Description:

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

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 accommodating one or more electronic components. In particular, the invention relates to a vehicle accommodating a diagnostic coupler.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
[002] Vehicle manufacturers generally provide a control unit in a predetermined position within the vehicle such as two-wheelers. The vehicle is further provided with a variety of sensors that are operably connected to the control unit. The control unit receives data as generated by the sensors and stores the data. The data represents parameters that affect either individual components of the vehicle and/or the overall functioning of the vehicle and hence, is also referred to as vehicle data. The control unit analyzes the vehicle data as provided by the sensors and generates error signals / warning signals. Based on the error signals / warning signals, suitable corrective action can be taken. There may be additionally provided a diagnostic coupler coupled to the control unit. The diagnostic coupler may be removably connectable to an external electronic device for providing electronic access to vehicle data as stored in the control unit. Also, the diagnostic coupler may be removably connectable to an external electronic device for providing access to control data as stored in the control unit (for example, for updating software in the control unit). The control unit along with the sensor(s) and the diagnostic coupler is known as On-Board Diagnostic System (OBD).

[003] Generally, it can be observed from the prior arts that the diagnostic coupler is positioned:
a) below a seat inside an utility box (or alternative referred to as luggage box);
b) on a handlebar; or
c) under a floorboard.

[004] The problem of positioning the diagnostic coupler under the floorboard is that the accessibility of the diagnostic coupler is a persistent concern. Since the diagnostic coupler is located in a substantially non accessible region of the vehicle, gaining access of the diagnostic coupler requires dismantling many parts. Dismantling multiple parts is a time consuming process and increases the service time of the vehicle. Additionally, the area under the floorboard is susceptible to a lot of contaminants. If the contaminants enter into the diagnostic coupler, the life of the diagnostic coupler may be adversely impacted. Thus, additional protection has to be provided to the diagnostic coupler, which substantially increases the cost of the vehicle.

[005] In addition, provisioning the diagnostic coupler on the handle bar is also a concern due to the fact that the handle bar is susceptible to high vibrations. Therefore, there is a high probability that the diagnostic coupler may get dislodged from its position. Additionally, the handlebar is susceptible to a lot of foreign contaminants. If the contaminants enter into the diagnostic coupler, the life of the diagnostic coupler may be adversely impacted. Thus, additional housing has to be provided. However, providing housing means an extra part is added to the diagnostic coupler, which increases the overall cost of the whole diagnostic system.

[006] Since the utility box carries many components including user articles, there exists a huge probability that the diagnostic coupler is disturbed while the user accesses the article(s) located in the utility box. Also, the positions inside the utility box, under the floorboard, and handle bar are crowded with many other components and hence, there may be a lot of interference from such components while accessing the diagnostic coupler and vice-versa.

[007] Hence, there is a need in the art to provide one or more electronic components in the vehicle that is present at an accessible location and at the same time remains un-disturbed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
[008] 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.

[009] Accordingly, in an embodiment of the invention, there is provided a vehicle comprising a head pipe supporting a front fork in a steerable manner; a main frame connected to the head pipe, the main frame extending in a rearward and downward direction of the vehicle; a first seat frame disposed on a first side of the main frame, the first seat frame extending in a rearward direction of the vehicle; a second seat frame disposed on a second side of the main frame, the second seat frame extending in a rearward direction of the vehicle; a seat supported by the first seat frame and the second seat frame; a body cover disposed below the seat; the body cover comprising an aperture; a holder locatable in the aperture, the holder defining an internal space; a lid disposed above the holder, the lid restricting access to the internal space of the holder in a first state and allowing access to the internal space of the holder in a second state; and an electronic component being removably accommodated in the internal space of the holder.

[0010] In an embodiment of the invention, the holder comprises a top wall; a bottom wall; at least one vertical wall connecting the top wall and the bottom wall; and a first opening formed on the top wall.

[0011] In another embodiment of the invention, the holder comprises at least one of a second opening formed in the bottom wall and a third opening formed in the at least one vertical wall.

