first (non-limiting) position;

fig. 17 is a perspective view of the end portion shown in fig. 11 to 16 but with the cable protector in a second (restricting) position;

FIG. 18 is a partial end elevational view of the end portion illustrated in FIGS. 11 to 17 with the cable protector in a second (restricting) position;

FIG. 19 is a partial top view of the end portion shown in FIGS. 11-18 with the cable at least partially restrained in an angled position relative to the central axis of rotation of the hub assembly with the cable protector in the second (restraining) position;

FIG. 20 is an enlarged end elevational view of the end cap of the hub assembly shown in FIGS. 2-5 with the cable protector in a first (non-limiting) position;

FIG. 21 is an enlarged top plan view of the end cap shown in FIG. 20 with the cable protector in a first (non-limiting) position;

FIG. 22 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the end cap shown in FIGS. 20 and 21 with the cable protector in a first (non-limiting) position;

FIG. 23 is an enlarged end elevational view of the end cap illustrated in FIGS. 20-22, but with the cable protector in a second (restraining) position;

Figure 24 is an enlarged top plan view of the end cap shown in figures 20 to 23 with the cable protector in a second (restraining) position;

figure 25 is an enlarged perspective view of the end cap shown in figures 20 to 24 with the cable protector in a second (restricting) position; and

fig. 26 is an enlarged perspective view of the end cap shown in fig. 20-25, with the cable protector removed from the end cap.

Detailed Description

Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art of manual vehicles (e.g., bicycles) from this disclosure that the following description of the embodiments is illustrative only and not intended to limit the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Referring first to FIG. 1, a hub assembly 10 is provided for a human vehicle V. In other words, a human-powered vehicle V (i.e., a bicycle) is shown equipped with a hub assembly 10 in accordance with the illustrated embodiment. Here, in the illustrated embodiment, the hub assembly 10 is a bicycle hub. More specifically, the hub assembly 10 is a bicycle rear hub. Further, here, in the illustrated embodiment, the hub assembly 10 is a hub generator for providing electrical power to one or more components of the human-powered vehicle V. However, the hub assembly 10 is not limited to a hub generator. In particular, certain aspects of the hub assembly 10 may be provided to hub assemblies that do not generate electricity. Further, while the hub assembly 10 is shown as a rear hub, certain aspects of the hub assembly 10 may be provided with a front hub. Thus, the hub assembly 10 is not limited to a rear hub.

Here, the human powered vehicle V is an electric assist bicycle (E-bike). Alternatively, the human powered vehicle V may be a road bike, a city bike, a cargo bike, a recumbent bike, or another type of off-road bike, such as an off-road bike. As shown in fig. 1, the human-powered vehicle V includes a vehicle body VB supported by rear wheels RW and front wheels FW. The vehicle body VB basically includes a front frame body FB and a rear frame body RB (rocker arm). The vehicle body VB is also provided with a handlebar H and a front fork FF for steering the front wheel FW. The rear frame body RB is swingably mounted to the rear portion of the front frame body FB such that the rear frame body RB can pivot relative to the front frame body FB. The rear wheel RW is mounted to the rear end of the rear frame body RB. The rear shock absorber RS is operatively disposed between the front frame body FB and the rear frame body RB. The rear shock absorber RS is provided between the front frame body FB and the rear frame body RB to control the movement of the rear frame body RB with respect to the front frame body FB. That is, the rear shock absorber RS absorbs the shock transmitted from the rear wheel RW. The rear wheel RW is rotatably mounted to the rear frame body RB. The front wheel FW is mounted to the front frame body FB via a front fork FF. That is, the front wheel FW is mounted to the lower end of the front fork FF. The height adjustable seat bar ASP is mounted to the seat tube of the front frame body FB in a conventional manner and supports the bicycle seat or saddle S in any suitable manner. The front fork FF is pivotally mounted to a head pipe of the front frame body FB. The handlebar H is mounted to the upper end of the steering column or tube of the front fork FF. The front fork FF absorbs the shock transmitted from the front wheel FW. Preferably, the rear shock absorber RS and the front fork FF are electrically adjustable suspensions. For example, the stiffness and/or stroke length of the rear shock absorber RS and the front fork FF can be adjusted.

The human-powered vehicle V further comprises a driveline DT and an electric drive unit DU operatively coupled to the driveline DT. Here, for example, the power transmission system DT is of the chain transmission type, comprising a crank C, a front sprocket FS, a plurality of rear sprockets CS and a chain CN. The crank C includes a crank axle CA1 and a pair of crank arms CA 2. Crank axle CA1 is rotatably supported to front frame body FB via electric drive unit DU. Crank arms CA2 are provided at both ends of the crank axle CA 1. The pedal PD is rotatably coupled to a distal end of each crank arm CA 2. The power transmission system DT may be selected from any type, and may be a belt transmission type or a shaft transmission type.

The electric drive unit DU has an electric motor that supplies a drive assist force to the front sprockets FS. The electric drive unit DU may be driven in a conventional manner to assist propulsion of the human powered vehicle V. For example, the electric drive unit DU is driven according to a manual driving force applied to the pedal PD. The electric drive unit DU is driven by electric power supplied from the master battery pack BP mounted on the lower pipe of the human-powered vehicle V. The master battery pack BP may provide power to other vehicle components, such as the rear derailleur RD, the height adjustable seatpost ASP, the rear shock absorber RS, the front fork FF, and any other vehicle components that use electrical power.

The human powered vehicle V also includes a cycle computer SC. Here, the cycle computer SC is mounted to the front frame body FB. Alternatively, the cycle computer SC can be provided on the handlebar H. The cycle computer SC informs the rider of various driving and/or operating conditions of the human-powered vehicle V. The cycle computer SC can also include various control programs for automatically controlling one or more vehicle components. For example, the cycle computer SC may be provided with an automatic shifting program for changing the gears of the rear derailleur RD according to one or more driving and/or operating conditions of the human powered vehicle V.

Here, the human-powered vehicle V further includes a rear derailleur RD attached to the rear frame body RB for shifting the chain CN between the rear sprockets CS. Rear derailleur RD is one type of shifting device. Here, the rear derailleur RD is an electric derailleur (i.e., an electric shifting device or an electric transmission). Here, the rear derailleur RD is disposed on the rear side of the rear frame body RB near the hub assembly 10. When a rider of the human powered vehicle V manually operates the shift operating device or shifter SL, the rear derailleur RD may be operated. The rear derailleur RD may also be operated automatically according to the driving conditions and/or operating conditions of the human powered vehicle V. The human powered vehicle V may also include a number of electronic components. Some or all of the electronic components may be supplied with power generated by the hub assembly 10 during the power generating state discussed herein.

