Description:FORM 2

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

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See Section 10 and Rule 13)

A JUNCTION MEMBER OF A STEERING ASSEMBLY FOR A VEHICLE

APPLICANT:

TVS MOTOR COMPANY LIMITED, (an Indian Company)

at: “Chaitanya”, No. 12, Khader Nawaz Khan Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai – 600034, Tamil Nadu, India.

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

TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to a steering assembly of a vehicle and more particularly to a junction member of the steering assembly.

BACKGROUND
[0002] In conventional vehicles, especially in the vehicles which use twin-fork columns which are generally described as steering columns. This configuration of the twin fork columns is often used in designing a steering mechanism. However, the connector bracket which acts as a column-to-rod link, connects the steering rod to these twin form columns. This connector bracket is conventionally attached using additional fixtures which are welded and thereby the fender of the vehicle is mounted onto it. In the current design of the vehicle, the mounting of the fender is accomplished through the use of additional brackets that are welded onto the steering column. This process necessitates the incorporation of extra fixtures to facilitate the welding of these brackets onto the steering column, providing a stable base for the subsequent attachment of the fender. However, a significant issue arises from this method—welding-induced distortion. The welding process introduces stress and deformation into the structure, resulting in an improper positioning of the fender. This misalignment not only compromises the structural integrity of the vehicle but also leads to a degradation in the overall aesthetic appearance. The unintended shifts and misplacement of the fender can significantly impact the vehicle's visual symmetry and harmony, diminishing its overall appeal. Consequently, addressing the welding distortion issue is imperative to ensure both the structural soundness and the visual aesthetics of the vehicle, contributing to an enhanced overall design and performance.
[0003] Thus, the improper positioning of the vehicle fender, welding distortions and degradation in steering ability and integral strength of the steering assembly depends on this connector bracket or which can also be defined as a steering fork junction bracket, and it must have a particular shape and profile preventing the above-mentioned problems. Also, for the efficient load distribution of the vehicle, the profile and shape of the steering fork junction bracket play a major role in the steering assembly of the vehicle.
[0004] Therefore, the present invention aims to address the aforementioned problems by providing an improved steering assembly, where a junction member is provided with provisions to integrate the fork columns and provide better structural integrity to the steering assembly.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] The proposed invention is described with reference to an exemplary embodiment of a mounting member of an engine assembly. The same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to reference similar features and components. Description of certain details and implementations follow, including a description below, as well as a discussion of other potential embodiments described below, as well as a discussion of other potential embodiments or implementations of the inventive concepts provided below, followed by a more detailed description with reference to the drawings.
[0006] Figure 1: illustrates a rear perspective view of a junction member of a steering assembly of a vehicle.
[0007] Figure 2: illustrates a top perspective view of a junction member of a steering assembly of a vehicle.
[0008] Figure 3 (a): illustrates a top view of a junction member of a steering assembly of a vehicle.
[0009] Figure 3 (b): illustrates a bottom view of a junction member of a steering assembly of a vehicle.
[0010] Figure 4 (a): illustrates a front view of a junction member of a steering assembly of a vehicle.
[0011] Figure 4 (b): illustrates a rear view of a junction member of a steering assembly of a vehicle.
[0012] Figure 5: illustrates a top-front perspective view of a steering assembly of a vehicle.
[0013] Figure 6: illustrates a top-rear perspective view of a steering assembly of a vehicle.
[0014] Figure 7: illustrates a side perspective view of a steering assembly of a vehicle.
[0015] Figure 8: illustrates a front-right perspective view of a steering assembly with one or more components of a vehicle.
[0016] Figure 9: illustrates an exploded view of a steering assembly with one or more components of a vehicle.
[0017] Figure 10: illustrates a top perspective view of a steering assembly with a mounting bracket.
[0018] Figure 11 (a): illustrates a top perspective view of a junction member with a mounting member and a shaft member of a steering assembly.
[0019] Figure 11 (b): illustrates a bottom perspective view of a junction member with a mounting member and a shaft member of a steering assembly.
