Abstract: The present invention discloses a vehicle (100). The vehicle comprises of at least one gaseous fuel cylinder (155) positioned within a accommodating space (135) of a loading compartment (135a) of the vehicle (100), such that the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder (155) being configured to be disposed on one of a right-hand side and a left-hand side of the vehicle's central longitudinal axis (AB) to ensure optimal safety, balance, and efficiency within the vehicle's structure.
Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention generally relates to a vehicle. More particularly, the present invention relates to a mounting arrangement of a gaseous fuel cylinder in a vehicle.
BACKGROUND
[0002] In the transportation landscape, a three-wheeled vehicle, herein interchangeably referred as “vehicle” has emerged as a vital and widely adopted means for transporting goods. The compact nature, cost-effectiveness, and agility of the three-wheeled vehicles, render them a favored choice for businesses involved in local logistics, last-mile delivery, and the conveyance of diverse cargo.
[0003] Conventionally, the three-wheeled vehicles are equipped with either a two-stroke or a four-stroke engine, which operates on liquid fuels like petrol or diesel. The engine is typically positioned either at the rear of the vehicle or beneath the driver's seat in the front of the vehicle. The placement of the engine conventionally depends on the vehicle's specification and the intended purpose of the vehicle.
[0004] Conventionally, the front of the three-wheeled vehicle includes an enclosed driver's cabin. The driver’s cabin provides a comfortable and safe space for the driver and houses essential components, such as a steering mechanism and an instrument console. The driver’s cabin further includes a driver's seat, which provides an unobstructed view, facilitates precise control of the vehicle and ensuring the safety of both the driver and the cargo being transported.
[0005] The rear of the three-wheeled vehicle includes a dedicated area that serves as a cargo storage space or a passenger seating area. Depending on the intended use and configuration, the cargo storage space can be either an exposed pickup tray or an enclosed compartment for securely carrying an array of goods.
[0006] In many conventional three-wheeled vehicles the power assembly, such as the engine assembly, is commonly positioned at the vehicle's rear, beneath the cargo storage area. This arrangement optimizes space utilization, ensuring a compact vehicle design, while ensuring convenient access to the engine through a rear opening. The accessibility of the engine through the rear opening is crucial for regular maintenance and repairs, ensuring the vehicle's longevity and continued reliability.
[0007] With the increasing emphasis on environmental consciousness and the enforcement of stricter emissions regulations, the traditional three-wheeled vehicles are presented with a significant challenge. This challenge involves the need to adapt and reduce their carbon footprint. One feasible solution entails the transition from conventional liquid fuels like petrol and diesel to cleaner-burning gaseous alternatives, such as LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) or CNG (Compressed Natural Gas). This transition can lead to a substantial reduction in emissions, making the vehicles more environmentally responsible and in alignment with evolving environmental mandates.
[0008] Furthermore, beyond the environmental advantages, the adoption of gaseous fuels brings forth economic benefits. Gaseous fuel cylinders such as LPG and CNG are typically more cost-effective when compared to traditional liquid fuels, resulting in significant operational cost savings for businesses. This economic advantage not only facilitates compliance with emissions regulations but also represents a sound business decision for those managing these three-wheeled goods vehicles.
[0009] Conventionally, gaseous fuel is stored in a refillable cylinder that is mounted on a suitable structure affixed to the vehicle's frame assembly. The refilling of this cylinder is carried out at designated filling stations, facilitated by a fitting nozzle provided on the vehicle for this purpose. Additionally, the gas cylinder is equipped with a shut-off valve to be used in case of emergencies.
[00010] However, these cylinders used for on-board storage of gaseous fuel pose challenges due to their bulkiness and weight in comparison to the unloaded or loaded weight of the vehicle. A typical cylinder for such applications weighs between 35kg to 65 kg. These weights represent approximately 10% to 15% of the unloaded vehicle weight and 5% to 7% of the loaded vehicle weight. Ideally, it is preferred to maintain a balanced weight distribution on all three wheels of the three-wheeled goods vehicle. Therefore, the choice of the mounting arrangement for the gaseous fuel cylinder becomes a challenge for vehicle designers.
[00011] Currently, some existing configurations position the gaseous fuel cylinder at the rear of the vehicle, behind the engine. In this setup, the rear wheels bear a substantial load, including the weight of the engine, gas cylinder, and a portion of the cargo carried on the tray, while the front wheel bears a comparatively lighter load. The substantial weight of the gaseous fuel cylinder can lead to driving instability, potentially causing the front wheel to lift due to a cantilever effect. Furthermore, when the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder is disposed near the rear wheel axis, its significant weight can place additional stress on the rear wheels, resulting in increased tire wear.
