Claims:We claim:
1. A motorized vehicle (100, 101) comprising:
a frame assembly (150), said frame assembly (150) being configured to support a power unit (120),
said power unit (120) including an electric machine (125) mounted therewithin, said power unit (120) having a first heat dissipating portion (121); and,
an electronic controller (170, 270), said electronic controller (170, 270) being capable of controlling said electric machine (125),
wherein,
said electronic-controller (170, 270) being disposed above said power unit (120),
said electronic controller (170, 270) being disposed ahead of a rearmost end (122) of said first-heat dissipating portion (121) of said power unit (120).
2. The motorized vehicle (100, 101) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said electronic controller (170) being suspended from a first-member (152) of said frame assembly (150), and wherein,
an uppermost portion (173, 273) of said electronic controller (170, 270) being disposed below an uppermost portion of said first-member (152),
said uppermost portion (173, 273) of said electronic controller (170) having two or more mounting arms (172A, 172B) formounting said electronic controller (170) to said first-member (152) of said frame assembly (150).
3. A motorized vehicle (100, 101) comprising:
a frame assembly (150), said frame assembly (150) including a head tube (151), a first member (152) and a second member (154), said first member (152) extending rearward from said head tube (151), and said second member (154) extending obliquely downward from said headtube (151);
a power unit (120), said power unit (120) being fixedly supported by said first member (152) and said second member (154), said power unit (120) having a first heat dissipating portion (121),
an electric machine (125), said electric machine (125) capable of being controlled by an electronic-controller (170, 270),
wherein
said electronic-controller (170, 270) being mounted on said first member (152),
said electronic-controller (170, 270) being disposed above said power unit (120), and
said electronic controller (170, 270) being disposed ahead of a rearmost end (122) of said first-heat dissipating portion (121) of said power unit (120).
4. The motorized vehicle (100, 101) as claimed in claim 3,
said electronic controller (170) being mounted on said first-member (152),
wherein,
an uppermost portion (173, 273) of said electronic controller (170, 270) being disposed below an uppermost portion of said first-member (152), said uppermost portion (173, 273) of said electronic controller (170) having two or more mounting arms (172A, 172B) for mounting said electronic controller (170) to said first member (152) of said frame assembly (150).
5. A motorized vehicle (100, 101) comprising:
a frame assembly (150), said frame assembly (150) including a head tube (151), a first member (152) and a second member (154), said first member (152) extending rearward from said head tube (151), and said second member (154) extending obliquely downward from said headtube (151);
a power unit (120), said power unit (120) being fixedly supported by said first member (152) and said second member (154), said power unit (120) including an electric machine (125), said power unit (120) having a first heat dissipating portion (121),
an electronic controller (170, 270), said electronic controller (170, 270) being capable of controlling said electric machine (125),
wherein
said electronic-controller (170, 270) being mounted on said second member (152), and,
said electronic controller (170, 270) being disposed ahead of a rearmost end (122) of said first-heat dissipating portion (121) of said power unit (120).
6. The motorized vehicle (100, 101) as claimed in claim 5, wherein said electronic controller (170) being configured with two or more mounting arms (172A, 17B),
said two or more mounting arms (172A, 172B) being provided on a side of said electronic controller (170),
said electronic controller (170) being fixedly attached to said second member (152), and wherein,
a substantial portion of said electronic controller being disposed ahead of a rearmost end (122) of a first heat dissipating portion (121) of said power unit (120).
7. A motorized vehicle (100, 101) comprising:
a frame assembly (150), said frame assembly (150) including a head tube (151), a first member (152) a second member (154), and a front cross member (155), said first member (152) extending rearward from said head tube (151), said second member (154) extending obliquely downward from said headtube (151), and a front cross member (155) connecting said first member (152) and said second member (154);
a power unit (120), said power unit (120) being fixedly supported by said first member (152) and said second member (154), said power unit (120) having a first heat dissipating portion (121),
an electric machine (125), said electric machine (125) capable of being controlled by an electronic-controller (170, 270),
wherein
said electronic-controller (170, 270) being mounted on said front cross member (155),
said electronic-controller (170, 270) being disposed above said power unit (120), and
said electronic controller (170, 270) being disposed ahead of a rearmost end (122) of said first-heat dissipating portion (121) of said power unit (120).
8. The motorized vehicle (100, 101) as claimed in claim 7, wherein said electronic controller (270) being configured with two or more mounting arms (172A, 172B),
said electronic controller (270) being fixedly attached to said front cross member (155), and,
an uppermost portion (273) of said electronic controller (270) being disposed below an uppermost portion of said first-member (152).
9. A motorized vehicle (100, 101) comprising:
a frame assembly (150), said frame assembly (150) including a head tube (151), a first member (152) and a second member (154), said first member (152) extending rearward from said head tube (151), and said second member (154) extending obliquely downward from said headtube (151);
an electric machine (125), said electric machine (125) capable of being controlled by an electronic-controller (170, 270);
a power unit (120), said power unit (120) being fixedly supported by said first member (152) and said second member (154) of said frame assembly (150), said power unit (120) having a first heat dissipating portion (121);
said power unit (120) including said electrical machine (125) mounted therewithin;
a power unit-controller (175), said power unit-controller (175) being configured to control one or more sub-systems of said power unit (120); and,
an auxiliary power source (188),
wherein
said auxiliary power source (188) being mounted to one of said first member (152) and one or more rear tubes (156) of said frame assembly (150),
said power unit-controller (175) being disposed rearward to and at least partially upwards of said first-heat dissipating portion (120),
the electronic-controller (170, 270) being disposed above said power unit (120) and ahead of a rearmost end (122) of said first-heat dissipating portion (121) of the power unit (120),
wherein,
said power unit controller (175) being disposed between said auxiliary power source (188) and said electronic controller (170, 270) in a vehicle front-rear direction.

