Description:A VEHICLE
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present subject matter generally relates to a vehicle. More particularly, the present invention relates to a vehicle with a frame assembly 5 comprising a control unit.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Contemporary two-wheeled vehicles often require the addition of auxiliary electrical loads, such as flood lamps, fog lamps, and sequential turn 10 signal lights (TSL), to meet diverse user needs and regulatory requirements. Traditionally, accommodating these auxiliary loads entails the integration of supplementary Electronic Control Units (ECUs) to manage the increased electrical demand efficiently. However, the incorporation of additional ECUs poses several challenges, primarily relating to spatial constraints and 15 packaging limitations within the vehicle architecture.
[0003] One of the predominant issues encountered with the integration of extra ECUs is the scarcity of available space within the vehicle framework. As the design of two-wheeled vehicles prioritizes compactness and aerodynamics, finding suitable locations to house supplementary ECUs 20 becomes increasingly challenging. Moreover, the placement of these ECUs must consider factors such as accessibility for maintenance, protection from environmental elements, and thermal management to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
[0004] Furthermore, the utilization of dedicated Body Control Units (BCUs) 25 to regulate the auxiliary electrical loads introduces complexities akin to those faced with conventional ECUs. While BCUs serve a similar function to ECUs, governing additional electrical components, they inherit the same packaging constraints and spatial limitations. As a result, identifying suitable mounting locations for BCUs within the vehicle becomes imperative to avoid 30 compromising other critical components' functionality and accessibility.
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[0005] Moreover, addressing these challenges requires innovative solutions that optimize spatial utilization while ensuring efficient management of auxiliary electrical loads. By leveraging the available space below the fuel tank and in front of the engine head, the disclosed invention aims to overcome spatial constraints and streamline the integration of supplementary ECUs or 5 BCUs. However, in addition to spatial considerations, other technical challenges such as heat dissipation, wiring complexity, and interface compatibility must also be addressed to achieve a robust and reliable system architecture.
[0006] Furthermore, the traditional approach of mounting supplementary 10 ECUs or BCUs in conventional locations within the vehicle exacerbates wiring complexity and introduces additional points of failure. The need to route wires from these control units to various auxiliary electrical components scattered across the vehicle further complicates the wiring architecture, increasing the risk of electrical faults and system malfunctions. Moreover, the 15 spatial constraints imposed by the vehicle's design limit the flexibility of wire routing options, constraining engineers to navigate around existing components and structures, which may impede access for maintenance and repair.
[0007] Thus, there exists a need for a novel approach to integrating auxiliary 20 electrical loads in two-wheeled vehicles by addressing spatial constraints, packaging limitations, and other technical complexities associated with the deployment of supplementary ECUs or BCUs. Through innovative design and strategic placement, the disclosed solution aims to enhance the functionality, efficiency, and reliability of electrical systems in contemporary 25 two-wheeled vehicles.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be 30 in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will
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become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description. [0009] In response to aforesaid problems available in the art, the present disclosure introduces a configuration for a vehicle, particularly focusing on the integration of control unit securing on a frame assembly of a vehicle. The 5 present disclosure addresses the limitations of existing designs by strategically placing the control unit on the vehicle such that the any additional control unit can be accommodated much more efficiently. Given the limited space and design constraints of the vehicle (for example a two wheeled vehicle), this becomes a highly effective means of mounting. 10 Locating the control unit strategically ensures that the wiring harness and routing can be done in an efficient manner.
[00010] According to embodiments illustrated herein, the present disclosure provides in general to a vehicle, and more particularly, but not exclusively to a vehicle comprising a frame assembly, the frame assembly comprises a top 15 tube and a down tube. The vehicle further comprises a connecting portion, the connecting portion is configured to connect the top tube and the down tube. The vehicle further comprises a mounting bracket, the mounting bracket is configured to mount at least one electronic control unit and at least one electronic control unit is mounted adjacent to the head tube with the 20 connecting portion in between the at least one electronic control unit and the head tube.
[00011] In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, an imaginary axis A-A’ passes through the centre of the vehicle, the imaginary axis A-A' divides the vehicle into a front portion and a rear portion. 25
[00012] In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein the at least one electronic control unit is mounted adjacent to the head tube and is disposed in the front portion of the vehicle.
[00013] In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the at least one electronic control unit is facing towards the top tube and is disposed below a 30 fuel tank of the vehicle.
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[00014] In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein the at least one electronic control unit is mounted between the connecting portion and at least one of the top tube or the down tube.
