Component for human-powered vehicle

A component is provided for a human-powered vehicle. The component includes a component body, a strain gauge provided on the component body, a signal processing unit electrically connected to the strain gauge, a signal output that outputs a signal from the signal processing unit, and an electric power input electrically connected to the signal processing unit and supplied with electric power from a power supply provided on at least one of the human-powered vehicle and the component body. The strain gauge includes a substrate and a resistor provided on the substrate. The resistor is formed by a metal layer having a thickness of 0.01 micrometers or greater and 1 micrometer or less.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-076935, filed on Apr. 23, 2020. The entire disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-076935 is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

The present disclosure generally relates to a component for a human-powered vehicle.

Background Information

Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2018-144614 (Patent Document 1) discloses an example of a human-powered vehicle component including a strain gauge.

SUMMARY

One objective of the present disclosure is to provide a human-powered vehicle component that includes a strain gauge and is suitable for use with a human-powered vehicle.

A component in accordance with a first aspect of the present disclosure is a component for a human-powered vehicle. The component comprises a component body, a strain gauge, a signal processing unit, a signal output, and an electric power input. The strain gauge is provided on the component body. The signal processing unit is electrically connected to the strain gauge. The signal output outputs a signal from the signal processing unit. The electric power input is electrically connected to the signal processing unit and supplied with electric power from a power supply provided on at least one of the human-powered vehicle and the component body. The strain gauge includes a substrate and a resistor provided on the substrate. The resistor is formed by a metal layer having a thickness of 0.01 micrometers or greater and 1 micrometer or less.

With the component according to the first aspect, the resistor is formed by a metal layer having a thickness of 0.01 micrometers or greater and 1 micrometer or less. This reduces a cross-sectional area of the resistor. In a case where the cross-sectional area of the resistor is reduced, the electric resistance of the resistor is increased and the electric current at the resistor is decreased. This lowers electric power consumption of the resistor. Thus, the component according to the first aspect is suitable for use with a human-powered vehicle.

In accordance with a second aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the first aspect is configured so that the thickness of the metal layer is 0.05 micrometers or greater and 0.5 micrometers or less.

The component according to the second aspect further increases the electric resistance of the resistor and further decreases the electric power consumption of the resistor.

In accordance with a third aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the second aspect is configured so that the thickness of the metal layer is 0.1 micrometers or greater and 0.3 micrometers or less.

The component according to the third aspect further increases the electric resistance of the resistor and further decreases the electric power consumption of the resistor.

In accordance with a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the first to third aspects is configured so that the strain gauge includes a gauge wire provided on the substrate and electrically connected to the resistor. Further, the gauge wire has a lower electrical resistance per unit length than the resistor.

With the component according to the fourth aspect, the gauge wire has a lower electrical resistance per unit length than the resistor. This avoids loss of a signal output from the resistor in the gauge wire.

A component in accordance with a fifth aspect of the present disclosure is a component for a human-powered vehicle. The component comprises a component body, a strain gauge, a signal processing unit, a signal output, and an electric power input. The strain gauge is provided on the component body. The signal processing unit is electrically connected the strain gauge. The signal output outputs a signal from the signal processing unit. The electric power input is electrically connected to the signal processing unit and supplied with electric power from a power supply provided on at least one of the human-powered vehicle and the component body. The strain gauge includes a substrate, a resistor, and a gauge wire. The resistor is provided on the substrate. The gauge wire is provided on the substrate and electrically connected to the resistor. The gauge wire has a lower electrical resistance per unit length than the resistor.

With the component according to the fifth aspect, the gauge wire has a lower electrical resistance per unit length than the resistor. This avoids loss of a signal output from the resistor in the gauge wire. Therefore, the component according to the fifth aspect is suitable for use with a human-powered vehicle.

In accordance with a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the fourth or fifth aspect is configured so that the resistor and the gauge wire have different compositions.

With the component according to the sixth aspect, the resistor and the gauge wire have different compositions. Thus, the electrical resistance per unit length of the gauge wire can be lower than that of the resistor. The component according to the sixth aspect allows each of the resistor and the electric wire to be formed from a suitable material.

In accordance with a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the fourth or fifth aspect is configured so that the gauge wire includes a first portion and a second portion that covers the first portion. The resistor is molded integrally with the first portion of the gauge wire. The second portion has a lower electrical resistivity than the resistor and the first portion.

With the component according to the seventh aspect, the second portion has a lower electrical resistivity than the resistor and the first portion. Thus, the electrical resistance per unit length of the gauge wire is lower than that of the resistor.

In accordance with an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the fourth to seventh aspects is configured so that the resistor includes at least one of CuNi, Ni, and NiCr, and at least part of the gauge wire includes Cu.

With the component according to the eighth aspect, the resistor includes at least one of CuNi, Ni, and NiCr, and at least part of the gauge wire includes Cu. Thus, the electrical resistance per unit length of the gauge wire is lower than that of the resistor.

In accordance with a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the fourth to eighth aspects is configured so that the substrate includes a first setting surface and a second setting surface that are spaced apart in a thickness direction. The resistor is provided on the first setting surface, and at least part of the electric wire is provided on the second setting surface.

With the component according to the ninth aspect, in a case where the resistor and at least part of the gauge wire are formed from different materials, the resistor and the at least part of the electric wire can be readily formed in different manufacturing processes.

In accordance with a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the ninth aspect is configured so that the substrate includes a first connection hole that connects the first setting surface and the second setting surface. Further, part of the gauge wire is provided in the first connection hole.

The component according to the tenth aspect facilitates the electric connection of the gauge wire to the resistor.

In accordance with an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the fourth to tenth aspects is configured so that the strain gauge further includes a gauge terminal provided on the substrate and electrically connected to the resistor. Further, the gauge wire electrically connects the resistor and the gauge terminal.

The component according to the eleventh aspect allows the strain gauge to be connected to an electronic component outside the strain gauge by the gauge terminal.

In accordance with a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the fourth to eleventh aspects is configured so that the resistor includes a first resistor and a second resistor. Further, the gauge wire electrically connects the first resistor and the second resistor.

The component according to the twelfth aspect allows the first resistor and the second resistor to be electrically connected by the gauge wire.

In accordance with a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the eleventh aspect is configured so that the gauge terminal is molded integrally with the gauge wire.

The component according to the thirteenth aspect reduces signal loss at the connecting portion of the gauge terminal and the gauge wire.

In accordance with a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the eleventh or thirteenth aspect further comprises a flexible printed wiring board including an electric wire. Further, the gauge terminal is electrically connected to the electric wire directly or by electrically conductive particles.

With the component according to the fourteenth aspect, the gauge terminal is electrically connected to the electric wire directly or by the electrically conductive particles. Thus, the gauge terminal is electrically connected to the electric wire in a stable manner.

In accordance with a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the eleventh or thirteenth aspect further comprises a flexible printed wiring board including a board and an electric wire. The board is molded integrally with the substrate. The electric wire is provided on the board. The gauge terminal is molded integrally with at least part of the electric wire.

With the component according to the fifteenth aspect, the gauge terminal is molded integrally with at least part of the electric wire. This reduces signal loss at the connecting portion of the gauge terminal and the electric wire.

A component in accordance with a sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure is a component for a human-powered vehicle. The component comprises a component body, a strain gauge, a flexible printed wiring board, a signal processing unit, a signal output, and an electric power input. The strain gauge is provided on the component body. The flexible printed wiring board includes an electric wire. The signal processing unit is electrically connected to the strain gauge by the electric wire of the flexible printed wiring board. The signal output outputs a signal from the signal processing unit. The electric power input is electrically connected to the signal processing unit and supplied with electric power from a power supply provided on at least one of the human-powered vehicle and the component body. The strain gauge further includes a substrate, a resistor, and a gauge terminal. The resistor is provided on the substrate. The gauge terminal is provided on the substrate and electrically connected to the resistor. The gauge terminal is electrically connected to the electric wire directly or by electrically conductive particles.

With the component according to the sixteenth aspect, the gauge terminal is electrically connected to the electric wire directly or by the electrically conductive particles. Thus, the gauge terminal is electrically connected to the electric wire in a stable manner. Therefore, the component according to the sixteenth aspect is suitable for use with a human-powered vehicle.

In accordance with a seventeenth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the sixteenth aspect further comprises an adhesive layer that adheres the strain gauge and the flexible printed wiring board. Further, the adhesive layer includes the electrically conductive particles.

With the component according to the seventeenth aspect, the adhesive layer allows the electrically conductive particles to be held stably between the gauge terminal and the electric wire.

