Description:FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
[See section 10, Rule 13]

Title
A FRAME FOR A TWO-WHEELER VEHICLE

NUMEROS MOTORS PRIVATE LIMITED
An Indian Start-Up
Having Address
58, 15th Cross 2nd Phase, J.P. Nagar
Bengaluru Karnataka 560078

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

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of vehicle frames and electric vehicles. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a simple, and improved, modular frame for a two-wheeler vehicle.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The two-wheeler automotive business has experienced amazing growth and development in recent decades, both in terms of technology and sales. Two-wheeled vehicles including bicycles, motorcycles, scooters, and light-weight scooters have been able to maintain their popularity among many societal groups as a result of continual technological improvement. In order to meet the needs of various riders, it is necessary for the two-wheeler automotive industry to continuously develop and adapt the components of the two-wheeled vehicles to improve rider safety and comfort.
[0003] A Chassis/vehicle frame is one of the most important parts of the two-wheeler because it forms the basis on which the entire two-wheeler is built. The design, development, and manufacturing of the vehicle frame depends on the styling and the intended usage conditions of the particular two-wheeler. For example, a bike is designed for sport rather than everyday commuting. On the other hand, a street bike has the chassis that can deal with smoother roads and carry heavy loads. Similarly, the chassis of a scooter is designed to match the speed and function of the vehicle.
[0004] Conventionally, most two-wheeler chassis are built from tubular metal, press-fit, forged, or die-cast components, which are usually composed of different grades of mild steel or aluminium. Nevertheless, rather than being entirely matched to application-based requirements, existing designs are restricted to meeting certain style needs. Although two-wheeler vehicle chassis designs are currently in use for a variety of applications, they are not specifically made for these uses, which makes them unable to satisfy all needs.
[0005] Further, as the globe evolves toward a better future, electric vehicles' minimal carbon emissions and environmental friendliness have made them more and more popular. On the other hand, these electric vehicles need a specific frame/chassis as it has additional requirements of an electric drive train including a motor, controller, battery, and other electronic components. These chassis need to incorporate the electric drive train components in an appropriate way in addition to meeting the basic standards of mechanical strength and durability, comfortable riding position and height, and ideal wheelbase.
[0006] A patent application IN202311012121 titled “two-wheeler electric vehicle and a chassis thereof” describes a chassis for a two-wheeler electric vehicle is disclosed. The chassis includes a pair of front frame members that descend diagonally backward and away from the head pipe and further descend vertically downward and parallel to each other, a pair of side frame members extending horizontally backward from a bottom of the front frame members, a pair of rear frame members extending diagonally backward from a rear of the side frame members and further extending horizontally backward, a first support frame configured at a height above a rear portion of the side frame members, a pair of middle frame members extending vertically upward from a front end of the first support frame, and a pair of top frame members extending horizontally backward from a top end of the middle frame members up to the rear end of the chassis.
[0007] In addition, an electric two-wheeler vehicle's battery is similar to a concentrated mass, therefore it's critical to position it correctly for both safety and riding comfort, balance, and sensation. Furthermore, the performance of the electric two-wheeler vehicle is impacted by the fact that the current chassis designs either do not let the swapping of batteries from the chassis or permit the use of batteries with a lower power rating.
[0008] Therefore, Consequently, there is a need in the art for a way to get over the aforementioned issues, flaws, and restrictions related to current chassis designs and two-wheeler electric vehicles, as well as to create and construct an enhanced and effective two-wheeler vehicle frame design. Additionally, the present invention provides a reliable, safe, and modular electric vehicle frame that offers a comfortable and visually appealing riding experience while optimizing overall performance and energy efficiency.
OBJECTIVES OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0009] A primary objective of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior-arts.
[0010] It is an objective of the present disclosure to provide an improved, and efficient frame for a two-wheeler that supports higher-performance batteries and also can support easy replacement or removal of the batteries.
[0011] It is another objective of the present disclosure to provide a common chassis/frame design for different variants.
[0012] Yet another objective of the present disclosure is an improved frame for a two-wheeler that has a mounting provision for a main stand as an accessory.
[0013] Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide a lesser- weight cylindrical tubular frame with mounting provision for accessories.
[0014] Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide a modular structure which is formed of many components and assembled to define the basic frame of a motor vehicle, to which may be attached various type of MCU (motor controller unit) in a single frame.
[0015] Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide a light-weight, inexpensive, and relatively easy to service and repair modular frame for two-wheeler vehicle.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0016] The following is a summary description of illustrative embodiments of the invention. It is provided as a preface to assist those skilled in the art to more rapidly assimilate the detailed design discussion which ensues and is not intended in any way to limit the scope of the claims which are appended hereto in order to particularly point out the invention.
