vehicle

Abstract

To provide a vehicle in which a battery can be attached so that it is easily accessible and protected from external shocks, while being located in a low position at the front of the vehicle.SOLUTION: A vehicle 10 comprises two or three wheels, including front wheels 2L, 2R and a rear wheel 2B, a frame 1, a handle 4 rotatably mounted on the frame to steer the front wheels or the rear wheel, a cargo box 5 provided in front of the handle and having a storage space for luggage or persons, a motor 3 driving at least one of the wheels, a battery 6 supplying power to the motor, and an adapter 7 to which the battery is attached. A bottom surface of the storage space of the cargo box is located below an upper end of the front wheels. The adapter is located within the storage space of the cargo box. The battery is attached to the adapter within the storage space of the cargo box.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a two - or three - wheel electric vehicle having a cargo box.

Background Art

[0002] EP3778365A1 (Patent Document 1) discloses a three - wheel electric vehicle equipped with a cargo box for carrying luggage or people. The chassis of the electric vehicle has a plate - shaped loading platform provided between two front wheels and one rear wheel. The plate - shaped loading platform has a battery housing. A cargo box is arranged on the plate - shaped loading platform.

[0003] WO2020 / 012801 (Patent Document 2) discloses an electric tricycle having a loading platform. This electric tricycle has two front wheels, one rear wheel, a frame part, a handle part, a loading platform, and a link mechanism. The frame part connects the front wheel and the rear wheel. The front wheel is steered by the handle part. The frame part is telescopic between a first position allowing the movement of the front wheel and a second position restricting the movement of the front wheel. The electric tricycle has a battery storage part. A portable battery is detachably attached to the battery storage part. \(000\\)013

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The present application discloses a vehicle in which a battery can be mounted in a low position at the front of the vehicle while being easily accessible and protected from external impacts.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The vehicle in the embodiment of the present invention is Two or three wheels, including the front and rear wheels, Frame and, A handle rotatably mounted on the frame for steering the front wheel or the rear wheel, A cargo box provided in front of the handle and having storage space for luggage or people, A motor that drives at least one of the wheels, A battery that supplies power to the motor, The system comprises an adapter to which the aforementioned battery is attached. The bottom surface of the storage space of the cargo box is located below the upper end of the front wheel. The adapter is provided within the storage space of the cargo box, and the battery is mounted on the adapter within the storage space of the cargo box. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing an example of the vehicle configuration in this embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a left side view of the vehicle. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a top view of the vehicle shown. [Figure 4] This diagram shows a variation of the battery arrangement. [Figure 5] This diagram shows a variation of the battery arrangement. [Figure 6] This diagram illustrates an example of rotating a battery between the inside and outside of a storage space. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example configuration of the cover 60 that covers the battery 6. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of the battery and cover 60 as viewed from the front of the vehicle. [Figure 9] Figure 2 is a left side view showing the transparent configuration of the cargo box 5 of the vehicle shown. [Figure 10]It is a front view of the vehicle configuration shown in FIG. 9. [Figure 11] It is a top view of the vehicle configuration shown in FIG. 9. [Figure 12] It is a front view showing a modified example of the vehicle configuration.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] (Configuration 1) The vehicle in the embodiment of the present invention includes two or three wheels including front wheels and rear wheels, a frame, a handle rotatably attached to the frame for steering the front wheel or the rear wheel, a cargo box provided in front of the handle and having a storage space for luggage or a person, a motor for driving at least one of the wheels, a battery for supplying power to the motor, and an adapter to which the battery is attached. The bottom surface of the storage space of the cargo box is located below the upper end of the front wheel, the adapter is provided in the storage space of the cargo box, and the battery is attached to the adapter in the storage space of the cargo box.

[0009] According to the above configuration 1, the battery is mounted on the adapter within the storage space of the cargo box. The cargo box is provided in front of the handle, and the bottom surface of its storage space is located below the upper end of the front wheel. That is, the battery is arranged at a low position in the front part of the vehicle. Thereby, the center of gravity of the vehicle can be made low and in the front. Therefore, it becomes easier for the occupant to maintain the posture of the vehicle during driving. Also, since the battery is arranged within the cargo box, the occupant can access the battery through the same route as when putting luggage or a person into the cargo box. Furthermore, the battery is protected from external impacts by the cargo box. Thus, with the above configuration 1, the battery can be mounted while being arranged at a low position in the front part of the vehicle, while being easily accessible and protected from external impacts.

[0010] The configuration in which the battery is mounted on the adapter within the storage space of the cargo box is a configuration in which the battery is mounted on the adapter such that at least a part of the battery is located within the storage space when the vehicle is in an upright state.

[0011] For example, the battery may be mounted on the adapter in a state where the entire battery is located within the storage space when the vehicle is in an upright state. Thereby, the effect of protecting the battery from external impacts becomes higher.

[0012] In the state where the battery is mounted on the adapter, the battery and the adapter are electrically connected. For example, the connection terminal of the battery and the connection terminal of the adapter are electrically connected.

