Saddle-ride type vehicle

Abstract

A saddle-riding vehicle (1) may include a motor control unit with heat protection measures. The saddle-riding vehicle can shorten the cable connected to the motor control unit while achieving efficient space utilization. The saddle-riding vehicle (1) includes an actuator (14), a motor control unit (15), cables, and a main wiring harness. The actuator (14) includes a clutch motor and / or a shift motor. The motor control unit (15) is attached to the frame that holds the main wiring harness such that the distance from the left and right center lines to the motor control unit (15) is greater than the distance from the left and right center lines to the branches of the motor control unit, and such that at least a portion of the motor control unit is located further rearward than the front fork (12) and further forward than the clutch motor and / or shift motor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a saddle-type vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] As is well known, saddle-riding vehicles, such as motorcycles, are equipped with a motor control unit to control various motors. For example, Patent Document 1 (hereinafter referred to as PTL 1) discloses a saddle-riding vehicle equipped with a motor control unit. In the saddle-riding vehicle according to PTL 1, the motor control unit electrically controls the transmission. Specifically, the motor control unit receives a shift detection signal sent in response to the operation of the shift lever. Based on the received shift detection signal, the motor control unit controls the clutch actuator and the shift actuator to change the gear of the transmission.

[0003] Reference List

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] PTL 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-077887 Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical issues

[0007] It is desirable to place the motor control unit, including electronic components, in a location less susceptible to thermal effects. For example, it is desirable to avoid placing the motor control unit in locations such as adjacent to the engine. In the saddle-type vehicle according to PTL 1, the motor control unit is located under the seat and away from the engine, which is positioned further forward than the seat. Therefore, the motor control unit is less susceptible to thermal effects.

[0008] Here, the transmission is located near the engine, and therefore the clutch actuator and shift actuator are inevitably located near the engine as well. If the motor control unit were located far from the engine and transmission, the cables connecting the motor control unit to the clutch actuator and shift actuator would have to be very long. The longer the cables, the higher the cost and the greater the weight.

[0009] In saddle-type vehicles, the area under the seat is used to store miscellaneous items or to house user-operated onboard equipment (such as onboard units for ETC systems). Therefore, it is desirable to provide as much space as possible under the seat.

[0010] The purpose of this invention is to provide a saddle-type vehicle that may include a motor control unit with heat protection measures, which can shorten the cable connected to the motor control unit and achieve efficient use of space.

[0011] Solution to the problem

[0012] The inventors of this invention have studied heat protection measures for the motor control unit. They believe that if the motor control unit can be properly cooled, it is unnecessary to position it sufficiently far from the engine, as is the case with saddle-riding vehicles like the PTL 1. One conceivable method for cooling the motor control unit is to utilize airflow. To allow the motor control unit to receive airflow, it needs to be positioned at the front of the saddle-riding vehicle. However, in the front of a saddle-riding vehicle, the headlight, front grille, front forks, etc., are located at or around the center of the vehicle's width. If the motor control unit is positioned directly behind these components, the airflow is less likely to impact it.

[0013] The inventors of this invention have investigated shortening the cable connected to the motor control unit. The motor control unit is connected to the clutch motor and / or shift motor via a cable. For example, the motor control unit controls the clutch motor, etc., based on input from a shift actuator. The cable length depends on the distance between the motor control unit and its connection destination.

[0014] Furthermore, the cables connected to the motor control unit are bundled into a main harness to improve assembly convenience. The cables bundled in the main harness branch off from the main harness near the motor control unit and connect to it. Generally, the main harness is fixed to the frame. The frame supports components positioned at the center of the vehicle's width direction; examples of these components include the engine, fuel tank, etc. Therefore, in many cases, the frame splits to the left and right from the head tube before extending rearward. The main harness is fixed to this frame and is thus positioned offset to the left or right relative to the vehicle's width direction. If the motor control unit is positioned at the center of the vehicle's width direction, the distance between the main harness and the motor control unit is large, resulting in a longer distance between the portion of the cable branching from the main harness and the motor control unit.

[0015] The inventors of this invention considered the efficient use of space. In saddle-riding vehicles, the crankshaft and transmission are generally housed in the crankcase. Examples of transmissions installed in saddle-riding vehicles include multi-stage transmissions and continuously variable transmissions (CVTs). Multi-stage transmissions are more complex in structure than CVTs. Therefore, a saddle-riding vehicle including a multi-stage transmission may have a larger crankcase than a saddle-riding vehicle including a CVT. The crankcase houses, for example, a starter motor, chain tensioner, thermostat for the cooling system, throttle valve, etc. Therefore, in saddle-riding vehicles, despite their narrow width, various components are still housed, resulting in limited luggage space. This is particularly pronounced in saddle-riding vehicles including multi-stage transmissions.

[0016] As described above, the inventors of this invention studied the configuration of a motor control unit that fully implements heat protection measures, shortens the cables connected to the motor control unit, and makes efficient use of space. As a result, the inventors of this invention conceived of the invention described in this application, which will be described below.

