Description:

FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
[See section 10, Rule 13]

“BODY COVER STRUCTURE OF A VEHICLE”

HERO MOTOCORP LIMITED, an Indian Company at: The Grand Plaza, Plot No.2, Nelson Mandela Road, Vasant Kunj- Phase -II, New Delhi, India, 110 070

THE FOLLOWING SPECIFICATION PARTICULARLY DESCRIBES THE INVENTION AND THE MANNER IN WHICH IT IS TO BE PERFORMED.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION:
[001] The present invention relates to a vehicle and more particularly relates, to body cover structure of a two-wheeled vehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
[002] Traditionally, in a vehicle such as a scooter there is provided with a frame structure that comprises a head pipe and a main frame extending in a downward direction from the head pipe. The frame structure further comprises a left side floor frame connected to a left end of the main frame and extends in a rearward direction from the main frame. The frame structure further comprises a right side floor frameconnected to a right end of the main frame and extends in a rearward direction from the main frame. Each of the left side floor frame and the right side floor frame extend in a rearward direction from the main frame and thereafter in an obliquely upward and then rearward direction of the vehicle. The left side floor frame and the right side floor frame support many components of the vehicle, including but not limited to a footboard, a seat, a power unit, a rear ground engaging member, etc.

[003] It is traditional to provide a body cover assembly that covers the different parts of the frame structure. In particular, there is provided a body cover structure that covers a rear side of the head pipe, a rear side of the main frame, a left side of the left side floor frame,and a right side of the right side floor frame. It has however been observed that it is complicated to attach and detach the traditional body cover structure to the vehicle. Additionally, it has been observed thatthe traditional body cover structure gets disfigured and/or paint quality gets damaged during the process of attachment and detachment of the traditional body cover structure to the vehicle.

[004] Thus, there exists a need to provide a body cover structure that overcomes one or more of the aforesaid disadvantages.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
[005] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[006] In one aspect of the invention, there is provided a body cover structure of a vehicle comprising a first sub-assembly. The first sub-assembly comprises a rear upper leg guard member arranged so as to extend at least partly on a rear side of a head pipe; a rear lower leg guard member arranged so as to extend at least partly on a rear side of a main frame, the main frame extending in a downward direction from the head pipe, the rear lower leg guard member being connected to a upper portion of the rear upper leg guard member; a left side floor panel arranged so as to extend at least partly on a left side of the main frame and a left side of a left side floor frame, the left side floor panel being connected to a left side of the rear lower leg guard member, the left side floor frame extending in a rearward direction from the main frame; and a right side floor panel arranged so as to extend at least partly on a right side of the main frame and a right side of a right side floor frame, the right side floor panel being connected to a right side of the rear lower leg guard member, the right side floor frame extending in a rearward direction from the main frame. The body cover structure further comprises an inner top cover separate from the first sub-assembly, the inner top cover being arranged so as to extend at least partly on a rear side of a head pipe, the inner top cover being detachably attached to an upper portion of the rear upper leg guard member.

[007] In an embodiment of the invention, the first sub-assembly further comprises a first left side garnish cover arranged so as to extend at least partly on a left side of the head pipe, the first left side garnish cover being connected to a left side portion of the rear upper leg guard member and an upper portion of the left side floor panel.

[008] In another embodiment of the invention, the first sub-assembly further comprises a first right side garnish cover arranged so as to extend at least partly on a right side of the head pipe, the first right side garnish cover being connected to a right side portion of the rear upper leg guard member and an upper portion of the right side floor panel.

[009] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the first sub-assembly further comprises a second left side garnish cover arranged so as to extend at least partly on a left side of the head pipe, the second left side garnish cover being connected to the left side portion of the rear upper leg guard member and an upper portion of the first left side garnish cover.

[0010] In still another embodiment of the invention, the first sub-assembly further comprises a second right side garnish cover arranged so as to extend at least partly on a right side of the head pipe, the second right side garnish cover being connected to the right side portion of the rear upper leg guard member and an upper portion of the first right side garnish cover.

[0011] In a further embodiment of the invention, the rear upper leg guard member and the rear lower leg guard member extend along a vertical direction of the vehicle.

[0012] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the left side floor panel and the right side floor panel extend along a rearward direction of the vehicle.

[0013] In another embodiment of the invention, the first sub-assembly defines a pivot axis about which the first sub-assembly is tiltable and attachable to the left side floor frame and the right side floor frame.

[0014] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the rear lower leg guard member comprises a first set of attachment member and the rear upper leg guard member comprises a fourth set of attachment member for connection to the rear lower leg guard member.

[0015] In still another embodiment of the invention, the rear lower leg guard member comprises a second set of attachment member and the left side floor panel comprises a sixth set of attachment member for connection to the rear lower leg guard member.

[0016] In a further embodiment of the invention, the rear lower leg guard member comprises a third set of attachment member and the right side floor panel comprises a seventh set of attachment member for connection to the rear lower leg guard member.

[0017] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the first set of attachment member, the second set of attachment member, the third set of attachment member, the fourth set of attachment member, the sixth set of attachment member, and the seventh set of attachment member are not visible in a external view of the vehicle.

