Description:FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 OF 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
[Refer Section 10, Rule 13]

TITLE OF INVENTION
A Motor Vehicle

APPLICANT
TVS MOTOR COMPANY LIMITED, an Indian company, having its address at “Chaitanya”, No.12 Khader Nawaz Khan Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai 600 006, Tamil Nadu, India.

PREAMBLE TO THE DESCRIPTION
The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[001] The present invention generally relates to a motor vehicle. More particularly, the present invention relates to an evaporative emission control system for the vehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[002] Generally, in conventional vehicles, exhaustive emissions and evaporative emissions are controlled. The evaporative emissions are controlled by employing an evaporative emission control system in the vehicle. The evaporative emission control system includes an evaporated fuel collecting device, for example, a canister, a plurality of connecting tubes, one or more controlling valves such as Roll Over Valve (ROV), one way valve, and the like. The evaporated fuel collecting device is responsible for collecting the fuel vapour generated inside a fuel tank. The collected fuel vapour is then supplied to the canister through the one or more controlling valves. In conventional vehicles, the ROV is provided between the fuel tank and the canister to avoid any unwanted flooding of the canister or fuel vapour build up in the fuel tank due to roll-over of the vehicle.
[003] The ROV is a safety device designed to prevent the leakage of fuel vapour in vehicles, especially those with a higher risk of rolling over or tilting at extreme angles. Conventionally, the ROV is installed in the fuel system, near the fuel tank. The ROV is commonly used in two-wheeled vehicles, three-wheeled vehicles including trikes, All-Terrain vehicles (ATVs), off-road vehicles, and even some small boats. In two-wheeled vehicles, the installation of the ROV with the canister in the fuel system safeguards against the leakage of the fuel vapour in situations of rollovers or extreme tilting. The ROV consists of a valve body and a float mechanism. The valve body of the ROV is responsible for controlling the fuel vapour flow, while the float mechanism senses changes in the orientation of the vehicle.
[004] The float mechanism inside the ROV is designed to respond to the tilting of the vehicle. When the vehicle is in an upright position, the float rests at a specific level, allowing the ROV to remain open. This permits the fuel tank to breathe and vent properly, preventing excessive pressure buildup in the fuel system. However, if the vehicle starts to tilt due to a rollover, the float mechanism is activated. As the vehicle tilts beyond a certain predefined angle, typically around 45 degrees, the float rises closing the ROV, thereby blocking the fuel vapour escape from the fuel tank towards the canister or from the canister towards the fuel tank. Therefore, the ROV effectively isolates the fuel tank from the canister and prevents any vapour build up.
[005] The ROV is significant in preventing fuel vapour build up. In the absence of ROV, as the fuel vapour build up inside the fuel tank is a safety hazard, and fuel vapour build up inside the canister deteriorates the functioning of the canister. Further, the ROV may incorporate electronic sensors or even microprocessors to detect the orientation of the vehicle. The sensors respond quickly to changes in tilt angles, providing better fuel vapour leak prevention during rollovers.
[006] However, there are certain challenges regarding the mounting of the ROV in the fuel system. The inclusion of the ROV adds to the overall cost and complexity of the fuel system. The ROV itself, along with the necessary components, increases the manufacturing costs, which impacts the overall price of the vehicle. Additionally, the mounting of the ROV requires multiple brackets, further contributing to the increased number of components and thereby increasing the cost of the overall fuel system. The vehicles, such as two-wheeled vehicles, often have limited space available for additional components. Therefore, finding an appropriate location around the fuel tank to mount the ROV and the evaporated fuel retaining device is challenging.
[007] Further, the ROV can experience wear and tear over time. Regular maintenance and inspection are crucial to ensure that the ROV remains in good working condition. However, maintenance of the ROV requires specialized tools and expertise, which could lead to higher service costs. In the event of a malfunction or failure, repairing or replacing the ROV might also be more intricate compared to standard fuel system components. While mounting the ROV, it is important to consider future maintenance and servicing requirements. The ROV should be placed in a location that allows easy access for inspection, cleaning, or replacement if necessary. It should be readily accessible without requiring excessive disassembly or removal of other components.
[008] Also, the ROV and the canister must be compatible with the specific fuel system of the vehicle. This includes considerations such as fuel tank capacity, fuel line connections, and fuel flow requirements. It is crucial to ensure that the ROV and the evaporated fuel retaining device are designed to handle the fuel type used in the vehicle and can withstand the pressure and temperature variations encountered in the fuel system. Further, two-wheeled vehicles are subject to various vibrations and impacts while in use. The mounting location of the ROV should be chosen to minimize the exposure of the ROV and the canister to potential damage or excessive vibrations. Adequate protection and securing mechanisms should be employed to prevent the ROV from dislodging or getting damaged during normal vehicle operation or potential accidents.