10. The motorized vehicle (100, 101) as claimed in claim 9, ,
said electronic controller (170) being mounted to said first-member (152), and wherein,
an uppermost portion (173, 273) of said electronic controller (170, 270) being disposed below an uppermost portion of said first-member (152)
said uppermost portion (173, 273) of said electronic controller (170) having two or more mounting arms (172A, 172B) for mounting said electronic controller (170) to said first member of said frame assembly (150).
, Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present subject matter, in general, relates to a motorized vehicle and, in particular relates to a straddle-ride motorized vehicle provided with an electronic-controller for controlling operation of an electric machine of the motorized vehicle.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Generally, in motorized vehicles with an internal combustion (IC) engine, power/torque is produced by combustion of an air-fuel mixture. The air-fuel mixture is provided from an intake system and a fuel system. In order to start the IC engine, typically, a starter motor is used along with the IC engine for performing starting operation of the IC engine. Typically, the starter motor is mounted to a crankcase of the IC engine. The starter motor is connected to a crankshaft of the IC engine through a gear system, which may include Bendix gear or the like. Additionally, a magneto is provided along with the IC engine, and the magneto is used as a generator. The magneto is used for charging an on-board battery or to power electrical equipment of the motorized vehicle. In the recent times, an electric machine, which can operate both as a starter and a generator has gained prominence for use in IC engines.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0003] The detailed description is described with reference to an embodiment of a two-wheeled saddle-ride motorized vehicle along with the accompanying figures. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to reference like features and components.
[0004] Fig. 1 (a) illustrates a right-side view of an exemplary motorized vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0005] Fig. 1 (b) illustrates a left-side view of a motorized vehicle with selected components, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0006] Fig. 1 (c) illustrates a right-side view of a motorized vehicle with selected components, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0007] Fig. 1 (d) illustrates another right-side view of a motorized vehicle with selected components, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0008] Fig. 1 (e) illustrates a schematic top view of the motorized vehicle with selected parts thereon, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0009] Fig. 2 (a) illustrates a left-side view of a motorized vehicle with selected parts thereon, in accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter.
[00010] Fig. 2 (b) illustrates a schematic right-side view of a motorized vehicle with selected parts, in accordance with another embodiment of the presents subject matter.
[00011] Fig. 2 (c) illustrates a schematic top view of a motorized vehicle, in accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[00012] Generally, the straddle-ride motorized vehicles are provided with an electronic-controller for performing control & operation of a power unit that includes an internal combustion (IC) engine, a traction/electric machine, or any other sub-system of the motorized vehicle. For example, the IC engine may include subs-systems like an electronic-carburetor or a fuel injector, an ignition system, a valve timing system etc., which may have to be electronically operated & controlled. Further, in another example, control & operation of the electric machine, which may be used alongside the IC engine, or which may be operating as a prime mover of the vehicle, is to be performed by the electronic-controller. Moreover, in certain application, the electric machine needs to be electronically controlled to work in starter mode, generator mode and in any other operating mode thereby requiring a precise and controlled operation. In yet another example, the motorized vehicle may include multiple electrical/ electronic systems that includes an energy storage device, an anti-lock braking system, a telematics system etc., which needs to be controlled by an electronic-controller for their optimum operation.
[00013] Hitherto designs of the straddle ride motorized vehicles, one or more electronic-controllers are used to control operation of various sub-systems of the motorized vehicles. Generally, in certain motorized vehicles a power unit or a large capacity auxiliary power source is fixedly mounted to a frame and is disposed between a front wheel and the rear wheel of the motorized vehicle. The power unit or the large capacity auxiliary power source, typically, dissipates lot of heat. In certain known art, the controllers (say two controllers or more) are disposed rearward to the power unit or the auxiliary power source. Some of these controllers operate at high currents and are inherently prone to heating. In addition, air flowing from the heat dissipating elements like the power unit or the large capacity auxiliary power source flows towards the controllers whereby the temperature of the controllers further rises. Excessive heating of the controller affects its operational performance.
[00014] Moreover, a portion rearward to the power unit or to the large auxiliary power source, as discussed above, is a zone of interaction of the rider. For example, the controller, which operates at high currents, are disposed below the rider seat or near to rider legs. Disposing such heat dissipating elements in the zone of interaction of the rider creates discomfort to the rider and prolonged exposure may cause injury. Furthermore, in motorcycles, a style panel-assembly disposed near to or below the seat are kept closer to the frame thereby leaving minimal space for accommodation of the controllers. In certain designs, the controllers are disposed in the compact style panel-assembly region, or by supporting it on air cleaner, making it very difficult to provide ventilation for the controllers for cooling. In order to provide cooling, a compromise had to be made by reducing seat cushioning, by increasing a width of the style panel-assembly, or by increasing a height of the seat, which affects the riding comfort and compactness of the motorized vehicle.