[0017] An embodiment of the present invention relates to A frame for a two-wheeler vehicle that includes a front frame which further includes a tubular frame, a pair of front frame sub-members and a support member. A tubular frame is configured with a plurality of first bracket to receive a plurality of first mounting means and the same is attached to the front frame, wherein a gusset plate is placed in between the tubular frame and the front frame. Further, a pair of front frame sub-members that are extending vertically downward from the tubular frame, wherein the pair of front frame sub-members are attached to the tubular frame on a single point. In addition, the front frame includes the support member is extending vertically downward from the tubular frame in between the pair of front frame sub-members. Furthermore, the frame of the two-wheeler vehicle includes a pair of side frame members extending horizontally backward from a bottom of the pair of front frame sub-members, wherein one of a side frame member of the pair of side frame member is configured with a second bracket to receive a side stand mounting member. An energy storage unit (ESU) mounting sub-assembly configured to receive an energy storage unit of the two-wheeler vehicle. Further, the frame comprises a control unit mounting sub-assembly is configured to receive a motor control unit, wherein the control unit mounting sub-assembly includes a metal-sheet bracket configured to attach the control unit mounting sub-assembly to the pair of side frame members. The frame of the two-wheeler vehicle also includes an under-seat storage mounting sub-assembly, which further consists, a pair of tubular structure, a pair of fourth bracket are attached on the top surface of the each of tubular structure of the pair of tubular structure and a pair of cylindrical threaded bush is welded to the front end of the each of tubular structure of the pair of tubular structure. In addition, the frame of the two-wheeler structure includes a seat mounting sub-assembly that includes a fourth bracket configured at a first predefined height and further extends vertically downward, wherein the fourth bracket is connected to the pair of tubular structures of an under-seat storage mounting sub-assembly using at least one weldment on each side.
[0018] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of first bracket includes a front panel mounting bracket, a coupler mounting bracket, a luggage hook mounting bracket. Additionally, the plurality of first mounting means is configured to receive a panel mounting, a horn mounting, and a luggage hook mounting.
[0019] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the second bracket is welded to a left-hand side frame member, and it is configured with at least one welded solid rod for a sensor rotation control and a side stand spring installation.
[0020] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the energy storage unit mounting sub-assembly comprises, a pair of third bracket is configured to mechanically attach the energy storage unit mounting sub-assembly to the pair of side frame members, a base plate for the energy storage unit mounting and a gusset bracket is disposed between the pair of third brackets and base plate for the energy storage unit mounting.
[0021] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the control unit mounting sub-assembly is arranged next to the energy storage unit of the two-wheeler vehicle.
[0022] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the pair of cylindrical threaded bush is perpendicularly attached to the pair of side frame members, wherein the pair of cylindrical threaded bush provides a locking means for the under-seat storage sub-assembly of the two-wheeler vehicle.
[0023] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the pair of fourth brackets are configured to receive a battery latch.
[0024] In addition, the fifth bracket further includes at least one mounting site on each side of the fifth bracket to mount the vehicle control unit brackets. Furthermore, the fifth bracket further includes a pair of connecting points to mount a seat latch assembly.
[0025] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to A two-wheeler vehicle. Further, the two-wheeler vehicle includes a frame that further includes a front frame configured to receive a steering shaft of the two-wheeler electric vehicle, the upper end of the steering shaft supports a steering wheel, and the lower end of the steering shaft supports the front wheels of the vehicle via a pair of front forks. Further, the front frame comprising a tubular frame is attached to the front frame, configured with a plurality of first bracket to receive a plurality of first mounting means; a pair of front frame sub-members that are extending vertically downward from the tubular frame, wherein the pair of front frame sub-members are attached to the tubular frame on a single point; a support member is extending vertically downward from the tubular frame in between the pair of front frame sub-members. In addition, the frame includes a pair of side frame members extending horizontally backward from a bottom of the pair of front frame sub-members, wherein one of a side frame member of the pair of side frame member is configured with a second bracket to receive a side stand mounting member. Further, the frame of the two-wheeler vehicle consists of an energy storage unit (ESU) mounting sub-assembly configured to receive an energy storage unit of the two-wheeler vehicle. the frame of the two-wheeler vehicle also includes a control unit mounting sub-assembly is configured to receive a motor control unit, wherein the control unit mounting sub-assembly includes a metal-sheet bracket configured to attach the control unit mounting sub-assembly to the pair of side frame members.
[0026] In addition, the frame of the two-wheeler vehicle comprises an under-seat storage mounting sub-assembly, which further includes a pair of tubular structure, wherein a gusset plate is placed in between the tubular frame and the front frame. Further, the under-seat storage mounting sub-assembly comprises a pair of fourth bracket are attached on the top surface of the each of tubular structure of the pair of tubular structure, and a pair of cylindrical threaded bush is welded to the front end of the each of tubular structure of the pair of tubular structure. Further, the frame of the two-wheeler vehicle consisting a seat mounting sub-assembly includes a fifth bracket configured at a first predefined height and further extends vertically downward, wherein the fifth bracket is connected to the pair of tubular structures of an under-seat storage mounting sub-assembly using at least one weldment on each side, and a diagonally extending rear frame member from the rear of the side frame member and diagonally extending horizontally backward to the rear of the frame where the diagonally extended rear frame member is configured to support a wheel hub and a rear wheel.
