Terminal protection structure of straddle-type vehicle

Abstract

A terminal protection structure for a saddle-type vehicle (1) is provided with: a swing support shaft (25) that swingably supports a rear wheel (3) of the saddle-type vehicle (1) and a motor (50) that drives the rear wheel (3) with respect to a vehicle body frame (5); a control device (9) that is disposed in front of the swing support shaft (25), that has a terminal section (63) on the upper side in the vertical direction of the vehicle, and that controls the motor (50); a rear fender (70) that covers the rear wheels (3) and is fixed to the vehicle body frame (5); and a splash guard (80) disposed between the rear fender (70) and the control device (9) and extending rearward from below the terminal portion (63). The lower end of the splash guard (80) is disposed on the lower side of the terminal portion (63) in the vertical direction of the vehicle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a terminal protection structure for a straddle-type vehicle. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, efforts towards achieving a low-carbon society or a decarbonized society have become increasingly active, and research and development related to electrification technology is also being carried out to reduce CO2 emissions and improve energy efficiency in vehicles.

[0003] For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2023-15904 discloses a straddle-type electric vehicle including an electric motor for driving rear wheels and a motor control unit for controlling the electric motor. In this vehicle, the motor control unit is disposed in front of the rear wheels. Summary of the Invention

[0004] On the other hand, in technologies related to electrification, effectively protecting the terminal portion of a control device from external influences has become a challenge.

[0005] The present application aims to protect the terminal portion of a control device from water splashing from the rear wheels and the front of the vehicle using a protective member.

[0006] The terminal protection structure of a straddle-type vehicle of the first embodiment of the present invention comprises: a swing support shaft, which supports the rear wheel of the straddle-type vehicle and the electric motor driving the rear wheel so that they can swing relative to the vehicle body frame; a control device, which is arranged in front of the swing support shaft, has a terminal portion on the upper side in the vertical direction of the vehicle, and controls the electric motor; a rear fender, which covers the rear wheel and is fixed to the vehicle body frame; and a splash guard, which is arranged between the rear fender and the control device, extends rearward from below the terminal portion, and the lower end of the splash guard is arranged at a position lower than the terminal portion in the vertical direction of the vehicle.

[0007] According to this structure, compared with a case where the lower end of the splash guard is arranged above the terminal portion of the control device, even when the control device is arranged near the ground, the terminal portion of the control device is less susceptible to external factors such as dust and water. Therefore, the terminal portion of the control device can be protected.

[0008] A second aspect is based on the terminal protection structure for a straddle-type vehicle described in the first aspect, and the splash guard may block a virtual line connecting the axle of the rear wheel and the center of the terminal portion when viewed from the side of the vehicle.

[0009] According to this configuration, the terminal portion of the control device can be protected from splashes from the rear wheel.

[0010] A third aspect is based on the terminal protection structure for a straddle-type vehicle according to the first or second aspect, and may further include a hanging member for holding the control device, wherein the splash guard is supported by the hanging member.

[0011] For example, in order to reduce the number of assembly steps in electric vehicles, one solution is to pre-assemble the motor and the control device as a group.

[0012] According to this structure, the splash guard and the suspension member holding the control device can be assembled in groups in advance. Thus, they can be assembled on a group assembly line, thus contributing to a reduction in manufacturing man-hours.

[0013] The fourth scheme is based on the terminal protection structure of the straddle-type vehicle recorded in any one of the above-mentioned first to third schemes, and it can also be that the terminal protection structure of the straddle-type vehicle also has a battery, which has a battery terminal on the lower side of the vehicle in the up-down direction, and the splash guard is arranged at a position lower than the battery terminal in the up-down direction of the vehicle.

[0014] This structure reduces the risk of external influences such as dust and water, even when the battery terminals are located near the ground, compared to when the splash guard is located above the battery terminals. This protects the battery terminals. Furthermore, the splash guard helps prevent water from splashing onto battery cables and other devices connected to the battery terminals.

[0015] Furthermore, it is possible to suppress water or the like from dripping from the battery cable and reaching the terminal portion of the control device.

[0016] The fifth scheme is based on the terminal protection structure of the straddle-type vehicle described in the third scheme above, and may also be that the rear fender has a fender support portion supported on the vehicle body frame, the front portion of the splash guard is supported on the suspension component, and the rear portion of the splash guard covers the front end of the rear fender from above and is supported by the fender support portion.

[0017] According to this structure, the splash guard can be supported by the hanging member and the fender support portion. In addition, the rear portion of the splash guard can be supported by a support portion different from the hanging member.

[0018] The sixth scheme is based on the terminal protection structure of the straddle-type vehicle described in the third scheme above, and may also be that the suspension member has a cross tube on the upper end side of the suspension member and a middle support portion on the central side of the suspension member, and the splash guard is mounted from the cross tube to the middle support portion.

[0019] According to this configuration, the splash guard can be supported only by the hanging member.

[0020] Therefore, assembly can be performed on a group assembly line, contributing to a reduction in manufacturing man-hours.

[0021] The seventh option is based on the terminal protection structure of the straddle-type vehicle recorded in the above-mentioned sixth option, and it can also be that the splash guard covers the cross tube from above, and when viewed from the side of the vehicle, a portion of the rear fender extends downward compared to the center of the cross tube, bends upward in front of the cross tube, and covers the cross tube from above together with the splash guard.

[0022] According to this configuration, it is possible to more effectively suppress the intrusion of water or the like into the control device side.

[0023] According to the solution of the present invention, the terminal portion of the control device can be protected and the solution of the present invention further contributes to the improvement of energy efficiency. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Figure 1 It is a left side view of the straddle-type vehicle according to the first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the terminal protection structure for the straddle-type vehicle according to the first embodiment, as viewed from the upper left.

[0026] Figure 3 It is a plan view of the terminal protection structure according to the first embodiment.

[0027] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the terminal protection structure according to the first embodiment as viewed from the lower left rear side.

[0028] Figure 5 It is a left side view including a cross section of the terminal protection structure according to the first embodiment.

[0029] Figure 6 It is a plan view of the terminal protection structure according to the second embodiment.

[0030] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the terminal protection structure according to the second embodiment as viewed from the lower left.

[0031] Figure 8 It is a left side view including a cross section of the terminal protection structure according to the second embodiment.

[0032] Figure 9 It is a left side view of the straddle-type vehicle according to the third embodiment.

[0033] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the control device with a terminal protection structure.

[0034] Figure 11 This is a top view of the control device of the terminal protection structure.

[0035] Figure 12 This is an explanatory diagram of an example of the assembly process of the terminal protection structure.

[0036] Figure 13 This is a front view showing an example of how the main bracket copes with water splashback.

[0037] Figure 14 It is a three-dimensional diagram of the splash-proof component of the main bracket.

[0038] Figure 15 It is a top view of the splash-proof component.

[0039] Figure 16 It is a side view of the splash guard component.

[0040] Figure 17 It is a perspective view illustrating the function of the splash guard.

[0041] Figure 18 It is a perspective view showing water splashback in a comparative example.

[0042] Figure 19 This is a perspective view of the front fender lip shape.

[0043] Figure 20 This is a front view of the lip shape of the front fender.

[0044] Figure 21 This is a perspective view of the rib shape of the bottom cover. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described based on the accompanying drawings. The directions such as front, back, up, down, left, and right in the following description are the same as those of the straddle-type vehicle described below (hereinafter also referred to as "vehicle"). In the figures used in the following description, arrows FR indicating the front of the vehicle, arrows LH indicating the left side of the vehicle, arrows UP indicating the top of the vehicle, and lines CL indicating the left and right centers of the vehicle body are shown at appropriate positions. In the following description, expressions such as "parallel", "orthogonal", "center", and "coaxial" that indicate relative or absolute configurations not only strictly indicate such configurations, but also include states of relative displacement with tolerances, angles, and distances to the extent that the same function can be achieved.

