Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
ELECTRIC VEHICLE WITH BATTERY PACK AS STRUCTURAL ELEMENT
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The disclosure relates generally to electric vehicles.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Electric vehicles comprise different powertrain components than
traditional combustion engine vehicles. For example, instead of having a fuel
tank
and a combustion engine, an electric vehicle comprises a battery pack and an
electric motor. Due to the sizes and weights of the electric vehicle
powertrain
components, consideration is needed when locating and positioning them in
relation
to each other, as well as other components of the electric vehicle.
[0003] For an electric snowmobile, further consideration is needed when
locating a battery pack and electric motor in relation to a chassis and
suspension
system.
[0004] For these and other reasons, there is a need for the present
invention.
SUMMARY
[0005] According to one example, an electric vehicle is provided that
comprise
an electric motor and a battery pack. The battery pack comprising one or more
battery modules for providing power to the electric motor; and a battery
enclosure
housing the one or more battery modules. The battery enclosure is a structural
element of the electric vehicle for receiving loads from at least two of a
suspension
system, a seat and a steering system of the electric vehicle.
[0006] According to some examples, the battery enclosure transfers the
loads
received, at least partially, to a center of mass of the electric vehicle. In
another
example, the battery enclosure transferring the loads received, at least
partially, to a
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chassis of the electric vehicle. According to another example, the battery
enclosure
defines a front portion and a rear portion, the front portion receiving loads
from a
front suspension of the electric vehicle. According to another example, the
battery
enclosure defines a front portion and a rear portion, the front portion
receiving loads
from the steering system and the rear portion receiving loads from the seat.
[0007] In some examples, the electric vehicle comprises a chassis
defining a
tunnel portion and a front brace structure, the tunnel portion connected to
the rear
portion of the battery enclosure and the front brace structure connected to
the front
portion of the battery enclosure. In some examples, the electric vehicle is a
snowmobile.
[0008] According to one example, a battery enclosure for an electric
vehicle
is provided. The battery enclosure being a structural element of the electric
vehicle
and comprising a rear portion adapted for connection to a rear portion of a
chassis
of the electric vehicle, the rear portion of the battery enclosure configured
to receive
loads from a seat of the electric vehicle; and a front portion adapted for
connection
to a front portion of the chassis of the electric vehicle, the front portion
of the battery
enclosure configured to receive loads from a front suspension of the electric
vehicle.
[0009] In some examples, the battery enclosure is configured to
transfer loads
received from the seat and the front suspension, at least partially, to a
center of mass
of the electric vehicle. In some examples, the battery enclosure is configured
to
transfer loads received from the seat and the front suspension, at least
partially, to a
chassis of the electric vehicle. In some examples, the front portion is
further adapted
for receiving loads from a steering system of the electric vehicle and
transferring
those loads, at least partially, to a center of mass of the electric vehicle.
In some
examples, the electric vehicle is a snowmobile. In some examples, the rear
portion
of the battery enclosure is adapted for connection to a tunnel of the
snowmobile, and
the front portion of the battery enclosure is adapted for connection to a
front brace
structure of the snowmobile.
[0010] According to a further example, the battery enclosure transfers
the
loads received, at least partially, to a center of mass of the electric
vehicle. In another
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example, the battery enclosure transferring the loads received, at least
partially, to a
chassis of the electric vehicle. According to another example, the battery
enclosure
defines a front portion and a rear portion, the front portion receiving loads
from a
front suspension of the electric vehicle. According to another example, the
battery
enclosure defines a front portion and a rear portion, the front portion
receiving loads
from the steering system and the rear portion receiving loads from the seat.
[0011] According to one example, a snowmobile is provided comprising a
chassis that comprises a rear tunnel; and a front brace structure adapted to
receive
loads from a front suspension system of the snowmobile. The snowmobile further
comprises a battery enclosure defining a tunnel portion and a front portion,
the tunnel
portion being connected to the rear tunnel of the chassis and the front
portion being
connected to the front brace structure of the chassis. The battery enclosure
receives
loads from the front suspension system of the snowmobile through the front
brace
structure and transfers the loads from the front suspension system to at least
one of
the rear tunnel and a center of mass of the electric vehicle through a body of
the
battery enclosure.
[0012] In some examples, the battery enclosure is further connected to
the
front brace structure at a bottom surface. In some examples, a steering mount
is
connected to the front portion of the battery enclosure for connection to a
steering
column, the steering mount transferring loads from the steering column into
the body
of the battery enclosure. In some examples, a seat is connected to the tunnel
portion
of the battery enclosure, wherein loads from the seat are received by and
transferred
into the body of the battery enclosure. In some examples the front portion of
the
battery enclosure defines a first height and the tunnel portion of the battery
enclosure
defines a second height, the first height being greater than the second
height. In
some examples, the front portion of the battery enclosure defines a first
width and
the tunnel portion of the battery enclosure defines a second width, the first
width
being greater than the second width. In some examples, the front suspension
system
comprises at least one coil over spring and damper assembly. In some examples,
at least one coil over spring and damper assembly is connected between a pair
of
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skis and the front brace structure. In some examples, the battery enclosure
comprises a carbon fiber composite material. In some examples the battery
enclosure comprises an injection molded glass fiber reinforced plastic
material. In
some examples, the tunnel portion of the battery enclosure is connected to the
rear
tunnel of the chassis via two or more right side blocks and two or more left
side
blocks. In some examples, the battery enclosure has a stiffness that is within
a range
that is equal to or greater than 10 gigapascal (Gpa) and equal to or less than
70 Gpa.
In some examples, the battery enclosure comprises a cover and a floor. In some
examples the battery enclosure houses at least two electric battery modules
for
supplying electricity to the electric motor. In some examples, the battery
modules
comprise one or more pouch battery cells.
[0013] According to one example, a battery enclosure for an electric
snowmobile is provided. The battery enclosure comprises a tunnel portion
adapted
for connection to a rear tunnel of a snowmobile chassis, a front portion
adapted for
connection to a front brace structure of the snowmobile chassis. The battery
enclosure is configured to receive loads from a front suspension system of the
snowmobile through the front brace structure and transfers the loads from the
front
suspension system to at least one of the rear tunnel and a center of mass of
the
electric vehicle through a body of the battery enclosure.
