Saddle-type vehicle

Abstract

The present invention provides a saddle-type vehicle in which the drive unit and battery can be securely fixed while the vehicle frame is in a state where it can flex appropriately. [Solution] The saddle-type electric vehicle 10 comprises a vehicle frame 18, a drive unit 26 supported by the vehicle frame 18, and a battery 24 supported by the vehicle frame 18 and supplying power to the drive unit 26. The battery 24 is fastened to the lower frame 46 of the vehicle frame 18, the drive unit 26 is fastened to the pivot frame 44 of the vehicle frame 18, and the drive unit 26 and the battery 24 are fastened to each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a saddle-type vehicle.

Background Art

[0002] Japanese Patent No. 7055216 discloses an electric saddle-type vehicle. The saddle-type vehicle includes a vehicle body frame, a drive unit, and a battery. The drive unit and the battery are supported by the vehicle body frame. The battery supplies electric power to the drive unit.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] It is desired to securely fix the drive unit and the battery in a state where the vehicle body frame can be moderately deformed.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] An aspect of the present disclosure is that a saddle-type vehicle includes a vehicle body frame having a head pipe, a main frame extending rearward from the head pipe, a lower frame positioned below the main frame and extending rearward and downward, and a pivot frame extending downward from a rear end portion of the main frame, a drive unit supported by the vehicle body frame, and a battery supported by the vehicle body frame and supplying electric power to the drive unit. The battery is fastened to the lower frame, the drive unit is fastened to the pivot frame, and the drive unit and the battery are fastened to each other.

Effects of the Invention

[0006] According to this disclosure, the battery is fastened to the lower frame without being fastened to the pivot frame. The drive unit is fastened to the pivot frame without being fastened to the lower frame. The lower frame and the pivot frame are indirectly connected via the battery and the drive unit. This allows the drive unit and the battery to be securely fixed while the vehicle frame is able to flex appropriately. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a left side view of a saddle-type electric vehicle. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a plan view of a saddle-type electric vehicle. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a right side view of the saddle-type electric vehicle. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the battery and lower frame. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a bottom view showing the connection between the rear of the transmission and the lower end of the pivot frame. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view along the line VI-VI in Figure 3. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a perspective view showing the fastening between the lower end of the lower frame and the front of the transmission case to the bottom of the battery. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view along the line VIII-VIII in Figure 3. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a perspective view showing the connection between the rear of the battery and the top of the motor. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] An electric saddle-type vehicle (hereinafter referred to as a saddle-type electric vehicle) comprises a vehicle frame, a drive unit, and a battery.

[0009] The drive unit and battery are each supported by the vehicle frame. The battery supplies power to the drive unit.

[0010] The vehicle frame needs to have a certain degree of rigidity to support the drive unit and battery. However, higher rigidity of the vehicle frame is not always better. It is desirable to improve the ride comfort of the occupant of a saddle-type electric vehicle and to improve the vehicle's dynamic performance by allowing the vehicle frame to flex appropriately.

[0011] For example, if a saddle-type electric vehicle is a trial vehicle for off-road competitions, the trial vehicle needs to be able to jump high to overcome obstacles. To do this, it is necessary to use the body action of the rider on the trial vehicle as well as the flex of the vehicle frame to overcome obstacles. In order for the vehicle frame to flex sufficiently, the vehicle frame needs to be thin and lightweight. Furthermore, the vehicle frame needs to be designed so that the center of gravity of the saddle-type electric vehicle, including the vehicle frame, is as close as possible to the rider on the trial vehicle.

[0012] A diamond frame is known in which the drive unit functions as part of the vehicle frame. When a diamond frame is constructed by attaching the drive unit to the vehicle frame, the degree of freedom in setting the rigidity of the drive unit is low compared to the vehicle frame, which may result in the vehicle frame becoming too rigid and unable to flex. On the other hand, if the vehicle frame becomes more flexible by reducing the number of fixing points (fastening points) of the drive unit to the vehicle frame, the drive unit cannot be properly supported. In addition, if the vehicle frame flexes due to the power output from the drive unit, power loss may occur in a saddle-type electric vehicle.

[0013] In the saddle-type electric vehicle described herein, the drive unit and battery can be securely fixed while the vehicle frame is in a state that allows for appropriate flex, as detailed below.

[0014] [One Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a left side view of a saddle-type electric vehicle 10 according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a plan view of the saddle-type electric vehicle 10. In FIG. 2, illustration of the front wheel 12, the rear wheel 14, and the seat 22 (see FIG. 1) described later is omitted. FIG. 3 is a right side view of the saddle-type electric vehicle 10. In FIG. 3, illustration of the front wheel 12 and the rear wheel 14 (see FIG. 1) is omitted. In the following description, assuming that the direction in which the saddle-type electric vehicle 10 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 travels forward is the front, the front-rear, left-right, and up-down directions will be described.

[0015] The front-rear direction includes the front direction and the rear direction. The front direction is the forward direction of the saddle-type electric vehicle 10. The rear direction is the opposite direction of the front direction. The left-right direction includes the left direction and the right direction. The left-right direction is the vehicle width direction of the saddle-type electric vehicle 10 and is a direction orthogonal to the front-rear direction. The left direction is the left side direction when an occupant rides on the saddle-type electric vehicle 10 and faces forward. The right direction is the opposite direction of the left direction and is the right side direction when the occupant rides on and faces forward. The up-down direction includes the up direction and the down direction. The up-down direction is a direction orthogonal to the front-rear direction and the left-right direction. The up direction is the upward direction of the saddle-type electric vehicle 10 that contacts the horizontal plane. The down direction is the opposite direction of the up direction.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 1, the saddle-type electric vehicle 10 is, for example, a two-wheeled electric vehicle, but is not limited thereto. The saddle-type electric vehicle 10 is, for example, a trial vehicle for off-road racing, but is not limited thereto.

