HUB ASSEMBLY FOR HUMAN-POWERED VEHICLE

A hub assembly is provided for a human-powered vehicle. The hub assembly includes a hub axle, a hub body, a bearing spacer and a first hub body bearing. The hub body is rotatably mounted on the hub axle to rotate around a rotational center axis of the hub assembly. The bearing spacer has an inner peripheral end provided to the hub axle and an outer peripheral end spaced radially outward of the inner peripheral end in a radial direction with respect to the rotational center axis. The first hub body bearing is disposed at the outer peripheral end of the bearing spacer and rotatably supporting the hub body.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

This disclosure generally relates to a hub assembly for a human-powered vehicle.

Background Information

Some wheels for human-powered vehicles (e.g., bicycle) have a hub, a plurality of spokes and an annular rim. The hub has a hub axle that is non-rotatably mounted to a frame of the human-powered vehicle. The hub has a hub body that is coaxially coupled to the hub axle so that the hub body is disposed radially outwardly with respect to the hub axle. The bearings are configured and arranged to support the hub body so that the hub body can freely rotate around the hub axle. In almost all types of bicycles except fixed gear and track racers, a wheel of the bicycle, typically the rear wheel, is provided with a bicycle freewheel that is arranged on a hub of the wheel. The bicycle freewheel usually has a one-way clutch function whereby it only transfers torque in one direction. Thus, freewheels are used so that the bicycle can advance freely without any rotation of the pedals (i.e., during coasting). During coasting, the bicycle freewheel is considered to be in a state of freewheeling in which the bicycle wheel can freely rotate while the sprockets remain stationary.

SUMMARY

Generally, the present disclosure is directed 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 by at least human driving force, but does not include a vehicle using only a driving power other than human power. In particular, a vehicle solely using an internal combustion engine as a driving power is not included in the human-powered vehicle. The human-powered vehicle is generally assumed to be a compact, light vehicle that sometimes does not require a license for driving on a public road. The number of wheels on the human-powered vehicle is not limited. The human-powered vehicle includes, for example, a monocycle and a vehicle having three or more wheels. The human-powered vehicle includes, for example, various types of bicycles such as a mountain bike, a road bike, a city bike, a cargo bike, and a recumbent bike, and an electric assist bicycle (E-bike).

In view of the state of the known technology and in accordance with a first aspect of the present disclosure, a hub assembly is provided for a human-powered vehicle. The hub assembly basically comprises a hub axle, a hub body, a bearing spacer and a first hub body bearing. The hub body is rotatably mounted on the hub axle to rotate around a rotational center axis of the hub assembly. The bearing spacer has an inner peripheral end provided to the hub axle and an outer peripheral end spaced radially outward of the inner peripheral end in a radial direction with respect to the rotational center axis. The first hub body bearing is disposed at the outer peripheral end of the bearing spacer and rotatably supporting the hub body.

With the hub assembly according to the first aspect, the hub assembly can be configured to easily accommodate additional components in the hub body.

In accordance with a second aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to the first aspect is configured so that the bearing spacer includes an axial opening at least partly formed in an angular region defined between a horizontally forward direction and a vertically upward direction that is perpendicular to the horizontally forward direction, in a mounting state where the hub assembly is mounted to the human-powered vehicle. A central angle is defined by the horizontally forward direction and the vertically upward direction is equal to ninety degrees. The horizontally forward direction and the vertically upward direction extend from the rotational center axis.

With the hub assembly according to the second aspect, it is possible to reduce the weight of the hub assembly without compromising the durability of the hub assembly.

In accordance with a third aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to the first or second aspect further comprises an electric circuit board disposed in the hub body, and a sensor disposed in the hub body. The sensor is electrically connected to the electric circuit board by a first conductor.

With the hub assembly according to the third aspect, it is possible to obtain various information regarding the hub assembly using the electric circuit board and the sensor.

In accordance with a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to the third aspect is configured so that the sensor is arranged at a position separated from the electric circuit board in a direction parallel to the rotational center axis.

With the hub assembly according to the fourth aspect, it is possible to place the sensor in the optimal position.

In accordance with a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to the fourth aspect is configured so that the electric circuit board is arranged perpendicular to the rotational center axis.

With the hub assembly according to the fifth aspect, it is possible to increase the degree of freedom in arranging parts and facilitate compact arrangement of the electric circuit board.

In accordance with a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to any one of the third aspect to the fifth aspect is configured so that the bearing spacer includes an axial opening, and the sensor is disposed at a position that is axially aligned within the axial opening of the bearing spacer.

With the hub assembly according to the sixth aspect, it is possible to increase the detection ability of the sensor.