[0046] <First embodiment>

[0047] Figure 1 It is a left side view of the straddle-type vehicle 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0048] like Figure 1As shown, the straddle-type vehicle 1 of the embodiment is a scooter-type electric two-wheeled vehicle having a floor portion 14 (low floor portion) on which a passenger (driver) places his / her feet.

[0049] The straddle-type vehicle 1 includes a front wheel 2 , a rear wheel 3 , a vehicle body frame 5 , a vehicle body cover 6 , a swing unit 8 , a battery 100 , a seat 15 , and a control device 9 .

[0050] The front wheel 2 is supported by the front fork 10 . The front wheel 2 is steerable by a steering handle 13 .

[0051] The rear wheel 3 is supported by a rear end portion of the swing unit 8. The rear wheel 3 can be driven by a motor 50 provided in the swing unit 8. The front end portion of the swing unit 8 is connected to the vehicle body frame 5.

[0052] The steering handle 13, the front fork 10, and the front wheel 2 constitute steering components. The steering components are supported on the front end portion of the vehicle body frame 5 so as to be steerable.

[0053] The swing unit 8 and the rear wheel 3 are supported in a vertically swingable manner at the lower portion of the vehicle body frame 5 . The periphery of the vehicle body frame 5 is covered by a vehicle body cover 6 .

[0054] The straddle-type vehicle 1 includes a floor portion 14 forming a footrest for a rider seated on a seat 15; a front vehicle body FB connected to the front of the floor portion 14; and a rear vehicle body RB connected to the rear of the floor portion 14. A straddle space K is formed above the floor portion 14 to facilitate straddling the vehicle body.

[0055] A seat 15 for passengers is supported on rear vehicle body RB. The lower front end of seat 15 is connected to the vehicle body via a hinge axis (not shown) extending in the vehicle width direction (left-right direction). Seat 15 opens and closes the upper portion of rear vehicle body RB by pivoting up and down about the hinge axis.

[0056] The state in which the seat surface of the seat 15 is substantially horizontal and the upper portion of the rear vehicle body RB is closed is referred to as the closed state (see Figure 1 ). When the seat 15 is in the closed state, the passenger can sit on the seat 15, and the article storage portion (space for storing the battery 100, etc.) below the seat 15 is closed. In this state, the seat 15 can be locked.

[0057] The seat 15 is rotated about the hinge axis so that the seat surface stands upward and the upper part of the rear body RB is opened. When the seat 15 is in the open state, the passenger cannot sit on the seat 15, and the storage portion under the seat 15 is opened to allow the removal of items (such as the battery 100).

[0058] The body frame 5 is formed by integrating various steel materials by welding or other methods. It comprises a head pipe 20 at the front end; a pair of left and right down frames 21 that branch left and right from the head pipe 20, extend downward, and then extend rearward; and a pair of left and right rear frames 22 that extend rearward and upward from the rear ends of the down frames 21. A center cross frame 23 extending in the vehicle width direction is provided between the front ends of the left and right rear frames 22 (and between the rear ends of the left and right down frames 21).

[0059] The vehicle body cover 6 covers the periphery of the vehicle body frame 5. For example, the vehicle body cover 6 may include: a handle cover 30 that covers the periphery of the steering handle 13 excluding the left and right grip portions 13a; a front cover 31 that covers the front portion of the vehicle body frame 5 from the front; an inner cover 32 that covers the front portion of the vehicle body frame 5 from the rear; a floor cover 33 that covers the lower portion of the vehicle body frame 5 from above; a rear center cover 34 that covers the rear portion of the vehicle body frame 5 from the front; a pair of left and right rear side covers 35 that cover the rear portion of the vehicle body frame 5 from the left and right sides; a rear end cover 36 that covers the rear portion of the vehicle body frame 5 from the rear; and an undercover 37 that covers the lower portion of the vehicle body frame 5 from below.

[0060] It should be noted that the front cover 31 and the inner cover 32 may also constitute a front vehicle body cover, which forms the outer surface of the front vehicle body FB. The front vehicle body cover may also serve as a leg guard that covers the front of the driver's legs. The upper surface portion of the floor cover 33 may also constitute a floor pedal. For example, the floor pedal may also form a flat upper surface (footrest) extending over the entire width of the vehicle. The floor pedal may also have a central channel that bulges upward on the inner side in the vehicle width direction. The rear center cover 34, the left and right rear side covers 35, and the rear end cover 36 may also constitute a rear vehicle body cover, which forms the outer surface of the rear vehicle body RB. In addition to the handle cover 30, the vehicle body cover 6 may also be fixedly supported on the vehicle body frame 5.

[0061] A main stand 27 is provided in front of the rear wheel 3. The main stand 27 is also mounted so as to be swingable relative to the front lower portion of the swing unit 8. The main stand 27 includes a base through which a swing shaft (not shown) passes; a pair of left and right support legs 28 that extend obliquely from the left and right sides of the base, spreading outward in the vehicle width direction; and a grounding plate 29 fixed to the front ends of the left and right support legs 28.

[0062] The main support 27 can swing around the swing axis. Figure 1 The main stand 27 swings between a stowed position (shown in the figure) in which the left and right support legs 28 extend in the front-to-rear direction when viewed from the side of the vehicle, and an in-use position in which the left and right support legs 28 extend in the up-down direction when viewed from the side of the vehicle. When the main stand 27 is in the stowed position, the left and right ground plates 29 are off the ground, allowing the vehicle to travel.

[0063] The swing unit 8 includes an electric motor 50 that generates a driving force for traveling the saddle-type vehicle 1 , a speed reducer 51 that reduces the output of the electric motor 50 , and a unit case 52 that houses the electric motor 50 and the speed reducer 51 .

[0064] The electric motor 50 is driven by power from the battery 100. The electric motor 50 is arranged so that the drive shaft extends along the vehicle width direction. The electric motor 50 includes: a rotor that rotates integrally with the drive shaft; and a stator (neither of which is shown) that surrounds the outer circumference of the rotor and is fixed to the unit housing 52. The electric motor 50 performs variable speed drive based on, for example, VVVF (variable voltage variable frequency) control. The electric motor 50 can also be controlled to change speed as if it has a continuously variable transmission. Alternatively, the electric motor 50 can be controlled to change speed as if it has a stepped transmission.

[0065] The driving force generated by the motor 50 is transmitted to the rear wheel 3 supported by the swing unit 8, causing the straddle-type vehicle 1 to travel. The lower end of the rear shock absorber 41 is connected to the rear end of the swing unit 8. The swing unit 8 and the rear shock absorber 41 constitute a suspension system (rear suspension) that supports the rear wheel 3.

[0066] The control device 9 includes a PCU 60 (Power Control Unit) that controls the electric motor 50. The PCU 60 includes a PDU (Power Drive Unit) that serves as a motor driver and an ECU (Electric Control Unit) that controls the PDU. The PDU includes, for example, an inverter. The inverter converts the current supplied from the battery 100 from DC to AC before supplying power to the electric motor 50.

[0067] One end of a wiring 65 (for example, a three-phase cable) connected to the motor 50 is connected to the PDU of the PCU 60 (see Figure 5 ). Furthermore, the PDU is connected to positive and negative battery cables 105 extending from the positive and negative electrodes of the battery body 101 of the battery 100 (see Figure 5 The inverter of the PDU converts the DC current supplied by the battery 100 into a three-phase AC current and supplies it to the motor 50 .

