阅读说明：本技术 用于人力驱动车辆的控制装置、操作装置和控制系统 (Control device, operating device and control system for a human powered vehicle ) 是由 增田隆哉 沼田史英 于 2021-04-23 设计创作，主要内容包括：一种控制装置,用于人力驱动车辆的第一通信器,该第一通信器配置为与第二通信器建立无线通信和有线通信中的一者,控制装置包括供电控制器。供电控制器配置为控制第一电力源和第二电力源中的至少一个的供电状态,以基于第一电力源和第二电力源中的至少一个的电源状态以及第一通信器与第二通信器之间的通信状态中的至少一个向第一通信器供应电力。(A control apparatus for a first communicator of a human powered vehicle, the first communicator configured to establish one of wireless and wired communication with a second communicator, the control apparatus comprising a power supply controller. The power supply controller is configured to control a power supply state of at least one of the first power source and the second power source to supply power to the first communicator based on at least one of a power source state of the at least one of the first power source and the second power source and a communication state between the first communicator and the second communicator.)

1. A control device for a first communicator of a human-powered vehicle, the first communicator configured to establish one of wireless and wired communication with a second communicator, the control device comprising:

a power supply controller configured to control a power supply state of at least one of the first power source and the second power source based on

A power source status of at least one of the first power source and the second power source, an

A communication state between the first communicator and the second communicator

Supplies power to the first communicator.

2. The control device according to claim 1, further comprising:

a detector configured to detect the at least one of the power state and the communication state.

3. The control device of claim 2, wherein

The detector is configured to detect the power state, and

the power supply controller is configured to control the power supply state in accordance with the power supply state detected by the detector.

4. The control device of claim 3, wherein

The power state includes a first connection state in which the second power source is connected to a connection port,

the power supply controller is configured to control the power supplied from the first power source to the first communicator to have a first amount according to the first connection state detected by the detector,

the power supply controller is configured to control the power supplied from the second power source to the first communicator to have a second amount according to the first connection state detected by the detector, and

the second amount is greater than the first amount.

5. The control device of claim 4, wherein

The first amount is zero.

6. The control device of claim 3, wherein

The power state includes a second connection state in which the second power source is not connected to a connection port,

the power supply controller is configured to control the power supplied from the first power source to the first communicator to have a first amount according to the second connection state detected by the detector, and

the first amount is greater than zero.

7. The control device of claim 3, wherein

The power source state includes an electrical load state of the first power source, and

the power supply controller is configured to control the power supply state based on a comparison between the electrical load state detected by the detector and a predetermined electrical load state.

8. The control device of claim 7, wherein

The electrical load condition is related to at least one of a voltage, a current, a resistance, a temperature, a power threshold, and a priority of the first electrical power source.

9. The control device of claim 2, wherein

The detector is configured to detect the communication state, and

the power supply controller is configured to control the power supply state in accordance with the communication state detected by the detector.

10. The control device of claim 9, wherein

The communication state includes a first communication state in which the first communicator establishes wired communication with the second communicator,

the power supply controller is configured to control the power supplied from the first power source to the first communicator to have a first amount according to the first communication state detected by the detector,

the power supply controller is configured to control the power supplied from the second power source to the first communicator to have a second amount according to the first communication state detected by the detector, and

the second amount is greater than the first amount.

11. The control device of claim 10, wherein

The first amount is zero.

12. The control device of claim 9, wherein

The communication state includes a second communication state in which the first communicator establishes wireless communication with the second communicator,

the power supply controller is configured to control the power supplied from the first power source to the first communicator to have a first amount according to the second communication state detected by the detector,

the power supply controller is configured to control the power supplied from the second power source to the first communicator to have a second amount according to the second communication state detected by the detector, and

the first amount is greater than the second amount.

13. The control device of claim 12, wherein

The second amount is zero.

14. The control device according to claim 1, further comprising:

a notification unit configured to notify the at least one of the power state and the communication state.

15. The control device of claim 1, wherein

The power supply controller comprises

A first voltage controller configured to convert a first input voltage supplied from the first power source, an

A second voltage controller configured to convert a second input voltage supplied from the second power source.

16. The control device of claim 15, wherein

The first voltage controller is configured to increase the first input voltage to a first predetermined voltage, and

the second voltage controller is configured to regulate the second input voltage to a second predetermined voltage.

17. An operating device for a human powered vehicle, the operating device comprising:

the control device according to claim 1;

a base member; and

a movable member pivotally coupled to the base member about a pivot axis.

18. Operating device according to claim 17, wherein

The base member extends in a longitudinal direction and includes

A first end portion configured to be coupled to a handlebar,

a second end portion opposite to the first end portion in the longitudinal direction, an

A grip portion disposed between the first end portion and the second end portion.

19. A control system for a human powered vehicle, the control system comprising:

the control device according to claim 1; and

the second communicator.

20. The control system of claim 19, wherein

The second communicator is coupled to at least one component of the human powered vehicle and

the at least one component includes one of a shifter, a suspension, an adjustable seatpost assembly, a brake device, a display device, and an auxiliary drive unit.

Technical Field

The invention relates to a control device, an operating device and a control system for a human-powered vehicle.

Background

The human powered vehicle includes an electrical device configured to communicate with other electrical components.

Disclosure of Invention

According to a first aspect of the invention, a control apparatus for a first communicator of a human-powered vehicle configured to establish one of wireless communication and wired communication with a second communicator includes a power supply controller. The power supply controller is configured to control a power supply state of at least one of the first power source and the second power source to supply power to the first communicator based on at least one of a power source state of the at least one of the first power source and the second power source and a communication state between the first communicator and the second communicator.

With the control device according to the first aspect, it is possible to select a more optimal setting of the power supply state based on the power supply state and/or the communication state.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, the control apparatus according to the first aspect further comprises a detector configured to detect at least one of a power supply state and a communication state.

With the control device according to the second aspect, at least one of the power supply state and the communication state can be reliably obtained using the detector.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the control apparatus according to the second aspect is configured such that the detector is configured to detect a power source state. The power supply controller is configured to control a power supply state according to the power supply state detected by the detector.

With the control device according to the third aspect, it is possible to select a more optimal setting of the power supply state using the power supply state.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the control device according to the third aspect is configured such that the power source state includes a first connection state in which the second power source is connected to the connection port. The power supply controller is configured to control power supplied from the first power source to the first communicator to have a first amount according to the first connection state detected by the detector. The power supply controller is configured to control the power supplied from the second power source to the first communicator to have a second amount according to the first connection state detected by the detector. The second amount is greater than the first amount.

With the control device according to the fourth aspect, the second power source can be preferentially used if the second power source is connected to the connection port.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the control device according to the fourth aspect is configured such that the first amount is zero.

With the control device according to the fifth aspect, the consumption of the electric power stored in the first electric power source can be reduced.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the control device according to the third aspect is configured such that the power source state includes a second connection state in which the second power source is not connected to the connection port. The power supply controller is configured to control the power supplied from the first power source to the first communicator to have a first amount according to the second connection state detected by the detector. The first amount is greater than zero.

With the control device according to the sixth aspect, the first power source can be used if the second power source is not connected to the connection port.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the control device according to any one of the third to sixth aspects is configured such that the power source state includes an electrical load state of the first electrical power source. The power supply controller is configured to control the power supply state based on a comparison between the electrical load state detected by the detector and a predetermined electrical load state.

With the control device according to the seventh aspect, it is possible to select a more optimal setting of the power supply state based on the electrical load state of the first electrical power source.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the control device according to the seventh aspect is configured such that the electrical load state is related to at least one of a voltage, a current, a resistance, a temperature, a power threshold, and a priority of the first electrical power source.

With the control device according to the eighth aspect, it is possible to select a more optimal setting of the power supply state based on several factors of the electrical load state of the first electrical power source.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the control apparatus according to any one of the second to eighth aspects is configured such that the detector is configured to detect the communication state. The power supply controller is configured to control a power supply state in accordance with the communication state detected by the detector.

With the control device according to the ninth aspect, it is possible to select a more optimal setting of the power supply state using the communication state.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the control apparatus according to the ninth aspect is configured such that the communication state includes a first communication state in which the first communicator establishes wired communication with the second communicator. The power supply controller is configured to control the power supplied from the first power source to the first communicator to have a first amount according to the first communication state detected by the detector. The power supply controller is configured to control the power supplied from the second power source to the first communicator to have a second amount according to the first communication state detected by the detector. The second amount is greater than the first amount.

With the control device according to the tenth aspect, the second power source can be preferentially used if the first communicator establishes wired communication with the second communicator.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the control apparatus according to the tenth aspect is configured such that the first amount is zero.

With the control device according to the eleventh aspect, it is possible to reduce the consumption of the electric power stored in the first electric power source.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the control apparatus according to the ninth aspect is configured such that the communication state includes a second communication state in which the first communicator establishes wireless communication with the second communicator. The power supply controller is configured to control the power supplied from the first power source to the first communicator to have a first amount according to the second communication state detected by the detector. The power supply controller is configured to control the power supplied from the second power source to the first communicator to have a second amount according to the second communication state detected by the detector. The first amount is greater than the second amount.

With the control device according to the twelfth aspect, the first power source can be used if the first communicator establishes wireless communication with the second communicator.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the control device according to the twelfth aspect is configured such that the second amount is zero.

With the control device according to the thirteenth aspect, the consumption of the electric power stored in the second electric power source can be reduced.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the control apparatus according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects further comprises a notification unit configured to notify at least one of a power supply state and a communication state.

With the control device according to the fourteenth aspect, at least one of the power source state and the communication state can be notified to the user.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the control apparatus according to any one of the first to fourteenth aspects is configured such that the power supply controller includes a first voltage controller and a second voltage controller. The first voltage controller is configured to convert a first input voltage supplied from a first power source. The second voltage controller is configured to convert a second input voltage supplied from a second power source.

With the control device according to the fifteenth aspect, the first input voltage and the second input voltage can be converted into the output voltage suitable for the first communicator.

According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the control apparatus according to the fifteenth aspect is configured such that the first voltage controller is configured to increase the first input voltage to the first predetermined voltage. The second voltage controller is configured to regulate the second input voltage to a second predetermined voltage.

With the control device according to the sixteenth aspect, it is possible to use the first power source having an output voltage lower than the input voltage of the first communicator and to use the second power source having an output voltage higher than the input voltage of the first communicator.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, an operating device for a human-powered vehicle includes the control device according to any one of the first to sixteenth aspects, a base member, and a movable member pivotally coupled to the base member about a pivot axis.

With the operating device according to the seventeenth aspect, a control device for operating the device can be used.

According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the seventeenth aspect is configured such that the base member extends in the longitudinal direction and includes a first end portion, a second end portion, and a grip portion. The first end portion is configured to be coupled to a handlebar. The second end portion is opposite the first end portion in the longitudinal direction. The grip portion is disposed between the first end portion and the second end portion.

