Description:FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
The Patents Rules, 2003

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See Section 10 and Rule 13)

A VEHICLE AND A PLURALITY OF MOUNTING MEMBERS THEREOF

APPLICANT:

TVS MOTOR COMPANY LIMITED, an Indian Company at: “Chaitanya”, No.12 Khader Nawaz Khan Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai 600 006.

The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.

TECHNICAL FIELD
The present subject matter relates generally to a vehicle and a plurality of mounting members thereof. More particularly but not exclusively, the present subject matter relates to an electric and hybrid vehicle and a plurality of mounting members thereof.

BACKGROUND
[0001] In the development of electric and hybrid vehicles, controllers have risen to prominence while undertaking critical electrical network operations. The controllers are device or group of devices that can coordinate, in a predetermined manner, the performance and operation of one or more electric components of the vehicle. The controllers of much importance can include but are not limited to Vehicle Control Unit, Telematics Control unit, Body Control Unit, and Motor Control Unit. The Vehicle Control Unit is in charge of overall control, coordination, and monitoring of the running state of the vehicle. The Motor Control Unit interfaces between the pack of batteries and motor to control the vehicle’s speed and acceleration based on the throttle input. The Vehicle Control Unit and Motor Control Unit are also communicatively coupled to each other in order to ensure proper functioning of the vehicle. Similarly, there can be plurality of electronic control units which control important functions and/or features of the vehicles.
[0002] In one of the prior art, an Integrated Controller is provided in which control units such as the Vehicle Control Unit and the Motor Control Unit are integrated and used as a single controller. Similarly, other types of electronic control units may also be integrated. However, in this integrated configuration, the tendency of arcing is considerably high as power transmission wires are in proximity to the communication cables. In another configuration, the Integrated Controller is placed in vicinity of the motor in order to reduce the length of wires and cables. However, the vibrations and heat transmitted from the motor adversely affects the functioning of the Integrated Controller. Further, the utility space is reduced since the Integrated Controller is bulky. An additional drawback of the Integrated Controllers is that they are expensive and in case of malfunction the entire controller is required to be replaced because failure of one control unit adversely affects the other control unit.
[0003] The solution provided by the prior arts additionally fail to address issues related to the theft of controllers. Also, the issues pertaining to the serviceability of the power cables and transmission cables also remain unaddressed. Further, the various controllers are not disposed at an optimum distance so as to ensure efficient signal transmittance while at the same avoiding any tendency of arcing and minimize the length of required wiring.
[0004] The present invention tries to overcome above cited problems of the prior art by mounting various controllers through at least one of first mounting member and second mounting member in the vehicle. The vehicle, as disclosed in present invention, further addresses the issues pertaining to placement and location of various controllers by providing a novel and inventive vehicle layout.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] The details are described with reference to an embodiment of a vehicle, a first mounting member and a second mounting member for the vehicle. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer similar features and components.
[0006] Figure 1 illustrates a front perspective view of the vehicle.
[0007] Figure 2 illustrates a front perspective view of the rear portion of the frame assembly of the vehicle.
[0008] Figure 3 illustrates a rear view of the rear portion of the frame assembly of the vehicle.
[0009] Figure 4 illustrates a side perspective view of the step structure.
[0010] Figure 5a illustrates a side perspective view of the first mounting member from a first side of the first mounting member.
[0011] Figure 5b illustrates a side perspective view of the first mounting member from a second side of the first mounting member.
[0012] Figure 6 illustrates a mounting of the first electronic control unit using the first mounting member.
[0013] Figure 7 illustrates a side perspective view of the second mounting member.
[0014] Figure 8 illustrates a mounting of the second electronic control unit using the first mounting member and the second mounting member.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0015] The present subject matter relates to a vehicle. The vehicle comprises a frame assembly, an energy storage unit and a plurality of electronic control units. The frame assembly provides a structural support to the vehicle. The frame assembly comprises a plurality of long members and a plurality of cross members. The plurality of long members extends from a front portion (F) of the vehicle to a rear portion (R) of the vehicle along a longitudinal axis (A-A) of the vehicle. The plurality of long members is bent vertically to form a step structure. The plurality of cross members is configured to connect the plurality of long members in a vehicle width direction. The energy storage unit is configured to power a plurality of electric components of the vehicle. The plurality of electronic control units is configured to control one or more operation of the plurality of electric components of the vehicle. The plurality of electronic control units is disposed in a pre-defined region of the vehicle. The pre-defined region is below the step structure. The plurality of electronic control units is mounted using at least one of a first mounting member, and a second mounting member.
[0016] The present subject matter also relates to a first mounting member. The first mounting member is configured to mount a first electronic control unit to one of a plurality of cross members. The first mounting member comprises a first mounting portion and at least one first flange portion. The first mounting portion comprises at least one first slanting edge and at least one first edge. The first mounting portion is provided with a plurality of first mounting holes along the at least one first slanting edge of the first mounting portion. The plurality of first mounting holes is configured to enable a detachable attachment of the first electronic control unit to the first mounting portion. The at least one first flange portion is connected to the at least one first edge of the first mounting portion through a first connecting portion. The first connecting portion is extended at an angle from the at least one first edge of the first mounting portion thereby aligning the at least one first flange portion parallelly offset to the first mounting portion. The at least one first flange portion is configured to be attached to a frame assembly of the vehicle.
[0017] The present subject matter further relates to a second mounting member. The second mounting member is configured to mount a second electronic control unit on first mounting member. The first mounting member is configured to be attached to a frame assembly of the vehicle. The second mounting member comprises a second mounting portion, and at least one second flange portion. The second mounting portion comprises at least one second slanting edge and at least one second edge. The second mounting portion is provided with a plurality of second mounting holes along the at least one second slanting edge of the second mounting portion. The plurality of second mounting holes is configured to enable a detachable attachment of the second electronic control unit to the second mounting portion. The at least one second flange portion is connected to the at least one second edge of the second mounting portion through a second connecting portion. The second connecting portion is extended at an angle from the at least one second edge of the second mounting portion thereby aligning the at least one second flange portion parallelly offset to the second mounting portion. The at least one second flange portion is configured to be detachably attached to the first mounting member.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0018] In order to overcome one or more of the above-mentioned challenges, the present invention discloses a vehicle, a first mounting member and a second mounting member for the vehicle. The first mounting member and the second mounting member are used for mounting various controllers in the vehicle.