[0068] <Battery>

[0069] The battery 100 is mounted below the seat 15 between the left and right rear frames 22. Multiple batteries 100 (two in the example shown) are arranged in a longitudinal direction. A grip (handle) that allows a passenger to grasp the battery 100 is provided at the upper end. The battery 100 is tilted slightly with respect to the vertical direction, with the upper end (handle side) positioned rearward and upward when viewed from the side of the vehicle.

[0070] The battery 100 is arranged so as to overlap the seat 15 in a plan view. The battery 100 is supported by the vehicle body frame 5 via a bracket (not shown) and the like. The battery 100 includes a battery body 101 and a battery case 102 covering the battery body 101.

[0071] The battery main body 101 may include, for example, a plurality of unit batteries (not shown). The battery main body 101 may include, for example, only one unit battery. The unit battery may also be a chargeable and dischargeable energy storage device, such as a lithium-ion battery.

[0072] Battery cables 105 (see Figure 5 Each battery cable 105 is connected to the PDU constituting the PCU 60. A wiring 65 (for example, a three-phase cable) extends from the PDU (see Figure 5 ). The wiring 65 is connected to the motor 50.

[0073] The battery 100 may be provided in a bilaterally symmetrical manner as a whole with the vehicle width center as the axis of symmetry.

[0074] Thus, battery 100 , which is a heavy object, can be installed bilaterally symmetrically, and thus the influence of the vehicle weight on the left-right balance can be suppressed.

[0075] The battery 100 can be charged using an external charger while being removed from the vehicle body, for example. The battery 100 can also be used independently as a mobile battery, for example, as a power source for external equipment.

[0076] <Terminal protection structure for straddle-type vehicles>

[0077] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the terminal protection structure for the straddle-type vehicle according to the first embodiment, as viewed from the upper left. Figure 3 It is a plan view of the terminal protection structure according to the first embodiment. Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the terminal protection structure according to the first embodiment as viewed from the lower left rear side. Figure 5 It is a left side view including a cross section of the terminal protection structure according to the first embodiment.

[0078] Refer to Figures 1 to 5The terminal protection structure of the straddle-type vehicle includes: a swing support shaft 25 that supports the swing unit 8 so that it can swing relative to the vehicle body frame 5; a control device 9 having a terminal portion 63 on the upper side of the vehicle in the up-down direction and arranged in front of the swing support shaft 25; a rear fender 70 that covers the rear wheel 3 and is fixed to the vehicle body frame 5; a splash guard 80 that is arranged between the rear fender 70 and the control device 9 and extends rearward from the bottom of the terminal portion 63; and a suspension member 90 that holds the control device 9.

[0079] The swing support shaft 25 is disposed below and in front of the rear battery 100. The swing support shaft 25 extends in the vehicle width direction (left-right direction). The left and right ends of the swing support shaft 25 are supported by the vehicle body frame 5 via the suspension member 90 and brackets.

[0080] The control device 9 is arranged in front of the swing support shaft 25 via a hanging member 90 and the like.

[0081] When viewed in the vehicle front-rear direction, the upper portion of the control device 9 overlaps with the swing support shaft 25 .

[0082] Heat dissipation fins 61 are provided on the rear surface of the control device 9 (specifically, the rear surface of the control housing 62 that accommodates the PCU 60, etc.). When viewed from the side of the vehicle, the rear surface of the control device 9 extends in the up-down direction (specifically, slightly tilted with the front lower and the rear higher relative to the up-down direction). When viewed from the side of the vehicle, the heat dissipation fins 61 are formed into a rectangular shape (specifically, a trapezoidal shape with rounded corners) having a length along the control device 9 (slightly tilted with the front lower and the rear higher). When viewed from the side of the vehicle, the heat dissipation fins 61 extend in the up-down direction (specifically, slightly tilted with the front lower and the rear higher relative to the up-down direction) from the upper end of the rear surface of the control device 9 to the lower end of the rear surface. A plurality of heat dissipation fins 61 are provided at intervals along the vehicle width direction.

[0083] The rear fender 70 covers the upper portion of the rear wheel 3 from above. The rear fender 70 includes a fender body 71 that covers the rear wheel and a fender support portion 72 that is supported by the vehicle body frame 5.

[0084] The fender body 71 extends from the front upper portion of the rear wheel 3 toward the rear upper portion when viewed from the side of the vehicle. When viewed from the top and bottom of the vehicle, the fender body 71 overlaps the rear wheel 3. The portion of the fender body 71 that faces the front upper portion of the rear wheel 3 bulges toward the front upper portion. A portion of the fender body 71 is formed so that its width narrows toward the rear of the vehicle when viewed from above.

[0085] The fender support portion 72 protrudes upward from the front portion of the fender body 71. A pair of left and right fender support portions 72 are provided. The left and right fender support portions 72 are arranged offset from each other in the vehicle's longitudinal direction. At least a portion of the left fender support portion 72 is positioned rearward of the right fender support portion 72. It should be noted that the left and right fender support portions 72 may also be positioned at the same position in the vehicle's longitudinal direction. For example, the arrangement of the fender support portions 72 can be modified according to design specifications.

[0086] The suspension component 90 includes: a transverse tube 91 extending in the vehicle width direction (left-right direction); a front extension portion 92 extending forward from the transverse tube 91; left and right extension portions 93 extending in the vehicle width direction (left-right direction) in the front and lower part of the control device 9; an upper and lower connection portion 94 connecting the transverse tube 91 and the left and right extension portions 93; and a rear extension portion 95 extending rearward from the transverse tube 91.

[0087] The cross pipe 91 is disposed between the upper portion of the control device 9 (the terminal portion 63) and the swing support shaft 25. The cross pipe 91 is formed into a cylindrical shape extending in the vehicle width direction (left-right direction). The left-right length of the cross pipe 91 is longer than the left-right length (maximum left-right width) of the control device 9.

[0088] A pair of left and right front extensions 92 are provided. The left and right front extensions 92 are arranged at positions further outwards in the vehicle width direction than the control device 9. The left and right front extensions 92 cover the upper portion (terminal portion 63) of the control device 9 from the outside in the vehicle width direction. When viewed from the extending direction of the front extension 92, at least a portion of the front extension 92 is formed to be open to the inside in the vehicle width direction. The rear portion of the front extension portion 92 is joined to the cross pipe 91 by welding, for example. The front portion of the front extension portion 92 is fixed to the rear frame 22 via a fastening member such as a bolt.

[0089] The left and right extensions 93 are disposed in the lower front portion of the cross tube 91. The left and right extensions 93 are cylindrical in shape with a smaller diameter than the cross tube 91. The left and right extensions 93 are disposed parallel to the cross tube 91. The left and right lengths of the left and right extensions 93 are shorter than the left and right lengths of the cross tube 91. The left and right extensions 93 are secured to the rear frame 22 via fastening members such as bolts and brackets.

[0090] When viewed from the side of the vehicle, the upper and lower connecting portions 94 extend downward from the cross tube 91 and then forward. When viewed from the front-to-back direction of the vehicle, the upper and lower connecting portions 94 are formed into a V-shape (an inverted V-shape) with an open bottom. The upper and lower connecting portions 94 branch left and right from portions connected to the left and right central lower portions of the cross tube 91, extending in a manner that increases in width as they move downward. They then curve forward and extend to connect to the left and right outer rear ends of the left and right extension portions 93. The upper portions of the upper and lower connecting portions 94 are joined to the cross tube 91 by, for example, welding. The lower front portions of the upper and lower connecting portions 94 are joined to the left and right extension portions 93 by, for example, welding.

[0091] A pair of left and right rear extensions 95 are provided. The left and right rear extensions 95 are positioned inward in the vehicle width direction relative to the left and right front extensions 92. The left and right rear extensions 95 are positioned outward in the vehicle width direction relative to the upper portion of the upper and lower connecting portion 94 (the portion connected to the cross tube 91).