With the operating device according to the eighteenth aspect, it is possible to use a control device for an operating device having a grip portion.

According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, a control system for a human-powered vehicle includes the control apparatus according to any one of the first to sixteenth aspects, and a second communicator.

With the control system according to the nineteenth aspect, it is possible to provide the control device for a control system including the second communicator.

According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, the control system according to the nineteenth aspect is configured such that the second communicator is coupled to at least one component of the human-powered vehicle. The at least one component includes one of a shifter, a suspension, an adjustable seatpost assembly, a brake device, a display device, and an auxiliary drive unit.

With the control system according to the twentieth aspect, a control system for at least one component can be used.

Drawings

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

FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of a human-powered vehicle including a control system according to one embodiment.

Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram of the human powered vehicle illustrated in fig. 1.

Fig. 3 is a side elevational view of the operating device of the human-powered vehicle illustrated in fig. 1.

Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram of a control system of the human-powered vehicle illustrated in fig. 1 (a first connection state in a second mode).

Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram of the human-powered vehicle illustrated in fig. 1 (first connection state in the first or second mode, first communication state in the third mode).

Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram of a control system of the human-powered vehicle illustrated in fig. 1 (a first connection state in a first mode).

Fig. 7 is a schematic diagram of the human-powered vehicle illustrated in fig. 1 (second connected state in the first or second mode).

Fig. 8 is a schematic diagram of a control system of the human-powered vehicle illustrated in fig. 1 (a second connection state in the first or second mode, a second communication state in the third mode).

Fig. 9 shows that the relationship between the voltage of the battery and the elapsed time (elapsed time) varies depending on the temperature of the battery.

Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram of the human-powered vehicle illustrated in fig. 1 (first connection state in the first or second mode, first communication state in the third mode).

Fig. 11 is a schematic diagram of a control system of the human-powered vehicle illustrated in fig. 1 (a first connection state in the first or second mode, a first communication state in the third mode).

Fig. 12 is a flowchart (first mode) of the control system of the human-powered vehicle illustrated in fig. 1.

Fig. 13 and 14 are flowcharts (second mode) of control of the control system of the human-powered vehicle illustrated in fig. 1.

Fig. 15 is a flowchart (third mode) of the control system of the human-powered vehicle illustrated in fig. 1.

Detailed Description

Embodiments will now be described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding or identical elements in the various drawings.

Referring initially to fig. 1, a human-powered vehicle VH includes a control system 10 according to one embodiment. For example, the human-powered vehicle VH is a vehicle that travels with power including at least the human power of a user (i.e., a rider) riding the human-powered vehicle VH. The human powered vehicle VH has any number of wheels. For example, the human powered vehicle VH has at least one wheel. In the present embodiment, the human-powered vehicle VH preferably has a size smaller than that of a four-wheel automobile. However, the human powered vehicle VH may have any size. Examples of human powered vehicles VH include bicycles, tricycles, and scooters. In the present embodiment, the human powered vehicle VH is a bicycle. An electrical assist system including an electric motor may be applied to a human powered vehicle VH (e.g. a bicycle) to assist muscle power of a user. That is, the human-powered vehicle VH may be an electric bicycle. Although the human powered vehicle VH is illustrated as a road bike, the control system 10 may be applied to a mountain bike or any type of human powered vehicle.

Human powered vehicle VH also includes vehicle body VH1, seat VH2, handlebar VH3, front fork VH4, adjustable seat post assembly VH5, suspension VH6, braking device VH7, braking device VH8, and display device VH 9. The front fork VH4 is rotatably mounted to the vehicle body VH 1. Handlebar VH3 is fixed to front fork VH 4. A seat VH2 is attached to an adjustable seat post assembly VH 5. An adjustable seat post assembly VH5 is mounted to the vehicle body VH1 to change the position of the seat VH2 relative to the vehicle body VH 1. A suspension VH6 is mounted to the front fork VH4 to absorb shocks transmitted from the road. Display device VH9 is configured to display information relating to human powered vehicle VH. Examples of display device VH9 include a stopwatch, a smartphone, and a tablet.

The human powered vehicle VH also includes front wheels W1 and rear wheels W2. The front wheel W1 is rotatably coupled to the front fork VH 4. The rear wheel W2 is rotatably coupled to the vehicle body VH 1. The brake device VH7 is configured to apply braking force to the front wheel W1. The brake device VH8 is configured to apply braking force to the rear wheel W2.

In this application, the following directional terms "front", "rear", "forward", "rearward", "left", "right", "lateral", "upward" and "downward", as well as any other similar directional terms, refer to those directions determined based on a user's standard position in human powered vehicle VH (e.g., on seat VH2 or a seat) and facing handlebar VH3 (e.g., a rider). Thus, these terms, as used to describe control system 10 or other components, should be interpreted relative to a human-powered vehicle VH equipped with control system 10, as used in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface.

The human powered vehicle VH includes a driveline DT. The drive train DT includes a crank CR, a front sprocket assembly FS, a rear sprocket assembly RS, a chain C, a gear change RD and a gear change FD. The front sprocket assembly FS is fixed to the crank CR. The rear sprocket assembly RS is rotatably mounted to the vehicle body VH 1. The chain C engages the front and rear sprocket assemblies FS and RS. The shifting device RD is mounted to the vehicle body VH1 and is configured to shift the chain C relative to the rear sprocket assembly RS to change gear positions. The shift device FD is mounted to the vehicle body VH1 and is configured to shift the chain C relative to the front sprocket assembly FS to change gear positions.

The human-powered vehicle VH includes an auxiliary drive unit DU configured to apply auxiliary driving force to the power train DT. The auxiliary drive unit DU includes an auxiliary motor DU1 configured to generate auxiliary drive force.

As shown in fig. 2, the human-powered vehicle VH includes an operation device 12 and an operation device 13. The operating device 12 is configured to be electrically connected to the shifting device RD. The operating device 13 is configured to be electrically connected to the shifting device RD. The shift device RD is configured to be electrically connected to the shift device FD. In the present embodiment, each of the operating device 12 and the operating device 13 is configured to be electrically connected to the shifting device RD through each of a wireless communication channel and a wired communication channel. However, at least one of the operating device 12 and the operating device 13 may be configured to be electrically connected to the shift device FD through each of a wireless communication channel and a wired communication channel.

The operating device 12 includes an electric switch SW1 and an electric switch SW 2. The electrical switch SW1 is configured to receive user input U1. The electrical switch SW2 is configured to receive user input U2. In the present embodiment, each of the electrical switch SW1 and the electrical switch SW2 includes a normally open switch. The electrical switch SW1 is configured to turn on in response to a user input U1. The electrical switch SW2 is configured to turn on in response to a user input U2. However, the structure of the electrical switches SW1 and SW2 is not limited to normally open switches.

The human powered vehicle VH includes a first power source PS1 and a second power source PS 2. The first power source PS1 is configured to supply power to the operating device 12. The second electrical power source PS2 is configured to supply electrical power to at least one of the operating device 12, the operating device 13, the shifter RD, the shifter FD, the auxiliary drive unit DU, the seatpost assembly VH5, the suspension VH6, and the display device VH 9. In the present embodiment, the first power source PS1 is provided in the operation device 12, and the second power source PS2 is attached to the vehicle body VH1 (see fig. 1, for example). However, the first power source PS1 may be provided in other locations. The second power source PS2 may be provided in other locations.

The first power source PS1 includes a first battery PS11 and a first battery holder PS 12. The first battery PS11 is configured to be removably attached to the first battery holder PS 12. In a state where the first battery PS11 is attached to the first battery holder PS12, the first battery PS11 is electrically connected to the positive and negative contacts of the first battery holder PS 12. Examples of the first battery PS11 include a primary battery, a secondary battery, and a capacitor. In the present embodiment, the first battery PS11 includes a primary battery, such as a button battery shaped as a flat cylinder. However, the configuration of the first power source PS1 is not limited to the above example.

The second power source PS2 includes a second battery PS21 and a second battery holder PS 22. The second battery PS21 is configured to be detachably attached to the second battery holder PS 22. In a state where the second battery PS21 is attached to the second battery holder PS22, the second battery PS21 is electrically connected to the positive and negative contacts of the second battery holder PS 22. Examples of the second battery PS21 include a primary battery, a secondary battery, and a capacitor. The second power source PS2 has a different structure from the first power source PS 1. In the second embodiment, the second battery PS21 includes a secondary battery, such as a rechargeable battery. However, the configuration of the second power source PS2 is not limited to the above example. The second power source PS2 may have the same structure as the first power source PS 1. The second power source PS2 may include a primary battery.

The human-powered vehicle VH includes an electrical wiring structure WS. The second source of electrical power PS2 is electrically connected to operating device 12, operating device 13, shifting device RD, shifting device FD, auxiliary drive unit DU, seatpost assembly VH5, suspension VH6 and display VH9 by way of electrical wiring structure WS. For example, the electrical wiring structure WS includes at least one cable and/or at least one contact. However, the configuration of the electrical wiring structure WS is not limited to the cable and the contact.

As shown in fig. 3, the operating device 12 for a human powered vehicle VH includes a base member 14 and a movable member 16. The movable member 16 is pivotally coupled to the base member 14 about a pivot axis a 1. Base member 14 extends in a longitudinal direction DR 1. The base member 14 includes a first end portion 18, a second end portion 20, and a grip portion 22.

First end portion 18 is configured to be coupled to handlebar VH 3. The second end portion 20 is opposite the first end portion 18 in the longitudinal direction DR 1. The second end portion 20 constitutes a free end of the base member 14. The grip portion 22 is disposed between the first end portion 18 and the second end portion 20. Base member 14 extends in a longitudinal direction DR1 between first end portion 18 and second end portion 20. Operating device 12 includes a mounting structure 23 configured to couple first end portion 18 to handlebar VH 3.

The operating device 12 includes a hydraulic unit 24 disposed in the base member 14. The hydraulic unit 24 is configured to generate hydraulic pressure in response to movement of the movable member 16. For example, hydraulic unit 24 includes a cylinder bore, a piston, a hydraulic chamber, a piston biasing member, and an accumulator. The hydraulic chamber is configured to be connected to the brake device VH8 with a hydraulic hose VH 81. The movable member 16 is configured to be coupled to a piston. However, the movable member 16 may be operatively coupled to other structures instead of the hydraulic unit 24. For example, the movable member 16 may be operatively coupled to a mechanical control cable, such as a bowden cable, in order to operate the brake device VH 8.

Electrical switches SW1 and SW2 are mounted to the movable member 16 to be movable with respect to the base member 14 along with the movable member 16. However, at least one of the electrical switches SW1 and SW2 may be mounted to other portions of the operating device 12, such as the base member 14.

