Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[001] The present invention relates to a haptic alert assembly. More particularly, the present invention relates to a haptic alert assembly for a vehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[002] In existing vehicles, especially motorcycle type vehicles, only two channels of information in the Human Machine Interface (HMI) are generally used. The most widely used information channel being a visual channel, wherein relevant information is displayed to the rider through a display console of the vehicle or through a screen of the smartphone. The second most widely used information channel is the audio channel. Conventionally, different vehicle parts would have beeps to indicate operation such as the indicator. In recent times, the audio channel has extended to communication with a rider through a wireless or Bluetooth headset, which can be integrated in a helmet of the rider. The headset is connected to a vehicle control unit wherein the vehicle control unit provides audio alerts to the user based on inputs from various vehicle sensors.
[003] However, both the above channels of information have some major limitations. Usage of a display panel or console of the vehicle or the screen of the smartphone necessitates the rider to look away from their primary objective, i.e. the road, which causes a lot of unnecessary distraction to the rider, thus increasing the risk of confusion and accidents. Since the rider is primarily focussed on the road, the information or warnings displayed on the display console or the screen of the smartphone may be missed by the rider, which further increasing the risk of accidents. Having to constantly check the instrument cluster is also a hectic process and causes unnecessary inconvenience to the rider.
[004] Similarly, when the audio channel of information is used with the wireless or Bluetooth headset, there always remains a chance of disruption in the connection between the headset and the vehicle control unit. Among other factors, the disruption may be caused due to lower battery levels of the headset or due to other wireless devices in the vicinity of the headset. This leads to unnecessary distraction to the rider, as well as the chance of the rider missing some important warnings or alerts.
[005] Further, developing vehicle warning or alert systems also make use of haptic or audio alerts through a wearable device such as a smart helmet, or a smartwatch, or a wristband or eye gear such as googles. However, if the rider fails to carry the wearable device with them for any reason or if the rider forgets to wear the wearable device during riding the vehicle, these vehicle warning and alert systems become irrelevant.
[006] Thus, there is a need in the art for a haptic alert assembly for a vehicle which addresses at least the aforementioned problems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[007] In one aspect, the present invention relates to a haptic alert assembly. The haptic alert assembly has a vibration motor and the vibration motor is disposed in a handlebar assembly of the vehicle. The haptic alert assembly further has one or more mounting brackets. The one or more mounting brackets being configured to be connected to the handlebar assembly of the vehicle for supporting the vibration motor in the handlebar assembly of the vehicle.
[008] In an embodiment of the invention, the haptic alert assembly has one or more holder members and one or more of bush members. The one or more holder members are configured to hold the vibration motor and the one or more bush members are connected to the one or more holder members.
[009] In an embodiment of the invention, the haptic alert assembly has a plate member. The plate member is configured to be in contact with a hand of a rider. The plate member is operatively connected to the vibration motor, wherein on operation of the vibration motor, the plate member vibrates, thereby providing a haptic alert to the rider of the vehicle.
[010] In a further embodiment of the invention, the vibration motor has an eccentric rotating mass motor.
[011] In a further embodiment of the invention, the one or more mounting brackets have a first end and a second end. The first end is configured to be connected to the handlebar assembly and the second end is configured to receive the one or more bush members.
[012] In a further embodiment of the invention, the handlebar assembly has a handlebar member being connected to a main handlebar rod. The handlebar member has a first slot and the first slot is configured to receive the vibration motor.
[013] In a further embodiment of the invention, the handlebar member has a second slot and the second slot is configured to allow a wiring harness to pass through to the vibration motor.
[014] In a further embodiment of the invention, a first end of the handlebar member is connected to the main handlebar rod, and the second slot is provided adjacent to the first end of the handlebar member.
[015] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a handlebar assembly for a vehicle. The handlebar assembly has a main handlebar rod extending a vehicle width direction. A handlebar member is connected to the main handlebar rod and has a first slot. A throttle body is provided on the handlebar member and the throttle body is configured to rotate based on an input from a rider. The handlebar assembly further has a haptic alert assembly. The haptic alert assembly has a vibration motor and the vibration motor is disposed inside the first slot of the handlebar member. The haptic alert assembly further has one or more mounting brackets. The one or more mounting brackets being configured to be connected to the throttle body for supporting the vibration motor on the throttle body.
[016] In an embodiment of the invention, the haptic alert assembly has one or more holder members and one or more of bush members. The one or more holder members are configured to hold the vibration motor and the one or more bush members are connected to the one or more holder members.
