Drive system and vehicle

Abstract

To facilitate hole processing for a breather passage.SOLUTION: A drive device includes: a center case (42) having a partition wall (51); a motor cover (44) having a motor housing chamber (46) for housing a motor (12) in a space between the motor cover (44) and the partition wall (51); a gear case (43) having a transmission mechanism housing chamber (47) for housing a transmission mechanism of the motor (12) in a space between the gear case (43) and the partition wall (51); a first breather passage (81) connected to the transmission mechanism housing chamber (47); and a second breather passage (91) connected to the motor housing chamber (46). The center case (42) is provided with a first hole part (82) which is continuous with a surface exposed to the outside of the center case (42) in the first breather passage (81), and a second hole part (92) which is continuous with a surface exposed to the outside of the center case (42) in the second breather passage (91). The first hole part (82) and the second hole part (92) are formed in parallel to each other.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a drive device and a vehicle.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, efforts to achieve a low-carbon society or a decarbonized society have been active, and in vehicles as well, research and development on electric drive devices have been conducted in order to reduce CO2 emissions and improve energy efficiency. This type of drive device includes a gear case having a reduction gear mechanism housing chamber for housing a reduction gear mechanism of a motor, and a motor case adjacent to the gear case and having a motor housing chamber for housing the motor, and a configuration in which breather hoses are connected to each of the gear case and the motor case is known (for example, Patent Document 1). In the technique described in Patent Document 1, for the gear case, a hole portion that opens to the side is provided, and the breather hose is connected to this hole portion, and for the motor case, a hole portion that opens upward is provided, and the breather hose is connected to this hole portion.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, in the technology related to electric drive devices, since the directions of a plurality of openings to which breather hoses are connected are different, hole processing may take time and effort, and for example, it is necessary to change the orientation of the case for hole processing. The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to facilitate hole processing for a breather path. And by extension, it contributes to the improvement of energy efficiency.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A drive device mounted on an electric motorcycle, in which the direction is indicated relative to the electric motorcycle, and between the rear wheel of the electric motorcycle and the drive device, A central case with a partition wall, and the left and right sides of the central case outside Located between the partition wall and the motor cover, the motor cover has a motor housing chamber for housing the motor, and the left and right sides of the central case. inside A drive device comprising a gear case located at the center and having a gear mechanism housing chamber for housing the motor's gear mechanism between itself and the partition wall, a first breather path leading to the gear mechanism housing chamber, and a second breather path leading to the motor housing chamber, wherein the central case top The first breather path is provided with a first hole that is continuous with the surface exposed to the outside of the central case, and the second breather path is provided with a second hole that is continuous with the surface exposed to the outside of the central case, and the first hole and the second hole are formed parallel to each other, and the central case top This is recessed towards the inside of the central case. Along with the gear case side, the left and right sides are inclined inward and downward. It has a recess, and the first hole and the second hole are formed in the recess, Formed in the recess It has a breather case that covers the first hole and the second hole, Each of the first and second holes has a breather pipe, one end of which is inserted, and a breather tube, one end of which is inserted into the other end of the breather pipe, with the other end covered by the breather case, leaving a gap that communicates with the outside space, and the breather case has vertical extension walls that extend vertically on the left and right inner sides of the outlet path of the breather tube. The present invention provides a drive device in which a gap is provided between the recess and the lower end of the breather case, and the lower end of the breather case is located below the upper end of the first breather path or the second breather path. It also has a side stand. Components of an electric two-wheeled vehicle In a vehicle, the drive system is provided ,before The vehicle is provided in which the bottom surface of the recess is a horizontal surface or an inclined surface that slopes downward on the opposite side from the side in contact with the ground when the side stand is in contact with the ground. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] This makes it easier to machine holes for the breather pathway. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] This is a side view of a saddle-type vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2]It is a perspective view of the swing arm. [Figure 3] It is a left side view of the swing arm. [Figure 4] It is a right side view of the swing arm. [Figure 5] It is a cross-sectional view of the swing arm in the A-A cross section of FIG. 1. [Figure 6] It is a view showing the motor cut in a plane orthogonal to the motor shaft, together with the peripheral configuration. [Figure 7] It is a view showing the reduction gear housing chamber in the B-B cross section of FIG. 3, together with the peripheral configuration. [Figure 8] It is a view showing the swing arm in the C-C cross section of FIG. 1, together with the peripheral configuration. [Figure 9] It is a cross-sectional view of the swing arm in the D-D cross section of FIG. 3. [Figure 10] It is a view showing the first fastening portion in the E-E cross section of FIG. 4, together with the peripheral configuration. [Figure 11] It is a view showing the swing arm from the rear. [Figure 12] It is the F-F cross-sectional view of FIG. 11. [Figure 13] It is the G-G cross-sectional view of FIG. 11. [Figure 14] It is the H-H cross-sectional view of FIG. 12. [Figure 15] It is a view showing the upper and lower extension walls of the breather case from the front, together with the peripheral configuration. [Figure 16] It is a view showing the cross section of the recess from the rear, together with the peripheral configuration. [Figure 17] It is a view showing the motor shaft, together with the peripheral configuration.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the description, descriptions of directions such as front, rear, left, right, up, and down are the same as the directions with respect to the vehicle body unless otherwise specified. Also, the reference sign FR shown in each figure indicates the front of the vehicle body, the reference sign UP indicates the upper part of the vehicle body, and the reference sign LH indicates the left side of the vehicle body.

[0009] [Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a side view of a saddle-type vehicle 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The saddle-type vehicle 10 includes a vehicle body frame 11, a motor 12 that drives a rear wheel 15 which is a drive wheel, a front fork 14 that supports a front wheel 13 so as to be steerable, a swing arm 16 that supports the rear wheel 15, a seat 17 for a passenger, and a vehicle body cover 18 that covers the vehicle body frame 11, and is an electric two-wheeled vehicle. The saddle-type vehicle 10 is a vehicle on which a passenger sits straddling the seat 17. The saddle-type vehicle 10 of the present embodiment is a scooter-type electric two-wheeled vehicle including a low-floor step floor 19, a side stand 20a, and a center stand 20b.

[0010] The vehicle body frame 11 includes a head pipe 21 provided at the front of the vehicle body, a down frame 22 extending rearward and downward from the head pipe 21, left and right under frames 23 extending rearward from the down frame 22, and left and right rear frames 24 extending rearward and upward from the rear ends of the under frames 23. The step floor 19 is supported above the under frame 23, and a passenger sitting on the seat 17 places their feet on it.

[0011] The side stand 20a is rotatably supported by the left under frame 23, and by grounding it on the ground in the upright state, the saddle-type vehicle 10 can be parked in a state inclined to the left. The center stand 20b is rotatably supported by the under frame 23 behind the side stand 20a and in front of the rear wheel 15, and by grounding it on the ground in the upright state, the saddle-type vehicle 10 can be parked in an upright state without being inclined left and right. The center stand 20b is also referred to as the main stand.

[0012] The front fork 14 is supported by the head pipe 21 so as to be steerable left and right. The front wheel 13 is supported by a front wheel axle 13a formed of an axle provided at the lower end of the front fork 14. A steering handle 25 held by a passenger is attached to the upper end of the front fork 14.

