DESC:

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

BATTERY RETAINING STRUCTURE OF A VEHICLE

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

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

FIELD OF THE INVENTION:
[001] The present invention relates to a battery retaining structure of a vehicle, more particularly to a battery retaining structure of an electric vehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
[002] A frame body is an essential part of a vehicle and traditionally were originally designed to accommodate internal combustion engines and their associated vehicular components. However, with the recent developments in field of electric vehicles, the role of the frame body has been tremendously changed. For example, the electric vehicle comprises at least one storage compartment mounted on the frame body for accommodating at least one battery providing power to the electric vehicle. In such cases, the storage compartment is held in a secure manner with respect to the frame body.

[003] However, it has been observed that securely holding the storage compartment with respect to the frame body in itself is not sufficient. The battery in itself may experience un-wanted movement due to the movement of the electric vehicle, which can result in disruption in supply of electrical energy from the one or more battery to a motor which is providing power to the electric vehicle. In many cases, the storage compartment in itself is designed in a way to prohibit movement of the battery accommodated therein. However, such a construction hampers in easy removal of the battery from the storage compartment. Alternatively, and especially in cases, wherein the storage compartment is placed below a seat, the seat is made to restrict un-desired movement of the at least one battery. This alternative approach casts serious limitations in terms of construction of the seat and various other vehicular components.

[004] Thus, there exists a need to provide a battery retaining structure of an electric vehicle which securely holds the battery and inhibits the battery from exhibiting un-wanted movement. Also, the construction of the battery retaining structure should be such that it does not hamper in removal or insertion of the battery into the storage compartment.

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

[006] Accordingly, the present invention provides a battery retaining structure of a vehicle. The battery retaining structure comprises a fulcrum coupled to a frame body of the vehicle. The fulcrum comprises a first arm, a second arm extending from the first arm and a shaft element that couples the fulcrum to the frame body. The fulcrum exhibits pivoting movement with respect to frame body between a first state and a second state, wherein in the first state, the fulcrum securely retains a battery. The battery retaining structure further comprises a movement restricting structure inhibiting the fulcrum to move from the first state. The battery retaining structure further comprises a movement allowing member that permits, upon actuation the fulcrum to move from the first state.

[007] In an embodiment of the invention, the shaft element defines an axis about which the first arm and the second arm and the shaft element exhibit pivoting movement.

[008] In another embodiment of the invention, the movement restricting structure is interposed between shaft element and the frame body of the vehicle.

[009] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the movement restricting structure comprises a first ratchet wheel that comes in engaging relation with a second ratchet wheel thereby inhibiting the fulcrum to move from the first state and the movement allowing member is coupled to the second ratchet wheel. The movement allowing member, upon actuation, disengages the engaging relation between the first ratchet wheel and the second ratchet wheel.

[0010] In still another embodiment of the invention, the movement restricting structure further comprises a first resilient member applying a positive force on the second ratchet wheel thereby maintaining the second ratchet wheel in the engaging relation with the first ratchet wheel.

[0011] In a further embodiment of the invention, the movement allowing member comprise a cord element.

[0012] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the first ratchet wheel is provided on a first end of the shaft element.

[0013] In an embodiment of the invention, the second ratchet wheel is located between the first ratchet wheel and the frame body of the vehicle.

[0014] In another embodiment of the invention, the first resilient member is positioned between the second ratchet wheel and frame body of the vehicle.

[0015] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the first arm comprises a first roller.

[0016] In still another embodiment of the invention, the second arm comprises a second roller.

[0017] In a further embodiment of the invention, a lateral surface of the battery pushes the second roller of the second arm of the fulcrum while attaining the first state, thereby causing the first arm of the first arm of the fulcrum to exhibit pivotal movement, and causing the first roller to come in contact with a top surface of the battery, the first roller applying pressure on the top surface of the battery in the first state of the fulcrum thereby inhibiting movement of the battery in a vehicular upward direction.