[0092] At least a portion of the rear extension 95 is formed in a fan-shaped shape with a vertical width increasing toward the rear in a side view of the vehicle. The left and right outer ends of the swing support shaft 25 are supported by the left and right rear extensions 95, respectively.

[0093] The splash guard 80 is formed of an elastic member such as rubber. The splash guard 80 is flexible. The splash guard 80 is arranged between the rear fender 70 and the control unit 9. The splash guard 80 extends from the lower rear portion of the terminal portion 63 of the control unit 9 toward the lower rear side of the battery 100 on the rear side. The lower end of the splash guard 80 is arranged below the terminal portion 63 of the control unit 9 in the vertical direction of the vehicle. When viewed from the side of the vehicle, the lower end of the splash guard 80 is arranged below the center of the cross pipe 91.

[0094] When viewed from the side of the vehicle, the splash guard 80 blocks the imaginary line J connecting the axle of the rear wheel 3 and the center of the terminal portion 63. The center of the terminal portion 63 corresponds to the center of the terminal fastening portion provided on the control device 9 (specifically, the center of the head of the fastening bolt used to fasten the terminal of the wiring 65 to the terminal block). When viewed from the side of the vehicle, the imaginary line J is inclined forward and upward relative to the horizontal plane. When viewed from the side of the vehicle, the splash guard 80 extends across the imaginary line J.

[0095] The splash guard 80 is formed in a sheet shape extending in the vehicle width direction (left-right direction).

[0096] The splash guard 80 includes: a guard body 81 extending in the vehicle width direction (left-right direction); a pair of left and right front supports 82 supporting the left and right front portions of the guard body 81; and a pair of left and right rear supports 83 supporting the left and right rear portions of the guard body 81.

[0097] The guard body 81 extends continuously in the vehicle width direction (left-right direction) to block the rear fender 70 and the control device 9. The left-right length (maximum left-right width) of the guard body 81 is shorter than the left-right length of the cross pipe 91.

[0098] The left and right front support portions 82 extend from left and right front portions of the protector main body 81 toward the front and bottom.

[0099] Parts of the left and right front support portions 82 may extend along the outer periphery of the cross pipe 91. Holes for supporting the front portion of the splash guard 80 may be formed in the left and right front support portions 82.

[0100] Left and right rear support portions 83 are provided at the left and right rear portions of the guard body 81. The left and right rear support portions 83 are provided corresponding to the left and right fender support portions 72. Holes for supporting the rear portion of the splash guard 80 may also be formed in the left and right rear support portions 83. At least a portion of the left rear support portion 83 is positioned further rearward than the right rear support portion 83. It should be noted that the left and right rear support portions 83 may also be positioned at the same position relative to each other in the vehicle front-to-rear direction. For example, the arrangement of the rear support portions 83 may be modified according to design specifications.

[0101] The splash guard 80 is supported by the hanging member 90 . In this embodiment, the front portion of the splash guard 80 is supported by the hanging member 90 .

[0102] The suspension member 90 is provided with a pair of left and right support pieces 99 that support the front portion of the splash guard 80. The left and right support pieces 99 project upward and rearward from portions of the cross tube 91 that are located outboard of the left and right rear extensions 95 in the vehicle width direction. The front portion of the splash guard 80 is supported on the cross tube 91 by inserting the left and right support pieces 99 into holes in the left and right front support portions 82, respectively. The front portion of the splash guard 80 can also be supported on the cross tube 91 with a portion of the front support portion 82 extending along the rear periphery of the cross tube 91.

[0103] In this embodiment, the rear portion of the splash guard 80 covers the front end of the rear fender 70 from above. The rear portion of the splash guard 80 is supported by the fender support portion 72. The rear portion of the splash guard 80 is supported by the front end of the rear fender 70 by inserting the left and right fender support portions 72 into the holes of the left and right rear support portions 83, respectively.

[0104] The battery 100 has a battery terminal 103 on the lower side in the vehicle vertical direction. The rear battery 100 has a battery terminal 103 on the lower front portion of the battery body 101, facing the swing support shaft 25. The splash guard 80 is positioned below the battery terminal 103 of the rear battery 100 in the vehicle vertical direction. The portion of the splash guard 80 facing the battery terminal 103 is curved downward.

[0105] When viewed from the side of the vehicle, the wiring 65 extends from the upper portion (terminal portion 63) of the control device 9 in a rearward and upward direction, then bends and extends forward and downward. The wiring 65 then bends and extends rearward, avoiding the swing support shaft 25, and is connected to the swing unit 8 (specifically, the motor 50) at the portion extending rearward.

[0106] This embodiment includes a control device 9 having a terminal portion 63 on the upper side in the vehicle vertical direction, and a swing unit 8 that houses the electric motor 50. The control device 9 and the swing unit 8 are each positioned behind the central cross frame 23 and below the seat 15. This allows the control device 9 and the electric motor 50 to be positioned as close together as possible, thus contributing to shortening the wiring 65.

[0107] Note that the wiring 65 between the control device 9 and the electric motor 50 may form a U-shaped bent portion below the swing support shaft 25 in the vehicle width direction (left-right direction).

[0108] The portion of the battery cable 105 that bends and extends upward from the upper portion of the control device 9 in a side view of the vehicle is connected to the front lower portions of the pair of front and rear batteries 100 (specifically, each battery terminal 103 ).

[0109] This embodiment includes a control device 9 having a terminal portion 63 on the upper side in the vehicle vertical direction, and a battery 100 having battery terminals 103 on the lower side in the vehicle vertical direction. The control device 9 and battery 100 are each positioned behind the center cross frame 23, below the seat 15 and in front of the rear wheels 3. This allows the control device 9 and battery 100 to be placed as close together as possible, thus contributing to the shortening of the battery cable 105.

[0110] In this embodiment, the terminal portion 63 of the control device 9 is arranged above the water level line H (see FIG. Figure 1 The water level H is set based on the assumed water immersion height of the straddle-type vehicle.

[0111] For example, the water level H may be set along a horizontal plane passing through the axle (the axle of the rear wheel 3). For example, it is preferable to place the control housing 62 vertically and arrange the terminal block 110 as high as possible above the vehicle to ensure the submerged height.

[0112] Note that it is preferable to allow traveling wind to easily contact the heat dissipation fins 61 of the control case 62 .

[0113] In this embodiment, a suspension member 90 is provided to hold the control device 9. The suspension member 90 includes upper and lower connecting portions 94 at the locations facing the heat dissipation fins 61 of the control housing 62. When viewed from the front-to-rear direction of the vehicle, the upper and lower connecting portions 94 are formed into an inverted V-shape with an open bottom. This allows traveling air to pass through the space surrounding the upper and lower connecting portions 94 and contact the heat dissipation fins 61. This contributes to improved heat dissipation efficiency of the control device 9.

[0114] <Effects>

[0115] As described above, the terminal protection structure of the straddle-type vehicle 1 in the above-described embodiment includes: a swing support shaft 25 that supports the rear wheel 3 of the straddle-type vehicle 1 and the electric motor 50 that drives the rear wheel 3 so as to be swingable relative to the vehicle body frame 5; a control device 9 that is disposed in front of the swing support shaft 25 and has a terminal portion 63 on the upper side in the vehicle vertical direction and controls the electric motor 50; a rear fender 70 that covers the rear wheel 3 and is fixed to the vehicle body frame 5; and a splash guard 80 that is disposed between the rear fender 70 and the control device 9 and extends rearward from below the terminal portion 63. The lower end of the splash guard 80 is disposed below the terminal portion 63 in the vehicle vertical direction.

