WO2020065672A1

WO2020065672A1 - An electric machine for a vehicle

Info

Publication number: WO2020065672A1
Application number: PCT/IN2019/050703
Authority: WO
Inventors: Chidambaram SUBRAMONIAM; Yogesh DEVIDAS PATIL; Dipanjan MAZUMDAR; Krishnamoorthy ANIRUDH MURTHY; Sundararaman GANESH RAM; Arumugham SIVAKUMAR
Original assignee: Tvs Motor Company Limited
Priority date: 2018-09-27
Filing date: 2019-09-26
Publication date: 2020-04-02

Abstract

The present subject matter relates to an electric machine (120) for a vehicle (100). The electric machine (120) comprises a shaft (315) disposed substantially in a lateral direction (RH-LH) of the vehicle (100). The shaft (315) fixedly supports a stationary member (305) and rotatably supports a rotating member (310). A cable assembly (230) extends outward from a cable path (316) defined by the shaft (315). The cable path (316) includes at least an opening portion (318), and wherein an interfacing assembly (235) disposed about said shaft (315) securely seals said opening portion (318) and said interfacing assembly (235) enables routing of said cable assembly (230) therethrough.

Description

AN ELECTRIC MACHINE FOR A VEHICLE

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present subject matter relates generally to an electric machine for motor vehicles and more particularly to connection of cables for the electric machines.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Generally, commuting is an essential activity every day for majority of the people. Typically, there are various types of vehicles that are used for community depending on the application and the capacity thereof. Of these, a particular category of vehicles has acquired prominence due to their ease of operation and compact layout. Saddle ride-type vehicles are one such category of motor vehicles that are having at least two-wheels and provide a saddle-ride type posture when being operated. These vehicles are having a compact layout and are adapted to accommodate at least one user.

[0003] Generally, these vehicles include at least one prime mover that is either an electric motor or an internal combustion (IC) engine. Some vehicles incorporate both the electric motor and the internal combustion engine that are referred to as hybrid vehicles. Vehicles incorporating electric motor as one of the prime movers are gaining popularity because of their ease of operation, low cost of operation, and reduced emissions. Therefore, the vehicles incorporating the electric motor that are either purely electrical vehicles or the hybrid vehicles are having the prime mover that is either fixedly mounted to a frame member or is swingably connected to the structural member of the frame member. The electric motor is driven by a primary and/or primary power source that provides electrical energy that is converted to mechanical energy by excitation of electrical coils provided in the electric motor. An electrical connection is provided between the electric motor and the primary power source in a controlled mechanism. These electrical connections are high current carrying cables that are provided to be connected to the electric motors. So, these electrical connections are to be securely located in order to deliver reliable operation of the electrical and hybrid vehicles.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] The detailed description of the present subject matter is described with reference to the accompanying figures. Same numbers are used throughout the drawings to reference like features and components.

[0005] Fig. 1 illustrates a left side view of an exemplary vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0006] Fig. 2 depicts a rear perspective view of the prime mover assembly, in accordance with the embodiment of Fig. 1.

[0007] Fig. 3 (a) depicts a perspective view of the electric machine with selected parts, in accordance with the embodiment of Fig. 2.

[0008] Fig. 3 (b) depicts a perspective view of the shaft of the electric machine, in accordance with the embodiment of Fig. 2.

[0009] Fig. 3 (c) depicts an exploded view of the shaft, in accordance with another embodiment of the present subject matter as depicted in Fig. 3 (b).

[00010] Fig. 3 (d) depicts an enlarged view of the shaft, in accordance with the embodiment as depicted in Fig. 3 (b).

[00011] Fig. 3 (e) depicts a sectional view of the electric machine taken along axis A- A’, in accordance with the embodiment of Fig. 3 (a).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00012] Generally, the vehicles with the electric prime mover include multiple electrical and electronic components that are to be electrically connected to each other. For example, the one or more electrical/electronic components include a battery, a controller, or the electrical motor. Additionally, in case of vehicles with internal combustion engine, the IC engine includes an alternating current generator (ACG) or a speed/position sensor, forming the electrical/electronic components, that is disposed within the engine casing. In the aforementioned configuration, an electrical connector is used to connect the electrical/electronic components to establish an interconnection or connection with other electrical/ electronic components. In case of any electric prime mover like an electric machine, windings and sensors are provided inside the electric machine that also require connection with externally disposed elements like battery or control unit.

[00013] In order to establish the electrical connection, the electrical connector is typically routed through a hole provided on the casing that is enclosing the electrical component. For example, in case of an electric machine, the cables are routed through a shaft. Generally, the electrical connector, which is an electrical cable, is subject to wear out due to the cable rubbing with the hole-region principally at the edges. This could result in wear out of the cable at the contact portion that could result in cable breakage or electrical short circuit. Especially, in case of a requirement where the cable is to be routed at the hole forming at least a slight bend, the cable is vulnerable for rubbing against sharp edges formed by the hole; this would aggravate the wear out of the cable at that portion. Generally, a seal is used to isolate the internal region of the electrical components or electrical parts disposed inside the electrical component from external/foreign matter like water, dust etc.

