Description:FORM 2

THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 OF 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See Section 10 and Rule 13)

A MOUNTING MEMBER AND A MOUNTING ASSEMBLY OF ONE OR MORE COMPONENTS OF A VEHICLE

APPLICANT:

TVS MOTOR COMPANY LIMITED, (an Indian Company)

at: “Chaitanya”, No. 12, Khader Nawaz Khan Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai – 600034, Tamil Nadu, India.

The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.

TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to a mounting member for mounting one or more components of a vehicle. More particularly, but not limited to, the present invention relates a mounting assembly and a method thereof for a fender of the vehicle.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Vehicles have many components which are attached to the cover body or the frame assembly of the vehicle. These components which may be attached to the cover body may include various parts such as a fender of the vehicle, the cover body itself, external style panels, and several other body parts and components. These components have to be attached via a detachable connection to facilitate easier serviceability of the components and/or surrounding parts. These components can be provided with multiple mounting points to be able to be mounted on the vehicle. These mounting points differ according to the type of component and location of mounting. The components such as the fender of the vehicle are provided with a mounting point and the vehicle is provided with a mounting point. As per the conventional methods of detachable connection, a fastener is passed through the mounting points of the component and the mounting points of the vehicle or the frame assembly, where the component is desired to be connected.
[0003] The components were conventionally assembled by two or more than two persons, where one would hold the position of the component against the vehicle body or the frame assembly and one or more other persons would insert and secure the fasteners onto the vehicle body or frame assembly. The conventional assembly and known mounting configurations of the components were taking increased time in assemble as well as increased costs associated with assembling and disassembling the components of the vehicle. The conventional mounting systems of these components may additionally include a bracket which is provided in the component and an opening is provided in the vehicle body portion where the component is supposed to be connected. This type of mounting of the components took increased time in assembly and serviceability, leading to increased costs, increased manpower used for assembly in addition to increased number of parts.
[0004] Another problem associated with the conventional mounting configurations was that due to several mounting points being present in the components, all of the fasteners or at least three fasteners were required to be fastened before the component could be let go off by the person holding such component. Due to this the manpower required for mounting was increased and precious time of the workmen during the assembly period as well as serviceability was spent on such mounting. Further, the fasteners were required to be held by the workmen by some special tool and special tools were required to fasten the same, in some cases, it might be possible that one person was holding the fastener, while others may be fastening the same. In cases, such as the fender, where the mounting points are configured to be accessed only from one side, fastening the same was very difficult as the fastener was not able to be held properly which further increased the complexity and time in assembling and servicing the vehicle.
[0005] Further, conventional mounting configurations s fail to accord restriction in the fastener movement thereby permitting the fastener to move freely along multiple axes due to which one person was required had to exclusively hold the fastener. The unrestrictive aspect of conventional mounting assemblies often leads to incorrect fastening, jeopardizing the security and functioning of the component mounted.
[0006] In specific cases where a fender is assembled on the fork assembly of the vehicle, there is an inconvenience associated with serviceability of the forks, where the entire fender had to be disassembled. Due to the increased time in assembling, disassembling and servicing, the fender is often viewed as a hindrance resulting in overall time taken in assembling and servicing the vehicle.
[0007] The components such as the fender are in some types of vehicles made up of sheet metals for providing a strong and durable part. Further, in case of a front fender, the fender is attached on the fork assembly in two or three wheeled vehicles. The unavailability of proper towing portions in two-three wheeled vehicles, require the towing authorities to sometimes tow the vehicle from the front fender and the fork, which then results in damaging the fender as well as the fork of the vehicle. Due to transfer of the load on the fork of the vehicle, this in turn results in damaging the alignment of the fork thereby further creating safety hazards, as well as improper wear and tear of the front tyre and also have various associated issues. The fender is provided with flexible and lighter composition and the towing authorities are not able to use it for towing purposes, and have to use the chassis of the vehicle for towing. However, due to the part being made up of such flexible and lighter composition, it is important to mount the structure in a manner which increases the strength and durability of the fender and minimises any damage to the fork assembly of the vehicle.
[0008] Thus, the conventional assemblies and methods known in the art for mounting the one or more components of the vehicle have associated problems and limitations pertaining to increased time taken to assemble and increased number of required manpower in assembling and servicing of the vehicle, low durability and strength, allows free movement of the fastener in multiple axes, and increased difficulty in assembling and servicing of the vehicle, and also increased costs associated with assembling and servicing the vehicle. The need for special tools, machinery or devices such as pneumatic devices or fixtures used to mount the one or more components of the vehicle is also present in conventional vehicles. Hence, it is important that an efficient and effective mounting member, mounting assembly and method thereof is provided for mounting such components which have increased accessibility for servicing and reduced time and manpower in assembling and disassembling.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The present subject matter relates to a mounting member for mounting one or more components to a predefined portion of a vehicle which comprises a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is configured to face the predefined portion of the vehicle. The first portion comprises an inclined cutout which is formed at a predetermined angle with ground level to receive a fastening member. The second portion is configured to face away from the predefined portion and comprises a predetermined cutout and a predetermined cavity. The predetermined cutout comprises a predetermined profile which is configured to secure the fastening member. The predetermined cavity is a cavity between the first portion and the second portion. The mounting member is connected to the one or more components of the vehicle.
