Drive unit and drive unit cover

Abstract

A drive unit (10) mounted on a vehicle (100), comprising: a motor (3); a housing (1) mountable on the vehicle (100) for receiving the motor (3); and a cover (2) covering at least a part of the housing (1), wherein the cover (2) has a bottom section (2B) located under at least a part of a lower surface of the housing (1) to cover that part, and a left side wall (2L) extending from the bottom section (2B) and covering at least a part of a left side of the housing (1) with respect to a left / right direction of the vehicle (100), wherein the cover (2) has a first hole (2a) located at at least one of the following places: (a) at a place on the bottom section (2B) to the left of the center of the bottom section (2B) with respect to the left / right direction of the vehicle (100), and (b) on the left side wall (2L), and,When the vehicle (100) with the housing (1) mounted on it is tilted 5° to the left from an upright position, at least part of an inner edge of the cover (2) is located at the first hole (2a) at the lowest point of an inner surface (2n) of the cover (2) in the direction of gravity, wherein the cover (2) has a right side wall (2R) extending from the bottom section (2B) and covering at least part of a right side of the housing (1) with respect to the left / right direction of the vehicle (100), and the cover (2) has a second hole (2b) provided at at least one of the following locations: (c) at a location on the bottom section (2B) to the right of the center of the bottom section (2B) with respect to the left / right direction of the vehicle (100), and (d) on the right side wall (2R); and when the vehicle (100) with the housing (1) mounted on it is tilted 5° to the right from the upright position,at least part of an inner edge of the cover (2) is located at the second hole (2b) at the lowest point of the inner surface of the cover (2) in the direction of gravity.

Description

Cross-reference to related registration

[0001] This application claims priority over Japanese patent application No. JP 2021-210 310 A, filed on December 24, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background of the invention 1. Scope of the invention

[0002] The present invention relates to a drive unit mounted on a vehicle and a cover for it. 2. Description of the state of the art

[0003] Vehicles, such as bicycles with electric motor assistance, comprise a drive unit mounted on them, the drive unit having a motor. A drive unit includes a housing designed to be mounted on a vehicle and a motor contained within the housing. JP 2021-035 110 A describes a drive unit comprising a housing, a motor, and a cover. The cover is designed to cover at least some parts of the housing and the motor. Sections of the cover that cover at least some parts of the housing and the motor have a through-hole. The through-hole is a slot with a width of 10 mm or less, or has a maximum width of 10 mm or less. Summary of the invention

[0004] The inventors discovered that water can accumulate in the cover of the drive unit when a vehicle is parked. Conventional drive units are not designed to effectively drain the water from inside the cover.

[0005] A drive unit according to embodiments of the present invention is a vehicle-mounted drive unit comprising: a motor; a housing mountable on the vehicle for receiving the motor; and a cover covering at least a portion of the housing. The cover comprises a bottom section arranged under at least a portion of a lower surface of the housing to cover that portion, and a left side wall extending from the bottom section and covering at least a portion of a left side of the housing, relative to the left / right direction of the vehicle. The cover includes a first hole located at at least one of the following locations: (a) at a location on the bottom section to the left of the center of the bottom section, relative to the left / right direction of the vehicle, and (b) on the left side wall.As used here, “a first hole located at at least one of the following: (a) at a location on the floor section to the left of the center of the floor section, with respect to the left / right direction of the vehicle, and (b) on the left side wall” can mean a first hole located only at the location on the floor section specified above, a first hole formed only in the left side wall, or a first hole formed at both the location on the floor section specified above and in the left side wall. If the vehicle, with the housing mounted on it, is tilted 5° to the left from an upright position, at least part of an inner edge of the cover at the first hole is located at the lowest point of an inner surface of the cover in the direction of gravity. List of characters [ Fig. 1] Fig. Figure 1 is a left side view of an exemplary vehicle with a drive unit mounted on it according to embodiments. [ Fig. 2] Fig. 2 is an enlarged view of the in Fig. 1 drive unit shown. [ Fig. 3] Fig. 3 is a right-hand side view of the in Fig. 2 shown cover. [ Fig. 4] Fig. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the drive unit along line A of Fig. 2. [ Fig. 5] Fig. Figure 5 is a left side view of an exemplary drive unit, shown at a different angle than in Figure 5. Fig. 2 is attached to the vehicle frame. [ Fig. 6] Fig. Figure 6 is a left side view of an exemplary drive unit, shown at a different angle than in Figure 6. Fig. 2 is attached to the vehicle frame. [ Fig. 7] Fig. 7 is a view of the underside of the cover of the in Fig. 2 drive units shown. [ Fig. 8] Fig. 8 is a top view of the cover of the in Fig. 2 drive units shown. [ Fig. 9] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a modification of the in Fig. 4 shown cover. [ Fig. 10] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of another modification of the in Fig. 4 shown cover. Detailed description of preferred embodiments

[0006] In this description, the directions "front / forward" and "backward," "left" and "right," as well as "upward" and "downward," with respect to the drive unit and the cover, mean those directions with respect to the vehicle as they result when the housing is mounted on the vehicle and the vehicle is in its upright position, unless expressly stated otherwise. The upright position of the vehicle means that the vehicle's axis in the up / down direction of the vehicle body (i.e., the vehicle frame) coincides with the vertical direction (i.e., the direction of gravity). The up / down and forward / backward directions of the drive unit and the cover, which are not mounted on the vehicle, need not be precisely and unambiguously defined.For the drive unit and cover not mounted on the vehicle, for example, the up / down direction and the forward / reverse direction can be any direction within the ranges that result in the up / down direction and forward / reverse direction when the drive unit and cover are mounted on the vehicle.