[00014] Moreover, the region at which the electrical components are disposed may be subjected to higher temperatures that could build pressure at the region that could affect the seal provided for the region. Additionally, the electrical or electronic components by inherent properties are heat dissipating and this could further add to the problem of heating. In any of the aforementioned and other similar cases, there is a possibility that a weak point at the seal is damaged that could expose the electrical component to the external/foreign matter. For example, in case of a seal like a grommet, the grommet is prone to lose its sealing property because of which the sealing function is compromised. Also, in case of a resin being used, even the resin is not effective for sealing due to the pressure buildup that could rupture the seal exposing the electrical component to the external matter. Taking the example of an electrical component like an electrical motor, the temperature may even reach up to 150 degrees centigrade which would eventually affect the sealing.

[00015] Moreover, in case of electrical components having a curved outer body at the cable entry/exit portion, there is a challenge to provide effective sealing as the curved outer body is responsible for a non-uniform contact about outer periphery of the cable which results in poor sealing. Moreover, in cases of hole being provided at angle, it further complicates the sealing process as the path, which is typically a circular path would result in an elliptical or oval shape on the periphery of the shaft that is complex to seal using a grommet. Moreover, the casing includes a thickness that further complicates the mounting of a sealing member at the hole -region.

[00016] Being mounted to the structural member, the frame member either swingably or rigidly supports the structural member. The auxiliary power unit (battery) or the control unit is preferably mounted on to the frame member that is a rigid structure. The electrical connections are routed to the electric motor acting as an electric prime mover from the auxiliary power unit or the control unit. Therefore, the electrical cables are to be routed about the frame member and then to the electric motor. Generally, the electrical cables have to be routed till the stator of the electric motor that incorporates the windings.

[00017] Typically, sheathed cables are used to supply/receive power from the battery to the electric motor and to receive signals from the sensors mounted on the stator of the electric motor. Also, the electrical cables are routed through the shaft of the electric motor that is mounted to the structural member. This necessitates the electrical cable to undergo various bends and turns to be routed to the electric motor. However, the aforementioned requirements make the electrical cables vulnerable to failures as the routing path may include rigid structures like brackets, or sharp welding disposed in the vicinity that could damage electrical cable during an undesired event. The undesired event may include assembly of the vehicle & its components or a foreign object coming in contact with the electrical cable. Also, the cable is prone to damage from stone hitting due to bad road conditions or can get rubbed with elevated structures like footpath when vehicle comes near it. Such damage could cause the electrical cable to result in electrical short circuit that could damage the electric motor, the auxiliary power unit/source, or the control unit.

[00018] Besides, in some vehicles with the electric machine being mounted to the hub of the wheel, the wheel is either swingably connected to the frame. The swinging motion of the wheel results in movement of the cable resulting in loosening of the cable at the hole-region and may also cause wear and tear. Some structural member like fork suspension undergoes reciprocating motion due to which the cable can undergo movement loosening of the cable at the hole-region.

[00019] Assembly and dis-assembly and during maintenance/ servicing there would arise a scenario requiring removal of the cable. The conventional cable assemblies suggest complex design that is cumbersome for access and removal. Also, tight seal after servicing and maintenance cannot be achieved.

[00020] Thus, there is a need for providing a vehicle with an electric machine that is capable of being operated reliably. The vehicle should be capable of providing electrical connection at the prime mover that is reliable, providing optimum seal from external matter.

[00021] Hence, the present subject matter addresses all the aforementioned and other short comings in the prior art.

[00022] The present subject matter provides a vehicle comprising an electric machine for a vehicle. The electric machine acting as at least one prime mover of the vehicle. The electric machine of the present subject provides a secure cable routing.

[00023] The electric machine includes a shaft capable of supporting a stationary member of the electric machine. A rotating member is rotatably mounted to the shaft. The stationary member typically referred as a stator, includes plurality of teeth to which windings are wound. The rotating member is provided with magnetic member likes magnets. Further, in one implementation, wheel of the vehicle is affixed to the rotating member. In other words, the electric machine is hub-mounted to the wheel. A cable assembly is functionally connected to the windings and one or more other electrical/electronic components is securely routed from the inside of the electric machine to an outside of the electric machine through the shaft. Further, an interfacing assembly is provided through which the cable assembly is routed out of the shaft. The interfacing assembly provides a secure seal at the opening of the shaft and the interfacing limits or eliminates entry of foreign matter like water or mud into the shaft thereafter into the electric machine. [00024] It is a feature that, in one embodiment, the interfacing assembly includes a housing member covering the opening portion of the shaft, through which the cable assembly exits the electric machine. It is a feature that the housing member is annularly enclosing at least a portion of the shaft securely covering the opening portion of the shaft, whereby the housing member is having a substantial area to be secured to the shaft.

