DESC:INTEGRATED ASSEMBLY FOR CHAIN COVER
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
The present application claims priority from Indian Provisional Patent Application No. 202421021039 filed on 19/03/2024, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by a reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
Generally, the present disclosure relates to vehicle safety arrangements. Particularly, the present disclosure relates to a chain cover assembly for a vehicle.
BACKGROUND
In numerous countries, the legislation mandates that all two-wheelers must be equipped with chain covers, saree guards, and other essential safety features as standard components. The laws generally outline specific requirements regarding the design, dimensions, and materials of the protective components to guarantee their functionality in preventing accidents and injuries. Therefore, manufacturers and distributors of two-wheelers are tasked with ensuring that the vehicles meet the safety standards prior to being sold or used on public roads.
Conventionally, the chain cover and saree guard typically exist as separate components, each attached individually to the swing arm of the vehicle. The chain cover is responsible for shielding the chain from external elements, while the saree guard serves to protect the rider from accidental contact with the chain. The mounting process for the chain cover and saree guard as separate components on the swing arm of a vehicle involves positioning each component around the swing arm and aligning the respective mounting points with pre-drilled holes or brackets. The chain cover is first placed around the chain and secured to the swing arm using screws, bolts, or clips, ensuring tight fitting and proper alignment to prevent movement. Subsequently, the saree guard is positioned adjacent to the chain cover and fixed to the swing arm using similar fasteners at designated mounting points. Both components are tightened and checked for proper alignment to ensure they do not interfere with the chain’s operation and that the saree guard effectively shields the rider.
However, there are certain problems associated with the existing or above-mentioned chain cover assembly. For instance, as the chain cover and saree guard are separately mounted, each part requires its mounting hardware, brackets, and fasteners to stay in place, which leads to a more complicated and time-consuming installation process. Additionally, since the parts are separate, the alignments of the parts leave gaps or weak points that affect the safety of the vehicle. Further, the risk of loose or misaligned components over time is also increased, as the separate parts become detached or worn due to vibrations and continuous movement of the swing arm. Furthermore, having separate components increases the total number of parts required for the assembly, adding to manufacturing complexity, assembly time, and cost.
Therefore, there exists a need for a chain cover assembly that is safe, efficient, and overcomes one or more problems as mentioned above.
SUMMARY
An object of the present disclosure is to provide an integrated chain cover assembly for a vehicle with enhanced structural integrity, and simplified installation.
In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an integrated chain cover assembly for a vehicle, the assembly comprises:
- a chain cover member; and
- a saree guard member,
wherein the chain cover member and the saree guard member are integrated to form an integrated single unit and mounted on a swing arm of the vehicle.
The integrated chain cover assembly for a vehicle, as described in the present disclosure, is advantageous in terms of providing an integrated structure that enhances the structural integrity and simplifies the installation process of the chain cover assembly. Specifically, the integrated structure reduces the need for multiple separate parts and connecting points, leading to a cleaner design and minimizing the chances of loose components during vehicle operation. Consequently, the integrity of the chain cover assembly is enhanced, allowing the chain cover assembly to resist vibrations, impacts, and other dynamic forces experienced during vehicle operation.
Additional aspects, advantages, features, and objects of the present disclosure would be made apparent from the drawings and the detailed description of the illustrative embodiments constructed in conjunction with the appended claims that follow.
It will be appreciated that features of the present disclosure are susceptible to being combined in various combinations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale. Wherever possible, like elements have been indicated by identical numbers.
Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams wherein:
Figure 1 illustrates an integrated chain cover assembly for a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
In the accompanying drawings, an underlined number is employed to represent an item over which the underlined number is positioned or an item to which the underlined number is adjacent. A non-underlined number relates to an item identified by a line linking the non-underlined number to the item. When a number is non-underlined and accompanied by an associated arrow, the non-underlined number is used to identify a general item at which the arrow is pointing.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognize that other embodiments for carrying out or practicing the present disclosure are also possible.