[00015] Even though certain attempts were made in the art to address some of the aforementioned short comings, they have resulted in some additional problems. For example, in a known design, a controller is disposed in a front portion, say ahead of a head tube of the frame. Even though this design provides natural cooling, it requires a large bracket in a front portion in order to support the controller, a headlamp assembly, and other ancillary components like front panels etc. The bracket must be substantially reinforced to withstand weight of all components. In case of a steering assembly that supports this reinforced bracket, a lot of inertia is exhibited by the steering system making it difficult for the user to maneuver. In case of a fixed type headlamp assembly, due to the front style panels, hot air from the controller may flow towards the rider’s arms/hands causing serious discomfort, which may lead to accident due to the discomfort / distraction. Moreover, wiring harness for controller passes by a steering axis of the motorized vehicle. The wiring harness near to the steering axis is subjected to strain due to repeated movement of the steering system, and the wiring harness may break causing failure of operation of the electric machine or may cause short circuit that may burn certain electrical/electronic components of the motorized vehicle. Moreover, certain configurations of the electronic-controller in the motorized vehicle tend to block air flow towards the power unit (say IC engine) or cause hot air to flow towards the power unit thereby causing excessive heating of the power unit. Excessive heating of the power unit affects lubrication properties of certain components thereby affecting its performance.
[00016] Hence, the present subject matter provides a motorized vehicle that is aimed at addressing the aforementioned and other problems in the prior art.
[00017] The motorized vehicle comprises of a motorized vehicle comprising of a frame assembly, which is configured to support a power unit. The power unit is configured to drive one or more wheels of the motorized vehicle. An electric machine is provided and is configured to be controlled by an electronic-controller. The electronic-controller is disposed above the power unit and ahead of a rearmost end of a first-heat dissipating portion of the power unit. The electronic-controller is disposed away from the first-heat dissipating portion; Especially, away from the flow of hot air from the power unit. Further, the electronic-controller does not obstruct flow of ambient air to the power unit.
[00018] In one embodiment, the power unit is an internal combustion engine and first-heat dissipating portion is a cylinder portion of the power unit. The cylinder portion is formed by a cylinder block and a cylinder head as per one implementation. The electronic-controller is disposed away from the cylinder portion of the power unit.
[00019] In another embodiment, the power unit is a traction motor and the electric machine itself acts as the traction motor forming the power unit. The first-heat dissipating portion is a casing of the traction motor and the electronic-controller is disposed away from the casing without obstructing flow of ambient air towards the power unit.
[00020] In one embodiment, the frame assembly comprises a first-member and a second- member, inter alia. The first-member extends rearward from a head tube of the frame assembly. The second- member extends obliquely downward from the head tube. The power unit is fixedly supported by the first-member and the second- member. The electronic-controller is supported by the frame assembly either directly or indirectly by any one of the first-member and the second- member and is positioned above the power unit.
[00021] In one embodiment, the electronic-controller is having a substantial portion being disposed within a first-pyramid region, which is a virtual region. The first-pyramid region is having a vertex at the head tube. A base of the first-pyramid region is disposed above the first-heat dissipating portion. The first-pyramid region is substantially formed between a first-member and a second- member of the frame assembly.
[00022] In one embodiment, the first-pyramid region being of a height having a maximum value equal to distance between the vertex and the first-heat dissipating portion. The electronic-controller being disposed within the first-pyramid region is configured to be above the first-heat dissipating portion within.
[00023] In one embodiment, the first-pyramid region comprises a base having a length (in lateral direction) being less than or equal to a width of a fuel tank assembly of the motorized vehicle. The fuel tank assembly is disposed above the power unit and is supported by the frame assembly of the motorized vehicle. The electronic-controller is protected by the fuel tank assembly.
[00024] In one embodiment, the electronic-controller is suspended from a first-member of the frame assembly and the first-member is extending rearward from a rear portion of a head tube. The power unit is positioned below the first member and the electronic-controller is disposed above the first-heat dissipating portion of the power unit. Moreover, the electronic-controller is securely mounted to the first member of frame assembly.
[00025] In one embodiment, the electronic-controller is provided with at least two mounting arms and is provided on an upper side thereof for suspending from the first-member. The uppermost portion of the electronic-controller is below an uppermost portion of the first-member. The at least two mounting arms enable securely mounting the electronic-controller without the need for an additional boot or need for any additional mounting bracket.
[00026] In one embodiment, the first-member being configured to support a fuel tank assembly and the fuel tank assembly at least partially covers the electronic-controller when viewed in a lateral side of the motorized vehicle. The electronic-controller is securely disposed below the fuel tank assembly and the fuel tank assembly protects the electronic-controller from splashing of water or dirt on to the electronic-controller.
[00027] In one embodiment, the electronic-controller is provided with one or more ports being disposed towards a rearward side thereof. The one or more ports being disposed at an offset from the first-member when viewed in a plan view of the motorized vehicle. The one or more ports enable connection to wiring harness within any interference with the first member.