[00025] It is another feature that the housing member of the interfacing assembly further includes a first routing member having an aperture portion aligning with the opening portion of the shaft. The first routing member guides the cable assembly therethrough and also provides a surface for sealing the opening offered by the first routing member.

[00026] It is yet another feature that the interfacing assembly includes a cable- guide with an abutting portion. The abutting portion is capable of being received by the housing member and the cable-guide is capable of securely guiding the cable assembly therethrough. Thus, the cable-guide is secured to the housing member and the cable assembly is routed from the shaft to the cable-guide.

[00027] In one implementation, the cable assembly includes plurality of power cables and plurality of sensor cables, wherein each of the cable includes a separate insulating material. The interfacing assembly eliminates the need for a separate external insulator as the cable-guide itself is capable of acting as an external insulator.

[00028] It is an additional aspect that the shaft includes a cable path for routing the cable assembly therethrough, wherein the elimination of need for an external insulator enables the shaft to have the cable path with reduced diameter whereby the shaft can have improved strength.

[00029] However, in a second implementation, the cable assembly can still have the external insulator, wherein the cable assembly along with the external insulator can be routed through the shaft and then through the interfacing assembly. Thus, the electric machine of the present subject matter provides the flexibility of using or avoiding an external insulator for the cables according to the requirement. [00030] It is another additional aspect that interfacing assembly includes a sealing member that is capable of securing the cable-guide to the housing member, wherein the abutting portion of the cable assembly is sandwiched between the first routing member and the sealing member.

[00031] In one implementation, the sealing member is provided with an aperture so as to first assemble the sealing member through the cable-guide till the sealing member reaches the abutting portion and subsequently the cable-guide along with the sealing member is secured to the housing member.

[00032] It is an aspect that the apertures provided on the abutting portion of the cable-guide, the first routing member, and the opening portion are having substantially a common axis so as to route the cable assembly therethrough.

[00033] Thus, the shaft provided with the interfacing assembly provides a tight seal whereby the cable is routed out from the shaft and at the same time the shaft and the electric machine are provided with the tight seal reducing/eliminating entry of foreign matter like water.

[00034] It is a feature that the interfacing assembly enables ease of assembly and also provides ease of maintenance as the sealing member in one implementation is fastened to the housing. The cable-guide can be removed to access the cable assembly. In on implementation, the housing assembly is either permanently fixed to the shaft or is detachably fixed to the shaft. Thus, the interfacing assembly can be detached for servicing and other requirements enabling access to the cable assembly.

[00035] In one implementation, the cable-guide is further provided with an elastic guide member made of a rigid material that further protects cable assembly from any external objects.

[00036] In one implementation, the electric machine is mounted to the structural member, which is a rigid mounting and the structural member forming a part of the frame member. In another implementation, the electric machine is mounted to the structural member that is swingably connected to the frame member. The structural member swingably connected to the frame member can have one or more arms. [00037] The structural member of the present subject matter includes a swing arm in one embodiment and a front fork suspension in another embodiment. In another embodiment, the suspension can be a pivotally linked suspension system or a hinged suspension system.

[00038] The aforesaid and other advantages of the present subject matter would be described in greater detail in conjunction with the figures in the following description.

[00039] Arrows wherever provided in the drawings at the top right comer of the drawing depicts the direction with respect to the vehicle, wherein arrow F implies forward direction, arrow R indicates rearward direction, arrow RH indicates right side of the vehicle, arrow LH indicates left side of the vehicle, arrow UP indicated upward directions, and arrow DW implies downward direction.

[00040] Fig. 1 illustrates a left side view of an exemplary motor vehicle (100), in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. The vehicle (100) illustrated, has a frame member (105). In the present embodiment, the frame member (105) is step-through type that includes a head tube (105 A), and a main frame (105B) that extend rearwardly downward from an anterior portion of the head tube (105 A) defining the step-through portion. The sub-frame (105C) may extend inclinedly rearward to a rear portion of the vehicle (100) from said main frame (105B).