As used herein, the terms “chain cover assembly” and “assembly” are used interchangeably and refer to a protective enclosure designed to shield the chain mechanism of a vehicle. The primary function of the assembly is to protect the chain of the vehicle from dirt, debris, moisture, and other environmental factors that lead to premature wear, rust, or malfunction. Further, the assembly acts as a safety feature, preventing direct contact with the moving chain, that causes injury or damage. The chain cover assemblies are integrated into the vehicle’s frame or swing arm, ensuring both stability and protection for the drivetrain. The chain cover is made from durable materials such as, but not limited to, plastic, metal, or composite materials that withstand the forces and conditions encountered during operation. The assembly may include various components such as fasteners, mounts, or brackets that securely attach the cover to the vehicle’s frame or swing arm while allowing the necessary movement of the suspension and drivetrain components.
As used herein, the terms “chain cover member”, and “chain cover” are used interchangeably and refer to a component of a vehicle's chain cover assembly, designed to enclose and protect the chain mechanism. The chain cover member is used in chain-driven vehicles such as motorcycles or bicycles, serving to shield the chain from external contaminants like dirt, water, and debris. The chain cover also serves as a safety measure, preventing riders or users from coming into direct contact with the moving chain, and reducing the risk of injury. The chain cover member is an integral part of the vehicle’s design, attached to the swing arm or frame, providing a seamless protective barrier. The chain cover is made from durable materials such as, but not limited to, plastic, metal, or composites. The cover member may include features such as mounting brackets, fasteners, or flexible joints, ensuring secure attachment and the ability to accommodate dynamic movements during vehicle operation, thereby enhancing both the longevity of the chain and the overall safety of the vehicle.
As used herein, the terms “saree guard member” and “saree guard” are used interchangeably and refer to a protective component designed to prevent the saree or clothing of the rider or pillion rider, from getting caught in the rear wheel or the chain during riding. The saree guard is attached near the rear of the vehicle and functions as a barrier that shields the rider's clothing from coming into contact with moving parts, ensuring both safety and comfort. The saree guard member is usually made from durable materials such as, but not limited to, metal or plastic and is mounted in a way that does not obstruct the rider's movement or compromise the vehicle's handling.
As used herein, the terms “integrated single unit” and “unit” are used interchangeably and refer to a cohesive unit formed by integrating a chain cover member and a saree guard member. The integrated design brings together the chain cover, which shields the chain from dirt, debris, and moisture, with the saree guard, which prevents the rider’s clothing, particularly a saree, from getting caught in the rear wheel or chain. The integrated single unit optimizes space and functionality, allowing for a more streamlined design and easier attachment to the vehicle’s frame or swing arm. The combined system ensures that both the chain and the rider's clothing are protected without compromising on the vehicle’s overall aesthetics or performance. Further, the integration simplifies manufacturing and maintenance, offering a more durable and efficient solution for protecting the drivetrain and the rider’s clothing, reducing the risk of accidents or damage caused by entanglement or exposure to external elements.
As used herein, the term “swing arm” refers to a single-sided or dual-sided structure that connects the rear wheel to the frame, allowing for the wheel to move vertically in response to changes in terrain. The swing arm's primary function is to absorb shocks from the road or ground, ensuring that the ride remains smooth, and to stable the vehicle's handling. The swing arm is pivotally mounted to the frame, through a rear suspension system, and allows the wheel to move up and down while maintaining the proper alignment with the rest of the drivetrain. The swing arms are typically made from metals such as, but not limited to, steel, aluminium, and composite materials for added strength and weight savings. In addition to providing suspension movement, the swing arm also plays a role in maintaining the alignment of the chain, belt, or other drivetrain components, ensuring efficient power transfer to the rear wheel.
