Description:

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

“FRONT COVER ASSEMBLY 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 front cover assembly of a vehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
[002] Traditionally, in a vehicle such as a scooter there is provided a front cover disposed so as to cover a headpipe and at least a part of the front fork. The front cover also serves to hide other components that are coupled (either directly or indirectly) to any of the headpipe and the front fork. Apart from the above, the front cover greatly influences an aesthetic value of the vehicle. In many cases, front cover is made of a single piece so as to retain sufficient strength and to obtain a desired aesthetic value of the vehicle. However, there may arise situations wherein multiple pieces are needed to be joined to make a front cover assembly. In case the multiple pieces are joined in a manner which is evidently visible in a front direction of the vehicle, aesthetic value of the vehicle is substantially compromised. At the same time, not joining the multiple pieces in a sufficient manner will adversely impact strength of the front cover assembly. Thus, there exists a need to provide a front cover assembly that if formed of plurality of parts, which are joined to attain the desired strength and at the same time, the manner in which the pieces are joined in a manner which is not substantially visible in a front direction of the vehicle.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
[003] 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.

[004] In one aspect of the invention, there is provided a front cover assembly disposed at a front side of a vehicle. The front cover assembly comprising a front cover extending in a vehicle height direction, the front cover covering a head pipe least partially in a front direction of the vehicle, and the front cover covering a front fork at least partially in a front direction of the vehicle. The front cover assembly further comprises a first side cover extending in a vehicle width direction and in a vehicle height direction, the first side cover covering the head pipe at least partially in a first side direction of the vehicle, and the first side cover covering the front fork at least partially in a first side direction of the vehicle. The front cover assembly further comprises a second side cover extending in a vehicle width direction and in a vehicle height direction, the second side cover covering the head pipe at least partially in a second side direction of the vehicle, and the second side cover covering the front fork at least partially in a second side direction of the vehicle.

[005] In an embodiment of the invention, the front cover comprises a first side portion facing the first side cover, the first side portion comprising a first set of attachment means. In an embodiment of the invention, the first side cover comprises a second set of attachment means. In an embodiment of the invention, the first set of attachment and the second set of attachments enable attaching the front cover to the first side cover. In an embodiment of the invention, the first set of attachment means and the second set of attachment means are non-visible in the front direction of the vehicle.

[006] In another embodiment of the invention, the front cover comprises a second side portion facing the second side cover, the second side portion comprising a third set of attachment means. In another embodiment of the invention, the second side cover comprises a fourth set of attachment means. In another embodiment of the invention, the third set of attachment means and the fourth set of attachment means enable attaching the front cover to the second side cover. In another embodiment of the invention, the third set of attachment means and the fourth set of attachment means are non-visible in the front direction of the vehicle.

[007] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the first side portion is overlapped by at least a part of the first side cover in the front direction of the vehicle. In still another embodiment of the invention, the second side portion is overlapped by at least a part of the second side cover in the front direction of the vehicle.

[008] In a further embodiment of the invention, the second set of attachments means is provided on a rear side of the first side portion. In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the fourth set of attachment means is provided on a rear side of the second side portion.

[009] In an embodiment of the invention, the front cover comprises a centre portion located between the first side portion and the second side portion, a first intermediate portion extending along a length direction of the vehicle and located between the centre portion and the first side portion, and a second intermediate portion extending along a length direction of the vehicle and located between the centre portion and the second side portion.

[0010] In another embodiment of the invention, the first intermediate portion comprises a fifth set of attachment means and the first side cover comprises a sixth set of attachment means for attaching the front cover to the first side cover. In yet another embodiment of the invention, the fifth third set of attachment means and the sixth attachment means are non-visible in the front direction of the vehicle.

[0011] In still another embodiment of the invention, the second intermediate portion comprises a seventh set of attachment means and the second side cover comprises an eight set of attachment means for attaching the front cover to the second side cover. In a further embodiment of the invention, the seventh set of attachment means and the eighth set of attachment means are non-visible in the front direction of the vehicle.

[0012] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the centre portion comprises an aperture for receiving a headlight.

[0013] In an embodiment of the invention, the front cover comprises a bottom portion adapted to receive at least one garnish cover.