[0017] The saddle-type electric vehicle 10 includes a front wheel 12, a rear wheel 14, a front wheel suspension portion 16, a vehicle body frame 18, a rear wheel suspension portion 20, a seat 22, a battery 24, and a drive unit 26.

[0018] The front wheel 12 is disposed on the front side of the saddle-type electric vehicle 10. The front wheel 12 is supported by the front wheel suspension portion 16 so as to be steerable.

[0019] The front wheel suspension portion 16 has a pair of left and right front forks 30, a top bridge 32, a bottom bridge 34, a steering stem 36, and a steering handle 38.

[0020] As shown in Figure 2, the left and right pair of front forks 30 are arranged side by side with a gap between them in the vehicle width direction. As shown in Figure 1, the lower end of each of the left and right pair of front forks 30 pivotally supports the front wheel 12.

[0021] As shown in Figure 2, the top bridge 32 extends in the vehicle width direction. The upper ends of the pair of left and right front forks 30 are connected to both ends of the top bridge 32.

[0022] The bottom bridge 34 extends in the vehicle width direction below the top bridge 32. The intermediate section between the upper and lower ends of the pair of front forks 30 is connected to both ends of the bottom bridge 34.

[0023] As shown in Figure 1, a head pipe 40 of the vehicle frame 18, which will be described later, is provided between the top bridge 32 and the bottom bridge 34. The head pipe 40 is located between the center of the top bridge 32 and the center of the bottom bridge 34, between the left and right pair of front forks 30 (see Figure 2).

[0024] The steering stem 36 passes through the head pipe 40. The steering stem 36 is pivotally supported by the head pipe 40. The lower end of the steering stem 36 is connected to the bottom bridge 34. The upper end of the steering stem 36 is connected to the top bridge 32.

[0025] The steering handle 38 is connected to the top of the top bridge 32. The steering handle 38 steers the front wheels 12 through the operation of the occupant.

[0026] As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle frame 18 includes a head pipe 40, a main frame 42, a pivot frame 44, a lower frame 46, a first cross pipe 48 (see Figure 2), a second cross pipe 50, and a third cross pipe 52 (see Figure 5).

[0027] The main frame 42 extends rearward from the head pipe 40. The main frame 42 is positioned lower as it moves towards the rear.

[0028] As shown in Figure 2, the main frame 42 has a pair of left and right partial main frames 54. The pair of left and right partial main frames 54 consists of the left partial main frame 54L, which is the left partial main frame 54, and the right partial main frame 54R, which is the right partial main frame 54.

[0029] The left-side main frame 54L and the right-side main frame 54R are separated in the left-right direction (vehicle width direction). The left-side main frame 54L extends from the head pipe 40 (see Figure 1) to the left rear. The right-side main frame 54R extends from the head pipe 40 to the right rear.

[0030] As shown in Figure 2, in a plan view, the front portions of the left and right main frame 54 overlap with the battery 24. Specifically, in a plan view, the battery 24 and the left and right main frame 54 overlap at the point where the distance between the left main frame 54L and the right main frame 54R in the vehicle width direction is greatest.

[0031] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, the dashed line extending vertically from the electric vehicle 10 is a straight line 55 that passes through the point where the distance between the left main frame 54L and the right main frame 54R in the vehicle width direction is greatest (see Figure 2). The battery 24 and the straight line 55 overlap in a side view.

[0032] As shown in Figure 1, the pivot frame 44 extends downward from the rear end of the main frame 42. The upper end of the pivot frame 44 is connected to the rear end of the main frame 42 by welding or the like. Alternatively, the rear of the main frame 42 may be extended downward, and the extended portion may be designated as the pivot frame 44.

[0033] As shown in Figure 2, the pivot frame 44 has a pair of left and right partial pivot frames 56. The pair of left and right partial pivot frames 56 consists of a left partial pivot frame 56L, which is the left partial pivot frame 56, and a right partial pivot frame 56R, which is the right partial pivot frame 56.

[0034] The left-side pivot frame 56L and the right-side pivot frame 56R are positioned separated in the vehicle width direction. As shown in Figure 1, the left-side pivot frame 56L extends downward from the rear end of the left-side main frame 54L. As shown in Figure 3, the right-side pivot frame 56R extends downward from the rear end of the right-side main frame 54R.

[0035] As shown in Figure 1, the lower frame 46 is located below the main frame 42. A gusset 58 is connected to the rear of the head pipe 40. The gusset 58 is connected to the rear of the head pipe 40 and the front end of the main frame 42. The lower frame 46 is connected to the rear of the head pipe 40 via the gusset 58. As will be described later, the lower frame 46 is detachable from the gusset 58. The lower frame 46 extends downward and rearward below the main frame 42.

[0036] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the battery 24 and the lower frame 46. The lower frame 46 has a pair of left and right partial lower frames 60. The pair of left and right partial lower frames 60 consists of a left partial lower frame 60L, which is the left partial lower frame 60, and a right partial lower frame 60R, which is the right partial lower frame 60. The left partial lower frame 60L and the right partial lower frame 60R are separated in the vehicle width direction.

[0037] As shown in Figure 1, the left lower frame 60L extends downward and rearward from the lower left of the gusset 58. The upper end of the left lower frame 60L is fastened to the lower left of the gusset 58 by a bolt 62L. Therefore, the left lower frame 60L is removed from the main frame 42 by removing the bolt 62L from the gusset 58. The axial direction of the bolt 62L fastening the left lower frame 60L to the gusset 58 is in the vehicle width direction.