[0019] As per one embodiment of the invention, the invention relates to a vehicle. The vehicle comprises a frame assembly, an energy storage unit and a plurality of electronic control units. The frame assembly provides a structural support to the vehicle. The frame assembly comprises a plurality of long members and a plurality of cross members. The plurality of long members extends from a front portion (F) of the vehicle to a rear portion (R) of the vehicle along a longitudinal axis (A-A) of the vehicle. The plurality of long members is bent vertically to form a step structure. The plurality of cross members is configured to connect the plurality of long members in a vehicle width direction. The energy storage unit is configured to power a plurality of electric components of the vehicle. The plurality of electronic control units is configured to control one or more operation of the plurality of electric components of the vehicle. The plurality of electronic control units is disposed in a pre-defined region of the vehicle. The pre-defined region is below the step structure. The plurality of electronic control units is mounted using at least one of a first mounting member, and a second mounting member.
[0020] As per one embodiment of the invention, the plurality of electronic control units comprises at least a first electronic control unit and a second electronic control unit. The first electronic control unit is mounted using the first mounting member. The second electronic control unit is mounted using the first mounting member and the second mounting member.
[0021] As per one embodiment of the invention, the first mounting member comprises a first mounting portion, and at least one first flange portion. The first mounting portion comprises at least one first slanting edge, at least one first edge and a plurality of first mounting holes. The plurality of first mounting holes is provided along the at least one first slanting edge. The plurality of first mounting holes is configured to enable a detachable attachment of the first electronic control unit to the first mounting portion. The at least one first flange portion is connected to the at least one first edge of the first mounting portion through a first connecting portion. The first connecting portion is extended at an angle from the at least one first edge of the first mounting portion thereby aligning the at least one first flange portion to be parallelly offset to the first mounting portion. The at least one first flange portion is configured to be attached to one of the plurality of cross members of the frame assembly.
[0022] As per one embodiment of the invention, the plurality of long members comprises a first long member and a second long member. The first long member extends parallel to the longitudinal axis (A-A) on a first side of the vehicle and the second long member extends parallel to the longitudinal axis (A-A) on a second side of the vehicle. The plurality of cross members structurally connects the first long member and the second long member thereby forming the step structure along with a vertical bend in the first long member and the second long member. The first electronic control unit and the second electronic control unit are mounted in a central junction region below the step structure.
[0023] As per one embodiment of the invention, the second mounting member comprises a second mounting portion, and at least one second flange portion. The second mounting portion comprises at least one second slanting edge and at least one second edge. The second mounting portion is provided with a plurality of second mounting holes along the at least one second slanting edge of the second mounting portion. The plurality of second mounting holes is configured to enable a detachable attachment of the second electronic control unit to the second mounting portion. The at least one second flange portion is connected to the least one second edge of the second mounting portion through a second connecting portion. The second connecting portion is extended at an angle from the at least one second edge of the second mounting portion thereby aligning the at least one second flange portion parallelly offset to the second mounting portion.
[0024] As per one embodiment of the invention, the at least one second flange portion is configured to be detachably attached to the first mounting member by using a plurality of third fastening members through a plurality of third mounting holes. The plurality of third mounting holes is provided on the at least one second flange portion.
[0025] As per one embodiment of the invention, the first electronic control unit comprises a first protrusion. The first protrusion is provided with a plurality of first mounting openings. A placement of the plurality of first mounting openings on the first protrusion conforms with a placement of at least one of the plurality of first mounting holes on the first mounting portion and a placement of a plurality of second mounting holes. The plurality of first mounting openings is configured to align with the plurality of first mounting holes in order to receive a plurality of first fastening members.
[0026] As per one embodiment of the invention, the second electronic control unit comprises a second protrusion. The second protrusion is provided with a plurality of second mounting openings. A placement of the plurality of second mounting openings on the second protrusion conforms with a placement of at least one of a plurality of first mounting holes and a placement of the plurality of second mounting holes on the second mounting portion. The plurality of second mounting openings is configured to align with the plurality of second mounting holes in order to receive a plurality of second fastening members.
[0027] As per one embodiment of the invention, the at least one second flange portion is provided with a plurality of third mounting holes. A placement of the plurality of third mounting holes on the at least one second flange portion conforms with a placement of at least one of the plurality of first mounting holes on the first mounting portion. The plurality of third mounting holes is configured to align with the plurality of first mounting holes in order to receive a plurality of third fastening members.
[0028] As per one embodiment of the invention, the central junction region lies in a proximity of the first long member. The central junction region is equidistant from the front portion (F) of the vehicle the rear portion (R) of the vehicle.
[0029] As per one embodiment of the invention, the first electronic control unit and the second electronic control unit are placed off-set to each other, in a proximity toa propeller shaft. The propeller shaft is configured to connect a first rear wheel of the vehicle to a right rear wheel of the vehicle.
[0030] As per one embodiment of the invention, a distance between the first electronic control unit and the second electronic control unit upon being mounted on one or more of the plurality of cross members is in the range of 300mm to 350mm.
[0031] As per one embodiment of the invention, the plurality of cross members comprises a first cross member, and a second cross member. The first cross member is mounted with the first electronic control unit. The second cross member is mounted with the second electronic control unit. The first cross member is disposed in a front direction with respect to the second cross member.
[0032] As per one embodiment of the invention, the first electronic control unit is a vehicle control unit and the second electronic control unit is a motor control unit.
