DESC:FORM 2

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

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See Section 10 and Rule 13)

A DRIVE ASSEMBLY OF A VEHICLE AND A SHAFT MEMBER THEREOF

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 drive assembly of a vehicle and more particularly relates to a shaft member for a drive assembly of a vehicle.

BACKGROUND
[0002] In a conventional vehicle with more than two wheels, the wheels have a drive assembly connecting both wheels. Therein, the wheels are connected to a shaft member through an axle. Further, the drive assembly either has a gear train in case of vehicles with an internal combustion engine (ICE) or a motor box in case of electrical vehicles (EVs) to supply torque to the wheels thereby propelling the vehicle. Conventionally this shaft member is formed as a solid piece. However, the solid shaft member is unfit for situations where a lightweight drive assembly is required.
[0003] The shaft member is responsible for transmitting torque from a powertrain to the wheels. During operation, significant heat is generated due to friction between moving parts and the resistance encountered in the transmission of power. This heat can lead to thermal expansion and material degradation of the shaft member. If not properly dissipated, the heat can cause the shaft member to long wear and tear, warp or weaken, leading to vibrations and imbalances. These issues can further result in increased wear on bearings and joints, ultimately compromising the overall performance and reliability of the drive assembly. Additionally, excessive heat can adversely affect the lubrication of the drive shaft components, leading to increased friction and further heat generation, creating a cycle of damage poor performance, and inefficiency.
[0004] Further, a suspension assembly is also mounted on the drive assembly through one or more hollow shaft tubes. The suspension assembly can be of two types an independent suspension assembly and a dependent suspension assembly. The dependent type of suspension assembly has more applications where it uses this solid shaft member. However, the weight of the solid shaft member adds to the weight of the vehicle and with the increased weight vehicle’s mileage and performance suffer. Additionally, the solid shaft configuration increases the manufacturing and assembly time. In the vehicles which come under the small commercial category, this becomes a much bigger problem as the vehicle requires a good performance with excellent load-bearing capacity without its weight being increased. Also, the solid shaft member fails to prove an improved load distribution.
[0005] Furthermore, with the integration of technology and increasing sophistication of the vehicle, there is a need to integrate electronics to monitor the health of the mechanical components. However, to keep the configuration of the vehicle compact it is difficult to find an appropriate mounting location for these electronics. Thus, a solution is needed to reduce the weight of the vehicle and change the solid shaft resulting in better technical advancement.
[0006] Therefore, in an attempt to enhance both the performance and durability of the drive assembly while simultaneously reducing the weight and meeting cost requirements, the present invention proposes a solution that involves the adoption of hollow half-shaft members for the drive assembly.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] The proposed invention is described with reference to an exemplary embodiment of a drive assembly of a vehicle having one or more hollow shaft members. 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.
[0008] Figure 1(a): illustrates a section view of shaft member.
[0009] Figure 1(b): illustrates a side view of the one or more flange.
[0010] Figure 2 (a): illustrates a top view of one or more shaft members with a drive unit.
[0011] Figure 2 (b): illustrates top view of a shaft member having one or more perforations.
[0012] Figure 3 (a): illustrates a side perspective view of drive assembly in a dis-joined configuration viewed from a drive unit side.
[0013] Figure 3 (b): illustrates a side perspective view of drive assembly in a dis-joined configuration viewed from the side of a drum of a vehicle.
[0014] Figure 4: illustrates a top-perspective view of a drive assembly.
[0015] Figure 5: illustrates a top-side perspective view of a drive assembly without one or more hollow shaft tubes.
[0016] Figure 6: illustrates a front perspective view of a vehicle.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0017] The present invention relates to a drive assembly of a vehicle. The drive assembly comprises a drive unit, one or more hollow shaft tubes and one or more shaft members. The drive unit is configured to transfer a torque to one or more rotating members of the vehicle. The one or more hollow shaft tubes comprising one or more suspension mounting portions and a brake mounting portion. Each shaft member of the one or more shaft members comprises a first portion, a second portion and a third portion. The first portion is configured to be enmeshed with the drive unit of the drive assembly via a plurality of splines. The second portion is configured to be integrated with one or more rotating members of the vehicle. The third portion is hollow along a predefined length of the shaft member and the third portion comprises a predefined thickness along a predefined cross-section area.