[0017] (1) The saddle-riding vehicle of the present invention includes: a body including a head tube and a frame, the frame extending rearward from the head tube in a top view, the frame being offset from the left and right center lines in a left-right direction, the left and right center lines extending in a front-rear direction and passing through the head tube; a front fork supported by the head tube; a multi-stage transmission including multiple gears; an actuator for changing the gears of the multi-stage transmission; the actuator including a clutch motor and / or a shift motor, the clutch motor being disposed further rearward than the head tube, the shift motor being disposed further rearward than the head tube; a motor control unit for controlling the clutch motor and / or the shift motor; a cable connecting the clutch motor to the clutch motor and / or the shift motor; and a main wiring harness bundling a middle section of the cable together with another cable. The motor control unit is attached to the frame that holds the main wiring harness such that: the distance from the left and right center lines to the motor control unit in the left-right direction is greater than the distance from the left and right center lines to the branch of the motor control unit in the left-right direction, the branch of the motor control unit being the portion of the cable that branches off from the main wiring harness at the end connected to the motor control unit; and at least a portion of the motor control unit is located further back than the front fork and further forward than the clutch motor and / or shift motor.

[0018] In the aforementioned saddle-type vehicle, the motor control unit is offset to the left or right relative to the center in the left-right direction, and is positioned further outward in the left-right direction than the motor control unit branch, where the cable branches off from the main harness. Examples of this configuration include a configuration where the main harness is attached to the inside of the frame while the motor control unit is attached to the outside of the frame. This configuration allows the motor control unit to receive airflow from the vehicle.

[0019] The motor control unit is attached to the frame that holds the main wiring harness and is located close to the main wiring harness. The motor control unit is positioned in the longitudinal direction between the front fork and the clutch motor (and / or shift motor). Therefore, for example, by arranging the shift lever connected to the motor control unit on the steering handlebar, the longitudinal distance between the motor control unit and the shift lever (which serves as the connection destination of the motor control unit), and the longitudinal distance between the motor control unit and the clutch motor (and / or shift motor) (which serves as the connection destination of the motor control unit), is shortened. This configuration reduces the cable length connected to the motor control unit.

[0020] Furthermore, in the aforementioned configuration, the motor control unit is not located in a space such as under the seat. This minimizes the impact of the motor control unit on the size of the storage space.

[0021] Therefore, the aforementioned saddle-type vehicle may include a motor control unit with heat protection measures, and the cable connected to the motor control unit can be shortened while achieving efficient use of space.

[0022] (2) The saddle-mounted vehicle according to (1) above may further include: a steering handle supported by a head tube; and a shift operator capable of changing the gears of a multi-speed transmission, the shift operator being disposed on the steering handle. The motor control unit may be attached to the frame holding the main wiring harness, such that at least a portion of the motor control unit is located lower than the shift operator and higher than the clutch motor and / or the shift motor.

[0023] In the saddle-type vehicle according to (2) above, the motor control unit is positioned vertically between the shift operator and the clutch motor (and / or shift motor). This shortens the vertical distance between the motor control unit and the shift operator (which serves as the connection destination of the motor control unit), as well as the vertical distance between the motor control unit and the clutch motor (and / or shift motor) (which serves as the connection destination of the motor control unit). Therefore, not only is the length of the cable shortened in the longitudinal direction, but its length in the vertical direction is also shortened. Thus, this saddle-type vehicle can include a motor control unit with heat protection measures, and the cable connected to the motor control unit can be further shortened while achieving efficient use of space.

[0024] (3) The saddle-riding vehicle according to (1) or (2) above may include two forks supported by a head tube, the two forks being positioned to the left and right relative to the left and right center lines. The motor control unit may be attached to the frame holding the main wiring harness such that, when the saddle-riding vehicle is in an upright and non-steering state, at least a portion of the motor control unit is located further outward in the left-right direction than the outer edge of either of the two forks.

[0025] In the saddle-riding vehicle according to (3) above, at least a portion of the motor control unit is located further to the left of the left front fork or further to the right of the right front fork. This allows the motor control unit to receive airflow during travel. Therefore, the saddle-riding vehicle can include a motor control unit with further improved heat protection measures, and can also shorten the cable connected to the motor control unit while achieving efficient use of space.

[0026] (4) The saddle-riding vehicle according to any one of (1) to (3) may further include a seat for the driver of the saddle-riding vehicle to sit on, the seat being attached to the vehicle body. The motor control unit may be attached to the frame that holds the main wiring harness, such that at least a portion of the motor control unit is located further rearward than the front fork and further forward than the clutch motor and / or shift motor, the clutch motor being positioned further forward than the seat and the shift motor being positioned further forward than the seat.

[0027] In a saddle-type vehicle, the seat near its front end has a narrowing width in the left-right direction and is constricted. The main wiring harness, for example, bundles cables connected to the rear indicator, taillights, etc. Therefore, the main wiring harness runs from the front of the vehicle, through the constricted section, and to the rear of the vehicle. In the saddle-type vehicle according to (4) above, the clutch motor (and / or shift motor) is positioned further forward than the seat, and therefore the cable connected to the motor control unit does not pass through the constricted section. The main wiring harness passing through the constricted section can be thinned, allowing for greater storage space under the seat. Therefore, this saddle-type vehicle can include a motor control unit with heat protection measures, and the cable connected to the motor control unit can be shortened, while achieving more efficient space utilization.