[0012] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the top wall of the holder has a dimension greater than a dimension of the aperture.

[0013] In still another embodiment of the invention, the lid comprises a first movement restricting structure formed on an underside, the first movement restricting structure restricting upward movement of the electronic component within the holder in a second state of the lid.

[0014] In a further embodiment of the invention, there may be provided a second restricting structure that co-operates with a third opening formed in at least one vertical wall restricting lateral movement of the electronic component within the holder.

[0015] In a further embodiment of the invention, the electronic component being a diagnostic coupler coupled to a control unit of the vehicle, the control unit being provided in a predetermined position within the vehicle, the diagnostic coupler being removably connectable to an external electronic device for providing electronic access to at least one of vehicle data and control data stored in the control unit.

[0016] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the body cover comprises a first portion and a second portion, the first portion covering at least one vehicular component disposed below the seat and the second portion functioning as a utility box.

[0017] In an embodiment of the invention, the aperture is formed in at least one of the first portion and the second portion.

[0018] In another embodiment of the invention, the first portion comprises a bottom wall and at least one side wall, at least one of the bottom wall and the at least one side wall comprising the aperture.

[0019] An advantage of the invention is that the electronic component which can be a diagnostic coupler can be located in an easily accessible area of the vehicle. Further, since access to the body cover can be gained only after un-locking the seat using a key, another advantage of the invention includes unauthorized access to the diagnostic coupler is prohibited.

[0020] A further advantage of the invention is that having access to the body cover in itself does not provide access to the diagnostic coupler. The lid which restricts access to the internal space of the holder has to be located in the second state to gain access to the internal space of the holder and hence, to the diagnostic coupler. A furthermore advantage of the invention is that the holder together with the lid and the diagnostic coupler can be removed from the aperture formed in the utility box and thereafter, the lid can be brought to the second state to gain access to the internal space of the holder. Thus, the procedure to gain access to the diagnostic coupler is ease and it takes less time to gain access to the diagnostic coupler. Since the diagnostic coupler is completely hidden, yet another advantage of the invention includes enhancement in an aesthetic appeal of the body cover. The diagnostic coupler is substantially protected from dust, water and other foreign particles. Thus, still another advantage of the invention includes life of the diagnostic coupler being substantially increased.

[0021] The manner in which the diagnostic coupler is located within the holder allows for the diagnostic coupler to be removed from the holder easily. Since the lid comprises a first movement restricting structure formed on an underside, a further advantage of the invention includes un-wanted upward movement of the diagnostic coupler within the holder being restricted. Since there is further provided a second movement restricting structure, a further advantage of the invention includes un-wanted lateral movement of the diagnostic coupler within the holder being restricted. As unwanted upward and/or lateral movement of the diagnostic coupler can cause premature failure of the diagnostic coupler or premature failure of an electrical connection between the diagnostic coupler and the control unit, the chances of premature failure is substantially reduced.

[0022] 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:
[0023] 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:

[0024] Figure 1 illustrates a semi-transparent side view of a vehicle in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention;

[0025] Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of a vehicle in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention;

[0026] Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of a first portion of the body cover having the holder, the electronic component and the lid attached thereto in accordance with the second embodiment of the invention;

[0027] Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of a first portion of the body cover having the holder, the electronic component and the lid attached thereto in accordance with the second embodiment of the invention;

[0028] Figure 5 illustrates a sectional side view of the first portion of the body cover taken along the sectional line A-A’ shown in Figure 4 in accordance with the second embodiment of the invention;

[0029] Figure 6 illustrates a first level exploded view of the first portion of the body cover having the holder, the electronic component being in an attached state and the lid being in a detached state in accordance with the second embodiment of the invention;

[0030] Figure 7 illustrates a second level exploded view of the first portion of the body cover wherein the lid being in a detached state, and a combination of the holder and the electronic component being in an detached state in accordance with the second embodiment of the invention;