[0007] In cases where a vehicle-mounted drive unit is covered, liquid such as water often enters the space between the cover and the drive unit. To drain this water, the inventors provided a hole at the bottom of the cover to allow it to escape. However, they found that despite the drainage hole, water could still remain on the inside of the cover. Further investigation revealed that the drive unit's angle differs slightly between a parked and a moving vehicle, preventing the water from easily draining through the hole. For example, when parked, a bicycle is often tilted to the left rather than in an upright position.This prevents water from draining through the hole, causing it to remain inside the cover. However, they also observed that while driving, water that had entered the drive unit cover could easily drain out through the hole due to the vehicle's movement. Based on these findings, they investigated various cover configurations to effectively drain the water and designed the embodiments described below.

[0008] A drive unit according to embodiments of the present invention is a vehicle-mounted drive unit comprising: a motor; a housing mountable on the vehicle for receiving the motor; and a cover covering at least a portion of the housing. The cover comprises a bottom section arranged under at least a portion of a lower surface of the housing to cover that portion, and a left side wall extending from the bottom section and covering at least a portion of a left side of the housing, relative to the left / right direction of the vehicle. The cover includes a first hole located at at least one of the following locations: (a) at a location on the bottom section to the left of the center of the bottom section, relative to the left / right direction of the vehicle, and (b) on the left side wall.If the vehicle with the housing mounted on it is tilted 5° to the left from an upright position, at least part of an inner edge of the cover at the first hole is located at the lowest point or deepest point of an inner surface of the cover in the direction of gravity.

[0009] In the arrangement described above, when the vehicle with the housing mounted on it is tilted 5° to the left from an upright position, at least part of the inner edge of the first hole is no higher than any point on the inner surface of the cover in the direction of gravity. That is, when the vehicle is parked and tilted to the left from an upright position, at least part of the inner edge of the cover at the first hole is at the lowest point on the inner surface of the cover in the direction of gravity. This allows water inside the cover to drain easily when the vehicle is parked. Furthermore, the first hole is positioned so that, when the vehicle is in motion, the water can easily drain through it due to the vehicle's movement. This creates a drive mechanism capable of effectively draining the water from inside the cover.

[0010] In the arrangement described above, in a cross-section represented by a plane extending in the left / right direction of the vehicle and passing through the first hole, at least a portion of the inner edge of the cover at the first hole is located at the lowest point of the inner surface of the cover, relative to a reference axis direction extending obliquely downwards and to the left at an angle of 5° from the upward / downward direction of the vehicle. The inner edge of the cover at the first hole is the edge of the first hole that is in contact with the inner surface of the cover.

[0011] When the vehicle with the housing mounted on it is tilted 5° to the left from an upright position, it is advantageous that the inner surface of the cover has no section that rises in the direction of gravity as it approaches the inner edge of the first hole. That is, it is preferable that when the housing is tilted 5° to the left, a section on the entire inner surface of the cover either becomes lower or remains at the same height as determined by gravity as it approaches the inner edge of the first hole. Thus, when the vehicle is tilted 5° to the left, the water on the inner surface of the cover can easily flow towards the first hole due to gravity.

[0012] When the vehicle with the housing mounted on it is in an upright position, the bottom section of the cover can be shaped so that, viewed from the left, it projects downwards in the left / right direction. For example, the bottom section of the cover can be shaped such that, viewed from the left / right direction of the vehicle, an intermediate section between a front and a rear section is lower than the front and rear sections in the forward / reverse direction of the vehicle. In such embodiments, the first hole, viewed from the left, can be located between the front and rear sections (i.e., in the intermediate section) of the bottom section, or at a location on the left side wall above the intermediate section of the bottom section.

[0013] Viewed from the left, the first hole can be located, as determined by the vehicle's left / right orientation, at a point that intersects an imaginary line running through an area of ​​the cover's inner surface that represents the lowest point when the vehicle with the housing mounted on it is in an upright position and extends upwards in the vehicle's up / down direction (i.e., line A). This allows water to easily flow to the first hole on the cover's inner surface due to gravity.

[0014] The first hole can extend to an edge between the floor section and the left side wall of the cover. This allows water to easily drain through the first hole if the vehicle tips to the left. For example, the first hole can be located on at least part of the floor section that reaches the ridge between the floor section and the left side wall, or on part of the left side wall itself.

[0015] When the vehicle with the housing mounted on it is in an upright position, the first hole can be positioned so that part of its inner edge is located at the lowest point on the inner surface of the cover. This allows water to drain easily through the first hole, regardless of whether the vehicle is upright or tilted to the left.

[0016] When the vehicle with the housing mounted on it is in an upright position, the lowest point of the inner edge of the first hole can be lower than the housing. This ensures that there is a gap between the housing and the part of the cover containing the first hole, allowing water to flow through. For example, a gap can be provided between the cover and the housing below the housing, to which the first hole is attached.

[0017] The distance between the housing and the inner edge of the cover at the first hole is preferably not less than 5 mm, and more preferably not less than 10 mm. This distance between the housing and the first hole ensures that there is a passage for water to reach the first hole, allowing the water to flow easily to it.

[0018] Preferably, the maximum width of the first hole is not less than 5 mm. This makes it less likely that water will block the first hole due to surface tension, allowing the water to drain easily through it. The maximum width is defined as the width in the direction where the opening formed by the first hole is greatest.

[0019] The dimensions of the first hole in the forward / backward direction can be larger than the dimensions in the up / downward direction and / or the left / right direction. Providing such a first hole, which is elongated in the forward / backward direction, ensures a passage for water over a wide area along the forward / backward path.

