Description:FORM 2

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

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See Section 10 and Rule 13)

A MOUNTING ASSEMBLY FOR MOUNTING ONE OR MORE ENERGY STORAGE UNITS 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 mounting assembly of one or more energy storage units of a vehicle. More particularly, the present invention relates to a mounting assembly of removable type one or more energy storage units of a vehicle.
BACKGROUND
[0002] In a vehicle, there are several locations where a energy storage unit is mounted in the conventional layouts. Energy storage unit can include one battery or multiple battery packs. In an electric or hybrid vehicle, the battery packs may be increased in numbers and may also be increased in size, due to which the location of mounting of the battery packs may differ in different vehicles having different layouts. The size and capacity of the battery packs vary according to the requirements of the vehicle and the user, and due to space constraints in the vehicle, the battery packs are sometimes mounted at separate spaces as well. In a two- wheeled vehicle, a battery pack is either stowed or mounted below the seating portion of the vehicle, or the steering region of the vehicle. Some vehicles have a fixed battery packs which are not easily removable and are not intended to be removed frequently. However, some vehicles are focused on easy removal of the battery packs to enable battery swapping mechanism, or to enable transportation of the battery packs in order to get it charged or serviced at a convenient location of the user. To enable swapping mechanism of the battery packs, it is important that the battery packs are provided with a convenient configuration to enable easier mounting and dismounting of the battery packs. Further, the location at which the battery packs are mounted should also be chosen carefully to maximise packaging efficiency of the vehicle and increased ease of accessibility of the swappable battery packs. In certain conventional vehicles, the battery packs are preferred to be stored below the seat assembly of the vehicle due to which the size of the storage compartment of the vehicle, typically also below the seat assembly, has to be reduced, which is undesirable. A vehicle such as a two-wheeled vehicle has space constraints for storage compartment, and installing a battery pack in or around the storage compartment could lead to reduction of space in the storage compartment. In order to maximise the space available for the storage compartment, the battery packs have to placed at different location, thereby providing maximum storage space such that the user can store more objects in the storage compartment such as storing at least two helmets in the storage compartment. In conventional vehicles, the storage compartment could only store one helmet. This is an important issue because most cities are now applying mandatory rule for two helmets i.e. for driver as well as pillion.
[0003] An attempt to solve such problems was provided where the battery packs were mounted on the floorboard of the vehicle, due to which the space available for mounting the battery in the storage compartment was eliminated thereby increasing storage space. However, this attempt to provide the solution had many drawbacks such as special configurations have to be made for different vehicles having different layouts. Further, the battery packs were directly mounted on the floorboard due to which the battery pack was not able to be provided with a swappable mechanism. Further since the battery packs had different configurations for different vehicle layout, it was also not possible to provide a swappable battery system for different kinds of vehicle. Due to this, the conventional systems of location of swappable battery packs were only known to be applicable when the swappable battery packs were stored in the storage compartment of the vehicle. Hence there exists a need for a swappable battery system which increases the overall packaging efficiency of the vehicle and also provides a better location for providing the battery packs.
[0004] Such swappable battery packs have to be provided with a connector to connect the swappable battery packs to the vehicle. The connectors are manually connected by the user of the vehicle in the conventional systems of swappable battery packs. The connectors transfer the power between the battery and the vehicle and the manual connection for the same creates several problems in terms of ease of accessibility and takes additional time to connect and disconnect the battery packs with the vehicle. The swappable mechanism of the battery packs within the storage compartment of the vehicle involves the manual connection of the connectors. Further, in the case of a two-wheeled vehicle, the storage compartment would be the rear portion of the vehicle where the region below the seating region is used to store the luggage of the users and more importantly, is also used to store a single helmet for the driver or the pillion of the two-wheeled vehicle. In cases where usually a single rider rides the vehicle, there is no issues of placement of second helmet, however, if he stores the helmet inside the storage compartment, the same storage cannot be used to store other products, due to which the problems of lack of storage space exists in the conventional vehicles. Further, in case the two-wheeled vehicle is ridden by a rider and the pillion, the conventional storage compartments were unable to accommodate two half face helmets, let alone accommodate two full size helmets. Due to this reason, many users are forced to switch from full-face helmets and opt for a half face helmets and/or open-face type helmets which are able to be accommodated within the storage compartment of the two-wheeled vehicle. This in turn creates the problems of safety concerns for the user of the vehicle and may also cause significant safety hazards. Hence, lack of storage space and lack of alternatives for the placement of the battery packs are major problems of conventional vehicles.