[0028] (5) In any of the above-mentioned saddle-type vehicles according to (1) to (4), the motor control unit may be attached to the frame that holds the main wiring harness, such that the length of the cable from the branch of the motor control unit to the motor control unit is less than the length of the cable from the branch of the motor control unit to the clutch motor and / or shift motor.

[0029] In the saddle-type vehicle according to (5) above, the distance between the motor control unit and the motor control unit branch is short, and therefore the motor control unit is located near the main wiring harness. Consequently, the section of the cable from the end of the cable (i.e., the motor control unit branch) to the motor control unit is short. Therefore, this saddle-type vehicle can have a heat-resistant motor control unit, and the cable connected to the motor control unit can be further shortened, while achieving efficient use of space.

[0030] (6) In any of the above-mentioned saddle-type vehicles according to (1) to (5), the motor control unit may be attached to the frame that holds the main wiring harness, such that the motor control unit is shifted to the left or right relative to the left and right center lines in the left and right directions of the saddle-type vehicle.

[0031] In the saddle-type vehicle according to (6) above, the motor control unit is configured to shift the center of gravity to the left or right relative to the left-right direction. Therefore, the saddle-type vehicle can include a motor control unit with further improved heat protection measures, and can also shorten the cable connected to the motor control unit while achieving efficient use of space.

[0032] (7) In any of the above-mentioned saddle-type vehicles according to any one of (1) to (6), the motor control unit may be attached to the frame that holds the main wiring harness, such that the area of ​​the motor control unit in the side view of the saddle-type vehicle is greater than the area of ​​the motor control unit in the front view and top view of the saddle-type vehicle.

[0033] In saddle-riding vehicles, various components such as the engine and drive system are positioned between the front fork and the clutch motor (and / or shift motor). On the other hand, there is a need for miniaturization of saddle-riding vehicles. For example, if the motor control unit is configured so that its largest surface faces vertically, the motor control unit protrudes significantly from the frame. In this respect, the saddle-riding vehicle according to (7) above includes a motor control unit positioned in a manner that limits its protrusion from the frame. Therefore, in addition to the effects described above, this saddle-riding vehicle can also suppress the increase in the size of the saddle-riding vehicle.

[0034] (8) In any of the above-described saddle-type vehicles according to (1) to (7), the frame may include a left frame and a right frame, the left frame being disposed on the left side relative to the left and right center lines, and the right frame being disposed on the right side relative to the left and right center lines. The motor control unit may be attached to the left frame holding the main wiring harness such that: the distance from the left and right center lines to the motor control unit in the left and right direction is greater than the distance from the left and right center lines to the branch of the motor control unit in the left and right direction; and at least a portion of the motor control unit is located further rearward than the front fork and further forward than the clutch motor and / or shift motor.

[0035] Generally, in saddle-riding vehicles, the brake lever and pedal are located on the right side of the vehicle. Therefore, it is desirable that the hydraulic power unit for controlling braking pressure is also located on the right side of the vehicle. In the saddle-riding vehicle according to (8) above, the motor control unit is located on the left side of the vehicle. Therefore, this allows space to be provided on the right side of the vehicle for arranging the hydraulic power unit. Thus, in addition to the effects described above, this saddle-riding vehicle also achieves the effect of making the braking system compact.

[0036] The following will provide an explanation of the structure and terminology of the present invention.

[0037] For example, a "saddle-riding vehicle" is a transportation device. For example, a saddle-riding vehicle is a vehicle driven by a person. For example, a saddle-riding vehicle is a type of vehicle in which the driver sits in a seat. For example, in a saddle-riding vehicle, the driver's left leg is located on the left side relative to the center of the saddle-riding vehicle in the left-right direction, and his / her right leg is located on the right side relative to the center of the saddle-riding vehicle in the left-right direction. For example, a saddle-riding vehicle is a motorcycle. Saddle-riding vehicles are not limited to motorcycles and can, for example, be motorized tricycles. For example, a saddle-riding vehicle has two or three wheels. For example, a saddle-riding vehicle has at least one front wheel and at least one rear wheel. There are no particular limitations on the type of saddle-riding vehicle, and examples include light-duty, off-road, and on-road types. A saddle-riding vehicle may have a cab. For example, a saddle-riding vehicle is an engine vehicle that runs solely on the power generated by an engine. For example, a saddle-riding vehicle can be a hybrid vehicle equipped with both an engine and an electric motor. For example, a saddle-riding vehicle can be an electric vehicle that runs solely on the electricity generated by an electric motor.

[0038] For example, the "frame" constitutes the skeleton of a saddle-riding vehicle. For example, the frame is made of metal tubing. For example, the frame includes at least the head tube and the main frame. For example, the main frame extends along the longitudinal direction of the saddle-riding vehicle in a top view. For example, the main frame may extend obliquely, or it may bend separately in the left-right, front-back, and up-down directions. For example, it is sufficient for the main frame to simply extend entirely along the longitudinal direction in a top view. For example, the main frame forks to the left and right relative to the left and right center lines in a top view and extends rearward. For example, the left and right center lines pass through the center of the upper end of the head tube in a top view. For example, the main frame supports the power storage unit. For example, the power storage unit is a fuel tank or battery.