[00012] Furthermore, when the gas cylinder is mounted at the rear of the vehicle, the weight of the cylinder, in addition to the loaded pickup tray or storage compartment, creates a cantilever effect with the rear wheel axis as the fulcrum. This can result in driving instability as it tends to lift the front wheel. Moreover, having the cylinder at the rear exposes it to potential impacts from behind, raising safety concerns.
[00013] Alternatively, some prior art suggests placing the gaseous fuel cylinder at the front of the engine, aligned with the vehicle's transverse axis or widthwise, to facilitate easy access for refilling. However, this positioning of the gaseous fuel cylinder presents several challenges. For instance, situating a heavy gas cylinder at the front of a three-wheeled vehicle can result in an uneven weight distribution, with a greater load on the front wheel. This configuration has the potential to impact the vehicle's stability, steering, and maneuverability, thus compromising overall safety during operation.
[00014] Moreover, placing the gaseous fuel cylinder along the vehicle's transverse axis necessitates the use of longer connecting tubes to link the cylinder with the power assembly, typically located at the rear of the three-wheeled vehicle. This configuration leads to complex routing of these connecting tubes, incurring unnecessary costs and potentially affecting the ease of servicing and the vehicle's safety.
[00015] The additional weight at the front of the vehicle can adversely affect steering and maneuverability, making the vehicle less responsive and potentially less agile when navigating congested urban areas or tight spaces.
[00016] Furthermore, in the event of a collision or impact, having the gas cylinder at the front poses safety risks, as it may be more exposed to damage or rupture, potentially leading to gas leaks or other hazardous situations.
[00017] In scenarios where the engine or the power assembly is also placed at the front of the vehicle along with the gaseous fuel cylinder, an uneven weight distribution may occur, particularly if the engine is heavy. This exacerbates the weight distribution issue and further compromises vehicle stability.
[00018] Thus, there is a need in the art for a vehicle, which addresses at least the aforementioned problems.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[00019] The present subject matter discloses a vehicle having a front portion and a rear portion. The rear portion of the vehicle comprises of at least one gaseous fuel cylinder. The frame of the vehicle houses the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder in the rear portion of the vehicle, within an accommodating space of a loading compartment, below a load-carrying tray. The placement of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder below the load-carrying tray ensures that the load carrying space within the loading compartment of the vehicle is not compromised or eaten up by the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder. The loading compartment is configured for accommodating either cargo goods or passengers.
[00020] Further, the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder is positioned such that the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder is positioned on one of a right-hand side and a left-hand side of a vehicle’s central longitudinal axis.
[00021] Because of the positioning of the gaseous fuel cylinder’s on either right-hand side or left-hand side of the vehicle’s central longitudinal axis, multiple advantages are achieved. Furthermore, the positioning of the gaseous fuel cylinder on one of the right-hand side and the left-hand side of the vehicle's longitudinal axis, facilitates the allocation of bulky components such as the fuel tank and gaseous fuel filling unit on the opposite side of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder.
[00022] Furthermore, because of positioning the gaseous fuel cylinder on either the right-hand side or the left-hand side of the vehicle’s longitudinal axis, the other available side can be used to accommodate an additional gaseous fuel cylinder as a backup. This configuration optimizes weight distribution and enables a more compact layout for accommodating bulky components without necessitating substantial structural changes. By such positioning the gaseous fuel cylinder, the weight distribution becomes more centralized between the front and rear wheels. This balanced weight distribution not only improves driving stability but also amplifies steering control and manoeuvrability. Particularly in bustling urban environments, these enhancements render the vehicle more responsive and agile.
[00023] Further, such positioning of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder reduces stress on the rear wheels, resulting in longer tire life and cost savings.
[00024] Further, such positioning of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder minimizes overall exposure of the vehicle to potential impacts from both the front and rear of the vehicle. This minimizes the risk of damage or rupture of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder in the event of a collision or impact, providing an additional layer of safety.
[00025] Moreover, such positioning of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder simplifies the overall construction of the vehicle, reducing associated costs. It also streamlines servicing and maintenance, enhancing safety and efficiency.
[00026] Furthermore, such positioning of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder offers more flexibility in designing the vehicle's layout and cargo space. It enables the optimization of available space for various purposes, such as accommodating passengers or cargo, without being constrained by the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder's location. It paves the way for modular vehicle designs, where different types of power assembly sources, such as gas, electric, or hybrid, can be accommodated without major structural modifications, enhancing versatility and adaptability.