[0005] Further, the storage of the battery packs in the storage compartment is not an easy task, due to the high placement of the storage container, the user has to lift the heavy battery up and then put it in the storage container and then manually connect the connectors. This creates difficulty in the replacement of the battery packs in cases of providing a swappable battery pack. This not only increases time in mounting/dismounting the battery packs but also has increased difficulty in such mounting/dismounting. Further, in case the battery pack is secured inside the storage container. The battery packs are generally provided a space for storing the battery packs, and secured within the storage container. The secure storage of the battery packs which is safe from the vibrations and other methods are provided with a dampeners due to which the vibrations and jerks caused by the vehicle is securely managed by the storage compartments. However, in case of alternative mounting of the battery packs no such provisions are provided for secure mounting of the battery packs in the conventional vehicle layouts.
[0006] Thus, the conventional methods known in the art for placement and connecting the swappable battery packs of the vehicle have associated problems and limitations in terms of difficulty in providing a swappable battery system due to accessibility issues, increased time taken in mounting/dismounting the battery packs, mechanical instability of the vehicle after mounting the battery packs, chances of misalignment and malfunctions of the connectors, limited space constraints, vibrations and jerks causing damages to the battery packs, manual connection of the connectors, etc. Therefore, there is a need for a better mounting configuration of one or more energy storage units in a vehicle that can overcome the problems that are known in the art and which provides an easier and convenient way of assembly of the connectors, easier and convenient docking/swapping of the one or more energy storage units, better packaging efficiency of the vehicle, increased durability of the connectors, better overall mechanical stability and dynamics of the vehicle, reduced time in mounting/dismounting of the one or more energy storage units, automatic connection/disconnection of the connectors while mounting/dismounting.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The present subject matter relates to a mounting assembly for mounting one or more energy storage units of a vehicle, the mounting assembly comprises a housing, a platform and a plurality of guiding members. The housing is configured to be disposed on a frame assembly of the vehicle. The platform is configured to receive the one or more energy storage units. The plurality of guiding members is configured to be connected to the housing and slidably mount the platform. The plurality of guiding members along with the platform is configured to enable a slidable mounting and a slidable dismounting of the one or more energy storage units along a predefined path.
[0008] The present subject matter further relates to a vehicle comprising a frame assembly, a floorboard region, one or more energy storage units, and a mounting assembly. The floorboard region is configured to support the feet of the user of the vehicle. The one or more energy storage units stores an energy and transfers it between the one or more energy storage units and the vehicle. The mounting assembly comprises a housing, a platform and a plurality of guiding members. The housing is configured to be disposed on a frame assembly of the vehicle. The platform is configured to receive the one or more energy storage units. The plurality of guiding members is configured to be connected to the housing and slidably mount the platform. The plurality of guiding members along with the platform is configured to enable a slidable mounting and a slidable dismounting of the one or more energy storage units along a predefined path. The housing is configured to be disposed in a floorboard region of the vehicle.
[0009] The present invention along with various embodiments allows the mounting and connection of the one or more energy storage units on the vehicle in a way which enables an easier and convenient way of assembly of the connectors, easier and convenient docking/swapping of the one or more energy storage units, better packaging efficiency of the vehicle, increased durability of the connectors, better overall mechanical stability and dynamics of the vehicle, reduced time in mounting/dismounting of the one or more energy storage units, automatic connection/disconnection of the connectors while mounting/dismounting.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] The proposed invention is described with reference to an exemplary embodiment of a mounting configuration of one or more energy storage units in a floorboard region 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.
[0011] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a frame assembly of a vehicle with the mounting assembly as per one embodiment of the present invention.
[0012] Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of the frame assembly of the vehicle with one or more energy storage units being mounted on the mounting assembly as per another embodiment of the present invention.
[0013] Figure 3 illustrates a bottom perspective view of one or more energy storage units in a mounted condition as per another embodiment of the present invention.
[0014] Figure 4 illustrates a close-up view of the mounting assembly as per another embodiment of the present invention.
[0015] Figure 5 illustrates a top view of dismantled mounting assembly as per one embodiment of the present invention.
[0016] Figure 6 illustrates an exploded view of the locking mechanism of the mounting assembly as per one embodiment of the present invention.
[0017] Figure 7 illustrates a perspective view of the dismantled mounting assembly as per one embodiment of the present invention.