In accordance with a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to any one of the third aspect to the sixth aspect is configured so that the electric circuit board is electrically connected to a capacitor by a second conductor.

With the hub assembly according to the seventh aspect, it is possible to provide power to the electric circuit board while the human-powered vehicle is stopped.

In accordance with an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to the seventh aspect is configured so that the electric circuit board has an arc shape, and has a first circumferential end portion, a second circumferential end portion and at least one arc shaped edge extending at least partly from the first circumferential end portion to the second circumferential end portion, and the second conductor extends from one of the first circumferential end portion and the second circumferential end portion.

With the hub assembly according to the eighth aspect, it is possible to provide a compact arrangement of the parts in the hub body.

In accordance with a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to the eighth aspect is configured so that the at least one arc shaped edge includes at least one of an inner arc shaped edge and an outer arc shaped edge with respect to the rotational center axis.

With the hub assembly according to the ninth aspect, it is further possible to provide a compact arrangement of the parts in the hub body.

In accordance with a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to the eighth or ninth aspect further comprises a housing disposed in the hub body, and has an outer peripheral surface defining an internal space in which the electric circuit board is disposed.

With the hub assembly according to the tenth aspect, it is possible to protect the electric circuit board more reliably.

In accordance with an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to the tenth aspect is configured so that the housing is non-rotatable with respect to the hub axle.

With the hub assembly according to the eleventh aspect, it is possible to more reliably protect the parts in the housing.

In accordance with a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to any one of the third aspect to the eleventh aspect is configured so that further comprises a second hub body bearing rotatably supporting an end of the hub body, and the first hub body bearing rotatably supports the other end of the hub body with respect to the rotational center axis.

With the hub assembly according to the twelfth aspect, it is possible to reliably support the hub body for rotation on the hub axle.

In accordance with a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to any one of the sixth aspect to the twelfth aspect further comprises a sprocket support structure rotatably disposed around the rotational center axis to transmit a driving force to the hub body while rotating in a driving rotational direction around the rotational center axis.

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

In accordance with a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to the thirteenth aspect further comprises a detected part coupled to the sprocket support structure, and the sensor includes a rotation detection sensor configured to detect the detected part such that rotation of the sprocket support structure around the rotational center axis is detected.

With the hub assembly according to the fourteenth aspect, it is possible to reliable detect rotation of the sprocket support structure.

In accordance with a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to the thirteenth aspect further comprises a first sprocket support bearing and a second sprocket support bearing. The first sprocket support bearing rotatably supports a first end of the sprocket support structure. The second sprocket support bearing rotatably supports a second end of the sprocket support structure. The first sprocket support bearing and the second sprocket support bearing have outer diameters that are smaller than the outer peripheral end of the bearing spacer.

With the hub assembly according to the fifteenth aspect, it is possible to reliable support the sprocket support structure for rotation while minimizing weight.

In accordance with a sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub assembly according to any one of the first aspect to the fifteenth aspect further comprises an electric power generator provided to the hub body, and configured to generate electric power by rotation of the hub body.

With the hub assembly according to the sixteenth aspect, it is possible to generate electrical power when the hub body is rotating.

In accordance with a seventeenth aspect of the present disclosure, an electrical component is provided for a human-powered vehicle. The electrical component comprises an electric circuit board, at least one conductor and at least one capacitor. The electric circuit board has an arc shape. The electric circuit board has a first circumferential end portion, a second circumferential end portion and at least one arc shaped edge extending at least partly from the first circumferential end portion to the second circumferential end portion. The at least one conductor is configured to extend from one of the first circumferential end portion and the second circumferential end portion. The at least one capacitor is electrically connected to the at least one conductor.

With the electrical component according to the seventeenth aspect, it is further possible to provide a compact arrangement of the parts in the hub body.

In accordance with an eighteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the electrical component according to the seventeenth aspect further comprises a sensor disposed at a position separated from the electric circuit board, and an additional conductor electrically connecting the sensor and the electric circuit board.

With the electrical component according to the eighteenth aspect, it is possible to detect rotation of the sprocket support structure.

Also, other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the disclosed hub assembly and the disclosed electrical component 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 disclosed hub assembly and the disclosed electrical component.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Referring initially toFIG.1, a hub assembly10is provided to a human-powered vehicle V. In other words, the human-powered vehicle V (i.e., a bicycle) is illustrated that is equipped with the hub assembly10in accordance with an illustrated embodiment. Here, in the illustrated embodiment, the hub assembly10is a bicycle hub. More specifically, the hub assembly10is a bicycle rear hub. Also, here, in the illustrated embodiment, the hub assembly10is a hub dynamo for providing electric power to one or more components of the bicycle V. However, the hub assembly10is not limited to a hub dynamo. In particular, certain aspects of the hub assembly10can be provided that does not generate electric power. Also, while the hub assembly10is illustrated as a rear hub, certain aspects of the hub assembly10can be provided to a front hub. Thus, the hub assembly10is not limited to a rear hub.