[0014] In one example, the battery enclosure is configured for
connection to a
steering column via a steering mount for receiving loads from the steering
column
into the body of the battery enclosure. In some examples, the battery
enclosure is
configured for connection to a seat of the electric vehicle for receiving
loads from the
seat into the body of the battery enclosure. In some examples, the front
portion of
the battery enclosure defines a first height and the tunnel portion of the
battery
enclosure defines a second height, the first height being greater than the
second
height. In some examples, the front portion of the battery enclosure defines a
first
width and the tunnel portion of the battery enclosure defines a second width,
the first
width being greater than the second width. In some examples, the battery
enclosure
comprises a carbon fiber composite material. In some examples, the battery
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-03-30
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enclosure comprises an injection molded glass fiber reinforced plastic
material. In
some examples, the battery enclosure has a stiffness that is within a range
that is
equal to or greater than 10 gigapascal (Gpa) and equal to or less than 70 Gpa.
In
some examples, the battery enclosure comprises a cover and a floor.
[0015] According to one example, a straddle-seat electric vehicle is
provided
that comprises a chassis including a suspension system and a battery pack
configured as a structural element that receives loads from the suspension
system.
In one example, the battery pack comprising a battery enclosure coupled to the
suspension system for transferring, at least partially, loads from the
suspension
system through a body of the battery enclosure to the chassis. In one example,
a
brace structure transfers loads between the suspension system and the battery
enclosure. In one example, the vehicle comprises a straddle seat, the straddle
seat
being mounted directly to the battery pack. In one example, the straddle-seat
vehicle
is a snowmobile.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] Figure 1 is a block diagram of components of an electric vehicle
100,
according to one example of the present disclosure.
[0017] Figure 2 is a front perspective view of an electric vehicle that
is a
snowmobile, according to one example of the present disclosure.
[0018] Figure 3 is a side perspective view of the snowmobile of Figure
2,
according to one example of the present disclosure.
[0019] Figure 4 is another side perspective view of the snowmobile of
Figure
2, according to one example of the present disclosure.
[0020] Figure 5A is a partial side perspective view of a snowmobile,
according
to one example of the present disclosure.
[0021] Figure 5B is a block diagram illustrating a load path of a
snowmobile,
according to one example of the present disclosure.
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[0022] Figure 6 is a front top partial perspective view of a
snowmobile,
according to one example of the present disclosure.
[0023] Figure 7 is a front partial perspective view of a snowmobile,
according
to one example of the present disclosure.
[0024] Figure 7A is an enlarged partial perspective view of a
snowmobile,
according to one example of the present disclosure.
[0025] Figure 8 is a front view of a snowmobile, according to one
example of
the present disclosure.
[0026] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a battery
enclosure,
according to one example of the present disclosure.
[0027] Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating part of a battery
enclosure, according
to one example of the present disclosure.
[0028] Figure 11 is an enlarged partial perspective view of a battery
enclosure,
according to one example of the present disclosure.
[0029] Figure 12 is a partial side view of a snowmobile, according to
one
example of the present disclosure.
[0030] Figure 13 is a partial side view of a snowmobile, according to
one
example of the present disclosure
[0031] Figure 14 is a partial perspective view of a battery pack,
according to
one example of the present disclosure.
[0032] Figure 15 is a top view of a battery pack, according to one
example of
the present disclosure.
[0033] Figure 16 is a side view of a battery pack, according to one
example of
the present disclosure.
[0034] Figure 17 is a front view of a battery pack, according to one
example
of the present disclosure.
[0035] Figure 18 is a partial perspective view of a motor assembly,
according
to one example of the present disclosure.
[0036] Figure 19 is a partial perspective view of a motor assembly,
according
to one example of the present disclosure.
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[0037] Figure 20 is a partial side view of a motor assembly, according
to one
example of the present disclosure.
[0038] Figure 21 is a partial side view of a motor assembly, according
to one
example of the present disclosure.
[0039] Figure 22 is a partial perspective view of a motor assembly,
according
to one example of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0040] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the
accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way
of
illustration specific examples in which the disclosure may be practiced. It is
to be
understood that other examples may be utilized and structural or logical
changes
may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The
following detailed description, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting
sense, and
the scope of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims. It is
to be
understood that features of the various examples described herein may be
combined, in part or whole, with each other, unless specifically noted
otherwise.
[0041] In one or more examples, the present application discloses an
electric
vehicle. The electric vehicle includes a battery pack that is configured as a
structural
element that receives loads from at least a suspension system during operation
of
the electric vehicle. Utilizing the battery pack as a structural element
results in
dynamic advantages in operation of the electric vehicle and an ergonomic
advantage
to the electric vehicle riders. In one or more examples illustrated herein,
the electric
vehicle is a powersport vehicle, and specifically an electric snowmobile. It
is
recognized that although a snowmobile is used in the examples, the present
disclosure also applies to other electric vehicles, including other electric
powersport
vehicles (e.g., electric all-terrain vehicles (ATV), utility task vehicles
(UTV), personal
watercraft, side-by-side vehicles, motorcycles, etc.). In one or more examples
illustrated herein, the electric vehicle is a straddle-seat electric vehicle,
which is a
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straddle vehicle where the seat is straddled by a rider, such as a snowmobile,
personal watercraft or ATV, among others.
[0042] Fig. 1 is a block diagram of components of an electric vehicle
100
according to one example of the present disclosure. The electric vehicle 100
includes a chassis 110 (or frame), a suspension system 112 and a battery pack
114,
among other components that are not shown. The battery pack 114 is configured
as
a structural element that receives loads from at least the suspension system
112,
indicated at 115a, and transfers loads, at least partially, from the
suspension system
112, through the battery pack 114 to the vehicle's center of mass and/or other
elements of the chassis 110, indicated at 115b. As will be described in more
detail
below, the battery pack 114 is further configured to receive loads from all or
some of
the suspension system 112, the seating of the electric vehicle 100 and
steering
column 152 among other components or mechanisms of the electric vehicle 100,
and transfer those loads, at least partially, to the vehicle's center of mass
and/or the
chassis 110.
[0043] In one example, the battery pack 114 comprises a battery
enclosure
116 housing one or more battery modules 119. In one example, it is the battery
enclosure 116 that is coupled to the suspension system 112 for receiving and
transferring loads between the other vehicle components. A brace structure 118
that
forms part of the chassis 110 may be present to transfer loads between the
battery
enclosure 116 and the suspension system 112.
[0044] Fig. 2 is a front perspective view of an electric vehicle 110
embodied
as an electric snowmobile 120, according to one example of the present
disclosure.
The snowmobile 120 is illustrated with one or more elements removed to aid in
describing the remaining elements of the snowmobile 120. For example, in one
or
more figures the snowmobile hood is removed and/or the snowmobile seat is
removed.