[0018] Figure 8 illustrates a side perspective view of the mounting assembly showing the directions of mounting/dismounting of the one or more energy storage units.
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 one or more of the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a mounting configuration of one or more energy storage units in a floorboard region of a vehicle.
[0022] As per one embodiment of the present invention, a mounting assembly for mounting one or more energy storage units of a vehicle is disclosed. The mounting assembly comprises a housing, a platform and a plurality of guiding members. The housing is configured to be disposed on a frame assembly of the vehicle. The platform is configured to receive the one or more energy storage units. The plurality of guiding members is configured to be connected to the housing and slidably mount the platform. The plurality of guiding members along with the platform is configured to enable a slidable mounting and a slidable dismounting of the one or more energy storage units along a predefined path.
[0023] As per another embodiment, the housing is configured to be disposed in a floorboard region of the vehicle.
[0024] As per another embodiment, the platform comprises a plurality of roller members to enable a slidable movement of the platform along the plurality of guiding members.
[0025] As per another embodiment, the plurality of guiding members comprises a plurality of protruded members to connect the plurality of guiding members to an angled member which is connected to the housing.
[0026] As per another embodiment, the mounting assembly comprising a plurality of first spring members which are configured to form an elastic connection between the housing and the plurality of protruded members wherein the plurality of first spring members is configured to push the plurality of guiding members towards a top side of the vehicle.
[0027] As per another embodiment, the angled member is configured to allow an angled movement of the plurality of guiding members in an inclined manner. The angled member comprises a curved cutout and the plurality of protruded members of the plurality of guiding members are configured to move through the curved cutout. The plurality of protruded members is configured to enable the angled movement of the plurality of guiding members.
[0028] As per another embodiment, the plurality of guiding members is configured to be hingedly connected to the housing.
[0029] As per another embodiment, the mounting assembly comprises one or more protective plates to restrict a motion of the one or more energy storage units upon completion of the slidable mounting of the one or more energy storage units.
[0030] As per another embodiment, the one or more protective plates are connected to the housing and a second spring member. The second spring member is configured to restrict the excessive movement of the platform along with the one or more energy storage units towards one or more connectors of the vehicle.
[0031] As per another embodiment, the mounting assembly comprises a lock member which is configured to restrict a movement of the plurality of guiding members. The lock member is configured to latch onto the plurality of guiding members thereby restricting the movement of the plurality of guiding members and the platform.
[0032] As per another embodiment, a lock actuator is mounted on the housing and the lock actuator is configured to engage and disengage the lock member.
[0033] As per another embodiment, the lock actuator comprises a third spring member, and the lock member comprises a truncated edge which is configured to enable configured to latch onto the plurality of guiding members. This enables auto-latching of the lock member thereby enabling auto-locking of the lock member, and the lock actuator is configured to disengage the lock member.
[0034] As per another embodiment, the predefined path is configured to facilitate a connection between one or more power connectors of the one or more energy storage units and one or more connectors of the vehicle during mounting and dismounting of the one or more energy storage units.
[0035] As per another embodiment, the mounting assembly comprises a cover member which covers the housing and restricts the movement of the one or more energy storage units within the housing.
[0036] As per another embodiment, the predefined path being the mounting and dismounting of the one or more energy storage units in an angled manner on the platform and the angled manner being based on the position of the plurality of guiding members. The angled manner is followed by a slidable movement of the platform along with the one or more energy storage units to electrically connect the one or more energy storage units to the vehicle during mounting and the slidable movement of the platform is followed by the angled manner during dismounting and an electrical disconnection of the one or more energy storage units from the vehicle.
[0037] As per another embodiment, the one or more energy storage units are configured to be placed in the housing in an inwards direction with respect to the housing and in a downwards direction with respect to the vehicle.
[0038] As per another embodiment, the platform is positioned in an upward and outward direction in a resting state. The resting state of the platform is defined by a plurality of first spring members and the second spring member being in a resting position. The plurality of first spring members and the second spring member is connected to the housing.
[0039] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle comprising a frame assembly, a floorboard region, one or more energy storage units, and a mounting assembly is disclosed. The floorboard region is configured to support the feet of the user of the vehicle. The one or more energy storage units stores an energy and transfers it between the one or more energy storage units and the vehicle. The mounting assembly comprises a housing, a platform and a plurality of guiding members. The housing is configured to be disposed on a frame assembly of the vehicle. The platform is configured to receive the one or more energy storage units. The plurality of guiding members is configured to be connected to the housing and slidably mount the platform. The plurality of guiding members along with the platform is configured to enable a slidable mounting and a slidable dismounting of the one or more energy storage units along a predefined path. The housing is configured to be disposed in a floorboard region of the vehicle.