[0020] Figure 12: illustrates a side view of a vehicle having a steering assembly with a junction member.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0021] The present invention relates to a steering assembly for a vehicle. The steering assembly comprises a shaft member, a fork member and a junction member. The shaft member is configured to rotate the steering assembly based on the inputs from a user of the vehicle. The fork member comprises a plurality of arms. The plurality of arms comprises a plurality of mounting portions. The junction member comprises a receiving member and a mounting member. The receiving member comprises an opening, where the opening is configured to receive a shaft member of the steering assembly. The receiving member is configured to be connected with the shaft member. The mounting member comprises a mounting portion and a plurality of openings. The mounting member is connected to the receiving member. The mounting member being configured to be integrated with a fork member of the steering assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0022] While the present invention has been shown and described with reference to the foregoing preferred embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that changes in form, connection, and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
[0023] This written description uses examples to provide details on the disclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.
[0024] It is to be understood that the aspects of the embodiments are not necessarily limited to the features described herein. Many modifications and variations of the present subject matter are possible in light of the above disclosure.
[0025] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the techniques described herein can be practised without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring certain aspects.
[0026] Various features and embodiments of the present invention here will be discernible from the following further description thereof, set out hereunder. Further “front” and “rear”, and “left” and “right” referred to in the ensuing description of the illustrated embodiment refer to front and rear, and left and right directions as seen from a rear portion of the vehicle and looking forward. However, it is contemplated that the disclosure in the present invention may be applied to any vehicle without defeating the spirit of the present subject matter. The detailed explanation of the constitution of parts other than the present invention which constitutes an essential part has been omitted at suitable places.
[0027] In order to address the one or more of the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a junction member of a steering assembly for a vehicle.
[0028] As per one embodiment of the present invention, a junction member is provided. The junction member comprises a receiving member and a mounting member. The receiving member comprises an opening which is configured to receive a shaft member of the steering assembly. In an embodiment of the present invention the shaft member may be a steering shaft of the vehicle attached to the junction member. The receiving member is configured to be connected with the shaft member. The mounting member comprises a mounting portion and a plurality of openings. In an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of holes are openings to receive fastening screws to mount one or more components of the vehicle. The mounting member is connected to the receiving member. The mounting member is configured to be integrated with a fork member of the steering assembly.
[0029] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the receiving member comprises a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is configured to receive the shaft member of the steering assembly through the opening of the receiving member. The second portion is configured to be integrally joined with the mounting member. The first portion is disposed inside the second portion and the first portion and the second portion are configured to be an integral piece.
[0030] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the mounting portion is configured to have a profile confirming with a profile of the fork member of the steering assembly. The mounting portion is configured to be integrated with the fork member of the steering assembly. In an embodiment of the present invention the integration of the mounting portion with the fork assembly may be done through a welding process, a casting process and a forging process etc.
[0031] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the mounting portion is configured to extend in both directions of an axis (Y-Y’). The axis (Y-Y’) is an axis dividing the receiving member equally. The plurality of openings is configured to be disposed in a predefined configuration on the mounting portion.
[0032] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the predefined configuration comprises a top portion of the mounting member and a bottom portion of the mounting member. The top portion comprises the plurality of openings. The top portion is configured to mount one or more components of the vehicle via a plurality of fastening members. The bottom portion comprises a plurality of openings. The bottom portion is configured to mount one or more components of the vehicle via the plurality of fastening members. In an embodiment of the present invention, the one or more components of the vehicle may include a front fender of the vehicle, an accessory for the vehicle, one or more lighting units etc. In an embodiment of the present invention the plurality of fastening members may be M6 type screws.
[0033] As per another embodiment of the present invention, a steering assembly for the vehicle is provided. The steering assembly comprises a shaft member, a fork member and a junction member. The shaft member is configured to rotate the steering assembly based on the inputs from a user of the vehicle. The fork member comprises a plurality of arms. The plurality of arms comprises a plurality of mounting portions. The junction member comprises a receiving member and a mounting member. The receiving member comprises an opening which is configured to receive a shaft member of the steering assembly. The receiving member is configured to be connected with the shaft member. The mounting member comprises a mounting portion and a plurality of openings. The mounting member is connected to the receiving member and the mounting member is configured to be integrated with a fork member of the steering assembly.
[0034] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the shaft member, the fork member and the junction member are configured to be an integrated assembly.
[0035] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the steering assembly comprises a mounting bracket for mounting one or more electronic devices of the vehicle. In an embodiment of the present invention the one or more electronic devices may include but not limited to RADAR, LIDAR, optical sensors, one or more horns of the vehicle etc. The mounting bracket is configured to be mounted on the mounting member via the plurality of fastening members. The mounting bracket is configured to detachably support one or more components of the vehicle. In an embodiment, one or more components may include a fender, one or more lighting units, one or more horns of the vehicle etc.
