DESC:
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present subject matter relates generally to two-wheelers and more particularly, but not exclusively, to two-wheelers with a low-slung power unit.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Generally, in two-wheelers/three-wheeled vehicles having a saddle-ride type frame assembly, the frame assembly extends rearward from a head tube. Moreover, in the two-wheeled vehicles with a step-through type frame assembly, a step-through portion is provided. The step-though space provided may be used for carrying loads or for the rider to rest feet. Typically, the frame assembly acts as a skeleton for the vehicle that supports the vehicle loads. Also, a front wheel and a rear wheel are supported by the frame assembly of the vehicle. The front wheel is rotatably connected to the frame assembly through one or more front suspension(s). A rear wheel is connected to the frame assembly through one or more rear suspension(s). The vehicle includes an internal combustion (IC) engine acting as power unit that is functionally connected to the rear wheel, which provides the forward motion to the vehicle. Typically, plurality of panels is mounted to the frame assembly of the vehicle that covers various vehicle components. The vehicle components include electrical and electronic components including an electric starter system. Also, some of the vehicles have an anti-lock braking system, a synchronous braking system, or a vehicle control unit. The electrical and electronic components are powered by an on-board auxiliary power source or a magneto setup coupled to the engine.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0003] The detailed description of the present subject matter is described with reference to the accompanying figures. Same numbers are used throughout the drawings to reference like features and components.
[0004] Fig. 1 (a) illustrates a left side view of an exemplary vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0005] Fig. 1 (b) illustrates a left side view of vehicle with selected parts laid thereon, in accordance with an embodiment as depicted in Fig. 1 (a).
[0006] Fig. 1 (c) depicts a top view of the vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment as depicted in Fig. 1 (b).
[0007] Fig. 2 (a) illustrates a left side view of vehicle with selected parts laid thereon, in accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0008] Fig. 2 (b) illustrates a top view of vehicle with selected parts laid thereon, in accordance with embodiment of Fig. 2 (a).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0009] Generally, in a two-wheeled vehicle with the step-through type frame assembly, the frame assembly includes the step-through portion, which essentially caters to the load carrying requirement by the user. Further, vehicle components that include the power unit, a fuel tank that is connected to the power unit and a seat assembly are mounted to the frame assembly. Generally, the vehicles with the step-through portion having a naked appearance are preferred by users for the compact layout and appearance that is offered. Moreover, majority of the vehicle components are exposed in such vehicles. In such vehicles, the vehicle components are compactly packaged.
[00010] In some vehicles, the IC engine is swingably connected to the frame assembly. In some other vehicles, the IC Engine is fixedly mounted to the frame assembly. Moreover, nowadays, the IC engine is provided with electric starter system for providing ease of operation to the user. The electric starter system includes a starter motor that is powered by a small capacity battery. For example, the battery acts as an auxiliary power source. The small capacity battery is also compactly mounted to vehicle. Irrespective of the aforementioned compact layout, the vehicle provides utility space including the step-through portion for load carrying or storing accessories or the like.
[00011] To this end, with the advent of technology, vehicles including two-wheeled vehicles are provided with a traction motor that operates as one of the motion providing means working independently or along with the engine. One or more high capacity batteries/battery packs are provided to drive the traction motor either in case of electric or hybrid vehicles. The aforementioned configuration provides improved performance, improved fuel economy, and at the same time reduces emissions. However, accommodating such high capacity batteries may affect the compact layout of the vehicle. For example, in some vehicles the high capacity batteries are disposed at the step-though space that results in compromising one of the essential load carrying space of the vehicle. Moreover, the high capacity battery is to be provided with ease of access, as that user may desire to replace batteries for charging. In some other vehicles, the batteries are disposed inclinedly at a rear portion of the step-through, whereby the utility or load carrying space is compromised. Also, the aforementioned high capacity battery mounting requires major frame modifications that would affect that compact layout of the vehicle. Moreover, in such vehicles, the power unit and high capacity batteries being disposed at the step-through portion increases weight concentration thereat that adds stress on the frame thereby requiring frame reinforcement or modification that affects compactness. In vehicle with the high capacity battery mounted to the swing arm mandates the swing arm to be reinforced or larger to withstand the weight. This increases the weight of the vehicle.