[017] In an embodiment of the invention, the haptic alert assembly has a plate member. The plate member is configured to be in contact with a hand of a rider. The plate member is operatively connected to the vibration motor, wherein on operation of the vibration motor, the plate member vibrates, thereby providing a haptic alert to the rider of the vehicle.
[018] In an embodiment of the invention, the handlebar assembly has a handlebar grip. The handlebar grip is configured to be disposed on the throttle body. The handlebar grip has a first notch and the first notch is configured to receive the plate member, wherein the plate member is flush with the handlebar grip.
[019] In a further embodiment of the invention, the throttle body has a first cutout portion. The first cutout portion of the throttle body is configured for allowing the plate member to be connected to the vibration motor.
[020] In a further embodiment of the invention, the one or more mounting brackets have a first end and a second end. The first end is configured to be connected to the throttle body and the second end is configured to receive the one or more bush members.
[021] In a further embodiment of the invention, the handlebar member has a second slot and the second slot is configured to allow a wiring harness to pass through to the vibration motor.
[022] In a further embodiment of the invention, a first end of the handlebar member is connected to the main handlebar rod, and the second slot is provided adjacent to the first end of the handlebar member.
[023] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a handlebar assembly for a vehicle. The handlebar assembly has a main handlebar rod extending in a vehicle width direction. The main handlebar rod has a first slot. The handlebar assembly further has a haptic alert assembly. The haptic alert assembly has a vibration motor and the vibration motor is disposed inside the first slot of the main handlebar rod. The haptic alert assembly further has one or more mounting brackets. The one or more mounting brackets being configured to be connected to the main handlebar rod for supporting the vibration motor on the main handlebar rod.
[024] In an embodiment of the invention, the haptic alert assembly has one or more holder members and one or more of bush members. The one or more holder members are configured to hold the vibration motor and the one or more bush members are connected to the one or more holder members.
[025] In an embodiment of the invention, the haptic alert assembly has a plate member. The plate member is configured to be in contact with a hand of a rider. The plate member is operatively connected to the vibration motor, wherein on operation of the vibration motor, the plate member vibrates, thereby providing a haptic alert to the rider of the vehicle.
[026] In an embodiment of the invention, the handlebar assembly has a handlebar grip. The handlebar grip is configured to be disposed on the main handlebar rod. The handlebar grip has a first notch and the first notch is configured to receive the plate member, wherein the plate member is flush with the handlebar grip.
[027] In a further embodiment of the invention, the one or more mounting brackets have a first end and a second end. The first end is configured to be connected to the main handlebar rod and the second end is configured to receive the one or more bush members.
[028] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a haptic alert assembly for a vehicle. The haptic alert assembly has a vibration motor. The vibration motor is disposed on one end of a handlebar assembly of the vehicle. Herein, the one end of the handlebar assembly is disposed facing away from a vehicle centreline and the other end of the handlebar assembly is disposed facing towards the vehicle centreline. The haptic alert assembly has one or more holder members. The one or more holder members are configured to hold the vibration motor. The one or more holder members are mounted on one end of the handlebar assembly, wherein on operation of the vibration motor, the holder member vibrates thereby providing a haptic alert to a rider of the vehicle.
[029] In an embodiment of the invention, the one or more holder members are mounted on the one end of the handlebar assembly by means of a bolt and a rubber bush member, wherein the rubber bush member is provided between the bolt and the one or more holder members.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[030] Reference will be made to embodiments of the invention, examples of which may be illustrated in accompanying figures. These figures are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Although the invention is generally described in context of these embodiments, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to these particular embodiments.
Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a haptic alert assembly for a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of a handlebar assembly with the haptic alert assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 3 illustrates another perspective view of the handlebar assembly with a handlebar grip, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 4 illustrates an exploded view of the handlebar assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 5A illustrates a sectional view of the handlebar assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 5B illustrates a rear perspective view of the haptic alert assembly being provided in the handlebar assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 6A and 6B illustrate a perspective view of the handlebar assembly with the haptic alert assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 7 illustrates a sectional view of the haptic alert assembly being provided in the handlebar assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[031] The present invention relates to a haptic alert assembly. More particularly, the present invention relates to a haptic alert assembly for a vehicle. The haptic alert assembly of the present invention is typically used in a vehicle such as a two wheeled vehicle, or a three wheeled vehicle, or a four wheeled vehicle, or other multi-wheeled vehicles including trikes, as required.