[0013] The cargo box may have a bottom that defines the bottom surface of the storage space, a left wall that defines the left side of the storage space, a right wall that defines the right side of the storage space, a front wall that defines the entire surface of the storage space, and a rear wall that defines the rear surface of the storage space. In this case, the space enclosed by the bottom, left wall, right wall, front wall, and rear wall becomes the storage space. The bottom of the cargo box is located below the top of the front wheel, and the left wall, right wall, front wall, and rear wall may all be formed to extend above the top of the front wheel. That is, the storage space may extend from the bottom surface above the top of the front wheel.

[0014] The configuration in which the bottom surface of the storage space is located below the upper end of the front wheel means that when the vehicle is in an upright position, the bottom surface of the storage space is located below the upper end of the front wheel. An upright position of the vehicle means that the vertical direction of the vehicle is aligned with the vertical direction.

[0015] (Configuration 2) In configuration 1, the battery may be mounted on the adapter such that when the vehicle is upright, the longitudinal direction of the battery is aligned with a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction of the vehicle. That is, the battery may be mounted on the adapter such that the longitudinal direction of the battery is aligned with a plane perpendicular to the vertical direction of the vehicle. This allows the center of gravity of the battery to be lowered compared to when the battery is mounted so that its longitudinal direction is aligned with the vertical direction of the vehicle. Note that the configuration in which the longitudinal direction of the battery is aligned with a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction of the vehicle includes not only the case in which the longitudinal direction of the battery strictly coincides with the direction (plane) perpendicular to the vertical direction of the vehicle, but also the case in which the difference between the longitudinal direction of the battery and the direction (plane) perpendicular to the vertical direction of the vehicle is small enough to be considered to coincide (for example, within 15 degrees).

[0016] For example, the battery may be mounted on the adapter such that its longitudinal direction aligns with the front-to-rear direction of the vehicle when the vehicle is upright. In this case, occupants can easily access the battery from the left or right side of the vehicle. Alternatively, the battery may be mounted on the adapter such that its longitudinal direction aligns with the left-to-right direction of the vehicle when the vehicle is upright.

[0017] In configuration 1, the battery may be mounted on the adapter such that its longitudinal direction aligns with the vertical direction of the vehicle when the vehicle is in an upright position. This reduces the front-to-back or left-to-right dimensions of the battery in the storage space compared to mounting the battery so that its longitudinal direction aligns with a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction of the vehicle. The configuration in which the longitudinal direction of the battery aligns with the vertical direction of the vehicle includes not only cases where the longitudinal direction of the battery strictly coincides with the vertical direction of the vehicle, but also cases where the difference between the longitudinal direction of the battery and the vertical direction of the vehicle is small enough to be considered to coincide (for example, within 15 degrees).

[0018] (Composition 3) In the above configuration 1 or 2, the battery may be mounted on the adapter such that the entire battery is located behind the front wheel axle within the storage space. This allows the battery to be positioned closer to the handlebars. As a result, the weight distribution of the battery can be concentrated near the center of the vehicle's yaw rotation. Consequently, the yaw moment during turning can be reduced, improving turning performance.

[0019] (Composition 4) In any of the above configurations 1 to 3, the battery may be configured to be detachable from the adapter by sliding or rotating linearly relative to the adapter within the storage space. This allows the battery to be attached to and detached within the storage space of the cargo box. For example, the adapter may have a guide that supports the battery as it slides or rotates linearly. In this case, the battery may have a sliding portion shaped to engage with the guide of the adapter.

[0020] (Composition 5) In any of the above configurations 1 to 3, the battery may be configured to be detachable from the adapter by rotating it relative to the adapter between the inside and outside of the storage space. This makes it easier for the occupant to attach and detach the battery. For example, the adapter may have a guide that slides and supports the battery as it rotates. In this case, the battery may have a sliding part shaped to engage with the guide of the adapter. The cargo box may also have a side wall that extends upward from the bottom surface of the storage space and defines its side, and an opening may be provided in a part of the side wall through which the battery passes when it rotates relative to the adapter for attachment and detachment.

[0021] (Composition 6) In any of the above configurations 1 to 5, the vehicle may further include a cover that covers at least a portion of the battery mounted on the adapter within the storage space. This provides better protection for the battery against external impacts.

[0022] The cover may be configured to cover the entire top of the battery.

[0023] Within the aforementioned storage space, the battery storage space defined by the cover may be open in at least one direction.

[0024] The opening of the battery storage space defined by the cover can be oriented in a direction other than, for example, from the battery to be stored towards the vehicle occupants. That is, the cover may be provided to shield the space between the battery and the occupants.

[0025] (Composition 7) In any of the above configurations 1 to 6, the battery may be mounted on the adapter such that, when the vehicle is upright, the entire battery is positioned below a virtual line that passes over the upper end of the handlebars and touches the outer edge of the upper half of the front wheel when viewed from the left or right direction of the vehicle. This further enhances the effect of protecting the battery from impact.

[0026] The battery may be mounted on the adapter such that, in both the case where the steering wheel is not turned (i.e., the steering angle is 0 degrees) and the case where the steering wheel is turned (the steering angle is not 0 degrees), the entire battery is positioned below a virtual line that passes through the upper end of the steering wheel and touches the outer edge of the upper half of the front wheel.

[0027] (Composition 8) In any of the above configurations 1 to 7, the battery may be mounted on the adapter such that, when the vehicle is in an upright position, the battery's electrical connection terminals are located behind the battery's center in the front-to-rear direction. This allows the battery's electrical connection terminals to be positioned closer to the handlebars.