The structure of the hub assembly 10 will now be described with particular reference to fig. 2 to 8. The hub assembly 10 includes a hub axle 12 and a hub body 14. The drum shaft 12 is configured to be non-rotatably attached to the vehicle body VB. In the present embodiment, the hub axle 12 is configured to be non-rotatably attached to the rear frame body RB. The hub body 14 is rotatably mounted on the hub axle 12 for rotation about a central axis of rotation A1 of the hub assembly 10. The drum shaft 12 has a central axis coaxial with the rotational central axis a 1. The hub main body 14 is rotatably provided about a rotational center axis a 1. In other words, the hub body 14 is rotatably mounted about the hub axle 12.

As shown in fig. 5 to 7, the drum shaft 12 is a rigid member made of a suitable material such as a metal material. The drum shaft 12 has a first axial end 12a and a second axial end 12 b. Here, the hub shaft 12 is a tubular member. Thus, the hub shaft 12 has an axial bore 12c extending between the first and second axial ends 12a, 12 b. The drum shaft 12 may be a one-piece member or made of several pieces. Here, the hub axle 12 is provided with a first end piece or end cap 16 and a second end piece or end cap 18. The first end cap 16 is mounted to a first axial end 12a (left side in fig. 2 to 8) of the hub shaft 12, and the second end cap 18 is mounted to a second axial end 12b (right side in fig. 2 to 8) of the hub shaft 12. For example, the first end cap 16 is threaded onto the first axial end 12a of the hub shaft 12, and the second end cap 18 is secured to the second axial end 12b of the hub shaft 12 by a set bolt 20 that is threaded into the axial bore 12c of the hub shaft 12. Thus, as shown in fig. 2, the first end cover 16 and the fixing bolt 20 are received in the mounting opening of the rear frame body RB.

The hub assembly 10 further includes a rotation restricting portion 21, the rotation restricting portion 21 being configured to be disposed between the hub axle 12 and the frame (rear frame body RB) of the human-powered vehicle V such that the rotation of the hub axle 12 relative to the frame (rear frame body RB) is restricted. Here, the second end cap 18 includes a rotation restricting portion 21, and the rotation restricting portion 21 is also received in one of the mounting openings of the rear frame body RB. The rotation restricting portion 21 is engaged with the rear frame body RB, so that the rotation of the drum shaft 12 with respect to the rear frame body RB is restricted. The second end cap 18 is removably attached to the drum shaft 12 using a fixing bolt 20. Thus, the rotation restricting portion 21 is detachably attached to the drum shaft 12.

Here, as shown in fig. 2 and 5, the hub assembly 10 further includes a wheel holding mechanism 22 for fixing the hub shaft 12 of the hub assembly 10 to the rear frame body RB. The wheel holding mechanism 22 basically includes a shaft or skewer 22a, a cam body 22b, a cam lever 22c and an adjustment nut 22 d. The cam rod 22c is attached to one end of the cross-bar 22a via the cam body 22b, and the adjusting nut 22d is screwed on the other end of the cross-bar 22 a. The cam lever 22c is attached to the cam main body 22 b. The cam body 22b is coupled between the cross-bar 22a and the cam rod 22c to move the cross-bar 22a relative to the cam body 22 b. Accordingly, the cam rod 22c is operated to move the string rod 22a in the axial direction of the rotation center axis a1 with respect to the cam main body 22b to change the distance between the cam main body 22b and the adjustment nut 22 d. Preferably, a compression spring is provided at each end of the cross-bar 22 a. The wheel retention mechanism 22 is sometimes referred to as a quick release skewer. The wheel retention mechanism 22 is typically used with a frame having a pair of clevis attachments, each clevis attachment having an open-ended slot for receiving a portion of the skewer 22 a. Alternatively, the hub axle 12 may be non-rotatably attached to the rear frame body RB by other attachment structures as needed and/or desired.

As shown in fig. 1, 3 and 4, the hub body 14 is rotatably mounted about the hub axle 12 for rotation in a drive rotation direction D1. The driving rotation direction D1 corresponds to the forward driving direction of the rear wheels RW. The hub body 14 is configured to support the rear wheels RW in a conventional manner. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the hub body 14 includes a first outer flange 14a and a second outer flange 14 b. The first outer flange 14a and the second outer flange 14b extend radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the hub main body 14 with respect to the rotational center axis a 1. The first and second

outer flanges

14a, 14b are configured to receive a plurality of spokes (fig. 1) for attaching a rim of the rear wheel RW to the hub body 14. In this way, the hub main body 14 and the rear wheel RW are linked to rotate together.

As shown in fig. 5-7, the hub assembly 10 further includes a first hub body bearing 24. The first hub main body bearing 24 rotatably supports the hub main body 14. Preferably, the hub assembly 10 further includes a second hub body bearing 26 rotatably supporting one end of the hub body 14. The first hub main body bearing 24 rotatably supports the other end of the hub main body 14 with respect to the rotation center axis a 1. The first hub body bearing 24 includes a first inner race 24a, a first outer race 24b, and a plurality of first roller elements 24 c. The first roller elements 24c are disposed between the first inner race 24a and the first outer race 24 b. The second hub body bearing 26 includes a second inner ring 26a, a second outer ring 26b, and a plurality of second roller elements 26 c. The second roller elements 26c are disposed between the second inner race 26a and the second outer race 26 b. The first and second

hub body bearings

24, 26 are radial ball bearings. The radial ball bearing receives forces in a direction perpendicular to the axis. Further, radial roller bearings may be employed instead of radial ball bearings. The radial roller bearing includes a cylindrical roller bearing and a needle bearing.

Here, the hub assembly 10 further includes a bearing spacer 28. The bearing spacer 28 is provided on the hub shaft 12 and supports the hub main body 14 via the second hub main body bearing 26. The bearing spacer 28 supports the second hub body bearing 26. The bearing spacer 28 has an inner peripheral end 28a disposed at the dram shaft 12 and an outer peripheral end 28b spaced radially outward from the inner peripheral end 28a in a radial direction with respect to the rotational center axis a 1. The second drum main body bearing 26 is provided at the outer peripheral end 28b of the bearing spacer 28 and rotatably supports the drum main body 14. The bearing spacer 28 is non-rotatable relative to the drum shaft 12. In particular, as shown in FIG. 4, the inner peripheral end 28a defines a non-circular opening 28a1 that cooperates with the non-circular portion of the hub axle 12 to non-rotatably couple the bearing spacer 28 relative to the hub axle 12. The axial position of the bearing spacer 28 relative to the hub shaft 12 may be determined by being sandwiched between a step provided on the hub shaft 12 and a nut that is threaded onto the hub shaft 12. Here, the bearing spacer 28 includes an axial opening 28 c.

