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

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[002] Conventionally, an instrument cluster is mounted onto a handlebar of a saddle type vehicle. In saddle type vehicle such as motorcycle, the instrument cluster is generally fixed in a housing provided on the vehicle. The housing is provided on an additional bracket that is attached to the handlebar. However, in such a scenario, the additional bracket leads to an increase in a part count of the vehicle, consequently leading to an increase in auxiliary or ancillary parts like fasteners of the additional bracket, which further results in an increase in assembly time during manufacturing.
[003] The additional bracket may lead to water entry into the instrument cluster, which is undesirable. Further, due to the additional bracket, wires and/or cables routed via the handlebar of the vehicle are positioned adjacent to the instrument cluster which negatively affects the aesthetics of the vehicle. Also, accommodating the instrument cluster near the wires and/or the cables creates concerns such as wire pinching issues while assembling the vehicle and wire pulling issues while steering the vehicle. Also, the additional bracket causes an increase in weight due to the increase in part count, which is undesirable.
[004] Thus, there is a need in the art for a handlebar assembly for a vehicle which addresses the aforementioned problems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[005] In one aspect of the invention, a handlebar assembly for a vehicle is disclosed. The handlebar assembly has a first member extended in a vehicle width direction. The handlebar assembly has an upper bracket operatively connected to one or more wheels of said vehicle. The handlebar assembly has an upper holder configured to secure the first member. The handlebar assembly has a lower holder connected to the upper bracket. The lower holder is configured to be attached to the upper holder for securing the first member. The lower holder extends in a vehicle longitudinal direction and is configured to support one or more sub-systems of said vehicle.
[006] In an embodiment, the lower holder has a rear end and a front end. The lower holder is attached to the upper holder for securing the first member at the rear end of the lower holder.
[007] In an embodiment, the lower holder has one or more first mounting holes provided at the rear end of the lower holder. The upper holder has one or more second mounting holes. The first mounting holes are configured to align with the second mounting holes, thereby attaching the lower holder to the upper holder.
[008] In an embodiment, the lower holder has a base wall extending between the rear end of the lower holder and the front end of the lower holder. The base wall is configured to support the one or more sub-systems bracket.
[009] In an embodiment, the lower holder has one or more third mounting holes provided on the base wall. The third mounting holes are configured to receive the one or more sub-systems.
[010] In an embodiment, the third mounting holes are configured to receive one or more fasteners and one or more rubber grommets for supporting the one or more sub-systems on the base wall.
[011] In an embodiment, the handlebar assembly has a cover member. The cover member is configured to cover the one or more sub-systems from a bottom side in a vehicle up-down direction.
[012] In an embodiment, the cover member is press fit on to the lower holder, thereby attaching the cover member to the lower holder.
[013] In an embodiment, the lower holder has a slot extending rearwardly from the front end of the lower holder.
[014] In an embodiment, the one or more sub-systems has at least one of an instrument cluster, an instrument cluster cover, a visor, and a speedometer unit.
[015] In an embodiment, the lower holder has a middle portion. The lower holder extends forwardly from the rear end towards the middle portion in a triangular shape.
[016] In an embodiment, the lower holder has a pair of side walls extending between the front end and the middle portion. The pair of side walls is configured to cover one or more electrical connectors of the one or more sub-systems in a vehicle side view.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[017] 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 handlebar assembly of a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 illustrates a right-side view of the handlebar assembly, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 3 illustrates a perspective top view of a lower holder of the handlebar assembly, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 4 illustrates a bottom view of the lower holder of the handlebar assembly, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 5 illustrates a left-side exploded view of the handlebar assembly, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 6 illustrates a representational graph illustrating a vibration response of the handlebar assembly of the present invention compared with the prior arts, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[018] The present invention relates to a vehicle. More particularly, the present invention relates to a handlebar assembly in a vehicle. The handlebar assembly of the present invention is typically used in a vehicle such as a two wheeled vehicle including two wheeled electric or hybrid vehicle, or a three wheeled vehicle including three wheeled electric or hybrid vehicle, including trikes.