[0013] A swingarm 16 is connected to the rear end of the underframe 23 so as to be able to swing up and down. The swingarm 16 has a hollow structure and houses a motor 12 that drives the rear wheel 15 at a position corresponding to the left side of the rear wheel 15. Thus, the swingarm 16 functions not only as a support member that supports the rear wheel 15, but also as a drive device that drives the rear wheel 15. The swingarm 16 can also be referred to as a swing-type power unit. A rear cushion 26 is interposed between the rear end of the swingarm 16 and the rear frame 24.

[0014] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the swing arm 16. Figure 3 is a left side view of the swing arm 16, and Figure 4 is a right side view of the swing arm 16. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the swing arm 16 in section AA of Figure 1. The symbol PR shown in Figure 3, etc., indicates the axis of the rear wheel axle 15a, which is the axle of the rear wheel 15; the symbol PC indicates the axis of the intermediate shaft 71, which will be described later; and the symbol PM indicates the axis of the motor shaft 12a. As shown in Figures 2 to 5, the swing arm 16 has a shape that curves outwards from the front of the rear wheel 15 toward the left side of the rear wheel 15. As shown in Figures 3 and 4, a pivot insertion portion 41 for connecting to the vehicle frame 11 is provided at the front end of the swing arm 16, and the motor 12 is housed on the rear left side of the swing arm 16.

[0015] As shown in Figure 2, the swing arm 16 comprises a motor case 42, a gear case 43 located inward in the vehicle width direction relative to the motor case 42, and a motor cover 44 located outward in the vehicle width direction relative to the motor case 42. As shown in Figure 5, a motor housing chamber 46 for housing the motor 12 is formed between the motor case 42 and the motor cover 44, and a reduction mechanism housing chamber 47 for housing the reduction mechanism of the motor 12 is formed between the motor case 42 and the gear case 43.

[0016] The motor case 42 constitutes the majority of the swing arm 16 and integrally comprises a plate-shaped side wall 51 (Figures 4 and 5) extending in the front-rear and up-down directions, a cylindrical outer peripheral member 52 (Figure 2) extending outward from the side wall 51 in the vehicle width direction, and protruding portions 53 and 54 (Figure 2) extending rearward from the side wall 51 and the outer peripheral member 52. As shown in Figure 4, the side wall 51 constitutes the outer wall exposed on the inside in the vehicle width direction of the swing arm 16, and the pivot insertion portion 41 is integrally provided at the front of this side wall 51.

[0017] The cylindrical outer peripheral member 52 of the motor case 42 constitutes part of the upper plate and bottom plate of the swing arm 16. The left side portion of the outer peripheral member 52 is provided with multiple female threaded portions that constitute part of the multiple connecting portions 60 that connect the motor case 42 and the motor cover 44. As shown in Figure 2, the multiple connecting portions 60 connect the motor case 42 and the motor cover 44 by inserting a fastening member 60t from the outside (left side) in the vehicle width direction of the motor cover 44 and fastening it to the female threaded portions of the motor case 42.

[0018] A recess 42H (Figure 4) is provided on the upper and right side of the outer peripheral member 52, which is recessed downward toward the inside of the motor case 42. The breather case 70 is attached to this recess 42H with a gap Sa in the vertical direction or other directions. In this embodiment, the motor case 42, gear case 43, and motor cover 44 are made of metal, but they may be made of materials other than metal.

[0019] As shown in Figure 5, the side wall 51 of the motor case 42 extends between the motor housing 46 and the reduction mechanism housing 47. Therefore, the side wall 51 functions as a partition wall separating the motor housing 46 and the reduction mechanism housing 47. A motor support portion 55 is integrally provided on this side wall 51, projecting outward in the vehicle width direction within the motor housing chamber 46. The motor 12 is supported by this motor support portion 55. The motor 12 comprises a motor shaft 12a (Figure 7, described later) extending in the vehicle width direction, a rotor 12r that rotates integrally with the motor shaft 12a, and a stator 12s located on the outer circumference of the rotor 12r. The motor 12 is an electric motor that uses three-phase alternating current as its power source, and is referred to as a three-phase motor, etc.

[0020] The motor support portion 55 mounts the motor 12 at a position spaced outward in the vehicle width direction relative to the side wall 51. This creates a wiring space between the motor 12 and the side wall 51 for routing multiple motor drive lines 12L1, which are relatively thicker wires among the multiple wires connected to the motor 12. A partition wall 56 is integrally provided on the side wall 51, which divides the internal space of the motor case 42 into the motor housing 46 and other spaces. This partition wall 56 protrudes in the vehicle width direction in front of the motor 12 and extends to a position where it abuts against the motor cover 44.

[0021] Figure 6 shows the motor 12 cut in half along a plane perpendicular to the motor shaft 12a, along with its surrounding components. As shown in Figure 6, the partition wall 56 has two wiring holes 56a and 56b through which multiple motor drive wires 12L1 pass. A grommet 80 made of a cylindrical rubber component is fitted into each wiring hole 56a and 56b. Each motor drive wire 12L1 is supported by the partition wall 56 by passing through the central hole of each grommet 80. Since the grommet 80 is interposed between each wiring hole 56a, 56b and the motor drive wire 12L1, the airtightness of the motor housing chamber 46 can be improved, preventing moisture, dust, etc. from entering the motor housing chamber 46. The grommet 80 corresponds to the "intervening member" of the present invention. The intervening member of the present invention is not limited to the grommet 80, and any member capable of filling the gap between the wiring insertion holes 56a, 56b and the motor drive line 12L1 can be widely applied.

[0022] As shown in Figure 5, the motor cover 44 is connected to the motor case 42 from the outside in the vehicle width direction and functions as a cover member that covers the motor housing chamber 46 inside the motor case 42 from the outside in the vehicle width direction. The motor case 42, including the partition wall 56, and the motor cover 44 form a chamber in which the motor housing chamber 46 is enclosed from the outside space. The portion of the motor case 42 not covered by the motor cover 44 is covered from the outside in the vehicle width direction by the swing arm cover 45.

[0023] The motor cover 44 has a certain width in the vehicle width direction, and the internal space of the motor cover 44 also forms part of the motor housing chamber 46. By separating the motor 12 and the motor cover 44 in the vehicle width direction, a wiring space is formed through which the wiring 12L2 (Figure 5), excluding the motor drive line 12L1, of the multiple wirings connected to the motor 12, passes. This wiring 12L2 is connected to an angle sensor 100 (Figure 17) for detecting the rotation angle of the motor 12. However, wiring 12L2 is not limited to wiring connected to the angle sensor 100; it can be any wiring connected to any sensor that detects information about the motor 12. In this way, routing space for wiring 12L1 and 12L2 connected to the motor 12 is secured on the inside and outside of the motor 12 in the vehicle width direction.

[0024] The gear case 43 is a component connected to the motor case 42 from the inside in the vehicle width direction, and has a reduction gear mechanism housing chamber 47 between it and the side wall 51 of the motor case 42. The reduction gear mechanism housing chamber 47 is enclosed from the outside space by being surrounded by the gear case 43 and the motor case 42.