[0028] For example, the battery may be mounted on the adapter such that, when the vehicle is in an upright position, the longitudinal direction of the battery is aligned with the front-to-rear direction of the vehicle, and the electrical connection terminals of the battery are located at the rear end of the battery. In this case, the battery may be configured to be detachable from the adapter by sliding the battery in the front-to-rear direction of the vehicle relative to the adapter.

[0029] (Composition 9) In any of the above configurations 1 to 8, the wheels may include a left front wheel and a right front wheel arranged side by side in the left-right direction. The vehicle may further include a lean mechanism that supports the left front wheel and the right front wheel and includes arms that are rotatably supported relative to the frame, and in which the frame, the left front wheel, and the right front wheel lean in the left-right direction as the arms rotate. The cargo box is positioned so as to overlap with a part of the lean mechanism when viewed from above the vehicle while the vehicle is in an upright position. The battery may be mounted on the adapter so as not to protrude forward from the front end of the arm of the lean mechanism when the vehicle is in an upright position. This allows the battery to be positioned within the storage space where vibrations are relatively minimal. Therefore, vibrations to the battery are reduced. Furthermore, the battery's protection from shocks is enhanced.

[0030] (Composition 10) In any of the above configurations 1 to 9, the wheels may include a left front wheel and a right front wheel arranged side by side in the left-right direction. The vehicle may further include a left steering transmission member that transmits the rotation of the steering wheel to the left front wheel to steer the left front wheel, and a right steering transmission member that transmits the rotation of the steering wheel to the right front wheel to steer the right front wheel. The cargo box is positioned such that, when viewed from above the vehicle while the vehicle is in an upright position, it overlaps with at least a portion of the left steering transmission member and the right steering transmission member. The battery may be mounted on the adapter such that, when the vehicle is upright and the steering wheel is not turned, the battery does not protrude to the left of the left steering transmission member and does not protrude to the right of the right steering transmission member when viewed from above the vehicle. This further enhances the battery's protection against impact.

[0031] The following describes an electric assist bicycle according to an embodiment of the present invention, with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description of those parts will not be repeated. Furthermore, the dimensions of the components in each drawing do not faithfully represent the dimensions of the actual components or the dimensional ratios of each component.

[0032] In this specification, the front-rear, left-right, and up-down directions of a vehicle refer to the front-rear, left-right, and up-down directions relative to the state in which the occupant is seated on the saddle (seat 8) and holding the handlebars 4. When the vehicle is upright, the front-rear, left-right, and up-down directions of the vehicle are the same as the front-rear, left-right, and up-down directions of the vehicle body, i.e., the frame. Also, the direction of travel of the vehicle is the same as the front-rear direction of the vehicle. Furthermore, in this specification, when the configuration of a vehicle is described using the front-rear, left-right, and up-down directions, unless otherwise specified, it refers to the configuration when the vehicle is upright.

[0033] In the drawing, arrow F indicates the front of the vehicle. Arrow B indicates the rear of the vehicle. Arrow U indicates the top of the vehicle. Arrow D indicates the bottom of the vehicle. Arrow R indicates the right of the vehicle. Arrow L indicates the left of the vehicle.

[0034] <Example of vehicle configuration> Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the vehicle configuration in this embodiment. Figure 2 is a left side view of the vehicle in Figure 1. Figure 3 is a top view of the vehicle shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle 10 comprises wheels including front wheels 2R, 2L and rear wheel 2B, a frame 1, a handle 4, a seat 8, a cargo box 5, a motor 3, a battery 6, and an adapter 7. The handle 4 is rotatably mounted to the frame 1. The motor 3 is the power source for driving the wheels. The battery 6 supplies power to the motor 3. The rotation of the handle 4 is transmitted to the steering wheels (front wheels 2R and 2L in the example of Figure 1). The steering wheels are steered by the rotation of the handle 4. The cargo box 5 is located in front of the handle 4. The cargo box 5 has a storage space 5S for storing luggage or people. The cargo box 5 is a box with an opening at the top.

[0035] As shown in Figure 2, the bottom surface 5SM of the storage space of the cargo box 5 is located below the upper edges of the front wheels 2R and 2L. That is, the entire bottom surface of the storage space is lower than the upper edges of the front wheels. The storage space of the cargo box 5 extends from the bottom surface 5SM upwards above the upper edges of the front wheels 2R and 2L. As shown in Figure 1, the cargo box 5 has a bottom portion 5T that defines the bottom surface 5SM, and a left wall 5L, a right wall 5R, a front wall 5F, and a rear wall 5B that extend upwards from the periphery of the bottom surface 5SM. The space enclosed by the bottom portion 5T, the left wall 5L, the right wall 5R, the front wall 5F, and the rear wall 5B becomes the storage space 5S. The left wall 5L, the right wall 5R, the front wall 5F, and the rear wall 5B are collectively referred to as the side walls. The side walls define the sides of the storage space 5S.

[0036] An adapter 7 is provided within the storage space 5S. The battery 6 is mounted on the adapter 7 in the storage space 5S of the cargo box 5. In this way, the battery 6 is mounted in the storage space 5S of the cargo box 5, which has a bottom surface lower than the upper edge of the front wheels 2R and 2L in front of the handle 4.