[0040] Thus, the mentioned invention provides a mounting configuration of one or more energy storage units in a floorboard region of a vehicle.
[0041] 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.
[0042] 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.
[0043] 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 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.
[0044] 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.
[0045] 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.
[0046] 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.
[0047] Figure 1 and Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of a frame assembly (101) of a vehicle (not shown), and the perspective view of the frame assembly (101) of the vehicle with one or more energy storage units (200) being mounted on a mounting assembly (300). The frame assembly (101) is a structural support of the vehicle, and all components are loaded on the frame assembly (101). The vehicle as per the present invention may be a two-wheeled vehicle, a three-wheeled vehicle and may also be a multi-axled vehicle in different embodiments. The vehicle is also provided with a floorboard region (102).
[0048] The floorboard region (102) as per the present invention is the region between a seating region (not shown) and a steering region (not shown). The floorboard region (102) is configured to accommodate a floorboard (not shown) on which the feet of the user of the vehicle are supposed to rest. The floorboard region (102) as per the present invention is configured such that one or more energy storage units (200) can be accommodated inside the floorboard region (102). The floorboard region (102) is provided with one or more connectors (106) for connecting the one or more energy storage units (200). Since, the one or more energy storage units (200) are provided in the floorboard region (102), the storage space that is the region below the seating region becomes available for proper utilisation. In case of a two-wheeled electric vehicle, the absence of an internal combustion engine, and fuel storage units, the space available below the seating region becomes vacant. Hence, the present invention by providing the one or more energy storage units (200) has increased the storage space for the vehicle. This in turn allows the user to store two full sized helmets within the storage of the vehicle (as illustrated in Fig. 2). Hence, the present invention has provided with a solution which increases the safety of the user, since the user will be able to keep more than one helmet in the storage.
[0049] The one or more energy storage units (200) transfers an energy between the vehicle and the one or more energy storage units (200). The one or more energy storage units (200) are configured to store an electrical energy and supply it to the vehicle. The one or more energy storage units (200) may in one embodiment be one or more battery packs which are swappable or removable and can be swapped with other battery packs. The one or more energy storage units (200) may also be one or more hydrogen cells or some other kind of energy storage units in other embodiments. The one or more energy storage units (200) are provided with one or more power connectors (206) which are provided to connect the one or more energy storage units (200) with the vehicle. In one embodiment, the one or more energy storage units (200) are provided with one or more power connectors (206) such that the one or more power connectors (206) are configured to directly connect with the one or more connectors (106) of the vehicle. The one or more connectors (106) and one or more power connectors (206) are configured to be electrically coupled to each other when the one or more energy storage units (200) are mounted/dismounted. When a certain force is exerted on the one or more energy storage units (200), the one or more power connectors (206) and the one or more connectors (106) connect with each other and are configured such that it does not disconnect by small vibrations and jerks. In one embodiment, the one or more power connectors (206) and the one or more connectors (106) may be selected from a male and female connector such that one is inserted into another. This ensures that both of the connectors are connected when the one or more energy storage units are mounted in the floorboard region (102).