In accordance with an eighteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the sixteenth aspect further comprises a fastener that couples the strain gauge and the flexible printed wiring board so that the gauge terminal and the electric wire are in close contact.

With the component according to the eighteenth aspect, the fastener can fasten the electric wire to the gauge terminal so that the electric wire and the gauge terminal are in close contact with each other.

In accordance with a nineteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the seventeenth aspect is configured so that the electric wire includes a wire terminal faced toward the gauge terminal. Further, one of the gauge terminal and the wire terminal is formed by a comb electrode.

With the component according to the nineteenth aspect, one of the gauge terminal and the wire terminal is formed by a comb electrode. Thus, the adhesive layer enters the gap between the teeth of the comb electrode during manufacture, and the electrically conductive particles readily come into contact with the gauge terminal and the wire terminal.

In accordance with a twentieth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the first to nineteenth aspects is configured so that the substrate includes an insulative and flexible resin film.

With the component according to the twentieth aspect, the substrate is readily shaped in correspondence with the component.

In accordance with a twenty-first aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the first to twentieth aspects is configured so that the signal output includes a wireless transmission device that transmits information corresponding to a signal from the signal processing unit through wireless connection.

The component according to the twenty-first aspect allows the information corresponding to a signal from the signal processing unit to be transmitted by the wireless transmission device to an external device.

In accordance with a twenty-second aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the first to twenty-first aspects further comprises a processor provided on at least one of the component body and the signal processing unit. Further, the processor is configured to calculate information related to force applied to the component body.

The component according to the twenty-second aspect allows the information related to force applied to the component body to be calculated by the processor.

In accordance with a twenty-third aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to the twenty-second aspect further comprises an operating portion provided on the component body to input a reset signal to the processor.

The component according to the twenty-third aspect allows a reset signal to be input to the processor by operating the operating portion.

In accordance with a twenty-fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the first to twenty-third aspects further comprises a rotational state detector that detects a rotational state of at least part of the component body.

The component according to the twenty-fourth aspect allows the rotational state of at least part of the component body to be detected by the rotational state detector.

In accordance with a twenty-fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the first to twenty-fourth aspects further comprises a notification device provided on the component body. Further, the notification device includes at least one of a light generation device and a sound generation device.

The component according to the twenty-fifth aspect allows a user to be notified with information issued by the notification device that includes at least one of the light generation device and the sound generation device.

In accordance with a twenty-sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the first to twenty-fifth aspects further comprises a cover provided on the component body. Further, the cover defines a sealed space in which at least the strain gauge and the signal processing unit are disposed.

With the component according to the twenty-sixth aspect, the cover can avoid foreign matter from collecting on the strain gauge and the signal processing unit.

In accordance with a twenty-seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the component according to any one of the first to twenty-sixth aspects is configured so that the component body includes at least one of a crank assembly, a crank arm, a crank axle, a pedal, a frame, a handlebar, a stem, a front fork, a seatpost, a saddle, a wheel, a hub, a carrier, and a drive unit configured to apply a propulsion force to the human-powered vehicle.

With the component according to the twenty-seventh aspect, the component that includes the component body including at least one of the crank assembly, the crank arm, the crank axle, the pedal, the frame, the handlebar, the stem, the front fork, the seatpost, the saddle, the wheel, the hub, the carrier, and the drive unit is used with a human-powered vehicle in a preferred manner.

The human-powered vehicle component in accordance with the present disclosure includes a strain gauge and is suitable for use with a human-powered vehicle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Embodiment

A human-powered vehicle component20in accordance with one embodiment will now be described with reference toFIGS.1to24. A human-powered vehicle10is a vehicle that includes at least one wheel and can be driven by at least human driving force. Examples of the human-powered vehicle10include various types of bicycles such as a mountain bike, a road bike, a city bike, a cargo bike, a handbike, and a recumbent bike. There is no limit to the number of wheels of the human-powered vehicle10. The human-powered vehicle10also includes, for example, a unicycle or a vehicle having three or more wheels. The human-powered vehicle10is not limited to a vehicle that can be driven only by human driving force. The human-powered vehicle10includes an electric bicycle (E-bike) that uses drive force of an electric motor for propulsion in addition to human driving force. The E-bike includes an electric assist bicycle that assists in propulsion with an electric motor. In the embodiment described hereafter, the human-powered vehicle10will be described as a bicycle, and one example of the bicycle is a road bike. The human-powered vehicle10in accordance with the present embodiment includes a crank assembly22X, a pair of pedal28, a frame30, a handlebar32, a stem34, a front fork36, a seatpost38, a saddle40, a pair of wheel42, and a pair of hub44. However, the number of pedals, wheel and hubs depends on the configuration of the human-powered vehicle10. The crank assembly22X includes at least one crank arm24and a crank axle26. In the present embodiment, the crank assembly22X includes two crank arms24and the crank axle26.

The human-powered vehicle component20is provided on the human-powered vehicle10. The component20includes a component body22. In the present embodiment, the component body22includes the crank assembly22X.

The human driving force is input to the crank arms24and the crank axle26. In the present embodiment, the wheel42includes a rear wheel42A and a front wheel42B. The crank axle26is rotatable relative to the frame30. Two crank arms24are provided on two axial ends of the crank axle26, respectively. Two pedals28are connected to the two crank arms24, respectively. The rear wheel42A is driven by the rotation of the crank axle26. The rear wheel42A is supported by the frame30. The crank axle26is connected to the rear wheel42A by a drive mechanism12. The drive mechanism12includes a first rotational body14connected to the crank axle26. The crank axle26is coupled to the first rotational body14in an integrally rotatable manner. The first rotational body14includes a sprocket, a pulley, or a bevel gear. The drive mechanism12further includes a second rotational body16and a linking member18. The linking member18transmits the rotational force of the first rotational body14to the second rotational body16. The linking member18includes, for example, a chain, a belt, or a shaft.

The second rotational body16is connected to the rear wheel42A. The second rotational body16includes a sprocket, a pulley, or a bevel gear. Preferably, a first one-way clutch is provided between the second rotational body16and the rear wheel42A. The first one-way clutch is configured to rotate the rear wheel42A forward in a case where the second rotational body16is rotated forward and allow relative rotation of the second rotational body16and the rear wheel42A in a case where the second rotational body16is rotated rearward. In the present embodiment, the first rotational body14and the second rotational body16each include a sprocket, and the linking member18includes a chain. In a case where the first rotational body14includes a sprocket, the first rotational body14includes one or more sprockets. In a case where the second rotational body16includes a sprocket, the second rotational body16includes one or more sprockets. The human-powered vehicle10can further include a transmission. The transmission includes at least one of a front derailleur, a rear derailleur, and an internal transmission device. In the present embodiment, the first rotational body14includes, for example, two sprockets. In the present embodiment, the second rotational body16includes, for example, twelve sprockets. In the present embodiment, the human-powered vehicle10includes a front derailleur and a rear derailleur. In a case where the human-powered vehicle10includes an internal transmission device, the internal transmission device is provided on at least one of the hub of the rear wheel42A and a power transmission path between the crank axle26and the first rotational body14.

The vehicle body of the human-powered vehicle10includes the frame30, the handlebar32, the stem34, the front fork36, and the seatpost38. The frame30of the present embodiment is a diamond-shaped frame. Instead, the frame30can be shaped to be a stagger frame or a parallel frame. The shape of the frame30is not limited and can be changed. The front wheel42B is attached to the frame30by the front fork36. The handlebar32is connected to the front fork36by the stem34. The handlebar32of the present embodiment is a drop handlebar but can have a different form like a flat handlebar. The shape of the handlebar32is not limited and can be changed. The shape of the stem34is not limited and can be changed. In the present embodiment, the handlebar32and the stem34are separate members. Alternatively, the handlebar32and the stem34can be integrated into a one-piece structure. The shape of the front fork36is not limited and can be changed. The front fork36can be configured to, for example, function as a suspension, hold two ends of the rotational shaft of the front wheel42B, or hold only one end of the rotational shaft of the front wheel42B. The shape of the seatpost38is not limited and can be changed. The seatpost38can be an adjustable seatpost such that the height of the saddle is adjustable by at least one of a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, and an electric actuator. In the present embodiment, the rear wheel42A is coupled to the crank axle26by the drive mechanism12. Alternatively, at least one of the rear wheel42A and the front wheel42B can be coupled to the crank axle26by the drive mechanism12.

The hub44is provided at the rotational center of the wheel42. The hub44includes a rear hub44X provided at the rotational center of the rear wheel42A and a front hub44Y provided at the rotational center of the front wheel42B. The rear hub44X can include a first one-way clutch. The rear hub44X can include an internal transmission device.