[0033] As per one embodiment of the invention, the plurality of electronic control units is configured to communicate with the plurality of electric components of the vehicle through a plurality of signal cables. The plurality of signal cables is configured to transmit signals between the plurality of electronic control unit and the plurality of electric components for communication. The energy storage unit is configured to power the plurality of electric components of the vehicle by transmitting a current through a plurality of power cables. The plurality of signal cables and the plurality of power cables are installed in a plurality of configurations. The plurality of configurations comprises a first configuration and a second configuration.
[0034] As per one embodiment of the invention, in the first configuration, the plurality of signal cables is installed in a proximity of a first long member of the plurality of long members. The plurality of power cables is installed in a proximity of a second long member of the plurality of long members.
[0035] As per one embodiment of the invention, in the second configuration, the plurality of signal cables is installed in a proximity of a second long member of the plurality of long members. The plurality of power cables is installed in a proximity of a first long member of the plurality of long members.
[0036] In another embodiment, the invention relates to the first mounting member. The first mounting member is configured to mount a first electronic control unit to at least one of a plurality of cross members. The first mounting member comprises a first mounting portion, and at least one first flange portion. The first mounting portion comprises at least one first slanting edge and at least one first edge. The first mounting portion is provided with a plurality of first mounting holes along the at least one first slanting edge of the first mounting portion. The plurality of first mounting holes is configured to enable a detachable attachment of the first electronic control unit to the first mounting portion. The at least one first flange portion is connected to the at least one first edge of the first mounting portion through a first connecting portion. The first connecting portion is extended at an angle from the at least one first edge of the first mounting portion thereby aligning the at least one first flange portion parallelly offset to the first mounting portion. The at least one first flange portion is configured to be attached to a frame assembly of the vehicle.
[0037] As per another embodiment of the invention, the first electronic control unit comprises a first protrusion. The first protrusion is provided with a plurality of first mounting openings. A placement of the plurality of first mounting openings on the first protrusion conforms with a placement of at least one of the plurality of first mounting holes on first mounting portion. The plurality of first mounting openings is configured to align with the plurality of first mounting holes in order to receive a plurality of first fastening members.
[0038] In yet another embodiment, the invention relates to the second mounting member. The second mounting member is configured to mount a second electronic control unit on first mounting member. The first mounting member is configured to be attached to a frame assembly of the vehicle. The second mounting member comprises a second mounting portion, and at least one second flange portion. The second mounting portion comprises at least one second slanting edge and at least one second edge. The second mounting portion is provided with a plurality of second mounting holes along the at least one second slanting edge of the second mounting portion. The plurality of second mounting holes is configured to enable a detachable attachment of the second electronic control unit to the second mounting portion. The at least one second flange portion is connected to the at least one second edge of the second mounting portion through a second connecting portion. The second connecting portion is extended at an angle from the at least one second edge of the second mounting portion thereby aligning the at least one second flange portion parallelly offset to the second mounting portion.
[0039] As per yet another embodiment of the invention, the second electronic control unit comprises a second protrusion. The second protrusion is provided with a plurality of second mounting openings. A placement of the plurality of second mounting openings on the second protrusion conforms with a placement of at least one of the plurality of second mounting holes on second mounting portion and a placement of a plurality of first mounting holes. The plurality of first mounting holes is provided on a first mounting portion of the first mounting member. The plurality of second mounting openings is configured to align with the plurality of second mounting holes in order to receive a plurality of second fastening members.
[0040] As per yet another embodiment of the invention, the at least one second flange portion is provided with a plurality of third mounting holes. A placement of the plurality of third mounting holes on the at least one second flange portion conforms with a placement of a plurality of first mounting holes. The plurality of first mounting holes is provided on a first mounting portion of the first mounting member. The plurality of third mounting holes is configured to align with the plurality of first mounting holes in order to receive a plurality of third fastening members.
[0041] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to an embodiment of a vehicle (100), along with the accompanying drawings. However, the disclosed invention is not limited to the present embodiments. The embodiments shown in Figure 1, Figure 2, Figure 3 and Figure 4 are taken together for discussion. Figure 1 illustrates a front perspective view of the vehicle (100). Figure 2 illustrates a front perspective view of the frame assembly (200) of the vehicle (100). Figure 3 illustrates a rear view of the frame assembly (200) of the vehicle (100). Figure 4 illustrates a side perspective view of the step structure (304).
[0042] The vehicle (100) comprises a frame assembly (200), an energy storage unit (not shown) and a plurality of electronic control units (101a, 101b). The frame assembly (200) provides a structural support to the vehicle (100). In one of the embodiments of the present invention, the vehicle (100) is a three-wheeled vehicle. However, the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to three-wheeled vehicle. The present invention can also be implemented in vehicles with multiple-axle configuration. The frame assembly (200) comprises a plurality of long members (301, 302) and a plurality of cross members (303a, 303b, 303c). The plurality of long members (301, 302) extends from a front portion (F) of the vehicle (100) to a rear portion (R) of the vehicle (100) along a longitudinal axis (A-A, shown in Figure 4) of the vehicle (100). The plurality of long members (301, 302) is bent vertically to form a step structure (304). The plurality of cross members (303a, 303b, 303c) connects the plurality of long members (301, 302) in a vehicle width direction. In a preferred embodiment, vehicle width direction is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (A-A). In another embodiment, the three wheeled vehicle the front portion (F) of the frame assembly (200) is connected to a front cowl. The front cowl supports a wind shield, a head lamp, one or more side mirrors, etc. A front suspension extends from the front cowl and connects to a steering assembly of the vehicle (100). A floor board extends from a bottom portion of the front cowl along the frame assembly to a bottom portion of the rear portion (R) of the vehicle (100). The vehicle (100) is provided with a soft top.