[0039] For example, the frame may include a lower frame that is positioned lower than the main frame. For example, the lower frame may bifurcate to the left or right relative to the left and right center lines in a top view. For example, the lower frame may extend rearward and diagonally downward from the head tube. For example, the lower frame may include an engine support for supporting the engine.

[0040] For example, the frame may include a support frame that connects the main frame to the lower frame. For example, the support frame may connect to the main frame further forward than the clutch motor and / or shift motor. For example, the support frame may connect to the lower frame closer to the head tube than the engine mount.

[0041] For example, in a side view, the frame forms a motor control unit (MCU) configuration area defined by the head tube, main frame, underframe, and support frame. For example, the MCU is attached to the frame such that at least a portion of the MCU is located within the MCU configuration area in the side view. There are no particular limitations on the frame to which the MCU is attached. For example, the MCU may be attached to at least one of the main frame, underframe, or support frame.

[0042] The frame may include a seat frame for supporting the seat, which is positioned further back than the main frame.

[0043] For example, an "actuator" performs a gear shifting operation based on signals from a motor control unit. For example, the actuator constitutes an automatic or semi-automatic transmission. For example, the actuator may include both a clutch motor and a shift motor. For example, it is acceptable for the actuator to include a clutch motor but not a shift motor. For example, it is acceptable for the actuator to not include a clutch motor but include a shift motor. In short, for example, the actuator includes at least one of a clutch motor and a shift motor.

[0044] For example, a clutch motor performs clutch operation. For example, a clutch motor engages and disengages the clutch. For example, a clutch motor is configured such that at least a portion of the clutch motor is located further to the right than the left and right center lines. For example, a shift motor performs gear shifting operation. For example, a shift motor selects a gear in a multi-speed transmission. For example, a shift motor is configured such that at least a portion of the shift motor is located further to the left than the left and right center lines. For example, both the clutch motor and the shift motor may include a reduction gear. For example, an actuator is attached to the engine. The actuator may be located in the engine's crankcase. For example, the actuator may be attached to the vehicle frame.

[0045] For example, a "motor control unit" controls the actuator. For example, the motor control unit may be directly connected to the clutch motor and / or shift motor via a cable. For example, the motor control unit may be connected to the clutch motor and / or shift motor via a cable without inserting any other control unit. For example, another control unit may be a device including a processor, such as an electronic control unit (ECU). For example, the motor control unit may be connected to the clutch motor and / or shift motor via a cable with a relay connector. For example, the motor control unit may be directly connected to the shift operator via a cable. For example, the motor control unit responds to signals from the shift operator to instruct the actuator to change the gear position of a multi-speed transmission. For example, the motor control unit may be connected to an engine control unit or shift sensor for controlling the engine.

[0046] For example, the motor control unit is configured such that at least a portion of the motor control unit is positioned further forward than the multi-stage transmission. For example, the motor control unit is configured such that at least a portion of the motor control unit is positioned further forward than the engine. For example, the motor control unit is configured such that at least a portion of the motor control unit is positioned further forward than the maximum width position, where the frame has its maximum width in the lateral direction.

[0047] For example, the motor control unit is positioned further back than the range of motion of the front fork. For example, the motor control unit is configured such that at least a portion of the motor control unit is located further back than the head tube. For example, when the saddle-riding vehicle is upright and not steering, the motor control unit is configured such that at least a portion of the motor control unit is located further back than the steering handlebars. For example, when the saddle-riding vehicle is upright and not steering, the motor control unit is configured such that at least a portion of the motor control unit is located further back than the shift lever. For example, the motor control unit is configured such that at least a portion of the motor control unit is located further back than the front of the engine.

[0048] For example, the motor control unit is attached to the frame such that at least a portion of the motor control unit is located further outward in the left-right direction than the frame. For example, the motor control unit is configured such that at least a portion of the motor control unit is located further outward in the left-right direction than a branch of the motor control unit. For example, the motor control unit is configured such that at least a portion of the motor control unit is located further to the right than the left end of the engine crankcase. For example, the motor control unit is configured such that at least a portion of the motor control unit is located further to the right than the left end of the engine block.

[0049] For example, the motor control unit is positioned lower than the range of motion of the steering handlebars. For example, the motor control unit is configured such that at least a portion of the motor control unit is located lower than the power storage section. For example, the motor control unit is configured such that at least a portion of the motor control unit is located lower than the upper end of the fork. For example, the motor control unit is configured such that at least a portion of the motor control unit is located lower than the upper end of the head tube.

[0050] For example, the motor control unit is configured such that at least a portion of the motor control unit is located higher than the front wheel. For example, the motor control unit is configured such that at least a portion of the motor control unit is located higher than the lower end of the front fork. For example, the motor control unit is configured such that at least a portion of the motor control unit is located higher than the lower end of the head tube. For example, the motor control unit is configured such that at least a portion of the motor control unit is located higher than the upper end of the engine. For example, the motor control unit is configured such that at least a portion of the motor control unit is located higher than the engine support portion of the frame. For example, the engine support portion is the portion of the engine attached to the frame. For example, the frame includes multiple engine supports. For example, the motor control unit is configured such that at least a portion of the motor control unit is located higher than the uppermost of the multiple engine supports.