[009] Moreover, the conventional system faces challenges due to its increased number of parts, leading to higher costs and longer assembly times that demand attention. Furthermore, the abundance of components in the conventional fuel system introduces maintenance complexities, assembly difficulties, and potential points of failure especially for small vehicles such as two wheeled and three wheeled vehicles. The numerous joints associated with the conventional ROV may compromise reliability and leak prevention, posing risks of fuel vapour leakage, necessitating additional maintenance efforts.
[010] Thus, there is a need in the art for a motor vehicle, which addresses at least the aforementioned problems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[011] In one aspect, the present invention is directed towards a motor vehicle, herein also referred as “vehicle”. The vehicle has a fuel tank. The fuel tank is mounted on a frame assembly of the vehicle. The vehicle includes a fuel vapour collecting device and a fuel vapour retaining device. The fuel vapour collecting device is disposed inside the fuel tank. The fuel vapour retaining device is disposed on an outer side of the fuel tank, the fuel vapour retaining device is in fluid communication with the fuel vapour collecting device. The vehicle further includes a connecting tube assembly, the connecting tube assembly includes a first connecting tube, a second connecting tube and a third connecting tube. The first connecting tube extends from the fuel vapour collecting device, the second connecting tube and the third connecting tube extends from the first connecting tube and is configured to be connected to the fuel vapour retaining device. The vehicle has a pair of stopper members and a roller element. The pair of stopper members are provided inside the connecting tube assembly. The roller element is movably disposed between the pair of stopper members inside the connecting tube assembly, the roller element is configured to abut one of the pair of stopper members when the vehicle tilts beyond a predetermined angle, thereby restricting the movement of fuel vapour inside the connecting tube assembly.
[012] In an embodiment of the invention, the fuel tank is configured to be mounted on a main frame of the frame assembly.
[013] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fuel vapour retaining device is disposed below a bottom surface of the fuel tank in a vehicle top-down direction.
[014] In a further embodiment of the invention, the first connecting tube extends downwardly from the fuel vapour collecting device in a vehicle top-down direction.
[015] In a further embodiment of the invention, the first connecting tube has a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion extends downwardly from the fuel vapour collecting device, the second portion is fluidly connected to the first portion and extending in a vehicle front-rear direction, the second portion having a front end and a rear end.
[016] In a further embodiment of the invention, the second connecting tube extends from the front end of the second portion, and the third connecting tube extends from the rear end of the second portion.
[017] In a further embodiment of the invention, the vehicle includes a tube connector, the tube connector having a first slot, a second slot and a third slot, wherein the first slot is configured to receive the second connecting tube, the second slot is configured to receive the third connecting tube and the third slot is configured to be connected to the fuel vapour retaining device.
[018] In a further embodiment of the invention, the vehicle includes a fourth connecting tube, wherein the second connecting tube and the third connecting tube is configured to be connected to the fourth connecting tube, the fourth connecting tube is configured to be connected to the fuel vapour retaining device.
[019] In a further embodiment of the invention, the vehicle includes the tube connector, the tube connector having a first slot, a second slot and a third slot, wherein the first slot is configured to receive the second connecting tube, the second slot is configured to receive the third connecting tube and the third slot is configured to be connected to the fourth connecting tube.
[020] In a further embodiment of the invention, an inner diameter of the second portion of the first connecting tube is larger than the inner diameter of the second connecting tube and the third connecting tube.
[021] In a further embodiment of the invention, the roller element is disposed in the second portion of the first connecting tube.
[022] In a further embodiment of the invention, the pair of stopper members include a pair of ring members having a first ring member and a second ring member.
[023] In a further embodiment of the invention, the first ring member is provided between the first connecting tube and the second connecting tube, and an outer diameter of the first ring member is lesser than an inner diameter of the front end of the second portion, and the inner diameter of the first ring member is smaller than a diameter of the roller element.
[024] In a further embodiment of the invention, the second ring member is provided between the first connecting tube and the third connecting tube, and an outer diameter of the second ring member is lesser than an inner diameter of the rear end of the second portion, and the inner diameter of the second ring member is smaller than a diameter of the roller element.
[025] In a further embodiment of the invention, the second portion is configured to form a bowl-shaped structure, and the bowl-shaped structure is positioned downwardly of the fuel vapour collecting device.