[0014] In another aspect of the invention, there is provided a vehicle comprising a head pipe supporting a front fork in a steerable manner and a handlebar for steering the front fork; and a front cover assembly disposed at a front side of a vehicle. The front cover assembly comprising a front cover extending in a vehicle height direction, the front cover covering a head pipe least partially in a front direction of the vehicle, and the front cover covering a front fork at least partially in a front direction of the vehicle. The front cover assembly further comprises a first side cover extending in a vehicle width direction and in a vehicle height direction, the first side cover covering the head pipe at least partially in a first side direction of the vehicle, and the first side cover covering the front fork at least partially in a first side direction of the vehicle. The front cover assembly further comprises a second side cover extending in a vehicle width direction and in a vehicle height direction, the second side cover covering the head pipe at least partially in a second side direction of the vehicle, and the second side cover covering the front fork at least partially in a second side direction of the vehicle. In an embodiment of the invention, the front cover comprises a first side portion facing the first side cover, the first side portion comprising a first set of attachment means. In an embodiment of the invention, the first side cover comprises a second set of attachment means. In an embodiment of the invention, the first set of attachment and the second set of attachments enable attaching the front cover to the first side cover. In an embodiment of the invention, the first set of attachment means and the second set of attachment means are non-visible in the front direction of the vehicle. In another embodiment of the invention, the front cover comprises a second side portion facing the second side cover, the second side portion comprising a third set of attachment means. In another embodiment of the invention, the second side cover comprises a fourth set of attachment means. In another embodiment of the invention, the third set of attachment means and the fourth set of attachment means enable attaching the front cover to the second side cover. In another embodiment of the invention, the third set of attachment means and the fourth set of attachment means are non-visible in the front direction of the vehicle.

[0015] Advantages of invention are that there is provided a front cover assembly comprising plurality of parts namely a front cover, a first side cover, and a second side cover thus catering to the need of providing a front cover assembly comprising of plurality of parts for covering a headpipe, at least a part of the front fork and other components that are coupled (either directly or indirectly) to any of the headpipe and the front fork.

[0016] Another advantage of the invention is that the plurality of parts namely a front cover, a first side cover, and a second side cover are joined so as to attain the desired strength. Yet another advantage of the invention is that the plurality of parts namely a front cover, a first side cover, and a second side cover are 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.

[0017] 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:
[0018] 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:

[0019] Figure 1 illustrates a first side view of the vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0020] Figure 2 illustrates a second side view of the vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0021] Figure 3 illustrates a first perspective view of the front cover assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0022] Figure 4 illustrates a second perspective view of the front cover assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0023] Figure 5 illustrates an exploded view of a part of the vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0024] Figure 6 illustrates a first exploded view of the front cover assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0025] Figure 7 illustrates a second exploded view of the front cover assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0026] Figure 8 illustrates a front view of the front cover in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0027] Figure 9 illustrates a first perspective view of the front cover in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0028] Figure 10 illustrates a second perspective view of the front cover in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0029] Figure 11 illustrates a rear view of the first side cover in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and

[0030] Figure 12 illustrates a rear view of the second side cover in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0031] 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:
[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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. Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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).

[0044] 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 head pipe (22) (best seen in Figure 5) receiving a front fork (24) in a steerable manner, and a handlebar (26) connected to the front fork (24) for steering the front fork (24). The handlebar (26) is configured to be rotated by the rider to steer the vehicle (10). The vehicle (10) further comprises a main frame (28) (best seen in Figure 5) supporting the front end structure (12), the footboard (16), and the rear end structure (14).

[0045] Further, the front end structure (12) comprises a front cover assembly (100) and a leg shield (30). The front cover assembly (100) and the leg shield (30) at least partially cover the head pipe (22) and the front fork (24). The leg shield (30) provides protection for the feet of the rider of the vehicle (10). The front end structure (12) further comprises a headlight (32) supported by the front cover assembly (100). 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 (26). The front end structure (12) may further comprise additional components such as handle cover, windscreen, mirror(s), turn indicator(s), etc. without limiting the scope of the invention.

[0046] The rear end structure (14) comprises a seat (34) and a rear ground engaging member (36). The seat (34) provides seating for a rider of the vehicle (10). The rear end structure (14) further comprises a power unit (not visible) disposed below the seat (34). The rear ground engaging member (36) is driven by the power unit (not visible). The power unit (not visible) 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 (36) embodies a wheel. Alternatively, the rear ground engaging member (36) embodies a track, without limiting the scope of the invention.