[032] Figure 1 illustrates a haptic alert assembly 100 for a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. As illustrated in Figure 1, the haptic alert assembly 100 comprises a vibration motor 110. In that, the vibration motor 110 is disposed in a handlebar assembly 200 of the vehicle. In an embodiment, the vibration motor 110 comprises an eccentric rotating mass motor. Thus, the vibration motor 110, when powered, produces vibrations due to the rotation of the eccentric mass. In an embodiment, the vibration motor 110 is in communication with one or more control units of the vehicle, and the vibration motor 110 operates based on an input from the one or more control units. The one or more control units are in communication with one or more vehicle sensors provided on the vehicle, and the alerts to a rider of the vehicle are provided based on the inputs received by the one or more control units from the one or more vehicle sensors. Thus, when an alert is to be provided to the rider of the vehicle, the one or more control units operate the vibration motor 110 as required, and the vibration of the vibration motor 110 is felt by the rider as a haptic alert. Since the vibration motor 110 is provided in the handlebar assembly 200 of the vehicle, the haptic alert is felt by the rider in the palm of their hand. Since a palm of the hand is a highly perceptive area, the vibration of the vibration motor 110 is sufficiently felt by the rider, thereby providing a haptic alert to the rider.
[033] To allow for the disposition of the vibration motor 110 in the handlebar assembly 200, the haptic alert assembly 100 comprises one or more mounting brackets 140. Herein, the one or more mounting brackets 140 are configured to be connected to the handlebar assembly 200 of the vehicle thereby supporting the vibration motor 110 in the handlebar assembly 200 of the vehicle. In an embodiment, to allow for the disposition of the vibration motor 110 in the handlebar assembly 200, the haptic alert assembly 100 further comprises one or more holder members 120 and one or more bush members 130. The one or more holder members 120 are configured to hold the vibration motor 110. In an embodiment, the haptic alert assembly 100 has two holder members 120, each provided at one end of the vibration motor 110. Further, the one or more bush members 130 are connected to the one or more holder members 120. The one or more bush members 130 are configured to isolate the vibration of the vibration motor 110 from the handlebar assembly 200. The provision of the one or more bush members 130 ensures that the vibration of the vibration motor 110 is not transferred to the handlebar assembly 200 and the other components of the handlebar assembly 200.
[034] Further, in an embodiment, the haptic alert assembly 100 comprises a plate member 150 (shown in Figure 3). The plate member 150 is configured to be in contact with a hand of a rider, and the plate member 150 is operatively connected to the vibration motor 110. The plate member 150 is provided in the handlebar assembly 200 such that the hands of the rider are in contact with the plate member 150 when the rider is holding the handlebar assembly 200. Herein, on operation of the vibration motor 110, the plate member 150 vibrates, thereby providing a haptic alert to the rider of the vehicle. The provision of the one or more bush members 130 ensure that the vibration of the vibration motor 110 is only transferred to the plate member 150 and not the handlebar assembly 200.
[035] To accommodate the vibration motor 110 in the handlebar assembly 200, the one or more mounting brackets 140 have a first end 140A and a second end 140B. In that, the first end 140A is configured to be connected to the handlebar assembly 200 and the second end 140B being configured to receive the one or more bush members 130. Thus, the vibration motor 110 is held by the one or more holder members 120, the one or more holder members 120 are connected to the one or more bush members 130, the one or more bush members 130 are connected to the second end 140B of the one or more mounting brackets 140, and the first end 140A of the one or more mounting brackets 140 is connected to the handlebar assembly 200, thereby disposing the vibration motor 110 in the handlebar assembly 200. In an embodiment, two mounting brackets 140 are provided for disposing the vibration motor 110 in the handlebar assembly 200.
[036] In an embodiment as illustrated in Figure 2, the handlebar assembly 200 comprises a handlebar member 220 being connected to a main handlebar rod 210. The main handlebar rod 210 is fixed on to a frame of the vehicle, and the handlebar member 220 is attached to the main handlebar rod 210. The handlebar member 220 has a first end 220A being connected to the main handlebar rod 210. The rider of the vehicle supports their hand on the handlebar member 220 for riding the vehicle. In that, for accommodation of the vibration motor 110 within the confines of the handlebar assembly 200, the handlebar member 220 has a first slot 202 and the first slot 202 is configured to receive the vibration motor 110. The first slot 202 is an elongated slot or a U-shaped cutout provided laterally in the handlebar member 220, and the first slot 202 receives the vibration motor 110. In this embodiment, the one or more mounting brackets 140 have a Z-shaped profile wherein the first end 140A of the one or more mounting brackets 140 constitute a top arm of the Z-shaped profile and the second end 140B of the one or more mounting brackets 140 constitute a lower arm of the Z-shaped profile, thereby allowing the vibration motor 110 to be provided within the confines of the handlebar assembly 200.