[0051] For example, the motor control unit has a box-like shape. For example, the motor control unit has a generally cuboid shape. For example, the motor control unit is disposed along the vehicle frame. For example, the motor control unit is configured such that its largest surface faces the left-right direction. For example, the motor control unit is configured such that at least a portion of its largest surface is visually visible in a side view. For example, the motor control unit includes a connector for cable connection. For example, the motor control unit is configured such that the connector is visually visible in a top view. For example, the motor control unit is configured such that the connector is visually visible in a front view.

[0052] For example, the motor control unit is housed in a retainer. For example, the motor control unit is attached to the frame by securing the retainer to the frame. For example, the motor control unit is configured such that at least a portion of the motor control unit is covered by a side shield. For example, the motor control unit is configured such that at least a portion of its outer surface is covered by a side shield in the left-right direction. For example, the motor control unit is configured such that at least a portion of its front surface is open to the outside in a front view.

[0053] The "main wiring harness" is constructed as a bundle of multiple cables. For example, these cables may include cables connecting to various electrical devices such as lighting fixtures and control units. For example, the main wiring harness may be thicker than the cables. For example, the main wiring harness may extend in the longitudinal direction of a seated vehicle. For example, the main wiring harness may pass through the retractable section of a seated vehicle. For example, the retractable section may be located at the front end of the seat. For example, the main wiring harness may be arranged inside the vehicle body. For example, the main wiring harness may be arranged further inward than the vehicle frame. For example, the main wiring harness may be held by the left frame or by the right frame.

[0054] For example, the "distance from the left and right center lines to the motor control unit in the left-right direction" is defined as the shortest distance from the left and right center lines to the motor control unit in the left-right direction. The same applies to the distance from the left and right center lines to the branches of the motor control unit in the left-right direction.

[0055] Invention Effects

[0056] This invention can provide a motor control unit with heat protection measures, and can shorten the cable connected to the motor control unit while achieving efficient use of space. Attached Figure Description

[0057] [ Figure 1 ] Figure 1 (A) is a left-side view of a saddle-type vehicle according to an embodiment, and Figure 1 (B) is a schematic top view showing the body structure of a saddle-type vehicle according to an embodiment.

[0058] [ Figure 2 ] Figure 2 This is a right-side view showing the body structure of a saddle-type vehicle according to an embodiment.

[0059] [ Figure 3 ] Figure 3 This is a left-side view showing the body structure of a saddle-type vehicle according to an embodiment.

[0060] [ Figure 4 ] Figure 4 This is a front view showing the body structure of a saddle-type vehicle according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0061] The saddle-type vehicle according to embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The embodiments described below are merely examples. The interpretation of the present invention should not be limited in any way to the embodiments described below. In the drawings, reference numerals F, B, U, D, L, and R respectively indicate forward, backward, up, down, left, and right.

[0062] Figure 1 (A) is a left-side view of a saddle-riding vehicle according to an embodiment. The saddle-riding vehicle 1 is a motorcycle. The saddle-riding vehicle 1 includes a frame 11, a front fork 12, a multi-stage transmission 13, an actuator 14, and a motor control unit 15.

[0063] Figure 1 (B) is a schematic top view illustrating the body structure of a saddle-type vehicle according to an embodiment. The body 11 includes a head tube 111 and a frame 112. The head tube 111 supports the steering handlebars in a steerable manner.

[0064] In the top view, the frame 112 extends rearward from the head tube 111. The frame 112 is offset in the left-right direction relative to the left-right center line CL, which extends in the front-rear direction and passes through the head tube 111. More specifically, the frame 112 includes a left frame 1121 and a right frame 1122, with the left frame 1121 offset to the left relative to the left-right center line CL and the right frame 1122 offset to the right relative to the left-right center line CL.

[0065] The front fork 12 is supported by the head tube 111 via a bracket. The front fork 12 extends vertically. The front fork 12 supports the front wheel (not shown).

[0066] Reference Figure 1 (A) The multi-stage transmission 13 includes multiple gears with different gear ratios. The multi-stage transmission 13 transmits power from the engine 21 to the drive wheels via a gear selected by the driver. The driver operates a shift lever 181, which is located on the steering handle 18, to select a gear in the multi-stage transmission 13. An actuator 14 changes the gear in the multi-stage transmission 13 in response to the driver's operation of the shift lever 181.

[0067] Reference Figure 1 (B) The actuator 14 includes a clutch motor 141 and a shift motor 142. Both the clutch motor 141 and the shift motor 142 are positioned further back than the head tube 111.

[0068] The motor control unit 15 controls the clutch motor 141 and the shift motor 142. The motor control unit 15 includes a processor, such as a central processing unit (CPU). The processor reads and executes one or more programs recorded in non-volatile memory, causing the motor control unit 15 to perform various controls.

[0069] The saddle-type vehicle 1 also includes a cable 16 and a main wiring harness 17. Cable 16 connects the motor control unit 15 to the clutch motor 141. Cable 16 connects the motor control unit 15 to the shift motor 142. In this embodiment, cable 16 connects the motor control unit 15 to the clutch motor 141 and the shift motor 142 via a relay 161. Relay 161 is connected to a battery (not shown). The motor control unit 15 controls the power supplied from the battery to the clutch motor 141 and the shift motor 142 by controlling relay 161. Cable 16 may have a relay connector disposed between the motor control unit 15 and the clutch 141. Cable 16 may have a relay connector disposed between the motor control unit 15 and the shift motor 142.