[0047] The rear end structure (14) comprises a first side cover (38) extending in a rearward direction of the vehicle (10) so as to at least partially cover a first side of the vehicle (10) disposed under the seat (34); and a second side cover (40) extending in a rearward direction of the vehicle (10) so as to at least partially cover a second side of the vehicle (10) disposed under the seat (34). Thus, the term “side cover” is intended to include the first side cover (38) and the second side cover (40).The rear end structure further comprises a storage compartment (not visible) disposed under the seat (34) and between the first side cover (38) and the second side cover (40).

[0048] Referring to Figure 3 and Figure 4 there is illustrated a first front perspective view and a second front perspective view of the front cover assembly (100) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In an embodiment of the invention, the front cover assembly (100) comprises a front cover (102) extending in a vehicle height direction; a first side cover (104) extending in a vehicle width direction and in a vehicle height direction; and a second side cover (106) extending in a vehicle width direction and in a vehicle height direction.

[0049] As can be best seen from Figure 5, which is an exploded view showing the front cover assembly (100), the head pipe (22) and the main frame (28), in an embodiment of the invention, the front cover (102) covers the head pipe (22) at least partially in a front direction of the vehicle (10). The front cover (102) additionally covers the front fork (24) at least partially in the front direction of the vehicle (10). In an embodiment of the invention, the first side cover (104) covers the head pipe (22) at least partially in a first side direction of the vehicle (10). The first side cover (104) additionally covers the front fork (24) at least partially in a first side direction of the vehicle (10). In an embodiment of the invention, the second side cover (106) covers the head pipe (22) at least partially in a second side direction of the vehicle (10). The second side cover (106) additionally covers the front fork (24) at least partially in a second side direction of the vehicle (10).

[0050] As can be best seen from Figure 6 and Figure 7, which are a first and a second exploded view of the front cover assembly (100) respectively, in an embodiment of the invention, the front cover (102) comprises a first side portion (108) facing the first side cover (104). In another embodiment of the invention, the front cover (102) comprises a second side portion (110) facing the second side cover (106). The first side portion (108) extends along a width direction of the vehicle (10) and faces a rear side of the first side cover (104). The second side portion (110) extends along a width direction of the vehicle (10) and faces a rear side of the second side cover (106). The front cover (102) also comprises a centre portion (120) located between the first side portion (108) and the second side portion (110).

[0051] In an embodiment of the invention, the first side portion (108) is overlapped by at least a part of the first side cover (104) in the front direction of the vehicle (10).Therefore, the first side portion (108) is not visible from a front direction of the vehicle (10) after the front cover (102) and the first side cover (104) are assembled. Additionally, the first side portion (108) is overlapped by at least a part of the first side cover (104) in a first side direction of the vehicle (10) and hence, the first side portion (108) is not visible from the first side direction of the vehicle (10) after the front cover (102) and the first side cover (104) are assembled.

[0052] In an embodiment of the invention, the second side portion (110) is overlapped by at least a part of the second side cover (106) in the front direction of the vehicle (10). Therefore, the second side portion (110) is not visible from a front direction of the vehicle (10) after the front cover (102) and the second side cover (106) are assembled. Additionally, the second side portion (110) is overlapped by at least a part of the second side cover (106) in a second side direction of the vehicle (10) and hence, the second side portion (110) is not visible from the second side direction of the vehicle (10) after the front cover (102) and the second side cover (106) are assembled.

[0053] In an embodiment of the invention, the first side portion (108) and the first side cover (104) are each provided with attachment means (described in detail in the following paragraphs) for attaching the front cover (102) to the first side cover (104). Similarly, each of the second side portion (110) and the second side cover (106) are provided with attachment means (described in detail in the following paragraphs) for attaching the front cover (102) to the second side cover (106).

[0054] As can be best seen from Figure 8, Figure 9, and Figure 10 which is a front view, a first front perspective view and a second front perspective view respectively of the front cover (102), in an embodiment of the invention the first side portion (108) comprises a first set of attachment means (112) and the second side portion (110) comprises a third set of attachment means (116). The front cover (102) also comprises a first intermediate portion (122) extending along a length direction of the vehicle (10) and located between the first side portion (108) and the centre portion (120). The front cover (102) also comprises a second intermediate portion (124) extending along a length direction of the vehicle (10) and located between the second side portion (110) and the centre portion (120). In an embodiment of the invention, the first intermediate portion (122) further comprises a fifth set of attachment means (126) and the second intermediate portion (124) comprises a seventh set of attachment means (130).