[0038] As shown in Figure 3, the right-side lower frame 60R extends downward and rearward from the lower right side of the gusset 58. The upper end of the right-side lower frame 60R is fastened to the lower right side of the gusset 58 by a bolt 62R. Therefore, the right-side lower frame 60R is removed from the main frame 42 by removing the bolt 62R from the gusset 58. The axial direction of the bolt 62R fastening the right-side lower frame 60R to the gusset 58 is in the vehicle width direction.

[0039] As shown in Figure 2, the first cross pipe 48 is provided between the left main frame 54L and the right main frame 54R. The longitudinal direction of the first cross pipe 48 is the vehicle width direction. One end of the first cross pipe 48 is connected to the intermediate section between the front end and the rear end of the left main frame 54L. The other end of the first cross pipe 48 is connected to the intermediate section between the front end and the rear end of the right main frame 54R.

[0040] The second cross pipe 50 is located between the left-side pivot frame 56L and the right-side pivot frame 56R. The longitudinal direction of the second cross pipe 50 is in the vehicle width direction. One end of the second cross pipe 50 is connected to the upper end of the left-side pivot frame 56L. The other end of the second cross pipe 50 is connected to the upper end of the right-side pivot frame 56R.

[0041] Figure 5 is a bottom view of the saddle-type electric vehicle 10. The third cross pipe 52 is located between the left-side pivot frame 56L and the right-side pivot frame 56R. The longitudinal direction of the third cross pipe 52 is the vehicle width direction. One end of the third cross pipe 52 is connected to the lower end of the left-side pivot frame 56L. The other end of the third cross pipe 52 is connected to the lower end of the right-side pivot frame 56R.

[0042] As shown in Figure 1, the rear wheel suspension section 20 includes a swing arm 64, a rear cushion 66, and a linkage mechanism 68.

[0043] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view along the line VI-VI in Figure 3. Between the left-side pivot frame 56L and the right-side pivot frame 56R is the rearward projection 74 of the transmission case 72 of the transmission 70, which will be described later. This rearward projection 74 protrudes rearward from the rear of the transmission case 72.

[0044] As shown in Figure 5, the swing arm 64 has a pair of left and right extending portions 76 and a connecting portion 78.

[0045] The pair of left and right extensions 76 consist of a left extension 76L and a right extension 76R. The left extension 76L and the right extension 76R are separated in the vehicle width direction. The left extension 76L and the right extension 76R extend rearward from the pivot frame 44.

[0046] As shown in Figure 6, the front end of the left extension portion 76L is located between the left pivot frame portion 56L and the rear projection portion 74 of the transmission case 72. The rear end of the left extension portion 76L is located to the left of the rear wheel 14 (see Figure 1) in the vehicle width direction.

[0047] The front end of the right-side extension 76R is located between the right-side pivot frame 56R and the rear projection 74 of the transmission case 72. The rear end of the right-side extension 76R is located to the right of the rear wheel 14 in the vehicle width direction. The rear wheel 14 is pivotally supported by the rear end of the left-side extension 76L and the rear end of the right-side extension 76R.

[0048] As shown in Figure 5, the connecting portion 78 is located in front of the rear wheel 14 (see Figure 1). The longitudinal direction of the connecting portion 78 is in the vehicle width direction. The connecting portion 78 connects the left extension portion 76L and the right extension portion 76R.

[0049] As shown in Figure 6, the pivot shaft 80 is inserted through the left-side pivot frame 56L, the left-side extension 76L, the rearward projection 74 of the transmission case 72, the right-side extension 76R, and the right-side pivot frame 56R.

[0050] The longitudinal direction of the pivot shaft 80 is the vehicle width direction. The pivot shaft 80 functions as a threaded member having a head 80a and a shaft portion 80b. The head 80a is located in a recess formed on the left side in the vehicle width direction of the left partial pivot frame 56L. The shaft portion 80b extends to the right from the head 80a. The shaft portion 80b passes through the left partial pivot frame 56L, the front end of the left extension portion 76L, the rear projection portion 74 of the transmission case 72, the front end of the right extension portion 76R, and the right partial pivot frame 56R. The tip (right end) of the shaft portion 80b is located in a recess formed on the right side in the vehicle width direction of the right partial pivot frame 56R. A threaded portion 80c is formed at the tip of the shaft portion 80b. The threaded portion 80c is screwed into the nut 82.

[0051] The swing arm 64 is pivotally supported by the pivot shaft 80, which is inserted through the front end of the left extension 76L and the front end of the right extension 76R. The swing arm 64 is able to pivot about the pivot shaft 80 as the pivot point.

[0052] As shown in Figure 5, the link mechanism 68 is provided between the connecting portion 78 of the swing arm 64 and the third cross pipe 52. The upper end of the rear cushion 66 is connected to the second cross pipe 50 (see Figure 3). The lower end of the rear cushion 66 is connected to one end of the link mechanism 68. The other end of the link mechanism 68 is connected to the third cross pipe 52.

[0053] As shown in Figure 1, the seat 22 is mounted on the upper part of the vehicle frame 18. The front portion of the seat 22 is positioned along the main frame 42. Therefore, the front portion of the seat 22 is positioned lower and rearward as it moves towards the rear. The rear portion of the seat 22 extends rearward from the rear end of the front portion. The rear portion of the seat 22 extends upward and rearward above the rear wheel 14.

[0054] The battery 24 and the drive unit 26 are each supported by the vehicle frame 18. Furthermore, as will be described later, the battery 24 and the drive unit 26 are fastened to each other.

[0055] As shown in Figure 4, the battery 24 is located below the main frame 42 (see Figure 1), between the left lower frame 60L and the right lower frame 60R. As shown in Figure 1, in a view in the vehicle width direction, a portion of the lower frame 46 overlaps with the battery 24. More specifically, a portion of the left lower frame 60L overlaps with the battery 24 in a view in the vehicle width direction. This portion of the left lower frame 60L is located to the left of the battery 24 in the vehicle width direction. Also, as shown in Figure 3, in a view in the vehicle width direction, a portion of the right lower frame 60R overlaps with the battery 24. This portion of the right lower frame 60R is located to the right of the battery 24 in the vehicle width direction.