As used herein, the term “front end” refers to a part of the swing arm that is closest to the main frame of the vehicle, where it is typically mounted or pivoted. The front end is fundamental for connecting the swing arm to the vehicle’s chassis or rear suspension system, allowing the rear wheel to move vertically in response to shocks and bumps. The front end of the swing arm is usually equipped with a pivot point, bearings, or bushings that facilitate smooth movement, ensuring that the rear wheel maintains proper alignment while absorbing road impacts. In some vehicles, the front end of the swing arm also houses mounting points for other suspension components, such as shock absorbers or linkage systems, contributing to the overall comfort and handling characteristics of the vehicle.
As used herein, the term “rear end” refers to a section of the swing arm that connects to the rear wheel and suspension components. The rear end is at the opposite end from the pivot point of the swing arm and serves as the point for the rear wheel to attach to the vehicle’s frame through various mounting mechanisms. The rear end section of the swing arm is crucial in transmitting the forces from the road to the suspension system, helping to absorb shocks and impacts, and ensuring that the rear wheel moves smoothly in response to terrain changes while maintaining proper alignment with the rest of the vehicle. The rear end of the swing arm includes mounting points for other key components, such as, but not limited to, shock absorbers, chain or belt systems, and in some designs, the rear brake assembly.
As used herein, the term “top end” refers to an uppermost portion of the integrated single unit and is designed for the swing arm. The top end serves as the primary point of attachment, ensuring that the chain cover assembly is fixed in place and allows for necessary movement, particularly with suspension systems or drivetrain components. The top end attachment plays a critical role in maintaining the stability and alignment of the entire assembly, acting as the interface between the protective component and the vehicle’s structure. The top end of the integrated single unit is typically designed with mounting features, such as fasteners, brackets, or specialized joints, that allow for secure and stable attachment. The design ensures that the chain cover, saree guard, or other protective elements remain securely in position even during dynamic vehicle movements, such as acceleration, braking, or suspension travel.
As used herein, the term “central end” refers to a middle portion of the integrated single unit, such as a chain cover or saree guard system, that connects or mounts to the vehicle’s frame or swing arm at a central location. The central end serves as the point of attachment to the swing arm or other structural elements, ensuring that the protective cover or guard remains aligned and securely positioned. The central mounting helps to distribute forces evenly across the assembly, especially during vehicle movement and allows the unit to move with the swing arm or suspension system while maintaining its functional position. The central end is designed with mounting points or support structures, such as, but not limited to, anchor brackets, bushings, or fasteners, that connect the assembly to the vehicle. The placement in the centre of the unit allows the central end to serve as the focal point for stability, reducing the chances of misalignment or shifting.
As used herein, the term “bottom end” refers to a lower portion of the integrated single unit that attaches to the vehicle at or near the bottom of the swing arm or frame. The bottom end section is responsible for maintaining the alignment of the protective unit while allowing for movement with the vehicle's suspension or drivetrain. The bottom end typically serves as the point where the unit is fixed or supported, ensuring that it remains securely in place while providing protection to the chain, wheel, or clothing. The design and attachment of the bottom end are essential for the overall stability and effectiveness of the integrated system. The bottom end of the integrated single unit incorporates mounting features, such as bushings, brackets, or fasteners, that help secure it to the vehicle’s frame or swing arm. These mounting points allow the bottom end to absorb some of the forces generated during vehicle operation, reducing stress on the rest of the assembly.
As used herein, the terms “fasteners” and “fastening means” are used interchangeably and refer to the components that secure various parts of the vehicle frame together, ensuring proper alignment, stability, and functionality. In particular, the fasteners may include bolts, nuts, washers, and screws that are used to attach the chain cover, swing arm, mounting bracket, and other related components to the vehicle frame. The fasteners are usually made from durable materials such as steel, stainless steel, or high-strength alloys to withstand the forces and vibrations encountered during riding.
