DESC:RADIATOR MOUNTING ASSEMBLY FOR SADDLE TYPE VEHICLE
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICTIONS
The present application claims priority from Indian Provisional Patent Application No. 202321090080 filed on 30/12/2023, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by a reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present disclosure generally relates to a saddle type vehicle. Particularly, the present disclosure relates to a radiator mounting assembly for the saddle type vehicle.
BACKGROUND
Generally, two-wheelers such as motorcycles have a radiator. The radiator functions to dissipate the heat generated by components of a powertrain, including an electric powertrain and/or internal combustion engine. The radiator uses a coolant system to transfer heat from such components to the radiator, where airflow removes the heat. The radiator prevents overheating, maintaining performance and extending the lifespan of critical components.
Typically, the radiator in a motorcycle is mounted between the frame's down tubes to optimize the cooling and aerodynamics. The radiator is secured using side plates and a support pin connected to a cross pipe, often with a shock-absorbing rubber to dampen vibrations. Moreover, the upper and lower mounts use brackets or support pins with rubber dampers to absorb shocks and prevents the stress on the radiator. Furthermore, current mounting structure for radiator ensures stability while allowing efficient heat dissipation and protection from debris with a front-mounted net screen. However, in current radiator mountings, the alignment between the down tubes and radiator requires precise manufacturing tolerances. Moreover, the minor misalignment during assembling the radiator may results in uneven stress distribution, which leads to the potential fatigue or failure over time. Furthermore, the shock-absorbing rubber member may degrade over time due to heat, vibrations, and environmental factors, reducing its effectiveness and potentially causing the radiator to loosen or rattle. Furthermore, the support pin or brackets used to mount the radiator must be need strategically placed to ensure proper alignment and support. Moreover, the placement of the support pin or brackets adds complexity to the design, which not only increases the overall weight of the motorcycle but also raises manufacturing costs. Moreover, extra weight may affect the bike’s performance, reducing efficiency and handling, while the added cost comes from the need for more materials and precise engineering. Additionally, maintenance and servicing of the radiator is difficult because the tight space between the down tubes which makes the radiator hard to access. Also, the mounting arrangement can make repairs or replacements time consuming and more complicated.
Therefore, there exists a need of improved radiator mounting assembly for motorcycle that overcomes the one or more problems associated as set forth above.
SUMMARY
An object of the present disclosure is to provide a radiator mounting assembly for a saddle type vehicle.
In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a radiator mounting assembly for a saddle type vehicle. The radiator mounting assembly comprises a vehicle frame comprising a plurality of front tube members, a radiator unit mounted on the plurality of front tube members, a radiator front grill configured to protect the radiator unit, wherein the radiator front grill is mounted on the plurality of front tube members and a pair of radiator side covers, wherein the pair of radiator side covers is mounted on the radiator front grill.
The present disclosure provides the radiator mounting assembly for the saddle type vehicle. The radiator mounting assembly as disclosed by present disclosure is advantageous in terms of providing direct mounting for radiator unit on vehicle frame. Beneficially, the radiator mounting assembly offers better structural stability and reduces the stress caused by vibrations. Beneficially, the mounting of the pair of radiator side covers on the radiator front grill bears the mechanical load of the side covers. Beneficially, the radiator mounting assembly provides an additional layer of protection against debris and impacts, thereby safeguards the radiator unit and improves the durability. Beneficially, the radiator mounting assembly absorbs initial impacts which helps to preserve the functionality of the radiator unit. Furthermore, the radiator mounting assembly significantly enhances overall protection of the radiator unit and shields the sides of radiator unit from external damage. Moreover, the mounting assembly contributes to improved aerodynamics and aesthetic appeal of the vehicle. Furthermore, the radiator mounting assembly simplifies maintenance and servicing of the vehicle.
Additional aspects, advantages, features and objects of the present disclosure would be made apparent from the drawings and the detailed description of the illustrative embodiments constructed in conjunction with the appended claims that follow.
It will be appreciated that features of the present disclosure are susceptible to being combined in various combinations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale. Wherever possible, like elements have been indicated by identical numbers.
Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams wherein:
FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a radiator mounting assembly for a saddle type vehicle, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of a radiator mounting assembly for a saddle type vehicle, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure.
In the accompanying drawings, an underlined number is employed to represent an item over which the underlined number is positioned or an item to which the underlined number is adjacent. A non-underlined number relates to an item identified by a line linking the non-underlined number to the item. When a number is non-underlined and accompanied by an associated arrow, the non-underlined number is used to identify a general item at which the arrow is pointing.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognise that other embodiments for carrying out or practising the present disclosure are also possible.