The component20includes the component body22, a strain gauge52, a signal processing unit54, a signal output56, and an electric power input58. The signal processing unit54is electrically connected to the strain gauge52. The signal output56outputs a signal from the signal processing unit54. The electric power input58is electrically connected to the signal processing unit54and supplied with electric power from a power supply63provided on at least one of the human-powered vehicle10and the component body22.

Preferably, the component20further includes a cover50provided on the component body22and defining a sealed space22A. The sealed space22A is a space surrounded by the cover50and the component body22. At least the strain gauge52and the signal processing unit54are disposed in the sealed space22A. Preferably, the strain gauge52, at least part of the signal processing unit54, and the electric power input58are disposed in the sealed space22A. The signal output56can be disposed outside the sealed space22A or in the sealed space22A. The cover50is, for example, adhered to the component body22. The cover50can be attached to the component body22in a detachable manner. The cover50is formed from, for example, a resin.

In the present embodiment, the power supply63is provided on the component body22. In the crank assembly22X shown inFIGS.2to4, the power supply63is disposed inside the crank axle26. The crank axle26is cylindrical. The power supply63is disposed inside the crank axle26. The power supply63can be, for example, provided on the crank arm24instead of the crank axle26. For example, in a case where the crank arm24is hollow, the power supply63can be disposed inside the crank arm24. The power supply63can be disposed anywhere. For example, the crank arm24can include a case25, and the power supply63can be disposed in the case25. The case25is provided, for example, on an outer surface of the crank arm24. The case25is provided, for example, between two adjacent legs of a spider24A in a rotational direction of the crank arm24. The case25is, for example, fastened to the crank arm24by bolts. The power supply63can be disposed in the sealed space22A.

The power supply63includes one or more battery cells. Each battery cell includes, for example, a rechargeable battery. Instead of a rechargeable battery, each battery cell can include a battery such as a coin cell that only discharges electric power. The power supply63is configured to supply the strain gauge52and the signal processing unit54with electric power through the electric power input58. Preferably, the power supply63is provided on the component body22in a removable manner. The electric power input58includes at least one of an electric terminal, an electric cable, and an electric connector. The power supply63supplies the signal processing unit54with electric power, for example, through the electric power input58and an electric cable63a. The electric cable63acan be replaced by a flexible wiring board.

Preferably, the component20further includes at least one of an amplifier54A and an analog/digital (AD) converter54B. Preferably, the signal processing unit54includes at least one of the amplifier54A and the AD converter54B. Preferably, the component20includes both the amplifier54A and the AD converter54B. The amplifier54A is electrically connected to the strain gauge52, and configured to amplify a signal output from the strain gauge52. The AD converter54B is electrically connected to the strain gauge52, and configured to convert an analog signal output from the strain gauge52into a digital signal. Preferably, a signal output from the strain gauge52is amplified by the amplifier54A, and then input to the AD converter54B. Preferably, the digital signal generated by the AD converter54B is input to a processor62.

Preferably, the signal output56includes at least one of an electric terminal56A, an electric cable, and an electric connector. Preferably, the signal output56includes a wireless transmission device60that transmits information corresponding to a signal from the signal processing unit54through wireless connection. Preferably, the wireless transmission device60is configured to establish wireless communication with an external device100. The wireless transmission device60is, for example, electrically connected to the electric terminal56A by an electric cable. In a case where the wireless transmission device60is provided on a single substrate70, which will be described later, the wireless transmission device60can be directly connected to an electric wire formed on the single substrate70without the electric terminal56A or the electric cable. The wireless transmission device60is configured to perform communication through, for example, at least one of Bluetooth®, ANT+®, Wi-Fi®, and infrared communication. The wireless transmission device60can transmit information through a unique communication protocol. In the present embodiment, the wireless transmission device60is disposed in the case25. The case25is formed from, for example, a resin. The wireless transmission device60can be disposed in the sealed space22A.

Preferably, the external device100includes a display. The external device100includes, for example, at least one of an operation device of the human-powered vehicle10, a cycle computer, a smartphone, a tablet computer, and a personal computer. The signal output56can be connected to the external device100by an electric cable and configured to communicate with the external device100. In a case where the signal output56is connected to the external device100by an electric cable, the signal output56includes, for example, a connector. The external device100is configured to display information transmitted from the wireless transmission device60.

Preferably, the component20includes the processor62provided on at least one of the component body22and the signal processing unit54. Preferably, the processor62is configured to calculate information related to force applied to the component body22. The processor62includes, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) or a micro-processing unit (MPU). Multiple processors62can be located at separate positions. The processor62can include one or more microcomputers. Preferably, the processor62further includes computer storage. The computer storage stores various types of control programs and information used for various types of control processes. The computer storage can store a processing result of the processor62. The computer storage includes, for example, a nonvolatile memory and a 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. The volatile memory includes, for example, a random-access memory (RAM). Thus, the computer storage is any computer storage device or any non-transitory computer-readable medium with the sole exception of a transitory, propagating signal. The signal output56can be configured to output the processing result of the processor62stored in the computer storage.

The processor62calculates, for example, force applied to the component body22from the output of the strain gauge52. In the present embodiment, the processor62calculates the human driving force input to the crank arm24from the output of the strain gauge52. Preferably, a signal output from the strain gauge52is amplified by the amplifier54A, converted into a digital signal by the AD converter54B, and then input to the processor62. The human driving force calculated by the processor62is, for example, used for various types of controls in at least one of the external device100, the component body22, and a human-powered vehicle component differing from the component body22. For example, in a case where the external device100includes a display, the display shows information related to the human driving force. The human driving force calculated by the processor62can be used, for example, to control output of a drive unit configured to apply a propulsion force to the human-powered vehicle10or to control the transmission of the human-powered vehicle.

In the present embodiment, the two crank arms24each include the strain gauge52, the signal processing unit54, the signal output56, and the electric power input58. The two crank arms24include a first crank arm24X and a second crank arm24Y. The first crank arm24X is arranged at a position closer to the first rotational body14than the second crank arm24Y. Hereinafter, the strain gauge52, the signal processing unit54, the signal output56, and the electric power input58included in the first crank arm24X can be referred to as the first strain gauge52a, the first signal processing unit54a, the first signal output56a, and the first electric power input58a, respectively. Hereinafter, the strain gauge52, the signal processing unit54, the signal output56, and the electric power input58included in the second crank arm24Y can be referred to as the second strain gauge52b, the second signal processing unit54b, the second signal output56b, and the second electric power input58b, respectively. The amplifier54A, the AD converter54B, and the processor62included in the first signal processing unit54acan be referred to as the first amplifier54Aa, the first AD converter54Ba, and the first processor62a, respectively. The amplifier54A, the AD converter54B, and the processor62included in the second signal processing unit54bcan be referred to as the second amplifier54Ab, the second AD converter54Bb, and the second processor62b, respectively. The second processor62bdoes not have to calculate the human driving force input to the crank arm24from the output of the strain gauge52, and can be configured to transmit a signal output from the second AD converter54Bb to the first processor62a. In this case, the first processor62acan calculate the human driving force input to the first crank arm24X from the output of the first strain gauge52a, and can calculate the human driving force input to the second crank arm24Y from the output of the second strain gauge52b. The second processor62bcan be omitted from the second signal processing unit54b, and the second AD converter54Bb can be electrically connected to the second signal output56b. In a case where the second processor62bis omitted, the second AD converter54Bb is electrically connected to the second signal output56b.

The wireless transmission device60can be provided on each of the first crank arm24X and the second crank arm24Y. In this case, the wireless transmission device60provided on the first crank arm24X is configured to transmit information corresponding to a signal from the first signal processing unit54athrough wireless connection, and the wireless transmission device60provided on the second crank arm24Y is configured to transmit information corresponding to a signal from the second signal processing unit54bthrough wireless connection. The information corresponding to a signal from the first signal processing unit54aincludes, for example, at least one of information on force applied to the first crank arm24X, information related to power applied to the first crank arm24X, in relation to the rotational center of the crank axle26, information on force acting in a radial direction of the first crank arm24X, information on force acting in the rotational direction of the first crank arm24X, and information on force acting in a direction of skew relative to a longitudinal axis of the first crank arm24X. The information corresponding to a signal from the second signal processing unit54bincludes, for example, at least one of information on force applied to the second crank arm24Y, information related to power applied to the second crank arm24Y, in relation to the rotational center of the crank axle26, information on force acting in a radial direction of the second crank arm24Y, information on force acting in the rotational direction of the second crank arm24Y, and information on force acting in a direction of skew relative to a longitudinal axis of the second crank arm24Y.

