Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[001] The present invention relates to a vehicle, more particularly relates to disposition of an integrated Electronic Control Unit (ECU) of the vehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[002] Typically, an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) is an essential component in vehicles, for example, in a saddle-type vehicle the ECU is accountable for management and control of various electronic systems. The primary purpose of the ECU is to guarantee an optimal performance, efficiency, and safety while ensuring optimal performance. The ECUs are found in modern saddle-type vehicles, and each one is responsible for a different function. The ECUs are dedicated to different aspects of the saddle-type vehicle's operation. This complex network of controllers is designed to meticulously oversee specific functions. The ECUs comprise a number of different units, including the Engine Control Unit (ECU), a Transmission Control Unit (TCU), an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - ECU, and others. Herein, the ECU’s which can perform multiple functions such as those mentioned above are known as Integrated ECU. The integrated ECU requires special consideration while mounting onto a frame member of the vehicle.
[003] Traditionally, within the design framework of saddle-type vehicles, the positioning of style panels tends to be in closer proximity to the frame member when compared to other panels. The proximity poses a notable challenge in identifying an optimal location for packaging the Integrated ECU. The inherent difficulty arises due to spatial constraints, limiting available areas for the secure integration of the ECU without compromising the overall aesthetics and functionality of the vehicle. This technical constraint necessitates innovative solutions to strategically position and package the ECU within the vehicle architecture, addressing the challenges posed by the conventional arrangement of style panels in close proximity to the frame member of the vehicle.
[004] The conventional locations within the vehicle architecture where the integrated ECU is mounted include, but not limited to, firstly, near a battery compartment. Placing the Integrated ECU near the battery compartment facilitates efficient power supply management. This location may ensure a shorter wiring distance, minimizing voltage drops and optimizing electrical performance. Secondly, near an engine compartment. Proximity to the engine compartment is chosen for ease of connection to critical engine control systems. It reduces signal interference and enhances the speed of communication between the Integrated ECU and various engine components.
[005] However, due to the fact that the majority of the engine's hot air is directed towards the integrated ECU, the cooling of the ECU is negatively impacted, resulting in the ECU becoming less efficient. Further, the packaging of integrated ECU should be designed in such a manner that it prevents theft or to prevent unauthorized access from the outside.
[006] Thus, it is of utmost importance to package the integrated ECU in such a manner that it receives a natural air at a temperature of the surrounding environment at all times, without needing additional mounting arrangements or enclosures while simultaneously offering a user a highest possible level of comfort or utility and improved aesthetics.
[007] Furthermore, positioning of body panels of the vehicle closer to the frame member for mounting integrated ECU restricts available space within the saddle-type vehicle’s architecture. This makes it difficult to find optimal locations for mounting other essential electronic components of the vehicle. This limitation can pose obstacles in terms of an efficient use of space and may impact the overall design and functionality of the saddle-type vehicle.
[008] Addressing these challenges in the prior art could involve finding innovative solutions for placement of the ECU within the constraints imposed by the proximity of panels to the frame member, ensuring effective utilization of available space while maintaining the desired aesthetic and functional aspects of the saddle-type type vehicle.
[009] In view of the above, there is a need for a vehicle with an integrated ECU and disposition of an integrated Electronic Control Unit (ECU) of the vehicle to overcome one or more limitations stated above.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[010] Reference will be made to embodiments of the invention, examples of which may be illustrated in accompanying figures. These figures are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Although the invention is generally described in context of these embodiments, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to these particular embodiments.
Figure 1 shows a bottom perspective view of a front portion of a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 shows a side view of the vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 3 shows a magnified view of a portion “A” shown in Figure 2, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the vehicle shown in Figure 2, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 5 a magnified view of a portion “B” shown in Figure 4, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 6 shows a top perspective view of a middle portion of the vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figures 7 and 8 show perspective views of the middle portion of the vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figures 9 – 12 shows various views of an assembly of a stay member with an integrated ECU, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[011] In one aspect, the present invention relates to a vehicle. The vehicle comprises a frame member extending in a front-rear direction of the vehicle. The frame member comprises one or more portions for mounting one or more components of the vehicle. The vehicle further comprises an engine. The engine is mounted onto the frame member. The vehicle further comprises the one or more components comprising an electronic unit. The electronic unit is disposed at the one or more portions of the frame member and distant from the engine of the vehicle.
[012] In an embodiment, the one or more portions of the frame member comprises a front portion, a middle portion extending from the front portion and a rear portion extending from the middle portion. The front portion comprises a junction formed by a steering tube, a main tube, and a horizontal member.
[013] In a further embodiment, the junction at the front portion comprises a gusset member such that a space is formed between the gusset member and a shroud of a fuel tank of the vehicle.
[014] In a further embodiment, the electronic unit is an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) of the vehicle. The ECU is disposed in the space and connected to the gusset member.
[015] In a further embodiment, the ECU comprises a substantially flat surface which is parallel to an outer surface of the gusset member.
[016] In a further embodiment, the ECU is disposed at a front of the engine and offset from the engine, whereby hot air from the engine towards the ECU is reduced.