[0045] The snowmobile 120 includes a chassis 122 (or frame), a battery
pack
124 and a suspension system 126. As described above with respect to Fig. 1,
the
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battery pack 124 comprises a battery enclosure 128 that houses one or more
battery
modules therein.
[0046] In one example, the battery pack 124, and more specifically the
battery
enclosure 128, forms a structural element of the snowmobile 120 and is
configured
to receive, partially absorb and transfer loads from other snowmobile
components,
including the suspension system 126, the seating (seat 510 and/or backrest
512),
and the steering system 150, to the vehicle's center of mass and/or to the
chassis
110.
[0047] Battery enclosure 128 is made of a material that provides
sufficient
structural support to the snowmobile 120, or other electric vehicle 110, such
that it
acts as a structural element of the vehicle. The material of the battery
enclosure 128
has a stiffness sufficient for receiving and absorbing loads, as well as
transmitting
loads between the vehicle components (e.g. the suspension system 126, seating
and steering system) and the vehicle's center of mass and/or the chassis 122.
The
battery enclosure 128 provides sufficient structural support to replace
traditional
support members such as braces, tubes and linkages, thus facilitating a more
ergonomic design for the snowmobile 120.
[0048] In one example, the battery enclosure 128 is made of a carbon
fiber
composite material, having a thickness of 2 - 3 millimeters with an elastic
modulus
(i.e. stiffness) rating of at least 60 GPa. In other examples, the material
has a
stiffness rating between 10 GPa and 60 GPa. The battery enclosure 128 may be
formed in a single piece, or multiple pieces that are secured together. For
example,
the battery enclosure 128 may be made of a floor (not shown) that may be a
relatively
flat plate that is secured to the chassis 122 and a lid that connects to the
floor in
order to create a cavity for housing the electric battery module(s). In
another
example, the battery enclosure 128 may be made of two halves that connect at a
central seam. In other examples, the battery enclosure 128 could be made of a
bucket and a top cover; or there could be a floor, a ring-like central portion
and a
cover or lid.
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[0049] In another example, the battery enclosure 128 is made of a
material
such as a polymer or a loaded polymer. In one example, the battery enclosure
128
is made of a glass fiber reinforced polymer (plastic) using an injection
molded
process. In one example, the polymer incudes glass fiber reinforcement that
provides stiffness to the battery enclosure 128. For example, the polymer may
include between 20-40% glass fiber content, and in another non-limiting
example,
30% glass fiber content. In another example, the material of the battery
enclosure
128 has a stiffness rating of at least 10 times the stiffness of a suspension
spring
element (i.e., the shock). In another example, the material of the battery
enclosure
128 has a stiffness that can range from 3GPa without any fiber reinforcement
to
approximately 13GPa with a 40% fiber reinforcement. It is recognized that
other
combinations of material and fiber reinforcement may be used based on the type
of
material and fiber used, and design requirements for a given application.
[0050] It is also recognized that in areas where additional support is
needed,
the thickness of the material can be increased to provide additional
stiffness. For
example, reinforcement ribs can be injection molded into the material shape
and
thickness using the same material. In this manner, additional support and
stiffness
can be selectively provided to desired areas of the battery enclosure while
still
injection molding the same material throughout the process.
[0051] In one example, in addition to being a structural element that
is able to
receive, absorb and/or transfer loads received from the suspension system 126,
the
steering system 150 and seating (seat 510 and/or backrest 512), the battery
enclosure 128 is also designed to withstand impact and damage that may be
experienced during use of the electric vehicle 110, 120. In a further example,
the
battery enclosure 128 is designed to protect the electric battery from the
elements,
and when sealed, may provide a water-tight enclosure that is closed to water
and
foreign debris ingress. In this manner, the battery enclosure 128 may provide
sufficient protection such that the electric battery module(s) can be housed
directly
within the battery enclosure 128. In an alternative example, the battery
enclosure
128 may not be completely sealed to the elements and the electric battery
module(s)
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may be provided within a non-structural watertight enclosure that is then, in-
turn,
housed within the structural battery enclosure 128.
[0052] In one example shown in Fig. 3, the chassis 122 of the
snowmobile
120 includes rear tunnel 130 and a front brace structure 132. The front brace
structure 132 is configured to receive loads from the suspension system 126.
The
front brace structure 132 includes a first top brace 134 and a second top
brace 136.
[0053] Referring back to Fig. 2, the suspension system 126 may be
coupled
to the battery enclosure 128, either directly or indirectly through the
chassis 122, and
more specifically through at least the front brace structure 132. In one
example, the
suspension system 126 may comprise a front suspension system that includes a
first
suspension leg 138 and a second suspension leg 140. The first suspension leg
138
includes a first shock 142 and is coupled to a first ski assembly 144. The
second
suspension leg 140 includes a second shock 146 and is coupled to a second ski
assembly 148. The first top brace 134 is coupled between the battery enclosure
128
and the first suspension leg 138. The second top brace 136 is coupled between
the
battery enclosure 128 and the second suspension leg 140.
[0054] The shocks 142, 146 may each comprise a coil over spring and
damper
assembly, a hydraulic or pneumatic piston assembly, or any other type of shock
assembly known to those skilled in the art. The shocks 142, 146 are connected
either
directly or indirectly between their respective ski assemblies 144, 148 and
the front
brace structure 132 of the chassis 122.
[0055] Also illustrated in Fig. 2 is a steering system 150 having
handlebar
attachment 154 coupled to steering column 152. The steering system 150 also
includes steering assembly 156 coupled to first and second ski assemblies 144,
146.
The steering column 152 is securely and rotatably coupled to battery enclosure
128
at location 160 via a steering mount. The steering column 152 may extend at
least
partially through the battery enclosure 128. In one example, the steering
column 152
freely rotates within a tunnel or slot 162 defined by the battery enclosure
128 during
steering of snowmobile 120. One or more examples of steering system 150 are
described in detail later in this specification.
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[0056] Reference is now made to Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. As indicated above,
chassis 122 comprises a rear tunnel 130 and a front brace structure 132.
Battery
pack 124 is illustrated positioned, at least partially, over rear tunnel 130.