[00028] In one embodiment, the fuel tank assembly comprises a fuel container having a concave bottom profile. The fuel container is mounted to the first-member through the concave bottom profile whereby it extends downward on either side of first-member covering at least a portion of the electronic-controller when viewed in side view of the motorized vehicle. The fuel container provides protection as well as enables flow of air towards the electronic-controller for cooling as a pre-determined clearance is provided between the fuel container and electronic-controller for flow of air.
[00029] In one embodiment, the electronic-controller is provided with a plurality of fins provided on a laterally outward facing side thereof. The plurality of fins is disposed in one of an orientation substantially parallel to flow of ambient air and an orientation substantially orthogonal to flow of ambient air. The electronic-controller is cooled by ambient flow of air, which is independent of the flow of air towards the power unit. In one implementation, a shroud assembly of the fuel tank assembly with air inlet enables flow of air towards the electronic-controller.
[00030] In one embodiment, the plurality of fins of the electronic-controller, which are being disposed in the orientation substantially orthogonal to flow of ambient air, are provided with an ascending height when moving in front to rear direction to enable flow of air towards all the plurality of fins thereby ensuring effective cooling.
[00031] In another embodiment, the frame assembly comprises of a front-cross member extending between the first-member and the second- member. The electronic-controller is mounted to the front-cross member, preferably to an upper portion thereof. The electronic-controller is disposed above the power unit, especially away from the first-heat dissipating portion and is securely mounted to the front-cross member; and indirectly by the first member and the second- member for secure mounting.
[00032] In another embodiment, the electronic-controller is provided with a plurality of fins provided on a substantially upward facing side of the electronic-controller. The electronic-controller mounted to the upper portion of the front-cross member comprises a clearance above the plurality of fins for flow of air.
[00033] In another embodiment, the electronic-controller is inclined towards one of a lateral side of the motorized vehicle. The inclination of the electronic-controller enables occupation of less space in lateral direction eliminating any interference with the fuel tank assembly/fuel container.
[00034] In another embodiment, the electronic-controller is further disposed at a first-angle with respect a lateral plane of the motorized vehicle. Due to the angular positioning of the electronic-controller at the first-angle, flow of air can be directed towards entire portion of the electronic-controller and the head tube, despite being ahead of the electronic-controller, does not act as blockage.
[00035] Since, the electronic-controller is disposed ahead of the rearmost end of the first-heat dissipating portion, it is kept away from a zone of interaction of the rider i.e. region below the seat assembly or near rider legs. The style panels of the motorized vehicle can be kept laterally closer to the vehicle frame without affecting width of the motorized vehicle. Moreover, there is no compromise in rider comfort in terms of cushioning of the seat assembly or a storage/utility volume below the seat assembly.
[00036] The electronic-controller being disposed below the fuel tank assembly and above the power unit receives ambient flow of air for cooling from air inlets provided in the shroud assembly of the fuel tank assembly. Thus, the electronic-controller operates efficiently due to the flow of air and desired cooling.
[00037] Further, the electronic-controller being disposed above the power unit and the power unit-controller being mounted to the first frame member enables the air cleaner to have sufficient volume as the controllers do not interfere into the space/volume dedicated for the air cleaner. Moreover, sufficient gap is maintained between the electronic-controller and the power unit-controller thereby ensuring that adverse effect of heat from one controller does not affect another.
[00038] The electronic-controller and the power unit-controller are easily accessible for plugging to a diagnostic tool at the same time ensuring safety in terms of environmental factors and from theft. Need for removal of parts or panels for diagnostic purposed is eliminated as the ports are accessible but the mounting points/arms are not accessible.
[00039] The electronic-controller is protected from any splashing of water thereon, especially the wiring harness and the ports (couplers) are prevented from any exposure to environment. The couplers are oriented on either rear side or towards lateral side ensuring that they are facing away from any zones of entry of water, mud splash etc. Thus, any water splashing would be on an aluminum casing of the electronic-controllers and not on the couplers/ports. Moreover, the ports are concealed by the fuel container, which further prevents the entry of water in that zone.
[00040] Since the electronic-controller is mounted in the vicinity of the first member, which is well below the fuel tank assembly (inner portion) and above a front-cross member connecting the first member and the second member. The electronic-controller is not visible from outside and thus provides an anti-theft and a tamper proof placement therefor.
[00041] Since the electronic-controller is mounted in the vicinity of the first member and substantially vertically above the cylinder portion (first-heat dissipating portion) of the IC engine, an impact of vibration on the electronic-controller is substantially eliminated compared to mounting on any other frame component that is not in the vicinity of the first member.
[00042] The power unit being one of a primary source of vibration in the motorized vehicle, placement of the controller away from the primary source of vibration, for example, towards the rear of the engine, would amplify the impact of vibration on the electronic-controller. Thus, the electronic-controller being proximal to the engine and mounted in the vicinity of the first member ensures that the transfer of vibration shock load is minimal.
[00043] In one embodiment, the electronic-controller disposed within the first-pyramid region does not impact the vehicle handling due to the corresponding counter balance created by an ignition coil disposed on other side.
[00044] In one embodiment, an air duct of the fuel tank assembly is sandwiched between the cylinder head and the electronic-controller ensuring that the electronic-controller is not affected by the heat generated by the first-heat dissipating portion.