In a case where the first processor62areceives information from the second signal processing unit54b, the first processor62acan be configured to output synthesized information, which is obtained by combining information calculated by the first processor62aand information transmitted from the second signal processing unit54b, from the first signal output56a. The synthesized information includes, for example, information related to power applied to the first crank arm24X and the second crank arm24Y. The first processor62acan be configured to output the information calculated by the first processor62aand the information transmitted from the second processor62bseparately from the first signal output56a.

In the present embodiment, the first signal processing unit54aand the second signal processing unit54bare supplied with electric power from the same power supply63. The power supply63is electrically connected to the first electric power input58aand to the second electric power input58bby the electric cable63a. The power supply63can be provided on each of the first crank arm24X and the second crank arm24Y.

Preferably, the component20further includes an operating portion64provided on the component body22to input a reset signal to the processor62. The operating portion64includes, for example, a switch. The operating portion64is arranged at a position operable by a user. In the present embodiment, the operating portion64is arranged on the case25. Alternatively, the operating portion64can be arranged on the cover50. In a case where a first operation is performed on the operating portion64, for example, the processor62deletes or initializes part of information stored in the storage. The information stored in the storage can be, for example, a value calculated by the processor62in accordance with the output of the strain gauge52, a correction value used in a case where the processor62performs calculation using the output of the strain gauge52, or information related to the wireless transmission device60.

Preferably, the component20further includes a rotational state detector66that detects a rotational state of at least part of the component body22. In the present embodiment, the rotational state detector66detects information corresponding to a rotational speed of the crank axle26. The rotational state detector66includes, for example, a magnetic sensor. The magnetic sensor detects, for example, a magnetic force of a magnet M provided on the frame30. The magnetic sensor includes, for example, a reed switch including a magnetic reed. The terms “detector” and “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 terms “detector” and “sensor” as used herein do not include a human.

The distance between the magnetic sensor and the magnet M is changed by the rotation of the component body22. Thus, the magnetic sensor outputs a signal in accordance with the rotational speed of the component body22. Preferably, the rotational state detector66is electrically connected to the processor62. Preferably, a signal output from the rotational state detector66is input to the processor62. The rotational state detector66can be included in the signal processing unit54. In the present embodiment, the rotational state detector66is provided on only the first crank arm24X. The rotational state detector66can be provided on both the first crank arm24X and the second crank arm24Y. Alternatively, the rotational state detector66can be provided on only the second crank arm24Y or the crank axle26.

Preferably, the component20further includes a notification device68provided on the component body22. The notification device68includes at least one of a light generation device68A and a sound generation device. The light generation device68A includes, for example, a light emitting diode (LED). The light generation device68A is provided on the component body22at a position where it is visible to a user. In the present embodiment, the notification device68is arranged, for example, on the case25. Alternatively, the notification device68can be arranged on the cover50. The sound generation device includes, for example, a speaker. For example, the processor62can control the notification device68so that the notification device68issues notification in accordance with information processed by the processor62. For example, the processor62can control the notification device68so that the notification device68issues notification in accordance with information related to a battery level of the power supply63. The notification device68can be provided on each of the first crank arm24X and the second crank arm24Y. Preferably, the wireless transmission device60, the notification device68, and the operating portion64are supplied with the electric power of the power supply63.

As shown inFIG.9, the strain gauge52includes the substrate70and a resistor provided on the substrate70. Preferably, the resistor72includes more than one resistor72. Preferably, at least some of the resistors72are electrically connected. Preferably, some of the resistors72detect strain in a certain direction, and the rest of the resistors72detect strain in a different direction. In a case where the strain gauge52is provided on the crank arm24, the strain gauge52is arranged on the crank arm24so that, in relation to the rotational center of the crank axle26, the strain gauge52outputs a signal corresponding to at least one of force acting in the radial direction of the crank arm24, force acting in the rotational direction of the crank arm24, and force acting in the direction of skew related to the longitudinal axis of the crank arm24. InFIG.9, twelve resistors72are provided on the substrate70to form twelve strain gauges52. The number and the layout pattern of the resistors72are not limited and can be changed in correspondence with a measurement subject.

Preferably, the strain gauge52includes a gauge wire74provided on the substrate70and electrically connected to the resistor72. Preferably, the resistor72includes a first resistor72A and a second resistor72B. The gauge wire74electrically connects the first resistor72A and the second resistor72B. In a case where the resistor72includes three or more resistors72, the first resistor72A is one of the three or more resistors72, and the second resistor72B is one of the three or more resistors72differing from the first resistor72A. Preferably, at least some of the resistors72form a bridge circuit. The bridge circuit can be a half-bridge circuit or a full-bridge circuit. The substrate70includes an insulative and flexible resin film. Preferably, the resin film is a polyimide film.

Preferably, the strain gauge52further includes a gauge terminal76provided on the substrate70and electrically connected to the resistor72. The gauge wire74electrically connects the resistor72and the gauge terminal76. The gauge terminal76is, for example, a pad.

The component20includes the component body22, a single substrate70provided on the component body22, the resistor72formed on the substrate70and forming the strain gauge52with part of the substrate70, an electric wire75, the signal processing unit54, the signal output56, and the electric power input58. The electric wire75is formed on the substrate70, and electrically connected to the resistor72. The signal processing unit54can be formed or directly mounted on the substrate70and electrically connected to the electric wire75. In a case where the signal processing unit54is formed or directly mounted on the substrate70, the gauge terminal76can be omitted. Preferably, the component20further includes a temperature sensor80formed or mounted on the substrate70.

As shown inFIGS.5to8, the strain gauge52, at least part of the signal processing unit54, and the electric power input58can be included in a single module59. Preferably, at least part of the signal output56is included in the module59. In a case where the signal output56includes the wireless transmission device60, the wireless transmission device60can be included in the module59but does not have to be included in the module59. The wireless transmission device60can be directly mounted on the substrate70. The wireless transmission device60includes a signal processing circuit and can further include an antenna.

In a module59A shown inFIG.5, the strain gauge52is formed on the substrate70, and the amplifier54A is directly mounted on the substrate70. In the module59A, the electric power input58is formed or mounted on the substrate70, and the signal output56is formed or mounted on the substrate70. The AD converter54B is not mounted on the substrate70. The AD converter54B can be, for example, provided on a flexible printed wiring board electrically connected to the substrate70, or provided on an electric circuit board electrically connected to the substrate70by a flexible printed wiring board. The processor62is not mounted on the substrate70. The processor62can be provided on a flexible printed wiring board electrically connected to the substrate70, or provided on an electric circuit board electrically connected to the substrate70by a flexible printed wiring board.

In a module59B shown inFIG.6, the strain gauge52is formed on the substrate70. Further, the amplifier54A and the AD converter54B are directly mounted on the substrate70. In the module59B, the electric power input58is formed or mounted on the substrate70, and the signal output56is formed or mounted on the substrate70. The processor62is not mounted on the substrate70. The processor62can be provided on a flexible printed wiring board electrically connected to the substrate70, or provided on an electronic circuit board electrically connected to the substrate70by a flexible printed wiring board.

In a module59C shown inFIG.7, the strain gauge52is formed on the substrate70. Further, the amplifier54A, the AD converter54B, and the processor62are directly mounted on the substrate70. In the module59C, the electric power input58is formed or mounted on the substrate70, and the signal output56is formed or mounted on the substrate70. In the module59C, the signal output56can include the wireless transmission device60.

As shown inFIG.8, the strain gauge52, the electric power input58, and the temperature sensor80can be included in the single module59. In a module59D shown inFIG.8, the strain gauge52is formed on the substrate70, and the temperature sensor80is formed or mounted on the substrate70. In the module59D, the electric power input58is formed or mounted on the substrate70. In the modules59A,59B, and59C, the temperature sensor80can be formed or mounted on the substrate70. In the module59A, the amplifier54A can be changed to the AD converter54B.FIGS.5to8show examples of the module59.

At least part of the substrate70is adhered to the component body22by an adhesive. At least a portion of the substrate70that forms the strain gauge52is adhered to the component body22by the adhesive. In the present embodiment, at least the portion of the substrate70that forms the strain gauge52is adhered to, for example, the crank arm24on a surface faced toward an imaginary center plane of the human-powered vehicle10in a sideward direction. At least the portion of the substrate70that forms the strain gauge52can be adhered to, for example, the crank arm24on a surface located in at least one of an upstream side or a downstream side in the rotational direction. In a case where the crank arm24is hollow, at least the portion of the substrate70that forms the strain gauge52can be adhered to, for example, an inner surface of the crank arm24.