Battery
enclosure 128 of battery pack 124 defines a tunnel portion 200 (or rear
portion) and
a front portion 202. In one example, the tunnel portion 200 (or rear portion)
is
connected to the rear tunnel 130 of the chassis 122, and the front portion 202
is
connected to the front brace structure 132. In one example, the tunnel portion
200
may be generally rectangular shaped, although other shapes are also possible,
including an elongated dome shape, or a truncated prismatic shape, among other
possibilities. Tunnel portion 200 is connected to the rear tunnel 130 of the
chassis
122 at connection points or blocks 204. Tunnel portion 200 may be connected to
the
rear tunnel 130 via mechanical fasteners such as nuts and bolts, rivets,
staples, etc.
In some embodiments, a bottom portion or floor of the battery enclosure 128
may be
connected to the rear tunnel 130 more permanently via welding, soldering or
adhesion among other possibilities. In such a case, an upper portion or lid of
the
battery enclosure 128 may then be fastened to the floor via mechanical
fasteners,
friction fit, snap fit or any other suitable removable fastening mechanism.
[0057] As shown in Fig. 2, the front portion 202 of the battery
enclosure 128
may be generally rectangular shaped and is located towards the front of
snowmobile
120. In one example, front portion 202 of the battery enclosure 128 has
different
width and height dimensions from tunnel portion 200 of the battery enclosure
128,
such that there is a clear visual demarcation between the tunnel portion 200
and the
front portion 202 of the battery enclosure 128. However, in other embodiments,
the
front portion 202 may have only a different height or a different width from
the tunnel
portion 200, and not both. In still further embodiments, the front portion 202
may
have the same height and width as the tunnel portion 200 along an entire
length of
the battery enclosure 128, such that there is no distinct visual demarcation
between
the tunnel portion 200 and the front portion 202. In still further
embodiments, the
battery enclosure 128 may gradually increase in height and/or width from the
rear of
the tunnel portion 200 to the front of the front portion 202. The battery
enclosure 128
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may have any shape or configuration that is suitable for housing one or more
battery
modules and attaching to the tunnel 130 and front brace structure 132 of the
electric
vehicle.
[0058] With reference to Fig. 5A, in one example, front portion 202 of
battery
enclosure 128 defines a first height 206 and the tunnel portion 202 of battery
enclosure 128 defines a second height 208. In one example, the first height
206 is
greater than the second height 208. In other examples, the first height 206 is
less
than the second height 208. In one example, the front portion 202 of battery
enclosure 128 defines a first width 210 and the tunnel portion 202 of battery
enclosure 128 defines a second width 212. In one example, the first width 210
is
greater than the second width 212. In other examples, the first width 210 is
less than
the second width 212.
[0059] In one example, battery pack 124 has an approximate overall
length of
1563mm, width of 596mm, and height of 437mm. It is recognized that the overall
length, width and height of battery pack 124 may vary based on the design of
snowmobile 120. In another example, the approximate overall length of battery
pack
124 is in a range of 750 ¨ 2000mm, the width is in a range of 450mm ¨ 600mm,
and
the height is in a range of 350 ¨550mm.
[0060] Fig. 6 is a top front perspective view of battery pack 124
including
battery enclosure 128. The battery enclosure 128 includes tunnel portion 200
positioned over rear tunnel 130, and front portion 202 positioned at or in
proximity to
the front of rear tunnel 130.
[0061] In one or more examples, it is recognized that the battery
enclosure
128 may provide one single internal cavity for the battery module(s) of the
electric
battery, or multiple segmented internal cavities that can separate the
different battery
module(s) of the electric battery. There may be cutouts in the segmenting
walls for
enabling electrical interconnection of the battery modules.
[0062] In one example, the battery enclosure 128 may be one overall
component made up of a floor and a cover or lid. In another example, the
battery
enclosure 128 may comprise multiple separate battery enclosure components that
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each have a floor and cover or lid. The separate enclosure components may
comprise two separate enclosure components (for example. the tunnel portion
and
the front portion may each form a separate distinct battery enclosure
component).
Alternatively, the battery enclosure 128 could be divided up differently, and
into even
more than two separate battery enclosure components. The separate battery
enclosure components can be positioned on the chassis in the same
configuration
as described for a single battery enclosure (i.e. in the same position as the
embodiment shown in the Figures), or the different individual battery
enclosure
components could be positioned differently in relation to the rear tunnel 130
and front
brace structure 132 of the chassis 122. In one example, the front portion 202
may
be positioned in a mid-bay region in horizontal alignment with the rear tunnel
130
and the motor is positioned above the front portion of the battery enclosure.
The
separate battery enclosure components may be unconnected when installed on an
electric vehicle, or the separate battery enclosure components could be
connected
together with brackets, etc. The electric battery module(s) housed within the
separate battery enclosure components would be electrically interconnected.
[0063] As described above, multiple battery enclosures may be used and
operably connected together. The multiple battery enclosures may allow for a
more
optimal weight distribution. In one example, as batteries get smaller and more
powerful it may be beneficial to locate the batteries in a number of
enclosures to
improve ergonomic design and performance of the electric vehicle.
[0064] In one example, the battery enclosure 128 may house only the
electric
battery modules (and possibly wiring/electronics and supporting structures for
the
battery modules) of the electric battery. In another example, the battery
enclosure
may house the electric battery as well as other components of the electric
vehicle,
such as battery management controllers, thermal management systems, motor
assembly, etc.
[0065] Fig. 7 is a close-up view of section A of Fig. 6 showing the
battery
enclosure 128 front portion 202. The front portion 202 includes a top surface
300, a
front surface 302, a first side surface 304, a second side surface 306, and a
floor
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bottom surface 308. In one example, the front brace structure 132 is coupled
to
battery enclosure 128 at the top surface 300. In another example, the front
brace
structure 132 is coupled to the battery enclosure 128 at the front surface
302. In
another example, the front brace structure 132 is coupled to the battery
enclosure
128 at an edge 330 between the top surface 300 and the front surface 302. The
front brace structure 132 may also be coupled to the battery enclosure 128 at
the
bottom surface 308.
[0066] In one example, front brace structure 132 is coupled to battery
enclosure 128 at four connection points for transferring load to battery
enclosure
128. Front brace structure 132 includes the first top brace 134 and the second
top
brace 136. First top brace 134 includes a first end 320 and a second end 322.
Second top brace 136 includes a first end 324 and a second end 326. First top
brace
134 is connected to battery enclosure 128 at first end 320. In one example,
the first
end 320 of first top brace 134 is connected to both top surface 300 and front
surface
302 at front edge 330 (at first connection location 332). Second top brace 136
is
connected to battery enclosure 128 at first end 324. In one example, the first
end
324 of second top brace 136 is connected to both top surface 300 and front
side
surface 302 at front edge 330 (at second connection location 334). In one
example,
first connection location 332 is spaced apart from second connection location
334
along front edge 330, identified as top space 336.