As used herein, the term “first rear end” refers to a section at the rear of the swing arm that serves as one of the mounting points for the rear suspension system and other drivetrain components. The first rear end is located towards the rear of the swing arm to connect the swing arm to the rear frame or chassis. The first rear end plays a key role in supporting the suspension linkages and ensuring that the rear wheel maintains proper alignment with the rest of the vehicle, especially when the suspension moves in response to bumps or changes in terrain. The first rear end also provides a location for attaching other important components, such as the shock absorber or linkage systems that control the movement of the rear wheel. The attachment is achieved through mounts, brackets, or fasteners, ensuring that the suspension system operates smoothly and efficiently.
As used herein, the term “second rear end” refers to a section located at the opposite end of the rear swing arm, typically adjacent to the rear wheel, and is a key component in supporting and stabilizing the swing arm’s movement. The second rear end section plays an essential role in connecting the swing arm to the rear axle or other components of the rear suspension system. The second rear end acts as the point where the swing arm extends towards the rear wheel, helping to maintain proper alignment and ensuring that the wheel moves in sync with the vehicle's suspension system. The second rear end is crucial for managing the forces and stresses experienced during riding, particularly when absorbing shocks from the road or terrain. The second rear end is designed to provide secure attachment points for other parts of the drivetrain or suspension system, such as the axle, bushings, or shock absorbers.
As used herein, the term “anchor bracket” refers to a mounting component that provides a secure attachment point for various parts of the rear suspension system or drivetrain. Specifically, positioned at the first rear end of the swing arm, the anchor bracket serves to connect the swing arm to other critical components, such as shock absorbers or suspension linkages. The anchor bracket is designed to withstand the forces generated by the rear suspension’s movement, ensuring that the swing arm remains stable and properly aligned during the vehicle's operation. Further, the anchor bracket plays a crucial role in transferring loads and vibrations from the rear wheel and suspension system to the frame, contributing to the vehicle’s overall stability and handling. The design of the anchor bracket ensures it is firmly fixed to the swing arm, while also providing a mounting location for other components like bushings, bolts, or linkage systems.
As used herein, the term “bush” refers to a cylindrical component made from durable materials such as, but not limited to, rubber, plastic, or metal that serves as a protective sleeve or bearing between two parts of the swing arm assembly. Specifically, located at the second rear end of the swing arm, the bush is typically used to reduce friction, wear, and noise between moving parts, particularly at the swing arm pivots or attachment to the frame or other suspension components. The role of the bush is to provide a smooth interface for the swing arm’s motion, ensuring that the rear wheel and suspension system move freely without excessive resistance, while also absorbing some of the shocks and vibrations encountered during riding.
As used herein, the term “T-shaped support structure” refers to a component connecting the integrated single unit to the swing arm of the vehicle. The "T" shape typically consists of a vertical stem and a horizontal top, which forms the cross of the "T." The above-mentioned design allows for the efficient transfer of loads and stresses between the two components while maintaining structural integrity and stability. The vertical stem of the T-shaped support often attaches to the integrated structure, while the horizontal cross connects to the swing arm, ensuring proper alignment and movement. Further, by providing a robust connection between the fixed and moving parts, the support structure helps to maintain the overall performance and safety of the assembly, preventing misalignment and reducing wear and tear on the joints or pivots.
As used herein, the term “upper member” refers to a horizontal component of the "T" shaped support and connects the integrated structure to the swing arm. The upper member plays a critical role in distributing forces across the connection by providing a stable and durable link between the two parts. The upper member serves as the part that attaches to the swing arm, facilitating the pivot or rotational motion that the swing arm undergoes. The upper member is designed to withstand stresses and dynamic forces, ensuring that the swing arm moves with precision while maintaining structural integrity. Further, the upper member helps to maintain the correct positioning of the swing arm relative to the integrated structure, allowing for smooth and controlled motion. The upper member’s design involves strong materials, such as, but not limited to, metal alloys or reinforced composites, to provide both flexibility and strength.
