CN114684315B - Hub for manual vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

A hub for a human powered vehicle is provided. The flower drum includes flower drum axle, flower drum main part, sprocket bearing structure, by detection portion and rotation detection sensor. The hub axle has a central axis. The hub body is rotatably disposed about the central axis. The sprocket support structure is rotatably disposed about the central axis to transmit a driving force to the hub body upon rotation about the central axis in a driving rotational direction. The detected portion is provided to the sprocket support structure. The rotation detection sensor is configured to detect the detected portion to detect rotation of the sprocket support structure about the center axis, the rotation detection sensor being provided in the hub main body.

Description

Hubs for human-powered vehicles

Technical Field

The present disclosure generally relates to hubs for human powered vehicles.

Background technique

Some wheels for human-powered vehicles (e.g., bicycles) have a hub that rotatably supports the wheel. For example, the hub includes a hub axle and a hub body rotatably disposed around the hub axle. The hub axle is non-rotatably mounted on a frame of the human-powered vehicle. The hub body is coaxially coupled to the hub axle so that the hub body is disposed radially outward relative to the hub axle. The hub body is coupled to a rim that supports a tire. In some cases, the hub is provided with a power generation device to generate electricity in accordance with the travel of the human-powered vehicle.

Summary of the invention

In general, the present disclosure relates to various features of a hub for a human-powered vehicle. The "human-powered vehicle" referred to herein refers to a vehicle that can be driven at least by human power, but does not include a vehicle that uses only a driving force other than human power. In particular, a vehicle that uses only an internal combustion engine as a driving force is not included in a human-powered vehicle. A human-powered vehicle is generally considered to be a compact, lightweight vehicle that sometimes does not require a license to drive on public roads. The number of wheels of a human-powered vehicle is not limited. Human-powered vehicles include, for example, unicycles and vehicles with three or more wheels. Human-powered vehicles include, for example, various types of bicycles, such as mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes, recumbent bikes, etc., electric-assisted bicycles (E-bikes).

In view of the current state of the prior art, according to a first aspect of the present invention, a hub for a human-powered vehicle is provided, which basically includes a hub shaft, a hub body, a sprocket support structure, a detected portion and a rotation detection sensor. The hub shaft has a central axis. The hub body is rotatably arranged around the central axis. The sprocket support structure is rotatably arranged around the central axis to transmit the driving force to the hub body when rotating around the central axis in a driving rotation direction. The detected portion is arranged to the sprocket support structure. The rotation detection sensor is arranged in the hub body and is configured to detect the detected portion to detect the rotation of the sprocket support structure around the central axis.

With the hub according to the first aspect, the rotation of the sprocket supporting structure can be reliably detected.

According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to the first aspect is configured so that the rotation detection sensor includes a magnetic sensor, and the detected portion includes a magnet.

With the hub according to the second aspect, the rotation of the sprocket support structure can be detected at a low cost. In addition, the magnetic sensor can save space and has excellent environmental resistance.

According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to the second aspect further includes a coupling body coupled to the hub body and disposed between the magnetic sensor and the detected portion, the coupling body being at least partially made of a non-magnetic material or having an opening.

With the hub according to the third aspect, the magnetic sensor can be protected from foreign matter such as dust, sand, and the like.

According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to the first aspect is configured so that the rotation detection sensor includes an optical sensor, and the detected portion includes a reflecting member.

With the hub according to the fourth aspect, the rotation of the sprocket supporting structure can be accurately detected.

According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to the fourth aspect further includes a coupling body coupled to the hub body and disposed between the optical sensor and the detected portion, the coupling body being at least partially made of a transparent material or having an opening.

With the hub according to the fifth aspect, the optical sensor can be protected from foreign matter such as dust, sand, and the like.

According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to the first aspect is configured such that the sprocket support structure includes an outer body configured to support at least one sprocket and an inner body connected to the hub body to rotate therewith, the outer body being connected to the inner body to rotate together around the center axis in a driving rotation direction, and being configured to rotate relative to the inner body around the center axis in a non-driving rotation direction.

With the hub according to the sixth aspect, the sprocket supporting structure functions as a freewheel to allow the sprocket supporting structure to stop rotating during coasting.

According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to the sixth aspect further includes a coupling body coupled to the hub body and the inner body and provided between the rotation detection sensor and the detected portion.

With the hub according to the seventh aspect, the rotation detecting sensor can be protected from foreign matter such as dust, sand, and the like.

According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to any one of the first to seventh aspects is configured to further include a circuit board provided in the hub body, and the rotation detection sensor is provided on the circuit board.

With the hub according to the eighth aspect, the rotation detecting sensor can be easily provided in the hub main body.

According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to the eighth aspect further includes an electric controller provided on the circuit board and configured to receive a detection signal from the rotation detection sensor.

With the hub according to the ninth aspect, the detection result of the rotation detection sensor can be used to control other components.

According to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to any one of the first to ninth aspects further includes an electric component provided in the hub body between the hub axle and the hub body in a radial direction relative to the center axis.

With the hub according to the tenth aspect, the hub can be used to accommodate the electric component in the hub main body.

In accordance with an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to the tenth aspect is configured so that the electric component includes a rotation detection sensor.

With the hub according to the eleventh aspect, the rotation of the sprocket supporting structure can be detected.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to the tenth aspect or the eleventh aspect further includes a cable electrically connected to the electric component and axially passing through a space between the sprocket support structure and the hub axle.

With the hub according to the twelfth aspect, the cable can be electrically connected to the electric component without interfering with the rotation of the sprocket supporting structure or the hub main body.

In accordance with a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to the twelfth aspect is configured so that the hub axle includes a groove, and the cable is accommodated in the groove.

With the hub according to the thirteenth aspect, the electric cable can be easily routed along the hub axle.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to any one of the tenth to thirteenth aspects further includes a power generator provided in the hub body and configured to generate power by rotation of the hub body, the electric component being electrically connected to the power generator.