[00041] The vehicle (100) includes one or more prime movers that are either directly or indirectly supported by the frame member (105). In the present implementation, one of the prime movers is an internal combustion (IC) engine (115) mounted to the frame member (105). In the depicted embodiment, the IC engine (115) is mounted to a structural member (135) that is further pivoted to the frame member (105). In one embodiment, the structural member (135) is a rigid member made of rigid material including metal or reinforced polymer. The vehicle (100) also includes another prime mover, which an electric machine (120). In a preferred embodiment, the prime mover is an electric machine (120), which is hub mounted to one wheel of the vehicle (100). In another embodiment, more than one electric machine (120) is mounted to wheels of the vehicle (100). In the depicted embodiment, the vehicle (100) includes at least two- wheels and the electric machine (120) is hub mounted to the rear wheel (125) of the vehicle. A front wheel (110) is rotatably supported by the frame member (105) and is connected to a handlebar assembly (130) that enables maneuvering of the vehicle (100).

[00042] Further, the vehicle (100) includes a high capacity on-board battery (not shown) that drives the electric machine (120). The high capacity battery may include one or more high capacity battery packs or one or more low capacity cells when connected provide high capacity. The high capacity battery can be disposed at a front portion, a rear portion, or at the center of the vehicle (100) depending on the application. The high capacity battery is supported by the frame member (105). The vehicle (100) includes plurality of body panels, mounted to the frame member (105) for covering various components of the vehicle (100) including the high capacity battery pack. For example, the high capacity battery pack can be operating in the voltage range of 45-55 volts. In the depicted embodiment, the plurality of panels includes a front panel (140A), a leg shield (140B), an under-seat cover (140C), and a left and a right side panel (140D). A glove box may be mounted to a leg shield (140B).

[00043] A floorboard (145) is provided at the step-through portion defined by the main tube (105B). A seat assembly (150) is disposed rearward to the step- through portion and is mounted to the main frame (105B). The seat assembly (150) that is elongated in a longitudinal direction (F-R) of the vehicle (100) enables the user to operate the vehicle in a saddle ride-type posture. One or more suspension(s) connect the wheels (110, 125) to the vehicle (100) and provide comfortable ride. The vehicle (100) comprises of plurality of electrical and electronic components including a headlight (155 A), a taillight (155B), a starter motor (not shown), a horn etc. Also, the vehicle (100) includes a master control unit (not shown) that takes control of the overall operation of the vehicle (100) including the function of the IC engine (115), the electric machine (120), charging of the batteries from a magneto/integrated starter generator (ISG), driving of loads by the magneto/ISG, charging of the high capacity batteries by the electric machine (120) operating in generator mode, and any other operations associated with the operation of the vehicle (100).

[00044] Fig. 2 depicts a rear perspective view of the prime mover assembly (200), in accordance with the embodiment of Fig. 1. The prime mover assembly (200) is supported by the structural member (135). The structural member (135) in the present embodiment includes a pair of arms (135 A, 135B). The prime mover assembly (200) in the present implementation includes a first prime mover and a second prime mover that are mounted to arms of structural member (135). The first prime mover is an internal combustion engine acting as a first prime mover that is forwardly inclined with the cylinder portion (CP) that is forwardly disposed. The orientation of the cylinder portion defines the axis of the piston. The cylinder portion (CP) is mounted to a crankcase (205) of the first prime mover. The terms first prime mover and the internal combustion (IC) engine that is acting as a first prime mover are interchangeably used. The crankcase (205) supports various rotational members including the crankshaft (not shown). The crankcase (205) is fixedly mounted to the structural member (135). Also, the first prime mover includes a kick-start mechanism (225) that is enclosed by a crankcase cover (210). The kick-start mechanism (225) includes a kick-start lever (225) that is used to crank the IC engine operating as first prime mover and kick-start lever is pivoted with (pivot) axis substantially in the lateral direction (RH-LH) of the vehicle (100) whereby the kick-start lever is rotatable about a pre-defined angle. As depicted, electric machine (120) acting as second prime mover is functionally connected through a cable assembly (230) that extends from the electric machine (120) acting as second prime mover towards a front portion of the vehicle (100). In one embodiment, the cable assembly (230) is securely disposed adjacent to lateral outer periphery of the structural member (135) and it extends below the crankcase cover (210). In another embodiment, the cable assembly extends out from the second prime mover (120) and extends between the inner face (not shown) of structural member (135) and the outer periphery of the second prime mover (120).

[00045] The structural member (135) includes one or more arms. In the present implementation, the structural member (135) includes a first arm (135 A) and a second arm (135B) that are separated in the vehicle width direction (RH-LH) and are extending substantially in the longitudinal direction (F-R) of the vehicle (100). The structural member (135) includes a pivot portion (SP) that is substantially at a front portion thereof. The pivot portion (SP) is swingably connected to the frame member (105). In one implementation, a toggle link (TL) is used to swingably connect the structural member (135) to the frame member (105).