[0018] In another embodiment of the invention, the upper portion of the rear upper leg guard member comprises a fifth set of attachment members and inner top cover comprises an eighth set of attachment members for attaching to the fifth set of attachment members.

[0019] In one aspect of the invention, there is provided a vehicle, comprising a head pipe rotatably receiving a front fork; a main frame extending in a downward and rearward direction from the head pipe; a right side floor frame connected to a right end of the main frame, the right side floor frame extending in a rearward direction from the main frame; a left side floor frame connected to a left end of the main frame, the left side floor frame extending in a rearward direction from the main frame; and a body cover structure covering at least partly a rear side of the head pipe, a rear side of the main frame, a left side of the left side floor frame, and a right side of the right side floor frame. In an embodiment of the invention, the body cover structure comprises a first sub-assembly comprising a rear upper leg guard member arranged so as to extend at least partly on a rear side of a head pipe; a rear lower leg guard member arranged so as to extend at least partly on a rear side of a main frame, the main frame extending in a downward direction from the head pipe, the rear lower leg guard member being connected to a upper portion of the rear upper leg guard member; a left side floor panel arranged so as to extend at least partly on a left side of the main frame and a left side of a left side floor frame, the left side floor panel being connected to a left side of the rear lower leg guard member, the left side floor frame extending in a rearward direction from the main frame; and a right side floor panel arranged so as to extend at least partly on a right side of the main frame and a right side of a right side floor frame, the right side floor panel being connected to a right side of the rear lower leg guard member, the right side floor frame extending in a rearward direction from the main frame. In another embodiment of the invention, the body cover structure comprises an inner top cover separate from the first sub-assembly, the inner top cover being arranged so as to extend at least partly on a rear side of a head pipe, the inner top cover being detachably attached to an upper portion of the rear upper leg guard member.

[0020] Advantages of the invention are that none of the first sub-assembly and more particularly the rear upper leg guard and the inner top cover which form part of the body cover structure gets disfigured or causes any damages to paint of any body parts during the process of attachment and detachment to the vehicle.

[0021] Advantages of invention are that there is provided a body cover structure comprising a rear upper leg guard member, a rear lower leg guard member, a left side floor panel, and a right side floor panel, thus catering to the need of providing the body cover assembly comprising of plurality of parts.

[0022] Another advantage of the invention is that the plurality of parts namely the rear upper leg guard member, the rear lower leg guard member, the left side floor panel, and the right side floor panelare joined so as to attain the desired strength. Yet another advantage of the invention is that the plurality of parts namely the rear upper leg guard member, the rear lower leg guard member, the left side floor panel, and the right side floor panelare joined in a manner which is not substantially visible in a front direction of the vehicle, thus not impacting the aesthetic value of the vehicle.

[0023] Still another advantage of the invention is that breakage of any one of the rear upper leg guard member, the rear lower leg guard member, the left side floor panel, and the right side floor panel does not mandate replacement of the entire first sub-assembly.

[0024] To further clarify the advantages and features of the invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES:
[0025] In order that the invention may be readily understood and put into practical effect, reference will now be made to exemplary embodiments as illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views. The figures together with a detailed description below, are incorporated in and form part of the specification, and serve to further illustrate the embodiments and explain various principles and advantages, in accordance with the present invention where:

[0026] Figure 1 illustrates a first side view of the vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0027] Figure 2 illustrates a second side view of the vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0028] Figure 3 illustrates an a first exploded view of a part of the vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0029] Figure 4 illustrates a second exploded view of a part of the vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0030] Figure 5 illustrates a first semi-exploded view of a part of the vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0031] Figure 6 illustrates a second semi-exploded view of a part of the vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0032] Figure 7 illustrates a first perspective view of a part of the vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0033] Figure 8 illustrates a second perspective view of a part of the vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0034] Figure 9 illustrates a rear side perspective view of the rear lower leg guard member in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0035] Figure 10 illustrates a front side perspective view of the rear upper leg guard member in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0036] Figure 11 illustrates an a rear side perspective view of the rear upper leg guard member in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0037] Figure 12 illustrates a rear side perspective view of the left side floor panel in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0038] Figure 13 illustrates a rear side perspective view of the right side floor panel in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0039] Figure 14 illustrates a rear perspective view of the rear lower leg guard memberbeing attached to the right side floor panel in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0040] Figure 15 illustrates a rear perspective view of the rear lower leg guard member being attached to the left side floor panel in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0041] Figure 16 illustrates a rear perspective view of the rear lower leg guard member being attached to the rear upper leg guard member in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and

[0042] Figure 17 illustrates a rear perspective view showing attachment of the first left side garnish cover (152) to the rear upper leg guard member (106) and the left side floor panel (110) and attachment of the first right side garnish cover (150) to the rear upper leg guard member (106) and the right side floor panel (112) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0043] It may be noted that to the extent possible, like reference numerals have been used to represent like elements in the drawings. Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have been necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of aspects of the present invention. Furthermore, one or more elements may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

Detailed Description of the Invention:
[0044] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated device, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.

[0045] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are explanatory of the invention and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.