The description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of certain embodiments of a radiator mounting assembly of a saddle type vehicle and is not intended to represent the only forms that may be developed or utilised. The description sets forth the various structures and/or functions in connection with the illustrated embodiments; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the disclosure that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale; some features may be exaggerated or minimised to show details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention.
While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiment thereof has been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail below. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure.
The terms “comprise”, “comprises”, “comprising”, “include(s)”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a setup, system that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or system. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus preceded by “comprises... a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus.
In the following detailed description of the embodiments of the disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings and which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The following description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.
The present disclosure will be described herein below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, well known functions or constructions are not described in detail since they would obscure the description with unnecessary detail.
As used herein, the terms “saddle type vehicle”, “motorcycle”, and “vehicle” are used interchangeably and refer to a motorized vehicle, typically a two-wheeled or three-wheeled configuration, designed with a saddle-shaped seat that the rider straddles while operating the vehicle. The rider's legs are positioned on either side of the vehicle, and the design allows for a forward-leaning or upright posture. Common examples include motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds. These vehicles often feature handlebars for steering and footrests or pedals for rider support. The saddle-type configuration facilitates ergonomic control and stability, making the vehicle suitable for urban and off-road transportation applications, depending on the he vehicle's intended use and design.
As used herein, the term “radiator mounting assembly” refers to a structural arrangement designed to securely hold the radiator in position. The radiator mounting assembly typically includes brackets, bridges, fasteners configured to attach the radiator unit to the vehicle frame. These components are strategically designed to ensure optimal alignment, maintain consistent airflow for effective cooling, and reduce stress on the radiator caused by road vibrations or dynamic forces.
As used herein, the term “plurality of front tube members” and “front tube members” are used interchangeably and refer to a structural component integrated into the vehicle frame, typically positioned near the front section of the chassis. The tubular member provides a mounting interface for securing the radiator in place, ensuring its stability during operation and effective alignment with airflow for cooling efficiency. It may also serve additional structural roles, such as reinforcing the frame's rigidity or supporting other auxiliary components.
As used herein, the term “vehicle frame” refers to the structural framework that provides support and mounts essential components and other critical systems of vehicle. The frame typically includes designated mounting points or brackets specifically configured to secure the radiator and other components in an optimal position, ensuring efficient airflow and cooling performance. It is to be understood that the vehicle frame acts as a base structure for mounting and assembly of other components of the vehicle.
As used herein, the term “radiator unit” and “radiator” are used interchangeably and refer to a heat exchange device designed to transfer thermal energy from a fluid, such as coolant, to the surrounding air to regulate temperature within a system. Typically, a radiator comprises a core formed of interconnected tubes and fins that maximize surface area for effective heat dissipation. The device often incorporates an inlet and an outlet for fluid flow and may be equipped with a fan to enhance air circulation. Commonly used in automotive and industrial applications, the radiator's primary function is to maintain optimal operating temperatures of mechanical or electronic components by dissipating excess heat efficiently.
As used herein, the term “radiator front grill” and “front grill” are used interchangeably and refer to a structural component located at the front section of the vehicle, designed to facilitate airflow to the radiator or cooling system while simultaneously serving as a protective barrier. Typically composed of a framework with perforated or slotted designs, the radiator grill ensures the efficient dissipation of heat generated by the engine or other components by channelling ambient air to radiators. Additionally, radiator grill enhances the vehicle's aesthetic appeal and may provide structural integrity to the front fascia.
As used herein, the term “pair of radiator side covers” and “radiator side covers” are used interchangeably and refer to two protective panels designed to be mounted on either sides of the radiator assembly. These covers serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. Functionally, the side covers shield the radiator from external damage caused by debris, impacts, or environmental elements while ensuring proper airflow to maintain efficient cooling performance. Aesthetically, the side covers enhance the motorcycle's overall design by concealing the radiator components and integrating seamlessly with the vehicle frame.
As used herein, the term “plurality of radiator mounting brackets” and “mounting brackets” are used interchangeably and refer to multiple structural components designed to securely attach the radiator to the vehicle frame or chassis. The radiator mounting brackets ensure proper alignment and stability of the radiator while accommodating vibrations, thermal expansion, and road conditions. Typically made from durable materials such as metal or reinforced plastic, the brackets may include mounting holes, slots, or fasteners to facilitate installation and maintenance.
