Present disclosure generally relates to vehicles. Particularly, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to an engine of a vehicle. Further, embodiments of the present disclosure disclose a crankcase of the engine having a cover for securing a stator of an electric machine.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[002] The information in this section merely provides background information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art(s) for the present disclosure.
[003] Vehicles such as two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles either employ an internal combustion engine, or an electric motor, or a combination of both [hybrid] for propulsion. Engine and/or the electric motor serve(s) as a power unit for generating power required for driving the vehicle. Engine based vehicles typically include a four-stroke engine which may have one or more cylinders depending on the power requirements. The single or multiple cylinders in the engine are associated with a crankshaft which delivers power to wheels of the vehicle through a transmission unit. The crankshaft is usually enclosed in a housing called crankcase. The crankcase serves several purposes such as serving as an oil sump or reservoir to store oil used for lubrication, resulting in a "wet sump" engine arrangement. Apart from being an oil reservoir, the crankcase encloses the crankshaft and may take part in supporting and housing several components associated with the crankshaft or other components of the engine. For example, the crankcase may support number of bearings including main bearing of the crankshaft, and the crankcase may be defined with a number of walls, ribs, pockets, oil passages, etc., for structural purposes. Besides the bearings, the crankcase also takes part in supporting various dynamic components directly or indirectly, for example, the flywheel of the engine, the oil pump intended to deliver lubricating oil to various engine components, electric machines such as alternating current generator (ACG)/alternator, an integrated starter generator (ISG), a simple starter motor and so on.
[004] Presence of these components in the crankcase leads to crankcase being subjected to various dynamic loads and effects of noise and vibrations. For instance, an electric machine such as an ACG or an ISG housed in the crankcase would be subjected to dynamic effects like torsional vibrations and noise. The vibrations give rise to whistling noise which may cause discomfort to the users of the vehicle. Resonance may occur which is likely to increase torsional

vibration amplitude that needs to be attenuated/diffused appropriately for mitigating the effects of noise as well as to improve the durability of the crankcase structure. Besides this, the dynamic loads and vibration may also impair torsional stiffness and/or rigidity of certain sections inside the crankcase, for example, crankcase outer shells or covers. This is highly undesired, since weakening of torsional stiffness/rigidity combined with torsional vibration amplitudes may eventually lead to failure of said critical sections. Failure of these sections may in turn hamper functioning of associated elements. The noise intrinsic with the dynamic loads and vibrations is also sometimes amplified by direct metal to metal contact between the components, like the electric motor and the inner profile of the crankcase. Several efforts have been put forth in the past to attenuate vibrations and mitigate effects of dynamic loads, and consequently, to improve the torsional stiffness and to eliminate noise. However, there is need for a satisfactory solution to effectively address the problems of vibration, noise and compromised torsional characteristics such as torsional rigidity/stiffness of the crankcase and crankcase components.
[005] Present disclosure is directed to overcome one or more limitations stated above or other such limitations associated with the existing arts.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[006] One or more shortcomings of conventional crankcase are overcome, and additional advantages are provided through the crankcase as claimed in the present disclosure. Additional features and advantages are realized through the techniques of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of the disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered as a part of the claimed disclosure.
[007] In a non-limiting embodiment of the disclosure, a crankcase of an engine of a vehicle is disclosed. The crankcase includes a cover configured to conceal a portion of the crankcase, the cover having an inner profiled portion. The inner profiled portion is defined with a hub having an inner cylindrical portion extending normally from the inner profiled portion, and an outer cylindrical portion. Further, the outer cylindrical portion extends normally from the inner profiled portion concentric to the inner cylindrical portion defining a gap therebetween. The hub then includes a plurality of connecting provisions extending within the gap, the plurality of connecting provisions joining the inner cylindrical portion and the outer cylindrical portion. Each of the plurality of connecting provisions is configured to secure a stator of an electric