With the hub according to the fourteenth aspect, it is possible to generate electric power by the rotation of the hub main body and supply the electric power to the electric component.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to any one of the first to ninth aspects further includes a power generator provided in the hub main body and configured to generate power through rotation of the hub main body.

With the hub according to the fifteenth aspect, electric power can be generated by the rotation of the hub main body.

In accordance with a sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to the fifteenth aspect further includes a cable electrically connected to the electric power generator and axially passing through a space between the sprocket supporting structure and the hub axle.

With the hub according to the sixteenth aspect, the cables can be electrically connected to the electrical components without interfering with the rotation of the sprocket supporting structure or the hub main body.

In accordance with a seventeenth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to the fifteenth aspect is configured so that the hub axle includes a groove, and the cable is accommodated in the groove.

With the hub according to the seventeenth aspect, it is possible to easily route the electric cable along the hub axle.

According to the eighteenth aspect of the present disclosure, a hub for a human-powered vehicle is provided, which basically includes a hub shaft, a hub body, a coupling body, a sprocket support structure and a fixing member. The hub shaft has a central axis. The hub body is rotatably arranged around the central axis. The coupling body includes an outer peripheral portion coupled to the hub body and an inner peripheral portion positioned radially inward of the outer peripheral portion relative to the radial direction of the central axis. The sprocket support structure is rotatably arranged around the central axis to transmit the driving force to the hub body. The sprocket support structure includes an outer body and an inner body. The outer body is configured to support at least one sprocket. The inner body is coupled to the hub body via the coupling body to rotate with it. The outer body is coupled to the inner body to rotate together around the central axis in the driving rotation direction, and the outer body is configured to rotate relative to the inner body around the central axis in the non-driving rotation direction. The fixing member is attached to the inner peripheral portion of the coupling body and attaches the inner body to the coupling body.

With the hub according to the eighteenth aspect, the hub main body can be reliably coupled to the inner body of the sprocket support structure via the coupling body, so that the sprocket support structure functions as a freewheel to allow the sprocket support structure to stop rotating during coasting.

In accordance with a nineteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to the eighteenth aspect is configured so that the fixing member is a tubular member having a first end portion abutting against the inner body and a second end portion coupled to an inner peripheral portion of the coupling body.

With the hub according to the nineteenth aspect, the inner body can be reliably coupled to the coupling body around the hub axle through the fixing member.

In accordance with a twentieth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to the eighteenth aspect or the nineteenth aspect is configured so that an inner peripheral portion of the coupling body is connected to the fixing member by screwing.

With the hub according to the twentieth aspect, the fixing member can be threaded into the coupling body to attach the inner body to the coupling body.

According to the twenty-first aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to any one of aspects from the eighteenth to the twentieth is configured so that the peripheral portion of the connecting body includes a first connecting structure having at least one of a spline and a groove, the hub body includes a second connecting structure having at least one of a spline and a groove, and the first connecting structure cooperates with the second connecting structure to non-rotatably connect the connecting body to the hub body.

With the hub according to the twenty-first aspect, the coupling body can be non-rotatably coupled to the hub main body with a relatively simple configuration.

According to the twenty-second aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to any one of aspects from the eighteenth to the twenty-first aspect is configured so that the inner body includes a third connecting structure having at least one of a spline and a groove, the connecting body includes a fourth connecting structure having at least one of a spline and a groove, and the third connecting structure cooperates with the fourth connecting structure to non-rotatably connect the inner body to the connecting body.

With the hub according to the twenty-second aspect, the inner body can be non-rotatably coupled to the coupling body with a relatively simple configuration.

According to a twenty-third aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to any one of the eighteenth to twenty-second aspects further includes a retainer that is removably coupled to the hub main body and retains the coupling body to the hub main body.

With the hub according to the twenty-third aspect, the coupling main body can be uncoupled to the hub main body in a removable manner to facilitate maintenance of the hub.

According to a twenty-fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to any one of the eighteenth to twenty-third aspects is configured so that the inner body is axially held between the contact surface of the coupling body and the fixing member.

With the hub according to the twenty-fourth aspect, the inner body is prevented from axially moving relative to the coupling body by the fixing member.

According to a hub of a twenty-fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to any one of the eighteenth to twenty-fourth aspects is configured so that the fixing member has a tool engagement portion.

With the hub according to the twenty-fifth aspect, the fixing member can be easily mounted.

According to a hub of a twenty-sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to the twenty-fifth aspect is configured so that the fixing member has an annular inner surface including the tool engagement portion.

With the hub according to the twenty-sixth aspect, by providing the tool engagement portion on the annular inner surface of the fixing member, the axial dimension of the hub does not increase.

According to the twenty-seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to any one of aspects from aspect 18 to aspect 26 also includes an electric component, which is arranged in the hub main body and is located between the hub shaft and the hub main body in a radial direction relative to the center axis, and a cable, which is electrically connected to the electric component and axially passes through the space between the fixed member and the hub shaft.

With the hub according to the twenty-seventh aspect, the hub can be used to accommodate the electric component in the hub main body, and the electric component can be electrically connected to the cable without interfering with the rotation of the sprocket supporting structure or the hub main body.

In accordance with a twenty-eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to the twenty-seventh aspect is configured so that the hub axle includes a groove, and the cable is accommodated in the groove.

With the hub according to the twenty-eighth aspect, the electric cable can be easily routed along the hub axle.

According to a twenty-ninth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to the twenty-seventh aspect or the twenty-eighth aspect further includes a power generator provided in the hub body and configured to generate power by rotation of the hub body, and an electric component electrically connected to the power generator.

With the hub according to the twenty-ninth aspect, electric power can be generated by the rotation of the hub main body and supplied to the electric component.

According to a thirtieth aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to any one of the eighteenth to twenty-sixth aspects further includes a power generator provided in the hub main body and configured to generate power by rotation of the hub main body.

With the hub according to the thirtieth aspect, electric power can be generated by the rotation of the hub main body.