[0055] As can be best seen from Figure 11 which is a rear view of the first side cover (104), in an embodiment of the invention the first side cover (104) comprises a second set of attachment means (114). In another embodiment of the invention, the first side cover (104) comprises a sixth set of attachment means (128). As can be best seen from Figure 12 which is a rear view of the second side cover (106), in an embodiment of the invention the second side cover (106) comprises a fourth set of attachment means (118). In another embodiment of the invention, the second side cover (106) also comprises an eighth set of attachment means (132).

[0056] Referring back to Figure 6 and Figure 7, the first set of attachment means (112) cooperate with and the second set of attachment means (114) for attaching the front cover (102) to the first side cover (104). On the other hand, the third set of attachment means (116) cooperate with the fourth set of attachment means (118) for attaching the front cover (102) to the second side cover (106).

[0057] In addition to the front cover (102) and the first side cover (104) being connected via the first set of attachment means (112) and the second set of attachment means (114), the fifth set of attachment means (126) cooperates with the sixth set of attachment means (128) for attaching the front cover (102) to the first side cover (104). In addition to the front cover (102) and the second side cover (106) being connected via the third set of attachment means (116) and the fourth set of attachment means (118), the seventh set of attachment means (130) cooperates with the eighth set of attachment means (132) for attaching the front cover (102) to the second side cover (106).

[0058] Since the first set of attachment means (112) is provided on the first side portion (108) which is overlapped by at least a part of the first side cover (104) in the front direction of the vehicle (10), the first set of attachment means (112) is not visible in the front direction of the vehicle (10). Also, since the second set of attachment means (114) is formed on a rear surface of the first side cover (104), the second set of attachment means (114) is not visible in the front direction of the vehicle (10).

[0059] Since the third set of attachment means (116) is provided on the second side portion (110) which is overlapped by at least a part of the second side cover (106) in the front direction of the vehicle (10), the third set of attachment means (116) is not visible in the front direction of the vehicle (10). Also, since the fourth set of attachment means (118) is formed on a rear surface of the second side cover (106), the fourth set of attachment means (118) is not visible in the front direction of the vehicle (10).

[0060] Since the fifth set of attachment means (126) is provided on the first intermediate portion (122) of the front cover (102) and the first intermediate portion (122) extends in a length direction of the vehicle (10) and the fifth set of attachments (126) is covered by the first side cover (104), the fifth set of attachment means (126) is not visible in the front direction of the vehicle (10). Also, since the sixth set of attachment means (128) is formed on a rear surface of the first side cover (104), the sixth set of attachment means (128) is not visible in the front direction of the vehicle (10).

[0061] Since the seventh set of attachment means (130) is provided on the second intermediate portion (124) of the front cover (102) and the second intermediate portion (122) extends in a length direction of the vehicle (10) and the seventh set of attachments (130) is covered by the second side cover (106), the seventh set of attachment means (130) is not visible in the front direction of the vehicle (10). Also, since the eighth set of attachment means (132) is formed on a rear surface of the second side cover (106), the eighth set of attachment means (132) is not visible in the front direction of the vehicle (10).

[0062] In an embodiment of the invention, the first set of attachment means (112) cooperate with the second set of attachment means (114) along a length direction of the vehicle (10) while the fifth set of attachment means (126) cooperate with the sixth set of attachment means (128) along a width direction of the vehicle (10). Thus, the front cover (102) gets strongly coupled to the first side cover (104).

[0063] In an embodiment of the invention, the third set of attachment means (116) cooperate with the fourth set of attachment means (118) along a length direction of the vehicle (10) while the seventh set of attachment means (130) cooperate with the eighth set of attachment means (132) along a width direction of the vehicle (10). Thus, the front cover (102) gets strongly coupled to the second side cover (106).

[0064] In an embodiment of the invention, some of the first set of attachment means (112), the second set of attachment means (114), the third set of attachment means (116), the fourth set of attachment means (118), the fifth set of attachment means (126), the sixth set of attachment means (128), the seventh set of attachment means (130), and the eighth set of attachment means (132) may be in the form of male and female attachment and a remaining of the first set of attachment means (112), the second set of attachment means (114), the third set of attachment means (116), the fourth set of attachment means (118), the fifth set of attachment means (126), the sixth set of attachment means (128), the seventh set of attachment means (130), and the eighth set of attachment means (132) may be in the form of apertures having fastener receiving structure which may be coupled using fasteners from a rear side of the front cover (102), the first side cover (104), and the second side cover (106).