[026] In a further embodiment of the invention, the bowl-shaped structure is positioned upwardly of the fuel vapour retaining device.
[027] In a further embodiment of the invention, the roller element has a spherical shape.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[028] 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 right perspective view of a motor vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of a frame assembly with a fuel tank, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 3 illustrates a top view of the fuel tank, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of an inner part of the fuel tank, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 5 illustrates a bottom view of the fuel tank of the motor vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 6 illustrates a bottom view of the fuel tank of the motor vehicle, in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 7 illustrates a bottom view of the fuel tank of the motor vehicle, in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 8 illustrates a perspective view of a connecting tube assembly with a roller element, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[029] The present invention generally relates to a motor vehicle. More particularly, the present invention relates to an evaporative emission control system for the vehicle. The system of the present invention is typically used in the vehicle such as a two wheeled vehicle, or a three wheeled vehicle including trikes, or other multi-wheeled vehicles as required. The Evaporative Emission Control System, especially in a two wheeled vehicle, is designed to capture and control the fuel vapours that evaporate from the fuel tank.
[030] Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary motor vehicle 10, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The vehicle 10 includes a power unit for providing traction force to the vehicle 10. In a preferred embodiment, the power unit comprises an internal combustion engine 12 that is vertically disposed. Preferably, the internal combustion engine 12 is a single-cylinder type internal combustion engine. The vehicle 10 further includes a front wheel 14, a rear wheel 16, a frame assembly 20 (shown in Figure 2), a seat assembly 18 and a fuel tank 40. The frame assembly 20 includes a head pipe 22 (shown in Figure 2), a main frame 24 (shown in Figure 2), a pair of left and right seat rails 24A, 24B (shown in Figure 2), a down tube 25 (shown in Figure 2). The head pipe 22 supports a steering shaft (not shown) and two telescopic front forks 26 (only one shown) attached to the steering shaft through a lower bracket (not shown). The two telescopic front forks 26 support the front wheel 14. The upper portion of the front wheel 14 is covered by a front fender 28 mounted to the lower portion of the telescopic front forks 26 at the end of the steering shaft. A head light 32, a visor guard (not shown) and instrument cluster (not shown) are arranged on an upper portion of the head pipe 22. The down tube 25 may be located in front of the internal combustion engine 12 and extends slantly downward from the head pipe 22. The pair of seat rails 24A, 24B is located above the internal combustion engine 12 and extends rearward from the head pipe 22. The internal combustion engine 12 is mounted at the front to the down tube 25 and a rear of the internal combustion engine 12 is mounted at a rear portion of the main frame 24. In an embodiment, the internal combustion engine 12 is mounted vertically, with a cylinder block extending vertically above a crankcase. In an alternative embodiment, the internal combustion engine 12 is mounted horizontally (not shown) with the cylinder block extending horizontally forwardly from the crankcase. In an embodiment, the cylinder block is disposed rearwardly of the down tube 25.
[031] The pair of left and right seat rails 24A, 24B are joined to the main frame 24 and extend rearward to support the seat assembly 18. A rear swing arm 34 is connected to the frame assembly 20 to swing vertically, and the rear wheel 16 is connected to a rear end of the rear swing arm 34. Generally, the rear swing arm 34 is supported by a rear suspension (shown in Figure 1). A taillight unit 37 is disposed at the end of the vehicle 10 and at the rear of the seat assembly 18. The rear wheel 16 arranged below the seat assembly 18 rotates by the driving force of the internal combustion engine 12 transmitted through a chain drive (not shown) from the internal combustion engine 12. A rear fender 38 is disposed above the rear wheel 16 and is configured to cover the rear wheel 16.
[032] Further, an exhaust pipe (not shown) of the vehicle 10 extends vertically downward from the internal combustion engine 12 up to a point and then extends below the internal combustion engine 12, longitudinally along the vehicle length before terminating in a muffler 36. The muffler 36 is typically disposed adjoining the rear wheel 16.
[033] The vehicle 10 further includes a handlebar 50 connected to the head pipe 22 of the frame structure and extending in a vehicle width direction. The handlebar 50 can rotate to both sides of the vehicle 10 during vehicle turning movements.
[034] As depicted in Figure 2, the fuel tank 40 is mounted on the frame assembly 20 of the vehicle 10. In a further embodiment, the fuel tank 40 is configured to be mounted on the main frame 24 of the frame assembly 20. Herein, the fuel tank 40 of the vehicle 10 is mounted on the main frame 24 and the pair of seat rails 24A, 24B. In an embodiment, the front portion of the fuel tank 40 is mounted on the main frame 24 just behind the head pipe 22 of the frame assembly 20. The rear portion of the fuel tank 40 is fastened to the front portion of the pair of seat rails 24A, 24B using a plurality of fasteners. Furthermore, in an embodiment, the vehicle 10 comprises a rotary electric machine (not shown). The rotary electric machine is connected to a crankshaft of the internal combustion engine 12. In an embodiment, the rotary electric machine is an ACG machine or magneto that is configured to rotate with the crankshaft and convert rotational energy into electric energy to provide electrical power to vehicle components and charge a battery of the vehicle 10.
