JP2017507845A - Engine control unit mounting structure for motorcycles - Google Patents

Abstract

An ECU mounting structure for a motorcycle having an electronic control unit (ECU) and a seat rail that passes through both sides of the under-seat utility box, the utility box includes a recess inside the seat rail, and the ECU It exists in the inside of a seat rail between the predetermined seat rail and the recessed part of a utility box, It is characterized by the above-mentioned. The ECU faces the utility box recess inward. The seat rail overlaps with the ECU when viewed from the side. Other electrical components can be installed outside the seat rail at a position overlapping the ECU portion as seen from the side view. There is a space gap between the ECU and (a) the seat rail and (b) the recess of the utility box. The ECU does not overlap with the utility box when viewed from the front. The ECU mounting structure eliminates the need for a special ECU protective cover and keeps the vehicle body shape slim.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention comprises an under, comprising a seat, a utility box disposed under the seat, and a seat rail that extends along and covers a side portion of the utility box when viewed in a side view. The present invention relates to an engine control unit (ECU) mounting structure for motorcycles such as bone type motorcycles and scooters. This ECU faces inward toward the recess of the utility box and is arranged inside the seat rail.

Background Art Patent No. 3868944 (corresponding to US Pat. No. 7,140,458) describes a hybrid motorcycle having an engine 20 and a motor 21b disposed on one side of the longitudinal center line adjacent to the utility box 100. Has been. A set of control units (drivers) 90, 91 is attached to the left member 6 a of the rear frame 6, called the seat rail frame 32.

Japanese Patent No. 3868944

Disclosure / Explanation
Technical Problem A problem associated with the control unit mounting structure described in Japanese Patent No. 3868944 is that the control unit is mounted on the outside of the seat rail (the left member of the rear frame), and the control unit is specially placed on the outside for protection. It is necessary to attach a cover. In addition, the presence of a dedicated cover on the side of the utility box also adversely affects the shape of the motorcycle body and the resulting aerodynamics of the motorcycle, resulting in a motorcycle having non-streamlines and an external appearance. Less attractive. Further, the structure of the utility box limits the size of parts that can be installed in the motorcycle, particularly the size of the control unit. In recent years, the applicant has configured an “idling stop system (ISS)” for motorcycles to improve fuel economy. This ISS requires a brushless starter motor that directly rotates the crankshaft, and it is also necessary to construct a “brushless motor driver unit”. Furthermore, a motorcycle engine is usually equipped with a fuel injection / ignition control device, that is, an engine control unit (ECU). Therefore, modern ECUs may be larger in size than early generation ECUs, and thus it is necessary to integrate such a brushless motor driver unit to provide an idle stop function to customers. As a result, it is difficult to attach such a large ECU to a motorcycle without having a wider vehicle body shape.

  It would be desirable to provide a motorcycle ECU mounting structure that solves at least some of the above problems. For example, it is desired to provide an ECU mounting structure that allows an ECU to be mounted on a motorcycle without any special protective cover and that keeps the body size of the motorcycle slim. In particular, it is necessary to make it possible to easily mount a modern large ECU in a motorcycle without adversely affecting the streamlined body shape of the motorcycle.

Technical Solution The present invention according to claim 1 is an ECU mounting structure for a motorcycle including an engine control unit (ECU) for controlling the engine of the motorcycle, the ECU being mounted under the seat. Installed in the vicinity of a pair of seat rails passing through both sides of the utility box, the utility box is formed to have a recess in the inner portion of the seat rail, and the ECU is installed in the inner portion of the seat rail. Another electric component is disposed at the at least one position overlapping the ECU portion when the motorcycle is viewed from the side, arranged on the inside of the recess of the utility box and facing the inside of the seat rail. An ECU mounting structure for a motorcycle, characterized in that

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the ECU mounting structure according to the first aspect, the ECU controls fuel injection and ignition of the engine, stops the engine under a stop condition, and the rider operates the throttle to operate the throttle. It also has a feature of controlling an idle stop system that starts an engine when starting a motorcycle.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the ECU mounting structure of the first aspect, the concave portion of the utility box is formed so as to open on the lower side. It has the feature that it can extend through the underside of the.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the ECU mounting structure according to the first aspect, the other electric component includes at least an ignition coil.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the ECU mounting structure according to the first aspect, the ECU is disposed on the seat rail, the seat rail overlaps with a coupler of the ECU, and the other electric parts are connected to the ECU. It has a feature that it can be installed at a position overlapping with the coupler.

  The invention according to claim 6 is characterized in that, in the ECU mounting structure according to claim 1, the ECU is mounted in a space gap between the outer surface of the ECU and the inner surface of the seat rail.

  The invention according to claim 7 is characterized in that, in the ECU mounting structure according to claim 1, the ECU is mounted on the seat rail as viewed from the side.

  The invention according to claim 8 is characterized in that, in the ECU mounting structure according to claim 1, the recess is formed on the right side and the lower side of the utility box, and the ECU is arranged facing the recess. Have.

  The invention according to claim 9 is characterized in that, in the ECU mounting structure according to claim 3, the ECU is installed at a position that avoids overlapping with the utility box when viewed from the front.

  The invention according to claim 10 is characterized in that, in the ECU mounting structure according to claim 3, the ECU is installed such that a space gap exists between the internal surface of the ECU and the recess of the utility box.

Advantageous Effects According to the first aspect of the present invention, the ECU is arranged on the inner portion of the seat rail and facing the concave portion of the utility box. As a result, the inner part of the ECU is covered or protected by the utility box, and the outer part of the ECU is protected by the seat rail. Therefore, the motorcycle does not need to be provided with an additional cover portion for particularly protecting the ECU. Furthermore, the ECU may have a slim or thin profile or structure that allows it to be advantageously placed on the side of the motorcycle without affecting the lateral dimensions of the motorcycle. Similarly, this configuration enables a compact ECU mounting structure that allows a motorcycle body to be freely designed. This compact mounting structure provides improved aerodynamic characteristics and appearance in addition to providing a more streamlined vehicle body for the motorcycle. Furthermore, because the ECU is located between the seat rail and the utility box, even if the ECU has a large or relatively large lateral size or surface area, other electrical components (and possibly non-electric The component can be easily installed at a specific location outside the seat rail (eg, on or along the outer surface of the seat rail).

  According to the invention described in claim 2, since the ECU controls three functions of the engine, that is, the fuel injection, ignition and idle stop system, the ECU becomes larger than usual, and the present invention has a special cover. This makes it possible to mount such a large ECU near the utility box without producing a means or a large body cover.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, in the lower space region of the utility box recess, the recess is formed to open downward, so that the harness wire for the ECU coupler extends under the utility box. be able to. Water that enters or enters the ECU coupler is drained downward, and at the position of the harness wire, water does not collect inside the coupler. Furthermore, on the upper side of the utility box and above the recess, the utility box can include a partition that efficiently protects the upper surface of the ECU from water.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, in a motorcycle such as a scooter, the engine is installed under the seat. In such a motorcycle, the ignition coil can be installed at a position outside the seat rail. The installation position of the ignition coil shortens the length of the electrical wiring to the engine, and the ignition energy loss is advantageously reduced.

  According to the invention described in claim 5, since the ECU extends on the seat rail, the ECU is arranged so that it can be easily seen or specified from the side. Furthermore, during motorcycle assembly inspection procedures and motorcycle maintenance procedures, the position of the ECU is easy to distinguish from other electrical components (eg, ignition coils) located outside the seat rail. is there. Further, with respect to the ignition coil, the separation distance between the relatively far ECU and the ignition coil reduces, minimizes or eliminates the effect of ignition coil noise on the ECU.

  According to the invention described in claim 6, the space gap between the outer surface of the ECU and the inner surface of the seat rail provides a ventilation space through which air can easily flow when the motorcycle is running. To do. This improvement in airflow across the outer surface of the ECU increases the heat dissipation rate of the ECU.

  According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, the ECU is substantially protected by the seat rail, thereby eliminating the need for a specific ECU protection structure such as an independent ECU cover. In addition, the ECU position between the seat rail and the recess of the utility box prevents the ECU from increasing the width or lateral extent of the motorcycle, thereby avoiding the cost increase associated with wider body sizes. Is done.