Here, the hub assembly 10 also includes a sprocket support structure 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the sprocket support structure 30 supports the rear sprocket CS as shown in FIG. 2. The sprocket support structure 30 is rotatably provided about the rotation center axis a1 to transmit the driving force to the hub main body 14 when rotating in the driving rotation direction about the rotation center axis a 1. As described below, the sprocket support structure 30 does not transmit the driving force to the hub main body 14 when rotating in the non-driving rotation direction D2 about the rotation center axis a 1. The non-driving rotational direction D2 is opposite to the driving rotational direction D1 with respect to the rotational center axis a 1. The center rotational axis of the sprocket support structure 30 is concentrically arranged with the rotational center axis A1 of the hub assembly 10.

While the sprocket support structure 30 is configured to non-rotatably support the rear sprocket CS, the sprocket support structure 30 is not limited to the illustrated embodiment. Alternatively, one or more of the rear sprockets CS can be integrally formed with the sprocket support structure 30. In any event, the sprocket support structure 30 and the rear sprocket CS are coupled together to rotate together in the driving rotation direction D1 and the non-driving rotation direction D2.

The hub assembly 10 further includes a first sprocket support bearing 32 and a second sprocket support bearing 34. The first sprocket support bearing 32 rotatably supports the first end 30a of the sprocket support structure 30. The second sprocket support bearing 34 rotatably supports the second end 30b of the sprocket support structure 30. First and second

sprocket support bearings

32 and 34 have outer diameters that are smaller than outer peripheral end 28b of bearing spacer 28. The inner diameter of the first sprocket support bearing 32 is greater than the inner diameter of the second sprocket support bearing 34. Thus, the first and second

sprocket support bearings

32 and 34 can be mounted on the hub axle 12 from the second axial end 12b of the hub axle 12. The first sprocket support bearing 32 includes a first inner race 32a, a first outer race 32b, and a plurality of first roller elements 32 c. The first roller elements 32c are disposed between the first inner race 32a and the first outer race 32 b. The second sprocket support bearing 34 includes a second inner race 34a, a second outer race 34b and a plurality of second roller elements 34 c. The second roller elements 34c are disposed between the second inner race 34a and the second outer race 34 b. Here, the first sprocket support bearing 32 and the second sprocket support bearing 34 are radial ball bearings. The radial ball bearing receives forces in a direction perpendicular to the axis. Further, a radial roller bearing may be employed instead of the radial ball bearing. The radial roller bearing contract includes a cylindrical roller bearing and a needle bearing. A tubular spacer element 35 is disposed between the first sprocket support bearing 32 and the second sprocket support bearing 34.

As shown in fig. 5-7, the hub assembly 10 further includes a motorized assembly 36. The motorized assembly 36 includes a motorized component 38. Thus, the hub assembly 10 also includes an electrically powered component 38. The electric component 38 is non-rotatably arranged with respect to the drum shaft 12 and the cable 40 is an electric cable electrically connected to the electric component. While the powered component 38 is part of the hub assembly 10, the powered component 38 may be used with other components of a human-powered vehicle. The motorized member 38 has an opening 38a for receiving the drum shaft 12 through the opening 38 a. Thus, the electric component 38 is supported on the hub shaft 12. The electric element 38 is non-rotatably arranged on the drum shaft 12, as will be described below.

The hub assembly 10 also includes a cable 40. As shown in fig. 5, the cable 40 enters the hub assembly 10 through the opening 18a of the end cap 18. Here, as shown in fig. 9, the cable 40 is an electric cable electrically connected to the electric component 38. The cable 40 has a first end 40a and a second end 40 b. The cable 40 has a longitudinal axis C1 extending between the first end 40a and the second end 40 b. The first end 40a is spaced from the second end 40b by an intermediate section 40c of the cable 40. The first end 40a is electrically connected to the electrically powered component 38. The second end 40b is electrically coupled to another electrically powered component of the human powered vehicle V, such as a rear derailleur RD, a battery pack BP, or an electrical connector. Here, the second end 40b is an electrical connector.

Further, the cable 40 has a first portion 40d disposed inside the hub assembly 10 and a second portion 40e disposed outside the hub assembly 10. Basically, the first portion 40d of the cable 40 extends at least partially along the central axis of rotation a 1. The cable 40 extends through the opening 18a of the end cap 18 to the exterior of the hub assembly 10. Thus, the second portion 40e of the cable 40 corresponds to the portion of the cable 40 exiting the opening 18a of the end cap 18, while the first portion 40d corresponds to the cable 40 not being exposed from the hub assembly 10. Here, the opening 18a of the end cap 18 has a central axis B1 that is parallel to the rotational central axis a1 of the hub assembly 10. The opening 18a may have a central axis B1 along the central axis of rotation a 1. Here, in the illustrated embodiment, the rotation restricting portion 21 includes a cable guide structure 21a configured to guide the second portion 40e of the cable 40 in a direction that is angled with respect to the rotational center axis a 1. Further, in the illustrated embodiment, the cable guide structure 21a is also configured to guide the cable 40 in the radial direction of the hub shaft 12. Preferably, the cable guide structure 21a includes a groove 21b configured to guide the cable 40.

Preferably, as in the illustrated embodiment, the cable 40 is disposed in an axially extending groove or recess 12d of the hub shaft 12, as shown in FIG. 5. Thus, the groove 12d constitutes a cable receiving channel for the cable 40. The groove 12d extends, for example, from the second axial end 12b to the inside of the housing 42 of the electromotive part 38. In this way, the cable 40 may be located in the groove 12d between the electrically powered component 38 and the second axial end 12b of the hub shaft 12. Here, the groove 12d extends from the second axial end 12b through the electric power generator 60.

The hub assembly 10 also includes a cable protector 41. Basically, the cable protector 41 is provided on the drum shaft 12. More specifically, the cable protector 41 is provided on the end cap 18. More specifically, the cable protector 41 is provided on the rotation restricting portion 21 of the end cover 18. The cable protector 41 is movably arranged relative to the drum shaft 12 between a first position and a second position. The second portion 40e of the cable 40 extends along the rotational center axis a1 when the cable protector 41 is in the first position. The second portion 40e of the cable 40 is at least partially constrained to an angled position relative to the rotational center axis a1 when the cable protector 41 is in the second position. In the illustrated embodiment, the cable protector 41 is used with a hub axle 12 having a quick release skewer (wheel retention mechanism 22). Here, the rear frame body RB has a pair of clevis attachments, each having an open-ended slot for receiving a portion of the skewer 22 a. In other words, when the hub assembly 10 is used with a quick release skewer, no other than the cable protector 41 can limit the outward movement of the cable 40 in the axial direction when the wheel is attached to the rear frame body RB. Thus, in this type of quick release arrangement, the cable protector 41 is particularly useful to retain the cable 40 in a bent position when the cable protector 41 is in the second position.

In the illustrated embodiment, the cable protector 41 is pivotally mounted relative to the drum shaft 12 between a first position and a second position. Thus, the cable protector 41 has a pivot axis P1. The pivot P1 extends in a twisted or intersecting relationship with respect to the rotational center axis a1 of the hub main body 14. Therefore, the pivot P1 is not parallel to the rotational center axis a1 of the hub main body 14. Here, the pivot shaft P1 is perpendicularly arranged with respect to the rotational center axis a 1.