[0037] This configuration allows the battery 6 to be positioned low in front of the steering wheel. As a result, the vehicle's center of gravity is lowered, ensuring the vehicle's maneuverability. Furthermore, the occupants can attach and detach the battery 6 when loading luggage or people into the storage space 5S. In addition, the battery 6 is covered from below, to the sides, and front and rear by the cargo box 5. This protects the battery 6 from external impacts. In this way, battery protection and accessibility are achieved simultaneously with the vehicle's maneuverability.

[0038] Battery 6 is, for example, a battery pack containing multiple cells. Battery 6 has multiple cells, a case housing the multiple cells, and electrical connection terminals exposed on the outside of the case. Battery 6 may have a battery management system (BMS). Battery 6 may also be referred to as, for example, a battery pack.

[0039] The adapter 7 has electrical connection terminals. The adapter 7 is configured to hold the battery 6 in a mounted state. The mounted state is when the electrical connection terminals of the adapter 7 and the electrical connection terminals of the battery 6 are in contact. The adapter 7 may have a locking member that locks the battery 6 to the adapter 7 in the mounted state. The locking member may be, for example, a locking projection such as a hook. In addition, a locking member for locking and unlocking the locking of the battery 6 to the mounted state by the locking member of the adapter 7 may be provided in the storage space 5S.

[0040] A cable is connected to the electrical terminals of the adapter 7. The cable electrically connects the battery 6 and the motor 3. In the example shown in Figure 1, the motor 3 drives the rear wheel 2B. The motor 3 is, for example, an in-wheel motor located in the hub of the rear wheel 2B. The form of the motor that drives the wheels is not limited to this. For example, the motor may be configured to drive the front wheel. Or, the motor may be configured to drive both the front and rear wheels. For example, the motor may be configured to assist the pedaling force of the occupant that propels the vehicle. In this case, the vehicle 10 may include a crankshaft, pedals to which pedaling force is input to rotate the crankshaft, and a transmission mechanism that transmits the rotation of the crankshaft to the wheels. The transmission mechanism may include a resultant force mechanism that combines the rotation of the motor and the rotation due to the pedaling force.

[0041] In the example shown in Figure 2, the frame 1 includes a head pipe 1a that rotatably holds the steering shaft (steering column) 11. A handle 4 is attached to the upper part of the steering shaft 11. A steering transmission member is attached to the lower part of the steering shaft 11. The frame 1 includes a rear section extending rearward from the head pipe 1a and a front section 1b extending forward from the head pipe 1a. The rear section includes a seat tube 1c that holds the seat 8. In the example in Figure 2, a swing arm 1d is rotatably attached to the rear part of the frame 1 with the left-right direction as the axis of rotation. The swing arm 1d rotatably supports the rear wheel 2B around the axle. A motor 3 that drives the rear wheel 2B is provided on the swing arm 1d.

[0042] Note that the support structure for the rear wheel 2B is not limited to the example shown in Figure 2. For example, the frame may include seat stays and chain stays in the rear section. In this case, the rear wheel 2 is supported at the rear ends of the seat stays and chain stays.

[0043] The material of the side walls and bottom of the cargo box 5 is not particularly limited, but can be, for example, resin, metal, or wood. There may be openings in part of the side walls and bottom of the cargo box 5. At least part of the side walls and bottom of the cargo box 5 may be made of mesh. The cargo box 5 may also have a lid (shutter) that can be opened and closed over the opening at the top of the cargo box 5.

[0044] (Example of battery placement within storage space) In the examples shown in Figures 1 to 3, the battery 6 is mounted on the adapter 7 so that its longitudinal direction aligns with the front-to-rear direction of the vehicle 10. In this way, when the longitudinal direction of the battery 6 is aligned perpendicular to the vertical direction of the vehicle 10 within the storage space, the center of gravity of the battery 6 can be lowered. As a variation, the battery 6 may be mounted on the adapter 7 so that its longitudinal direction aligns with the left-to-right direction of the vehicle 10. In this case as well, the center of gravity of the battery 6 can be lowered.

[0045] In the example shown in Figure 2, the adapter 7 is provided on the bottom surface 5SM of the storage space 5S. In this configuration, where the battery 6 is mounted so that its longitudinal direction is aligned with a plane perpendicular to the vertical direction of the vehicle, the adapter 7 can be provided on the bottom surface of the storage space 5S. This further enhances the effect of lowering the battery's center of gravity. From the viewpoint of lowering the center of gravity, it is preferable that the battery is mounted on the adapter so that the entire battery is located below half the vehicle's vertical height of the storage space 5S. The vehicle's vertical height of the storage space 5S is defined as the distance from the lowest point of the bottom surface to the highest point of the side wall in the vehicle's vertical direction.

[0046] The longitudinal direction of the battery shall be the direction with the largest dimension among the three mutually orthogonal directions (for example, width, length, and height) that serve as the basis for determining the size of the battery 6.

[0047] In another modification, the battery 6 may be mounted on the adapter 7 such that its longitudinal direction aligns with the vertical direction of the vehicle 10 when the vehicle 10 is in an upright position. This reduces the front-to-back or left-to-right dimensions occupied by the battery in the storage space. In this case, by placing the adapter 7 on the rear surface of the storage space, i.e., the rear wall, the weight distribution of the battery 6 can be concentrated closer to the handlebars. This ensures the vehicle's turning ability.