[0018] The present subject matter also relates to a vehicle. The vehicle comprises one or more rotating members, a brake unit and a drive assembly. The one or more rotating members are configured to enable the movement of the vehicle. The brake unit comprises a drum and a brake member. The drum is configured to receive the brake member. The brake unit is configured to prohibit the movement of the one or more rotating member based on one or more input form a user of the vehicle. The drive assembly comprises a drive unit, one or more hollow shaft tubes and one or more shaft members. The drive unit is configured to transfer a torque to one or more rotating members of the vehicle. The one or more hollow shaft tubes comprising one or more suspension mounting portions and a brake mounting portion. Each shaft member of the one or more shaft members comprises a first portion, a second portion and a third portion. The first portion is configured to be enmeshed with the drive unit of the drive assembly via a plurality of splines. The second portion is configured to be integrated with one or more rotating members of the vehicle. The third portion is hollow along a predefined length of the shaft member and the third portion comprises a predefined thickness along a predefined cross-section area.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0019] 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.
[0020] 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.
[0021] 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.
[0022] 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.
[0023] 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.
[0024] In order to address the one or more of the above-mentioned problems, a shaft member of a drive assembly is provided. In an embodiment of the present invention the shaft member may be a hollow shaft tube. In another embodiment the shaft member may be made of a combination of solid and hollow portions along its length. The shaft member comprises a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion. The first portion is configured to be enmeshed with a drive unit of the drive assembly via a plurality of splines. The second portion is configured to be integrated with one or more rotating members of a vehicle. The third portion is hollow along a predefined length of the shaft member and the third portion comprises a predefined thickness along a predefined cross-section area. In an embodiment of the present invention the diameter and length of the shaft member may be changed based on the torque requirements form the drive assembly. Thereby, shaft member mentioned in the present invention has a versatile design, which is not restricted based on the application of the drive assembly.
[0025] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the second portion comprises a flange and a joining portion. The flange comprises a plurality of openings. The plurality of openings is configured to receive a plurality of connecting members. In an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of connecting members is press fitted on the flange through the plurality of openings. The plurality of connecting members is configured to be integrated with the flange. The joining portion is configured to be integrated with the third portion along the cross-section area. In an embodiment, the cross-section area is a measure of the area of a diametrical surface of the shaft member.
[0026] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the predefined thickness of the third portion is configured to vary based on one or more predefined parameters of the drive assembly. In an embodiment the one or more predefined parameters may include but are not limited to amount of torque transferred via drive assembly, the category of vehicle in which the drive assembly is used, profile of a wheel mounted on the drive assembly etc.
[0027] As per another embodiment of the present invention, a profile of the plurality of splines is configured to be based on one or more predefined parameters of the drive unit of the drive assembly. In an embodiment of the present invention the one or more predefined parameters of the drive unit may include but are not limited to a type of the drive unit such as a differential in case of a conventional vehicle or an electric motor in case of an electric vehicle, torque demand etc.
[0028] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the first portion is cast formed into a solid piece and the second portion is cast formed into a solid piece. Further, the first portion, the second portion and the third portion are configured to be an integrated piece.
[0029] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the shaft member is configured to transfer torque to one or more rotating members of a vehicle.
[0030] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the shaft member comprises one or more perforations contributing toward heat dissipation by ensuring ventilation as well as further reducing the weight of the shaft member.
[0031] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the shaft member is configured to have a variable diameter. The configuration of variable diameter makes the shaft member versatile and makes it applicable to various load and performance conditions.