[0067] Fig. 7A is an enlarged partial view of connection location 344,
indicated
at 321. Referring to Fig. 7A, second top brace 136 is connected to battery
enclosure
128 at second end 322 through joint member 354 and mechanical linkage 325. In
one example not shown, the second end 326 of top brace 132 is connected to
bottom
surface 308 at front bottom edge 340 (at connection location 344). Second top
brace
136 is connected to battery enclosure 128 at second end 326 through joint
member
354 and mechanical linkage 325. In one example, the second end 326 of second
top brace 136 is connected to bottom surface 308 at front bottom edge 340 (at
fourth
connection location 344).
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-03-30
16
[0068] Referring back to Fig. 7, in one example, third connection
location 342
is spaced apart from fourth connection location 346 along front bottom edge
344,
identified as bottom space 346. In one example, bottom space 346 is wider than
top
space 336. In another example, top space 336 is wider than bottom space 346.
[0069] In one example, the front brace structure 132 includes cross
brace
structure 350. Cross brace 350 extends between first top brace 134 and second
top
brace 136. Cross brace 350 provides bracing between the first top brace 134
and
the second top brace 136 at second end 322 and second end 326. In one example,
cross brace 350 is connected to second end 322 at joint member 352. Cross
brace
350 is connected to second end 326 at joint member 354.
[0070] As explained above, the front portion 202 of the battery
enclosure 128
is coupled to the front brace structure 132. In the example shown in Fig. 7,
the first
top brace 134 and the second top brace 136 of the front brace structure 132
are
connected to front portion 202 of the battery enclosure 128. More
specifically, in the
example shown, the four connection points 332,334,342,344 provide a secure and
rigid connection between the front brace structure 132 and battery enclosure
128.
This provides for the transferring of loads between suspension system 126 and
the
battery pack 124. It is recognized that other design configurations and
connections
may exist between the front brace structure 132 and battery enclosure 128, in
order
for the battery enclosure 128 to be connected to and receive loads from
suspension
system 126. In one example, there are fewer than four connection points
between
front brace structure 132 and battery enclosure 128. In one example, there are
more than four connection points between the front brace structure 132 and
battery
enclosure 128. The connection points may be fixed or removable. The structure
of
the front brace structure 132 may take on many different forms and remain
within the
scope of the present disclosure.
[0071] In one example, loads or forces imparted by the steering system
150,
and more specifically by the steering column 152 of the electric vehicle are
received
by the battery enclosure 128 of the battery pack 124. These loads are
partially
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-03-30
17
absorbed by the battery enclosure 128 and/or transferred to the vehicle's
center of
mass and/or chassis 122 through the battery pack 124.
[0072] In one example shown in Fig. 11 steering system 150 comprises a
steering mount 430 that includes a first side mount 452 and a second side
mount
454 attached to the front portion 202 of the battery enclosure 128. Member 424
extends between first side mount 452 and second side mount 454, and operates
to
hold the steering column 152 to the battery enclosure 128. Member 424 also
allows
steering column 152 to rotate 162 during operation of the steering system 150.
[0073] In one example, member 424 includes a pipe member having an
axis
aligned with an axis of the steering column 152. In operation, the steering
column
152 passes through the pipe member and is supported by the pipe member.
[0074] As the operator of the snowmobile 120 steers and maneuvers the
vehicle, loads are transferred from the steering column 152 to steering mount
430,
which in turn transfers loads from the steering column 152 to the battery pack
124,
and specifically the battery enclosure 128. The battery enclosure 128 may
absorb
some of those loads and/or transfer the loads from the steering column 152 to
the
vehicle's center of mass and/or the chassis 130.
[0075] Fig. 12 is a partial side view of a snowmobile 500, according
to one
example of the present disclosure. Snowmobile 500 is similar to the snowmobile
120 previously detailed herein. Snowmobile 500 includes battery pack 124
having
battery enclosure 128. Battery pack 124 provides structural support for the
snowmobile 500 seating, which may comprise one or both of a snowmobile seat
510
and backrest 512. In one example, the snowmobile seat 510 and backrest 512 are
mounted directly to the battery pack enclosure 128. The snowmobile seat 510 is
a
straddle seat that is straddled by the rider.
[0076] The battery enclosure 128 includes tunnel portion 200 and front
portion
202. Tunnel portion 200 includes a tunnel portion front end 506 and a tunnel
portion
back end 508. The tunnel portion 200 is located over and secured to the
chassis
rear tunnel 130. The front portion 202 is located near the front of the
snowmobile
500, at the tunnel portion front end 506.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-03-30
18
[0077] Snowmobile 500 includes a seat 510 and a backrest 512. The seat
510 is connected to the tunnel portion 200 of the battery enclosure 128, and
extends
from the front portion 202 at the tunnel portion front end 506 to the tunnel
portion
back end 508. Battery enclosure 128 is a structural element of the snowmobile
that
supports seat 510 and optionally backrest 512. Further, the battery enclosure
128
tunnel portion 200 receives loads transmitted from the seat 510 and partially
absorbs
and/or transfers those loads to the vehicle's center of mass and/or chassis
130 due
to one or more riders positioned on the seat 510 or the result of operation of
the
snowmobile over various snow terrain.
[0078] Snowmobile 500 further includes the seat backrest 512. The seat
backrest 512 is supported by battery enclosure 128 tunnel portion 200. In one
example, the seat backrest 512 is mounted directly to battery enclosure 128 at
the
tunnel portion back end 508. Seat back rest 512 includes a cushion 522 and
bracket
524. Bracket 524 is generally L shaped, including a generally vertical first
leg 526
and a generally horizontal second leg 528. Cushion 522 is attached to the
first leg
526. Second leg 528 is attached to tunnel portion 200. Seat 510 may extend
rearward beyond a top surface of the battery enclosure tunnel portion 200 and
be
supported by second leg 528. Seat loads (e.g., by a rider during operation of
the
snowmobile) are received by the battery pack 124, and specifically the battery
enclosure 128, via connection points between the seat 510 and the battery pack
124.
Additionally, seat loads are transferred during use from seat backrest 512 to
battery
pack 124 at locations where the seat backrest 512 is connected to battery pack
124.