[0050] The mounting assembly (300) as per the present invention comprises a housing (301), a platform (302), and a plurality of guiding members (303). The housing (301) is disposed of on the frame assembly of the vehicle. The housing (301) covers the mounting assembly (300) and the one or more energy storage units (200). The platform (302) is configured to receive the one or more energy storage units (200). The platform (302) must be capable of holding the weight of the one or more energy storage units (200). The plurality of guiding members (303) is provided to facilitate a movement of the platform (302). The plurality of guiding members (303) is connected to the housing (301), and provides a guideway for movement of the platform (302) within the housing (301). The platform (302) is slidably connected to the plurality of guiding members (303). The plurality of guiding members (303) is configured to slidably mount the platform (302) thereby enabling a slidable movement of the platform (302). Since, the platform (302) supports the one or more energy storage units (200), the plurality of guiding members (303) provides a slidable mounting and dismounting configuration of the one or more energy storage units (200) when the one or more energy storage units (200) are placed on the platform (302). The plurality of guiding members (303) provides a slidable motion that helps in the easy and convenient connection and disconnection of the one or more energy storage units (200). The one or more energy storage units (200) is pushed towards the one or more connectors (106) of the vehicle, and the one or more power connectors (206) of the one or more energy storage units (206) slide towards the one or more connectors (106). This slidable movement towards the one or more connectors (106) also enables the one or more power connectors (206) to slide into the one or more connectors (106) thereby completing the connection by the slidable movement of the one or more energy storage units (200) itself. This solves the problems of the requirement of manual connection of the connectors of the one or more energy storage units (200) and the vehicle, which takes a lot of time to mount/dismount the one or more energy storage units (200) of the vehicle. The solution provided by the present invention enables connection during the mounting/dismounting of the one or more energy storage units (200). Due to the weight of the one or more energy storage units (200), the platform (302) slides towards the one or more connectors (106) thereby resulting in automatic connection of both connectors during the mounting/dismounting the one or more energy storage units (200) itself. This in turn results in the reduction of time taken in replacement of the one or more energy storage units (200) and swapping the one or more energy storage units (200) with another one or more energy storage units (200).
[0051] The mounting assembly (300) is also provided with one or more protective plates (304), the one or more protective plates are connected on the housing (301) and is configured to prevent the one or more energy storage units (200) to move towards the one or more connector (106) of the vehicle. This restricts the excess movement of the one or more energy storage units (200) which could cause damage to the one or more connectors (106) of the vehicle or the one or more power connectors (206) of the one or more energy storage units (200). The one or more protective plates may also be provided with one or more of a second spring member (not shown) which restricts the excess movement of the one or more energy storage unit (200), the second spring member also helps in lifting the one or more energy storage units (200) during dismounting since the second spring member pushes back the one or more energy storage units (200) which helps in lifting the heavy one or more energy storage units (200). Additionally, the second spring member can also push the one or more protective plates in an outwards direction of the platform (302) due to the properties of springs. The outwards direction is the direction in which the one or more energy storage units (200) are intended to be dismounted/mounted. The second spring member can be connected to the one or more protective plates (304) in one embodiment, and in another embodiment, can also be connected to the platform (302), and in another embodiment may also be connected to both the platform (302) and the one or more protective plates (302). This would ensure the movement of the one or more protective plates (304) and the platform (302) in the desired direction. The second spring member also ensures that the platform (302) and the one or more energy storage units (200) have a smooth mounting/dismounting and also ensures proper alignment of the one or more power connectors (206) and the one or more connectors (106). The mounting assembly (300) is also being configured to cover the housing (301) and restrict the movement of the one or more energy storage units (200) within the housing (301). In another embodiment, a floorboard of the vehicle being configured to cover the housing (301) from different sides.
[0052] Figure 3, Figure 4 and Figure 5 illustrate a bottom perspective view of one or more energy storage units in a mounted condition and a magnified view of the mounting assembly, and an exploded view of the mounting assembly respectively. The housing (301) is shown to be disposed on the frame assembly (101) and in one embodiment, it may be directly welded on the frame assembly (101) and in another embodiment, it may also be mounted via a mounting bracket. The one or more guiding members (303) are connected to the housing (301) hingedly, thereby allowing a rotational movement of the one or more guiding members (301). The one or more guiding members (303) are connected to an angled member (307). The angled member (307) is connected to the housing and the plurality of guiding members (303). The one or more guiding members (303) are provided with a plurality of protruded members (306) and the angled member (307) is provided with a curved cutout (308). The plurality of protruded members (306) passes through the curved cutout (308) and enables an angled movement of the plurality of guiding members (303). This angled movement may be achieved by other means such as instead of providing a curved cutout (308) for the plurality of protruded members (306), the plurality of guiding members (303) may also be connected directly to the angled member (307) and the angled member (307) may be pivotally mounted to allow movement of the plurality of guiding members (303) in an angled manner. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the angled member (307) may be configured to provide an angled movement of the plurality of guiding members (303) in a different configuration. As per a preferred embodiment, the angled member (307) is provided with a plurality of first spring members (309), the plurality of first spring members (309) forms an elastic connection between the housing (301) and the angled member (307). This results in pushing the angled member (307) towards an upward direction of the vehicle or may also be pushed towards other directions with respect to the vehicle. In one embodiment, the platform (302) may also be provided with a plurality of roller members (305), which is configured to be inserted in the plurality of guiding members (303). These plurality of roller members (305) provide an interconnection between the platform (302) and the plurality of guiding members (303) and enable a slidable connection which helps in easier sliding ability of the platform (301) along the plurality of guiding members (303).
