Description:A COVER ASSEMBLY FOR A TRANSMISSION ASSEMBLY
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001]
The present subject matter relates generally to protective coverings in transmission assembly and more specifically to a cover assembly with noise reduction mechanisms in vehicles, specifically focusing on addressing noise issues in internal combustion (IC) engine or electric vehicle (EV) two-wheelers.
BACKGROUND 5
[0002]
Generally, a two-wheeled or a three-wheeled vehicle comprises of a frame assembly extending rearwardly from a head tube. The frame assembly acts as a skeleton and a structural member for the vehicle that supports the vehicle loads. At least one front wheel is connected to a front portion of the frame assembly through one or more front suspension(s). The handlebar assembly is positioned on the front 10 wheel to enable steering of the vehicle. The frame assembly comprises of a prime mover coupled to it. At least one rear wheel is connected to a frame assembly through one or more rear suspension(s). The frame assembly comprises of an engine assembly coupled to it. The engine assembly is functionally connected to the rear wheel, which provides forward motion to the vehicle. A muffler assembly 15 is provided at a lateral side of the vehicle mounted to the frame assembly or the vehicle through a mounting bracket. The muffler assembly extends in a rearward direction along the length of the vehicle. An exhaust port is provided in the engine assembly through which an exhaust pipe extends in a reverse direction forming a part of the muffler assembly. The prime mover may be an Internal Combustion 20 Engine or a battery powered motor unit. A power transmission system transmits the power generated by the prime mover to a front wheel or a rear wheel of the vehicle.
[0003]
Typically, while the frame assembly acts as a skeleton for the vehicle that supports the vehicle loads, the IC engine is functionally connected to a rear wheel 25 of the vehicle by some end transmission means such as a sprocket and chain drive for providing torque multiplication between the engine and the rear wheel and thereby provides forward motion to the vehicle.
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[0004]
These vehicles incorporating the internal combustion engine are powered by gasoline or diesel. Combustion process that takes place in the internal combustion engine is converted into mechanical energy for producing the required amount of power and torque.
[0005]
The chain and sprocket assembly is a critical component in the power 5 transmission system of internal combustion engines and electric vehicles. It plays a crucial role in transferring rotational motion from the engine to the wheels, facilitating the movement of the vehicle. While this mechanism is efficient, it is not without its challenges, with noise and vibrations being significant drawbacks.
[0006]
A chain, typically a roller chain, engages with toothed wheels known as 10 sprockets. The chain wraps around the sprocket teeth, and as one sprocket turns, it imparts motion to the connected chain, transmitting power to the other sprocket and ultimately to the wheels.
[0007]
As the chain engages with the sprocket teeth, especially during high-speed operation, the contact produces impact noise. One of the primary disadvantages is 15 the noise generated during the interaction between the chain and the sprocket teeth that can lead to discomfort for the rider and negatively impact the overall driving experience.
[0008]
Inconsistencies in the chain tension or irregularities in the sprocket teeth can amplify the noise that may affect not only rider comfort but also contribute to 20 mechanical wear and tear.
[0009]
Further, external factors, such as environmental conditions and lubrication, can influence the noise produced by the chain and sprocket assembly. Moreover, lubrication or exposure to contaminants can increase friction, leading to heightened noise levels which adversely impacts the overall vehicle health. 25
[00010]
Furthermore, uneven wear on the sprocket teeth or misalignment of the chain can result in vibrations. These vibrations generated in the chain and sprocket assembly can be transmitted to other parts of the vehicle that consequentially have the potential to compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle, leading to discomfort and potential damage to other components. 30
4
[00011]
Continuous vibrations affect the rider's comfort, especially during extended periods of use and cause excessive fatigue. Further, excessive vibrations may also impact the rider's ability to control the vehicle effectively and reduce overall driving/riding satisfaction.
[00012]
The technical problem being solved is the excessive noise generated in the 5 chain and sprocket mating area of IC engine or EV two-wheelers during vehicle operation.
[00013]
In conventional IC engine or EV two-wheelers, noise reduction mechanisms typically target areas within the engine, such as the top part, breather area, or cooling fan area. However, the noise produced in the chain and sprocket 10 mating area has often been overlooked. The contact between the chain and sprocket during vehicle operation creates significant noise, impacting rider comfort and vehicle smoothness.