[00012] Also, the aforementioned layouts requires the wheelbase of the vehicle to be increased in order to accommodate the high capacity batteries either on the swing arm or inclinedly at the rear portion of the step-through portion, whereby the drivability is affected as longer wheel base offers poor turning radius and poor drivability. Moreover, in some vehicles, access to the high capacity batteries on aforementioned and other vehicle layouts requires removal or opening of the seat, which is cumbersome. Also, such vehicles require additional storage space affecting the utility space on the vehicle. In addition, the vehicle should be capable of accommodating additional high capacity batteries that enables the user to attain higher driving range/ longer distance.
[00013] Thus, the present subject matter is aimed at overcoming the above mentioned and other problems in the prior art by providing a two-wheeler or three-wheeler. Hence, it is an object of the present subject matter to provide a two-wheeler having a low-slung power unit and having a compact layout even after accommodating high capacity batteries. Also, the two-wheeler will be offering improved drivability and at the same time optimum weight distribution.
[00014] It is a feature of the present subject matter that the vehicle includes low-slung power unit comprising at least one of an IC engine and a traction motor that is low-slung to a structural member. Thus, the IC engine, the traction motor, or both act as low-slung power unit that drive the vehicle. The traction motor is driven by one or more auxiliary power source(s) that are mounted to the structural member. The IC engine is powered by gasoline or diesel. It is a feature that the low-slung power unit offers stability and better drivability.
[00015] It is another feature of the present subject matter that the structural member of the two-wheeler defines a step-through portion for carrying loads. The structural member includes a main tube, a down tube extending rearwardly downward, and a rear tube portion(s) that collectively define the step-through portion. The low-slung power unit includes a first drive means including at least one of the IC and the traction, disposed at the step-through portion below the down tube. The terms low-slung power unit and first drive means are interchangeably used. A second low-slung power unit including the traction motor is hub mounted to at least one wheel of the vehicle, in one embodiment. In another embodiment, the traction motor is also low-slung and is disposed adjacent to the IC engine. The one or more auxiliary power source(s) are capable of electrically driving the traction motor.
[00016] It is an aspect of the present subject matter that the rear tube includes a support member disposed above the rear wheel and the support member is capable of supporting a seat assembly and one or more auxiliary power source(s) being disposed adjacently below the seat assembly i.e. immediately below the seat assembly. Thus, the one or more auxiliary power source(s) are securely mounted to the structural member, which is the load bearing member of the vehicle.
[00017] It is another aspect that the one or more source(s) are disposed laterally adjacent to the support member thereby retaining the compact layout of the vehicle, without affecting the width of the vehicle as the support member forming part of the structural member itself supports the auxiliary power sources.
[00018] It is yet another aspect that, in a side view, the one or more sources are surrounded by rear wheel/rear wheel hugger from bottom, a suspension from front, and the seat assembly from the top. Moreover, a rear mudguard is disposed rearward of the auxiliary power source. It is an advantage that the auxiliary power sources are securely disposed. It is yet another advantage that, in one embodiment, the one or more auxiliary power sources are having an outer periphery being disposed within the outer periphery of the seat assembly. It is an advantage that the auxiliary power sources are secured from side impacts.
[00019] It is a feature of the present subject matter that the auxiliary power sources are accessible in more than one direction thereby providing improved freedom of access and freedom of design. It is an aspect that the auxiliary power sources are removable in vehicle width direction without the need for removing the seat assembly.
[00020] It is yet an additional aspect of the present subject matter that the loads of the two-wheeler are distributively disposed on the structural member, wherein the IC engine or the traction motor that is one of the heaviest parts of the vehicle is disposed below the step-through portion. It is an advantage that the center of gravity of the vehicle is kept low and the stability of the two-wheeler is improved. Also, the auxiliary power sources and the low-slung power unit are distributively disposed on the structural member providing optimum weight distribution avoiding any load concentration or stress concentration at a single portion. It is yet an additional advantage that the first drive means that is low-slung experiences improved cooling by flowing air eliminating the need for forced cooling.
[00021] It is another additional aspect of the present subject matter that the fuel tank provided along with the IC engine and the auxiliary power sources are accessible without the need for opening the seat.
[00022] It is yet another additional aspect that the auxiliary power sources and the traction motor are optimally connected through a control means. It is an advantage that the wiring harness can be optimally provided along the structural member thereby reducing occurrence of short circuits and reducing the copper losses.
[00023] It is one more additional aspect that the control unit is mounted to a secondary storage unit that is mounted to the rear tube. Therefore, it is advantage that irrespective of position of the traction motor, the control means is electrically disposed between the auxiliary power source and the traction motor thereby providing optimum connectivity therebetween through the control means.