[0053] Figure 6 illustrates an exploded view of the mounting assembly (300) as per one embodiment. The housing unit (301) is also provided with a lock member (310), which is configured to lock the angled movement of the plurality of guiding members (303). This allows restriction of the movement of the one or more energy storage units (200) towards an upper-angled direction of the vehicle. The angled member (307) enables the angled movement due to which the plurality of guiding members (303) is pushed away from the ground. This helps in providing a convenient and easier angle of mounting/dismounting of the one or more energy storage units (200). This provides comfort to the user to mount/dismount the one or more energy storage units (200) without bending. The lock member (310) ensures that the one or more energy storage units (200) does not fall unnecessarily or unintentionally. The lock member (310) may be designed with an L-shaped configuration which acts a lever and latches on the plurality of guiding members (303). This configuration is further actuated with a lock actuator (311) which actuates the lock member (310) in an engaged state and disengaged state. The lock actuator (311) is loaded with a third spring member (312) which maintains the position of the lock member (310). The lock member (310) may also be provided with a truncated edge such that when the battery is pushed towards the ground due to its weight the lock member (310) slides on the truncated edge and the lock member (310) automatically latches onto the plurality of guiding members (303) thereby locking the angled movement.
[0054] Figure 7 illustrates a magnified view of the mounting assembly as per one embodiment of the present invention. The plurality of guiding members (303) ensures that the one or more connectors (106) and the one or more power connectors (206) are properly aligned and are mounted in a correct orientation. This is further assisted by the one or more protective plates (304) which ensures safeguard against any potential damage or misalignment and provides a proper guideway of one or more power connectors (206) towards the one or more connectors (106) of the vehicle.
[0055] Figure 8 illustrates a perspective view of the mounting assembly showing the directions for mounting/dismounting of the one or more energy storage units. The one or more energy storage units (200) move in a predefined path to achieve a mounted and dismounted condition. The one or more energy storage units (200) is inserted on the platform (302) and the platform (302) is currently outwards in a dismounted condition or a resting state. The platform (302) moves towards the ground due to its weight and actuates the lock member (310), the protective plate (304) and the second spring member protects the one or more power connectors (206). The protective plate (304), the second spring member, and the plurality of guiding members (303) aligns the one or more power connectors (206) and the one or more connectors (106) which results in the electrical connection between the one or more energy storage unit (200) and the vehicle. The platform (302) slides into the plurality of guiding members (303) and the lock member (310) are engaged. This position is a mounted condition of the mounting assembly (300). The predefined path in mounting the one or more energy storage units (200) includes putting the one or more energy storage units (200) on the platform (302) and the platform being slid inwards in a mounted condition. During the dismounting of the one or more energy storage units (200), the one or more energy storage units (200) may be pulled away from the vehicle, and the second spring member will push the one or more energy storage units (200) away from the vehicle, thereby resulting in easier lifting of the one or more energy storage units (200). Further, the angled member (307) pushes the platform (302) away from the ground thereby further assisting in lifting the one or more energy storage units (200). After the one or more energy storage units (200) is lifted completely, the angled member (307) is lifted in an angled manner, and the one or more protective plates (304) are near the platform (302), where the platform (302) is slightly in an angled inclination, due to which the replacement of the one or more energy storage units (200) is made easier. This condition is a dismounted condition or a resting state of the mounting assembly (300). In this dismounted condition or resting state, the plurality of first spring members (309), and the second spring member are in a resting condition i.e., the springs are not compressed or expanded. The predefined path in dismounting the one or more energy storage units (200) starts from pulling/ lifting the one or more energy storage units (200), and the platform (302) being slid outwards and upwards in a dismounted condition. In a preferred embodiment, the predefined path (P) is the mounting and dismounting of the one or more energy storage units (200) in an angled manner on the platform (302) which is based on the position of the plurality of guiding members (303). The angled manner is followed by slidable movement of the platform (302) along with the one or more energy storage units (200) to electrically connect the one or more energy storage units (200) to the vehicle during mounting and the slidable movement of the platform (302). This is followed by the angled manner during dismounting and an electrical disconnection of the one or more energy storage units (200) from the vehicle.
[0056] Thus, as per the present subject matter, a mounting configuration of one or more energy storage units in a floorboard region of a vehicle is provided.