[035] Figure 3 illustrates a top view of the fuel tank 40, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of an inner part of the fuel tank 40, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated, the vehicle 10 has a fuel vapour collecting device 102. The fuel vapour collecting device 102 is disposed inside the fuel tank 40. The fuel vapour collecting device 102 is configured to absorb and collect the fuel vapours inside the fuel tank 40, thereby preventing fuel vapour build up inside the fuel tank 40.
[036] In an embodiment, the fuel tank 40 includes a fuel pump 104 and a fuel sensor 106. In an embodiment, the fuel pump 104 is integrated into the fuel tank 40 to deliver pressurized fuel to the engine 12 for efficient combustion. The fuel pump 104 includes an integrated internal fuel filter, which ensures that the fuel is filtered on first level, before exiting the fuel tank 40. In another embodiment, the fuel sensor 106 measures the fuel level inside the fuel tank 40 and provides feedback to the vehicle's fuel gauge or fuel monitoring system, allowing a rider to monitor the remaining amount of fuel.
[037] Figure 5 illustrates a bottom view of the fuel tank 40 of the motor vehicle 10, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As depicted in Figure 5, the motor vehicle 10 includes a fuel vapour retaining device 108. The fuel vapour retaining device 108 is disposed on an outer side of the fuel tank 40. The fuel vapour retaining device 108 is in fluid communication with the fuel vapour collecting device 102 (shown in Figure 4). In an embodiment, the fuel vapour retaining device 108 is disposed below a bottom surface of the fuel tank 40 in a vehicle top-down direction.
[038] In an embodiment, the fuel vapour retaining device 108 is a sealed storage device filled with adsorbent material such as activated charcoal, carbon pellets, and the like. The fuel vapour retaining device 108 receives the fuel vapour collected by the fuel vapour collecting device 102, and captures and stores the fuel vapour when the vehicle 10 is not in the running condition. The fuel vapour retaining device 108 is responsible for storing the fuel vapour that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere, thereby preventing the air pollution. The fuel vapour retaining device 108 is connected to the fuel tank 40 through a network of hoses or pipes. The fuel vapour generated in the fuel tank 40 due to factors such as fuel evaporation or changes in temperature are directed to the fuel vapour retaining device 108 instead of being released directly into the atmosphere. When the vehicle 10 is in the running condition, the fuel vapour retaining device 108 purges the collected fuel vapour by allowing them to be drawn into the engine intake manifold. The intake vacuum created by the operation of the engine 12 facilitates the flow of the fuel vapour from the fuel vapour retaining device 108 into the combustion chamber, where they are burned along with the air-fuel mixture during the combustion process. By capturing and purging the fuel vapour, the fuel vapour retaining device 108 helps to reduce the harmful emissions, especially volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that contribute to air pollution. The fuel vapour retaining device 108 ensures that the fuel vapour is effectively recycled and utilized in the combustion process rather than being released into the environment. In an embodiment, a purge valve is disposed between the fuel vapour retaining device 108 and the engine intake manifold. The purge valve is an electronically controlled valve and is configured for regulating the flow of the stored fuel vapour from the fuel vapour retaining device 108 to the combustion chambers for burning during the operation of the engine.
[039] The vehicle 10 further has a connecting tube assembly 110. The connecting tube assembly 110 includes a first connecting tube 116, a second connecting tube 118 and a third connecting tube 120. The first connecting tube 116 extends from the fuel vapour collecting device 102, the second connecting tube 118 and the third connecting tube 120 extends from the first connecting tube 116 and is configured to be connected to the fuel vapour retaining device 108. The connecting tube assembly 110 is configured for fluidly connecting the fuel vapour retaining device 108 and the fuel vapour collecting device 102. The connecting tube assembly 110 is a pathway that connects the fuel vapour collecting device 102 placed inside the fuel tank 40 to the fuel vapour retaining device 108. The connecting tube assembly 110 allows the fuel vapour to travel from the fuel tank 40 to the fuel vapour retaining device 108. The connecting tube assembly 110 is configured to prevent flow of fuel vapour from the fuel vapour retaining device 108 to the fuel tank 40, and from the fuel tank 40 to the fuel vapour retaining device 108 under certain conditions as explained hereinbelow.