In accordance with a thirty-first aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to the thirtieth aspect further includes a cable electrically connected to the power generator and axially passing through a space between the fixing member and the hub axle.

With the hub according to the thirty-first aspect, the cable can be electrically connected to the electric power generator without interfering with the rotation of the sprocket supporting structure or the hub main body.

In accordance with a thirty-second aspect of the present disclosure, the hub according to the thirty-first aspect is configured so that the hub axle includes a groove, and the cable is accommodated in the groove.

With the hub according to the thirty-second aspect, the electric cable can be easily routed along the hub axle.

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

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Reference is now made to the accompanying drawings which form a part of this original disclosure:

1 is a side elevation view of a human-powered vehicle (eg, a bicycle) equipped with a bicycle component in the form of a hub according to a first embodiment.

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

3 is a longitudinal elevational view of the hub shown in FIG. 2 with the rear sprocket removed.

FIG. 4 is a longitudinal sectional view of the hub shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 .

5 is a perspective view of the hub shown in FIGS. 2 to 4 , with parts cut away to show an electric unit having a rotation detection sensor and a magnet provided to a sprocket support structure to detect rotation of the sprocket support structure;

FIG6 is a partially exploded perspective view of the hub shown in FIGS. 2 to 5 after the outer body of the sprocket support structure has been separated;

7 is a partially exploded perspective view of the hub shown in FIGS. 2 to 5 after the fixing member has been separated so that the inner body of the sprocket support structure can be removed;

FIG8 is a partially exploded perspective view of the hub shown in FIGS. 2 to 5 after the inner body of the sprocket support structure has been separated;

Fig. 9 is a partially exploded perspective view of the hub shown in Figs. 2 to 5 after the retainer has been separated so that the coupling body can be removed;

FIG10 is a partially exploded perspective view of the hub shown in FIGS. 2 to 5 after the coupling body has been separated;

11 is a perspective view of the inner body of the sprocket support structure attached to the coupling body by a fixing member;

12 is a longitudinal sectional view of the inner body attached to the coupling body by a fixing member as seen along section line 12-12 of FIG. 11;

FIG13 is an exploded perspective view of the inner body, the connecting body and the fixing member of the hub shown in FIGS. 2 to 5 ;

14 is a lateral view of the hub shown in FIGS. 2 to 5 taken along section line 14-14 of FIG. 3 to show the connection between the coupling body and the hub body;

15 is a perspective view of the hub shown in FIGS. 2 to 5 taken along section line 15-15 of FIG. 3 to show the electric unit disposed in the hub body;

FIG16 is a perspective view of the hub shown in FIGS. 2 to 5 taken along section line 16-16 of FIG3 to show the electric components inside the hub;

17 is a first side perspective view of the electric unit of the hub shown in FIGS. 2 to 5 ;

18 is a second side perspective view of the electric unit shown in FIG. 17 of the hub shown in FIGS. 2 to 5 ;

19 is a partially exploded perspective view of the electric unit shown in FIGS. 17 and 18 of the hub shown in FIGS. 2 to 5 ;

FIG20 is a partially exploded perspective view of the electric unit shown in FIGS. 17 to 19 of the hub shown in FIGS. 2 to 5 ;

Fig. 21 is a longitudinal sectional view of a hub according to a second embodiment;

Fig. 22 is a longitudinal sectional view of a hub according to a third embodiment.

Detailed ways

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

Referring first to FIG. 1 , according to an illustrated embodiment, a hub 10 for a human-powered vehicle V is provided. Here, in the illustrated embodiment, the hub 10 is a hub generator provided to the human-powered vehicle V for providing power to one or more components of the human-powered vehicle V. However, the hub 10 is not limited to a hub generator. In particular, certain aspects of the hub 10 may be provided to a hub that does not generate power. Furthermore, although the hub 10 is shown as a rear hub, certain aspects of the hub 10 may be provided to a front hub. Therefore, the hub 10 is not limited to a rear hub.

Here, the human-powered vehicle V is an electric-assisted bicycle (E-bike). Alternatively, the human-powered vehicle V can be a road bicycle, a city bicycle, a cargo bicycle, a recumbent bicycle, or other types of non-road bicycles such as off-road bicycles. The number of wheels of the human-powered vehicle V is not limited. The human-powered vehicle V includes, for example, a unicycle and a vehicle with three or more wheels. Here, the human-powered vehicle V is a bicycle that at least partially uses human power as a driving force for traveling and includes an electric drive unit that assists human power. In particular, a vehicle that uses only an internal combustion engine as a driving force is not included in the human-powered vehicle of the present disclosure. In any case, in the illustrated embodiment, the hub 10 is an example of a bicycle component.

As shown in FIG. 1 , the human-powered vehicle V includes a vehicle body VB supported by a rear wheel RW and a front wheel FW. The vehicle body VB basically includes a front frame body FB and a rear frame body RB (swing arm). The vehicle body VB is also provided with a handlebar H and a front fork FF for steering the front wheel FW. The rear frame body RB is swingably mounted to the rear of the front frame body FB so that the rear frame body RB can pivot relative to the front frame body FB. The rear wheel RW is mounted to the rear end of the rear frame body RB. The rear shock absorber RS is operably disposed between the front frame body FB and the rear frame body RB. The rear shock absorber RS is disposed between the front frame body FB and the rear frame body RB to control the movement of the rear frame body RB relative to the front frame body FB. That is, the rear shock absorber RS absorbs the vibration transmitted from the rear wheel RW. The rear wheel RW is rotatably mounted to the rear frame body RB. The front wheel FW is mounted to the front frame body FB via the front fork FF. That is, the front wheel FW is mounted to the lower end of the front fork FF. A height-adjustable seat post ASP is mounted to the seat tube of the front frame body FB in a conventional manner and supports a bicycle seat or saddle S in any suitable manner. A front fork FF is pivotally mounted to the head tube of the front frame body FB. A handlebar H is mounted to the upper end of the steering column or steering tube of the front fork FF. The front fork FF absorbs shocks transmitted from the front wheel FW. Preferably, the rear shock absorber RS and the front fork FF are electrically adjustable suspensions. For example, the stiffness and/or stroke length of the rear shock absorber RS and the front fork FF may be adjustable.

