Description:FORM 2

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

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See Section 10 and Rule 13)

A STEERING ASSEMBLY AND A SEALING ASSEMBLY 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 steering assembly and more particularly but not exclusively relates to a sealing assembly for a steering assembly of a vehicle.

BACKGROUND
[0002] In a conventional vehicle such as a three-wheeled vehicle, a steering column of a steering assembly is attached to the wheel through a pivot pin configuration which includes a pivot pin and needle bearings. This pivot pin configuration connects a trailing member and the steering column and is capable of withstanding dynamic loads acting on them along with a suspension member like a damper and/or coil spring. It also acts as a pivot, with the help of the needle bearings, to support the trailing member to rotate about its axis while supporting a suspension member at the other end of the trailing member. The pivot pin configuration has the needle bearing with dust seal on the sides of the bearing to prevent the entry of dust and water to protect the needle bearings. Along with the dust seals, the pivot pin configuration also uses O-Rings for covering the joints. The needle bearings are properly lubricated initially and sealed by the dust seals and O- Rings to prevent entry of dust and water.
[0003] However, the abovementioned configuration fails to provide an optimum solution against dust and water entry because these O-rings and dust seals gets damaged after a certain distance and fail to effectively prevent entry of the dust and the water in the pivot pin configuration and the bearing, thereby failing to protect the needle bearings and pivot pin which are securing the joint of steering column and the trailing member. Also, due to damaged seals and O-rings water and dust starts to accumulate in the pivot pin configuration. This leads to rusting of joint between steering column and the trailing member, which makes it difficult to service the pivot pin configuration if needed. In worst cases the whole pivot pin configuration as whole needs to be replaced and the pivot pin at the joint of steering column and trailing member at the intersection has to be cut through machining means.
[0004] Therefore, a better sealing assembly is required which is capable of protecting pivot pin configuration of steering assembly against dust and water entry thereby eliminating the rusting, and increase the life of the steering assembly.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] The present invention relates to a steering assembly of a vehicle and also relates to a sealing assembly for the steering assembly. The steering assembly comprises a column member, a trailing member and a sealing assembly. The column member is configured to move the steering assembly. The trailing member being configured to be mounted on one or more rotating members of a vehicle. The trailing member is connected to the column member via one or more openings disposed on the trailing member. The sealing assembly comprises one or more sealing members and a cover member. The one or more sealing members being configured to be disposed in the one or more openings. The cover member being configured to cover the sealing assembly.
[0006] The present invention also relates to a method for assembling the sealing assembly on the steering assembly of the vehicle. The method comprises a plurality of steps. As a first step, the one or more sealing members are disposed on an external portion of the one or more openings of the trailing member of the steering assembly. As a second step, the fork member of the trailing member receives the joining portion of the column member of the steering assembly. As a third step, the one or more pin members of the sealing assembly are pressed through the one or more opening and through the opening of the column member, thereby securing the column member in the fork member, thereby aligning the joining portion and the fork member. The alignment ensures that the configuration of the joining portion and the fork member is stable and can function properly.
[0007] As a fourth step, the plurality of bearing members is fitted on both sides of the one or more pin members and the plurality of bearing members is secured through the plurality of stopping members. The plurality of stopping members is configured to arrest the movement of the sealing assembly along an axis (X-X’), thereby securing the sealing assembly in the trailing member. As a fifth step, the cover member of the sealing assembly is mounted on the cover mounting of the column member via the plurality of connecting members, thereby covering the sealing assembly against environmental factors.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] The proposed invention is described with reference to an exemplary embodiment of a steering assembly having a sealing assembly therein. 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.