[0048] Figure 4 shows a modified example of the battery arrangement. In the example in Figure 4, the battery 6 is mounted on the adapter 7 such that its longitudinal direction is slightly inclined with respect to a plane perpendicular to the vertical direction of the vehicle 10. Mounting the battery 6 on the adapter 7 with its longitudinal direction inclined in this way can improve mounting stability. For example, if electrical connection terminals are provided on one of the two ends of the longitudinal direction of the battery 6, the battery 6 may be mounted on the adapter 7 with its longitudinal direction inclined so that one end is lower than the other. This allows for improved mounting stability by utilizing the battery's gravity. Note that, as shown in Figure 4, from the viewpoint of the battery's center of gravity, if the angle between the battery's longitudinal direction and the plane perpendicular to the vertical direction of the vehicle is small (for example, within 15 degrees), the battery's longitudinal direction can be considered to be aligned with the vertical direction of the vehicle.

[0049] Figure 5 shows a modified example of the battery arrangement. In the example in Figure 5, the battery 6 is mounted on the adapter 7 such that its longitudinal direction is aligned with the vertical direction of the vehicle 10, and its longitudinal direction is slightly tilted rearward relative to the vertical direction of the vehicle 10. The adapter 7 is provided on the rear surface 5SB of the storage space. The rear surface of the storage space 5S is inclined with respect to the vertical direction. The longitudinal direction of the rear surface 5SB of the storage space 5S and the battery are inclined so that they move towards the rear as they go upward. This improves the mounting stability and accessibility of the battery. In addition, since the battery can be placed closer to the handle 4, the turning ability of the vehicle is easier to ensure.

[0050] For example, the longitudinal inclination of the rear 5SB and battery may be the same as the inclination of the steering shaft 11 supported by the head pipe 1a. This allows for efficient use of the space in front of the steering shaft 11 in accordance with the inclination of the steering shaft 11.

[0051] As a variation, the battery 6 may be mounted on the adapter 7 in a position where it overlaps with the steering shaft 11 when viewed from the left or right direction. This allows for efficient use of space and enables the battery to be positioned close to the steering wheel. For example, in a configuration with two batteries 6, the two batteries 6 may be mounted on the adapter 7 in a position where they are aligned in the left-right direction, such that the steering shaft 11 is located between the two batteries 6.

[0052] Referring again to Figure 3, an example of the battery 6's placement relative to the frame 1 will be explained. As shown in Figure 3, the battery 6 may be mounted on the adapter 7 such that, when viewed from above the vehicle in an upright position, at least a portion of the battery 6 overlaps with the front portion 1b of the frame 1. This allows the frame 1 to support the weight of the battery 6. It also provides a greater protection of the battery 6 from impact. Alternatively, the battery 6 may be mounted on the adapter 7 such that, when viewed from above the vehicle in an upright position, the battery 6 does not protrude beyond the front end of the frame 1.

[0053] In the example shown in Figure 3, the battery 6 is mounted on the adapter 7 such that the electrical connection terminal 6a of the battery 6 is located behind the center of the battery 6 in the front-to-rear direction, indicated by line C1. This allows the battery's electrical connection terminal to be positioned closer to the handle 4. This enables efficient arrangement of the vehicle 10 cables connected to the battery. Also, from a similar viewpoint, as in the example shown in Figure 3, if the electrical connection terminal 6a is located on one of the longitudinal surfaces of the battery 6, the battery 6 can be connected to the adapter 7 such that one surface is positioned further back than the other.

[0054] In the example shown in Figure 2, the storage space 5S extends in front of the axle 2a of the front wheel 2L. That is, at least a portion of the front wall 5F of the cargo box 5 is located in front of the axle 2a of the front wheel 2L. Furthermore, within the storage space 5S, the battery 6 is mounted on the adapter 7 with its entirety located behind the axle 2a of the front wheel 2L. This allows for a wide storage space 5S to be secured in the front and allows the battery 6 to be positioned close to the handle 4. Therefore, while securing a wide storage space 5S front and rear, the weight distribution of the battery can be concentrated near the center of the vehicle's yaw rotation. Note that the configuration of positioning the battery 6 behind the axle 2a can also be applied to the battery arrangement in Figure 4 or Figure 5 or other modified examples.

[0055] In the example shown in Figure 2, when the vehicle is upright, the entire battery 6 mounted on the adapter 7 is positioned below the imaginary line K1, which passes over the top of the steering wheel 4 and touches the outer edge of the upper half of the front wheel 2L, when viewed from the left or right direction of the vehicle. As a result, in addition to the cargo box 5, the front wheel 2L and the steering wheel 4 are also positioned to protect the battery 6 from impact.

[0056] The imaginary line K2 shown in Figure 2 is an example of an imaginary line that passes through the upper end of the steering wheel 4 and touches the outer edge of the upper half of the front wheel 2L when the steering wheel 4 is turned, i.e., when the steering angle is not 0 degrees. The entire battery 6 is located below the imaginary line K2. In this way, within the range of steering angles possible by the rotation of the steering wheel 4, the battery mounted on the adapter may be configured to be located below the imaginary line that passes through the upper end of the steering wheel and touches the outer edge of the upper half of the front wheel. Note that the configuration in which the battery 6 is placed below the above imaginary line can also be applied to the battery arrangement in Figure 4 or Figure 5 or other modified examples.