[00046] Further, the second prime mover, which is the electric machine (120) acting as second prime mover, is disposed at a rear end portion of the structural member (135). In other words, the electric machine (120) acting as second prime mover is disposed at the end portion at a portion opposite to the pivot portion (SP) of the structural member (135). The electric machine (120) acting as second prime mover includes a stationary member (305) (shown in Fig. 3 (a)) and a rotating member (310). The electric machine (120) acting as second prime mover includes a shaft (315) that is fixedly mounted to the structural member (135) and that supports the rotating member (310) rotatably. The shaft (315) is disposed substantially in width direction (RH-LH) of the vehicle (100). The rotating member (310) and the stationary member (305) are disposed between the arms (135A, 135B) of the structural member (135). The stationary member (305) is fixedly mounted to the shaft (315) and the shaft (315) includes substantially cylindrical portion with plurality of teeth (not shown) disposed annularly and the plurality of teeth that are provided with windings/coils wound thereto, wherein the plurality of teeth form the stationary member (305). The rotating member (310) is also a cylindrical member with a base portion disposed at an offset from an axial center thereof and the base portion is provided with a bearing that enables rotational motion of the rotating member (310) about the shaft (315). Further, an inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion of the rotating member (310) is provided with ferrite members like magnets. Therefore, the windings when excited enables turning of the rotating member (310).

[00047] The cable assembly (230) extends from the shaft (315) towards front portion of the prime mover assembly (200). The cable assembly (230) extends outward from the shaft (315) with opening of the exit path being provided outwardly of the structural member (135) whereby the cable assembly (230) extends outward of the structural member. In the depicted embodiment, the cable assembly (230) extends along at least a length of the second arm (135B) (shown in Fig. 2) of the structural member (135) and is substantially disposed adjacent to an outer face of the structural member (135). The outer face of the structural member (135) is a circumferential portion of the second arm (135B) that is facing laterally outward and away from the electric prime mover (120) hub mounted to the wheel (125).

[00048] Further, when viewed from top as partially shown in Fig. 2, the cable assembly (230) is overlapped by the crankcase cover (210) that extends substantially outward in lateral direction (RH-LH) of the vehicle. The cable assembly (230) is securely disposed between an L-shaped space formed between an outer lateral side of the structural member (135) and a lower side of the crankcase cover (210). Further, the cable assembly (230) is secured by an elastic guard member (255) made of a rigid material that encloses at least a circumference of the cable assembly (230). Also, the cable assembly (230) substantially extends outward from the shaft (315) and towards a master control unit (not shown), which is disposed at a height with respect to the prime mover assembly (200) and is further connected to the primary power source (not shown). The cable assembly (230) is preferably routed out of the shaft (315) through an interface assembly (235) (shown in Fig. 3 (a)). The interface assembly (235) enables the cable assembly to be securely routed out and further, the cable assembly (230) extends towards at least one of a control unit or the primary power source. Also, one or more guide members (not shown) securely support the cable assembly (230). The primary power source can be a Lithium-ion battery, a Lead-acid battery, a Fuel cell, or the like.

[00049] Furthermore, the cable assembly (230) includes power cables (231, 232) that are used for exciting the windings of the stationary member (305) of the electric machine (120) acting as second prime mover. Also, the cable assembly (230) includes one or more signal cables (232) that provide status and operating parameters of the electric machine (120) acting as second prime mover. The various parameters include angular position of the rotating member, temperature of the electric machine (120) etc. The power cables (231) and the signal cables (232) are individually insulated by an insulating material. Further, the power cables and the signal cables, collectively represented by (230) i.e. cable assembly, are combined insulated at least along partial length by a combined insulator member (not shown) that is made of electrically non-conducting material. The insulator member is made of polyvinyl chloride. As per another embodiment, an elastic guard member (255) securely annularly encloses the combined insulator member.

[00050] Fig. 3 (a) depicts an isometric view of the electric machine (120) with selected parts, in accordance with the embodiment of Fig. 2. The shaft (315) is substantially having a cylindrical cross-section along at least an axial length thereof. The shaft (315) may have a uniform cross-section or with varying cross- section. Further, the shaft (315) acting as axle is provided with threaded portion at substantial end(s) (317) for fastening the shaft (315) to the structural member (135). The shaft (315) includes a cable path (316) (shown in Fig. 3 (e)) therein that extends from one end portion towards the center portion thereof. In the present implementation, the cable path (316) extends towards the left side (LH) with respect to the prime mover assembly (200) (as shown in Fig. 2). Further, the cable path (316) includes a first passage (316A), a substantially axial path (316B), and a second passage (316C) (shown in Fig. 3 (e)). Preferably, the first passage (316A) and the second passage (316C) are disposed at an angle with respect to the axial path (316B) or shaft axis (S-S’) of the shaft (315), wherein the axial path (316B) extends substantially along the axis (S-S’) of the shaft (315). In another embodiment, the axial path (316B) is also disposed at an angle with respect to the axis (S-S’). The cable path (316) being provided substantially within the shaft (315) eliminates additional routing portion. Further, the shaft (315) provided with the hollow portion formed by the cable path (316) improves the structural strength thereof.