The human-powered vehicle V also includes a powertrain DT and an electric drive unit DU operably connected to the powertrain DT. Here, for example, the powertrain DT is a chain drive type including a crank C, a front sprocket FS, a plurality of rear sprockets CS, and a chain CN. The crank C includes a crankshaft CA1 and a pair of crank arms CA2. The crankshaft CA1 is rotatably supported to the front frame body FB via the electric drive unit DU. The crank arms CA2 are provided at both ends of the crankshaft CA1. The pedal PD is rotatably connected to the distal end of each crank arm CA2. The powertrain DT can be selected from any type and can be a belt drive type or a shaft drive type.

The electric drive unit DU has an electric motor that provides a driving assist force to the front sprocket FS. The electric drive unit DU can be actuated in a conventional manner to assist the propulsion of the human-powered vehicle V. For example, the electric drive unit DU is actuated according to the human-powered driving force applied to the pedal PD. The electric drive unit DU is actuated by the power provided by the main battery pack BP mounted on the down tube of the human-powered vehicle V. The main battery pack BP can provide power to other vehicle components, such as the rear derailleur RD, the height-adjustable seat post ASP, the rear shock absorber RS, the front fork FF, and any other vehicle components that use electricity.

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

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

The structure of the hub 10 will now be described in detail with reference to Figures 2 to 5. The hub 10 basically includes a hub axle 12 and a hub body 14. The hub axle 12 has a center axis A1. The hub axle 12 is configured to be non-rotatably attached to the vehicle body VB. The hub axle 12 is configured to be non-rotatably attached to the rear frame body RB. The hub body 14 is rotatably arranged around the center axis A1. In other words, the hub body 14 is rotatably mounted around the hub axle 12.

As shown in Figures 2 to 4, the hub axle 12 is a rigid member made of a suitable material such as a metal material. Here, the hub axle 12 is a tubular member. The hub axle 12 can be a one-piece member or made of several pieces. Here, the hub axle 12 includes a main body 12a and an end piece 12b. The end piece 12b is threadedly mounted to the first end of the main body 12a (the right side in Figures 2 to 4). In this way, as shown in Figure 2, the second end of the main body 12a (the left side in Figures 2 to 4) and the end piece 12b are received in the mounting opening of the rear frame body RB. The second end of the main body 12a and the end piece 12b are received in the mounting opening of the vehicle body VB. Here, the hub axle 12 also includes a rotation limiting member 12c connected to the main body 12a by the end piece 12b. The rotation limiting member 12c engages with the vehicle body VB. The rotation limiting member 12c engages with the rear frame body RB, thereby limiting the rotation of the hub axle 12 relative to the rear frame body RB.

Here, as shown in FIG. 2 , the hub 10 further includes a wheel holding mechanism 16 for fixing the hub axle 12 of the hub 10 to the rear frame body RB. The wheel holding mechanism 16 basically includes an axle or skewer 16a, a cam body 16b, a cam rod 16c, and an adjustment nut 16d. The cam rod 16c is attached to one end of the skewer 16a via the cam body 16b, and the adjustment nut 16d is threadedly engaged at the other end of the skewer 16a. The cam rod 16c is attached to the cam body 16b. The cam body 16b is coupled between the skewer 16a and the cam rod 16c to move the skewer 16a relative to the cam body 16b. Therefore, the cam rod 16c is operated to move the skewer 16a in the axial direction of the center axis A1 relative to the cam body 16b to change the distance between the cam body 16b and the adjustment nut 16d. Preferably, a compression spring is provided at each end of the skewer 16a. Alternatively, the hub axle 12 may be non-rotatably attached to the rear frame body RB by other attachment structures as needed and/or desired.

As shown in Figures 1 and 5, the hub body 14 is rotatably mounted around the hub axle 12 to rotate along the drive rotation direction D1. The drive rotation direction D1 corresponds to the forward drive direction of the rear wheel RW. The hub body 14 is configured to support the rear wheel RW in a conventional manner. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the hub body 14 includes a first outer flange 14a and a second outer flange 14b. The first outer flange 14a and the second outer flange 14b extend radially outward relative to the center axis A1. The first outer flange 14a and the second outer flange 14b are configured to receive a plurality of spokes (Figure 1) for attaching the rim (Figure 1) of the rear wheel RW to the hub body 14. In this way, the hub body 14 and the rear wheel RW are coupled to rotate together around the center axis A1.

Here, the hub 10 also includes a sprocket support structure 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the sprocket support structure 18 supports the rear sprocket CS, as shown in FIG2 . The sprocket support structure 18 is rotatably arranged around a center axis A1 to transmit a driving force to the hub body 14. In particular, the sprocket support structure 18 transmits a driving force to the hub body 14 when rotating around the center axis A1 in a driving rotation direction D1. As described below, the sprocket support structure 18 does not transmit a driving force to the hub body 14 while rotating around the center axis A1 in a non-driving rotation direction D2. The non-driving rotation direction D2 is opposite to the driving rotation direction D1 relative to the center axis A1. The central rotation axis of the sprocket support structure 18 is arranged concentrically with the center axis A1 of the hub shaft 12.

Although the sprocket support structure 18 is configured to non-rotatably support the rear sprocket CS, the sprocket support structure 18 is not limited to the illustrated embodiment. Alternatively, one or more of the rear sprockets CS may be integrally formed with the sprocket support structure 18. In any case, the sprocket support structure 18 and the rear sprocket CS are coupled together to rotate together in the first rotation direction D1 and the second rotation direction D2.