Here, the cable protector 41 is a wire. The wire of the cable protector 41 has a first end 41a and a second end 41 b. The first end 41a and the second end 41b are coupled to the rotation restricting portion 21 of the end cap 18. More specifically, the cable protector 41 is attached within the groove 21b of the cable guide structure 21 a. Preferably, the rotation restricting portion 21 further includes a pair of recesses 21c and a pair of recesses 21d that are fitted with the cable protector 41 as described below.

Further, the cable protector 41 further includes a cable restricting portion 41c that is wider than the width of the cable 40. The cable restricting portion 41c is configured to contact the second portion 40e of the cable 40 with the cable protector 41 in the second position. The cable restricting portion 41c is also wider than the lateral width of the groove 21b of the cable guide structure 21 a. The cable protector 41 has a first leg portion 41d and a second leg portion 41 e. When each of the

leg portions

41d and 41e is engaged with one of the recessed portions 21c, the cable protector 41 is held at the second position. The first leg 41d and the second leg 41e are configured to engage the cable guide structure 21a such that the cable protector 41 can be held in the first position or the second position by the spring force of the first leg 41d and the second leg 41 e. That is, the cable protector 41 may be retained in the first position or the second position in a coverable (overlable) manner. In particular, in order to install and/or uninstall the cable protector 41 in the recessed portion 21c of the rotation restricting portion 21, the cable protector 41 is elastically deformed as the cable protector 41 moves into and out of the recessed portion 21c of the rotation restricting portion 21.

Here, the rotation restricting portion 21 includes a recess (e.g., the recess 21c) and the cable protector 41, and the cable protector 41 is releasably retained in the recess (e.g., the recess 21c) when the cable protector 41 is in the second position. In other words, the rotation restricting portion 21 is provided with at least one recess to releasably hold the cable protector 41 in the second position. On the other hand, the recess 21d pivotally couples the cable protector 41 to the rotation restricting portion 21. Specifically, the first end 41a of the cable protector 41 is disposed in one of the recessed portions 21d, and the second end 41b is disposed in the other of the recessed portions 21 d. The first and

second ends

41a, 41b define a pivot axis P1 of the cable protector 41. Since the recess 21d is an elongated groove in the illustrated embodiment, the pivot shaft P1 may not be fixed with respect to the rotation restricting portion 21. Instead, the pivot shaft P1 can move along the recess 21 d. However, in the case where each of the

leg portions

41d and 41e is engaged with one of the recessed portions 21c, the movement of the cable protector 41 along the recessed portion 21d is restricted. Further, a recess or a hole into which the first end 41a and the second end 41b are inserted may be provided in the recess 21 d. This configuration restricts the movement of the cable protective member 41 along the recess 21 d. The cable protector 41 is attached to the recess 21d without being deformed. However, the cable protector 41 may be attached to the recess 21d in a deformed state.

Here, as shown in fig. 23, the concave portions 21c are located on opposite sides of the groove 21b of the cable guide structure 21 a. Each recess 21c is located on one of the surfaces of the groove 21b facing each other to clamp the cable 40. Likewise, the recess 21d is also located on the opposite side of the groove 21b of the cable guide structure 21 a. Each of the recesses 21d is located on one of the surfaces of the groove 21b facing each other to sandwich the cable 40. Furthermore, on each side of the groove 21b, the

respective recesses

21c and 21d are aligned. With this configuration, in the case where the reference plane RP completely contains the rotational center axis a1 and is perpendicular to the pivot shaft P1 of the cable protector 41, the first end 41a is disposed on the first side of the reference plane RP and the second end 41b is disposed on the second side of the reference plane RP. In other words, when the cable protector 41 is in the first (non-limiting) position as shown in fig. 15, 16, 21 and 22, the first end 41a is disposed in the recess 21d on the first side of the reference plane RP, and the second end 41b is disposed in the recess 21d on the second side of the reference plane RP. In this way, in the first (non-restricting) position, when the first end 41a and the second end 41b are located in the recess 21d, the cable protector 41 is freely movable relative to the rotation restricting portion 21. When the cable protector 41 is in the second (restricting) position as shown in fig. 17, 18, and 23 to 25, the first and second ends 41a and 41b are disposed in the recess 21d, and the

leg portions

41d and 41e are disposed in the recess 21 c. Thus, in the second (restricting) position, the movement of the cable protector 41 relative to the rotation restricting portion 21 is restricted. In the embodiment shown, the recesses 21c are mirror images of each other with respect to the reference plane RP. Likewise, the recesses 21d are mirror images of each other with respect to the reference plane RP. The

recesses

21c and 21d have openings that directly communicate with the grooves 21b of the cable guide structure 21 a. The recess 21c and the recess 21d each have a width extending in a direction parallel to the rotational center axis a1 of the hub main body 14, wherein the width is equal to or slightly larger than the diameter of the wire forming the cable protector 41.

Here, the electric component 38 includes a housing 42. The housing 42 is configured to define an opening 38a of the electrical component 38 that receives the dram shaft 12. The housing 42 has a first surface 42a, a second surface 42b, and an opening 38 a. The opening 38a extends from the first surface 42a to the second surface 42 b. The second surface 42b is located on the opposite side of the motorized element 38 relative to the first surface 42 a. In the illustrated embodiment, the first surface 42a faces the first axial end 12a of the dram shaft 12 and the second surface 42b faces the second axial end 12b of the dram shaft 12. Here, the hub shaft 12 extends through an opening 38a of the electric component 38.

Here, the electric component 38 further includes a spacer 43 which is disposed between the hub axle 12 and the electric component 38 in a radial direction with respect to the rotational center axis a 1. In other words, the hub assembly 10 further includes the spacer 43 disposed between the hub axle 12 and the electrical component 38 in the radial direction with respect to the rotational center axis a 1. The spacer 43 is a tubular support having a cylindrical guide portion 43a and an annular abutment portion 43 b. The guide portion 43a is included in the spacer 43.

In addition, the electrical component 38 includes an electronic circuit board 44. The electric component 38 is provided in the hub main body 14. Thus, the electronic circuit board 44 is disposed in the housing 42. The cable 40 is electrically connected to an electronic circuit board 44. Specifically, the first end 40a of the cable 40 is electrically connected to the electronic circuit board 44.

As shown in fig. 5, the cable 40 enters the hub assembly 10 through the opening 18a of the end cap 18. The cable 40 then extends axially along the hub shaft 12 and through the bearing spacer 28. The cable 40 passes through the cover 46 and into the housing 42 of the powered component 38.