[0025] Figure 7 shows the reduction gear housing chamber 47 in the BB cross-section of Figure 3, along with its surrounding configuration. The BB cross-section is a cross-section passing through the axis PM of the motor shaft 12a, the axis PC of the intermediate shaft 71, and the axis PR of the rear wheel shaft 15a. As shown in Figure 7, within the reduction gear housing chamber 47, an intermediate shaft 71 and an output shaft which also serves as the rear wheel shaft 15a are rotatably supported parallel to the motor shaft 12a. The motor shaft 12a is the rotation axis of the motor 12, and penetrates the side wall 51 of the motor case 42. Within the reduction gear housing chamber 47, it has a first gear 12a1 that rotates integrally with the motor shaft 12a. The intermediate shaft 71 has a large-diameter second gear 71a1 that meshes with the first gear 12a1, and a small-diameter third gear 71a2 that rotates integrally with the second gear 71a1. The rear wheel shaft 15a has a large-diameter fourth gear 15a1 that meshes with the third gear 71a2. By appropriately setting the number of teeth of each gear 12a1, 71a1, 71a2, and 15a1, a reduction mechanism is configured that reduces the rotation of the motor 12 at a predetermined reduction ratio and transmits it to the rear wheel axle 15a.

[0026] The motor case 42 is located between the gear case 43 and the motor cover 44, and is also located in the center of the left-right position of the swing arm 16, so it can also be called the central case. The gear case 43 constitutes the right side of the swing arm 16, so it can also be called the right side case, or one side case. The motor cover 44 constitutes the left side of the swing arm 16, so it can also be called the left side case, or the other side case.

[0027] Figure 8 shows the swing arm 16 along with its surrounding components in the CC cross-section of Figure 1. In Figure 8, the symbol LC indicates the center of the vehicle width of the saddle-type vehicle 10. The rear axle 15a passes through the gear case 43 and protrudes inward in the vehicle width direction, and the rear wheel 15 is connected to the protruding portion. Oil is injected into the reduction gear chamber 47 for lubrication of the reduction gear. Since the reduction gear chamber 47 is partitioned from the motor chamber 46, the situation in which the oil in the reduction gear chamber 47 flows into the motor chamber 46 is avoided.

[0028] The rear wheel 15 comprises a wheel 15w and a tire 15t mounted on the wheel 15w. The wheel 15w comprises a hub 15h located in the center, a ring-shaped rim 15r on which the tire 15t is mounted, and a spoke section 15s consisting of multiple spokes connecting the hub 15h and the rim 15r. In this configuration, the swingarm 16 is present only on one side (left side) of the rear wheel 15, a so-called cantilever design, and the rear wheel 15 and swingarm 16 are easily accessible from the opposite side of the swingarm 16 (right side). Furthermore, the swingarm 16 of the present invention is not limited to a cantilever type, but may also be a double-supported type.

[0029] Next, the fastening structure between the gear case 43 and the motor case 42, and the fastening structure between the motor cover 44 and the motor case 42 will be described. As shown in Figure 4, multiple fastening members 61t (four in this configuration) are fastened to the side wall 51 of the gear case 43 from the inside (right side) in the vehicle width direction. The area to which these fastening members 61t are fastened is the area that overlaps with the motor 12 in a view in the width direction, while avoiding the reduction gear mechanism housing chamber 47. The fastening structure of these fastening members 61t is the same, and as shown in Figure 7, it has a screw insertion portion 61s provided in the gear case 43 and a female screw portion 61m provided in the motor case 42. The gear case 43 and the motor case 42 are fastened together by inserting each fastening member 61t into the screw insertion portion 61s and fastening each fastening member 61t into the female screw portion 61m. In other words, these fastening members 61t, screw insertion portion 61s, and female screw portion 61m function as a first fastening portion 61 that fastens the gear case 43 and the motor case 42 from the inside in the vehicle width direction.

[0030] Since the first fastening section 61 is structured to fasten the fastening member 61t from the right side in the vehicle width direction, which is opposite the motor 12, the fastening member 61t can be removed without removing the motor 12. Because it is not necessary to remove the motor 12, the work of removing the gear case 43 from the motor case 42 becomes easier, or in other words, the work of releasing the fastening between the gear case 43 and the motor case 42 becomes easier. Furthermore, since these first fastening parts 61 are located outside the reduction gear housing chamber 47, there is no need to remove any components inside the reduction gear housing chamber 47, which also makes it easy to release the fastening. Furthermore, in this configuration, as shown in Figure 4, these first fastening parts 61 are provided with gaps in the front-to-back and up-to-down directions along the circumferential direction centered on the axis PR of the rear wheel axle 15a, making it easier to fasten the gear case 43 and the motor case 42 with equal fastening force using the rear wheel axle 15a as a reference.

[0031] As shown in Figure 7, the fastening member 61t of the first fastening section 61 is a stud bolt 61a and a nut 61b. The stud bolt 61a is also called an embedded bolt and has male threaded portions at both ends, with one male threaded portion fastened to the female threaded portion 61m of the motor case 42. The male threaded portion at the tip of the stud bolt 61a is fastened to the motor case 42, and after passing the stud bolt 61a through the threaded insertion portion 61s of the gear case 43, a nut 61b is fastened to the male threaded portion at the base end that is exposed to the outside from the threaded insertion portion 61s. With this fastening structure, even if the nut 61b loosens, the stud bolt 61a will not loosen, and the first fastening portion 61 can be prevented from moving significantly toward the rear wheel 15, which is on the inside in the vehicle width direction, which is an advantage.

[0032] As shown in Figure 3, the motor case 42 is provided with protruding portions 53 and 54 that extend further rearward than the motor cover 44 and overlap with the gear case 43 in the vehicle width direction. Multiple fastening members 62t (three in this embodiment) are fastened to these protruding portions 53 and 54 from the outside (left side) in the vehicle width direction. The fastening structure of these fastening members 62t is the same, and as shown in Figure 7, it has a screw insertion portion 62s provided in the motor case 42 and a female screw portion 62m provided in the gear case 43. The gear case 43 and the motor case 42 are fastened together by inserting each fastening member 62t into the screw insertion portion 62s and fastening them to the female screw portion 62m.

[0033] The fastening member 62t is a bolt having a male threaded portion at one end and a large-diameter head at the other end, for example, a flange bolt. These fastening members 62t, the threaded insertion portion 62s, and the female threaded portion 62m function as a second fastening portion 62 that fastens the gear case 43 and the motor case 42 from the outside in the vehicle width direction.

[0034] Since the second fastening portion 62 is positioned to avoid the motor 12, the fastening member 62t can be removed without removing the motor 12. Because it is not necessary to remove the motor 12, the work of removing the gear case 43 from the motor case 42, that is, the work of releasing the fastening between the gear case 43 and the motor case 42, becomes easier. Furthermore, the second fastening portion 62 is also provided with spacing in the front-to-back and up-and-down directions along the circumferential direction centered on the axis PR of the rear wheel axle 15a, making it easier to connect the gear case 43 and the motor case 42 with equal fastening force using the rear wheel axle 15a as a reference.

[0035] As shown in Figure 3, the rear end R1 of the motor case 42 is located in front of the rear end R2 of the gear case 43. Therefore, the second fastening portion 62, which is fastened from the motor case 42 side, can be easily positioned in front, making it easier to shorten the front-to-rear length of the swing arm 16 and is also advantageous for reducing the weight of the swing arm 16.