[0010] The present invention further relates to a mounting assembly for mounting a fender of a vehicle. The mounting assembly comprises the fender, one or more fastening members and one or more mounting members. The one or more fastening members are configured to connect the fender to a predefined portion of the vehicle. The one or more mounting members are configured to mount one or more components to a predefined portion of a vehicle which comprises a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is configured to face the predefined portion of the vehicle. The first portion comprises an inclined cutout which is formed at a predetermined angle with ground level to receive a fastening member. The second portion is configured to face away from the predefined portion and comprises a predetermined cutout and a predetermined cavity. The predetermined cutout comprises a predetermined profile which is configured to secure the fastening member. The predetermined cavity is a cavity between the first portion and the second portion. The one or more mounting members are connected to the one or more components of the vehicle.
[0011] The present invention further relates to a method for mounting one or more components to a predefined portion of a vehicle. The method comprising the following steps. Firstly, inserting one or more fastening members to an inclined cutout which is provided on a first portion of one or more mounting members which are integrated with the one or more components, thereby restricting a movement of the one or more fastening members from one or more directions by the inclined cutout; Secondly, aligning the one or more fastening members with a predetermined profile of a predetermined cutout of a second portion of the one or more mounting members; Thirdly, aligning the one or more fastening members with an extended member which is provided on the second portion; Fourthly, aligning the one or more components with the predetermined portion of the vehicle; and Finally, securing the one or more fastening members to connect the one or more components onto the predetermined portion of the vehicle.
[0012] The present invention along with various embodiments allows the mounting of one or more components which enables a reduction in time taken to assemble and a reduction in the number of required manpower in assembling and servicing the vehicle, increased durability and strength, restricting free movement of the fastener in multiple axes, and easier and simpler assembling and servicing of the vehicle, and also reducing the costs associated with assembling and servicing the vehicle. The present invention further eliminates any need for special tools, machinery or devices such as pneumatic devices or fixtures used to mount the one or more components of the vehicle.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] The proposed invention is described with reference to an exemplary embodiment of a mounting member and mounting for assembly one or more components of a vehicle. The same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to reference similar features and components. Description of certain details and implementations follow, including a description below, as well as a discussion of other potential embodiments described below, as well as a discussion of other potential embodiments or implementations of the inventive concepts provided below, followed by a more detailed description with reference to the drawings.
[0014] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of the vehicle as per one embodiment of the present invention.
[0015] Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of a mounting assembly as another embodiment of the present invention.
[0016] Figures 3a, 3b and 3c illustrate a side view of a mounting member as another embodiment of the present invention.
[0017] Figure 4 illustrates an exploded view of the mounting assembly as per one embodiment of the present invention.
[0018] Figure 5 illustrates a method for a mounting arrangement for mounting the one or more components of the vehicle as per one embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0019] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the techniques described herein can be practised without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring certain aspects.
[0020] Various features and embodiments of the present invention here will be discernible from the following further description thereof, set out hereunder. Further “front” and “rear”, and “left” and “right” referred to in the ensuing description of the illustrated embodiment refer to front and rear, and left and right directions as seen from a rear portion of the vehicle and looking forward. However, it is contemplated that the disclosure in the present invention may be applied to any vehicle without defeating the spirit of the present subject matter. The detailed explanation of the constitution of parts other than the present invention which constitutes an essential part has been omitted at suitable places.
[0021] In order to address the one or more of the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a mounting assembly of the one or more components of the vehicle.
[0022] It is an object of the present invention to solve the problems pertaining to the conventional vehicle by reducing the time taken to assemble and service the vehicle. It is further an objective of the present invention to reduce the number of manpower required in assembling and servicing the vehicle. It is a further objective of the present invention to increase the strength and durability of the one or more components of the vehicle. It is further an objective of the present invention to restrict the movement in multiple axes of the fastener used to connect the one or more components to the vehicle. It is a further objective of the present invention to provide a simpler and easier mounting assembly for the one or more components which provides simpler and easier assembling and servicing the vehicle. It is a further objective of the present invention to provide a mounting configuration which has reduced costs in assembling and servicing the vehicle. It is a further objective of the present invention to reduce the need for special tools, machinery or devices such as pneumatic devices or fixtures used to mount the specific one or more components of the vehicle.