In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 42 includes a housing body 45 and a cover 46. A cover 46 is attached to the housing body 45 for enclosing the electronic circuit board 44 in the housing 42. Here, the cover 46 is bonded to the case main body 45 by an adhesive or welding. However, the cover 46 may be attached to the housing main body 45 by a threaded fastener, a rivet, or the like. Preferably, the housing body 45 and the cover 46 are rigid members made of suitable materials. For example, the housing main body 45 and the cover 46 are made of a resin material. For example, the housing body 45 and the cover 46 may be injection molded members, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the bearing spacer 28 is fixedly attached to the housing 42 by a plurality of threaded fasteners 47. A threaded fastener 47 is threaded into a cover 46 of the housing 42.

The housing 42 is non-rotatable relative to the drum shaft 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the electronic circuit board 44 is disposed in the housing 42, and the housing 42 is non-rotatable with respect to the drum shaft 12. The housing 42 is configured to house an electronic circuit board 44 as well as other item components. In particular, the housing 42 has an outer peripheral surface defining an internal space 42c, and the electronic circuit board 44 is disposed in the internal space 42 c. The first surface 42a of the housing 42 includes a plurality of keying projections 42 d. As described below, the key protrusion 42d may be configured to engage a non-rotating member provided to the drum shaft 12 for non-rotatably coupling the housing 42 to the drum shaft 12.

As shown in fig. 5 to 8 and 10, a cover 46 is coupled to the case main body 45 to protect the electronic circuit board 44 and other parts contained in the housing 42. The cover 46 covers the inner space 42c of the housing main body 45. Thus, at least the housing 42, the electronic circuit board 44, and the capacitor 54 may be considered to constitute an electric unit provided in the hub main body 14. The inner space 42c has a ring shape, i.e., the hub axle 12 passes through the central area of the housing 42. In this way, the electronic circuit board 44 is non-rotatable with respect to the drum shaft 12. The electronic circuit board 44 is disposed perpendicular to the rotation center axis a 1. The electronic circuit board 44 is part of the electrical component 38.

As shown in fig. 9, in the illustrated embodiment, the electronic circuit board 44 has an arc shape. Here, the electronic circuit board 44 has a first circumferential end portion 44a and a second circumferential end portion 44 b. The electronic circuit board 44 also has at least one arcuate edge that extends at least partially from the first circumferential end portion 44a to the second circumferential end portion 44 b. Here, the at least one arc-shaped edge includes at least one of an inner arc-shaped edge 44c and an outer arc-shaped edge 44d with respect to the rotational center axis a 1. The electronic circuit board 44 also includes electrical controls 48 disposed on the electronic circuit board 44. The electric controller 48 is configured to receive a detection signal from the rotation detection sensor 52. The electrical controller 48 includes at least one processor that executes a predetermined control program. The at least one processor may be, for example, a Central Processing Unit (CPU) or a Micro Processing Unit (MPU). The term "electrical controller" as used herein refers to hardware, not including a human, that executes a software program. Preferably, the electronic circuit board 44 also includes a data storage device (memory) disposed on the electronic circuit board 44. The data storage device (memory) stores various control programs and information for various control processes including power generation control, power storage control, hub rotation detection control, and the like. Data storage devices include any computer storage device or any non-transitory computer readable medium, with the sole exception being a transitory propagating signal. For example, a data storage device includes non-volatile memory and volatile memory. The non-volatile memory includes, for example, at least one of a Read Only Memory (ROM), an Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), an Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM), and a flash memory. Volatile memory includes, for example, Random Access Memory (RAM).

As shown in fig. 8, the hub assembly 10 further includes a detected portion 50 coupled to the sprocket support structure 30. In particular, the detected part 50 is fixed to the sprocket support structure 30 so that the detected part 50 rotates about the drum shaft 12 together with the sprocket support structure 30. The hub assembly 10 further includes a rotation detection sensor 52 configured to detect the detected portion 50 to detect rotation of the sprocket support structure 30 about the rotational center axis a 1. The rotation detection sensor 52 is provided in the hub body 14. In other words, the rotation detection sensor 52 is configured to detect the detected part 50 provided to the sprocket support structure 30. Specifically, the rotation detection sensor 52 is provided in the inner space 42c of the housing 42. In this way, the rotation detecting sensor 52 is non-rotatably mounted on the drum shaft 12. Therefore, the rotation detection sensor 52 does not rotate with the hub main body 14. The rotation detection sensor 52 is also part of the motorized element 38. The rotation detection sensor 52 is electrically connected to the electronic circuit board 44. As shown in fig. 8, the rotation detecting sensor 52 is provided in the hub main body 14 at a position spaced radially outward from the hub shaft 12.

As shown in fig. 8 to 10, the rotation detection sensor 52 is provided at a position axially aligned with the axial opening 28c of the bearing spacer 28. Thus, the bearing spacer 28 does not interfere with the detection of the detected part 50 provided on the sprocket support structure 30 by the rotation detecting sensor 52. As shown in fig. 8 to 10, the rotation detection sensor 52 is provided at a position separated from the electronic circuit board 44. Specifically, the rotation detecting sensor 52 is disposed at a position separated from the electronic circuit board 44 in a direction parallel to the rotation center axis a 1. The rotation detection sensor 52 is electrically connected to the electronic circuit board 44.

In the illustrated embodiment, the rotation detection sensor 52 includes a magnetic sensor, and the detected part 50 includes a magnet. Thus, the magnetic sensor detects the movement of the magnet that rotates with the sprocket support structure 30. In other words, with this arrangement, the rotation detecting sensor 52 is configured to detect the detected part 50 to detect the rotation of the sprocket support structure 30 about the rotational center axis a 1. The electric controller 48 is configured to receive a detection signal from the rotation detection sensor 52.

Here, the magnet of the detection target 50 is an annular member in which S-pole sections and N-pole sections alternate. In this way, the rotation detecting sensor 52 can detect the amount and direction of rotation of the sprocket support structure 30. However, the detection target 50 is not limited to the illustrated annular member. For example, the detected part 50 may be formed of a single non-annular magnet, or formed of two or more magnets circumferentially spaced about the rotational center axis a 1. In the case of using two or more circumferentially spaced magnets, one back yoke may be provided and the circumferentially spaced magnets may be provided to the back yoke. In this manner, circumferentially spaced magnets may be easily installed in the hub assembly 10. The term "sensor" as used herein refers to a hardware device or instrument designed to detect the presence or absence of a particular event, object, substance, or change in its environment and to emit a response signal. The term "sensor" as used herein does not include a person.

The hub assembly 10 also includes at least one capacitor 54 electrically connected to the electronic circuit board 44. At least one capacitor is electrically connected to the at least one conductor. Here, the electromotive part 38 includes two capacitors 54. The capacitor 54 is an example of a power storage for the electrically powered component 38. In other words, the capacitor 54 is also part of the electrically powered component 38. The capacitor 54 is preferably disposed in the housing 42 of the hub assembly 10. Therefore, the capacitor 54 is non-rotatably supported on the hub shaft 12 by the housing 42.