[037] In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, the handlebar member 220 comprises a second slot 204. The second slot 204 is a V-shaped elongated slot configured to allow a wiring harness to pass through to the vibration motor 110, thereby powering the vibration motor and connecting the vibration motor 110 to the one or more control units of the vehicle. In this embodiment, since the one or more control units are placed closer to a vehicle centreline than the handlebar member 220, the second slot 204 is provided adjacent to the first end 220A of the handlebar member 220. Thus, the second slot 204 is provided close to a joining surface of the handlebar member 220 to the main handlebar rod 210, and thus wiring harness to the vibration motor 110 is routed without stress in the wiring harness.
[038] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a handlebar assembly 200 of a vehicle. As illustrated in Figure 4, the handlebar assembly 200 comprises the main handlebar rod 210. The main handlebar rod 210 extends in a vehicle width direction, and the main handlebar rod 210 is manoeuvred by the rider for performing a turning operation. The handlebar assembly 200 further comprises the handlebar member 220 being connected to a main handlebar rod 210. The main handlebar rod 210 is fixed on to the frame of the vehicle, and the handlebar member 220 is attached to the main handlebar rod 210. The handlebar member 220 has a first end 220A being connected to the main handlebar rod 210. Herein, the handlebar member 220 comprises a first slot 202. The first slot 202 is an elongated slot or cut-out portion provided laterally in the handlebar member 220.
[039] As illustrated in Figure 4, the handlebar assembly 200 further comprises a throttle body 230. The throttle body 230 is provided on the handlebar member 220 and the throttle body 230 is configured to rotate based on an input from the rider. In an embodiment, the handlebar assembly 200 is provided on a right hand side of the rider, and the handlebar member 220 supports the throttle body 230 which is operated by the rider to accelerate or decelerate the vehicle. The handlebar assembly 200 comprises the haptic alert assembly 100. The throttle body 230 is provided as a rotatable sleeve on the handlebar member 220, and the throttle body 230 is connected to a throttle housing 260 (shown in Figure 5B) configured to connect the throttle body 230 to a throttle control valve (not shown). In an embodiment, a fastener is provided for mounting the throttle housing 260 on the main handlebar rod 210, and the same fastener is used for attaching the handlebar member 220 to the main handlebar rod 210.
[040] The handlebar assembly 200 further comprises the haptic alert assembly 100. As explained hereinbefore, the haptic alert assembly 100 comprises the vibration motor 110. In that, the vibration motor 110 is disposed in a handlebar assembly 200 of the vehicle. More particularly, the vibration motor is disposed in the first slot 202 of the handlebar member 220 of the handlebar assembly 200.
[041] To allow for the disposition of the vibration motor 110 in the first slot 202 of the handlebar member 220, the haptic alert assembly 100 comprises one or more mounting brackets 140. Herein, the one or more mounting brackets 140 are configured to be connected to the throttle body 230 for supporting the vibration motor 110 on the throttle body 230. Herein, the handlebar member 220 is fixedly attached to the main handlebar rod 210, and the throttle body 230 is rotatably sleeved onto the handlebar member 220. The supporting of the vibration motor 110 on the throttle body 230 through the one or more mounting brackets 140 ensures that on rotation of the throttle body 230, the vibration motor 110 rotates along with the throttle body 230. The rotation of the vibration motor 110 along with the throttle body 230 facilitated by the configuration of the first slot 202 ensures that there is no interference between the haptic alert assembly 100 and the fixed handlebar member 220 when the throttle body 230 is rotated.
[042] In an embodiment, to allow for the disposition of the vibration motor 110 in the first slot 202 of the handlebar member 220, the haptic alert assembly 100 further comprises the one or more holder members 120 and the one or more bush members 130. The one or more holder members 120 are configured to hold the vibration motor 110. Further, the one or more bush members 130 are connected to the one or more holder members 120. The one or more bush members 130 are configured to isolate the vibration of the vibration motor 110 from the throttle body 230. The provision of the one or more bush members 130 ensures that the vibration of the vibration motor 110 is not transferred to the throttle body 230 and the other components of the handlebar assembly 200.
[043] Further, as depicted in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 4, the haptic alert assembly 100 comprises the plate member 150. The plate member 150 is configured to be in contact with the hand of the rider, and the plate member 150 is operatively connected to the vibration motor 110. The plate member 150 is provided in the handlebar assembly 200 such that the hands of the rider are in contact with the plate member 150 when the rider is holding the handlebar assembly 200. Herein, on operation of the vibration motor 110, the plate member 150 vibrates, thereby providing a haptic alert to the rider of the vehicle.
[044] To accommodate the vibration motor 110 in the handlebar assembly 200, the one or more mounting brackets 140 have the first end 140A (shown in Figure 5B) and the second end 140B (shown in Figure 5B). In that, the first end 140A is configured to be connected to the throttle body 230 and the second end 140B being configured to receive the one or more bush members 130. Thus, the vibration motor 110 is held by the one or more holder members 120, the one or more holder members 120 are connected to the one or more bush members 130, the one or more bush members 130 are connected to the second end 140B of the one or more mounting brackets 140, and the first end 140A of the one or more mounting brackets 140 is connected to the throttle body 230, thereby supporting the vibration motor 110 on the throttle body 230.