[0036] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the shaft member comprises a central axis (A-A’). The central axis (A-A’) is configured to be inclined at a predefined angle ? to a horizontal axis (X-X’) allowing the steering assembly to move forward with respect to the vehicle. The horizontal axis (X-X’) is an axis indicative of a horizontal road surface and the predefined angle (?) is in a range of 100 – 120 degrees.
[0037] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of arms comprises a left arm and a right arm. The plurality of arms is configured in a U-shaped integral piece. The U-shaped integral piece of the plurality of arms is configured to receive one or more wheels of the vehicle.
[0038] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of mounting portions comprises one or more suspension mountings. The one or more suspension mountings comprise a right suspension mounting and a left suspension mounting. The right suspension mounting is configured to be integrated with a right arm of the plurality of arms. The right suspension mounting is configured to mount a first configuration of a right suspension of the vehicle. The right suspension mounting is configured to mount one or more components of the vehicle via a right component mounting. The left suspension mounting is configured to be integrated with a left arm of the plurality of arms. The left suspension mounting is configured to mount a first configuration of a left suspension of the vehicle. The left suspension mounting is configured to mount one or more components of the vehicle via a left component mounting. In an embodiment the right component mounting and the left component mountings are integrated with the right suspension mounting and the left suspension mounting.
[0039] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of mounting portions comprises a left pivot mounting and a right pivot mounting. The left pivot mounting is configured to be integrated with a left arm of the plurality of arms. The left pivot mounting is configured to be connected to a second configuration of a left suspension of the vehicle (100) via a connecting member of the steering assembly. The right pivot mounting is configured to be integrated to a right arm of the plurality of arms. The right pivot mounting is configured to be connected to a second configuration of a right suspension of the vehicle via the connecting member of the steering assembly.
[0040] As per another embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle with a steering assembly and a junction member is provided. In an embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle may be a three-wheeled vehicle. The vehicle comprises one or more components, one or more wheels, one or more suspension members and a steering assembly. The one or more suspension members comprise a left suspension and a right suspension. In an embodiment of the present invention, the one or more suspensions may be a spring and piston-based suspension. The steering assembly comprises a shaft member, a fork member and a junction member. The shaft member is configured to move the steering assembly to steer the vehicle via one or more inputs from a user of the vehicle. The fork member comprises a plurality of arms. The plurality of arms comprises a plurality of mounting portions. In an embodiment of the present invention the plurality of mounting portion is configured to mount one or more components of the vehicle such a fender, one or more suspension and one or more horn etc.
[0041] The junction member comprises a receiving member and a mounting member. The receiving member comprises an opening, the opening is configured to receive a shaft member of the steering assembly. The receiving member is configured to be connected to the shaft member. In an embodiment of the present invention the shaft member is welded to the receiving member. The mounting member comprises a mounting portion and a plurality of openings. The mounting member is connected to the receiving member and the mounting member are configured to be integrated with a fork member of the steering assembly.
[0042] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of openings is configured to mount the one or more components of the vehicle via a plurality of fastening members. In an embodiment of the present invention one or more components of the vehicle may include but not limited to a fender, a mounting bracket for mounting one or more electrical devices, one or more horn units and one or more lighting units etc. In an embodiment of the present invention the plurality of fastening members may include M6 screws.
[0043] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of arms is configured to be formed as a U-shaped integral piece. The U-shaped integral piece of the plurality of arms is configured to receive one or more wheels. In an embodiment of the present invention the one or more wheels of the vehicle may include a front wheel of a three wheeled vehicle.
[0044] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the junction member is configured to accommodate one or more electronic components of the vehicle via a plurality of fastening members. In an embodiment of the present invention the one or more electronic component of the vehicle may include but not limited to a plurality of sensors, a control unit, a security system for a vehicle etc.
[0045] The present subject matter is further described with reference to the accompanying figures. It should be noted that the description and figures merely illustrate the principles of the present subject matter. Various configurations may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, encompass the principles of the present subject matter. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects and examples of the present subject matter, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.