[00014]
Known conventional methods for noise reduction involve placing noise-dampening parts around the engine, which may reduce noise from engine inner 15 parts but fail to address the noise generated in the chain and sprocket mating area. These methods fall short in providing a comprehensive solution to the noise issue outside the engine.
[00015]
Therefore, there is an essential requirement for a solution that addresses the above mentioned problems with the transmission assembly of the vehicle. 20
SUMMARY
[00016]
Aspects of the present invention pertain to a cover assembly for a transmission assembly of a vehicle that comprises a first cover member and a second cover member. The second cover member is specifically designed to fixedly mate with the first cover member with the primary purpose of absorbing 25 sound and vibrations emanating from the vehicle's engine. This innovative design targets the reduction of noise and vibrations in the transmission assembly, contributing to an enhanced driving experience.
[00017]
In an embodiment, the first cover member is further detailed to include a first portion and a second portion about an axis. This two-part structure allows for 30
5
optimized material selection based on functional requirements. For instance, the
first portion may be composed of plastic material, while the second portion may be constructed from Aluminum. This enables a tailored approach to address specific performance characteristics and requirements.
[00018]
In an embodiment, the second cover member is designed to have a profile 5 conforming to the dimensions of the first cover member. This feature ensures a secure and effective mating, creating a seamless integration that enhances the absorption of sound and vibrations. The matching profiles contribute to the overall efficiency of the cover in minimizing noise and vibrations.
[00019]
In an embodiment, the first portion of the first cover member is made of a 10 plastic material, while the second portion is constructed from Aluminum. This hybrid material composition allows for a balance between weight reduction and structural integrity, optimizing the cover's performance in sound and vibration absorption.
[00020]
In an embodiment, the second cover member is detailed to be made of any 15 or a combination of foam, fabric, wool, fiber, plywood, particleboard, plastic, and plaster. This versatility in material selection provides flexibility to tailor the cover's characteristics, allowing for effective noise and vibration absorption.
[00021]
In an embodiment, the cover is adapted to cover the chain and sprocket within the transmission assembly. 20
[00022]
In an embodiment, the first cover member is equipped with a plurality of slots for mounting onto the engine. These slots are reinforced with Aluminum inserts embedded within the first cover member, ensuring durability and stability in securing the cover to the engine. The plurality of slots allows for adaptable and secure attachment, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the cover. 25
[00023]
Other aspects disclose a vehicle that includes a frame assembly, a prime mover mounted to the frame assembly, and a cover for the transmission assembly. The cover is specified to have a first cover member and a second cover member, and the second cover member is adapted to mate with the first cover member for the absorption of sound and vibration from the engine. 30
6
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[00024]
The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the disclosed principles. The detailed description of the present subject matter is described with reference to the accompanying figures. 5 Same numbers are used throughout the drawings to reference like features and components.
[00025]
Fig. 1 illustrates a left side view of an exemplary two-wheeled vehicle 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[00026]
Fig. 2 illustrates an exemplary left view of an engine of the vehicle, 10 showing a cover assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[00027]
Fig. 3 illustrates an exploded view of the cover assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[00028]
Fig. 4 depicts a perspective view of the cover assembly mounted to the 15 engine of the vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[00029]
Exemplary embodiments are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherever convenient, the same reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. While examples 20 and features of disclosed principles are described herein, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed embodiments. It is intended that the following detailed description be considered as exemplary only, with the true scope and spirit is indicated by the following claims. 25
[00030]
The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to a wheel along with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the present embodiments. The present subject matter is further described with reference to accompanying figures. It should be noted that the description and figures merely illustrate principles of the present 30
7
subject matter. Various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly
described or shown herein, encompass the principles of the present subject matter. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and examples of the present subject matter, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof. 5
[00031]
With reference to figure 1, aspects of the present invention pertain to a cover assembly 200 (for instance, shown by dotted line) for a transmission assembly 125 of a vehicle 100. The cover assembly 200 comprises a first cover member 202 and a second cover member 204. The second cover member 204 is specifically designed to fixedly mate with the first cover member 202 with the 10 primary purpose of absorbing sound and vibrations emanating from the vehicle's 100 engine 195. This innovative design targets the reduction of noise and vibrations in the transmission assembly, contributing to an enhanced driving experience.