[0023] As per one embodiment of the present invention, a mounting member for mounting one or more components to a predefined portion of a vehicle which comprises a first portion and a second portion is provided. The first portion is configured to face the predefined portion of the vehicle. The first portion comprises an inclined cutout which is formed at a predetermined angle with ground level to receive a fastening member. The second portion is configured to face away from the predefined portion and comprises a predetermined cutout and a predetermined cavity. The predetermined cutout comprises a predetermined profile which is configured to secure the fastening member. The predetermined cavity is a cavity between the first portion and the second portion. The mounting member is connected to the one or more components of the vehicle.
[0024] As per another embodiment, the predefined portion of the vehicle is selected from a group comprising a cowl member, a cover body, and a frame assembly of the vehicle.
[0025] As per another embodiment, the inclined cutout comprises a latching member which is configured to cover an open end of the inclined cutout.
[0026] As per another embodiment, each of the first portion and the second portion comprises a predetermined thickness, where the predetermined thickness of the first portion is greater than that of the second portion.
[0027] As per another embodiment, one or more dimensions of the inclined cutout are based on one or more dimensions of the fastening member thereby the fastening member snugly fits into the inclined cutout.
[0028] As per another embodiment, the first portion comprises one or more depressions configured to reduce the overall mass of the mounting member and provide additional enforcement to the mounting member.
[0029] As per another embodiment, wherein the predetermined angle of the inclined cutout is in a range of 15- 45 degrees.
[0030] As per another embodiment, the second portion comprises an extended member configured to arrest the movement of the fastening member, the extended member extends from the second portion towards the predetermined cutout at an angle ranging from 0 degrees to 45 degrees.
[0031] As per another embodiment, the predetermined cutout and the predetermined profile are determined based on the fastening member, the predetermined cutout and the predetermined profile being configured to match the profile of the fastening member thereby arresting the rotational movement of the fastening member.
[0032] As per another embodiment, the predetermined cavity is configured to accommodate an interfacing member, the predetermined cavity is determined based on a profile of the interfacing member, the predetermined cavity comprising an opening for accommodating the interfacing member, the opening being towards an open end of the inclined cutout.
[0033] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a mounting assembly for mounting a fender of a vehicle is provided. For example, the vehicle is a two-wheeled type vehicle, a three wheeled vehicle, a four wheeled vehicle or a multi-axle vehicle. In one of the embodiments of the present application the vehicle may be an Electric Vehicle (EV), a Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV), an Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) based vehicle and have components suitable for traction. The mounting assembly comprises the fender, one or more fastening members and one or more mounting members. The one or more fastening members are configured to connect the fender to a predefined portion of the vehicle. The one or more mounting members are configured to mount one or more components to a predefined portion of a vehicle which comprises a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is configured to face the predefined portion of the vehicle. The first portion comprises an inclined cutout which is formed at a predetermined angle with ground level to receive a fastening member. The second portion is configured to face away from the predefined portion and comprises a predetermined cutout and a predetermined cavity. The predetermined cutout comprises a predetermined profile which is configured to secure the fastening member. The predetermined cavity is a cavity between the first portion and the second portion. The one or more mounting members are connected to the one or more components of the vehicle.
[0034] As per another embodiment, the predetermined cavity is configured to accommodate an interfacing member, and the predetermined cavity is determined based on a profile of the interfacing member. The predetermined cavity comprises an opening for accommodating the interfacing member towards an open end of the inclined cutout.
[0035] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a method for mounting one or more components to a predefined portion of a vehicle is disclosed. The method comprising the following steps. Firstly, inserting one or more fastening members to an inclined cutout which is provided on a first portion of one or more mounting members which are integrated with the one or more components, thereby restricting a movement of the one or more fastening members from one or more directions by the inclined cutout; Secondly, aligning the one or more fastening members with a predetermined profile of a predetermined cutout of a second portion of the one or more mounting members; Thirdly, aligning the one or more fastening members with an extended member which is provided on the second portion; Fourthly, aligning the one or more components with the predetermined portion of the vehicle. Finally, securing the one or more fastening members to connect the one or more components onto the predetermined portion of the vehicle.
[0036] As per another embodiment, the one or more components is a front fender of the vehicle. The method comprises the step of assembling an interfacing member to the one or more fastening members before inserting one or more fastening members, and the interfacing member is configured to accommodate within a predetermined cavity which is provided between the first portion and the second portion.
[0037] Thus, the mentioned invention provides a mounting member, mounting assembly for the one or more components to the vehicle.
[0038] The present subject matter is further described with reference to the accompanying figures. It should be noted that the description and figures merely illustrate the principles of the present subject matter. Various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, encompass the principles of the present subject matter. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects and examples of the present subject matter, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.