[0043] The energy storage unit powers a plurality of electric components of the vehicle (100). The plurality of electronic control units (101a, 101b) controls one or more operation of the plurality of electric components of the vehicle (100). The plurality of electronic control units (101a, 101b) is disposed in a pre-defined region of the vehicle (100). The pre-defined region is below the step structure (304). The plurality of electronic control units (101a, 101b) is mounted using at least one of a first mounting member (201), and a second mounting member (202). This configuration ensures that the plurality of electronic control units (101a, 101b) is accessible only from the tail door and below the chassis of the vehicle (100) during the servicing or maintenance of the vehicle (100). The plurality of electric components of the vehicle (100) can also be placed near the leg room compartment for the passengers in a passenger vehicle layout making the access of the plurality of electric components from the outside of the vehicle (100) difficult. Therefore, this configuration also prevents theft of the plurality of electronic control units (101a, 101b). In one of the embodiment, the vehicle (100) is a passenger segment vehicle in which the step structure (304) starts from a location of a passenger seat and the pre-defined region is an interior of cabin assembly, below the passenger seat. In another embodiment, the vehicle (100) is a cargo vehicle. In the passenger segment vehicle, the vehicle (100) and corresponding portions of the frame assembly (200) are divided into a passenger and driver sections along a vertical plane. The vertical plane is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (A-A). The rear portion (R) of the passenger segment vehicle (100) is provided with a tail door which provides access to the plurality of electronic control units (101a, 101b). Further, the rear portion (R) of the passenger segment vehicle is provided with the utility space for keeping and storing items.
[0044] In the cargo vehicle, a driver compartment is provided in the front portion (F) of the vehicle (100). Further, a load deck is provided above the step structure (304). The step structure (304) starts from a location of a load deck. The load deck may be provided with an open top or in a closed compartment form. The pre-defined region is an interior of cabin assembly, but below the load deck. In yet another embodiment, the plurality of electronic control units (101a, 101b) is disposed below a utility space provided in the passenger segment vehicle.
[0045] The plurality of electronic control units (101a, 101b) comprises at least a first electronic control unit (101a) and a second electronic control unit (101b). The first electronic control unit (101a) is mounted using the first mounting member (201). The second electronic control unit (101b) is mounted using the first mounting member (201) and the second mounting member (202).
[0046] The plurality of long members (301, 302) comprises a first long member (301) and a second long member (302). The first long member (301) extends parallel to the longitudinal axis (A-A) on a first side of the vehicle (100) and the second long member (302) extends parallel to the longitudinal axis (A-A) on a second side of the vehicle (100). The plurality of cross members (303a, 303b, 303c) structurally connects the first long member (301) and the second long member (302) thereby forming the step structure (304) along with a vertical bend in the first long member (301) and the second long member (302). The first electronic control unit (101a) and the second electronic control unit (101b) are mounted in a central junction region (404) below the step structure (304). The first side and the second side of the vehicle (100) are the right side and the left side of the vehicle (100) respectively or vice versa.
[0047] The central junction region (404) lies in a proximity of the first long member (301). The central junction region (404) is equidistant from a front portion (F) of the vehicle (100) a rear portion (R) of the vehicle (100). This configuration ensures that the plurality of signal cables and the plurality of power cables are equally distributed in the front portion (F) and the rear portion (R) of the vehicle (100). This further prevents any power loss or signal loss in the plurality of signal cables and the plurality of power cables connecting the first electronic control unit (101a) and the second electronic control unit (101b) to the plurality of electric components in the vehicle (100).
[0048] The first electronic control unit (101a) and the second electronic control unit (101b) are placed off-set to each other, in a proximity to a propeller shaft. The propeller shaft is configured to connect a first rear wheel of the vehicle (100) to a right rear wheel of the vehicle (100). In a preferred embodiment, the first electronic control unit (101a) and the second electronic control unit (101b) are disposed in front of the rear wheel and a rear suspension assembly (405, shown in Figure 3). In another embodiment, the first electronic control unit (101a) and the second electronic control unit (101b) are disposed in between the motor (not shown) and a rear suspension assembly (405). In another embodiment, the disposition of the second electronic control unit (101b) is in line with an axis of the rear wheel. In yet another embodiment, the first electronic control unit (101a) and the second electronic control unit (101b) are disposed above a propeller shaft connecting the rear wheels of the vehicle (100). The first electronic control unit (101a) and the second electronic control unit (101b) are disposed in between the first long member (301) and an auxiliary battery of the vehicle. The first electronic control unit (101a) is covered by a vertical arm of the step structure (304). In an alternative embodiment, the first electronic control unit (101a) is disposed under a cabin mounting bracket.
[0049] The plurality of cross members (303a, 303b, 303c) comprises a first cross member (303a), and a second cross member (303b). The first cross member (303a) is mounted with the first electronic control unit (101a). The second cross member (303b) is mounted with the second electronic control unit (101b). The first cross member (303a) is disposed in a front direction with respect to the second cross member (303b).
[0050] A distance between the first electronic control unit (101a) and the second electronic control unit (101b) upon being mounted on one or more of the plurality of cross members (303a, 303b, 303c) is in the range of 300mm to 350mm. In a preferred embodiment, a difference in height between height of the first electronic control unit (101a) and the second electronic control unit (101b) upon being mounted is 80 mm and the first electronic control unit (101a) is mounted 150mm above a floor board of the vehicle (100). This configuration ensures sufficient clearance between the first electronic control unit (101a) and the second electronic control unit (101b) as well as sufficient clearance from the ground and surrounding components. The second electronic control unit (101b) is disposed behind the first electronic control unit (101a), along a linear axis. Therefore, any rubbing of cables or damage to the first electronic control unit (101a) and the second electronic control unit (101b) from vibrations and accidental impacts is avoided. Further, length of the plurality of signal cable required to communicatively couple the first electronic control unit (101a) to the second electronic control unit (101b) is also reduced. This also reduces signal loss.
[0051] In a preferred embodiment, the first electronic control unit (101a) is a vehicle control unit and the second electronic control unit (101b) is a motor control unit. However, the present invention can also be worked with the Telematics Control unit and the Body Control Unit.The vehicle control unit and the motor control unit are IP67 compliant i.e., external elements, rain water, dust and mud ingress do not damage the internal electronics of the vehicle control unit and the motor control unit. In a preferred embodiment, the vehicle control unit serves as a communication unit and it does not involve any power electronics. Therefore, the vehicle control unit is smaller in size and lighter in weight. The vehicle control unit is interlinked with the energy storage unit, speedometer, ignition, motor control unit and other components of the vehicle (100). The vehicle control unit receives input like throttle, region, power & ECO mode, vehicle direction change input, charging and State of Charge etc. through CAN system.