[0065] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the centre portion (120) comprises an aperture (134) for receiving the headlight (30). The headlight (30) may be attached to a rear side of the front cover (102) at about a portion which in close proximity of the centre portion (120). Thus, the attachment mechanism for attaching the headlight (30) to the front cover (102) is also not visible in a front view of the vehicle (10).

[0066] In still another embodiment of the invention, the front cover (102) comprises a bottom portion (138) adapted to receive at least one lower garnish cover (136). In a further embodiment of the invention, there may be provided an upper garnish cover (140) attached to a top portion of the front cover (102).

[0067] By way of a non-limiting example, the first attachment means (112) provided on the first side portion (108) of the front cover (102) comprises a first part of a snap-fit mechanism and the second attachment means (114) provided on an inner side of the first side cover (104) comprises a second part of a snap-fit mechanism. In particular, the second attachment means (114) provided on the inner surface of the first side cover (104) comprises a male projecting part and the first attachment means (112) provided on the first side portion (108) of the front cover (102) comprises an aperture that receives the male projecting part.

[0068] By way of another non-limiting example, the second attachment means (114) comprises a raised platform on an inner surface of the first side cover (104) that faces the first side portion (108) of the front cover (102). The raised platform comprises a fastener receiving aperture. The first attachment means (112) comprises an aperture provided on the first side portion (108) of the front cover (102) for allowing a fastener to pass there-through. A fastener may be inserted through the two apertures and may be used for coupling the first side cover (104) and the front cover (102).

[0069] By way of another non-limiting example, some of the first set of attachment means (112) comprises a first part of the snap-fit mechanism as described above while a remaining of the first set of attachment means (112) comprises aperture(s) provided on the first side portion (108) of the front cover (102) for allowing a fastener to pass there-through. By way of another non-limiting example, some of the second set of attachment means (114) comprises a second part of the snap-fit mechanism as described above while a remaining of the second set of attachment means (114) comprises raised platform on an inner surface of the first side cover (104) that faces the first side portion (108) of the front cover (102).

[0070] By way of a non-limiting example, the third attachment means (116) provided on the second side portion (110) of the front cover (102) comprises a first part of a snap-fit mechanism and the fourth attachment means (118) provided on an inner side of the second side cover (106) comprises a second part of a snap-fit mechanism. In particular, the fourth attachment means (118) provided on an inner side of the second side cover (106) comprises a male projecting part and the third attachment means (116) provided on the second side portion (110) of the front cover (102) comprises an aperture that receives the male projecting part.

[0071] By way of another non-limiting example, the fourth attachment means (118) comprises a raised platform on an inner surface of the second side cover (106) that faces the second side portion (110) of the front cover (102). The raised platform comprises a fastener receiving aperture. The third attachment means (116) comprises an aperture provided on the second side portion (110) of the front cover (102) for allowing a fastener to pass there-through. A fastener may be inserted through the two apertures and may be used for coupling the second side cover (106) and the front cover (102).

[0072] By way of another non-limiting example, some of the third set of attachment means (116) comprises a first part of the snap-fit mechanism as described above while a remaining of the first set of attachment means (116) comprises aperture(s) provided on the second side portion (110) of the front cover (102) for allowing a fastener to pass there-through. By way of another non-limiting example, some of the fourth set of attachment means (118) comprises a second part of the snap-fit mechanism as described above while a remaining of the fourth set of attachment means (118) comprises raised platform on an inner surface of the second side cover (106) that faces the second side portion (110) of the front cover (102).

[0073] By way of a non-limiting example, the fifth set of attachment means (126) provided on the first intermediate portion (122) of the front cover (102) comprises a first part of a snap-fit mechanism and the sixth set of attachment means (128) provided on an inner side of the first side cover (104) comprises a second part of a snap-fit mechanism. In particular, the sixth set of attachment means (128) provided on the inner surface of the first side cover (104) comprises a male projecting part and the fifth set of attachment means (126) provided on the first intermediate portion (122) of the front cover (102) comprises an aperture that receives the male projecting part.

[0074] By way of another non-limiting example, the sixth set of attachment means (128) comprises a raised platform on an inner surface of the first side cover (104) that faces the first side portion (108) of the front cover (102). The raised platform comprises a fastener receiving aperture. The fifth set of attachment means (126) comprises an aperture provided on the first intermediate portion (122) of the front cover (102) for allowing a fastener to pass there-through. A fastener may be inserted through the two apertures and may be used for coupling the first side cover (104) and the front cover (102).