[0046] The foregoing disclosure is not intended to limit the present disclosure to the precise forms of particular fields of use disclosed. As such, it is contemplated that various alternate embodiments and/or modifications to the present disclosure, whether explicitly described or implied herein, are possible in light of the disclosure. Having thus described embodiments of the present disclosure, a person of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
[0047] In the foregoing specification, the disclosure has been described with reference to specific embodiments disclosed herein can be modified or otherwise implemented in various other ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, this description is to be considered illustrative and is for the purpose of teaching those skilled in the art the manner of making and using various embodiments of the disclosure. It is to be understood that the forms of the disclosure herein shown and described are to be taken as representative embodiments. Equivalent elements, materials processed or steps may be substituted for those representatively illustrated and described herein. Moreover, certain features of the disclosure may be utilized independently of the use of other features, all as would be apparent to one skilled in the art after having the benefit of this description of the disclosure. Expressions such as “including”, “comprising”, “incorporating”, “consisting of”, “have”, and “is”, used to describe and claim the present disclosure are intended to be construed in a non-exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components, or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural.
[0048] Further, various embodiments disclosed herein are to be taken in the illustrative and explanatory sense, and would in no way be construed as limiting the present disclosure. All joinder references (e.g., attached, affixed, coupled, connected, etc.) are only used to aid the reader’s understanding of the present invention, and may not create limitations, particularly as to the position orientation, or use of the system and/or methods disclosed herein. Therefore, joinder references, if any, are to be construed broadly. Moreover, such joinder references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected to each other.
[0049] Additionally, all numerical terms, such as, but not limited to, “first”, “second”, “primary”, “secondary”, “main” or any other ordinary and/or numerical terms, should also be taken as identifiers, to assist the reader’s understanding of the various elements, embodiments, variations and/or modifications of the present disclosure, and may not create any limitations, particularly as to the order, or preference, of any element, embodiment, variation, and/or modification relative to, or over, another element, embodiment, variation and/or modification.
[0050] It will also be appreciated that one or more of the elements depicted in the drawings/ figures can also be implemented in a more separated or integrated manner, or even removed, or rendered as inoperable in certain cases, as is useful in accordance with a particular application. The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the disclosed invention is not limited to the present embodiments.
[0051] Figure 1, Figure 2, Figure 3 (a), Figure 3 (b), Figure 4 (a) and Figure 4 (b) are taken together for discussion. Figure 1 illustrates a rear perspective view of a junction member of a steering assembly of a vehicle. Figure 2 illustrates a top perspective view of a junction member of a steering assembly of a vehicle. Figure 3 (a) illustrates a top view of a junction member of a steering assembly of a vehicle. Figure 3 (b) illustrates a bottom view of a junction member of a steering assembly of a vehicle. Figure 4 (a) illustrates a front view of a junction member of a steering assembly of a vehicle. Figure 4 (b) illustrates a rear view of a junction member of a steering assembly of a vehicle. In the aforementioned figures a junction member (300) of a steering assembly (200) is provided. The junction member (300) comprises a receiving member (301) and a mounting member (302). The receiving member (301) comprises an opening (307), the opening (307) is configured to receive a shaft member (201) of the steering assembly (200). The receiving member (301) is configured to be connected with the shaft member (201). The mounting member (302) comprises a mounting portion (303) and a plurality of openings (304). The mounting member (302) is connected to the receiving member (301), and the mounting member (302) is configured to be integrated with a fork member (202) of the steering assembly (200).
[0052] The receiving member (301) comprises a first portion (305) and a second portion (306). The first portion (305) is configured to receive the shaft member (201) of the steering assembly (200) through the opening (307). The second portion (306) is configured to be integrally joined with the mounting member (302). The first portion (305) is disposed inside the second portion (306). The first portion (305) and the second portion (306) being configured to be an integral piece.
[0053] The mounting portion (303) is configured to have a profile confirming with a profile of the fork member (202) of the steering assembly (200). The mounting portion (303) is configured to be integrated with the fork member (202) of the steering assembly (200).
[0054] The mounting portion (303) is configured to extend in both directions of an axis (Y-Y’). The axis (Y-Y’) is an axis dividing the receiving member (301) longitudinally in equal portions. The plurality of openings (304) is configured to be disposed of in a predefined configuration on the mounting portion (303).