[045] In an embodiment, the handlebar assembly 200 has a handlebar grip 240. The handlebar grip 240 is configured to be disposed on the throttle body 230. The handlebar grip 240 is fixedly disposed on the throttle body 230 such that the rider rests their hands on the handlebar grip 240 and rotates the handlebar grip 240 for rotating the throttle body 230. Since the handlebar grip 240 is the part of the handlebar assembly 200 that is in contact with the hand of the rider, the plate member 150 needs to be provided on the handlebar grip 240 for the haptic alert to the rider. To facilitate this, the handlebar grip 240 has a first notch 242 and the first notch 242 is configured to receive the plate member 150. Herein, as illustrated in Figure 5A, the plate member 150 is flush with the handlebar grip 240, so that the grip position of the rider on the handlebar grip 240 does not change and the same feels comfortable to the rider.
[046] Further, in an embodiment, for allowing the operative connection of the vibration motor 110 to the plate member 150, and to allow for the connection of the second end 140B of the one or more mounting brackets 140, the throttle body 230 comprises a first cutout portion 232 and the first cutout portion 232 of the throttle body 230 is configured for allowing the plate member 150 to be connected to the vibration motor 110. Thus, in effect, the first slot 202 of the handlebar member 220, the first cutout portion of the throttle body 230 and the first notch 242 on the handlebar grip 240 overlap with each other in a top view.
[047] In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 4, the handlebar member 220 comprises the second slot 204. The second slot 204 is an elongated V-shaped slot that is configured to allow a wiring harness to pass through to the vibration motor 110, thereby powering the vibration motor 110 and connecting the vibration motor 110 to the one or more control units of the vehicle. In this embodiment, since the one or more control units are placed closer to the vehicle centreline than the handlebar member 220, the second slot 204 is provided adjacent to the first end 220A of the handlebar member 220. Thus, the second slot 204 is provided close to a joining surface of the handlebar member 220 to the main handlebar rod 210, and thus wiring harness to the vibration motor 110 is routed without stress in the wiring harness.
[048] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a handlebar assembly 200 for a vehicle. As illustrated in Figure 6A and 6B, the handlebar assembly 200 comprises the main handlebar rod 210. The main handlebar rod 210 extends in a vehicle width direction, and the main handlebar rod 210 is manoeuvred by the rider for performing a turning operation. Herein, the main handlebar rod 210 comprises a first slot 302. The first slot 302 is an elongated slot or cut-out portion provided laterally in the main handlebar rod 210. In an embodiment, the first slot 302 is provided on a left hand side of the main handlebar rod 210, and unlike the right hand side, the left hand side is fixed, and the rider only rests their hand on the main handlebar rod 210. In other words, no throttle body or any other such element is disposed on this side of the main handlebar rod 210. Since on the left hand side, a throttle need not be provided, the first slot 302 is configured only for receiving the vibration motor 110 without allowing any rotation, which ensures greater rigidity and strength of the handlebar assembly 200.
[049] The handlebar assembly 200 further comprises the haptic alert assembly 200. As explained hereinbefore, the handlebar assembly 200 comprises the vibration motor 110. In that, the vibration motor 110 is disposed in the main handlebar rod 210. More particularly, the vibration motor is disposed in the first slot 302 of the main handlebar rod 210.
[050] To allow for the disposition of the vibration motor 110 in the first slot 302 of the main handlebar rod 210, the haptic alert assembly 100 comprises one or more mounting brackets 140. Herein, the one or more mounting brackets 140 are configured to be connected to the main handlebar rod 210 of the handlebar assembly 200 for supporting the vibration motor 110 on the main handlebar rod 210.
[051] In an embodiment, to allow for the disposition of the vibration motor 110 in the first slot 302 of the main handlebar rod 210, the haptic alert assembly 100 further comprises one or more holder members 120 and one or more bush members 130. The one or more holder members 120 are configured to hold the vibration motor 110. Further, the one or more bush members 130 are connected to the one or more holder members 120. The one or more bush members 130 are configured to isolate the vibration of the vibration motor 110 from the main handlebar rod 210. The provision of the one or more bush members 130 ensures that the vibration of the vibration motor 110 is not transferred to the main handlebar rod 210 and the other components of the handlebar assembly 200.
[052] Further, the haptic alert assembly 100 comprises the plate member 150. The plate member 150 is configured to be in contact with the hand of the rider, and the plate member 150 is operatively connected to the vibration motor 110. The plate member 150 is provided in the handlebar assembly 200 such that the hands of the rider are in contact with the plate member 150 when the rider is holding the handlebar assembly 200. Herein, on operation of the vibration motor 110, the plate member 150 vibrates, thereby providing a haptic alert to the rider of the vehicle.