[0039] The foregoing disclosure is not intended to limit the present disclosure to the precise forms of particular fields of use disclosed. As such, it is contemplated that various alternate embodiments and/or modifications to the present disclosure, whether explicitly described or implied herein, are possible in light of the disclosure. Having thus described embodiments of the present disclosure, a person of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
[0040] In the foregoing specification, the disclosure has been described with reference to specific embodiments disclosed herein can be modified or otherwise implemented in various other ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, this description is to be considered illustrative and is for the purpose of teaching those skilled in the art the manner of making and using various embodiments of the disclosure. It is to be understood that the forms of the disclosure herein shown and described are to be taken as representative embodiments. Equivalent elements, materials processed or steps may be substituted for those representatively illustrated and described herein. Moreover, certain features of the disclosure may be utilized independently of the use of other features, all as would be apparent to one skilled in the art after having the benefit of this description of the disclosure. Expressions such as “including”, “comprising”, “incorporating”, “consisting of”, “have”, and “is”, used to describe and claim the present disclosure are intended to be construed in a non-exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components, or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural.
[0041] Further, various embodiments disclosed herein are to be taken in the illustrative and explanatory sense, and would in no way be construed as limiting the present disclosure. All joinder references (e.g., attached, affixed, coupled, connected, etc.) are only used to aid the reader’s understanding of the present invention, and may not create limitations, particularly as to the position orientation, or use of the system and/or methods disclosed herein. Therefore, joinder references, if any, are to be construed broadly. Moreover, such joinder references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected to each other.
[0042] Additionally, all numerical terms, such as, but not limited to, “first”, “second”, “primary”, “secondary”, “main” or any other ordinary and/or numerical terms, should also be taken as identifiers, to assist the reader’s understanding of the various elements, embodiments, variations and/or modifications of the present disclosure, and may not create any limitations, particularly as to the order, or preference, of any element, embodiment, variation, and/or modification relative to, or over, another element, embodiment, variation and/or modification.
[0043] It will also be appreciated that one or more of the elements depicted in the drawings/ figures can also be implemented in a more separated or integrated manner, or even removed, or rendered as inoperable in certain cases, as is useful in accordance with a particular application. The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the disclosed invention is not limited to the present embodiments.
[0044] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a vehicle (100) as per one embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle (100) comprises a frame assembly (not shown) and a cover body (101). While the figure illustrates a three-wheeled vehicle, the present invention is not necessarily limited to three-wheeled vehicles and may be applicable to any type of vehicle. The frame assembly provides structural support to the vehicle (100), and the cover body (101) covers the frame assembly of the vehicle (100). The cover body (101) comprises a cowl member (102) which covers the frame assembly from a front direction of the vehicle (100). The frame assembly (100) of the vehicle (100) also comprises a fork (not shown) attached to a steering assembly (not shown) of the vehicle (100). The fork comprises a rotating member (not shown). The vehicle (100) further comprises a fender (103) which covers the rotating member. The vehicle (100) further comprises one or more components (104) (shown in Fig. 2) which are mounted on the vehicle (100). There may be different one or more components (104) that may be mounted on the vehicle (100) and may include the fender (103), the cover body (101), the cowl member (102), one or more electrical components (not shown), grills (not shown), or trims (not shown), air ducts (not shown). The one or more components (104) of the vehicle (100) may be connected to the vehicle (100) at different locations, as per the present invention, the one or more components (104) are configured to connect at a predefined portion (not shown) of the vehicle (100). The predefined portion of the vehicle (100) will depend upon the type of the one or more components (104) which has to be mounted. The predefined portion of the vehicle (100) may be selected from a group comprising a cowl member (102), a cover body (101), and a frame assembly of the vehicle (100). In case of the one or more components (104) being the cowl member (102) or the cover body (101), the predefined portion could be the cover body (101) or the frame assembly, respectively. In the case where the one or more components (104) is the fender (103), the predefined portion may be the cowl member (102) or the cover body (101), etc. The fender (103) may also be a front fender (103) in another embodiment. In conventional vehicles, the front fender (103) was mounted on the fork, which has associated problems of loosening due to increased vibrations, etc, which has been solved by the present invention by providing this configuration. The predefined portion of the vehicle (100) is configured to have a plurality of openings (not shown) which are configured to enable the detachable connection between the one or more components (104) and the vehicle (100)
[0045] Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of a mounting assembly (200) as per one embodiment of the present invention. The mounting assembly (200) as per the present invention comprises one or more components (104), one or more fastening members (201) (shown in Fig. 3b), and one or more mounting members (300). The one or more components (104) are shown as the fender (103) of the vehicle. However, the present invention is not limited to mounting the fender (103) and may also mount the other one or more components (104) which have been defined in the description. The one or more fastening members (201) are provided in the mounting assembly (200) to enable a detachable connection between the one or more components (104) and the vehicle (100). The detachable connection is important to provide better serviceability for the vehicle (100). The one or more fastening members (201) are configured such that it is capable of withstanding a weight of the one or more components (104) of the vehicle (100), in the preferred embodiment, it should be capable of withstanding the entire weight of the one or more components (104). The one or more mounting members (300) are configured to mount the one or more components (104) to the predefined portion of the vehicle (100). The one or more mounting members are connected to the one or more components (104) of the vehicle (100). As per another embodiment of the present invention, the one or more mounting members (300) may also be integrated within the one or more components (104) of the vehicle (100). The one or more mounting members (300) may be made from different materials which may be selected from a group comprising plastics, metals, alloys, fibreglass, polycarbonate, and polyurethane. As per one embodiment of the present invention, the one or more components comprise one or more openings that are configured to receive the one or more fastening members (201) from the one or more mounting members (300).