[0036] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the swingarm 16 in the DD section of Figure 3. The gear case 43 has an extension portion 43R1 that extends to the rear side of the swingarm 16 on the rear wheel 15 side, and an opposing portion 43R2 that faces the extension portion 43R1 in the width direction of the swingarm 16. The extension portion 43R1 is located on the outer side (left side) in the vehicle width direction relative to the rear wheel brake (e.g., drum brake) connected to the rear wheel 15, and has a hole 43H through which a lever member for operating the rear wheel brake is inserted.

[0037] All first fastening portions 61 are positioned to overlap with the area of ​​the spoke portion 15s of the rear wheel 15 in the vehicle width direction. Figure 10 is a diagram showing the first fastening portions 61 in the EE cross section of Figure 4 along with the surrounding configuration. As shown in Figure 10, the spoke portion 15s is located inward in the vehicle width direction of the rear wheel 15 compared to the rim 15r. Since the first fastening portion 61 is provided in a position that overlaps with the area of ​​the spoke portion 15s of the rear wheel 15 in the vehicle width direction, the distance between the first fastening portion 61 and the rear wheel 15 can be efficiently secured.

[0038] Next, we will explain the breather structure of the swingarm 16. Figure 11 shows the swingarm 16 from the rear. Figure 12 shows the FF cross-section of Figure 11, Figure 13 shows the GG cross-section of Figure 11, and Figure 14 shows the HH cross-section of Figure 12. As shown in Figure 12, the swing arm 16 is provided with a first breather path 81 that connects to the reduction mechanism housing chamber 47 and communicates the internal space of the reduction mechanism housing chamber 47 with the outside air, and a second breather path 91 that connects to the motor housing chamber 46 and communicates the internal space of the motor housing chamber 46 with the outside air.

[0039] As shown in Figure 12, the first breather path 81 has a first hole 82 formed by drilling a hole in the motor case 42. The first hole 82 is formed as a through hole that penetrates vertically through a recess 42H that is recessed downward toward the inside of the motor case 42, and is continuous with the surface exposed to the outside of the motor case 42. In Figure 13, the central axis of the first hole 82 is indicated by the reference numeral J1. Note that Figure 13 shows the state without the breather case 70.

[0040] The lower end of the first hole 82 communicates with an intersecting path 83 that extends in the vehicle width direction corresponding to the direction intersecting the first hole 82. As shown in Figure 14, the intersecting path 83 is a hole that protrudes in the vehicle width direction from the motor case 42 into the gear case 43 and communicates with the reduction mechanism housing chamber 47. This connects the reduction mechanism housing chamber 47 and the first hole 82.

[0041] As shown in Figure 12, one end of the straight-pipe-shaped first breather pipe 84, corresponding to its lower part, is inserted into the first hole 82, causing the first breather path 81 to extend above the recess 42H. The other end of the first breather path 81, corresponding to the lower part of the first breather tube 85, is inserted into the other end, so that the open end forming the upper end of the first breather tube 85 is located above the first breather pipe 84. Together with the first breather pipe 84 and the first breather tube 85, an outlet path for the first breather path 81 is formed, extending to a position higher than the recess 42H.

[0042] The second breather path 91 has a second hole 92 formed by drilling a hole in the motor case 42. The second hole 92 is formed in front of the first hole 82 and is a through hole that penetrates the recess 42H in the vertical direction, so as to be continuous with the surface exposed to the outside of the motor case 42. In Figure 13, the central axis of the second hole 92 is indicated by the reference numeral J2. As shown in Figure 12, the lower end of the second hole 92 communicates with the motor housing chamber 46. One end of the straight-pipe-shaped second breather pipe 94, corresponding to the lower part, is inserted into the second hole 92, causing the second breather path 91 to extend above the recess 42H. The other end of the second breather path 91, corresponding to the lower part of the second breather tube 95, is inserted into the other end, so that the open end forming the upper end of the second breather tube 95 is located above the second breather pipe 94. The second breather pipe 94 and the second breather tube 95 form an outlet path for the second breather path 91 that extends to a position higher than the recess 42H. The breather case 70 has opposing surfaces M1 and M2 that face the other ends of the first and second breather tubes 85 and 95, and the distances α and β between the other ends of each breather tube 85 and 95 and the opposing surfaces M1 and M2 are shorter than the longitudinal lengths γ and δ of each breather tube 84 and 94 in the region where the first and second breather pipes 84 and 94 overlap with each breather tube 85 and 95.

[0043] As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the first hole 82 and the second hole 92 are formed parallel to each other. This makes it possible to machine the holes 82 and 92 in the motor case 42 without changing the orientation of the motor case 42. Furthermore, by making the diameters of both holes 82 and 92 the same, for example, it is possible to use the same tools for machining the holes.

[0044] Since the holes 82 and 92 are formed parallel to each other, it is possible to provide both holes 82 and 92 in close proximity. In this configuration, by providing both holes 82 and 92 in close proximity, it is possible to provide each breather path 81 and 91 compactly. In this configuration, as shown in Figure 12, the reduction gear chamber 47 and the motor chamber 46 have a region lap where they overlap in the front-rear direction of the swing arm 16, and at least one of the first hole 82 and the second hole 92 is located within this region lap. This allows each breather path 81, 91 to be positioned to connect to each chamber 47, 46 at a short distance, and also facilitates shortening of each breather path 81, 91.

[0045] Furthermore, by utilizing the region lap, the first hole 82 and the second hole 92 are arranged side by side in the front-to-back direction, which makes the widthwise space required for each breather path 81, 91 more compact, which is advantageous for miniaturizing the widthwise swing arm 16 and improving its appearance.

[0046] As shown in Figure 12, the upper open ends of the first and second breather tubes 85 and 95 are covered from above by the breather case 70. The breather case 70 has a gap between it and each breather tube 85 and 95, and does not obstruct communication between each breather tube 85 and 95 and the outside space. Therefore, the closed reduction mechanism housing chamber 47 and motor housing chamber 46 can always be in communication with the outside space by each breather path 81 and 91, appropriately suppressing the pressure rise inside the reduction mechanism housing chamber 47 and motor housing chamber 46 and maintaining them at atmospheric pressure.

[0047] The first breather pipe 84 and the first breather tube 85 form at least an outlet path of the first breather path 81, and the second breather pipe 94 and the second breather tube 95 form at least an outlet path of the second breather path 91. Since these outlet paths are covered from above by the breather case 70, it is possible to prevent airborne particles such as moisture, dust, and mud (hereinafter referred to as "moisture, etc.") from entering each breather path 81, 91. More specifically, the breather case 70 integrally includes a lid portion 70a that covers the first breather path 81 from above, and an upper and lower extension wall 70b that extends vertically on one side of the outlet path of the first breather path 81 (the right side, corresponding to the inner side in the vehicle width direction in this embodiment). The lid portion 70a prevents moisture and other substances flying in from above from entering the breather paths 81 and 91, and the upper and lower extension wall 70b prevents moisture and other substances flying in from the side from entering the breather paths 81 and 91.

[0048] Figure 15 is a view from the front of the upper and lower extension walls 70b of the breather case 70, along with the surrounding configuration. As shown in Figures 15 and 8, the upper and lower extension walls 70b have opposing surfaces 70c that face the rear wheels 15. These opposing surfaces 70c effectively prevent moisture and other substances flying in from the rear wheels 15 side from entering the respective breather paths 81 and 91. This opposing surface 70c is located on the same plane as the side wall 51, or on the opposite side of the rear wheel 15 from the side wall 51, when viewed from the front-rear direction of the swing arm 16 (corresponding to Figure 15). Therefore, it is possible to sufficiently separate the breather case 70 and the rear wheel 15.

