DESC:A SECURE ACCESS ASSEMBLY
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
The present application claims priority from Indian Provisional Patent Application No. 202421043761 filed on 06/06/2024, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by a reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present disclosure generally relates to a vehicle. Particularly, the present disclosure relates to a secure access assembly of a vehicle.
BACKGROUND
Recently, there has been a rapid development in the automotive technologies. The two-wheeler automobiles are particularly popular due to their affordability and lower cost of running.
In current two-wheeler vehicle designs, particularly in both internal combustion engine and electric variants, many critical components such as the control units, connectors, battery terminals, wiring harnesses, and electronic modules are mounted in locations that are openly accessible without the need for specialized tools or protective enclosures. While such an arrangement facilitates ease of access for routine maintenance, diagnostics, and servicing, it also poses significant security and safety concerns. The open accessibility of these components makes them vulnerable to unauthorized access, tampering, or removal by individuals with malicious intent. Moreover, the unauthorize tampering with essential components may compromise the functional integrity of the vehicle. For example, interference with the control system, manipulation of sensors, or disconnection of electrical connections may result in malfunctions during operation, potentially endangering the rider’s safety. In the case of electric vehicles, unauthorized access to high-voltage components such as the battery pack or motor controller may also pose serious electrical hazards. Additionally, the theft of valuable components such as the battery pack, controller, or charging unit has become a growing concern, as these parts are often exposed and easy to detach in the absence of adequate physical barriers. Furthermore, the lack of component-level security measures contributes to the vehicle's susceptibility to sabotage, which can include bypassing safety interlocks, altering software configurations, or disabling alarm systems. Such actions not only degrade the reliability and performance of the vehicle but may also lead to irreversible damage, costly repairs, and loss of user confidence.
Therefore, there is a need to develop an improved arrangement for access assembly to overcome the one or more problems associated as set forth above.
SUMMARY
An object of the present disclosure is to provide a secure access assembly of a vehicle.
In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a secure access assembly of a vehicle. The secure access assembly comprising a storage tank, at least one access slot section on a storage tank wall and at least one removable cover to close the at least one access slot section. The at least one component inside the at least one access slot section is securely accessible by removing the at least one removable cover.
The present disclosure provides the secure access assembly for the vehicle. The secure access assembly as disclosed by present disclosure is advantageous in terms of enhanced functionality and security of the vehicle storage systems. Beneficially, the secure access assembly is convenient to access the internal components within the storage tank, without requiring complete disassembly or exposure of the entire tank structure. Moreover, the secure access assembly ensures that the internal components remain protected from external contaminants and moisture, thereby preserves the operational reliability. Furthermore, the secure access assembly significantly enhances the safety and controlled access, Additionally, the secure access assembly allows modularity and ease of maintenance or replacement of components, thereby reduces the downtime and labour during service.
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:
FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a secure access assembly of a vehicle, in accordance with an aspect 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 recognise that other embodiments for carrying out or practising the present disclosure are also possible.
The description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of certain embodiments of a secure access assembly of a vehicle and is not intended to represent the only forms that may be developed or utilised. The description sets forth the various structures and/or functions in connection with the illustrated embodiments; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the disclosure that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale; some features may be exaggerated or minimised to show details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention.
While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiment thereof has been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail below. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure.
The terms “comprise”, “comprises”, “comprising”, “include(s)”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a setup, system that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or system. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus preceded by “comprises... a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus.
In the following detailed description of the embodiments of the disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings and which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The following description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.
The present disclosure will be described herein below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, well known functions or constructions are not described in detail since they would obscure the description with unnecessary detail.
As used herein, the terms “vehicle” refers to a two-wheeled or three-wheeled transport means, such as motorcycles, scooters, mopeds or similar light motor vehicles, which are equipped with a storage tank. The two-wheeler and three-wheeler are manually powered, electrically powered, or powered by an internal combustion engine.
As used herein, the term “storage tank” refers to any enclosed or partially enclosed container, reservoir, or compartment designed to hold, store, or contain a substance, component, or item within a vehicle. The storage tank may be configured to store fluids, gases, mechanical components, electrical components, or other materials relevant to the vehicle’s operation or utility. The storage tank may be fabricated from metal, plastic, composite materials, or any suitable combination thereof, and may include structural features such as walls, lids, internal partitions, mounting fixtures, or access sections.