machine. The inner and outer cylindrical portions improve torsional stiffness of the hub, and attenuate undesired noise emanating from the crankcase, thereby reducing the possibility of discomfort to the passengers of the vehicle.
[008] In an embodiment of the disclosure, an outer diameter of the outer cylindrical portion is greater than a pitch circle diameter of the plurality of connecting provisions. The increased outer diameter of the outer cylindrical portion ensures that the stator is sturdily mounted. At the same time, the increased outer diameter allows the stator to effectively distribute the loads and vibrations through the crankcase. This is beneficial in improving connectivity, as well as in improving torsional stiffness of the crankcase cover in entirety.
[009] In an embodiment of the disclosure, the inner profiled portion is defined with a plurality of first reinforcement ribs, each extending between the hub and an outer peripheral wall of the inner profiled portion. At least one of the plurality of first reinforcement ribs is structured to adjoin one of plurality of mounting points defined in the outer peripheral wall. The first reinforcement ribs take part in distributing the loads towards the periphery of the crankcase cover, thereby minimizing the concentration of stress at the hub region.
[0010] In an embodiment of the disclosure, a height of the inner cylindrical portion measured from a surface of the inner profiled portion is greater than a height of the outer cylindrical portion, to define a stepped transition from the inner cylindrical portion to the outer cylindrical portion. The stepped transition ensures that the stator is rigidly gripped/held onto the hub which is effective in maintaining firm connection between the electric machine and the crankcase cover. Maintaining overall sturdiness is crucial especially since the rotor of the electric machines rotates at very high speeds which tend to induce noise, vibrations, and dynamic loads.
[0011] In an embodiment of the disclosure, a surface of the inner profiled portion inside the inner cylindrical portion is defined with a plurality of second reinforcement ribs, each extending radially on the surface towards the inner cylindrical portion.
[0012] In an embodiment of the disclosure, the cover is structured to conceal at least one of a left side opening and a right opening of the crankcase.
[0013] In an embodiment of the disclosure, each of the plurality of connecting provisions is defined with a first aperture, each structured to align with a corresponding aperture defined in a stator huh of the stator The first anertures alienine with the corresnondine anertures defined

in the stator hub are adapted to receive first fastening elements to secure the stator hub with the outer cylindrical portion.
[0014] In an embodiment of the disclosure, height of the plurality of first reinforcement ribs and the plurality of second reinforcement ribs measured from a surface of the inner profiled portion is smaller than a height of the outer cylindrical portion measured from the surface.
[0015] In an embodiment of the disclosure, each of the plurality of mounting points comprises a second aperture, each second aperture structured to align with a corresponding aperture defined in the crankcase. The aligned second apertures and the corresponding apertures defined in the crankcase are adapted to receive second fastening elements to secure the cover with the crankcase.
[0016] In an embodiment of the disclosure, each second reinforcement rib is spaced from one or more adjacent second reinforcement ribs by angle ranging between 60-120 degrees. Specific angular orientation of ribs is crucial for optimal distribution of loads towards the periphery of the crankcase cover.
[0017] It is to be understood that the aspects and embodiments of the disclosure described above may be used in any combination with each other. Several of the aspects and embodiments may be combined together to form further embodiments of the disclosure.
[0018] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS
[0019] The novel features and characteristics of the disclosure are set forth in the description. The disclosure itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives, and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. One or more embodiments of the present invention are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanied drawings wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:

[0020] FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a two wheeled vehicle showing exterior of an engine crankcase with other components, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0021] FIG. 2 illustrates front view of an exterior of a cover of the crankcase shown in FIG. 1;
[0022] FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate front view and perspective view of interior of the crankcase cover shown in FIG. 2, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0023] FIG. 4A illustrates exploded perspective view of the crankcase cover shown in FIGS. 3 A and 3B along with a stator;
[0024] FIG. 4B illustrates front view of the crankcase cover assembled with the stator shown in FIG. 4A; and
[0025] FIG. 4C illustrates a sectional side view of the crankcase cover and the stator taken along section X-X in FIG. 4B.
[0026] The figures depict embodiments of the disclosure for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the vehicle or the crankcase or the stator of the electric machine illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein. The drawings referred to in this description are not to be understood as being drawn to scale except if specifically noted, and such drawings are only exemplary in nature.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0027] While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiment thereof has been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail below. It should be understood, however that it is not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternative falling within the spirit and the scope of the invention.
[0028] Before describing detailed embodiments, it may be observed that the novelty and inventive step that are in accordance with the present disclosure resides in the configuration of a crankcase having a cover which is intended to secure a stator of an electric machine. It is to