[0079] In one example, seat 510 is fastened at four places onto
battery pack
124. There may be two plastic hooks (not shown) on the top surface of the rear
tunnel portion of the battery enclosure 128 that mate with corresponding slots
located
on the bottom of the seat (i.e., the seat pan). Additionally, there may be two
aluminum tabs on a fore portion of the seat pan (one on each side) that fasten
the
seat to the battery enclosure 128. In one example, the seat 510 is fastened to
the
battery pack 124 via the seat pan using screw holes with threaded inserts on
the lid
of the battery enclosure 128.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-03-30
19
[0080] In one example, seat backrest 512 is fully supported by battery
enclosure 128. Typical backrests are mounted directly to a snowmobile chassis.
With battery enclosure 128 being used to fully support seat backrest 512,
additional
storage area is available on the rear tunnel 130 for cargo or other utility
use. In one
example, backrest 512 is a separate component independently and directly
attached
to the battery pack 124. In another example, seat backrest 512 is at least
partially
part of or an extension of seat 510.
[0081] Loads imparted on the snowmobile seating (i.e. one or both of
seat 510
and backrest 512), are received directly by the battery pack 124, and
specifically the
battery enclosure 128. The battery enclosure 128 may absorb some of those
loads
and/or transfer the loads from the seating to the vehicle's center of mass
and/or the
chassis 130.
[0082] Referring back to Fig. 5B, in operation, as the snowmobile 120,
500 is
driven across a varied terrain, loads are transferred from the suspension
system 126
(e.g. the first suspension leg 138 and the second suspension leg 140) through
the
front brace structure 132 (e.g. through the corresponding first top brace 134
and
second top brace 136) to the battery enclosure 128. Likewise, loads are
transferred
from the seating (seat 510, backrest 512) and the steering system 150 to the
battery
enclosure 128. The battery enclosure 128 acts as a structural element, and
after
receiving the loads then transfers the loads through the body of the battery
enclosure
128 to the vehicle's center of mass and /or the rear tunnel 130. In one or
more
examples described herein, loads are transferred to rear tunnel 130 since the
center
of mass of the vehicle is located at the rear tunnel 130. As such, it is
recognized that
the loads are transferred to the center of mass located within the rear tunnel
130.
[0083] Fig. 5B illustrates one example of a load path of suspension
system
126 of snowmobile 120 having a battery enclosure 128 that acts as a structural
element. The load path is illustrated using arrows 220, 222, 224, 226 and 228.
In
one example, as the snowmobile 120 moves over a given terrain or snow profile,
load is transferred from suspension system 126 (via first suspension leg 138
and
second suspension leg 140) to front brace structure 132 (via first top brace
134 and
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-03-30
20
second top brace 136); load is then transferred from front brace structure 132
(via
first top brace structure 134 and second top brace structure 136) to battery
enclosure
128 (e.g. to the front surface 302 of the battery enclosure 128); and the load
is then
transferred, at least partially, from battery enclosure 128 (via front portion
202 and
tunnel portion 200) to chassis 122 including rear tunnel 130.
[0084] Reference is now made to Fig. 8. Fig 8 is a front view of the
battery
enclosure 128 and chassis 122 of snowmobile 120. In one example, the battery
enclosure 128 front portion 202 may define a slot 162. Slot 162 extends
downward
from top surface 300 of the battery enclosure for receiving the steering
column 152
of the snowmobile 120. Battery enclosures 128 that do not include a slot 162
are
also included within the scope of the present application.
[0085] Traditional electric powersport vehicles, such as combustion
engine
snowmobiles, often have curved steering columns and/or complex linkages
connecting the steering column to their steering assembly. This is a result of
the
steering column having to avoid interference with the combustion engine, which
is
typically housed in the front portion of the snowmobile. The slot 162 defined
within
the battery enclosure 128 enables the electric vehicle to use a linear,
substantially
straight, steering column 152 and a relatively uncomplex connection between
the
steering column 152 and the steering assembly 156.
[0086] In one example, slot 162 extends from the top surface 300 of
battery
enclosure 128 to a front surface 302 of the battery enclosure 128. In another
example, the slot 162 extends downwards from the top surface 300 of the
battery
enclosure 128 to a bottom surface 308 of the battery enclosure 128.
[0087] In one example, slot 162 is generally geometrically shaped. For
example, the slot 162 can be partially circular, oval or square shaped in
cross-
section. In other examples, the slot 162 is not geometrically shaped. Slot 162
has
an open side along its length. In other embodiments, slot 162 can be defined
as a
wholly or partially enclosed slot extending through the battery enclosure 128.
In one
or more examples, the slot 162 may take on the form of a tunnel, pipe, or
tubular
member.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-03-30
21
[0088] Reference is also made to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a partial cross-
sectional
view of slot 162. In one example, the slot is generally U-shaped in cross-
section.
The slot 162 is defined by a first side wall 400, a second side wall 402, and
a bottom
surface 404. In one example, the bottom surface has an angle along its length
that
generally matches an angle of the steering column. In reference to Fig. 10, in
another example the bottom surface 404 of the slot 162 extends at an angle of
between 30 degrees and 60 degrees with respect to a substantially horizontal
longitudinal axis of the electric snowmobile, indicated at 410. In one
example, the
substantially horizontal longitudinal axis of the electric snowmobile is
defined by a
top surface of rear tunnel 130.
[0089] A width 412 of slot 162 is defined by the distance between the
first
sidewall 400 and the second sidewall 402. In one example, the width of slot
162 is
between 30 millimeters and 60 millimeters. The width of slot 162 may vary
along its
length. In one example, the width of slot 162 is wider at a top end of the
slot 162
than at a bottom end of slot 162. In another example, the width of slot 162 is
substantially constant along its length with first sidewall 400 being
substantially
parallel to second sidewall 402.