[0052] In another embodiment, the motor control unit is used for communication purposes only thereby the plurality of signal cables is connected to the motor control unit while none of the plurality of power cables is connected to the motor control unit. The disclosed configuration further prevents arcing as connection between the plurality of power cables in the vicinity of the motor control unit is avoided. The motor control unit is also communicatively coupled with the vehicle control unit. The motor control unit receives the input regarding battery characteristics from the vehicle control unit. The motor control unit receives input like throttle position, brake input, ignition input, cruise control or hazard stop input, mode selection input, reverse input etc. and transmit it to the motor. While the inputs like the motor temperature, operating torque, fault code, etc. transmitted from the motor to the motor control unit. Therefore, the motor control unit is connected with the motor by a two-way communication channel. In a preferred embodiment, the motor control unit comprises a DC-DC converter for converting the battery voltage (48V) to the accessory voltage (12V or 5V).
[0053] The plurality of electronic control units (101a, 101b) communicates with the plurality of electric components of the vehicle (100) through a plurality of signal cables. The plurality of signal cables transmits signals between the plurality of electronic control unit (101a, 101b) and the plurality of electric components for communication. The energy storage unit powers the plurality of electric components of the vehicle (100) by transmitting a current through a plurality of power cables. The plurality of signal cables and the plurality of power cables are installed in a plurality of configurations. The plurality of configurations comprises a first configuration and a second configuration
[0054] In a first configuration, the plurality of signal cables is installed in a proximity of a first long member (301) of the plurality of long members (301, 302). The plurality of power cables is installed in a proximity of a second long member (302) of the plurality of long members (301, 302). In second configuration, the plurality of signal cables is installed in a proximity of a second long member (302) of the plurality of long members (301, 302). The plurality of power cables is installed in a proximity of a first long member (301) of the plurality of long members (301, 302). In order to avoid any rubbing or damage of the plurality of signal cable through the suspension, through accidental impact or environmental factors, the plurality of signal cables is routed on the inner side of the vehicle (100). This configuration also ensures ease of accessibility of the cables for future servicing and maintenance purposes as they are easily accessible from beneath the chassis or the step structure (304) or by removing seat.
[0055] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to an embodiment of first mounting member (201). However, the disclosed invention is not limited to the present embodiments. The embodiments shown in Figure 5a, Figure 5b and Figure 6 are taken together for discussion. Figure 5a illustrates a side perspective view of the first mounting member (201) from a first side of the first mounting member (201). Figure 5b illustrates a side perspective view of the first mounting member (201) from a second side of the first mounting member (201). Figure 6 illustrates a mounting of the first electronic control unit (101a) using the first mounting member (201).
[0056] The first mounting member (201) comprises a first mounting portion (201a) and at least one first flange portion (201b). The first mounting portion (201a) comprises at least one first slanting edge (201E), at least one first edge (201NE), and a plurality of first mounting holes (201h). The plurality of first mounting holes (201h) is provided along the at least one first slanting edge (201E). The plurality of first mounting holes (201h) enables a detachable attachment of the first electronic control unit (101a) to the first mounting portion (201a). The at least one first flange portion (201b) is connected to the at least one first edge (201NE) of the first mounting portion (201a) through a first connecting portion (201c). The first connecting portion (201c) extends at an angle from the at least one first edge (201NE) of the first mounting portion (201a) thereby aligning the at least one first flange portion (201b) to be parallelly offset to the first mounting portion (201a). The at least one first flange portion (201b) is attached to the first cross member (303a) of the frame assembly (200). In one embodiment, the at least one first edge (201NE) is a non-slanting edge. Therefore, the at least one first edge (201NE) can easily be differentiated from the at least one first slanting edge (201E) which ensures that the first electronic control unit (101a) is mounted in correct orientation. An orientation of the first electronic control unit (101a) is perpendicular the longitudinal axis (A-A) of the vehicle (100). The at least one first slanting edge (201E) serves the purpose of poka-yoke in order to the assembly process error free. Since, the at least one first edge (201NE) can easily be differentiated from the at least one first slanting edge (201E), any mistake in assembly process can easily be detected and corrected immediately. Therefore, eliminating defects at the source.
[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the first connecting portion (201c) extends at a right angle from the at least one first edge (201NE) in order to increase the distance between the first electronic control unit (101a) and one of the plurality of cross members (303 a, 303b, 303c). This configuration minimizes any transmittance of vibrations, jerks or sudden impact from the one of the plurality of cross members (303 a, 303b, 303c) to the first electronic control unit (101a). Therefore, any damage to the first electronic control unit (101a) is prevented.
[0058] The at least one first flange portion (201b) is fixedly attached to at least one of the plurality of cross members (303 a, 303b, 303c) of the frame assembly (200). In a preferred embodiment, welding is used for fixedly attaching the at least one first flange portion (201b) to one of the plurality of cross members (303 a, 303b, 303c).
[0059] The first electronic control unit (101a) comprises a first protrusion (102a). The first protrusion (102a) is provided with a plurality of first mounting openings (103a). A placement of the plurality of first mounting openings (103a) on the first protrusion (102a) conforms with at least one of a placement of the plurality of first mounting holes (201h) on the first mounting portion (201a) and a placement of a plurality of second mounting holes (202h). The plurality of first mounting openings (103a) aligns with the plurality of first mounting holes (201h) in order to receive a plurality of first fastening members (401). In one of the embodiments, the plurality of first fastening members (401) are a pair of nut and bolt.