  According to invention of Claim 8, the recessed part is formed in the specific part of the side surface of a utility box, for example, the back lower part of the right side of a utility box. The recess may be formed in only a part of the utility box or a part of its surface, in particular in or along the rear lower region on the right side, thereby increasing or maximizing the total storage capacity of the utility box.

  According to the invention described in claim 9, the front or forward surface of the ECU is exposed to wind flowing from the front of the motorcycle toward the rear of the motorcycle when the motorcycle is running. Increase the heat dissipation rate of the ECU.

  According to the invention described in claim 10, the space gap between the internal surface of the ECU and the recess of the utility box provides a ventilation space through which wind can easily flow when the motorcycle is running. This ventilation space improves the heat dissipation rate of the ECU.

FIG. 1 is a right partial cross-sectional view of a motorcycle having an engine control unit (ECU) mounting structure according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a part of the motorcycle of FIG. 1 showing an ECU mounting structure according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a front view of a part of the motorcycle of FIG. 1 showing an ECU mounting structure according to an embodiment of the present invention. 4 is a plan view of a part of the motorcycle shown in FIG. 1 showing an ECU mounting structure according to an embodiment of the present invention. 5A and 5B show two perspective views of the ECU, and FIG. 5C shows a silhouette side view (right side view) of the ECU mounting structure according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 shows an enlarged side view (right side view) of the ECU according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the motorcycle ECU along the line AA in FIG. 6 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the motorcycle ECU taken along line BB of FIG. 6 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed description of illustrative embodiments hereinafter, the motorcycle engine control unit (ECU) mounting structure according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings in FIGS. 1-8.

  FIG. 1 is a right side view of a motorcycle or motorcycle 10 having an ECU 12 mounting structure according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 1, in some embodiments, a motorcycle 10 is an underbone or scooter motorcycle or a similar type of saddle or saddle as will be understood by those skilled in the relevant art. It is or represents a structural element or feature corresponding to a riding vehicle. The motorcycle 10 includes a foundation structure frame formed from a set of frame members, tubes or pipes. In order to facilitate understanding of the present invention and the internal components and components of the motorcycle described herein, the outer body cover of the motorcycle has been omitted from the figures.

  In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the motorcycle 10 includes a step floor (not shown) having a base frame through which the rider / driver can step through and an upper surface for supporting the rider's feet as will be understood by those skilled in the art. ) Is provided (so-called scooter). The motorcycle 10 further includes a seat 11 that can be opened and closed via a hinge 66 for a rider and an arbitrary passenger to sit on. A pair of pillion steps 18L, R arranged on each side of the motorcycle 10 can support the occupant's feet; on the rear of the motorcycle 10, a grab rail 20 arranged behind the seat 11 is attached to the occupant. Configured to grasp by hand.

  The engine unit 14 of the motorcycle is disposed below the seat 11. The engine unit 14 is swingably attached to the structure frame of the motorcycle and includes a crankcase 15, a cylinder having a cylinder head 16a, and a cylinder head cover 16b, as will be readily understood by those skilled in the art. . The engine unit 14 is a propulsion that can be sent to the rear axle of the motorcycle 10 by means of a continuously variable transmission (CVT, for example a belt-type CVT) arranged in a CVT case (not shown) on the left side of the scooter, for example. Configured to generate force or driving force. The engine unit 14 includes an intake system connected to the air cleaner 22 on the same side as the CVT case. The intake system filters and removes particulate matter from the air, and then supplies the filtered air to the engine unit 14. . The intake system also includes a fuel injection device controlled by the ECU 12. The engine unit 14 further includes an exhaust port and an exhaust pipe connected to a muffler that reduces the acoustic output of the engine unit 14. Fuel for the engine unit 14 is supplied to the fuel injection device from a fuel tank 24 that is disposed on the engine unit 14 and disposed under the seat 11. An ignition coil 26 controlled by the ECU 12 generates an electric spark at the spark plug 28, thereby igniting the air / fuel mixture to start the engine unit 14.

  The motorcycle 10 includes an electronic device (e.g., a starter motor) for starting the engine unit 14, and the motorcycle 10 typically has a kick start mechanism, as further illustrated with reference to FIG. Is further provided. The starter motor is a brushless starter motor that is coupled to the crankshaft of the engine unit 14 and enables the crankshaft to rotate directly and quickly. Further, the ECU 12 controls the brushless starter motor according to the current running state of the motorcycle. The ECU 12 stops the engine when the scooter stops at a traffic signal, for example, and restarts the engine when the rider operates the throttle, such as when the rider tries to go forward, and operates the starter motor. Such a system is referred to as an “idle stop system” (ISS), and enables an improvement in fuel consumption. Such a brushless motor requires the incorporation of a control device or driver having a semiconductor bridge in the ECU 12 to control the current, which causes the ECU 12 to be larger than usual. In FIG. 4, the kick start mechanism 56 includes a kick start arm 56a connected to a kick start pedal 56b, whereby the rider manually supplies rotation to the engine unit 14, whereby the air in the engine unit. The fuel mixture is ignited and the engine unit 14 is started.

  The rear axle of the motorcycle is used to transmit the driving force of the engine unit to a lower surface or ground plane (e.g., a paved road or other generally flat surface) that the motorcycle 10 can drive. A rear wheel 30 having a rear wheel tire 32 in the circumferential direction is attached. The rear cushion or suspension 33 on the left side of the rear part of the motorcycle absorbs the swing of the rear wheel tire 32 caused by the uplift and vibration to improve the riding comfort and the motorcycle handling characteristics, as well as the engine unit 14 and the seat 11. Limits the distance between and. The rear cushion or suspension 33 can include springs, dampers and / or shock absorbers to accomplish this function. Alternatively or additionally, other components can be used to accomplish the same or complement the effect, as will be readily understood by those skilled in the art.

  In order to substantially prevent mud, debris and water picked up from the surface beneath the motorcycle and moving upward and backward from moving above and behind the fender 34 as a result of rotation of the rear wheel tire 32, A rear fender 34 is disposed above the rear wheel tire 32 and below and behind the seat 11. In order to serve the purpose corresponding to the rear fender 34, a front fender (not shown) is disposed on a front wheel tire (not shown).

  The motorcycle 10 includes a plurality of covers or cover members configured to conceal the internal structure and mechanical portions of the motorcycle 10, for example, the motorcycle base frame and form a portion of the outer surface of the motorcycle. A tail light unit 38 is installed under the grab rail 20, and the grab rail includes a pair of turn signals 36L, R on both sides of the tail light unit 38. Configured to lead towards.

  As described further below with respect to the illustrated embodiment, the foundation frame of the motorcycle 10 includes a pair of seat rails or seat frames 40L, R under the seat 11 that supports the fuel tank 24 and the utility box 44. Prepare. The pair of seat rails 40L and 40R are connected via a central structural beam or cross pipe 42. The connection between them can be made by means of permanent welding and / or non-permanent fasteners. The cross pipe 42 includes a pair of brackets 42 a of the utility box 44. Other types of linkages can be used, as will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art.

  In this embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the seat rail 40R is a metal structure beam that can have a rectangular hollow cross section. Therefore, since the rectangular shape of the seat rail gives a flat surface, it is easy to mount the ECU 12. However, other types of structural beams or parts can be used, as will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art. The seat rails 40 </ b> L and R extend from the lower part of the utility box 44 to the upper rear part on both sides of the fuel tank 24. The seat rails 40L, R are mounted on or can be mounted on the foundation structure frame of the motorcycle 10 so that the seat 11 is supported or supported by the seat rails 40L, R. As described in detail below, the seat rail 40R shields or protects the ECU 12 from external environmental factors by at least (a) overlapping the ECU 12 when viewed from the side view; Allowing a large ECU to be carried by the motorcycle 10 without affecting the lateral dimensions or appearance of the motorcycle; and (c) other electrical and / or non-electrical components or components to the motorcycle 10 It is configured to facilitate access to the ECU 12 for installation.