be noted that a person skilled in the art would be motivated from the present disclosure and modify the various constructions of the crankcase cover and the electric machine described thereof. However, such modifications should be construed within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings are showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having benefit of the description herein.
[0029] In the present disclosure, the term "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration". Any embodiment or implementation of the present subject matter described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.
[0030] The terms "comprises", "comprising", or any other variations thereof used in the disclosure, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions, such that a device or a system that comprises a list of components does not include only those components but may include other components not expressly listed or inherent to such a device or a system. In other words, one or more elements in the device or the system proceeded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the device or the system.
[0031] The terms like "at least one" and "one or more" may be used interchangeably or in combination throughout the description.
[0032] While the present disclosure is illustrated in the context of a two-wheeled vehicle, however, crankcase, cover, stator, electric machine and aspects and features thereof can be used with other type of vehicles as well. The terms "vehicle" and "two-wheeled vehicle" have been interchangeably used throughout the description. The term "vehicle" comprises vehicles such as motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, mopeds, scooter type vehicle, all-terrain vehicles (ATV), and the like.
[0033] The terms "front/forward", "rear/rearward/back/backward", "up/upper/top/upward", "down/lower/lower ward/downward, bottom", "left/leftward", "right/rightward" used therein represents the directions as seen from a vehicle driver sitting astride.

[0034] For better understanding of the disclosure, reference would now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the accompanying figures and description here below. Further, in the following figures, the same reference numerals are used to identify the same components in various views.
[0035] Embodiments of the present disclosure disclose a crankcase of an engine in a vehicle. The crankcase includes a cover configured to conceal a portion of the crankcase, for example, left and right-side openings present in the crankcase. The cover has an inner profiled portion which is defined with a hub for securing stator of an electric machine, like an alternator, motor and so on. The hub includes an inner cylindrical portion extending normally from the inner profiled portion, and an outer cylindrical portion concentric to the inner cylindrical portion, so that they define a gap therebetween. The hub then includes a plurality of connecting provisions extending within the gap, the plurality of connecting provisions joining the inner cylindrical portion and the outer cylindrical portion. The connecting provisions ensure material continuity between the inner cylindrical portion and the outer cylindrical portion with the gaps remaining between the connecting provisions. Each of the plurality of connecting provisions is configured to secure a stator of an electric machine. In an embodiment, outer diameter of the outer cylindrical portion is greater than a pitch circle diameter of the plurality of connecting provisions. The increased outer diameter of the outer cylindrical portion ensures that the stator is sturdily mounted and improves torsional stiffness of the hub. Further, the inner profiled portion is defined with a plurality of first reinforcement ribs, each extending between the hub and an outer peripheral wall of the inner profiled portion. For example, the ribs may extend radially or tangentially or at any other orientation between the hub and the peripheral wall of the crankcase cover.
[0036] The hub is also configured such that a surface of the inner profiled portion inside the inner cylindrical portion is defined with a plurality of second reinforcement ribs, each extending radially on the surface towards the inner cylindrical portion. Each second reinforcement rib is spaced from one or more adjacent second reinforcement ribs by angle ranging between 60-120 degrees. The plurality of connecting provisions include a first aperture, each structured to align with a corresponding aperture defined in a stator hub of the stator. The first apertures aligning with the corresponding apertures defined in the stator hub are adapted to receive first fastening elements to secure the stator hub with the outer cylindrical portion. Similarly, each of the plurality of mounting points defined on the peripheral walls of

the crankcase cover comprises a second aperture, each second aperture structured to align with a corresponding aperture defined in the crankcase. The aligned second apertures and the corresponding apertures defined in the crankcase are adapted to receive second fastening elements to secure the cover with the crankcase.
[0037] The following paragraphs describe the present disclosure with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4. In the figures, the same element or elements which have similar functions are indicated by the same reference signs.
[00035] FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a portion of a vehicle (100) in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. The vehicle (100) referred to herein, embodies a motorcycle or a motor bike. Alternatively, the vehicle (100) may embody any other ridden vehicles such as motorized scooter vehicle, all-terrain vehicles (ATV) etc., without limiting the scope of the disclosure. The vehicle (100) as shown depicts a few components like a portion of an internal combustion engine (50) and associated engine components, such as a crankcase (60), along with some sections of the frame (150) of the vehicle (100). The crankcase (60) may be concealed by a crankcase cover (10) which may be secured through outer fastening elements (10F) which will be described later.
[00036] The vehicle (100) may include, among other components, a front ground engaging member (114) and a rear ground engaging member (112). The front ground engaging member (114) may be operatively connected to a steering mechanism (110) having a handlebar (115). The handlebar (115) may be to be rotated by the rider to steer the vehicle (100). Further, the frame (150) may include various interconnected members and linkages. For instance, the frame (150) may have a frontal frame portion which may support the steering mechanism (110) having the handlebar (115) through a head tube or head pipe (80). A frontal member (153) extending from the head tube (80) may be in the form of a hollow rod or a pipe or a beam. Further, the frame (150) may include an upper frame portion and a lower frame portion connected to and extending from the head tube (80) [directly or indirectly]. A pair of side rails [not shown] extends upwardly and rearwardly from the lower frame portion and support the left seat rail and right seat rail [not shown], respectively. The left seat rail and right seat rail may in turn support the seat (160) of the vehicle (100). The frame (150) may include many other linkages and members which may take part in supporting several components, including the engine (50), the crankcase (60) and so on which are not discussed in detail. The frame (150) may also support the transmission casing (200) which may enclose chain drives and sprockets