[0116] With this structure, compared to a case where the lower end of the splash guard 80 is positioned above the terminal portion 63 of the control device 9, even when the control device 9 is positioned near the ground, the terminal portion 63 of the control device 9 is less susceptible to external factors such as dust and water. Therefore, the terminal portion 63 of the control device 9 can be protected. This further contributes to improved energy efficiency.

[0117] In the above embodiment, the splash guard 80 blocks the virtual line J connecting the axle of the rear wheel 3 and the center of the terminal portion 63 in a side view of the vehicle.

[0118] According to this structure, the terminal portion 63 of the control device 9 can be protected from splashes from the rear wheel 3 .

[0119] In the above embodiment, a hanging member 90 is further provided for holding the control device 9. The splash guard 80 is supported by the hanging member 90.

[0120] For example, in an electric vehicle, in order to reduce the number of assembly steps, one solution is to pre-assemble the electric motor 50 and the control device 9 as a group.

[0121] According to this structure, the splash guard 80 and the hanging member 90 holding the control device 9 can be assembled in groups in advance. This allows assembly through a group assembly line, thus contributing to a reduction in manufacturing man-hours.

[0122] In the above embodiment, the battery 100 is further provided with the battery terminal 103 on the lower side in the vehicle vertical direction. The splash guard 80 is arranged below the battery terminal 103 in the vehicle vertical direction.

[0123] With this configuration, the battery terminals 103 are less susceptible to external influences such as dust and water, even when they are located near the ground, compared to when the splash guard 80 is located above the battery terminals 103. This protects the battery terminals 103. Furthermore, the splash guard 80 helps prevent water from dripping onto the battery cables 105 and other devices connected to the battery terminals 103. Furthermore, it prevents water from dripping from the battery cables 105 and reaching the terminal portion 63 of the control device.

[0124] In the above embodiment, the rear fender 70 includes the fender support portion 72 supported by the vehicle body frame 5. The front portion of the splash guard 80 is supported by the hanging member 90. The rear portion of the splash guard 80 covers the front end of the rear fender 70 from above and is supported by the fender support portion 72.

[0125] According to this structure, the splash guard 80 can be supported by the hanging member 90 and the fender support portion 72. Furthermore, the rear portion of the splash guard 80 can be supported by a support portion different from the hanging member 90.

[0126] <Second embodiment>

[0127] In the first embodiment, the splash guard 80 is supported by the suspension member 90 and the fender support portion 72 as an example, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Figures 6 to 8 As shown, in the second embodiment, the structure of supporting the splash guard 280 is different from that of the first embodiment. In the following description, the same reference numerals are used for the same structures as those of the first embodiment, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0128] Figure 6 It is a plan view of the terminal protection structure according to the second embodiment. Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the terminal protection structure according to the second embodiment as viewed from the lower left. Figure 8 It is a left side view including a cross section of the terminal protection structure according to the second embodiment.

[0129] Refer to Figures 6 to 8The suspension member 290 includes a transverse pipe 291 at the upper end side of the suspension member 290 and a middle support portion 297 at the center side of the suspension member 290. The splash guard 280 is extended from the transverse pipe 291 to the middle support portion 297.

[0130] The suspension member 290 includes: a transverse tube 291 extending in the vehicle width direction (left-right direction); a front extension portion 292 extending forward from the transverse tube 291; left-right extension portions 293 extending in the vehicle width direction (left-right direction) at the rear and lower portion of the control device 9; a pair of left and right upper and lower connecting portions 294 connecting the transverse tube 291 and the left and right extension portions 293; a rear extension portion 295 extending rearward from the left and right upper and lower connecting portions 294; a connecting tube 296 connecting the left and right upper and lower connecting portions 294 to each other; and a middle support portion 297 extending so as to cover the left and right upper and lower connecting portions 294.

[0131] The cross pipe 291 is arranged between the upper portion (terminal portion 63) of the control device 9 and the rear fender 270. The cross pipe 291 is arranged above and behind the swing support shaft 25.

[0132] The cross pipe 291 is formed in a cylindrical shape along the vehicle width direction (left-right direction). The left-right length of the cross pipe 291 is longer than the left-right length of the control device 9.

[0133] A pair of left and right front extensions 292 are provided. The left and right front extensions 292 are arranged at positions further outwards in the vehicle width direction than the control device 9. The left and right front extensions 292 cover the upper portion (terminal portion 63) of the control device 9 from the outside in the vehicle width direction. When viewed from the extending direction of the front extension 292, at least a portion of the front extension 292 is formed to be open to the inside in the vehicle width direction. The rear portion of the front extension portion 292 is joined to the cross pipe 291 by welding, for example. The front portion of the front extension portion 292 is fixed to the rear frame 22 via a fastening member such as a bolt.

[0134] The left and right extensions 293 are disposed in the lower front portion of the cross tube 291. The left and right extensions 293 are cylindrical in shape with a smaller diameter than the cross tube 291. The left and right extensions 293 are disposed parallel to the cross tube 291. The left and right extensions 293 are shorter in length than the cross tube 291. The left and right extensions 293 are secured to the rear frame 22 via fastening members such as bolts and brackets.

[0135] When viewed from the side of the vehicle, the left and right upper and lower connecting portions 294 extend from the cross tube 291 in a curved manner forward and downward. The left and right upper and lower connecting portions 294 extend at an angle relative to the vertical direction, extending along the left and right outer edges of the control device 9. The upper portions of the left and right upper and lower connecting portions 294 are joined to the cross tube 291 by, for example, welding. The lower front portions of the left and right upper and lower connecting portions 294 are joined to the left and right extension portions 293 by, for example, welding.

[0136] A pair of left and right rear extensions 295 are provided. The left and right rear extensions 295 are positioned further inward in the vehicle width direction than the left and right front extensions 292. The left and right rear extensions 295 are connected to the upper portion of the upper and lower connecting portion 294 (the portion connecting the connecting tube 296). When viewed from the side of the vehicle, at least a portion of the rear extensions 295 is curved downward and rearward. The left and right outer ends of the swing support shaft 25 are supported by the left and right rear extensions 295, respectively.

[0137] Connecting pipe 296 is disposed between transverse pipe 291 and left and right extensions 293. Connecting pipe 296 is disposed below left and right rear extensions 295. Connecting pipe 296 is cylindrical with a smaller diameter than transverse pipe 291. Connecting pipe 296 is disposed parallel to transverse pipe 291. The left and right length of connecting pipe 296 is shorter than that of transverse pipe 291. The left and right outer ends of connecting pipe 296 are joined to the left and right upper and lower connecting portions 294 by, for example, welding.

[0138] The middle support portion 297 is formed in a crank shape extending in the vehicle width direction (left-right direction).

[0139] The middle support portion 297 includes: The portion of the middle support portion 297 that extends along the left and right upper and lower connecting portions 294 is joined to the left and right upper and lower connecting portions 294 by, for example, welding.

[0140] The splash guard 280 is formed of an elastic member such as rubber. The splash guard 280 is flexible and is positioned between the rear fender 270 and the control unit 9. The splash guard 280 extends from below and behind the terminal portion 63 of the control unit 9 toward the lower rear side of the battery 100. The lower end of the splash guard 280 is positioned below the terminal portion 63 of the control unit 9 in the vertical direction of the vehicle.

[0141] The splash guard 280 is formed into a sheet-like shape extending in the vehicle width direction (left-right direction). It includes a guard body 281 extending in the vehicle width direction (left-right direction); a pair of left and right front supports 282 that support the left and right front portions of the guard body 281; and a rear support 283 that supports the rear portion of the guard body 281.