[019] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a handlebar assembly 100 of a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2, the handlebar assembly 100 of a vehicle comprises a first member 102. The first member 102 extends in a vehicle width direction. In an embodiment, the first member 102 comprises a handlebar extending in the vehicle width direction, wherein a user of the vehicle manoeuvres the handlebar for turning and handling the vehicle. The handlebar assembly 100 further comprises an upper bracket 104 and the first member 102 is connected to the upper bracket 104. The upper bracket 104 is operatively connected to one or more wheels of the vehicle. In an embodiment, the upper bracket 104 is connected to a steering shaft supported inside a head pipe. Further, the upper bracket 104 is also connected to a front wheel of the vehicle via a pair of front fork members, thereby operatively connecting the first member 102 and the upper bracket 104 to the one or more wheels of the vehicle. Accordingly, manoeuvring of the first member 102 provides for turning movement of the one or more wheels of the vehicle.
[020] For connecting the upper bracket 104 to the first member 102, the handlebar assembly 100 comprises an upper holder 106 and a lower holder 108. Herein, the lower holder 108 is connected to the upper bracket 104. In an embodiment, the lower holder 108 is connected to the upper bracket 104 using one or more fasteners such as, not being limited to, screws, nuts, bolts etc. Further, the lower holder 108 is configured to be attached to the upper holder 106 for securing the first member 102. The upper holder 106 is positioned above the lower holder 108. The first member 102 is positioned between the upper holder 106 and the lower holder 108. In an embodiment, the upper holder 106 and the lower holder 108 are attached to each other using one or more fasteners such as, not being limited to, screws, nuts, bolts, etc., thereby securing the first member 102. In an embodiment, the upper holder 106 and the lower holder 108 have a concave shape to adapt to a shape of the first member 102. In one example, the first member 102 is cylinder shaped. Therefore, the upper holder 106 and the lower holder 108 have a concave shape to adapt to the cylindrical shape of the first member 102.
[021] Further, the lower holder 108 extends in a vehicle longitudinal direction. Herein, the lower holder 108 is configured to support one or more vehicle sub-systems 110 of the vehicle. In an embodiment, the one or more sub-systems 110 comprises at least one of an instrument cluster, an instrument cluster cover, a visor, and a speedometer unit. The longitudinal extension of the lower holder 108 ensures that the one or more sub systems 110 of the vehicle can be supported on the lower holder itself, which eliminates the requirement of any additional component or housing for accommodating the one or more sub systems in the vicinity of the first member 102.
[022] In an embodiment, the lower holder 108 comprises a rear end 108R and a front end 108F (shown in Figure 4). The rear end 108R is located near the first member 102 and the upper holder 106. The front end 108F is located longitudinally opposite of the rear end 108R. In an embodiment, the lower holder 108 is attached to the upper holder 106 for securing the first member 102 at the rear end 108R of the lower holder 108.
[023] As illustrated in Figure 3, the lower holder 108 comprises one or more first mounting holes 112 provided at the rear end 108R of the lower holder 108. The upper holder 106 comprises one or more second mounting holes 114. The first mounting holes 112 on the lower holder 108 are configured to align with the second mounting holes 114 on the upper holder 106, thereby attaching the lower holder 108 to the upper holder 106. In an embodiment, the first mounting holes 112 and the second mounting holes 114 are configured to allow for fasteners to pass through, thereby attaching the upper holder 106 to the lower holder 108 by means of one or more fasteners such as, not being limited to, screws, nuts, bolts, etc.
[024] As further illustrated in Figure 3 and Figure 4, the lower holder 108 comprises a base wall 116 extending between the rear end 108R of the lower holder 108 and the front end 108F of the lower holder 108. The base wall 116 extends in the vehicle longitudinal direction. Particularly, the base wall 116 of the lower holder 108 is configured to support the one or more sub-systems 110. In an embodiment, the one or more sub-systems 110 are mounted above a headlight (not shown) of the vehicle.
[025] In an embodiment, the lower holder 108 extends away from a center axis of the head pipe towards the vehicle front direction. As a result, the one or more sub-systems mounted on the lower holder 108 are conveniently visible to a rider of the vehicle.
[026] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the lower holder 108 comprises one or more third mounting holes 118 provided on the base wall 116. The third mounting holes 118 are configured to receive the one or more sub-systems 110. The third mounting holes 118 are configured to receive one or more fasteners such as, not being limited to, screws, nuts, bolts etc. and one or more rubber grommets for supporting the one or more sub-systems 110 on the base wall 116. In an embodiment, the rubber grommets cover rough and sharp edges of the lower holder 108 and resist water entry. The rubber grommets also grip wires (not shown) connected to the one or more sub-systems 110 and prevent cuts, abrasions, and snags of the wires.