associated with transmission of drive power to the rear ground engaging member (112). The engine (50) may be coupled to a transmission unit (70), like a gear box which allows variable transmission to the rear ground engaging member (112).
[00037] The handlebar may also be associated with a dash assembly (not shown). The dash assembly may include a display unit (not shown). The display unit may display information about the vehicle (100) to the rider. The dash assembly may comprise additional components including, but not limited to, LCD, GPS, and Graphical User Interface (GUI), switches etc. without limiting the scope of the invention. Further, the front-end structure of the vehicle (100) may further comprise additional components such as mirrors (116), head lamp (117), front fenders, light and horn switches, engine switches, ignition key provision, etc. without limiting the scope of the invention. Apart from these, the vehicle may also include, among other components, a seat arrangement, a taillight (170), suspension elements like cushions (175) [both front and rear], swing arm, rear grip (180), electronic connections, and hydraulic connections, all of which are not illustrated for simplicity. The electronic connections may embody a wire harness. The hydraulic connections may embody fluid hoses. The rear end structure of the vehicle (100) may comprise additional components such as rear fender, license plate etc. without limiting the scope of the invention.
[0039] FIG. 2 is an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure which illustrates exterior of a crankcase cover (10) of a crankcase [FIG. 1]. A crankcase (60) constitutes lowermost portion of the engine (50) whose interior defines a predefined volume to enclose certain components, including but not limited to a crankshaft [not shown] of the engine (50). The crankcase (60) may have a crankcase cover (10) connectable to one or either side of the crankcase (60) to conceal openings i.e., left and right openings at the extremities. The crankcase cover (10), as shown in FIG. 1, has an exterior profile (10E) and an extended portion (E). The exterior profile (10E) may be defined with surface features (10SF) which may be curved ridges, crests, sloping transitions, etc. A peripheral portion referred to as peripheral wall (IP) may be defined with mounting points (10M) having second apertures (12) [best shown in FIG. 3B] whose purpose will be described later. The crankcase cover (10) according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be intended to support one or more components, for instance, those associated with an electric machine, for example, an AC generator, an integrated starter generator or an electric motor.