[0031] Figure 8 illustrates a third level exploded view of the first portion of the body cover wherein the lid being in a detached state, the holder being in a detached state and the electronic component being in an detached state (with respect to the holder) in accordance with the second embodiment of the invention;

[0032] Figure 9 illustrates a exploded view of the second portion of the body cover wherein the lid being in a detached state, the holder being in a detached state and the electronic component being in an detached state (with respect to the holder) in accordance with the first embodiment of the invention;

[0033] Figure 10 illustrates a perspective view of the holder in accordance with the teachings of the invention;

[0034] Figure 11 represents a top view of the holder in accordance with the teachings of the invention;

[0035] Figure 12 represents a first perspective of the lid in accordance with the teachings of the invention;

[0036] Figure 13 represents a second perspective of the lid in accordance with the teachings of the invention;

[0037] Figure 14 represents a perspective of the electronic component (preferably a diagnostic coupler) in accordance with the teachings of the invention; and

[0038] Figure 15 represents a block diagram showing the connection between the control unit, at least one sensor, and the electronic component (preferably a diagnostic coupler) in accordance with the teachings of the invention.

[0039] 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:
[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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, B, U, D, L, and R in the Figures.

[0052] Referring to Figure 1, there is illustrated a semi-transparent side view of a first side of a vehicle (10) in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention and referring to Figure 2, there is illustrated a perspective side view of the vehicle (10) in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention. The vehicle (10) 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).

[0053] Further, the front end structure (12) may further comprise additional components such as dash assembly (such as LCD, GPS, graphical user interface (GUI), etc.), mirror/s, head lamp/s, front fender/s, etc. without limiting the scope of the invention.

[0054] The vehicle (10) 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) via front fork (22) (best seen in Figure 1). In the illustrated example, the front ground engaging member (18) embodies a wheel.

[0055] The vehicle comprises a head pipe (24) (best seen in Figure 1) supporting the front fork (22) (best seen in Figure 1) in a steerable manner. A main frame (26) (best seen in Figure 1) is connected to the head pipe (22) and the main frame (26) extends in a rearward and downward direction of the vehicle (10). The vehicle (10) comprises a first seat frame (28) (best seen in Figure 1) disposed on a first side of the main frame (26) and a second seat frame (30) (best seen in Figure 1) disposed on a second side of the main frame (26). The first seat frame (28) and the second seat frame (30) extend in a rearward direction of the vehicle (10).

[0056] The vehicle (10) further comprises a front cover (32) disposed to cover the head pipe (24) and at least a part of the front fork (22); and a leg shield (34) connected to the front cover (32), so as to cover feet of passenger from a front side. The vehicle (10) further comprises a first side cover (36) (best seen in Figure 1) and a second side cover (38) (best seen in Figure 1) extending in a rearward direction. The first side cover (36) and a second side cover (38) at least partially cover the first seat frame (28) and the second seat frame (30). The vehicle (10) further comprises a seat (40) supported by the first seat frame (28) and the second seat frame (30).

[0057] The rear end structure (14) of the vehicle (10) comprises a rear ground engaging member (42), a tail light (44) and other elements (not explicitly shown). For instance, the rear end structure (14) of the vehicle (10) may comprise side turn indicators, suspension system, grip, etc.

[0058] The vehicle (10) further comprises a power generating unit (not shown) generating power and transferring the power to at least one of the front ground engaging member (18) and the rear ground engaging member (42). The power generating unit may be an internal combustion engine or a motor. In case the power generating unit is an internal combustion engine, the vehicle further comprises a fuel storage unit (not shown). On the other hand, in case the power generating unit is a motor, the vehicle further comprises at least one battery (not shown). The vehicle (10) further comprises a body cover (46) disposed under the seat (40). The body cover (46) may serve different purposes, as will be elaborated in detail in the following paragraphs.