The sealed space22A is defined by the outer surface of the corresponding one of the two crank arms24and the corresponding cover50. The cover50is arranged to cover the module59provided on the crank arm24. Preferably, at least part of the module59is disposed in the sealed space22A. Preferably, the entire module59is arranged in the sealed space22A. The sealed space22A does not have to be completely sealed and can be, for example, connected to the inside of the crank arm24.

The module59provided on the first crank arm24X and the module59provided on the second crank arm24Y can have different configurations. The module59B can be provided on the first crank arm24X, and the module59C can be provided on the second crank arm24Y.

The temperature sensor80includes at least one of a thermocouple, a thermistor, a resistance thermometer, and a linear resistor. Preferably, in accordance with the output of the temperature sensor80, the processor62corrects at least one of a signal output from the strain gauge52and information related to a signal output from the strain gauge52. Preferably, a signal output from the temperature sensor80is converted into a digital signal by the AD converter and then input to the processor62.

Preferably, the temperature sensor80is arranged on the component20in accordance with at least one of a first layout example A1, a second layout example A2, a third layout example A3, and a fourth layout example A4, which will be described below. The temperature sensor80can include more than one temperature sensor80. In a case where the temperature sensor80includes more than one temperature sensor80, the temperature sensors80can be arranged on the component20at different positions as in the first to fourth layout examples A1to A4.

As shown inFIG.9, in the first layout example A1, the resistor72includes the first resistor72A and the second resistor72B, and at least part of the temperature sensor80is located on the substrate70in a region R1between the first resistor72A and the second resistor72B.

As shown inFIGS.10and11, in the second layout example A2, as viewed in a thickness direction of the substrate70, at least part of the temperature sensor80is arranged to overlap at least part of the resistor72.

In the second layout example A2shown inFIG.10, the substrate70includes a first layer71A. The first layer71A includes a first setting surface71Aa and a second setting surface71Ab that are spaced apart in the thickness direction. The resistor72is arranged on the first setting surface71Aa, and the temperature sensor80is arranged on the second setting surface71Ab. In the second layout example A2shown inFIG.10, it is preferred that the substrate70include a second layer71B and a third layer71C. The second layer71B is arranged on the first setting surface71Aa of the first layer71A to cover the resistor72with an adhesive layer82A in between. The third layer71C is arranged on the second setting surface71Ab of the first layer71A to cover the temperature sensor80with an adhesive layer82B in between. Preferably, the first layer71A, the second layer71B, and the third layer71C each include an insulative and flexible resin film. Preferably, the resin film is a polyimide film. The adhesive layer82A and the adhesive layer82B each include, for example, epoxy resin. The substrate70can include the adhesive layer82A and the adhesive layer82B. In the second layout example A2shown inFIG.10, the second layer71B can be adhered to the component body22, and the third layer71C can be adhered to the component body22.

In the second layout example A2shown inFIG.11, the substrate70includes a first layer71D and a second layer71E. The first layer71D includes a first setting surface71Da and a second setting surface71Db that are spaced apart in the thickness direction of the first layer71D. The resistor72is arranged on the first setting surface71Da, and the second layer71E is arranged on the first setting surface71Da of the first layer71D to cover the resistor72with an adhesive layer82C in between. The second layer71E includes a first setting surface71Ea and a second setting surface71Eb that are spaced apart in the thickness direction of the second layer71E. The second setting surface71Eb of the second layer71E is faced toward the first setting surface71Da of the first layer71D. The temperature sensor80is arranged on the first setting surface71Ea of the second layer71E. In the second layout example A2shown inFIG.11, it is preferred that the substrate70include a third layer71F. The third layer71F is arranged on the first setting surface71Ea of the second layer71E to cover the temperature sensor80with an adhesive layer82D in between. In the second layout example A2shown inFIG.11, it is preferred that the first layer71D be adhered to the component body22. In the second layout example A2shown inFIG.11, the temperature sensor80can be arranged on the first layer71D, and the resistor72can be arranged on the second layer71E. Preferably, the first layer71D, the second layer71E, and the third layer71F each include an insulative and flexible resin film. Preferably, the resin film is a polyimide film. The adhesive layer82C and the adhesive layer82D each include, for example, epoxy resin. The substrate70can include the adhesive layer82C and the adhesive layer82D.

In a case where at least part of the signal processing unit54is not formed or mounted on the substrate70or in a case where the processor62is not mounted on the substrate70, the component20can include an electric circuit board84and a flexible printed wiring board86, which electrically connects the strain gauge52and the electric circuit board84. In the third layout example A3shown inFIGS.12and13, the substrate70of the strain gauge52is formed separately from the flexible printed wiring board86and the electric circuit board84. Preferably, the substrates70of the flexible printed wiring board86includes an insulative and flexible resin film. Preferably, the resin film is a polyimide film. The electric circuit board84includes a typical printed wiring board. An electronic component84A is provided on the electric circuit board84. The electronic component84A includes at least one of, for example, at least part of the signal processing unit54, the processor62, the electric power input58, and the signal output56. An electronic component86A can be provided on the flexible printed wiring board86. The electronic component86A can include, for example, at least part of the signal processing unit54. An electric wire78A is formed on the flexible printed wiring board86. The electric wire78A is formed so that, for example, only two ends in an electric power transmission direction are exposed to the outside from the flexible printed wiring board86.

As shown inFIG.15, for example, the component20can further include a fastener79. The fastener79couples the strain gauge52and the flexible printed wiring board86so that the gauge terminal76and the electric wire78A are in close contact. The fastener79includes, for example, at least one of a screw, a bolt, and a clamp. The fastener79is arranged, for example, at two sides of the gauge terminal76in a predetermined direction. The fastener79can be configured, for example, to fasten a plate-like member to the component body22in a state in which the gauge terminal76and part of the electric wire78A are sandwiched between the plate-like member and the component body22.

The temperature sensor80can be provided on at least one of the flexible printed wiring board86, a first connecting portion88A connecting the strain gauge52and the flexible printed wiring board86, and a second connecting portion88B connecting the flexible printed wiring board86and the electric circuit board84. The first connecting portion88A and the second connecting portion88B include, for example, solder or an anisotropic conductive film (ACF) connection structure.

In the third layout example A3shown inFIG.12, the temperature sensor80is provided on the first connecting portion88A. The first connecting portion88A includes, for example, solder. The first connecting portion88A electrically connects the resistor72of the strain gauge52and the electric wire78A provided on the flexible printed wiring board86. The first connecting portion88A is located between the gauge terminal76and the electric wire78A. In the third layout example A3shown inFIG.12, the temperature sensor80is provided at a position closer to the resistor72than the electric circuit board84. In the first connecting portion88A, the temperature sensor80can be mounted on the substrate70of the strain gauge52or on the flexible printed wiring board86. In the first connecting portion88A, the temperature sensor80can be connected by solder to the gauge terminal76and to the electric wire78A.

In the third layout example A3shown inFIG.13, the temperature sensor80is provided on the second connecting portion88B. The second connecting portion88B includes, for example, solder. The second connecting portion88B electrically connects the electronic component84A provided on the electric circuit board84and the electric wire78A provided on the flexible printed wiring board86. The second connecting portion88B is located between the electric wire78A and a terminal of the electric circuit board84, which is connected to the electric wire78A. In the layout example A3shown inFIG.13, the temperature sensor80is provided at a position closer to the flexible printed wiring board86than the resistor72. In the second connecting portion88B, the temperature sensor80can be mounted on the electric circuit board84or on the flexible printed wiring board86. In the second connecting portion88B, the temperature sensor80can be connected by solder to the electric wire78A and to a terminal of the electric circuit board84, which is connected to the electric wire78A.

In the fourth layout example A4shown inFIGS.14and15, the temperature sensor80is provided on the flexible printed wiring board86. The temperature sensor80can be provided on the flexible printed wiring board86. The strain gauge52can include the resistor72and a first thermal conductor90A electrically insulated from the resistor72. The flexible printed wiring board86can include a second thermal conductor90B connected to the first thermal conductor90A. The temperature sensor80can be in contact with or in the proximity of the second thermal conductor90B. Preferably, the first thermal conductor90A and the second thermal conductor90B can have a higher thermal conductivity than the substrate70. For example, the first thermal conductor90A and the second thermal conductor90B are formed from a metal material. The first thermal conductor90A and the second thermal conductor90B include, for example, Cu. The first thermal conductor90A can be connected to the second thermal conductor90B indirectly by solder or an anisotropic conductive film (ACF). In a case where the first thermal conductor90A is indirectly connected to the second thermal conductor90B, the processor62can be configured to correct the detected temperature in correspondence with the member that connects the first thermal conductor90A and the second thermal conductor90B. As viewed in the thickness direction of the substrate70, the temperature sensor80can be, for example, arranged to overlap the second thermal conductor90B. The temperature sensor80can be formed integrally with the second thermal conductor90B. A signal output from the temperature sensor80is transmitted, for example, through the electric wire78A.