  The ECU 12 is an electrical component of the motorcycle 10 for electronically controlling the engine unit 14, particularly the fuel injection and ignition unit, and the brushless starter motor, to ensure optimum engine performance and to control the "idle stop system". . The ECU 12 reads the data values from the sensors of the plurality of engine units, interprets these data values, adjusts the engine performance, for example, determines the fuel injection amount and ignition timing, operates the brushless motor and accordingly starts the starter. After operating the motor, the Hessian voltage of the brushless motor is rectified. In this embodiment, the brushless starter motor operates as a generator after the starter motor function, and is referred to as “AC generator and starter”. As a result, the ECU 12 is typically a reasonably large or large electrical component that controls the engine unit 14 for a low cost realized by integrally forming all ECU control functions within a single unit. It is important from the viewpoint of Thus, reliable protection and reliable operation of the ECU 12 are required.

  In various modern motorcycle designs or models, the ECU 12 is large in size and is not always easy to install in the mounting position. As described in detail for the “idle stop system”, the motor control module or driver is merged with the ECU, which increases the size of the ECU. A sensor around the motorcycle, such as an engine sensor, detects conditions such as the stop of the motorcycle, engine temperature, throttle opening, engine speed, and rider seating. When the engine unit 14 is cold started, the ECU automatically prevents the “idle stop system” from starting until the engine unit 14 warms up, and during the “idle stop”, the ECU 12 detects when the throttle is opened by the rider. The engine unit 14 is restarted. Such an “idle stop system” was introduced to the motorcycle by the present applicant more than 10 years ago, and the applicant increased the number of such motorcycles equipped with the “idle stop system”. It is coming.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a mounting structure of the ECU 12 according to the embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a utility box, a storage box or a storage compartment 44 is disposed under the seat 11. The utility box 44 functions as a utility space for storing helmets, luggage and / or other personal equipment, for example. As further shown in FIG. 3, the utility box 44 can be mounted on or mounted on the motorcycle 10 via a pair of front mounting portions 48 a and 48 b that are front mounting portions of the utility box 44. As further shown in FIG. 4, the utility box 44 is arranged such that the longitudinal center line 46 of the motorcycle 10 divides or bisects the upper opening of the utility box 44 into a right part and a left part. The longitudinal centerline 46 further divides the motorcycle 10 into a left side and a right side of the motorcycle, as will be readily understood by those skilled in the art.

  The ECU 12 is disposed or installed between the seat rails 40L, R and the lateral surface of the utility box 44. Further, in some embodiments, the ECU 12 is substantially present at the lower rear portion of the utility box 44. In the illustrated embodiment, when referring to the front of the motorcycle 10, the ECU 12 is arranged such that the seat rail 40R is on the right side of the ECU 12 and the utility box 44 is on the left side of the ECU 12.

  FIG. 3 is a front view showing a part of the motorcycle shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 showing the mounting structure of the ECU 12 according to the embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 6, the utility box 44 includes a recessed portion or a recessed portion 52 formed on the right side thereof (for example, the lower right rear side thereof). In some embodiments, the ECU 12 occupies, occupies or overlaps the lateral space area that is substantially or completely within the spatial area defined by the recess 52 of the utility box 44. Arranged and facing. More specifically, in many embodiments, the ECU 12 is disposed between the inner or inner surface of the seat rail 40R (defined with reference to the motorcycle centerline 18) and the recess 52 of the utility box 44. Is done.

  The position of the ECU surface facing the ECU 12 and the recess 52 between the seat rail 40R and the utility box 44 can shield or protect the ECU 12 from the external environment of the motorcycle and can provide some degree of impact protection to the ECU 12. Further, in this embodiment, the utility box 44 includes an upper portion or partition wall 54 that substantially overlaps the ECU 12. This further shields or protects the ECU 12 on its upper side in a manner similar to that described above. Since the ECU 12 is protected on its side and top, no additional and / or extra ECU protection and coverage components are required. Since the need for additional protective components is eliminated, the size of the body of the motorcycle 10, particularly the lateral size of the motorcycle, is reduced, and thus the influence on manufacturing costs is minimized.

  Furthermore, the ECU 12 can have a large lateral size or a considerable lateral dimension, but the ECU 12 is advantageously arranged on the right side of the motorcycle 10 without protruding from the right side surface of the motorcycle 10. With a slim structure or contour that allows (as shown in FIGS. 3, 4 and elsewhere). This configuration allows for a compact ECU mounting structure, which in turn allows the motorcycle 10 body to be freely designed. Further, the compact ECU mounting structure gives the motorcycle 10 the advantages of streamlinedness, aerodynamics and improved appearance.

  From these, the recess 52 of the utility box 44 advantageously provides or creates a space for accommodating a portion of the ECU 12, thereby not compromising the overall compact structure of the motorcycle 10. The ECU 12 can be disposed or installed between the seat rail 40R and the utility box 44. Since the recess 52 of the utility box 44 only needs to be present on one side of the utility box 44, the capacity of the utility box 44 is increased or maximized, or similarly, the storage of the utility box 44 that the recess 52 has. The impact on capacity is minimized. The utility box 44 can be manufactured in various ways to include the recess 52 and the upper partition wall 54. For example, the utility box 44 can be manufactured from a plastic material by an injection molding process. Other types of materials and manufacturing processes can be utilized, as will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art.

  6-8, the recessed part 52 is provided with the rear side wall part 52a and the front inclination wall part 52b. Each such wall part 52a, 52b faces the rear part 12a and front part 12b of ECU12. The front part 12b is thinner than the rear part 12b. Accordingly, the front inclined wall portion 52b is inclined to maintain the maximum capacity of the utility box 44.

  Due to the position of the ECU 12 on the right outer surface of the motorcycle 10, it is relatively easy to provide a space area for accommodating other electrical components 50 for the motorcycle 10. Such other electrical components can include an ignition coil 26 and an electrical regulator for the output of the generator. Since the ECU 12 is disposed in the vicinity of the right outer side of the motorcycle 10, the other electric component 50 can be installed from the outside of the seat rail 40R (for example, on or along the outer surface of the seat rail 40R). Furthermore, because of the position of the engine unit 14, installing the ignition coil 26 from the outside of the seat rail 40R has an advantage that the wire is further shortened. This is because the engine is located below the utility box 44 as shown in FIG. 1, and the spark plug 28 is proximate to the bottom of the utility box 44, so that the high tension cord or cable 27 from the ignition coil 26 is This is because the length is (more) shorter and the loss of ignition energy is reduced.

  3 and 4 show the position of the ECU 12 with respect to the seat rail 40R and the utility box 44, illustrating the overlap and shielding of the ECU 12.

  As shown in FIGS. 5A to 5C, the ECU 12 can be mounted or mounted on the seat rail 40R through at least the mounting points 58a and 58b. The ECU 12 includes a pair of couplers 60 a and 60 b for receiving connections from other electric components such as the wires of the components of the motorcycle 10 and the electric components 50 including the ignition coil 26. The ECU 12 is arranged such that when the seat rail 40R and the ECU 12 are viewed from the side, the couplers 60a and 60b are substantially overlapped and covered or covered by the seat rail 40R and the ignition coil 26. As mentioned above, such a coating provides protection against couplers 60a and 60b, which may be more delicate due to the wiring and electrical components that are connected. Further, the position of the couplers 60a and 60b on the side of the motorcycle 10 makes it easy to access the couplers 60a and 60b from below when maintaining the motorcycle and / or inspecting the assembly.

  As indicated above, in some embodiments, the lateral extent or surface area of the ECU 12 overlaps or is disposed within the recess 52 of the utility box 44 (eg, the ECU 12 and the utility box 44 are viewed from the side). When). Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the ECU mounting structure, the bottom of the ECU 12 remains uncovered or uncovered by the utility box 44. A concave space 52 of the utility box 44 can be formed to provide a lower space area such as an L-shaped area, whereby the bottom of the ECU 12 is kept uncovered as shown in FIG. This exposure of the bottom of the ECU 12 allows a cable and / or wiring corresponding to the wiring harness 17 (eg, shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) to be easily coupled or connected to the couplers 60a and 60b of the ECU 12 ( (For example, by motorcycle manufacturers, maintenance personnel and / or motorcycle users). For example, the wiring harness 17 can hold, couple or connect wires or cables that pass through and below the utility box 44 (eg, below the bottom surface of the utility box 44). This is because the wire / cable moves toward the ECU couplers 60a and 60b. Further, in some embodiments, the seat rail 40R can shield or protect the wiring harness 17 and / or the portion of the wiring / cable wiring that extends from the side of the motorcycle 10.