[0057] According to the above disclosure, the present invention provides various advantages in addition to several advantages already disclosed in the above description. Such advantages include such as but not limited to, a better mounting configuration of one or more energy storage units in a vehicle that can overcome the problems that are known in the art. The present subject matter also provides an easier and convenient way of assembly of the connectors, easier and convenient docking/swapping of the one or more energy storage units. The disclosed subject matter also leads to a better packaging efficiency of the vehicle whereby the space is efficiently used making more room available for storage or other advantageous parts. Further, the disclosed subject matter also provides increased durability of the various connectors which also contributes to electrical as well as overall mechanical stability and dynamics of the vehicle. The subject matter also enables reduced time in mounting/dismounting of the one or more energy storage units, automatic connection/disconnection of the connectors while mounting/dismounting. This further enhances ease of servicing of the vehicle and maintenance in addition to reduction in takt time.
[0058] The present disclosure provides a convenient and efficient configuration that is not only advantageous for all types of vehicles including but not limited to two wheelers, three wheelers and other multi wheeled vehicles. The advantages are also realised not only in vehicles with combustion engines but also electric and hybrid vehicles. In one embodiment, the sliding mechanism of the platform and dockable connectors enable seamless integration of the energy storage units such as a battery pack into the floorboard, allowing for easy access, convenience, and efficient charging. Additionally, the invention further aims to overcome problems associated with existing designs, such as fixed battery placement and lack of storage space for items like helmets. The claimed technical solution offers benefits in terms of improved performance, durability, aesthetics, ease of assembly, and user comfort.
[0059] The claimed invention's non-abstract and non-obvious nature is rooted in the various specific and tangible features disclosed in the description above that collectively address practical challenges associated with mounting and dismounting energy storage units in vehicles. This novel and inventive assembly ensures that the energy storage units are securely and reliably mounted, preventing unintended motion that could compromise safety or damage components. The predefined path not only facilitates the physical mounting but also streamlines the electrical connection between the energy storage units and the vehicle thereby further eliminating any need for the manual connection, and enabling auto-connection. In one embodiment, the cover member adds an extra layer of protection from external factors.
[0060] The advantages of the present invention further lie in the meticulous integration of features, ensuring efficient, safe, and user-friendly operations. The combination of these elements in a manner that deviates from conventional practices The claimed invention involves not only the individual components but also, more crucially, the synergistic assembly and functioning of these components, leading to an improved and non-trivial solution for mounting energy storage units in vehicles.
[0061] 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.
[0062] 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.
[0063] 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
101 Frame Assembly
102 Floorboard Region
200 Energy Storage Unit
206 One or More Power Connectors
300 Mounting Assembly
301 Housing
302 Platform
303 One or More Guiding Members
304 One or More Protective Plates
305 A Plurality of Roller Members
306 A Plurality of Protruded Members
307 Angled Member
308 Curved Cutout
309 A Plurality of First Spring Members
310 Lock Member
311 Lock Actuator
312 Third Spring Member
, Claims:We Claim:

1. A mounting assembly (300) for mounting one or more energy storage units (200) of a vehicle, the mounting assembly (300) comprising:
a housing (301), the housing (301) being configured to be disposed on a frame assembly (101) of the vehicle;
a platform (302), the platform (302) being configured to receive the one or more energy storage units (200); and
a plurality of guiding members (303), the plurality of guiding members (303) being configured to be connected to the housing (301), and the plurality of guiding members (303) being configured to slidably mount the platform (302), and the plurality of guiding members (303) along with the platform (302) being configured to enable a slidable mounting and a slidable dismounting of the one or more energy storage units (200) along a predefined path (P).
2. The mounting assembly (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the housing (301) being configured to be disposed in a floorboard region (102) of the vehicle.
3. The mounting assembly (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the platform (302) comprises a plurality of roller members (305), the plurality of roller members (305) being configured to enable a slidable movement of the platform (302) along the plurality of guiding members (303).
4. The mounting assembly (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of guiding members (303) comprising a plurality of protruded members (306), the plurality of protruded members (306) being configured to connect the plurality of guiding members (303) to an angled member (307), the angled member (307) being connected to the housing (301).
5. The mounting assembly (300) as claimed in claim 4, the mounting assembly (300) comprising a plurality of first spring members (309), wherein the plurality of first spring members (309) being configured to form an elastic connection between the housing (301) and the plurality of protruded members (306), wherein the plurality of first spring members (309) being configured to push the plurality of guiding members (303) towards a top side of the vehicle.