[00032]
In an embodiment, the cover assembly 200 is optimized to cover the chain 15 and sprocket of the transmission assembly 125. While the chain and sprocket assembly is an essential part of the power transmission system, the drawbacks of noise and vibrations necessitate careful engineering and maintenance. Addressing these challenges ensures not only a quieter and smoother ride but also enhances the overall performance and longevity of the vehicle. It is an object of the present 20 invention to reduce the noise and vibrations of the engine and/or the transmission assembly at the interface between the engine and the chain and sprocket.
[00033]
The technical problem being addressed by the described invention is the reduction of sound and vibrations in the transmission assembly 125 of the vehicle 100, specifically emanating from the engine 195. The invention addresses this issue 25 by introducing a cover assembly 200 comprising a first cover member 202 and a second cover member 204. The second cover member 204 is designed to fixedly mate with the first cover member 202, forming a structure that effectively absorbs sound and vibrations generated by the transmission assembly and/or the vehicle engine 195 during operation. This solution aims to enhance the driving experience 30
8
by minimizing noise and vibrations in the transmission assembly, contributing to
increased rider comfort and overall vehicle performance.
[00034]
Figure 1 illustrates a left side view of an exemplary two-wheeled vehicle 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. Arrows provided in the top right corner of each figure depicts direction with respect to the 5 vehicle, wherein an arrow F denotes front direction, an arrow R indicates rear direction, an arrow Up denotes upward direction, and an arrow Dw denotes downward direction. The vehicle 100 includes a frame assembly 101 that extends rearward from a head tube 101A. The frame assembly 101 extends along in a longitudinal direction F-R of the vehicle 100. The frame assembly 101 includes a 10 mainframe comprising a main tube 101B extending rearward from a rear portion of the head tube 101A and a down tube 101C that extends rearwardly downward from the head tube 101A. The frame assembly 101 may further comprise a sub-frame formed by a pair of rear tubes that extend obliquely rearward from the main frame. A prime mover 106 is mounted to the main frame of the frame assembly 15 101. The prime mover 106 may be covered by side panels provided to form a housing around the prime mover 106. The prime mover 106 acts as the power unit of the vehicle 100, and may be a battery operated motor or an IC engine.
[00035]
In an embodiment, the power unit may also include a traction/electrical motor (not shown). When the prime mover 106 is an engine, coupled to an exhaust 20 assembly 110 that scavenges exhaust gases there through. A front portion of a swing arm 115 is swingably connected to the frame assembly 101 and a rear portion of the swing arm 115 rotatably supports a rear wheel 120. The rear wheel 120 is functionally coupled to the prime mover 106 through a transmission system/member/assembly 125. In a preferred embodiment, the transmission 25 system 125 includes a chain drive coupled to an output of manual gear transmission. However, the transmission assembly 125 may include an automatic transmission or continuously variable transmission. Similarly, a pair of front forks 130 supports a front wheel 135 and is steerably supported by the head tube 101A. A handlebar assembly 140 is connected to an upper portion of the pair of front 30
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forks 130. Further, a front fender 145 covers at least a portion of the front wheel
135 and the front fender assembly 145 is mounted to the front forks 130.
[00036]
A fuel tank 150 is mounted to the main tube 101B of the frame assembly 101 and disposed rearwardly of the handlebar assembly 140. A seat assembly including a rider seat 155 and a pillion seat 160 is disposed rearwardly of the fuel 5 tank assembly 150 and is supported by the rear tubes. A pair of rider foot pegs 165 is disposed on either sides and is mounted to the frame assembly 101 of the vehicle that supports rider foot. A rear fender 170 is disposed upwardly of the rear wheel 120 covering at least a portion of the rear wheel 120.
[00037]
Furthermore, the vehicle 100 includes various electrical and electronic 10 systems including a starter motor (not shown), a headlamp 175, a vehicle control unit, and a tail lamp 180. The grab rails 190 extend upwardly outwards from underneath the pillion seat 160. In addition, the vehicle includes safety systems including a synchronous braking system (not shown), and an anti-lock braking system. In a preferred embodiment, the prime mover 106 is an engine 195. The 15 cover assembly 200 for a transmission assembly 125 of a vehicle 100 comprises a first cover member 202 and a second cover member 204. The second cover member 204 is specifically designed to fixedly mate with the first cover member 202 with the primary purpose of absorbing sound and vibrations emanating from the vehicle's engine 195. 20
[00038]
In an embodiment, (as shown in figures 3 and 4) the first cover member 202 is further detailed to include a first portion 202-1 and a second portion 202-2 about an axis A-A’. This two-part structure allows for optimized material selection based on functional requirements. For instance, the first portion 202-1 may be composed of plastic material, while the second portion 202-2 may be constructed 25 from Aluminum or steel.