[0142] The guard body 281 extends continuously in the vehicle width direction (lateral direction) to block the rear fender 270 and the control device 9. The lateral length (maximum lateral width) of the guard body 281 is shorter than the lateral length of the cross pipe 291.

[0143] The left and right front support portions 282 extend downward and forward from the left and right front portions of the protector body 281. The left and right front support portions 282 may have a length that allows them to be wrapped around a portion of the middle support portion 297. For example, the left and right front support portions 282 may be supported by being wrapped around a portion of the middle support portion 297.

[0144] The rear support portion 283 is provided at the rear portion of the protector body 281. The rear support portion 283 may have a length that allows it to be wound around a portion of the transverse tube 291. For example, the rear support portion 283 may be supported by being wound around a portion of the transverse tube 291.

[0145] The splash guard 280 covers the cross tube 291 from above. When viewed from the side of the vehicle, a portion (front lower portion) of the rear fender 270 extends downward from the center of the cross tube 291, then bends upward near the cross tube 291, and together with the splash guard 280, covers the cross tube 291 from above.

[0146] The suspension member 290 is provided with a pair of left and right support pieces 299 that support the rear portion of the splash guard 280. The left and right support pieces 299 project downward and rearward from a portion of the cross tube 291 that is located inward in the vehicle width direction relative to the left and right front extensions 292. The rear portion of the splash guard 280 is wrapped around a portion of the cross tube 291, and the left and right support pieces 299 are inserted into the left and right holes of the rear support portion 283, thereby supporting the cross tube 291.

[0147] In this embodiment, the splash guard 280 is extended from the cross tube 291 to the middle support portion 297. The splash guard 280 is supported by the suspension member 290 by winding the rear support portion 283 around a portion of the cross tube 291 and winding the left and right front support portions 282 around a portion of the middle support portion 297.

[0148] The rear fender 270 is provided with a downward extension portion 273 extending downward from a front portion of a lower surface of the rear fender 270 , and a rib 274 protruding downward at a position forward of the downward extension portion 273 .

[0149] The lower extension portion 273 extends downward from a portion of the lower front portion of the rear fender 270 that faces the rear lower portion of the rear battery 100. The lower end of the lower extension portion 273 is located below the cross pipe 291 and above the swing support shaft 25.

[0150] The rib 274 extends downward from a portion of the front portion of the lower surface of the rear fender 270 that is rearward of the cross tube 291 and forward of the lower extension 273. The lower end of the rib 274 is positioned above the lower end of the lower extension 273. The lower end of the rib 274 is positioned above the lower end of the cross tube 291.

[0151] In the second embodiment, the suspension member 290 includes a cross pipe 291 on the upper end side of the suspension member 290 and includes a middle support portion 297 on the center side of the suspension member 290 .

[0152] The splash guard 280 is extended from the cross tube 291 to the middle support portion 297 .

[0153] According to this structure, the splash guard 280 can be supported only by the hanging member 290. Therefore, it can be assembled by a group assembly line, which contributes to a reduction in manufacturing man-hours.

[0154] In the second embodiment, the splash guard 280 covers the cross tube 291 from above. When viewed from the side of the vehicle, a portion of the rear fender 270 extends downward from the center of the cross tube 291, then bends upward near the cross tube 291, thereby covering the cross tube 291 from above together with the splash guard 280.

[0155] According to this configuration, it is possible to more effectively suppress the intrusion of water or the like into the control device 9 side.

[0156] In the second embodiment, the rear fender 270 is provided with a downward extension portion 273 extending downward from a front portion of the lower surface of the rear fender 270 , and a rib 274 protruding downward at a position forward of the downward extension portion 273 .

[0157] According to this configuration, the two-stage structure of the downward extending portion 273 and the rib 274 can more effectively suppress water or the like from the rear of the vehicle from entering the control device 9 side.

[0158] <Third embodiment>

[0159] In the first embodiment, the rear wheel 3 is supported by the rear end portion of the swing unit 8 as an example for explanation, but the present invention is not limited to this. Figure 9 As shown, in the third embodiment, the structure for supporting the rear wheel 3 is different from that of the first embodiment. In the following description, the same reference numerals are used for the same structures as those of the first embodiment, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0160] Figure 9 It is a left side view of the straddle-type vehicle according to the third embodiment.

[0161] like Figure 9As shown, the straddle-type vehicle includes an in-wheel motor 350 (an example of an electric motor) for driving the rear wheel 3 and a swing arm 306 for supporting the in-wheel motor 350 .

[0162] The in-wheel motor 350 is located inside the rear wheel 3. The in-wheel motor 350 is supported by the rear portion of the swing arm 306. The front portion of the swing arm 306 is supported on the vehicle body frame 5 via a swing support shaft 25 so that it can swing vertically. The swing arm 306, the in-wheel motor 350, and the rear shock absorber 41 together constitute a unit swing-type rear suspension.

[0163] In the third embodiment, in the configuration including the in-wheel motor 350 , the lower end of the splash guard 80 is disposed below the terminal portion 63 of the control device 9 in the vehicle vertical direction.

[0164] According to this configuration, in a configuration including the in-wheel motor 350 , the terminal portion 63 of the control device 9 can be protected, thereby further contributing to improvement in energy efficiency.

[0165] <An Example of a Control Device in a Terminal Protection Structure>

[0166] Figure 10 It is a perspective view of the control device 9 in the terminal protection structure. Figure 11 It is a top view of the control device 9 in the terminal protection structure.

[0167] Refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 The control device 9 may also include a terminal portion 63 on the upper side in the vehicle vertical direction, and include a terminal block 110 on which the terminal portion 63 is provided and a block cover 120 covering the terminal block 110 from above.

[0168] The terminal block 110 extends outward from the control case 62 in the front-to-back direction. This eliminates a leakage path from the terminal portion 63 of the control device 9 to the control case 62, compared to a case where the terminal block 110 is disposed inward from the control case 62 in the front-to-back direction.

[0169] The terminal cover 120 is attached to the terminal block 110 using a mounting member 129 such as a resin clip. The terminal cover 120 is fixed to the terminal block 110 by the clip. This eliminates the need for bolt-fixing bosses, compared to a case where the terminal cover 120 is fixed to the terminal block 110 with bolts, and eliminates a leakage path from the terminal portion 63 of the control device 9 to the control case 62.

[0170] The stage cover 120 is opened at the rear to expose the plurality of terminal portions 63. Thus, compared with a case where the stage cover 120 covers the plurality of terminal portions 63 without exposing them, the terminal portions 63 can be drained away effectively after being exposed to water.

[0171] Multiple terminals 63 are provided on the terminal block 110 at intervals along the vehicle width direction (left-right direction). The two terminals 63 arranged on the left side of the terminal block 110 correspond to the positive and negative battery cables. The remaining terminals 63 (the three terminals 63 arranged on the right side) correspond to the three-phase wiring (UV, W phases) extending from the motor.

[0172] The terminal block 110 includes a block main body 111 on which a plurality of terminal portions 63 are provided, and an upright portion 112 that stands upward from the block main body 111 .

[0173] The platform body 111 is formed into a rectangular shape extending in the vehicle width direction (left-right direction) when viewed from above. The left-right length of the platform body 111 is shorter than the left-right length of the control unit 9. The front-to-back length of the platform body 111 is longer than the front-to-back length of the control unit 9 (excluding the heat dissipation fins 61). The front-to-back length of the platform body 111 is longer than the front-to-back length of the control housing 62.

[0174] The front portion of the terminal block 110 is extended forward so that the front edge of the terminal block body 111 is located forward of the front surface of the control housing 62. The rear portion of the terminal block 110 is extended rearward so that the rear edge of the terminal block body 111 is located rearward of the rear surface of the control housing 62. In a plan view, the rear edge of the terminal block body 111 overlaps a portion of the plurality of heat dissipation fins 61 (the portion forward of the rear ends of the heat dissipation fins 61).