[0040] FIGS. 3A and 3B are exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure illustrating front view and perspective view respectively of interior side (101) of the crankcase cover (10). Interior side of the crankcase cover (10) shown in FIGS. 3A-3B as well as FIGS. 4A and 4B is a flip side of exterior profile (10E) shown in FIG. 2. The crankcase cover (10), as shown, has a shell-like body which may be manufactured by processes, including but not limited to casting. When assembled to the crankcase (60) on one or either side, the interior side (101) of the crankcase cover (10) together with a peripheral wall (IP) and an extended portion (E) may enclose one or more components associated with the engine (50). In an embodiment, the crankcase cover (10) may enclose or house electric machines such as an alternating current generator (hereafter abbreviated as ACG), an integrated starter generator (hereafter abbreviated as ISG), a simple electric motor (hereafter abbreviated as EM) such as a starter motor and so on. Besides the electric machines, the crankcase cover (10) may also enclose or at least partially enclose some bearings, rotating parts, electrical parts and so on. In an embodiment, the crankcase (60) and the crankcase cover (10) may be manufactured from materials selected from metals, alloys and so on.
[0041] The crankcase cover (10), as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, may have an inner profiled portion (IB) which may constitute a majority of surface area of the crankcase cover (10). The inner profiled portion (IB) may be circumscribed by the peripheral wall (IP) and the extended portion (E) to form the shell-like body of the cover (10). The depth of the peripheral wall (IP) measured from the inner profiled portion (IB) may vary from engine to engine and from vehicle to vehicle. As shown in FIGS. 4A-4B, the crankcase cover (10) may accommodate the stator (3) of the electric machine. The inner profiled portion (IB) may include a hub (2) defined at the center or at a substantially center portion. The hub (2) is such that it may project normally from the inner profiled portion (IB), so that when the cover (10) is assembled with the crankcase (60), the hub (2) remains exposed to components within the crankcase (60). The hub (2) may serve as a mount to receive and secure several components, such as the stator (3) as disclosed in the present disclosure. The hub (2) can be best seen in FIG. 3B. the hub (2) and its surface/body features may be formed/defined during the manufacture of the crankcase cover (10), for example, during casting, which may be accompanied by further machining and surface finishing operations. The hub (2), as shown, may be cylindrical with an inner cylindrical portion (4) and an outer cylindrical portion (5). The inner cylindrical portion (4), as best shown in FIG. 3B, may be a cylindrical wall of a predefined thickness with a centrally located bore (B). The inner cylindrical portion (4) may project normally from the inner profiled portion (IB)

so as to encircle a portion i.e., surface (IC) of the inner profiled portion (IB). The surface (IC) encircled by the inner cylindrical portion (4) may be accessible through the bore (B). Further, the surface (IC) may be defined with a plurality of second reinforcement ribs (6). The second reinforcement ribs (6) may project normally from the surface (IC) and may form a common intersection (CS) at center or at a substantially central portion of the hub (2).
[0042] In an embodiment of the disclosure, height of the plurality of second reinforcement ribs (6) measured from the surface (IC) of the inner profiled portion (IB) is smaller than a height of the outer cylindrical portion (5) measured from the same surface (IC). In another embodiment of the disclosure, each second reinforcement rib (6) is spaced from one or more adjacent second reinforcement ribs (6) by angle ranging between 60-120 degrees. For instance, the second reinforcement ribs (6) may be three in number resembling a "three-points star" configuration, each rib (6) branching out from the common intersection (CS) with an angular spacing of 120 degrees with respect to other two ribs. The number of second reinforcement ribs (6) may be two, four, five, six and more depending on the requirement. Configuration of second reinforcement ribs (6) with specific angular orientation may be crucial for optimal distribution of loads, as well as attenuation of noise and vibration towards the hub (2), and consequently, towards the peripheral wall (IP) of the crankcase cover (10). In an embodiment, the second reinforcement ribs (6) may be formed/defined during manufacture of the crankcase cover (10) or may be formed/defined by machining operations after manufacturing. The second reinforcement ribs (6) may have other configurations, like those of stiffeners or gussets for reinforcement purposes.
[0038] Further, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the inner cylindrical portion (4) may be surrounded by the outer cylindrical portion (5) extending concentrically from the inner cylindrical portion (4). The outer cylindrical portion (5) extends relative to the inner cylindrical portion (4), so that it defines a gap (G) therebetween. The gap (G) may resemble a slot extending radially for a predefined distance from an outer periphery of the inner cylindrical portion (4), as well as extending arcuately/circumferentially along outer periphery of the inner cylindrical portion (4). However, the gap (G) may extend arcuately/circumferentially only to a certain distance, so that three or more distinct gaps (3) spaced apart circumferentially may be seen. The discontinuities of the gap (3) serve as connecting provisions (M) [entire material portion depicted by circular dotted line] which define or ensure material continuity between the inner cylindrical portion (4) and the outer cylindrical portion (5). In other words, the outer

