Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[001] The present invention relates to a storage compartment. More particularly, the present invention relates to a storage compartment for a saddle-type vehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[002] Saddle-type vehicles, commonly utilized for commuting, are prevalent. Unlike four-wheeled vehicles with ample trunk space, saddle-type vehicles often present storage challenges for storing articles. Generally, these saddle-type vehicles have a utility storage box located beneath a seat and used for storing items. In today's health-conscious environment, maintaining cleanliness and hygiene is of paramount importance to achieve and maintain a good health. The utility storage box in a vehicle serves as storage for helmets and personal belongings of a user of the vehicle. As the user navigates through roads, bustling streets and public spaces, the exposed surfaces of items like their helmet, key, gloves, phone etc. become unwitting containers for viruses and bacteria lurking in the external environment. Each touchpoint presents an opportunity for pathogens to hitch a ride, whether it's from a handlebar, vehicle exterior, or simply the ambient air. Upon contact with these contaminated surfaces, the user unknowingly transfers these microbes onto their skin, or inside his body setting the stage for potential infection. Moreover, when these infected items find their way into the utility storage of the vehicle, they become vectors for spreading illness to any other item they come into contact with, creating a cycle of contamination that can further endanger the user and anyone else in proximity. Therefore, maintaining vigilance in cleaning and sanitizing these commonly touched items becomes paramount for mitigating the risk of disease transmission while on the go.
[003] In the art, there exists several devices, sanitizing machines which can sanitize the items. However, their process of sanitizing requires all these items to be removed out of the utility storage box. Also, these sanitizing processes are cumbersome, time consuming, inconvenient to use each time the user goes outside.
[004] In view of the foregoing, there is a need to provide a storage compartment which overcomes the above-mentioned problems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[005] In one aspect, a storage compartment is disclosed. The storage compartment includes a housing for storing one or more articles. One or more disinfectant devices are disposed inside the housing of the storage compartment. At least one disinfectant device is attached to at least one of the surfaces of the housing. The one or more disinfectant devices being configured to be activated for a predetermined time period to disinfect the articles stored inside the housing.
[006] In an embodiment, the housing of the storage compartment includes a base portion and a plurality of side portions. The plurality of side portions extends away from the base portion to define an opening. The opening is covered by a cover member. Tthe base portion of the housing includes one or more humps.
[007] In an embodiment, each hump of the base portion is configured to receive the at least one disinfectant device. The at least one disinfectant device is adapted to face an inner side of a headgear when the headgear is placed above the hump.
[008] In an embodiment, the cover member is configured to receive at least one disinfectant device. The at least one disinfectant device is adapted to face the articles stored inside the storage compartment.
[009] In an embodiment, the one or more disinfectant devices being an ultraviolet light emitting source.
[010] In an embodiment, the storage compartment includes a control unit being operably connected with each of the disinfectant device. The control unit is configured to activate the one or more disinfectant devices based on predefined parameters.
[011] In another aspect, a method for disinfecting a storage compartment is provided. The method includes the steps of receiving one or more inputs by a control unit, detecting one or more articles stored inside the storage compartment by the control unit and activating one or more disinfectant devices for a predetermined time period to disinfect the one or more articles stored inside the storage compartment based on predefined parameters by the control unit.
[012] In an embodiment, the one or more disinfectant devices is an ultraviolet light emitting source.
[013] In an embodiment, the step of activating the one or more disinfectant devices includes emitting ultraviolet radiation by the one or more disinfectant devices.
[014] In an embodiment, the predefined parameters being at least one of ambient conditions or disinfectant requirements for at least one of the articles stored inside the storage compartment.
[015] In an embodiment, the step of activating the one or more disinfectant devices is determined based upon detection of a cover member in a closed condition and covering an opening of the storage compartment.
[016] In an embodiment, the control unit is configured to receive input by a user interface of an instrument cluster or a user device being in communication with the control unit.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[017] Reference will be made to embodiments of the invention, examples of which may be illustrated in accompanying figures. These figures are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Although the invention is generally described in context of these embodiments, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to these particular embodiments.
Figure 1 illustrates a top view of a storage compartment, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating a control unit of the storage compartment , in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 3 is a flow diagram illustrating the method steps of disinfecting a storage compartment in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[018] The present invention relates to a storage compartment. The storage compartment is equipped with a disinfectant device for disinfecting the articles stored inside the storage compartment. The storage compartment enhances hygiene, safety, comfort, and overall wellness of user by effectively disinfecting items stored thereof.