[00024] It is another additional aspect that the main tube, the down tube, the rear tube, and the support member are integrally formed. In one embodiment, the aforementioned tube(s) includes one single tubular member. In a preferred implementation, the structural member is of a single tubular structure except for the head tube that is affixed thereof.
[00025] The preset subject matter is applicable to a three-wheeled vehicle, which is having two wheels in the front or in the rear, provided the three-wheeler is having a structural member similar to the structural member described herein.
[00026] These and other advantages of the present subject matter would be described in greater detail in conjunction with the figures in the following description.
[00027] Arrows wherever provided in the top right corner of figure(s) in the drawings depicts direction with respect to the vehicle, wherein an arrow F denotes front direction, an arrow R indicates rear direction, an arrow Up denotes upward direction, an arrow Dw denotes downward direction, an arrow RH denotes right side, and an arrow LH denotes left side.
[00028] Fig. 1 (a) illustrates a left side view of an exemplary two-wheeler 100, in accordance with an embodiment of present subject matter. Hereinafter, the terms two-wheeler and vehicle are interchangeably used. The vehicle 100 includes a structural member 105, which acts as load bearing member of the vehicle 100. A longitudinal axis F-R of the vehicle extends from a front portion F to a rear portion R of the vehicle. The structural member 105 includes a head tube 105A (shown in Fig. 1 (b)). The structural member 105 defines a step-through portion ST. A handle bar assembly 115 is pivotally disposed through the head tube 105A and the handle bar assembly 115 is connected to a front wheel 110 of the vehicle 100. A low-slung power unit of the vehicle includes a first drive means 205 mounted to the structural member 105. The first drive means 205 includes at least one of IC engine 205 or traction motor or both. In the present embodiment, the first drive means 205 includes the IC engine 205 that is forwardly inclined and is low-slung to a down tube 105C (shown in Fig. 1 (b)). Also, in one embodiment, the IC engine 205, hereinafter referred to as engine, is low-slung.
[00029] Further, in the present embodiment, the vehicle 100 includes a fuel tank 130 disposed below the handle bar assembly 115 and being mounted to the structural member 105. Further, the fuel tank 130 is functionally connected to the engine 205, for supplying fuel. A rear wheel 145 is rotatably supported by a swing arm 140, which is pivotally connected to the structural member 105. Power generated by the engine 205 is transferred to the rear wheel 145 for creating a forward motion, through a transmission means 150. For example, the transmission means 150 can be a chain drive connected to an engine sprocket and a rear wheel sprocket. The transmission may also include a variable transmission, a belt drive, or an automatic transmission.
[00030] Further, a front fender 125 is disposed above the front wheel 110 for covering at least a portion of the front wheel 110. A rear fender 175 covers at least a portion of the rear wheel 145. One or more rear suspension(s) 160, disposed at an angle to sustain both the radial and axial forces occurring due to wheel reaction, connects the swing arm 140 to the structural member 105. A seat assembly 155 is disposed at a rear portion R of the step-through portion. In an embodiment, the seat assembly 155 includes a rider seat 155A, and a pillion seat 155B. Further, the seat assembly 155 is substantially positioned above the rear wheel 145. In one embodiment, the pillion seat 155B is mounted to a carrier 135 secured to the structural member 105 and the pillion seat 155B is detachable thereto. The carrier 135 is a metallic member that includes a periphery member like a tubular member and one or more cross-members extending in lateral direction RH-LH. The vehicle 100 is supported by a center stand 170 mounted to the structural member 105. A floorboard 165 is disposed at the step-through portion ST defined by the structural member 105 and the floorboard 165 covers at least a portion of the first drive means 205 disposed substantially below the step-through portion ST, which is the engine in the present embodiment.