6. The mounting assembly (300) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the angled member (307) being configured to allow an angled movement of the plurality of guiding members (303) in an inclined manner, the angled member (307) comprising a curved cutout (308), the plurality of protruded members (306) of the plurality of guiding members (303) being configured to move through the curved cutout (308), the plurality of protruded members (306) being configured to enable the angled movement of the plurality of guiding members (303).
7. The mounting assembly (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of guiding members (303) being configured to be hingedly connected to the housing (301).
8. The mounting assembly (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the mounting assembly (300) comprising one or more protective plates (304), the one or more protective plates (304) being configured to restrict a motion of the one or more energy storage units (200) upon completion of the slidable mounting of the one or more energy storage units (200).
9. The mounting assembly (300) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the one or more protective plates (304) being connected to the housing (301) and a second spring member, the second spring member being configured to restrict the excessive movement of the platform (302) along with the one or more energy storage units (200) towards one or more connectors (106) of the vehicle.
10. The mounting assembly (300) as claimed in claim 6, wherein
the mounting assembly (300) comprising a lock member (310), the lock member (310) being configured to restrict a movement of the plurality of guiding members (303); and
the lock member (310) being configured to latch onto the plurality of guiding members (303) thereby restricting the movement of the plurality of guiding members (303) and the platform (302).
11. The mounting assembly (300) as claimed in claim 10, wherein a lock actuator (311) being mounted on the housing (301) and the lock actuator (311) being configured to engage and disengage the lock member (310).
12. The mounting assembly (300) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the lock actuator (311) comprising a third spring member (312), the lock member (310) comprising a truncated edge, the truncated edge being configured to latch onto the plurality of guiding members (303) thereby enabling auto-locking of the lock member (310), and the lock actuator (311) being configured to disengage the lock member (310).
13. The mounting assembly (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the predefined path (P) being configured to facilitate a connection between one or more power connectors (206) of the one or more energy storage units (200) and one or more connectors (106) of the vehicle during mounting of the one or more energy storage units (200).
14. The mounting assembly (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the mounting assembly (300) comprising a cover member, the cover member being configured to cover the housing (301) and restrict movement of the one or more energy storage units (200) within the housing (301).
15. The mounting assembly (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the predefined path (P) being the mounting and dismounting of the one or more energy storage units (200) in an angled manner on the platform (302), the angled manner being based on the position of the plurality of guiding members (303), the angled manner being followed by slidable movement of the platform (302) along with the one or more energy storage units (200) to electrically connect the one or more energy storage units (200) to the vehicle during mounting and the slidable movement of the platform (302) being followed by the angled manner during dismounting and an electrical disconnection of the one or more energy storage units (200) from the vehicle.
16. The mounting assembly (300) as claimed in claim 15, wherein the one or more energy storage units (200) being configured to be placed in the housing (301) in an inwards direction with respect to the housing (301), and in a downwards direction with respect to the vehicle.
17. The mounting assembly (300) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the platform (302) being positioned in an upward and outward direction in a resting state, the resting state of the platform (302) being defined by a plurality of first spring members (309) and a second spring member being in a resting position, the plurality of first spring members (309) and the second spring member being connected to the housing (301).

18. A vehicle comprising:
a frame assembly (101);
a floorboard region (102), the floorboard region (102) being configured to support the feet of the user of the vehicle; ;
the one or more energy storage units (200) being configured to store an energy and transfer the energy between the one or more energy storage units (200) and the vehicle;
a mounting assembly (200) for mounting the one or more energy storage units (200) of a vehicle, the mounting assembly (300) comprising:
a housing (301), the housing (301) being configured to be disposed on a frame assembly (101) of the vehicle;
a platform (302), the platform (302) being configured to receive the one or more energy storage units (200);
a plurality of guiding members (303), the plurality of guiding members (303) being configured to be connected to the housing (301), and the plurality of guiding members (303) being configured to slidably mount the platform (302) and the plurality of guiding members (303) along with the platform (302) being configured to enable a slidable mounting and a slidable dismounting of the one or more energy storage units (200) along a predefined path (P); and
the housing (301) being configured to be disposed in a floorboard region (102) of the vehicle.

Dated this 04th day of November, 2023
[Digitally Signed]
Sudarshan Singh Shekhawat
IN/PA – 1611
Agent for the Applicant