[00015] In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the at least one electronic control unit is mounted at a predefined angle “a”. 5
[00016] In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the predefined angle “a” is in the range of 9-16 degrees.
[00017] In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the vehicle comprising a power unit, the power unit is mounted on the frame assembly.
[00018] In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the at least one 10 electronic control unit is disposed above the power unit.
[00019] In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the mounting bracket comprising a resilient material absorbing vibrations during vehicle operation.
[00020] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and 15 the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 20
[00021] The details are described with reference to an embodiment of a for a vehicle along with the accompanying diagrams. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to reference similar features and components.
[00022] Figure 1 exemplarily illustrates a side view of a vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 25
[00023] Figure 2 exemplarily illustrates a perspective view of the vehicle with an alert unit in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00024] Figure 3 exemplarily illustrates an side view of mounting of at least one control unit in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
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DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[00025] Exemplary embodiments are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherever convenient, the same reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. While examples and features of disclosed principles are described herein, 5 modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed embodiments. It is intended that the following detailed description be considered as exemplary only, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.
[00026] The terms “an embodiment”, “embodiment”, “embodiments”, “the 10 embodiment”, “the embodiments”, “one or more embodiments”, “some embodiments”, and “one embodiment” mean “one or more (but not all) embodiments of the invention(s)” unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “including”, “comprising”, “having” and variations thereof mean “including but not limited to”, unless expressly specified otherwise. The 15 terms “a”, “an” and “the” mean “one or more”, unless expressly specified otherwise.
[00027] In order to overcome the one or more of the above-mentioned problems in the background, the present disclosure provides a vehicle. The vehicle comprises a frame assembly with at least one electronic control unit. 20
[00028] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the vehicle with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the present embodiments. The present subject matter is further described with reference to accompanying figures. It should be noted that the description and figures 25 merely illustrate principles of the present subject matter. Various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, encompass the principles of the present subject matter. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and examples of the present subject matter, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to 30 encompass equivalents thereof.
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[00029] The at least one object of the present disclosure is to introduce a novel design for vehicles, specifically tailored for two-wheeled vehicles, to address the challenges associated with integrating additional electrical loads. Conventional two-wheeled vehicles often encounter limitations when incorporating supplementary electrical components such as flood lamps, fog 5 lamps, and sequential turn signal lights (TSL), necessitating the use of extra electronic control units (ECUs) or body control units (BCUs). However, the packaging constraints associated with mounting these ECUs present significant challenges, particularly in terms of spatial limitations and accessibility for maintenance and repair. 10
[00030] Therefore, the focus of this disclosure is to provide an innovative solution that optimizes the integration of extra electrical loads while mitigating the constraints imposed by traditional ECU placement. By utilizing the available space below the fuel tank and in front of the engine head, this disclosure aims to introduce a design that maximizes the efficiency 15 of ECU mounting and enhances the overall functionality and reliability of two-wheeled vehicles.
[00031] The key focus is on overcoming the spatial constraints and packaging limitations inherent in mounting additional ECUs, particularly in regions where space is scarce and accessibility is restricted. Consequently, the object 20 of this disclosure is to introduce a design that leverages the underutilized space below the fuel tank and in front of the engine head to seamlessly integrate the necessary electronic components. Through strategic placement in these areas, the invention aims to enhance the functionality and reliability of two-wheeled vehicles by providing a comprehensive solution for 25 effectively managing extra electrical loads while minimizing the risk of interference or damage caused by environmental factors such as water ingress.