[0018] In another aspect of the invention, there is provided an electrical vehicle comprises a frame body supporting at least one ground engaging member, a motor supplying driving power to the at least one ground engaging member, and at least one battery providing electrical power to the motor.

[0019] In another embodiment of the invention, wherein the electric vehicle further comprises a storage compartment and a battery retaining structure. The storage compartment is pivotally supported by the frame body and stores the battery.

[0020] In yet another embodiment of the invention, wherein the battery retaining structure comprises a fulcrum, a movement restricting structure and a movement allowing member. The fulcrum comprises a first arm, a second arm extending from the first arm, and a shaft element coupling the fulcrum to the frame body of the vehicle. The fulcrum exhibits pivoting movement with respect to frame body between a first state and a second state. The fulcrum securely retaining a battery in the first state.

[0021] In still another embodiment of the invention, wherein the movement restricting structure is interposed between shaft element and the frame body of the vehicle. The movement restricting structure inhibits the fulcrum to move from the first state. While the movement allowing member permits, upon actuation, the fulcrum to move from the first state.

[0022] In a further embodiment of the invention, wherein the frame body comprises a head pipe, an upper frame, a first seat frame and a second seat frame. The upper frame extends from the head pipe in a rearward direction. The first seat frame extends from the upper frame in a rearward direction and being disposed on a first side of the upper frame. The second seat frame extends from the upper frame in a rearward direction and being disposed on a second side of the upper frame. The first seat frame and the second seat frame support at least one seat.

[0023] In another embodiment of the invention, wherein the frame body further comprises at least a first lower frame, a first pivot frame and a second pivot frame. The first lower frame extends from one of the head pipe and the upper frame in a downward and rearward direction. The first pivot frame extends from the upper frame in the rearward and downward direction and connected with the first lower frame. The second pivot frame extends from the upper frame in the rearward and downward direction and connected with the first lower frame. The upper frame comprising a bracket element for receiving the battery retaining structure.

[0024] One of the advantages of the invention is that the battery retaining structure applies a positive pressure on the battery, which is generally not attained by the storage compartment itself or by any other vehicular component.

[0025] Another advantage of the invention is that the construction of the battery retaining structure is substantially simple. Thus, it is easy to manufacture the battery retaining structure. Also, the mechanism for joining the battery retaining structure to the frame body is simple. Thus, a cost and a time involved in joining the battery retaining structure to the frame body is substantially low.

[0026] Still another advantage of the invention is that the first roller forming part of the battery retaining structure undergoes uniform wear and tear and hence can serve for longer period of time. Thus, the possibility of premature failure of the battery retaining structure is substantially low and also a cost of replacement of the first roller is substantially low.

[0027] Yet another advantage of the invention is that the securely held battery significantly reduces the likelihood of undesired and abrupt interruptions in the flow of electricity from the at least one battery to the at least one motor, particularly when the electric vehicle is in motion. As un-intended disruption of the electricity flow from the at least one battery to the at least one motor can cause accidents, hamper user experience in driving; a level of safety as well as a vehicle driving experience is substantially improved.

[0028] 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:
[0029] 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:

[0030] Figure 1 illustrates a first side view of the electric vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0031] Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of the frame body of the electric vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0032] Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of the frame body of the electric vehicle carrying a first battery within a first storage compartment and a second battery within a second storage compartment wherein each of the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment is in a second state with respect to the battery retaining structure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0033] Figure 4 illustrates another perspective view of the frame body of the electric vehicle carrying a first battery within a first storage compartment and a second battery within a second storage compartment wherein each of the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment is in a second state with respect to the battery retaining structure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0034] Figure 5 illustrates another perspective view of the frame body of the electric vehicle carrying a first battery within a first storage compartment and a second battery within a second storage compartment wherein each of the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment is in a first state with respect to the battery retaining structure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0035] Figure 6 illustrates a front side view of the battery retaining structure of the electric vehicle with a first battery and a first storage compartment in a first state in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0036] Figure 7 illustrates a top view of the battery retaining structure of the electric vehicle with a first battery and a first storage compartment in a first state in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0037] Figure 8 illustrates a close-up perspective view of the second ratchet wheel with the ratchet and pawl in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0038] 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:
[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0049] 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.