In the present embodiment, the electric switch SW1 corresponds to an upshift of the shifting device RD. The electric switch SW1 corresponds to a downshift of the shifting device RD. However, at least one of the electrical switches SW1 and SW2 may correspond to control of other electrical components.

As shown in fig. 2, the control system 10 for a human-powered vehicle VH includes a control device 25. The operating device 12 for the human powered vehicle VH includes a control device 25. However, the control device 25 may be included in other devices than the operating device 12. The control device 25 may be provided separately from the operating device 12 or other devices.

The control system 10 for a human powered vehicle VH includes a first communicator CM 1. The control device 25 is electrically connected to the first communicator CM 1. The operating device 12 for the human powered vehicle VH includes a first communicator CM 1. However, the first communicator CM1 may be included in devices other than the operating device 12.

The control system 10 for a human powered vehicle VH includes a second communicator CM 2. The second communicator CM2 is coupled to at least one component of the human powered vehicle VH. In the present embodiment, the at least one component includes one of a shifting device RD or FD, a suspension VH6, a seatable lever assembly VH5, a brake device VH7 or VH8, a display device VH9, and an auxiliary drive unit DU. For example, the second communicator CM2 is coupled to the shifter RD. The second communicator CM2 is provided in the shifting device RD. However, second communicator CM2 may be coupled to other components in place of or in addition to shifter RD such as shifter FD, suspension VH6, seatable lever assembly VH5, brake VH7 or VH8, display VH9, and auxiliary drive unit DU.

In the present embodiment, as shown in fig. 3, the control device 25 and the first communicator CM1 are provided to the base member 14 of the operation device 12. Each of the control device 25 and the first communicator CM1 are at least partially disposed to the second end portion 20 of the base member 14. However, at least one of the control device 25 and the first communicator CM1 may be provided at least partially to other parts of the operating device 12.

As shown in fig. 2, the control device 25 of the first communicator CM1 for the human-powered vehicle VH is configured to establish one of wireless communication and wired communication with the second communicator CM 2. The control device 25 includes a power supply controller 26. The power supply controller 26 is configured to control a power supply state of at least one of the first power source PS1 and the second power source PS2 to supply power to the first communicator CM1 based on at least one of a power supply state of at least one of the first power source PS1 and the second power source PS2 and a communication state between the first communicator CM1 and the second communicator CM 2.

In the present embodiment, the power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supply state of at least one of the first power source PS1 and the second power source PS2 to supply power to the first communicator CM1 based on the power supply state of at least one of the first power source PS1 and the second power source PS 2. However, the power supply controller 26 may be configured to control the power supply state of at least one of the first power source PS1 and the second power source PS2 to supply power to the first communicator CM1 based on the communication state between the first communicator CM1 and the second communicator CM 2.

The power supply controller 26 includes a controller 26A. The controller 26A includes a processor 26P, a memory 26M, a circuit board 26C, and a system bus 26D. The processor 26P and the memory 26M are electrically mounted on the circuit board 26C. The processor 26P includes a Central Processing Unit (CPU) and a memory controller. The memory 26M is electrically connected to the processor 26P. The memory 26M includes a Read Only Memory (ROM) and a Random Access Memory (RAM). The memory 26M includes a memory area having addresses in both the ROM and the RAM. The processor 26P is configured to control the memory 26M to store data in a memory area of the memory 26M and to read data from a memory area of the memory 26M. The circuit board 26C, the electrical switch SW1, and the electrical switch SW2 are electrically connected to the system bus 26D. The electrical switch SW1 and the electrical switch SW2 are electrically connected to the processor 26P and the memory 26M by the circuit board 26C and the system bus 26D. The memory 26M (e.g., ROM) stores programs. The program is read into the processor 26P to implement the configuration and/or algorithm of the power supply controller 26.

In the present embodiment, the first communicator CM1 includes a first wireless communicator WC 1. The first wireless communicator WC1 is configured to establish wireless communication with the second communicator CM2 using a wireless communication channel. The first wireless communicator WC1 is configured to wirelessly transmit control signals and/or information over a wireless communication channel in response to user input U1 or U2 received by the electrical switches SW1 or SW 2. The first wireless communicator WC1 is configured to wirelessly receive control signals and/or information over a wireless communication channel.

The first wireless communicator WC1 is configured to be electrically connected to the processor 26P and the memory 26M by the circuit board 26C and the system bus 26D. The first wireless communicator WC1 is configured to be electrically connected to an electrical switch SW1 to generate and transmit a control signal CS1 in response to a user input U1. The first wireless communicator WC1 is configured to be electrically connected to an electrical switch SW2 to generate and transmit a control signal CS2 in response to a user input U2.

The first wireless communicator WC1 includes a signal transmitting circuit, a signal receiving circuit, and an antenna. Therefore, the first wireless communicator WC1 may also be referred to as the first wireless communication circuit WC1 or the first wireless communication circuitry (circuitry) WC 1.

The first wireless communicator WC1 is configured to superimpose digital signals such as control signals CS1 and CS2 on a carrier wave using a predetermined wireless communication protocol to wirelessly transmit control signals such as control signals CS1 and CS 2. In this embodiment, the first wireless communicator WC1 is configured to encrypt a control signal (e.g., control signal CS1 or CS2) using a key to produce an encrypted wireless signal.

The first wireless communicator WC1 is configured to receive wireless signals via an antenna. In this embodiment, the first wireless communicator WC1 is configured to decode the wireless signal to identify signals and/or information wirelessly transmitted from other wireless communicators. The first wireless communicator WC1 is configured to decrypt the wireless signal using a key.

The second communicator CM2 includes a second wireless communicator WC 2. The second wireless communicator WC2 is configured to establish wireless communication with the first wireless communicator WC1 using a wireless communication channel. The second wireless communicator WC2 is configured to wirelessly transmit control signals and/or information. The second wireless communicator WC2 is configured to wirelessly receive control signals and/or information. Second wireless communicator WC2 is configured to be electrically connected to gear shifting device RD to send control signals and/or information to gear shifting device RD. The gear shifting device RD is configured to perform an upshift in response to a control signal CS1 received by the second wireless communicator WC 2. The gear shifting device RD is configured to perform a downshift in response to a control signal CS2 received by the second wireless communicator WC 2.

The second wireless communicator WC2 includes a signal transmitting circuit, a signal receiving circuit, and an antenna. Thus, the second wireless communicator WC2 may also be referred to as second wireless communication circuitry WC2 or second wireless communication circuitry WC 2.

The second wireless communicator WC2 is configured to superimpose a digital signal on a carrier wave using a predetermined wireless communication protocol to wirelessly transmit a control signal. In this embodiment, the second wireless communicator WC2 is configured to encrypt the control signal using a key to produce an encrypted wireless signal.

The second wireless communicator WC2 is configured to receive wireless signals via an antenna. In this embodiment, the second wireless communicator WC2 is configured to decode the wireless signal (e.g., control signal CS1 or CS2) to recognize signals and/or information wirelessly transmitted from other wireless communicators, such as the first wireless communicator WC 1. The second wireless communicator WC2 is configured to decrypt the wireless signal (e.g., control signal CS1 or CS2) using the key.

The first communicator CM1 includes a first wired communicator WD 1. The first wired communicator WD1 is configured to establish wired communication with the second communicator CM2 using a wired communication channel. The first wired communicator WD1 is configured to transmit control signals and/or information over the wired communication channel in response to user inputs U1 or U2 received by the electrical switches SW1 or SW 2. The first wired communicator WD1 is configured to receive control signals and/or information over a wired communication channel.

The first wired communicator WD1 is configured to electrically connect to the processor 26P and the memory 26M through the circuit board 26C and the system bus 26D. The first wired communicator WD1 is configured to be electrically connected to the electrical switch SW1 to generate and send a control signal CS1 in response to a user input U1. The first wired communicator WD1 is configured to be electrically connected to the electrical switch SW2 to generate and send a control signal CS2 in response to a user input U2.

The second communicator CM2 includes a second wired communicator WD 2. The second wired communicator WD2 is configured to establish wired communication with the first wired communicator WD1 using a wired communication channel. The second wired communicator WD2 is configured to transmit control signals and/or information over the wired communication channel in response to user inputs U1 or U2 received by the electrical switches SW1 or SW 2. The second wired communicator WD2 is configured to receive control signals and/or information over a wired communication channel.

The second wired communicator WD2 is configured to be electrically connected to the shifting device RD to send control signals and/or information to the shifting device RD. The shifting device RD is configured to perform an upshift in response to a control signal CS1 received by the second wired communicator WD 2. The shifting device RD is configured to perform a downshift in response to the control signal CS2 received by the second wired communicator WD 2.

Wired communication is established using Power Line Communication (PLC) technology. The PLC transmits data on conductors that are also used for power transmission or power distribution to the electrical components. In the present embodiment, electric power is supplied from the second electric power source PS2 to the operating device 12, the shifting device RD, the shifting device FD, and the auxiliary drive unit DU through the electric wiring structure WS. The electric wiring structure WS includes a ground line and a voltage line detachably connected to a serial bus formed by the communication interface. The first wired communicator WD1 is configured to transmit and receive signals between the first wired communicator WD1 and other components such as the shifter RD, the shifter FD, and the auxiliary drive unit DU through the electrical wiring structure WS using a PLC. Thus, the operating device 12, the gear shift RD, the gear shift FD and the auxiliary drive unit DU can all communicate with one another via the voltage lines of the electrical wiring structure WS using PLC technology.

The PLC uses unique device Identifications (IDs) assigned to the power supply components, such as the operating device 12, the gear shift RD, the gear shift FD, and the auxiliary drive unit DU. In the present embodiment, for example, the memory 26M is configured to store device information including a unique device ID assigned to the operation device 12. The unique device ID may be used for wireless communication of the first wireless communicator WC1 with the second wireless communicator WC 2.

Based on the unique device ID, each of the first and second wired communicators WD1 and WD2 is configured to identify its own necessary signals among the signals transmitted via the wired communication channel. For example, the first wired communicator WD1 is configured to generate a signal including device information indicative of the operating device 12. The second wired communicator WD2 is configured to generate a signal including device information indicative of the shifting device RD. The first wireless communicator WC1 is configured to generate a wireless signal including device information indicative of the operating device 12. Second wireless communicator WC2 is configured to generate a wireless signal including device information indicative of gear shifting device RD.

The first wired communicator WD1 is configured to recognize signals including device information, such as signals transmitted from the shifter RD, the shifter FD, and the auxiliary drive unit DU via wired communication channels. The first wired communicator WD1 is configured to distinguish the input signal into a supply voltage and a signal including device information of other electrical components. The first wired communicator WD1 is configured to regulate the input voltage to a level at which the first communicator CM1 may conveniently operate. The first wired communicator WD1 is further configured to superimpose an output signal (such as a signal including device information to operate the device 12) on the power supply voltage applied to the electrical wiring structure WS from the second power source PS 2.