  Referring again to FIGS. 2 and 3, the top or partition 54 of the utility box 44 also shields and effectively protects the couplers 60a and 60b from external environmental factors on the top side of the motorcycle. Furthermore, the couplers 60a and 60b of the ECU are directed downward. In conditions such as rain, rainwater that reaches or enters or penetrates couplers 60a and 60b is essentially discharged at the lower end of couplers 60a and 60b because of the downward direction of such couplers 60a and 60b. (E.g., as shown in FIGS. 1, 5 and 6). Advantageously, water does not stay in the couplers 60a and 60b under rain conditions, thus improving the electrical reliability of the ECU.

  In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6A to 6B, the utility box 44 includes a top ring portion 62 and a partition main body 64. The top ring portion 62 is connected to the seat bottom seal, and seals the utility box 44 from water and mud when the seat 11 is closed via the hinge 66. Further, the utility box 44 includes a pair of rear attachment portions 70L and R for fixing the utility box 44 together with the front attachment portions 48a and 48b.

  As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the position of the ECU 12 between the seat rail 40R and the utility box 44 is such that a space gap or ventilation space 72, 74 is (a) between the ECU 12 and the seat rail 40R (for example, Between the outer surface of the ECU 12 and the inner surface of the seat rail 40R) and (b) between the ECU 12 and the utility box 44 (for example, between the inner surface of the ECU 12 and the recess 52 of the utility box 44). To do. The ventilation spaces 72 and 74 allow airflow and / or wind to easily flow along the surface of the ECU when riding the motorcycle 10. When the airflow around the ECU 12 increases, the speed of ECU heat dissipation increases. The ECU 12 includes a heat generating element, particularly a semiconductor device (SCR, FET, etc.) that drives a brushless starter and a generator. Therefore, the ECU 12 can dissipate heat from such a heat generating element and cool it effectively because of the ventilation spaces 72 and 74. In other words, even though the ECU 12 is mounted in a very compact manner, heat can be more easily removed from the ECU 12 when the motorcycle 10 is moving, thereby assisting the cooling of the ECU 12 and its durability. And reliability can be improved.

  As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the front portion 76 of the ECU 12 is substantially environmental when viewed from the front of the motorcycle 10 (for example, when the ECU 12 and the utility box 44 are observed from the front). Exposed to. Such exposure of the front surface of the ECU 12 can generate an airflow at or around the front portion 76 of the ECU 12 when riding on the motorcycle 10, thereby further improving the speed of heat dissipation from the ECU 12. Therefore, heat can be removed from the ECU 12 more easily when the motorcycle 10 is moving, thereby assisting cooling of the ECU and further improving its durability and reliability.

  7 and 8 show attachment positions corresponding to various parts of the ECU attachment structure according to the embodiment described in the present specification. Various parts of the motorcycle 10, such as the ECU 12, the seat rail 40R, the seat 11 and the utility box 44, can be mounted, coupled and / or integrated with the motorcycle 10 by any means known to those skilled in the art. Examples of such means include, but are not limited to, permanent attachments such as welding and non-permanent attachments such as fasteners, screws, bolts and nuts.

  The ECU 12 is attached to the seat rail 40R via two attachment points 58a and 58b. Specifically, the ECU 12 is attached to the inner surface or the seat rail 40R side by such attachment points 58a, 58b. Although only two attachment points 58a and 58b are shown, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that another number of attachment points 58 may be used to secure ECU 12 to seat rail 40R. it can. In this embodiment, non-permanent fasteners such as bolts and nuts 80a and 80b are used at attachment points 58a and 58b. Other types of fasteners such as screws and rivets can also be used. In this embodiment, 80a, b are nuts welded to the bracket of the seat rail 40R, and such bracket establishes or facilitates the formation of the vent space 72.

  The ignition coil 26 is attached to the seat rail 40R via two attachment points 82a and 82b. Specifically, the ignition coil is attached to the outer surface on the seat rail 40R side by such attachment points 82a and 82b. Although only two attachment points 82a and 82b are shown, other numbers of attachment points 82 are used to secure ignition coil 26 to seat rail 40R, as will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art. be able to. In this embodiment, welding nuts 84a and 84b are used at the attachment positions 82a and 82b. Other types of fasteners such as screws and rivets can also be used.

  In this embodiment, the cross pipe 42 is coupled to the seat rail 40 </ b> R via the U-shaped structure 86. The interface between the cross pipe 42, the U-shaped structure 86 and the seat rail 40R can be present by permanent attachment such as welding and / or non-permanent attachments such as bolts and nuts.

  Aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention address at least one aspect, problem, limitation, and / or disadvantage associated with existing motorcycle mounting structures for ECUs. Although features, aspects and / or advantages associated with a given embodiment have been described herein, other embodiments can also exhibit such features, aspects and / or advantages, and all embodiments Such features, aspects and / or advantages need not necessarily be shown to fall within the scope of the invention. A non-limiting example would be that the ECU mounting structure according to an embodiment of the present invention can be mounted on the left side of the motorcycle 10 instead of the right side of the motorcycle 10 as detailed for the above embodiment. One skilled in the art will appreciate that any of the structures, components or variations thereof disclosed above can be desirably combined with other structures, components and / or applications. Moreover, various modifications, changes and / or improvements can be made to the various embodiments disclosed by those skilled in the art within the scope of the present invention, which is limited only by the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Motorcycle 11 Seat 12 Engine control apparatus 14 Engine unit 15 Crankcase 16a Cylinder head 16b Cylinder head cover 17 Wiring harness 20 Grab rail 24 Fuel tank 26 Ignition coil 27 Cable 28 Spark plug 30 Rear wheel 32 Tire for rear wheel 33 Suspension 34 Fender 38 Taillight unit 40L Seat rail 40R Seat rail 42 Cross pipe 44 Utility box 50 Electrical component 52 Recessed portion 52a Rear side wall portion 52b Front inclined wall portion 58a Mounting point 58b Mounting point 60a Coupler 60b Coupler 62 Top ring portion 64 Partition body 66 Hinge 72 Ventilation space 74 Ventilation space

TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention comprises an under, comprising a seat, a utility box disposed under the seat, and a seat rail that extends along and covers a side portion of the utility box when viewed in a side view. The present invention relates to an engine control unit (ECU) mounting structure for motorcycles such as bone type motorcycles and scooters. This ECU faces inward toward the recess of the utility box and is arranged inside the seat rail.

Background Art Patent No. 3868944 (corresponding to US Pat. No. 7,140,458) describes a hybrid motorcycle having an engine 20 and a motor 21b disposed on one side of the longitudinal center line adjacent to the utility box 100. Has been. A set of control units (drivers) 90, 91 is attached to the left member 6 a of the rear frame 6, called the seat rail frame 32.

Japanese Patent No. 3868944

Disclosure / Explanation
Technical Problem A problem associated with the control unit mounting structure described in Japanese Patent No. 3868944 is that the control unit is mounted on the outside of the seat rail (the left member of the rear frame), and the control unit is specially placed on the outside for protection. It is necessary to attach a cover. In addition, the presence of a dedicated cover on the side of the utility box also adversely affects the shape of the motorcycle body and the resulting aerodynamics of the motorcycle, resulting in a motorcycle having non-streamlines and an external appearance. Less attractive. Further, the structure of the utility box limits the size of parts that can be installed in the motorcycle, particularly the size of the control unit. In recent years, the applicant has configured an “idling stop system (ISS)” for motorcycles to improve fuel economy. This ISS requires a brushless starter motor that directly rotates the crankshaft, and it is also necessary to construct a “brushless motor driver unit”. Furthermore, a motorcycle engine is usually equipped with a fuel injection / ignition control device, that is, an engine control unit (ECU). Therefore, modern ECUs may be larger in size than early generation ECUs, and thus it is necessary to integrate such a brushless motor driver unit to provide an idle stop function to customers. As a result, it is difficult to attach such a large ECU to a motorcycle without having a wider vehicle body shape.