At least one of the amplifier54A and the AD converter54B can be electrically connected to the strain gauge52and provided on at least one of the flexible printed wiring board86, the first connecting portion88A, and the second connecting portion88B. In a fifth layout example B1shown inFIG.16and a sixth layout example B2shown inFIG.17, the component20includes the electric circuit board84and the flexible printed wiring board86that electrically connects the strain gauge52and the electric circuit board84. In the fifth layout example B1shown inFIG.16, the substrate70of the strain gauge52is formed separately from the flexible printed wiring board86and the electric circuit board84. In the sixth layout example B2shown inFIG.17, the substrate70of the electric circuit board84is formed separately from the flexible printed wiring board86and the electric circuit board84.

At least one of the amplifier54A and the AD converter54B can be provided on at least one of the flexible printed wiring board86, the first connecting portion88A connecting the strain gauge52and the flexible printed wiring board86, and the second connecting portion88B connecting the flexible printed wiring board86and the electric circuit board84. At least one of the amplifier54A and the AD converter54B can be arranged on the flexible printed wiring board86. Among the amplifier54A and the AD converter54B, only the amplifier54A can be arranged on the flexible printed wiring board86. Among the amplifier54A and the AD converter54B, only the AD converter54B can be arranged on the flexible printed wiring board86. At least one of the amplifier54A and the AD converter54B can be arranged on the component20in accordance with at least one of the fifth layout example B1and the sixth layout example B2. The amplifier54A and the AD converter54B can be arranged on the component20at different positions as in the fifth layout example B1and the sixth layout example B2, respectively.

In the fifth layout example B1shown inFIG.16, at least one of the amplifier54A and the AD converter54B is provided on the first connecting portion88A. In the first connecting portion88A, at least one of the amplifier54A and the AD converter54B can be mounted on the substrate70of the strain gauge52or on the flexible printed wiring board86. In the first connecting portion88A, at least one of the amplifier54A and the AD converter54B can be connected by solder to the gauge terminal76and to the electric wire78A. In the sixth layout example B2shown inFIG.17, at least one of the amplifier54A and the AD converter54B is provided on the second connecting portion88B. In the second connecting portion88B, at least one of the amplifier54A and the AD converter54B can be mounted on the electric circuit board84or on the flexible printed wiring board86. In the second connecting portion88B, at least one of the amplifier54A and the AD converter54B can be connected by solder to the electric wire78A and to a terminal of the electric circuit board84, which is connected to the electric wire78A.

Preferably, the resistor72is formed by a metal layer having a thickness of 0.01 micrometers or greater and 1 micrometer or less. Preferably, the thickness of the metal layer is 0.05 micrometers or greater and 0.5 micrometers or less. Preferably, the thickness of the metal layer is 0.1 micrometers or greater and 0.3 micrometers or less. The resistor72has a line width and a line interval that are selected in correspondence with the size of the strain gauge52. The line width of the resistor72is, for example, 1 micrometer or greater and 200 micrometers or less. The line interval of the resistor72is, for example, 1 micrometer or greater and 200 micrometers or less.

Preferably, the gauge wire74has a lower electrical resistance per unit length than the resistor72. The electric wire75has a lower electrical resistance per unit length than the resistor72. In the present embodiment, the electric wire75is equivalent to the gauge wire74. Accordingly, in the description hereafter, the gauge wire74can be read as the electric wire75, and the electric wire75can be read as the gauge wire74.

In accordance with the configuration of at least one of a first example and a second example, which will be described below, the electrical resistance per unit length of the gauge wire74and the electric wire75can be lower than that of the resistor72. The thickness of the resistor72and the gauge wire74can be equal or different.

FIG.18shows the configuration of the first example. In the configuration of the first example, the resistor72and the gauge wire74have different compositions. The resistor72and the electric wire75have different compositions. Preferably, the resistor72includes one of CuNi, Ni, and NiCr, and at least part of the gauge wire74includes Cu. Preferably, the resistor72includes one of CuNi, Ni, and NiCr, and at least part of the electric wire75includes Cu.

FIG.19shows the configuration of the second example. In the configuration of the second example, the gauge wire74includes a first portion74A and a second portion74B that covers the first portion74A, the resistor72is molded integrally with the first portion74A of the gauge wire74, and the second portion74B has a lower electrical resistivity than the resistor72and the first portion74A. The electric wire75includes a first wire portion75A and a second wire portion75B that covers the first wire portion75A, the resistor72is molded integrally with the first wire portion75A of the electric wire75, and the second wire portion75B has a lower electrical resistivity than the resistor72and the first wire portion75A. Preferably, the resistor72, the first portion74A, and the first wire portion75A include one of CuNi, Ni, and NiCr, and the second portion74B and the second wire portion75B can include Cu.

A method for manufacturing the resistor72and the gauge wire74shown inFIG.18will now be described with reference toFIGS.18and20to22. In a first step shown inFIG.20, the gauge wire74is formed on a first setting surface70A of the substrate70. The gauge wire74is formed, for example, by sputtering.

In a second step shown inFIG.21, a resist that covers the gauge wire74is formed on the first setting surface70A of the substrate70, and an opening is formed in the resist in a region where the resistor72is formed. The opening is formed through, for example, exposure, developing, and etching. The resist is formed from, for example, a photoresist.

In a third step shown inFIG.22, a metal film for the resistor72is formed in the opening formed in the second step. The metal film is formed by, for example, sputtering. In a fourth step, a resist is formed on the metal film formed in the third step, and the resistor72is formed through, for example, exposure, developing, and etching. After the fourth step, the resist is removed in a fifth step to connect the resistor72and the gauge wire74. The first to fifth steps can be performed in a roll-to-roll (RTR) processing method.

As shown inFIG.23, the substrate70can include the first setting surface70A and a second setting surface70B that are spaced apart in the thickness direction, the resistor72can be provided on the first setting surface70A, and at least part of the gauge wire74can be provided on the second setting surface70B. The substrate70can include the first setting surface70A and the second setting surface70B that are spaced apart in the thickness direction, the resistor72can be provided on the first setting surface70A, and at least part of the electric wire75can be provided on the second setting surface70B. A protective insulation layer73that covers the resistor72can be formed on the first setting surface70A. The protective insulation layer73is electrically insulative. The substrate70can include the protective insulation layer73. Preferably, the substrate70includes a first connection hole70C that connects the first setting surface70A and the second setting surface70B, and part of the gauge wire74is provided in the first connection hole70C. Preferably, the substrate70includes a connection hole70D that connects the first setting surface70A and the second setting surface70B, and part of the electric wire75is provided in the connection hole70D. The material of the part of the gauge wire74arranged in the first connection hole70C can be the same as or differ from the material of the remaining part of the gauge wire74. The material of the part of the electric wire75arranged in the connection hole70D can be the same as or differ from the material of the remaining part of the electric wire75.

Preferably, the gauge terminal76is molded integrally with the gauge wire74. Preferably, the component20further includes a flexible printed wiring board78including a board78B and the electric wire78A. The board78B is molded integrally with the substrate70, and the electric wire78A is provided on the board78B. Further, the gauge terminal76is molded integrally with at least part of the electric wire78A.

The component20can include the flexible printed wiring board86including the electric wire78A. In a case where the strain gauge52is formed separately from the flexible printed wiring board86, the gauge terminal76can be electrically connected to the electric wire78A directly or by electrically conductive particles. In a case where the gauge terminal76is electrically connected to the electric wire78A directly or by the electrically conductive particles, it is preferred that the component20shown inFIG.24further include an adhesive layer92that adheres the strain gauge52and the flexible printed wiring board86and that the adhesive layer92include the electrically conductive particles. The electric wire78A includes a wire terminal78C faced toward the gauge terminal76, and one of the gauge terminal76and the wire terminal78C is formed by a comb electrode94. The gauge terminal76is connected to the wire terminal78C, for example, by an ACF.

Modifications

The description related with the above embodiment exemplifies, without any intention to limit, an applicable form of a human-powered vehicle component according to the present disclosure. In addition to the embodiment described above, the human-powered vehicle component according to the present disclosure is applicable to, for example, modifications of the above embodiment that are described below and combinations of at least two of the modifications that do not contradict each other. In the modifications described hereafter, same reference numerals are given to those components that are the same as the corresponding components of the above embodiment. Such components will not be described in detail.