[0009] Figure 1: illustrates a bottom-side perspective view of a steering assembly as per one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0010] Figure 2: illustrates a side perspective view of a steering assembly as per another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0011] Figure 3: illustrates an exploded view of a steering assembly as per another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0012] Figure 4: illustrates a section view of the sealing assembly along an axis A-A as per another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0013] Figure 5: illustrates a front view of a steering column and a trailing member of a steering assembly having a sealing assembly as per another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0014] Figure 6: illustrates a side view of a steering column and a trailing member of a steering assembly having a sealing assembly as per another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0015] Figure 7: illustrates a perspective view of a steering column and a trailing member of a steering assembly having a sealing assembly as per another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0016] Figure 8: illustrates a perspective view of a steering column and a trailing member of a steering assembly along with an exploded view of a cover member of a sealing assembly as per another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0017] Figure 9: illustrates a rear perspective view of a steering column and a trailing member of a steering assembly along an exploded view of sealing assembly as per another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0018] Figure 10: illustrates a left side view of a vehicle as per present another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0019] Figure 11: illustrates a method for assembly a sealing assembly on the steering assembly of a vehicle as per another embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0020] 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.
[0021] 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.
[0022] 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.
[0023] 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.
[0024] 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 steering assembly 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.
[0025] In order to address the one or more of the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a sealing assembly of a steering assembly for a vehicle.
[0026] As per one embodiment, the present invention provides a steering assembly of a vehicle. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the vehicle may be a three-wheeled vehicle. The steering assembly comprises a column member, a trailing member and a sealing assembly. The column member is configured to move the steering assembly in the left and right direction to the direction of motion of the vehicle. On one end of the steering column a steering member is mounted which is operable by a driver. The other end of the steering column is connected to a trailing member. The trailing member is configured to be mounted on one or more rotating members of a vehicle. In one embodiment of the present invention the one or more rotating members may include a front wheel of a three wheeled-vehicle. The trailing member is connected to the column member via one or more openings disposed on the trailing member. The sealing assembly comprises one or more sealing members and a cover member. In an embodiment of the present invention the one or more sealing members may be a dust seal, which protects the internal components of the sealing assembly. In an embodiment of the present invention the one or more sealing members may be made up of a material including but not limited to rubber, silicon, polymer and resins etc. In an embodiment of the present invention the cover member may be made up of a material including but not limited to a metal, a polymer, an alloy etc. The one or more sealing members are configured to be disposed in the one or more openings of the trailing member. The cover member is configured to cover the one or more sealing members. In an embodiment of the present invention, the cover member covers the one or more sealing members from the bottom side of the column member of the steering assembly.
[0027] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the column member (201) comprises one or more suspension mountings and a joining portion. In an embodiment the one or more suspension members may include but not limited to a coil spring suspension. In an embodiment of the joining portion is a bottom most portion of the column member which is provided with one or more openings to receive a shaft pin to secure the column in the trailing member. The one or more suspension mountings are configured to mount a first configuration of one or more suspension members of the vehicle. The first configuration of the one or more suspension members is a first mounting portion through which it is connected to the column member. The joining portion is configured to pivotably connect to the trailing member via one or more pin members of the sealing assembly. The joining portion comprises an opening. The opening is configured to receive one or more pin members of the sealing assembly.
[0028] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the column member comprises a cover mounting. The cover mounting is configured to receive the cover member via a plurality of connecting members. In an embodiment, the connecting member may include but is not limited to screws, rivets or spot-welding etc.
[0029] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the column member comprises a bend. The bend is configured to support to one or more components of the vehicle. In an embodiment, the one or more components may include a front fender of the vehicle, one or more headlights, a horn unit, a plurality of sensors like LIDAR and RADAR, photo sensors, vibration sensors etc.
[0030] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the trailing member comprises a fork member. In an embodiment, of the present invention, the fork member has two prongs which are connected with the column member via one or more pin members. The one or more openings are disposed on the for member. In an embodiment, the one or more openings are disposed on both prongs of the fork member. The one or more openings are configured to receive the sealing assembly and a joining portion of the column member. In an embodiment, the sealing assembly and the joining portions is disposed on an inner space provided by two prongs of the fork member.
[0031] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the trailing member comprises a plurality of mounting portions. The plurality of mounting portions comprises a suspension mounting and a rotor mounting. The suspension mounting is configured to mount a second configuration of the one or more suspension members of the vehicle. In an embodiment, the second configuration the one or more suspension members is the second mounting portion which enables the one or more suspension members to be connected to the suspension mounting. The rotor mounting is configured to mount the one or more rotating members of the vehicle by a mounting member. In an embodiment, the mounting may include but not limited to a cap-screw, a hub-mounted cap, a welded enclosure etc.