The second wired communicator WD2 is configured to recognize signals including device information, such as signals transmitted from the shifter RD, the shifter FD, and the auxiliary drive unit DU via wired communication channels. The second wired communicator WD2 is configured to distinguish the input signal into a power supply voltage and a signal including device information of other electrical components. The second wired communicator WD2 is configured to regulate the supply voltage to a level at which the second communicator CM2 may conveniently operate. The second wired communicator WD2 is further configured to superimpose an output signal (such as a signal including device information of the gearshift device RD) on the power supply voltage applied to the electrical wiring structure WS from the second electric power source PS 2.

As seen in FIG. 2, the shifting device RD includes a base member RD1, a chain guide RD2, an actuator RD3, a position sensor RD4 and an actuator driver RD 5. The base member RD1 is mounted to the vehicle body VH1 (see fig. 1, for example). The chain guide RD2 is movably coupled to the base member RD1 and is configured to engage a chain C (see FIG. 1, for example). The actuator RD3 is configured to move the chain guide RD2 relative to the base member RD1 to displace the chain C relative to the rear sprocket assembly RS (see, e.g., fig. 1).

The actuator driver RD5 is electrically connected to the actuator RD3 to control the actuator RD3 based on the control signals CS1 and CS2 sent from the first communicator CM1 through the second communicator CM 2. Examples of the actuator RD3 include a Direct Current (DC) motor and a stepping motor. The actuator RD3 includes a rotating shaft operatively coupled to the chain guide RD 2. The position sensor RD4 is configured to sense the current gear of the shifting device RD. Examples of the position sensor RD4 include a potentiometer and a rotary encoder. The position sensor RD4 is configured to sense an absolute rotational position of the rotational shaft of the actuator RD3 as a current gear position of the gear shift device RD. The actuator RD3 and the position sensor RD4 are electrically connected to the actuator driver RD 5.

The actuator driver RD5 is configured to control the actuator RD3 based on the control signal CS1 and the current gear sensed by the position sensor RD4 to move the chain guide RD2 one gear in an upshift direction relative to the base member RD 1. The actuator driver RD5 is configured to control the actuator RD3 based on the control signal CS2 and the current gear sensed by the position sensor RD4 to move the chain guide RD2 one gear in a downshift direction relative to the base member RD 1.

The shift device FD has substantially the same structure as that of the shift device RD. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail herein.

The second communicator CM2 includes a processor 27P, a memory 27M, a circuit board 27C, and a system bus 27D. The processor 27P and the memory 27M are electrically mounted on the circuit board 27C. The processor 27P includes a CPU and a memory controller. The memory 27M is electrically connected to the processor 27P. The memory 27M includes a ROM and a RAM. The memory 27M includes a storage area having addresses in both the ROM and the RAM. The processor 27P is configured to control the memory 27M to store data in a storage area of the memory 27M and to read data from the storage area of the memory 27M. The circuit board 27C, the position sensor RD4, and the actuator driver RD5 are electrically connected to the system bus 27D. The position sensor RD4 and the actuator driver RD5 are electrically connected to the processor 27P and the memory 27M by means of the circuit board 27C and the system bus 27D. The memory 27M (e.g., ROM) stores programs. The program is read into the processor 27P to implement the configuration and/or algorithm of the second communicator CM 2.

The control means 25 further comprise a detector 28. The detector 28 is configured to detect at least one of a power state and a communication state. In the present embodiment, the detector 28 is configured to detect the power source state. The detector 28 is configured to detect a communication status. The detector 28 includes a power state detector 30 configured to detect a power state. The detector 28 includes a communication status detector 32 configured to detect a communication status. The communication state detector 32 is a unit separate from the power state detector 30. However, the communication state detector 32 may be provided integrally with the power state detector 30 as a single unit.

The detector 28 is configured to be electrically connected to the power supply controller 26. Each of the power status detector 30 and the communication status detector 32 is configured to be electrically connected to the power supply controller 26. Each of the power status detector 30 and the communication status detector 32 is configured to be electrically connected to the processor 26P and the memory 26M through the circuit board 26C and the system bus 26D. The power supply controller 26 is configured to receive the power state detected by the power state detector 30 and the communication state detected by the communication state detector 32.

The power supply controller 26 is configured to select one of wireless communication and wired communication based on information relating to the human-powered vehicle VH. The power supply controller 26 is configured to select one of the first wireless communicator WC1 and the first wired communicator WD1 based on information relating to the human-powered vehicle VH. Examples of this information include the power supply status detected by the power supply status detector 30, the output voltage and/or output current of the first power source PS1, the output voltage and/or output current of the second power source PS2, the remaining level of the first power source PS1, and the remaining level of the second power source PS 2. For example, the power supply controller 26 is configured to select the first wired communicator WD1 if power is supplied from the second power source PS 2. The power supply controller 26 is configured to select the first wireless communicator WC1 if power is supplied not from the second power source PS2 but from the first power source PS 1. The communication state detector 32 is configured to detect a communicator selected by the power supply controller 26 from among the first wireless communicator WC1 and the first wired communicator WD 1.

The control device 25 comprises a connection port 34. The connection port 34 is configured to be connected to other components, such as the second electric power source PS2, the gear shift RD, the gear shift FD, and the auxiliary drive unit DU, through the electric wiring structure WS. The connection port 34 is electrically connected to the detector 28 of the control device 25. The connection port 34 includes a connection hole into which a cable connection of an electric cable is to be inserted. Connection port 34 includes a port connector disposed in the connection aperture for electrical connection to a cable connector of an electrical cable. The port connection is configured to be electrically connected to the detector 28 of the control device 25.

The control device 25 is configured to communicate with other components through the connection port 34 in a state where the cable connection of the electric cable of the electric wiring structure WS is electrically connected to the connection port 34. The control device 25 is configured to receive electric power from the second electric power source PS2 through the connection port 34 in a state where the cable connection of the electric cable is electrically connected to the connection port 34. The detector 28 is configured to detect the power supplied from the second power source PS2 to the connection port 34 in a state where the second power source PS2 is electrically connected to the connection port 34 through a cable. The detector 28 is configured to detect a communication signal transmitted from at least one of the second electric power source PS2, the shift device RD, the shift device FD, and the auxiliary drive unit DU to the connection port 34 in a state where the second electric power source PS2 is electrically connected to the connection port 34 through the electric wiring structure WS. The connection port 34 may also be referred to as a first connection port 34.

The second communicator CM2 includes a second connection port 36. The second connection port 36 is configured to be connected to other components, such as a second source of electrical power PS2, a shift RD, a shift FD, and an auxiliary drive unit DU, by an electrical wiring structure WS. The second connection port 36 is electrically connected to the second wired communicator WD 2. The second connection port 36 includes a connection hole into which a cable connection member of an electric cable is to be inserted. The second connection port 36 includes a port connector disposed in the connection hole for electrical connection to a cable connector of an electrical cable. The port connector is configured to be electrically connected to the processor 27P and the memory 27M through the circuit board 27C and the system bus 27D.

The second communicator CM2 is configured to communicate with other components through the second connection port 36 in a state where the cable connection of the electric cable of the electric wiring structure WS is electrically connected to the second connection port 36. The second communicator CM2 is configured to receive power from the second power source PS2 through the second connection port 36 in a state where a cable connection of an electric cable is electrically connected to the second connection port 36.

As shown in fig. 4, the power supply controller 26 includes a first voltage controller 40 and a second voltage controller 42. The first voltage controller 40 is configured to convert a first input voltage V11 supplied from a first power source PS 1. The second voltage controller 42 is configured to convert a second input voltage V21 supplied from a second power source PS 2. The first voltage controller 40 is configured to convert the first input voltage V11 into a first predetermined voltage V12. The second voltage controller 42 is configured to convert the second input voltage V21 into a second predetermined voltage V22. The second input voltage V21 corresponds to the output voltage of the second power source PS 2.

In the present embodiment, the first input voltage V11 is lower than the second input voltage V21. The first predetermined voltage V12 is equal to the second predetermined voltage V22. The first input voltage V11 is lower than the first predetermined voltage V12. The second input voltage V21 is higher than the second predetermined voltage V22. Accordingly, the first voltage controller 40 is configured to increase the first input voltage V11 to the first predetermined voltage V12. The second voltage controller 42 is configured to regulate the second input voltage V21 to a second predetermined voltage V22. The first voltage controller 40 includes a voltage converter 40A and a resistor 40B. The voltage converter 40A is configured to increase the first input voltage V11 to a first predetermined voltage V12. Examples of the voltage converter 40A include a DC-DC converter. The second voltage controller 42 includes a Low Dropout (LDO) regulator configured to regulate the second input voltage V21 to a second predetermined voltage V22.

However, the first input voltage V11 may be equal to or higher than the second input voltage V21. The first input voltage V11 may be higher than the first predetermined voltage V12. The second input voltage V21 may be lower than the second predetermined voltage V22. The first voltage controller 40 may be configured to regulate the first input voltage V11 to a first predetermined voltage V12. The second voltage controller 42 may be configured to increase the second input voltage V21 to a second predetermined voltage V22. The first voltage controller 40 may include other circuits instead of or in addition to the DC-DC converter. Second voltage controller 42 may include other circuitry in place of or in addition to an LDO regulator.

The power supply controller 26 includes diodes 44 and 46. The diode 44 is configured to allow current to flow in one direction from the first voltage controller 40 to the controller 26A. The diode 46 is configured to allow current to flow in one direction from the second voltage controller 42 to the controller 26A. The diode 44 is configured to limit current flow from the second voltage controller 42 to the first voltage controller 40. The diode 46 is configured to limit current flow from the first voltage controller 40 to the second voltage controller 42.

The controller 26A is electrically connected to the first voltage controller 40 to receive the first predetermined voltage V12 output from the first voltage controller 40. The controller 26A is electrically connected to the second voltage controller 42 to receive the second predetermined voltage V22 output from the second voltage controller 42. At least one of the first predetermined voltage V12 and the second predetermined voltage V22 is applied to the first communicator CM1 through the controller 26A. Thus, the first communicator CM1 and the controller 26A are configured to be driven by each of the first power source PS1 and the second power source PS 2.