[017] In a further embodiment, the ECU is disposed at the middle portion of the frame member and below a seat member of the vehicle, whereby hot air from the engine towards the ECU is reduced.
[018] In a further embodiment, the frame member comprises a pair of side frame members extending longitudinally from the front portion to the rear portion. The pair of side frame members is connected with a stay member.
[019] In a further embodiment, the stay member comprises one or more apertures. The one or more apertures is configured to receive one or more fastening elements for connecting the ECU with the stay member.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[020] The present invention relates to a vehicle, more particularly relates to disposition of an integrated Electronic Control Unit (ECU) of the vehicle. In an embodiment, the vehicle can be, but not limited to, a hybrid vehicle. In an embodiment, the vehicle can be a two-wheeled vehicle, a three-wheeled vehicle, or a multi-wheeled vehicle.
[021] In accordance with the present invention, the integrated ECU is disposed onto a frame member of the saddle-type vehicle. The integration includes mounting onto the vehicle which can be done in two locations which are: Firstly, the frame member of the saddle-type vehicle comprises a front portion, a middle portion, and a rear portion. The front portion has a junction at a handlebar tube (steering tube), a main tube extending downwards and a horizontal member extending in a vehicle front-rear direction. The horizontal member is configured to mount a fuel tank, where the fuel tank has a fuel tank shroud. The junction of the handlebar tube, the main tube extending downwards and the horizontal member extending in the vehicle front-rear direction comprises a steering gusset bracket (junction bracket) such that there is a space available in between the junction bracket and the fuel tank shroud.
[022] In an embodiment, the ECU is located in the space available between the junction bracket and the fuel tank shroud. Further, this space is towards the front portion of the vehicle such that the location of the ECU is in front of the engine having offset. The offset ensures there is reduced movement of hot air flowing from the engine towards the ECU resulting in effective cooling.
[023] Furthermore, the ECU is located next to the handlebar tube and in an orientation such that the surface of the space available between the junction bracket and the fuel tank shroud, where the ECU is located is predominantly flat and parallel to the steering gusset (junction bracket). The positioning ensures that the fuel tank shroud, a fuel tank inner surface, a fuel tank volume, a deflector, and other nearby components are subjected to the least amount of impact possible.
[024] Secondly, the integrated ECU is mounted below seat member of the vehicle. The mounting is done using the frame member of the vehicle and is directly mounting onto it while using fastening members. The mounting of integrated ECU does not need any additional enclosures or storage space required to accommodate the ECU. In the frame member of the vehicle, the structural elements comprise two prominent side members extending longitudinally from the front portion to the rear portion of the vehicle. Thus, ensuring structural stability, a supporting member is strategically integrated to connect these two side members, effectively joining them into a cohesive frame member. The supporting member plays a pivotal role in enhancing the structural integrity and overall strength of the frame member of the vehicle.
[025] The supporting member, which serves as a critical component in this configuration, is equipped with strategically positioned apertures. These apertures are designed to serve as mounting points for the integrated ECU. The utilization of apertures allows for the implementation of fastening members, such as bolts or screws, to securely affix the ECU onto the supporting member. This meticulous mounting design ensures a robust connection between the ECU and the frame member. This placement of ECU is achieved involving a secure attachment on the frame, ensuring stability and resistance to vibrations inherent in vehicular operation. In order to ensure the safest possible ISG (Idle stop and Go), machine routing, decreased wiring harness length and proper load distribution the integrated ECU is situated below the seat member of the vehicle.
[026] Figure 1 illustrates a bottom perspective view of a front portion 12A of a frame member 12 of a vehicle 10, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the illustrated embodiment as shown in Figures 2 and 4, the frame member 12 of the vehicle 10 made of one or more frame elements which may be of hollow metaling structure and forms a structural member for accommodating one or more components of the vehicle 10. In an exemplary embodiment, the vehicle 10 is a two-wheeled type vehicle or a saddle-type vehicle. The terms “vehicle” and “two-wheeled vehicle” as used herein are interchangeably used in this disclosure. However, both the terms “vehicle” and “two-wheeled vehicle” are one and the same. The term “vehicle” may be used in place of “two-wheeled vehicle” more often for brevity.
[027] As illustrated in Figures 2 and 4, the two-wheeled vehicle 10 comprises an Internal Combustion (IC) engine 14. In the illustrated embodiments, the IC engine 14 is vertically disposed. However, it should be understood that the illustrated embodiment of vertically disposed IC engine 14 is exemplary only and it is not meant to be limiting the scope of the present invention. Further, in the illustrated embodiment shown in Figures 1, 2 and 4, the IC engine 14 is a single-cylinder type IC engine. However, in some other embodiment, the IC engine 14 may be, but not limited to, a twin-cylinder or multi-cylinder type IC engine. Thus, the single-cylinder type IC engine illustrated in the present disclosure should not be meant to limit the scope of the present invention. The terms “Internal Combustion (IC) engine” and “engine” are interchangeably used in the present disclosure.
[028] In the illustrated embodiments, the engine 14 is mounted onto the frame member 12 of the vehicle 10. The engine 14 transmits mechanical energy to the wheels (not shown) through a prime mover (not shown), thereby enabling propulsion of the vehicle 10. In an embodiment the prime mover can be the crankshaft of the vehicle 10.
[029] In an embodiment, the frame member 12 of the vehicle 10 extends extending in a front-rear direction “F-R” of the vehicle 10. In some embodiments, the frame member 12 is also called as a “chassis” of the vehicle 10, which forms a structural load bearing member for the vehicle 10 and also configured to accommodate the one or more components of the vehicle. The frame member 12 comprises one or more portions 12A, 12B, 12C for mounting the one or more components of the vehicle 10. In some embodiments, the one or more components of the vehicle 10 may include, but not limited to, a front wheel (not shown), a rear wheel (not shown), a seat member 30 and a fuel tank 28. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the one or more components comprises an electronic unit 16.