[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] Referring to Figure 1, there is illustrated a first side view and a second side view of an electric vehicle (10). The electric vehicle (10) comprises, inter-alia, a frame body (12), a front ground engaging member (14), a rear ground engaging member (16), a motor unit (18), a seat (36). It may be noted that the electric vehicle (10) may include other parts which may not be relevant for explaining the present invention and hence not shown and described. The motor unit (18) is supplied electrical power from at least one of the first battery (201) and the second battery (202). The motor unit (18) generates driving power and transfers the same to at least one of the front ground engaging member (14) and the rear ground engaging member (16). It may however be noted that the motor unit (18) may be mounted on the rear ground engaging member (16) or alternatively be mounted on the front ground engaging member (14).

[0052] The vehicle (10) further comprises a first battery (201) disposed in the first side of the vehicle (10) and a second battery (202) disposed in the second side of the vehicle (10). In an embodiment of the invention the first battery (201) is accommodated within a first storage compartment (241) and the second battery (202) is accommodated within a second storage compartment (242).

[0053] Now referring to Figure 2, Figure 3, Figure 4 and Figure 5, the frame body (12) further comprises a first battery retaining structure (1001) adapted to inhibit movement of the first battery (201) when the first storage compartment (241) is in the first state. There may be additionally provided a second battery retaining structure (1002) adapted to inhibit movement of the second battery (202) when the second storage compartment (242) is in the first state.

[0054] Now particularly referring to Figure 2, in an embodiment of the invention, the frame body (12) comprises a head pipe (28); an upper frame (30) extending from the head pipe (28) in a rearward direction; a first seat frame (32) extending from the upper frame (30) in a rearward direction and being disposed on a first side of the upper frame (30); a second seat frame (34) extending from the upper frame (30) in a rearward direction and being disposed on a second side of the upper frame (30). The first seat frame (32) and the second seat frame (34) are spaced apart from one another and support the at least one seat (36).

[0055] The frame body (12) further comprises at least a first lower frame (38) extending from one of the head pipe (28) and the upper frame (30) in a downward and rearward direction. The frame body (12) may optionally comprise a second lower frame (not shown). In case the body frame (12) comprises the second lower frame, the spaced apart from the first lower frame (38) in a vehicle width direction.

[0056] The frame body (12) further comprises a first pivot frame (42) extending from the upper frame (30) in the downward direction and connected with the first lower frame (38). The frame body (12) further comprises a second pivot frame (44) extending from the upper frame (30) in the downward direction and connected with the first lower frame (38) or the second lower frame (in case the second lower frame is present).

[0057] While in Figure 2, the upper frame (30) does not depict the first battery retaining structure (1001), and the second movement restricting structure (1002); it may be noted that the upper frame (30) comprises the first movement restricting structure (1001) and the second battery retaining structure (1002).

[0058] In one embodiment of the invention, a bracket element (46) is positioned on the upper frame such that it protrudes in a vehicle downward direction or in a vehicle upward direction. Also, the bracket element (46) in this condition gets sandwiched between the first storage compartment (241) and the second storage compartment (242).

[0059] In particular, Figure 3 and Figure 4 shows the first storage compartment (241) and the second compartment (242) being in a second state (S2) with respect to the bracket element (46). When the first storage compartment (241) is in the second state (S2), the first battery (201) can be inserted as well as removed from the first storage compartment (241). Likewise, the second compartment (242) is in the second state (S2), the second battery (202) can be inserted as well as removed from the second storage compartment (242).