[0032] As per another embodiment of the present invention, a drive assembly for a vehicle is provided. In an embodiment, the drive unit may be a front-wheel drive assembly, a rear-wheel drive assembly, a four-wheel drive assembly etc. The drive assembly comprises a drive unit, one or more hollow shaft tubes and one or more shaft members. In an embodiment, the drive may include but not limited to either a differential assembly or an electric motor. The drive unit is configured to transfer torque to one or more rotating members of the vehicle. The one or more hollow shaft tubes comprise one or more suspension mounting portions and a brake mounting portion. In an embodiment, the one or more hollow shaft tubes are hollow cylindrical tubes capable of receiving one or more shaft members and mounting one or more suspensions of the vehicle. Each shaft member of the one or more shaft members comprises a first portion, a second portion and a third portion. The first portion is configured to be enmeshed with the drive unit of the drive assembly via a plurality of splines. The second portion is configured to be integrated with one or more rotating members of the vehicle. The third portion is hollow along a predefined length of the shaft member and the third portion comprises a predefined thickness along a predefined cross-section area.
[0033] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the drive unit is configured to be selected from a group of a differential unit and an electric motor, based on one or more predefined parameters of the vehicle. In an embodiment, the one or more predefined parameters of the vehicle may include but not limited to a category of the vehicle, distance between the wheels on same axis of rotation, a profile of the wheels mounted on the drive assembly, gear box inputs to the vehicle, torque output requirements etc.
[0034] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the one or more hollow tubes are configured to mount one or more suspension members of the vehicle via one or more suspension mounting portions. In an embodiment, the one or more suspension members may include but not limited to leaf spring suspensions, a coil spring suspension and a hydraulic suspension etc. The one or more hollow tubes are configured to be mounted freely on a brake unit of the vehicle via the brake mounting portion of the hollow tube.
[0035] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the drive unit is configured to transfer torque to one or more rotating members via the one or more shaft members.
[0036] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the one or more hollow tubes are configured to receive the one or more shaft members, the one or more shaft members are configured to rotate freely inside the one or more hollow tubes.
[0037] As per another embodiment of the present invention a vehicle is provided. The vehicle comprises one or more rotating members, a brake unit and a drive assembly. The one or more rotating members are configured to enable the movement of the vehicle. The brake unit comprises a drum and a brake member. The drum is configured to receive the brake member. The brake unit is configured to prohibit the movement of the one or more rotating members based on one or more input form a user of the vehicle. The drive assembly comprises a drive unit, one or more hollow shaft tubes and one or more shaft members. The drive unit is configured to transfer torque to one or more rotating members of the vehicle. The one or more hollow shaft tubes comprising one or more suspension mounting portions and a brake mounting portion. Each shaft member of the one or more shaft members comprises a first portion, a second portion and a third portion. The first portion is configured to be enmeshed with the drive unit of the drive assembly via a plurality of splines. The second portion is configured to be integrated with one or more rotating members of the vehicle. The third portion is hollow along a predefined length of the shaft member and the third portion comprises a predefined thickness along a predefined cross-section area.
[0038] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the one or more shaft members are configured to fixedly mount the one or more rotating members via a plurality of connecting members of the shaft member.
[0039] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the brake drum is configured to be fixedly mounted on the second portion of the shaft member via a plurality of connecting members of the shaft member. The braking member is configured to be freely mounted on the shaft member and the braking member is configured to fixedly mount the one or more hollow tubes. The one or more shaft members are configured to transfer the torque to one or more rotating members thereby enabling the one or more rotating members to move the vehicle.
[0040] As per another embodiment of the present invention, a profile of the plurality of spline is configured to vary based on the one or parameters of the vehicle. The one or more parameters of the vehicle comprise a type of the vehicle, a distance between the one or more rotating members of the vehicle, a wheel profile of the one or more rotating members, one or more inputs from a transmission of the vehicle.
[0041] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the third portion being configured to receive one or more electronic components of the vehicle.
[0042] 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.
[0043] 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.
[0044] 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.
[0045] 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.
[0046] 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.
[0047] 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.