[019] Figure 1 illustrates a top view of a storage compartment 100. In one embodiment, the storage compartment 100 can be installed in a saddle type vehicle. As an example, the saddle-type vehicle is a scooter type vehicle. The vehicle has an internal combustion engine as a prime mover, that is disposed below a seat assembly (not shown). Alternatively, the vehicle includes an electric motor (not shown) or a combination of the electric motor and an internal combustion engine (not shown) as the prime mover as per design feasibility and requirement. The vehicle includes a front wheel, a rear wheel, a main tube and a pair of seat rails. A head pipe is attached to the main tube. The pair of seat rails are attached to the main tube. The storage compartment 100 is disposed under the seat of the vehicle and is supported by the seat rails of the vehicle.
[020] Alternatively, the storage compartment 100 can be disposed/installed at a different location of the vehicle and may be formed of different shape and configuration depending upon the requirements of disposition. For instance, the storage compartment 100 may be disposed inside a front panel and in front of user’s legs and include a lid or cover member for covering the storage compartment 100.
[021] In an embodiment, the storage compartment 100 includes a housing 101 defining a storage space for storing one or more articles of a user. One or more disinfectant devices 150 are disposed inside the housing 101 of the storage compartment 100. One or disinfectant devices 150 are attached to at least one of surfaces of the housing 101. In a non-limiting example, the one or more disinfectant devices 150 being an ultraviolet light emitting source. The one or more disinfectant devices 150 emits ultraviolet radiation above the surfaces of the articles to disinfect the same by killing germs, bacteria, viruses etc. In a further, non-limiting example, the ultraviolet light emitting source emits an ultraviolet light having wavelength ranging between 100-280 nm.
[022] The one or more disinfectant devices 150 being configured to be activated for a predetermined time period to disinfect the articles stored inside the housing 101. The predetermined time period depends on the disinfectant requirements for one or more articles disposed inside the storage compartment 100. For example, the size, shape, type, surface specification of the articles etc. The predetermined time for the articles being helmet may be at least 3 minutes. For other articles, the predetermined time period may range between 6 to 20 seconds.
[023] In an embodiment, the housing 101 includes a base portion 102. A plurality of side portions 110 extends away from the base portion 102 to define an opening (O). One of the plurality of side portions 110 i.e. the front side portion 110 being configured to receive a seat hinge (not shown). The seat hinge is adapted to mount a seat (not shown) above the storage compartment 100. In a closed position, the seat covers the storage space. An inner side of the seat acts as a cover member for covering the opening (O) of the housing 101 of the storage compartment 100.
[024] The storage compartment 100 includes an extended portion 112. The extended portion 112 extends away from one of the plurality of side portions 110 i.e. rear side portion of the housing 101. The extended portion 112 includes mounting holes (M) configured to receive fasteners for mounting a rear side of the storage compartment 100 on the vehicle. The extended portion 112 is configured to receive a seat latch mechanism (not shown). The seat latch mechanism being adapted for mechanically arresting the movement of the seat in a locked state. When the seat is to be unlocked, the seat latch releases the seat.
[025] In an embodiment, the storage compartment 100 includes a partition member 105 dividing the storage space in two parts. The base portion 102 includes humps 104a, 104b. Each hump 104a, 104b is configured to receive one or more disinfectant devices 150. One disinfectant device 150 being adapted to face an inner side of a headgear 200 (shown in Figure 2) when the headgear 200 is placed above one of the humps 104a, 104b. Likewise, if two headgears 200 are placed on the humps 104a, 104b, the disinfectant devices 150 disinfects both the headgears 200.
[026] In an embodiment, the one or more disinfectant devices 150 being disposed on the cover member (i.e. inner side of the seat). The one or more disinfectant devices 150 being adapted to face the articles stored inside the storage compartment 100.
[027] In an embodiment, the inner side of the headgears 200 is disinfected by the disinfectant devices 150 placed on the humps 104a, 104b and the exterior side of the headgears 200 is disinfected by the disinfectant devices 150 placed on the cover member.
[028] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating a control unit 120 of the storage compartment 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The control unit 120 includes a processor and a memory unit for storing instructions. The control unit 120 is operably connected with each of the disinfectant devices 150 disposed inside the storage compartment 100. The control unit 120 is in communication with an instrument cluster 130 and a user device 300. The control unit 130 may include a communication module configured to establish communication with the instrument cluster 130 and the user device 300. The user device 300 may be a mobile phone, a tablet, or a personal digital assistant. The instrument cluster 130 includes a display with a user interface configured to receive inputs from the user for controlling disinfection process by the control unit 120. Similarly, the user device 300 includes a user interface or an application. The control unit 120 is configured to receive input by the user interface of the instrument cluster 130 or by the user interface or application of the user device 300 being in communication with the control unit 120.
[029] In an embodiment, the control unit 120 is configured to activate the one or more disinfectant devices 150 based on predefined parameters. The disinfectant devices 150 are powered by a battery (not shown) of the vehicle and their activation/ deactivation is automatically controlled by the control unit 120. The predefined parameters being at least one of ambient conditions or disinfectant requirements for at least one of the articles stored inside the storage compartment 100. In a non-limiting example, the control unit 120 is configured to analyze user activities and perform and recognize the parameters like everyday usage, timing, travel duration etc.