[00027] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the present claimed subject matter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[00028] The details are described with reference to an embodiment of a vahicle along with the accompanying diagrams. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to reference similar features and components.
[00029] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of an exemplary three-wheeled vehicle (100), in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[00030] Figure 2 exemplarily illustrates a top view of an exemplary three-wheeled vehicle (100), in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[00031] Figure 3 and Figure 4 exemplarily illustrate top view of the exemplary three-wheeled vehicle (100), in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[00032] In one aspect, the present invention is directed towards a three-wheeled vehicle, herein also referred to as “vehicle”.
[00033] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of an exemplary three-wheeled vehicle (100), in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. The vehicle 100 is laterally divided into two portions, a front portion F and a rear portion R, along a line X-X’. The front portion F of the vehicle 100 comprises of a driver cabin 110 attached to a frame assembly 130 at a front of the vehicle 100. The driver cabin 110 is an enclosed space that provides a comfortable and safe space for the driver and houses essential components, such as a steering mechanism and an instrument console. The driver’s cabin 110 further includes a driver's seat (not shown), which provides an unobstructed view, facilitates precise control of the vehicle 100 and ensuring the safety of both the driver and the cargo or passengers being transported. A partition wall 110a is positioned along the line X-X’ extending in vehicle 100 up-down direction. The rear portion R comprises of a loading compartment 135a. The loading compartment 135a includes a load-carrying tray 115 for carrying goods, and an accommodating space 135 for accommodating vehicular components. In another embodiment, the rear portion R of the vehicle 100 has a long passenger seat (not shown) with a seating capacity of minimum three passengers. The vehicle 100 can be used as a passenger carrier vehicle or a load carrier vehicle.
[00034] The frame assembly 130 of the vehicle 100 includes a head tube (not shown) and a main frame assembly (not shown) extending rearward from the head tube. The vehicle 100 has a front cowl 180 positioned in front of the head tube. A floorboard (not shown) extends from a bottom portion of the front cowl 180, towards the rear portion R of the vehicle 100 and the floorboard is supported by a main frame (not shown). A handlebar assembly (not shown) is rotatably supported by the head tube. A steering assembly (not shown) comprising a front fork is connected to the handlebar assembly and aids in steering a front wheel 105. Two or more rear wheels 125 are connected to a swing arm (not shown) through one or more suspension(s) (not shown) on the rear of the vehicle 100.
[00035] A power assembly 140 (shown in Figure 2) is mounted to the frame assembly 130 on the rear portion R of the vehicle 100. In an embodiment, the power assembly 140 being one of an engine assembly or a battery. This configuration optimizes space utilization, ensuring a compact vehicle, while ensuring convenient access to the power assembly 100 through a rear opening (not shown). The accessibility of the power assembly (100) through the rear opening is crucial for regular maintenance and repairs, ensuring the vehicle's longevity and continued reliability.
[00036] In an embodiment, the engine assembly comprises of an IC engine (not shown), a transmission system (not shown), which is functionally connected to the rear wheels 125 for transmitting power from the engine assembly. The frame of the vehicle houses the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 in the rear portion R of the vehicle 100, within the accommodating space 135, below a load-carrying tray 115. The placement of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 below the load-carrying tray 115 ensures that the load carrying space of the loading compartment 135a of the vehicle 100 is not compromised or eaten up by the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155.
[00037] Figure 2 exemplarily illustrates a top view of an exemplary three-wheeled vehicle (100), in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. The present embodiment illustrates the top view of the three-wheeled vehicle 100 without the load-carrying tray 115 (shown in Figure 1). The frame assembly 130 includes the head tube (not shown), and the main frame (not shown). The main frame comprises of a main tube (not shown), a centre long member (not shown) rigidly attached to the main tube. The main frame further comprises of a right long member 130a, and a left long member 130b. The right long member 130a and the left long member 130b are parallelly connected to each other by means of a middle cross member 130e, and a rear cross member 130d (shown in Figure 3), such that the right long member 130a and the left long member 130b extend in a direction substantially parallel to the lateral direction of the vehicle 100. The main frame also comprises an engine suspension member 130c. The right long member 130a and the left long member 130b extend longitudinally from a substantially a front portion F of the vehicle 100 to a substantially rear portion R of the vehicle 100. The space between the load-carrying tray 115 and the frame assembly 130 on the rear portion R of the vehicle 100, includes a a loading compartment 135a. The loading compartment 135a is configured for accommodating either goods or passengers The accommodating space 135 is also configured to accommodate vehicular components, such as the power assembly 140, at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 (shown in Figure 3), an exhaust assembly 145, a fuel tank assembly 150 (shown in Figure 3).