[0046] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0047] Reference throughout this specification to “an aspect”, “another aspect” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrase “in an embodiment”, “in another embodiment”, and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

[0048] The terms "comprises", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that one or more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures or components proceeded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices or other sub-systems or other elements or other structures or other components or additional devices or additional sub-systems or additional elements or additional structures or additional components.

[0049] As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the terms "coupled to", “connected to”, “operably connected to”, and “operatively connected to” are intended to include both direct connection / coupling (in which two elements that are coupled / connected to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling / connection (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements). Therefore, the terms "coupled to" and "coupled with" are used synonymously. Similarly, the terms “connected to” and “connected with” are used synonymously.

[0050] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one ordinary skilled in the art to which this invention belongs. The device, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

[0051] The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as being essential to the practice of the invention.

[0052] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all Markush groups used in the appended claims.

[0053] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0054] The terms “front / forward”, “rear / rearward / back / backward”, “up / upper / top”, “down / lower / lower ward / downward, bottom”, “left / leftward”, “right / rightward” used therein represents the directions as seen from a vehicle driver sitting astride and these directions are referred by arrows F, R, U, D in the Figures.

[0055] While the present invention is illustrated in the context of a vehicle, however, cover and aspects and features thereof can be used with other types of vehicles as well. The terms “vehicle”, “two wheeled vehicle” and “motorcycle” have been interchangeably used throughout the description. The term “vehicle” comprises vehicles such as motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, mopeds, scooter type vehicles, All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV) and the like.

[0056] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 there is illustrated a first side view and a second side view of a vehicle (10) that comprises a front end structure (12), a rear end structure (14), and a footboard (16). The front end structure (12) forms the front portion of the vehicle (10). The rear end structure (14) forms the rear portion of the vehicle (10). The footboard (16) lies between the front end structure (12) and the rear end structure (14). The footboard (16) provides footrest for a rider riding the vehicle (10).

[0057] The front end structure (12) comprises a front ground engaging member (18), and a steering mechanism (20). The front ground engaging member (18) is operatively connected to the steering mechanism (20). In the illustrated example, the front ground engaging member (18) embodies a wheel. Alternatively, the front ground engaging member (18) embodies a track, without limiting the scope of the invention. The steering mechanism (20) comprises a front fork (22) attached to a handlebar (24). The handlebar (24) is configured to be rotated by the rider to steer the vehicle (10).

[0058] Further, the front end structure (12) comprises a front cover (26) at least partially covering the front fork (22) from a front side. The front end structure (12) further comprises a dash assembly (not shown). The dash assembly comprises a display unit (not shown). The display unit displays information about the vehicle (10) to the rider. The dash assembly may comprise additional components such as LCD, GPS, graphical user interface (GUI), etc. without limiting the scope of the invention. The dash assembly is supported on the handlebar (24). The front end structure (12) may further comprise additional components such as handle cover, headlight, windscreen, mirror(s), turn indicator(s), etc. without limiting the scope of the invention.

[0059] The rear end structure (14) comprises a seat (28) and a rear ground engaging member (30). The seat (28) provides seating for a rider of the vehicle (10). The rear end structure further comprises a power unit (not visible) disposed below the seat (28). The rear ground engaging member (30) underling the seat (28) is driven by the power unit. The power unit may be any of an internal combustion engine or an electrical powering unit, such as a motor. In the illustrated example, the rear ground engaging member (30) embodies a wheel. Alternatively, the rear ground engaging member (30) embodies a track, without limiting the scope of the invention. The rear end structure (14) further comprises a rear cover (32) disposed below the seat (28). The rear cover (32) hides the power unit and other components of the vehicle (10). The rear end structure (14) may further comprise additional components such as taillight, turn indicator(s), rear fender, rear suspension, etc. without limiting the scope of the invention.

[0060] Now referring to Figure 3 and Figure 4, there is illustrated a first and a second exploded view of a part of the vehicle. As can be seen in Figures 3 and 4, in an embodiment of the invention, the vehicle (10) further comprises a head pipe (34) rotatably receiving the front fork (22). The vehicle (10) further comprises a main frame (36) extending in a downward and rearward direction from the head pipe (34). The vehicle (10) further comprises a right side floor frame (38) connected to a right end of the main frame (36). The right side floor frame (38) also extends in a rearward direction from the main frame (36). In particular, the right side floor frame (38) extends in a rearward direction from the main frame (36) and thereafter in an upward and rearward direction of the vehicle.The vehicle (10) further comprises a left side floor frame (40) connected to a left end of the main frame (36). The left side floor frame (40) also extends in a rearward direction from the main frame (36). In particular, the left side floor frame (40) extends in a rearward direction from the main frame (36) and thereafter in an upward and rearward direction of the vehicle.Although not visible, the right side floor frame (38) and the left side floor frame (40) support many components of the vehicle, including but not limited to the footboard (16), the seat (28), the power unit, the rear ground engaging member (30), etc.

[0061] Now referring to Figure 1, Figure 2, Figure 3 and Figure 4, in an embodiment of the invention, the front end structure (12) additionally comprises a body cover assembly (100) that covers a rear side of the head pipe (34), a rear side of the main frame (36), a left side of the left side floor frame (40), and a right side of the right side floor frame (38). It may be noted that the vehicle (10) may comprise additional components not explicitly stated in the above paragraphs.