[0032] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the trailing member comprises one or more internal seals. The one or more internal seals are disposed inside one or more openings of a fork member of the trailing member. In an embodiment, the one or more internal seals may include O-rings which protects a configuration of the fork member of the trailing member and the joining portion of the column member against internal rusting and damage and provides a sealed enclosure against water and dust entry. The one or more internal seals further optimize sealing and bearing function and minimize friction and wear in the configuration of the fork member and the joining portion.
[0033] The one or more internal seals are disposed between a joining portion of the column member and a lateral circumference of a plurality of bearings of the sealing assembly. The one or more internal seals are disposed around a circumference of one or more pin members of the sealing assembly. The one or more internal seals are configured to seal a first space between the joining portion and the lateral circumference of the plurality of bearings. As per an embodiment of the present invention, the one or more internal seals comprise at least two seals which are disposed internally on both the inside portions of the fork member via one or more openings, this configuration of the one or more internal seals helps in sealing the space and preventing the entry of water and dust inside the plurality of bearings and the one or more pin members, thereby prevents the rusting and increase the life of the plurality of bearings and the one or more pin members.
[0034] As per another embodiment, the present invention provides a sealing assembly for a steering assembly of a vehicle. The sealing assembly comprises one or more sealing members and a cover member. The one or more sealing members are configured to be disposed in the one or more openings of a trailing member of the steering assembly. The cover member is configured to cover the one or more sealing members. The cover member comprises a plurality of openings. The cover member is configured to be connected to a cover mounting of a column member of the steering assembly via a plurality of connecting members.
[0035] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the sealing assembly comprises one or more pin members. The one or more openings of the trailing member is configured to receive the one or more pin members. In an embodiment, the one or more pin members may be shaft member capable of securing the one or
[0036] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the sealing assembly comprises a plurality of bearing members. In an embodiment, the plurality of bearing members may include but not limited to pin bearings, axial bearings, roller bearings etc. The plurality of bearing members is configured to be disposed in the one or more openings of the fork member of the trailing member. The plurality of bearing members is configured to rotatably mount one or more pin members of the sealing assembly, thereby enabling a pivoting movement of the trailing member on the one or more pin members.
[0037] The one or more sealing members are disposed between the joining portion of the column member and the fork member of the trailing member. Further, the one or more sealing members are disposed around a circumference of one or more opening of the fork member. The one or more sealing members are configured to seal a second space between the joining portion and the fork member. As per an embodiment of the present invention, the one or more seals comprise two seals which are disposed on the both side of the joining portion and both internal sides of the fork member, thereby ensuring a protection of the configuration of column member and trailing member against dust and water and protects the internal components of the sealing assembly.
[0038] The one or more internal seals and the one or more sealing member are configured to be disposed coaxially along an axis (X-X’), the axis (X-X’) being an axis passing through a center of the one or more opening.
[0039] As per another embodiment of the present invention, the sealing assembly comprises a plurality of stopping members. The plurality of stopping members is configured to prohibit an axial movement of the plurality of bearing members along an axis (X-X’) and since the sealing assembly is disposed in between the plurality of bearing members the axial movement is also prohibited. In an embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of stopping members may include a circle clip to arrest the movement of the plurality of bearing members along the axis (X-X’).
[0040] As per another embodiment of the present invention, a method for assembling a sealing assembly on a steering assembly is provided, the method comprises a plurality of steps. As a first step, the one or more sealing members are disposed on the one or more openings of the fork member of the trailing member of the steering assembly. The one or more openings are configured to internally receive the one or more internal seals. As a second step, the fork member of the trailing member receives the joining portion of the column member of the steering assembly. As a third step, the one or more pin members of the sealing assembly are pressed through the one or more opening and through an opening of the column member, thereby securing the column member in the fork member. As a fourth step, the plurality of bearing members is fitted on both sides of the one or more pin members and the plurality of bearing members is secured through a plurality of stopping members, the plurality of stopping members is configured to arrest the movement of the sealing assembly along an axis (X-X’). As a fifth step, the cover member of the sealing assembly is mounted on a cover mounting of the column member via a plurality of connecting members, thereby covering the sealing assembly against environmental factors.