[00031] Further, the engine 205 is connected to an air intake system (not shown), an exhaust assembly (not shown), and a starter system (not shown). The starter system includes an electric starter mechanism or a mechanical starter mechanism. A starter means (not shown) of the electrical starter system is powered by an auxiliary power source, which is a low capacity battery, for cranking the engine 205. The starter means includes any one of a starter motor or an integrated starter-generator. In one embodiment, the low capacity battery is disposed in a secondary storage unit 180. Generally, the starter motor is mounted to the engine 205 and the low capacity battery is in proximity to the starter motor. Further, the vehicle 100 may include electrical and electronic components including a head lamp, a tail lamp, a vehicle control system, an anti-lock braking system, and a synchronous braking system that provide improved and safe riding. Also, the low-slung power unit includes a second drive means including the traction motor 210 (shown in Fig. 1 (b)) that is hub mounted to at least one wheels 110, 145 of the vehicle 100 (as shown in Fig. 1 (b))
[00032] Fig. 1 (b) depicts a left side view of the vehicle 100 with parts laid thereon, in accordance with the embodiment of Fig. 1 (a). The structural member 105 of the vehicle 100 includes the head tube 105A. A main tube 105B extends rearwardly downward from the head tube 105A, and a down tube 105B extends rearward, substantially in a longitudinal direction F-R, from a rear portion of the main tube 105B. Further, a rear tube 105D extends inclinedly rearward from the rear portion of the down tube 105C. In one embodiment, the main tube 105B, the down tube 105C, and the rear tube 105D are integrally composed. For example, the main tube 105B, the down tube 105C, and the rear tube 105D are part of a single tubular member thereby providing a compact structural member 105. Thus, the structural member 105 can form a continuous tubular member that is made of any known rigid material including any known metal or fiber reinforced plastic. Further, the first drive means 205 includes the engine 205 mounted adjoiningly below the down tube 105C and the fuel tank 130 is mounted to the main tube 105B thereby providing optimum hose routing through/about the structural member 105. The engine 205 is secured to one or more engine bracket(s) 105F that are securely holding front portion and rear portion of the engine 205. The engine bracket 105F extends downward from the down tube 105C. In the present embodiment, the engine bracket 105F that is supporting the engine 205 at rear portion is extending downward and is capable of swingably supporting the swing arm 140.
[00033] Further, the low-slung power unit includes the traction motor 210, which is acting as a second drive means 210 in the present embodiment, hub mounted to the rear wheel 145. Therefore, the low-slung power unit includes the first drive means 205, and the second drive means 210, wherein the first drive means includes an engine 205 or traction motor mounted to the down tube 105C. Further, in one embodiment, the low-slung power unit includes the second drive means, which the traction motor 210, hub mounted to the rear wheel 145.
[00034] However, in another embodiment, the first drive means may include both the IC engine and the traction motor mounted disposed adjacent to each other and supported by the down tube 105C, wherein the traction motor is disposed behind the engine 205 in vehicle longitudinal direction F-R, and the low-slung power unit is low-slung. In one embodiment, the engine is compact type having a capacity of 50 to 150 cubic centimeters capacity that can be compactly disposed below the step-through portion ST and the traction motor can also be accommodated below the step-through portion ST. The range 50-150 cubic centimeters provides a compact cylinder portion, including the cylinder head and cylinder block that enables mounting of the IC engine compactly below the step-through portion ST.
[00035] Furthermore, the vehicle 100 is provided with one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 that are of high capacity. The one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 form a first set of auxiliary power source that are functionally connected to the traction motor 210 for electrically driving the traction motor 210. In a preferred embodiment, the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 are connected to the traction motor 210 through a control unit (not shown). In one embodiment, the control unit is disposed in the secondary storage unit 180 that is preferably disposed electrically between the auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 and the traction motor.
[00036] In one embodiment, the vehicle 100 can be operated using only the engine 205, using only the traction motor 210, or using both the IC engine 210 and the traction motor 210 depending on user requirement.
[00037] Further, the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 are disposed below the seat assembly 155 and laterally adjacent to a support member 105DA of the structural member 105. The support member 105DA extends rearward from a rear portion of the rear tube 105D that is inclinedly disposed. The support member 105DA extends substantially horizontally in the longitudinal direction F-R of the vehicle 100 and is disposed substantially at lateral center of the vehicle 100. The support member 105DA is provided with a rider seat bracket 105DB affixed thereon for mounting a rider seat 155A. In the present embodiment, the rider seat bracket 105DB is provided at the transition portion between the rear tube 105D and the support member 105DA. Further, in one embodiment, the pillion seat 155B is secured to the carrier 135 that is affixed to the support member 105DA. In another embodiment, the pillion seat 155B is integrated with the carrier 135. However, the pillion seat 155B cab be directly secured to the support member 105DA. The one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 are disposed below the seat assembly 155. Further, the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 are enclosed by a casing (not shown).