The power supply controller 26 includes a third voltage controller 47. The third voltage controller 47 is configured to change the state of the third voltage controller 47 between an ON (ON) state and an OFF (OFF) state based ON the control information. In the ON state, the third voltage controller 47 is configured to allow a flow of current from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM 1. In the OFF state, the third voltage controller 47 is configured to interrupt the flow of current from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM 1. The control information includes control from the controller 26A, activation of the electrical switch SW1 and activation of the electrical switch SW 2. The third voltage controller 47 is configured to change the state of the third voltage controller 47 from the ON state to the OFF state in response to control from the controller 26A. The third voltage controller 47 is configured to change the state of the third voltage controller 47 from the OFF state to the ON state in response to control from the controller 26A, activation of the electrical switch SW1, or activation of the electrical switch SW 2. Thus, the electrical switches SW1 and SW2 act as power-on switches.

The third voltage controller 47 includes a first Field Effect Transistor (FET) 48. The first FET48 is configured to control a flow of current between the first source terminal S1 and the first drain terminal D1 in response to a first gate voltage VG1 applied to the first gate terminal G1. The first FET48 is configured to allow current to flow between the first source terminal S1 and the first drain terminal D1 when a first gate voltage VG1 applied to the first gate terminal G1 is higher than a first threshold voltage. The first FET48 is configured to interrupt a flow of current between the first source terminal S1 and the first drain terminal D1 when a first gate voltage VG1 applied to the first gate terminal G1 is equal to or lower than a first threshold voltage. The output voltage of the first power source PS1 is higher than the first threshold voltage. For example, the first FET48 includes a P-type Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor (MOSFET). However, the first FET48 may include other FETs, such as an N-type mosfet.

The third voltage controller 47 includes a second Field Effect Transistor (FET) 50. The second FET50 is configured to control a flow of current between the second source terminal S2 and the second drain terminal D2 in response to a second gate voltage VG2 applied to the second gate terminal G2. The second FET50 is configured to allow current to flow between the second source terminal S2 and the second drain terminal D2 when the second gate voltage VG2 applied to the second gate terminal G2 is higher than a second threshold voltage. The second FET50 is configured to interrupt a flow of current between the second source terminal S2 and the second drain terminal D2 when a second gate voltage VG2 applied to the second gate terminal G2 is equal to or lower than a second threshold voltage. The second drain terminal D2 is electrically connected to the first gate terminal G1 of the first FET48 to supply a first gate voltage VG1 to the first gate terminal G1. The second gate terminal G2 is electrically connected to the controller 26A. The controller 26A includes a gate driver 26G configured to apply a second gate voltage VG2 to a second gate terminal G2. The output voltage of the second FET50 is above the first threshold voltage. The second gate voltage VG2 applied from the gate driver 26G of the controller 26A is higher than the second threshold voltage. For example, the second FET50 includes an N-type MOSFET. However, the second FET50 may include other FETs, such as a P-type mosfet.

The third voltage controller 47 includes a first pull-up resistor 52, a second pull-up resistor 54, and a third pull-up resistor 56. The first pull-up resistor 52 is configured to maintain a first gate voltage VG1 applied to the first gate terminal G1 of the first FET48 in response to activation of one of the electrical switches SW1 and SW 2. The second pull-up resistor 54 is configured to maintain the voltage applied to the controller 26A from the first voltage controller 40 in response to activation of the electrical switch SW 1. The third pull-up resistor 56 is configured to maintain the voltage applied to the controller 26A from the first voltage controller 40 in response to activation of the electrical switch SW 2.

The third voltage controller 47 includes a first diode 58, a second diode 60, a third diode 62, and a fourth diode 64. The first diode 58 is configured to allow current to flow in one direction. The second diode 60 is configured to allow current to flow in one direction. The third diode 62 is configured to allow current to flow in one direction. The fourth diode 64 is configured to allow current to flow in one direction.

When one of the electric switches SW1 and SW2 is turned on in a state where the third voltage controller 47 is in the OFF state, the first gate voltage VG1 is applied from the first power source PS1 to the first gate terminal G1 of the first FET48 by the action of the first pull-up resistor 52. Thus, the first FET48 allows current to flow from the first source terminal S1 to the first drain terminal D1 in response to the first gate voltage VG1 applied from the first power source PS1 to the first gate terminal G1 of the first FET 48.

The first voltage controller 40 controls the first input voltage V11 applied from the first FET48 to the controller 26A at a first predetermined voltage V12. If the electrical switch SW1 is turned on, the first predetermined voltage V12 applied to the controller 26A from the first voltage controller 40 is maintained by the action of the second pull-up resistor 54. If the electrical switch SW2 is turned on, the first predetermined voltage V12 applied to the controller 26A from the first voltage controller 40 is maintained by the action of the third pull-up resistor 56. Thus, the controller 26A is powered by the first power source PS1 through the first voltage controller 40 and the third voltage controller 47.

The controller 26A detects the operation of the electric switch SW1 or SW2 after the power supply controller 26 is turned on. The gate driver 26G of the controller 26A is configured to apply a second gate voltage VG2 to the second gate terminal G2 of the second FET50 in response to operation of one of the electrical switches SW1 and SW 2. When the controller 26A applies the second gate voltage VG2 to the second gate terminal G2 of the second FET50, the first gate voltage VG1 is applied from the second FET50 to the first gate terminal G1 of the first FET 48. This maintains the supply of power from the first power source PS1 to the controller 26A after one of the electrical switches SW1 and SW2 is opened.

When the controller 26A stops the supply of the second gate voltage VG2 to the second gate terminal G2 and stops the supply of the first gate voltage VG1 from the second FET50 to the first gate terminal G1, the first gate voltage VG1 applied from the second FET50 to the first gate terminal G1 of the first FET48 stops. Thus, the controller 26A is configured to stop the supply of power from the first power source PS1 to the controller 26A if the OFF condition is satisfied. When the first FET48 is in the OFF state, the first FET48 has a leakage current having a current value lower than that of the minimum power of the controller 26A. Thus, the controller 26A is configured to change the mode of the power supply controller 26 from the wake-up mode to the sleep mode by stopping the supply of the second gate voltage VG 2.

In one variation, if needed and/or desired, the voltage converter 40A of the first voltage controller 40 may include a terminal E1 configured to change the state of the first voltage controller 40 between an activated state and a deactivated state. For example, in the active state, the voltage converter 40A of the first voltage controller 40 is activated and converts the first input voltage V11 into the first predetermined voltage V12. That is, the first voltage controller 40 allows power to be supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 in the activated state. In the disabled state, the voltage converter 40A of the first voltage controller 40 is disabled and does not convert the first input voltage V11. That is, the first voltage controller 40 interrupts the supply of power from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 in the disabled state. The resistor 40B of the first voltage controller 40 is electrically connected to the terminal E1.

The power state detector 30 is electrically connected to the controller 26A, the output line of the first voltage controller 40, and the output line of the second voltage controller 42. In this modification, the power status detector 30 may be electrically connected to the terminal E1 of the first voltage controller 40 instead of or in addition to the controller 26A. The power state detector 30 is configured to manage a voltage difference between a first output voltage of the first voltage controller 40 and a second output voltage of the second voltage controller 42. The power state detector 30 is configured to compare the voltage difference with a predetermined threshold. The power status detector 30 is configured to output a first status signal (e.g., a low level signal) SS1 if the voltage difference is equal to or below a predetermined threshold. The power status detector 30 is configured to output a second status signal (e.g., a high level signal) SS2 (see, e.g., fig. 8) if the voltage difference is above a predetermined threshold. That is, the power status detector 30 is configured to output the first status signal SS1 if the second power source PS2 is connected to the connection port 34. The power status detector 30 is configured to output a second status signal SS2 (see, e.g., fig. 8) if the second power source PS2 is not connected to the connection port 34.

As shown in fig. 2, the power supply controller 26 has a first mode, a second mode, and a third mode. The power supply controller 26 is configured to change the mode of the power supply controller 26 among the first mode, the second mode, and the third mode. The control device 25 includes a mode selection switch SW 3. The mode select switch SW3 is configured to receive a first mode user input U31, a second mode user input U32 and a third mode user input U33. The power controller 26 is configured to change the mode of the power controller 26 to the first mode in response to a first mode user input U31 received by the mode select switch SW 3. The power controller 26 is configured to change the mode of the power controller 26 to the second mode in response to a second mode user input U32 received by the mode select switch SW 3. The power supply controller 26 is configured to change the mode of the power supply controller 26 to the third mode in response to a third mode user input U33 received by the mode select switch SW 3.

As shown in fig. 4 to 8, the power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supply state in accordance with the power supply state detected by the detector 28. The power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supply state in accordance with the power supply state detected by the power supply state detector 30.

As shown in fig. 5 and 6, the power states include a first connection state ST11 in which the second power source PS2 is connected to the connection port 34. The detector 28 is configured to detect the first connection state ST 11. The power state detector 30 is configured to detect a first connection state ST 11. The power state detector 30 is configured to output a first state signal SS1 to the power controller 26 if the power state detector 30 detects the first connection state ST 11. Accordingly, the power supply controller 26 is configured to recognize the first connection state ST11 based on the first state signal SS1 output from the power state detector 30.

As shown in fig. 7 and 8, the power states include a second connection state ST12 in which the second power source PS2 is not connected to the connection port 34. The detector 28 is configured to detect the second connection state ST 12. The power state detector 30 is configured to detect the second connection state ST 12. The power state detector 30 is configured to output a second state signal SS2 to the power supply controller 26 if the power state detector 30 detects the second connection state ST 12. Accordingly, the power supply controller 26 is configured to recognize the second connection state ST12 based on the second state signal SS2 output from the power state detector 30.

As shown in fig. 6, in the first mode, the power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 to have a first amount AM11 according to a first connection state ST11 detected by the detector 28. In the first mode, the power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supplied from the second power source PS2 to the first communicator CM1 to have the second amount AM12 in accordance with the first connection state ST11 detected by the detector 28.

In the present embodiment, the first amount AM11 is zero. The second amount AM12 is greater than the first amount AM 11. The second amount AM12 is greater than zero. However, first amount AM11 may be greater than zero if needed and/or desired. The second amount AM12 can be equal to or less than the first amount AM11 if needed and/or desired. Second amount AM12 may be zero if needed and/or desired.

The power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supplied from the second power source PS2 to the first communicator CM1 to have the second amount AM12 if the power source state detector 30 detects the first connection state ST 11. The second voltage controller 42 is configured to convert the second input voltage V21 supplied from the second power source PS2 into the second amount AM12 if the second power source PS2 is connected to the connection port 34 of the control device 25. That is, the second amount AM12 corresponds to the second predetermined voltage V22, and the second predetermined voltage V22 is the output voltage of the second voltage controller 42.