[00045] The electronic-controller is placed in the vicinity of the first member that is proximal to the headlamp assembly but rearward to a steering axis. Thus, the electronic-controller can be configured to drive the head lamp assembly or light emitting diodes (LEDs) provided in the headlamp assembly, which eliminates the need for a separate driver circuit either within the headlamp assembly or independently.
[00046] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to an embodiment in a saddle type two wheeled vehicle along 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 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 encompass equivalents thereof.
[00047] Arrows wherever provided in the top right corner in the drawings depicts direction with respect to the vehicle, wherein an arrow FW denotes front direction, an arrow RW indicates rear direction, an arrow UW denotes upward direction, an arrow DW denotes downward direction, an arrow RH denotes right side, and an arrow LH denotes left side.
[00048] Fig. 1 (a) illustrates a left-side view of an exemplary motorized vehicle 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. Fig. 1 (b) illustrates a left-side view of a motorized vehicle with selected components, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. The motorized vehicle 100 includes a frame assembly 150 that acts a structural member of the vehicle 100. Further, the vehicle 100 comprises a first-wheel 101 and a second- wheel 102. The present subject matter is not limited to the motorized vehicle with two-wheels, as it is considered only for ease of explanation, and the present subject matter is applicable to any saddle-ride motorized vehicle. The frame assembly 150 comprises a head tube 151, a first-member 152 comprising a first-member 153 and a second- member 154. In accordance with the current embodiment, the head tube 151 is disposed at a front portion of the vehicle 100. The first-member 152 extends rearward from the head tube 151 and the first-member 152 then undergoes a first-bend 153. Subsequent to the first-bend 153, the first-member 152 extends substantially downward. In one implementation, the first-member 152 is a single tubular member. In another implementation, the first-member 152 may be formed by two are more tubes that are contiguously connected to form a single structure. The second- member 154 extends obliquely downward from the head tube 151. In one implementation, the second- member 154 is a single tubular member. In another implementation, the second- member 154 is formed by two or more sub-structures including tubular members, sheet metal members etc.
[00049] Further, the motorized vehicle 100 includes a rear frame comprising of one or more rear tube(s) 156 that extends rearward substantially from the first-bend 153. The rear frame also includes one or more ancillary tubes 157 that extend from the first-member 152 (subsequent to the first-bend 153) towards the one or more rear tube(s) 156. A rear-fender 116 is supported by the one or more rear tubes 156 and the one or more ancillary tubes 157. The one or more rear tube(s) 156 has a front end connected to a portion close to the first-bend 153. The one or more rear tube(s) 156 that extend inclinedly rearward may further comprises one or more bends in order to adapt to a layout of the vehicle 100. In an embodiment, two rear tubes are provided, and one or more cross-member(s) (not shown) are provided to connect the two rear tubes. Further, the frame assembly 150 comprises of a steering-reinforcing member 159. The steering-reinforcing member 159 is secured to the head tube 151, the first-member 152 and the second- member 154.
[00050] The vehicle 100 comprises a steering system (not marked). A front suspension 160 forms part of the steering system. The steering system is rotatably journaled about the head tube 151. A handlebar assembly 162 is connected to the steering system for maneuvering the vehicle 100. The front suspension 160 rotatably supports the first-wheel 101. A power unit 120 is fixedly mounted to the frame assembly 150. The power unit 120 is fixedly supported by the first-member 152 and the second- member 154. The power unit 120, which is an internal combustion (IC) engine, is provided with an electric machine 125 (shown in dotted line). In one implementation, the electric machine 125 is mounted to a crankshaft (not shown) of the power unit 120 to rotate therewith and is enclosed from a lateral side by a first-lateral cover 124. The electric machine 125 is preferably, but not limited, to an integrated starter generator (ISG). The electric machine may include a traction motor that acts as a prime mover of the motorized vehicle. The electric machine 125 is configured to perform starting operation of the IC engine, charge a battery (not shown) of the vehicle 100 during operation of the IC engine, and even assists the IC engine. In one embodiment, the power unit 120 is coupled to the second- wheel 102 through a transmission system (not shown). In the one implementation, the second- wheel 102 is rotatably supported by a swingarm (not shown).
[00051] The vehicle 100 incudes a fuel tank assembly 164 that is mounted to the first-member 152 and is disposed rearward to the handlebar assembly 162. Further, a seat assembly 166 is disposed rearward to the fuel tank assembly 164. The seat assembly 166, in one implementation, in an elongated structure, in longitudinal direction FW-RW, and is supported by the rear tubes 156. A lateral-central panel 167 is provided below the seat assembly 166 and it may at least partially extend below the fuel tank assembly 164. In one implementation, the lateral-central panel 167 is a detachable member in order to access any components disposed behind thereof. Further, the vehicle 100 includes a front-fender 115 mounted to the front suspension 160 and configured to cover at least a portion of the first-wheel 101.
[00052] The power unit 120 comprises one or more subs-systems, which may include combustion facilitator. The combustion facilitators include, but not limited to, a fuel injector, a spark generator etc. (not shown). The combustion facilitators are to be controlled for efficient operation of the power unit 120. Further, an electronic-controller 170 is used to control operation of the electric machine 125. The electric machine 125 operates as a starter/motor during a starting or assisting operation. The electric machine 125 is configured to operate as a generator. In generation mode of the electric machine 125, an auxiliary power source 180 is charged. The auxiliary power source 180 can be a battery or any other power storage device.