[0062] Now referring to Figure 3, Figure 4, Figure 5 (which illustrates a first semi-exploded view of a part of the vehicle), Figure 6 (which illustrates a second semi-exploded view of a part of the vehicle), Figure 7 (which illustrates a first perspective view of a part of the vehicle), and Figure 8 (which illustrates a second perspective view of a part of the vehicle), in an embodiment of the invention,the body cover structure (100) comprises a first sub-assembly (102), and an inner top cover (104) separate from the first sub-assembly (102). In an embodiment of the invention, the first sub-assembly (102) is arranged so as to extend at least partly on a rear side of a head pipe (34), at least partly on a rear side of a main frame (36), at least partly on a left side of the main frame (36), at least partly on a left side of a left side floor frame (40), at least partly on a right side of the main frame (36), and at least partly on a right side of a right side floor frame (38). In another embodiment of the invention, the inner top cover (104) is arranged so as to extend at least partly on a rear side of the head pipe (34). In an embodiment of the invention, the inner top cover (104) is detachably attached to the first sub-assembly (102), in a manner as described in detail in the following paragraphs.

[0063] In an embodiment of the invention, the first sub-assembly (102) comprises a rear upper leg guard member (106), a rear lower leg guard member (108) connected to the rear upper leg guard member (106) in a manner as described in detail in the following paragraphs, a left side floor panel (110) connected to the rear lower leg guard member (108) in a manner as described in detail in the following paragraphs, and a right side floor panel (112) connected to the rear lower leg guard member (108) in a manner as described in detail in the following paragraphs.

[0064] After assembling the first sub-assembly (102) on to the vehicle (10), the rear upper leg guard member (106) extends at least partly on a rear side of a head pipe (34). After assembling the first sub-assembly (102) on to the vehicle (10), the rear lower leg guard member (108) extends at least partly on a rear side of a main frame (36). After assembling the first sub-assembly (102) on to the vehicle (10), the left side floor panel (110) extends at least partly on a left side of the main frame (36) and on a left side of the left side floor frame (40). After assembling the first sub-assembly (102) on to the vehicle (10), the right side floor panel (112) extends at least partly on a right side of the main frame (36) and a right side of a right side floor frame (38).

[0065] Now referring to Figure 9 which illustrates a rear side perspective view of the rear lower leg guard member (108), in an embodiment of the invention, the rear lower leg guard member (108) comprises an upper portion (114), a lower portion (116), a left side portion (118) and a right side portion (120). The upper portion (114) is provided with a first set of attachment members (122), the left side portion (118) is provided with a second set of attachment members (124) and the right side portion (120) is provided with a third set of attachment members (126).

[0066] Now referring to Figure 10 which illustrates a front side perspective view of the rear upper leg guard member (106) and Figure 11 which illustrates a rear side perspective view of the rear upper leg guard member (106), in an embodiment of the invention, the rear upper leg guard member (106) comprises a front side (128) and a rear side (130). In an embodiment of the invention, the rear side (130) comprises a fourth set of attachment members (132). In an embodiment of the invention, the rear upper leg guard member (106) comprises an upper portion (134) that comprises a fifth set of attachment members (136).

[0067] Now referring to Figure 12 which illustrates a rear side perspective view of the left side floor panel (110), in an embodiment of the invention, the left side floor panel (110) comprises a rear side (138) comprising a sixth set of attachment members (140). Now referring to Figure 13 which illustrates a rear side perspective view of the right side floor panel (112), in an embodiment of the invention, the right side floor panel (112) comprises a rear side (142) comprising a seventh set of attachment members (144).

[0068] Now referring to Figure 14 there is illustrated a rear perspective view of the rear lower leg guard member (108) being attached to the right side floor panel (112). In an embodiment of the invention. In an embodiment of the invention, the right side floor panel (112) is coupled to the right side portion (120) of the rear lower leg guard member (108) via the seventh set of attachment members (144) provided on the rear side (142) of the right side floor panel (112) and the third set of attachment members (126) provided on the right side portion (120) of the rear lower leg guard member (108).

[0069] By way of a non-limiting example, the seventh set of attachment member (144) provided on the rear side (142) of the right side floor panel (112) is in the form of a platform having a fastener receiving aperture. By way of a non-limiting example, the third set of attachment member (126) provided on the right side portion (120) of the rear lower leg guard member (108) is in the form of aperture which allows a fastener to be inserted there-through. By way of a non-limiting example, a suitable fastener couples the rear side (142) of the right side floor panel (112) to the right side portion (120) of the rear lower leg guard member (108).

[0070] By way of another example, the seventh set of attachment member (144) provided on the rear side (142) of the right side floor panel (112) is in the form of a first part of a snap-fit mechanism. By way of a non-limiting example, the third set of attachment member (126) provided on the right side portion (120) of the rear lower leg guard member (108) is in the form of a second part of the snap-fit mechanism. By way of a non-limiting example, the first part of the snap-fit mechanism and the second part of the snap-fit mechanism co-operate to couple the rear side (142) of the right side floor panel (112) to the right side portion (120) of the rear lower leg guard member (108).