As used herein, the term “spline member” refers to a component that features a series of interlocking teeth or grooves, known as splines, designed to provide a secure, torque-transmitting connection between the integrated structure and the swing arm. The spline member is usually positioned within the joint area, where it helps align and lock the two parts together while allowing for controlled movement. The splines on the member prevent slippage or misalignment, ensuring that the swing arm moves accurately and with minimal play, especially under dynamic loads or rotational forces. In addition to providing alignment, the spline member plays a vital role in transferring rotational forces from the swing arm to the integrated structure or vice versa. Further, the design allows for a high degree of strength and durability, making the assembly structure capable of handling the stresses involved in the movement of the swing arm without failure.
In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an integrated chain cover assembly for a vehicle, the assembly comprises:
- a chain cover member; and
- a saree guard member,
wherein the chain cover member and the saree guard member are integrated to form an integrated single unit and mounted on a swing arm of the vehicle.
Referring to figure 1, in accordance with an embodiment, an integrated chain cover assembly 100 for a vehicle. The assembly 100 comprises a chain cover member 102, and a saree guard member 104. Further, the chain cover member 102 and the saree guard member 104 are integrated to form an integrated single unit 106 and mounted on a swing arm 108 of the vehicle. Furthermore, the integrated single unit 106 is mounted on the swing arm 108 at a front end 110 and a rear end 112 of the swing arm 108. Furthermore, the integrated single unit 106 comprises a top end 114, a central end 116, and a bottom end 118. Furthermore, the top end 114 of the integrated single unit 106 is mounted at the front end 110 of the swing arm 108 via a plurality of fasteners 120. Furthermore, the rear end 112 of the swing arm 108 comprises a first rear end 122 and a second rear end 124 and wherein an anchor bracket 126 is mounted on the first rear end 122 and a bush 128 is mounted on the second rear end 124. Furthermore, the central end 116 of the integrated single unit 106 is mounted at the first rear end 122 of the swing arm 108 via a T-shaped support structure 130 mounted on the anchor bracket 126 of the swing arm 108. Furthermore, the T-shaped support structure 130 comprises an upper member 132 and a spline member 134, and wherein the upper member 132 comprises a left extension 136 and a right extension 138.
The integrated chain cover assembly 100 for a vehicle, comprising a chain cover member 102 and a saree guard member 104, is designed to protect the vehicle's chain mechanism and ensure safety for the rider or passenger. The chain cover member 102 provides coverage and shielding for the chain, preventing debris, dirt, or external elements from interfering with the chain's movement, thus ensuring smooth and efficient operation. The saree guard member 104, which is typically positioned to protect the rider from the chain, is integrated into the design of the chain cover. Beneficially, seamless integration results in a single, cohesive unit that is easily mounted on the swing arm 108 of the vehicle. Further, integrating both the chain cover 102 and saree guard 104 into a single unit enhances the structural integrity and simplifies the installation process. The combined unit reduces the need for multiple separate parts and fasteners, leading to a cleaner design and minimizing the chances of loose components during operation. Additionally, the integration helps streamline the vehicle’s overall design by reducing clutter and improving the aesthetics. Therefore, dual-purpose functionality enhances both performance and user experience, especially for riders seeking reliable protection and ease of maintenance.