[0056] As shown in Figure 1, the lower frame 46 extends from the middle of the front of the battery 24 in the vertical direction, towards the rear lower end of the battery 24, and overlaps it when viewed in the width direction of the vehicle (side view). In other words, the lower frame 46 traverses the side of the battery 24.

[0057] As shown in Figure 1, the shape of the battery 24 is roughly rectangular. More specifically, the shape of the battery 24 is roughly rectangular. The long direction of the battery 24 is aligned in the vertical direction.

[0058] As shown in Figure 4, the battery 24 has a battery case 84 and a battery-side connector 86. The battery case 84 is roughly rectangular in shape. Inside the battery case 84 are several battery cells (not shown) and a circuit board (not shown). The several battery cells are electrically connected in series. The circuit board (control circuit board, electronic circuit board) detects, for example, the voltage, current, and temperature of the battery 24.

[0059] The battery case 84 has a bulge 88. The bulge 88 is located on the front of the battery case 84. The bulge 88 protrudes forward from the front of the battery case 84. As shown in Figure 3, the front side of the bulge 88 overlaps with the lower frame 46 in a side view. The front of the bulge 88 is aligned with the lower frame 46 in a side view. As shown in Figure 4, the upper surface of the bulge 88 extends horizontally (in the longitudinal direction and in the vehicle width direction).

[0060] The battery-side connector 86 is a battery terminal located on the upper surface of the bulging portion 88. As shown in Figure 3, the battery-side connector 86 overlaps the lower frame 46 in a side view. Also, the battery-side connector 86 is located below the main frame 42 in a side view. As shown in Figure 4, the battery-side connector 86 is positioned below the front portion of the main frame 42 (see Figure 3) between a pair of left and right partial lower frames 60.

[0061] As shown in Figure 4, the battery-side connector 86 has a positive terminal connector 86p, a negative terminal connector 86n, and a signal connector 86s. The positive terminal connector 86p, the negative terminal connector 86n, and the signal connector 86s are provided on the upper surface of the bulge portion 88, spaced apart from each other in the vehicle width direction. Specifically, the signal connector 86s is provided in the center of the upper surface of the bulge portion 88 in the vehicle width direction. The negative terminal connector 86n is provided on the left side of the upper surface of the bulge portion 88 in the vehicle width direction. The positive terminal connector 86p is provided on the right side of the upper surface of the bulge portion 88 in the vehicle width direction. The positive terminal connector 86p, the negative terminal connector 86n, and the signal connector 86s extend upward from the upper surface of the bulge portion 88.

[0062] The positive terminal connector 86p is electrically connected to the positive terminal side of a battery cell group consisting of multiple battery cells. The negative terminal connector 86n is electrically connected to the negative terminal side of a battery cell group consisting of multiple battery cells. The signal connector 86s is electrically connected to the circuit board provided in the battery 24.

[0063] As shown in Figure 1, the drive unit 26 is located below the main frame 42, between the battery 24 and the pivot frame 44 in the front-rear direction. The drive unit 26 is located behind the battery 24.

[0064] As shown in Figure 3, the drive unit 26 includes a motor 90, an inverter 92, and a transmission 70. The drive unit 26 integrates the motor 90, inverter 92, and transmission 70 into a single unit. The battery 24 is located in front of the drive unit 26. Therefore, as shown in Figure 2, in a front-to-back view, the battery 24, motor 90, inverter 92 (see Figure 3), and transmission 70 (see Figure 3) overlap.

[0065] As shown in Figure 3, the motor 90, inverter 92, and transmission 70 are arranged vertically behind the battery 24. The motor 90 and inverter 92 are located above the transmission 70. The transmission 70 is located below the motor 90 and inverter 92.

[0066] The inverter 92 is attached to the motor 90. The inverter 92 is installed inside the motor 90. Alternatively, the inverter 92 may be installed on the outer surface of the motor case 94, which will be described later.

[0067] As shown in Figure 3, the saddle-type electric vehicle 10 further comprises a harness 96 and a control unit 190. The control unit 190 is an electronic control unit (ECU) provided in the saddle-type electric vehicle 10. As shown in Figure 1, the control unit 190 is located behind the battery 24 and the drive unit 26. The control unit 190 is located below the seat 22. As shown in Figure 3, the harness 96 electrically connects the battery 24 and the drive unit 26, and also electrically connects the battery 24 and the control unit 190.

[0068] A portion of the harness 96 extends from the rear of the motor 90, over the drive unit 26 and the battery 24, and above the bulge 88 (see Figure 4). The portion of the harness 96 electrically connects the battery 24 and the drive unit 26.

[0069] Another portion of the harness 96 extends from the top of the control unit 190, over the drive unit 26 and the battery 24, and above the bulge 88. The other portion of the harness 96 electrically connects the battery 24 and the control unit 190.

[0070] As shown in Figure 4, the harness 96 has a positive side harness 96p, a negative side harness 96n, and a signal harness 96s. The positive side harness 96p and the negative side harness 96n are parts of the harness 96 described above. The signal harness 96s is another part of the harness 96 described above.

[0071] The positive terminal harness 96p is detachable from the positive terminal connector 86p of the battery 24. The negative terminal harness 96n is detachable from the negative terminal connector 86n of the battery 24. The signal harness 96s is detachable from the signal connector 86s of the battery 24.

[0072] When the positive terminal connector 86p and the positive terminal harness 96p are connected, and the negative terminal connector 86n and the negative terminal harness 96n are connected, DC power can be supplied from the battery 24 to the inverter 92 (see Figure 3). The inverter 92 converts the DC power to AC power.