[00051] Further, the interfacing assembly (235) securely seals the cable assembly (230) at the second passage (316C) and at the same time enables routing of the cable assembly (230) therethrough. The interfacing assembly (235) is substantially annularly enclosing the shaft (315) locally at the opening (not shown) of the second passage (316C). Also, the cable assembly (230) is capable of orienting the cable assembly (230) in a desired direction. In the depicted implementation, the cable assembly (230) is oriented substantially orthogonally with respect to the shaft axis (S-S’). In the current implementation, the interfacing assembly (235) is disposed such that a gap in axial direction is provided between the outer periphery of the rotating member (310) and the interfacing assembly (235), wherein the structural member (135) is disposed at the aforementioned gap. This way, the cable assembly (230) extends outwards of the structural member (135). However, in a second embodiment, the interfacing assembly (235) is disposed substantially adjacent to the outer periphery of the rotating member (310) and the structural member (135) is secured to the shaft (315) adjacent to the interfacing assembly (235) in outward direction. Both embodiments enable the cable assembly (230) to be routed substantially between the outer periphery of the rotating member (310) and an inner face of the structural member (135).

[00052] Fig. 3 (b) depicts an isometric view of the shaft with the interfacing assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. Fig. 3 (c) depicts an exploded view of the interfacing assembly secured to the shaft, in accordance with the embodiment as depicted in Fig. 3 (b). The interfacing assembly (235) includes a housing member (240) that is enclosing the shaft (315) locally at the portion where the second passage (316C) is exiting the shaft (315). The housing member (240) in the present implementation includes a cylindrical base (241) and a first routing member (242). The first routing member (242) is provided with a hollow portion/aperture portion (244) that substantially aligns with the exit portion of the second passage (316C). As per another embodiment, the interfacing assembly (235) includes a sealing member (245) and the sealing member (245) is capable of being fastened or secured to the first routing member (242). In one embodiment, the cylindrical base (241) and the first routing member (242) are integrally formed. The housing member (240) and the sealing member (245) are preferably made of a non-insulating material that is either elastic or rigid. Further, in an implementation, the interfacing assembly (235) is made of a low- thermally conducting material.

[00053] The housing member (240) is slidable from one side of the shaft (315). The shaft (315) is provided with the path portion (316) that has a first passage (not shown) for routing of the cable assembly (230) from the inner portion of the electric machine (120) outwards through the second passage (316C). The second passage (316C) has an opening portion (318) through which the cable assembly (230) is routed to exit the interfacing assembly (235). In one implementation, the opening portion (318) is having an oval profile when viewed from top and the interfacing assembly (235) substantially covers the opening portion (318). However, in a second implementation, the opening portion (318) is capable of having any known geometric regular or irregular shape basing on the routing requirement and also basing on the shaft profile. Further, the housing member (240) slid onto the shaft is aligned with the opening portion (318) such that the aperture portion (244) defined by the first routing member (242) is aligned with the opening portion (318) and at the same time the housing member (240) covers the opening portion (318). The first routing member (242) receives an abutting portion (252) shown in Fig 3 (d) provided at an end portion of the tubular portion (251) and the abutting portion (252) is sandwiched between the first routing member (242) and the sealing member (245) whereby a sealing is provided between the tubular portion (251) and the opening portion (318). The abutting portion (252) is the present embodiment is a disc shaped portion. The housing member (240) is retained at the required position and at required orientation using a fastener or the like that retains the first member at the desired position. In one implementation, the axial length of the housing member (240) is substantially greater than a diameter of the opening portion (318) to offer substantial covering of the opening portion (318).

[00054] Further, the interfacing assembly (235) includes a cable-guide (250) that is substantially having a tubular portion (251) and one end portion of the tubular portion (251) is provided with an abutting portion (252). In one embodiment, the abutting portion (252) is integrally formed with the tubular portion (251). The sealing member (245) acts a retainer and the sealing member (245) is slidably passed through the tubular portion (251) till the sealing member (245) reaches the abutting portion (252). The sealing member (245) is assembled to the first routing member (242), wherein in the assembled condition the abutting portion (252) is secured between the first routing member (242) and the sealing member (245) forming a tight seal. The first routing member (242) and the sealing member (245) are secured using retainer member (246). In one implementation, the retainer member (246) can be fasteners like bolts or any known fastening means. Thus, the cable assembly (230) is routed from the stator (305)/windings through the shaft (315) then through the interfacing assembly (235) whereby the cable is routed through the tubular portion (251). Further, an elastic guard member (255) is assembled about the tubular portion (251) that substantially extends along the length of the cable assembly (230).