[053] To accommodate the vibration motor 110 in the main handlebar rod 210, the one or more mounting brackets 140 have the first end 140A and the second end 140B. In that, the first end 140A is configured to be connected to the main handlebar rod 210 and the second end 140B is configured to receive the one or more bush members 130. Thus, the vibration motor 110 is held by the one or more holder members 120, the one or more holder members 120 are connected to the one or more bush members 130, the one or more bush members 130 are connected to the second end 140B of the one or more mounting brackets 140, and the first end 140A of the one or more mounting brackets 140 is connected to the main handlebar rod 210, thereby supporting the vibration motor 110 on the main handlebar rod 210.
[054] In an embodiment, the handlebar assembly 200 has the handlebar grip 240. The handlebar grip 240 is configured to be disposed on the main handlebar rod 210. The handlebar grip 240 is fixedly disposed on the main handlebar rod 210 such that the rider rests their hands on the handlebar grip 240. Since the handlebar grip 240 is the part of the handlebar assembly 200 that is in contact with the hand of the rider, the plate member 150 needs to be provided on the handlebar grip 240 for the haptic alert to the rider. To facilitate this, the handlebar grip 240 has the first notch 242 and the first notch 242 is configured to receive the plate member 150. Herein, the plate member 150 is flush with the handlebar grip 240, so that the grip position of the rider on the handlebar grip 240 does not change. Since there is no need for rotation of the left hand side handlebar grip, there is no requirement for any special provision for accommodation of vibration motor 110, thus making the construction simple. In this embodiment, wiring harness to the vibration motor 110 can be guided from within the main handlebar rod 210 or a slot in the main handlebar rod 210.
[055] In another aspect, as illustrated in Figure 7, the present invention relates to a haptic alert assembly 100 for a vehicle. In this aspect, the handlebar assembly 200 has the vibration motor 110. The vibration motor 110 is disposed on one end 200A of the handlebar assembly 200 of the vehicle. As illustrated in Figure 7, the one end 200A of the handlebar assembly 200 is disposed facing away from the vehicle centreline and the other end of the handlebar assembly 200 is disposed facing towards the vehicle centreline. The haptic alert assembly 100 has one or more holder members 120, wherein the one or more holder members 120 are configured to hold the vibration motor 110. In that, the one or more holder members 120 are mounted on the one end 200A of the handlebar assembly 200. As explained earlier, on operation of the vibration motor 110, the holder member 120 vibrates thereby providing a haptic alert to the rider of the vehicle.
[056] In an embodiment, the handlebar grip 240 encompasses the haptic alert assembly 100 and thus the vibration of the vibration motor 110 is transmitted to the handlebar grip 240 and thus felt by the rider as the haptic alert. In an alternative embodiment, the haptic alert assembly 100 comprises a plate member 150 in connection with the one or more holder members 120, and the plate member 150 is configured to be operatively connected to the vibration motor 110. The plate member 150 is accommodated flush with the handlebar grip 240, and the vibration of the plate member 150 on the vibration of the vibration motor 110 is felt by the rider as the haptic alert.
[057] In an embodiment, the handlebar grip 240 also encompasses the throttle body 230, and the one or more holder members 120 are mounted on the one end 200A of the handlebar assembly 200 by means of a bolt 250 and a rubber bush member 252. Herein, the rubber bush member 252 is provided between the bolt 250 and the one or more holder members 120. The rubber bush member 252 ensures that the vibration of the vibration motor 110 are not transferred to the handlebar assembly 200.
[058] Advantageously, the present invention provides a haptic alert assembly and a handlebar assembly for accommodating the haptic alert assembly wherein haptic alerts can be provided to the rider without requiring the visual or the audio channel of communication for human machine interface. Various alerts such as navigation alerts, over-speeding warning, blind spot warning etc can be communicated to the rider through the haptic alert assembly. The elimination of over dependence on the visual and audio channel of information between the rider and the vehicle also reduces the requirement of the rider to look away from the road, or distraction due to disruption in connectivity between headset and the vehicle. This not only prevents rider fatigue and provides better ergonomics, but also reduces the chances of accidents.
[059] Further, the present invention eliminates the dependence on any wearable devices for communication of alerts to the rider. Provided that the palm of the hand is a very perceptible part, the haptic alerts are very easily and clearly perceived by the rider, thus reducing the chance of the rider missing an alert and reducing the chance of an accident.
[060] Further, the present invention ensures that the provision of the haptic alert assembly in the handlebar assembly is done without altering the outer profile or outer diameter of the handlebar assembly, which is desirable aesthetically as well as ergonomically. Further, the flushing of the plate member with the handlebar grip ensures that haptic alert is optimally communicated to the rider. Provision of the bush members ensure that the vibration of the vibration motor is not transmitted to other parts of the handlebar assembly. In addition, freedom of movement of the haptic alert assembly, when required, is also provided for by the present invention.
[061] While the present invention has been described with respect to certain embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modification may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