[00032] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view for a two-wheeled vehicle (hereinafter ‘vehicle’) in accordance with an embodiment of the present 30 disclosure. The vehicle may be an Electric Vehicle (EV), a Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV), an Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) based vehicle and have
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components suitable for traction. The vehicle generally includes a frame assembly (100). The frame assembly (100) comprises a top tube (104) and a down tube (106). The top tube (104) and the down tube (106) are structural members of the frame assembly (100) of the vehicle and are configured to accommodate a set of wiring and cables of the vehicle and other connectivity 5 components related to the vehicle's electronics and control systems, or instrumentation elements such as a display unit or control panel providing a rider of the vehicle with essential information about the vehicle's status, speed, and other relevant parameters. The top tube (104) may further accommodate a fuel tank, a storage mount, and the like. Further, the fuel tank 10 of the vehicle is disposed on the frame assembly (100). In an embodiment, the top tube (104) and the down tube (106) supports the fuel tank disposed on the frame assembly (100). In an another embodiment, the fuel tank is disposed adjacent to the head tube (102) and supported by the top tube (104). The top tube (104) and down tube (106) may further extend rearwardly towards a rear 15 portion of the vehicle connecting a pair of longitudinal members, the longitudinal members may support a seat structure for the rider of the vehicle. [00033] Moreover, the vehicle comprises a connecting portion (112), the connecting portion (112) is configured to connect the top tube (104) and the down tube (106) and a mounting bracket, the mounting bracket is configured 20 to mount at least one electronic control unit (108). The connecting portion (112) serves as a critical structural element within the frame assembly of the vehicle. It is primarily responsible for joining the top tube (104) and the down tube (106), ensuring structural integrity and stability. The connecting portion (112) may encompass various types of structural configurations, such as 25 welded joints, bolted connections, or integrated structural elements designed to provide a secure linkage between the top tube and the down tube. Additionally, the connecting portion (112) may include reinforcement features such as gussets, braces, or flanges to enhance strength and stiffness at the junction between the top tube and the down tube. The mounting bracket, 30 on the other hand, serves as a platform for securely attaching electronic control units (ECUs) within the frame assembly. It may be designed to
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accommodate different types and sizes of ECUs, including engine control modules, transmission control modules, brake control modules, and various other electronic devices used for vehicle control and monitoring functions. The mounting bracket may incorporate mounting provisions such as fastener holes, slots, or clamping mechanisms to securely hold the ECUs in place 5 while allowing for easy installation and removal during maintenance or servicing activities. Furthermore, the mounting bracket may feature vibration-damping materials or mechanisms to reduce the transmission of mechanical vibrations to the mounted ECUs, thereby enhancing their operational reliability and longevity. 10 [00034] Moreover, the vehicle comprises at least one electronic control unit (108), mounted adjacent to the head tube (102) with the connecting portion (112) in between the at least one electronic control unit (108) and the head tube (102). The at least one electronic control unit (108) encompasses various types of control units utilized in vehicles, particularly two-wheeled vehicles. 15 These control units serve to manage and regulate different electrical systems and components within the vehicle. It includes but not limited to an Engine Control Unit (ECU) responsible for controlling the engine's fuel injection, ignition timing, and other vital engine parameters. In the context of the provided background, the ECU may be utilized to manage the additional loads 20 mentioned, such as flood lamps, fog lamps, and sequential turn signal lights (TSL). It may further include Body Control Unit (BCU), the Body Control Unit (BCU) oversees various electrical functions related to the vehicle's body and interior, including lighting, climate control, and security systems. In the scenario described, the BCU may be employed to control the operation of the 25 additional electrical loads, coordinating their activation and deactivation as needed. It may further include Auxiliary Control Module (ACM), the ACM handles auxiliary functions and accessories within the vehicle, such as audio systems, navigation systems, and communication devices. The ACM is relevant when additional electronic accessories are installed on the vehicle. 30 The at least one electronic control unit (108) may further include but are not limited to a Transmission Control Unit (TCU) which is used with automatic
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transmissions, the TCU regulates shifting patterns and transmission behaviour to optimize performance and efficiency. [00035] The at least one electronic control unit (108) is strategically located within the vehicle's frame assembly, facilitating convenient access for installation and maintenance purposes. Furthermore, by placing the at least 5 one electronic control unit (108) adjacent to the head tube (102) and utilizing the connecting portion (112) as an intermediary, the present disclosure ensures structural integrity and stability. The connecting portion (112) acts as a protective barrier, shielding the electronic control unit (108) from potential mechanical stresses or impacts transmitted through the head tube (102) during 10 vehicle operation. Additionally, this configuration allows for the implementation of vibration-damping measures to mitigate the effects of mechanical vibrations on the electronic control unit (108), thereby enhancing its reliability and longevity.
[00036] Moreover, in one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, an 15 imaginary axis A-A’ passes through the centre of the vehicle, the imaginary axis A-A' divides the vehicle into a front portion and a rear portion. Furthermore, the at least one electronic control unit (108) is mounted adjacent to the head tube (102) and is disposed in the front portion of the vehicle. The imaginary axis denoted as A-A' traverses through the central axis of the 20 vehicle, effectively dividing the vehicle into distinct front portion and rear portion. This imaginary axis A-A' facilitates a systematic delineation of the vehicle's structure, enabling precise positioning of components relative to its spatial orientation. Notably, the placement of the at least one electronic control unit (108) adjacent to the head tube (102) underscores a strategic 25 deployment within the vehicle's architecture. By situating at least one electronic control unit (108) proximate to the head tube (102), the present disclosure capitalizes on the frontal region of the vehicle to accommodate critical control modules effectively. This strategic positioning optimizes accessibility while minimizing interference with other vehicular components, 30 thereby streamlining maintenance and servicing procedures.