[0055] The predefined configuration comprises a top portion (303T) of the mounting member (302), a middle portion (303M) and a bottom portion (303B) of the mounting member (302). The top portion (303T) comprises the plurality of openings (304). The top portion (303T) is configured to mount one or more components (101) of the vehicle (100) via a plurality of fastening members (308, not shown). The one or more components (101) in one embodiment can be the front fender of the vehicle (100). The middle portion (303M) has a profile that conforms with a profile of the fork member (202) of the steering assembly (200). Thus, the profile of the middle portion (303M) is able to wrap around the fork member (202) for a convenient connection between the two. The bottom portion (303B) faces to the ground. In one embodiment, the bottom portion (303B) also comprises a plurality of openings (304) and is configured to mount bracket for mounting one or more components (101) of the vehicle (100) via the plurality of fastening members (308).
[0056] Figure 5, Figure 6, and Figure 7 are taken together for discussion. a steering assembly of the vehicle is provided. Figure 5: illustrates a top-front perspective view of the steering assembly of a vehicle. Figure 6: illustrates a top-rear perspective view of the steering assembly of a vehicle. Figure 7: illustrates a side perspective view of the steering assembly of a vehicle. The aforementioned figures illustrate a steering assembly (200) of a vehicle (100). The steering assembly (200) comprises a shaft member (201), a fork member (202) and a junction member (300). The shaft member (201) is configured to rotate the steering assembly (200) based on the inputs from a user of the vehicle (100). The fork member (202) comprises a plurality of arms (202L, 202R). The plurality of arms (202L, 202R) further comprises a plurality of mounting portions (203). The junction member (300) comprises a receiving member (301) and a mounting member (302). The receiving member (301) comprises an opening (307). The opening (307) is configured to receive a shaft member (201) of the steering assembly (200). The receiving member (301) is configured to be connected with the shaft member (201). The mounting member (302) comprises a mounting portion (303) and a plurality of openings (304). The mounting member (302) is connected to the receiving member (301). The mounting member (302) is configured to be integrated with a fork member (202) of the steering assembly (200). The shaft member (201), the fork member (202) and the junction member (300) are configured to be an integrated assembly.
[0057] The shaft member (201) comprises a central axis (A-A’). The central axis (A-A’) is configured to be inclined at a predefined angle ? to a horizontal axis (X-X’) allowing the steering assembly (200) to move forward with respect to the vehicle (100). The horizontal axis (X-X’) is an axis indicative of a horizontal road surface and the angle (?) is indicative of a range of 100 – 130 degrees. A skilled person will appreciate that the predefined angle (?) may have to be defined based on size, proportion or other vehicular configuration.
[0058] The plurality of arms (202L, 202R) comprises a left arm (202L) and a right arm (202R). The plurality of arms (202L, 202R) is configured in a U-shaped integral piece. The U-shaped integral piece of the plurality of arms (202L, 202R) is configured to receive one or more wheels (102) of the vehicle (100).
[0059] The plurality of mounting portions (203) comprises one or more suspension mountings (204). The one or more suspension mountings (204) comprise a right suspension mounting (204R) and a left suspension mounting (204L). The right suspension mounting (204R) is configured to be integrated with a right arm (202R) of the plurality of arms (202). The right suspension mounting (204R) is configured to mount a first configuration of a right suspension (103R) of the vehicle (100). The right suspension mounting (204R) is configured to mount one or more components (101) of the vehicle (100) via a right component mounting (207R). The left suspension mounting (204L) is configured to be integrated with a left arm (202L) of the plurality of arms (202). The left suspension mounting (204L) is configured to mount a first configuration of a left suspension (103L) of the vehicle (100). The left suspension mounting (204L) is configured to mount one or more components (101) of the vehicle (100) via a left component mounting (207L).
[0060] The plurality of mounting portions (203) comprises a left pivot mounting (205L) and a right pivot mounting (205R). The left pivot mounting (205L) is configured to be integrated with a left arm (202L) of the plurality of arms (202). The left pivot mounting (205L) is configured to be connected to a second configuration of a left suspension (103L) of the vehicle (100) via a connecting member (206) of the steering assembly (200). The right pivot mounting (205R) is configured to be integrated to a right arm (202R) of the plurality of arms (202). The right pivot mounting (205R) is configured to be connected to a second configuration of a right suspension (103R) of the vehicle (100) via the connecting member (206) of the steering assembly (200).