The power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 to have a first amount AM11 if the power source state detector 30 detects the first connection state ST11, the first amount AM11 being zero. Specifically, the power state detector 30 is configured to output a first state signal SS1 if the power state detector 30 detects the first connection state ST 11. The controller 26A is configured to stop supplying the second gate voltage VG2 to the second FET50 of the third voltage controller 47 if the controller 26A receives the first state signal SS1 from the power state detector 30. The second FET50 is configured to stop supplying the first gate voltage VG1 to the first FET48 of the third voltage controller 47 in response to the stop of the second gate voltage VG 2. The first FET48 is configured to interrupt the flow of current from the first power source PS1 to the first voltage controller 40 in response to the stop of the first gate voltage VG 1. Therefore, the power supply controller 26 is configured to stop the supply of power from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 if the second power source PS2 is connected to the connection port 34 of the control device 25. However, the voltage converter 40A of the first voltage controller 40 may be configured to change the state of the voltage converter 40A from the activated state to the deactivated state in response to the first state signal SS 1. The voltage converter 40A of the first voltage controller 40 may be configured to change the state of the voltage converter 40A from a disabled state to an activated state in response to the second state signal SS 2. In one such variation, the first voltage controller 40 interrupts the supply of power from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 in response to the first status signal SS1 instead of or in addition to the third voltage controller 47. Instead of or in addition to the third voltage controller 47, the first voltage controller 40 allows power to be supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 in response to the second status signal SS 2.

In the present embodiment, the first amount AM11 is the voltage of the power supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM 1. The second amount AM12 is the voltage of the power supplied from the second power source PS2 to the first communicator CM 1. However, at least one of the first amount AM11 and the second amount AM12 may be other physical amounts, such as electric current or electric energy.

As shown in fig. 4, in the second mode, the power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 to have the first amount AM21 according to the first connection state ST11 detected by the detector 28. In the second mode, the power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supplied from the second power source PS2 to the first communicator CM1 to have the second amount AM22 in accordance with the first connection state ST11 detected by the detector 28.

In this embodiment, the first amount AM21 and the second amount AM22 are greater than zero. The second amount AM22 is equal to the first amount AM 21. The second amount AM22 in the second mode is equal to the second amount AM12 in the first mode. However, the second amount AM22 in the second mode may be different from the second amount AM12 in the first mode. The second amount AM22 may be different from the first amount AM 21.

The power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supplied from the second power source PS2 to the first communicator CM1 to have the second amount AM22 if the power source state detector 30 detects the first connection state ST 11. The second voltage controller 42 is configured to convert the second input voltage V21 supplied from the second power source PS2 into the second amount AM22 if the second power source PS2 is connected to the connection port 34 of the control device 25. That is, the second amount AM22 corresponds to the second predetermined voltage V22, and the second predetermined voltage V22 is the output voltage of the second voltage controller 42.

The power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 to have a first amount AM21 if the power source state detector 30 detects the first connection state ST11, the first amount AM21 being greater than zero. Specifically, the power state detector 30 is configured to output a first state signal SS1 if the power state detector 30 detects the first connection state ST 11. Unlike the first mode, the controller 26A is configured to continuously supply the second gate voltage VG2 to the second FET50 of the third voltage controller 47 if the controller 26A receives the first state signal SS1 from the power state detector 30. The second FET50 is configured to continuously supply the first gate voltage VG1 to the first FET48 of the third voltage controller 47 in response to the second gate voltage VG 2. The first FET48 is configured to allow a flow of current from the first power source PS1 to the first voltage controller 40 in response to the first gate voltage VG 1. Therefore, the power supply controller 26 is configured to allow the supply of power from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 if the second power source PS2 is connected to the connection port 34 of the control device 25. That is, the first communicator CM1 is powered by the first power source PS1 and the second power source PS 2.

In the present embodiment, the first amount AM21 is the voltage of the power supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM 1. The second amount AM22 is the voltage of the power supplied from the second power source PS2 to the first communicator CM 1. However, at least one of the first amount AM21 and the second amount AM22 may be other physical amounts, such as electric current or electric energy.

In each of the first and second modes, the first wired communicator WD1 is configured to establish wired communication with the second wired communicator WD2 if the detector 28 detects the first connection state ST 11. In each of the first mode and the second mode, the first wireless communicator WC1 is configured to not establish wireless communication with the second wireless communicator WC2 if the detector 28 detects the first connection state ST 11.

As shown in fig. 7 and 8, in each of the first and second modes, the power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 to have the first amount AM13 in accordance with the second connection state ST12 detected by the detector 28. In the present embodiment, the first amount AM13 is greater than zero. Power is not supplied from the second power source PS2 to the first communicator CM1 because the second power source PS2 is not connected to the connection port 34.

As shown in fig. 8, the power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 to have a first amount AM13 if the power source state detector 30 detects the second connection state ST12, the first amount AM13 being greater than zero. Specifically, the power state detector 30 is configured to output the second state signal SS2 if the power state detector 30 detects the second connection state ST 12. The controller 26A is configured to continuously supply the second gate voltage VG2 to the second FET50 of the third voltage controller 47 if the controller 26A receives the second state signal SS2 from the power state detector 30. The second FET50 is configured to continuously supply the first gate voltage VG1 to the first FET48 of the third voltage controller 47 in response to the second gate voltage VG 2. The first FET48 is configured to allow a flow of current from the first power source PS1 to the first voltage controller 40 when the first gate voltage VG1 is supplied to the first gate terminal G1 of the first FET 48. Thus, the power supply controller 26 is configured to allow the supply of power from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 if the second power source PS2 is not connected to the connection port 34 of the control device 25.

In the present embodiment, the first amount AM13 is the voltage of the power supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM 1. However, the first quantity AM13 may be other physical quantities, such as electric current or electric energy.

In each of the first mode and the second mode, the first wireless communicator WC1 is configured to establish wireless communication with the second wireless communicator WC2 if the detector 28 detects the second connection state ST 12. In each of the first and second modes, the first wired communicator WD1 is configured to not establish wired communication with the second wired communicator WD2 if the detector 28 detects the second connection state ST 12.

As shown in fig. 4, the power source state includes an electrical load state ST2 of the first power source PS 1. The detector 28 is configured to detect the electrical load state ST 2. The detector 28 includes an electrical load state detector 66 configured to detect an electrical load state ST 2. The electrical load status detector 66 is configured to be electrically connected to the power supply controller 26. The electrical load status detector 66 is configured to be electrically connected to the processor 26P and the memory 26M through the circuit board 26C and the system bus 26D. The controller 26A is configured to receive the electrical load condition ST2 detected by the electrical load condition detector 66.

In the second mode, the power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supply state based on a comparison between the electrical load state ST2 detected by the detector 28 and a predetermined electrical load state. The power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supply state based on a comparison between the electrical load state ST2 detected by the electrical load state detector 66 and a predetermined electrical load state. The memory 26M is configured to store a predetermined electrical load state. The power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supply state based on a comparison between the electrical load state ST2 detected by the electrical load state detector 66 and a predetermined electrical load state.

The power supply controller 26 is configured to stop the supply of power from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 if the power supply controller 26 concludes that the first power source PS1 does not satisfy the predetermined electrical load condition. The power supply controller 26 is configured to allow power supply from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 if the power supply controller 26 concludes that the first power source PS1 meets the predetermined electrical load condition. In the present embodiment, for example, the predetermined electrical load state includes a state in which the first power source PS1 conveniently supplies power to the power supply controller 26 and the first communicator CM 1.

The electrical load state ST2 is related to at least one of voltage, current, resistance, temperature, power threshold and priority of the first electrical power source PS 1. For example, the resistance of the first power source PS1 includes the internal resistance of the first power source PS 1. The priority of the first power source PS1 includes the difference between the first remaining level of the first power source PS1 and the second remaining level of the second power source PS 2. For example, if the first remaining level of the first power source PS1 is greater than the second remaining level of the second power source PS2, the first power source PS1 has priority over the second power source PS 2. If the second remaining level of the second power source PS2 is equal to or greater than the first remaining level of the first power source PS1, then the second power source PS2 has priority over the first power source PS 1. The power supply controller 26 is configured to use priority over the other of the first and second power sources PS1, PS 2.

As shown in fig. 9, when the battery is connected to a specific load, the relationship between the voltage of the battery and the elapsed time varies depending on the temperature of the battery. For example, the battery has a first characteristic CH1 at a first temperature T1. The battery has a second characteristic CH2 at a second temperature T2. The battery has a third characteristic CH3 at a third temperature T3. The first temperature T1 is higher than the second temperature T2 and the third temperature T3. The second temperature T2 is higher than the third temperature T3. The graph of fig. 9 shows that a higher temperature of the battery at the same elapsed time results in a higher voltage of the battery. Therefore, it is preferable to estimate the state of the battery based on the voltage and temperature of the battery.

In the present embodiment, as shown in fig. 4, the electrical load state ST2 includes the voltage and temperature of the first electrical power source PS 1. Specifically, the electrical load state ST2 includes a change in the voltage of the first power source PS 1. The electrical load status detector 66 includes a voltmeter 66A configured to measure a voltage of the first power source PS 1. The electrical load status detector 66 includes a temperature gauge 66B configured to measure the temperature of the first electrical power source PS 1. For example, the thermometer 66B is configured to measure the ambient temperature of the first power source PS 1. The electrical load state detector 66 is electrically connected to the controller 26A. The voltmeter 66A and the thermometer 66B are electrically connected to the controller 26A. The controller 26A is configured to receive the voltage measured by the voltmeter 66A of the electrical load condition detector 66. The controller 26A is configured to receive the temperature measured by the thermometer 66B of the electrical load status detector 66.

The controller 26A is configured to store the electrical load state ST2 detected by the electrical load state detector 66 in the memory 26M. In the present embodiment, the controller 26A is configured to store the voltage measured by the voltmeter 66A in the memory 26M. The controller 26A is configured to store the temperature measured by the thermometer 66B in the memory 26M. Controller 26A is configured to periodically store the voltage measured by voltmeter 66A in memory 26M. The power supply controller 26 is configured to periodically store the temperature measured by the thermometer 66B in the memory 26M.

The controller 26A is configured to compare the electrical load state ST2 currently detected by the electrical load state detector 66 with the electrical load state ST2 previously detected by the electrical load state detector 66. Controller 26A is configured to compare the voltage currently measured by voltmeter 66A with the voltage previously measured by voltmeter 66A to obtain a change in the voltage of first power source PS 1.

In the case where the second power source PS2 is connected to the connection port 34 in the second mode, the power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supply state based on the comparison between the electrical load state ST2 detected by the electrical load state detector 66 and the predetermined electrical load state. In the present embodiment, the controller 26A is configured to calculate a voltage number difference, which is the difference between the voltage currently measured by the voltmeter 66A and the voltage previously measured by the voltmeter 66A. The predetermined electrical load condition comprises a predetermined voltage value difference. The controller 26A is configured to compare the voltage value difference with a predetermined voltage value difference. A smaller voltage value difference indicates that the first power source PS1 is in a normal condition. A large voltage value difference indicates that the first power source PS1 is in an abnormal condition. Thus, the power supply controller 26 is configured to allow the supply of power from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 if the voltage value difference is less than the predetermined voltage value difference. The power supply controller 26 is configured to interrupt the power supplied from the first power source PS1 if the voltage value difference is equal to or greater than a predetermined voltage value difference.