[0027] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of first bracket includes a front panel mounting bracket, a coupler mounting bracket, a luggage hook mounting bracket and the plurality of first mounting means is configured to receive a panel mounting, a horn mounting, and a luggage hook mounting.
[0028] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the second bracket is welded to a left-hand side frame member, and it is configured with at least one welded solid rod for a sensor rotation control and a side stand spring installation.
[0029] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the energy storage unit mounting sub-assembly comprises, a pair of third bracket configured to mechanically attach the energy storage unit mounting sub-assembly to the pair of side frame members; a base plate for the energy storage unit mounting; and a gusset bracket is disposed between the pair of third brackets and base plate for the energy storage unit mounting.
[0030] In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, the pair of cylindrical threaded bush is perpendicularly attached to the pair of side frame members, and it provides a locking mean for the under-seat storage sub-assembly of the two-wheeler vehicle.
[0031] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the control unit mounting sub-assembly is arranged next to the energy storage unit of the two-wheeler vehicle.
[0032] In another embodiment of the present invention, the pair of fourth brackets are configured to receive a battery latch.
[0033] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the fifth bracket further includes at least one mounting site on each side of the fourth bracket to mount the vehicle control unit brackets and it further includes a pair of connecting points to mount a seat latch assembly.
[0034] In an embodiment, at least one cross member is disposed between the pair of front frame sub-members to attach the pair of front frame sub-members and the support member.
[0035] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the two-wheeler vehicle is one of an electric vehicle, a hybrid electric vehicle, a fuel-cell electric vehicle.
[0036] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the frame is a modular frame.
[0037] These and other aspects herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawing. It should be understood, however, that the following descriptions are given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the invention herein without departing from the spirit thereof.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0038] The accompanying drawings illustrate various embodiments of systems, methods, and embodiments of various other aspects of the disclosure. Any person with ordinary skills in the art will appreciate that the illustrated element boundaries (e.g. boxes, groups of boxes, or other shapes) in the figures represent one example of the boundaries. It may be that in some examples one element may be designed as multiple elements or that multiple elements may be designed as one element. In some examples, an element shown as an internal component of one element may be implemented as an external component in another, and vice versa. Furthermore, elements may not be drawn to scale. Non-limiting and non-exhaustive descriptions are described with reference to the following drawings. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating principles.
[0039] Fig. 1A illustrates a left perspective view of a frame of a two-wheeler vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0040] Fig. 1B illustrates a right perspective view of a frame of the two-wheeler vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0041] Fig. 2 illustrates a tubular frame of a front frame of the two-wheeler vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0042] Fig. 3A-3B illustrate configurations of the tubular frame with a support member of the front frame of the two-wheeler vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0043] Figs. 4A-4B illustrate top and bottom view of a second bracket according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0044] Fig. 5A-5B illustrate top perspective and bottom perspective view of an energy storage unit (ESU) mounting sub-assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0045] Fig. 6A-6B illustrate top front perspective and rear bottom perspective view of a control unit mounting sub-assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0046] Fig. 7 illustrates a tubular structure with a fourth bracket of an under-seat storage mounting sub-assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0047] Fig. 8A-8B illustrate perspective views of a seat mounting sub-assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0048] It should be noted that the accompanying figure is intended to present illustrations of a few examples of the present disclosure. The figure is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. It should also be noted that the accompanying figure is not necessarily drawn to scale.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0049] Those skilled in the art will be aware that the present disclosure is subject to variations and modifications other than those specifically described. It is to be understood that the present disclosure includes all such variations and modifications. The disclosure also includes all such steps, features, compositions and compounds referred to or indicated in this specification, individually or collectively, and any and all combinations of any or more of such steps or features.
[0050] For convenience, before further description of the present disclosure, certain terms employed in the specification, and examples are collected here. These definitions should be read in the light of the remainder of the disclosure and understood as by a person of ordinary skill in the art. The terms used herein have the meanings recognized and known to those skilled in the art, however, for convenience and completeness, particular terms and their meanings are set forth below.
[0051] The articles "a", "an" and "the" are used to refer to one or to more than one (i.e., to at least one) of the grammatical object of the article.
[0052] The terms "comprise" and "comprising" are used in the inclusive, open sense, meaning that additional elements may be included. It is not intended to be construed as "consists of only". Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise the word "comprise", and variations such as "comprises" and "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element or step or group of element or steps but not the exclusion of any other element or step or group of element or steps.
[0053] The term "including" is used to mean "including but not limited to". "Including" and "including but not limited to" are used interchangeably. The accompanying drawing is used to help easily understand various technical features and it should be understood that the alternatives presented herein are not limited by the accompanying drawing. As such, the present disclosure should be construed to extend to any alterations, equivalents and substitutes in addition to those which are particularly set out in the accompanying drawing. Although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are generally only used to distinguish one element from another.