[0061] Figure 8, Figure 9, Figure 10, Figure 11 (a), Figure 11 (b) and Figure 12 are taken together for discussion. Figure 8 illustrates a front-right perspective view of a steering assembly with one or more components of a vehicle. Figure 9 illustrates an exploded view of a steering assembly with one or more components of a vehicle. Figure 10 illustrates a top perspective view of a steering assembly with a mounting bracket. Figure 11 (a) illustrates a top perspective view of a junction member with a mounting member and a shaft member of a steering assembly. Figure 11 (b) illustrates a bottom perspective view of a junction member with a mounting member and a shaft member of a steering assembly. Figure 12: illustrates a side view of a vehicle having a steering assembly with a junction member. The vehicle (100) comprises one or more components (101), one or more wheels (102), one or more suspension members (103) and a steering assembly (200). The one or more suspension members (103) comprise a left suspension (103L) and a right suspension (103R). In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the vehicle is a two-wheeled type vehicle, a three wheeled vehicle, a four wheeled vehicle, a multi axle vehicle, and the like. In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure the vehicle (100) may be an Electric Vehicle (EV), a Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV), an Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) based vehicle and have components suitable for traction
[0062] The steering assembly (200) comprise a shaft member (201), a fork member (202), and a junction member (300). The shaft member (201) is configured to move the steering assembly (200). The fork member (202) comprises a plurality of arms (202L, 202R). The plurality of arms (202L, 202R) comprises a plurality of mounting portions (203). The junction member (300) comprises a receiving member (301) and a mounting member (302). The receiving member (301) comprises an opening (307). The opening (307) is configured to receive a shaft member (201) of the steering assembly (200). The receiving member (301) is configured to be connected with the shaft member (201). The mounting member (302) comprises a mounting portion (303) and a plurality of openings (304). The mounting member (302) is connected to the receiving member (301). The mounting member (302) is configured to be integrated with a fork member (202) of the steering assembly (200).
[0063] The steering assembly (200) comprises a mounting bracket (208) for mounting one or more electronic device (104) of the vehicle (100). The mounting bracket (208) is configured to be mounted on the mounting member (302) via plurality of fastening members (308). The mounting bracket (208) being configured to detachably support one or more components (101) of the vehicle (100). Thus, in one embodiment, the one or components (101) is a front fender is supported by the mounting bracket (208).
[0064] The shaft member (201) comprises a central axis (A-A’), the central axis (A-A’) is configured to be inclined at a predefined angel (?) to a horizontal axis (X-X’) allowing the steering assembly (200) to move forward with respect to the vehicle (100). In one embodiment the horizontal axis (X-X’) is an indicative of a horizontal ground surface. In another embodiment the predefined angle (?) is in a range of 100° to 130 °. This configuration of steering assembly’s (200) predefined angle (?) plays a crucial role in enhancing the maneuverability of the vehicle's front fender, as it ensures that the steering assembly (200) does not collide with the vehicle's cowl, thus preserving its aesthetic integrity. Further it also contributes to an overall improvement in the vehicle's manoeuvring freedom. Furthermore, the steering assembly's (200) predefined angle (?) allows for seamless integration with the front cowl, facilitating a smoother and more efficient operation of the vehicle.
[0065] The plurality of openings (304) is configured to mount the one or more components (101) of the vehicle (100) via a plurality of fastening members (308).
[0066] The plurality of arms (202L, 202R) is configured to be formed as a U-shaped integral piece. The U-shaped integral piece of the plurality of arms (202L, 202R) being configured to receive one or more wheels (102).
[0067] The junction member (300) is configured to accommodate one or more electronic components (104) of the vehicle (100) via a plurality of fastening members (308).in one embodiment of the present invention, the one or more electronic devices may include but not limited to a fog-light assembly, a horn of the vehicle (100), a front fender etc.
[0068] According to the above disclosure, the present invention provides various advantages. In a preferred embodiment, the junction member (300) is a single standalone piece which helps in avoiding the issue of misorientation of the plurality of openings (304) due to welding as the plurality of openings are drilled on the mounting member (302).
[0069] In another embodiment the junction member (300) provide provision for mounting one or more component which include but not limited to a front fender of the vehicle (100) thereby enabling a detachable mounting of the said front fender.
[0070] The junction member (300), the fork member (202) and the shaft member (201) are integrated standalone units this leads to the reduction in parts thereby reducing the overall weight and cost of the vehicle and helps in maintenance of the steering assembly (200).
[0071] The integration of the junction member (300), the fork member (202) and the shaft member (201) increases the section modulus of the connecting portion which is the primary load-bearing part in the steering assembly (200).