In an embodiment, the integrated single unit 106 is mounted on the swing arm 108 at a front end 110 and a rear end 112 of the swing arm 108. The integrated chain cover assembly 100 incorporates the integrated single unit 106, which is mounted at the front end 110 and rear end 112 of the swing arm 108. Advantageously, mounting the integrated single unit 106 at both the front 110 and rear ends 112 of the swing arm 108 enables the assembly 100 to distribute the forces evenly across the assembly and the swing arm 108. Further, the above-mentioned dual-point attachment enhances the structural stability of the chain cover member 102 and/or saree guard member 104, preventing any shifting or misalignment during vehicle operation and thereby ensuring that the protective components remain securely in place, even under dynamic conditions such as acceleration, braking, or suspension movement. Furthermore, the mounting at both ends of the swing arm 108 minimizes the vibrations generated during the vehicle ride. By securing the integrated single unit 106 at both the front and rear, the assembly is able to absorb and dampen vibrations transmitted from the rear wheel and drivetrain. Furthermore, mounting the integrated single unit 106 at both the front 110 and rear end 112 of the swing arm reduces the stress concentrated on a single attachment point, leading to improved longevity. The forces and stresses placed on the swing arm 108 during riding are more evenly distributed across the entire assembly, reducing the risk of fatigue or failure of any single mounting point. The increased durability contributes to the overall lifespan of both the swing arm 108 and the integrated unit 106. Consequently, the wear and tear on the components are reduced, and contributes to a more comfortable ride. Additionally, the dual mounting ensures that the integrated single unit 106 remains aligned with the swing arm 108 and rear wheel, providing consistent protection to the chain, clothing, or other shield components. The even distribution of forces helps maintain the integrity of the protective cover, preventing it from becoming misaligned or damaged over time. Furthermore, the alignment ensures the assembly operates efficiently, preventing issues such as chain interference or damage to the rider’s clothing. Furthermore, the design of the integrated single unit 106 with dual mounting points simplifies installation and maintenance.
In an embodiment, the integrated single unit 106 comprises a top end 114, a central end 116, and a bottom end 118. Specifically, the top end 114 is mounted to the front end 110 of the swing arm 108, providing a stable point for the rest of the unit 106. The centralized attachment points at the top end 114 distribute the forces evenly throughout the unit, reducing the misalignment or wear caused by uneven load distribution. Further, the central end 116 reinforces the top end 114 connection by serving as a pivotal support that ensures proper alignment with the swing arm, and the bottom end 118 ensures secure attachment to the rear suspension or other vehicle components, maintaining the integrated unit’s stability. The integration of the top, central, and bottom ends into a single unit also enhances the durability and ease of maintenance. All parts are designed to work together as one unit reduces the complexity of installation and minimizes the number of fasteners and attachment points. Therefore, the potential for loose components or misaligned parts is improved and thereby, improving overall vehicle performance and safety.
In an embodiment, the top end 114 of the integrated single unit 106 is mounted at the front end 110 of the swing arm 108 via a plurality of fasteners 120. The mounting of the top end 114 of the integrated single unit 106 at the front end 110 of the swing arm 108 offers significant technical advantages in terms of stability, alignment, and protection. Specifically, attaching the top end 114 securely to the front of the swing arm 108 supports unit 106, helping to prevent shifting or misalignment during vehicle operation. The above-mentioned connection point is central for maintaining the overall integrity of the assembly 100 ensuring that the chain cover or saree guard remains aligned with the swing arm 108, preventing any interference with the drivetrain or suspension components. The stable attachment also enhances the durability of both the swing arm 108 and the integrated unit 106, reducing wear caused by dynamic movements such as acceleration, braking, and suspension travel. Further, the positioning of the top end 114 at the front end 110 of the swing arm 108 also helps in distributing forces more evenly throughout the assembly. As swing arm 108 moves, the forces generated by the rear wheel and suspension are transmitted through the swing arm 108 and absorbed by the attachment points. By securing the top end 114 to the front end 110, the connecting point minimizes the potential for excessive stress at a single point and reduces the risk of failure or premature wear. Further, the plurality of fasteners 120 at the front end 110 provides significant advantages in terms of maintenance and repair. For instance, any component of the integrated unit 106 needs replacement or adjustment, the use of multiple fasteners allows for easier disassembly and reassembly of the assembly. Additionally, the fasteners are designed to accommodate varying tolerances or conditions, such as vibrations or changes in temperature, ensuring that the unit 106 remains securely mounted throughout the service life.