[0048] Figure 1 (a), Figure 1 (b), Figure 2 (a) and Figure 2 (b) are taken together for discussion. Figure 1 (a) illustrates a section view of shaft member (300). Figure 1 (b) illustrates a side view of the one or more flange (305). Figure 2 (a) illustrates a top view of one or more shaft members (300S) with a drive unit (201). Figure 2 (b) illustrates a top view of a shaft member (300) having one or more perforations. The shaft member (300) comprises a first portion (301), a second portion (302) and a third portion (303). The first portion (301) is configured to be enmeshed with a drive unit (201) of the drive assembly (200) via a plurality of splines (304). The second portion (302) is configured to be integrated with one or more rotating members (101) of a vehicle (100). The third portion (303) is hollow along a predefined length (L) of the shaft member (300) and the third portion (303) comprises a predefined thickness (T) along a predefined cross-section area (A).
[0049] The second portion (302) comprises a flange (305) and a joining portion (306). The flange (305) comprises a plurality of openings (307). The plurality of openings (307) is configured to receive a plurality of connecting members (308). The plurality of connecting members (308, not shown) is configured to be integrated with the flange (305). The joining portion (306) is configured to be integrated with the third portion (303) along the cross-section area (A).
[0050] The predefined thickness (T) of the third portion (303) is configured to vary based on one or more predefined parameters of the drive assembly (200). As per one embodiment of the present invention, the one or more predefined parameters of the drive assembly (200) may include but are not limited to the amount of torque transferred via drive assembly, the category of vehicle in which the drive assembly is used, profile of a wheel mounted on the drive assembly etc.
[0051] A profile of the plurality of splines (304) is configured to be based on one or more predefined parameters of the drive unit (201) of the drive assembly (200). In an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of splines (304) may be a plurality of helical teeth formed on the first portion (201). As per one embodiment of the present invention, the one or more predefined parameters of the drive unit may include but are not limited to a type of the drive unit such as a differential in case of a conventional vehicle or an electric motor in case of an electric vehicle, torque demand etc.
[0052] The first portion (301) is cast and formed into a solid piece and the second portion (302) is cast and formed into a solid piece. Further, the first portion (301), the second portion (302) and the third portion (303) are configured to be an integrated piece.
[0053] The shaft member (300) is configured to transfer torque to one or more rotating members (101) of a vehicle (100). In one embodiment of the present invention one or more rotating members (101) may be one or more wheels.
[0054] In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the shaft member (300) comprises one or more perforations and is configured to have a variable diameter. In an embodiment, the one or more perforations (309) are made for heat dissipation as well as to reduce the weight of the vehicle. By strategically placing the one or more perforations (309), manufacturers can reduce the overall weight of the axle shaft without compromising its structural integrity. This weight reduction contributes to better fuel efficiency and enhanced vehicle performance. Further, the shaft member (300) rotates continuously and transfer huge amounts of torque in variable load and operating conditions which generates a lot of heat in the shaft member (300) and consequently in the powertrain. The one or more perforations (309) can provide improved air or fluid circulation around the shaft member (300) which helps in dissipating heat more effectively, which is crucial in high-performance or heavy-duty applications where excessive heat can lead to material fatigue and failure. The fluid cab coolants or lubricants. From a technical standpoint, the one or more perforations (309) can also reduce stress concentrations and improve the resistance to torsional vibrations of the shaft member (300), leading to a smoother and more reliable operation. This leads to a longer component life and potentially lower maintenance costs. The improved heat dissipation helps prevent overheating, which can reduce the likelihood of heat-related failures and the need for frequent repairs.
[0055] Figure 2(b) shows a schematic example of how the one or more perforations (309) can be configured on the shaft member (300). In this example, the one or perforations (309) are configured in a circular shape. The one or more perforations (309) can also be made in other shapes, sizes and numbers including square, triangular etc. However, a skilled person would understand using conventional knowledge about material strength and load requirements for given vehicular model as to how to configure and place the one or more perforations (309) without compromising the structural integrity of the of the shaft member (303) and the powertrain. Furthermore, in an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one or more perforations (309) are of different shape and sizes on the same shaft member (300). Different patterns of perforations could be explored to optimize heat dissipation and weight reduction. For example, a honeycomb pattern might provide better structural support while maximizing fluid flow around the shaft.