[0072] The integration of component mountings (207L, 207R) with the one or more suspension mountings (204) will avoid distortion of mounting holes as no separate mounting bracket will have to be welded.
[0073] Since plurality of openings (304) are made with machining and drilling process this will control the tolerance of hole-to-hole distance. Hence, mounting of the one or more components (101) and one or more electronic devices will be properly aligned with the steering assembly (200).
[0074] While the present invention has been shown and described with reference to the foregoing preferred embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that changes in form, connection, and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
[0075] This written description uses examples to provide details on the disclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.
[0076] It is to be understood that the aspects of the embodiments are not necessarily limited to the features described herein. Many modifications and variations of the present subject matter are possible in light of the above disclosure.

LIST OF REFERENCES
Reference Numeral Meaning
100 A vehicle
101 One or more components
102 One or more wheels
103 One or more suspension member
103L A left suspension
103R A right suspension
104 One or more electronic devices
200 A steering assembly
201 A shaft member
202 A fork member
203 A plurality of mounting portions
204 One or more suspension mountings
204L A left suspension mounting
204R A right suspension mounting
205L A left pivot mounting
205R A right pivot mounting
206 A connecting member
207L A left component mounting
207R A right component mounting
208 A mounting bracket
300 A junction member
301 A receiving member
302 A mounting member
303 A mounting portion
303T A top portion of mounting member
303M A middle portion of mounting member
303B A bottom member of mounting member
304 A plurality of openings
305 A first portion
306 A second portion
307 An opening
308 A plurality of fastening members

, Claims:We claim:
1. A junction member (300) of a steering assembly (200), the junction member (300) comprising:
a receiving member (301), the receiving member (301), the receiving member comprising an opening (307), the opening (307) being configured to receive a shaft member (201) of the steering assembly (200) and the receiving member (301) being configured to be connected with the shaft member (201); and
a mounting member (302), the mounting member (302) comprising a mounting portion (303) and a plurality of openings (304), the mounting member (302) being connected to the receiving member (301), and the mounting member (302) being configured to be integrated with a fork member (202) of the steering assembly (200).
2. The junction member (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the receiving member (301) comprising:
a first portion (305), the first portion (305) being configured to receive the shaft member (201) of the steering assembly (200) through the opening (307); and
a second portion (306), the second portion (306) being configured to be integrally joined with the mounting member (302);
the first portion (305) being disposed inside the second portion (306), and the first portion (305) and the second portion (306) being configured to be an integral piece.
3. The junction member (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the mounting portion (303) being configured to have a profile conforming with a profile of the fork member (202) of the steering assembly (200) and the mounting portion (303) being configured to be integrated with the fork member (202) of the steering assembly (200).
4. The junction member (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the mounting portion (303) being configured to extend in both directions of an axis (Y-Y’), the axis (Y-Y’) being an axis dividing the receiving member (301) longitudinally in equal portions; and wherein the plurality of openings (304) being configured to be disposed in a predefined configuration on the mounting portion (303).
5. The junction member (300) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the predefined configuration of the mounting portion (303) comprises:
a top portion (303T) of the mounting member (302), the top portion (303T) comprises the plurality of openings (304) and the top portion (303T) being configured to mount one or more components (101) of the vehicle (100) via a plurality of fastening members (308);
a middle portion (303M), the middle portion (303M) has a profile conforming with a profile of the fork member (202) of the steering assembly (200); and
a bottom portion (303B), the bottom portion (303B) faces towards the ground.
6. A steering assembly (200) of a vehicle (100), the steering assembly (200) comprising:
a shaft member (201), the shaft member (201) being configured to rotate the steering assembly (200) based on the inputs from a user of the vehicle (100);
a fork member (202), the fork member (202) comprising a plurality of arms (202L, 202R), the plurality of arms (202L, 202R) comprising a plurality of mounting portions (203); and
a junction member (300), the junction member (300) comprising:
a receiving member (301), the receiving member (301), the receiving member comprising an opening (307), the opening (307) being configured to receive a shaft member (201) of the steering assembly (200) and the receiving member (301) being configured to be connected with the shaft member (201); and
a mounting member (302), the mounting member (302) comprising a mounting portion (303) and a plurality of openings (304) and the mounting member (302) being connected to the receiving member (301) and the mounting member (302) being configured to be integrated with a fork member (202) of the steering assembly (200).