[00038] The one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 includes any known power sources like lead acid battery, a lithium-ion battery, a hydrogen cell, a fuel cell, or the like. The one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 have electrical terminals for electrically connecting to the traction motor 210 through wiring harness/ electrical wires. In a preferred embodiment, the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 disposed below the seat assembly 155 are provided with electrical terminals at a front portion thereof for optimum routing of the electrical wires. This enables connection between the control unit disposed in secondary storage unit 180 with the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 to be optimum. Further, through the control unit, the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 are connected to the traction motor disposed below the down tube 105C or to the traction motor 210 hub mounted to the rear wheel 145, optimally. Thus, length of the electrical wiring, which is of large thickness for carrying high currents, connecting the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 to the traction motor 210, is optimal and routed along the structural member. This reduces cost of the system at the same time reduces copper loses due to optimum witting length. Also, occurrence of shorting is reduced due to optimum wiring length. In one embodiment, the control unit is provided with one or more relays to operate the traction motor 210 with the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310.
[00039] The one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 disposed below the seat assembly 155 and adjacent to the support member 105DA are compactly disposed away from the step-though portion ST of the vehicle 100. Further, the two-wheeler 100 provides improved access to the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 for charging the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 either on board or for charging off board by replacement. The one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 are disposed rearward to the rear suspension 160 without affecting the layout of the vehicle or compromising ride comfort. The vehicle 100 is provided with improved freedom of access to the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 , wherein the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 can be mounted or removed in lateral direction, or in downward direction, or in longitudinal direction, or even by removing the seat assembly 155 if required. This provides improved design flexibility to provide access for the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 with the need for removing the seat assembly.
[00040] In side view, the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 are surrounded by the rear wheel 145 from bottom, rear suspension 160 from front, the seat assembly 155 from top, and the rear fender 175 (as shown in Fig. 1) thereby protecting the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 from any external factors or from any direct impact. In addition, the vehicle 100 retains the compact layout of the vehicle as an outer periphery of the more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 is within the outer most portion of the vehicle 100.
[00041] Additionally, the auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 that are fixedly mounted to the structural member 105 eliminates any need for providing additional clearance between the swing arm and the structural member and any need for providing gap between the step-though portion ST and the rear wheel 145 thereby providing optimal wheelbase. This provides improved riding due to optimum turning radius and also better maneuverability.
[00042] Fig. 1 (c) depicts a top view of the vehicle, in accordance with the embodiment of Fig. 1 (b). The vehicle 100 is provided with structural member 105 with loads distributively disposed. The first drive means 205 including the engine 205, which is one of the heaviest components of the vehicle, arise disposed below the down tube 105C thereby providing stability as the first drive means 205 is disposed substantially at the center i.e. between the front wheel 110 and the rear wheel 145. Further, the fuel tank 130 is mounted to structural member 105 and is disposed ahead of the engine 205 in longitudinal direction F-R. The one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 are disposed rearward to the engine 205 and are secured to the support member 105DA of the structural member 105 that is a tubular member disposed substantially at a lateral center of the vehicle 100 thereby providing a compact layout. Also, the outer periphery of the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 is within the outer width of the vehicle 100. Therefore, the compact layout of the vehicle 100 is retained at the same time, riding comfort of the pillion is also not compromised as the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 are at least within the width of the vehicle. The one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 do not interfere with the riding posture of rider or pillion.
[00043] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the auxiliary power source is high capacity battery pack that accommodates multiple Lithium-ion cells that are accommodated therein. The auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 are disposed with a long axis thereof extending in a longitudinal direction F-R of the vehicle 100. In addition, as viewed in the top view, the heavy vehicle components including the fuel tank 130 that stores fuel, the first drive means 205 and/or 210, the auxiliary power sources are disposed distributively along the structural member 105 in the longitudinal direction F-R eliminating load concentration at a single portion of the vehicle.
[00044] Fig. 2 (a) depicts a left side view of a two-wheeler 101 with parts laid thereon, in accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter. A structural member 105 of the vehicle 101 includes a head tube 105A. A main tube 105B extends rearwardly downward from the head tube 105A, and a down tube 105B extends rearward from a rear portion of the main tube 105B. Further, a rear tube 105D extends inclinedly rearward from the rear portion of the down tube 105C. In one embodiment, the main tube 105B, the down tube 105C, and the rear tube 105D are integrally formed. For example, the main tube 105B, the down tube 105C, and the rear tube 105D form a single tubular member thereby providing a compact structural member 105. The low-slung power unit of the vehicle 101 includes a first drive means 215 including a traction motor 215, which is low-slung, mounted adjoiningly below the down tube 105C. The traction motor 215 is secured to one or more motor bracket(s) 105G that is capable of securely holding the traction motor 215 in front portion and in the rear portion. The motor bracket 105G extends downward from the down tube 105C and the motor bracket 105F swingably supports the swing arm 140.