cylindrical portion (5) conjoins or merges into the inner cylindrical portion (4) at the connecting provisions (M). In an embodiment, the connecting provisions (M) partition the gap (G) into three or more distinct smaller gaps. The gaps (G) may be defined for one or more purposes, for example, to meet the manufacturing standards, dimensional requirements, tolerances, mountability, and so on. In an embodiment, the connecting provisions (M) and the gap (G) may be symmetrically or asymmetrically distributed about the hub (2) center. In another embodiment, thickness (OD -ID) [difference between outer and inner diameters as evident from FIG. 3 A] of the outer cylindrical portion (5) may be higher than the thickness of the inner cylindrical portion (4). For example, the thickness (OD - ID) of the outer cylindrical portion (5) may be two or more times greater than the thickness of the inner cylindrical portion (4). This configuration of inner and outer cylindrical portions may enhance torsional stiffness of the hub (2) and may effectively attenuate vibrations and noise. In an embodiment, height of the inner cylindrical portion (4) measured from surface of the inner profiled portion (IB) is greater than a height of the outer cylindrical portion (5). In other words, the inner cylindrical portion (4) projects higher than the outer cylindrical portion (5) as to define a stepped transition (ST) when viewed from the sides. The stepped transition (ST) [evident from FIG. 3B and best shown in FIG. 4C] serves as a seat to the mounting portion of the stator (3) and ensures that the stator (3) is rigidly gripped/held onto the hub (2) when connected. In an embodiment, the gap (G) may serve as passageways for routing electric wires or leads or other miniature components associated with the electric machine or other electric/electronic components.
[0039] Now again referring to FIGS. 3 A and 3B, the connecting provisions (M) may be defined with first apertures (2M), for example, plain or threaded holes, bores, etc. In an embodiment, each first aperture (2M) may have diameter smaller than the thickness (OD - ID) of the outer cylindrical portion (5). In another embodiment, a pitch circle diameter (PD) of the first apertures (2M) is smaller than the outer diameter (OD) of the outer cylindrical portion (5). A pitch circle of the first apertures (2M) is an imaginary circle passing through center points of all the first apertures (2M). The pitch circle diameter (PD) is shown in FIG. 3A. This ensures that the outer cylindrical portion (5) has adept thickness to enable sturdy mounting of the stator (3) [FIG. 4] onto the hub (2). In another embodiment, the gaps (G) may be configured to receive crests (not shown) defined on a surface of the stator hub (3H) that contacts the outer surface (2S) of the outer cylindrical portion (5) when connected. The crests so received in the gaps (G) may ensure proper alignment of the stator (3) relative to the hub (2) of the crankcase cover (10).

[0040] Further, the inner profiled portion (IB) include first reinforcement ribs (8) extending between outer circumference of the outer cylindrical portion (5) and the peripheral wall (IP) of the cover (10). The first reinforcement ribs (8) may be defined such that at least one first reinforcement rib (8) may adjoin one of plurality of mounting points (10M) defined in the peripheral wall (IP). In an embodiment, at least one first reinforcement rib (8) may adjoin one of plurality of mounting points (10M) through a joint (7) [best shown in FIG. 3B. The first reinforcement ribs (8) may take part in transferring [distributing] the loads towards the peripheral wall (IP) of the crankcase cover (10), thereby minimizing the concentration of stress at the hub (2) region. In an embodiment, the first reinforcement ribs (8) may extend radially, tangentially or at any angle from the outer cylindrical portion (5). The first reinforcement ribs (8) may transfer torsional and bending loads from the hub (2) towards the peripheral wall (IP), especially to the mounting points (10M) they are adjoining with.
[0041] Reference is now made to FIGS. 4A-4C which illustrate exploded perspective view, front view, and sectional side view respectively of the crankcase cover (10) assembled with the stator (3). FIG. 4C is considered along section X-X in FIG. 4B. FIGS. 3A and 3B are also referred in conjunction with FIG. 4. The stator (3), as shown, has stator hub (3H) whose one side may be seated onto the outer cylindrical portion (5) described in the above paragraphs. The stator hub (3H) may be defined with corresponding apertures (3M) which may align with and conform to the profile of the first apertures (2M). For connection, the stator hub (3H) may be seated on outer surface (2S) of the outer cylindrical portion (5). The stepped transition (ST) between outer cylindrical portion (5) and inner cylindrical portion (4) may ensure firm seating of the stator hub (3H) on the outer cylindrical portion (5). In another embodiment, the outer cylindrical portion (5) may have same height as the inner cylindrical portion (4) as measured from the surface of the inner profiled portion (IB). In an embodiment, the outer diameter (OD) of the outer cylindrical portion (5) of the hub (2) may be equal to negligibly different from an outer diameter of the stator hub (3H). Further, an inner diameter of a cavity (3C) defined in the stator hub (3H) may exactly be in conformity [with appropriate tolerances] with an outer diameter of the inner cylindrical portion (4) to ensure firm seating and gripping of the stator (3). Once the stator hub (3H) is firmly seated on the outer surface (2S) of the outer cylindrical portion (5), the first apertures (2M) aligning with the corresponding apertures (3M) may receive first fastening elements (3F), for example, bolts, studs, rivets and so on. The connection between the stator (3) and the hub (2) can be seen clearly in FIG. 4B and in sectional view FIG.