[0071] By way of another example, some of the seventh set of attachment members (144) provided on the rear side (142) of the right side floor panel (112) are in the form of a first part of a snap-fit mechanism and some of the third set of attachment member (126) provided on the right side portion (120) of the rear lower leg guard member (108) is in the form of a second part of the snap-fit mechanism that co-operate to couple the rear side (142) of the right side floor panel (112) to the right side portion (120) of the rear lower leg guard member (108). A remaining of the seventh set of attachment members (144) provided on the rear side (142) of the right side floor panel (112) are in the form of platforms having a fastener receiving apertures and a remaining of the third set of attachment member (126) provided on the right side portion (120) of the rear lower leg guard member (108) are in the form of apertures which allows fasteners to be inserted there-through and a suitable number of fastener are used for coupling the rear side (142) of the right side floor panel (112) to the right side portion (120) of the rear lower leg guard member (108).

[0072] Now referring to Figure 15 there is illustrated a rear perspective view of the rear lower leg guard member (108) being attached to the left side floor panel (110). In an embodiment of the invention, the left side floor panel (110) is coupled to the left side portion (118) of the rear lower leg guard member (108) via the sixth set of attachment members (140) provided on the rear side (138) of the left side floor panel (110) and the second set of attachment members (124) provided on the left side portion (118) of the rear lower leg guard member (108).

[0073] By way of a non-limiting example, the sixth set of attachment member (140) provided on the rear side (138) of the left side floor panel (110) is in the form of a platform having a fastener receiving aperture. By way of a non-limiting example, the second set of attachment member (124) provided on the left side portion (118) of the rear lower leg guard member (108) is in the form of aperture which allows a fastener to be inserted there-through. By way of a non-limiting example, the fastener couples the rear side (138) of the left side floor panel (110) to the left side portion (118) of the rear lower leg guard member (108).

[0074] By way of another example, the sixthset of attachment member (140) provided on the rear side (138) of the left side floor panel (110) is in the form of a first part of a snap-fit mechanism. By way of a non-limiting example, the second set of attachment member (124) provided on the left side portion (118) of the rear lower leg guard member (108) is in the form of a second part of the snap-fit mechanism. By way of a non-limiting example, the first part of the snap-fit mechanism and the second part of the snap-fit mechanism co-operate to couple the rear side (138) of the left side floor panel (110) to the left side portion (118) of the rear lower leg guard member (108).

[0075] By way of another example, some of the sixth set of attachment members (140) provided on the rear side (138) of the left side floor panel (110) are in the form of a first part of a snap-fit mechanism and some of the second set of attachment member (124) provided on the left side portion (118) of the rear lower leg guard member (108) is in the form of a second part of the snap-fit mechanism that co-operate to couple the rear side (138) of the left side floor panel (110) to the left side portion (118) of the rear lower leg guard member (108). A remaining of the sixth set of attachment members (140) provided on the rear side (138) of the left side floor panel (110) are in the form of platforms having a fastener receiving apertures and a remaining of the second set of attachment member (124) provided on the left side portion (118) of the rear lower leg guard member (108) are in the form of apertures which allows fasteners to be inserted there-through and a suitable number of fastener are used for coupling the rear side (138) of the left side floor panel (110) to the left side portion (118) of the rear lower leg guard member (108).

[0076] Now referring to Figure 16 there is illustrated a rear perspective view of the rear lower leg guard member (108) being attached to the rear upper leg guard member (106). In an embodiment of the invention, the rear upper leg guard member (106)is coupled to the upper portion (114) of the rear lower leg guard member (108) via the sixth set of attachment members (132) provided on the rear side (130) of the rear upper leg guard member (106) and the first set of attachment members (122) provided on the upper portion (114) of the rear lower leg guard member (108).

[0077] By way of a non-limiting example, the sixth set of attachment members (132) provided on the rear side (130) of the rear upper leg guard member (106)is in the form of a platform having a fastener receiving aperture. By way of a non-limiting example, the first set of attachment members (122) provided on the upper portion (114) of the rear lower leg guard member (108)is in the form of aperture which allows a fastener to be inserted there-through. By way of a non-limiting example, the fastener couples the rear side (130) of the rear upper leg guard member (106)to the upper portion (114) of the rear lower leg guard member (108).

[0078] By way of another example, the sixth set of attachment members (132) provided on the rear side (130) of the rear upper leg guard member (106)is in the form of a first part of a snap-fit mechanism. By way of a non-limiting example, the first set of attachment members (122) provided on the upper portion (114) of the rear lower leg guard member (108)is in the form of a second part of the snap-fit mechanism. By way of a non-limiting example, the first part of the snap-fit mechanism and the second part of the snap-fit mechanism co-operate to couple the rear side (130) of the rear upper leg guard member (106) to the upper portion (114) of the rear lower leg guard member (108).