[0056] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the variable diameter of the shaft member (300) could be configured to taper in specific sections to further reduce weight and improve performance. This tapering could be optimized based on the stress distribution along the shaft during operation. The one or more perforations (309) can help reduce stress concentrations within the shaft member (300) and the shaft's resistance to torsional vibrations. More specifically, stress concentrations are areas where stress is higher than the surrounding material, which can lead to cracks and eventual failure. By minimizing these concentrations, the perforations enhance the shaft's resistance to torsional vibrations, leading to smoother and more reliable operation. Torsional vibrations are oscillations that occur when torque is applied. Reducing these vibrations leads to smoother operation, which not only extends the component's life but also reduces the likelihood of mechanical failures.
[0057] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the shaft member (300) could be configured as either solid or partially solid, incorporating one or more perforations (309). This configuration allows for a balance between structural integrity and weight reduction. In one aspect, the one or more perforations (309) can facilitate the passage of fluids or gases, enhancing the functionality of the shaft member (300) in various applications. Additionally, the presence of the one or more perforations (309) can improve cooling efficiency by allowing better fluid flow, which is particularly advantageous in high-temperature environments. Overall, this design optimizes the performance of the shaft member (300) by combining strength, reduced weight, and improved thermal management.
[0058] The one or more perforations (309) offer several advantages beyond weight reduction and heat dissipation. They enhance structural integrity by distributing stress more evenly, reducing the risk of cracks or failures. Additionally, the one or more perforations (309) improve the flexibility of the shaft member (300), allowing it to absorb shocks and vibrations more effectively, which results in a smoother ride and less wear on other components. Also, the one or more perforations (309) help in dampening the vibrations and noise, leading to quieter operation.
[0059] Manufacturers can enable this feature through advanced techniques such as precision drilling and laser cutting, ensuring that the one or more perforations (309) are accurately placed and do not weaken the shaft member (300). By incorporating these methods, manufacturers can optimize the performance of the shaft member (300), while maintaining its safety and durability standards. From a manufacturing perspective, incorporating the one or more perforations (309) can be cost-efficient, requiring less material and simplifying the production processes. The one or more perforations (309) can also be used to mount one or more sensors in the shaft member (300).
[0060] In another embodiment, the variable diameter enables the use of the same configuration of the shaft member to be used in different types of vehicles.
[0061] Figure 3 (a), Figure 3 (b), Figure 4 and Figure 5 are taken together for discussion. Figure 3 (a) illustrates a side perspective view of drive assembly (200) in a dis-joined configuration viewed from a drive unit (201) side. Figure 3 (b) illustrates a side perspective view of drive assembly (200) in a dis-joined configuration viewed from the side of a drum (103A) of a vehicle (100). Figure 4 illustrates a top-perspective view of a drive assembly (200). Figure 5 illustrates a top-side perspective view of a drive assembly (200) without one or more hollow shaft tubes (202).
[0062] The drive assembly (200) comprises a drive unit (201), one or more hollow shaft tubes (202) and one or more shaft members (300S). The drive unit (201) is configured to transfer torque to one or more rotating members (101) of the vehicle (100). The one or more hollow shaft tubes (202) comprise one or more suspension mounting portions (202A) and a brake mounting portion (202B). Each shaft member (300) of the one or more shaft members (300S) comprises a first portion (301), a second portion (302) and a third portion (303). The first portion (301) is configured to be enmeshed with the drive unit (201) of the drive assembly (200) via a plurality of splines (304). In one embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of splines (304) is enmeshed with a bevel gear inside a differential unit (201A). Additionally, a profile of the plurality of splines (304) is configured to confirm with a profile of the bevel gear of the differential unit (201A). The second portion (302) is configured to be integrated with one or more rotating members (101) of the vehicle (100) via a flange (305). In an embodiment of the present invention the flange (305) is provided with a plurality of openings (307) configured to receive a plurality of connecting members (308, not shown) to mount one or more rotating members (101) of the vehicle (100). The third portion (303) is hollow along a predefined length (L) of the shaft member (300) and the third portion (303) comprises a predefined thickness (T) along a predefined cross-section area (A). As per another embodiment of the present invention, the drive unit (201) is configured to be selected from a group of a differential unit (201A) and an electric motor (201B), based on one or more predefined parameters of the vehicle (100). In an embodiment of the present invention the one or more predefined parameters of the vehicle may include but not limited to a category of the vehicle, distance between the wheels on same axis of rotation, a profile of the wheels mounted on the drive assembly, gear box inputs to the vehicle, torque output requirements etc.