[0041] 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.
[0042] 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.
[0043] 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 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.
[0044] 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.
[0045] 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.
[0046] 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.
[0047] Figure 1 – 3 and Figure 5 – 9 have been taken together for the discussion. Where Figure 1: illustrates a bottom-side perspective view of a steering assembly as per one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2: illustrates a side perspective view of a steering assembly as per another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3: illustrates an exploded view of a steering assembly as per another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5: illustrates a front view of a steering column and a trailing member of a steering assembly having a sealing assembly as per another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6: illustrates a side view of a steering column and a trailing member of a steering assembly having a sealing assembly as per another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7: illustrates a perspective view of a steering column and a trailing member of a steering assembly having a sealing assembly as per another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8: illustrates a perspective view of a steering column and a trailing member of a steering assembly and an exploded view of a cover member of a sealing assembly as per another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9: illustrates a rear perspective view of a steering column and a trailing member of a steering assembly and an exploded view of sealing assembly as per another embodiment of the present invention.
[0048] As shown in Figure 1 – 3, the present invention provides a steering assembly (200) of a vehicle (100) and also relates to a sealing assembly (300) for the steering assembly (200). The steering assembly (200) comprises a column member (201), a trailing member (202) and a sealing assembly (300). The column member (201) being configured to move the steering assembly (200) in the left and right orientation with respect to the direction of motion of the vehicle (100, as shown in figure 10). One end (not shown) of the steering column (201) is disposed inside the vehicle cabin accessible to a driver. A steering member (not shown) is connected to the one end of the steering column (201) inside the driver cabin to enable the steering of the vehicle. Steering member can include a handlebar or a steering. The other end of the steering column (201) is disposed near the one or more rotating members (101) of the vehicle (100). The trailing member (202) being configured to be mounted on one or more rotating members (101) of a vehicle (100). The trailing member (202) being connected to the column member (201) via one or more openings (207O) disposed on the trailing member (202). The sealing assembly (300) comprises one or more sealing members (301) and a cover member (302). The one or more sealing members (301) being configured to be disposed in the one or more openings (207O). The cover member (302) being configured to cover the sealing assembly (300). In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one or more sealing members (301) comprise a resilient material selected to withstand varying environmental conditions and maintain sealing effectiveness over the lifespan of the vehicle (100).
[0049] As shown in Figure – 3, the column member (201) comprises one or more suspension mountings (201S) and a joining portion (204). The one or more suspension mountings (201S) are configured to mount a first configuration of one or more suspension members (103) of the vehicle (100). The first configuration of the one or more suspension members (103) is an upper connecting portion through which it is mounted on the one or more suspension mountings (201S). The one or more suspension members (103) can be a coil spring, hydraulic dampeners or a combination thereof or other conventionally known type of suspension members.
[0050] As shown in Figure 8 and 9, one end of the column member (201) comprising the joining portion (204) which is configured to pivotably connect to the trailing member (202) via one or more pin members (304) of the sealing assembly (300). The other end of the column member (201) is joined to a controlling means. In an embodiment, the controlling means may include but not limited to a handlebar, a steering wheel etc. The controlling means is used for controlling the direction of motion of the vehicle (100) via on end of the column member (201). The joining portion (204) comprises an opening (205). The opening (205) is configured to receive one or more pin members (304) of the sealing assembly (300). The column member (201) comprises a cover mounting (209). The cover mounting (209) is configured to mount the cover member (302) via a plurality of connecting members (303). The connecting members (303) can be selected from a group comprising, bolts, screws or snap fitting fasteners and other known types of fasteners.
[0051] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the joining portion (204) of the column member (201) and the fork member (207) of the trailing member (202) are configured with complementary interlocking features. The complementary interlocking features are configured to provide additional structural stability and resistance to lateral movement.