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the hub 10 further includes an electric component 20, which is disposed in the hub body 14 and is located between the hub axle 12 and the hub body 14 in a radial direction relative to the center axis A1. Here, the electric component 20 is disposed in an electric unit EU that is non-rotatable relative to the hub axle 12. Therefore, when the hub body 14 rotates relative to the hub axle 12, the electric component 20 remains stationary. The hub 10 further includes a cable 22 electrically connected to the electric component 20. The cable 22 axially passes through the space between the sprocket support structure 18 and the hub axle 12. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the hub axle 12 includes a groove 12d. Thus, the cable 22 is accommodated in the groove 12d. The cable 22 extends out of the hub 10 and is electrically connected to another electric component of the human-powered vehicle V, such as a rear derailleur RD, a battery pack BP, or an electric connector. As explained later, the cable 22 can provide the power generated by the hub 10 to the rear derailleur RD, the battery pack BP, or another electric component.

As shown in FIG. 4 , the hub 10 further includes an electric power generator 24 disposed in the hub body 14. More specifically, the electric power generator 24 is disposed in the hub body 14, between the hub axle 12 and the center portion of the hub body 14. The electric power generator 24 is configured to generate electric power by rotation of the hub body 14. The electric component 20 is electrically connected to the electric power generator 24. The hub 10 further includes an electric cable 26 electrically connected to the electric power generator 24. The cable 26 is also electrically connected to the electric component 20. In this way, the cable 26 electrically connects the electric component 20 to the electric power generator 24, so that the electric component 20 can receive electric power from the electric power generator 24. The cable 26 is also electrically connected to the cable 22 that axially passes through the space between the sprocket support structure 18 and the hub axle 12.

The power generator 24 basically includes an armature 28 (i.e., a stator in the illustrated embodiment) and a magnet 30 (i.e., a rotor in the illustrated embodiment). Although the armature 28 is illustrated as being fixed relative to the hub axle 12 and the magnet 30 is illustrated as being fixed relative to the hub body 14, the armature 28 may be fixed relative to the hub body 14 and the magnet 30 may be fixed relative to the hub axle 12. The armature 28 includes a first yoke 28A, a second yoke 28B, and a coil 28C. The first yoke 28A includes two or more first yoke pieces arranged in the circumferential direction of the hub axle 12. Similarly, the second yoke 28B includes two or more second yoke pieces arranged in the circumferential direction of the hub axle 12, alternating with the first yoke pieces of the first yoke 28A. The coil 28C is located between the first yoke 28A and the second yoke 28B. The magnet 30 includes a plurality of first magnet portions 30A and a plurality of second magnet portions 30B arranged inside the tubular support 32. The tubular support 32 is fixedly coupled to the interior of the hub body 14 so that the magnet 30 and the hub body 14 rotate together around the hub shaft 12. The first magnet portion 30A and the second magnet portion 30B are arranged so that the S poles and the N poles of the first magnet portion 30A and the second magnet portion 30B are alternately arranged in the circumferential direction of the hub shaft 12. Therefore, in the axial direction of the shaft member 12, the S pole of the first magnet portion 30A is not aligned with the S pole of the second magnet portion 30B, and the N pole of the first magnet portion 30A is not aligned with the N pole of the second magnet portion 30B.

In the illustrated embodiment, the hub 10 also includes a detected portion 36 and a rotation detection sensor 38. Here, the detected portion 36 is provided to the sprocket support structure 18. In addition, the rotation detection sensor 38 is provided in the hub body 14. Specifically, here, the electric component 20 includes the rotation detection sensor 38. More specifically, the hub 10 also includes a circuit board 40 provided in the hub body 14. The circuit board 40 is located inside the electric unit EU. The rotation detection sensor 38 is provided on the circuit board 40. In this way, the circuit board 40 and the rotation detection sensor 38 are non-rotatable relative to the hub shaft 12. As shown in Figure 5, the rotation detection sensor 38 is provided in the hub body 14 at a position radially spaced outward from the hub shaft 12.

In the illustrated embodiment, the rotation detection sensor 38 includes a magnetic sensor 38a, and the detected portion 36 includes a magnet 36a. Therefore, the magnetic sensor 38a detects the movement of the magnet 36a that rotates with the sprocket support structure 18. In other words, through this arrangement, the rotation detection sensor 38 is configured to detect the detected portion 36 to detect the rotation of the sprocket support structure 18 around the central axis A1. Here, the magnet 36a of the detected portion 36 is an annular member with alternating S-pole segments and N-pole segments. In this way, the magnetic sensor 38a can detect the rotation amount and rotation direction of the sprocket support structure 18. The term "sensor" used here refers to a hardware device or instrument designed to detect the appearance or disappearance of a specific event, object, substance, or its environmental changes, and to send a response signal. The term "sensor" used here does not include people. As described below, the rotation detection sensor 38 receives power from the power generator 24.

The hub 10 also includes an electric controller 42 disposed on the circuit board 40. The electric controller 42 is configured to receive a detection signal from the rotation detection sensor 38. The electric controller 42 includes at least one processor that executes a predetermined control program. The at least one processor may be, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessing unit (MPU). The term "electric controller" used herein refers to hardware that executes a software program, excluding people. The electric controller 42 receives power from the power generator 24. The electric controller 42 is configured to control the power generated by the power generator 24. Here, the electric component 20 includes a first power storage device 44 and a second power storage device 46. The electric controller 42 is configured to control the storage of the power generated by the power generator 24 in the first power storage device 44 and the second power storage device 46. The first power storage device 44 and the second power storage device 46 are conventional power storage devices, such as rechargeable batteries, capacitors, etc. The electric controller 42 is configured to control the distribution of the power stored in the first power storage device 44 and the second power storage device 46 to other components. Therefore, the power generated by the power generator 24 may be stored and/or directly supplied to other components, such as the rotation detection sensor 38 , the rear derailleur RD, and the like.