Here, the bicycle V is an electric assist bicycle (E-bike). Alternatively, the bicycle V can be a road bicycle, a city bike, a cargo bike, and a recumbent bike, or another type of off-road bicycle such as a cyclocross bicycle. As seen inFIG.1, the bicycle V includes a vehicle body VB that is supported by a rear wheel RW and a front wheel FW. The vehicle body VB basically includes a front frame body FB and a rear frame body RB (a swing 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 a rear section of the front frame body FB such that the rear frame body RB can pivot with respect to the front frame body FB. The rear wheel RW is mounted to a rear end of the rear frame body RB. A rear shock absorber RS is operatively disposed between the front frame body FB and 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. Namely, the rear shock absorber RS absorbs 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 the front fork FF. Namely, the front wheel FW is mounted to a lower end of the front fork FF. A height adjustable seatpost ASP is mounted to a seat tube of the front frame body FB in a conventional manner and supports a bicycle seat or saddle S in any suitable manner. The front fork FF is pivotally mounted to a head tube of the front frame body FB. The handlebar H is mounted to an upper end of a steering column or a steerer tube of the front fork FF. The front fork FF absorbs 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 stoke length of the rear shock absorber RS and the front fork FF can be adjusted.

The bicycle V further includes a drivetrain DT and an electric drive unit DU that is operatively coupled to the drivetrain DT. Here, for example, the drivetrain DT is a chain-drive type that includes a crank C, a front sprocket FS, a plurality of rear sprockets CS and a chain CN. The crank C includes a crank axle CA1and a pair of crank arms CA2. The crank axle CA1is rotatably supported to the front frame body FB via the electric drive unit DU. The crank arms CA2are provided on opposite ends of the crank axle CA1. A pedal PD is rotatably coupled to the distal end of each of the crank arms CA2. The drivetrain DT can be selected from any type, and can be a belt-drive type or a shaft-drive type.

The electric drive unit DU has an electric motor that provides a drive assist force to the front sprocket FS. The electric drive unit DU can be actuated to assist in the propulsion of the bicycle V in a conventional manner. The electric drive unit DU is actuated, for example, in accordance with a human driving force applied to the pedals PD. The electric drive unit DU is actuated by electric power supplied from a main battery pack BP that is mounted on a downtube of the bicycle V. The main battery pack BP can provide electrical 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 component that uses electrical power.

The bicycle V further 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 notifies the rider of various traveling and/or operating conditions of the bicycle 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 can be provided with an automatic shifting program for changing gears of the rear derailleur RD based on one or more traveling and/or operating conditions of the bicycle V.

Here, the bicycle V further includes a rear derailleur RD that is attached to the rear frame body RB for shifting the chain CN between the rear sprockets CS. The rear derailleur RD is one type of gear changing device. Here, the rear derailleur RD is an electric derailleur (i.e., an electric gear changing device or an electric transmission device). Here, the rear derailleur RD is provided on the rear side of the rear frame body RB near the hub assembly10. The rear derailleur RD can be operated when a rider of the bicycle V manually operates a gear shift operating device or shifter SL. The rear derailleur RD can also be automatically operated based on traveling conditions and/or operating conditions of the bicycle V. The bicycle V can further include a plurality of electronic components. Some or all of the electronic components can be supplied with electric power generated by the hub assembly10during a power generation state as discussed herein.

The structure of the hub assembly10will now be described with particular reference toFIGS.2to6. The hub assembly10comprises a hub axle12and a hub body14. The hub axle12is configured to be non-rotatably attached to the vehicle body VB. In this embodiment, the hub axle12is configured to be non-rotatably attached to the rear frame body RB. The hub body14is rotatably mounted on the hub axle12to rotate around a rotational center axis A1of the hub assembly10. The hub axle12has a center axis coaxial with the rotational center axis A1. The hub body14is rotatably disposed around the rotational center axis A1. In other words, the hub body14is rotatably mounted around the hub axle12.