4C. FIG. 4C clearly illustrates the stepped transition (ST) from the inner cylindrical portion (4) to the outer cylindrical portion (5). In an embodiment, the inner and outer cylindrical configuration of the hub (2) may attenuate noise, vibrations and possibility of resonance arising due to operation of the rotor [not shown] in the electric machine relative to the stator (3). Especially if the stator (3) weighs more due to increased number of poles (3P) or windings or increased dimensions or due to nature of material used, the hub (2) design may effectively attenuate the noise, for example, whistling noise emanating therefrom. The whistling noise may be due several factors such as high rotational speeds of the rotor associated with the stator (3), metal to metal interaction between the stator (3) and the hub (2), electro-magnetic interactions between the rotor and the stator (3), and so on. The hub (2) design may also improve torsional stiffness and torsional rigidity of the crankcase cover (10) which is necessary due to rotating parts in the electric machine. The design of the hub (2) with enhanced torsional rigidity also keeps natural excitation [frequency] of the crankcase cover (10) away from the natural excitation [frequency] of the electric machine, arising due to magnetic forces.
[0042] Reference is made back to FIGS. 4A to 4C to illustrate an exemplary electric machine connected to the crankcase cover (10). The electric machine, which may be an ACG, an ISG or an EM as described in the previous paragraphs is intended either to generate electrical output by providing a mechanical input [like an ACG], or generate mechanical output by giving an electrical input [like an EM], or a hybrid combination of both [like an ISG]. The electric machine in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure may include the stator (3) as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, and a rotor (not shown). The stator (3) remains stationary while the rotor may be rotated by means of external mechanical power [like in case of ACG] or by means of electro-magnetic interaction [like in case of EM]. The stator (3) has a stator hub (3H) and a plurality of poles (3P). The poles (3P) may be distributed uniformly and circumferentially about the stator hub (3H) as shown. The poles (3P) may be composed of coil windings, while the rotor may have magnetic armatures [the configuration may be reversed where stator may have stationary magnetic poles while the rotor can be armatures having coils]. With the rotor remaining stationary before start, if the coil windings [in the stator or the rotor] are energized with electric current, the electro-magnetic interaction [changing magnetic flux or electric flux linking with the counterparts] sets the rotor in rotation[mechanical output]. This is the scenario for an EM. When the effect is reversed, i.e., if the rotor is given a mechanical input to set it in rotation, the fluctuation in magnetic interaction with the coils due to rotation of the rotor generates electricity in the rotor. This is the scenario for an ACG. A hybrid combination of

both results in an ISG, where in one instance the ISG operates as an EM, particularly as starter motor for the engine (50), and in other instance the ISG operates as an ACG to generate AC. [0043] The stator mount (20) of the present disclosure may provide several advantages.
[0044] One advantage is that the hub (2) design assists in attenuating noise and vibrations emanating from the electric machine and mitigates the possibility of resonance in the crankcase cover (10). This improves the durability of the crankcase and prevents discomfort to the passengers due to inherent noise.
[0045] Another advantage is that the stepped transition between the inner and outer cylindrical portions in the hub improves mountability of the stator of the electric machine with the cover, thereby ensuring a sturdy connection of the electric machine relative to the crankcase. This is beneficial in effective transfer of loads, minimizing concentration of stresses at one region, as well as mitigating unwanted noise and vibrations.
[0046] A still another advantage is that the hub (2) design ensures enhanced torsional stiffness and torsional rigidity of the crankcase cover (10). This allows stators of considerably higher weights or bigger dimensions to be mounted to the crankcase. This also reduces the extents of periodic check-ups and maintenances, while improving the durability of the crankcase cover (10).
[0047] While few embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the above embodiments and modifications may be appropriately made thereto within the scope of the invention.
[0048] Herein, the terms "attached", "connected", "interconnected", "contacting", "mounted", "coupled" and the like can mean either direct or indirect attachment or contact between elements, unless stated otherwise.
[0052] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the particular features of this invention, it will be appreciated that various modifications can be made, and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the invention. These and other modifications in the nature of the invention or the preferred embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the invention herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the invention and not as a limitation