[0020] The cover may have a projection that extends towards the vehicle's underbody when viewed from the left or right. In such embodiments, the first hole in the side view may be located at a vertex of the projection on the underbody or at a corresponding point on the left side wall.

[0021] The left / right direction of the vehicle can be the same as the axial direction of the engine held by the housing. In some embodiments, the housing can have a mounting section (i.e., a projection) with a bolt hole for mounting to the vehicle. The left / right direction can be the same as the axial direction of the bolt hole of the mounting part (i.e., the hub) of the housing.

[0022] The bottom section of the cover can be formed by a one-piece molded, plate-shaped bottom cover (i.e., bottom cover) positioned below the housing and extending from left to right. Alternatively, the cover can be formed by a left cover positioned to the left of the housing to cover it and a right cover positioned to the right of the housing to cover it, the right cover contacting the left cover at a point below the housing. In such an embodiment, the bottom section of the cover can be formed by a bottom section of the left cover and a bottom section of the right cover.

[0023] A rib extending upwards from the inner surface can be provided at the bottom of the cover. This rib prevents deformation of the cover when an upward impact is applied to it from below, thus improving the cover's impact resistance.

[0024] The first hole can be provided in the left side wall. In such embodiments, viewed from the left, with respect to the left / right direction of the vehicle, at least part of the first hole can be located below the housing and not overlap the housing. This ensures that a space is formed between the housing and the cover for the temporary collection of water, allowing the water to drain away.

[0025] The cover may include a right-hand side wall extending from the base section and covering at least part of one right-hand side of the housing, relative to the vehicle's left / right orientation. The cover may have a second opening provided at at least one of the following locations: (c) at a location on the base section to the right of its center, relative to the vehicle's left / right orientation, and (d) on the right-hand side wall. The second opening may be configured such that when the vehicle, with the housing mounted on it, is tilted 5° to the right from an upright position, at least part of an inner edge of the cover at the second opening will be located at a lowest point on the inner surface of the cover, as determined in the direction of gravity. This will allow water to drain effectively from inside the cover, regardless of whether the vehicle is tilted to the left or right when parked.

[0026] The first hole can be in the left side wall. The second hole can be in the right side wall. Viewed from left to right, at least part of the first hole can overlap at least part of the second hole.

[0027] This allows air to flow more easily into the cover in a left / right direction. This, in turn, allows water to drain more easily from inside the cover.

[0028] One edge of the first hole, viewed from the left / right side of the vehicle, may have a line that slopes diagonally downwards from a front to a back. Because this edge of the first hole is angled in this way, the airflow through it can help water inside the cover drain efficiently while driving. For the same purpose, one edge of the second hole, viewed from the left / right side of the vehicle, may have a line that slopes diagonally downwards in a forward / backward direction.

[0029] When the vehicle with the housing mounted on it is in an upright position, the inner edge of the cover at the first hole may be tilted to the left, relative to the vehicle's left / right orientation. This means that the outermost left point of the edge of the first hole may be higher than the outermost right point. This allows water that has flowed from above the first hole along the inner surface of the cover to drain more easily through the first hole.

[0030] In some embodiments, the inner edge of the cover of the first hole may be inclined to the right when the vehicle with the housing mounted on it is in an upright position, relative to the vehicle's left / right orientation. In such embodiments, the lowest point of the edge of the first hole is directed further to the left (i.e., outwards) than its highest point. Thus, it is less likely that water droplets and / or mud splashed onto the vehicle from below while driving will enter the interior of the cover through the first hole.

[0031] When the vehicle with the housing mounted on it is in an upright position, the inner edge of the second hole may be inclined to the right in the vehicle's left / right direction. That is, the outermost right point of the edge of the second hole may be higher than the outermost left point. This allows water that has flowed along the inner surface of the cover from above the second hole to drain more easily through the second hole. In some embodiments, the inner edge of the cover of the second hole may be inclined to the left when the vehicle with the housing mounted on it is in an upright position, as determined along the vehicle's left / right direction.

[0032] The left side panel can extend upwards and outwards from the inner edge of the cover at the first hole, relative to the left / right direction of the vehicle. In this way, the sections of the left side panel located above the first hole are shaped to better conform to the shape of the housing.

[0033] The left side panel can extend upwards and inwards from the inner edge of the cover at the first hole, relative to the left / right direction of the vehicle. This makes the first hole less visible from an angle above the side. Furthermore, since parts of the left side panel located above the first hole extend downwards, air inside the cover can easily escape through the first hole.

[0034] The cover of the drive unit is included in embodiments of the present invention. A cover according to embodiments of the present invention is a cover for a drive unit with a housing that is mounted on a vehicle and accommodates a motor. The cover comprises: a bottom section arranged under at least a portion of a lower surface of the housing to cover that portion; a left side wall extending from the bottom section and covering at least a portion of a left side of the housing, relative to the left / right direction of travel of the vehicle; and a first hole arranged at at least one of the following locations: (a) at a location on the bottom section to the left of a center point of the bottom section, relative to the left / right direction of travel of the vehicle, and (b) on the left side wall.In a cross-section represented by a plane extending in the left / right direction of the vehicle and passing through the first hole, at least part of an inner edge of the cover is located at the first hole at a lowest point of an inner surface of the cover, which is determined in a reference axis direction extending obliquely downwards to the left at an angle of 5° from an upward / downward direction of the vehicle.