[030] In an embodiment, the control unit 120 is determined to activate the one or more disinfectant devices 150 based upon detection of the cover member in the closed condition and covering the opening (O) of the storage compartment 100.
[031] In an embodiment, the storage compartment 100 includes an electromechanical switch operably connected to the disinfectant devices 150 and the control unit 120. The electromechanical switch is configured to activate the disinfectant devices 150 when the seat is closed and covering the opening of the housing 101 (shown in Figure 1) of the storage compartment 100. The electromechanical switch turns ON the disinfectant devices 150 to emit the ultraviolet radiation to disinfect the surfaces of the articles stored inside the storage compartment 100 for a predetermined time period. The electromechanical switch turns OFF the disinfectant devices 150 after the disinfection process is completed. By this process, the articles including helmets are disinfected and can safely be used for the next ride.
[032] In an embodiment, the control unit 120 is configured to receive vehicle data including ride, duration, speed, location etc. of the vehicle including user’s preferences. In a non-limiting example, the control unit 120 may be a vehicle controller having an ultraviolet light (UV) module configured to control the operation of activating the disinfectant devices 150 based upon the input received from the user or in accordance with the stored data in terms of the user’s preferences.
[033] In an embodiment, the control unit 120 is configured to control the disinfection process automatically based on the user preferences or vehicle data. Alternatively, the disinfection process may be controlled manually by the user through the user interface of the instrument cluster 130 or the user device 300 based on his/her requirements of disinfecting the articles.
[034] In an embodiment, the storage compartment 100 includes sensors to detect presence of the articles stored inside the storage compartment 100 and signal the control unit 120. When the user places items inside the storage compartment 100 and covers the opening (O) by closing the cover member, the control unit 120 activates the disinfectant devices 150, which then disinfects the stored items in accordance with a selected duration through the user interface by the user. Once the disinfection process is complete, the disinfectant devices 150 are deactivated automatically. The user can also deactivate the automatic disinfectant process.
[035] Figure 3 is a flow diagram illustrating the method 400 of disinfecting the storage compartment 100 (shown in Figure 2) of a saddle-type vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. At step 410, the control unit receives one or more inputs by the control unit 120. At step 420, the control unit 120 detects one or more articles stored inside the storage compartment 100. At step 430, the one or more disinfectant devices 150 are activated for a predetermined time period to disinfect the one or more articles stored inside the storage compartment 100 based on predefined parameters.
[036] In an embodiment, the predefined parameters being at least one of ambient conditions or disinfectant requirements for at least one of the articles stored inside the storage compartment 100.
[037] In an embodiment, the step of activating the one or more disinfectant devices 150 includes emitting ultraviolet radiation by the one or more disinfectant devices 150 on surfaces of the one or more articles stored inside the storage compartment 100.
[038] In an embodiment, the step of activating the one or more disinfectant devices 150 is determined based upon detection of a cover member in a closed condition and covering an opening (O) (shown in Figure 1) of the storage compartment 100.
[039] In an embodiment, the control unit 120 is configured to receive input by a user interface of an instrument cluster 130 (shown in Figure 2) or a user device 300 being in communication with the control unit 120.
[040] Advantageously, the present invention provides a storage compartment for a saddle-type vehicle. The storage compartment includes disinfectant devices for disinfecting articles stored inside the storage compartment and free them of germs, bacteria and viruses. By providing a convenient means to disinfect stored items, the present invention enhances safety and hygiene of a user of the vehicle. By disinfecting stored items, the present invention reduces the risk of transmitting germs and bacteria, promoting a healthier riding environment. Clean, disinfected items contribute to a safer riding experience, especially for items that come into close contact with the user. The present invention mminimizes exposure to harmful pathogens to support the user's overall health and wellness, particularly during times of pandemic disease spread. The present invention provides an easy and convenient method of disinfecting the items.
[041] Furthermore, one or more computer-readable storage media may be utilized in implementing embodiments consistent with the present disclosure. A computer-readable storage medium refers to any type of physical memory on which information or data readable by a processor may be stored. Thus, a computer-readable storage medium may store instructions for execution by one or more processors, including instructions for causing the processor(s) to perform steps or stages consistent with the embodiments described herein. The term “computer-readable medium” should be understood to include tangible items and exclude carrier waves and transient signals, i.e., be non-transitory. Examples include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), volatile memory, non-volatile memory, hard drives, CD ROMs, DVDs, flash drives, disks, and any other known physical storage media.
[042] While the present invention has been described with respect to certain embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modification may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