The present embodiment describes an example in which the component body22includes the crank assembly22X, but the component body22can include at least one of the crank arm24, the crank axle26, the pedal28, the frame30, the handlebar32, the stem34, the front fork36, the seatpost38, the saddle40, the wheel42, the hub44, a carrier46, and a drive unit48configured to apply a propulsion force to the human-powered vehicle10. The component body22can include, for example, only the first crank arm24X or the second crank arm24Y. The configuration of the strain gauge52can be changed in correspondence with the type or shape of the component body22. In a case where the strain gauge52is attached to the pedal28, for example, the strain gauge52is attached to the outer portion of a pedal shaft.

FIG.25shows the human-powered vehicle10that is an electric assist bicycle. The basic structure of the human-powered vehicle10shown inFIG.25is similar to the structure of the human-powered vehicle10shown inFIG.1. Thus, the description hereafter will focus on the differences. The human-powered vehicle10shown inFIG.25includes the drive unit48, the carrier46, and a rear suspension47. The frame30includes a main frame31A and a swingarm31B. The swingarm31B is pivotally coupled to the main frame31A. The main frame31A includes a top tube, a down tube, a seat tube, and a head tube. The swingarm31B and the main frame31A are coupled to the rear suspension47. The rear wheel42A is supported by the swingarm31B. The crank axle26and the first rotational body14can be coupled to rotate integrally with each other or coupled by a second one-way clutch. The second one-way clutch is configured to rotate the first rotational body14forward in a case where the crank axle26is rotated forward and allow relative rotation of the crank axle26and the first rotational body14in a case where the crank axle26is rotated rearward. The carrier46is, for example, attached to the frame30. The carrier46can be attached to the axle of the rear wheel42A. The carrier46can include a wheel that is driven as the human-powered vehicle10travels.

The drive unit48includes a motor48A. The motor48A is configured to apply a propulsion force to the human-powered vehicle10. The motor48A includes one or more electric motors. The motor48A is configured to transmit rotation to at least one of the front wheel42B and the power transmission path of human driving force extending from the pedal28to the rear wheel42A. The power transmission path of human driving force extending from the pedal28to the rear wheel42A includes the rear wheel42A. In the present embodiment, the motor48A is provided on the frame30of the human-powered vehicle10to transmit rotation to the first rotational body14. The motor48A is provided on a housing48B. The housing48B is provided on the frame30. The housing48B is, for example, attached to the frame30in a detachable manner. The motor48A and the housing48B on which the motor48A is provided define the drive unit48. Preferably, a third one-way clutch is provided in the power transmission path between the motor48A and the crank axle26so that the rotational force of the crank axle26is not transmitted to the motor48A in a case where the crank axle26is rotated in the direction in which the human-powered vehicle10moves forward. In a case where the motor48A is provided on at least one of the rear wheel42A and the front wheel42B, the motor48A can be formed by a hub motor.

In a case where the component body22includes the drive unit48, the substrate70is, for example, provided on a transferring member that transfers human driving force in the power transmission path between the crank axle26and the first rotational body14. The transferring member is, for example, substantially cylindrical and located coaxially with the crank axle26. One end of the transferring member in an axial direction of the crank axle26is coupled to the crank axle26in a manner restricting relative rotation. The other end of the transferring member in the axial direction of the crank axle26is coupled to the second one-way clutch or the first rotational body14. In this case, the signal output56includes the wireless transmission device60and transmits information to a motor controller provided on the drive unit48. The signal processing unit54can be included in the motor controller or electrically connected to the motor controller by at least one of a flexible printed wiring board and an electric cable.

In the human-powered vehicle10shown inFIG.25, the power supply63is provided on the human-powered vehicle10. The power supply63is, for example, connected to the signal processing unit54by an electric cable. The power supply63is, for example, provided on the frame30. At least part of the power supply63can be, for example, incorporated in the down tube of the frame30. The power supply63is configured to establish communication with a controller of the motor48A through, for example, power line communication (PLC), Controller Area Network (CAN), or Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter (UART). In a case where the component body22includes at least one of the frame30, the handlebar32, the stem34, the front fork36, the seatpost38, the saddle40, the wheel42, the hub44, the carrier46, and the drive unit48, the electric power input58can be supplied with the electric power from the power supply63provided on the frame30. In a case where the component body22includes at least one of the crank arm24, the crank axle26, and the pedal28, the processor62can calculate the human driving force input to at least one of the crank arm24, the crank axle26, and the pedal28from the output of the strain gauge52. In a case where the component body22includes at least one of the frame30, the handlebar32, the stem34, the front fork36, the wheel42, the hub44, and the drive unit48, the processor62can calculate the human driving force input to at least one of the frame30, the handlebar32, the stem34, the front fork36, the wheel42, the hub44, and the drive unit48from the output of the strain gauge52. In a case where the human-powered vehicle10includes the drive unit48, and the strain gauge52is provided on a member located in the transmission path of human driving force at a portion where the propulsion force of the drive unit48is merged or at a downstream side of the portion where the propulsion force of the drive unit48is merged, the processor62can calculate a net force of the human driving force and the propulsion force of the drive unit48. In a case where the component body22includes at least one of the handlebar32, the stem34, and the front fork36, the processor62can calculate a steering force acting on at least one of the handlebar32, the stem34, and the front fork36from the output of the strain gauge52. In a case where the component body22includes at least one of the handlebar32, the stem34, the front fork36, the seatpost38, the saddle40, the wheel42, and the carrier46, the processor62can calculate load applied to at least one of the handlebar32, the stem34, the front fork36, the seatpost38, the saddle40, the wheel42, and the carrier46, which is included in the component body22. In other words, the strain gauge52is configured to output a signal corresponding to the force applied to the portion where the strain gauge52is provided, and the processor62is configured to calculate the force applied to the portion where the strain gauge52is provided. The power supply63can be, for example, configured to supply the motor48A of the drive unit48with electric power. In a case where the transmission includes an electric transmission, the power supply63can be configured to supply, for example, the electric transmission of the drive unit48with electric power. In a case where the seatpost38includes an electric seatpost, the power supply63can be configured to supply, for example, the electric seatpost with electric power. In a case where at least one of the front fork36and the rear suspension47includes an electric suspension, the power supply63can be configured to supply, for example, the electric suspension with electric power.

In a case where the component body22includes at least one of the crank arm24, the crank axle26, the pedal28, and the drive unit48, the rotational state detector66can include, for example, a magnetic sensor that outputs a signal in accordance with magnetic strength. The magnetic sensor is, for example, configured to detect the magnetic force of the magnet M provided on the frame30, the crank arm24, or the crank axle26. In a case where the component body22is the crank arm24, the crank axle26, or the pedal28, the distance between the magnetic sensor and the magnet M is changed by the rotation of the component body22. Thus, the magnetic sensor outputs a signal in accordance with the rotational speed of the component body22. In a case where the component body22includes the frame30, the magnetic sensor detects the magnetic force of the magnet M provided on at least one of the crank arm24, the crank axle26, and the pedal28to detect a relative rotational state of at least one of the crank arm24, the crank axle26, and the pedal28to the frame30.

The rotational state detector66can be configured to detect a rotational state of any member as long as the member is rotated relative to the component body22. The member that is rotated relative to the component body22is, for example, the crank arm24, the crank axle26, the pedal28, the frame30, the handlebar32, the stem34, the front fork36, the seatpost38, the saddle40, the wheel42, the hub44, the carrier46, or the drive unit48, and is not included in the component body22. In a case where the component body22includes a rotational member and a non-rotational member, the rotational state detector66can be configured to detect a rotational state of the relative rotation between the rotational member and the non-rotational member. For example, in a case where the component20includes the drive unit48, the rotational state detector66can be configured to detect a rotational state of the relative rotation between the crank axle26and the housing48B. Alternatively, the rotational state detector66can be configured to detect a rotational state of the relative rotation of the motor48A and the housing48B.