[0059] Referring now to Figure 3, there is illustrated a perspective view of the body cover (46). The body cover (46) generally comprises a first portion (461) and a second portion (462). In a preferred aspect of the invention, the first portion (461) covers at least one vehicular component disposed below the seat (40). By way of a non-limiting example, once the seat (40) has been opened, the first portion (461) covers (partly or fully) the rear ground engaging member (42), and other vehicular components that are disposed between the seat and the rear ground engaging member (42). The other vehicular components may include fuel tank (not shown), the first seat frame (36), the second seat frame (38), shock absorber (not numbered), etc. The second portion (462) functions as a utility box. The second portion (462) may also cover at least one vehicular component disposed below the seat (40). For instance, the second portion (462) may cover the power generating unit (especially an internal combustion engine, not shown) which may be disposed below the seat (40). In case the power generating unit is a motor, the second portion (462) may cover one or more batteries (not shown) which may be disposed below the seat (40). The second portion (462) may also cover (partly or fully) other vehicular components such as the first seat frame (36), the second seat frame (38), swing arm (not shown), etc.

[0060] Now referring to Figure 4 and Figure 5, there is illustrated a perspective view of the first portion (461) of the body cover (46) and a sectional view of the first portion (461) of the body cover (46) taken along the sectional line shown as A-A’. The first portion (461) of the body cover (46) comprises an aperture (50). There is provided a holder (52) locatable in the aperture (50). The holder (52) defining an internal space (54). A lid (56) is disposed above the holder (52), the lid (56) restricts access to the internal space (54) of the holder (52) in a first state and allows access to the internal space (54) of the holder (52) in a second state. In an embodiment of the invention, an electronic component (58) is removably accommodated in the internal space (54) of the holder (52).

[0061] Now there are two ways to access the electronic component (58) which is removably accommodated in the internal space (54) of the holder (52). In a first option which is illustrated in Figure 6, the lid (56) is removed from the holder (52). Thereafter, as shown in Figure 7, the holder with the electronic component (58) contained therein is removed from the aperture (50). Finally, as shown in Figure 8, the electronic component (58) may be removed from the container (52). Although not illustrated, in a second option, the holder with the electronic component (58) contained therein and the lid attached thereto is removed from the aperture (50). Thereafter, the lid (56) is removed from the holder (52) and finally the electronic component (58) is removed from the container (52). Out of the two options, the second option may be a more convenient option in some instances.

[0062] Now referring to Figure 9, in an embodiment of the invention, the second part (462) comprises an aperture (50). In an embodiment of the invention, the aperture (50) may be formed in a bottom wall (48a) of the utility box (46). In another embodiment of the invention, the aperture (50) may be formed in a side wall (48b) of the second part (462). The holder (52) is locatable in the aperture (50). Even in this case, there are two ways to access the electronic component (58) which is removably accommodated in the internal space (54) of the holder (52) and the same is as mentioned above.

[0063] Now referring to Figure 10 and Figure 11, in an embodiment of the invention, the holder (52) defines an internal space (54). In an embodiment of the invention, the holder (52) comprises a top wall (60); a bottom wall (62); at least one vertical wall (64) connecting the top wall (60) and the bottom wall (62); and a first opening (66) formed on the top wall (60). To assist in locating the electronic component (58) within the holder (52) and assist in removing the electronic component (58) from the holder (52), the holder (52) comprises at least one further opening (68) formed in at least one of the bottom wall (62) and the at least one vertical wall (64). In particular the holder (52) comprises at least one of a second opening (681) formed in the bottom wall (62) and a third opening (682) formed in the at least one vertical wall (64). It can be seen that an electrical wire (not numbered) connected to the electronic component (58) traverses through the at least one further opening (68) and more particularly the second opening (681) formed in the bottom wall (62).

[0064] It may be noted that each of Figure 4 and Figure 5 show the lid (56) in the first state. In the first state, the lid (56) is attached to the holder (52) such that the lid (56) blocks the first opening (66) formed on the top wall (60). It may be noted in each of Figure 6, Figure 7, Figure 8 and Figure 9 show the lid (56) being in the second state i.e. in a state where the lid (56) allows access to the internal portion (54) of the holder (52).