Preferably, as shown in FIG. 5 , the hub 10 further includes a data storage device 48 disposed on the circuit board 40. The data storage device 48 stores various control programs and information for various control processes, including power generation control, power storage control, hub rotation detection control, and the like. The data storage device 48 includes any computer storage device or any non-temporary computer-readable medium, with the only exception of temporarily propagating signals. For example, the data storage device 48 includes a non-volatile memory and a volatile memory. The non-volatile memory includes, for example, at least one of a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), and a flash memory. The volatile memory includes, for example, a random access memory (RAM).

Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 6 to 8 , the sprocket support structure 18 will be discussed in more detail. The sprocket support structure 18 basically includes an outer body 50 and an inner body 52. The outer body 50 and the inner body 52 are tubular members coaxially arranged around the hub axle 12. The outer body 50 is configured to support at least one sprocket CS. Here, the outer body 50 has a plurality of axially extending splines 50a disposed on its outer peripheral surface for non-rotatably supporting the sprocket CS. The outer body 50 also has a plurality of axially extending ratchet teeth 50b disposed on its inner peripheral surface, which form a first portion of a one-way clutch. As described below, the inner body 52 is coupled to the hub body 14 to rotate therewith.

The sprocket support structure 18 also includes a plurality of pawls 54 and a biasing element 56. The plurality of pawls 54 and the biasing element 56 form a second portion of the one-way clutch. The pawls 54 are held to the inner body 52 by the biasing element 56 so that the pawls 54 are biased toward a direction of engagement with the ratchet teeth 50 b of the sprocket support structure 18. More specifically, here, the biasing element 56 includes a pair of split rings 56A and 56B, wherein the end portions of each split ring 56A, 56B overlap. The biasing element 56 is mounted around the inner body 52, and the pawls 54 are disposed between the biasing element 56 and the inner body 52. The biasing element 56 presses the pawls 54 against the inner body 52 so that the pawls 54 pivot toward a direction of engagement with the ratchet teeth 50 b of the sprocket support structure 18. In this way, the outer body 50 is coupled to the inner body 52 to rotate together about the central axis A1 in the driving rotation direction D1. Moreover, when the outer body 50 rotates in the non-driving rotational direction D2, the ratchet teeth 50b of the sprocket support structure 18 push the pawl 54 and pivot the pawl 54 to a retracted position abutting the inner body 52. Therefore, the outer body 50 is configured to rotate relative to the inner body 52 in the non-driving rotational direction D2 about the central axis A1. In this way, the outer body 50, the inner body 52, the pawl 54 and the biasing element 56 form a flywheel commonly used in bicycles. Since the basic operation of the flywheel is relatively conventional, the flywheel will not be discussed or illustrated in further detail.

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 7 , the hub 10 further includes a fixing member 60. Basically, the fixing member 60 holds the inner body 52 to the hub body 14. Specifically, the hub 10 further includes a coupling body 62. The coupling body 62 is coupled to the hub body 14. The coupling body 62 is non-rotatably coupled to the hub body 14, and the fixing member 60 attaches the inner body 52 to the coupling body 62. In this way, the inner body 52 is non-rotatably coupled to the hub body 14. Here, in the illustrated embodiment, the hub 10 further includes a retainer 64 that is removably coupled to the hub body 14. The retainer 64 holds the coupling body 62 to the hub body 14. Therefore, the inner body 52 is coupled to the hub body 14 via the coupling body 62 to rotate therewith. In other words, the hub body 14, the inner body 52, and the coupling body 62 are configured to rotate together. Therefore, the input torque to the outer body 50 of the sprocket support structure 18 is transmitted to the hub body 14 via the inner body 52 and the coupling body 62.

Basically, the fixing member 60 is a tubular member having a first end portion 60a and a second end portion 60b. The first end portion 60a abuts against the inner body 52. The second end portion 60b is connected to the connecting body 62. More specifically, the second end portion 60b has an external thread 60b1 for attaching the connecting body 62 to the fixing member 60. The connecting body 62 holds the inner body 52 in the axial direction. The connecting body 62 prevents the inner body 52 from moving toward the second end portion 60b of the fixing member 60. In this way, the inner body 52 is axially held between the contact surface 60a1 of the connecting body 62 and the fixing member 60. Here, a washer 66 is provided between the inner body 52 and the connecting body 62. Preferably, the fixing member 60 has an annular inner surface 60c. In order to attach the fixing member 60 to the connecting body 62, the fixing member 60 has a tool engagement portion 60d. Here, the fixing annular inner surface 60c includes the tool engagement portion 60d. Therefore, the fixing member 60 constitutes a tubular fixing bolt. The external thread 60 b 1 of the fixing member 60 is screwed into the internal thread 62 b 1 of the coupling body 62 .

The coupling body 62 will now be discussed in more detail. The coupling body 62 includes an outer peripheral portion 62a and an inner peripheral portion 62b. The outer peripheral portion 62a is coupled to the hub body 14, and the inner peripheral portion 62b is located radially inward of the outer peripheral portion 62a relative to the radial direction of the center axis A1. Here, the outer peripheral portion 62a of the coupling body 62 includes a first coupling structure 62a1 having at least one of a spline and a groove. Preferably, as in the illustrated embodiment, the first coupling structure 62a1 has a plurality of splines and a plurality of grooves alternating in the circumferential direction. The hub body 14 includes a second coupling structure 14c having at least one of a spline and a groove. Preferably, as in the illustrated embodiment, the second coupling structure 14c has a plurality of splines and a plurality of grooves alternating in the circumferential direction. In this way, the first coupling structure 62a1 cooperates with the second coupling structure 14c to non-rotatably couple the coupling body 62 to the hub body 14.

When the coupling body 62 is non-rotatably coupled to the hub body 14, the coupling body 62 is disposed between the rotation detection sensor 38 and the detected portion 36. More specifically, the coupling body 62 is disposed between the magnetic sensor 38a and the detected portion 36. The coupling body 62 is at least partially made of a non-magnetic material or has an opening. For example, non-magnetic materials include austenitic stainless steel, high manganese steel, high nickel alloy, aluminum, and copper. Non-magnetic materials allow magnetic lines of force to pass through. Here, as shown in Figure 5, the coupling body 62 is made of non-magnetic materials such as hard resin materials and aluminum alloys. Therefore, the magnetic force of the detected portion 36 passes through the coupling body 62 and reaches the rotation detection sensor 38.