[0052] As shown in Figure 1 to 3 and Figure 5 to 9, the column member (201) comprises a bend (201B). The bend (201B) is configured to support one or more components (102) of the vehicle (100). In an embodiment the one or more component may include but not limited to a front fender of the vehicle, one or more headlights, a horn unit, a plurality of sensors like LIDAR and RADAR, photo sensors, vibration sensors etc.
[0053] As shown in Figure – 9, the trailing member (202) comprises a fork member (207) at an end in a forward direction which is the direction of motion of the vehicle (100). The fork member (207) comprises one or more openings (207O). The one or more openings (207O) are configured to receive the sealing assembly (300) and a joining portion (204) of the column member (201).
[0054] As shown in Figure 6 to 9, the trailing member (202) further comprises a plurality of mounting portions (206) in opposite end toward the rear side. The plurality of mounting portions (206) comprises a suspension mounting (206S) and a rotor mounting (206R). The suspension mounting (206S) is configured to mount a second configuration of the one or more suspension members (103, not shown) of the vehicle (100). The rotor mounting (206R) is configured to mount the one or more rotating member (101, not shown) of the vehicle (100) by a mounting member (203).
[0055] Figure – 4 and Figure 9 have been taken together for discussion, where Figure - 4 illustrates a section view of the sealing assembly along an axis A-A (shown in Fig.2) as per another embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure - 4 of the present invention provides a sealing assembly (300) for a steering assembly (200) of a vehicle (100) and Figure 9: illustrates a rear perspective view of a steering column and a trailing member of a steering assembly and an exploded view of sealing assembly as per another embodiment of the present invention.
[0056] As shown in Figure 4, the sealing assembly (300) comprises one or more sealing members (301) and a cover member (302). The one or more sealing members (301) are configured to be disposed in the one or more openings (207O) of a trailing member (202) of the steering assembly (200). The cover member (302) is configured to cover the sealing assembly (300). The cover member (302) comprises a plurality of openings (302O) and the cover member (302) is configured to connect to a cover mounting (209) of a column member (201) of the steering assembly (200) via a plurality of connecting members (303). The trailing member (202) comprises one or more internal seals (208). The one or more internal seals (208) are disposed inside one or more opening (207O) of a fork member (207) of the trailing member (202). The sealing assembly (300) comprises a plurality of stopping members (306). The plurality of stopping members (306) is configured to prohibit the movement of the sealing assembly along an axis (X-X’). The axis (X-X’) being an axis passing through a center of the one or more openings (207O) of the fork member (207).
[0057] The one or more sealing members (301) are disposed between the joining portion (204) of the column member (201) and the fork member (207) of the trailing member (202). Further, the one or more sealing members (301) are disposed around a circumference of one or more opening (207O) of the fork member (207). The one or more sealing members (301) are configured to seal a second space (S2) between the joining portion and the fork member (207). As per an embodiment of the present invention, the one or more seals comprises two seals which are disposed on the both side of the joining portion (204) and both internal sides of the fork member (202), thereby ensuring a protection of the configuration of column member (201) and trailing member (202) against dust and water and protects the internal components of the sealing assembly (300).
[0058] The one or more internal seals (208) are disposed between a joining portion (204) of the column member (201) and a lateral circumference (305L) of a plurality of bearings (305) of the sealing assembly (300). The one or more internal seals (208) are also disposed around a circumference of one or more pin members (304) of the sealing assembly (300). The one or more internal seals (208) are configured to seal a first space (S1) between the joining portion (204) and the lateral circumference (305L). As per an embodiment of the present invention, the one or more internal seals (208) comprises at least two seals which are disposed internally on both the inside portions of the fork member (207) via one or more openings (207O), this configuration of the one or more internal seals (208) helps in sealing the space (S1) and preventing the entry of water and dust inside the plurality of bearings (305) and the one or more pin members (304), thereby prevents the rusting and increase the life of the plurality of bearings (305) and the one or more pin members (304).
[0059] The one or more internal seals (208) and the one or more sealing members (301) are configured to be disposed coaxially along an axis (X-X’), the axis (X-X’) is an axis passing through a center of the one or more opening (207O).