[0060] Now referring particularly to Figure 5, there is illustrated the first storage compartment (241) and the second compartment (242) being in a first state (S1) with respect to the battery retaining structure (100). In the first state (S1) of the first storage compartment (241), the first battery (201) can neither be inserted into nor removed from the first storage compartment (241). Also, in the latched state of the first storage compartment (241) i.e. the second state (S2) of the first storage compartment (241), the first battery retaining structure (1001) presses on a top surface of the first battery (201) and therefore inhibits movement of the first battery (201) away from the first state (S1) or attain the second state (S2).

[0061] As can be seen from Figure 5, in the first state (S1) of the second storage compartment (242), the second battery (202) can neither be inserted into nor removed from the second storage compartment (242). Also, in the first state (S1) of the second storage compartment (242), the second battery retaining structure (1002) presses on a top surface of the second battery (202) and therefore inhibits movement of the second battery (202) away from the first state (S1) or attain the second state (S2).

[0062] The battery retaining structure (100) as specifically shown in Figure 3 and Figure 4 can be advantageously used along the storage compartment (241, 242) as shown in Figure 5 (i.e. where the storage compartment is shown in first state). It can be further seen from Figure 6 and Figure 7 that the battery retaining structure (100) consists of a fulcrum (102) pivoting on a shaft element (108) supported by the frame body (12). This structure incorporates a first arm (104) and a second arm (106).

[0063] The first arm (104) comprises a first roller (130) that comes in contact with the top surface of the battery (20) to inhibit movement of the battery (20) in a vehicular upward direction when battery retaining structure (100) is in the first state (S1). The first roller (130) also rotates when the top surface of the battery (20) comes in contact with the first roller (130) and before the storage compartment (24¬) attains the first state (S1). Thus, a different surface of the first roller (130) comes in contact with the top surface of the battery (20) and hence, experiences uniform wear and tear.

[0064] The battery retaining structure (100) may further comprise a second roller (132) provided on the second arm (106). The second roller (132) comes in contact with either a lateral surface of the storage compartment (24) or a lateral surface of the battery (20) before the storage compartment (24) attains the first state (S1). After coming in contact with the lateral surface of the storage compartment (24) or the lateral surface of the battery (20) and till the storage compartment (24) attains the first state (S1), the second roller (132) may rotate. Thus, a different surface of the second roller (132) comes in contact with the lateral surface of the storage compartment (24) or the lateral surface of the battery (20) and hence, experiences uniform wear and tear.

[0065] Since, the first roller (130) presses down the battery (20) and inhibits movement of the battery (20) in a vehicular upward direction when the storage compartment (24) is in the latched state; the first roller (130) is made of resilient member. Thus, the first roller (130) undergoes a compression between a state when the first roller (130) comes in contact with the top surface of the battery (20) and the storage compartment (24) attaining the first state. Therefore, the first roller (130) applies a positive pressure on the top surface of the battery (20).

[0066] Particularly referring to Figure 7, the battery retaining structure (100) further comprises a movement restricting structure (110) is interposed between the shaft element (108) and the frame body (12) of the electric vehicle (10). The movement restricting structure (110) inhibits the fulcrum (102) to move from the first state. The movement restricting structure (110) comprises a first ratchet wheel (116) and a second ratchet wheel (118).

[0067] In an embodiment of the invention, the first ratchet wheel (116) comes in engaging relation with the second ratchet wheel (118) thereby inhibiting the fulcrum (102) to move from the first state (S1). The movement restricting structure (110) further comprises a first resilient member (122) applying a positive force on the second ratchet wheel (118) thereby maintaining the second ratchet wheel (118) in the engaging relation with the first ratchet wheel (116).

[0068] The battery retaining structure (100) further comprises a movement allowing member (112) permitting, upon actuation, the fulcrum (102) to move from the first state. The movement allowing member (112) comprises a cord element (120) coupled to the second ratchet wheel (118). The movement allowing member (112), upon actuation, disengages the engaging relation between the first ratchet wheel (116) and the second ratchet wheel (118).