[0075] By way of another non-limiting example, some of the fifth set of attachment means (126) comprises a first part of the snap-fit mechanism as described above while a remaining of the fifth set of attachment means (126) comprises aperture(s) provided on the first intermediate portion (122) of the front cover (102) for allowing a fastener to pass there-through. By way of another non-limiting example, some of the sixth set of attachment means (128) comprises a second part of the snap-fit mechanism as described above while a remaining of the sixth set of attachment means (128) comprises raised platform on an inner surface of the first side cover (104) that faces the first intermediate portion (122) of the front cover (102).

[0076] By way of a non-limiting example, the seventh set of attachment means (130) provided on the second intermediate portion (124) of the front cover (102) comprises a first part of a snap-fit mechanism and the eight set of attachment means (132) provided on an inner side of the second side cover (106) comprises a second part of a snap-fit mechanism. In particular, the eight set of attachment means (132) provided on the inner surface of the second side cover (106) comprises a male projecting part and the seventh set of attachment means (130) provided on the second intermediate portion (124) of the front cover (102) comprises an aperture that receives the male projecting part.

[0077] By way of another non-limiting example, the eight set of attachment means (132) comprises a raised platform on an inner surface of the second side cover (106) that faces the second side portion (110) of the front cover (102). The raised platform comprises a fastener receiving aperture. The seventh set of attachment means (130) comprises an aperture provided on the second intermediate portion (124) of the front cover (102) for allowing a fastener to pass there-through. A fastener may be inserted through the two apertures and may be used for coupling the second side cover (106) and the front cover (102).

[0078] By way of another non-limiting example, some of the seventh set of attachment means (130) comprises a first part of the snap-fit mechanism as described above while a remaining of the seventh set of attachment means (130) comprises aperture(s) provided on the second intermediate portion (124) of the front cover (102) for allowing a fastener to pass there-through. By way of another non-limiting example, some of the eight set of attachment means (132) comprises a second part of the snap-fit mechanism as described above while a remaining of the eight set of attachment means (132) comprises raised platform on an inner surface of the second side cover (106) that faces the second intermediate portion (124) of the front cover (102).

[0079] Since the first side cover (104) comprises a male projecting part or a raised platform with a fastener receiving aperture on the inner surface, the second set of coupling elements (114) are not visible in an external view of the vehicle (10) and at the same time the first side cover (104) and the front cover (102) are coupled with sufficient strength. Also, since the second side cover (106) comprises a male projecting part or a raised platform with a fastener receiving aperture on the inner surface, the fourth set of coupling elements (118) are not visible in an external view of the vehicle (10) and at the same time the second side cover (106) and the front cover (102) are coupled with sufficient strength. Also, since the first side cover (104) comprises a male projecting part or a raised platform with a fastener receiving aperture on the inner surface, the sixth set of attachment means (128) are not visible in an external view of the vehicle (10) and at the same time the first side cover (104) and the front cover (102) are coupled with sufficient strength. Also, since the second side cover (106) comprises a male projecting part or a raised platform with a fastener receiving aperture on the inner surface, the eight set of attachment means (132) are not visible in an external view of the vehicle (10) and at the same time the second side cover (106) and the front cover (102) are coupled with sufficient strength.