[0046] Figures 3a, 3b and 3c illustrate a side view of a mounting member (300) as another embodiment of the present invention. The mounting member (300) as per the present invention comprises a first portion (301) and a second portion (302). The first portion (301) is the portion that is configured to face the predefined portion of the vehicle (100). The first portion (301) is provided with an inclined cutout (305) which is formed at a predetermined angle (A) (shown in Figure 2) which is calculated from the ground level. In one embodiment, the mounting member (300) can also be provided with a curved profile in which the fastening member (201) is inserted. In another embodiment, the inclined cutout (305) may also be provided with a curved profile to enable insertion of the fastening members (201). In one embodiment, the fastening member (201) can include a bolt comprising a bolt shank whereby the bolt shank can be inserted in the cutout (305). The inclined cutout (305) receives the fastening member (201), and the inclination of the cutout is made such that the fastening member (201) does not fall off from the mounting member (300) during mounting of the one or more components (104) of the vehicle (100). The predetermined angle (A) is measured from the ground level since the value of the predetermined angle (A) is determined such that the mounting member (300) does not fall off by the gravitational force acting upon the fastening member (201). As per the preferred embodiment, the predetermined angle (A) of the inclined cutout (305) is in the range of 15-45 degrees. This provides an easier way since the inclined cutout (305) provides easy insertion of the fastening member (201). The inclined cutout (305) itself restricts the movement of the fastening member (201) along at least two axes namely an X-axis, and Y-axis (marked in Figure 3b). The inclined cutout (305) has one or more dimensions (not shown) which are based on one or more dimensions (not shown) of the fastening member (201). The one or more dimensions of the inclined cutout (305) are configured such that the fastening member (201) is snug-fitted into the inclined cutout (305). To keep the size of the one or more mounting members (300) minimalist, it is important that no unnecessary increase in size is formed on the mounting member (300). The first portion (301) of the mounting member (300) is provided with one or more depressions (308) which reduce the overall mass of the mounting member which helps in the reduction of weight of the mounting member (300) as well also provide additional reinforcement to the mounting member (300) and thereby increase the strength and durability of the mounting member (300).
[0047] The second portion (302) is configured to face away from the predefined portion of the vehicle (100). The second portion (302) comprises a predetermined cutout (306) which also comprises a predetermined profile (307). The predetermined profile (307) of the predetermined cutout (306) holds the fastening member (201) and arrests a rotational movement of the fastening member (201). The predetermined profile (307) and the predetermined cutout (306) may in one embodiment be made to match the profile of the fastening member (201). To arrest the rotational movement of the fastening member (201), the predetermined profile (307) must at least match a portion of a head of the fastening member (201). The predetermined profile (307) and the head of the fastening member (201) may in one embodiment be shaped in a square, pentagonal, hexagonal, etc. and the predetermined profile (307) must match at least two sides of the head of the fastening member (201). The disclosed configuration of the predetermined profile (307) prevents the rotational movement of the fastening member (201) and provides a simple and easier mounting configuration of the one or more components (104). The predetermined cutout (306) may in one embodiment be provided with a rough surface having multiple waves or protrusions to restrict rotational movement of the fastening member (201). A predetermined cavity (303) is formed between the first portion (301) and the second portion (302). The predetermined cavity (303) is formed to accommodate the interfacing member (202) within the predetermined cavity (303). This predetermined cavity (303) is determined based on a profile of the interfacing member (202), and the predetermined cavity (303) comprises an opening towards an open end (not shown) of the inclined cutout (305) to accommodate the interfacing member (202). The interfacing member (202) distributes the acting load of the mounting member (300) to a broader region thereby reducing the chances of causing damage to the mounting member (300). The predetermined cavity (303) has a predetermined thickness that matches the thickness of the interfacing member (202). In one embodiment, the fastening member (201) and the interfacing member (202) are integrated and in such case, the movement of the fastening member (201) along the Z-axis (shown in Fig. 4) would be restricted by the first portion (301) and the second portion (302). The open end of the inclined cutout (305) might also be provided with a latching member (not shown) which covers the open end of the inclined cutout (305). This would enable further restriction of the movement of the fastening member (201) within the inclined cutout (305). The second portion (302) of the mounting member (300) comprises an extended member (304) which is configured to arrest the movement of the fastening member (201) along the z-axis. The extended member (304) may in another embodiment extend towards the predetermined cutout (306) in an angle ranging from 0 degrees to 45 degrees.