[0090] Referring back to Fig. 8, in one example, slot 162 divides
front portion
202 of battery enclosure 128 into two sides, defined as a front portion first
side 420
and a front portion second side 422. In one example, the slot 162 is
positioned
substantially centrally with respect to first side surface 304 and second side
surface
306, such that the slot 162 divides the front portion 202 of the battery
enclosure into
two halves. Alternatively, the slot 162 may not be positioned centrally such
that the
front portion first side 420 and front portion second side 422 are of
different sizes. In
operation, the front portion first side 420 and the front portion second side
422 each
house one or more electric battery modules. In one example, the front portion
first
side 420 and the front portion second side 422 each house a stack of battery
modules. In other examples, at least one of the front portion first side 420
and the
front portion second side 422 contain or house something other than a battery
module.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-03-30
22
[0091] As described above, slot 162 is configured such that a
substantially
straight steering column 152 passes through the slot 162. Steering system 150
includes the steering mount 430 that operably couples the steering column 152
to
the battery enclosure 128. The first side mount 452 is attached on the front
portion
first side 420 at a top end of slot 162 and the second side mount 4545 is
attached
on the front portion second side 422 on an opposite side of the slot 162 from
the first
side mount 452. Steering mount 430 allows steering column 152 to operate
within
slot 162 while providing structural support to the steering column within
steering
system 150. For example, steering mount 430 may provide support and structural
stiffness to the steering column 162. Steering mount 430 is coupled to battery
enclosure 128 at a position that enables the steering column 152 to be
received
within slot 162. The steering mount 430 provides a structural stiffness to the
snowmobile handlebars, and in turn, an improved experience to a snowmobile
operator.
[0092] Fig. 13 is a partial side view of battery pack 124 positioned on
snowmobile chassis 122, according to one example of the present disclosure. An
electric battery is housed within the battery enclosure 128 of the battery
pack 124.
The electric battery comprises multiple electric battery modules. Both tunnel
portion
200 and front portion 202 of battery enclosure 128 contain battery modules to
power
snowmobile 120.
[0093] Fig. 13 is a partial side view of a snowmobile 600, according to
one
example of the present disclosure. Snowmobile 600 is similar to the snowmobile
120 and snowmobile 500 previously detailed herein. Snowmobile 600 illustrates
one
example of the relative locations of battery pack 124 and an electric motor
assembly
610 on the snowmobile chassis 122. By optimizing the locations of battery pack
124
and electric motor assembly 610, the location of center of gravity 612 can be
optimized. This provides for a better snowmobile ride experience and better
snowmobile performance. Too much weight forward can result in poor snowmobile
traction and acceleration. Too much weight backward and there can be a loss of
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-03-30
23
snowmobile steering and control. As such, it is desirable to locate the center
of
gravity and weight distribution to optimize both snowmobile control and
performance.
[0094] Snowmobile 600 includes rear chassis 122 having rear tunnel
130.
The battery enclosure 128 is mounted to the rear tunnel 130. The electric
motor
assembly 610 is mounted below the battery enclosure 128 and adjacent a front
side
620 of the rear tunnel 130. The chassis 122 further defines a mid-bay 630. The
mid-
bay 630 is located between the rear tunnel 130 and front brace structure 132.
In
some embodiments, the mid-bay 630 may form part of the front brace structure
132.
In one example, the electric motor assembly 610 is positioned within the mid-
bay
630. Electric motor assembly 610 includes a drive shaft operably aligned with
the
snowmobile drive transmission 640. In one example the system is a belt drive
system. As such, it is efficient to have the motor assembly 610 located within
the
mid-bay 630 in the lower front area of chassis 122. In this configuration, the
motor
assembly 610 and drive transmission 640 are efficiently mounted right next to
each
other on the snowmobile chassis 122.
[0095] One example of the position of electric motor assembly 610
within mid-
bay 630 is described in further detail later in this specification.
[0096] Battery pack 124 includes a tunnel battery pack 710 and a mid-
bay
battery pack 712. Each battery pack 710 and 712 includes a plurality of
battery
modules 714. Battery modules 714 are one of the heaviest design elements of
snowmobile 600. The location of battery pack 710 and 712 and therefore
distribution
of the battery modules 714 over the chassis 122 aids in desired weight
distribution
across snowmobile 600. Tunnel battery pack 710 is located above rear tunnel
130
(and below the snowmobile seat). Mid-bay battery pack 712 is located above the
front end of rear tunnel 130 within mid-bay 630 and above electric motor
assembly
610. This may provide a shifted and improved center of gravity 612, resulting
in a
snowmobile with improved weight distribution and balance, and overall
snowmobile
performance.
[0097] Battery pack 124 includes battery enclosure 128 having a lid or
cover
and floor. The battery cover operates primarily to protect the battery modules
and
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-03-30
24
as a structural element to transfer loads from the suspension system 126 to
the
snowmobile chassis 122. The battery pack floor primarily operates to support
the
battery modules 714 within the battery pack 124.
[0098] Figs. 14-17 illustrate one example of battery pack 124, including
battery
modules 714. For ease of illustration, the battery pack 124 is shown with the
battery
enclosure lid removed for a view of the internal structure of the battery pack
124.
[0099] Fig. 14 is a front perspective view of battery modules that make up an
electric battery within battery pack 124, according to one example of this
disclosure.
Battery pack 124 includes battery enclosure 128 that houses battery modules
714.
The battery enclosure 128 includes a battery pack cover or lid 716 (shown
removed)
and a battery pack support floor 718. The battery pack support floor holds and
supports battery modules 714. Further, battery modules 714 are securely
retained
within battery pack 124 by battery support structure 720.
[00100] Battery pack 124 comprises a plurality of battery stacks 740,
where
each stack is retained within a cartridge assembly. Each battery stack 740 is
made
up of two or more battery modules and retained within a cartridge assembly
742. In
one example, tunnel battery pack 710 is made up of four battery stacks 744.
Each
battery stack 744 includes two battery modules 714 stacked together within a
cartridge assembly. As such, tunnel battery stack 710 includes eight total
battery
modules. The battery stacks 744 are positioned on battery pack support floor
718.
Battery support structure 720 aids in maintaining each battery stack 744 in a
desired
location on support floor 718. Battery support structure operates to maintain
a
desired spacing between individual battery stacks 740, and also maintain
spacing
between the battery stacks 740 and the battery enclosure.
[00101] In one example, mid-bay battery pack 712 is made up of two
battery
stacks 748. Each battery stack 748 includes three battery modules 714 stacked
together within a cartridge assembly. As such, mid-bay battery stack 712
includes
six total battery modules. The battery stacks 748 are positioned on battery
pack
support floor 718. Battery support structure 720 aids in maintaining each
battery
stack 748 in a desired location on support floor 718. Battery support
structure 720
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-03-30
25
operates to maintain a desired spacing between individual battery stacks 748,
and
also maintain spacing between the battery stacks 748 and the battery enclosure
128.
In one example, the battery support structure is part of the battery enclosure
128. In
one example, the spacing between battery stacks 748 located within mid-bay
battery
pack 712 is also dependent on the space requirements for slot 162 to
accommodate
the snowmobile steering column.
[00102] In one example, the battery support structure 720 is made of a
rigid
material, such as a rigid polymeric material. In one example, individual
members of
battery support structure 720 are generally tubular shaped members.