As used herein, the terms “at least one access slot section”, “access slot section” and “slot section” are used interchangeably and refer to one or more designated openings, recesses, or cut-out portions formed on a surface of a structure, such as a storage tank wall, to allow controlled access to an internal component, space, or mechanism. The access slot section may be of any suitable shape, size, or orientation and may be integrally formed or separately attached to the structure. The access slot section is configured to be covered or enclosed by a removable cover to protect the internal components while enabling selective access when required.
As used herein, the term “storage tank wall” refers to the structural boundary or enclosure forming part or all of the external or internal surface of a storage tank. The storage tank wall may be made of metal, plastic, composite, or any other suitable material, and may include one or more layers, reinforcements, or coatings. It is configured to define the volume of the tank, retain or support contents within the tank, and may incorporate functional features such as access slot sections, mounting provisions, or reinforcement structures.
As used herein, the term “at least one removable cover” and “removable cover” are used interchangeably and refer to one or more cover members that are detachably mounted or affixed to an access slot, aperture, or opening of a structure, such as a storage tank. The removable cover is configured to be selectively engaged or disengaged to allow controlled access to internal components, chambers, or compartments.
As used herein, the term “at least one component” refers to one or more elements, parts, or devices that are housed within, associated with, or operatively connected to the secure access assembly. The component may include, but is not limited to, mechanical parts, electrical or electronic modules, sensors, connectors, valves, or fluid handling devices, depending on the specific function and configuration of the storage tank or vehicle system.
As used herein, the term “lid” refers to a cover or closure member that is configured to enclose or seal an opening of a container, enclosure, or storage tank. The lid may be permanently or removably attached and may include locking, sealing, or fastening mechanisms to ensure secure closure. The lid can be hinged, slidable, or fully detachable, and may be operatively associated with manual, mechanical, or electronic means for opening and closing.
As used herein, the term “lid locking mechanism” refers to any mechanical, electromechanical, or electronic arrangement configured to secure a lid in a closed position relative to a container, enclosure, or housing. The lid locking mechanism may include, but is not limited to, key-operated locks, latch mechanisms, cam locks, electronic locks, solenoid-actuated devices, magnetic locks, or remote-controlled systems. The mechanism may be designed to prevent unauthorized access, ensure safety, or maintain environmental sealing of the enclosed space.
As used herein, the term “operatively connected” refers to a functional relationship between two or more components such that the components interact with each other to perform a desired function or operation. This connection may be direct or indirect and may include mechanical, electrical, electronic, magnetic, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other forms of linkage that allow the components to work together as intended.
As used herein, the term “engagement mechanism” refers to any mechanical, structural, or functional feature configured to enable the secure attachment, coupling, or connection between two or more components. The engagement mechanism may include, but is not limited to, fasteners (such as screws, bolts, nuts, rivets), latches, clips, clamps, snaps, hooks, locking tabs, or any combination thereof.
As used herein, the term “plurality of fasteners” refers to wo or more fastening elements used to secure, attach, or hold components together. These fasteners may include, but are not limited to, screws, bolts, nuts, rivets, clips, clamps, snaps, or any other mechanical devices capable of providing a removable or permanent connection between parts.
As used herein, the term “sealing means” refers to any structure, material, or combination thereof that is configured to prevent or reduce the ingress of contaminants such as dust, moisture, water, air, or other environmental elements into a defined space or component. The sealing means may include, but is not limited to, gaskets, O-rings, sealing strips, adhesives, elastomeric seals, compressible materials, or any other suitable barrier or interface that ensures a secure and protective closure.
Figure 1, in accordance with an embodiment describes a secure access assembly 100 of a vehicle. The secure access assembly 100 comprising a storage tank 102, at least one access slot section 104 on a storage tank wall 106 and at least one removable cover 108 to close the at least one access slot section 104. The at least one component (not shown in figure) inside the at least one access slot section 104 is securely accessible by removing the at least one removable cover 108.