List of Reference Numerals
100 – Storage Compartment
101 – Housing of the storage compartment
102 – Base portion of the housing
104a, 104b – Humps
105 – Partition member
110 – Plurality of side portions of the housing
112 – Extended Portion of the storage compartment
120 – Control Unit
130 – Instrument Cluster
150 – Disinfection device
200 – Headgear
300 – User Device
O – Opening of the storage compartment
M – Mounting holes
, Claims:WE CLAIM:

1. A storage compartment (100) comprising:
a housing (101) for storing one or more articles; and
one or more disinfectant devices (150) disposed inside the housing (101) whereby at least one disinfectant device (150) being attached to at least one of surfaces of the housing (101), the one or more disinfectant devices (150) being configured to be activated for a predetermined time period to disinfect the articles stored inside the housing (101).

2. The storage compartment (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the housing (101) comprises a base portion (102); and a plurality of side portions (110), the plurality of side portions (110) extending away from the base portion (102) to define an opening (O), the opening (O) being covered by a cover member.

3. The storage compartment (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the base portion (102) comprises one or more humps (104a, 104b).

4. The storage compartment (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein each hump (104a, 104b) being configured to receive the at least one disinfectant device (150), the at least one disinfectant device (150) being adapted to face an inner side of a headgear (200) when the headgear (200) being placed above the hump (104a, 104b).
5. The storage compartment (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the cover member being configured to receive at least one disinfectant device (150), the at least one disinfectant device (150) being adapted to face the articles stored inside the storage compartment (100).

6. The storage compartment (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more disinfectant devices (150) being an ultraviolet light emitting source.

7. The storage compartment (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprises a control unit (120) being operably connected with each of the disinfectant device (150), the control unit (120) being configured to activate the one or more disinfectant devices (150) based on predefined parameters.

8. A method (400) for disinfecting a storage compartment (100), the method (400) comprising:
Receiving (410), one or more inputs, by a control unit (120);
Detecting (420), one or more articles stored inside the storage compartment (100), by the control unit (120); and
Activating (430), one or more disinfectant devices (150) for a predetermined time period to disinfect the one or more articles stored inside the storage compartment (100) based on predefined parameters, by the control unit (120).

9. The method (400) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the one or more disinfectant devices (150) being an ultraviolet light emitting source.

10. The method (400) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the step of activating the one or more disinfectant devices (150) comprises emitting ultraviolet radiation by the one or more disinfectant devices (150).

11. The method (400) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the predefined parameters being at least one of ambient conditions or disinfectant requirements for at least one of the articles stored inside the storage compartment (100).

12. The method (400) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the step of activating the one or more disinfectant devices (150) is determined based upon detection of a cover member in a closed condition and covering an opening (O) of the storage compartment (100).

13. The method as claimed in claim 8, wherein the control unit (120) being configured to receive the input by a user interface of an instrument cluster (130) or a user device (300) being in communication with the control unit (120).

Dated this 31st day of January 2024

TVS MOTOR COMPANY LIMITED
By their Agent & Attorney

(Nikhil Ranjan)
of Khaitan & Co
Reg No IN/PA-1471