[0049] In this configuration, as shown in Figure 13, the first hole 82 and the second hole 92 are provided in a recess 42H that is recessed toward the inside of the motor case 42. This allows the length of the outlet paths of each breather path 81, 91 that protrudes from the motor case 42 to be shortened, which is advantageous for improving the appearance of the swing arm 16. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 13, the motor case 42 integrally has a case side wall portion 42W that rises upward to the side of the recess 42H. This case side wall portion 42W overlaps with the opening ends of the outlet paths of the breather paths 81 and 91 in the left-right direction with a gap between them, and overlaps with the axial direction (corresponding to the central axes J1 and J2) of the first hole portion 82 and the second hole portion 92 in the left-right direction. Therefore, the case side wall portion 42W can suppress moisture and other substances scattered from the side from entering each breather path 81 and 91.

[0050] As shown in Figure 4, a gap Sa is provided between the recess 42H and the lower end of the upper and lower extension wall 70b, which corresponds to the lower end of the breather case 70. This allows moisture on the recess 42H to be smoothly discharged through the gap Sa, preventing moisture from accumulating in the recess 42H and entering the breather paths 81 and 91. Furthermore, the side wall 51 of the motor case 42 has a side surface that extends vertically in the direction of the swing arm 16, continuous with the recess 42H. This side surface allows moisture from the recess 42H to fall smoothly. Furthermore, since a portion of the breather case 70 is located within the recess 42H, the length of the breather case 70 protruding from the motor case 42 can be shortened, which is advantageous for improving the appearance of the swing arm 16.

[0051] Figure 16 shows a cross-section of the recess 42H along with its surrounding structure, viewed from the rear. In Figure 16, reference numerals 42Ha and 42Hb indicate the inclination of the bottom surface of the recess 42H when the left and right inclinations of the saddle-type vehicle 10 are different, respectively. Note that the breather case 70 has been removed in Figure 16. The slope 42Ha of the bottom surface of the recess 42H is when the saddle-type vehicle 10 is in an upright position. When the saddle-type vehicle 10 is in an upright position, the bottom surface of the recess 42H becomes an inclined surface that slopes toward the gear case 43 side and downwards, allowing moisture and other substances on the recess 42H to be smoothly discharged toward the gear case 43 side. This allows moisture and other substances on the recess 42H to be discharged into the gap between the swing arm 16 and the rear wheel 15.

[0052] The slope 42Hb of the bottom surface of the recess 42H is the case when the saddle-type vehicle 10 is parked with its side stand 20a touching the ground. In this case, the bottom surface of the recess 42H becomes a horizontal surface. Even when it is a horizontal surface, moisture and other substances accumulated in the recess 42H can be drained, so moisture and other substances on the surface of the recess 42H can be smoothly drained out of the recess 42H. In this way, whether the saddle-type vehicle 10 is in an upright position or in a parked position with the side stand 20a touching the ground, moisture and other substances on the recess 42H can be discharged to the outside of the recess 42H. Furthermore, when the center stand 20b is in contact with the ground while parked, the saddle-type vehicle 10 is in an upright position, allowing moisture and other substances on the recess 42H to be discharged outside the recess 42H.

[0053] The slope of the bottom surface of the recess 42H may be changed as appropriate. For example, when the saddle-type vehicle 10 is in an upright position, the bottom surface of the recess 42H may be a horizontal surface. Alternatively, when the vehicle is parked with the side stand 20a on the ground, the bottom surface of the recess 42H may be an inclined surface that slopes downward on the side opposite to the side where the side stand 20a touches the ground. In either case, moisture and other substances on the recess 42H can be discharged to the outside of the recess 42H.

[0054] Other components related to the motor 12, recess 42H, and breather structure will be described. Figure 17 shows the motor shaft 12a along with its surrounding components. As shown in Figure 17, an angle sensor 100 for detecting the rotation angle of the motor 12 is provided on the motor shaft 12a, on the side of the motor shaft 12a opposite the recess 42H with respect to the rotor 12r, in the axial direction of the motor shaft 12a. Wiring 12L2, which is routed between the motor 12 and the motor cover 44, is connected to this angle sensor 100. Since the angle sensor 100 and wiring 12L2 are positioned in an area away from the recess 42H, it becomes easier to secure space to form the recess 42H.

[0055] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 13, in an axial view of the motor 12, a surface MS (see Figure 13) exists below the first hole 82 that penetrates the recess 42H vertically, where the motor case 42 and the gear case 43 are in contact. In other words, the surface MS where the motor case 42 and the gear case 43 are in contact is located lower than the recess 42H. This allows the outlet path of the first breather path 81 to be provided above the reduction mechanism housing chamber 47 and utilizing the area of ​​the recess 42H, thereby shortening the length to which the outlet path of the first breather path 81 protrudes from the motor case 42.

[0056] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 13, the motor housing chamber 46, which is located inside the partition wall 56, is provided with an enclosure wall 42K that surrounds at least a portion of the outer circumference of the motor 12 and supports the outer circumference of the motor 12. This makes it easier to secure space for routing the motor drive wire 12L1 between the partition wall 56, which supports the motor drive wire 12L1 via the grommet 80, and the enclosure wall 42K, and makes it easier to connect the motor drive wire 12L1 and the motor 12.

[0057] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 13, the motor drive line 12L1 connected to the motor 12 is routed outside the predetermined region MC shown in Figure 13. This region MC is the area where the plane perpendicular to the motor shaft 12a and the recess 42H overlap in an axial view of the motor 12. Since the motor drive line 12L is provided while avoiding region MC, it is possible to avoid a situation where the space for forming the recess 42H is constrained by the motor drive line 12L. This also makes it easier to secure space for forming the recess 42H. Since space can be secured to form the recess 42H, the length of the breather structure provided in the recess 42H that protrudes from the motor case 42 can be shortened, which is advantageous for improving the appearance of the swing arm 16.

[0058] As described above, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, the swing arm 16 which functions as a drive device for the rear wheel 15 includes a motor case 42 having a side wall 51 that functions as a partition, a motor cover 44 located on one side of the motor case 42 and having a motor housing chamber 46 between it and the side wall 51, a gear case 43 located on the other side of the motor case 42 and having a reduction mechanism housing chamber 47 between it and the side wall 51, a first breather path 81 connected to the reduction mechanism housing chamber 47, and a second breather path 91 connected to the motor housing chamber 46. As shown in Figure 13, the motor case 42 is provided with a first hole 82 in the first breather path 81 that is continuous with the surface exposed to the outside of the motor case 42, and a second hole 92 in the second breather path 91 that is continuous with the surface exposed to the outside of the motor case 42, and the first hole 82 and the second hole 92 are formed parallel to each other.

[0059] With this configuration, since the first hole 82 and the second hole 92 are parallel to each other, it becomes possible to machine both holes 82 and 92 without changing the orientation of the motor case 42. Therefore, it becomes possible to easily machine holes for the breather path and to provide an electric drive device that contributes to improved energy efficiency.