The power supply controller 26 is configured to change the predetermined electrical load state based on the electrical load state ST2 detected by the electrical load state detector 66. The predetermined electrical load condition includes a plurality of predetermined voltage value differences corresponding to a plurality of temperature ranges, respectively. If the current temperature measured by thermometer 66B is one of a plurality of temperature ranges, controller 26A is configured to select one of a plurality of predetermined voltage value differences corresponding to one of the plurality of temperature ranges. The controller 26A is configured to compare the voltage value difference with a selected one of a plurality of predetermined voltage value differences.

The power supply controller 26 is configured to allow power supply from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 if the voltage value difference is less than a selected one of a plurality of predetermined voltage value differences. The power supply controller 26 is configured to interrupt the power supplied from the first power source PS1 if the voltage value difference is equal to or greater than a selected one of a plurality of predetermined voltage value differences. Therefore, it can be determined whether the first power source PS1 is in a normal condition based on the voltage and the temperature measured by the electrical load state detector 66. With the second power source PS2 connected to the connection port 34 in the second mode, the power supply controller 26 is configured to use the first power source PS1 if the first power source PS1 is in a normal condition, whereas the power supply controller 26 is configured to stop using the first power source PS 1.

As shown in fig. 4 to 8, the power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supply state in accordance with the communication state detected by the detector 28. The power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supply state in accordance with the communication state detected by the communication state detector 32.

As shown in fig. 5, the communication state includes a first communication state ST31 in which the first communicator CM1 establishes wired communication with the second communicator CM 2. The detector 28 is configured to detect a first communication state ST 31. The communication state detector 32 is configured to detect a first communication state ST 31. The communication state detector 32 is configured to detect that the first wired communicator WD1 is selected by the power supply controller 26 among the first wireless communicator WC1 and the first wired communicator WD 1.

As shown in fig. 7, the communication state includes a second communication state ST32 in which the first communicator CM1 establishes wireless communication with the second communicator CM 2. The detector 28 is configured to detect a second communication state ST 32. The communication state detector 32 is configured to detect a second communication state ST 32. The communication state detector 32 is configured to detect that the first wireless communicator WC1 is selected by the power supply controller 26 among the first wireless communicator WC1 and the first wired communicator WD 1.

As shown in fig. 6, in the third mode, the power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 to have the first amount AM31 according to the first communication state ST31 detected by the detector 28. In the third mode, the power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supplied from the second power source PS2 to the first communicator CM1 to have the second amount AM32 in accordance with the first communication state ST31 detected by the detector 28.

In the present embodiment, the first amount AM31 is zero. The second amount AM32 is greater than the first amount AM 31. The second amount AM32 is greater than zero. However, first amount AM31 may be greater than zero if needed and/or desired. The second amount AM32 can be equal to or less than the first amount AM31 if needed and/or desired. Second amount AM32 may be zero if needed and/or desired.

The power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supplied from the second power source PS2 to the first communicator CM1 to have the second amount AM32 if the communication state detector 32 detects the first communication state ST 31. The second voltage controller 42 is configured to convert the second input voltage V21 supplied from the second power source PS2 into the second amount AM32 if the second power source PS2 is connected to the connection port 34 of the control device 25. That is, the second amount AM32 corresponds to the second predetermined voltage V22, and the second predetermined voltage V22 is the output voltage of the second voltage controller 42. The second amount AM32 in the third mode is equal to the second amount AM12 in the first mode.

The power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 to have a first amount AM31 if the communication state detector 32 detects the first communication state ST 31. Specifically, the controller 26A is configured to stop supplying the second gate voltage VG2 to the second FET50 of the third voltage controller 47 if the communication state detector 32 detects the first communication state ST 31. The second FET50 is configured to stop supplying the first gate voltage VG1 to the first FET48 of the third voltage controller 47 in response to the stop of the second gate voltage VG 2. The first FET48 is configured to interrupt the flow of current from the first power source PS1 to the first voltage controller 40 in response to the stop of the first gate voltage VG 1. Thus, the power supply controller 26 is configured to stop the supply of power from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 if the first communicator CM1 establishes wired communication with the second communicator CM 2. The first amount AM31 in the third mode is equal to the first amount AM11 in the first mode.

In the present embodiment, the first amount AM31 is the voltage of the power supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM 1. The second amount AM32 is the voltage of the power supplied from the second power source PS2 to the first communicator CM 1. However, at least one of the first amount AM31 and the second amount AM32 may be other physical amounts, such as electric current or electric energy.

As shown in fig. 8, in the third mode, the power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 to have the first amount AM33 in accordance with the second communication state ST32 detected by the detector 28. In the third mode, the power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supplied from the second power source PS2 to the first communicator CM1 to have the second amount AM34 in accordance with the second communication state ST32 detected by the detector 28.

In the present embodiment, the second amount AM34 is zero. The first amount AM33 is greater than the second amount AM 34. The first amount AM33 is greater than zero. However, the first amount AM33 can be equal to or less than the second amount AM34, if needed and/or desired. The second amount AM34 may be greater than zero if needed and/or desired. First amount AM33 may be zero if needed and/or desired.

The power supply controller 26 is configured to control the power supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 to have a first amount AM33 if the communication state detector 32 detects the second communication state ST32, the first amount AM33 being greater than zero. Specifically, the controller 26A is configured to continuously supply the second gate voltage VG2 to the second FET50 of the third voltage controller 47 if the communication state detector 32 detects the second communication state ST 32. The second FET50 is configured to continuously supply the first gate voltage VG1 to the first FET48 of the third voltage controller 47 in response to the second gate voltage VG 2. The first FET48 is configured to allow a flow of current from the first power source PS1 to the first voltage controller 40 when the first gate voltage VG1 is supplied to the first gate terminal G1 of the first FET 48. Thus, the power supply controller 26 is configured to allow the supply of power from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 if the first communicator CM1 establishes wireless communication with the second communicator CM 2. The first amount AM33 in the third mode is equal to the first amount AM1 in the first mode.

In the second communication state ST32, power is not supplied from the second power source PS2 to the first communicator CM1 because the second power source PS2 is not connected to the connection port 34. Therefore, the second amount AM34 is zero.

In the present embodiment, the first amount AM33 is the voltage of the power supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM 1. The second amount AM34 is the voltage of the power supplied from the second power source PS2 to the first communicator CM 1. However, at least one of the first amount AM33 and the second amount AM34 may be other physical amounts, such as electric current or electric energy.

As shown in fig. 2, the control device 25 further includes a notification unit 68. The notification unit 68 is configured to notify at least one of a power state and a communication state. The power supply controller 26 is configured to control the notification unit 68 to notify the user of the power supply state detected by the power supply state detector 30 of the detector 28. The power supply controller 26 is configured to control the notification unit 68 to notify the user of the communication state detected by the communication state detector 32 of the detector 28.

The power supply controller 26 is configured to control the notification unit 68 to indicate the first connection state ST11 if the power state detector 30 detects the first connection state ST 11. The power supply controller 26 is configured to control the notification unit 68 to indicate the second connection state ST12 if the power state detector 30 detects the second connection state ST 12. The power supply controller 26 is configured to control the notification unit 68 to indicate the first communication state ST31 if the communication state detector 32 detects the first communication state ST 31. The power supply controller 26 is configured to control the notification unit 68 to indicate the second communication state ST32 if the second communication state ST32 is detected by the communication state detector 32. The power supply controller 26 is configured such that if the voltage measured by the voltmeter 66A is equal to or higher than the voltage threshold, the control notification unit 68 indicates that the remaining level of the first power source PS1 is sufficient to conveniently operate the power supply controller 26 and the first communicator CM 1. The power supply controller 26 is configured such that if the voltage measured by the voltmeter 66A is below the voltage threshold, the control notification unit 68 indicates that the remaining level of the first power source PS1 is insufficient to conveniently operate the power supply controller 26 and the first communicator CM 1.

The notification unit 68 includes a light emitter, such as a Light Emitting Diode (LED). The notification unit 68 is electrically connected to the controller 26A. The notification unit 68 is electrically connected to the processor 26P and the memory 26M through the circuit board 26C and the system bus 26D. The notification unit 68 is configured to emit light in different manners to indicate the first connection state ST11, the second connection state ST12, the first communication state ST31, and the second communication state ST32, such as a plurality of different colors and lighting control (e.g., lighting and blinking). The notification unit 68 may be omitted from the control device 25.

As shown in fig. 10 and 11, in each of the first, second, and third modes, if the first power source PS1 is not connected to the power supply controller 26, power is not supplied from the first power source PS1 to the power supply controller 26. For example, if the first battery PS11 is not attached to the first battery holder PS12, electric power is not supplied from the first electric power source PS1 to the power supply controller 26. Thus, in each of the first, second and third modes, the power supply controller 26 is configured to allow power supplied from the second power source PS2 to the first communicator CM1 if the second power source PS2 is connected to the connection port 34 but the first power source PS1 is not connected to the power supply controller 26. The first wired communicator WD1 of the first communicator CM1 is configured to establish wired communication with the second wired communicator WD2 of the second communicator CM 2.

The control of the control device 25 will be described in detail below with reference to fig. 12 to 15.

As shown in fig. 12, the power supply controller 26 determines whether the power supply controller 26 is in the first mode, the second mode, or the third mode (step S10). If the power supply controller 26 determines that the power supply controller 26 is in the first mode, the power supply controller 26 determines whether the detector 28 detects the first connection state ST11 or the second connection state ST12 (step S11). Specifically, as shown in fig. 6, if the second power source SP2 is connected to the connection port 34 of the control device 25 in the first mode, the power status detector 30 outputs the first status signal SS 1. If the second power source SP2 is not connected to the connection port 34 of the control device 25 in the first mode, the power status detector 30 outputs a second status signal SS 2.

As shown in fig. 12, if the power source state detector 30 detects the first connection state ST11 in the first mode, the power supply controller 26 controls the power supplied from the second power source PS2 to the first communicator CM1 to have the second amount AM12, the second amount AM12 being greater than zero (step S12). Specifically, as shown in fig. 6, if the second power source PS2 is connected to the connection port 34 of the control device 25 in the first mode, the second voltage controller 42 converts the second input voltage V21 supplied from the second power source PS2 into the second amount AM12 (e.g., the second predetermined voltage V22).