As described above, the fixing member 60 attaches the inner body 52 to the coupling body 62. Specifically, the second end portion 60b is coupled to the inner peripheral portion 62b of the coupling body 62. Thus, the inner body 52 is axially held between the inner peripheral portion 62b of the coupling body 62 and the contact surface 60a1 of the fixing member 60.

As described above, the retainer 64 is removably connected to the hub body 14 to retain the connecting body 62 to the hub body 14. Here, the retainer 64 has an external thread 64a, which is screwed into the internal thread 14d of the hub body 14. The retainer 64 has a contact surface 64b, which contacts the outer peripheral portion 62a of the connecting body 62 to retain the connecting body 62 to the hub body 14. On the other hand, the inner peripheral portion 62b of the connecting body 62 is threadedly connected to the fixing member 60. Specifically, the inner peripheral portion 62b of the connecting body 62 has an internal thread 62b1 that is threadedly engaged with the external thread 60b1 of the fixing member 60. In this way, the fixing member 60 is attached to the inner peripheral portion 62b of the connecting body 62. Therefore, the connecting body 62 and the retainer 64 are connected to the hub body 14 to rotate therewith.

Here, the inner body 52 includes a third coupling structure 52a having at least one of a spline and a groove. Preferably, as in the illustrated embodiment, the third coupling structure 52a has a plurality of splines and a plurality of grooves alternating in the circumferential direction. The coupling body 62 includes a fourth coupling structure 62b2 having at least one of a spline and a groove. Preferably, as in the illustrated embodiment, the fourth coupling structure 62b2 has a plurality of splines and a plurality of grooves alternating in the circumferential direction. In this way, the third coupling structure 52a cooperates with the fourth coupling structure 62b2 to non-rotatably couple the inner body 52 to the coupling body 62.

Referring back to Figures 5, 10 and 14, the coupling body 62 has an annular groove 62c for accommodating the detected portion 36. The detected portion 36 includes a magnet 36a. As shown in Figure 5, the magnet 36a is non-rotatably coupled to the outer body 50 via a support ring 68. The support ring 68 is fixed to the outer body 50, for example, by press fit, threaded connection, adhesive or other suitable fastening methods. As shown in Figure 14, the magnet 36a is an annular member having alternating S-pole segments and N-pole segments.

Referring now to FIGS. 15 to 20 , the electric unit EU will now be discussed in more detail. Here, the electric component 20 includes a housing 70 and a cover 72. The housing 70 defines an internal space 74 having an annular shape. The cover 72 is attached (e.g., bonded) to the housing 70 to close the internal space 74 of the housing 70. Preferably, the housing 70 and the cover 72 are preferably made of a non-metallic material such as a resin material.

The shell 70 includes an inner peripheral portion 70a, an outer peripheral portion 70b and an end wall portion 70c. The inner peripheral portion 70a and the end wall portion 70c define a through hole 70d for receiving the hub shaft 12. The cover 72 is a plate having a central opening 72a for receiving the hub shaft 12. The end wall portion 70c of the shell 70 includes a plurality of keying protrusions 70e. The keying protrusions 70e are configured to engage openings in a fixing plate 76 that is keyed to the groove 12d of the hub shaft 12. The fixing plate 76 has a plate-like shape. The fixing plate 76 includes a plurality of openings corresponding to the plurality of keying protrusions 70e. In this way, the electric unit EU is prevented from rotating relative to the hub shaft 12. The fixing plate 76 is arranged between the power generator 24 and the electric unit EU in the axial direction.

Here, the housing 70 supports the circuit board 40, which in turn supports the rotation detection sensor 38, the electric controller 42, and the data storage device 48. The first power storage device 44 and the second power storage device 46 are supported to the end wall portion 70c. For example, the first power storage device 44 and the second power storage device 46 are bonded to the end wall portion 70c.

Referring now to FIG. 21 , a hub 110 according to a second embodiment is shown. Here, the only difference between the hub 10 and the hub 110 is the coupling body. Here, the hub 110 includes a coupling body 162 identical to the coupling body 62 of the hub 10, except that the coupling body 162 includes a plurality of openings 163. Therefore, the coupling body 162 may be made of a magnetically conductive material. In particular, the coupling body 162 may be made of a ferromagnetic material. The ferromagnetic material has a shielding effect. The ferromagnetic material includes, for example, nickel, cobalt, and iron. The coupling body 162 rotates around the hub shaft 12. Therefore, it is preferred that the plurality of openings 163 are arranged in a circumferential direction relative to the center axis A1. Therefore, the magnetic force of the detected portion 36 is cut off at the coupling body 162, but it passes through the plurality of openings 163 and reaches the rotation detection sensor 38. In view of the similarity between the first and second embodiments, the components of the second embodiment identical to the components of the first embodiment will be given the same reference numerals as the components of the first embodiment. In addition, for the sake of brevity, the description of the components of the second embodiment identical to the components of the first embodiment may be omitted.

Referring now to FIG. 22 , a hub 210 according to a third embodiment is shown. Here, the only difference between the hub 10 and the hub 210 is the coupling body, the detected portion, and the rotation detection sensor. Here, the hub 210 includes a detected portion 236 and a rotation detection sensor 238. The detected portion 236 includes a reflective member 236a. For example, the reflective member 236a may be a reflective metal washer or a non-metallic washer with a reflective coating. The rotation detection sensor 238 includes an optical sensor 238a. The rotation detection sensor 238 also includes a light source 238b (e.g., an LED) that outputs light detected by the optical sensor 238a.