[0053] Herein, the terms "attached", "connected", "interconnected", "contacting", "mounted", "coupled" and the like can mean either direct or indirect attachment or contact between elements, unless stated otherwise
[0054] It is to be understood that a person of ordinary skill in the art may develop a vehicle or an electric machine or a crankcase or a stator mount of similar configuration without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. Such modifications and variations may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure covers such modifications and variations provided they come within the ambit of the appended claims and their equivalents.
[0055] Well-known functions or constructions may not be described in detail for brevity and/or clarity. As used herein the expression "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
Equivalents:
[0056] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.
[0057] It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as "open" terms (e.g., the term "including" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to," the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least," the term "includes" should be interpreted as "includes but is not limited to," etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to inventions containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at

least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and/or "an" should typically be interpreted to mean "at least one" or "one or more"); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of "two recitations," without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, and C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances, where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, or C, etc." is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a system (100) having at least one of A, B, or C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" will be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A and B." While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope being indicated by the following claims.

claim:

1. A crankcase (60) of an engine (50) of a vehicle (100), the crankcase (60) comprising:
a cover (10) configured to conceal a portion of the crankcase (60), the cover (10) comprising an inner profiled portion (IB), wherein the inner profiled portion (IB) defined with:
a hub (2), comprising:
an inner cylindrical portion (4) extending normally from the inner profiled portion (IB);
an outer cylindrical portion (5) extending normally from the inner profiled portion (IB) concentric to the inner cylindrical portion (4) defining a gap (G) therebetween; and
a plurality of connecting provisions (M) extending within the gap (G), the plurality of connecting provisions (M) joining the inner cylindrical portion (4) and the outer cylindrical portion (5), wherein each of the plurality of connecting provisions (M) being configured to secure a stator (3) of an electric machine.
2. The crankcase (60) as claimed in claim 1, wherein an outer diameter (OD) of the outer cylindrical portion is greater than a pitch circle diameter (PD) of the plurality of connecting provisions (M).
3. The crankcase (60) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the inner profiled portion (IB) is defined with a plurality of first reinforcement ribs (8), each extending between the hub (2) and a peripheral wall (IP) of the inner profiled portion (IB), wherein at least one of the plurality of first reinforcement ribs (8) structured to adjoin one of plurality of mounting points (10M) defined in the peripheral wall (IP).
4. The crankcase (60) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a height of the inner cylindrical portion (4) measured from a surface (IS) of the inner profiled portion (IB) is greater than a height of the outer cylindrical portion (5), to define a stepped transition (ST) from the inner cylindrical portion (4) to the outer cylindrical portion (5).
5. The crankcase (60) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a surface (1C) of the inner profiled portion (IB) inside the inner cylindrical portion (4) is defined with a plurality of second

reinforcement ribs (6), each extending radially on the surface (1C) towards the inner cylindrical portion (4).
6. The crankcase (60) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cover (10) is structured to conceal at least one of a left side opening and a right opening of the crankcase (60).
7. The crankcase (60) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of connecting provisions (M) defined with a first aperture (2M), each structured to align with a corresponding aperture (3M) defined in a stator hub (3H) of the stator (3),
and wherein the first apertures (2M) aligning with the corresponding apertures (3M) defined in the stator hub (3H) are adapted to receive first fastening elements (3F) to secure the stator hub (3H) with the outer cylindrical portion (5).
8. The crankcase (60) as claimed in claims 1, 3 and 5, wherein height of the plurality of first reinforcement ribs (8) and the plurality of second reinforcement ribs (6) measured from a surface (IS) of the inner profiled portion (IB) is smaller than a height of the outer cylindrical portion (5) measured from the surface (IS).
9. The crankcase (60) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of mounting points (10M) comprises a second aperture (12), each second aperture (12) structured to align with a corresponding aperture defined in the crankcase (60), and wherein the aligned second apertures (12) and the corresponding apertures defined in the crankcase (60) are adapted to receive second fastening elements (10F) to secure the cover (10) with the crankcase (60).
10. The crankcase (60) as claimed in claim 7, wherein each second reinforcement rib (6) is spaced from one or more adjacent second reinforcement ribs (6) by angle ranging between 60-120 degrees.