As seen inFIG.5, the hub axle12is a rigid member made of a suitable material such as a metallic material. Here, the hub axle12is a tubular member. The hub axle12has a first axial end12a, a second axial end12band an axial bore12c. The axial bore12cextends between the first axial end12aand the second axial end12b. The hub axle12can be a one-piece member or made of several pieces. Here, the hub axle12is provided with a first end piece or end cap16and a second end piece or end cap18. The first end cap16is mounted to the first axial end12a(left side inFIGS.2to5) of the hub axle12, and the second end cap18is mounted to the second axial end12b(right side inFIGS.2to5) of the hub axle12. For example, the first end cap16is threaded on the first axial end12aof the hub axle12, and the second end cap18is secured to the second axial end12bof the hub axle12by a fixing bolt20that is threaded into the axial bore12cof the hub axle12. In this way, the first end cap16and the fixing bolt20are received in mounting openings of the rear frame body RB as seen inFIG.2. Here, the second end cap18includes a rotation restriction part18awhich is also received in one of the mounting openings of the rear frame body RB. The rotation restriction part18aengages the rear frame body RB so that rotation of the hub axle12relative to the rear frame body RB is restricted.

Here, as seen inFIGS.2and5, the hub assembly10further comprises a wheel holding mechanism22for securing the hub axle12of the hub assembly10to the rear frame body RB. The wheel holding mechanism22basically includes a shaft or skewer22a, a cam body22b, a cam lever22cand an adjusting nut22d. The cam lever22cis attached to one end of the skewer22avia the cam body22b, while the adjusting nut22dis threaded on the other end of the skewer22a. The lever22cis attached to the cam body22b. The cam body22bis coupled between the skewer22aand the cam lever22cto move the skewer22arelative to the cam body22b. Thus, the lever22cis operated to move the skewer22ain the axial direction of the rotational center axis A1with respect to the cam body22bto change the distance between the cam body22band the adjusting nut22d. Preferably, a compression spring is provided at each end of the skewer22a. Alternatively, the hub axle12can be non-rotatably attached to the rear frame body RB with other attachment structures as needed and/or desired.

As indicated inFIGS.1,3and4, the hub body14is rotatably mounted around the hub axle12to rotate in a driving rotational direction D1. The driving rotational direction D1corresponds to a forward driving direction of the rear wheel RW. The hub body14is configured to support the rear wheel RW in a conventional manner. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the hub body14includes a first outer flange14aand a second outer flange14b. The first outer flange14aand the second outer flange14bextend radially outward with respect to the rotational center axis A1from a peripheral surface of the hub body14. The first outer flange14aand the second outer flange14bare configured to receive a plurality of spokes (FIG.1) for attaching a rim (FIG.1) of the rear wheel RW to the hub body14. In this way, the hub body14and the rear wheel RW are coupled to rotate together.

As seenFIG.5, the hub assembly10further comprises a first hub body bearing24. The first hub body bearing24rotatably supports the hub body14. Preferably, the hub assembly10further comprises a second hub body bearing26rotatably supporting an end of the hub body14. The first hub body bearing24rotatably supports the other end of the hub body14with respect to the rotational center axis A1. The first hub body bearing24includes a first inner race24a, a first outer race24band a plurality of first roller elements24c. The first roller elements24care disposed between the first inner race24aand the first outer race24b. The second hub body bearing26includes a second inner race26a, a second outer race26band a plurality of second roller elements26c. The second roller elements26care disposed between the second inner race26aand the second outer race26b. The first hub body bearing24and the second hub body bearing26are radial ball bearings.

Here, the hub assembly10further comprises a bearing spacer28. The bearing spacer28is provided on the hub axle12and supports the hub body14via the second hub body bearing26. The bearing spacer28supports the second hub body bearing26. The bearing spacer28has an inner peripheral end28aprovided to the hub axle12and an outer peripheral end28bspaced radially outward of the inner peripheral end28in a radial direction with respect to the rotational center axis A1. The second hub body bearing26is disposed at the outer peripheral end28bof the bearing spacer28and rotatably supports the hub body14. The bearing spacer28is non-rotatable with respect to the hub axle12. In particular, as seen inFIG.4, the inner peripheral end28adefines a non-circular opening28a1that mates with a non-circular portion of the hub axle12to non-rotatably couple the bearing spacer28with respect to the hub axle12. The axial position of the bearing spacer28with respect to the hub axle12can be determined by being sandwiched between a step provided on the hub axle12and a nut screwed to the hub axle12.

Here, the bearing spacer28includes an axial opening28c. The axial opening28cis at least partly formed in an angular region RA. The angular region RA is defined between a horizontally forward direction HD and a vertically upward direction VD that is perpendicular to the horizontally forward direction HD, in a mounting state where the hub assembly10is mounted to the human-powered vehicle V. A central angle θ is defined by the horizontally forward direction HD and the vertically upward direction VD is equal to ninety degrees. The horizontally forward direction HD and the vertically upward direction VD extend from the rotational center axis A1. The horizontally forward direction HD basically corresponds to a forward direction of the human-powered vehicle V and the vertically upward direction VD basically corresponds to an upward direction of the human-powered vehicle V. The region between the horizontally forward direction HD and the vertically upward direction VD is less susceptible to chain tension. Thus, the addition of the axial opening28cdoes not adversely affect the reliability of the bearing spacer28.