[0063] The one or more hollow tubes (202) are configured to mount one or more suspension members (102) of the vehicle (100) via one or more suspension mounting portions (202A). The one or more hollow tubes (202) are configured to be mounted freely on a brake unit (103) of the vehicle (100) via the brake mounting portion (202B) of the hollow tube (202). As per one embodiment of the present invention, the one or more suspension mounting portions (202A) are configured to accommodate suspension form a group of leaf spring suspensions, a coil spring suspension and a hydraulic suspension etc.
[0064] The drive unit (201) is configured to transfer torque to one or more rotating members (101) via the one or more shaft members (300S). As per an embodiment of the present invention the one or more rotating members may be one or more wheels of the vehicle.
[0065] The one or more hollow tubes (202) are configured to receive the one or more shaft members (300S) and the one or more shaft members (300S) are configured to rotate freely inside the one or more hollow tubes (202).
[0066] Figure 6 of the present invention has been described hereinafter. Figure 6 illustrates a front perspective view of a vehicle (100). The vehicle (100) comprises one or more rotating members (101), a brake unit (103) and a drive assembly (200). The one or more rotating members (101) are configured to enable a movement of the vehicle (100). The brake unit (103) comprises a drum (103A) and a brake member (103B). The drum (103) is configured to receive the brake member (103B). The brake unit (103) is configured to prohibit the movement of the one or more rotating member (103) based on one or more input form a user of the vehicle (100). The drive assembly (200) comprises a drive unit (201), one or more hollow shaft tubes (202) and one or more shaft members (300S). The drive unit (201) is configured to transfer a torque to one or more rotating members (101) of the vehicle (100). The one or more hollow shaft tubes (202) comprise one or more suspension mounting portions (202A) and a brake mounting portion (202B). Each shaft member (300) of the one or more shaft members (300S) comprises a first portion (301), a second portion (302) and a third portion (303). The first portion (301) is configured to be enmeshed with the drive unit (201) of the drive assembly (200) via a plurality of splines (304). The second portion (302) is configured to be integrated with one or more rotating members (101) of the vehicle (100). The third portion (303) is hollow along a predefined length (L) of the shaft member (300) and the third portion (303) comprises a predefined thickness (T) along a predefined cross-section area (A). The first portion (301) and the second portion (302) are configured to be a solid piece because both portions (301, 302) are subjected to high stresses during the operation of the vehicle (100).
[0067] The third portion (303) is configured to receive one or more electronic components (105) of the vehicle (100). As per one embodiment of the present invention the one or more electronic components (105) of the vehicle may include but not be limited to sensors for detecting one or more real-time parameters of the vehicle, one or more actuators to alter between different modes of the drive assembly (200), a flow path to supply hydraulic fluid to the brake unit (103) etc. or a combination of the above said types of components.
[0068] The one or more shaft members (300S) are configured to fixedly mount the one or more rotating members (101) via a plurality of connecting members (308) of the shaft member (300).
[0069] The brake drum (103A) is configured to be fixedly mounted on the second portion (303) of the shaft member (300) via a plurality of connecting members (308) of the shaft member (300). The braking member (103B) is configured to be freely mounted on the shaft member (300). In an embodiment, during operations of the vehicle (100), the braking member (103B) remains stationary relative to the shaft member (300) which is in rotary motion. The braking member (103B) is configured to fixedly mount the one or more hollow tubes (202) and the one or more shaft members (300S) are configured to transfer the torque to one or more rotating members (101) thereby enabling the one or more rotating members (101) to move the vehicle (100). In an embodiment the brake member (103B) may be able to stop the movement of the vehicle (100) via the friction force applied on the drum (103A).