As used herein, the term “plurality of mounting bridges” and “mounting bridges” are used interchangeably and refer to multiple structural components or connecting members that are designed to secure the radiator front grill to the motorcycle frame or other supporting structures. These mounting bridges serve as intermediary elements, providing stable and reliable attachment points for radiator front grill for providing length and ensures the proper alignment, vibration damping, and load distribution during operation.
As used herein, the term “pair of shroud members” and “shroud members” are used interchangeably and refer to the two protective covering structures, typically positioned on opposite sides of the radiator unit, designed to direct airflow and provide shielding. The shroud members are configured to enhance the aerodynamic efficiency of the radiator by channelling air effectively through the radiator for optimized cooling performance.
As used herein, the terms “plurality of fasteners” refers to a group or collection of fastening elements, such as bolts, screws, nuts, or rivets, that are used in combination to securely attach or mount components together within a mounting structure.
As used herein, the term “U-cover assembly” refers to a structural component designed to provide protective and aesthetic coverage for the upper portion of the vehicle's saddle and/or tank section. The U-cover assembly typically features a U-shaped configuration that accommodate to the outer shapes of the radiator or the vehicle frame, ensuring optimal fitment and coverage. The U-cover assembly is mounted on the vehicle frame, often incorporating attachment points to secure it firmly in place.
Figure 1, in accordance with an embodiment describes a radiator mounting assembly 100 for a saddle type vehicle. The radiator mounting assembly 100 comprises a vehicle frame 102 comprising a plurality of front tube members 104, a radiator unit 106 mounted on the plurality of front tube members 104, a radiator front grill 108 configured to protect the radiator unit 106, wherein the radiator front grill 108 is mounted on the plurality of front tube members 104 and a pair of radiator side covers 110, wherein the pair of radiator side covers 110 is mounted on the radiator front grill 108.
The present disclosure provides the radiator mounting assembly 100 for the saddle type vehicle. The radiator mounting assembly 100 as disclosed by present disclosure is advantageous in terms of providing a direct mounting for radiator unit 106 on the vehicle frame 102. Beneficially, the radiator unit 106 directly mounts on the plurality of front tube members 104 ensures a secure and stable fit and reduces the risk of misalignment or stress concentration caused by vibrations. Beneficially, the radiator mounting assembly 100 improves the durability of the radiator unit 106 and minimizes the chances of structural damage over time. Additionally, by incorporating a dedicated radiator front grill 108, the radiator mounting assembly 100 provides robust protection against debris, rocks, and other road hazards. Beneficially, the radiator front grill 108 absorbs impacts and prevents direct damage to the radiator unit 106 which ensures maintained cooling efficiency. Furthermore, the pair of side cover 110 mounted on the radiator front grill 108 offers enhanced protection to the either sides of the radiator unit 106, thereby shielding the radiator unit 106 from lateral impacts and environmental factors like dirt and moisture. Furthermore, the mounting of the pair of radiator side covers 110 on the radiator front grill 108 bears the mechanical load of the pair of side covers 110 which eliminates the need of additional bracket requirement for the mounting and load distribution of the pair of sides cover 110. Furthermore, the radiator mounting assembly 100 improves the vehicle’s aesthetics by giving a cleaner, more integrated appearance to the vehicle. Moreover, the modular design of the radiator mounting assembly 100 simplifies maintenance and servicing of the vehicle. Furthermore, the radiator front grill 108 and the pair of radiator side covers 110 enables easy attachment and detachment function without disturbing the radiator unit 106 which significantly makes repairs and replacements quicker and more efficient. Overall, the radiator mounting assembly 100 contributes to improved protection, stability, and ease of maintenance of the radiator unit 106.
In an embodiment, the radiator unit 106 is mounted on the plurality of front tube members 104 by a plurality of radiator mounting brackets 112. The plurality of radiator mounting brackets 112 may be strategically positioned to ensure a robust and stable attachment between the radiator unit 106 and the plurality of front tube members 104. Beneficially, the plurality of radiator mounting brackets 112 may be configured to evenly distribute the load of the radiator unit 106 across the plurality of front tube members 106 which significantly reduces stress concentrations and enhancing the durability of the radiator mounting assembly 100. Furthermore, the plurality of radiator mounting brackets 112 beneficially ensures the secure positioning of the radiator unit 106.