[0060] As shown in Figure 9, the sealing assembly (300) comprises one or more pin members (304). The one or more openings (207O) of the trailing member (202) are configured to receive the one or more pin members (304), thereby enabling a pivoting movement of the joining portion (204). The cover member (302) is configured to be connected to a cover mounting (209) of a column member (201) of the steering assembly (200) via a plurality of connecting members (303). The sealing assembly (300) comprises a plurality of bearing members (305). The plurality of bearing members (305) is configured to be disposed in the one or more openings (207O) of the trailing member (202). The plurality of bearing members (305) is configured to rotatably mount one or more pin members (304) of the sealing assembly (200).
[0061] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cover member (302) comprises a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is configured to securely fasten the cover member (302) to the cover mounting (209) of the column member (201), accordingly, enhancing the sealing integrity of the sealing assembly (300).
[0062] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the sealing assembly (300) further comprises a pressure relief mechanism. The pressure relief mechanism is configured to regulate internal pressure within the sealing assembly (300) during operation, accordingly, preventing excessive stress on the sealing members (301) and ensuring long-term reliability.
[0063] As shown in Figure 10: illustrates a left side view of a vehicle (100). The vehicle (100) comprises the steering assembly (200). The steering assembly (200) is configured to control the direction of the vehicle (100). The steering assembly (200) comprises a column member (201) and a trailing member (202, not shown). One end of the column member (201, not shown) comprises the joining portion (204, not shown) which is configured to pivotably connect to the trailing member (202, not shown) via one or more pin members (304, not shown) of the sealing assembly (300, not shown). The other end of the column member (201, not shown) is joined to the controlling means. In an embodiment, the controlling means may include but not limited to a handlebar, a steering wheel etc. of the vehicle. The controlling means is used for controlling the direction of motion of the vehicle (100) via the one end of the column member (201). The joining portion (204) comprises an opening (205, not shown). The opening (205) is configured to receive one or more pin members (304, not shown) of the sealing assembly (300, not shown). The column member (201) comprises a cover mounting (209, not shown). The cover mounting (209, not shown) is configured to mount the cover member (302) via a plurality of connecting members (303, not shown). The connecting members (303) can be selected from a group comprising, bolts, screws or snap fitting fasteners and other known types of fasteners.
[0064] As illustrated by Figure 11, a method (500) for assembling a sealing assembly (300) on a steering assembly (200) of a vehicle (100). The method (500) comprises a plurality of steps. As a first step (501), the one or more sealing members (301) are disposed on an external portion of the one or more opening (207O) of the trailing member (202) of the steering assembly (200) and the one or more openings (207O) are configured to receive one or more internal seals (208) internally. In an embodiment, the external portion of the one or more opening (207O) is an outer periphery of the one or more opening (207O). The one or more seals (301) serves to protect the internal components of the sealing assembly (300) from dust and water entry. As a second step (502), the fork member (207) of the trailing member (202) receives the joining portion (204) of the column member (201) of the steering assembly (200). As a third step (503), the one or more pin members (304) of the sealing assembly (300) are pressed through the one or more opening (207) and through the opening (205) of the column member (201), thereby securing the column member (201) in the fork member (207), thereby aligning the joining portion (204) and the fork member (207). The alignment ensures that the configuration of the joining portion (204) and the fork member (207) is stable and can function properly.
[0065] As a fourth step (504), the plurality of bearing members (305) is fitted on both sides of the one or more pin members (304) and the plurality of bearing members (305) is secured through the plurality of stopping members (306). The plurality of stopping members (306) is configured to arrest the movement of the sealing assembly along an axis (X-X’), thereby securing the sealing assembly (300) in the trailing member (202). As a fifth step (505), the cover member (302) of the sealing assembly is mounted on the cover mounting (209) of the column member (201) via the plurality of connecting members (303), thereby covering the sealing assembly (300) against environmental factors.
[0066] The sealing assembly (300) and associated methods (500) of the present disclosure can be adapted for use in various types of vehicles, including three-wheelers, four-wheelers, and other automotive applications, providing versatility and scalability in vehicle configuration. According to the above disclosure, the present invention provides various advantages. In a preferred embodiment, the sealing assembly (300) is provided with additional one or more sealing members (301) along with a cover member (302). The cover member (302) covers the one or more sealing members (301) which makes the sealing assembly (300) more resilient against the entry of water and dust.