[030] In an exemplary embodiment, the electronic unit 16 is an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) of the vehicle 10. In some embodiment, the ECU may also be referred as an integrated ECU. The Integrated ECU represents a technological advancement in vehicle electronics, consolidating multiple control functions into a single unit for enhanced efficiency. These multifunctional ECUs often encompass functionalities such as engine control, transmission management, and other critical systems within the vehicle 10. The seamless integration of diverse functions into one module streamlines the communication and improves the overall responsiveness of the vehicle's electronic systems. The correct location for mounting the Integrated ECU within the vehicle is crucial for ensuring optimal functioning. Proper placement of the ECU contributes to efficient heat dissipation, protects against external environmental factors, and minimizes potential interference with other vehicle components. The strategic positioning of the Integrated ECU within the vehicle's architecture is fundamental to its performance, reliability, and the seamless orchestration of various control functions.
[031] In an embodiment, the electronic unit 16, i.e., the integrated ECU is disposed at the one or more portions 12A, 12B, 12C of the frame member 12 and distant from the engine 14 of the vehicle 10. The term “distant” as used herein is defined as a location on the frame member 12 of the vehicle 10 which is located at distance from the engine 14, such that hot air from the engine 14 is not directed onto the integrated ECU. In an exemplary embodiment, the one or more portions of the frame member 12 comprises a front portion 12A, a middle portion 12B extending from the front portion 12A and a rear portion 12C extending from the middle portion 12B.
[032] In an embodiment, the front portion 12A comprises a junction “J” formed by a steering tube 18, a main tube 20, and a horizontal member 22. The junction “J” at the front portion 12A comprises a gusset member 24 such that a space “S” is formed between the gusset member 24 and a shroud 26 of a fuel tank 28 of the vehicle 10. The ECU is disposed in the space “S” and connected to the gusset member 24. The ECU comprises a substantially flat surface 16A which is parallel to an outer surface 24A of the gusset member 24. The term “substantially” as used herein would mean that the surface 16A may not be fully flat, the surface 16A may be slightly have a non-flat surface. However, the surface 16A is parallel to the outer surface 24A of the gusset member 24.
[033] In some embodiments, the ECU is disposed at a front of the engine 14 and offset from the engine 14, whereby hot air from the engine 14 towards the ECU is reduced.
[034] In the illustrated embodiments shown in Figures 6 – 8, the frame member 12 comprises a pair of side frame members 12S extending longitudinally from the front portion 12A to the rear portion 12C. The pair of side frame members 12S is connected with a stay member 32. The stay member 32 comprises one or more apertures 32A. The one or more apertures 32 are configured to receive one or more fastening elements 34 for connecting the ECU with the stay member 32.
[035] In some embodiments as shown in Figures 6 – 8, the ECU is disposed at the middle portion 12B of the frame member 12 and below a seat member 30 of the vehicle 10. This disposition of the ECU reduces the movement or flow of hot air from the engine 14 towards the ECU.
[036] Figures 9 – 12 illustrate various views of an assembly of the stay member 32 with the integrated ECU, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[037] The present invention solves the problems of inadequate cooling of ECU due to improper ventilation of air passing though the engine, saddle-type vehicle deflectors, which may result in malfunctioning of ECU. Inadequate cooling also adds to the reduced life cycle of the ECU resulting in its frequent repairs, replacing the whole ECU and the like, which further contributes to increased costs for a rider. Increased steering effort due to positioning of ECU in such a manner that it inhibits the adequate movement and rotation of steering assembly. The present invention solves the problem of increased wiring length due to greater distance between the ECU and engine EMS parts due to disorganized ECU location. If ECU is not located in a detachable manner, the serviceability of any part near engine or the parts of engine management system such as sensors, actuators and the like requires more time and effort, which results in increased serviceability costs.
[038] Advantageously, the present invention provides an improved cooling of the electronic control unit (ECU) unit by using air which remains at an ambient temperature of the surrounding environment, without being affected by the hot air from the engine, while at the same time not negatively affecting the flow of air to the engine and other components of the saddle type vehicle. Because the ECU is not attached to the steerable sub assembly, its location and orientation ensure that it does not have an impact on the deflector that directs air towards the engine or the steering effort. The ECU is located in such a way that it does not interfere with the engine's serviceability requirements, such as adjusting the tappet or servicing the spark plugs. The mounting of the ECU when integrated with the saddle type vehicle frame ensures minimum possible length of wire that connects the engine management system (EMS) components to the electronic control unit (ECU) at the proposed location in the machine. The present invention ensures no additional mounting arrangement like storage boot, storage case, add on fasteners, brackets required for ECU.
[039] Integrated ECU is mounted is mounted on to vehicle frame assembly at the junction of the steering tube and the pair of longitudinal members of vehicle frame. This mounting is done onto the steering gusset bracket (junction bracket).
[040] Integrated ECU is mounted below the rider seat of the vehicle, directly using the pair of longitudinal frame members so the heat due to the engines can be avoided.
[041] Integrated ECU is packaged in a region away from the effective usage zone by the customer like above rider seat region or outside the frame region of the vehicle.
[042] The ECU has been mounted in the front right side of the vehicle. So that the wire length required for the electronic fuel injection parts for the vehicle engine will be reduced. Which can reduce the power loss of the ECU components.
[043] The ECU has mounted directly on the frame, so the additional mounting boot requirement has been removed from existing vehicle body weight.
[044] The foregoing description of the invention has been set merely to illustrate the invention and is not intended to be limiting. Since the modifications of the disclosed embodiments incorporating the spirit and substance of the invention may occur to the person skilled in the art, the invention should be construed to include everything within the scope of the disclosure.