[0060] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 12, at least one of the first hole 82 and the second hole 92 is located within the region Lap where the reduction gear chamber 47 and the motor chamber 46 overlap in the front-rear direction of the swing arm 16. With this configuration, the outlet paths of each breather path 81, 91 can be positioned to connect to each chamber 47, 46 at a short distance, making it easier to shorten each breather path 81, 91. Moreover, by using the region Lap to arrange the first hole 82 and the second hole 92 side by side in the front-rear direction, the space required for the outlet path of each breather path 81, 91 can be reduced in the width direction of the swing arm 16.

[0061] Furthermore, the first breather path 81 has a crossing path 83 that extends in a direction intersecting the first hole 82 within the gear case 43 adjacent to the motor case 42. With this configuration, it becomes possible to bring the first hole 82 of the first breather path 81 closer to the second hole 92 of the second breather path 91. This improves the machinability of these holes 82 and 92. Furthermore, the present invention may also be configured such that at least one of the first breather path 81 and the second breather path 91 is provided with an intersecting path that extends in a direction intersecting the first hole 82 or the second hole 92 of either the breather path within either the motor case 42 or an adjacent case. With this configuration, the intersecting path improves the degree of freedom of the position of both or one of the first hole 82 and the second hole 92, and these holes 82 and 92 can be brought closer together to improve machinability.

[0062] Furthermore, the system includes a breather case 70 that covers the first hole 82 and the second hole 92. The breather case 70 has vertical extension walls 70b that extend vertically on one side of the first hole 82 and the second hole 92. With this configuration, the breather case 70 can prevent moisture and other substances flying in from the surroundings from entering the breather paths 81 and 91. In this embodiment, the upper and lower extension walls 70b are provided on the inward side in the vehicle width direction relative to the first hole 82 and the second hole 92, so that moisture and other substances scattered from the rear wheels 15 located on the inward side in the vehicle width direction can be effectively prevented from entering the respective breather paths 81 and 91. The upper and lower extension walls 70b may also be provided on the opposite side of the first hole 82 and the second hole 92, or on at least one side to the left or right of the first hole 82 and the second hole 92, and the position and shape of the upper and lower extension walls 70b may be changed as appropriate.

[0063] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 12, the motor case 42 has a recess 42H that is recessed inward, and the first hole 82 and the second hole 92 are formed in the recess 42H. With this configuration, the length of the outlet paths of each breather path 81, 91 that protrude from the motor case 42 can be shortened, which is advantageous for improving the appearance and making the swing arm 16 more compact.

[0064] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 13, the motor case 42 has a case side wall portion 42W that rises upward to the side of the recess 42H, and the case side wall portion 42W overlaps the axial direction (corresponding to the central axes J1 and J2) and the left-right direction of the first hole portion 82 and the second hole portion 92. With this configuration, the case side wall portion 42W can suppress moisture and other substances scattered from the side from entering each breather path 81 and 91.

[0065] Furthermore, since a gap Sa is provided between the recess 42H and the lower end of the breather case 70, moisture and other substances that enter the recess 42H can be smoothly discharged through the gap Sa. This prevents moisture and other substances accumulated in the recess 42H from entering the breather paths 81 and 91. Furthermore, since at least a portion of the breather case 70 is located within the recess 42H, the length of the breather case 70 protruding from the motor case 42 can be shortened, which is advantageous for improving the appearance and making the swing arm 16 more compact. Alternatively, the entire breather case 70 may be located within the recess 42H.

[0066] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 17, an angle sensor 100 for detecting the rotation angle of the motor 12 is provided on the motor shaft 12a, which is the rotation axis of the motor 12, on the side of the motor shaft 12a opposite the recess 42H, with the rotor 12r as the reference. With this configuration, the space of the recess 42H is not constrained by the angle sensor 100 or the wiring 12L2 connected to the angle sensor 100. Therefore, it becomes easier to secure space to form the recess 42H. Note that instead of the angle sensor 100, or in addition to the angle sensor 100, a sensor that detects information other than the rotation angle of the motor 12 may be provided.

[0067] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 13, in an axial view of the motor 12, the surface MS where the gear case 43 and the motor case 42 are in contact is lower than the recess 42H. With this configuration, the outlet path of the first breather path 81 can be provided above the reduction mechanism housing chamber 47 and utilizing the area of ​​the recess 42H.

[0068] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, the motor case 42 has a partition wall 56 that divides the internal space of the motor case 42 into a motor housing chamber 46 and other spaces, wiring insertion holes 56a and 56b provided in the partition wall 56 through which the motor drive line 12L1 connected to the motor 12 passes, and a grommet 80 that functions as an intervening member between the wiring insertion holes 56a and 56b and the motor drive line 12L1. With this configuration, the grommet 80 enhances the airtightness of the motor housing chamber 46, preventing moisture from entering, while the second breather path 91 prevents the pressure inside the motor housing chamber 46 from becoming excessively high.

[0069] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 13, an enclosure wall 42K is provided between the partition wall 56 and the motor 12 to support the outer circumference of the motor 12. With this configuration, space can be secured for routing the motor drive wire 12L1 between the partition wall 56, the motor 12, and the enclosure wall 42K, where the motor drive wire 12L1 is supported via the grommet 80. This makes it easier to connect the motor drive wire 12L1 and the motor 12.

[0070] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the motor case 42 has a side surface (corresponding to the side surface of the side wall 51) that extends vertically in the direction of the swing arm 16, continuous with the recess 42H. This allows moisture and other substances from the recess 42H to drain smoothly. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 16, the bottom surface of the recess 42H is an inclined surface that slopes toward the gear case 43 side and downwards, so that moisture and other substances on the recess 42H can be smoothly drained.

[0071] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 15 and 8, the swing arm 16 is positioned to the side of the rear wheel 15 of the saddle-type vehicle 10, and the upper and lower extension walls 70b of the breather case 70 have opposing surfaces 70c facing the rear wheel 15. This configuration prevents moisture and other substances flying in from the rear wheel 15 side from entering the respective breather paths 81 and 91. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 15, the opposing surface 70c is on the same plane as the side wall 51 of the motor case 42, or is located on the opposite side of the rear wheel 15 from the side wall 51, so it is possible to sufficiently separate the opposing surface 70c of the breather case 70 from the rear wheel 15.

[0072] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 12, the first hole 82 and the second hole 92 each have first and second breather pipes 84 and 94, one end of which is inserted into each, and first and second breather tubes 85 and 95, one end of which is inserted into the other end of each breather pipe 84 and 94, and the other end of which is covered by the breather case 70. The breather case 70 has opposing surfaces M1 and M2 that face the other ends of each breather tube 85 and 95, and the distances α and β between the other end of each breather tube 85 and 95 and the opposing surfaces M1 and M2 are shorter than the longitudinal lengths γ and δ of each breather pipe 84 and 94 in the region where the first and second breather pipes 84 and 94 overlap with each breather tube 85 and 95. With this configuration, if each breather tube 85, 95 shifts upward from each breather pipe 84, 94, each breather tube 85, 95 will come into contact with the opposing surfaces M1, M2 of the breather case 70 before each breather tube 85, 95 completely detaches from each breather pipe 84, 94. This prevents each breather tube 85, 95 from detaching from each breather pipe 84, 94.