[0073] Furthermore, when the signal connector 86s and the signal harness 96s are connected, signals can be transmitted and received between the circuit board provided in the battery 24 and the control unit 190.

[0074] The control unit 190 receives signals indicating the status of each component of the saddle-type electric vehicle 10. The control unit 190 also outputs control signals to each component. Specifically, the components of the saddle-type electric vehicle 10 include, for example, the battery 24 and the drive unit 26. The control unit 190 acquires information such as the voltage, current, and temperature of the battery 24 from the circuit board of the battery 24 via the signal harness 96s. The control unit 190 outputs control signals to the circuit board of the battery 24 via the signal harness 96s.

[0075] The inverter 92 controls the drive of the motor 90, which is the drive source for the saddle-type electric vehicle 10.

[0076] As shown in Figure 3, the motor 90 has a motor case 94 and a motor body 97.

[0077] As shown in Figure 2, the motor case 94 is a cylindrical case with a closed interior. The longitudinal direction of the motor case 94 is the vehicle width direction.

[0078] As shown in Figure 3, the motor body 97 is housed inside the motor case 94. Figure 3 schematically illustrates the shape of the motor body 97.

[0079] The motor body 97 is an AC motor. The motor body 97 has a drive shaft portion 97a, which is the motor shaft portion. The longitudinal direction of the drive shaft portion 97a is in the vehicle width direction.

[0080] As shown in Figure 3, the motor body 97 is driven by AC power supplied from the inverter 92, which rotates the drive shaft 97a. The drive shaft 97a transmits the driving force (rotational output) of the motor body 97 to the transmission 70.

[0081] The transmission 70 is a transmission with a switchable gear ratio. Alternatively, the transmission 70 may be a reduction gear with a fixed gear ratio. The transmission 70 is, for example, a manual transmission, but is not limited to that. The transmission 70 has a transmission case 72 and a transmission body 100.

[0082] The transmission case 72 is a case with an enclosed interior. The transmission case 72 extends along the width direction of the vehicle.

[0083] In this embodiment, the motor case 94 and the transmission case 72 are integrally constructed. The inside of the motor case 94 and the inside of the transmission case 72 are in communication with each other.

[0084] The transmission body 100 is housed in the transmission case 72. Figure 3 schematically illustrates the shape of the transmission body 100.

[0085] The transmission body 100 has an output shaft portion 100a. The longitudinal direction of the output shaft portion 100a is the vehicle width direction. As shown in Figure 1, the output shaft portion 100a is located behind and below the drive shaft portion 97a. The transmission body 100 (see Figure 3) changes the rotational output of the drive shaft portion 97a using a plurality of gears (not shown). The output shaft portion 100a rotates according to the changed rotational output.

[0086] As shown in Figure 1, a drive sprocket 102 is provided at the left end of the output shaft 100a. A driven sprocket 104 is provided on the rear wheel 14. A drive chain 106 is stretched between the drive sprocket 102 and the driven sprocket 104.

[0087] The output shaft 100a transmits power to the rear wheel 14 via the drive sprocket 102, the drive chain 106, and the driven sprocket 104. The rear wheel 14 rotates due to the transmitted power. As the rear wheel 14 rotates, the saddle-type electric vehicle 10 moves forward.

[0088] In this embodiment, the battery 24 is fastened to the lower frame 46. The drive unit 26 is fastened to the pivot frame 44. The battery 24 and the drive unit 26 are fastened to each other. More specifically, as shown in Figure 3, the motor 90 is fastened to the pivot frame 44 and the battery 24. The transmission 70 is fastened to the pivot frame 44 and the battery 24.

[0089] As shown in Figure 3, the fastening point 110 of the drive unit 26 to the pivot frame 44 is located behind the output shaft portion 100a in the longitudinal direction of the saddle-type electric vehicle 10. In this embodiment, multiple fastening points 110 are provided.

[0090] Furthermore, the fastening point 110 of the drive unit 26 to the pivot frame 44 is located behind the drive shaft portion 97a and the output shaft portion 100a in the longitudinal direction of the saddle-type electric vehicle 10.

[0091] Furthermore, the fastening point 112 between the battery 24 and the motor 90 is located above the fastening point 114 of the battery 24 to the lower frame 46. In this embodiment, multiple fastening points 114 are provided.

[0092] Furthermore, the fastening points 114 of the battery 24 to the lower frame 46 are provided on the front and rear surfaces of the battery 24.

[0093] Furthermore, the center of gravity 116 of the battery 24, the center of gravity 118 of the motor 90, the center of gravity 120 of the transmission 70, and the center of gravity 121 of the drive unit 26 are located inside the region 123 formed by connecting the respective fastening points 110, 112, and 114.

[0094] The fastening of the vehicle frame 18, battery 24, and drive unit 26 will be described in detail below.

[0095] First, let's explain how the battery 24 is fastened to the lower frame 46.

[0096] As shown in Figure 4, the front of the battery 24 is provided with a forward projection 122 that protrudes forward. The forward projection 122 protrudes forward from below the bulge 88 on the front of the battery 24. A hole is formed in the forward projection 122 that penetrates in the vehicle width direction.

[0097] The left-side lower frame 60L is provided with a left-side front projection 124L. The right-side lower frame 60R is provided with a right-side front projection 124R. The left-side front projection 124L and the right-side front projection 124R are located in the intermediate section between the lower end and the front end of the lower frame 46. The left-side front projection 124L and the right-side front projection 124R protrude forward from the intermediate section of the lower frame 46. Holes are formed in the left-side front projection 124L and the right-side front projection 124R that penetrate in the vehicle width direction. The hole in the left-side front projection 124L is a screw hole.