Additional conductors are electrically connected to the rotation detection sensor 52 and the electronic circuit board 44, as described below. Further, here, the electromotive part 38 includes a first conductor 56A and a pair of second conductors 56B. The rotation detecting sensor 52 is electrically connected to the electronic circuit board 44 through a first conductor 56A. Here, the first conductor 56A is a flexible ribbon conductor. The first conductor 56A may be a conductive lead. On the other hand, the electronic circuit board 44 is electrically connected to the capacitor 54 through the second conductor 56B. The second conductor 56B extends from one of the first circumferential end 44a and the second circumferential end 44B. Here, one of the second conductors 56B extends from the first circumferential end 44a to electrically connect one of the capacitors 54 to the electronic circuit board 44. The other of the second conductors 56B extends from the second circumferential end portion 44B to electrically connect the other of the capacitors 54 to the electronic circuit board 44. Here, the second conductor 56B is a flexible ribbon conductor. The second conductor 56B may be a conductive lead. The capacitor 54 is disposed at a position other than the electronic circuit board 44 in the inner space of the housing 42. The capacitor 54 may be held in the housing 42 with an adhesive or the like. A cover 46 is attached to the housing body 45 to protect the capacitor 54 disposed inside the case 42.

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

As shown in fig. 5-7, the hub assembly 10 further includes a one-way clutch 58 formed between the hub body 14 and the sprocket support structure 30. The one-way clutch 58 includes a plurality of pawls 58A disposed between the hub body 14 and the sprocket support structure 30. The one-way clutch 58 also includes a biasing element 58B that couples the pawl 58A to the sprocket support structure 30. The one-way clutch 58 also includes a plurality of ratchet teeth 58C. Ratchet teeth 58C are provided on a fixing ring 58D fixed to hub body 14. Ratchet teeth 58C are provided on the inner peripheral surface of the fixed ring 58D. The fixing ring 58D is screwed to the hub main body 14. The fixing ring 58D is made of a hard material such as metal. The fixed ring 58D abuts against the second outer ring 26b of the second hub body bearing 26 in the axial direction with respect to the rotational center axis a 1. The second outer race 26b of the second hub main body bearing 26 abuts the step formed in the hub main body 14 on the opposite side in the axial direction. The second outer race 26b of the second hub body bearing 26 is restricted in axial movement by the fixed ring 58D and the step formed on the hub body 14. Biasing element 58B biases pawls 58A into engagement with ratchet teeth 58C of securing ring 58D. The biasing element 58B presses the pawls 58A against the sprocket support structure 30 such that the pawls 58A pivot toward engagement with the ratchet teeth 58C of the stationary ring 58D. The seal member 58E is provided on the fixing ring 58D. The seal member 58E is formed in a ring shape. The tongue of the sealing member 58E contacts the outer peripheral surface of the sprocket support structure 30.

In this manner, the sprocket support structure 30 is coupled to the hub main body 14 to rotate together about the rotational center axis a1 in the driving rotational direction D1. Further, with the sprocket support structure 30 rotating in the non-driving rotational direction D2, the ratchet teeth 58C of the sprocket support structure 30 push the pawl 58A and pivot the pawl 58A to the retracted position against the sprocket support structure 30. Thus, the sprocket support structure 30 is configured to rotate relative to the hub body 14 about the rotational center axis a1 in the non-driving rotational direction D2. In this manner, the sprocket support structure 30 and the one-way clutch 58 form a freewheel that is commonly used in bicycles. Since the basic operation of the flywheel is relatively conventional, the flywheel will not be discussed or illustrated in further detail.

As shown in fig. 5 to 7, the hub assembly 10 includes a power generator 60. Here, the power generator 60 is considered to be part of the electrical component 36. In other words, the electrical component 36 includes the electrical power generator 60. The cable 40 is electrically connected to the power generator 60 via the electronic circuit board 44. In this manner, the cable 40 can provide the electrical power generated by the hub assembly 10 to the rear derailleur RD, the battery pack BP, or other electrically powered components. The cable 40 may also be used to transmit signals from an electrical controller 48 of the electronic circuit board 44 to the rear derailleur RD or another electrically powered component using Power Line Communication (PLC).

The electric power generator 60 is provided to the hub main body 14, and is configured to generate electric power by rotation of the hub main body 14. More specifically, the electric power generator 60 is provided to the hub main body 14 between the hub shaft 12 and the center portion of the hub main body 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the hub main body 14 is rotatably mounted on the hub axle 12 to rotate about the rotational center axis a1 of the electric power generator 60. The electric power generator 60 is configured to generate electric power by rotation of the hub main body 14 relative to the hub shaft 12. The electrical controller 48 of the electronic circuit board 44 is electrically connected to the power generator 60 to control the power output of the power generator 60. Thus, the electrical power generated by the electrical power generator 60 may be stored and/or provided directly to other components, such as the rotation detection sensor 52, the rear derailleur RD, and the like.

Although power generator 60 is shown and described as part of hub assembly 10, power generator 60 may be applied to different portions of human-powered vehicle V. Generally, the electrical power generator 60 includes a shaft, a stator, and a rotor. Accordingly, the following description of the power generator 60 is not limited to use as part of a hub assembly. Rather, the following description of power generator 60 may be applied to other portions of human-powered vehicle V to generate electrical power.

In the illustrated embodiment, the power generator 60 also includes a stator 62 and a rotor 64. The stator 62 is non-rotatable relative to the drum shaft 12. On the other hand, the rotor 64 is rotatably mounted on the hub shaft 12 to rotate about the rotation center axis a1 of the electric power generator 60. Specifically, the rotor 64 is provided to the hub main body 14 to rotate together with the hub main body 14. Thus, when the hub main body 14 rotates relative to the hub axle 12, the rotor 64 rotates relative to the stator 62 to generate electricity. That is, an induced electromotive force is generated in the stator 62 by the rotation of the rotor 64 and a current flows out from the stator 62 of the power generator 60. As shown in fig. 6, 9, and 10, the current from the stator 62 is supplied to the electromotive part 38 via a pair of electric wires W1 and W2. The electric wires W1 and W2 are electrically connected to the electronic circuit board 44. Here, the electric wires W1 and W2 extend through openings in the end wall portions of the housing 42, and then through the electric power generator 60. As shown in fig. 9, the electric wires W1 and W2 are electrically connected to the electronic circuit board 44. As shown in fig. 6, the stator 62 has a pair of electric wires. An electric wire (not shown) is electrically connected to the electric wire W1, and the electric wire W4 is electrically connected to the electric wire W2.

As shown in fig. 6 and 7, the stator 62 has a first axial stator end 68A facing the first axial end 12a of the shaft 12 with respect to the rotational center axis a1, and a second axial stator end 68B facing the second axial end 12B of the shaft 12 with respect to the rotational center axis a 1. Here, the stator 62 includes an armature provided on the shaft 12. The armature of the stator 62 includes a winding coil 62A and a bobbin 62B.