[0057] (Example of battery removal configuration) In the examples shown in Figures 1-5, the battery 6 is configured to be detachable from the adapter 7 by sliding it linearly against the adapter 7 within the storage space 5S. For example, the adapter 7 may have a guide for linearly sliding the battery 6, and the battery 6 may have a sliding portion shaped to fit the guide of the adapter 7. The guide of the adapter 7 may be, for example, a linearly extending groove or projection. The sliding portion of the battery 6 may be, for example, a linearly extending projection or groove. As the sliding portion of the battery 6 contacts the guide of the adapter 7 and slides, the battery 6 slides linearly toward the mounting position. The adapter 7 may also have a locking member that locks the battery 6 in place when it is mounted.

[0058] In the example shown in Figures 1-4, the battery 6 is configured to be detachable from the adapter 7 by sliding it linearly in the front-to-back direction (arrows Y1, Y2) relative to the adapter 7 within the storage space 5S. In this case, since the battery 6 is located at the rear of the storage space, the occupant can easily install the battery by inserting it from the front, where there is ample space, towards the rear.

[0059] In the example shown in Figure 5, the battery 6 is configured to be detachable from the adapter 7 by sliding it linearly up and down (arrow Y3) relative to the adapter 7 within the storage space 5S. In this case, the occupant can easily install the battery by inserting the battery 6 through the upward opening of the cargo box 5.

[0060] The battery 6 may be configured to be detachable from the adapter 7 by rotating it within the storage space 5S. In this case, the adapter 7 may have a guide that supports the battery as it slides when it rotates. The battery 6 may have a sliding portion shaped to engage with the guide of the adapter 7. The guide of the adapter 7 may be a recess, for example. The sliding portion of the battery may be a protrusion that fits into the recess and is rotatable. In this case, with the protrusion of the battery 6 fitted into the recess of the guide of the adapter 7, the battery 6 pivots around the protrusion. In this case as well, the adapter 7 may have a locking member that locks the battery 6 in place when it is mounted.

[0061] The battery 6 may be configured to be detachable from the adapter by rotating it relative to the adapter 7 between the inside and outside of the storage space 5S. Figure 6 shows an example of this configuration. In the example in Figure 6, the battery 6 is configured to be detachable from the adapter by rotating it relative to the adapter 7 through an opening in the rear wall 5B that defines the rear surface 5SB of the storage space 5S. In this example, the battery 6 rotates with the projection 6b, which is the sliding part of the battery 6, as the pivot axis, while the projection 6b is fitted into a recess (not shown) which is a guide of the adapter 7. This rotation allows the battery 6 to be attached and detached.

[0062] Figure 6 shows that when the battery 6 is installed, it is rotated relative to the adapter 7, allowing it to move from outside the storage space 5S to the installation position inside the storage space 5S. The electrical connection terminals of the battery 6 and the electrical connection terminals of the adapter 7 are separated during rotation and come into contact at the installation position. As a modified example, the adapter 7 may have a rotatable terminal block that holds the electrical connection terminals. In this case, the battery 6 is configured to be detachable from the adapter 7 by rotating while connected to the terminal block of the adapter 7. When the battery 6 is connected to the terminal block of the adapter 7, the electrical connection terminals of the battery 6 and the electrical connection terminals of the adapter 7 are electrically connected. The terminal block of the adapter 7 is configured to be rotatable between an installation position connected to the terminal block and a removal position.

[0063] (Example of battery cover configuration) Figure 7 shows an example configuration of a cover 60 that covers the battery 6. Figure 8 shows an example configuration of the battery and cover 60 of Figure 7 as viewed from the front of the vehicle. In the examples shown in Figures 7 and 8, a cover 60 is provided that covers the entire battery 6 from above and from the sides (left and right). The entire cover 60 is placed inside the storage space 5S. The shape of the cover 60 is not limited to the examples in Figures 7 and 8. For example, the cover 60 may be configured to cover only a part of the battery 6 from above. The cover 60 may be configured to cover the top of the battery 6 but not the sides. Alternatively, the battery 6 may be mounted on the adapter 7 in a recess provided on the bottom surface of the storage space. In this case, the cover 60 may be composed of a lid that covers the recess in which the battery 6 is placed from above.

[0064] In the examples shown in Figures 7 and 8, the front of the battery is not covered by the cover 60. Thus, within the storage space 5S, the battery storage space defined by the cover may have an opening in at least one direction. This prevents the battery storage space from becoming a sealed space. In this case, for example, the opening of the battery storage space may not face the occupant. This ensures that the space between the occupant and the battery is shielded by the cover 60.

[0065] For example, a child seat or similar seat may be provided within the storage space 5S. In this case, the battery 6 may be mounted on the adapter 7 under the seat. In this case, the seat acts as a cover. For example, the battery 6 may be mounted on the adapter 7 such that, when viewed from above, the entire battery 6 overlaps with the seat. In this case, the seat shields the battery from the occupant. Alternatively, in addition to the seat, a cover 60 may also be provided.