As shown inFIG.26, the component body22can be a component body22Y including the hub44. The hub44includes a first coupling member44A, a hub shell44B, a first one-way clutch44C, a hub shaft44D, and a second coupling member44E. The first coupling member44A, the hub shell44B, the first one-way clutch44C, and the second coupling member44E are provided about the hub shaft44D in a manner rotatable relative to the hub shaft44D with one or more bearings located in between. The second rotational body16is coupled to an outer circumferential portion of the first coupling member44A on. The first coupling member44A is cylindrical, and the first one-way clutch44C is located between an inner circumferential surface of the first coupling member44A and the hub shaft44D. Part of the second coupling member44E is located between the first one-way clutch44C and the hub shaft44D. The first one-way clutch44C can be a ratchet-type clutch or a roller clutch. The second coupling member44E is cylindrical, and the first one-way clutch44C is located between an outer circumferential portion of the second coupling member44E and an inner circumferential portion of the first coupling member44A. The second coupling member44E is coupled to the hub shell44B in a manner restricting rotation. The strain gauge52is provided in the power transmission path extending from the first coupling member44A to the hub shell44B. For example, the strain gauge52is provided on a member that is rotated integrally with the hub shell44B. The strain gauge52is provided, for example, on the second coupling member44E. The strain gauge52is provided on the second coupling member44E between the portion coupled to the hub shell44B and the portion coupled to the first one-way clutch44C. The strain gauge52is adhered to the outer circumferential portion of the second coupling member44E. The module59is provided on an inner circumferential portion of the hub shell44B. The power supply63can include a battery or a dynamo63A. The dynamo63A includes, for example, a stator and a magnet. The stator is provided on the hub shell44B or the second coupling member44E and rotated integrally with the hub shell44B. The magnet is fastened to the hub shaft44D.

The processor62does not have to be provided on the substrate70. The processor62can be provided on the external device100.

The component20only needs to include the component body22, a single substrate70provided on the component body22, the resistor72formed on the substrate70and forming the strain gauge52with part of the substrate70, the electric wire75formed on the substrate70and electrically connected to the resistor72, the signal processing unit54formed or directly mounted on the substrate70and electrically connected to the electric wire75, the signal output56that outputs a signal from the signal processing unit54, and the electric power input58electrically connected to the signal processing unit54and supplied with electric power from the power supply63provided on at least one of the human-powered vehicle10and the component body22. In this case, for example, the resistor72can be formed from a metal layer that is thicker than one micrometer. The signal processing unit54can include a communication device in addition to, or instead of, at least one of the temperature sensor80, the amplifier54A, the AD converter54B, and the processor62. The communication device can include the wireless transmission device60or a wired communication unit that is connected to the external device100by an electric cable.

The component20only needs to include the component body22, a single substrate70provided on the component body22, the resistor72formed on the substrate70and forming the strain gauge52with at least part of the substrate70, the temperature sensor80formed or mounted on the substrate70, the signal processing unit54electrically connected to the resistor72, the signal output56that outputs a signal from the signal processing unit54, and the electric power input58electrically connected to the signal processing unit54and supplied with electric power from the power supply63provided on at least part of the human-powered vehicle10and the component body22. Further, the resistor72includes the first resistor72A that forms the first strain gauge52awith a first portion70X of the substrate70, and the second resistor72B that forms the second strain gauge52bwith a second portion70Y of the substrate70. Furthermore, at least part of the temperature sensor80is arranged on the substrate70in the region R1between the first resistor72A and the second resistor72B at a connecting portion that connects the first portion70X and the second portion70Y. In this case, other components can be omitted. For example, in a case where the strain gauge52includes a plurality of the strain gauges52, the region R1can be a region between the resistors72of two adjacent strain gauges or can be a region between the resistors72of strain gauges that are not adjacent to each other. Therefore, the temperature sensor80can be located in the position indicated by the double-dashed lines shown inFIG.9.

The component20only needs to include the component body22, a single substrate70provided on the component body22, the resistor72formed on the substrate70and forming the strain gauge52with part of the substrate70, the temperature sensor80formed or mounted on the substrate70and at least partially overlapped with the resistor72as viewed in the thickness direction of the substrate70, the signal processing unit54electrically connected to the resistor72, the signal output56that outputs a signal from the signal processing unit54, and the electric power input58electrically connected to the signal processing unit54and supplied with electric power from the power supply63provided on at least one of the human-powered vehicle10and the component body22In this case, other components can be omitted. For example, the resistor72can be formed from a metal layer that is thicker than one micrometer.

The component20only needs to include the temperature sensor80, the signal processing unit54electrically connected to the strain gauge52, the signal output56that outputs a signal processing unital from the signal processing unit54, and the electric power input58electrically connected to the signal processing unit54and supplied with electric power from the power supply63provided on at least one of the human-powered vehicle10and the component body22. The temperature sensor80is provided on at least one of the component body22, the strain gauge52provided on the component body22, the electric circuit board84, the flexible printed wiring board86electrically connecting the strain gauge52and the electric circuit board84, the flexible printed wiring board86, the first connecting portion88A connecting the strain gauge52and the flexible printed wiring board86, and the second connecting portion88B connecting the flexible printed wiring board86and the electric circuit board84. In this case, other components can be omitted. For example, the resistor72can be formed from a metal layer that is thicker than one micrometer. The temperature sensor80does not have to be included in the module59.

The component20only needs to include the component body22, the strain gauge52provided on the component body22, the electric circuit board84, the flexible printed wiring board86electrically connecting the strain gauge52and the electric circuit board84, at least one of the amplifier54A and the AD converter54B, the signal processing unit54provided on the electric circuit board84and electrically connected to the at least one of the amplifier54A and the AD converter54B, the signal output56that outputs a signal from the signal processing unit54, and the electric power input58. Further, the at least one of the amplifier54A and the AD converter54B is electrically connected to the strain gauge52and provided on at least one of the flexible printed wiring board86, the first connecting portion88A connecting the strain gauge52and the flexible printed wiring board86, and the second connecting portion88B connecting the flexible printed wiring board86and the electric circuit board84. Furthermore, the electric power input58is supplied with electric power from the power supply63provided on at least one of the human-powered vehicle10and the component body22and electrically connected to the signal processing unit54and to the at least one of the amplifier54A and the AD converter54B. In this case, other components can be omitted. For example, the resistor72can be formed from a metal layer that is thicker than one micrometer.

The component20only needs to include the component body22, a single substrate70provided on the component body22, the resistor72formed on the substrate70and forming the strain gauge52with part of the substrate70, the electric wire75formed on the substrate70and electrically connected to the resistor72, the signal processing unit54mounted on the substrate70and electrically connected to the electric wire75, the signal output56that outputs a signal from the signal processing unit54, and the electric power input58electrically connected to the signal processing unit54and supplied with electric power from the power supply63provided on at least one of the human-powered vehicle10and the component body22. Further, the electric wire75has a lower electrical resistance per unit length than the resistor72. In this case, other components can be omitted. For example, the resistor72can be formed from a metal layer that is thicker than one micrometer.

The component20only needs to include the component body22, the strain gauge52provided on the component body22, the signal processing unit54electrically connected to the strain gauge52, the signal output56that outputs a signal from the signal processing unit54, and the electric power input58electrically connected to the signal processing unit54and supplied with electric power from the power supply63provided on at least one of the human-powered vehicle10and the component body22. Further, the strain gauge52includes the substrate70and the resistor72provided on the substrate70. Furthermore, the resistor72is formed from a metal layer having a thickness of 0.01 micrometers or greater and 1 micrometer or less. In this case, other components can be omitted. For example, the signal processing unit54does not have to be mounted or formed on the substrate70, and the temperature sensor80does not have to be mounted or formed on the substrate70.

The component20only needs to include the component body22, the strain gauge52provided on the component body22, the signal processing unit54electrically connected to the strain gauge52, the signal output56that outputs a signal from the signal processing unit54, and the electric power input58electrically connected to the signal processing unit54and supplied with electric power from the power supply63provided on at least one of the human-powered vehicle10and the component body22. Further, the strain gauge52includes the substrate70, the resistor72provided on the substrate70, and the gauge wire74provided on the substrate70and electrically connected to the resistor72. Furthermore, the gauge wire74has a lower electrical resistance per unit length than the resistor72. In this case, other components can be omitted. For example, the resistor72can be formed from a metal layer that is thicker than one micrometer. For example, the signal processing unit54does not have to be mounted or formed on the substrate70, and the temperature sensor80does not have to be mounted or formed on the substrate70.

The component20only needs to include the component body22, the strain gauge52provided on the component body22, the flexible printed wiring board86including the electric wire75, the signal processing unit54electrically connected to the strain gauge52by the electric wire75of the flexible printed wiring board86, the signal output56that outputs a signal from the signal processing unit54, and the electric power input58electrically connected to the signal processing unit54and supplied with electric power from the power supply63provided on at least one of the human-powered vehicle10and the component body22. Further, the strain gauge52includes the substrate70, the resistor72provided on the substrate70, and the gauge terminal76provided on the substrate70and electrically connected to the resistor72. Furthermore, the gauge terminal76is electrically connected to the electric wire75directly or by electrically conductive particles. In this case, other components can be omitted. For example, the resistor72can be formed from a metal layer that is thicker than one micrometer. For example, the signal processing unit54does not have to be mounted or formed on the substrate70, and the temperature sensor80does not have to be mounted or formed on the substrate70.

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.