[0079] By way of another example, some of the sixth set of attachment members (132) provided on the rear side (130) of the rear upper leg guard member (106) is in the form of a first part of a snap-fit mechanism and some of the first set of attachment members (122) provided on the upper portion (114) of the rear lower leg guard member (108) is in the form of a second part of the snap-fit mechanism that co-operate to couple the rear side (130) of the rear upper leg guard member (106) to the upper portion (114) of the rear lower leg guard member (108). A remaining of the sixth set of attachment members (132) provided on the rear side (130) of the rear upper leg guard member (106) are in the form of platforms having a fastener receiving apertures and a remaining of the first set of attachment members (122) provided on the upper portion (114) of the rear lower leg guard member (108) are in the form of apertures which allows fasteners to be inserted there-through and a suitable number of fastener are used for coupling the rear side (130) of the rear upper leg guard member (106) to the upper portion (114) of the rear lower leg guard member (108).

[0080] Now referring back to Figure 3, Figure 4, Figure 5, and Figure 6 in an embodiment of the invention, theinner top cover (104) is provided with an eighth set of attachment members (146). The eighth set of attachment members(146) provided on the inner top cover (104) is operatively coupled to the fifth set of attachment members (136) provided on the upper portion (134) of the rear upper leg guard member (106). Thus, the upper portion (134) of the rear upper leg guard member (106) also acts as an upper portion (134) of the first sub-assembly (102). Thus, upper portion (134) of the rear upper leg guard member (106) is also referred to as upper portion of the first sub-assembly (102). By way of a non-limiting example, the eighth set of attachment members(146) provided on the inner top cover (104) and the fifth set of attachment members (136) provided on the upper portion (134) of the rear upper leg guard member (106) are in the form of apertures and fastener are used for coupling the inner top cover (104) to upper portion (134) of the rear upper leg guard (106).

[0081] Also, in terms of the assembling sequence, the first sub-assembly (102) is first attached to the vehicle and thereafter, the inner top cover (104) is attached to the first sub-assembly (102). Likewise, while removing the during the body cover structure (100) from the vehicle (10), the inner top cover (104) is detached from the first sub-assembly (102) and thereafter, the first sub-assembly (102) is detached from the vehicle (10). Thus,none of the first sub-assembly (102) and more particularly the rear upper leg guard (106) and the inner top cover (104) which form part of the body cover structure (100) gets disfigured or rub against each other causing damage to paint during the process of attachment and detachment to the vehicle.

[0082] The first sub-assembly (102) being formed of the rear upper leg guard (106), the rear lower leg guard (108), the left side floor panel (110), and the right side floor panel (112) allows for replacement of individual part, in case any damage.

[0083] By way of a non-limiting example, the body cover structure (100) further comprises a first left side garnish cover (148) arranged so as to extend at least partly on a left side of the head pipe (34). In an embodiment of the invention, the first left side garnish cover (148) may form part of the first sub-assembly (102). In an embodiment of the invention, the first left side garnish cover (148) is connected to a left side portion of the rear upper leg guard member (106) and an upper portion of the left side floor panel (110).

[0084] By way of a non-limiting example, the body cover structure (100) further comprises a first right side garnish cover (150) arranged so as to extend at least partly on a right side of the head pipe (34). In an embodiment of the invention, the first right side garnish cover (150) may form part of the first sub-assembly (102). In an embodiment of the invention, the first right side garnish cover (150)is connected to the right side portion of the rear upper leg guard member (106) and an upper portion of the right side floor panel (112).

[0085] By way of a non-limiting example, the body cover structure (100) further comprises a second left side garnish cover (152) arranged so as to extend at least partly on a left side of the head pipe (34). In an embodiment of the invention, the second left side garnish cover (152) may form part of the first sub-assembly (102). In an embodiment of the invention, the second left side garnish cover (152)is connected to the left side portion of the rear upper leg guard member (106) and an upper portion of the first left side garnish cover (148).

[0086] By way of another non-limiting example, the body cover structure (100) further comprises a second right side garnish cover (154) arranged so as to extend at least partly on a right side of the head pipe (34). In an embodiment of the invention, the second right side garnish cover (154) may form part of the first sub-assembly (102). In an embodiment of the invention, the second right side garnish cover (154)is connected to the right side portion of the rear upper leg guard member (106) and an upper portion of the first right side garnish cover (150).

[0087] Now referring to Figure 17 there is illustrated a rear perspective view showing attachment of the first left side garnish cover (148) to the rear upper leg guard member (106) and the left side floor panel (110). Also, Figure 17 illustrates attachment of the first right side garnish cover (150) may to the rear upper leg guard member (106) and the right side floor panel (112). By way of a non-limiting example, the first left side garnish cover (148) may be connected to the left side portion of the rear upper leg guard member (106) and an upper portion of the left side floor panel (110) using snap-fit mechanism. By way of another non-limiting example, the first left side garnish cover (148) may be connected to the left side portion of the rear upper leg guard member (106) and an upper portion of the left side floor panel (110) using fasteners in a manner as described above.

[0088] By way of a non-limiting example, the first right side garnish cover (150) may be connected to the right side portion of the rear upper leg guard member (106) and an upper portion of the right side floor panel (112) using snap-fit mechanism. By way of another non-limiting example,the first right side garnish cover (150) may be connected to the right side portion of the rear upper leg guard member (106) and an upper portion of the right side floor panel (112) using fasteners in a manner as described above.