[0054] Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, "can," "may," "might," "may," “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain alternatives include, while other alternatives do not include, certain features, elements and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and/or steps are in any way required for one or more alternatives or that one or more alternatives necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without other input or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular alternative. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and the like are synonymous and are used inclusively, in an open-ended fashion, and do not exclude additional elements, features, acts, operations, and so forth. Also, the term “or” is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list.
[0055] Disjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to present that an item, term, etc., may be either X, Y, or Z, or any combination thereof (e.g., X, Y, and/or Z). Thus, such disjunctive language is not generally intended to, and should not, imply that certain alternatives require at least one of X, at least one of Y, or at least one of Z to each be present.
[0056] Terms “two-wheeler vehicle” and “vehicle” may interchangeably be used for convenience.
[0057] Terms “battery” or “energy storage unit” (ESU) may be used interchangeably for convenience.
[0058] The present disclosure relates to a two-wheeler vehicle and its frame. Figs. 1A-1B illustrate a left and right perspective view of a frame 100 of the two-wheeler vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention. In various embodiments, the two-wheeler vehicle is one of but not limited to a battery electric vehicle (BEV), a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), a Plug-in Hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), a Fuel Cell electric vehicle (FCEV).
[0059] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 1A and 1B will be discussed simultaneously in this specification. The frame 100 comprises a front frame 102, a pair of side frame members 120, an energy storage unit (ESU) mounting sub-assembly 112, a control unit mounting sub-assembly 114, an under-seat storage mounting sub-assembly 116, and a seat mounting sub-assembly 118.
[0060] In an embodiment, the front frame 102 is mechanically coupled with the pair of side frame members 120. The front frame 102 further includes a tubular frame 104 (shown in Fig. 2) attached to the front frame 102, configured with a plurality of first bracket to receive a plurality of first mounting means. In addition, the front frame 102 includes a pair of front frame sub-members 106 that extend vertically downward from the tubular frame 104, wherein the pair of front frame sub-members 106 are attached to the tubular frame 104 on a single point and a support member 108 is extending vertically downward from the tubular frame 104 in between the pair of front frame sub-members 106. Further, the frame 100 of the two-wheeler vehicle also includes a pair of side frame members 120 extending horizontally backward from the bottom of the pair of front frame sub-members 106, wherein one of side frame member 120 of the pair of side frame member 120 is configured with a second bracket 122 to receive a side stand mounting member (not shown in the figure). the pair of side frame member 120 further includes a left-side frame member and a right-side frame member.
[0061] In an embodiment of the present invention, the frame 100 comprises an energy storage unit (ESU) mounting sub-assembly 112 configured to receive an energy storage unit of the two-wheeler vehicle. In addition, the frame 100 also includes a control unit mounting sub-assembly 114 configured to receive a motor control unit, wherein the control unit mounting sub-assembly 114 includes a metal-sheet bracket configured to attach the control unit mounting sub-assembly 114 to the pair of side frame members 120. Additionally, an under-seat storage mounting sub-assembly 114 is also a part of said frame 100 and it further includes a pair of tubular structure 116, a pair of fourth bracket 126 are attached on the top surface of each of the tubular structure 116 of the pair of tubular structure 116. Moreover, the frame 100 further includes a seat mounting sub-assembly 118 includes a fifth bracket 128 configured at a first predefined height and further extends vertically downward, wherein the fifth bracket 128 is connected to the pair of tubular structures 116 of the under-seat storage mounting sub-assembly 114 using at least one weldment on each side.
[0062] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, at least one cross member 110 is disposed between the pair of front frame sub-members to attach the pair of front frame sub-members 106 and the support member 108. In addition, the at least one cross member 110 is interrupted by the support member 108, when it is arranged horizontally in between the pair of front frame sub-members 106.
[0063] In accordance with the present invention, the frame 100 is a modular frame. Further, all the components are attached modularly to the frame 100 of the vehicle to define the single frame 100 when assembled with all the components.
[0064] Fig. 2 illustrates the tubular frame 104 of the front frame 102 which is configured to receive a steering shaft of the two-wheeler electric vehicle, the upper end of the steering shaft supports a steering wheel, and the lower end of the steering shaft supports the front wheels of the vehicle via a pair of front forks. The tubular frame 104 with flaring on both sides is attached to the front panel mounting. The tubular frame 104 includes a coupler mounting bracket 204 which is sandwiched between coupler mounting bracket 204 and a front panel mounting bracket 202. In an implementation, the front panel mounting bracket 202 is configured to receive a panel mounting. Further, the tubular frame 104 also includes a luggage hook mounting bracket 206 to receive a luggage hook mounting and a horn mounting mean 208 to receive a horn element.
[0065] In Fig. 3 the tubular frame 104 with flaring is welded to the support member 108. Further, a gusset plate 302 is placed in between the tubular frame 104 and the support member 108 of the front frame 102. Said gusset plate 302 is added in between the tubular frame 104 and the support member 108 of the front frame 102 for strength and to act as a steering stopper for the handlebar rotation control.