[00055] As per another embodiment, the sealing member (245) includes a hook member (247) capable of holding the elastic guard member (255) in a desired position (shown in Fig. 3 (b)). The hook member (247) can be a U-shaped hook that is capable of holding the elastic guard member (255), specially the end portion. Also, the hook member (247) provides ease of attachment and detachment of the elastic guard member (255).

[00056] The interfacing assembly (235) can be detached easily as the elastic guide member (255) can be detached from the hook member (247). Further, the sealing member (245) can be detached through the retainer members (246). Subsequently, the cable guide (250) can be removed. Further, the housing member (240) can be detached. This enables in accessing the opening portion (318) whereby maintenance and servicing can be done and the interfacing assembly (235) can be re-assembled. Thus, the present subject matter enables reuse of parts thereby reducing cost. Thus, the shaft (315) can be optimally used providing better durability.

[00057] Fig. 3 (d) depicts the enlarged view of the shaft, in accordance with the embodiment of Fig. 3 (b). The first routing member (242) includes a cylindrical connector (243) that connects the cylindrical base (241) (shown in Fig. 3 (c)) to the portion of the first routing member (242) that receives the abutting member (252) (not visible in assembled condition). In the assembled condition, the cable assembly (230) is routed from the shaft (315) through the interfacing assembly (235), wherein the cable assembly (230), routed through the second passage (316C), exits the shaft (315) through the opening portion (318) and subsequently is guided by the cylindrical connector (243) and then is routed through the cable- guide (250). The interfacing assembly (235) seals the shaft (315) annularly substantially at the opening portion thereby providing a tight seal from any foreign matter entering the shaft (315) through the opening. Further, the cable-guide (250) provided with the abutting portion (252) also provides a tight seal for the outward opening of the interfacing assembly (235). The abutting portion (252) is an embodiment is a sleeve that is provided with an aperture that aligns with the hollow opening of the cable-guide (250). Also, the first routing member (242) and the sealing member (245) securely seal the opening of the cable-guide (250), wherein the abutting portion (252) is tightly sealed by the first routing member (242) and the sealing member (245). In one implementation, the abutting portion (252), which is a sleeve formed in disc shape, is having a diameter that is substantially greater than the diameter of the cable-guide (250). Also, the first routing member (242) acting as a receiving member is provided with a depression profile so as to receive the abutting portion (252). Further, the profile of the first routing member (242) is provided to complement and conform the profile of the abutting portion (252). The apertures provided on the abutting portion (252) of the cable-guide (250), the first routing member (242), the sealing member (245), and the opening portion (318) have a substantially common axis (X-X’) so as to enable routing of the cable assembly (230) therethrough.

[00058] Fig. 3 (e) depicts a sectional view of the electric machine (120) with selected parts taken along axis (A-A’), in accordance with the embodiment as depicted in Fig. 3 (a). Fig. 3 (e) depicts the secure routing of the cable assembly (230) about the electric machine (120). The shaft (315) is provided with cable path (316) that has a first passage (316 A) that is substantially inward of the electric machine (120) and the cable path includes a second path (316C) that exits outward through the interfacing assembly (235). In the current embodiment, Fig. 3 (e) is a top view of the electric machine (120). The cable assembly (230) can be routed at the first passage (316A) in any orientation, i.e. in any angle about the 360 degrees. Further, the depicted implementation shows the interfacing assembly (235) routing the cable assembly (235) in a forward direction. The cable assembly (230) is preferably routed at a region formed between the forward direction and the upward direction to enable ease of assembly of the cable assembly (230) to the other components of the vehicle viz. the control unit or the primary power source.

[00059] The interfacing assembly (235) can be assembled by one or more methods including the steps of inserting a housing member (240) on to the shaft (315) whereby the housing member (240) covers an opening portion (318) of said shaft (315). Securing a cable-guide (250) to the housing member (240) whereby a cable assembly (230) can be routed from the shaft (315) through the housing member (240) and through the cable-guide (250). Further, securing the cable-guide (250) includes fastening a sealing member (245) to the housing (240). Furthermore, aligning a first routing member (242) with an aperture portion (244) that substantially aligns with the opening portion (318) of said shaft (315).

[00060] It is to be understood that the aspects of the embodiment(s) are not necessarily limited to the features described herein. Many modifications and variations of the present subject matter are possible in the light of above disclosure. Therefore, within the scope of claims of the present subject matter, the present disclosure may be practiced other than as specifically described.