[027] Further, the lower holder 108 comprises a middle portion 108M. The lower holder 108 extends forwardly from the rear end 108R towards the middle portion 108M in a triangular shape. In an embodiment, the lower holder 108 extends forwardly from the rear end 108R towards the middle portion 108M in an A-shape. The lower holder 108 comprises a pair of side walls 108S extending between the front end 108F and the middle portion 108M. The pair of side walls 108S extends in the vehicle longitudinal direction between the front end 108F and the middle portion 108M. Further, the pair of side walls 108S extends vertically in the up-down vehicle direction. The pair of side walls 108S is configured to cover one or more electrical connectors (not shown) of the one or more sub-systems 110 in a vehicle side view. The one or more electrical connectors are connected to the wires of the one or more sub-systems 110 in order to provide power and operate the one or more sub-systems 110. As a result, aesthetic appeal of the vehicle is improved upon covering the one or more electrical connectors. Further, the shape and configuration of the lower holder 108 as explained ensures that the lower bracket 108 remains lightweight, while ensuring sufficient support for the one or more sub-systems 110.
[028] Figure 5 is a left-side exploded view of the handlebar assembly 100, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention. The handlebar assembly 100 comprises a cover member 120. The cover member 120 is configured to cover the one or more sub-systems 110 from a bottom side in a vehicle up-down direction, thereby protecting the one or more sub-systems 110. The lower holder 108 comprises a slot 122 (shown in Figure 3) extending rearwardly from the front end 108F of the lower holder 108. In an embodiment, the slot 122 has a quadrilateral shape. In another embodiment, the slot has a rectangular shape. In yet another embodiment, the slot 122 is oval in shape. The provision of the slot 122 ensures further reduction in the weight of the lower holder 108. Further, in an embodiment, the cover member 120 is attached to the one or more sub systems 110. The cover member 120 is press fit on to the lower holder 108, thereby attaching the cover member 120 to the lower holder 108. In an embodiment, the cover member 120 is mounted on to the lower holder 108 using one or more fasteners such as, not being limited to, screws, nuts, bolts, etc.
[029] Figure 6 is a representational graph illustrating a vibration response of the handlebar assembly 100 of the present invention compared to the speedometer mounting structures of the conventional vehicles. During vehicle operating conditions, vibrations are transmitted to the handlebar assembly 100. Upon vertical bending and lateral bending of the handlebar assembly 100 of the present invention and the handlebar assembly of the prior arts, the vibration response of the present invention is significantly lower than the vibration response of the prior arts. This means that in the present invention, the one or more sub-systems 110 are exposed to a lower magnitude of vibrational forces as compared to conventional configurations, thus ensuring better protection as well as visibility for the one or more sub systems 110. This means that under the same operating conditions, the one or more sub-systems 110 vibrate significantly less in the present invention as compared to conventional configurations. In an embodiment, the lower holder 108 is made of one of a single aluminum cast. The single aluminium casting of the lower holder 108 not only reduces part count, but also results in reduction of weight of the lower holder 108, and the overall handlebar assembly 100.
[030] Advantageously, the present invention provides for a handlebar assembly in which the lower holder itself supports the handlebar as well as the one or more vehicle sub systems such as a speedometer unit. As a result, the requirement of provision of a separate individual part for supporting one or more vehicle sub-systems is eliminated. This also results in further reduction of child parts, thus providing for easier manufacturing. Further, the lower holder of the present invention is also lightweight, which provides for better handling and manoeuvrability.
[031] Further, the provision of a single lower holder along with side walls for supporting the handlebar as well as the one or more subsystems also provides for improved aesthetics due to reduced number of different parts. The reduction in the number of parts also provides for easier serviceability.
[032] In addition, the handlebar assembly provides desired strength and stiffness in supporting the one or more sub systems, thereby improving performance of the vehicle. The vibration response of the handlebar assembly of the present invention is also improved, thereby allowing for better visibility and protection of the one or more sub-systems. Further, the handlebar assembly is a modular setup allowing use of multiple sub-systems on the handlebar assembly.
[033] 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: Handlebar Assembly
102: First Member
104: Upper Bracket
106: Upper Holder
108: Lower Holder
108F: Front End of the Lower Holder
108M: Middle Portion of the Lower Holder
108R: Rear End of the Lower Holder
108S: Side Walls of the Lower Holder
110: One or more Sub-systems
112: First Mounting Holes
114: Second Mounting Holes
116: Base Wall
118: Third Mounting Holes
120: Cover Member
122: Slot
, Claims:1. A handlebar assembly (100) for a vehicle, the handlebar assembly (100) comprising:
a first member (102), the first member (102) being extended in a vehicle width direction;
an upper bracket (104), the upper bracket (104) being operatively connected to one or more wheels of said vehicle;
an upper holder (106), the upper holder (106) being configured to secure the first member (102); and
a lower holder (108), the lower holder (108) being connected to the upper bracket (104), the lower holder (108) being configured to be attached to the upper holder (106) for securing the first member (102), the lower holder (108) extending in a vehicle longitudinal direction and being configured to support one or more sub-systems (110) of said vehicle.