List of Reference Numerals

100: Haptic Alert Assembly

110: Vibration Motor
120: One or more Holder Members
130: One or more Bush Members
140: One or more Mounting Brackets
140A: First End of the Mounting Bracket
140B: Second End of the Mounting Bracket
150: Plate Member
200: Handlebar Assembly
200A: One end of the Handlebar Assembly
202: First Slot
204: Second Slot
210: Main Handlebar Rod
220: Handlebar Member
220A: First End of the Handlebar Member
230: Throttle Body
232: First Cutout Portion of the Throttle Body
240: Handlebar Grip
242: First Notch of the Handlebar Grip
250: Bolt
252: Rubber Bush Member
260: Throttle Housing
302: First Slot on the Main Handlebar Rod
, Claims:WE CLAIM:
1. A haptic alert assembly (100) for a vehicle, the haptic alert assembly (100) comprising:
a vibration motor (110), the vibration motor (110) being disposed in a handlebar assembly (200) of the vehicle; and
one or more mounting brackets (140), the one or more mounting brackets (140) being configured to be connected to the handlebar assembly (200) of the vehicle for supporting the vibration motor (110) in the handlebar assembly (200) of the vehicle.

2. The haptic alert assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising one or more holder members (120), the one or more holder members (120) being configured to hold the vibration motor (110); and one or more of bush members (130), the one or more bush members (130) being connected to the one or more holder members (120).

3. The haptic alert assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a plate member (150), the plate member (150) being configured to be in contact with a hand of a rider, and the plate member (150) being operatively connected to the vibration motor (110), wherein on operation of the vibration motor (110), the plate member (150) vibrates, thereby providing a haptic alert to the rider of the vehicle.
4. The haptic alert assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the vibration motor (110) comprises an eccentric rotating mass motor.

5. The haptic alert assembly (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the one or more mounting brackets (140) have a first end (140A) and a second end (140B), the first end (140A) being configured to be connected to the handlebar assembly (200) and the second end (140B) being configured to receive the one or more bush members (130).

6. The haptic alert assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the handlebar assembly (200) comprises a handlebar member (220) being connected to a main handlebar rod (210), the handlebar member (220) having a first slot (202), the first slot (202) being configured to receive the vibration motor (110).

7. The haptic alert assembly (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the handlebar member (220) comprises a second slot (204), the second slot (204) being configured to allow a wiring harness to pass through to the vibration motor (110).

8. The haptic alert assembly (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein a first end (220A) of the handlebar member (220) being connected to the main handlebar rod (210), and the second slot (204) being provided adjacent to the first end (220A) of the handlebar member (220).

9. A handlebar assembly (200) for a vehicle, the handlebar assembly (200) comprising:
a main handlebar rod (210), the main handlebar rod (210) extending a vehicle width direction;
a handlebar member (220), the handlebar member (220) being connected to the main handlebar rod (210), the handlebar member (220) having a first slot (202);
a throttle body (230), the throttle body (230) being provided on the handlebar member (220) and the throttle body (230) being configured to rotate based on an input from a rider; and
a haptic alert assembly (100), comprising:
a vibration motor (110), the vibration motor (110) being disposed inside the first slot (202) of the handlebar member (220); and
one or more mounting brackets (140) the one or more mounting brackets (140) being configured to be connected to the throttle body (230) for supporting the vibration motor (110) on the throttle body (230).