[040] As further illustrated in Figure 5, the motor vehicle 10 has a pair of stopper members 114a, 114b and a roller element 112. The pair of stopper members 114a, 114b are provided inside the connecting tube assembly 110. The roller element 112 is movably disposed between the pair of stopper members 114a, 114b inside the connecting tube assembly 110. The roller element 112 is configured to abut one of the pair of stopper members 114a, 114b when the vehicle 10 tilts beyond a predetermined angle. Thus, when the vehicle 10 tilts beyond a predetermined angle, the roller element 112 abuts or presses against one of the pair of stopper members 114a, 114b, which effectively blocks the connecting tube assembly 110, and thereby restricts the movement of fuel vapour inside the connecting tube assembly 110. In effect, when the vehicle 10 tilts beyond a predetermined angle, the roller element 112 by virtue of being abutted or pressed against one of the pair of stopper members 114a, 114b, prevents flow of fuel vapour from the fuel vapour retaining device 108 to the fuel tank 40 thereby preventing fuel vapour buildup in the fuel tank 40. Further, the flow of fuel vapour from the fuel tank 40 to the fuel vapour retaining device 108 is also prevented, thereby preventing the fuel vapour retaining device 108 from being flooded with the fuel vapour.
[041] As depicted in Figure 5, the first connecting tube 116 extends downwardly from the fuel vapour collecting device 102 in a vehicle top-down direction. Further, the first connecting tube 116 includes a first portion 122 and a second portion 124, wherein the first portion 122 extends downwardly from the fuel vapour collecting device 102. The second portion 124 is fluidly connected to the first portion 122 and extends in a vehicle front-rear direction. The second portion 124 has a front end 124a and a rear end 124b.
[042] As further illustrated in Figure 5, the second connecting tube 118 extends from the front end 124a of the second portion 124, and the third connecting tube 120 extends from the rear end 124b of the second portion 124.
[043] The vehicle 10 further includes a tube connector 126. The tube connector 126 has a first slot 126a, a second slot 126b and a third slot 126c. The first slot 126a is configured to receive the second connecting tube 118, the second slot 126b is configured to receive the third connecting tube 120 and the third slot 126c is configured to be connected to the fuel vapour retaining device 108.
[044] Therefore, the second connecting tube 118 and the third connecting tube 120 of the connecting tube assembly 110 is configured to be connected to the fuel vapour retaining device 108 with the help of the tube connector 126. The tube connector 126 connects the inlet portion of the fuel vapour retaining device 108 with the second connecting tube 118 and the third connecting tube 120 of the connecting tube assembly 110. The second connecting tube 118 and the third connecting tube 120 is further connected to the first connecting tube 116. The first connecting tube 116 is connected to the fuel vapour collecting device 102. The fuel vapour retaining device 108 is in fluidic communication with the fuel vapour collecting device 102 with the help of the connecting tube assembly 110 and the tube connector 126.
[045] Figure 6 illustrates a bottom view of the fuel tank of the motor vehicle, in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention. As depicted in Figure 6, the vehicle 10 includes a fourth connecting tube 128, wherein the second connecting tube 118 and the third connecting tube 120 is configured to be connected to the fourth connecting tube 128. The fourth connecting tube 128 is configured to be connected to the fuel vapour retaining device 108.
[046] Therefore, the second connecting tube 118 and the third connecting tube 120 of the connecting tube assembly 110 is configured to connect the fourth connecting tube 128. The fourth connecting tube 128 is configured to be directly connected to the inlet portion of the fuel vapour retaining device 108. The second connecting tube 118 and the third connecting tube 120 is further connected to the first connecting tube 116. The first connecting tube 116 is connected to the fuel vapour collecting device 102. The fuel vapour retaining device 108 is in fluidic communication with the fuel vapour collecting device 102 with the help of the connecting tube assembly 110 and the fourth connecting tube 128.
[047] Figure 7 illustrates a bottom view of the fuel tank 40 of the motor vehicle 10, in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention. As depicted in Figure 7, the vehicle 10 includes the fourth connecting tube 128, wherein the second connecting tube 118 and the third connecting tube 120 is configured to be connected to the fourth connecting tube 128. The fourth connecting tube 128 is configured to be connected to the fuel vapour retaining device 108. The vehicle 10 further includes the tube connector 126. The tube connector 126 has a first slot 126a, a second slot 126b and a third slot 126c. The first slot 126a is configured to receive the second connecting tube 118, the second slot 126b is configured to receive the third connecting tube 120 and the third slot 126c is configured to be connected to the fourth connecting tube 128.
[048] Therefore, the second connecting tube 118 and the third connecting tube 120 of the connecting tube assembly 110 is configured to be connected to the fuel vapour retaining device 108 with the help of the tube connector 126 and the fourth connecting tube 128. The tube connector 126 is configured to connect the second connecting tube 118, the third connecting tube 120, and the fourth connecting tube 128 of the connecting tube assembly 110. The fourth connecting tube 128 connects the inlet portion of the fuel vapour retaining device 108. The second connecting tube 118 and the third connecting tube 120 is further connected to the first connecting tube 116. The first connecting tube 116 is connected to the fuel vapour collecting device 102. The fuel vapour retaining device 108 is in fluidic communication with the fuel vapour collecting device 102 with the help of the connecting tube assembly 110, the fourth connecting tube 128, and the tube connector 126.