[00053] The power unit 120, as per the current embodiment, is disposed in a front portion of the vehicle 100, which is substantially below a fuel tank assembly 164 (as shown in Fig. 1 (a)). The electronic-controller 170, operates with higher currents from the electric machine 125 and the auxiliary power source 180. The electronic-controller 170 is disposed upward to the power unit 120 and rearward to the steering axis S-S’ of the motorized vehicle 100. In one embodiment, the electronic-controller 170 is disposed ahead of and substantially upward to a cylinder portion 121/C10&C20 of the power unit 120. The cylinder portion 121/ C10&C20 acts as a first-heat dissipating portion, as the heat generated during the combustion process is substantially dissipated from this cylinder portion 121, which is formed by a cylinder block C10 and a cylinder head C20 (both bounded in the dotted box). A cylinder head-cover, which is disposed above the cylinder head is not considered as the first-heat dissipating portion, as relatively the heat dissipated from the cylinder headcover is minimal. That is the reasons in some implementations even a plastic or polymer cylinder head cover is used. The cylinder portion 121 may include a cylinder head, a cylinder block and a cylinder head-cover (all three not marked).
[00054] Further, an intake-manifold 185 (as shown in Fig. 1 (c)) gets connected to the cylinder portion 121 of the power unit 120 and a fuel-injector (not marked) may be mounted to the intake-manifold 185. In one implementation, the intake-manifold 185 is having a straight path. In another implementation, the intake-manifold 185 is having a curved path. In the depicted embodiment, the power unit 120 is a forwardly included type, which is, a cylinder axis C-C’ of the power unit 120 is forwardly inclined. The effect of heat dissipated from the power unit 120 is minimal to negligible on the electronic-controller 170 as it is disposed upward of the power unit 120. Further, the electronic-controller 170 is disposed rearward to a steering axis S-S’ of the motorized vehicle 100 and ahead of a rearmost end 122 of the first-heat dissipating portion of the power unit 120, which is the cylinder portion 121. In other words, the electronic-controller 170 is disposed between the steering axis S-S’ and the rearmost end 122 of the first-heat dissipating portion 121. The rear most end 122 of the first-heat dissipating portion 122 is shown in Fig. 1 (b). The position of the rearmost end 122 may vary depending on the orientation and construction of the cylinder portion 121.
[00055] In another embodiment, the power unit can be a traction motor (not shown), which is disposed in the front portion of the motorized vehicle 100 and being supported by the first-member 152 and/or the second- member 154. The first-heat dissipating portion in this case would be a casing of the traction motor from which heat dissipation/cooling occurs.
[00056] In one embodiment, the electronic-controller itself can be configured to control the one or more sub-systems of the power unit 120. However, in the depicted embodiment, the motorized vehicle 100 comprises of a power unit-controller 175 that is configured to control and operate the one or more sub-systems of the power unit 120 and thereby control operation of the power unit 120. For example, some of the operations include fuel injection timing, fuel injection start time, amount of fuel to be injected, spark ignition timing, and may include feedback control from data received from a lambda sensor, or an on-board diagnostics (OBD) system.
[00057] Fig. 1 (c) illustrates a right-side view of a motorized vehicle with selected components, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. Fig. 1 (d) illustrates another right-side view of a motorized vehicle with selected components, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. The electronic-controller 170 is mounted to the first-member 152 of the frame assembly 150. As per the depicted implementation, the electronic-controller 170 is disposed rearward to the steering axis S-S’ thereby having a wiring harness 187 away from the steering system thereby eliminating any strain on the wiring harness 187 due to repeated movement of the steering system. Further, the electronic-controller 170 is disposed ahead of the rearmost end 122 of the first-heat dissipating portion 121 of the power unit 120. The electronic-controller 170 being disposed upward of the power unit 121 and the ahead of the rearmost end 122 enables it to be kept away from a flow of hot air from the first-power unit 120. The power unit gets heated up during operation and due to the motion of the motorized vehicle 100, the hot air flows in a rearward direction.
[00058] In the depicted embodiment, the electronic-controller 170 is suspended from the first-member 152 and is positioned between the steering-reinforcing member 159 and the first-bend 153. The electronic-controller 170 has an uppermost portion 173, which is disposed below an uppermost portion of the first-member 152 thereat. In the depicted embodiment, the electronic-controller 170 comprises two mounting arms 172A, 172B that are provided on an upper side thereof. The two mounting arms 172A, 172B are spaced apart and are secured to the first-member 152. The two mounting arms 172A, 172B enable in suspending of the electronic-controller 170 in a secure and rigid manner. Need for any additional boot for mounting of the electronic-controller 170 is eliminated. Further, the frame assembly 150 includes a front-cross member 155, which is connecting the first-member 152 and the second- member 154. The front-cross member 155 is disposed at a pre-determined gap from the steering-reinforcing member 159. The first-cross member 155 can be a tubular member or a sheet member, which is connected to the first-member 152 and the second- member 154 by welding, fasteners, a combination of welding and fastening or any other known attaching scheme. In one implementation, the front-cross member 155 is disposed at orthogonal to one of the first-member 152 and the second- member 154. In the depicted embodiment, the electronic-controller 170 overlaps with at least a portion of the front-cross member 155 when viewed form a lateral side of the motorized vehicle 100. In another embodiment, the electronic-controller 170 is at least partially supported on the front-cross member 155 for additional support.