In an embodiment, the radiator mounting assembly 100 comprises a plurality of mounting bridges 114. The plurality of mounting bridges 114 are mounted between the radiator front grill 108 and the plurality of front tube members 104. The plurality of mounting bridges 114 connects the radiator front grill 108 directly to the plurality of front tube members 104 to enable the easy mounting arrangement. Beneficially, the plurality of mounting bridges 114 improves the rigidity of the radiator mounting assembly 100 and enhances the durability and the overall protection of the radiator unit 106. Beneficially, the plurality of mounting bridges 114 simplify the disassembly process by providing clear attachment points for removing the radiator front grill 108 and other components without disturbing the radiator unit 106. Additionally, the plurality of mounting bridges 114 enables mounting of the radiator front grill 108 as the plurality of front tube members 104 are directly inaccessible due to the mounting of the radiator unit 106.
In an embodiment, the plurality of mounting bridges 114 are further configured to receive mounting of a pair of shroud members 116. Furthermore, the plurality of mounting bridges 114 may be designed to receive and support the mounting and installation of the pair of shroud members 116, which significantly enhances the structural integrity and functionality of the radiator mounting assembly 100. Beneficially, the pair of shroud members 116 may be mounted upon the plurality of mounting bridges 114 which helps to improve aerodynamics and air drag around the radiator unit 106.
In an embodiment, the radiator front grill 108 is configured to act as a load bearing member for the pair of shroud members 116. The radiator front grill 108 may be specifically engineered to bear the weight and forces exerted by the pair of shroud members 116, which may be positioned around the radiator unit 106 to optimize air distribution. Beneficially, by utilizing the radiator front grill 108 as a structural support, the front grill 108 eliminates the need for additional mounting brackets or supports, thereby streamline the assembly process and minimizing the overall weight of the radiator mounting assembly 100. Beneficially, the arrangement of the radiator front grill 108 ensures that the load from the pair of shroud members 116 may be evenly distributed across the vehicle frame 102, maintaining the integrity and stability of the entire radiator unit 106.
In an embodiment, the pair of radiator side covers 110 are mounted on the radiator front grill 108 via a plurality of fasteners 118. The pair of radiator side covers 110 may be positioned on either side of the radiator unit 106, which provides additional protection and support. The pair of radiator side covers 110 helps to shield the radiator unit 106 from external debris, impacts, and environmental factors and ensures longevity and performance of the radiator unit 106. Beneficially, the fasteners 118 may be used to firmly attach the pair of radiator side covers 110 to the front grill 108 which significantly ensures a stable and reliable connection. Furthermore, the mounting with the help of plurality of fasteners 118 beneficially allows for easy removal and reattachment of the pair of radiator side covers 110 during maintenance or repairs. Beneficially, the radiator front grill 108 act as a load bearing member for the pair of radiator side covers 110. Such mounting eliminates the need for additional mounting brackets or supports.
In an embodiment, the radiator front grill 108 is configured to protect the radiator unit 106 from damage due to external elements. The radiator front grill 108 may be strategically positioned to absorb and deflect impacts from debris, stones, and other road hazards, thereby preventing the direct contact with the radiator unit 106. Beneficially, the radiator grill 108 safeguards the radiator unit 106 from damage and also ensures unobstructed airflow for efficient cooling.
In an embodiment, the radiator front grill 108 is made up of high stiffness and high strength material. The high stiffness and high strength material enhances the ability of radiator front grill 108 to withstand impacts from debris, rocks, and other road hazards, which further provides robust protection to the radiator unit 106. Beneficially, the high stiffness ensures the radiator front grill 108 to maintains the shape and structural integrity under stress, while the high strength offers durability and resistance to damage over prolonged use.
In an embodiment, the radiator front grill 108 is configured to provide mechanical support to the pair of radiator side covers 110. The radiator front grill 108 serves as a robust structural element, which secures attachment and alignment of the pair of side covers 110 on either side of the radiator unit 106. The connection between the radiator front grill 108 and the pair of side covers 110 enhances the stability and durability of the radiator mounting assembly 100 by distributing mechanical loads from the pair of side covers 110 through the radiator front grill 108 to the vehicle frame 102.
Figure 2, a front view of the radiator mounting assembly 100 for the saddle type vehicle. In an embodiment, the radiator front grill 108 is configured to act as a load bearing member for a U-cover assembly 120. The radiator front grill 108 may be structurally reinforced and integrated into the radiator mounting assembly 100 to withstand the additional load of the U-cover assembly 120 without compromising the primary function of protecting the radiator unit 106. Furthermore, The U-cover assembly 120 may be mounted on the radiator front grill 108 in a manner that distributes the load evenly across the radiator front grill 108 and the vehicle frame structure 102 which significantly ensures the stability and minimizing stress on individual components of the radiator mounting assembly 100.