[0035] The following describes a bicycle according to embodiments of the present invention with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding elements are identified by the same reference numerals, thus eliminating the need for repeated descriptions. Furthermore, the dimensions of the components in the drawings do not exactly correspond to the dimensions of the actual components, the size ratios between the components, or similar aspects. In the following description, the directions "front / forward" and "backward," "left" and "right," as well as "upward" and "downward," refer to the directions perceived by a rider on the vehicle.The directions "front / forward" and "backward," "left" and "right," as well as "up" and "down" with respect to the vehicle, are the same as the directions with respect to the vehicle frame and the drive unit mounted on the vehicle. Furthermore, the forward direction of the vehicle is the same as the forward / reverse direction. In the drawings, "F," "B," "U," "D," "R," and "L" mean forward, backward, up, down, right, and left, respectively. <Beispielhafter Gesamtaufbau des Fahrzeugs>

[0036] Fig. Figure 1 is a left side view of an exemplary vehicle with a drive unit mounted on it according to the embodiments. Fig. Figure 1 shows vehicle 100 in its upright position. In the Fig. The vehicle shown in Figure 100 is an electrically assisted bicycle.

[0037] In Fig. The vehicle 100 comprises a vehicle frame 11. The vehicle frame 11 extends in a forward / reverse direction. The vehicle frame 11 includes a steering tube 12, which is arranged towards the front. The steering tube 12 rotatably supports a steering shaft 13. A steering rod 23 is attached to the upper end of the steering shaft 13, and a front fork 26 is attached to the lower end of the shaft. The front fork 26 rotatably supports a front wheel 21 at its lower end. A rear section of the vehicle frame 11 rotatably supports a rear wheel 22. A seat 24 is attached to an upper section of the vehicle frame 11. The vehicle frame 11 rotatably supports a crankshaft 41, which is located at its lower end. The brake levers 74 are attached to the left and right of the steering rods 23. The left brake lever 74 is used to actuate a brake 76 for the rear wheel 22. The right brake lever 74 is used to actuate a brake 75 for the front wheel 21.

[0038] At the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, a drive unit 10 is attached to a floor section of the vehicle frame 11. The crankshaft 41 is rotatably connected to the drive unit 10. In the present embodiment, the crankshaft 41 is rotatably mounted on the vehicle frame 11, with the drive unit 10 positioned between it and the crankshaft. The drive unit 10 is, for example, attached to a bracket 15 of the vehicle frame 11. The bracket 15 is located at the lowest point of the vehicle frame 11 (in the present embodiment, on the seat frame section and the lower frame section). The drive unit 10, attached to the vehicle frame 11, is suspended from this bracket.

[0039] The drive unit 40 comprises a motor 3, a housing 1 that receives the motor 3, and a cover 2. The housing 1 is designed to be mounted on the vehicle 100. The housing 1 includes a mounting section (i.e., a projection) with a screw hole that extends through it in the left / right direction of the vehicle. The screw extending through the mounting section of the housing 1 is tightened against the bracket 15 of the vehicle frame 15. In this way, the housing 1 is attached to the vehicle frame 11.

[0040] The crankshaft 41 extends in the left / right direction of the bicycle. The crank arms 31 are attached to the respective ends of the crankshaft 41. The pedals 33 are attached to the distal ends of the respective crank arms 31. Although not shown, the bicycle 100 is equipped with a driving sprocket that rotates with the crankshaft 41 and a driven sprocket that rotates with the rear wheel 22. A chain 46 is wound around the driving and driven sprockets to connect them. Of course, the chain 46 can also be replaced by a belt. The driving sprocket, the chain 46, and the driven sprocket are examples of transmission elements that transfer the rotation of the pedals to the rear wheel. The transmission elements are not limited to these examples. The sprockets and the chain can, for example, be replaced by gears and shafts.Furthermore, the transmission elements can include a one-way coupling. The one-way coupling transmits the forward rotation; the reverse rotation is not transmitted.

[0041] The vehicle (i.e., the bicycle) 100 includes a stand 25 attached to the vehicle frame 11. When the vehicle 100 (i.e., the bicycle) is parked, the stand 25 supports the vehicle 100 so that the vehicle 100 does not tip over. In the embodiment of Fig. 1. When parked, the vehicle 100 is supported by the stand 25 while it leans to the left. When the vehicle 100 is in the upright position, the stand 25 does not make contact with the ground. In the embodiments of Fig. In Figure 1, the stand 25 is attached to a chainstay that is part of the vehicle frame 11. Attaching the stand 25 to a chainstay is a non-limiting example, and the stand can also be attached to other parts of the vehicle frame 11.

[0042] Fig. 2 is an enlarged view of the in Fig. 1 drive unit shown 10. Fig. 3 is a right-hand side view of the in Fig. 2 shown cover. Fig. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the drive unit along line A of Fig. 2. The Fig. 2 to Fig. Figure 4 shows the drive unit 10, the housing 1 and the cover 2 as they are mounted in an upright position on the vehicle 100. Fig. Cover 2 is shown with a dashed line for better understanding.

[0043] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the cover 2 comprises a bottom section 2B and a left side wall 2L. The bottom section 2B is located under at least part of the lower surface of the housing 1 and covers this part. The left side wall 2L extends upwards from the bottom section 2B and covers at least part of the left side of the housing 1.

[0044] A first hole 2a is provided in the left side wall 2L of the cover 2. When the vehicle is in the upright position, the first hole 2a, viewed from the left (relative to the vehicle's left / right direction), is located at a point that overlaps an imaginary line passing through the lowest point 2nU on the inner surface 2n of the cover 2 and extending upwards / downwards. That is, viewed from the left, the first hole 2a is positioned to overlap an imaginary line that passes through the lowest point 2nU on the inner surface 2n of the cover 2 and extends upwards (i.e., line A).