[049] In a further embodiment of the present invention, an inner diameter of the second portion 124 of the first connecting tube 116 is larger than the inner diameter of the second connecting tube 118 and the third connecting tube 120. Further, the roller element 112 is disposed in the second portion 124 of the first connecting tube 116. The smaller diameters of the second connecting tube 118 and the third connecting tube 120 thus ensures that the roller element 112 remains in the second portion 124 of the first connecting tube 116 and cannot enter into either the second connecting tube 118 or the third connecting tube 120.
[050] In an embodiment, the second portion 124 of the first connecting tube 116 has a bowl-shaped structure, and the bowl-shaped structure is positioned downwardly of the fuel vapour collecting device 102. Also, the bowl-shaped structure is positioned upwardly of the fuel vapour retaining device 108. In an embodiment, the connecting tube assembly 110 is preformed and made of multiple layers of resin. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the connecting tube assembly 110 is made vibration proof, by adding an additional mounting bracket or holder within the fuel tank 40 to hold the connecting tube assembly 110 in position. The additional mounting bracket/holder may be welded to the fuel tank 40 or can also be detachably attached.
[051] In an embodiment, the connecting tube assembly 110 with varying diameter controls the position of the roller element 112 to stop the flow of the fuel vapour in situations of extreme tilting of the vehicle 10. Since the connecting tube assembly 110 itself is being delegated with the function of ROV, thereby the connecting tube assembly 110 is capable of being compatible with multiple fuel type used within the vehicle 10 (e.g., gasoline or diesel) and can withstand the pressure and temperature variations encountered in the fuel system.
[052] In an embodiment, the pair of stopper members 114a, 114b include a pair of ring members (114a, 114b). The pair of ring members (114a,114b) includes a first ring member 114a and a second ring member 114b. The first ring member 114a is provided between the first connecting tube 116 and the second connecting tube 118, and an outer diameter of the first ring member 114a is lesser than an inner diameter of the front end 124a of the second portion 124. The inner diameter of the first ring member 114a is smaller than a diameter of the roller element 112.
[053] In an embodiment, the second ring member 114b is provided between the first connecting tube 116 and the third connecting tube 120, and an outer diameter of the second ring member 114b is lesser than an inner diameter of the rear end 124b of the second portion 124. Further, the inner diameter of the second ring member 114b is smaller than a diameter of the roller element 112.
[054] Figure 8 illustrates a perspective view of the connecting tube assembly 110 with the roller element 112, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As depicted in Figure 8, the roller element 112 is disposed in the second portion 124 of the first connecting tube 116. The roller element 112 is configured to abut one of the pair of stopper members 114a, 114b when the vehicle 10 tilts beyond a predetermined angle, thereby restricting the movement of fuel vapour inside the connecting tube assembly 110. In an embodiment, the roller element 112 has a spherical shape.
[055] In an embodiment, the roller element 112 reacts to the changes in the orientation of the vehicle 10, and upon tilting the vehicle 10 on either side, the roller element inside the second portion 124 of the first connecting tube 116 starts moving accordingly, responding to the change in the orientation of the vehicle. The abutment of the pair of the stopper members 114a, 114b and the roller element 112 acts as an obstruction, effectively hindering the movement of the fuel vapour in between the first connecting tube 116 and the second connecting tube 118 or the first connecting tube 116 and the third connecting tube 120, upon the tilting of the vehicle 10. As a result, the fuel vapour flow is efficiently halted during these instances of tilting. In an embodiment, the predetermined angle of vehicle tilt is 45 degrees. However, when the vehicle 10 is in the upright condition, the connecting tube assembly 110 allows the fuel tank to vent properly, maintaining the fuel system's equilibrium.
[056] Further, the first ring member 114a and the second ring member 114b serves the additional purpose of ensuring that the roller element 112 does not become permanently entrapped within the region between the second portion 124 and the second connecting tube 118 and the second portion 124 and the third connecting tube 120. This way, the roller element 112 is free to move within the second portion 124 of the first connecting tube 116, providing dynamic adaptability to the system without any risk of functional hindrance. With this configuration and the bowl-shaped structure of the second portion 124 of the first connecting tube 116, the connecting tube assembly 110 ensures that, once the vehicle is returned to its upright position, the roller element 112 effortlessly returns to its original position within the second portion 124 of the first connecting tube 116 and away from the pair of stopper member 114a, 114b, allowing flow of fuel vapour. Consequently, this seamless restoration allows the fuel vapour to resume its unobstructed flow through the connecting tube assembly 110, ensuring efficient operation and preventing any disruptions to the fuel vapour transport process.