  It would be desirable to provide a motorcycle ECU mounting structure that solves at least some of the above problems. For example, it is desired to provide an ECU mounting structure that allows an ECU to be mounted on a motorcycle without any special protective cover and that keeps the body size of the motorcycle slim. In particular, it is necessary to make it possible to easily mount a modern large ECU in a motorcycle without adversely affecting the streamlined body shape of the motorcycle.

Technical Solution The present invention according to claim 1 is an ECU mounting structure for a motorcycle including an engine control unit (ECU) for controlling the engine of the motorcycle, the ECU being mounted under the seat. Installed in the vicinity of a pair of seat rails passing through both sides of the utility box, the utility box is formed to have a recess in the inner portion of the seat rail, and the ECU is installed in the inner portion of the seat rail. Another electric component is disposed at the at least one position overlapping the ECU portion when the motorcycle is viewed from the side, arranged on the inside of the recess of the utility box and facing the inside of the seat rail. can be, the ECU is mounted in the space gap between the outer surface and the inner surface of the seat rail of the ECU, moreover ECU is disposed on the said seat rail, the seat rails duplicate coupler of the ECU, motorcycle ECU, characterized in that the said other electrical components can be arranged in a position overlapping to the coupler of the ECU It is a mounting structure.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the ECU mounting structure according to the first aspect, the ECU controls fuel injection and ignition of the engine, stops the engine under a stop condition, and the rider operates the throttle to operate the throttle. It also has a feature of controlling an idle stop system that starts an engine when starting a motorcycle.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the ECU mounting structure of the first aspect, the concave portion of the utility box is formed so as to open on the lower side. It has the feature that it can extend through the underside of the.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the ECU mounting structure according to the first aspect, the other electric component includes at least an ignition coil.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the ECU mounting structure according to the first aspect, the concave portion includes a rear side wall portion and a front inclined wall portion .

The invention according to claim 6 is characterized in that, in the ECU mounting structure according to claim 1, the ECU is mounted on the seat rail as viewed from the side.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the ECU mounting structure according to the first aspect, the concave portion is formed on the right side and the lower side of the utility box, and the ECU is disposed facing the concave portion inwardly. Have.

The invention according to claim 8 is characterized in that, in the ECU mounting structure according to claim 3, the ECU is installed at a position that avoids overlapping with the utility box when viewed from the front.

The invention according to claim 9 is characterized in that, in the ECU mounting structure according to claim 3, the ECU is installed such that a space gap exists between the internal surface of the ECU and the recess of the utility box.

The present invention according to claim 10 is an ECU mounting structure for a motorcycle including an engine control unit (ECU) for controlling an engine of the motorcycle, wherein the ECU is a utility box mounted under a seat. The utility box is formed so as to have a recess in the inner portion of the seat rail, and the ECU is installed in the inner portion of the seat rail. Another electric component can be installed on at least one position overlapping the part of the ECU when the motorcycle is viewed from the side, on the outside of the seat rail. The ECU is attached to a space gap between the outer surface of the ECU and the inner surface of the seat rail, and The recess of the box is formed so as to open on the lower side, where a harness wire for a coupler of the ECU can extend through the lower side of the recess, and the inner surface of the ECU An ECU mounting structure for a motorcycle, wherein the ECU is installed such that a space gap exists between the recess and the recess of the utility box.

Advantageous Effects According to the first aspect of the present invention, the ECU is arranged on the inner portion of the seat rail and facing the concave portion of the utility box. As a result, the inner part of the ECU is covered or protected by the utility box, and the outer part of the ECU is protected by the seat rail. Therefore, the motorcycle does not need to be provided with an additional cover portion for particularly protecting the ECU. Furthermore, the ECU may have a slim or thin profile or structure that allows it to be advantageously placed on the side of the motorcycle without affecting the lateral dimensions of the motorcycle. Similarly, this configuration enables a compact ECU mounting structure that allows a motorcycle body to be freely designed. This compact mounting structure provides improved aerodynamic characteristics and appearance in addition to providing a more streamlined vehicle body for the motorcycle. Furthermore, because the ECU is located between the seat rail and the utility box, even if the ECU has a large or relatively large lateral size or surface area, other electrical components (and possibly non-electric The component can be easily installed at a specific location outside the seat rail (eg, on or along the outer surface of the seat rail). Furthermore, the space gap between the outer surface of the ECU and the inner surface of the seat rail provides a ventilation space through which air can easily flow when the motorcycle is running. This improvement in airflow across the outer surface of the ECU increases the heat dissipation rate of the ECU. Since the ECU extends on the seat rail, the ECU is arranged so that it can be easily seen or specified from the side. Furthermore, during motorcycle assembly inspection procedures and motorcycle maintenance procedures, the position of the ECU is easy to distinguish from other electrical components (eg, ignition coils) located outside the seat rail. is there. Further, with respect to the ignition coil, the separation distance between the relatively far ECU and the ignition coil reduces, minimizes or eliminates the effect of ignition coil noise on the ECU.

  According to the invention described in claim 2, since the ECU controls three functions of the engine, that is, the fuel injection, ignition and idle stop system, the ECU becomes larger than usual, and the present invention has a special cover. This makes it possible to mount such a large ECU near the utility box without producing a means or a large body cover.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, in the lower space region of the utility box recess, the recess is formed to open downward, so that the harness wire for the ECU coupler extends under the utility box. be able to. Water that enters or enters the ECU coupler is drained downward, and at the position of the harness wire, water does not collect inside the coupler. Furthermore, on the upper side of the utility box and above the recess, the utility box can include a partition that efficiently protects the upper surface of the ECU from water.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, in a motorcycle such as a scooter, the engine is installed under the seat. In such a motorcycle, the ignition coil can be installed at a position outside the seat rail. The installation position of the ignition coil shortens the length of the electrical wiring to the engine, and the ignition energy loss is advantageously reduced.

According to the invention described in claim 5 , the inclination or inclination of the front inclined wall portion with respect to the rear side wall portion maintains the maximum capacity of the utility box .

According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the ECU is substantially protected by the seat rail, thereby eliminating the need for a specific ECU protection structure such as an independent ECU cover. In addition, the ECU position between the seat rail and the recess of the utility box prevents the ECU from increasing the width or lateral extent of the motorcycle, thereby avoiding the cost increase associated with wider body sizes. Is done.

According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, the concave portion is formed in a specific portion of the side surface of the utility box, for example, the lower rear portion on the right side of the utility box. The recess may be formed in only a part of the utility box or a part of its surface, in particular in or along the rear lower region on the right side, thereby increasing or maximizing the total storage capacity of the utility box.

According to the invention described in claim 8 , the front surface or the forward facing surface of the ECU is exposed to wind flowing from the front portion of the motorcycle toward the rear portion of the motorcycle when the motorcycle is running. Increase the heat dissipation rate of the ECU.

According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, the space gap between the inner surface of the ECU and the recess of the utility box provides a ventilation space through which wind can easily flow when the motorcycle is running. This ventilation space improves the heat dissipation rate of the ECU.

According to the tenth aspect of the present invention, the ECU is arranged on the inner portion of the seat rail so as to face the concave portion of the utility box. As a result, the inner part of the ECU is covered or protected by the utility box, and the outer part of the ECU is protected by the seat rail. Therefore, the motorcycle does not need to be provided with an additional cover portion for particularly protecting the ECU. Furthermore, the ECU may have a slim or thin profile or structure that allows it to be advantageously placed on the side of the motorcycle without affecting the lateral dimensions of the motorcycle. Similarly, this configuration enables a compact ECU mounting structure that allows a motorcycle body to be freely designed. This compact mounting structure provides improved aerodynamic characteristics and appearance in addition to providing a more streamlined vehicle body for the motorcycle. Furthermore, because the ECU is located between the seat rail and the utility box, even if the ECU has a large or relatively large lateral size or surface area, other electrical components (and possibly non-electric The component can be easily installed at a specific location outside the seat rail (eg, on or along the outer surface of the seat rail). Furthermore, the space gap between the outer surface of the ECU and the inner surface of the seat rail provides a ventilation space through which air can easily flow when the motorcycle is running. This improvement in airflow across the outer surface of the ECU increases the heat dissipation rate of the ECU. Further, in the lower space region of the utility box recess, the recess is formed to open downward, so that the harness wire for the ECU coupler can extend under the utility box. Water that enters or enters the ECU coupler is drained downward, and at the position of the harness wire, water does not collect inside the coupler. Furthermore, on the upper side of the utility box and above the recess, the utility box can include a partition that efficiently protects the upper surface of the ECU from water. The space gap between the internal surface of the ECU and the recess of the utility box provides a ventilation space through which wind can easily flow when the motorcycle is running. This ventilation space improves the heat dissipation rate of the ECU.