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[00037] Furthermore, the mounting of the at least one electronic control unit (108) is such that it is facing towards the top tube (104). The at least one electronic control unit (108) is disposed below the fuel tank of the vehicle. Furthermore, the at least one electronic control unit (108) is mounted between the connecting portion (112) and at least one of the top tube (104) or the down 5 tube (106).
[00038] Figure 2 illustrates the at least one electronic control unit (108) with a power unit (204). The power unit (204) may include but not limited to an Internal Combustion Engine and its components such as fuel injection system, ignition system, exhaust system, and other engine-related subsystems 10 responsible for combustion and power generation. The power unit (204) may further include but not limited to an electric motor responsible for providing motive force to the vehicle converting electrical energy into mechanical energy to drive the vehicle's wheels, offering advantages such as efficiency, torque. The power unit (204) may further include but not limited to a battery 15 pack that stores electrical energy for use by the vehicle's propulsion system or auxiliary components. In electric vehicles, the battery pack serves as the primary energy storage device, supplying power to the electric motor for propulsion and supporting other electrical systems in the vehicle. Moreover, in hybrid vehicles, the power unit (204) could encompass components related 20 to the hybrid powertrain, such as electric motors, generators, power electronics, and energy management systems. These components work together to optimize the use of both electric and internal combustion propulsion, balancing efficiency, performance, and emissions. In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the at least one electronic control unit 25 (108) is disposed above the power unit (204) in the vehicle. The mounting of the at least one electronic control unit (108) is as such that the power unit (204) is disposed on the frame assembly of the vehicle.
[00039] Moreover, figure 3 illustrates the angular orientation of the at least one electronic control unit (108) disposed within the vehicle. The at least one 30 electronic control unit (108) is mounted at a predefined angle “a”. Further, the predefined angle “a” is in the range of 9-16 degrees. In one embodiment
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of the present disclosure, the at least one electronic control unit (108) is mounted at a predefined angle "a". This predefined angle "a" determines the orientation of the electronic control unit (108) relative to the frame assembly of the vehicle. The mounting angle "a" optimizes the performance and functionality of the electronic control unit (108) while ensuring efficient 5 operation of the vehicle's systems. Additionally, the predefined angle "a" falls within a specific range of 9 to 16 degrees. This range is based on considerations such as structural integrity, space constraints, and ergonomic factors to ensure proper positioning of the at least one electronic control unit (108) within the vehicle. By mounting the at least one electronic control unit 10 (108) at the specified angle "a", the present embodiment facilitates effective communication with other vehicle components, enhances accessibility for maintenance and servicing, and contributes to overall system reliability and performance. [00040] The present disclosure ensures that the at least one electronic control 15 unit (108) is strategically located within the vehicle's frame assembly, facilitating convenient access for installation and maintenance purposes. Furthermore, by placing the at least one electronic control unit (108) adjacent to the head tube (102) and utilizing the connecting portion (112) as an intermediary ensures structural integrity and stability. The connecting portion 20 (112) acts as a protective barrier, shielding the at least one electronic control unit (108) from potential mechanical stresses or impacts transmitted through the head tube (102) during vehicle operation. Additionally, this configuration allows for the implementation of vibration-damping measures to mitigate the effects of mechanical vibrations on the electronic control unit (108), thereby 25 enhancing its reliability and longevity. Further, the present disclosure facilitates efficient utilization of available space within the vehicle's framework, particularly beneath the fuel tank. By positioning the at least one electronic control unit (108) below the fuel tank, valuable space is effectively leveraged, ensuring maximal spatial efficiency and minimal intrusion into 30 other vehicle components or subsystems.
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[00041] Further, placing the at least one electronic control unit (108) beneath the fuel tank offers inherent protection against environmental elements such as moisture, dust, and debris. This positioning shields the at least one electronic control unit (108) from external contaminants, mitigating the risk of ingress-related malfunctions and enhancing overall system reliability and 5 longevity. The proximity to the fuel tank enables effective thermal management for the at least one electronic control unit (108). Given the relatively stable thermal conditions in this region compared to areas adjacent to the engine or exhaust system, the at least one electronic control unit (108) is subjected to fewer thermal fluctuations, reducing the likelihood of 10 overheating and enhancing operational stability.