[0065] Although not illustrated, the lid (56) may be connected to the holder (52) and may still be brought to any of the first state and the second state. For instance, a first part of the lid (56) may be pivotally connected to the holder (52) such that the lid (56) may be brought to any of the first state and the second state. In another instance, the lid (56) may be slidably connected to the holder (52) such that the lid (56) may be brought to any of the first state and the second state.

[0066] Now referring to Figure 6, in an embodiment of the invention, the top wall (62) of the holder (52) has a dimension greater than a dimension of the aperture (50). Thus, the top wall (62) of the holder (52) gets located above the aperture (58). Thus, the holder (52) can be easily removed from the aperture (50) formed in the bottom wall (48) of the utility box (46).

[0067] Now referring to Figure 12 and Figure 13, in an embodiment of the invention, the lid (56) comprises a first movement restricting structure (70) formed on an underside, the first movement restricting structure (70) restricting upward movement of the electronic component (58) within the holder (52) in a second state of the lid (56). By way of another non-limiting example, the first movement restricting structure (70) may additionally restrict a lateral movement of the electronic component (58) within the container (52) in a second state of the lid (56). In an embodiment of the invention, there may be provided a second movement restricting structure (72) that restricts lateral movement of the electronic component (58) within the holder (52). In an embodiment of the invention, the second movement restricting structure (72) may be provided on the lid (56). The second restricting structure (72) co-operates with the third opening (682) formed in at least one vertical wall (64) restricting lateral movement of the electronic component (58) within the holder (52). Particularly, the second restricting structure (72) co-operates with the third opening (682) formed in at least one vertical wall (64) and restricts the electronic component from traversing through the third opening (682) when the lid (56) is in the second state.

[0068] Now referring to Figure 14, in an embodiment of the invention, the electronic component (58) is a diagnostic coupler (58). The diagnostic coupler (58) may have its own cap (78). Also, there may be provided a removal assistance means (80) that may be in the form of an element which can be held by a tool. The tool (not shown) may be inserted in the removal assistance means (80) and the diagnostic coupler (58) can be easily removed from the container (52). When the removal assistance means (80) is provided, the diagnostic coupler (58) can be removed form the container (52) easily even using the first option described above.

[0069] Referring to Figure 15, in an embodiment of the invention, the diagnostic coupler (58) is coupled to a control unit (74) of the vehicle (10). The control unit (74) may be provided in a predetermined position within the vehicle (10). In an embodiment of the invention, the diagnostic coupler (58) is removably connectable to an external electronic device (not shown) for providing electronic access to at least one of vehicle data and control data stored in the control unit (74). In an embodiment of the invention, the control unit (74) receives data as generated by the sensors (76) disposed in the vehicle (10) and stores the data. The data represents parameters that affect either individual components of the vehicle and/or the overall functioning of the vehicle and hence, is also referred to as vehicle data. The control unit (74) analyzes the vehicle data as provided by the sensors (76) and generates error signals / warning signals. Based on the error signals / warning signals, suitable corrective action can be taken. The diagnostic coupler (58) is connected to the control unit (74) via electrical wires (not numbered). The diagnostic coupler (58) may be removably connectable to an external electronic device (not shown) for providing electronic access to vehicle data as stored in the control unit (74). Also, the diagnostic coupler (58) may be removably connectable to an external electronic device (not shown) for providing access to control data as stored in the control unit (74) (for example, for updating software in the control unit).

[0070] The invention offers the benefit of placing the electronic component, such as a diagnostic coupler, in a conveniently accessible location within the vehicle. Additionally, the invention provides another advantage by ensuring that unauthorized access to the diagnostic coupler is prevented, as access to the body cover and more particular to either of the first portion or the second portion of the body cover is only possible after unlocking the seat with a key.

[0071] Another benefit of the invention is that simply having access to the body cover and more particular to either of the first portion or the second portion of the body cover does not grant access to the diagnostic coupler. The lid acts as a restriction, requiring it to be in the second state to access the internal space of the container, and consequently, gain access to the diagnostic coupler.