[0080] An advantage of invention is that there is provided a front cover assembly comprising plurality of parts namely a front cover, a first side cover, and a second side cover thus catering to the need of providing a front cover assembly comprising of plurality of parts for covering a head pipe, at least a part of the front fork and other components that are coupled (either directly or indirectly) to any of the head pipe and the front fork. Another advantage of the invention is that the plurality of parts namely a front cover, a first side cover, and a second side cover are joined so as to attain the desired strength. Yet another advantage of the invention is that the plurality of parts namely a front cover, a first side cover, and a second side cover are 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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 front cover assembly (100) disposed below at a front side of a vehicle (10), comprising:
a front cover (102) extending in a vehicle height direction, the front cover (102) covering a head pipe (22) at least partially in a front direction of the vehicle (10), and the front cover (102) covering a front fork (24) at least partially in a front direction of the vehicle (10);
a first side cover (104) extending in a vehicle width direction and in a vehicle height direction, the first side cover (104) covering the head pipe (22) at least partially in a first side direction of the vehicle (10), and the first side cover (104) covering the front fork (24) at least partially in a first side direction of the vehicle (10);
a second side cover (106) extending in a vehicle width direction and in a vehicle height direction, the second side cover (106) covering the head pipe (22) at least partially in a second side direction of the vehicle (10), and the second side cover (106) covering the front fork (24) at least partially in a second side direction of the vehicle (10);
the front cover (102) comprising a first side portion (108) facing the first side cover (104), the first side portion (108) comprising a first set of attachment means (112) and the first side cover (104) comprising a second set of attachment means (114) for attaching the front cover (102) to the first side cover (104), the first set of attachment means (112) and the second set of attachment means (114) being non-visible in the front direction of the vehicle (10); and
the front cover (102) comprising a second side portion (110) facing the second side cover (106), the second side portion (110) comprising a third set of attachment means (116) and the second side cover (106) comprising a fourth set of attachment means (118) for attaching the front cover (102) to the second side cover (106), the third set of attachment means (116) and the fourth set of attachment means (118) being non-visible in the front direction of the vehicle (10).

2. The front cover assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first side portion (108) is overlapped by at least a part of the first side cover (104) in the front direction of the vehicle (10), and the second side portion (110) is overlapped by at least a part of the second side cover (106) in the front direction of the vehicle (10).

3. The front cover assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second set of attachments means (114) is provided on a rear side of the first side portion (108) and the fourth set of attachment means (118) is provided on a rear side of the second side portion (110).

4. The front cover assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the front cover (102) comprising a centre portion (120) located between the first side portion (108) and the second side portion (110), a first intermediate portion (122) extending along a length direction of the vehicle (10) and located between the centre portion (120) and the first side portion (108), and a second intermediate portion (124) extending along a length direction of the vehicle (10) and located between the centre portion (120) and the second side portion (110).

5. The front cover assembly (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the first intermediate portion (122) comprises a fifth set of attachment means (126) and the first side cover (104) comprises a sixth set of attachment means (128) for attaching the front cover (102) to the first side cover (104), fifth third set of attachment means (126) and the sixth attachment means (128) being non-visible in the front direction of the vehicle (10).

6. The front cover assembly (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the second intermediate portion (124) comprises a seventh set of attachment means (130) and the second side cover (106) comprises an eight set of attachment means (132) for attaching the front cover (102) to the second side cover (106), the seventh set of attachment means (130) and the eighth set of attachment means (132) being non-visible in the front direction of the vehicle (10).

7. The front cover assembly (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the centre portion (120) comprises an aperture (134) for receiving a headlight (30).

8. The front cover assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the front cover (102) comprises a bottom portion (138) adapted to receive at least one lower garnish cover (136).

9. A vehicle comprising:
a head pipe (22) supporting a front fork (24) in a steerable manner and a handlebar (26) for steering the front fork (24); and
a front cover assembly (100) disposed at a front side of a vehicle (10);
the front cover assembly (100) comprising:
a front cover (102) extending in a vehicle height direction, the front cover (102) covering a head pipe (22) at least partially in a front direction of the vehicle (10), and the front cover (102) covering a front fork (24) at least partially in a front direction of the vehicle (10);
a first side cover (104) extending in a vehicle width direction and in a vehicle height direction, the first side cover (104) covering the head pipe (22) at least partially in a first side direction of the vehicle (10), and the first side cover (104) covering the front fork (24) at least partially in a first side direction of the vehicle (10);
a second side cover (106) extending in a vehicle width direction and in a vehicle height direction, the second side cover (106) covering the head pipe (22) at least partially in a second side direction of the vehicle (10), and the second side cover (106) covering the front fork (24) at least partially in a second side direction of the vehicle (10);
the front cover (102) comprising a first side portion (108) facing the first side cover (104), the first side portion (108) comprising a first set of attachment means (112) and the first side cover (104) comprising a second set of attachment means (114) for attaching the front cover (102) to the first side cover (104), the first set of attachment means (112) and the second set of attachment means (114) being non-visible in the front direction of the vehicle (10); and
the front cover (102) comprising a second side portion (110) facing the second side cover (106), the second side portion (110) comprising a third set of attachment means (116) and the second side cover (106) comprising a fourth set of attachment means (118) for attaching the front cover (102) to the second side cover (106), the third set of attachment means (116) and the fourth set of attachment means (118) being non-visible in the front direction of the vehicle (10).