The winding coil 62A is wound on a bobbin 62B for supporting the winding coil 62A. The winding coil 62A is made of a conductive metal wire material such as a copper wire or an aluminum alloy wire. Electric wires W3 and W4 are electrically connected to both ends of the winding coil 62A. The electric wire W3 is electrically connected to the electric wire W1 through the first electrical connector EC 1. The electric wire W4 is electrically connected to the electric wire W2 through the second electrical connector EC 2. In this way, the electric power generated in the winding coil 62A is transmitted to the electronic circuit board 44 of the electromotive part 38 via the electric wires W1, W2, W3, and W4. The electronic circuit board 44 then conditions the power received from the winding coil 62A to selectively store the power in the capacitor 54 and/or to selectively transmit the power to the exterior of the hub assembly 10 via the cable 40 as described below.

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

In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 42 is disposed between the sprocket support structure 30 and the stator 62. The first surface 42a faces the second axial stator end 68B of the stator 62. The first surface 42a is formed by the outer surface of the end wall portion of the housing 42. Preferably, the housing 42 is disposed adjacent the stator 62 at the second axial stator end 68B of the stator 62 in an axial direction relative to the central axis of rotation a 1.

Here, the electronic circuit board 44 is disposed adjacent to the stator 62 at the second axial stator end 68B of the stator 62 in an axial direction with respect to the rotational center axis a 1. The electric wires W1 and W2 are connected to the electronic circuit board 44. In particular, the electronic circuit board 44 has a first axial facing surface 44e facing the stator 62 and a second axial facing surface 44f facing away from the stator 62. Here, the electric wires W1 and W2 are electrically connected to the second axial facing surface 44f of the electronic circuit board 44.

The armature of the stator 62 further includes a plurality of first yokes 62C and a plurality of second yokes 62D. The first yoke 62C is arranged in the circumferential direction of the hub shaft 12. Likewise, the second yokes 62D are arranged in the circumferential direction of the hub shaft 12 and alternate with the first yokes 62C. The winding coil 62A is located between the first yoke 62C and the second yoke 62D in the axial direction of the hub shaft 12. Here, the first and

second yokes

62C and 62D are fitted into the grooves of the bobbin 62B such that the first and

second yokes

62C and 62D alternate in the circumferential direction about the rotation center axis a 1. For example, the first and

second yokes

62C and 62D may be attached to the bobbin 62B by an adhesive.

Each first yoke 62C may be a laminated yoke composed of a plurality of laminated sheets, or may be a single sheet. In the case of the laminated yokes, the laminated sheets of the first yoke 62C are laminated together in the circumferential direction around the rotation center axis a 1. The laminated sheet of the first yoke 62C is composed of, for example, a silicon steel plate (more specifically, a non-oriented silicon steel plate) with an oxide film formed on the surface thereof. The laminated sheet of the first yoke 62C is an example of a plate-shaped member.

Likewise, the second yoke 62D may be a laminated yoke composed of a plurality of laminated sheets or may be a single sheet. In the case of the laminated yokes, the laminated sheets of the second yoke 62D are laminated together in the circumferential direction around the rotation center axis a 1. The laminated sheet of the second yoke 62D is composed of, for example, a silicon steel plate (more specifically, a non-oriented silicon steel plate) having an oxide film formed on the surface thereof. The laminated sheet of the second yoke 62D is an example of a plate-shaped member.

The rotor 64 includes at least one magnet. Here, in the illustrated embodiment, the rotor 64 includes a plurality of first magnet portions 64A and a plurality of second magnet portions 64B arranged inside a tubular support 64C. The tubular support 64C is fixedly coupled to the interior of the hub body 14 such that the magnet (rotor 64) and the hub body 14 rotate together about the hub shaft 12. The tubular support 64C has the function of a back yoke. The back yoke is a member having a high magnetic permeability, which is disposed on the opposite side of the magnetized surface. By using a back yoke, a high generated magnetic field can be obtained. The tubular support 64C may be omitted. Alternatively, the hub main body 14 may have a magnet (rotor 64) so that the hub main body 14 partially forms the electric power generator 60. The first magnet portion 64A and the second magnet portion 64B are arranged such that the S poles and the N poles of the first magnet portion 64A and the second magnet portion 64B are alternately arranged in the circumferential direction of the hub shaft 12. Therefore, the S pole of the first magnet portion 64A is not aligned with the S pole of the second magnet portion, and the N pole of the first magnet portion 64A is not aligned with the N pole of the second magnet portion 64B in the axial direction of the hub shaft 12.

As described above, the winding coil 62A is shown fixed relative to the hub axle 12, and the magnet (rotor 64) is shown fixed relative to the hub body 14. Alternatively, the winding coil 62A may be fixed with respect to the hub main body 14, and the magnet (rotor 64) may be fixed with respect to the hub axle 12.

As shown in fig. 6, 9, and 10, the electric wires Wl and W2 are electrically connected to the stator 62 at the first axial stator end 68A of the stator 62. The electric wires Wl and W2 axially extend through the armature of the stator 62. More specifically, the electric wires W1 and W2 extend axially between the first yoke 62C and the second yoke 62D of the stator 62. Thus, the wires W1 and W2 extend axially through the stator 62 at a point radially outward of the winding coil 62A.

The hub assembly 10 further comprises two fixing

plates

76 and 78 provided on the hub shaft 12 for non-rotatably connecting the stator 62 of the electric power generator 60 to the hub shaft 12. The fixing

plates

76 and 78 are provided at opposite axial ends of the electric power generator 60. The fixing

plates

76 and 78 have a plate-like shape. The fixing plate 76 includes a plurality of protrusions 76a, and the fixing plate 78 includes a plurality of protrusions 78 a. One of the protrusions 76a of the fixing plate 76 is disposed in the groove 12d of the hub shaft 12. Likewise, one of the protrusions 78a of the fixing plate 78 is disposed in the groove 12d of the hub shaft 12. The other of the

projections

76a and 78a are disposed in the other two axially extending recesses 12e of the dram shaft 12. By inserting the

protrusions

76a and 78a into these grooves 12d and 12e of the drum shaft 12, the fixing

plates

76 and 78 do not rotate relative to the drum shaft 12. By the stator 62 engaging with the projection 76b projecting from the axial facing surface of the fixed plate 76 and the projection 78b projecting from the axial facing surface of the fixed plate 78, the stator 62 of the electric power generator 60 does not rotate relative to the drum shaft 12. The fixing

plates

76 and 78 are arranged to sandwich the stator 62 of the electric power generator 60 from both sides in the axial direction of the stator 62 of the electric power generator 60. Alternatively, rotation of the retaining

plates

76 and 78 relative to the hub shaft 12 may also be inhibited by providing D-shaped cutouts that mate with corresponding outer surfaces of the hub shaft 12. Alternatively, one of the pair of fixing

plates

76 and 78 may be omitted.