[00103] In one example, each battery module is generally rectangular
shaped.
The battery modules 714 within battery stacks 744 are orientated in a
direction
different than the battery modules 714 positioned within battery stacks 744.
In one
example, the battery modules 714 within battery stack 744 are orientated
perpendicular to an orientation of the battery modules 714 contained within
battery
stacks 748. In other embodiments, all of the battery modules 714 are oriented
in the
same direction.
[00104] Fig. 15 is a top view of the battery modules within battery
pack 124 of
Fig. 14, further illustrating the battery support structure 720, and battery
stacks 740.
Fig. 16 is a side view of the battery pack 124 further illustrating tunnel
battery pack
710 and mid-bay battery pack 712. Fig. 17 is a front end view of the battery
pack
124, further illustrating the mid-bay battery stack 748.
[00105] Each battery module contained within battery pack 124 is made
of one
or more battery cells. In one example the battery modules are lightweight
'pouch"
battery modules. Each battery module includes two or more battery cells. The
battery cells are prismatic battery cells. In one example, the prismatic
battery cells
are lithium-ion prismatic battery cells. One or more examples of a battery
stack, a
battery cartridge, battery module and battery cooling panel assembly,
including
pouch battery modules and pouch battery cells, suitable for use in the present
electric
vehicle are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 17/091,777 titled Battery
Cooling
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-03-30
26
Panel for Electric Vehicles filed November 6, 2020, the entire contents of
which are
incorporated herein by reference.
[00106] Figs. 18 ¨ 22 illustrate one example of an electric motor
assembly 610.
The electric motor assembly 610 is mounted below the battery enclosure 128 and
adjacent to a front side 620 of rear tunnel 130. The snowmobile chassis 122
includes
the rear tunnel 130. The chassis 122 includes a mid-bay and the front brace
structure, the mid-bay being located between the rear tunnel 130 and the front
brace
structure 132. The electric motor assembly 610 is positioned within the mid-
bay.
[00107] Fig. 18 is a partial perspective view of electric motor
assembly 610
positioned within a snowmobile. Electric motor assembly 610 is shown coupled
to
drive transmission 800. In one example, electric motor assembly 610 is coupled
to
drive transmission 800 via belt drive system 810. The electric motor assembly
610
is positioned in front of rear tunnel 130. The motor assembly is oriented
generally
horizontally relative to the longitudinally extending rear tunnel 130. Fig. 19
further
illustrates the position of electric motor assembly 610. A transmission plate
812 is
positioned between the belt drive system 810 and motor assembly 610. In one
example, transmission plate 812 is positioned substantially parallel to a
first side
edge 814 of rear tunnel 130. The transmission plate 812 includes a first end
820
and a second end 822. The transmission plate 812 is attached at first end 820
to
the first side edge 814 of rear tunnel 130, and at second end 822 to a
component of
the front brace structure 132. Additionally, the transmission plate 812 is
attached to
a front plate 824 of motor assembly 610.
[00108] In one example, the transmission plate 812 is supported at one
end by
attachment to the rear tunnel 130 of the chassis 122 and at the other end is
connected (e.g., via the three bolt holes shown in Figure 19) at connection
points
813 to the front brace structure 132. This provides a rigid support for the
motor and
improved handling of transmission loads from the belt. It also allows for a
lighter
transmission plate since the transmission plate 812 is supported at both ends.
An
additional plate (not shown) covers the U-shaped opening or slot once the
motor
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-03-30
27
assembly 610 is positioned within the snowmobile 120 that aids in managing
torque
loads from the motor.
[00109] Reference is additionally made to Fig. 20. In one example, the
electric
motor assembly 610 is mounted proximate to the drive transmission 800 by the
transmission plate 812. The electric motor assembly 610 includes a motor drive
shaft 830. The drive transmission includes a transmission drive shaft 832. The
motor drive shaft 830 and the transmission drive shaft 832 extend parallel to
each
other. The motor drive shaft 830 is operably coupled to the transmission drive
shaft
832 via the belt drive system 810.
[00110] Transmission plate 812 includes a U-shaped opening that extends
downwards from a top side of the transmission plate 812. The electric motor
assembly 610 drive shaft 830 extends through the U-shaped opening. In one
example, the electric motor assembly 610 is attached to both sides of the U-
shaped
opening at an interior of the transmission plate such that the motor drive
shaft 830
extends through the U-shaped opening from an interior to an exterior of the U-
shaped
opening.
[00111] In one example, the electric motor includes an electric motor
drive gear
and the transmission includes a transmission gear, and wherein a drive belt
810 is
connected between the electric motor drive gear and the transmission gear such
that
an angle of a top portion of the drive belt between the electric motor drive
gear and
the transmission gear with respect to a substantially horizontal longitudinal
axis of
the snowmobile is equal to or less that 20% and equal to or greater than -20%.
A
drive belt idler pulley contacts a bottom surface of the bottom portion of the
drive
belt, and the top portion of the drive belt is connected directly between the
electric
motor drive gear and the transmission gear.
[00112] Fig. 21 and Fig. 22 further illustrate electric motor assembly
610.
Electric motor assembly 610 is shown positioned immediately adjacent the front
side
620 of rear tunnel 130. In the embodiment shown, the electric motor assembly
610
does not extend the entire width of the rear tunnel 130. As such, the electric
motor
850 remains substantially unsupported, or supported by sheet metal with
minimal
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-03-30
28
structural support, at the end opposite from the motor drive shaft 830. The
electric
motor assembly 610 incudes a motor 850 coupled to an inverter 852. The
inverter
852 is directly coupled to the motor 850, and contained within a common
housing
854. The electric motor assembly 610 having the inverter 852 integrated into
the
same housing provides for efficient locating of the motor assembly 610 in the
chassis
mid-bay in front of the rear tunnel 130. One motor assembly including a motor
coupled to an inverter, suitable for use in the present electric vehicle, is
disclosed in
U.S. Patent Application No. 63/135,466 (Attorney Docket No.
T1670.109.101/TPA013), titled DRIVE UNIT FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLE, filed
January 8, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by
reference.
[00113]
Although specific examples have been illustrated and described
herein, a variety of alternate and/or equivalent implementations may be
substituted
for the specific examples shown and described without departing from the scope
of
the present disclosure. This application is intended to cover any adaptations
or
variations of the specific examples discussed herein. Therefore, it is
intended that
this disclosure be limited only by the claims and the equivalents thereof.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-03-30