In an embodiment, the rear end 112 of the swing arm 108 comprises a first rear end 122 and a second rear end 124 and wherein an anchor bracket 126 is mounted on the first rear end 122 and a bush 128 is mounted on the second rear end 124. The anchor bracket 126 mounted on the first rear end 122 plays a crucial role in securely attaching suspension components, such as shock absorbers or suspension linkages, to the swing arm. Further, the anchor bracket 126 ensures that the swing arm 108 remains stable and aligned with the rest of the vehicle during movement, helping to effectively transfer forces from the rear wheel to the chassis. Furthermore, having a dedicated attachment point for the critical components, the design improves the structural integrity and load distribution of the rear suspension system. The bush 128 mounted on the second rear end 124 contributes to minimizing friction and wear between the swing arm 108 and other moving parts, such as the rear axle or suspension components. The bush 128 acts as a cushion, absorbing shocks and vibrations that are transmitted through the rear suspension, which helps maintain smooth operation and reduces the risk of component damage over time. By using a bush 128 at the second rear end 124, the design also reduces noise and improves ride comfort by damping vibrations. Therefore, the above-mentioned arrangement ensures that the swing arm’s 108 movement remains precise, extending the lifespan of the swing arm 108, suspension components, and the entire drivetrain system.
In an embodiment, the central end 116 of the integrated single unit 106 is mounted at the first rear end 122 of the swing arm 108 via a T-shaped support structure 130 mounted on the anchor bracket 126 of the swing arm 108. The T-shaped support structure 130, mounted on the anchor bracket 126, creates a secure and rigid connection between the swing arm 108 and the integrated unit 106. The T-shape distributes forces evenly across a larger surface area, ensuring that the central end 116 remains firmly attached even during high-stress conditions such as acceleration, cornering, or suspension movement. The design minimizes the risk of misalignment, flexing, or shifting. The use of the T-shaped support structure 130 also contributes to better alignment and smoother operation. Further, anchoring the central end 116 securely to the first rear end 122 of the swing arm 108, allows the integrated unit 106 to move in sync with the rear suspension, which improves the vehicle's overall ride quality. The mounting also reduces the risk of vibrations, as the support structure provides additional stability and minimizes movement between the swing arm and the integrated unit. The T-shape design is particularly effective in absorbing stresses and loads, further enhancing the durability and longevity of the integrated unit 106 while ensuring that both the protective cover and the swing arm 108 functions as intended over time.
In an embodiment, the T-shaped support structure 130 comprises an upper member 132 and a spline member 134, and wherein the upper member 132 comprises a left extension 136 and a right extension 138.
In an embodiment, the T-shaped support structure 130 is mounted at the central end 116 of the integrated single unit 106 via the left extension 136 and the right extension 138. Advantageously, the mounting of the T-shaped support structure 130 at the central end 116 of the integrated single unit 106 via the left extension 136 and right extension 138 offers significant technical improvement in terms of structural alignment, load distribution, and enhanced stability. The use of both the left and right extensions for mounting, the support structure 130 ensures that forces from the integrated unit 106 are evenly distributed across the swing arm 108. The balanced distribution reduces the likelihood of stress concentration at any single point, helping to prevent damage, deformation, or misalignment over time. The dual-extension design also helps in maintaining the central unit’s alignment with the swing arm 108, ensuring consistent and reliable performance, especially during dynamic movements like suspension compression, cornering, and acceleration. The use of the left extension 136 and right extension 138 further improves the rigidity and robustness of the mounting assembly, enhancing the overall durability of the integrated unit 106. The extended design increases the contact area between the support structure 130 and the swing arm 108, which enhances its ability to absorb and manage the forces generated during the vehicle’s operation. Consequently, better overall handling is achieved, as the integrated unit 106 remains firmly in place and aligns with the swing arm 108 during riding. Additionally, the precise fit provided by the extensions ensures that the assembly operates with minimal vibration, reducing wear on components and extending the lifespan of both the integrated unit 106 and the swing arm 108.