[0089] Referring back to Figure 3, Figure 5, and Figure 7, by way of a non-limiting example, the second left side garnish cover (152) may be connected to the left side portion of the rear upper leg guard member (106) and an upper portion of the first left side garnish cover (148) using snap-fit mechanism. By way another non-limiting example, the second left side garnish cover (152) may be connected to the left side portion of the rear upper leg guard member (106) and an upper portion of the first left side garnish cover (148) using fasteners in a manner as described above.

[0090] Referring back to Figure 4, Figure 6, and Figure 8, by way of a non-limiting example, the second right side garnish cover (154)is connected to the right side portion of the rear upper leg guard member (106) and an upper portion of the first right side garnish cover (150) using snap-fit mechanism. By way of another non-limiting example,the second right side garnish cover (154)is connected to the right side portion of the rear upper leg guard member (106) and an upper portion of the first right side garnish cover (150) using fasteners in a manner as described above.

[0091] It may be noted that since the rear upper leg guard member (106)is disposed in front of the upper portion (114) of the rear lower leg guard member (108) and since the sixth set of attachment members (132) is provided on the rear side (130) of the rear upper leg guard member (106), the sixth set of attachment members (132) and the first set of attachment members (122) are non-visible.

[0092] Similarly, it may be noted that since the right side floor panel (112) is disposed on the right side portion (120) of the rear lower leg guard member (108) and since the seventh set of attachment members (144) provided on the rear side (142) of the right side floor panel (112), the seventh set of attachment member (144) and the third set of attachment member (126) are non-visible.

[0093] Similarly, it may be noted that since the left side floor panel (110) is disposed on the left side portion (118) of the rear lower leg guard member (108) and since the sixth set of attachment members (140) provided on the rear side (138) of the left side floor panel (110), the sixth set of attachment member (140) and the second set of attachment member (124) are non-visible.

[0094] It may be noted that in an embodiment of the invention, even the connection between the first left side garnish cover (148) and the rear upper leg guard member (106) is non-visible. Additionally, the connection between the first left side garnish cover (148) and the left side floor panel (110) is non-visible. It may be noted that in an embodiment of the invention, even the connection between the first right side garnish cover (150) and the rear upper leg guard member (106) is non-visible. Additionally, the connection between the first right side garnish cover (150) and the right side floor panel (112) is non-visible.

[0095] It may be noted that in an embodiment of the invention, even the connection between the second left side garnish cover (152) and the rear upper leg guard member (106) is non-visible. Additionally, a connection between the second left side garnish cover (152) and the first left side garnish cover (148) is non-visible. It may be noted that in an embodiment of the invention, even the connection between the second right side garnish cover (154) and the rear upper leg guard member (106) is non-visible. Additionally, a connection between the second right side garnish cover (154) and the first right side garnish cover (150) is non-visible.

[0096] Now referring specifically to Figure 16, in an embodiment the rear upper leg guard member (106) and the rear lower leg guard member (108) extend along a vertical direction of the vehicle while the left side floor panel (110) and the right side floor panel (112) extend along a rearward direction of the vehicle. Thus, the first sub-assembly (102) defines a pivot axis (156) about which the first sub-assembly (102) is tiltable and attachable to the left side floor frame (38) and the right side floor frame (40).

[0097] Advantages of the invention are that none of the first sub-assembly and more particularly the rear upper leg guard and the inner top cover which form part of the body cover structure gets disfigured or rub against each other causing damage to paint during the process of attachment and detachment to the vehicle.

[0098] Advantages of invention are that there is provided a body cover structure comprising a rear upper leg guard member, a rear lower leg guard member, a left side floor panel, and a right side floor panel, thus catering to the need of providing the body cover assembly comprising of plurality of parts.

[0099] Another advantage of the invention is that the plurality of parts namely the rear upper leg guard member, the rear lower leg guard member, the left side floor panel, and the right side floor panelare joined so as to attain the desired strength. Yet another advantage of the invention is that the plurality of parts namely the rear upper leg guard member, the rear lower leg guard member, the left side floor panel, and the right side floor panelare joined in a manner which is not substantially visible in a front direction of the vehicle, thus not impacting the aesthetic value of the vehicle.

[00100] Still another advantage of the invention is that breakage of any one of the rear upper leg guard member, the rear lower leg guard member, the left side floor panel, and the right side floor panel does not mandate replacement of the entire first sub-assembly.

[00101] While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations arising on account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein.

[00102] The figures and the forgoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, orders of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover, the actions of any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts necessarily need to be performed. Also, those acts that are not dependent on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples. Numerous variations, whether explicitly given in the specification or not, such as differences in structure, dimension, and use of material, are possible. The scope of embodiments is at least as broad as given by the following claims.
, Claims:WE CLAIM:

1. A body cover structure (100) of vehicle (10) comprising:
a first sub-assembly (102) comprising:
a rear upper leg guard member (106) arranged so as to extend at least partly on a rear side of a head pipe (34);
a rear lower leg guard member (108) arranged so as to extend at least partly on a rear side of a main frame (36), the main frame (36) extending in a downward direction from the head pipe (34), the rear lower leg guard member (108) being connected to a upper portion (134) of the rear upper leg guard member (106);
a left side floor panel (110) arranged so as to extend at least partly on a left side of the main frame (36) and a left side of a left side floor frame (38), the left side floor panel (110) being connected to a left side (118) of the rear lower leg guard member (108), the left side floor frame (38) extending in a rearward direction from the main frame (36); and
a right side floor panel (112) arranged so as to extend at least partly on a right side of the main frame (36) and a right side of a right side floor frame (40), the right side floor panel (112) being connected to a right side (120) of the rear lower leg guard member (108), the right side floor frame (40) extending in a rearward direction from the main frame (36); and
an inner top cover (104) separate from the first sub-assembly (102), the inner top cover (104) being arranged so as to extend at least partly on a rear side of a head pipe (34) , the inner top cover (104) being detachably attached to an upper portion (134) of the rear upper leg guard member (106).