Here, in the third embodiment, the hub 210 includes a coupling body 262 that is at least partially made of a transparent material or has an opening. Here, the coupling body 262 includes a plurality of openings 263. These openings 263 may be provided with a transparent material or may not contain any material. In either case, the coupling body 262 is disposed between the optical sensor and the detected portion 236. In any case, the size and position of the opening 263 are designed so that the light emitted by the light source 238b passes through the opening 263, and is reflected back by the reflective member 236a through the opening 263, and is detected by the optical sensor 238a. The coupling body 262 rotates around the hub shaft 12. Therefore, it is preferred that a plurality of openings 263 are arranged in a circumferential direction relative to the central axis A1. Therefore, even if the coupling body 262 does not allow light to pass through, the light emitted from the rotation detection sensor 238 also passes through a plurality of openings 263, is reflected by the detected portion 236, and returns to the rotation detection sensor 238.

In view of the similarity between the first and third embodiments, the parts of the third embodiment that are identical to the parts of the first embodiment will be given the same reference numerals as the parts of the first embodiment. Moreover, the descriptions of the parts of the third embodiment that are identical to the parts of the first embodiment may be omitted for the sake of brevity.

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

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

As used in the present disclosure, the phrase "at least one" means "one or more" of the desired options. For example, if the number of its options is two, the phrase "at least one" used in the present disclosure means "only a single option" or "both of the two options". For another example, if the number of its options is equal to or more than three, the phrase "at least one" used in the present disclosure means "only a single option" or "any combination of equal to or more than two options". In addition, the term "and/or" used in the present disclosure means "one or both of them".

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

As used herein, the terms "attached to" or "attached" encompass configurations where an element is directly secured to another element by adhering it directly to the other element; where an element is indirectly secured to the other element by adhering it to an intermediate component; and where one element is integral with the other element, i.e., one element is substantially a part of the other element. This definition also applies to words with similar meanings, such as "engage," "connect," "couple," "mount," "bond," "fix," and their derivatives. Finally, terms such as "substantially," "approximately," and "approximately" as used herein refer to a reasonable amount of deviation of the term to which the term is applied such that the end result is not significantly changed.

Although only selected embodiments have been selected to illustrate the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made herein from this disclosure without departing from the scope of the present invention and without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, unless otherwise specifically stated, the size, shape, position or orientation of various components may be changed as needed and/or desired, as long as these changes do not substantially affect their intended functions. Unless otherwise specifically stated, components shown as being directly connected or in contact with each other may have intermediate structures disposed therebetween, as long as these changes do not substantially affect their intended functions. The function of an element may be performed by two, and vice versa, unless otherwise specifically stated. The structure and function of one embodiment may be adopted in another embodiment. It is not necessary that all advantages exist simultaneously in a particular embodiment. Each feature unique to the prior art, alone or in combination with other features, should also be considered as a separate description of the applicant's further invention, including the structural and/or functional concepts embodied by such features. Therefore, the foregoing description of the embodiments provided in accordance with the present invention is provided for illustration only and is not intended to limit the present invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims (17)

1. A hub for a human-powered vehicle, the hub comprising: A hub axle having a central axis; A hub body is rotatably arranged around the central axis; a sprocket support structure rotatably disposed about the central axis to transmit a driving force to the hub body when rotating about the central axis in a driving rotation direction, and not to transmit a driving force to the hub body when rotating about the central axis in a non-driving rotation direction, wherein the non-driving rotation direction is opposite to the driving rotation direction with respect to the central axis; a detected portion, provided to the sprocket supporting structure; and A rotation detection sensor is configured to detect the detected portion to detect the rotation of the sprocket support structure around the central axis, and the rotation detection sensor is provided in the hub body. 2. The hub according to claim 1, wherein The rotation detection sensor includes a magnetic sensor, and The detected portion includes a magnet. 3. The hub according to claim 2, further comprising A coupling body is coupled to the hub body and disposed between the magnetic sensor and the detected portion, wherein the coupling body is at least partially made of a non-magnetic material or has an opening. 4. The hub according to claim 1, wherein The rotation detection sensor includes an optical sensor, and The detected portion includes a reflective member. 5. The hub according to claim 4, further comprising A coupling body is coupled to the hub body and disposed between the optical sensor and the detected portion, wherein the coupling body is at least partially made of a transparent material or has an opening. 6. The hub according to claim 1, wherein The sprocket support structure includes an outer body configured to support at least one sprocket and an inner body coupled to the hub body to rotate therewith, and The outer body is coupled to the inner body for rotation together about the central axis in the driving rotation direction and is configured to rotate relative to the inner body about the central axis in the non-driving rotation direction. 7. The hub according to claim 6, further comprising A coupling body is coupled to the hub body and the inner body and is provided between the rotation detection sensor and the detected portion. 8. The hub according to claim 1, further comprising a circuit board disposed in the hub body, and The rotation detection sensor is disposed on the circuit board. 9. The hub according to claim 8, further comprising The electric controller is disposed on the circuit board and is configured to receive the detection signal from the rotation detection sensor. 10. The hub according to claim 1, further comprising The electric component is provided in the hub body and is located between the hub axle and the hub body in a radial direction relative to the central axis. 11. The hub according to claim 10, wherein The electric component includes the rotation detection sensor. 12. The hub according to claim 10, further comprising A cable is electrically connected to the electric component and axially passes through a space between the sprocket support structure and the hub axle. 13. The hub according to claim 12, wherein The hub axle includes a groove, and The cable is received in the groove. 14. The hub according to claim 10, further comprising an electric power generator provided in the hub main body and configured to generate electric power by rotation of the hub main body, and The electric component is electrically connected to the electric power generator. 15. The hub according to claim 1, further comprising A power generator is provided in the hub main body and is configured to generate power through rotation of the hub main body. 16. The hub according to claim 15, further comprising A cable is electrically connected to the power generator and extends axially through a space between the sprocket support structure and the hub axle. 17. The hub according to claim 16, wherein The hub axle includes a groove, and The cable is received in the groove.