Here, the hub assembly10further comprises a sprocket support structure30. In the illustrated embodiment, the sprocket support structure30supports the rear sprockets CS as seen inFIG.2. The sprocket support structure30is rotatably disposed around the rotational center axis A1to transmit a driving force to the hub body14while rotating in a driving rotational direction D1around the rotational center axis A1. As explained below, the sprocket support structure30does not transmit a driving force to the hub body14while rotating in a non-driving rotational direction D2around the rotational center axis A1. The non-driving rotational direction D2is opposite to the driving rotational direction D1with respect to the rotational center axis A1. The rotational center axis of the sprocket support structure30is disposed concentrically with the rotational center axis A1of the hub assembly10.

While the sprocket support structure30is configured to non-rotatably support the rear sprockets CS, the sprocket support structure30is not limited to the illustrated embodiment. Alternatively, one or more of the rear sprockets CS can be integrally formed with the sprocket support structure30. In any case, the sprocket support structure30and the rear sprockets CS are coupled together to rotate together in both the driving rotational direction D1and the non-driving rotational direction D2.

The hub assembly10further comprises a first sprocket support bearing32and a second sprocket support bearing34. The first sprocket support bearing32rotatably supports a first end30aof the sprocket support structure30. The second sprocket support bearing34rotatably supports a second end30bof the sprocket support structure30. The first sprocket support bearing32and the second sprocket support bearing34have outer diameters that are smaller than the outer peripheral end28bof the bearing spacer28. The inner diameter of the first sprocket support bearing32is larger than the inner diameter of the second sprocket support bearing34. Thus, the first sprocket support bearing32and the second sprocket support bearing34can be mounted on the hub axle12from the second axial end12bof the hub axle12. The first sprocket support bearing32includes a first inner race32a, a first outer race32band a plurality of first roller elements32c. The first roller elements32care disposed between the first inner race32aand the first outer race32b. The second sprocket support bearing34includes a second inner race34a, a second outer race34band a plurality of second roller elements34c. The second roller elements34care disposed between the second inner race34aand the second outer race34b. Here, the first sprocket support bearing32and the second sprocket support bearing34are radial ball bearings. A tubular spacing element35is disposed between the first sprocket support bearing32and the second sprocket support bearing34.

As seen inFIGS.5and6, the hub assembly10further comprises an electrical component40. While the electrical component40is part of the hub assembly10, the electrical component40can be used with other components of the human-powered vehicle. Thus, the electrical component40is provided to the human-powered vehicle V. Here, the hub assembly10further comprises a housing42disposed in the hub body14. The housing42is part of the electrical component40. In other words, the electrical component40includes the housing42.

Also, the hub assembly10further comprises an electric circuit board44that is disposed in the hub body14. In particular, the electric circuit board44is disposed in the housing42. Also, a lid46is attached to the housing42for enclosing the electric circuit board44in the housing42. Here, the lid46is bonded to the housing42by adhesive or welding. However, the lid46can be attached to the housing42by threaded fastener, rivets, etc. Preferably, the housing42and the lid46are rigid members made from a suitable material. For example, the housing42and the lid46are made of a resin material. For example, the housing42and the lid46can each be injected molded members. In the illustrated embodiment, the bearing spacer28is fixedly attached to the housing42and the lid46by a plurality of threaded fasteners47.

The housing42is non-rotatable with respect to the hub axle12. The housing42is configured to house the electrical component40. In the illustrated embodiment, the electric circuit board44is disposed in the housing42. The housing42is configured to house the electric circuit board44as well as other items elements. In particular, the housing42has an outer peripheral surface42adefining an internal space42bin which the electric circuit board44is disposed. As seen inFIGS.5and6, the lid46is coupled to the housing42to protect the electric circuit board44and the capacitor54. The lid46overlies an internal space42bof the housing42. Thus, at least the housing42, the electric circuit board44, the capacitor54and the lid46can be considered to constitute an electrical unit that is disposed in the hub body14. The internal space42bhas a donut shape in that the hub axle12passes through a center area of the housing42. In this way, the electric circuit board44is non-rotatable with respect to the hub axle12. The electric circuit board44is arranged perpendicular to the rotational center axis A1. The electric circuit board44is a part of the electrical component40. The housing42includes an end wall portion42c. The end wall portion42cof the housing42includes a plurality of keying protrusions42d. As described later, the keying protrusions42dcan be provided to engage a non-rotatable member that is provided to the hub axle12for non-rotatably coupling the housing42to the hub axle12.