[0070] The main wiring harness 17 bundles the middle section of cable 16 together with other cables. More specifically, the main wiring harness 17 bundles the middle section of cable 16 from motor control unit 15 to relay 161 and the middle section of cable 16 from relay 161 to clutch motor 141 and shift motor 142. The main wiring harness 17 is held on the left frame 1121 by a retainer such as a cable tie.

[0071] The motor control unit 15 is attached to the left frame 1121 that holds the main wiring harness 17. The motor control unit 15 is configured to be offset to the left overall relative to the left and right center lines CL. Here, it is acceptable that the motor control unit 15 is partially offset to the left relative to the left and right center lines CL. The motor control unit 15 is configured such that the distance L1 from the left and right center lines CL to the motor control unit 15 in the left and right direction is greater than the distance L2 from the left and right center lines CL to the motor control unit branch 171 in the left and right direction. The motor control unit branch 171 is the portion of the cable from the main wiring harness 17 where the end 162 of the cable connected to the motor control unit 15 branches off.

[0072] The cable length from the motor control unit branch 171 to the motor control unit 15 is less than the cable length from the motor control unit branch 171 to the clutch motor 141. Here, the cable length from the motor control unit branch 171 to the clutch motor 141 is the sum of the cable lengths from the motor control unit branch 171 to the relay 161 and from the relay 161 to the clutch motor 141. It is acceptable that the cable length from the motor control unit branch 171 to the motor control unit 15 is equal to or greater than the cable length from the motor control unit branch 171 to the clutch motor 141.

[0073] The cable length from the motor control unit branch 171 to the motor control unit 15 is less than the cable length from the motor control unit branch 171 to the shift motor 142. Here, the cable length from the motor control unit branch 171 to the shift motor 142 is the sum of the cable lengths from the motor control unit branch 171 to the relay 161 and from the relay 161 to the shift motor 142. It is acceptable that the cable length from the motor control unit branch 171 to the motor control unit 15 is equal to or greater than the cable length from the motor control unit branch 171 to the shift motor 142.

[0074] Figure 2This is a right-side view showing the body structure of a saddle-type vehicle according to an embodiment. The clutch motor 141 is positioned higher than the multi-stage transmission 13. The clutch motor 141 is configured such that at least a portion of the clutch motor 141 is located further to the right than the left and right center lines. The clutch motor 141 is positioned further forward than the driver's seat 20. The saddle-type vehicle 1 also includes another control unit 19 attached to the right frame 1122. Without particular limitation, the other control unit 19 may be, for example, a group control unit, etc.

[0075] Figure 3 This is a left-side view showing the body structure of the saddle-type vehicle according to this embodiment. The shift motor 142 is positioned higher than the multi-stage transmission 13. The shift motor 142 is configured such that at least a portion of the shift motor 142 is located further to the left than the left-right centerline. The shift motor 142 is positioned further forward than the seat 20. Here, it is acceptable that the clutch motor 141 and the shift motor 142 are configured such that at least a portion of the clutch motor 141 and the shift motor 142 are located further forward than the seat 20. The motor control unit 15 is attached to the left frame 1121 such that at least a portion of the motor control unit 15 is located further rearward than the front fork 12 and further forward than the clutch motor 141 and the shift motor 142.

[0076] More specifically, the left frame 1121 includes a main frame 1122, a lower frame 1123, and a support frame 1124. The motor control unit 15 is attached to the left frame 1121 such that at least a portion of the motor control unit 15 is located in a motor control unit configuration area defined by the head tube 111, the main frame 1122, the lower frame 1123, and the support frame 1124.

[0077] The motor control unit 15 is attached to the left frame 1121 such that at least a portion of the motor control unit 15 is located lower than the shift operator 181. The motor control unit 15 is also attached to the left frame 1121 such that at least a portion of the motor control unit 15 is located higher than the clutch motor 141 and the shift motor 142. Here, it is acceptable that the motor control unit 15 is attached to the left frame 1121 such that at least a portion of the motor control unit 15 is located lower than the clutch motor 141 and the shift motor 142.

[0078] The motor control unit 15 has a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape. The motor control unit 15 is attached to the left frame 1121 such that the area of ​​the motor control unit in the side view is larger than the area of ​​the motor control unit in the front and top views of the saddle-type vehicle.

[0079] Figure 4This is a front view showing the chassis structure of the saddle-riding vehicle according to this embodiment. In the figure, the saddle-riding vehicle 1 is in an upright and non-steering state. The motor control unit 15 is attached to the left frame 1121 such that at least a portion of the motor control unit 15 is located further to the left in the left-right direction than the left edge 1211 of the left front fork 121. Here, it is acceptable that the motor control unit 15 is attached to the right frame 1122 such that at least a portion of the motor control unit 15 is located further to the right in the left-right direction than the right edge 1221 of the right front fork 122.