In an embodiment, the radiator mounting assembly 100 comprises the vehicle frame 102 comprising the plurality of front tube members 104, the radiator unit 106 mounted on the plurality of front tube members 104, the radiator front grill 108 configured to protect the radiator unit 106. The radiator front grill 108 is mounted on the plurality of front tube members 104 and the pair of radiator side covers 110, wherein the pair of radiator side covers 110 is mounted on the radiator front grill 108. Furthermore, the radiator unit 106 is mounted on the plurality of front tube members 104 by the plurality of radiator mounting brackets 112. Furthermore, the radiator mounting assembly 100 comprises the plurality of mounting bridges 114. The plurality of mounting bridges 114 are mounted between the radiator front grill 108 and the plurality of front tube members 104. Furthermore, the plurality of mounting bridges 114 are further configured to receive mounting of the pair of shroud members 116. Furthermore, the radiator front grill 108 is configured to act as a load bearing member for the pair of shroud members 116. Furthermore, the pair of radiator side covers 110 are mounted on the radiator front grill 108 via a plurality of fasteners 118. Furthermore, the radiator front grill 108 is configured to act as a load bearing member for the U-cover assembly 120. Furthermore, the radiator front grill 108 is configured to protect the radiator unit 106 from damage due to external elements. Furthermore, the radiator front grill 108 is made up of high stiffness and high strength material. Furthermore, the radiator front grill 108 is configured to provide mechanical support to the pair of radiator side covers 110.
In the description of the present invention, it is also to be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified or limited, the terms “disposed,” “mounted,” and “connected” are to be construed broadly, and may for example be fixedly connected, detachably connected, or integrally connected, either mechanically or electrically. They may be connected directly or indirectly through intervening media, or they may be interconnected between two elements. The specific meaning of the above terms in the present invention can be understood in specific cases to those skilled in the art.
Modifications to embodiments and combination of different embodiments of the present disclosure described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as “including”, “comprising”, “incorporating”, “have”, “is” used to describe and claim the present disclosure are intended to be construed in a non- exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural where appropriate.
Although embodiments have been described with reference to a number of illustrative embodiments thereof, it should be understood that numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art that will fall within the spirit and scope of the principles of this disclosure. More particularly, various variations and modifications are possible in the component parts and/or arrangements of the subject combination arrangement within the scope of the present disclosure, the drawings and the appended claims. In addition to variations and modifications in the component parts and/or arrangements, alternative uses will also be apparent to those skilled in the art.
,CLAIMS:WE CLAIM:
1. A radiator mounting assembly (100) for a saddle type vehicle, wherein the radiator mounting assembly (100) comprises:
- a vehicle frame (102) comprising a plurality of front tube members (104);
- a radiator unit (106) mounted on the plurality of front tube members (104);
- a radiator front grill (108) configured to protect the radiator unit (106), wherein the radiator front grill (108) is mounted on the plurality of front tube members (104); and
- a pair of radiator side covers (110), wherein the pair of radiator side covers (110) is mounted on the radiator front grill (108).
2. The radiator mounting assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the radiator unit (106) is mounted on the plurality of front tube members (104) by a plurality of radiator mounting brackets (112).
3. The radiator mounting assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the radiator mounting assembly (100) comprises a plurality of mounting bridges (114), and wherein the plurality of mounting bridges (114) are mounted between the radiator front grill (108) and the plurality of front tube members (104).
4. The radiator mounting assembly (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the plurality of mounting bridges (114) are further configured to receive mounting of a pair of shroud members (116).
5. The radiator mounting assembly as claimed in claim 4, wherein the radiator front grill (108) is configured to act as a load bearing member for the pair of shroud members (116).
6. The radiator mounting assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pair of radiator side covers (110) are mounted on the radiator front grill (108) via a plurality of fasteners (118).
7. The radiator mounting assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the radiator front grill (108) is configured to act as a load bearing member for a U-cover assembly (120).
8. The radiator mounting assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the radiator front grill (108) is configured to protect the radiator unit (106) from damage due to external elements.
9. The radiator mounting assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the radiator front grill (108) is made up of high stiffness and high strength material.
10. The radiator mounting assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the radiator front grill (108) is configured to provide mechanical support to the pair of radiator side covers (110).