FIG. 1 is a right partial cross-sectional view of a motorcycle having an engine control unit (ECU) mounting structure according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a part of the motorcycle of FIG. 1 showing an ECU mounting structure according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a front view of a part of the motorcycle of FIG. 1 showing an ECU mounting structure according to an embodiment of the present invention. 4 is a plan view of a part of the motorcycle shown in FIG. 1 showing an ECU mounting structure according to an embodiment of the present invention. 5A and 5B show two perspective views of the ECU, and FIG. 5C shows a silhouette side view (right side view) of the ECU mounting structure according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 shows an enlarged side view (right side view) of the ECU according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the motorcycle ECU along the line AA in FIG. 6 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the motorcycle ECU taken along line BB of FIG. 6 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed description of illustrative embodiments hereinafter, the motorcycle engine control unit (ECU) mounting structure according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings in FIGS. 1-8.

  FIG. 1 is a right side view of a motorcycle or motorcycle 10 having an ECU 12 mounting structure according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 1, in some embodiments, a motorcycle 10 is an underbone or scooter motorcycle or a similar type of saddle or saddle as will be understood by those skilled in the relevant art. It is or represents a structural element or feature corresponding to a riding vehicle. The motorcycle 10 includes a foundation structure frame formed from a set of frame members, tubes or pipes. In order to facilitate understanding of the present invention and the internal components and components of the motorcycle described herein, the outer body cover of the motorcycle has been omitted from the figures.

  In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the motorcycle 10 includes a step floor (not shown) having a base frame through which the rider / driver can step through and an upper surface for supporting the rider's feet as will be understood by those skilled in the art. ) Is provided (so-called scooter). The motorcycle 10 further includes a seat 11 that can be opened and closed via a hinge 66 for a rider and an arbitrary passenger to sit on. A pair of pillion steps 18L, R arranged on each side of the motorcycle 10 can support the occupant's feet; on the rear of the motorcycle 10, a grab rail 20 arranged behind the seat 11 is attached to the occupant. Configured to grasp by hand.

  The engine unit 14 of the motorcycle is disposed below the seat 11. The engine unit 14 is swingably attached to the structure frame of the motorcycle and includes a crankcase 15, a cylinder having a cylinder head 16a, and a cylinder head cover 16b, as will be readily understood by those skilled in the art. . The engine unit 14 is a propulsion that can be sent to the rear axle of the motorcycle 10 by means of a continuously variable transmission (CVT, for example a belt-type CVT) arranged in a CVT case (not shown) on the left side of the scooter, for example. Configured to generate force or driving force. The engine unit 14 includes an intake system connected to the air cleaner 22 on the same side as the CVT case. The intake system filters and removes particulate matter from the air, and then supplies the filtered air to the engine unit 14. . The intake system also includes a fuel injection device controlled by the ECU 12. The engine unit 14 further includes an exhaust port and an exhaust pipe connected to a muffler that reduces the acoustic output of the engine unit 14. Fuel for the engine unit 14 is supplied to the fuel injection device from a fuel tank 24 that is disposed on the engine unit 14 and disposed under the seat 11. An ignition coil 26 controlled by the ECU 12 generates an electric spark at the spark plug 28, thereby igniting the air / fuel mixture to start the engine unit 14.

  The motorcycle 10 includes an electronic device (e.g., a starter motor) for starting the engine unit 14, and the motorcycle 10 typically has a kick start mechanism, as further illustrated with reference to FIG. Is further provided. The starter motor is a brushless starter motor that is coupled to the crankshaft of the engine unit 14 and enables the crankshaft to rotate directly and quickly. Further, the ECU 12 controls the brushless starter motor according to the current running state of the motorcycle. The ECU 12 stops the engine when the scooter stops at a traffic signal, for example, and restarts the engine when the rider operates the throttle, such as when the rider tries to go forward, and operates the starter motor. Such a system is referred to as an “idle stop system” (ISS), and enables an improvement in fuel consumption. Such a brushless motor requires the incorporation of a control device or driver having a semiconductor bridge in the ECU 12 to control the current, which causes the ECU 12 to be larger than usual. In FIG. 4, the kick start mechanism 56 includes a kick start arm 56a connected to a kick start pedal 56b, whereby the rider manually supplies rotation to the engine unit 14, whereby the air in the engine unit. The fuel mixture is ignited and the engine unit 14 is started.

  The rear axle of the motorcycle is used to transmit the driving force of the engine unit to a lower surface or ground plane (e.g., a paved road or other generally flat surface) that the motorcycle 10 can drive. A rear wheel 30 having a rear wheel tire 32 in the circumferential direction is attached. The rear cushion or suspension 33 on the left side of the rear part of the motorcycle absorbs the swing of the rear wheel tire 32 caused by the uplift and vibration to improve the riding comfort and the motorcycle handling characteristics, as well as the engine unit 14 and the seat 11. Limits the distance between and. The rear cushion or suspension 33 can include springs, dampers and / or shock absorbers to accomplish this function. Alternatively or additionally, other components can be used to accomplish the same or complement the effect, as will be readily understood by those skilled in the art.

  In order to substantially prevent mud, debris and water picked up from the surface beneath the motorcycle and moving upward and backward from moving above and behind the fender 34 as a result of rotation of the rear wheel tire 32, A rear fender 34 is disposed above the rear wheel tire 32 and below and behind the seat 11. In order to serve the purpose corresponding to the rear fender 34, a front fender (not shown) is disposed on a front wheel tire (not shown).

  The motorcycle 10 includes a plurality of covers or cover members configured to conceal the internal structure and mechanical portions of the motorcycle 10, for example, the motorcycle base frame and form a portion of the outer surface of the motorcycle. A tail light unit 38 is installed under the grab rail 20, and the grab rail includes a pair of turn signals 36L, R on both sides of the tail light unit 38. Configured to lead towards.

  As described further below with respect to the illustrated embodiment, the foundation frame of the motorcycle 10 includes a pair of seat rails or seat frames 40L, R under the seat 11 that supports the fuel tank 24 and the utility box 44. Prepare. The pair of seat rails 40L and 40R are connected via a central structural beam or cross pipe 42. The connection between them can be made by means of permanent welding and / or non-permanent fasteners. The cross pipe 42 includes a pair of brackets 42 a of the utility box 44. Other types of linkages can be used, as will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art.

  In this embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the seat rail 40R is a metal structure beam that can have a rectangular hollow cross section. Therefore, since the rectangular shape of the seat rail gives a flat surface, it is easy to mount the ECU 12. However, other types of structural beams or parts can be used, as will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art. The seat rails 40 </ b> L and R extend from the lower part of the utility box 44 to the upper rear part on both sides of the fuel tank 24. The seat rails 40L, R are mounted on or can be mounted on the foundation structure frame of the motorcycle 10 so that the seat 11 is supported or supported by the seat rails 40L, R. As described in detail below, the seat rail 40R shields or protects the ECU 12 from external environmental factors by at least (a) overlapping the ECU 12 when viewed from the side view; Allowing a large ECU to be carried by the motorcycle 10 without affecting the lateral dimensions or appearance of the motorcycle; and (c) other electrical and / or non-electrical components or components to the motorcycle 10 It is configured to facilitate access to the ECU 12 for installation.

  The ECU 12 is an electrical component of the motorcycle 10 for electronically controlling the engine unit 14, particularly the fuel injection and ignition unit, and the brushless starter motor, to ensure optimum engine performance and to control the "idle stop system". . The ECU 12 reads the data values from the sensors of the plurality of engine units, interprets these data values, adjusts the engine performance, for example, determines the fuel injection amount and ignition timing, operates the brushless motor and accordingly starts the starter. After operating the motor, the Hessian voltage of the brushless motor is rectified. In this embodiment, the brushless starter motor operates as a generator after the starter motor function, and is referred to as “AC generator and starter”. As a result, the ECU 12 is typically a reasonably large or large electrical component that controls the engine unit 14 for a low cost realized by integrally forming all ECU control functions within a single unit. It is important from the viewpoint of Thus, reliable protection and reliable operation of the ECU 12 are required.