[0066] Now refer to Fig. 4A-4B which illustrates the top and bottom view of a second bracket 122, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The second bracket 122 is a side stand bracket. The second bracket 122 with welded solid rods for sensor rotation control and side stand spring installation. All of these are attached at an angle into the frame's 100 side tube on the left-hand side for side stand attachment, preferably, welded. In another implementation, the second bracket 122 may be more in number and also may be configured on the right side for providing a foldable foot peg assembly. Fig. 4A discloses a top view in which a pin is welded in the hole provided at the left side in Fig. 4A is for side stand spring mounting. Further, the second bracket 122 also includes at least one bracket 404 attached to the sides by welding to provide strength to the second bracket 122. In an embodiment, the at least one bracket 404 of the second bracket 122 is welded into the frame 100 of the two-wheeler vehicle.
[0067] In addition, Fig. 4B is also showing similar parts of the second bracket 122. Fig. 4B is the bottom view of the second bracket 122. The second bracket 122 includes a hole 402 to mount the side stand assembly into the frame 100. The second bracket 122 further includes a pin 406 provided at the top right side to locate the side stand sensor/switch of the two-wheeler vehicle.
[0068] Fig. 5A-5B illustrate the energy storage unit (ESU) mounting sub-assembly 112 configured to receive an energy storage unit (not shown in the figure) of the two-wheeler vehicle. Fig. 5A and 5B will be discussed simultaneously which show a top perspective and a bottom perspective view of the energy storage unit (ESU) mounting sub-assembly 112. The energy storage unit (ESU) mounting sub-assembly 112 is welded to the pair of side frame members 120 in the middle of the frame 100 as a sub-assembly. The energy storage unit (ESU) mounting sub-assembly 112 includes a pair of third bracket 502 which is configured to mechanically attach the energy storage unit mounting sub-assembly 112 to the pair of side frame members 120. The pair of third brackets 502 has two sides which can be attached with the pair of side frame members 120 at one side. Further, the opposite side of the pair of third brackets 502 is attached to a gusset bracket 506 which is disposed between the pair of third brackets 502 and a base plate 508 of the energy storage unit mounting sub-assembly 112 for the energy storage unit mounting. All said components i.e. the pair of third brackets 502, gusset bracket 506, and the base plate 508 of the energy storage unit (ESU) mounting sub-assembly 112 are attached to each other, preferably by welding the components with each other. In another implementation, the pair of third brackets 502, gusset bracket 506 and the base plate 508 may also be attached using a plurality of bolts. Furthermore, the base plate 508 has a dedicated space with a cutout 504 to fix the energy storage unit (ESU) in a non-movable manner.
[0069] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the ESU includes at least one of an electrochemical battery, a lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, a nickel-metal hydride battery, an ultra-capacitor, and a solid-state battery.
[0070] Figs. 6A-6B illustrate the top front perspective and rear bottom perspective view of a control unit mounting sub-assembly 114. The control unit mounting sub-assembly 114 is configured to receive a motor control unit (not shown in the figure). Further, the control unit mounting sub-assembly 114 includes a metal-sheet bracket 602 which is configured to attach the control unit mounting sub-assembly 114 to the pair of side frame members 120. The control unit mounting sub-assembly 114 is welded to the pair of side frame members 120 and arranged next to the energy storage unit (ESU) mounting sub-assembly 112 (references made to Fig. 1). Further, the metal-sheet bracket 602 has a cutout 604 in a centre of the same for ventilation purposes.
[0071] Now refer to Fig. 7, which illustrates a tubular structure 116 with a fourth bracket 126 of an under-seat storage mounting sub-assembly. The under-seat storage mounting sub-assembly includes a pair of tubular structure 116, and a pair of fourth bracket 126 that are attached on the top surface of each of tubular structure 116 of the pair of tubular structure 116, preferably by welding. In addition, the pair of fourth brackets 126 are configured to receive the energy storage unit latch. Further, the under-seat storage mounting sub-assembly includes a pair of cylindrical threaded bush 128 welded to the front end of the each of tubular structure 116 of the pair of tubular structures 116. The pair of cylindrical threaded bush 128 is perpendicularly attached to the pair of side frame members 120. Further, the pair of fourth bracket 126 are the sheet metal brackets. In an embodiment, the pair of tubular structure 116 and the pair of cylindrical threaded bush 128 are made up of any hard metal. In addition, the pair of cylindrical threaded bush 128 provides a locking means for the under-seat storage sub-assembly of the two-wheeler vehicle.
[0072] Fig. 8A and 8B illustrate the different views of the seat mounting sub-assembly. The seat mounting sub-assembly includes a fifth bracket 118 configured at a first predefined height and further extends vertically downward. Further, the fifth bracket is 118 connected to the pair of tubular structures 116 of the under-seat storage mounting sub-assembly using at least one weldment on each side. In addition, the fifth bracket 118 includes at least one mounting site 804 on each side of the fifth bracket 118 to mount the vehicle control unit brackets. Further, the fifth bracket also includes a pair of connecting points 804 to mount a seat latch assembly.