[00059] As shown in Fig. 1 (b), the auxiliary power source 180 is supported by the one or more rear tubes 156 and is at least partially disposed rearward to the first-bend of the first-member 152. The power unit-controller 175 is mounted to the first-member and is disposed ahead of the auxiliary power source 180, when viewed from lateral side of the motorized vehicle 100. The electronic-controller 170 is configured to charge of the auxiliary power source 180 when the electric machine 125 is operating in generator mode. The auxiliary power source 180 that is disposed towards one lateral side of the motorized vehicle 100 (shown in Fig 1 (b)) is accessible by removal of the lateral-central panel 167. An outlet (not shown) of the air cleaner 188 is connected to the intake-manifold 185 through a throttle body 186. The fuel injector may be mounted to the intake-manifold 185 or to the throttle body 186.
[00060] Further, as schematically shown in Fig. 1 (c), a fuel container 165, which forms a critical part of the fuel tank assembly 164 (as shown in Fig. 1 (a)), is configured to store fuel. The fuel container 165 is enclosed by a shroud assembly (not shown) and together the entire assembly forms the fuel tanks assembly 164. The fuel container 165 is mounted to the first-member 152 and may be supported the one or more rear tubes 156. In the depicted embodiment, the electronic-controller 170 is at least partially covered by the fuel container 165. In one implementation, the fuel container 165 has a bottom profile that is concave. The fuel container 165 that is mounted to the first-member 152 is supported thereon and extends downwards on either side of first-member 152. Moreover, a shroud assembly of the fuel tank assembly 164 may further conceal the electronic-controller 170 when viewed from lateral sides of the motorized vehicle 100. The electronic-controller 170 is securely disposed below the fuel tank assembly 164 at least partially concealed by it protecting the electronic-controller 170 from any water splashing during rain or during wash etc. A pre-determined clearance is maintained between the fuel container 165 and the electronic-controller 170 for flow of air towards the electronic-controller 170. In one implementation, the fuel tank assembly 164/shroud assembly is provided with louvers, air entry points for flow of ambient air during operation of the motorized vehicle 100.
[00061] Further, the electronic-controller 170 is provided with a plurality of fins 171, on a laterally outward facing side thereof. The plurality of cooling fins may be aligned along a flow of air to enable effective cooling. In an implementation as depicted, the plurality of fins 171 are disposed orthogonal to the flow of air. In such a configuration, the plurality of fins 171 are provided with ascending height when moving in front to rear direction (FW->RW) to enable flow of air towards all the fins. In one implementation, the electronic-controller 170 is suspended from a lateral side of the first-member 152.
[00062] Further, as shown in Fig. 1 (d), the electronic-controller 170 comprises a substantial portion disposed within a first-pyramid region 195. Fig. 1 (e) illustrates a schematic top view of the motorized vehicle with selected parts thereon, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. The subsequent explanation is provided with reference Figs. 1 (d) and 1 (e). The term substantial portion used above implies that more than 50% of the electronic-controller 170 is disposed within the first-pyramid region. The first-pyramid region 195 comprises a vertex 196 aligning with the head tube 151 of the frame assembly 150 and major sides along the first-member 152 and second-member 154. The first-pyramid region 195 (in side view as shown in Fig. 1 (d), the first-pyramid region 195 is schematically shown as a triangle) extends between the first-member 152 and the second- member 154. The first-pyramid region has a base portion 197 that is disposed above the first-heat dissipating portion 121 of the power unit. Thus, a height 195H (shown in Fig. 1 (d)) of the first-pyramid region 195 may extend from the head tube 151 (vertex 196) till a top portion of the first-heat dissipating portion 121. Since, the first-pyramid region 195 is narrower at the vertex 196 and extends when moving in a longitudinal direction FW-RW from the vertex 196, in on embodiment, a length of a side of the base portion 197 can be less than or equal to a width (taken in lateral direction RH-LH) of the fuel tank assembly 164. Depending on the width of electronic-controller 170, it is disposed within the first-pyramid region and may be supported by the first-member 152, the second- member 154, or the front-cross member 155. Further, as shown in Fig. 1 (e), the electronic-controller 170 is disposed substantially within the first-pyramid region. The fuel tank assembly 164 is schematically shown in dotted line.
[00063] Further, the power unit-controller 175, which is mounted to the first-member 152, is disposed substantially inward with respect to an outer peripheral portion of the air cleaner 188 or the auxiliary power source 180. The power unit-controller 175 may be at least partially covered by the fuel tank assembly 164 in a plan view of the motorized vehicle 100. The electronic-controller 170 comprises of plurality of ports 174, which are disposed at an offset from the first-member 152, in a plan view of the motorized vehicle 100. This enables ease of connection of the wiring harness 187 to the plurality of ports 174 without any interference from by the first-member 152. In one embodiment, the wiring harness 187 from the electronic-controller 170 extends along the first-member 152 and gets connected to the power unit-controller 175 and the auxiliary power source 180.