List of Reference Numerals and Characters
10: Vehicle
12: Frame member
12A: Front portion
12B: Middle portion
12C: Rear portion
12S: Side frame members
14: Engine
16: Electronic unit
16A: Flat surface
18: Steering tube
20: Main tube
22: Horizontal member
24: Gusset member
24A: Outer surface of the gusset member
26: Shroud
28: Fuel tank
30: Seat member
32: Stay member
32A: Apertures
34: Fastening elements
F-R: Front-rear direction
J: Junction
S: Space , Claims:WE CLAIM:
1. A vehicle (10) comprising:
a frame member (12) extending in a front-rear direction (F-R) of the vehicle (10), the frame member (12) comprising one or more portions (12A, 12B, 12C) for mounting one or more components of the vehicle (10);
an engine (14), the engine (14) being mounted onto the frame member (12); and
the one or more components comprising an electronic unit (16), the electronic unit (16) disposed at the one or more portions (12A, 12B, 12C) of the frame member (12) and distant from the engine (14) of the vehicle (10).

2. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more portions of the frame member (12) comprises a front portion (12A), a middle portion (12B) extending from the front portion (12A) and a rear portion (12C) extending from the middle portion (12B), the front portion (12A) comprising a junction (J) formed by a steering tube (18), a main tube (20), and a horizontal member (22).

3. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the junction (J) at the front portion (12A) comprises a gusset member (24) such that a space (S) is formed between the gusset member (24) and a shroud (26) of a fuel tank (28) of the vehicle (10).

4. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electronic unit (16) is an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) of the vehicle (10), the ECU being disposed in the space (S) and connected to the gusset member (24).

5. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the ECU comprises a substantially flat surface (16A) which is parallel to an outer surface (24A) of the gusset member (24).

6. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the ECU is disposed at a front of the engine (14) and offset from the engine (14), whereby hot air from the engine (14) towards the ECU is reduced.

7. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the ECU is disposed at the middle portion (12B) of the frame member (12) and below a seat member (30) of the vehicle (10), whereby hot air from the engine (14) towards the ECU is reduced.

8. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the frame member (12) comprises a pair of side frame members (12S) extending longitudinally from the front portion (12A) to the rear portion (12C), the pair of side frame members (12S) being connected with a stay member (32).

9. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the stay member (32) comprises one or more apertures (32A), the one or more apertures (32) being configured to receive one or more fastening elements (34) for connecting the ECU with the stay member (32).

Dated this 19th day of March 2024

TVS MOTOR COMPANY LIMITED
By their Agent & Attorney

(Nikhil Ranjan)
of Khaitan & Co
Reg No IN/PA-1471