[0073] In an embodiment of the present invention, the present invention disclosed a two-wheeler vehicle which is comprising a frame 100. Further, the two-wheeler vehicle is one of but not limited to a battery electric vehicle (BEV), a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), a Plug-in Hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), a Fuel Cell electric vehicle (FCEV).
[0074] In addition, the two-wheeler vehicle includes the frame 100 which further comprises a front frame 102, a pair of side frame members 120, an energy storage unit (ESU) mounting sub-assembly 112, a control unit mounting sub-assembly 114, an under-seat storage mounting sub-assembly 116, and a seat mounting sub-assembly 118.
[0075] In an embodiment, the front frame 102 is configured to receive a steering shaft of the two-wheeler electric vehicle, the upper end of the steering shaft supports a steering wheel, and the lower end of the steering shaft supports the front wheels of the two-wheeler vehicle via a pair of front forks. Further, the front frame 102 includes a tubular frame 104 (shown in fig. 2) attached to the front frame 102, configured with a plurality of the first bracket to receive a plurality of first mounting means. In addition, the front frame 102 includes a pair of front frame sub-members 106 that extend vertically downward from the tubular frame 104, wherein the pair of front frame sub-members 106 are attached to the tubular frame 104 on a single point and a support member 108 is extending vertically downward from the tubular frame 104 in between the pair of front frame sub-members 106. Further, the frame 100 of the two-wheeler vehicle also includes a pair of side frame members 120 extending horizontally backward from a bottom of the pair of front frame sub-members 106, wherein one of side frame member 120 of the pair of side frame member 120 is configured with a second bracket 122 to receive a side stand mounting member (not shown in the figure). Furthermore, the frame 100 comprises an energy storage unit (ESU) mounting sub-assembly 112 configured to receive an energy storage unit of the two-wheeler vehicle. In addition, the frame 100 also includes a control unit mounting sub-assembly 114 configured to receive a motor control unit, wherein the control unit mounting sub-assembly 114 includes a metal-sheet bracket configured to attach the control unit mounting sub-assembly 114 to the pair of side frame members 120. Additionally, an under-seat storage mounting sub-assembly 114 is also a part of said frame 100 and it further includes a pair of tubular structure 116, a pair of fourth bracket 126 are attached on the top surface of each of tubular structure 116 of the pair of tubular structure 116. Moreover, the frame 100 further includes a seat mounting sub-assembly 118 includes a fifth bracket 128 configured at a first predefined height and further extends vertically downward, wherein the fifth bracket 128 is connected to the pair of tubular structures 116 of the under-seat storage mounting sub-assembly 114 using at least one weldment on each side.
[0076] In addition, the two-wheeler vehicle includes a diagonally extending rear frame member from the rear of the side frame member and diagonally extending horizontally backward to the rear of the frame where the diagonally extended rear frame member is configured to support a wheel hub and a rear wheel.
[0077] In an embodiment, at least one cross member 110 is disposed between the pair of front frame sub-members 106 to attach the pair of front frame sub-members 106 and the support member 108.
[0078] In an embodiment of the present invention, all the sub-assemblies and brackets are directly or indirectly welded with the fifth bracket 128 seat mounting sub-assembly 118 and any of the side frame member (left/right) of the pair of side frame members.
[0079] In an embodiment of the present invention, the frame 100 may be utilized in conjunction with a broad range of different vehicle body configurations to create the vehicle of any desired configuration of MCU (Motor controller unit).
[0080] In an alternate implementation, all the sub-assemblies of the frame 100 may be attached using the plurality of bolts. Further, modular frame 100 is formed with many components (ref. made to Fig. 1) which are assembled to define a basic chassis/frame of the vehicle that may utilized to attach various types of MCU (Motor controller unit) on the single frame.
[0081] In an advantageous embodiment, other brackets are also attached to the frame 100 of the two-wheeler vehicle for different parts of the two-wheeler vehicle as an accessory. In an example, different bracket and sub-assemblies such as a Side stand mounting assembly, Main stand Mounting brackets LH&RH (left hand & right hand); Charger mounting bracket; Footrest Bracket LH&RH; Pillion Footrest Bracket LH&RH; Rear cargo panel Mounting Brackets; Electrical components mounting brackets and like others. The frame 100 of the two-wheeler vehicle is allow the easy installation of different important part of the vehicle as accessory, which was mounted permanently in conventional chassis or frames known in the art.
[0082] In an additional advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the frame 100 of the vehicle allows the installation of Rear cargo panel Mounting Brackets as an accessory, therefore, the frame 100 of the present invention may be commonly used for Passenger and Cargo variants of the same vehicle.
[0083] In an advantage, the frame 100 offers a facility for adding a few accessories such as a grab handle for passengers as well as cargo.
[0084] In another advantage embodiment, the proposed invention provides the frame 100 for a two-wheeled vehicle like a scooter, which provides plenty of leg room. In addition., the frame 100 supports a battery of a higher rating and the batteries are easily swapable also. The present frame 100 of the two-wheeler vehicle that facilitates the natural airflow across the motor and thus automatic air cooling.