[0098] A cylindrical collar 126L is positioned between the left front protrusion 124L and the front protrusion 122 of the battery 24. A cylindrical collar 126R is positioned between the right front protrusion 124R and the front protrusion 122 of the battery 24.

[0099] A bolt 128 is inserted through the left front projection 124L, the collar 126L, the front projection 122 of the battery 24, the collar 126R, and the right front projection 124R. The head 128a of the bolt 128 is located to the right in the vehicle width direction of the right front projection 124R. A threaded portion is formed on the shaft portion 128b of the bolt 128. The threaded portion of the bolt 128 and the threaded hole of the left front projection 124L are screwed together to fasten the front portion of the battery 24 to the middle portion of the lower frame 46. Therefore, in the side view of Figure 3, the position of the bolt 128 is the position of fastening point 114a of the front portion of the battery 24 relative to the middle portion of the lower frame 46, among the multiple fastening points 114.

[0100] Figure 7 is a perspective view showing the fastening of the lower end of the lower frame 46 to the lower part of the battery 24 and the front part of the transmission case 72. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view along the line VIII-VIII in Figure 3.

[0101] As shown in Figure 7, the rear surface of the battery 24 is provided with a rearward projection 130. The rearward projection 130 protrudes rearward from the center of the lower end of the battery 24 on the rear surface of the battery 24. The lower ends of the left lower frame 60L and the right lower frame 60R are located outward in the vehicle width direction from the rearward projection 130.

[0102] A cylindrical collar 132 is positioned between the lower end of the left-side lower frame 60L and the rear protrusion 130 of the battery 24. The collar 132 extends in the vehicle width direction. A connecting portion 134 extending to the rear is provided at the right end of the collar 132.

[0103] As shown in Figure 8, the front of the transmission case 72 is provided with a left front projection 136L and a right front projection 136R. The left front projection 136L protrudes forward from the left portion of the front of the transmission case 72. The right front projection 136R protrudes forward from the right portion of the front of the transmission case 72. The right front projection 136R is located between the lower end of the right portion of the lower frame 60R and the rear projection 130 of the battery 24.

[0104] A plate-shaped connecting plate 138 is provided between the connecting portion 134 of the collar 132 and the left front projection 136L of the transmission case 72. The front end of the connecting plate 138 faces the rear end of the connecting portion 134 in the vehicle width direction. The rear end of the connecting plate 138 faces the front end of the left front projection 136L in the vehicle width direction. A cylindrical collar 139 is positioned between the rear end of the connecting plate 138 and the front end of the left front projection 136L in the vehicle width direction. The rear end of the connecting plate 138 and the left front projection 136L are fastened to each other using a bolt 140 through which the collar 139 is inserted. The front end of the connecting plate 138 and the rear end of the connecting portion 134 of the collar 132 are fastened to each other using a bolt 142.

[0105] The lower end of the left lower frame 60L and the lower end of the right lower frame 60R are fastened together in the vehicle width direction by a bolt 144. Specifically, the head 144a of the bolt 144 is located to the right in the vehicle width direction of the lower end of the right lower frame 60R. The shaft portion 144b of the bolt 144 is inserted in the vehicle width direction through the lower end of the right lower frame 60R, the right front projection 136R of the transmission case 72, the rear projection 130 of the battery 24, the collar 132, and the left lower frame 60L. A threaded portion 144c is formed on the shaft portion 144b. A threaded hole is formed in the lower end of the left lower frame 60L.

[0106] The threaded portion 144c of bolt 144 engages with the threaded hole at the lower end of the left lower frame 60L, thereby fastening the lower end of the right lower frame 60R, the right front projection 136R, the rear projection 130 of the battery 24, the collar 132, and the lower end of the left lower frame 60L. This fastens the battery 24 to the lower end of the lower frame 46. The battery 24 and the transmission 70 are also fastened to each other. Furthermore, the transmission 70 is fastened to the lower end of the lower frame 46. Therefore, in the side view of Figure 3, the position of bolt 144 is the position of fastening point 114b of the rear surface of the battery 24 relative to the lower end of the lower frame 46, among the multiple fastening points 114. Fastening point 114b is also the fastening point between the battery 24 and the transmission 70.

[0107] Next, we will explain in detail how the transmission 70 is fastened to the pivot frame 44.

[0108] As shown in Figure 6, the pivot shaft 80 passes through the lower end of the left-side pivot frame 56L, the front end of the left-side extension 76L, the rear projection 74 of the transmission case 72, the front end of the right-side extension 76R, and the lower end of the right-side pivot frame 56R. The pivot shaft 80 and the nut 82 are screwed together to fasten the lower end of the left-side pivot frame 56L and the right-side pivot frame 56R. This fastens the transmission 70 to the pivot frame 44. Therefore, in the side view of Figure 3, the position of the pivot shaft 80 is the position of the fastening point 110b of the drive unit 26 relative to the lower end of the pivot frame 44, among the multiple fastening points 110.

[0109] As shown in Figure 5, two support plate portions 150 are provided in the central part of the third cross pipe 52. The two support plate portions 150 are separated in the vehicle width direction and are provided in the central part of the third cross pipe 52. The two support plate portions 150 protrude forward from the central part of the third cross pipe 52.

[0110] The rear projection 74 of the transmission case 72 is located between the two support plate portions 150. A bolt 152 is inserted in the vehicle width direction between the rear projection 74 and the two support plate portions 150. The bolt 152 fastens the rear projection 74 and the two support plate portions 150 by screwing it with a nut 154. In this way, the transmission 70 and the pivot frame 44 are fastened together via the third cross pipe 52. Therefore, in the side view of Figure 3, the position of the bolt 152 is the position of the fastening point 110c of the drive unit 26 relative to the lower end of the pivot frame 44, among the multiple fastening points 110.