[0175] The rising portion 112 includes a front wall portion 113 disposed in front of the plurality of terminal portions 63 and extending in the vehicle width direction, and a plurality of partition wall portions 114 that partition the plurality of terminal portions 63 and extend in the front-rear direction.

[0176] The left-right length of the front wall portion 113 is shorter than that of the stage body 111. The front wall portion 113 extends continuously in the left-right direction so as to be positioned outward from the outermost terminal portion 63 in the left-right direction.

[0177] The front-to-back length of the partition wall 114 is shorter than that of the stage body 111. The partition wall 114 continuously extends in the front-to-back direction across the rear surface of the front wall 113 and the rear end edge of the stage body 111.

[0178] The terminal block cover 120 includes: a left covering portion 121 that covers the left side portion of the terminal block 110 (two terminal portions 63 arranged on the left side among the multiple terminal portions 63) from above; a right covering portion 122 that covers the right side portion of the terminal block 110 (three terminal portions 63 arranged on the right side) from above; a left mounting piece 123 that is bent and extended from the lower left end portion of the left covering portion 121 to the lower left; a right mounting piece 124 that is bent and extended from the lower right end portion of the right covering portion 122 to the lower right; and a central mounting piece 125 that extends downward from the central side portion connecting the left covering portion 121 and the right covering portion 122, then bends and extends rearward.

[0179] The left and right covers 121 and 122 extend in the front-to-back direction, increasing in vertical length toward the rear. A vertically open hole is formed in the central mounting piece 125 to allow insertion of a mounting member 129, such as a clip. A vertically open hole is formed in the table body 111 to allow insertion of the mounting member 129. For example, the table cover 120 can be mounted on the table body 111 and the mounting member 129 can be inserted from above into the respective holes in the central mounting piece 125 and the table body 111, thereby attaching the table cover 120 to the terminal block 110.

[0180] <Example of Assembly Process in Terminal Protection Structure>

[0181] Figure 12 This is an explanatory diagram of an example of an assembly process in the terminal protection structure.

[0182] like Figure 12 As shown, the assembly process of the terminal protection structure may include a plurality of sub-lines SL1 and SL2.

[0183] For example, the plurality of sub-lines SL1 and SL2 include a first sub-line SL1 for assembling components of a mobile power source (hereinafter referred to as "MPP") and a second sub-line SL2 for assembling components of a rear suspension including a swing unit.

[0184] For example, the first sub-line SL1 includes an MPP fixing line for assembling components that securely support the MPP, and an electronic component sub-assembly line for assembling components of multiple electronic components, such as contactors, pre-chargers, buck regulators, and junction boxes.

[0185] The MPP components assembled on the first sub-line SL1 and the rear suspension components assembled on the second sub-line SL2 are mounted on the vehicle body frame. This allows for the assembly of a portion of the terminal protection structure (excluding the rear fender 70, etc.). This method simplifies the assembly of the terminal protection structure by simply assembling the two sub-assemblies on the vehicle body frame.

[0186] <An example of dealing with water splashback on the main support>

[0187] Figure 13 This is a front view showing an example of the water splash response of the main bracket 27. Figure 14 It is a perspective view of the water splash prevention member 130 of the main bracket 27. Figure 15 1 is a top view of the water-splashing member 130 . Figure 16 1 is a side view of the water-splashing member 130 .

[0188] Refer to Figures 13 to 16 A splash-proof component 130 may also be provided on the main support 27 to prevent water from splashing back.

[0189] When the main stand 27 is in the stowed position (hereinafter referred to as the "stowed position"), with the left and right support legs 28 extended in the front-to-rear direction, as viewed from the side of the vehicle, the left and right ground plates 29 are off the ground, allowing the vehicle to travel. In the stowed position, the support legs 28 extend outwardly and at an angle toward the rear of the vehicle in the vehicle width direction. In the stowed position, the ground plates 29 are shaped such that, starting from the portion connected to the rear end of the support legs 28, they extend in the vehicle width direction relative to the rear end of the support legs 28 and curve forward and upward to open.

[0190] In the retracted state, the water shield 130 is formed in a shape that cuts off the ground plate 29 side portion in a plan view. This eliminates the floating feeling felt by the occupants during vehicle travel, compared to a case where the water shield 130 is extended toward the ground plate 29 side.

[0191] In the retracted state, the splash guard 130 includes an upper surface rectifying portion 131 disposed on the upper surface of the support leg 28 , and a side rectifying portion 132 connected to the outer edge of the upper surface rectifying portion 131 in the vehicle width direction and disposed on the outer side of the support leg 28 .

[0192] In the stowed state, the upper surface rectification portion 131 is formed into a pentagonal shape with one side extending along the long side of the support leg 28 in a plan view. In the stowed state, the outer edge of the upper surface rectification portion 131 in the vehicle width direction extends obliquely outward relative to the support leg 28, becoming positioned outward in the vehicle width direction as it approaches the rear side in a plan view. The portion of the upper surface rectification portion 131 that extends along the long side of the support leg 28 is joined to the support leg 28 by, for example, welding.

[0193] In the retracted state, the side flow straightening portion 132 is formed into a shape that extends in the front-to-back direction and protrudes downward in a side view. In the retracted state, the side flow straightening portion 132 includes a front lower edge portion that extends obliquely downward from the front end toward the rear in a side view, a rear lower edge portion that extends obliquely upward from the lower end of the front lower edge portion, and a rear end portion that extends upward from the rear end of the rear lower edge portion.

[0194] The water-splashing member 130 has a plurality of through-holes formed therein. These through-holes are formed in the upper surface rectifying portion 131 and the side rectifying portion 132. Hereinafter, the through-holes formed in the upper surface rectifying portion 131 will also be referred to as "upper surface holes," and the through-holes formed in the side rectifying portion 132 will also be referred to as "side surface holes."

[0195] The upper surface holes are arranged to conform to the contour of the upper surface rectifying portion 131. In the stowed state, three upper surface holes are formed spaced apart along the length direction of the support leg 28 when viewed from above. In the stowed state, the three upper surface holes extend parallel to each other relative to the rear end edge (the side facing the grounding plate 29) of the upper surface rectifying portion 131 when viewed from above. In the stowed state, the rearmost hole of the three upper surface holes is the longest in the longitudinal direction. In the stowed state, the longitudinal lengths of the three upper surface holes gradually increase from the front side to the rear side.

[0196] The side holes are arranged to conform to the contour of the side rectification section 132. In the stowed state, five side holes are formed spaced apart along the length of the support leg 28 when viewed from the side. In the stowed state, the five side holes extend parallel to the rear end edge (the side facing the grounding plate 29) of the side rectification section 132 when viewed from the side. In the stowed state, the second hole from the rear side of the five side holes has the longest longitudinal length. In the stowed state, the lengths of the five side holes decrease in length toward the front and rear sides, starting with the second hole from the rear side.

[0197] Figure 17 It is a perspective view for explaining the function of the splash guard member 130 . Figure 18 It is a perspective view showing water splashback in a comparative example.

[0198] Refer to Figure 18 In the comparative example (without the splash-proof member 130), the grounding plate 29 of the main support 27 causes the water to flow upward ( Figure 18 Therefore, there is a possibility that water will splash back toward the back of the occupant.

[0199] In contrast, according to the embodiment, Figure 17 As shown, the main support 27 is provided with a splash-proof member 130, thereby preventing water from splashing back. In the embodiment, the water can be directed backward and downward ( Figure 17 Therefore, the possibility of water splashing back upward is low. According to the embodiment, by rectifying the water toward the rear of the vehicle, it is possible to prevent water from splashing back toward the back of the occupant.