[0060] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to an embodiment of a second mounting member (202), along with the accompanying drawings. However, the disclosed invention is not limited to the present embodiments. The embodiments shown in Figure 7 and Figure 8 are taken together for discussion. Figure 7 illustrates a side perspective view of the second mounting member (202). Figure 8 illustrates a mounting of the second electronic control unit (101b) using the first mounting member (201) and the second mounting member (202).
[0061] The second mounting member (202) comprises a second mounting portion (202a), and at least one second flange portion (202b). The second mounting portion (202a) comprises at least one second slanting edge (202E) and at least one second edge (202NE). The second mounting portion (202a) is provided with a plurality of second mounting holes (202h) along the at least one second slanting edge (202E) of the second mounting portion (202a). The plurality of second mounting holes (202h) enables a detachable attachment of the second electronic control unit (101b) to the second mounting portion (202a). The at least one second flange portion (202b) is connected to the least one second edge (202NE) of the second mounting portion (202a) through a second connecting portion (202c). The second connecting portion (202c) extends at an angle from the at least one second edge (202NE) of the second mounting portion (202a) thereby aligning the at least one second flange portion (202b) parallelly offset to the second mounting portion (202a).
[0062] In one embodiment, the at least one second slanting edge (202E) is a non-slanting edge. Therefore, the least one second edge (202NE) can easily be differentiated from at least one second slanting edge (202E) which ensures that the second electronic control unit (101b) is mounted in correct orientation. An orientation of the second electronic control unit (101b) is perpendicular the longitudinal axis (A-A) of the vehicle (100). The at least one second slanting edge (202E) serves the purpose of poka-yoke in order to the assembly process error free. Since, the least one second edge (202NE) can easily be differentiated from the at least one second slanting edge (202E), any mistake in assembly process can easily be detected and corrected immediately. Therefore, eliminating defects at the source.
[0063] In a preferred embodiment, the second connecting portion (202c) extends at a right angle from the at least one second edge (202NE) in order to increase the distance between the second electronic control unit (101b) and second cross members (303b). This configuration minimizes any transmittance of vibrations, jerks or sudden impact from the one of the second cross member (303b) to the second electronic control unit (101b). Therefore, any damage to the second electronic control unit (101b) is prevented. Additionally, avoids any form of interference with disposition of the motor of the vehicle.
[0064] In a preferred embodiment, the at least one second flange portion (202b) is detachably attached to the first mounting member (201). Therefore, the second mounting member (202) acts as extended member in order to further enhance the adaptability of the first mounting member (201) for plurality of electronic control units (101a, 101b) of different sizes. The second mounting member (202) provides sufficient clearance from the heat, resonance and vibration from the motor itself. Further, the second mounting member (202) facilitate the access of the second electronic control unit (101b) from the tail door, as the second electronic control unit (101b) requires frequent servicing.
[0065] The second electronic control unit (101b) comprises a second protrusion (102b). The second protrusion (102b) is provided with a plurality of second mounting openings (103b). A placement of the plurality of second mounting openings (103b) on the second protrusion (102b) conforms with a placement of at least one of a plurality of first mounting holes (201h) and a placement of the plurality of second mounting holes (202h) on the second mounting portion (202a). The plurality of second mounting openings (103b) aligns with the plurality of second mounting holes (202h) in order to receive a plurality of second fastening members (402).
[0066] The at least one second flange portion (202b) is provided with a plurality of third mounting holes (202d). A placement of the plurality of third mounting holes (202d) on the at least one second flange portion (202b) conforms with a placement of the plurality of first mounting holes (201h) on the first mounting portion (201a). The plurality of third mounting holes (202d) aligns with the plurality of first mounting holes (201h) in order to receive a plurality of third fastening members (403). In a preferred embodiment, the plurality of second fastening members (402) and the plurality of third fastening members (403) are pair of nut and bolt.
[0067] The present invention ensures that the plurality of electronic control units (101a, 101b) is easily accessible at the time of maintenance and servicing while ensuring the safety of the plurality of electronic control units (101a, 101b) from theft. Since the present configuration avoids the need for integrated controllers, this provides safety to the electronic control unit so that failure in one does not cause failure in the other control unit. Thus, this invention also improves serviceability in case of failure of the electronic unit. Optimization of available space is enhanced as the utility space above the chassis remains unaffected. Assembly process becomes less time consuming and error free. Further, the first mounting member (201) and the second mounting member (202) prevents the plurality of electronic control units (101a, 101b) from damages due to heat, vibration from the motor and sudden jerk and accidental impact. The layout of the vehicle (100) ensures that the plurality of power cables and the plurality of signal cables are evenly distributed in the front and rear of the vehicle (100). Therefore, preventing any power loss and signal loss. Further, the segregation of the plurality of power cables from the plurality of signal cables reduces the tendency of arcing.
[0068] The present disclosed invention relates to a vehicle (100) with a plurality of electronic control units (101a, 101b). The present invention also discloses first mounting member (201) and a second mounting member (202) for mounting of the plurality of electronic control units (101a, 101b) in the vehicle (100). The disclosed invention can be worked upon with the electric vehicles as well as hybrid vehicles. Embodiments illustrated in the present invention relates to a three-wheeled vehicle. However, the present invention can also be worked with the four-wheeled vehicles for both passenger variant and cargo variant. Further, the disclosed invention is not limited to the aforementioned embodiments. For example, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “they” can include plural referents unless the content clearly indicates otherwise. Further, when introducing elements/components/etc. of the assembly/system described and/or illustrated herein, the articles “a”, “an”, “the”, and “said” are intended to mean that there is one or more of the element(s)/component(s)/etc. The terms “comprising”, “including”, and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional element(s)/component(s)/etc. other than the listed element(s)/component(s)/etc.
[0069] This written description uses examples to provide details on the disclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, including making and using any devices or systems. The scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.