[0111] Next, we will explain in detail how the motor 90 is fastened to the pivot frame 44.

[0112] As shown in Figure 2, the motor case 94 is provided with a rear projection 156. The rear projection 156 extends upward and rearward from the top of the motor case 94. Two plate-shaped connecting plates 158 are provided in the center of the second cross pipe 50. The two connecting plates 158 are spaced apart in the vehicle width direction and provided on the second cross pipe 50. The two connecting plates 158 protrude forward. The rear projection 156 of the motor case 94 is located between the two connecting plates 158.

[0113] A bolt 160 is inserted in the vehicle width direction between the two connecting plates 158 and the rear projection 156 of the motor case 94. The bolt 160 is screwed into a nut 162 to fasten the two connecting plates 158 and the rear projection 156 of the motor case 94. As a result, the motor 90 is fastened to the upper end of the pivot frame 44 via the second cross pipe 50. Therefore, in the side view of Figure 3, the position of the bolt 160 is the position of the fastening point 110a of the drive unit 26 relative to the upper end of the pivot frame 44, among the multiple fastening points 110.

[0114] Next, we will explain in detail how the battery 24 and the drive unit 26 are connected.

[0115] Figure 9 is a perspective view showing the fastening between the rear of the battery 24 and the top of the motor 90.

[0116] A rear projection 170 is provided on the rear surface of the battery 24. The rear projection 170 protrudes rearward from the upper part of the rear surface of the battery 24. A front projection 172 is provided on the motor case 94. The front projection 172 extends forward and upward from the top of the motor case 94. In a view in the vehicle width direction, a part of the rear projection 170 of the battery 24 and a part of the front projection 172 of the motor case 94 overlap. A bolt 174 is inserted in the vehicle width direction through the rear projection 170 of the battery 24 and the front projection 172 of the motor case 94. The battery 24 and the motor 90 are fastened together by screwing the bolt 174 and nut 176 together. Therefore, in the side view of Figure 3, the position of the bolt 174 is the position of the fastening point 112 between the battery 24 and the drive unit 26.

[0117] As described above, the lower end of the left lower frame 60L and the lower end of the right lower frame 60R are fastened together in the vehicle width direction by bolt 144, thereby fastening the battery 24 and the transmission 70 together (see Figure 8). Therefore, in the side view of Figure 3, the position of bolt 144 is also the position of the fastening point 114 between the battery 24 and the transmission 70.

[0118] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, the motor case 94 is suspended by a hanger plate 178 extending downward from the first cross pipe 48. However, in this embodiment, the hanger plate 178 is not an essential component.

[0119] The battery 24 is replaceable in the saddle-type electric vehicle 10 as follows. The battery 24 is replaced, for example, when the State of Charge (SOC) of the battery 24 installed in the saddle-type electric vehicle 10 decreases.

[0120] This section describes how to remove the battery 24 from the saddle-type electric vehicle 10.

[0121] As shown in Figure 4, the user (worker) disconnects the harness 96 from the battery-side connector 86 while the saddle-type electric vehicle 10 (see Figure 1) is stopped. Next, the user removes the lower frame 46 from the saddle-type electric vehicle 10 by removing the bolts 62L, 62R, 128, and 144 that fasten the lower frame 46. Next, the user removes the bolt 174 that fastens the battery 24 to the motor case 94 and the bolt 142 that connects the battery 24 to the transmission case 72. This allows the battery 24 to be removed from the saddle-type electric vehicle 10.

[0122] This section describes how to install a battery 24 on a saddle-type electric vehicle 10.

[0123] First, the user fastens the fully charged battery 24 to the motor case 94 using bolt 174. The user then fastens the battery 24 to the transmission case 72 using bolt 142. Next, the user fastens the lower frame 46 to the battery 24 using bolts 62L, 62R, 128, and 144. This mounts the battery 24 to the saddle-type electric vehicle 10. Next, the user connects the harness 96 to the battery-side connector 86.

[0124] Thus, when replacing the battery 24, only the lower frame 46 and the battery 24 are removed from the saddle-type electric vehicle 10. This allows the drive unit 26 to be fixed to the vehicle frame 18 without affecting the fastening between the vehicle frame 18 and the drive unit 26.

[0125] In this embodiment, the case where the saddle-type electric vehicle 10 is a trial vehicle was used as an example, but the invention is not limited to this. The saddle-type electric vehicle 10 may be any type of electric vehicle, such as an on-road type or a scooter type. Also, in this embodiment, the case where the saddle-type electric vehicle 10 is a two-wheeled electric vehicle was used as an example, but the invention is not limited to this. The saddle-type electric vehicle 10 may be any type of electric vehicle, such as a three-wheeled vehicle.

[0126] The following additional information is disclosed regarding the above embodiments.

[0127] (Note 1) The saddle-type vehicle (10) of the present disclosure comprises a body frame (18) having a head pipe (40), a main frame (42) extending rearward from the head pipe, a lower frame (46) located below the main frame and extending rearward and downward, and a pivot frame (44) extending downward from the rear end of the main frame; a drive unit (26) supported by the body frame; and a battery (24) supported by the body frame and supplying power to the drive unit, wherein the battery is fastened to the lower frame, the drive unit is fastened to the pivot frame, and the drive unit and the battery are fastened to each other.

[0128] According to this disclosure, the battery is fastened to the lower frame without being fastened to the pivot frame. The drive unit is fastened to the pivot frame without being fastened to the lower frame. The lower frame and the pivot frame are indirectly fastened to each other via the battery and the drive unit. This allows the drive unit and the battery to be securely fixed while the vehicle frame is able to flex appropriately.

[0129] (Note 2) The saddle-type vehicle described in Appendix 1, wherein the drive unit comprises a motor (90) which is the drive source of the saddle-type vehicle, and a transmission (70) which is connected to the motor and changes the rotational output of the motor, wherein the motor may be fastened to the pivot frame and to the battery, and the transmission may be fastened to the pivot frame and to the battery.