[00045] Further, the low-slung power unit may include another traction motor (not shown), which is a second drive means, hub mounted to the rear wheel 145. Therefore, the low-slung power unit 305 includes a first drive means, which the traction motor 215 in the present embodiment, mounted to the down tube 105C. Further, in one embodiment, the low-slung power unit includes a second drive means, which is another traction motor, hub mounted to at least one wheel 110/145.
[00046] Furthermore, in the depicted embodiment, the vehicle 101 is provided with one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310, 315, and 320 that are of high capacity. Preferably, the auxiliary power source is a battery pack accommodating multiple battery cells like the Lithium-ion cells capable of providing desired voltage. The one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310, 315, and 320 are functionally connected to the traction motor 215 for electrically driving the traction motor 215. In a preferred embodiment, the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310, 315, and 320 are connected to the traction motor 215 through a control unit (not shown). In one embodiment, the control unit is disposed in one of a primary storage unit 185 or a secondary storage unit 180 (as shown in Fig. 1 (a)), wherein the primary storage unit 185 is mounted to the main tube 105B and the secondary storage unit 180 is mounted to the rear tube 105D. In one embodiment, the control unit is capable of operating the vehicle 101 using only the first drive means 215, using only the second drive means, or using both.
[00047] Further, the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310, 315, and 320 includes a first set of auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 disposed below the seat assembly 155 and laterally adjacent to a support member 105DA of the structural member 105. The support member 105DA extends rearward from a rear portion of the rear tube 105D in the longitudinal direction F-R of the vehicle 101. The support member 105DA provided with a rider seat bracket 105DB affixed thereon for mounting a rider seat 155A. Further, in one embodiment, the pillion seat 155B is secured to the carrier 135. In another embodiment, the pillion seat 155B is detachable from the carrier 135 for mounting loads thereon. The first set of auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 are disposed below the seat assembly 155. In another embodiment, the one or more auxiliary power source 305 is enclosed by a casing (not shown), wherein the casing provides secured access of the auxiliary power source(s) to the authorized user.
[00048] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310, 315, and 320 includes a second set of auxiliary power source(s) 315, 320 mounted to the main tube 105B. The second set of auxiliary power source(s) 315, 320 are preferably disposed adjoiningly and adjacent to the main tube 105B. In one embodiment, the second set of auxiliary power sources 315, 320 are disposed laterally adjacent to the main tube 105B. Therefore, the power source(s) 305, 310, 315, and 320 are disposed in proximity to the first drive means, which is the low-slung power unit disposed below the step-through portion. The structural member 105 of the vehicle enables mounting of the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310, 315, and 320 without compromising on the utility space defined at the step-though portion ST of the vehicle 101. The step-through portion ST of the vehicle is retained. Also, the rider seat 155A, or the carrier 135 need not be removed to access the power source(s) 305, 310. The carrier 135 being one of the load carrying portions of the vehicle 101 is also not disturbed.
[00049] In addition, in side view, the first set of auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 are surrounded by the rear suspension 160 from front, the rear wheel 145 from bottom, and the seat assembly 155 from top, thereby securely positioning the power source(s) at the same time providing ease of access. Similarly, the second set of auxiliary power source(s) 315, 320, in side view, are surrounded by the front wheel 110 and the front suspension 120 from the front, and the primary storage unit 185 from the top thereby securely positioning the second set of power source(s) 315, 320 in the front portion of the vehicle 101; also the auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310, 315, 320 are easily accessible.
[00050] Fig. 2 (b) depicts a top view of the vehicle, in accordance with the embodiment of Fig. 2 (a). The vehicle 101 is provided with structural member 105 with loads distributively disposed in the longitudinal direction F-R of the vehicle 101. The first drive means 215 including the traction motor 215, which is one of the heaviest components of the vehicle 101, disposed below the down tube 105C thereby providing stability as the traction motor 215 is disposed substantially at the vehicle center i.e. between the front wheel 110 and the rear wheel 145. Further, a primary storage unit 185 is mounted to structural member 105 and is disposed ahead of the first drive means 215. The first set of auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 are disposed rearward to the first drive means 215 and are secured to the support member 105DA of the structural member 105. Also, the outer periphery of the first set of auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 is within the outer width of the vehicle 101. Therefore, the compact layout of the vehicle 101 is retained at the same time riding comfort of the pillion is also not compromised as the first set of auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 are at least within the width of the vehicle.