[0048] The inclined cutout (305), the extended member (304) and the predetermined profile (307) of the mounting member (300) collectively restrict the movement of the fastening member (201) from the three axes and also restrict the rotational movement of the fastening member (201) thereby eliminating the need for any additional manpower used in the mounting of the one or more components (104) of the vehicle (100). As per this configuration of the present invention, the one or more components (104) of the vehicle (100) can be assembled and disassembled by a single person, thereby reducing the requirement of manpower which results in further reduction of costs associated with mounting and dismounting. The single person can insert the fastening member (201) through the inclined cut out of the mounting member (300) before mounting and then connect the one or more components (104) to the predefined portion of the vehicle (100). The fastening member (201) passes through the mounting slots or provisions of the predefined portion of the vehicle, the assembly mechanic may then fasten the fastening member (201) from the other side by himself. The first portion (301) and the second portion (302) are provided with a predetermined thickness (not shown) where the predetermined thickness of the first portion (301) is greater than the predetermined thickness of the second portion (302). The predetermined thickness of the first portion (301) is determined based on one or more dimensions of a shank of the fastening member (201). The predetermined thickness is further determined on the basis of material strength during the mounting and dismounting of the fastening member. It is further determined by the capability to withstand a fastening torque of the fastening member (201).
[0049] Figure 4 illustrates an exploded view of the mounting assembly (200) as per one embodiment of the present invention. The fender (103) of the vehicle (100) is provided with one or more mounting members (300). The one or more fastening members (201) and the interfacing member (202) are shown to be accommodated within the one or more mounting members (300). The configuration of the present invention results in easier assembling and disassembling of the fender (103) and enables better accessibility to the forks and improved serviceability of the forks. As per the preferred embodiment, the one or more components (104) being a front fender (103) are provided with at least six mounting members (300).
[0050] Figure 5 illustrates a method (400) for a mounting assembly for mounting the one or more components (104) of the vehicle (100) as per one embodiment of the present invention. The method (400) for mounting one or more components (104) to a predefined portion of the vehicle (100) is disclosed. The method comprises several steps that help in the overall reduction of time taken to mount and dismount the one or more components and also reduce the required manpower for mounting the same the one or more components (100). The first step (401) in the method (400) is inserting the one or more fastening members (201) into the inclined cutout (305) of the first portion (301) of the one or more mounting members (300). This first step (401) results in restricting two types of movement of the one or more components (104) the two types of movements being a vertical movement and a horizontal movement of the one or more fastening members (201) and therefore the one or more components (104). The vertical movements and the horizontal movements occur in one or more directions, where the movements are restricted by the inclined cutout (305). The horizontal movements are the movement along an x-axis with respect to the one or more fastening members (201) and the one or more mounting members (300). The vertical movements are the movements along a y-axis with respect to the one or more fastening members (201) and the one or more mounting members (300). The second step (402a) in the method (400) is aligning the one or more fastening members (201) with the predetermined profile (307) of the predetermined cutout (306) of the second portion (302) of the one or more mounting members (300). This alignment as per the second step (402a) restricts a rotational movement of the one or more fastening members. The predetermined profile (307) matches the profile of the one or more fastening members (201) due to which the predetermined profile (307) holds in place the one or more fastening members (201). The third step (402b) is aligning the one or more fastening members (201) with the extended member (304) of the second portion (302). This step restricts a longitudinal movement of the one or more fastening members (201) along a z-axis with respect to the one or more fastening members (201), and the one or more mounting members (300). The second step (402a) and the third step (403b) are performed simultaneously and hence can in one embodiment, be considered as a single step while performing such mounting of the one or more components (104). This simultaneous working of the second step (402a) and the third step (402b) enables reduced time in assembling the one or more fastening members (201) to the one or more components (104), thereby further reducing assembling/disassembling time of the one or more components (104). The fourth step (403) in the method is aligning the one or more components (104) with the predetermined portion of the vehicle (100). The one or more fastening members (201) are connected to the one or more components (104) and are ready to be aligned with the plurality of openings provided in the predefined portion of the vehicle (100), and the one or more fastening members (201) are inserted into the plurality of openings of the predefined portion. This results in the one or more components (104) being merely hanged to the predefined portion of the vehicle (100), but the one or more fastening members (201) are yet to be fastened to secure the present mounting. The configuration of the mounting assembly in permitting hanging of the one or more components (104) onto the predefined portion of the vehicle (100) via the one or more fastening members (201) permits a single person align the one or more components (104) to the predefined portion and then go to the other side to secure the one or more components (104) as per step 404. The final step (404) is securing the one or more fastening members (201) which provides a secure connection of the one or more components (104) with the predetermined portion of the vehicle (100). The same person can fasten the one or more components (104) thereby completely eliminating the need for additional manpower required for mounting the one or more components (104) to the vehicle (100). The method (400) as mentioned is a simpler and easier method of mounting the one or more components (104) of the vehicle (100) as compared to the methods of mounting assembly known conventionally.