[0130] According to this disclosure, the battery and the motor are connected to each other, and the battery and the transmission are also connected to each other. This allows the battery, motor, and transmission to be securely fixed to the vehicle frame.

[0131] (Note 3) The saddle-type vehicle described in Appendix 2, wherein the transmission has an output shaft portion (100a) that outputs power to the rear wheels (14) of the saddle-type vehicle, and the fastening point (110) of the drive unit to the pivot frame may be located behind the output shaft portion in the longitudinal direction of the saddle-type vehicle.

[0132] According to this disclosure, since the transmission is fastened to a pivot frame located behind the output shaft, the overall length of the main frame can be increased. As a result, the flex of the main frame can be effectively utilized.

[0133] (Note 4) The saddle-type vehicle described in Appendix 3, wherein the motor has a drive shaft portion (97a) that outputs driving force, the drive shaft portion is positioned above the output shaft portion, and the fastening point of the drive unit to the pivot frame may be positioned behind the drive shaft portion and the output shaft portion.

[0134] According to this disclosure, the drive unit is positioned in front of the pivot frame, and the motor and transmission are arranged vertically, making it possible to efficiently fasten the drive unit to the vehicle frame. Furthermore, since the motor, which is heavier than the transmission, is positioned above it, the motor can be positioned closer to the occupant riding in the saddle-type vehicle. This improves the occupant's maneuverability in the saddle-type vehicle.

[0135] (Note 5) In the saddle-type vehicle described in Appendix 4, the battery is located in front of the drive unit and may overlap with the motor and the transmission when viewed in the front-rear direction.

[0136] According to this disclosure, the battery can be efficiently positioned in front of the drive unit, in which the motor and transmission are arranged vertically. Furthermore, since the battery is positioned adjacent to the motor and transmission in the front-to-back direction, the connection between the battery and the motor and transmission can be easily made. In addition, by positioning the battery in front of the drive unit, the space in front of the drive unit can be effectively utilized.

[0137] (Note 6) In the saddle-type vehicle described in Appendix 5, the battery is fastened to the lower end of the lower frame and to an intermediate portion located between the lower end and the upper end of the lower frame, and the fastening point (112) between the battery and the motor may be located above the fastening point of the battery to the lower frame.

[0138] According to this disclosure, the fastening point of the battery to the lower frame is located below the fastening point of the battery to the motor. This reduces the constraint on the bending of the head pipe and main frame relative to the battery. Furthermore, the fastening point of the battery to the motor is located above the fastening point of the battery to the lower frame, thereby ensuring the rigidity of the battery.

[0139] (Note 7) In the saddle-type vehicle described in Appendix 6, at least a portion of the lower frame overlaps with the battery in a view in the vehicle width direction, and the fastening points of the battery to the lower frame may be provided on the front and rear portions of the battery.

[0140] According to this disclosure, since the battery is supported from the front and rear, the battery can be held stably.

[0141] While this disclosure has been described in detail, it is not limited to the individual embodiments described above. These embodiments can be added, replaced, modified, partially deleted, etc., in any way that does not depart from the gist of this disclosure or from the spirit of this disclosure derived from the claims and their equivalents. Furthermore, these embodiments can be implemented in combination. For example, the order of operations and processes in the embodiments described above are shown as examples only and are not limited thereto. The same applies when numerical values ​​or mathematical formulas are used in the description of the embodiments described above. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0142] 10…Saddle-type electric vehicle (Saddle-type vehicle) 18…Body frame 24… Battery 26…Drive unit 40... Head pipe 42…Mainframe 44…Pivot Frame 46... Lower frame

Claims

1. A vehicle body frame having a head pipe, a main frame extending rearward from the head pipe, a lower frame located below the main frame and extending downward and rearward, and a pivot frame extending downward from the rear end of the main frame, The drive unit is supported by the aforementioned vehicle frame, A battery supported by the vehicle frame and supplying power to the drive unit, Equipped with, The battery is fastened to the lower frame, The drive unit is fastened to the pivot frame, A saddle-type vehicle in which the drive unit and the battery are fastened to each other.

2. A saddle-type vehicle according to claim 1, The drive unit comprises a motor which is the drive source for the saddle-type vehicle, and a transmission which is connected to the motor and changes the rotational output of the motor. The motor is fastened to the pivot frame and also to the battery. The transmission is fastened to the pivot frame and also to the battery in a saddle-type vehicle.

3. A saddle-type vehicle according to claim 2, The transmission has an output shaft that outputs power to the rear wheels of the saddle-type vehicle, A saddle-type vehicle in which the fastening point of the drive unit to the pivot frame is located behind the output shaft portion in the longitudinal direction of the saddle-type vehicle.

4. A saddle-type vehicle according to claim 3, The motor has a drive shaft portion that outputs driving force, The drive shaft portion is positioned above the output shaft portion. A saddle-type vehicle in which the fastening point of the drive unit to the pivot frame is located rearward from the drive shaft and the output shaft.

5. A saddle-type vehicle according to claim 4, The battery is located in front of the drive unit and overlaps with the motor and transmission in a front-to-rear view, in a saddle-type vehicle.

6. A saddle-type vehicle according to claim 5, The battery is fastened to the lower end of the lower frame and to an intermediate portion located between the lower end and the upper end of the lower frame. A saddle-type vehicle in which the fastening point between the battery and the motor is located above the fastening point of the battery to the lower frame.

7. A saddle-type vehicle according to claim 6, At least a portion of the lower frame overlaps with the battery in a view in the vehicle width direction, The fastening points of the battery to the lower frame are provided on the front and rear portions of the battery, in a saddle-type vehicle.

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