[0073] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 16, the bottom surface of the recess 42H is formed as either a horizontal surface or an inclined surface that slopes downward on the opposite side of where the side stand 20a touches the ground, when the side stand 20a is in contact with the ground. This allows moisture and other substances on the recess 42H to be smoothly drained when the vehicle is parked using the side stand 20a. Also, if the bottom surface of the recess 42H is an inclined surface that slopes downward on the opposite side of where the side stand 20a touches the ground, the bottom surface of the recess 42H becomes a nearly horizontal surface when the saddle-type vehicle 10 is in an upright position, and in this case as well, moisture and other substances on the recess 42H can be drained.

[0074] The embodiments described above represent one aspect of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. The details and other configurations may be modified as appropriate. For example, although the gear case 43 is shown as an example of housing a reduction mechanism, it may also house a transmission mechanism that is not limited to reduction. Furthermore, the configuration of the transmission mechanism including the reduction mechanism may be changed as appropriate. The reduction mechanism housing chamber 47 in the gear case 43 corresponds to the "transmission mechanism housing chamber" of the present invention. Furthermore, the fastening parts 61 and 62 may be fitted with appropriate fastening structures, provided that the above-mentioned effect of easily removing the gear case 43 is achieved. The shapes of the motor case 42, gear case 43, motor cover 44, etc., may also be changed as appropriate.

[0075] Furthermore, the structure, shape, and position of each breather path 81, 91 may be appropriately modified to the extent that it facilitates the machining of holes for the breather paths. Furthermore, although the present invention has been described in the context of applying it to a motorcycle as shown in Figure 1, etc., it is not limited to this, and the present invention may be applied to any vehicle such as a saddle-type vehicle. Note that a saddle-type vehicle is not limited to a two-wheeled vehicle, but may also be a three-wheeled vehicle, a four-wheeled vehicle, etc. Furthermore, although the present invention has been described in the context of applying it to a drive device that drives the rear wheels 15 of a vehicle, the present invention may also be applied to a drive device that drives wheels other than the rear wheels 15, or to a drive device that drives a driven member other than a wheel, or to a drive device that drives a driven member used in a vehicle or other vehicle.

[0076] [Configurations supported by the above embodiment] The above embodiment supports the following configuration.

[0077] (Configuration 1) A drive device comprising: a central case having a partition wall; a motor cover located on one side of the central case and having a motor housing chamber for housing a motor between itself and the partition wall; a gear case located on the other side of the central case and having a gear shift mechanism housing chamber for housing a gear shift mechanism for the motor between itself and the partition wall; a first breather path leading to the gear shift mechanism housing chamber; and a second breather path leading to the motor housing chamber, wherein the central case is provided with a first hole in the first breather path that is continuous with the surface exposed to the outside of the central case, and a second hole in the second breather path that is continuous with the surface exposed to the outside of the central case, and the first hole and the second hole are formed parallel to each other. With this configuration, since the first and second holes are parallel to each other, it becomes possible to machine both holes without changing the orientation of the central case. Therefore, it is possible to provide an electric drive device that facilitates the machining of holes for the breather path and contributes to improved energy efficiency.

[0078] (Configuration 2). The drive device according to Configuration 1, wherein at least one of the first hole and the second hole is located in a region where the gear shift mechanism housing and the motor housing overlap in the front-rear direction of the drive device. This configuration allows the outlet path of each breather path to be positioned at a location that connects to each chamber at a short distance, making it easier to shorten each breather path. Furthermore, by utilizing the overlapping area and arranging the holes in the front-to-back direction, the space required for the outlet path of each breather path can be reduced in the width direction of the swing arm.

[0079] (Configuration 3) The drive device according to Configuration 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the first breather path and the second breather path has an intersecting path that extends in a direction intersecting the first hole or second hole in either the central case or the adjacent case. This configuration allows for increased freedom of positioning of both or one of the first and second holes through the intersecting paths, thereby improving machinability by bringing these holes closer together.

[0080] (Configuration 4) A drive device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 3, having a breather case that covers the first hole and the second hole, wherein the breather case has vertical extension walls that extend vertically on at least one of the left and right sides of the first hole and the second hole. With this configuration, the breather case prevents moisture and other substances from entering the breather pathways from the surrounding area.

[0081] (Configuration 5) The drive device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 4, wherein the central case has a recess that is recessed toward the inside of the central case, and the first hole and the second hole are formed in the recess. This configuration allows for a shorter protrusion length of the outlet path of each breather path from the central case, which is advantageous for improving the appearance and compactness of the drive unit.

[0082] (Configuration 6) The drive device according to Configuration 5, wherein the central case has a case side wall portion that rises upward to the side of the recess, and the case side wall portion overlaps the first hole portion and the second hole portion in the axial and left-right directions. With this configuration, the case sidewalls can prevent moisture and other substances scattered from the sides from entering each breather path.

[0083] (Configuration 7) The drive device according to Configuration 5 or 6, having a breather case that covers the first hole and the second hole, and a gap provided between the recess and the lower end of the breather case. This configuration allows moisture and other substances that enter the recesses to be smoothly discharged through the gaps, and prevents the moisture and other substances accumulated in the recesses from entering each breather path.

[0084] (Configuration 8) The drive device according to any one of Configurations 5 to 7, having a breather case that covers the first hole and the second hole, wherein at least a portion of the breather case is located in the recess. This configuration allows the breather case to protrude less from the central case, which is advantageous for improving the appearance and compactness of the drive unit.

[0085] (Configuration 9) The drive device according to claim 5, wherein a sensor for detecting information about the motor is provided on the opposite side of the recess (42H) of the rotating shaft of the motor, with reference to the rotor of the motor, in the axial direction of the rotating shaft of the motor. With this configuration, the space in the recess is not constrained by sensors or wiring connected to them. Therefore, it becomes easier to secure space to form the recess.

[0086] (Configuration 10) A drive device according to any one of Configurations 5 to 9, wherein, in an axial view of the motor, the surface in contact between the gear case and the central case is lower than the recess. With this configuration, the outlet path of the first breather path can be provided above the transmission mechanism housing chamber and utilizing the area of ​​the recess.

[0087] (Configuration 11) A drive device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 10, comprising: a partition wall that divides the internal space of the central case into the motor housing chamber and other spaces; a wiring insertion hole provided in the partition wall through which wiring connected to the motor passes; and an intervening member interposed between the wiring insertion hole and the wiring. With this configuration, the intervening member enhances the airtightness of the motor housing chamber, preventing moisture and other substances from entering, while the second breather path prevents the pressure inside the motor housing chamber from becoming excessively high.

[0088] (Configuration 12) The drive device according to Configuration 11, wherein an enclosure wall supporting the outer circumference of the motor is provided between the partition wall and the motor. This configuration allows for space to route motor wiring between the partition wall, motor, and enclosure wall, making it easier to connect the wiring to the motor.

[0089] (Configuration 13) The drive device according to any one of Configurations 5 to 9, wherein the central case has a side surface that extends vertically in the direction of the drive device, continuous with the recess. With this configuration, the sides of the central case allow moisture and other liquids from recesses to drain smoothly.

[0090] (Configuration 14) The drive device according to any one of Configurations 5 to 9, 13, wherein the bottom surface of the recess is an inclined surface that slopes toward the gear case side and toward downward. This configuration allows for the smooth drainage of moisture and other substances from the recessed areas.