[0051] According to the above disclosure, the present invention provides various advantages. The mounting member (300) restricts the movement of the fastening member (201) in multiple directions, thereby resulting in reduced number of manpower in assembling and disassembling the one or more components (104). This reduction in manpower thereby further reduces associated costs and reduce the time taken in assembling and servicing the vehicle (100). The configuration of the mounting member (300) provides increased durability and strength and reduces the weight of the mounting member (300) and the one or more components (104) of the vehicle (100). The mounting member (300) as per the present invention provides a simpler and easier mounting configuration where a single person would be able to mount the one or more components (104) to the vehicle (100) by inserting the fastening member (201) and mounting the one or more components (104) in a simpler and convenient way. The present invention further eliminates any need for special tools, machinery or devices such as pneumatic devices or fixtures used to mount the one or more components (104) of the vehicle thereby providing a single solution and further reducing costs. The time taken in the assembly of the one or more components (104) in the conventional vehicles is comparatively very high which has been reduced by the present invention. For instance, in a preferred embodiment of mounting a fender (103) onto a predefined portion of the vehicle (100), the tact time concerning assembly is reduced by almost half. Associatively with the preferred embodiment, there has been an associated reduction of the required manpower in the assembly of the fender (103) half on an average. While the existing solutions have moulded inserts which provide necessary threads to assemble the screws, the present invention herein discloses a profile that holds the fastening member (201) in place as per requirement whereby an additional person is not required to exclusively manage the fastener. This new configuration is a quicker and effective provision for simpler removal or assembly of the fastening member (201) compared to conventional configurations. This also makes the assembly more durable than the known threaded type configuration as mentioned above. The configuration as per the present invention enables much simpler removal or assembly of fastening members (201) and provides a more durable design than the conventional vehicles. The present invention reduces the costs, provides simplicity, reduce required number of manpower, is durable and provides a single solution for multiple problems as described above. Further, the present invention also eliminates any need for additional components such as dowel pins, locator pins or male extruded part, etc. for aligning the one or more components (104), the fastening member (201) has a profile such that the one or more components (104) is held in place during the mounting and no additional components are required.
[0052] While the present invention has been shown and described with reference to the foregoing preferred embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that changes in form, connection, and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
[0053] This written description uses examples to provide details on the disclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.
[0054] It is to be understood that the aspects of the embodiments are not necessarily limited to the features described herein. Many modifications and variations of the present subject matter are possible in light of the above disclosure.

List of References

Reference Numeral Meaning
100 Vehicle
101 Cover Body
102 Cowl Member
103 Fender
104 One or More Components
200 Mounting Assembly
201 Fastening Member
202 Interfacing Member
300 Mounting Member
301 First Portion
302 Second Portion
303 Predetermined Cavity
304 Extended Member
305 Inclined Cutout
306 Predetermined Cutout
307 Predetermined Profile
308 One or More Depressions
401 Inserting one or more fastening members to an inclined cutout
402a Aligning the one or more fastening members with a predetermined profile of a second portion
402b Aligning the one or more fastening members with an extended member provided on a first portion
403 Aligning the one or more fastening members with an extended member provided on a first portion
404 Fastening the one or more fastening members
405 Assembling an interfacing member to one or more fastening members
, C , C , Claims:We Claim:
1. A mounting member (300) for mounting one or more components (104) to a predefined portion of a vehicle (100), the mounting member (300) comprising:
a first portion (301), the first portion (301) being configured to face the predefined portion of the vehicle (100),
the first portion (301) comprising an inclined cutout (305),
the inclined cutout (305) being formed at a predetermined angle (A) with ground level, and
the inclined cutout (305) being configured to receive a fastening member (201);
a second portion (302), the second portion (302) being configured to face away from the predefined portion of the vehicle (100),
the second portion (302) comprising a predetermined cutout (306),
the predetermined cutout (306) comprising a predetermined profile (307), the predetermined profile (307) being configured to secure the fastening member (201); and
a predetermined cavity (303), the predetermined cavity (303) being a cavity between the first portion (301) and the second portion (302); and
the mounting member (300) being connected to the one or more components (104).