[0045] At the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the bottom section 2B of the cover 2 is shaped such that, viewed from the left, it projects downwards. An intermediate section between the front and rear sections, relative to the forward / reverse direction of the vehicle, of the bottom section 2B of the cover 2 is positioned lower than the front and rear sections. This means that a projection is provided between the front and rear ends of the bottom section 2B of the cover 2, projecting downwards from both the front and rear ends. Viewed from the left, the first hole 2a on the left side wall is located above the apex of the projection of the bottom section 2B.

[0046] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, cover 2 has a right side wall 2R. Fig. Figure 3 shows the right side wall 2R with a dashed line for clarity. The right side wall 2R extends upwards from the bottom section 2B to cover at least part of the right side of the housing 1. A second hole 2b is provided in the right side wall 2R. When the vehicle is in the upright position, the second hole 2b, viewed from the right (relative to the vehicle's left / right direction), is located at a point that overlaps an imaginary line passing through the lowest point 2nU on the inner surface 2n of the cover 2 and extending upwards / downwards. That is, viewed from the right, the second hole 2b is positioned to overlap the imaginary line passing through the lowest point 2nU on the inner surface 2n of the cover 2 and extending upwards (i.e., line A). In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the right side wall 2R has an opening through which the crankshaft 41 can pass. After the cover 2 is mounted on the housing 1, a cover section 2Ra is inserted over this opening and forms part of the right side wall 2R.

[0047] Fig. Figure 4 shows a cross-section represented by a plane passing through the lowest point 2nU on the inner surface 2n of the cover 2 and extending in a left / right direction when the vehicle is in an upright position. Fig. Line AL 4 indicates the direction of gravity that results when the vehicle 100 with the drive unit 10 mounted on it (i.e., the housing 1) is tilted 5° to the left from the upright position. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, when the vehicle 100 with the housing 1 mounted on it is tilted 5° to the left from the upright position, at least a portion of the inner edge 2af of the cover at the first hole 2a is located at the lowest point of the inner surface 2n of the cover in the direction of gravity. In other words, in a cross-section represented by a plane extending in the left / right direction of the vehicle and passing through the first hole 2a, at least a portion of the inner edge 2af of the cover at the first hole 2a is no higher than any point on the inner surface 2n of the cover 2, as determined in the reference axis direction (specified by line AL), which extends obliquely downwards and to the left at an angle of 5° from the upward / downward direction of the vehicle.

[0048] In Fig. Line AR 4 indicates the direction of gravity found when the vehicle 100, with the drive unit 10 (i.e., the housing 1) mounted on it, is tilted 5° to the right from the upright position. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, when the vehicle 100 with the housing 1 mounted on it is tilted 5° to the right from the upright position, at least part of the inner edge 2bf of the cover at the second hole 2b is located at the lowest point of the inner surface 2n of the cover in the direction of gravity. In other words, in a cross-section represented by a plane extending in the left / right direction of the vehicle and passing through the second hole 2b, at least part of the inner edge 2bf of the cover at the second hole 2b is no higher than any point on the inner surface 2n of the cover 2, which is determined in the reference axis direction (specified by line AR) extending obliquely downwards and to the right at an angle of 5° from the upward / downward direction of the vehicle (specified by line A).

[0049] At the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the left end of the base section 2B of the cover 2 forms part of the edge of the first hole 2a. The inner surface 2n of the base section 2B of the cover 2 is inclined such that it decreases inward from the left end, relative to the vehicle's left / right direction. In such embodiments, the inclination of the inner surface 2n, when extending inward from the left end of the base section 2B, relative to the left / right direction, cannot exceed 5°. Thus, when the vehicle tilts 5° to the left from the upright position, the edge of the first hole 2a at the left end of the base section 2B is at the lowest point of the inner surface of the base section 2B.

[0050] Furthermore, in the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the right end of the base section 2B of the cover 2 forms part of the edge of the second hole 2b. The inner surface 2n of the base section 2B of the cover 2 is inclined such that it decreases inward from the right end, relative to the left / right direction of the vehicle. In such embodiments, the inclination of the inner surface 2n, when extending inward from the right end of the base section 2B, relative to the left / right direction, cannot exceed 5°. Thus, when the vehicle tilts 5° to the right from the upright position, the edge of the second hole 2b at the right end of the base section 2B is at the lowest point of the inner surface of the base section 2B.

[0051] In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, when the vehicle 100 is tilted 5° to the left from the upright position, the inner surface 2n of the cover does not contain a section that rises in the direction of gravity (i.e., in the direction of line AL) as it approaches the inner edge of the first hole 2a. Therefore, when the vehicle 100 is tilted 5° to the left, water on the inner surface 2n of the cover can easily flow into the first hole 2a.

[0052] If the vehicle is 100 in the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, when the vehicle is tilted 5° to the right from the upright position, the inner surface 2n of the cover does not contain a section that rises in the direction of gravity (i.e., in the direction of line AR) as it approaches the inner edge of the second hole 2b. Therefore, when the vehicle 100 is tilted 5° to the right, the water on the inner surface 2n of the cover can easily flow towards the second hole 2b.

[0053] At the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, at least part of the first hole 2a overlaps at least part of the second hole 2b when viewed from the left / right direction of the vehicle. A gap is provided between the first and second holes 2a and 2b, extending in the left / right direction of the vehicle. This allows air to easily flow into the cover 2 in the left / right direction.