[0069] Now referring to Figure 8, the second ratchet wheel (118) comprises a third ratchet wheel (124) and a pawl (126) that is in intermeshed relation with the third ratchet wheel (124). When the pawl (126) is in intermeshed relation with the third ratchet wheel (124), the second ratchet wheel (118) remains in the first state.

[0070] Now referring to Figure 2, Figure 3, Figure 4 and Figure 5 in an embodiment of the invention, the first storage compartment (241) and the second storage compartment (242) are pivotally mounted on the frame body (12). The electric vehicle (10) further comprises a battery retaining structure (100) (best seen in Figure 6, Figure 7, and Figure 8) whose function is to retain at least one of the first storage compartment (241) and the second storage compartment (242) in a first state. The battery retaining structure (100) may be mounted on the frame body (12).

[0071] It may be noted that as shown in Figure 3, and Figure 4, there may be provided two separate battery retaining structure (100) which function to retain the first storage compartment (241) and the second storage compartment (242), respectively in a second state. In case two separate battery retaining structure (100) are provided, there may also be provided two separate movement allowing member (112) (not shown) which will act upon the two separate battery retaining structure (100) and permit the first storage compartment (241) and the second storage compartment (242) to reach their respective second state with respect to the bracket element (46).

[0072] Alternatively, although not illustrated, there may be provided a singular movement restricting structure (110) which functions to retain both the first storage compartment (241) and the second storage compartment (242) in a first state. It may be noted that the movement allowing member (112) may act upon the singular movement restricting structure (110) such that it simultaneously permits both the first storage compartment (241) and/or the second storage compartment (242) to reach their respective second state.

[0073] One of the advantage of the invention is that the battery retaining structure (100) applies a positive pressure on the battery (20), which is generally not attained by the storage compartment (24) itself or by any other vehicular component.

[0074] Another advantage of the invention is that the construction of the battery retaining structure (100) is substantially simple. Thus, it is easy to manufacture the battery retaining structure (100). Also, the method for joining the battery retaining structure (100) to the frame body (12) is simple. For instance, the battery retaining structure (100) can be welded to the frame body (12). Thus, cost and time involved in joining the battery retaining structure (100) to the frame body (12) are substantially low.

[0075] Still another advantage of the invention is that the first roller (130) forming part of the battery retaining structure (100) undergoes uniform wear and tear and hence can serve for longer period of time. Thus, the possibility of premature failure of the battery retaining structure (100) is substantially low and also a cost of replacement of the first roller (130) is substantially low.

[0076] Yet another advantage of the invention is that the securely held battery (20) significantly reduces the likelihood of undesired and abrupt interruptions in the flow of electricity from the at least one battery (20) to the at least one motor (18), particularly when the electric vehicle (10) is in motion. As un-intended disruption of the electricity flow from the at least one battery (20) to the at least one motor (18) can cause accidents, hamper user experience in driving; a level of safety as well as a vehicle driving experience is substantially improved.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples. Additionally, numerous variations, whether explicitly given in the specification or not, such as differences in structure, dimension, and use of material, are possible.
,CLAIMS:WE CLAIM:

1. A battery retaining structure (100) of a vehicle (10), comprising:
a fulcrum (102) comprising a first arm (104), a second arm (106) extending from the first arm (104), and a shaft element (108) coupling the fulcrum (102) to a frame body (12) of the vehicle (10); the first arm (104), the second arm (106), and the shaft element (108) exhibiting pivoting movement with respect to the frame body (12) between a first state (S1) and a second state (S2), the fulcrum (102) securely retaining a battery (20) in the first state (S1);
a movement restricting structure (110) interposed between the shaft element (108) and the frame body (12) of the vehicle (10), the movement restricting structure (110) inhibits the fulcrum (102) to move from the first state; and
a movement allowing member (112) permitting, upon actuation, the fulcrum (102) to move from the first state.

2. The battery retaining structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the shaft element (108) defines an axis about which the first arm (104), the second arm (106), and the shaft element (108) exhibit pivoting rotational movement.