As seen inFIG.9, in the illustrated embodiment the electric circuit board44has an arc shape. Here, the electric circuit board44has a first circumferential end portion44aand a second circumferential end portion44b. The electric circuit board44also has at least one arc shaped edge extending at least partly from the first end portion44ato the second end portion44b. Here, the at least one arc shaped edge includes at least one of an inner arc shaped edge44cand an outer arc shaped edge44dwith respect to the rotational center axis A1. The electric circuit board44further includes an electronic controller48that provided on the electric circuit board44. The electronic controller44ais configured to receive a detection signal from the rotation detection sensor52a. The electronic controller48includes at least one processor that executes predetermined control programs. The at least one processor can be, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) or a micro processing unit (MPU). The term “electronic controller” as used herein refers to hardware that executes a software program, and does not include a human. Preferably, the electric circuit board44further includes a data storage device (memory) that provided on the electric circuit board44. The data storage device (memory) stores various control programs and information used for various control processes including power generation control, power storage control, hub rotation detection control, etc. The data storage device includes any computer storage device or any non-transitory computer-readable medium with the sole exception of a transitory, propagating signal. For example, the data storage device includes a nonvolatile memory and a volatile memory. The nonvolatile 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. The volatile memory includes, for example, a random access memory (RAM).

As seen inFIG.6, the hub assembly10further comprises a detected part50that is coupled to the sprocket support structure30. In particular, the detected part50is fixed to the sprocket support structure30so that the detected part50and the sprocket support structure30rotate together about the hub axle12. The hub assembly10further comprises a sensor52disposed in the hub body14. The sensor52is disposed in the hub body14. The sensor52is configured to detect the detected part50that is provided to the sprocket support structure30. In particular, the sensor52is provided in the internal space42bof the housing42. In this way, the sensor52is non-rotatably mounted to the hub axle12. Thus, the sensor52does not rotate with the hub body14. The sensor52is also a part of the electrical component40. Here, the sensor52includes a rotation detection sensor52configured to detect the detected part50such that rotation of the sprocket support structure30around the rotational center axis A1is detected. Since the rotation detection sensor52ais connected to the electric circuit board44, the rotation detection sensor52aare non-rotatable with respect to the hub axle12. As seen inFIG.6, the rotation detection sensor52ais disposed in the hub body14at a location spaced radially outward from the hub axle12.

As seen inFIGS.4and7, the sensor52is disposed at a position that is axially aligned within the axial opening28cof the bearing spacer28. In this way, the bearing spacer28does not interfere with the sensor52detecting the detected part50that is provided to the sprocket support structure30. As seen inFIG.6, the sensor52disposed at a position separated from the electric circuit board44. In particular, the sensor52is arranged at a position separated from the electric circuit board44in a direction parallel to the rotational center axis A1. The sensor52is electrically connected to the electric circuit board44.

In the illustrated embodiment, the rotation detection sensor52aincludes a magnetic sensor, and the detected part50includes a magnet. Thus, the magnetic sensor detects movement of the magnet, which rotates together with the sprocket support structure30. In other words, with this arrangement, the rotation detection sensor52ais configured to detect the detected part50to detect rotation of the sprocket support structure30around the center axis A1. The electronic controller48is configured to receive a detection signal from the rotation detection sensor52a.

Here, the magnet of the detected part50is an annular member with alternating S-pole sections and N-pole sections. In this way, the rotation detection sensor52acan detect a rotational amount and a rotational direction of the sprocket support structure30. However, the detected part50is not limited to the illustrated annular member. For example, the detected part50can be formed of a single non-annular magnet, or two or more magnets that are circumferentially spaced apart about the center axis A1. In the case of using two or more circumferentially spaced magnets, a back yoke can be provided and the circumferentially spaced magnets can be provided to the back yoke. In this way, the circumferentially spaced magnets can be easily installed in the hub10. 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 a change in its environment, and to emit a signal in response. The term “sensor” as used herein do not include a human.