[0091] (Configuration 15) The drive device according to Configuration 4, wherein the drive device is positioned to the side of the vehicle's wheels, and the upper and lower extension walls have opposing surfaces facing the wheels. This configuration prevents moisture and other substances flying in from the wheels from entering each breather path.

[0092] (Configuration 16) The drive device according to Configuration 15, wherein the central case has a side wall extending in the vertical direction of the drive device, and the opposing surface is on the same plane as the surface of the side wall, or is located on the opposite side of the wheel from the surface of the side wall. This configuration allows for sufficient distance between the opposing surfaces of the breather case and the wheels.

[0093] (Configuration 17) The drive device according to Configuration 4, which has a breather pipe with one end inserted into the first hole and the second hole, and a breather tube with one end inserted into the other end of the breather pipe and the other end covered by the breather case, wherein the breather case has a facing surface that faces the other end of the breather tube, and the distance between the other end of the breather tube and the facing surface is shorter than the longitudinal length of the breather pipe in the region where the breather pipe and the breather tube overlap. With this configuration, if each breather tube shifts upward from its respective breather pipe, each breather tube will come into contact with the opposing surface of the breather case before it completely detaches from its respective breather pipe, thus preventing each breather tube from becoming detached from its respective breather pipe.

[0094] (Configuration 18) A vehicle equipped with a side stand, comprising a drive device as described in any one of Configurations 5 to 9, 13, or 14, wherein the bottom surface of the recess is a horizontal surface or an inclined surface that slopes downward on the opposite side from the side on which the side stand touches the ground, when the side stand is in contact with the ground. This configuration allows for smooth drainage of moisture and other liquids from the recessed area when the motorcycle is parked using its side stand. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0095] 10. Saddle-type vehicles 11. Body frame 12 motors 12r rotor 12a Motor shaft 12L1 Motor drive wire (wiring) 12L2 Wiring 15 Rear wheel (wheel) 16. Swing arm (drive mechanism) 20a Side stand 20b Center Stand 42 Motor case (center case) 42H recess 42W Case side wall 42K Enclosure Wall 43 Gear Case 44 Motor cover 46 Motor housing 47. Reduction mechanism housing (gear shift mechanism housing) 51 Side wall (bulkhead) 56 Partition wall 56a, 56b Wiring insertion holes 70 Breather Case 70b Vertical extension wall 70c Opposite side 80 Grommets (intervening members) 81. First breather pathway 82 1st hole 83 Intersecting Routes 84. First breather pipe 85. First breather tube 91 Second breather pathway 92 2nd hole 94. Second breather pipe 95. Second breather tube 100 Angle Sensor (Sensor)

Claims

1. A drive device mounted on an electric motorcycle (10), wherein the direction indication is based on the direction of the electric motorcycle (10), Between the rear wheel (15) of the electric two-wheeled vehicle (10) is a central case (42) having a partition wall (51), A motor cover (44) is located on the left and right outer sides of the central case (42) and has a motor housing chamber (46) for housing the motor (12) between it and the partition wall (51), A gear case (43) is located on the left and right inner sides of the central case (42) and has a gear mechanism housing chamber (47) between it and the partition wall (51) that houses the gear mechanism of the motor (12), A first breather path (81) connected to the transmission mechanism housing chamber (47), In a drive device comprising a second breather path (91) connected to the motor housing chamber (46), The upper part of the central case (42) is provided with a first hole (82) that is continuous with the surface of the first breather path (81) that is exposed to the outside of the central case (42), and a second hole (92) that is continuous with the surface of the second breather path (91) that is exposed to the outside of the central case (42), and the first hole (82) and the second hole (92) are formed parallel to each other. The upper part of the central case (42) has recesses (42H) that are recessed toward the inside of the central case (42) and that are inclined toward the left and right inward and downward toward the gear case (43) side. The first hole (82) and the second hole (92) are formed in the recess (42H), The breather case (70) covers the first hole (82) and the second hole (92) formed in the recess (42H), Each of the first hole (82) and the second hole (92) has a breather pipe (84, 94) with one end inserted into it, and a breather tube (85, 95) with one end inserted into the other end of the breather pipe (84, 94), and the other end covered by the breather case (70) with a gap that communicates with the outside space. The breather case (70) has vertical extension walls (70b) that extend vertically on the left and right inner sides of the outlet path of the breather tubes (85, 95), A gap (Sa) is provided between the recess (42H) and the lower end of the breather case (70), and the lower end of the breather case (70) is below the upper end of the first breather path (81) or the second breather path (91). Drive unit.

2. The breather case (70) has opposing surfaces (M1, M2) that face the other ends of the breather tubes (85, 95), The distance between the other end of the breather tube (85, 95) and the opposing surface (M1, M2) is shorter than the longitudinal length of the breather pipe (84, 94) in the region where the breather pipe (84, 94) and the breather tube (85, 95) overlap. The drive device according to claim 1.

3. At least one of the first hole (82) and the second hole (92) is located within the region where the gear shift mechanism housing chamber (47) and the motor housing chamber (46) overlap in the front-rear direction of the drive device. The drive device according to claim 1.

4. At least one of the first breather path (81) and the second breather path (91) has a crossing path (83) that extends in a direction intersecting the first hole (82) or the second hole (92) of either the breather path within either the central case (42) or an adjacent case. The drive device according to claim 1.

5. The central case (42) has a case side wall portion (42W) that rises upward to the side of the recess (42H), and the case side wall portion (42W) overlaps the first hole (82) and the second hole (92) in the axial and left-right directions. The drive device according to claim 1.

6. A sensor (100) for detecting information about the motor (12) is provided on the opposite side of the recess (42H) of the rotation shaft (12a) of the motor (12), with reference to the rotor (12r) of the motor (12). The drive device according to claim 1.

7. In an axial view of the motor (12), the surface where the gear case (43) and the central case (42) are in contact is lower than the recess (42H). The drive device according to claim 1.

8. A partition wall (56) separates the internal space of the central case (42) from the motor housing chamber (46) and other spaces, The partition wall (56) is provided with wiring insertion holes (56a, 56b) through which wiring (12L1, 12L2) connected to the motor (12) passes, The intervening member (80) is interposed between the wiring insertion holes (56a, 56b) and the wiring (12L1, 12L2). The drive device according to claim 1.

9. Between the partition wall (56) and the motor (12), an enclosure wall (42K) is provided to support the outer circumference of the motor (12). The drive device according to claim 8.

10. The central case (42) has a side surface that extends vertically in the direction of the drive device, continuous with the recess (42H). The drive device according to claim 1.

11. The bottom surface of the recess (42H) is an inclined surface that slopes toward the gear case (43) side and downward. The drive device according to claim 1.

12. The upper and lower extension wall (70b) has a facing surface (70c) that faces the rear wheel (15). The drive device according to claim 1.

13. The central case (42) has the partition wall (51) that extends vertically in the direction of the drive device, The opposing surface (70c) is on the same plane as the surface of the partition wall (51), or is located on the opposite side of the rear wheel (15) from the surface of the partition wall (51). The drive device according to claim 12.

14. In a vehicle that constitutes an electric two-wheeled vehicle equipped with a side stand (20a), The drive device (16) described in claim 1 is provided, The bottom surface of the recess (42H) is a horizontal surface when the side stand (20a) is in contact with the ground, or an inclined surface that slopes downward on the side opposite to the side where the side stand (20a) is in contact with the ground. vehicle.

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