2. The body cover structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first sub-assembly (102) further comprises a first left side garnish cover (148) arranged so as to extend at least partly on a left side of the head pipe (34), the first left side garnish cover (148) being connected to a left side portion of the rear upper leg guard member (106) and an upper portion of the left side floor panel (110).

3. The body cover structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first sub-assembly (102) further comprises a first right side garnish cover (150) arranged so as to extend at least partly on a right side of the head pipe (34), the first right side garnish cover (150) being connected to a right side portion of the rear upper leg guard member (106) and an upper portion of the right side floor panel (112).

4. The body cover structure (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the first sub-assembly (102) further comprises a second left side garnish cover (152) arranged so as to extend at least partly on a left side of the head pipe (34), the second left side garnish cover (152) being connected to the left side portion of the rear upper leg guard member (106) and an upper portion of the first left side garnish cover (148).

5. The body cover structure (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the first sub-assembly (102) further comprises a second right side garnish cover (154) arranged so as to extend at least partly on a right side of the head pipe (34), the second right side garnish cover (154) being connected to the right side portion of the rear upper leg guard member (106) and an upper portion of the first right side garnish cover (150).

6. The body cover structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
the rear upper leg guard member (106) and the rear lower leg guard member (108) extend along a vertical direction of the vehicle;
the left side floor panel (110) and the right side floor panel (112) extend along a rearward direction of the vehicle;
the first sub-assembly (102) defines a pivot axis (156) about which the first sub-assembly (102) is tiltable and attachable to the left side floor frame (38) and the right side floor frame (40).

7. The body cover structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
the rear lower leg guard member (108) comprises a first set of attachment member (122) and the rear upper leg guard member (106) comprises a fourth set of attachment member (132) for connection to the rear lower leg guard member (108);
the rear lower leg guard member (108) comprises a second set of attachment member (124) and the left side floor panel (110) comprises a sixth set of attachment member (140) for connection to the rear lower leg guard member (108);
the rear lower leg guard member (108) comprises a third set of attachment member (126) and the right side floor panel (112) comprises a seventh set of attachment member (144) for connection to the rear lower leg guard member (108).

8. The body cover structure (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the first set of attachment member (122), the second set of attachment member (124), the third set of attachment member (126), the fourth set of attachment member (132), the sixth set of attachment member (140), and the seventh set of attachment member (144) are not visible in an external view of the vehicle (10).

9. The body cover structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the upper portion (134) of the rear upper leg guard member (106) comprises a fifth set of attachment members (136) and inner top cover (104) comprises an eighth set of attachment members(146) for attaching to the fifth set of attachment members (136).

10. A vehicle (10), comprising:
a head pipe (34) rotatably receiving a front fork (22);
a main frame (36) extending in a downward and rearward direction from the head pipe (34);
a right side floor frame (38) connected to a right end of the main frame (36), the right side floor frame (38) extending in a rearward direction from the main frame (36);
a left side floor frame (40) connected to a left end of the main frame (36), the left side floor frame (40) extending in a rearward direction from the main frame (36); and
a body cover structure (100) covering at least partly a rear side of the head pipe (34), a rear side of the main frame (36), a left side of the left side floor frame (40), and a right side of the right side floor frame (38), the body cover structure (100)comprising:
a first sub-assembly (102) comprising:
a rear upper leg guard member (106) arranged so as to extend at least partly on a rear side of a head pipe (34);
a rear lower leg guard member (108) arranged so as to extend at least partly on a rear side of a main frame (36), the main frame (36) extending in a downward direction from the head pipe (34), the rear lower leg guard member (108) being connected to a upper portion (134) of the rear upper leg guard member (106);
a left side floor panel (110) arranged so as to extend at least partly on a left side of the main frame (36) and a left side of a left side floor frame (38), the left side floor panel (110) being connected to a left side (118) of the rear lower leg guard member (108), the left side floor frame (38) extending in a rearward direction from the main frame (36); and
a right side floor panel (112) arranged so as to extend at least partly on a right side of the main frame (36) and a right side of a right side floor frame (40), the right side floor panel (112) being connected to a right side (120) of the rear lower leg guard member (108), the right side floor frame (40) extending in a rearward direction from the main frame (36); and
an inner top cover (104) separate from the first sub-assembly (102), the inner top cover (104) being arranged so as to extend at least partly on a rear side of a head pipe (34) , the inner top cover (104) being detachably attached to an upper portion (134) of the rear upper leg guard member (106).