List of reference signs:

100 vehicle 241 cylindrical base

105 frame member 30 242 first routing member

105A head tube 243 cylindrical connector

105B main frame 244 aperture portion

105C sub-frame 245 sealing member

115 internal combustion engine 246 retainer member

120 electric machine (120) 35 247 hook portion

125 rear wheel 250 cable-guide

130 handlebar assembly 251 tubular portion

135 structural member 252 abutting portion

140 A front panel 255 guard member

140B leg shield 40 135A/135B arm

140C under- seat cover 305 stationary member

140D side panel 310 rotating member

145 floorboard 315 shaft

150 seat assembly 316 cable path

155A headlight 45 316 A first passage

155B taillight 316B axial path

200 prime mover assembly 316C second passage

205 crankcase 317 substantial end

210 crankcase cover 318 opening portion

225 kick-start mechanism 50 CP cylinder portion

230 cable assembly F-R longitudinal direction

231 power cable RH-LH lateral direction

232 signal cable SP pivot portion

235 interfacing assembly S-S' shaft axis

240 housing member 55 TL toggle link

C-C' common axis

Claims

We claim:

1. An electric machine (120) for a vehicle (100), said electric machine (120) comprising:

a shaft (315) disposed substantially in a lateral direction (RH-LH) of said vehicle (100), said shaft (315) fixedly supports a stationary member (305) and said shaft (315) rotatably supports a rotating member (310),

wherein

a cable assembly (230) extends outward from a cable path (316) defined by said shaft (315), and an interfacing assembly (235), disposed at an opening portion (318) of said shaft (315), securely seals said opening portion (318) and said interfacing assembly (235) configured to route said cable assembly (230) therethrough.

2. The electric machine (120) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said interfacing assembly (235) includes a housing member (240) covering said opening portion (318) and annularly enclosing at least a portion of said shaft (315) at said opening portion (318), and said housing member (240) includes a first routing member (242) having an aperture portion (244) aligning with said opening portion (318).

3. The electric machine (120) as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein said interfacing assembly (235) includes a cable-guide (250), said cable-guide (250) includes an abutting portion (252) that is capable of being received by said housing member (240), and said cable-guide (250) capable of securely guiding said cable assembly (230) therethrough.

4. The electric machine (120) as claimed in claim 1 or claim 3, wherein said interfacing assembly (235) includes a sealing member (245), said sealing member (245) capable of securing said cable-guide (250) to said housing member (240), and said cable assembly (230) being routed through said shaft (315) and through said cable-guide (250) of said interfacing assembly (235).

5. The electric machine ( 120) as claimed in claim 4, wherein said abutting portion (252) of said cable-guide (250), said first routing member (245), and said opening portion (318) have a substantially common axis (X-X’).

6. The electric machine ( 120) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said opening portion (318) having any known geometric profile includes an oval profile, and said interfacing assembly (235) substantially covers said opening portion (235) thereby restricting entry of any foreign particles including water, dust, or the like.

7. The electric machine (120) as claimed in claim 1 or 4, wherein the cable assembly (230) is secured by an elastic guard member (255) capable of annularly covering at least a circumference of the cable assembly (230), and said sealing member (245) includes a hook member (247) capable of holding the elastic guard member (255) in a desired position.

8. The electric machine (120) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said electric machine (120) is mounted to a structural member (135) of said vehicle (100), and said structural member (135) is secured to said vehicle (100) by at least one of fixed or swingable mounting.

9. The electric machine (120) as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein said first routing member (242) receives an abutting portion (252) provided at an end portion of the tubular portion (251) and the abutting portion (252) is sandwiched between the first routing member (242) and the sealing member (245).

10. An interfacing assembly (235), said interfacing assembly (235) comprising:

a housing member (240) capable of covering an opening portion (318), said housing member (240) includes at least one passage (242) to enable routing of a cable assembly (230) therethrough;

a sealing member (245) capable of being secured to said housing member (240); and

a cable-guide (250) providing a secure contiguous path from said opening portion (318) therethrough.

11. A housing member (240) for an electric machine (120), said housing member (240) capable of covering an opening portion (318) of a shaft (315) of said electric machine (315), said housing member (240) comprising:

a cylindrical base (241); and

a first routing portion (242),

wherein said cylindrical base (241) is capable of covering said opening portion (318) of said shaft (315), and said first routing portion (242) includes an aperture portion (244) aligning with said opening portion (318).

12. A method of assembling an interfacing assembly (235) to a shaft (315) of an electric machine (120), said method comprising the steps of:

inserting a housing member (240) on to the shaft (315) whereby the housing member (240) covers an opening portion (318) of said shaft (315);

securing a cable-guide (250) to said housing member (240) whereby a cable assembly (230) can be routed from the shaft (315) through the housing member (240) and through the cable-guide (250).

13. The method of assembling an interfacing assembly (235) as claimed in claim 12, wherein securing said cable-guide (250) includes fastening a sealing member (245) to the housing (240).

14. The method of assembling an interfacing assembly (235) as claimed in claim 12 further comprising the step of aligning a first routing member (242) with an aperture portion (244) that substantially aligns with the opening portion (318) of said shaft (315).