[057] In an embodiment, for instance, when the vehicle 10 is tilted at 50 degrees on the left side, the roller element 112 is configured to block the first ring member 114a to prevent the flow of the fuel vapour from the fuel vapour retaining device 108 to the fuel tank 40 and vice versa. Similarly, when the vehicle 10 is tilted at 50 degrees on the right side, the roller element 112 is configured to block the second ring member 114b to prevent the flow of the fuel vapour from the fuel tank 40 to the fuel vapour retaining device 108 and vice versa. The diameter of the roller element 112 is such that the roller element 112 returns to the original resting state in the second portion 124 of the first connecting tube 116 when the vehicle 10 is in the upright position.
[058] Further, the flow of fuel vapour is blocked when the roller element 112 abuts one of the first ring member 114 or the second ring member 114b is also facilitated by water head phenomenon. Herein, for example, when the first connecting tube 116 is tilted, the water head in the second connecting tube 118 will increase. This increased water head will cause the fuel vapour to flow faster in the second connecting tube 118. The owl shaped or "U" shaped structure in the second connecting tube 118 will obstruct the flow of fuel vapour. This will cause the fuel vapour level in the second connecting tube 118 to rise. As the fuel vapour level in the second connecting tube 118 rises, the water head in the third connecting tube 120 will decrease. This decreased water head will cause the fuel vapour to flow slower in the third connecting tube 120. If the first connecting tube 116 is tilted to a great degree, the water head in the second connecting tube 118 will be much greater than the water head in the third connecting tube 120. This will cause the fuel to flow very slowly in the third connecting tube 120. In case of further tilting, the fuel vapour may not flow at all after a certain point in the third connecting tube 120.
[059] In an embodiment, the pair of the stopper members 114a, 114b and the roller element 112 are made of the same material, such as metal. In an alternative embodiment, the pair of the stopper members 114a, 114b and the roller element 112 are made of different materials such as plastic/resin and metal.
[060] Advantageously, the present invention provides for a motor vehicle with connecting tube assembly for connecting the fuel vapour collecting device to the fuel vapour retaining device, which would eliminate the need of the ROV along with the mounting brackets required to mount the ROV. The evaporative emission control system as disclosed in the present invention is cost-effective due to lesser number of parts, thereby the overall assembly time of the evaporative emission control system is reduced. The overall system becomes more robust against fuel vapour leakage because of the reduced number of joints involved, thereby it is ensured that the present system is reliable and efficient.
[061] The overall complexity of the present system is reduced due to the lesser number of parts. The available space within the fuel system in the vehicle is efficiently utilised due to the reduced number of the components. Since the ROV is excluded altogether in the present system, the overall maintenance costs are also reduced considerably.
[062] The connecting tube assembly is directly connected with the fuel vapour retaining device, thereby utilising a shorter connecting tube in the present system. Due to the reduced length of the connecting tube, the chances of damage of the connecting tube assembly from the vibration is also minimized.
[063] 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
10: Motor Vehicle
12: Internal Combustion Engine
14: Front Wheel
16: Rear Wheel
18: Seat Assembly
20: Frame Assembly
22: Head Pipe
24: Main Frame
24A: Left Seat Rail
24B: Right Seat Rail
25: Down Tube
26: Front Forks
28: Front Fender
32: Head Light
34: Swing arm
36: Muffler
37: Taillight Unit
38: Rear Fender
40: Fuel Tank
50: Handlebar
102: Fuel Vapour Collecting Device
104: Fuel Pump
106: Fuel Sensor
108: Fuel Vapour Retaining Device
110: Connecting Tube Assembly
112: Roller Element
114a, 114b: Stopper Members
114a: First Ring Member
114b: Second Ring Member
116: First Connecting Tube
118: Second Connecting Tube
120: Third Connecting Tube
122: First Portion
124: Second Portion
124a: Front End
124b: Rear End
126: Tube Connector
126a: First Slot
126b: Second Slot
126c: Third Slot
128: Fourth Connecting Tube
, C , Claims:WE CLAIM:
1. A motor vehicle (10), comprising:
a fuel tank (40), the fuel tank (40) being mounted on a frame assembly (20) of the vehicle (10);
a fuel vapour collecting device (102), the fuel vapour collecting device (102) being disposed inside the fuel tank (40);
a fuel vapour retaining device (108), the fuel vapour retaining device (108) being disposed on an outer side of the fuel tank (40), the fuel vapour retaining device (108) being in fluid communication with the fuel vapour collecting device (102);
a connecting tube assembly (110), the connecting tube assembly (110) comprising a first connecting tube (116), a second connecting tube (118) and a third connecting tube (120), the first connecting tube (116) extending from the fuel vapour collecting device (102), the second connecting tube (118) and the third connecting tube (120) extending from the first connecting tube (116) and being configured to be connected to the fuel vapour retaining device (108); and
a pair of stopper members (114a, 114b), the pair of stopper members (114a, 114b) provided inside the connecting tube assembly (110); and
a roller element (112), the roller element (112) movably disposed between the pair of stopper members (114a, 114b) inside the connecting tube assembly (110), the roller element (112) being configured to abut one of the pair of stopper members (114a, 114b) when the vehicle (10) tilts beyond a predetermined angle, thereby restricting the movement of fuel vapour inside the connecting tube assembly (110).

2. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the fuel tank (40) being configured to be mounted on a main frame (24) of the frame assembly (20).

3. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the fuel vapour retaining device (108) is disposed below a bottom surface of the fuel tank (40) in a vehicle top-down direction.

4. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first connecting tube (116) extends downwardly from the fuel vapour collecting device (102) in a vehicle top-down direction.

5. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first connecting tube (116) comprises a first portion (122) and a second portion (124), wherein the first portion (122) extends downwardly from the fuel vapour collecting device (102), the second portion (124) being fluidly connected to the first portion (122) and extending in a vehicle front-rear direction, the second portion (124) having a front end (124a) and a rear end (124b).

6. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the second connecting tube (118) extends from the front end (124a) of the second portion (124), and the third connecting tube (120) extends from the rear end (124b) of the second portion (124).

7. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a tube connector (126), the tube connector (126) having a first slot (126a), a second slot (126b) and a third slot (126c), wherein the first slot (126a) being configured to receive the second connecting tube (118), the second slot (126b) being configured to receive the third connecting tube (120) and the third slot (126c) being configured to be connected to the fuel vapour retaining device (108).

8. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a fourth connecting tube (128), wherein the second connecting tube (118) and the third connecting tube (120) being configured to be connected to the fourth connecting tube (128), the fourth connecting tube (128) being configured to be connected to the fuel vapour retaining device (108).

9. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 8, comprising a tube connector (126), the tube connector (126) having a first slot (126a), a second slot (126b) and a third slot (126c), wherein the first slot (126a) being configured to receive the second connecting tube (118), the second slot (126b) being configured to receive the third connecting tube (120) and the third slot (126c) being configured to be connected to the fourth connecting tube (128).

10. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 5, wherein an inner diameter of the second portion (124) of the first connecting tube (116) is larger than the inner diameter of the second connecting tube (118) and the third connecting tube (120).

11. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the roller element (112) is disposed in the second portion (124) of the first connecting tube (116).

12. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pair of stopper members (114a, 114b) comprise a pair of ring members having a first ring member (114a) and a second ring member (114b).

13. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the first ring member (114a) is provided between the first connecting tube (116) and the second connecting tube (118), and an outer diameter of the first ring member (114a) is lesser than an inner diameter of the front end (124a) of the second portion (124), and the inner diameter of the first ring member (114a) is smaller than a diameter of the roller element (112).

14. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the second ring member (114b) is provided between the first connecting tube (116) and the third connecting tube (120), and an outer diameter of the second ring member (114b) is lesser than an inner diameter of the rear end (124b) of the second portion (124), and the inner diameter of the second ring member (114b) is smaller than a diameter of the roller element (112).

15. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the second portion (124) being configured to form a bowl-shaped structure, and the bowl-shaped structure being positioned downwardly of the fuel vapour collecting device (102).

16. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 15, wherein the bowl-shaped structure being positioned upwardly of the fuel vapour retaining device (108).

17. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the roller element (112) has a spherical shape.

Dated this 28th day of September 2023

TVS MOTOR COMPANY LIMITED
By their Agent & Attorney

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