[0067] The sealing assembly (300) provided in the present invention also protect the one or more pin members (304) and one or more bearing members (305) against rusting thereby increasing their lifecycle and eliminating the need for total replacement of the column member (201) which used to get corroded at the joining portion (204) due to rusting.
[0068] The one or more sealing members (301) of the sealing assembly (300) prevent water and dust entry thereby also increasing the life of the one or more internal seals (208) which used to get damaged and fail to protect the one or more pin members (304) and one or more bearing members (305) from rusting.
[0069] The sealing assembly (300) has reduced the problem of rusting due to water and dust entry, as a result, the life cycle of the configuration of column member (201) and the trailing member (202) may increase by 60% . Therefore, the cost of maintenance has also been reduced as the same parts can used for a longer period. Further, the assembly (300) minimizes the need for frequent maintenance interventions, as it mitigates the risk of component degradation due to environmental factors.
[0070] The cover member (302) protects all the internal components of the sealing assembly (300) from external physical and environmental impacts, thereby improving the life of the sealing assembly (300).
[0071] In present invention the one or more pin members (304) are rotatably supported by the one or more bearing members (305), this configuration is effectively capable of withstanding the dynamic loads occurring due to the pivoting configuration of the column member (201) and the trailing member (202).
[0072] Therefore, the present invention provides a sealing assembly which protects the configuration of the column member and trailing arm against the entry of water and dust, increasing the life of the steering assembly. Further, a configuration of the one or more pin members and a plurality of bearing members which is capable of withstanding the dynamic load acting on it.
[0073] 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.
[0074] 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.
[0075] 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
300 A sealing assembly
301 One or more sealing members
302 A cover member
303 A plurality of connecting members
304 One or more pin members
305 A plurality of bearing members
305L A lateral circumference of a plurality of bearings
306 A plurality of stopping members
200 A steering assembly
201 A column member
201B A bend of a column member
201S One or more suspension mountings
202 A trailing member
203 A mounting member of a steering assembly
204 A joining portion of a column member
205 An opening of the column member
206 A plurality of mounting portions of trailing member
206S A suspension mounting of a trailing member
206R A rotor mounting of a trailing member
207 A fork member of a trailing member
207O One or more openings of a fork member
208 One or more internal seals of a trailing member
209 A cover mounting of a column member
100 A vehicle
101 One or more rotating members of a vehicle
102 One or more components of a vehicle
103 One or more suspension members of a vehicle
S1 Space between a joining portion of a column member and a lateral circumference of a plurality of bearings
S2 Space between a joining portion of a column member and a fork member

, Claims:We claim:
1. A steering assembly (200) of a vehicle (100), the steering assembly (200) comprising:
a column member (201), the column member (201) being configured to move the steering assembly (200);
a trailing member (202), the trailing member being configured to be mounted on one or more rotating members (101) of a vehicle (100), and the trailing member (202) being connected to the column member (201) via one or more openings (207O) disposed on the trailing member (202), and
a sealing assembly (300), the sealing assembly (300) comprising:
one or more sealing members (301), the one or more sealing members (301) being configured to be disposed in the one or more openings (207O); and
a cover member (302), the cover member (302) being configured to cover one or more sealing members (301).
2. The steering assembly (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the column member (201) comprises:
one or more suspension mountings (201S), the one or more suspension mountings (201S) being configured to mount a first configuration of one or more suspension members (103) of the vehicle (100); and
a joining portion (204), the joining portion (204) being configured to pivotably connected to the trailing member (202) via one or more pin members (304) of the sealing assembly (300) and the joining portion (204) comprises an opening (205), the opening (205) being configured to receive one or more pin members (304) of the sealing assembly (300).
3. The steering assembly (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the column member (201) comprises: a cover mounting (209), the cover mounting (209) being configured to mount the cover member (302) via a plurality of connecting members (303), and the cover member (302) being configured to cover the one or more sealing members (301).