[0085] In an advantage, the frame 100 of the vehicle provides a reliable, safe, and efficient electric vehicle that offers a comfortable and visually appealing riding experience while optimizing overall performance and energy efficiency. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the various embodiments of this disclosure are discussed in more detail with respect to implementation. However, the body width of electric vehicle is wide. Applications that can be used for non-electric vehicle Also, with some modifications, all such embodiments are well within the scope. The scope of this disclosure is not subject to any limitations.
[0086] In an advantageous embodiment, the modular structured frame 100 in accordance with the present invention is ease of manufacture and assembly. Further, multiple MCUs (Motor controller unit) may be assembled on the same chassis/frame 100. In addition, due to the modularity of the frame and other component, it is easy to ship in an unassembled state to any remote site.
[0087] In another advantage the present frame 100 is used to provide a light-weight, inexpensive, and relatively easy to service and repair the vehicle.
[0088] While there has been shown, and described herein what are presently considered the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made therein without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
[0089] While certain embodiments have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Indeed, the novel devices, and systems described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form of the devices, and systems described herein may be made without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. The accompanying claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or modifications as would fall within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure.
[0090] Moreover, although the present invention and its advantages have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made herein without departing from the invention as defined by the appended claims. Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of the machine, manufacture, composition of matter, and means, described in the specification. As one will readily appreciate from the disclosure, processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, presently existing or later to be developed that perform substantially the same function or achieve substantially the same result as the corresponding embodiments described herein may be utilized. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to include within their scope such processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means.
Element List
100 – frame
102 – front frame
104 – tubular frame
106 – pair of front frame sub-members
108 – support member
120 - pair of side frame members
112 - energy storage unit (ESU) mounting sub-assembly
502 - pair of third bracket
508 - base plate
506 - gusset bracket
114 - control unit mounting sub-assembly
116 - pair of tubular structure
126 - pair of fourth bracket
130 - pair of cylindrical threaded bush
118 - seat mounting sub-assembly
128 - fifth bracket
202 - front panel mounting bracket
204 - coupler mounting bracket
206 - luggage hook mounting bracket
208 - horn mounting mean
, Claims:We Claim:
1. A frame 100 for a two-wheeler vehicle, the frame comprising:
a front frame 102 including,
a tubular frame 104 is attached to the front frame, configured with a plurality of first bracket to receive a plurality of first mounting means;
a pair of front frame sub-members 106 are extending vertically downward from the tubular frame, wherein the pair of front frame sub-members 106 are attached to the tubular frame 104 on a single point;
a support member 108 is extending vertically downward from the tubular frame 104 in between the pair of front frame sub-members 106;
a pair of side frame members 120 extending horizontally backward from a bottom of the pair of front frame sub-members 106, wherein one of a side frame member 120 of the pair of side frame member 120 is configured with a second bracket 122 to receive a side stand mounting member;
an energy storage unit (ESU) mounting sub-assembly 112 configured to receive an energy storage unit of the two-wheeler vehicle;
a control unit mounting sub-assembly 114 is configured to receive a motor control unit, wherein the control unit mounting sub-assembly 114 includes a metal-sheet bracket 602 configured to attach the control unit mounting sub-assembly 114 to the pair of side frame members 120;
an under-seat storage mounting sub-assembly includes;
a pair of tubular structure 116;
a pair of fourth bracket 126 are attached on the top surface of the each of tubular structure 116 of the pair of tubular structure 116;
a pair of cylindrical threaded bush 130 is welded to the front end of the each of tubular structure 116 of the pair of tubular structure 116; and
a seat mounting sub-assembly 118 includes a fifth bracket 128 configured at a first predefined height and further extends vertically downward, wherein the fifth bracket 128 is connected to the pair of tubular structures 116 of the under-seat storage mounting sub-assembly using at least one weldment on each side.
2. The frame 100 for the two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein a gusset plate 302 is placed in between the tubular frame 104 and the support member 108 of front frame 102.
3. The frame 100 for the two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one cross member 110 is disposed between the pair of front frame sub-members 106 to attach the pair of front frame sub-members 106 and the support member 108.
4. The frame 100 for the two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of first bracket includes a front panel mounting bracket 202, a coupler mounting bracket 204, a luggage hook mounting bracket 206.
5. The frame 100 for the two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of first mounting means is configured to receive a front panel mounting, a horn mounting, and a luggage hook mounting.
6. The frame 100 for the two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second bracket 122 is attached to a left-hand side frame member, preferably, welded.
7. The frame 100 for the two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second bracket 122 is configured with at least one welded solid rod for a sensor rotation control and a side stand spring installation.
8. The frame 100 for the two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the energy storage unit (ESU) mounting sub-assembly 112 comprises;
a pair of third bracket 502 is configured to mechanically attach the energy storage unit mounting sub-assembly to the pair of side frame members 120;
a base plate 508 for the energy storage unit mounting; and
a gusset bracket 506 is disposed between the pair of third brackets and base plate for the energy storage unit mounting.