[0066] (Examples of lean mechanisms and steering mechanisms) Figure 9 is a left side view showing the transparent configuration of the cargo box 5 of the vehicle shown in Figure 2. Figure 10 is a front view of the vehicle configuration shown in Figure 9. Figure 11 is a top view of the vehicle configuration shown in Figure 9.

[0067] In the example shown in Figures 9 to 11, the vehicle 10 is equipped with a lean mechanism. The lean mechanism includes arms 21a and 21b that support the left front wheel 2L and the right front wheel 2R and are rotatably supported relative to the frame 1. As the arms 21a and 21b rotate, the relative positions of the left front wheel 2L and the right front wheel 2R with respect to the frame 1 change. This causes the frame 1, the left front wheel 2L, and the right front wheel 2R to lean in the left-right direction. The arms 21a and 21b are arranged side by side, one above the other. Both ends of the arms 21a and 21b are rotatably connected to the left front wheel support 9L and the right front wheel support 9R. The intermediate portion between the ends of the arms 21a and 21b is rotatably supported by the frame 1 around longitudinal axes P1 and P2. The left front wheel support 9L rotatably supports the left front wheel 2L. The right front wheel support 9R rotatably supports the right front wheel 2R.

[0068] As shown in Figure 10, a vehicle 10 equipped with a lean mechanism turns by tilting the frame 1 in the left-right direction relative to the vertical direction of the vehicle. Therefore, in addition to the direction relative to the vehicle 10, a direction relative to the frame 1 is also defined. In Figure 10, arrow FU indicates the upward direction of the frame. Arrow FD indicates the downward direction of the frame. Arrow FR indicates the rightward direction of the frame. Arrow FL indicates the leftward direction of the frame. When the vehicle is upright (left diagram in Figure 10), the vertical direction of the vehicle and the vertical direction of the frame coincide. When the frame is tilted in the left-right direction relative to the vertical direction (right diagram in Figure 10), the left-right direction of the vehicle and the left-right direction of the frame do not coincide. Also, the vertical direction of the vehicle and the vertical direction of the frame do not coincide.

[0069] In the example shown in Figure 10, the cargo box 5 is fixed to the frame 1, and when the frame 1 tilts from side to side, the cargo box 5 also tilts with the frame 1. As a modification, the cargo box can be configured so that it does not tilt even when the frame 1 tilts from side to side. Figure 12 shows an example of a lean mechanism in which the cargo box does not tilt even when the frame tilts from side to side. In the example shown in Figure 12, the cargo box 5 is attached to a base 23 that is rotatably supported relative to the frame 1. The lean mechanism has an arm 21a that supports the left front wheel 2L and the right front wheel 2R and is rotatably supported relative to the frame 1, and an arm 22 that supports the left front wheel 2L and the right front wheel 2R and is attached to the base 23. In this case, the axis of rotation 23a of the base 23 relative to the frame 1 and the axis of rotation 21a1 of the arm 21a relative to the frame are in the same direction (in the example shown in Figure 12, the longitudinal direction of the vehicle).

[0070] As shown in Figure 11, the cargo box 5 is positioned so as to overlap with a part of the lean mechanism when viewed from above the vehicle. In this example, the cargo box 5 protrudes in front of the front ends of the arms 21a and 21b of the lean mechanism. The battery 6 is mounted on the adapter 7 in the storage space 5S so as not to protrude in front of the front ends of the arms 21a and 21b of the lean mechanism. This allows the battery 6 to be positioned closer to the vehicle center, where vibrations are less pronounced, rather than near the vehicle's edges. Therefore, vibrations applied to the battery 6 can be reduced. Furthermore, positioning the battery 6 so as not to protrude in front of the lean mechanism improves the vehicle's stability. In addition, the effect of protecting the battery 6 from impact is enhanced. From this viewpoint, for example, the battery 6 may be mounted on the adapter 7 so that the entire battery 6 is positioned behind the arms 21a and 21b of the lean mechanism. Alternatively, the battery 6 may be mounted on the adapter 7 so as not to protrude in front of the front end of the front part 1b of the frame 1, and also not to protrude in front of the front ends of the arms 21a and 21b of the lean mechanism. Furthermore, as shown in Figures 10 and 12, the battery 6 can be mounted on the adapter 7 so as not to protrude below the lower ends of the arms 21a and 21b of the lean mechanism. This enhances the effect of protecting the battery from impact. From a similar viewpoint, the battery 6 may also be mounted on the adapter 7 such that the entire battery is positioned above the arms 21a and 21b of the lean mechanism.

[0071] As shown in Figures 9 and 11, the vehicle 10 further includes a left steering transmission member 13L that transmits the rotation of the steering wheel 4 to the left front wheel 2L to steer the left front wheel 2L, and a right steering transmission member 13R that transmits the rotation of the steering wheel 4 to the right front wheel 2R to steer the right front wheel 2R. A branch transmission member 12 is attached to the lower end of the steering shaft 11. The branch transmission member 12 extends left and right from the steering shaft 11, and then extends downward from the left and right sides of the operating shaft 11. The branch transmission member 12 rotates together with the steering shaft 11. One end of the right steering transmission member 13R is rotatably connected to the lower right end of the branch transmission member 12, and the other end is rotatably connected to the bracket 14R of the right front wheel support 9R. One end of the left steering transmission member 13L is rotatably connected to the lower left end of the branch transmission member 12, and the other end is rotatably connected to the bracket 14L of the left front wheel support 9L.