[0070] A profile of the plurality of spline (304) is configured to vary based on the one or parameters (104) of the vehicle (100). The one or more parameters of the vehicle comprising a type of the vehicle (100), a distance between the one or more rotating members (101) of the vehicle, a wheel profile of the one or more rotating members (101), one or more inputs from a transmission of the vehicle (100).
[0071] According to the above disclosure, the present invention provides various advantages. In a preferred embodiment, the shaft member (300) is hollow along the predefined length (L) of the third portion (303) this helps in weight reduction which helps in increasing the Range/Mileage of the vehicle.
[0072] Due to the hollow configuration of the shaft member (300), material cost will be cut down because of lesser material requirements which help in meeting the development target cost. It further improves performance, durability, milage and reduces production time, assembly time and service time. This configuration of the shaft member helps in achieving a lesser weight suspension system without compromising on the performance and helps in improving the load distribution.
[0073] The shaft member (300) can be implemented for any type of drive train configuration form a Front Wheel Drive (FWD) train to an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) train.
[0074] Further, the hollow configuration of the shaft member (300) can be configured to accommodate sensors, actuators and fluid paths etc. where the sensors can detect the real-time parameters and enable the actuators to switch between different modes of the vehicle based on comparison the real-time parameter with predefined parameters of the vehicle.
[0075] In another embodiment of the present invention, the weight of the shaft member (300) can be reduced further by providing a plurality of perforations on the third portion (303), which will further help in the reduction of the overall weight of the vehicle.
[0076] Hence, the present invention provides a shaft member with a hollow configuration which helps in the reduction of weight, accommodates various components of the vehicle, has a versatile application, reduces the production time, and assembly time, improves the handling characteristics of the vehicle, improves the mileage of vehicle etc.
[0077] 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.
[0078] 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.
[0079] 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 rotating members
102 One or more suspension members
103 A brake unit
103A A drum of brake unit
103B A brake member of brake unit
104 One or more parameters
105 One or more components
200 A drive assembly
201 A drive unit
201A A differential unit
201B An electric motor
202 One or more hollow tubes
202A One or more suspension mounting portions
202B A brake mounting portion
300 A shaft member
300S One or more shaft members
301 A first portion
302 A second portion
303 A third portion
304 A plurality of splines
305 A flange
306 A joining portion
307 A plurality of openings
308 A plurality of connecting members
309 One or more perforations
L A predefined length of the third portion
T A predefined thickness of the third portion
A A predefined cross-section area of the third portion
,CLAIMS:We claim:
1. A shaft member (300) of a drive assembly (200), the shaft member (300) comprising:
a first portion (301), the first portion (301) being configured to be enmeshed with a drive unit (201) of the drive assembly (200) via a plurality of splines (304);
a second portion (302), the second portion (302) being configured to be integrated with one or more rotating members (101) of a vehicle (100); and
a third portion (303), the third portion (303) being hollow along a predefined length (L) of the shaft member (300) and the third portion (303) comprising a predefined thickness (T) along a predefined cross-section area (A).
2. The shaft member (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second portion (302) comprising:
a flange (305), the flange (305) comprising a plurality of openings (307), the plurality of openings (307) being configured to receive a plurality of connecting members (308), the plurality of connecting members (308) being configured to be integrated with the flange (305); and
a joining portion (306), the joining portion (306) being configured to be integrated with the third portion (303) along the cross-section area (A).
3. The shaft member (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the predefined thickness (T) of the third portion (303) being configured to vary based on one or more predefined parameters of the drive assembly (200).
4. The shaft member (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a profile of the plurality of splines (304) being configured to be based on one or more predefined parameters of the drive unit (201) of the drive assembly (200).
5. The shaft member (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first portion (301) being cast formed into a solid piece and the second portion (302) being cast formed into a solid piece and
the first portion (301), the second portion (302) and the third portion (303) being configured to be an integrated piece.
6. The shaft member (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the shaft member (300) comprising one or more perforations.
7. The shaft member (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the shaft member (300) being configured to have a variable diameter.