[0054] Fig. Figure 4 shows a cross-section represented by a plane passing through the lowest point 2nU on the inner surface 2n of the cover 2 when the vehicle is in an upright position (hereinafter referred to as the lowest point 2nU) and extending in the left / right direction of the vehicle. The lowest point 2nU on the inner surface 2n of the cover 2 depends on the angle of the housing 1 relative to the vehicle frame 11. That is, different angles of the housing 1 relative to the vehicle frame 11 (i.e., mounting angles) result in different lowest points 2nU on the inner surface 2n of the cover 2.

[0055] Fig. 5 and Fig. Figures 6 each show a left side view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the drive unit 10, which is shown at a different angle than in Figure 6. Fig. 2 is attached to the vehicle frame 11. The in Fig. The housing 1 shown in section 5 of the drive unit 10 is, starting from the one in Fig. The housing 1 is attached to the vehicle frame 11 at an angle shown in Figure 2, resulting from a 20° clockwise rotation, viewed from the left, around an axis in the left / right direction of the vehicle. Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 the drive unit 10 is mounted in an upright position on the vehicle.

[0056] In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in 5, the lowest point 2nU on the inner surface 2n of the cover 2 is set further back than in the embodiment in Fig. 2. Furthermore, in the embodiment in Fig. 5 the upward / downward direction of the drive unit 10 (i.e., the cover 2) from a 20° rotation about an axis in the left / right direction, starting with the upward / downward direction of the drive unit in Fig. 2. Also in the embodiment of Fig. 5, when the vehicle is in the upright position, viewed from the left, with respect to the left / right direction of the vehicle, the first hole 2a is provided at a point that overlaps an imaginary line passing through the lowest point 2nU on the inner surface 2n of the cover 2 and extending in the upward / downward direction.

[0057] In the embodiment of Fig. 6 the lowest point 2nU on the inner surface 2n of the cover 2 is located further forward than in the embodiment of Fig. 2. Furthermore, in the embodiment of Fig. 6 the upward / downward direction of the drive unit 10 (i.e., the cover 2) from a 20° rotation about an axis in the left / right direction, starting with the upward / downward direction of the drive unit 10 from Fig. 2. Also in the embodiment of Fig. 6, when the vehicle is in the upright position, viewed from the left, with respect to the left / right direction of the vehicle, the first hole 2a is provided at a point that overlaps an imaginary line passing through the lowest point 2nU on the inner surface 2n of the cover 2 and extending in the upward / downward direction.

[0058] As in the Fig. 2, Fig. 5 and Fig. As shown in Figure 6, each mounting angle of the drive unit 10 (i.e., the housing 1) relative to the vehicle frame 11 can be determined within a specific range. In such embodiments, it is advantageous that, if the mounting angle lies within the considered range, the first hole 2a is positioned to overlap an imaginary line passing through an area forming the lowest point 2nU on the inner surface 2n of the cover 2 and extending upwards, as determined in the up / down direction of the vehicle. Thus, for each mounting angle within the considered range, the first hole 2a is located above the lowest point 2nU. For example, if the considered range for the mounting angle is 40°, as shown in Figure 6, the first hole 2a is positioned above the lowest point 2nU. Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the first hole 2a can be located in area L1 between lines A1 and A2.

[0059] It is understood that changes in the mounting angle when rotating around an axis in the left / right direction of the vehicle do not lead to changes in the left / right direction and the up / down direction in the Fig. The cross-section shown in section 4 is shown. Referring to Fig. The arrangement described in section 4 can be set up for any mounting angle within the relevant range.

[0060] Viewed from the right, i.e. in the left / right direction of the vehicle, the second hole 2b can also be arranged to overlap an imaginary line passing through an area forming the lowest point 2nU on the inner surface 2n of the cover 2 and extending upwards in the up / down direction of the vehicle when the vehicle with the housing 1 mounted on it is in the upright position.

[0061] In each of the embodiments of the Fig. 2, Fig. 5 and Fig. 6. At least part of the first hole 2a, viewed from the left in the direction of travel of the vehicle, is positioned lower than the housing 1 and does not overlap the housing 1. The edge of the first hole 2a is located below the housing 1 and is separated from it by a suitable distance. This allows a sufficient clearance to be maintained between the housing 1 and the cover 2, enabling water to drain easily. Similarly, at least part of the second hole 2b may also be positioned lower than the housing 1 and does not overlap the housing 1 when viewed from the right in the direction of travel of the vehicle.

[0062] Referring to Fig. 4. The minimum distance D1 between the housing 1 and the inner edge 2af of the first hole 2a is not limited to a specific value; preferably the minimum distance is not less than 5 mm, and more preferably not less than, for example, 10 mm.

[0063] In each of the embodiments of Fig. 2, Fig. 5 and Fig. 6. The dimension of the first hole 2a in the forward / backward direction is larger than the dimension in the upward / downward direction. The shape of the first hole 2a, such that it is elongated in the forward / backward direction, ensures that there is a passage for water over a wide area along this direction. Thus, the first hole 2a can, for example, accommodate a larger range of mounting brackets. For the same reason, the dimension of the second hole 2b in the forward / backward direction can be larger than the dimension in the upward / downward direction.

[0064] In each of the embodiments of the Fig. 2, Fig. 5 and Fig. Figure 6 shows that the edge of the first hole 2a, viewed from the left, has lines extending obliquely downwards in a front-to-back direction. In this way, the airflow assists the flow of water inside the cover, allowing it to drain along the lines of the first hole 2a. In the present embodiment, the first hole 2a is divided by struts extending obliquely downwards in a front-to-back direction. The edges of these struts form the lines of the obliquely downward-extending edge of the first hole 2a. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the edge of the second hole 2b, viewed from the right, also contains lines that extend diagonally downwards in the direction from front to back.