  In various modern motorcycle designs or models, the ECU 12 is large in size and is not always easy to install in the mounting position. As described in detail for the “idle stop system”, the motor control module or driver is merged with the ECU, which increases the size of the ECU. A sensor around the motorcycle, such as an engine sensor, detects conditions such as the stop of the motorcycle, engine temperature, throttle opening, engine speed, and rider seating. When the engine unit 14 is cold started, the ECU automatically prevents the “idle stop system” from starting until the engine unit 14 warms up, and during the “idle stop”, the ECU 12 detects when the throttle is opened by the rider. The engine unit 14 is restarted. Such an “idle stop system” was introduced to the motorcycle by the present applicant more than 10 years ago, and the applicant increased the number of such motorcycles equipped with the “idle stop system”. It is coming.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a mounting structure of the ECU 12 according to the embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a utility box, a storage box or a storage compartment 44 is disposed under the seat 11. The utility box 44 functions as a utility space for storing helmets, luggage and / or other personal equipment, for example. As further shown in FIG. 3, the utility box 44 can be mounted on or mounted on the motorcycle 10 via a pair of front mounting portions 48 a and 48 b that are front mounting portions of the utility box 44. As further shown in FIG. 4, the utility box 44 is arranged such that the longitudinal center line 46 of the motorcycle 10 divides or bisects the upper opening of the utility box 44 into a right part and a left part. The longitudinal centerline 46 further divides the motorcycle 10 into a left side and a right side of the motorcycle, as will be readily understood by those skilled in the art.

  The ECU 12 is disposed or installed between the seat rails 40L, R and the lateral surface of the utility box 44. Further, in some embodiments, the ECU 12 is substantially present at the lower rear portion of the utility box 44. In the illustrated embodiment, when referring to the front of the motorcycle 10, the ECU 12 is arranged such that the seat rail 40R is on the right side of the ECU 12 and the utility box 44 is on the left side of the ECU 12.

  FIG. 3 is a front view showing a part of the motorcycle shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 showing the mounting structure of the ECU 12 according to the embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 6, the utility box 44 includes a recessed portion or a recessed portion 52 formed on the right side thereof (for example, the lower right rear side thereof). In some embodiments, the ECU 12 occupies, occupies or overlaps the lateral space area that is substantially or completely within the spatial area defined by the recess 52 of the utility box 44. Arranged and facing. More specifically, in many embodiments, the ECU 12 is disposed between the inner or inner surface of the seat rail 40R (defined with reference to the motorcycle centerline 18) and the recess 52 of the utility box 44. Is done.

  The position of the ECU surface facing the ECU 12 and the recess 52 between the seat rail 40R and the utility box 44 can shield or protect the ECU 12 from the external environment of the motorcycle and can provide some degree of impact protection to the ECU 12. Further, in this embodiment, the utility box 44 includes an upper portion or partition wall 54 that substantially overlaps the ECU 12. This further shields or protects the ECU 12 on its upper side in a manner similar to that described above. Since the ECU 12 is protected on its side and top, no additional and / or extra ECU protection and coverage components are required. Since the need for additional protective components is eliminated, the size of the body of the motorcycle 10, particularly the lateral size of the motorcycle, is reduced, and thus the influence on manufacturing costs is minimized.

  Furthermore, the ECU 12 can have a large lateral size or a considerable lateral dimension, but the ECU 12 is advantageously arranged on the right side of the motorcycle 10 without protruding from the right side surface of the motorcycle 10. With a slim structure or contour that allows (as shown in FIGS. 3, 4 and elsewhere). This configuration allows for a compact ECU mounting structure, which in turn allows the motorcycle 10 body to be freely designed. Further, the compact ECU mounting structure gives the motorcycle 10 the advantages of streamlinedness, aerodynamics and improved appearance.

  From these, the recess 52 of the utility box 44 advantageously provides or creates a space for accommodating a portion of the ECU 12, thereby not compromising the overall compact structure of the motorcycle 10. The ECU 12 can be disposed or installed between the seat rail 40R and the utility box 44. Since the recess 52 of the utility box 44 only needs to be present on one side of the utility box 44, the capacity of the utility box 44 is increased or maximized, or similarly, the storage of the utility box 44 that the recess 52 has. The impact on capacity is minimized. The utility box 44 can be manufactured in various ways to include the recess 52 and the upper partition wall 54. For example, the utility box 44 can be manufactured from a plastic material by an injection molding process. Other types of materials and manufacturing processes can be utilized, as will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art.

  6-8, the recessed part 52 is provided with the rear side wall part 52a and the front inclination wall part 52b. Each such wall part 52a, 52b faces the rear part 12a and front part 12b of ECU12. The front part 12b is thinner than the rear part 12b. Accordingly, the front inclined wall portion 52b is inclined to maintain the maximum capacity of the utility box 44.

  Due to the position of the ECU 12 on the right outer surface of the motorcycle 10, it is relatively easy to provide a space area for accommodating other electrical components 50 for the motorcycle 10. Such other electrical components can include an ignition coil 26 and an electrical regulator for the output of the generator. Since the ECU 12 is disposed in the vicinity of the right outer side of the motorcycle 10, the other electric component 50 can be installed from the outside of the seat rail 40R (for example, on or along the outer surface of the seat rail 40R). Furthermore, because of the position of the engine unit 14, installing the ignition coil 26 from the outside of the seat rail 40R has an advantage that the wire is further shortened. This is because the engine is located below the utility box 44 as shown in FIG. 1, and the spark plug 28 is proximate to the bottom of the utility box 44, so that the high tension cord or cable 27 from the ignition coil 26 is This is because the length is (more) shorter and the loss of ignition energy is reduced.

  3 and 4 show the position of the ECU 12 with respect to the seat rail 40R and the utility box 44, illustrating the overlap and shielding of the ECU 12.

  As shown in FIGS. 5A to 5C, the ECU 12 can be mounted or mounted on the seat rail 40R through at least the mounting points 58a and 58b. The ECU 12 includes a pair of couplers 60 a and 60 b for receiving connections from other electric components such as the wires of the components of the motorcycle 10 and the electric components 50 including the ignition coil 26. The ECU 12 is arranged such that when the seat rail 40R and the ECU 12 are viewed from the side, the couplers 60a and 60b are substantially overlapped and covered or covered by the seat rail 40R and the ignition coil 26. As mentioned above, such a coating provides protection against couplers 60a and 60b, which may be more delicate due to the wiring and electrical components that are connected. Further, the position of the couplers 60a and 60b on the side of the motorcycle 10 makes it easy to access the couplers 60a and 60b from below when maintaining the motorcycle and / or inspecting the assembly.

  As indicated above, in some embodiments, the lateral extent or surface area of the ECU 12 overlaps or is disposed within the recess 52 of the utility box 44 (eg, the ECU 12 and the utility box 44 are viewed from the side). When). Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the ECU mounting structure, the bottom of the ECU 12 remains uncovered or uncovered by the utility box 44. A concave space 52 of the utility box 44 can be formed to provide a lower space area such as an L-shaped area, whereby the bottom of the ECU 12 is kept uncovered as shown in FIG. This exposure of the bottom of the ECU 12 allows a cable and / or wiring corresponding to the wiring harness 17 (eg, shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) to be easily coupled or connected to the couplers 60a and 60b of the ECU 12 ( (For example, by motorcycle manufacturers, maintenance personnel and / or motorcycle users). For example, the wiring harness 17 can hold, couple or connect wires or cables that pass through and below the utility box 44 (eg, below the bottom surface of the utility box 44). This is because the wire / cable moves toward the ECU couplers 60a and 60b. Further, in some embodiments, the seat rail 40R can shield or protect the wiring harness 17 and / or the portion of the wiring / cable wiring that extends from the side of the motorcycle 10.