9. The frame 100 for the two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit mounting sub-assembly 114 is arranged next to the energy storage unit of the two-wheeler vehicle.
10. The frame 100 for the two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pair of cylindrical threaded bush 130 is perpendicularly attached to the pair of side frame members 120.
11. The frame 100 for the two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pair of fourth brackets 126 are configured to receive a battery latch.
12. The frame 100 for the two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pair of cylindrical threaded bush 130 provides a locking mean for the under-seat storage sub-assembly of the two-wheeler vehicle.
13. The frame 100 for the two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the fifth bracket 802 further includes at least one mounting site 804 on each side of the fifth bracket 802 to mount the vehicle control unit brackets.
14. The frame 100 for the two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the fifth bracket 802 further includes a pair of connecting points 806 to mount a seat latch assembly.
15. A two-wheeler vehicle comprising:
a frame 100 comprising;
a front frame 102 configured to receive a steering shaft of the two-wheeler electric vehicle, the upper end of the steering shaft supports a steering wheel, and the lower end of the steering shaft supports the front wheels of the vehicle via a pair of front forks, wherein the front frame 102 further includes;
a tubular frame 104 is attached to the front frame, configured with a plurality of first bracket to receive a plurality of first mounting means;
a pair of front frame sub-members 106 are extending vertically downward from the tubular frame, wherein the pair of front frame sub-members 106 are attached to the tubular frame 104 on a single point;
a support member 108 is extending vertically downward from the tubular frame 104 in between the pair of front frame sub-members 106;
a pair of side frame members 120 extending horizontally backward from a bottom of the pair of front frame sub-members 106, wherein one of a side frame member 120 of the pair of side frame member 120 is configured with a second bracket 122 to receive a side stand mounting member;
an energy storage unit (ESU) mounting sub-assembly 112 configured to receive an energy storage unit of the two-wheeler vehicle;
a control unit mounting sub-assembly 114 is configured to receive a motor control unit, wherein the control unit mounting sub-assembly 114 includes a metal-sheet bracket 602 configured to attach the control unit mounting sub-assembly 114 to the pair of side frame members 120;
an under-seat storage mounting sub-assembly includes;
a pair of tubular structure 116;
a pair of fourth bracket 126 are attached on the top surface of the each of tubular structure of the pair of tubular structure 116;
a pair of cylindrical threaded bush 130 is welded to the front end of the each of tubular structure 116 of the pair of tubular structure 116;
a seat mounting sub-assembly 118 includes a fifth bracket 802 configured at a first predefined height and further extends vertically downward, wherein the fifth bracket 802 is connected to the pair of tubular structures 116 of an under-seat storage mounting sub-assembly using at least one weldment on each side; and
a diagonally extending rear frame member from the rear of the side frame member and diagonally extending horizontally backward to the rear of the frame where the diagonally extended rear frame member is configured to support a wheel hub and a rear wheel.
16. The two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 15, wherein a gusset plate 302 is placed in between the tubular frame and the support member of the front frame.
17. The two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 15, wherein the plurality of first bracket includes a front panel mounting bracket 202, a coupler mounting bracket 204, a luggage hook mounting bracket 206.
18. The two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 15, wherein the plurality of first mounting means is configured to receive a panel mounting, a horn mounting, and a luggage hook mounting.
19. The two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 15, wherein the second bracket 122 is attached to a left-hand side frame member, preferably, welded.
20. The two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 15, wherein the second bracket 122 is configured with at least one welded solid rod for a sensor rotation control and a side stand spring installation.
21. The two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 15, wherein the energy storage unit mounting sub-assembly 112 comprises:
a pair of third bracket 502 is configured to mechanically attach the energy storage unit mounting sub-assembly to the pair of side frame members;
a base plate 508 for the energy storage unit mounting; and
a gusset bracket 506 is disposed between the pair of third brackets and base plate for the energy storage unit mounting.
22. The two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 15, wherein the control unit mounting sub-assembly 114 is arranged next to the energy storage unit of the two-wheeler vehicle.
23. The two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 15, wherein the pair cylindrical of threaded bush 130 is perpendicularly attached to the pair of side frame members 120.
24. The two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 15, wherein the pair of fourth brackets 126 are configured to receive a battery latch.
25. The two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 15, wherein the pair cylindrical of threaded bush 130 provides a locking mean for the under-seat storage sub-assembly of the two-wheeler vehicle.
26. The two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 15, wherein the fifth 128 bracket further includes at least one mounting site 804 on each side of the fifth bracket 128 to mount the vehicle control unit brackets.
27. The two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 15, wherein the fifth bracket 128 further includes a pair of connecting points 806 to mount a seat latch assembly.
28. The two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 15, wherein at least one cross member 110 is disposed between the pair of front frame sub-members 106 to attach the pair of front frame sub-members and the support member 108.
29. The two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 15, wherein the frame 100 is a modular frame.
30. The two-wheeler vehicle as claimed in claim 15, wherein the two-wheeler vehicle is one of an electric vehicle, a hybrid electric vehicle, a fuel-cell electric vehicle.