[0080] List of reference numerals

[0081] 1: Saddle-type vehicles

[0082] 11: Vehicle body

[0083] 111: Head tube

[0084] 112: Chassis

[0085] 1121: Left frame

[0086] 1122: Right frame

[0087] 12: Front fork

[0088] 121: Left front fork

[0089] 122: Right front fork

[0090] 13: Multi-stage transmission

[0091] 14: Implementing agency

[0092] 141: Clutch motor

[0093] 142: Shift motor

[0094] 15: Motor control unit

[0095] 16: Cable

[0096] 161: Relay

[0097] 162: The end of the cable that connects to the motor control unit.

[0098] 17: Main harness

[0099] 171: Motor control unit branch

[0100] 18: Steering handle

[0101] 181: Gear Shifter

[0102] 19: Another control unit

[0103] 20: Seats

[0104] 21: Engine

[0105] CL: Left and right center lines

[0106] L1: Distance in the left-right direction from the left and right center lines to the motor control unit.

[0107] L2: Distance in the left-right direction from the left and right center lines to the motor control unit branch.

Claims

1. A saddle-type vehicle (1), comprising: The vehicle body (11) includes a head tube (111) and a frame (112), which in a top view extends rearward from the head tube (111) and is configured to be offset from the left-right center line (CL) in the left-right direction, which extends in the front-back direction and passes through the head tube (111). The fork (12) is supported by the head tube (111); A multi-speed transmission (13) that includes multiple gears; An actuator (14) for changing the gear of the multi-stage transmission (13) includes a clutch motor (141) and / or a shift motor (142), wherein the clutch motor (141) is positioned further back than the head tube (111) and the shift motor (142) is positioned further back than the head tube (111); The motor control unit (15) is configured to control the clutch motor (141) and / or the shift motor (142). Cable (16), which connects the clutch motor (141) to the clutch motor (141) and / or the shift motor (142); and The main cable harness (17) bundles the middle section of the cable (16) together with another cable. The motor control unit (15) is attached to the frame (112) that holds the main wiring harness (17), such that The distance from the left and right center lines (CL) to the motor control unit (15) in the left-right direction is greater than the distance from the left and right center lines (CL) to the motor control unit branch (171) in the left-right direction. The motor control unit branch (171) is the portion of the cable (16) that branches off from the main cable harness (17) at the end (162) of the cable (16) connected to the motor control unit (15). At least a portion of the motor control unit (15) is located further back than the fork (12) and further forward than the clutch motor (141) and / or the shift motor (142).

2. The saddle-type vehicle (1) according to claim 1 further includes: Steering handle (18), which is supported by the head tube (111); and A shift operator (181) capable of changing the gears of the multi-speed transmission (13) is disposed on the steering handle (18), wherein, The motor control unit (15) is attached to the frame (112) that holds the main wiring harness (17) such that at least a portion of the motor control unit (15) is located lower than the shift operator (181) and higher than the clutch motor (141) and / or the shift motor (142).

3. The saddle-type vehicle (1) according to claim 1, comprising two front forks (121, 122) supported by the head tube (111), the two front forks (121, 122) being positioned to the left and right relative to the left and right center lines (CL), wherein, The motor control unit (15) is attached to the frame (112) that holds the main wiring harness (17) such that when the saddle-riding vehicle (1) is in an upright and non-steering state, at least a portion of the motor control unit (15) is located in the left-right direction further outward than the outer edge of either of the two front forks (121, 122).

4. The saddle-type vehicle (1) according to claim 2, comprising two front forks (121, 122) supported by the head tube (111), the two front forks (121, 122) being positioned to the left and right relative to the left and right center lines (CL), wherein, The motor control unit (15) is attached to the frame (112) that holds the main wiring harness (17) such that when the saddle-riding vehicle (1) is in an upright and non-steering state, at least a portion of the motor control unit (15) is located in the left-right direction further outward than the outer edge of either of the two front forks (121, 122).

5. The saddle-type vehicle (1) according to claim 1 further includes a seat (20) for the driver of the saddle-type vehicle (1) to sit on, the seat (20) being attached to the vehicle body (11), wherein, The motor control unit (15) is attached to the frame (112) that holds the main wiring harness (17) such that at least a portion of the motor control unit (15) is located further back than the front fork (12) and further forward than the clutch motor (141) and / or the shift motor (142), the clutch motor (141) being positioned further forward than the seat (20) and the shift motor (142) being positioned further forward than the seat (20).

6. The saddle-type vehicle (1) according to claim 2 further includes a seat (20) for the driver of the saddle-type vehicle (1) to sit on, the seat (20) being attached to the vehicle body (11), wherein, The motor control unit (15) is attached to the frame (112) that holds the main wiring harness (17) such that at least a portion of the motor control unit (15) is located further back than the front fork (12) and further forward than the clutch motor (141) and / or the shift motor (142), the clutch motor (141) being positioned further forward than the seat (20) and the shift motor (142) being positioned further forward than the seat (20).

7. The saddle-type vehicle (1) according to claim 3 further includes a seat (20) for the driver of the saddle-type vehicle (1) to sit on, the seat (20) being attached to the vehicle body (11), wherein, The motor control unit (15) is attached to the frame (112) that holds the main wiring harness (17) such that at least a portion of the motor control unit (15) is located further back than the front fork (12) and further forward than the clutch motor (141) and / or the shift motor (142), the clutch motor (141) being positioned further forward than the seat (20) and the shift motor (142) being positioned further forward than the seat (20).