Further, the housing 42 may be non-rotatably coupled to one of the fixing

plates

76 and 78 for inhibiting rotation of the housing 42 relative to the drum shaft 12. For example, the key projection 42d of the housing 42 is configured to engage with the opening 78c of the fixing plate 78 keyed to the groove 12d of the hub shaft 12. The fixing plate 78 includes a plurality of openings 78c corresponding to the key protrusions 42 d. In this way, the housing 42 is prevented from rotating relative to the drum shaft 12. Alternatively, the housing 42 may be attached to the bearing spacer 28, with the bearing spacer 28 non-rotatably coupled to the hub axle 12. A nut 80 is threaded onto the hub shaft 12 for retaining the stator 62 and the housing 42 on the hub shaft 12.

In understanding the scope of the present invention, the term "comprising" and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended to be open ended terms that specify the presence of the stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and/or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers and/or steps. The foregoing also applies to words having similar meanings such as the terms, "including", "having" and their derivatives. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the terms "portion," "section," "portion," "member" or "element" when used in the singular can have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts.

As used herein, the following directional terms "frame-facing side", "non-frame-facing side", "forward", "rearward", "front", "rear", "upper", "lower", "above", "below", "upward", "downward", "top", "bottom", "side", "vertical", "horizontal", "vertical" and "transverse" as well as any other similar directional terms refer to those directions of the human-powered vehicle art (e.g., a bicycle) in an upright, riding position and equipped with a hub. Accordingly, these directional terms, as utilized to describe the hub, should be interpreted relative to the field of human powered vehicles (e.g., bicycles) in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface and equipped with the hub. The terms "left" and "right" are used to refer to "right" when referenced from the right side as viewed from the rear of a human-powered vehicle field (e.g., a bicycle), and "left" when referenced from the left side as viewed from the rear of a human-powered vehicle field (e.g., a bicycle).

The phrase "at least one" as used in this disclosure means "one or more" of the desired selections. For example, if the number of its choices is two, the phrase "at least one" as used in this disclosure means "only one single choice" or "both of the two choices". As another example, the phrase "at least one" as used in this disclosure means "only one single choice" or "any combination of equal or more than two choices" if the number of choices is equal to or more than three. Further, the term "and/or" as used in this disclosure means "one or both of.

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

As used herein, the term "attached to" or "attaching" encompasses the following configurations: securing an element directly to another element by adhering it directly to the other element; indirectly securing the element to the other element by adhering the element to the intermediate member; and arrangements in which one element is integral with another element, i.e. one element is substantially part of another element. This definition also applies to words having similar meanings such as "engaged," "connected," "coupled," "mounted," "adhered," "secured," and derivatives thereof. Finally, terms such as "substantially", "about" and "approximately" as used herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed.

While only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made herein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, unless otherwise specifically stated, the size, shape, location or orientation of the various components can be changed as needed and/or desired, provided such changes do not materially affect their intended function. Unless otherwise specifically stated, elements shown as directly connected or contacting each other may have intermediate structures disposed between them so long as such changes do not substantially affect their intended function. The functions of one element may be performed by two, and vice versa, unless specifically noted otherwise. The structures and functions of one embodiment may be adopted in another embodiment. Not all advantages may be present in a particular embodiment at the same time. Each feature which is unique from the prior art, alone or in combination with other features, also should be considered a separate description of further inventions by the applicant, including the structural and/or functional concepts embodied by such features. Accordingly, the foregoing descriptions of the embodiments according to the present invention are provided for illustration only, and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A hub assembly for a human-powered vehicle, the hub assembly comprising:

a hub axle having a first axial end and a second axial end;

a hub body rotatably mounted on the hub shaft for rotation about a central axis of rotation of the hub assembly;

a cable having a first portion disposed inside the hub assembly and a second portion disposed outside the hub assembly; and

a cable protector movably arranged relative to the drum shaft between a first position and a second position, the second portion of the cable extending along the central axis of rotation with the cable protector in the first position, and the second portion of the cable being at least partially constrained to an angled position relative to the central axis of rotation with the cable protector in the second position.

2. Hub assembly according to claim 1, wherein

The cable protector is pivotally mounted relative to the drum shaft between the first position and the second position.

3. The hub assembly of claim 2, wherein

The cable protector has a pivot shaft extending in a twisted or intersecting relationship with respect to the rotational center axis of the hub body.

4. The hub assembly of claim 1, wherein

The cable protector is a wire.

5. The hub assembly of claim 1, wherein

The first portion of the cable extends at least partially along the central axis of rotation.

6. Hub assembly according to claim 4, wherein

In the case where a reference plane completely contains the central axis of rotation and is perpendicular to the pivot axis of the cable protector, the wire has a first end disposed on a first side of the reference plane and a second end disposed on a second side of the reference plane.

7. The hub assembly of claim 1, further comprising

A rotation restricting portion configured to be disposed between the hub axle and a frame of the human-powered vehicle such that rotation of the hub axle relative to the frame is restricted.

8. The hub assembly of claim 7, wherein

The rotation restricting portion is detachably attached to the drum shaft.

9. The hub assembly of claim 7, wherein

The rotation restricting portion includes a cable guide structure configured to guide the second portion of the cable in a direction angled with respect to the rotational center axis.

10. Hub assembly according to claim 9, wherein

The cable guide structure is further configured to guide the cable in a radial direction of the drum shaft.

11. The hub assembly of claim 9, wherein

The cable guide structure includes a groove configured to guide the cable.

12. The hub assembly of claim 11, wherein

The cable protector is attached to the inside of the groove of the cable guide structure.

13. The hub assembly of claim 11, wherein

The cable protector includes a cable restraining portion that is wider than a width of the cable.

14. The hub assembly of claim 7, wherein

The rotation restricting portion includes a recess, and

the cable protector is releasably retained in the recess with the cable protector in the second position.

15. The hub assembly of claim 14, wherein

The cable protector is elastically deformed as the cable protector moves into and out of the recess.

16. The hub assembly of claim 1, further comprising

An electric component arranged non-rotatably with respect to the hub shaft, and wherein

The cable is an electrical cable electrically connected to the electrically powered component.

17. The hub assembly of claim 16, wherein

The electrically powered component includes an electronic circuit board, an

The cable is electrically connected to the electronic circuit board.

18. The hub assembly of claim 1, further comprising

A power generator provided to the hub main body and configured to generate power by rotation of the hub main body.

19. The hub assembly of claim 1, further comprising

A sprocket support structure rotatably provided about the rotation center axis to transmit a driving force to the hub main body when rotating in a driving rotation direction about the rotation center axis.

20. A hub assembly for a human-powered vehicle, the hub assembly comprising:

a hub axle having a first axial end and a second axial end;

a cable protector that is a wire and is disposed on the drum shaft, and the second portion of the cable is at least partially constrained in an angled position relative to the central axis of rotation.