2. The handlebar assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lower holder (108) comprises a rear end (108R) and a front end (108F), wherein the lower holder (108) being attached to the upper holder (106) for securing the first member (102) at the rear end (108R) of the lower holder (108).
3. The handlebar assembly (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the lower holder (108) comprises one or more first mounting holes (112) provided at the rear end (108R) of the lower holder (108), and the upper holder (106) comprises one or more second mounting holes (114), the first mounting holes (112) being configured to align with the second mounting holes (114), thereby attaching the lower holder (108) to the upper holder (106).

4. The handlebar assembly (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the lower holder (108) comprises a base wall (116) extending between the rear end (108R) of the lower holder (108) and the front end (108F) of the lower holder (108), the base wall (116) being configured to support the one or more sub-systems (110).

5. The handlebar assembly (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the lower holder (108) comprises one or more third mounting holes (118) provided on the base wall (116), the third mounting holes (118) being configured to receive the one or more sub-systems (110).

6. The handlebar assembly (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the third mounting holes (118) are configured to receive one or more fasteners and one or more rubber grommets for supporting the one or more sub-systems (110) on the base wall (116).

7. The handlebar assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a cover member (120), the cover member (120) being configured to cover the one or more sub-systems (110) from a bottom side in a vehicle up-down direction.

8. The handlebar assembly (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the cover member (120) is press fit on to the lower holder (108), thereby attaching the cover member (120) to the lower holder (108).

9. The handlebar assembly (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the lower holder (108) comprises a slot (122) extending rearwardly from the front end (108F) of the lower holder (108).

10. The handlebar assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more sub-systems (110) comprises at least one of an instrument cluster, an instrument cluster cover, a visor, and a speedometer unit.

11. The handlebar assembly (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the lower holder (108) comprises a middle portion (108M), the lower holder (108) extending forwardly from the rear end (108R) towards the middle portion (108M) in a triangular shape.

12. The handlebar assembly (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the lower holder (108) comprises a pair of side walls (108S) extending between the front end (108F) and the middle portion (108M), wherein the pair of side walls (108S) being configured to cover one or more electrical connectors of the one or more sub-systems (110) in a vehicle side view.