[00051] Similarly, the second set of auxiliary power source(s) 315, 320 are disposed below adjoiningly to the main tube 105B. In a top view, the outer periphery of the second set of auxiliary power source(s) 315, 320 is substantially inward with respect to outer most portion of the vehicle 101. Therefore, the power source(s) 305, 310, 315, and 320 do not interfere with the riding posture of rider or pillion.
[00052] The one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310, 315, and 320 includes any known power sources like lead acid battery, a lithium-ion battery, a hydrogen cell, a fuel cell. The one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310, 315, and 320 have electrical terminals for electrically connecting to the traction motor 215. In a preferred embodiment, the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310 disposed below the seat assembly 155 provided with electrical terminals at a front portion of the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310. The one or more auxiliary power source(s) 315, 320 being disposed below the primary storage unit 185 are provided with electrical terminals at a downward portion thereof. This enables connection between the control unit disposed in secondary storage unit 180 with the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310, 315, and 320 to be optimum and the electrical wires routed about the structural member. Further, through the control unit the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310, 315, and 320 are connected to the traction motor disposed below the down tube 105C or that is hub mounted to the rear wheel 145, optimally. Thus, length of the electrical wiring, which is of large thickness, connecting the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310, 315, and 320 to the traction motor 215 is optimal. This reduces cost of the system at the same time reduces copper loses. Also, occurrence of short circuit is reduced due to optimum wiring lengths. In one embodiment, the control unit is provided with one or more relays to operate the traction motor 215 with the one or more auxiliary power source(s) 305, 310, 315, and 320.
[00053] In one embodiment, the traction motor 205 is a brush less direct current (BLDC) motor. However, in another application any known electrical motor may be used like the induction motor. The traction motor 215 has a shaft (not shown) with an axis extending substantially in a lateral direction RH-LH of the vehicle 101. Further, referring to Fig. 2 (a), the shaft is affixed with a first sprocket S1 and the rear wheel 145 is provided with a second sprocket S2. The first sprocket S1 and the second sprocket S2 are coupled through the transmission means 150, which is a chain drive in the current implementation.
[00054] Also, in one embodiment, the low-slung power unit including the traction motor and/or the IC engine is low-slung being disposed adjoiningly below the down tube, wherein the traction motor is longitudinally adjacent to the IC engine.
[00055] It is to be understood that the aspects of the embodiments are not necessarily limited to the features described herein. Many modifications and variations of the present subject matter are possible in the light of above disclosure. Therefore, within the scope of claims of the present subject matter, the present disclosure may be practiced other than as specifically described. ,CLAIMS:We claim:
1. A two-wheeler or three-wheeler (100, 101) with a low-slung power unit (205, 215), said two-wheeler or three-wheeler (100, 101) comprising:
a structural member (105) defining a step-through portion (ST), and said structural member (105) supporting a seat assembly (155) disposed rearward of said step-through portion (ST);
a rear wheel (145) functionally connected to said low-slung power unit (205, 210), and said rear wheel (145) disposed rearward to said step-through portion (ST) and substantially below said seat assembly (155); and
one or more auxiliary power source(s) (305, 310, 315, 320) supported by said structural member (105);
characterized in that,
said low-slung power unit (205, 215) mounted to said structural member (105) is disposed substantially below step-through portion (ST); and said one or more auxiliary power source(s) (305, 310, 315, 320) includes a first set of auxiliary power source(s) (305, 310) disposed adjacently below said seat assembly (155).
2. The two-wheeler or three-wheeler (100, 101) with the low-slung power unit as claimed in claim 1, wherein said structural member (105) comprises a head tube (105A) disposed in a front portion of said vehicle (100, 101), a main tube (105B) extending inclinedly rearward from said head tube (105A), a down tube (105C) extending rearward substantially in a longitudinal direction (F-R) from a rear portion of the main tube (105B), and a rear tube (105D) extending inclinedly rearward from a rear portion of the down tube (105C), said structural member (105) includes a support member (105DA) extending rearward substantially in a longitudinal direction (F-R) of said vehicle (100, 101) from a rear portion of the rear tube (105D), and wherein at least a portion of said seat assembly (155) is supported by said support member (105DA) and said first set of auxiliary power source(s) (305, 310) are disposed adjacently to said support member (105DA) disposed substantially at a lateral center of said two-wheeler or three-wheeler (100, 101).