Among other things, the electrical component40comprises the electric circuit board44, at least one conductor and at least one capacitor. The at least one capacitor is electrically connected to the at least one conductor. As explained below, an additional conductor electrically connecting the sensor52and the electric circuit board44. The hub10comprises at least one capacitor54. Here, the electrical component40comprises two capacitors54. Also, here, the electrical component40comprises a first conductor56A and a pair of second conductors56B. The capacitors54are examples of an electric power storage of the electrical component40. In other words, the capacitor54is also a part of the electrical component40. The capacitors54are preferably disposed in the housing42of the hub assembly10. Thus, the capacitors54are non-rotatably supported on the hub axle12by the housing42. The sensor52is electrically connected to the electric circuit board44by the first conductor56A. Here, the first conductor56A is a flexible tape conductor. The first conductor56A can be an electrically conductive lead. On the other hand, the electric circuit board44is electrically connected to the capacitors54by the second conductors56B. The second conductors56B extend from one of the first circumferential end portion44aand the second circumferential end portion44b. Here, one of the second conductors56B extends from the first circumferential end portion44ato electrical connect one of the capacitors54to the electric circuit board44. The other one of the second conductors56B extends from the second circumferential end portion44bto electrical connect the other one of the capacitors54to the electric circuit board44. Here, the second conductors56B are flexible tape conductors. The second conductors56B can be an electrically conductive lead. The capacitor54is provided in the internal space of the housing42at a position other than on the electronic circuit board44. The capacitor54may be held in the housing42with an adhesive or the like.

The electric circuit board44is electrically connected to the sensor52and the capacitor54. In this way, the capacitor54provides electrical power to the electric circuit board44and other electrical components electrically connected to the electric circuit board44. For example, the capacitor54provides electrical power to the sensor52. Also, the electronic controller48of the electric circuit board44is configured to control the input and output of electric power from the capacitor54.

As seen inFIGS.5and6, the hub assembly10further comprises a one-way clutch58that is formed between the hub body14and the sprocket support structure30. The one-way clutch58includes a plurality of pawls58A disposed between the hub body14and the sprocket support structure30. The one-way clutch58further includes a biasing element58B that couples the pawls58A to the sprocket support structure30. The one-way clutch58further includes a plurality of ratchet teeth58C. The ratchet teeth58C are provided to a fixing ring58D that is fixed to the hub body14. The ratchet teeth58C are provided on the inner peripheral surface of the fixing ring58D. The fixing ring58D is screwed to the hub body14. The fixing ring58D is made of a hard material such as metal. The fixing ring58D abuts against the outer race26bof the second hub body bearing26in the axial direction with respect to the rotational center axis A1. The opposite side of the outer race26bof the second hub body bearing26in the axial direction abuts against a step formed in the hub body14. The outer race26bof the second hub body bearing26is restricted in axial movement by the fixing ring58D and the steps formed on the hub body14. The biasing element58B biases the pawls58A into engagement with the ratchet teeth58C of the fixing ring58D. The biasing element58B squeezes the pawls54against the sprocket support structure30such that the pawls54pivot towards engagement with the ratchet teeth58C of the fixing ring58D. A seal member58E is provided on the fixing ring58D. The seal member58E is formed in a ring shape. The tongue portion of the sealing member58E is in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the sprocket support30.

In this way, the sprocket support structure30is coupled to the hub body14to rotate together in the driving rotational direction D1around the center axis A1. Also, in a case where the sprocket support structure30is rotated in the non-driving rotational direction D2, the ratchet teeth58C of the sprocket support structure18push the pawls58A and pivot the pawls58A to a retracted position against the sprocket support structure30. Thus, the sprocket support structure30is configured to rotate relative to the hub body14in the non-driving rotational direction D2around the center axis A1. In this way, the sprocket support structure30and the one-way clutch58form a freewheel that is commonly used in bicycles. Since the basic operation of the freewheel is relatively conventional, the freewheel will not be discussed or illustrated in further detail.

As seen inFIG.5, the hub assembly10further comprises an electric power generator60. The electric power generator60provided to the hub body14, and configured to generate electric power by rotation of the hub body14. More specifically, the electric power generator60is provided to the hub body14between the hub axle12and a center potion of the hub body14. The electric power generator60is configured to generate electric power by rotation of the hub body14relative to the hub axle12. The electronic controller48of the electric circuit board44is electrically connected to the electric power generator60for controlling the electric power output of the electric power generator60. Thus, the electric power generated by the electric power generator60can be stored and/or supplied directly to other components such as the rotation detection sensor52a, the rear derailleur RD, etc.

The electric power generator60basically includes an armature62(i.e., a stator in the illustrated embodiment) and a magnet64(i.e., a rotor in the illustrated embodiment). While the armature62is illustrated as being fixed with respect to the hub axle12and the magnet64is illustrated as being fixed with respect to the hub body14, the armature62can be fixed with respect to the hub body14and the magnet64can be fixed with respect to the hub axle12. The armature62includes a winding coil62A and a bobbin62B. The armature62further includes a first yoke62C and a second yoke62D. The winding coil62A is wound on the bobbin62B for supporting the winding coil62A. The first yoke62C includes two or more first yoke pieces that are arranged in the circumferential direction of the hub axle12. Likewise, the second yoke62D includes two or more second yoke pieces that are arranged in the circumferential direction of the hub axle12and that alternate with the first yoke pieces of the first yoke62C. The winding coil62A is located between the first yoke62C and the second yoke62D in the axial direction of the hub axle12.