[0072] Another notable advantage of the invention is that the container, along with the lid and diagnostic coupler, can be easily detached from the aperture formed in the body cover and more particular to either of the first portion or the second portion of the body cover. Subsequently, by bringing the lid to the second state, access to the internal space of the container is obtained. This streamlined procedure not only ensures ease of access to the diagnostic coupler but also reduces the time required to gain such access.

[0073] Another advantage of the invention is that the diagnostic coupler remains completely concealed, resulting in an enhanced aesthetic appeal of the body cover and more particular to either of the first portion or the second portion of the body cover. The diagnostic coupler is effectively shielded from dust, water, and other foreign particles, leading to yet another significant advantage of the invention - a substantial increase in the lifespan of the diagnostic coupler.

[0074] The manner in which the diagnostic coupler is located within the container allows for the diagnostic coupler to be removed from the container easily. In particular, access to the diagnostic coupler can be gained from the opening formed in at least one of the bottom wall and the at least one vertical wall and hence, the diagnostic coupler can be easily removed from the container. Since the lid comprises a movement restricting structure formed on an underside, a further advantage of the invention includes un-wanted movement and vibrations of the diagnostic coupler within the container being restricted. As vibrations of the diagnostic coupler can cause premature failure of the diagnostic coupler or premature failure of an electrical connection between the diagnostic coupler and the control unit, the chances of premature failure is substantially reduced.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.
, Claims:WE CLAIM:

1. A vehicle (10) comprising:
a head pipe (24) supporting a front fork (22) in a steerable manner;
a main frame (26) connected to the head pipe (24), the main frame (26) extending in a rearward and downward direction of the vehicle (10);
a first seat frame (28) disposed on a first side of the main frame (26), the first seat frame (28) extending in a rearward direction of the vehicle (10);
a second seat frame (30) disposed on a second side of the main frame (26), the second seat frame (30) extending in a rearward direction of the vehicle (10);
a seat (40) supported by the first seat frame (28) and the second seat frame (30);
a body cover (46) disposed below the seat (40); the body cover (46) comprising an aperture (50);
a holder (52) locatable in the aperture (50), the holder (52) defining an internal space (54);
a lid (56) disposed above the holder (52), the lid (56) restricting access to the internal space (54) of, the holder (52) in a first state and allowing access to the internal space (54) of the holder (52) in a second state; and
an electronic component (58) being removably accommodated in the internal space (54) of the holder (52).

2. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the holder (52) comprises:
a top wall (60);
a bottom wall (62);
at least one vertical wall (64) connecting the top wall (60) and the bottom wall (62); and
a first opening (66) formed on the top wall (60).

3. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the holder (52) comprises at least one of a second opening (681) formed in the bottom wall (62) and a third opening (682) formed in the at least one vertical wall (64).

4. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the top wall (62) of the holder (52) has a dimension greater than a dimension of the aperture (50).

5. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lid (56) comprises a first movement restricting structure (70) formed on an underside, the first movement restricting structure (70) restricting upward movement of the electronic component (58) within the holder (52) in a second state of the lid (56).

6. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a second restricting structure (72) co-operates with a third opening (682) formed in at least one vertical wall (64) restricting lateral movement of the electronic component (58) within the holder (52).

7. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electronic component (58) being a diagnostic coupler (58) coupled to a control unit (74) of the vehicle (10), the control unit (74) being provided in a predetermined position within the vehicle (10), the diagnostic coupler (58) being removably connectable to an external electronic device for providing electronic access to at least one of vehicle data and control data stored in the control unit (74).

8. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the body cover (46) comprises a first portion (461) and a second portion (462), the first portion (461) covering at least one vehicular component disposed below the seat (40) and the second portion (462) functioning as a utility box.

9. The vehicle as claimed in claim 8, wherein the aperture (50) is formed in at least one of the first portion (461) and the second portion (462).

10. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the second portion (462) comprises a bottom wall (48a) and at least one side wall (48b), at least one of the bottom wall (48a) and the at least one side wall (48b) comprising the aperture (50).