The present disclosure provides the secure access assembly 100 for the vehicle. The secure access assembly 100 as disclosed by present disclosure is advantageous in terms of enhanced functionality, serviceability and security of the vehicle storage systems. Beneficially, by integrating the at least one access slot section 104 on the storage tank wall 106, the design allows for targeted access to internal components without requiring full disassembly of the storage tank 102, thereby simplifies the maintenance and inspection processes. Beneficially, the use of the at least one removable cover 108, secured via the engagement mechanism 110 such as fasteners, ensures that the access slot section 104 remains tightly sealed during operation, maintaining structural integrity and minimizing potential for leakage or contamination. Furthermore, the inclusion of sealing means 112 on the removable cover 108 offers robust protection against moisture, dust, and other environmental contaminants, thereby preserving the integrity of the internal components. Furthermore, the lid and the lid locking mechanism operatively linked to a key, electronic actuator, or remote-control mechanism adds an extra layer of security, preventing unauthorized access and tampering to the storage tank 102. Overall, the secure access assembly 100 offers modular and secure design which supports the improved service efficiency, reduces downtime and enhanced longevity and reliability of the vehicle's systems housed within the storage tank 102.
In an embodiment, the storage tank 102 comprises a lid and a lid locking mechanism. Furthermore, the lid locking mechanism is operatively connected to a key-operated lock, electronic actuator, or remote-control mechanism. The lid may be configured to cover an opening of the storage tank 102 to provide enclosed access to the tank interior. Subsequently, the lid locking mechanism may be adapted to securely retain the lid in a closed position, thereby preventing unauthorized access to the contents of the storage tank 102. The operative connection of the lid locking mechanism with the key-operated lock, electronic actuator, or remote-control mechanism allows for controlled and selective access to the storage tank 102 through either manual or electronically actuated means which significantly enhances the security and operational flexibility of the secure access assembly 100.
In an embodiment, the at least one access slot section 104 on the storage tank wall 106 is configured to secure the at least one component. The access slot section 104 may be specifically configured to securely accommodate and retain the at least one component within the interior of the storage tank 102. The configuration of the access slot section 104 ensures that the component remains securely housed during operation, while also enabling direct access for maintenance or replacement upon removal of a corresponding cover.
In an exemplary embodiment, the at least one component disposed within the access slot section 104 of the storage tank 102 may include an electrical fuse or any suitable electronic component associated with the operation or safety of the vehicle’s systems. For instance, the fuse may be part of a circuit protection assembly that monitors electrical current supplied to sensors, pumps, or control units positioned in or around the storage tank 102. The fuse may be securely positioned within the access slot section 104 such that the fuse remains protected under normal operating conditions but may be easily accessed for inspection or replacement by removing the corresponding removable cover 108. The localized access significantly reduces the time and complexity involved in servicing the component, as the access assembly 100 eliminates the need to dismantle the entire tank assembly.
In an embodiment, the at least one access slot section 104 is formed integrally with the storage tank wall 106 of the storage tank 102. The integral formation may be achieved through processes such as molding, casting, or fabrication during the manufacturing of the storage tank 102, thereby enhancing the structural strength and reducing the likelihood of leakage or mechanical failure. The integral construction also eliminates the need for additional joining components or interfaces, contributing to a compact and robust design. Moreover, the configuration facilitates seamless integration of internal components within the tank structure while maintaining ease of accessibility for servicing.
In an embodiment, the at least one removable cover 108 is configured to enclose the at least one access slot section 104 via an engagement mechanism 110. Furthermore, the engagement mechanism 110 comprises a plurality of fasteners (not shown in figure) to anchor the at least one removable cover 108 with the at least one access slot section 104. The removable cover 108 may be operatively associated with the engagement mechanism 110 that enables secure and stable attachment of the cover to the access slot section 104. The engagement mechanism 110 may include, but is not limited to, mechanical fastening means such as screws, bolts, clips, or latch assemblies that facilitate both firm enclosure and ease of removal when access to the internal component is required. Beneficially, the configuration for removable cover 108 ensures that the access slot section 104 remains covered during normal operation while allowing convenient, tool-enabled or tool-less access to internal components for inspection, maintenance, or replacement purposes. Moreover, the engagement mechanism 110 is designed to provide a reliable sealing interface, thereby preventing unintended detachment of the cover during vehicle operation.