In an embodiment, the bottom end 118 of the integrated single unit 106 is attached to the bush 128 mounted on the second rear end 124 of the swing arm 108. The bush 128 acts as a protective interface between the integrated unit 106 and the swing arm 108, reducing direct friction between metal parts. Consequently, the wear and tear are minimized, ensuring that the bottom end 118 remains securely attached to the swing arm 108 without degradation of material or misalignment. The bush 128 provides a cushioning effect, absorbing shocks and vibrations transmitted from the rear suspension, which leads to smoother operation and better ride comfort for the user. Furthermore, the attachment of the bottom end 118 to the bush 128 at the second rear end 124 enhances the overall durability and reliability of the integrated unit 106. The bush 128 allows flexibility in the assembly 100, accommodating slight movements and adjustments without compromising the overall structural integrity. The flexibility prevents stress points or damage in the swing arm 108 or integrated unit 106, especially during dynamic riding conditions such as acceleration or rough terrain. Additionally, the bush 128 helps in reducing noise and friction, further improving the vehicle’s performance and comfort. By minimizing the impact of vibrations and external forces, the attachment system ensures the long-term performance of both the integrated single unit 106 and the swing arm 108.
Based on the above-mentioned embodiments, the present disclosure provides significant advantages such as (but not limited to) enhanced structural integrity, simplified installation of the chain cover assembly, and an integrated chain cover assembly for a vehicle by combining the chain cover and saree guard into a single, cohesive unit for improved protection and safety
In the description of the present invention, it is also to be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified or limited, the terms “disposed,” “mounted,” and “connected” are to be construed broadly, and may for example be fixedly connected, detachably connected, or integrally connected, either mechanically or electrically. They may be connected directly or indirectly through intervening media, or they may be interconnected between two elements. The specific meaning of the above terms in the present invention can be understood in specific cases to those skilled in the art.
Modifications to embodiments and combinations of different embodiments of the present disclosure described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as “including”, “comprising”, “incorporating”, “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 where appropriate.
Although embodiments have been described with reference to a number of illustrative embodiments thereof, it should be understood that numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art that will fall within the spirit and scope of the principles of this disclosure. More particularly, various variations and modifications are possible in the component parts and/or arrangements of the subject combination arrangement within the scope of the present disclosure, the drawings, and the appended claims. In addition to variations and modifications in the component parts and/or arrangements, alternative uses will also be apparent to those skilled in the art.
,CLAIMS:WE CLAIM:
1. An integrated chain cover assembly (100) for a vehicle, the assembly (100) comprises:
- a chain cover member (102); and
- a saree guard member (104),
wherein the chain cover member (102) and the saree guard member (104) are integrated to form an integrated single unit (106) and mounted on a swing arm (108) of the vehicle.

2. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the integrated single unit (106) is mounted on the swing arm (108) at a front end (110) and a rear end (112) of the swing arm (108).

3. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the integrated single unit (106) comprises a top end (114), a central end (116), and a bottom end (118).

4. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the top end (114) of the integrated single unit (106) is mounted at the front end (110) of the swing arm (108) via a plurality of fasteners (120).

5. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rear end (112) of the swing arm (108) comprises a first rear end (122) and a second rear end (124) and wherein an anchor bracket (126) is mounted on the first rear end (122) and a bush (128) is mounted on the second rear end (124).

6. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the central end (116) of the integrated single unit (106) is mounted at the first rear end (122) of the swing arm (108) via a T-shaped support structure (130) mounted on the anchor bracket (126) of the swing arm (108).

7. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the T-shaped support structure (130) comprises an upper member (132) and a spline member (134), and wherein the upper member (132) comprises a left extension (136) and a right extension (138).

8. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the T-shaped support structure (130) is mounted at the central end (116) of the integrated single unit (106) via the left extension (136) and the right extension (138).

9. The assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the bottom end (118) of the integrated single unit (106) is attached to the bush (128) mounted on the second rear end (124) of the swing arm (108).