[0065] Fig. 7 is a view from below of cover 2 of the in Fig. 2 drive unit shown 10. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the first hole 2a is provided in the left side wall 2L to reach the ridge (i.e., the corner) between the floor section 2B and the left side wall 2L. The second hole 2b is provided in the right side wall 2R to reach the ridge (i.e., the corner) between the floor section 2B and the right side wall 2R. Therefore, if the vehicle tilts to the left or right, water can easily drain from the floor section 2. Alternatively, the first hole 2a could, for example, be located in the floor section 2B to the left of the center of the floor section in the left / right direction of the vehicle, as indicated by the dashed lines in Figure 7. Fig. 7 indicated. In such embodiments, the first hole 2a in the floor section 2B can, for example, reach the ridge between the floor section 2B and the left side wall 2L. Alternatively, the first hole 2a can be formed in both the left side wall 2L and the floor section 2B. The second hole 2b can also be provided in the floor section 2B to the right of center, with respect to the left / right direction of the vehicle, as indicated, for example, by dashed lines in Fig. 7 indicated. In such embodiments, the second hole 2b can, for example, reach the ridge between the bottom section 2B and the right side wall 2R. Alternatively, the second hole 2b can be formed in both the right side wall 2R and the bottom section 2B.

[0066] In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 7, the struts 2a1, which divide the opening of the interior of the first hole 2a, extend such that they approach the interior in the left / right direction of the vehicle (extend towards the interior), which extends from front to rear. The struts 2b1, which divide the opening of the second hole 2b, extend such that they approach the interior in the left / right direction of the vehicle (extend towards the interior), which extends from front to rear.

[0067] The dimension of the first hole 2a in the forward / reverse direction is larger than the dimension in the left / right direction. The dimension of the second hole 2b in the forward / reverse direction is larger than the dimension in the left / right direction. The first and second holes 2a and 2b are arranged in the left / right direction of the vehicle and are opposite each other. The bottom section 2B of the cover 2 is located between the first and second holes 2a and 2b.

[0068] Fig. 8 is a top view of cover 2 of the in Fig. 2. Drive unit 10 shown. The bottom section 2B of the cover 2 is provided with ribs 2p1, 2p2, and 2p3 extending upwards from the inner surface 2n. The ribs 2p1, 2p2, and 2p3 extend in the left / right direction of the vehicle. In the left / right direction of the vehicle, the ribs 2p1, 2p2, and 2p3 extend only over a portion of the bottom section 2B and not over the entire bottom section. This prevents the ribs from obstructing the flow of water on the bottom section 2B. The ribs 2p1 are located further forward than the first hole 2a. The ribs 2p2 are located between the corresponding positions of the front and rear ends of the first hole 2a. The ribs 2p3 are located further rearward than the first hole 2a.

[0069] At the in Fig. In the cover 2 of the drive unit 10 shown in Figure 4, the inner edge 2af of the first hole 2a is inclined to the left in the left / right direction of the vehicle when the vehicle is in the upright position. That is, the outermost left point of the edge 2af of the first hole 2a is higher than the outermost right point. Because the first hole 2a is inclined to the left, water that has flowed from above the first hole 2a along the inner surface 2n of the cover 2 can easily flow downwards from the edge of the first hole 2a and thus out of the cover 2. Furthermore, in the embodiment of Fig. 4. The inner edge 2bf of the second hole 2b is inclined to the right, relative to the left / right direction of the vehicle. Because the second hole 2b is inclined to the right, water that has flowed down from above can easily drain away through the second hole 2b.

[0070] In the embodiment of Fig. 4. The left side wall 2L extends upwards and outwards (i.e., to the left) from the edge of the first hole 2a, relative to the left / right direction of the vehicle. In other words, the left side wall 2L extends upwards from the first hole 2a and is inclined to the left. Furthermore, the right side wall 2R extends upwards and outwards (i.e., to the right) from the edge of the second hole 2b. In other words, the right side wall 2R extends upwards from the second hole 2b and is inclined to the right. In this way, the covers located over the first and second holes 2a and 2b can be shaped to match the shape of the housing 1.

[0071] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a modification of the in Fig. 4 shown cover 2. In the in Fig. In the cover 2 shown in Figure 9, the inner edge 2af of the first hole 2a is inclined to the right, relative to the vehicle's left / right orientation when the vehicle is in an upright position. This means that the lowest point of edge 2af of the first hole 2a is directed further to the left (i.e., outwards) than the highest point. With this arrangement, it is less likely that water droplets and / or mud splashed upwards from below while driving will enter the first hole 2a. Additionally, the inner edge 2bf of the second hole 2b is inclined to the left in the vehicle's left / right orientation. This means that the lowest point of edge 2bf of the second hole 2b is directed further to the right (i.e., outwards) than the highest point.

[0072] At the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 9, a left end section of the floor section 2B, including the left end that contacts the first hole 2a, is bent obliquely downwards and to the left when the vehicle is in the upright position. That is, from the edge of the first hole 2a, the floor section 2B is curved such that it extends upwards and to the right (i.e., inwards) in the left / right direction of the vehicle and then downwards. Because a left end section of the floor section 2B, including the left end that contacts the first hole 2a, is bent obliquely downwards and to the left, water droplets and / or mud from below are better prevented from entering the first hole 2a.Similarly, on the right side, a right end section of the bottom section 2B, including the right end that contacts the second hole 2b, is curved obliquely downwards and to the right when the vehicle is in the upright position. This prevents water droplets and / or mud from entering the second hole 2b from below.