[0200] <Example of Front Fender Lip Shape>

[0201] Figure 19 It is a perspective view of the lip shape 140 of the front fender 17 . Figure 20 It is a front view of the lip shape 140 of the front fender 17 .

[0202] Refer to Figure 19 and Figure 20 Alternatively, a lip portion 140 may be formed on the front fender 17 to separate the wind from the vehicle.

[0203] The front fender 17 includes a front fender body 18 disposed in front of the front fork 10 and covering the upper portion of the front wheel 2 from above. A portion of the front fender body 18 is formed in a U-shape (inverted U-shape) open downward when viewed in the front-rear direction.

[0204] Openings 19 extending in the vehicle width direction (left-right direction) are formed on the left and right side portions of the front fender body 18. When viewed in the vehicle width direction, the openings 19 are triangular in shape (specifically, a triangular shape having one side extending along the left and right front edges of the front fender body 18 and having rounded corners).

[0205] Lip 140 protrudes outward in the vehicle width direction from the left and right side surfaces of the front fender body 18. When viewed in the vehicle width direction, lip 140 is formed into a curved shape (a C-shape opening upward and rearward) that curves along the front outer edge of opening 19. Lip 140 includes a front inclined portion 141 that extends obliquely along the front lower edge of opening 19, as viewed in the vehicle width direction; an upper curved portion 142 that is connected to the upper end of front inclined portion 141 and curves along the front upper rounded corner of opening 19; and a lower curved portion 143 that is connected to the lower end of front inclined portion 141 and curves along the lower rounded corner of opening 19.

[0206] In the case of the comparative example (not shown) (without the lip shape 140), there is a high possibility that the traveling wind will enter the opening 19 of the front fender 17. Therefore, the steering system is restricted, and there is a possibility that the automatic return function cannot be used in neutral.

[0207] In contrast, according to the embodiment, a lip 140 is formed at the front end of the opening 19 of the front fender 17, thereby separating air (travel air). Consequently, the likelihood of travel air entering the opening 19 of the front fender 17 is reduced. Consequently, the automatic return function can be used in neutral.

[0208] Figure 21 It is a perspective view of the rib shapes 151 and 152 of the bottom cover 37.

[0209] like Figure 21As shown, ribs 151 and 152 for separating traveling air may be formed on the bottom cover 37 .

[0210] The ribs 151 and 152 protrude downward from the rear portion of the lower surface of the bottom cover 37 .

[0211] A pair of left and right bulges 150 are formed on the rear portion of the lower surface of the bottom cover 37. The bulges 150 extend in the front-to-rear direction and bulge downward. The bulges 150 are formed on the left and right outer ends of the rear portion of the lower surface of the bottom cover 37. The bulges 150 extend along the left and right outer edges of the rear portion of the lower surface of the bottom cover 37.

[0212] The ribs 151 and 152 include a pair of left and right front ribs 151 disposed in front of the left and right bulges 150, and a rear rib 152 disposed behind the left and right bulges 150. The left and right front ribs 151 are formed so as to overlap with the left and right bulges 150, respectively, when viewed from the front-back direction. The rear ribs 152 extend continuously in the vehicle width direction (lateral direction) so as to overlap with the left and right bulges 150, respectively, when viewed from the front-back direction.

[0213] In the comparative example (without rib shapes 151, 152), air (traveling wind) flows along the undercover 37. Therefore, the occupants feel a strong sense of restriction in the vehicle body (particularly in the rear portion of the vehicle body) while the vehicle is traveling, which may impair stability.

[0214] In contrast, according to the embodiment, ribs 151 and 152 are formed on the rear portion of the lower surface of the undercover 37, thereby separating air (traveling wind) through the ribs 151 and 152. This eliminates the feeling of restriction at the rear of the vehicle body, contributing to improved stability.

[0215] <Modification>

[0216] In the above embodiment, the splash guard is described by citing an example in which the splash guard blocks the imaginary line connecting the rear wheel axle and the center of the terminal portion when viewed from the side of the vehicle. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. For example, the splash guard may be configured to avoid the imaginary line connecting the rear wheel axle and the center of the terminal portion when viewed from the side of the vehicle. The configuration of the splash guard can be modified according to design specifications.

[0217] In the above embodiment, examples are given in which a suspension member that also holds the control device and a splash guard are supported on the suspension member, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the control device and / or splash guard may be supported on the vehicle body frame. For example, the splash guard may be supported on a member different from the suspension member. The support method of the splash guard can be changed according to design specifications.

[0218] In the above embodiment, an example is provided in which a battery having battery terminals located below the battery terminals in the vertical direction of the vehicle is provided, and the splash guard is positioned below the battery terminals in the vertical direction of the vehicle. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. For example, at least a portion of the splash guard may be positioned above the battery terminals in the vertical direction of the vehicle. The arrangement of the splash guard relative to the battery terminals can be modified according to design specifications.

[0219] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment. For example, the structure of the embodiment is not limited to application to scooter-type motorcycles, but can also be applied to various straddle-type vehicles. Straddle-type vehicles include all vehicles in which a driver straddles the vehicle body. They include not only motorcycles (including bicycles with a prime mover and scooter-type vehicles), but also three-wheeled vehicles (including vehicles with two front wheels and one rear wheel in addition to one front wheel and two rear wheels) and four-wheeled vehicles (such as four-wheeled carts).

[0220] Furthermore, the configuration in the above-described embodiment is an example of the present invention, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention, such as replacing the components of the embodiment with well-known components.

Claims

1. A terminal protection structure for a straddle-type vehicle, comprising: a swing support shaft that supports the rear wheel of the straddle-type vehicle and the electric motor that drives the rear wheel so as to be swingable relative to the vehicle body frame; a control device, which is arranged in front of the swing support shaft and has a terminal portion on the upper side in the vertical direction of the vehicle, and controls the electric motor; a rear fender covering the rear wheel and fixed to the vehicle body frame; and A splash guard is arranged between the rear fender and the control device and extends rearward from below the terminal portion. The lower end of the splash guard is arranged below the terminal portion in the vehicle vertical direction.

2. The terminal protection structure for a straddle-type vehicle according to claim 1, wherein: The splash guard blocks a virtual line connecting the axle of the rear wheel and the center of the terminal portion when viewed from the side of the vehicle.

3. The terminal protection structure for a straddle-type vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The terminal protection structure of the straddle-type vehicle further includes a hanging member for holding the control device. The splash guard is supported by the suspension member.

4. The terminal protection structure for a straddle-type vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The terminal protection structure of the straddle-type vehicle further includes a battery having a battery terminal on the lower side in the vertical direction of the vehicle. The splash guard is arranged below the battery terminal in the vehicle vertical direction.

5. The terminal protection structure for a straddle-type vehicle according to claim 3, wherein: The rear fender includes a fender support portion supported by the vehicle body frame. The front portion of the splash guard is supported by the suspension member, The rear portion of the splash guard covers the front end of the rear fender from above and is supported by the fender support portion.

6. The terminal protection structure for a straddle-type vehicle according to claim 3, wherein: The suspension member includes a cross pipe on the upper end side of the suspension member and a middle support portion on the center side of the suspension member. The splash guard is mounted from the cross tube to the middle support portion.

7. The terminal protection structure for a straddle-type vehicle according to claim 6, wherein: The splash guard covers the transverse tube from above, When viewed from the side of the vehicle, a portion of the rear fender extends downward from the center of the cross pipe and then bends upward in front of the cross pipe to cover the cross pipe from above together with the splash guard.

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