2. The mounting member (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the predefined portion of the vehicle (100) being selected from a group comprising a cowl member (102), a cover body (101), and a frame assembly of the vehicle (100).
3. The mounting member (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the inclined cutout (305) comprising a latching member, the latching member being configured to cover an open end of the inclined cutout (305).
4. The mounting member (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the first portion (301) and the second portion (302) comprising a predetermined thickness, the predetermined thickness of the first portion (301) being greater than that of the second portion (302).
5. The mounting member (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein one or more dimensions of the inclined cutout (305) being based on one or more dimensions of the fastening member (201) thereby the fastening member (201) being snug fit into the inclined cut out (305).
6. The mounting member (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first portion (301) comprising one or more depressions (308), the one or more depressions (308) being configured to reduce the overall mass of the mounting member (300) and provide additional enforcement to the mounting member (300).
7. The mounting member (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the predetermined angle (A) of the inclined cutout (305) being in a range of 15- 45 degrees.
8. The mounting member (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second portion (302) comprising an extended member (304) configured to arrest the movement of the fastening member (201), the extended member (304) being extending from the second portion (302) towards the predetermined cutout (306) in an angle ranging from 0 degrees to 45 degrees.
9. The mounting member (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the predetermined cutout (306) and the predetermined profile (307) being determined based on the fastening member (201), the predetermined cutout (306) and the predetermined profile (307) being configured to match the profile of the fastening member (201) thereby arresting the rotational movement of the fastening member (201).
10. The mounting member (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the predetermined cavity (303) being configured to accommodate an interfacing member (202), the predetermined cavity (303) being determined based on a profile of the interfacing member (202), the predetermined cavity (303) comprising an opening for accommodating the interfacing member (202), the opening being towards an open end of the inclined cutout (305).
11. A mounting assembly (200) for mounting a fender (103) of a vehicle (100), the mounting assembly (200) comprising:
the fender (103);
one or more fastening members (201), the one or more fastening members (201) being configured to connect the fender (103) to a predefined portion of the vehicle (100); and
one or more mounting members (300), the one or more mounting members (300) being configured to mount the fender (103) to the predefined portion of the vehicle (100), the one or more mounting members (300) comprising:
a first portion (301), the first portion (301) being configured to face the predefined portion of the vehicle (100),
the first portion (301) comprising an inclined cutout (305), the inclined cutout (305) being formed at a predetermined angle (A) with ground level, and
the inclined cutout (305) being configured to receive at least one fastening member (201) of the one or more fastening members (201);
a second portion (302), the second portion (302) being configured to face away from the predefined portion of the vehicle (100),
the second portion (302) comprising a predetermined cutout (306),
the predetermined cutout (306) comprising a predetermined profile (307), the predetermined profile (307) being configured to secure the at least one fastening member (201); and
a predetermined cavity (303), the predetermined cavity (303) being a cavity between the first portion (301) and the second portion (302); and
the one or more mounting members (300) being connected to the fender (103) of the vehicle (100).
12. The mounting assembly (200) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the predetermined cavity (303) being configured to accommodate an interfacing member (202), the predetermined cavity (303) being determined based on a profile of the interfacing member (202), the predetermined cavity (303) comprising an opening for accommodating the interfacing member (202), the opening being towards an open end of the inclined cutout (305).
13. A method for mounting one or more components (104) to a predefined portion of a vehicle (100), the method comprising the steps of:
inserting (401), one or more fastening members (201) to an inclined cutout (305), the inclined cutout (305) being provided on a first portion (301) of one or more mounting members (300), the one or more mounting members being integrated with the one or more components (104), thereby restricting a movement of the one or more fastening members (201) from one or more directions by the inclined cutout (305);
aligning (402a), the one or more fastening members (201) with a predetermined profile (307) of a predetermined cutout (306) of a second portion (302) of the one or more mounting members (300);
aligning (402b), the one or more fastening members (201) with an extended member (304), the extended member (303) being provided on the second portion (302);
aligning (403), the one or more components (104) with the predetermined portion of the vehicle (100); and
securing (404), the one or more fastening members (201) to connect the one or more components (104) onto the predetermined portion of the vehicle (100).
14. The method as claimed in claim 13, wherein the one or more components (104) being a front fender (103) and the method comprising the step of assembling (405) an interfacing member (202) to the one or more fastening members (201) before inserting (401) one or more fastening members (201), the interfacing member (202) being configured to be accommodated within a predetermined cavity (303) provided between the first portion (301) and the second portion (302).

Dated this 3nd day of November, 2023
[Digitally Signed]
Sudarshan Singh Shekhawat
IN/PA – 1611
Agent for the Applicant