8. A drive assembly (200) of a vehicle (100), the drive assembly (200) comprising:
a drive unit (201), the drive unit (201) being configured to transfer a torque to one or more rotating members (101) of the vehicle (100);
one or more hollow shaft tubes (202), the one or more hollow shaft tubes (202) comprising one or more suspension mounting portions (202A) and a brake mounting portion (202B);
one or more shaft members (300S), each shaft member (300) of the one or more shaft members (300S) comprising:
a first portion (301), the first portion (301) in first being configured to be enmeshed with the drive unit (201) of the drive assembly (200) via a plurality of splines (304);
a second portion (302), the second portion (302) being configured to be integrated with one or more rotating members (101) of the vehicle (100); and
a third portion (303), the third portion (303) being hollow along a predefined length (L) of the shaft member (300) and the third portion (303) comprising a predefined thickness (T) along a predefined cross-section area (A).
9. The drive assembly (200) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the drive unit (201) being configured to be selected from a group of a differential unit (201A) and an electric motor (201B), based on one or more predefined parameters of the vehicle (100).
10. The drive assembly as claimed in claim 8, wherein the one or more hollow tubes (202) being configured to mount one or more suspension members (102) of the vehicle (100) via one or more suspension mounting portions (202A) and
one or more hollow tubes (202) being configured to be mounted freely on a brake unit (103) of the vehicle (100) via the brake mounting portion (202B) of the hollow tube (202).
11. The drive assembly as claimed in claim 8, wherein the drive unit (201) being configured to transfer torque to one or more rotating members (101) via the one or more shaft members (300S).
12. The drive assembly (200) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the one or more hollow tubes (202) being configured to receive the one or more shaft members (300S), the one or more shaft members (300S) being configured to rotate freely inside the one or more hollow tubes (202).
13. A vehicle (100), the vehicle (100) comprising:
one or more rotating members (101), the one or more rotating members (101) being configured to enable a movement of the vehicle (100);
a brake unit (103); the brake unit (103) comprising a drum (103A) and a brake member (103B), the drum (103) being configured to receive the brake member (103B),
the brake unit (103) being configured to prohibit the movement of the one or more rotating member (103) based on one or more input form a user of the vehicle (100);
a drive assembly (200), the drive assembly (200) comprising:
a drive unit (201), the drive unit (201) being configured to transfer a torque to the one or more rotating members (101);
one or more hollow shaft tubes (202), the one or more hollow shaft tubes comprising one or more suspension mounting portions (202A) and a brake mounting portion (202B);
one or more shaft members (300S), each shaft member (300) of the one or more shaft members (300S) comprising:
a first portion (301), the first portion (301) in first being configured to be enmeshed with the drive unit (201) of the drive assembly (200) via a plurality of splines (304);
a second portion (302), the second portion (302) being configured to be integrated with one or more rotating members (101); and
a third portion (303), the third portion (303) being hollow along a predefined length (L) of the shaft member (300) and the third portion (303) comprising a predefined thickness (T) along a predefined cross-section area (A).
14. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 13, wherein the one or more shaft members (300S) being configured to fixedly mount the one or more rotating members (101) via a plurality of connecting members (308) of the shaft member (300).
15. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 13, wherein the brake drum (103A) being configured to be fixedly mounted on the second portion (303) of the shaft member (300) via a plurality of connecting members (308) of the shaft member (300),
the braking member (103B) configured to be freely mounted on the shaft member (300) and the braking member (103B) being configured to fixedly mount the one or more hollow tubes (202), and
the one or more shaft members (300S) being configured to transfer the torque to one or more rotating members (101) thereby enabling the one or more rotating members (101) to move the vehicle (100).
16. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 13, wherein a profile of the plurality of spline (304) being configured to vary based on the one or parameters (104) of the vehicle (100),
the one or more parameters of the vehicle comprising a type of the vehicle (100), a distance between the one or more rotating members (101) of the vehicle, a wheel profile of the one or more rotating members (101), one or more inputs from a transmission of the vehicle (100).
17. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 13, wherein the third portion 303 being configured to receive one or more electronic components (105) of the vehicle (100).
Dated this 17th day of February 2025

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