[00042] Further, the orientation of the at least one electronic control unit (108) towards the top tube (104) facilitates streamlined wire routing for the electronic control unit. This arrangement allows for efficient cable management, minimizing the risk of cable entanglement or interference with 15 other vehicle components. Additionally, the proximity to the top tube (104) enables shorter wire lengths, reducing electrical resistance and optimizing system performance. Moreover, despite being positioned beneath the fuel tank, the orientation of the at least one electronic control unit (108) towards the top tube (104) ensures convenient accessibility for maintenance and 20 service tasks. Service technicians can readily access the at least one electronic control unit (108) for diagnostic purposes or system adjustments, thereby facilitating expedited troubleshooting and minimizing vehicle downtime.
[00043] Further, the present disclosure ensures seamless integration of the at least one electronic control unit (108) with other vehicle systems and 25 subsystems due to the placement at the present strategic location. This configuration allows for efficient communication and coordination between the at least one electronic control unit (108) and various vehicle components, facilitating cohesive operation and enhancing overall vehicular functionality.
[00044] The strategic placement of the at least one electronic control unit (108) 30 in the present disclosure is paramount to effectively managing additional electrical loads in two-wheeled vehicles. Conventional vehicles often face
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challenges when integrating supplementary electrical components, necessitating the use of extra ECUs or body control units (BCUs). However, the packaging constraints associated with mounting these units pose significant hurdles in terms of spatial limitations and accessibility for maintenance and repair. In response to these challenges, the present 5 disclosure focuses on introducing an innovative solution that optimizes the integration of extra electrical loads while addressing traditional ECU placement constraints. [00045] Further limitations and disadvantages of conventional and traditional approaches will become apparent to one of skill in the art, through 10 comparison of described systems with some aspects of the present disclosure, as set forth in the remainder of the present application and with reference to the drawings.
[00046] In light of the above mentioned advantages and the technical advancements provided by the disclosed method and system, the claimed 15 steps as discussed above are not routine, conventional, or well understood in the art, as the claimed steps enable the following solutions to the existing problems in conventional technologies. Further, the claimed steps clearly bring an improvement in the functioning of the configuration itself as the claimed steps provide a technical solution to a technical problem. 20
[00047] A description of an embodiment with several components in communication with another does not imply that all such components are required, On the contrary, a variety of optional components are described to illustrate the wide variety of possible embodiments of the invention.
[00048] Finally, the language used in the specification has been principally 25 selected for readability and instructional purposes, and it may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the inventive subject matter and is therefore intended that the scope of the invention be limited not by this detailed description, but rather by any claims that issue on an application based here on. Accordingly, the embodiments of the present invention are 30 intended to be illustrative, but not limiting, of the scope of the invention, which is set forth in the following claims.
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[00049] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims. 5
[00050] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to certain embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made, and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the 10 teachings of the present disclosure without departing from its scope. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed, but that the present disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. , Claims:We Claim:
1. A vehicle comprising:
a frame assembly, the frame assembly comprising a top tube 5 (104), a down tube (106) and a head tube (102);
a connecting portion (112), the connecting portion (112) is configured to connect the top tube (104) and the down tube (106);
a mounting bracket, the mounting bracket is configured to mount at least one electronic control unit (108); and 10
wherein, the at least one electronic control unit (108) is mounted adjacent to the head tube (102) with the connecting portion (112) in between the at least one electronic control unit (108) and the head tube (102).
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2. The vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein an imaginary axis A-A’ passes through the centre of the vehicle, the imaginary axis A-A' divides the vehicle into a front portion and a rear portion.
3. The vehicle as claimed in claim 2, wherein the at least one electronic 20 control unit (108) is mounted adjacent to the head tube (102) and is disposed in the front portion of the vehicle.
4. The vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one electronic control unit (108) is facing towards the top tube (104) and is disposed 25 below a fuel tank of the vehicle.
5. The vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one electronic control unit (108) is mounted between the connecting portion (112) and at least one of the top tube (104) or the down tube (106). 30
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6.The vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one electroniccontrol unit (108) is mounted at a predefined angle “a”.
7.The vehicle as claimed in claim 6, wherein the predefined angle “a” is inthe range of 9-16 degrees.5
8.The vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the vehicle comprising apower unit (204), the power unit is mounted on the frame assembly.
9. The vehicle as claimed in claim 8, wherein the at least one electronic 10 control unit (108) is disposed above the power unit (204).
10.The vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the mounting bracketcomprising a resilient material absorbing vibrations during vehicleoperation.