  Referring again to FIGS. 2 and 3, the top or partition 54 of the utility box 44 also shields and effectively protects the couplers 60a and 60b from external environmental factors on the top side of the motorcycle. Furthermore, the couplers 60a and 60b of the ECU are directed downward. In conditions such as rain, rainwater that reaches or enters or penetrates couplers 60a and 60b is essentially discharged at the lower end of couplers 60a and 60b because of the downward direction of such couplers 60a and 60b. (E.g., as shown in FIGS. 1, 5 and 6). Advantageously, water does not stay in the couplers 60a and 60b under rain conditions, thus improving the electrical reliability of the ECU.

  In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6A to 6B, the utility box 44 includes a top ring portion 62 and a partition main body 64. The top ring portion 62 is connected to the seat bottom seal, and seals the utility box 44 from water and mud when the seat 11 is closed via the hinge 66. Further, the utility box 44 includes a pair of rear attachment portions 70L and R for fixing the utility box 44 together with the front attachment portions 48a and 48b.

  As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the position of the ECU 12 between the seat rail 40R and the utility box 44 is such that a space gap or ventilation space 72, 74 is (a) between the ECU 12 and the seat rail 40R (for example, Between the outer surface of the ECU 12 and the inner surface of the seat rail 40R) and (b) between the ECU 12 and the utility box 44 (for example, between the inner surface of the ECU 12 and the recess 52 of the utility box 44). To do. The ventilation spaces 72 and 74 allow airflow and / or wind to easily flow along the surface of the ECU when riding the motorcycle 10. When the airflow around the ECU 12 increases, the speed of ECU heat dissipation increases. The ECU 12 includes a heat generating element, particularly a semiconductor device (SCR, FET, etc.) that drives a brushless starter and a generator. Therefore, the ECU 12 can dissipate heat from such a heat generating element and cool it effectively because of the ventilation spaces 72 and 74. In other words, even though the ECU 12 is mounted in a very compact manner, heat can be more easily removed from the ECU 12 when the motorcycle 10 is moving, thereby assisting the cooling of the ECU 12 and its durability. And reliability can be improved.

  As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the front portion 76 of the ECU 12 is substantially environmental when viewed from the front of the motorcycle 10 (for example, when the ECU 12 and the utility box 44 are observed from the front). Exposed to. Such exposure of the front surface of the ECU 12 can generate an airflow at or around the front portion 76 of the ECU 12 when riding on the motorcycle 10, thereby further improving the speed of heat dissipation from the ECU 12. Therefore, heat can be removed from the ECU 12 more easily when the motorcycle 10 is moving, thereby assisting cooling of the ECU and further improving its durability and reliability.

  7 and 8 show attachment positions corresponding to various parts of the ECU attachment structure according to the embodiment described in the present specification. Various parts of the motorcycle 10, such as the ECU 12, the seat rail 40R, the seat 11 and the utility box 44, can be mounted, coupled and / or integrated with the motorcycle 10 by any means known to those skilled in the art. Examples of such means include, but are not limited to, permanent attachments such as welding and non-permanent attachments such as fasteners, screws, bolts and nuts.

  The ECU 12 is attached to the seat rail 40R via two attachment points 58a and 58b. Specifically, the ECU 12 is attached to the inner surface or the seat rail 40R side by such attachment points 58a, 58b. Although only two attachment points 58a and 58b are shown, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that another number of attachment points 58 may be used to secure ECU 12 to seat rail 40R. it can. In this embodiment, non-permanent fasteners such as bolts and nuts 80a and 80b are used at attachment points 58a and 58b. Other types of fasteners such as screws and rivets can also be used. In this embodiment, 80a, b are nuts welded to the bracket of the seat rail 40R, and such bracket establishes or facilitates the formation of the vent space 72.

  The ignition coil 26 is attached to the seat rail 40R via two attachment points 82a and 82b. Specifically, the ignition coil is attached to the outer surface on the seat rail 40R side by such attachment points 82a and 82b. Although only two attachment points 82a and 82b are shown, other numbers of attachment points 82 are used to secure ignition coil 26 to seat rail 40R, as will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art. be able to. In this embodiment, welding nuts 84a and 84b are used at the attachment positions 82a and 82b. Other types of fasteners such as screws and rivets can also be used.

  In this embodiment, the cross pipe 42 is coupled to the seat rail 40 </ b> R via the U-shaped structure 86. The interface between the cross pipe 42, the U-shaped structure 86 and the seat rail 40R can be present by permanent attachment such as welding and / or non-permanent attachments such as bolts and nuts.

  Aspects of certain embodiments of the present invention address at least one aspect, problem, limitation, and / or disadvantage associated with existing motorcycle mounting structures for ECUs. Although features, aspects and / or advantages associated with a given embodiment have been described herein, other embodiments can also exhibit such features, aspects and / or advantages, and all embodiments Such features, aspects and / or advantages need not necessarily be shown to fall within the scope of the invention. A non-limiting example would be that the ECU mounting structure according to an embodiment of the present invention can be mounted on the left side of the motorcycle 10 instead of the right side of the motorcycle 10 as detailed for the above embodiment. One skilled in the art will appreciate that any of the structures, components or variations thereof disclosed above can be desirably combined with other structures, components and / or applications. Moreover, various modifications, changes and / or improvements can be made to the various embodiments disclosed by those skilled in the art within the scope of the present invention, which is limited only by the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Motorcycle 11 Seat 12 Engine control apparatus 14 Engine unit 15 Crankcase 16a Cylinder head 16b Cylinder head cover 17 Wiring harness 20 Grab rail 24 Fuel tank 26 Ignition coil 27 Cable 28 Spark plug 30 Rear wheel 32 Tire for rear wheel 33 Suspension 34 Fender 38 Taillight unit 40L Seat rail 40R Seat rail 42 Cross pipe 44 Utility box 50 Electrical component 52 Recessed portion 52a Rear side wall portion 52b Front inclined wall portion 58a Mounting point 58b Mounting point 60a Coupler 60b Coupler 62 Top ring portion 64 Partition body 66 Hinge 72 Ventilation space 74 Ventilation space

Claims (10)

An ECU 12 mounting structure for a motorcycle 10 that includes an engine control unit (ECU) 12 for controlling an engine 14 of the motorcycle 10, and the ECU 12 passes through both sides of a utility box 44 mounted under the seat 11. Installed near the pair of seat rails 40L, 40R,
The utility box 44 is formed to have a recess 52 in the inner part of the seat rails 40L and 40R.
The ECU 12 is disposed on the inner portion of the seat rails 40L and 40R so as to face the concave portion 52 of the utility box 44,
An ECU mounting structure characterized in that another electrical component 26 can be installed outside the seat rails 40L, 40R at a position overlapping the ECU 12 when the motorcycle 10 is viewed from the side.   The ECU controls fuel injection and ignition of the engine, and also stops an engine under stop conditions, and also controls an idle stop system that starts the engine when a rider operates the throttle to start the motorcycle. The ECU mounting structure according to claim 1.   The recess 52 of the utility box 44 is formed so as to open on the lower side, and the harness wire 17 for the couplers 60a and 60b of the ECU 12 extends through the lower side of the recess 52. The ECU mounting structure according to claim 1, wherein   The ECU mounting structure according to claim 1, wherein the other electric component includes at least an ignition coil. The ECU 12 is disposed on the seat rails 60L and 60R,
The seat rails 60L and 60R overlap with the couplers 60a and 60b of the ECU 12,
The ECU mounting structure according to claim 1, wherein the other electrical component can be installed at a position overlapping the couplers 60 a and 60 b of the ECU 12.   The ECU mounting structure according to claim 1, wherein the ECU 12 is mounted in a space gap 72 between an outer surface of the ECU 12 and an inner surface of the seat rails 60L and 60R.   The ECU mounting structure according to claim 1, wherein the ECU 12 is mounted on the seat rails 60 </ b> L and 60 </ b> R as viewed from the side.   The ECU mounting structure according to claim 1, wherein the recess 52 is formed on the right side and the lower side of the utility box 44, and the ECU 12 is disposed facing the recess 52 inward.   The ECU mounting structure according to claim 3, wherein the ECU 12 is installed at a position that avoids overlapping with the utility box 44 when viewed from the front.   The ECU mounting structure according to claim 3, wherein the ECU is installed such that a space gap 74 exists between an inner surface of the ECU and the recess 52 of the utility box 44.