[00064] Fig. 2 (a) illustrates a left-side view of a motorized vehicle 101 with selected parts thereon, in accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter. Fig. 2 (b) illustrates a schematic right-side view of a motorized vehicle 101 with selected parts, in accordance with another embodiment of the presents subject matter. Fig. 2 (c) illustrates a schematic top view of a motorized vehicle 101, in accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter. The motorized vehicle 101 comprising of a frame assembly 150. The frame assembly 150 configured to support a power unit 120 of the motorized vehicle 101. An electric machine 125 is configured to be controlled by an electronic-controller 270. The electric motor 125 may form part of the power unit 120 or the electric motor Further, the electronic-controller 270 is disposed above the power unit 120. The electronic-controller 270 is disposed ahead of a rearmost end 122 of a first-heat dissipating portion 121 of the power unit 120. The electronic-controller 270 is disposed away from hot-air flow zone and flow of air towards the power unit 120 is not restricted. An uppermost portion 273 of the electronic-controller 270 is disposed below an uppermost portion of the first-member 152 thereby eliminating any interference with the fuel tank assembly 164/fuel container 165.
[00065] As depicted in the current embodiment, the power unit 120 is an internal combustion engine and first-heat dissipating portion is cylinder portion 121 formed by the cylinder block C10 and the cylinder head C20 of the power unit 120. The power unit 120 is fixedly supported by the first-member 152 and the second- member 154 of the frame assembly 150.
[00066] However, in yet another embodiment, a first-member 152 and a second- member are configured to support a traction motor (not shown). The traction motor has a corresponding first-heat dissipating portion defined by a casing of the traction motor. Even in such a configuration, the electronic-controller 270 is disposed above the power unit (traction motor) and ahead of a rearmost end of the first-heat dissipating portion.
[00067] As depicted in embodiment, the first-member 152 extends rearward from a head tube 151 and the second- member 154 extending obliquely downward from the head tube 151. Further, the first-member 152 undergoes a bend 153 subsequent to which the first-member 152 extends rearward to a rear portion of the power unit 120. The first-member 152 is disposed above and rearward to the power unit 120. The electronic-controller 270 is supported by the frame assembly 150. In one embodiment, the frame assembly 150 comprises a front-cross member 155, which is connected to the first-member 152 and the second- member 154. The front-cross member 155 is disposed at a pre-determined distance from a steering-reinforcing member 159. The electronic-controller 270 is disposed on the front-cross member 155 whereby it is disposed above the power unit 120. Further, the electronic-controller 170 is disposed within a first-pyramid region 195. The first-pyramid region is an imaginary region having a vertex 196 at the head tube 151 and major sides along the first-member 152 and second-member 154. A base 197 of the first-pyramid regions 195 is above the first-heat dissipating portion 121. The first-pyramid region 195 being formed between a first-member 152 and a second- member 154 of the frame assembly 150, when viewed from a lateral side RH/LH of the motorized vehicle.
[00068] As shown in Fig. 2 (c), the electronic-controller 270 being disposed above the power unit 120 is positioned below the first-member 152. The electronic-controller 270 is mounted to an upper portion of the front-cross member 155. A pre-determined clearance is maintained between the first-member 152 and the electronic-controller 270 to enable air flow from an upper surface of the electronic-controller 270. The electronic-controller 270 comprises an upper surface provided with a plurality of fins 271 (shown in Fig. 2 (a)) for effective cooling. In one embodiment, the electronic-controller 270 is oriented towards one lateral side RH/LH of the motorized vehicle 101. For example, the electronic-controller 270 is inclined towards one of a lateral side RH/LH of the motorized vehicle 101 as shown in Fig. 2 (a). Further, the electronic-controller 270 is disposed at a first angle ‘A’ with respect a lateral plane RH-LH of the motorized vehicle 101, as shown in Fig. 2 (c).
[00069] The electronic-controller 270 is provided with one or more ports 274, which is disposed towards one lateral side RH/LH. The one or more ports 274 are connected to a wiring harness 287 and the wiring harness 287 is supported by the first-member 152. A power unit-controller 175 is supported by the first-member 152 and the wiring harness being supported by the first-member 152 for connecting the power unit-controller 175 and the electronic-controller 270.
[00070] The various embodiments described above can be combined to provide further embodiments. Also, aspects of the embodiments are not necessarily limited to specific embodiments. Depicted figures are for illustrative purposes, many modifications and variations of the present subject matter are possible within the scope of the present subject matter, in the light of above disclosure.

List of reference signs:

100/101 motorized vehicle
101 first-wheel
102 second-wheel
115 front-fender
116 rear-fender
120 power unit
121 first-heat dissipating portion
122 rearmost end (first-heat dissipating portion)
124 first-lateral cover
125 electric machine
150 frame assembly
151 head tube
152 first-member
153 first-bend
154 second-member
155 front-cross member
156 rear tube(s)
157 ancillary tube(s)
159 steering-reinforcing member
162 handlebar assembly
164 fuel tank assembly
166 seat assembly
167 lateral-central panel
170/270 electronic-controller
171/271 plurality of fins
172A/172B mounting arm
173/273 uppermost portion
174/274 port(s)
175 power unit-controller
180 auxiliary power source
185 intake-manifold
186 throttle body
188 air cleaner
195 first-pyramid region
195H height (first-pyramid region)
196 vertex
197 base
A first angle
C10 cylinder block
C20 cylinder head
C-C’ cylinder axis
S-S’ steering axis