7. The steering assembly (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the shaft member (201), the fork member (202) and the junction member (300) being configured to be an integrated assembly.
8. The steering assembly (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the steering assembly (200) comprises a mounting bracket (208) for mounting one or more electronic devices (104) of the vehicle (100), the mounting bracket (208) being configured to be mounted on the mounting member (302) via a plurality of fastening members (308) and the mounting bracket (208) being configured to detachably support one or more components (101) of the vehicle (100).
9. The steering assembly (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the shaft member (201) comprises a central axis (A-A’), the central axis (A-A’) being configured to be inclined at a predefined angle ? to a horizontal axis (X-X’) allowing the steering assembly (200) to move forward with respect to the vehicle (100),
the horizontal axis (X-X’) being an axis indicative of a horizontal ground surface and the predefined angle (?) being in a range of 100 – 130 degrees.
10. The steering assembly (200) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the plurality of arms (202L, 202R) comprising a left arm (202L) and a right arm (202R), the plurality of arms (202L, 202R) being configured in a U-shaped integral piece, the U-shaped integral piece of the plurality of arms (202L, 202R) being configured to receive one or more wheels (102) of the vehicle (100).
11. The steering assembly (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the plurality of mounting portions (203) comprises one or more suspension mountings (204), the one or more suspension mountings (204) comprising:
a right suspension mounting (204R), the right suspension mounting (204R) being configured to be integrated with a right arm (202R) of the plurality of arms (202), and
the right suspension mounting (204R) being configured to mount a first configuration of a right suspension (103R) of the vehicle (100) and configured to mount one or more components (101) of the vehicle (100) via a right component mounting (207R); and
a left suspension mounting (204L), the left suspension mounting (204L) being configured to be integrated with a left arm (202L) of the plurality of arms (202), and
the left suspension mounting (204L) being configured to mount a first configuration of a left suspension (103L) of the vehicle (100) and configured to mount one or more components (101) of the vehicle (100) via a left component mounting (207L).
12. The steering assembly (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the plurality of mounting portions (203) comprises:
a left pivot mounting (205L), the left pivot mounting (205L) being configured to be integrated with a left arm (202L) of the plurality of arms (202), and
the left pivot mounting (205L) being configured to be connected to a second configuration of a left suspension (103L) of the vehicle (100) via a connecting member (206) of the steering assembly (200); and
13. a right pivot mounting (205R), the right pivot mounting (205R) being configured to be integrated to a right arm (202R) of the plurality of arms (202) and the right pivot mounting (205R) being configured to be connected to a second configuration of a right suspension (103R) of the vehicle (100) via the connecting member (206) of the steering assembly (200).
14. A vehicle (100), the vehicle (100) comprising:
one or more components (101);
one or more wheels (102);
one or more suspension members (103), the one or more suspension members (103) comprising a left suspension (103L) and a right suspension (103R); and
a steering assembly (200) of a vehicle (100), the steering assembly (200) comprising:
a shaft member (201), the shaft member (201) being configured to move the steering assembly (200);
a fork member (202), the fork member (202) comprising a plurality of arms (202L, 202R), the plurality of arms (202L, 202R) comprising a plurality of mounting portions (203); and
a junction member (300), the junction member (300) comprising:
a receiving member (301), the receiving member (301), the receiving member comprising an opening (307), the opening (307) being configured to receive a shaft member (201) of the steering assembly (200) and the receiving member (301) being configured to be connected with the shaft member (201); and
a mounting member (302), the mounting member (302) comprising a mounting portion (303) and a plurality of openings (304) and the mounting member (302) being connected to the receiving member (301) and the mounting member (302) being configured to be integrated with a fork member (202) of the steering assembly (200).
15. The vehicle as claimed in claim 13, wherein the plurality of openings (304) being configured to mount the one or more components (101) of the vehicle (100) via a plurality of fastening members (308).
16. The vehicle as claimed in claim 13, wherein the plurality of arms (202L, 202R) being configured to be formed as a U-shaped integral piece, the U-shaped integral piece of the plurality of arms (202L, 202R) being configured to receive one or more wheels (102).
17. The vehicle as claimed in claim 13, wherein the junction member (300) being configured to accommodate one or more electronic components (104) of the vehicle (100) via a plurality of fastening members (308).

Dated this 3rd day of February 2024

[Digitally Signed]
Sudarshan Singh Shekhawat
IN/PA – 1611
Agent for the Applicant