As shown in fig. 12, if the power source state detector 30 detects the first connection state ST11 in the first mode, the power supply controller 26 controls the power supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 to have the first amount AM11, the first amount AM11 being zero (step S13). Specifically, as shown in fig. 6, if the controller 26A receives the first state signal SS1 from the power state detector 30 in the first mode, the controller 26A stops supplying the second gate voltage VG2 to the second FET50 of the third voltage controller 47. The second FET50 stops supplying the first gate voltage VG1 to the first FET48 of the third voltage controller 47 in response to the stop of the second gate voltage VG 2. The first FET48 interrupts the flow of current from the first power source PS1 to the first voltage controller 40 in response to the stop of the first gate voltage VG 1. Therefore, if the second power source PS2 is connected to the connection port 34 of the control device 25 in the first mode, the power supply controller 26 stops the supply of electric power from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM 1.

Thus, if the second power source PS2 is connected to the connection port 34 in the first mode, power is supplied from the second power source PS2 to the first communicator CM1 through the power supply controller 26 while the power supply controller 26 interrupts the supply of power from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM 1. Thus, if the second power source PS2 is connected to the connection port 34 in the first mode, the first communicator CM1 is powered by the second power source PS2 without using the first power source PS 1.

As shown in fig. 12, if the power source state detector 30 detects the second connection state ST12 in the first mode, the power supply controller 26 controls the power supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 to have the first amount AM13, the first amount AM13 being greater than zero (step S14). Specifically, as shown in fig. 8, if the controller 26A receives the second state signal SS2 from the power state detector 30 in the first mode, the controller 26A continuously supplies the second gate voltage VG2 to the second FET50 of the third voltage controller 47. The second FET50 continues to supply the first gate voltage VG1 to the first FET48 of the third voltage controller 47 in response to the second gate voltage VG 2. When the first gate voltage VG1 is supplied to the first gate terminal G1 of the first FET48, the first FET48 allows a current to flow from the first power source PS1 to the first voltage controller 40. Therefore, if the second power source PS2 is not connected to the connection port 34 of the control device 25 in the first mode, the power supply controller 26 allows the supply of power from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM 1.

Thus, if the second power source PS2 is not connected to the connection port 34 in the first mode, power is supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 through the power supply controller 26 while power is not supplied from the second power source PS2 to the first communicator CM 1. Thus, if the second power source PS2 is not connected to the connection port 34 in the first mode, the first communicator CM1 is powered by the first power source PS1 without using the second power source PS 2.

As shown in fig. 13, as in the case of step S11 of fig. 12, if the power supply controller 26 determines that the power supply controller 26 is in the second mode, the power supply controller 26 determines whether the detector 28 detects the first connection state ST11 or the second connection state ST12 (step S21).

As in the case of step S12 of fig. 12, if the power source state detector 30 detects the first connection state ST11 in the second mode, the power supply controller 26 controls the power supplied from the second power source PS2 to the first communicator CM1 to have the second amount AM22, the second amount AM22 being greater than zero (step S22). Specifically, as shown in fig. 11, if the second power source PS2 is connected to the connection port 34 of the control device 25 in the second mode, the second voltage controller 42 converts the second input voltage V21 supplied from the second power source PS2 into the second amount AM22 (e.g., the second predetermined voltage V22).

As shown in fig. 13, if the power source state detector 30 detects the first connection state ST11 in the second mode, the power supply controller 26 controls the power supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 to have a first amount AM21, the first amount AM21 being greater than zero (step S23). Specifically, as shown in fig. 11, if the controller 26A receives the first state signal SS1 from the power state detector 30 in the second mode, the controller 26A continuously supplies the second gate voltage VG2 to the second FET50 of the third voltage controller 47. The second FET50 continues to supply the first gate voltage VG1 to the first FET48 of the third voltage controller 47 in response to the second gate voltage VG 2. The first FET48 allows a flow of current from the first power source PS1 to the first voltage controller 40 in response to the first gate voltage VG 1. Therefore, if the second power source PS2 is connected to the connection port 34 of the control device 25, the power supply controller 26 allows the supply of power from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM 1.

Thus, if the second power source PS2 is connected to the connection port 34 in the second mode, power is supplied from the second power source PS2 to the first communicator CM1 through the power supply controller 26, while power is supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 through the power supply controller 26. Thus, unlike the first mode, if the second power source PS2 is connected to the connection port 34 in the second mode, the first communicator CM1 is powered by both the first power source PS1 and the second power source PS 2.

As shown in fig. 13, if the power source state detector 30 detects the second connection state ST12 in the second mode as in the case of step S14 of fig. 12, the power supply controller 26 controls the power supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 to have the first amount AM13, the first amount AM13 being greater than zero (step S24). Thus, if the second power source PS2 is not connected to the connection port 34 in the second mode, power is supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 through the power supply controller 26 while power is not supplied from the second power source PS2 to the first communicator CM 1. Thus, as in the case of the first mode, if the second power source PS2 is not connected to the connection port 34 in the second mode, the first communicator CM1 is powered by the first power source PS1 without using the second power source PS 2.

As shown in fig. 14, the electrical load state detector 66 detects the electrical load state ST2 after step S23 of fig. 13 in the second mode (step S25). Specifically, the voltmeter 66A measures the voltage of the first power source PS1 (step S25A). The thermometer 66B measures the temperature of the first power source PS1 (step S25B). The controller 26A of the power supply controller 26 calculates a voltage value difference VD1, which is a difference between the previous voltage and the current voltage (step S25C). The controller 26A selects the predetermined voltage value difference VD2 from among a plurality of predetermined voltage value differences based on the current temperature measured by the thermometer 66B in the second mode (step S25D). Step S25 may include at least one of steps S25A, S25B, S25C, and S25D. Step S25 may include other steps than at least one of steps S25A, S25B, S25C, and S25D, if needed and/or desired.

The controller 26A compares the voltage value difference VD1 with the predetermined voltage value difference VD2 in the second mode (step S26). If the voltage value difference VD1 is less than the predetermined voltage value difference VD2 in the second mode, the controller 26A continuously allows power to be supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 (step S26). If the voltage value difference VD1 is equal to or greater than the predetermined voltage value difference VD2 in the second mode, the controller 26A stops the supply of power from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 (steps S26 and S27). Thus, if the first power source PS1 is in a normal condition and the second power source PS2 is connected to the connection port 34, the power supply controller 26 uses both the first power source PS1 and the second power source PS2 in the second mode. If the first power source PS1 is in an abnormal condition and the second power source PS2 is connected to the connection port 34, the power supply controller 26 uses the second power source PS2 and does not use the first power source PS1 in the second mode.

As shown in fig. 15, if the power supply controller 26 determines that the power supply controller 26 is in the third mode, the power supply controller 26 determines whether the detector 28 detects the first communication state ST31 or the second communication state ST32 (step S31). Specifically, the communication state detector 32 detects the first communication state ST31 or the second communication state ST 32.

If the communication state detector 32 detects the first communication state ST31 in the third mode, the power supply controller 26 controls the power supplied from the second power source PS2 to the first communicator CM1 to have the second amount AM32, the second amount AM32 being greater than zero (step S32). Specifically, as shown in fig. 6, if wired communication is established between the first communicator CM1 and the second communicator CM2 in the third mode, the second voltage controller 42 converts the second input voltage V21 supplied from the second power source PS2 into the second amount AM32 (e.g., the second predetermined voltage V22).

As shown in fig. 15, if the communication state detector 32 detects the first communication state ST31 in the third mode, the power supply controller 26 controls the power supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 to have the first amount AM31, the first amount AM31 being zero (step S33). Specifically, as shown in fig. 6, if the controller 26A concludes that the communication state detector 32 detects the first communication state ST31 in the third mode, the controller 26A stops supplying the second gate voltage VG2 to the second FET50 of the third voltage controller 47. The second FET50 stops supplying the first gate voltage VG1 to the first FET48 of the third voltage controller 47 in response to the stop of the second gate voltage VG 2. The first FET48 interrupts the flow of current from the first power source PS1 to the first voltage controller 40 in response to the stop of the first gate voltage VG 1. Therefore, if wired communication is established between the first communicator CM1 and the second communicator CM2 in the third mode, the power supply controller 26 stops the supply of power from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM 1.

Thus, if the second power source PS2 is connected to the connection port 34 in the third mode, power is supplied from the second power source PS2 to the first communicator CM1 through the power supply controller 26 while the power supply controller 26 interrupts the supply of power from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM 1. Thus, the first communicator CM1 is powered by the second power source PS2 without using the first power source PS1 in the third mode.

As shown in fig. 15, as in the case of step S14 of fig. 12, if the communication state detector 32 detects the second communication state ST32 in the third mode, the power supply controller 26 controls the power supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 to have the first amount AM33, the first amount AM33 being larger than zero (step S34).

Thus, if wireless communication is established between the first communicator CM1 and the second communicator CM2 in the third mode, power is supplied from the first power source PS1 to the first communicator CM1 through the power supply controller 26 while power is not supplied from the second power source PS2 to the first communicator CM 1. Therefore, if wireless communication is established between the first communicator CM1 and the second communicator CM2 in the third mode, the first communicator CM1 is powered by the first power source PS1 without using the second power source PS 2.

Variants

In the above embodiment, one or two of the first to third modes may be omitted from the modes of the power supply controller 26. For example, the first communicator CM1 and the second communicator CM2 are configured in the above embodiments to establish wired communication using a PLC. However, the first communicator CM1 and the second communicator CM2 may be configured to communicate with each other using only wireless communication. In one such variation, the third mode may be omitted from the modes of the power supply controller 26.

The term "comprises/comprising" and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended to be open ended terms that specify the presence of the stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and/or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and/or steps. This concept also applies to words having similar meanings such as the terms, "having", "including" and their derivatives.

The terms "member," "section," "portion," "element," "body" and "structure" when used in the singular can have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts.

Ordinal numbers recited in this application, such as "first" and "second," are used merely as labels and do not have any other meaning, such as a particular order, etc. Also, for example, the term "first element" does not itself connote the presence of "second element," and the term "second element" does not itself connote the presence of "first element.

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

The terms "a" or "an", "one or more", and "at least one" are used interchangeably herein.

The phrase "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "one or more" of the desired options. As an example, if the number of its options is two, the phrase "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "only one single option" or "both of the two options". To take other examples, the phrase "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "only a single option" or "any combination of equal or more than two options" if the number of its options is equal to or more than three. For example, the phrase "at least one of a and B" encompasses (1) a alone, (2) B alone, and (3) both a and B. The phrase "A, B, and at least one of C" encompasses all of (1) a alone, (2) B alone, (3) C alone, (4) both a and B, (5) both B and C, (6) both a and C, and (7) A, B and C. In other words, the phrase "at least one of a and B" in the present disclosure means not "at least one of a and at least one of B".

Finally, terms of degree such as "substantially", "about" and "approximately" as used herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed. All numerical values described in this application may be construed to include terms such as "substantially", "about" and "approximately".

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