In an embodiment, the at least one removable cover 108 includes a sealing means 112 to prevent entry of contaminants or moisture into the at least one access slot section 104. The sealing means 112 may be disposed along the interface between the removable cover 108 and the corresponding access slot section 104 on the storage tank wall 106. The sealing means 112 may be implemented in the form of a gasket, O-ring, or any suitable sealing material or structure that effectively prevents the ingress of external contaminants such as dust, dirt, or moisture into the access slot section. Beneficially, by incorporating the sealing means 112, the integrity of the internal components located within the access slot section 104 is maintained, thereby enhancing the durability and operational reliability of the secure access assembly 100 under various environmental conditions.
In an embodiment, the at least one removable cover 108 is accessible upon unlocking the lid locking mechanism. The storage tank 102 comprises the lid that is secured in a closed position using the lid locking mechanism, which may be actuated through a key-operated lock, an electronic actuator, or a remote-control mechanism. When the lid locking mechanism is in the locked state which restricts the physical access to the removable cover 108, thereby preventing unauthorized handling or tampering with the components located within the access slot section 104. Upon unlocking the lid locking mechanism, the removable cover 108 becomes exposed, allows the authorized personnel to disengage the engagement mechanism 110, such as fasteners or other anchoring elements, to remove the removable cover 108 and securely access the internal component housed within the access slot section 104. The configuration enhances the security and ensures that maintenance or inspection activities are performed only under controlled and permitted conditions.
In an embodiment, the secure access assembly 100 comprising the storage tank 102, the at least one access slot section 104 on the storage tank wall 106 and the at least one removable cover 108 to close the at least one access slot section 104. The at least one component inside the at least one access slot section 104 is securely accessible by removing the at least one removable cover 108. Furthermore, the storage tank 102 comprises the lid and the lid locking mechanism. Furthermore, the lid locking mechanism is operatively connected to the key-operated lock, electronic actuator, or remote-control mechanism. Furthermore, the at least one access slot section 104 on the storage tank wall 106 is configured to secure the at least one component. Furthermore, the at least one access slot section 104 is formed integrally with the storage tank wall 106 of the storage tank 102. Furthermore, the at least one removable cover 108 is configured to enclose the at least one access slot section 104 via the engagement mechanism 110. Furthermore, the engagement mechanism 110 comprises the plurality of fasteners to anchor the at least one removable cover 108 with the at least one access slot section 104. Furthermore, the at least one removable cover 108 includes the sealing means 112 to prevent entry of contaminants or moisture into the at least one access slot section 104. Furthermore, the at least one removable cover 108 is accessible upon unlocking the lid locking mechanism.
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 combination 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”, “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. A secure access assembly (100) of a vehicle, wherein the secure access assembly (100) comprising:
- a storage tank (102);
- at least one access slot section (104) on a storage tank wall (106); and
- at least one removable cover (108) to close the at least one access slot section (104), wherein at least one component inside the at least one access slot section (104) is securely accessible by removing the at least one removable cover (108).
2. The secure access assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the storage tank (102) comprises a lid and a lid locking mechanism.
3. The secure access assembly (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the lid locking mechanism is operatively connected to a key-operated lock, electronic actuator, or remote-control mechanism.
4. The secure access assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one access slot section (104) on the storage tank wall (106) is configured to secure the at least one component.
5. The secure access assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one access slot section (104) is formed integrally with the storage tank wall (106) of the storage tank (102).
6. The secure access assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one removable cover (108) is configured to enclose the at least one access slot section (104) via an engagement mechanism (110).
7. The secure access assembly (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the engagement mechanism (110) comprises a plurality of fasteners to anchor the at least one removable cover (108) with the at least one access slot section (104).
8. The secure access assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one removable cover (108) includes a sealing means (112) to prevent entry of contaminants or moisture into the at least one access slot section (104).
9. The secure access assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one removable cover (108) is accessible upon unlocking the lid locking mechanism.