[00039]
In an embodiment, the second cover member 204 is designed to have a profile conforming to the dimensions of the first cover member 202. This feature ensures a secure and effective mating, creating a seamless integration that enhances the absorption of sound and vibrations. The matching profiles contribute to the 30 overall efficiency of the cover in minimizing noise and vibrations.
10
[00040]
In an embodiment, the first portion 202-1 of the first cover member 202 is made of a plastic material, while the second portion 202-2 is constructed from aluminum. This hybrid material composition allows for a balance between weight reduction and structural integrity, optimizing the cover's performance in sound and vibration absorption. 5
[00041]
In an embodiment, the second cover member 204 is detailed to be made of any or a combination of foam, fabric, wool, fiber, plywood, particleboard, plastic, and plaster. This versatility in material selection provides flexibility to tailor the cover's characteristics, allowing for effective noise and vibration absorption. In an embodiment, the first cover member 202 is equipped with a 10 plurality of slots 300-1, 300-2, …, 300-n for mounting onto the engine 195. These slots are reinforced with Aluminum inserts embedded within the first cover member 202, ensuring durability and stability in securing the cover to the engine. The plurality of slots allows for adaptable and secure attachment, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the cover. 15
[00042]
Further exemplary embodiments describe a vehicle 100 that includes a frame assembly 101, a prime mover 106 mounted to the frame assembly 101, and a cover assembly 200 for the transmission assembly 125. The cover is specified to have a first cover member 202 and a second cover member 204, and the second cover member 204 is adapted to mate with the first cover member 202 for the 20 absorption of sound and vibration from the transmission assembly 125 and/or the engine 195. In this exemplary working embodiment, the invention addresses a crucial technical challenge in vehicle design, the reduction of both sound and vibrations in the transmission assembly 125, primarily originating from the engine. This innovation is achieved through a dual-component cover assembly 200. The 25 first cover member 202, featuring a two-part structure 202-1, 202-2, strategically combines a plastic first portion 202-1 and an Aluminum second portion 202-2 to optimize weight reduction while maintaining structural integrity. Complementarily, the second cover member 204, designed to conform to the dimensions of the first cover member, is constructed using diverse materials like 30 foam, fabric, wool, fiber, plywood, particleboard, plastic, or plaster, providing
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flexibility for effective noise and vibration absorption. The incorporation of a
plurality of slots 300-n in the first cover member 202 ensures secure mounting onto the engine 195, with the added reinforcement of Aluminum inserts contributing to durability and stability. This cover assembly 200 for the transmission assembly 125 in the vehicle 100 not only minimizes noise and vibrations but also enhances 5 rider comfort and overall vehicle performance.
[00043]
In view of the above, the claimed limitations as discussed above are not routine, conventional, or well understood in the art, as the claimed limitations enable the above solutions to the existing problems in conventional technologies.
[00044]
The invention is inherently non-abstract as it provides a tangible and 10 practical solution to a specific and well-defined problem in vehicle design. Unlike abstract concepts or theoretical ideas, this invention introduces a physical and functional improvement to the transmission assembly of a vehicle, addressing the challenge of sound and vibrations originating from the engine during operation.
[00045]
The tangible nature of the invention lies in its distinct features and 15 components, as outlined in the claims. The dual-component cover system, comprising a first cover member and a second cover member, is designed with specific functionalities to absorb sound and vibrations effectively. The two-part structure of the first cover member, with a plastic first portion and an Aluminum second portion, provides a tangible means to optimize weight reduction and 20 enhance structural integrity. Similarly, the diverse material composition of the second cover member, such as foam, fabric, wool, fiber, plywood, particleboard, plastic, or plaster, offers a tangible and versatile approach to noise and vibration absorption.
[00046]
Furthermore, the incorporation of features like a profile-conforming 25 second cover member and a plurality of slots for mounting onto the engine adds concrete and practical elements to the invention. The reinforcement of slots with Aluminum or Steel inserts at predefined locations contributes to the physical robustness of the mounting mechanism.