4. The steering assembly (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the trailing member (202) comprises a fork member (207), the one or more openings (207O) being disposed on the fork member (207), and the one or more openings (207O) being configured to receive a joining portion (204) of the column member (201).
5. The steering assembly (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the trailing member (202) comprises:
a plurality of mounting portions (206), the plurality of mounting portions (206) comprising:
a suspension mounting (206S), the suspension mounting (206S) being configured to mount a second configuration of the one or more suspension members (103) of the vehicle (100); and
a rotor mounting (206R), the rotor mounting (206R) being configured to mount the one or more rotating members (101) of the vehicle (100) by a mounting member (203).
6. The steering assembly (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the trailing member (202) comprising one or more internal seals (208), the one or more internal seals (208) being disposed inside one or more openings (207O) of a fork member (207) of the trailing member (202).
7. The steering assembly (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the one or more internal seals (208) being disposed between a joining portion (204) of the column member (201) and a lateral circumference (305L) of a plurality of bearings (305) of the sealing assembly (300), and the one or more internal seals (208) being disposed around a circumference of one or more pin members (304) of the sealing assembly (300), and
the one or more internal seals (208) being configured to seal a first space (S1) between the joining portion (204) and the lateral circumference (305L) of the plurality of bearings (305).
8. The steering assembly (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the one or more internal seals (208) and the one or more sealing members (301) being configured to be disposed coaxially along an axis (X-X’), the axis (X-X’) being an axis passing through a center of the one or more openings (207O).
9. A sealing assembly (300) for a steering assembly (200) of a vehicle (100), the sealing assembly (300) comprising:
one or more sealing members (301), the one or more sealing members (301) being configured to be disposed in one or more openings (207O) of a trailing member (202) of the steering assembly (200) and
a cover member (302), the cover member (302) being configured to cover the one or more sealing members (301), the cover member (302) comprising a plurality of openings (302O) and the cover member (302) being configured to be connected to a cover mounting (209) of a column member (201) of the steering assembly (200) via a plurality of connecting members (303).
10. The sealing assembly (300) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the one or more sealing members (301) being disposed between a joining portion (204) of a column member (201) of the steering assembly (200) and a fork member (207) of the trailing member (202), and
the one or more sealing members (301) being disposed around a circumference of the one or more openings (207O) of the fork member (207), and
the one or more sealing members (301) being configured to seal a second space (S2) between a joining portion (204) and the fork member (207).
11. The sealing assembly (300) as claimed in claim 9 wherein, the sealing assembly (300) comprising: one or more pin members (304), and one or more openings (207O) of the trailing member (202) being configured to receive the one or more pin members (304); and a plurality of bearing members (305), the plurality of bearing members (305) being configured to be disposed in the one or more openings (207O) of the trailing member (202) and configured to rotatably mount one or more pin members (304) of the sealing assembly.
12. The sealing assembly (300) as claimed in claim 11 wherein, the sealing assembly (300) comprising a plurality of stopping members (306), the plurality of stopping members (306) being configured to arrest a lateral movement of the sealing assembly (300) and the plurality of bearing members (305).
13. A method (500) for assembling a sealing assembly (300) on a steering assembly (200), the method (500) comprising a plurality of steps of:
disposing (step 501), one or more sealing members (301) on an external portion of one or more openings (207O) of a trailing member (202) of the steering assembly (200), the one or more openings (207O) are configured to internally receive one or more internal seals (208);
receiving (step 502), by a fork member (207) of the trailing member (202) a joining portion (204) of a column member (201) of the steering assembly (200);
pressing (step 503), one or more pin members (304) of the sealing assembly (300) and the one or more internal seals (208) of the steering assembly (200) through the one or more openings (207) and the one or more pin members (304) through an opening (205) of the column member (201);
fitting (step 504), a plurality of bearing members (305 on both sides of the one or more pin members (304) and the plurality of bearing members (305) is secured through a plurality of stopping members (306), the plurality of stopping members (306) is configured to arrest the movement of the sealing assembly (300) along an axis (X-X’); and
mounting (step 505), a cover member (302) of the sealing assembly (300) on a cover mounting (209) of the column member (201) via a plurality of connecting members (303).
Dated this 5th day of March 2024

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