[0073] Fig. Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view according to a further modification of the one in Fig. 4 shown cover 2. In the case of the Fig.In the cover 2 shown in Figure 10, the left side wall 2L extends upwards and to the right (i.e., inwards) from the inner edge 2af of the first hole 2a, relative to the left / right direction of the vehicle. In such embodiments, the first hole 2a is less visible obliquely from above on the left side. Furthermore, since sections of the left side wall 2L located above the first hole 2a extend downwards and outwards (i.e., to the left), air inside the cover 2 can easily escape through the first hole 2a. This facilitates the escape of water through the first hole 2a. For the same reasons, the right side wall 2R extends upwards and to the right (i.e., inwards) from the inner edge 2bf of the second hole 2b, relative to the left / right direction of the vehicle. That is, sections of the right side wall 2R located above the second hole 2b extend downwards and outwards (i.e., to the right).

[0074] Vehicles on which the drive unit can be mounted include, but are not limited to, vehicles that lean to the left when parked. For example, a vehicle on which the drive unit can be mounted is a vehicle that leans to one side. A vehicle that leans to one side is one in which the vehicle frame tilts in the direction of the turn. A vehicle that leans to one side is often tilted to the left when parked.

[0075] Examples of vehicles to which the drive unit can be attached include bicycles. These include bicycles with electric motor assistance and e-bikes. Such bicycles are not limited to a specific type; examples of vehicles to which the drive unit can be mounted include mountain bikes, racing bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes, recumbent bikes, and other types of bicycles. Vehicles to which the drive unit can be attached are not limited to two-wheeled vehicles but can also be vehicles with three or more wheels. Examples of vehicles to which the drive unit can be attached include light motor vehicles (LMWs) and electric quadricycles.

[0076] The embodiments discussed above describe arrangements in which at least a portion of the inner edge of the first hole 2a is located at the lowest point of the inner surface 2n of the cover 2 when the vehicle is tilted 5° to the left from the upright position. Such arrangements are not limited to embodiments in which the vehicle is tilted 5° to the left. In the embodiments described above, at least a portion of the inner edge of the first hole 2a is located at the lowest point of the inner surface 2n of the cover 2, at least when the vehicle is tilted 5° to 10° to the left from the upright position. It is understood that, for example, at least a portion of the inner edge of the first hole 2a may be located at the lowest point of the inner surface of the cover, at least when the vehicle is tilted 3° to 10° from the upright position.

[0077] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described previously, these embodiments are merely illustrative examples intended to aid in the embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and these embodiments can be suitably modified in the embodiment without departing from the spirit of the invention. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] JP 2021210310 A

[0001] JP 2021

[0003] JP 035110 A

[0003]

Claims

[1] Vehicle-mounted drive unit comprising: an engine; a housing that can be mounted on the vehicle to accommodate the engine; and a cover that covers at least part of the housing, wherein the cover has a bottom section which is located under at least part of a lower surface of the housing in order to cover this part, and a left side wall which extends from the bottom section and covers at least part of a left side of the housing, with respect to a left / right direction of the vehicle, wherein the cover has a first hole located at at least one of the following locations: (a) at a location on the floor section to the left of the center of the floor section, with respect to the left / right direction of the vehicle, and (b) on the left side wall, and, When the vehicle with the housing mounted on it is tilted 5° to the left from an upright position, at least part of an inner edge of the cover at the first hole is located at the lowest point of an inner surface of the cover in the direction of gravity. [2] Drive unit according to claim 1, wherein a rib is provided on the bottom section of the cover, extending upwards from the inner surface. [3] Drive unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first hole is provided in the left side wall; and When viewed from the left in the left / right direction of the vehicle, at least part of the first hole is located below the housing and does not overlap the housing. [4] Drive unit according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the cover has a right-hand side wall extending from the bottom section and covering at least part of a right-hand side of the housing, in relation to the left / right direction of the vehicle, the cover has a second hole provided at least at one of the following locations: (c) at a location on the floor section to the right of the center of the floor section, with reference to the left / right direction of the vehicle, and (d) on the right side wall; and When the vehicle with the housing mounted on it is tilted 5° to the right from the upright position, at least part of an inner edge of the cover is located at the second hole at the lowest point of the inner surface of the cover in the direction of gravity. [5] Drive unit according to claim 4, wherein the first hole is provided in the left side wall; the second hole is provided in the right side wall; and Viewed from the left / right direction of the vehicle, at least part of the first hole overlaps at least part of the second hole. [6] Drive unit according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein an edge of the first hole, viewed in the left / right direction of the vehicle, has a line extending obliquely downwards from a front to a rear. [7] Drive unit according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the inner edge of the cover at the first hole is inclined to the left when the vehicle with the housing mounted thereon is in the upright position, with respect to the left / right direction of the vehicle. [8] Drive unit according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the left side wall extends upwards and outwards from the inner edge of the cover at the first hole, with respect to the left / right direction of the vehicle. [9] Drive unit according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the left side wall extends upwards and inwards from the inner edge of the cover at the first hole, with respect to the left / right direction of the vehicle. [10] Cover of a drive unit with a housing that is mounted on a vehicle and accommodates a motor, comprising: a floor section located beneath at least part of a lower surface of the housing, in order to cover that part; a left side wall extending from the floor section and covering at least part of the left side of the housing, in relation to the left / right direction of the vehicle; and a first hole located in at least one of the following places: (a) at a point on the floor section to the left of the center of the floor section, with respect to the left / right direction of the vehicle, and (b) on the left side wall, wherein in a cross-section represented by a plane extending in the left / right direction of the vehicle and passing through the first hole, at least part of an inner edge of the cover at the first hole lies at the lowest point of an inner surface of the cover, with respect to a reference axis direction extending obliquely downwards to the left at an angle of 5° from an upward / downward direction of the vehicle.

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