[00047]
The tangible benefits of the invention extend beyond the conceptual realm, 30 providing a real-world solution to a well-identified problem in vehicle design. The
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specific design elements, material choices, and functionalities underscore the
practical and non-abstract nature of this innovative solution, making it a valuable and implementable advancement in the field.
[00048]
In view of the above, the claimed invention may not be considered abstract and may not be obvious to a person skilled in the art. 5
[00049]
The terms “an embodiment”, “embodiment”, “embodiments”, “the embodiment”, “the embodiments”, “one or more embodiments”, “some embodiments”, and “one embodiment” mean “one or more (but not all) embodiments of the invention(s)” unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “including”, “comprising”, “having” and variations thereof mean “including but 10 not limited to”, unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “a”, “an” and “the” mean “one or more”, unless expressly specified otherwise.
[00050]
Finally, the language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes, and it may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the inventive subject matter and is therefore 15 intended that the scope of the invention be limited not by this detailed description, but rather by any claims that issue on an application based here on. Accordingly, the embodiments of the present invention are intended to be illustrative, but not limiting, of the scope of the invention, which is set forth in the following claims.
[00051]
While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other 20 aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope as indicated by the following claims.
[00052]
A person with ordinary skills in the art will appreciate that the assembly, sub-assemblies have been illustrated and explained to serve as examples and 25 should not be considered limiting in any manner. It will be further appreciated that the variants of the above disclosed system elements, modules, and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be combined to create other different systems or applications.
[00053]
While the present disclosure has been described with reference to certain 30 embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes
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may be made, and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope
of the present disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from its scope. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed, but that the present disclosure will 5 include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.
[00054]
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 the light of above disclosure. Therefore, within the scope of claims of the present subject matter, the present 10 disclosure may be practiced other than as specifically described.
[00055]
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 the light of above disclosure. Therefore, within the scope of claims of the present subject matter, the present 15 disclosure may be practiced other than as specifically described. , Claims:We claim:
1.
A cover assembly (200) for a transmission assembly (125) of a vehicle (100), the cover assembly (200) comprising:
a first cover member (202); and
a second cover member (204), the second cover member (204) being adapted to detachably attach with the first cover member (202),
wherein the second cover member (204) being adapted to absorb a sound and vibration from at least one of the transmission assembly (125) and an engine (195) of the vehicle (100).
2.
The cover assembly (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first cover member (202) is provided with a first portion (202-1) and a second portion (202-2) about an axis A-A’.
3.
The cover assembly (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second cover member (204) has a profile conforming to dimensions of the first cover member (202).
4.
The cover assembly (200) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the first portion (202-1) is made of a plastic material and the second portion (202-2) is made of Aluminum.
5.
The cover assembly (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second cover member (204) is made of any or a combination of foam, fabric, wool, fibre, plywood, particleboard, plastic and plaster.
15
6.
The cover assembly (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first cover member (202) is provided with a plurality of slots (300-1, 300-2, 300-n) for mounting onto an engine (195), the plurality of slots (300-1, 300-2, 300-n) are aluminum inserts embedded within the first cover member (202).
7.
A vehicle (100) comprising:
a frame assembly (101) extending rearward to a swing arm (115), the swing arm adapted to support a rear wheel (120);
a prime mover (106) mounted to the frame assembly (101), the prime mover (106) adapted to transmit power to the rear wheel (120) through a transmission assembly (125); and
a cover assembly (200) for the transmission assembly (125); wherein,
the cover assembly (200) provided with a first cover member (202) and a second cover member (204), the second cover member (204) being adapted to detachably attach with the first cover member (202), wherein the second cover member (204) is adapted to absorb a sound and vibration from at least one of the transmission assembly (125) and an engine (195) of the vehicle (100).
8.
The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the first cover member (202) is provided with a first portion (202-1) and a second portion (202-2) about an axis A-A’, the first portion (202-1) being made of a plastic material and the second portion (202-2) is made of aluminum.
9.
The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the first cover member (202) is provided with a plurality of slots (300-1, 300-2, 300-n) for mounting onto the engine (195).
10.
The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the plurality of slots (300-1, 300-2, 300-n) are Aluminum inserts embedded within the first covermember (202) at pre-defined locations.