10. The handlebar assembly (200) as claimed in claim 9, comprising one or more holder members (120), the one or more holder members (120) being configured to hold the vibration motor (110); and one or more of bush members (130), the one or more bush members (130) being connected to the one or more holder members (120).

11. The handlebar assembly (200) as claimed in claim 9, comprising a plate member (150), the plate member (150) being configured to be in contact with a hand of a rider, and the plate member (150) being operatively connected to the vibration motor (110), wherein on operation of the vibration motor (110), the plate member (150) vibrates, thereby providing a haptic alert to the rider of the vehicle.

12. The handlebar assembly (200) as claimed in claim 9, comprising a handlebar grip (240) being configured to be disposed on the throttle body (230), the handlebar grip (240) having a first notch (242), the first notch (242) being configured to receive the plate member (150), wherein the plate member (150) is flush with the handlebar grip (240).

13. The handlebar assembly (200) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the throttle body (230) comprises a first cutout portion (232), the first cutout portion (232) of the throttle body (230) being configured for allowing the plate member (150) to be connected to the vibration motor (110).

14. The handlebar assembly (200) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the one or more mounting brackets (140) have a first end (140A) and a second end (140B), the first end (140A) being configured to be connected to the throttle body (230) and the second end (140B) being configured to receive the one or more bush members (130).

15. The handlebar assembly (200) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the handlebar member (220) comprises a second slot (204), the second slot (204) being configured to allow a wiring harness to pass through to the vibration motor (110).

16. The handlebar assembly (200) as claimed in claim 15, wherein a first end (220A) of the handlebar member (220) being connected to the main handlebar rod (210), and the second slot (204) being provided adjacent to the first end (220A) of the handlebar member (220).

17. A handlebar assembly (200) for a vehicle, the handlebar assembly (200) comprising:
a main handlebar rod (210), the main handlebar rod (210) extending a vehicle width direction, the main handlebar rod (210) having a first slot (302); and
a haptic alert assembly (100), comprising:
a vibration motor (110), the vibration motor (110) being disposed inside the first slot (302) of the main handlebar rod (210); and
one or more mounting brackets (140), the one or more mounting brackets (140) being configured to be connected to the main handlebar rod (210) thereby supporting the vibration motor (110) on the main handlebar rod (210).

18. The handlebar assembly (200) as claimed in claim 17, comprising one or more holder members (120), the one or more holder members (120) being configured to hold the vibration motor (110); and one or more of bush members (130), the one or more bush members (130) being connected to the one or more holder members (120).

19. The handlebar assembly (200) as claimed in claim 17, comprising a plate member (150), the plate member (150) being configured to be in contact with a hand of a rider, and the plate member (150) being operatively connected to the vibration motor (110), wherein on operation of the vibration motor (110), the plate member (150) vibrates, thereby providing a haptic alert to the rider of the vehicle.

20. The handlebar assembly (200) as claimed in claim 17, comprising a handlebar grip (240) being configured to be disposed on the main handlebar rod (210), the handlebar grip (240) having a first notch (242), the first notch (242) being configured to receive the plate member (150), wherein the plate member (150) is flush with the handlebar grip (240).

21. The handlebar assembly (200) as claimed in claim 18, wherein the one or more mounting brackets (140) have a first end (140A) and a second end (140B), the first end (140A) being configured to be connected to the main handlebar rod (210) and the second end (140B) being configured to receive the one or more bush members (130).

22. A haptic alert assembly (100) for a vehicle, the haptic alert assembly (100) comprising:
a vibration motor (110), the vibration motor (110) being disposed on one end (200A) of a handlebar assembly (200) of the vehicle, wherein the one end (200A) of the handlebar assembly (200) is disposed facing away from a vehicle centreline and the other end of the handlebar assembly (200) is disposed facing towards the vehicle centreline; and
one or more holder members (120), the one or more holder members (120) being configured to hold the vibration motor (110), the one or more holder members (120) being mounted on one end of the handlebar assembly (200), wherein on operation of the vibration motor (110), the holder member (120) vibrates thereby providing a haptic alert to a rider of the vehicle.

23. The haptic alert assembly (100) as claimed in claim 22, wherein the one or more holder members (120) are mounted on the one end (200A) of the handlebar assembly (200) by means of a bolt (250) and a rubber bush member (252), wherein the rubber bush member (252) is provided between the bolt (250) and the one or more holder members (120).
Dated this 05 day of July 2023

TVS MOTOR COMPANY LIMITED
By their Agent & Attorney

(Nikhil Ranjan)
of Khaitan & Co
Reg No IN/PA-1471