[0072] As shown in Figure 11, the cargo box 5 is positioned so as to overlap at least a portion of the left steering transmission member 13L and the right steering transmission member 13R when viewed from above the vehicle. The battery 6 is mounted on the adapter 7 such that, when the vehicle is upright and the steering wheel is not turned to the left or right, it does not protrude to the left of the left steering transmission member 13L and does not protrude to the right of the right steering transmission member 13R when viewed from above the vehicle. This improves the stability of the vehicle, protects the battery from impact, and reduces vibrations applied to the battery. From a similar viewpoint, the battery 6 may be mounted on the adapter 7 so as to be positioned between the left steering transmission member 13L and the right steering transmission member 13R when the vehicle is upright and the steering wheel is not turned to the left or right, when viewed from above the vehicle. Alternatively, the battery 6 may be mounted on the adapter 7 such that, when viewed from above the vehicle, it does not protrude in front of the front end of the front portion 1b of the frame 1, does not protrude to the left of the left steering transmission member 13L, and does not protrude to the right of the right steering transmission member 13R. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 9, the battery 6 can be mounted on the adapter 7 so that it does not protrude below the lower ends of the left steering transmission member 13L and the right steering transmission member 13R. This enhances the effect of protecting the battery from impact. From a similar viewpoint, the battery 6 may also be mounted on the adapter 7 such that the entire battery is positioned above the left steering transmission member 13L and the right steering transmission member 13R.

[0073] The vehicle of the present invention is not limited to a configuration having two front wheels and one rear wheel. For example, a vehicle having one front wheel and two rear wheels, or a vehicle having one front wheel and one rear wheel, are also included in embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, the wheel steered by the rotation of the steering wheel may be a front wheel or a rear wheel.

[0074] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the embodiments described above are merely illustrative examples for carrying out the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and it is possible to carry out the present invention by appropriately modifying the embodiments described above without departing from the spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0075] 1: Frame, 2: Wheels, 3: Motor, 4: Handle, 5: Cargo box, 6: Battery, 7: Adapter, 8: Seat

Claims

1. Two or three wheels, including the front and rear wheels, Frame and, A handle rotatably mounted on the frame for steering the front wheel or the rear wheel, A cargo box provided in front of the handle and having storage space for luggage or people, A motor that drives at least one of the wheels, A battery that supplies power to the motor, The system comprises an adapter to which the aforementioned battery is attached, The bottom surface of the storage space of the cargo box is located below the upper end of the front wheel. The adapter is provided within the storage space of the cargo box, and the battery is mounted on the adapter within the storage space of the cargo box. The vehicle is configured such that the battery can be attached to and detached from the adapter by rotating it between the inside and outside of the cargo box.

2. A vehicle according to claim 1, A vehicle in which the battery is mounted on the adapter such that, when the vehicle is in an upright position, the longitudinal direction of the battery is aligned with a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction of the vehicle.

3. A vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, A vehicle in which the battery is mounted on the adapter such that, within the storage space, the entire battery is positioned behind the front wheel axle.

4. A vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, A vehicle in which the battery is configured to be detachable from the adapter by sliding or rotating it linearly relative to the adapter within the storage space.

5. A vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, The cargo box comprises a side wall extending upward from the bottom of the storage space and defining its side, and a part of the side wall is provided with an opening through which the battery passes when it rotates to attach and detach from the adapter.

6. A vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, A vehicle further comprising a cover that covers at least a portion of the battery mounted on the adapter within the storage space.

7. A vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, The battery is mounted on the adapter such that, when the vehicle is in an upright position, the entire battery is positioned below a virtual line that passes through the upper end of the handlebars and touches the outer edge of the upper half of the front wheel, when viewed from the left or right direction of the vehicle.

8. A vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, A vehicle in which, when the vehicle is in an upright position, the battery is mounted on the adapter such that the electrical connection terminals of the battery are located behind the center of the battery in the front-to-rear direction.

9. A vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, The aforementioned wheels include a left front wheel and a right front wheel arranged side by side in the left-right direction. The vehicle further includes an arm that supports the left front wheel and the right front wheel and is rotatably supported relative to the frame, and a lean mechanism which causes the frame to lean in the left-right direction as the arm rotates. The cargo box is positioned so as to overlap with a part of the lean mechanism when viewed from above the vehicle while the vehicle is in an upright position. The battery is mounted on the adapter such that it does not protrude forward from the front end of the arm of the lean mechanism when the vehicle is in an upright position.

10. A vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, The aforementioned wheels include a left front wheel and a right front wheel arranged side by side in the left-right direction. The vehicle further comprises a left steering transmission member that transmits the rotation of the steering wheel to the left front wheel to steer the left front wheel, and a right steering transmission member that transmits the rotation of the steering wheel to the right front wheel to steer the right front wheel, The cargo box is positioned such that, when viewed from above the vehicle while the vehicle is in an upright position, it overlaps with at least a portion of the left steering transmission member and the right steering transmission member. A vehicle in which the battery is mounted on the adapter such that, when the vehicle is upright and the steering wheel is not turned to the right or left, the battery does not protrude to the left of the left steering transmission member and does not protrude to the right of the right steering transmission member when viewed from above the vehicle.

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