The magnet64includes a plurality of first magnet parts64A and a plurality of second magnet parts64B arranged inside a tubular support66. The tubular support66is fixedly coupled to the inside of the hub body14so that the magnet64and the hub body14rotate together around the hub axle12. The tubular support66has the function of a back yoke. The back yoke is a member having a high magnetic permeability, which is arranged on the opposite side of the magnetized surface. By using the back yoke, a high generated magnetic field can be obtained. The tubular support66can be omitted. Alternatively, the hub body14can have the magnet64such that the hub body14partially forms the electric power generator60. The first magnet parts64A and the second magnet parts64B are arranged so that S-poles and N-poles of the first magnet parts64A and the second magnet parts64B are alternately arranged in the circumferential direction of the hub axle12. Therefore, the S-poles of the first magnet parts64A are not aligned with the S-poles of the second magnet parts64B, and the N-poles of the first magnet parts64A are not aligned with the N-poles of the second magnet parts64B in the axial direction of the hub axle12.

Also, the hub assembly10further comprises an electrical cable70. The electrical cable70is electrically connected at one end to the electric circuit board44, which in turn is connected to the electric power generator60. The other end of the electrical cable70is electrically connected to another electrical component of the human-powered vehicle V such as the rear derailleur RD, the battery pack BP or an electrical junction. In this way, the electrical cable70can provide electric power generated by the hub assembly10to the rear derailleur RD, the battery pack BP or another electrical component. The electrical cable70can also be used to transmit signals from the electronic controller48of the electric circuit board44to the rear derailleur RD or another electrical component using power line communication (PLC).

The electrical cable70enters the hub assembly10thorough an opening18bof the end cap18. Then, the electrical cable70extends axially along the hub axle12and passes through the bearing spacer28. The electrical cable70enters the housing42of the electrical component40through the lid46. In the housing42of the electrical component40, the electrical cable70is electrically connected to the electric circuit board44. Preferably, as in the illustrated embodiment, the electrical cable70is disposed in an axially extending recess or groove12dof the hub axle12. The axially extending recess or groove12dat least extends from the second axial end12bto inside the housing42of the electrical component40. Here, the groove12dextends from the second axial end12bpast the electric power generator60.

The hub10further includes two fixing plates75that are provided on the hub axle12for non-rotatably coupling the electric power generator60to the hub axle12. The fixing plates75are provided on opposite axial ends of the electric power generator60. The fixing plates75have a plate shape. Each of the fixing plates75includes a protrusion75athat is disposed in the groove12dof the hub axle12. By inserting the protrusions75ainto the groove12dof the hub axle12, the fixing plates75do not rotate with respect to the hub axle12. The electric power generator60does not rotate with respect to the hub axle12by engaging with protrusions75bprotruding from an axially facing surface of the fixing plate75. The fixing plates75are arranged so as to sandwich the electric power generator60from both sides in the axial direction of the electric power generator60. The rotation of the fixed plates75with respect to the hub axle12are also suppressed by providing D-shaped cutouts that matches a corresponding outer surface of the hub axle12. One of the pair of fixing plates75can be omitted.

Also, the housing42can be non-rotatably coupled to one of the fixing plates75for suppressing rotation of the housing42with respect to the hub axle12. For example, the keying protrusions42dof the housing42are configured to engage openings one of the fixing plates75that is keyed to the groove12dof the hub axle12. The fixing plate76includes a plurality of openings corresponding to the plurality of protrusions42d. In this way, the housing42is prevented from rotating relative to the hub axle12. Alternatively, the housing42can be attached to the bearing spacer28, which is non-rotatably coupled to the hub axle12.

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

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

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

The term “attached” or “attaching”, as used herein, encompasses configurations in which an element is directly secured to another element by affixing the element directly to the other element; configurations in which the element is indirectly secured to the other element by affixing the element to the intermediate member(s) which in turn are affixed to the other element; and configurations in which one element is integral with another element, i.e. one element is essentially part of the other element. This definition also applies to words of similar meaning, for example, “joined”, “connected”, “coupled”, “mounted”, “bonded”, “fixed” and their derivatives. Finally, terms of degree such as “substantially”, “about” and “approximately” as used herein mean an amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed.