vehicle

The vehicle design secures ECUs by integrating them with the vehicle frame using a removable holding member and blocking parts, addressing the challenge of easy access and unauthorized removal, ensuring secure and intact security settings.

JP2026093107APending Publication Date: 2026-06-08KAWASAKI MOTORS LTD

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
KAWASAKI MOTORS LTD
Filing Date
2024-11-27
Publication Date
2026-06-08

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing vehicles, such as motorcycles, face challenges in securing electronic control units (ECUs) due to easy access, allowing unauthorized modifications or removal, which compromises security settings.

Method used

A vehicle design incorporating a vehicle body frame, electronic control component, and a holding member with a blocking part that locks the connection between the ECU and the vehicle body connector, preventing unauthorized removal by integrating the ECU with the vehicle frame through a removable holding member and movable parts that secure the connection.

Benefits of technology

Enhances security by making it difficult to remove the ECU without authorization, thereby maintaining the integrity of security settings and preventing unauthorized access or modifications.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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  • Figure 2026093107000001_ABST
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Abstract

To provide a vehicle that makes it difficult to remove electronically controlled components. [Solution] The vehicle comprises a vehicle frame, an electronically controlled component including a component connector, a vehicle body connector connected to the component connector, and a retaining member for detachably holding the electronically controlled component, the retaining member being integrally connected to the vehicle frame, wherein the component connector or the vehicle body connector includes a movable portion that operates between a locked position for locking the connection with the vehicle body connector or the component connector and an unlocked position for releasing the lock on the connection with the vehicle body connector or the component connector, and the retaining member integrally includes a blocking portion that extends to prevent the movement of the movable portion from the locked position to the unlocked position when the electronically controlled component is held by the retaining member and the component connector is connected to the vehicle body connector.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a vehicle.

Background Art

[0002] In some vehicles such as motorcycles, an electronic control unit is disposed under the seat.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] If an electronic control unit is replaced with an electronic control unit having different security settings, the security settings of the vehicle can be modified. Since access to the electronic control unit under the seat is easy, measures are required to make it difficult to remove the electronic control unit easily.

[0004] Therefore, an aspect of the present disclosure aims to provide a vehicle that makes it difficult to remove an electronic control component.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A vehicle according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a vehicle body frame, an electronic control component including a component connector, a vehicle body connector connected to the component connector, and a holding member that removably holds the electronic control component and is integrally connected to the vehicle body frame. The component connector or the vehicle body connector includes a movable part that operates between a lock position for locking the connection with the vehicle body connector or the component connector and a unlock position for unlocking the connection with the vehicle body connector or the component connector. The holding member integrally includes a blocking part that extends so as to prevent the movement of the movable part from the lock position to the unlock position in a state where the electronic control component is held by the holding member and the component connector is connected to the vehicle body connector.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0006] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a side view showing an example of the configuration of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a plan view of the rear under cover of the motorcycle shown in Figure 1, viewed from below. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the seat and surrounding structure of the motorcycle shown in Figure 1. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the ECU and its surrounding structure as shown in Figure 3. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a plan view of the ECU and its surrounding structure shown in Figure 4, viewed from above. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a plan view of the ECU and its surrounding structure shown in Figure 4, viewed from below. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a method for attaching the ECU to a retaining member in a motorcycle according to this embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a method for removing the ECU from the retaining member in a motorcycle according to the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0007] Illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below are all comprehensive or specific examples. Components in the following embodiments that are not described in the independent claim representing the highest-level concept are described as optional components. The figures in the accompanying drawings are schematic and not necessarily strictly illustrative. In each figure, substantially identical components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions may be omitted or simplified.

[0008] Vehicle 1 according to an exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 1. Figure 1 is a side view showing an example of the configuration of Vehicle 1 according to an exemplary embodiment. Vehicle 1 is a mobile vehicle capable of carrying one or more people. In this embodiment, Vehicle 1 is a motorcycle and also a saddle vehicle on which a person straddles and rides. Hereinafter, "Vehicle 1" may be referred to as "motorcycle 1".

[0009] The motorcycle 1 comprises a front wheel 2, a rear wheel 3, a body frame 4, and an electronic control unit 10. Furthermore, the motorcycle 1 comprises a handlebar 11, a steering shaft 12, a pair of front forks 13 supporting the front wheel 2, a rear suspension 14 supporting the rear wheel 3, and a swing arm 15 supporting the rear wheel 3. Furthermore, the motorcycle 1 comprises a drive source 20, a fuel tank 21, a seat 22, and exterior parts 30. The drive source 20 generates the power to move the motorcycle 1, and in this embodiment, it is an internal combustion engine. Hereinafter, "drive source 20" may be referred to as "internal combustion engine 20," and "electronic control unit 10" may be referred to as "ECU 10." The electronic control unit 10 is one of the electronic control components.

[0010] Herein, in this specification and claims, the upward, downward, forward, backward, left, and right directions are directions relative to the motorcycle 1 positioned upright on a horizontally extending ground. The upward direction refers to the direction from the ground toward the motorcycle 1, and the downward direction refers to the direction from the motorcycle 1 toward the ground. The forward direction refers to the direction of forward movement of the motorcycle 1. The backward, left, and right directions indicate the corresponding directions, respectively, relative to the driver straddling the motorcycle 1 in an upright position on the ground.

[0011] The vehicle frame 4 includes a main frame 41 and a subframe 42. The main frame 41 supports a steering shaft 12, a pair of front forks 13, a rear suspension 14, a swingarm 15, an internal combustion engine 20, and a fuel tank 21. The subframe 42 supports a seat 22. The main frame 41 has a shape that encloses at least a portion of the internal combustion engine 20. The subframe 42 is connected to the rear of the main frame 41 and extends rearward. In this embodiment, the motorcycle 1 integrally includes the main frame 41 and the subframe 42, and the subframe 42 is welded to the main frame 41. The subframe 42 may be bolted to the main frame 41 and detachable from the main frame 41.

[0012] The main frame 41 includes a head pipe 41a at its front. The head pipe 41a is a cylindrical body having an axis in the vertical direction and extending in the vertical direction.

[0013] The steering shaft 12 is rotatably inserted into the head pipe 41a. The steering wheel 11 is attached to an upper bracket 12a mounted on the top of the steering shaft 12.

[0014] The pair of front forks 13 constitute the front suspension. The pair of front forks 13 are connected to upper brackets 12a and lower brackets 12b, which are mounted on the upper and lower parts of the steering shaft 12. The lower parts of the pair of front forks 13 rotatably support the front wheel 2. The front wheel 2 is steered via the steering shaft 12 and the pair of front forks 13 by the driver turning the handlebars 11.

[0015] The front of the swingarm 15 is pivotably connected to the rear of the main frame 41. The rear of the swingarm 15 rotatably supports the rear wheel 3, which is the drive wheel.

[0016] The rear suspension 14 is swingably connected to the rear part of the main frame 41 and the swing arm 15. The rear suspension 14 supports the rear wheel 3 via the swing arm 15.

[0017] The fuel tank 21 is located on the upper part of the main frame 41 and is supported by the main frame 41. The fuel tank 21 stores fuel for the internal combustion engine 20.

[0018] The seat 22 is located behind the fuel tank 21 and on the upper part of the sub-frame 42, and is supported by the sub-frame 42. The seat 22 is detachable from the sub-frame 42. The seat 22 has a structure in which a driver can straddle and sit.

[0019] The internal combustion engine 20 is located within a space surrounded by the main frame 41 and is fixed to the main frame 41 at a plurality of portions. In the present embodiment, the internal combustion engine 20 is a reciprocating engine. The internal combustion engine 20 includes a crankcase 20a and a cylinder block 20b extending upward from the upper part of the crankcase 20a. The cylinder block 20b includes one or more cylinder bores, and pistons are slidably accommodated in each of the one or more cylinder bores. The crankcase 20a includes a crankshaft 20c connected to the pistons via connecting rods. The internal combustion engine 20 generates power by repeating combustion explosions of a mixture of fuel and air within the cylinder bores. The internal combustion engine 20 converts the reciprocating motion of the pistons due to combustion explosions into the rotational motion of the crankshaft 20c, and transmits the rotational power of the crankshaft 20c to the rear wheel 3 via a power transmission member 23 such as a chain or a belt.

[0020] The exterior parts 30 include a front fender 31, a rear fender 32, a pair of left and right side cowls 33, a rear cowl 34, and a rear under cover 35.

[0021] The front fender 31 is located above the front wheel 2 and supported by a pair of front forks 13. The front fender 31 reduces the upward scattering of stones, mud, water, etc. that the front wheel 2 kicks up during the running of the motorcycle 1.

[0022] A pair of side cowls 33 are located adjacent to the seat 22 in the downward direction and supported at least by the sub-frame 42. The left side cowl 33 covers the left side portion of the sub-frame 42 from the outside. The right side cowl 33 covers the right side portion of the sub-frame 42 from the outside. The pair of side cowls 33 are fixed to the sub-frame 42 by fixing means such as screws.

[0023] The rear cowl 34 is located adjacent to the seat 22 in the downward and rearward directions and adjacent to the pair of side cowls 33 in the rearward direction. The rear cowl 34 is supported by the sub-frame 42. The rear cowl 34 covers the left side portion, right side portion, and rear side portion of the sub-frame 42 from the outside. The rear cowl 34 is fixed to the sub-frame 42 by fixing means such as screws.

[0024] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the rear under cover 35 of the motorcycle 1 in FIG. 1 viewed from below. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the rear under cover 35 is located adjacent to the rear cowl 34 in the downward direction and supported by the sub-frame 42. The rear under cover 35 covers the lower side portion of the sub-frame 42 from the outside. The rear under cover 35 is located above the rear wheel 3. In the present embodiment, the rear under cover 35 extends forward from the rear cowl 34 and is adjacent to the pair of side cowls 33 in the rearward direction. The rear under cover 35 prevents stones, mud, water, etc. that the rear wheel 3 kicks up during the running of the motorcycle 1 from entering the inside of the sub-frame 42. The rear under cover 35 also reduces the scattering of stones, mud, water, etc. that the rear wheel 3 kicks up during the running of the motorcycle 1 around. The rear under cover 35 is fixed to the sub-frame 42 by fixing means 35a such as screws. In the present embodiment, the fixing means 35a is a screw, for example, a special screw that requires a dedicated tool for fastening such as a Torx screw (registered trademark).

[0025] The rear fender 32 is located above the rear wheel 3 and is attached to the underside of the rear portion of the rear under cover 35. The rear fender 32 is fixed to the rear under cover 35 or subframe 42 by fastening means 32a and supported by the rear under cover 35 or subframe 42. In this embodiment, the rear fender 32 is fixed to the rear under cover 35 and subframe 42, and the fastening means 32a is a screw that extends through the rear under cover 35 and subframe 42. The rear fender 32 reduces the upward scattering of stones, mud, water, etc., kicked up by the rear wheel 3 while the motorcycle 1 is in motion. In this embodiment, the rear fender 32 integrally includes a turn signal 32b and integrally includes a base 32c to which the vehicle registration plate is attached.

[0026] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the seat 22 and surrounding structure of the motorcycle 1 shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the ECU 10 controls the entire motorcycle 1, including the control of the internal combustion engine 20. The ECU 10 is located beneath the seat 22. Specifically, the ECU 10 is located in the space S beneath the seat 22. The space S is enclosed by the seat 22, a pair of side cowls 33, a rear cowl 34, and a rear under cover 35, and is not exposed to the outside. When the seat 22 is attached to the subframe 42, the space S cannot be accessed from the outside.

[0027] The seat 22 covers the upper part of space S, blocking access to space S from the outside and above. The pair of side cowls 33 cover the sides of space S, blocking access to space S from the outside and left and right sides. The rear cowl 34 covers the sides and rear of space S, blocking access to space S from the outside, rear and left and right sides. The rear under cover 35 covers the lower part of space S, blocking access to space S from the outside and below.

[0028] In this embodiment, the left and right portions of space S are enclosed by a subframe 42. The ECU 10, located within space S, is enclosed from the left and right sides by the subframe 42. The ECU 10 is fixed to the subframe 42.

[0029] The seat 22 includes a plurality of engaging fittings 22a and a locking fitting 22b. The subframe 42 includes a plurality of engaging fittings 42a and a locking structure 42b. The seat 22 is fixed to the subframe 42 by engaging each of the plurality of engaging fittings 22a with the plurality of engaging fittings 42a and engaging the locking fitting 22b with the locking structure 42b. The locking structure 42b is operable to a locked state that prevents the locking fitting 22b from engaging or disengaging, and an unlocked state that allows the locking fitting 22b to engage or disengage. The seat 22 can be removed by operating the locking structure 42b from the locked state to the unlocked state, such as by using the key of the motorcycle 1. Access to the ECU 10 is possible with the seat 22 removed.

[0030] The ECU 10 controls various actuators, including the actuators of the internal combustion engine 20, in response to detection signals from sensors that detect the vehicle status of the motorcycle 1. The ECU 10 includes processing circuits. Such an ECU 10 may include a microcomputer equipped with a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or DSP (Digital Signal Processor) and memory. Examples of memory may include volatile memory such as RAM (Random Access Memory) and non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read-Only Memory). Communication between the ECU 10 and the equipment mounted on the motorcycle 1 may be via an in-vehicle network such as CAN (Controller Area Network).

[0031] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the structure of the ECU 10 and its surroundings as shown in Figure 3. As shown in Figure 4, the subframe 42 includes a pair of left and right upper frame portions 421a and 421b extending in the front-rear direction, and a pair of left and right lower frame portions 422a and 422b extending in the front-rear direction. The left upper frame portion 421a and the right upper frame portion 421b are spaced apart from each other in the left-right direction. The left lower frame portion 422a and the right lower frame portion 422b are spaced apart from each other in the left-right direction. The left lower frame portion 422a is located below the left upper frame portion 421a and is connected to the left upper frame portion 421a at its rear end. The right lower frame portion 422b is located below the right upper frame portion 421b and is connected to the right upper frame portion 421b at its rear end. The left upper frame portion 421a is one of the left-side frames, and the right upper frame portion 421b is one of the right-side frames.

[0032] Space S and ECU 10 are located between the left frame sections 421a and 422a and the right frame sections 421b and 422b.

[0033] The ECU 10 includes a component housing 10a, which is the outer shell of the ECU 10, and a component connector 10b that establishes an electrical connection with an external device. In this embodiment, the component connector 10b is integrated with the ECU 10 so as to move together with the ECU 10. Specifically, the component connector 10b is fixed to the ECU 10 so as not to change its position and orientation relative to the ECU 10. Furthermore, the component connector 10b is a female connector that accepts a male connector of an external device. As shown in Figure 3, the component connector 10b includes a cylindrical portion that protrudes from the component housing 10a and accepts a male connector, and terminals within the cylindrical portion. In this embodiment, the ECU 10 includes two component connectors 10b that are aligned left to right when the ECU 10 is mounted on the motorcycle 1.

[0034] As shown in Figure 4, the component casing 10a has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. When the ECU 10 is mounted on the motorcycle 1, the vertical thickness of the component casing 10a at the position of the component connector 10b is greater than the vertical thickness of the component casing 10a at positions other than the component connector 10b. The component casing 10a includes a first protruding portion 10aa that protrudes upward at the position of the component connector 10b, on the upper surface 10a1 of the component casing 10a.

[0035] In the state in which the ECU 10 is mounted on the motorcycle 1, the component casing 10a includes a second protruding portion 10ab on its upper surface 10a1 that protrudes upward behind the first protruding portion 10aa. The second protruding portion 10ab can be used for positioning the ECU 10 in the left-right direction. In this embodiment, the first protruding portion 10aa protrudes upward more than the second protruding portion 10ab.

[0036] Figure 5 is a top view of the structure of the ECU 10 and its surroundings as shown in Figure 4. As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the motorcycle 1 further comprises a vehicle connector connected to the component connector 10b of the ECU 10, and a harness 25 extending from the vehicle connector. The vehicle connector can be repositioned and oriented within the range of motion of the harness 25. The harness 25 is connected to the electronic and electrical components of the motorcycle 1. In this embodiment, the motorcycle 1 includes two vehicle connectors 24A and 24B as vehicle connectors. Two harnesses 25 extend from the vehicle connectors 24A and 24B. The harnesses 25 are connected to the on-board network of the motorcycle 1.

[0037] Each of the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B has a structure that allows it to be physically and electrically connected to the component connector 10b. In this embodiment, the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B are male connectors. Each of the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B includes terminal portions 24Aa and 24Ba, respectively. As shown in Figure 3, each of the terminal portions 24Aa and 24Ba includes a portion that fits into the cylindrical portion of the component connector 10b and a terminal located in that portion.

[0038] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B each include movable parts 24Ab and 24Bb that operate between a locked position and an unlocked position. The movable part 24Ab is operably connected to the terminal part 24Aa, and the movable part 24Bb is operably connected to the terminal part 24Ba.

[0039] In the terminal connection state, where terminal portion 24Aa is inserted into one component connector 10b and the terminals of terminal portion 24Aa and the terminals of the component connector 10b are connected, the vehicle body connector 24A has a structure that locks the connection between terminal portion 24Aa and component connector 10b when the movable portion 24Ab is in the locked position, preventing the terminal portion 24Aa from being pulled out of the component connector 10b. In the terminal connection state, the vehicle body connector 24A has a structure that unlocks the connection between terminal portion 24Aa and component connector 10b when the movable portion 24Ab is in the unlocked position, allowing the terminal portion 24Aa to be pulled out of the component connector 10b. The structure of vehicle body connector 24B is the same as that of vehicle body connector 24A, so its description is omitted.

[0040] In this embodiment, the movable part 24Ab is operable in a first direction D1 away from the terminal part 24Aa and in a second direction D2 towards the terminal part 24Aa. Specifically, the movable part 24Ab pivots so that its distal end moves along a circumference centered on the axis 24Ac on the terminal part 24Aa. The movable part 24Ab reaches a locked position by pivoting in the second direction D2 and reaches an unlocked position by pivoting in the first direction D1. Similarly, the movable part 24Bb is operable in a third direction D3 away from the terminal part 24Ba and in a fourth direction D4 towards the terminal part 24Ba. Specifically, the movable part 24Bb pivots so that its distal end moves along a circumference centered on the axis 24Bc on the terminal part 24Ba. The movable part 24Bb reaches the locked position by rotating in the fourth direction D4, and reaches the unlocked position by rotating in the third direction D3.

[0041] The motorcycle 1 further comprises a retaining structure 100 for holding the ECU 10 to the subframe 42. The retaining structure 100 includes a retaining member 110 and a support member 120.

[0042] The retaining member 110 detachably holds the ECU 10. In this embodiment, the retaining member 110 holds the ECU 10 located below the retaining member 110. The retaining member 110 is integrally connected to the subframe 42. In this embodiment, the retaining member 110 is welded to the upper frame portions 421a and 421b of the subframe 42. The retaining member 110, like the subframe 42, includes a metallic material. In this embodiment, the retaining member 110 includes a metal plate-like member with a plurality of curved portions.

[0043] The retaining member 110 extends above the space S, straddling the space S, and bridging from the upper left frame portion 421a to the upper right frame portion 421b. The retaining member 110 also functions as a reinforcing member for the upper frame portions 421a and 421b. The retaining member 110 reinforces the upper frame portions 421a and 421b with respect to deformation in directions toward each other and away from each other. Such a retaining member 110 has a rigid and strong structure. The strength of the retaining member 110 can be achieved by the shape, thickness, material, etc.

[0044] In the holding state, the holding member 110 extends over the ECU 10 and the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B, and across the ECU 10 and the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B. The holding state is a state in which the ECU 10 is held by the holding member 110 and the two component connectors 10b are connected to the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B.

[0045] In the held state, the ECU10 is located behind the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B. The two component connectors 10b of the ECU10 are aligned left to right at the front of the ECU10, and the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B are aligned left to right at the front of the ECU10. Vehicle body connector 24A is located to the left of vehicle body connector 24B. Directions D1 and D3 are to the right, and directions D2 and D4 are to the left. Hereafter, "vehicle body connector 24A" may be referred to as "left vehicle body connector 24A," and "vehicle body connector 24B" may be referred to as "right vehicle body connector 24B."

[0046] In this embodiment, the retaining member 110 integrally includes retaining portions 111, 112, and 113. The first retaining portion 111, in the retaining state, extends over the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B and over a part of the ECU 10 including the component connector 10b. The second retaining portion 112 is located behind the first retaining portion 111 and extends over the ECU 10 in the retaining state. The third retaining portion 113 connects the first retaining portion 111 and the second retaining portion 112. Both retaining portions 111 and 112 extend above the space S, straddling the space S, and bridging from the upper left frame portion 421a to the upper right frame portion 421b. Both retaining portions 111 and 112 are welded to the upper frame portions 421a and 421b. The retaining portions 111, 112, and 113 are all metal plate-like members including curved portions. Both the holding portions 111 and 113 are positioned such that a large portion of the plate surface faces in the vertical direction.

[0047] The first retaining portion 111 integrally includes the restraining portions 111a, 111b, 111c, 111d, and 111e. In the retaining state, the first restraining portion 111a extends vertically in front of the right vehicle body connector 24B. In this embodiment, the first restraining portion 111a has a plate-like shape that extends vertically and horizontally in the retaining state. The restraining portions 111b and 111c extend vertically to the side of the right vehicle body connector 24B in the retaining state. In this embodiment, the second restraining portion 111b has a plate-like shape that extends vertically and horizontally to the right side of the right vehicle body connector 24B in the retaining state. The third restraining portion 111c has a plate-like shape that extends vertically and horizontally to the right side of the right vehicle body connector 24B in the retaining state. The fourth restraining portion 111d extends vertically to the left of the first protruding portion 10aa of the ECU 10 when it is in the holding state. The fifth restraining portion 111e extends vertically to the right of the first protruding portion 10aa of the ECU 10 when it is in the holding state.

[0048] In the holding state, the first restraining portion 111a contacts the right vehicle body connector 24B when the right vehicle body connector 24B moves forward, thereby restraining the forward movement of the right vehicle body connector 24B. Furthermore, the first restraining portion 111a can prevent the movable portion 24Bb of the right vehicle body connector 24B, which is in the locked position, from moving in the third direction D3 to the unlocked position.

[0049] In the holding state, the second restraining part 111b contacts the right vehicle body connector 24B when the right vehicle body connector 24B moves to the right, thereby restraining the right vehicle body connector 24B from moving to the right. Furthermore, the second restraining part 111b can prevent the movable part 24Bb in the locked position from moving in the third direction D3 to the unlocked position.

[0050] In the holding state, the third restraining part 111c contacts the right vehicle body connector 24B when the right vehicle body connector 24B moves to the right, thereby restraining the right vehicle body connector 24B from moving to the right. Furthermore, the third restraining part 111c can prevent the movable part 24Bb, which is in the locked position, from moving in the third direction D3 to the unlocked position.

[0051] In the holding state, the fourth restraining portion 111d abuts against the left side of the first protruding portion 10aa or forms a small gap between the left side and the fourth restraining portion 111d. In the holding state, the fourth restraining portion 111d restrains the ECU 10 from moving to the left. In the holding state, the fifth restraining portion 111e abuts against the right side of the first protruding portion 10aa or forms a small gap between the right side and the fifth restraining portion 111e. In the holding state, the fifth restraining portion 111e restrains the ECU 10 from moving to the right.

[0052] The second holding portion 112 integrally includes the restraining portions 112a, 112b, 112c, and 112d. The sixth restraining portion 112a extends vertically to the left of the second protruding portion 10ab of the ECU 10 in the holding state. In the holding state, the sixth restraining portion 112a contacts the second protruding portion 10ab when the ECU 10 moves to the left, thereby restraining the leftward movement of the ECU 10. The seventh restraining portion 112b extends vertically to the right of the second protruding portion 10ab of the ECU 10 in the holding state. In the holding state, the seventh restraining portion 112b contacts the second protruding portion 10ab when the ECU 10 moves to the right, thereby restraining the rightward movement of the ECU 10.

[0053] The eighth restraining portion 112c extends vertically on the left side of the ECU 10 when held. When held, the eighth restraining portion 112c abuts against the left side of the component casing 10a of the ECU 10 or forms a small gap between the left side and the eighth restraining portion 112c. The eighth restraining portion 112c restrains the leftward movement of the ECU 10 and positions the ECU 10 to the left. The ninth restraining portion 112d extends vertically on the right side of the ECU 10 when held. When held, the ninth restraining portion 112d abuts against the right side of the component casing 10a of the ECU 10 or forms a small gap between the right side and the ninth restraining portion 112d. The ninth restraining portion 112d restrains the rightward movement of the ECU 10 and positions the ECU 10 to the right.

[0054] The third retaining portion 113 can abut against the rear of the first protruding portion 10aa of the ECU 10 when it is in a retaining state. The third retaining portion 113 includes a portion that bends to conform to the shape of the rear of the first protruding portion 10aa. When in a retaining state, the third retaining portion 113 prevents the ECU 10 from moving backward. The third retaining portion 113 prevents the ECU 10 from moving in a way that would pull the component connector 10b away from the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B and disconnect them from each other. In other words, the third retaining portion 113 prevents the ECU 10 from moving in the direction of disconnection. The third retaining portion 113 is one of the engaging portions.

[0055] The first restraining portion 111a and the third retaining portion 113 also function as guides for positioning the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B and the ECU 10, which are connected to each other, in the front-rear direction relative to the retaining member 110. The restraining portions 111b and 111c also function as guides for positioning the right vehicle body connector 24B, which is connected to the ECU 10, in the left-right direction relative to the retaining member 110. The restraining portions 111d, 111e and 112a to 112d also function as guides for positioning the ECU 10, which is connected to the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B, in the left-right direction relative to the retaining member 110.

[0056] The retaining structure 100 includes a retaining member 110, a blocking portion 130, a first connecting portion 114, and a second connecting portion 115. In this embodiment, the blocking portion 130, the first connecting portion 114, and the second connecting portion 115 are integrated with the retaining member 110 and are part of the retaining member 110. The blocking portion 130 and the first connecting portion 114 are located at the front of the first retaining portion 111, and the second connecting portion 115 is located at the rear of the second retaining portion 112.

[0057] The blocking portion 130 extends to the left vehicle body connector 24A, which is in a held state and has the movable portion 24Ab in the locked position, to prevent the movable portion 24Ab from moving from the locked position to the unlocked position. The blocking portion 130 extends to prevent the movable portion 24Ab, which is in the locked position in the held state, from moving in the first direction D1. In this embodiment, the blocking portion 130 extends between the movable portion 24Ab, which is in the locked position in the held state, and the terminal portion 24Ba of the right vehicle body connector 24B. The blocking portion 130 has a columnar shape that extends in the vertical direction and is adjacent to the movable portion 24Ab, which is in the locked position in the held state, in the first direction D1. Specifically, the blocking portion 130 extends downward from the first holding portion 111. Therefore, the blocking portion 130 prevents the movable portion 24Ab, which is in the locked position, from pivoting in the first direction D1.

[0058] The blocking portion 130 includes a first connecting portion 114 at its lower end. The first connecting portion 114 has a structure for connecting the blocking portion 130 and the support member 120. In this embodiment, the first connecting portion 114 has a structure for screw fastening. The first connecting portion 114 includes a screw hole extending upward from the lower end of the blocking portion 130 in the axial direction of the columnar blocking portion 130. The support member 120 is fastened to the blocking portion 130 by fastening a screw from below the support member 120 into the screw hole of the blocking portion 130. Alternatively, the first connecting portion 114 may include a threaded shaft extending in the axial direction of the blocking portion 130 at its lower end, and the support member 120 may be fastened to the blocking portion 130 by fastening a nut from below the support member 120 onto the threaded shaft of the first connecting portion 114.

[0059] The second connecting portion 115 has a structure for connecting itself to the support member 120. In this embodiment, the second connecting portion 115 has a structure for screw fastening. The second connecting portion 115 extends rearward from the second holding portion 112 and includes a through hole through which a screw passes and which extends vertically.

[0060] Figure 6 is a plan view of the ECU 10 and its surrounding structure as seen from below in Figure 4. As shown in Figures 4 and 6, the support member 120 supports the ECU 10 from below and is detachably connected to the retaining member 110 from below. In this embodiment, the support member 120 is a metal plate-shaped member including a curved portion. In the retaining state, the retaining member 110 is located above the ECU 10, and the support member 120 extends below the ECU 10 and the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B, across the ECU 10 and the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B.

[0061] The support member 120 integrally includes a mounting portion 121, a third connecting portion 122, and a fourth connecting portion 123. The mounting portion 121 defines the mounting surface on which the ECU 10 is placed. The third connecting portion 122 extends from the mounting portion 121 and has a structure for connecting itself to the first connecting portion 114 of the holding member 110. The fourth connecting portion 123 extends from the mounting portion 121 and has a structure for connecting itself to the second connecting portion 115 of the holding member 110.

[0062] In the holding state, the support member 120 is connected to the holding member 110 at least via the connection between the first connecting portion 114 and the third connecting portion 122 of the blocking portion 130. In this embodiment, in the holding state, the support member 120 is connected to the holding member 110 via the connection between the first connecting portion 114 and the third connecting portion 122, and the connection between the second connecting portion 115 and the fourth connecting portion 123.

[0063] In the holding state, the third connecting portion 122 extends forward from the front of the mounting portion 121. The third connecting portion 122 includes a through hole for screw fastening at its distal end. In the holding state, the through hole extends vertically. In the holding state, the third connecting portion 122 is adjacent to the blocking portion 130 below, and the position of the through hole in the third connecting portion 122 can be aligned with the position of the screw hole in the first connecting portion 114. The third connecting portion 122 is fastened to the blocking portion 130 by a screw 141 that is passed through the through hole from below and screwed into the screw hole in the first connecting portion 114. The third connecting portion 122 also functions as a reinforcing member for the blocking portion 130 and the holding member 110. Since the third connecting portion 122 holds both ends of the blocking portion 130 together with the holding member 110, deformation of the third connecting portion 122 and the holding member 110 that would cause the position and orientation of the blocking portion 130 to fluctuate is suppressed. The blocking portion 130 connected to the third connection portion 122 not only prevents the movable portion 24Ab of the vehicle body connector 24A from moving in the first direction D1, but also prevents the ECU 10 from moving forward relative to the support member 120.

[0064] In the holding state, the fourth connecting portion 123 extends rearward from the rear of the mounting portion 121. Furthermore, the fourth connecting portion 123 bends upward and extends upward, and then bends further rearward and extends rearward. The fourth connecting portion 123 includes a through hole for screw fastening at its distal end. In the holding state, the through hole extends vertically. In the holding state, the fourth connecting portion 123 is adjacent below to the second connecting portion 115 of the holding member 110, and the position of the through hole in the fourth connecting portion 123 may align with the position of the through hole in the second connecting portion 115. The fourth connecting portion 123 is fastened to the second connecting portion 115 by fastening a nut 143 to a screw 142 that passes through two through holes from above or below. The fourth connecting portion 123, connected to the second connecting portion 115, prevents the ECU 10 from moving rearward relative to the support member 120.

[0065] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the mounting portion 121 integrally includes restraining portions 121a, 121b, and 121c. The first restraining portion 121a extends upward at the rear of the mounting portion 121 in the holding state. The second restraining portion 121b extends upward at the left side of the mounting portion 121 in the holding state. The third restraining portion 121c extends upward at the right side of the mounting portion 121 in the holding state. The restraining portions 121a, 121b, and 121c position the ECU 10 at the target position in the left-right and front-back directions on the mounting portion 121. Furthermore, the restraining portions 121a, 121b, and 121c prevent the ECU 10 from sliding off the mounting portion 121, for example, when attaching the support member 120 to the holding member 110.

[0066] In the holding state, when the support member 120 is connected to the holding member 110 via connection parts 122 and 123, the movement of the ECU 10 and the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B in the front-rear, left-right, and up-down directions is restrained by the holding member 110 and the support member 120. Furthermore, the movement of the movable part 24Ab of the left vehicle body connector 24A from the locked position to the unlocked position is prevented by the blocking part 130. The movement of the movable part 24Bb of the right vehicle body connector 24Bb from the locked position to the unlocked position may be prevented by the blocking parts 111a, 111b and 111c of the holding member 110. For this reason, in the installed state, in order to remove the ECU 10 from the holding member 110, it is necessary to release the fastening of screws 141 and 142, thereby releasing the connection between the first connection part 114 and the third connection part 122, and the connection between the second connection part 115 and the fourth connection part 123.

[0067] A method for attaching the ECU 10 to the retaining member 110 will be described. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a method for attaching the ECU 10 to the retaining member 110 in the motorcycle 1 according to this embodiment.

[0068] In step S101, the motorcycle 1 is in a state where the seat 22, rear fender 32, and rear under cover 35 are not attached. In other words, the space S under the seat 22 is exposed in the vertical direction.

[0069] Next, in step S102, the ECU 10 is placed on the support member 120, thereby setting it on the support member 120.

[0070] Next, in step S103, the ECU 10 and the support member 120 are moved below the retaining member 110. Access to the retaining member 110 may be from above the subframe 42 or from below the subframe 42.

[0071] Next, in step S104, the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B, with the movable parts 24Ab and 24Bb respectively in the unlocked position below the retaining member 110, are connected to the two component connectors 10b of the ECU 10.

[0072] Next, in step S105, the movable parts 24Ab and 24Bb of the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B are moved from the unlocked position to the locked position.

[0073] Next, in step S106, the first connecting portion 114 of the retaining member 110 and the third connecting portion 122 of the support member 120 are aligned, and the second connecting portion 115 of the retaining member 110 and the fourth connecting portion 123 of the support member 120 are aligned. As a result, the blocking portion 130 is positioned between the movable portion 24Ab of the vehicle body connector 24A and the terminal portion 24Ba of the vehicle body connector 24B. During alignment, the stopping portions 111a to 111e and 112a to 112d of the retaining member 110, as well as the third retaining portion 113, can function as alignment guides.

[0074] Next, in step S107, the first connecting portion 114 of the retaining member 110 and the third connecting portion 122 of the support member 120 are fastened together with screws from below, and the second connecting portion 115 of the retaining member 110 and the fourth connecting portion 123 of the support member 120 are fastened together with screws from above or below. As a result, the support member 120 is connected to the retaining member 110, and the ECU 10 is held between the support member 120 and the retaining member 110.

[0075] As shown in Figure 3, when the rear under cover 35 is installed, the space between the retaining member 110 and the rear under cover 35 is extremely narrow. As a result, there is insufficient workspace to connect the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B to the component connector 10b, and also insufficient space for the tool to fasten the first connecting portion 114 of the blocking portion 130 of the retaining member 110 and the third connecting portion 122 of the support member 120 from below with screws. Therefore, step S101 is necessary. Consequently, in the motorcycle 1 according to this embodiment, installing the ECU 10 is not sufficient, easy, and time-consuming simply by removing the seat 22 to expose the space S upwards.

[0076] A method for removing the ECU 10 from the retaining member 110 will be described. Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a method for removing the ECU 10 from the retaining member 110 in the motorcycle 1 according to the embodiment.

[0077] In step S201, remove seat 22 from motorcycle 1.

[0078] Next, in step S202, remove the rear fender 32 from the rear under cover 35.

[0079] Next, in step S203, remove the rear under cover 35 from the subframe 42.

[0080] Next, in step S204, the screw 141 fastening the first connecting portion 114 of the retaining member 110 and the third connecting portion 122 of the support member 120 is loosened and removed by accessing it from below the retaining member 110. Furthermore, the screw 142 fastening the second connecting portion 115 of the retaining member 110 and the fourth connecting portion 123 of the support member 120 is loosened and removed. In other words, the connection between the connecting portion of the retaining member 110 and the connecting portion of the support member 120 is released.

[0081] Next, in step S205, the ECU 10 and the support member 120 are moved downward, separating them from the holding member 110. This releases the restraint on the ECU 10 and the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B in the longitudinal and lateral directions by the restraint portions 111a to 111e and 112a to 112d of the holding member 110, as well as the third holding portion 113. Furthermore, the restraint on the movement of the movable portion 24Ab of the vehicle body connector 24A by the blocking portion 130 is released.

[0082] Next, in step S206, the movable parts 24Ab and 24Bb of the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B are moved from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0083] Next, in step S207, the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B are disconnected from the component connector 10b of the ECU 10, thereby releasing the connection between the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B and the component connector 10b.

[0084] Next, in step S208, the ECU 10 and the support member 120 are moved outside the subframe 42.

[0085] As shown in Figure 3, when the rear under cover 35 is installed, the space between the support member 120 and the rear under cover 35 is extremely narrow. As a result, there is insufficient space for a tool to release the screw fastening between the first connecting portion 114 of the blocking portion 130 of the retaining member 110 and the third connecting portion 122 of the support member 120. Furthermore, there is insufficient space to move the ECU 10 and the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B downward in order to release the restraint on their movement by the stopping portions 111a to 111e and 112a to 112d of the retaining member 110, and the third retaining portion 113. As a result, the restraint on the movement of the movable portion 24Ab of the vehicle body connector 24A by the stopping portion 130 cannot be released. Thus, steps S202 and S203 are necessary. Consequently, in the motorcycle 1 according to this embodiment, removing the ECU 10 is not sufficient, easy, and time-consuming simply by removing the seat 22.

[0086] While exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, the disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. That is, various modifications and improvements are possible within the scope of the disclosure. For example, embodiments that have been modified in various ways, and forms constructed by combining components from different embodiments, are also included within the scope of the disclosure.

[0087] For example, in this embodiment, Vehicle 1 is a motorcycle and a saddle vehicle, but the structure of Vehicle 1 is not limited to this. For example, Vehicle 1 may be equipped with electronically controlled components. For example, Vehicle 1 as a motorcycle may be a scooter with a footrest in front of the seat. Other examples of Vehicle 1 may include mopeds and automobiles. Automobiles may include three or more wheels. Examples of automobiles may include passenger cars, cargo vehicles, buses, all-terrain vehicles, and utility vehicles. All-terrain vehicles may be vehicles capable of driving off-road.

[0088] In this embodiment, the vehicle 1 is equipped only with an internal combustion engine as the driving source 20, but is not limited thereto. The vehicle 1 may be an EV vehicle equipped only with a rotating electric machine as the driving source 20, or a hybrid vehicle equipped with both an internal combustion engine and a rotating electric machine as the driving sources. The rotating electric machine can convert electrical energy to mechanical energy, convert mechanical energy to electrical energy, or do both.

[0089] In this embodiment, the retaining structure 100 is located below the seat 22, but the location of the retaining structure 100 is not limited to this. For example, if the ECU 10 is located below the fuel tank 21, the retaining structure 100 may also be located below the fuel tank 21. In this case, the retaining member 110 may be located on the main frame 41. If the ECU 10 is located inside the rear cowl 34 behind the seat 22, the retaining structure 100 may also be located inside the rear cowl 34 behind the seat 22. In this case, the retaining member 110 may be located on the subframe 42.

[0090] In the embodiment of the holding structure 100, at least a portion of the parts that restrain the movement of the ECU 10, such as the restraining portion and the third holding portion 113, which are included in the holding member 110, may be included in the support member 120.

[0091] In this embodiment, the holding structure 100 is used to hold the ECU 10, but it may also be used to hold electronic control components other than the ECU 10.

[0092] The structure of the retaining member 110 according to the embodiment may be a structure formed from a single member, or a structure formed from multiple members joined together by welding or the like and integrated into one. The members constituting the multiple members may include one or more parts included in the retaining member 110, or may include a part of the parts included in the retaining member 110. The structure of the support member 120 according to the embodiment may be a structure formed from a single member, or a structure formed from multiple members joined together by welding or the like and integrated into one. The members constituting the multiple members may include one or more parts included in the support member 120, or may include a part of the parts included in the support member 120.

[0093] In this embodiment, the movable parts 24Ab and 24Bb that operate between the locked and unlocked positions are located at the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B, but may also be located at the ECU 10. In this case, the blocking part 130 may be configured to prevent the movable parts of the ECU 10 from moving from the locked position to the unlocked position when held in place.

[0094] In this embodiment, the direction of movement between the locked position and the unlocked position of the movable parts 24Ab and 24Bb is left-right, but this direction of movement is not limited to this. The direction of movement may be any direction. Regardless of the direction of movement, the blocking part 130 only needs to be able to block the movement of the movable parts 24Ab and 24Bb from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0095] In this embodiment, the movable parts 24Ab and 24Bb are structured in such a way that both the movement from the locked position to the unlocked position and the movement from the unlocked position to the locked position are performed manually. However, the structure of the movable parts 24Ab and 24Bb is not limited to this. For example, the movable parts 24Ab and 24Bb may include a biasing member that biases either of the two movements. For example, the movable parts 24Ab and 24Bb may include an elastic member such as a spring that biases the movement from the unlocked position to the locked position.

[0096] In this embodiment, the component connector 10b of the ECU 10 is a female connector and the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B are male connectors. However, the component connector 10b may be a male connector and the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B may be female connectors.

[0097] In this embodiment, the component connector 10b is fixed to the ECU 10 so that its position and orientation cannot be changed, but the structure of the component connector 10b is not limited thereto. For example, the component connector 10b may be connected to the ECU 10 via a cable and its position and orientation relative to the ECU 10 may be changed. In this embodiment, the vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B may be able to change their position and orientation, but they may also be fixed so that their position and orientation cannot be changed.

[0098] In this embodiment, the ECU 10 includes two component connectors 10b, to which two vehicle body connectors 24A and 24B are connected, but the number of connectors is not limited to this. For example, vehicle 1 may include one component connector, one vehicle body connector, and one blocking portion 130. Vehicle 1 may include three or more component connectors, three or more vehicle body connectors, and one or more blocking portions 130. In this embodiment, the number of blocking portions 130 connected to the support member 120 is one, but the number of blocking portions 130 connected to the support member 120 may be the same as the number of vehicle body connectors including movable parts or component connectors including movable parts, or it may be less than the number of vehicle body connectors including movable parts or component connectors including movable parts.

[0099] Examples of each aspect of the technology of the present disclosure are given below. A vehicle according to the first aspect of the present disclosure comprises a vehicle frame, an electronically controlled component including a component connector, a vehicle body connector connected to the component connector, and a retaining member for detachably holding the electronically controlled component, the retaining member being integrally connected to the vehicle frame, wherein the component connector or the vehicle body connector includes a movable portion that operates between a locked position for locking the connection with the vehicle body connector or the component connector and an unlocked position for releasing the connection with the vehicle body connector or the component connector, and the retaining member integrally includes a blocking portion that extends to prevent the movement of the movable portion from the locked position to the unlocked position when the electronically controlled component is held by the retaining member and the component connector is connected to the vehicle body connector.

[0100] According to the first embodiment, when an electronically controlled component is held by a retaining member and the movable part is in the locked position, the movement of the movable part to the unlocked position is prevented by the blocking portion of the retaining member. Therefore, the connection between the component connector and the vehicle body connector cannot be released, and the electronically controlled component cannot be removed from the retaining member. In order to release the connection between the component connector and the vehicle body connector, it is necessary to change the position of the movable part relative to the blocking portion by moving the electronically controlled component, such as by releasing the electronically controlled component from the retaining member's hold on it. Thus, it is possible to make it difficult to remove the electronically controlled component. Furthermore, since the blocking portion is part of the retaining member, it is possible to simplify the structure and reduce the number of parts required to make it difficult to remove the electronically controlled component.

[0101] In a vehicle according to a second aspect of the present disclosure, in the first aspect, the holding member may be configured to extend above the electronic control component and the vehicle body connector, and across the electronic control component and the vehicle body connector, while the electronic control component is held by the holding member and the component connector is connected to the vehicle body connector.

[0102] According to the second embodiment, removing the electronic control component upward from the retaining member is prevented by the retaining member. Therefore, the electronic control component can be removed from the retaining member by accessing it from below. Consequently, access to the electronic control component is not easy, making it even more difficult to remove the electronic control component.

[0103] A vehicle according to a third aspect of the present disclosure may further include a support member that supports the electronic control component from below and is detachably connected to the retaining member from below, wherein, when the support member is connected to the retaining member, the retaining member is located above the electronic control component, and when the support member is connected to the retaining member, the support member extends below the electronic control component and the vehicle body connector, across the electronic control component and the vehicle body connector.

[0104] According to the third embodiment, removing the electronic control component upward from the retaining member is prevented by the retaining member. Removing the electronic control component downward from the retaining member is prevented by the support member. The support member can be removed from the retaining member by access from below. Therefore, since access to the support member is not easy, removing the electronic control component becomes even more difficult.

[0105] A vehicle according to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, in any one of the first to third aspects, further comprises a support member that supports the electronic control component from below and is detachably connected to the retaining member from below, wherein, when the support member is connected to the retaining member, the retaining member is located above the electronic control component, and the support member includes a connecting portion connected to the blocking portion, and is connected to the retaining member at least at the blocking portion.

[0106] According to the fourth embodiment, the blocking portion can be connected to the support member to improve its strength and rigidity against deformation. In order to release the blocking of the movable portion by the blocking portion, it is necessary to disconnect the connection between the blocking portion and the support member by accessing it from below. Therefore, it becomes even more difficult to remove the electronic control components.

[0107] A vehicle according to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure may be configured such that, in any one of the first to fourth aspects, the vehicle further comprises an exterior component that covers from below the portion of the vehicle frame in which the retaining member is located and the electronically controlled component held by the retaining member.

[0108] According to the fifth embodiment, access from below to the retaining member and access from below to the portion of the vehicle frame where the retaining member is located may be blocked by exterior parts. Since the removal of the exterior parts is required for the above access, it becomes even more difficult to remove the electronic control components.

[0109] A vehicle according to the sixth aspect of the present disclosure may be configured such that, in any one of the first to fifth aspects, the vehicle further comprises a sheet or exterior part that covers from above the portion of the vehicle frame in which the retaining member is located and the electronically controlled components held by the retaining member.

[0110] According to the sixth embodiment, access from above to the retaining member and access from above to the portion of the vehicle frame where the retaining member is located may be blocked by exterior parts or seats. Since the removal of exterior parts or seats is required for the above access, it becomes even more difficult to remove the electronic control components.

[0111] A vehicle according to the seventh aspect of this disclosure may be configured such that, in any one of the first to sixth aspects, the movable portion operates between the locked position and the unlocked position in a direction intersecting the vertical direction of the vehicle, and the blocking portion has a columnar shape extending in the vertical direction toward the unlocked position relative to the movable portion in the locked position.

[0112] According to the seventh embodiment, the blocking portion has a simple structure. Therefore, it is possible to simplify the structure to prevent easy removal of electronic control components.

[0113] A vehicle according to the eighth aspect of the present disclosure may be configured such that, in any one of the first to seventh aspects, the component connector is integrated with the electronic control component so as to move together with the electronic control component, the component connector disconnects from the vehicle body connector by moving the electronic control component in a specific disconnection direction relative to the vehicle body connector, and the retaining member includes an engaging portion that engages with the electronic control component held by the retaining member and prevents the electronic control component from moving in the disconnection direction.

[0114] According to the eighth aspect, in order to disconnect the vehicle body connector from the component connector, it is necessary to release the holding member from the electronic control component and to release the engagement between the engaging portion and the electronic control component. Therefore, it becomes even more difficult to remove the electronic control component.

[0115] A vehicle according to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, in any one of the first to eighth aspects, further comprises a seat covering the electronically controlled components held by the retaining member and the retaining member from above, wherein the vehicle frame includes a left frame and a right frame supporting the seat and extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, the retaining member extending across the left frame to the right frame, and the electronically controlled components held by the retaining member being located between the left frame and the right frame.

[0116] According to the ninth embodiment, lateral access to the electronically controlled components held by the retaining member is obstructed by the left and right frames. Because the direction from which access to the electronically controlled components is limited, it becomes even more difficult to remove the electronically controlled components.

[0117] The functions of the elements disclosed herein can be performed using circuits or processing circuits, including general-purpose processors, dedicated processors, integrated circuits, ASICs, conventional circuits, and / or combinations thereof, configured or programmed to perform the disclosed functions. A processor is considered a processing circuit or circuit because it includes transistors and other circuits. In this disclosure, a circuit, unit, or means is hardware that performs the enumerated functions, or hardware programmed to perform the enumerated functions. The hardware may be hardware disclosed herein, or other known hardware that is programmed or configured to perform the enumerated functions. If the hardware is a processor, which is considered a type of circuit, then the circuit, means, or unit is a combination of hardware and software, and the software is used to configure the hardware and / or the processor.

[0118] All ordinal numbers, quantities, and other figures used herein are illustrative to illustrate the technology of this disclosure, and this disclosure is not limited to such illustrative figures. The connections between components are illustrative to illustrate the technology of this disclosure, and the connections that realize the functions of this disclosure are not limited to these.

[0119] This disclosure can be implemented in various ways without departing from the scope of its essential features, and the scope of this disclosure is defined more by the appended claims than by the description in the specification; therefore, exemplary embodiments and modifications are illustrative and not limiting. All modifications within the claims and their scope, or equivalents within the claims and their scope, are intended to be encompassed by the claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0120] 1. Vehicles, motorcycles 4. Body frame 10. Electronic control unit, ECU (Electronic Control Unit) 10b Component Connector 22 seats 24, 24A, 24b Vehicle body connector 24Ab,24Bb Moving parts 30 Exterior parts 41 Mainframe 42 Subframes 421a Upper left frame section (left frame) 421b Upper right frame section (right frame) 110 Retaining member 113 Third holding part (engaging part) 120 Support member 130 Blocking part

Claims

1. The vehicle frame and Electronic control components including component connectors, The vehicle body connector is connected to the aforementioned component connector, A retaining member for detachably holding the aforementioned electronic control component, comprising a retaining member integrally connected to the vehicle body frame, The component connector or the vehicle body connector includes a movable part that operates between a locked position that locks the connection with the vehicle body connector or the component connector and an unlocked position that releases the connection with the vehicle body connector or the component connector. The retaining member integrally includes a blocking portion that extends to prevent the movement of the movable part from the locked position to the unlocked position when the electronic control component is held by the retaining member and the component connector is connected to the vehicle body connector. vehicle.

2. In a state in which the electronic control component is held by the retaining member and the component connector is connected to the vehicle body connector, the retaining member extends above the electronic control component and the vehicle body connector, across the electronic control component and the vehicle body connector. The vehicle according to claim 1.

3. The electronic control component is further supported from below by a support member that is detachably connected to the holding member from below, In the state in which the support member is connected to the holding member, the holding member is positioned above the electronic control component, In the state in which the support member is connected to the retaining member, the support member extends below the electronic control component and the vehicle body connector, across the electronic control component and the vehicle body connector. The vehicle according to claim 1.

4. The electronic control component is further supported from below by a support member that is detachably connected to the holding member from below, In the state in which the support member is connected to the holding member, the holding member is positioned above the electronic control component, The support member includes a connecting portion connected to the blocking portion, and is connected to the holding member at least at the blocking portion. The vehicle according to claim 1.

5. The vehicle body frame further comprises an exterior component that covers from below the portion where the retaining member is located and the electronic control component held by the retaining member. The vehicle according to any one of claims 2 to 4.

6. The vehicle body frame further comprises a sheet or exterior part that covers from above the portion where the retaining member is located and the electronic control component held by the retaining member. The vehicle according to claim 5.

7. The movable part moves between the locked position and the unlocked position in a direction intersecting the vertical direction of the vehicle. The blocking portion has a columnar shape that extends vertically toward the unlocked position relative to the movable portion in the locked position. The vehicle according to claim 1.

8. The component connector is integrated with the electronic control component so as to move together with the electronic control component. The aforementioned component connector disconnects from the vehicle body connector when the electronic control component is moved in a specific disconnection direction relative to the vehicle body connector. The retaining member includes an engaging portion that engages with the electronic control component held by the retaining member and prevents the electronic control component from moving in the disconnection direction. The vehicle according to claim 1.

9. The system further comprises a sheet that covers the electronic control component held by the holding member and the holding member from above, The vehicle body frame includes a left frame and a right frame that support the seat and extend in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The retaining member extends so as to span from the left frame to the right frame, The electronic control component held by the retaining member is located between the left frame and the right frame. The vehicle according to claim 1.