[0070] It is to be understood that the aspects of the embodiments are not necessarily limited to the features described herein. Many modifications and variations of the present subject matter are possible in the light of above disclosure.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS
100
101a
101b
102a
102b
103a
103b
200 Vehicle
First Electronic Control Unit
Second Electronic Control Unit
First Protrusion
Second Protrusion
First Mounting Openings
Second Mounting Openings
Frame Assembly
201
201a
201E
201NE
201h
201b
201c
202
202a
202b
202c
202d
202E
202NE
301
302
303a, 303b, 303c
303a
303b
303c
304
401
402
403
404
405 First Mounting Member
First Mounting Portion
First Slanting Edge
First Edge
First Mounting Holes
First Flange Portion
First Connecting Portion
Second Mounting Member
Second Mounting Portion
Second Flange Portion
Second Connecting Portion
Third Mounting Holes
Second Slanting Edge
Second Edge
First Long Member
Second Long Member
A Plurality of Cross Members
First Cross Member
Second Cross Member
Third Cross Member
Step Structure
First Fastening Members
Second Fastening Members
Third Fastening Members
Central Junction Region
Rear Suspension Assembly

, Claims:We Claim:
1. A vehicle (100), the vehicle (100) comprising:
a frame assembly (200), the frame assembly (200) providing a structural support to the vehicle (100), the frame assembly (200) comprising:
a plurality of long members (301, 302), the plurality of long members (301, 302) extending from a front portion (F) of the vehicle (100) to a rear portion (R) of the vehicle (100) along a longitudinal axis (A-A) of the vehicle (100), and the plurality of long members (301, 302) being bent vertically to form a step structure (304); and
a plurality of cross members (303a, 303b, 303c), the plurality of cross members (303a, 303b, 303c) being configured to connect the plurality of long members (301, 302) in a vehicle width direction;
an energy storage unit, the energy storage unit being configured to power a plurality of electric components of the vehicle (100);
a plurality of electronic control units (101a, 101b), the plurality of electronic control units (101a, 101b) being configured to control one or more operation of the plurality of electric components of the vehicle (100), the plurality of plurality of electronic control units (101a, 101b) being disposed in a pre-defined region of the vehicle (100), the pre-defined region being below the step structure (304), and the plurality of electronic control units (101a, 101b) being mounted using at least one of a first mounting member (201) and a second mounting member (202).
2. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of electronic control units (101a, 101b) comprises a first electronic control unit (101a) and a second electronic control unit (101b), the first electronic control unit (101a) being mounted using the first mounting member (201) and the second electronic control unit (101b) being mounted using the first mounting member (201) and the second mounting member (202).
3. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the first mounting member (201) comprising:
a first mounting portion (201a), the first mounting portion (201a) comprising:
at least one first slanting edge (201E);
at least one first edge (201NE); and
a plurality of first mounting holes (201h) along the at least one first slanting edge (201E), the plurality of first mounting holes (201h) being configured to enable a detachable attachment of the first electronic control unit (101a) to the first mounting portion (201a); and
at least one first flange portion (201b), the at least one first flange portion (201b) being connected to the at least one first edge (201NE) of the first mounting portion (201a) through a first connecting portion (201c), the first connecting portion (201c) being extended at an angle from the at least one first edge (201NE) of the first mounting portion (201a) thereby aligning the at least one first flange portion (201b) to be parallelly offset to the first mounting portion (201a), the at least one first flange portion (201b) being configured to be attached to one of the plurality of cross members (303a, 303b, 303c) of the frame assembly (200).
4. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein:
the plurality of long members (301, 302) comprises a first long member (301) and a second long member (302);
the first long member (301) extending parallel to the longitudinal axis (A-A) on a first side of the vehicle (100) and the second long member (302) extending parallel to the longitudinal axis (A-A) on a second side of the vehicle (100);
the plurality of cross members (303a, 303b, 303c) structurally connecting the first long member (301) and the second long member (302) thereby forming the step structure (304) along with a vertical bend in the first long member (301) and the second long member (302); and
the first electronic control unit (101a) and the second electronic control unit (101b) being mounted in a central junction region (404) below the step structure (304).
5. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second mounting member (202) comprising:
a second mounting portion (202a), the second mounting portion (202a) comprising at least one second slanting edge (202E) and at least one second edge (202NE), the second mounting portion (202a) being provided with a plurality of second mounting holes (202h) along the at least one second slanting edge (202E) of the second mounting portion (202a), the plurality of second mounting holes (202h) being configured to enable a detachable attachment of the second electronic control unit (101b) to the second mounting portion (202a); and
at least one second flange portion (202b), the at least one second flange portion (202b) being connected to the least one second edge (202NE) of the second mounting portion (202a) through a second connecting portion (202c), the second connecting portion (202c) being extended at an angle from the at least one second edge (202NE) of the second mounting portion (202a) thereby aligning the at least one second flange portion (202b) parallelly offset to the second mounting portion (202a).
6. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the at least one second flange portion (202b) being configured to be detachably attached to the first mounting member (201) by using a plurality of third fastening members (403) through a plurality of third mounting holes (202d), the plurality of third mounting holes (202d) being provided on the at least one second flange portion (202b).
7. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the first electronic control unit (101a) comprising a first protrusion (102a), the first protrusion (102a) being provided with a plurality of first mounting openings (103a), a placement of the plurality of first mounting openings (103a) on the first protrusion (102a) conforming with a placement of at least one of the plurality of first mounting holes (201h) on the first mounting portion (201a) and a placement of a plurality of second mounting holes (202h), the plurality of first mounting openings (103a) being configured to align with the plurality of first mounting holes (201h) in order to receive a plurality of first fastening members (401).
8. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the second electronic control unit (101b) comprising a second protrusion (102b), the second protrusion (102b) being provided with a plurality of second mounting openings (103b), a placement of the plurality of second mounting openings (103b) on the second protrusion (102b) conforming with a placement of at least one of a plurality of first mounting holes (201h) and a placement of the plurality of second mounting holes (202h) on the second mounting portion (202a), the plurality of second mounting openings (103b) being configured to align with the plurality of second mounting holes (202h) in order to receive a plurality of second fastening members (402).
9. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the at least one second flange portion (202b) being provided with a plurality of third mounting holes (202d), a placement of the plurality of third mounting holes (202d) on the at least one second flange portion (202b) conforming with a placement of a plurality of first mounting holes (201h) on a first mounting portion (201a), the plurality of third mounting holes (202d) being configured to align with the plurality of first mounting holes (201h) in order to receive a plurality of third fastening members (403).
10. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the central junction region (404) lying in a proximity of the first long member (301), and the central junction region (404) being equidistant from the front portion (F) of the vehicle (100) and a rear portion (R) of the vehicle (100).
11. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the first electronic control unit (101a) and the second electronic control unit (101b) being placed off-set to each other in a proximity to a propeller shaft, the propeller shaft being configured to connect a first rear wheel of the vehicle (100) to a right rear wheel of the vehicle (100).
12. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein a distance between the first electronic control unit (101a) and the second electronic control unit (101b) upon being mounted on one or more of the plurality of cross members (303a, 303b, 303c) being in the range of 300mm to 350mm.
13. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the plurality of cross members (303a, 303b, 303c) comprising:
a first cross member (303a), the first cross member (303a) being mounted with the first electronic control unit (101a); and
a second cross member (303b) the second cross member (303b) being mounted with the second electronic control unit (101b), and the first cross member (303a) being disposed in a front direction with respect to the second cross member (303b).
14. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein
the plurality of electronic control units (101a, 101b) being configured to communicate with the plurality of electric components of the vehicle (100) through a plurality of signal cables;
the energy storage unit being configured to power the plurality of electric components of the vehicle (100) by transmitting a current through a plurality of power cables;
the plurality of signal cables and the plurality of power cables being installed one of a plurality of configurations, the plurality of configurations comprising:
a first configuration and a second configuration;
the first configuration comprising the plurality of signal cables being installed in a proximity of a first long member (301) of the plurality of long members (301, 302) and the plurality of power cables being installed in a proximity of a second long member (302) of the plurality of long members (301, 302); and
the second configuration comprising the plurality of signal cables being installed in a proximity of a second long member (302) of the plurality of long members (301, 302) and the plurality of power cables being installed in a proximity of a first long member (301) of the plurality of long members (301, 302).
15. A first mounting member (201), the first mounting member (201) being configured to mount a first electronic control unit (101a) to at least one of a plurality of cross members (303a, 303b, 303c), the first mounting member (201) comprising:
a first mounting portion (201a), the first mounting portion (201a) comprising at least one first slanting edge (201E) and at least one first edge (201NE), the first mounting portion (201a) being provided with a plurality of first mounting holes (201h) along the at least one first slanting edge (201E) of the first mounting portion (201a), the plurality of first mounting holes (201h) being configured to enable a detachable attachment of the first electronic control unit (101a) to the first mounting portion (201a); and
at least one first flange portion (201b), the at least one first flange portion (201b) being connected to the at least one first edge (201NE) of the first mounting portion (201a) through a first connecting portion (201c), the first connecting portion (201c) being extended at an angle from the at least one first edge (201NE) of the first mounting portion (201a) thereby aligning the at least one first flange portion (201b) parallelly offset to the first mounting portion (201a), the at least one first flange portion (201b) being configured to be attached to a frame assembly (200) of the vehicle (100).
16. The first mounting member (201) as claimed in claim 15, wherein the first electronic control unit (101a) comprising a first protrusion (102a), the first protrusion (102a) being provided with a plurality of first mounting openings (103a), a placement of the plurality of first mounting openings (103a) on the first protrusion (102a) conforming with a placement of the plurality of first mounting holes (201h) on first mounting portion (201a), the plurality of first mounting openings (103a) being configured to align with the plurality of first mounting holes (201h) in order to receive a plurality of first fastening members (401).
17. A second mounting member (202), the second mounting member (202) being configured to mount a second electronic control unit (101b) on first mounting member (201), the first mounting member (201) being configured to be attached to a frame assembly (200) of the vehicle (100), the second mounting member (202) comprising:
a second mounting portion (202a), the second mounting portion (202a) comprising at least one second slanting edge (202E) and at least one second edge (202NE), the second mounting portion (202a) being provided with a plurality of second mounting holes (202h) along the at least one second slanting edge (202E) of the second mounting portion (202a), the plurality of second mounting holes (202h) being configured to enable a detachable attachment of the second electronic control unit (101b) to the second mounting portion (202a);
at least one second flange portion (202b), the at least one second flange portion (202b) being connected to the at least one second edge (202NE) of the second mounting portion (202a) through a second connecting portion (202c), the second connecting portion (202c) being extended at an angle from the at least one second edge (202NE) of the second mounting portion (202a) thereby aligning the at least one second flange portion (202b) parallelly offset to the second mounting portion (202a).
18. The second mounting member (202) as claimed in claim 17, wherein the second electronic control unit (101b) comprising a second protrusion (102b), the second protrusion (102b) being provided with a plurality of second mounting openings (103b), a placement of the plurality of second mounting openings (103b) on the second protrusion (102b) conforming with a placement of at least one of the plurality of second mounting holes (202h) on second mounting portion (202a) and a placement of a plurality of first mounting holes (201h), the plurality of first mounting holes (201h) being provided on a first mounting portion (201a) of the first mounting member (201), the plurality of second mounting openings (103b) being configured to align with the plurality of second mounting holes (202h) in order to receive a plurality of second fastening members (402).
19. The second mounting member (202) as claimed in claim 17, wherein the at least one second flange portion (202b) being provided with a plurality of third mounting holes (202d), a placement of the plurality of third mounting holes (202d) on the at least one second flange portion (202b) conforming with a placement of a plurality of first mounting holes (201h), the plurality of first mounting holes (201h) being provided on a first mounting portion (201a) of the first mounting member (201), the plurality of third mounting holes (202d) being configured to align with the plurality of first mounting holes (201h) in order to receive a plurality of third fastening members (403).

Dated this 3rd day of November, 2023

(Digitally Signed)
Sudarshan Singh Shekhawat
IN/PA-1611
Agent for the Applicant