3. The two-wheeler or three-wheeler (100, 101) with the low-slung power unit (205, 215) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said first set of auxiliary power source(s) (305, 310) overlap with at least a portion of said seat assembly (155), when viewed from vehicle top.
4. The two-wheeler or three-wheeler (100, 101) with the low-slung power unit (205, 215) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said fist set of auxiliary power source(s) (305,310) are disposed rearward of a rear suspension (160), said rear suspension (160) functionally connecting a rear wheel (145) of said vehicle (100, 101) to said structural member (105), and said first set of power sources(s) (305, 310) are surrounded by the rear suspension (160) from front, the seat assembly (155) from the top, and a rear fender (175) covering at least a portion of the rear wheel (145) from rear, when viewed from vehicle side.
5. The two-wheeler or three-wheeler (100) with the low-slung power unit (205) as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein said low-slung power unit (205) includes an internal combustion engine (205) mounted to said down tube (105C) of said structural member (105), and said internal combustion engine (205) is forward inclined type having a capacity substantially in the range of 50 – 150 cubic centimetres.
6. The two-wheeler or three-wheeler (101) with the low-slung power unit (215) as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein said low-slung power unit (215) includes a traction motor (215) mounted to said down tube (105C) of said structural member (105).
7. The two-wheeler or three-wheeler (100, 101) with the low-slung power unit (205, 215) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said two-wheeler or three-wheeler (100, 101) includes a second drive means (210) comprising a traction motor hub mounted to at least one wheel (110, 145) of said two-wheeler or three-wheeler (100, 101).
8. The two-wheeler or three-wheeler (100, 101) with the low-slung power unit (205, 215) as claimed in claim 1 or 4, wherein said first set off auxiliary power source(s) (305, 310) includes one or more auxiliary power source(s) having a long axis disposed substantially along a longitudinal direction (F-R) of said vehicle (100, 101).
9. The two-wheeler or three-wheeler (101) with the low-slung power unit (215) as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein said one or more auxiliary power source(s) (315, 320) includes a second set of auxiliary power source(s) (315, 320) disposed along said main tube (105B) of said structural member (105).
10. The two-wheeler or three-wheeler (101) with the low-slung power unit (215) as claimed in claim 9, wherein said two-wheeler or three-wheeler (101) includes a primary storage unit (185) mounted to said main tube (105B), wherein said primary storage unit (185) overlaps with at least a portion of said second set of auxiliary power source(s) (315, 320) when viewed from vehicle top.
11. The two-wheeler or three-wheeler (101) with the low-slung power unit (215) as claimed in claim 2, wherein said main tube (105B), said down tube (105C), said rear tube (105D), and said support member (105DA) are integrally formed by a single tubular member.
12. The two-wheeler or three-wheeler (101) with the low-slung power unit (215) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said first set of auxiliary power source(s) (305, 310) are enclosed by a casing, wherein said casing enables access of each said first set of auxiliary power source(s) (305, 310) in one or more directions.
13. A two-wheeler or three-wheeler (100, 101) with a low-slung power unit (205, 215), said two-wheeler (100, 101) comprising:
a structural member (105) defining a step-through portion (ST), and said structural member (105) supporting a seat assembly (155) disposed rearward of said step-through portion (ST);
a rear wheel (145) functionally connected to said low-slung power unit (205, 210), and said rear wheel (145) disposed rearward to said step-through portion (ST) and substantially below said seat assembly (155); and
one or more auxiliary power source(s) (305, 310, 315, 320) supported by said structural member (105);
characterized in that,
said low-slung power unit (205, 215) mounted to said structural member (105) is disposed substantially below step-through portion (ST); and said one or more auxiliary power source(s) (305, 310, 315, 320) includes a first set of auxiliary power source(s) (305, 310) and a second set of auxiliary power source(s) (315, 320), said first set of auxiliary power source(s) (305, 310) disposed adjacently below said seat assembly (155), and said second set of auxiliary power source(s) (315, 320) disposed along said main tube (105B) of said structural member (105)