3. The battery retaining structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the movement restricting structure (110) comprises a first ratchet wheel (116) that comes in engaging relation with a second ratchet wheel (118) thereby inhibiting the fulcrum mechanism (102) to move from the first state (S1); and the movement allowing member (112) being coupled to the second ratchet wheel (118), the movement allowing member (112), upon actuation, disengaging the engaging relation between the first ratchet wheel (116) and the second ratchet wheel (118).

4. The battery retaining structure as claimed in claim 3, wherein the movement allowing member (112) comprises a cord element (120).

5. The battery retaining structure as claimed in claim 3, wherein the movement restricting structure (110) comprises a first resilient member (122) applying a positive force on the second ratchet wheel (118) thereby maintaining the second ratchet wheel (118) in the engaging relation with the first ratchet wheel (116).

6. The battery retaining structure as claimed in claim 5, wherein at least one of:
the first ratchet wheel (116) being provided on a first end (124) of the shaft element (108);
the second ratchet wheel (118) being located between the first ratchet wheel (116) and the frame body (12) of the vehicle (10); and
the first resilient member (122) being positioned between the second ratchet wheel (118) and frame body (12) of the vehicle (10).

7. The battery retaining structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first arm (104) comprises a first roller (130) and the second arm (106) comprises a second roller (132).

8. The battery retaining structure as claimed in claim 7, wherein a lateral surface (24) of the battery (20) pushes the second roller (132) of the second arm (106) while attaining the first state, thereby causing the first arm (104) of the fulcrum (102) to exhibit pivotal movement, and causing the first roller (130) to come in contact with a top surface (22) of the battery (20), the first roller applying pressure on the top surface (22) of the battery (20) in the first state of the fulcrum mechanism (102) thereby inhibiting movement of the battery (20) in a vehicular upward direction.

9. An electric vehicle (10), comprising:
a frame body (12) supporting at least one ground engaging member (14, 16), a motor (18) supplying driving power to the at least one ground engaging member (14, 16), and at least one battery (20) providing electrical power to the motor (18);
a storage compartment (24) pivotally supported by the frame body (12), the storage compartment (24) storing the battery (20); and
a battery retaining structure (100) retaining the battery (20), the battery retaining structure (100) comprising:
a fulcrum (102) comprising a first arm (104), a second arm (106) extending from the first arm (104), and a shaft element (108) coupling the fulcrum mechanism (100) to a frame body (12) of the vehicle (10); the first arm (104), the second arm (106), and the shaft element (108) exhibiting pivoting movement with respect to the frame body (12) between a first state (S1) and a second state (S2), the fulcrum (102) securely retaining a battery (20) in the first state (S1);
a movement restricting structure (110) interposed between the shaft element (108) and the frame body (12) of the vehicle (10), the movement restricting structure (110) inhibits the fulcrum (102) to move from the first state; and
a movement allowing member (112) permitting, upon actuation, the fulcrum mechanism (102) to move from the first state.

10. The electric vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the frame body (12) comprises:
a head pipe (28);
an upper frame (30) extending from the head pipe (28) in a rearward direction;
a first seat frame (32) extending from the upper frame (30) in a rearward direction and being disposed on a first side of the upper frame (30);
a second seat frame (34) extending from the upper frame (30) in a rearward direction and being disposed on a second side of the upper frame (30), the first seat frame (32) and the second seat frame (34) supporting at least one seat (36);
at least one lower frame (38) extending from one of the head pipe (28) and the upper frame (30) in a downward and rearward direction;
a first pivot frame (42) extending from the upper frame (30) in the downward direction and connected with the at least one lower frame (32);
a second pivot frame (44) extending from the upper frame (30) in the downward direction and connected with the at least one lower frame (32), the second pivot frame (44) being spaced from the first pivot frame (42) in a vehicle width direction; and
a bracket element (46) attached proximate to the upper frame (30) for receiving the battery retaining structure (100).