8. The saddle-type vehicle (1) according to claim 4 further includes a seat (20) for the driver of the saddle-type vehicle (1) to sit on, the seat (20) being attached to the vehicle body (11), wherein, The motor control unit (15) is attached to the frame (112) that holds the main wiring harness (17) such that at least a portion of the motor control unit (15) is located further back than the front fork (12) and further forward than the clutch motor (141) and / or the shift motor (142), the clutch motor (141) being positioned further forward than the seat (20) and the shift motor (142) being positioned further forward than the seat (20).

9. The saddle-type vehicle (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein The motor control unit (15) is attached to the frame (112) that holds the main wiring harness (17) such that the length of the cable (16) from the branch (171) of the motor control unit to the motor control unit (15) is less than the length of the cable (16) from the branch (171) of the motor control unit to the clutch motor (141) and / or the shift motor (142).

10. The saddle-type vehicle (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The motor control unit (15) is attached to the frame (112) that holds the main wiring harness (17) such that the motor control unit (15) is offset to the left or right relative to the left and right center lines (CL) in the left and right directions of the saddle-type vehicle (1).

11. The saddle-type vehicle (1) according to claim 9, wherein, The motor control unit (15) is attached to the frame (112) that holds the main wiring harness (17) such that the motor control unit (15) is offset to the left or right relative to the left and right center lines (CL) in the left and right directions of the saddle-type vehicle (1).

12. The saddle-type vehicle (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 and 11, wherein, The motor control unit (15) is attached to the frame (112) that holds the main wiring harness (17) such that the area of ​​the motor control unit (15) in the side view of the saddle-type vehicle (1) is greater than the area of ​​the motor control unit (15) in the front view and top view of the saddle-type vehicle (1).

13. The saddle-type vehicle (1) according to claim 9, wherein, The motor control unit (15) is attached to the frame (112) that holds the main wiring harness (17) such that the area of ​​the motor control unit (15) in the side view of the saddle-type vehicle (1) is greater than the area of ​​the motor control unit (15) in the front view and top view of the saddle-type vehicle (1).

14. The saddle-type vehicle (1) according to claim 10, wherein, The motor control unit (15) is attached to the frame (112) that holds the main wiring harness (17) such that the area of ​​the motor control unit (15) in the side view of the saddle-type vehicle (1) is greater than the area of ​​the motor control unit (15) in the front view and top view of the saddle-type vehicle (1).

15. The saddle-type vehicle (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, 11, 13, and 14, wherein, The frame (112) includes a left frame (1121) and a right frame (1122). The left frame (1121) is positioned to the left relative to the left-right center line (CL), and the right frame (1122) is positioned to the right relative to the left-right center line (CL). The motor control unit (15) is attached to the left frame (1121) that holds the main wiring harness (17) such that: The distance from the left and right center lines (CL) to the motor control unit (15) in the left-right direction is greater than the distance from the left and right center lines (CL) to the branch (171) of the motor control unit in the left-right direction; and At least a portion of the motor control unit (15) is located further back than the fork (12) and further forward than the clutch motor (141) and / or the shift motor (142).

16. The saddle-type vehicle (1) according to claim 9, wherein, The frame (112) includes a left frame (1121) and a right frame (1122). The left frame (1121) is positioned to the left relative to the left-right center line (CL), and the right frame (1122) is positioned to the right relative to the left-right center line (CL). The motor control unit (15) is attached to the left frame (1121) that holds the main wiring harness (17) such that: The distance from the left and right center lines (CL) to the motor control unit (15) in the left-right direction is greater than the distance from the left and right center lines (CL) to the branch (171) of the motor control unit in the left-right direction; and At least a portion of the motor control unit (15) is located further back than the fork (12) and further forward than the clutch motor (141) and / or the shift motor (142).

17. The saddle-type vehicle (1) according to claim 10, wherein, The frame (112) includes a left frame (1121) and a right frame (1122). The left frame (1121) is positioned to the left relative to the left-right center line (CL), and the right frame (1122) is positioned to the right relative to the left-right center line (CL). The motor control unit (15) is attached to the left frame (1121) that holds the main wiring harness (17) such that: The distance from the left and right center lines (CL) to the motor control unit (15) in the left-right direction is greater than the distance from the left and right center lines (CL) to the branch (171) of the motor control unit in the left-right direction; and At least a portion of the motor control unit (15) is located further back than the fork (12) and further forward than the clutch motor (141) and / or the shift motor (142).

18. The saddle-type vehicle (1) according to claim 12, wherein, The frame (112) includes a left frame (1121) and a right frame (1122). The left frame (1121) is positioned to the left relative to the left-right center line (CL), and the right frame (1122) is positioned to the right relative to the left-right center line (CL). The motor control unit (15) is attached to the left frame (1121) that holds the main wiring harness (17) such that: The distance from the left and right center lines (CL) to the motor control unit (15) in the left-right direction is greater than the distance from the left and right center lines (CL) to the branch (171) of the motor control unit in the left-right direction; and At least a portion of the motor control unit (15) is located further back than the fork (12) and further forward than the clutch motor (141) and / or the shift motor (142).

Images