[00038] On or near the axis of the rear wheels 125, the power assembly 140 is mounted on the frame assembly 130, by means of the engine suspension member 130c. The engine suspension member 130c is connected to the left long member 130b and the right long member 130a on each left and right side of the vehicle 100, by means of at least one joining structure 130cc. Further, the exhaust assembly 145 is mounted on the rear most part of the rear portion R of the vehicle 100, behind the engine assembly 140.
[00039] Figure 3 and Figure 4 exemplarily illustrates top views of an exemplary three-wheeled vehicle 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. The present embodiments illustrate the top view of the three-wheeled vehicle 100 without the load-carrying tray 115 (shown in Figure 1). Figure 3 exemplarily illustrates positioning of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 on right-hand side of the vehicle’s central longitudinal axis AB. Figure 4 exemplarily illustrates positioning of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 on left-hand side of the vehicle’s central longitudinal axis AB.
[00040] Referring to Figures 3 and Figure 4, the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 is securely mounted on a support structure 170 attached to the frame assembly 130. The support structure 170 is configured to be attached or affixed or integrated with the frame assembly 130, preferably by welding to the frame assembly 130. The support structure 170 is positioned substantially in proximity of the partition wall 110a of the driver cabin 110.
[00041] At least one holding or resting bracket (not shown), is fixed to the support structure 170. The at least one holding or resting bracket substantially of the shape confirming with the outer surface of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155, extending downward, creating space for accommodating the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155. The at least one holding bracket is equipped with known fastening arrangement. At least one securing clamp 160, featuring threaded portions at its end, is wrapped around the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 and tightened using the fastening arrangement, for securing the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 in position. The at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 is securely fastened with the adjustment of the conventional nuts provided in the fastening arrangement.
[00042] In an embodiment, a rubber padding is inserted between the lower outer surface of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 and the inner surface of the holding bracket, as well as between the upper outer surface of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 and the at least one securing clamp 160 to dampen vibrations transmitted to the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 from the vehicle 100.
[00043] In the present invention, the vehicle 100 includes the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 configured to be disposed within the accommodating space 135 of the rear portion R, behind the driver cabin 110 and in front of the power assembly 140. In the present invention, the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 is positioned in such a manner that a central axis A’B’ of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 is positioned on one of a right-hand side and a left-hand side of from a vehicle’s central longitudinal axis AB. The central axis A’B’ of the gaseous fuel cylinder 155 refers to an imaginary line that runs through the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder's centre, dividing the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 into two symmetrical halves. This means that the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 is configured to be positioned such that the central axis of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 is positioned on one of a right-hand-side and a left-hand side of the vehicle's front-to-back central axis. The present configuration of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155, ensures that the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 is optimally positioned for safety, balance, and efficient use within the vehicle's overall structure.
[00044] In an embodiment, the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 is disposed between the driver cabin 110 and the power assembly 140.
[00045] In an embodiment, the accommodating space 135 is an accommodating space between the frame assembly 130 of the vehicle 100 and one of a load-carrying tray 115 and an enclosed luggage compartment or loading compartment 135a of the vehicle 100.
[00046] In another embodiment, the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 includes a gaseous fuel inlet 155a. The gaseous fuel inlet 155a facilitates the loading or refilling of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155.
[00047] Further one end of a first connecting tube 155b is configured to connect the gaseous fuel inlet 155a of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 ensuring a secure and airtight connection to the gaseous fuel inlet 155a. The other end of the first connecting tube 155b is connected to the power assembly 140.
[00048] Further, a second connecting tube 155c is configured to connect the gaseous fuel inlet 155a of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 to the gaseous fuel filling unit 120. The gaseous fuel filling unit 120 is affixed with one of the right long members 130a and the left long member 130b of the frame assembly 130 of the vehicle 100. The gaseous fuel filling unit 120 serves as a conduit for gaseous fuel filling. Because of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 positioned on either right-hand side or the left-hand side of the longitudinal axis AB of the vehicle 100, the gaseous fuel filling unit 120 is positioned in proximity of the gaseous fuel inlet 155a, and thereby ensuring that the length of the second connecting tube 155c is short.
[00049] Placing the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle 100, distributes the weight of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 more evenly between the front and rear wheels (105, 125). This balanced weight distribution can enhance driving stability and reduce the risk of the front wheel 105 lifting due to a cantilever effect, as seen in existing setups with rear-mounted at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155. The improved weight distribution contributes to better driving stability, steering control, and manoeuvrability. The vehicle 100 is less likely to be affected by imbalanced weight, making it more responsive and agile, especially when navigating through congested urban areas or tight spaces.
[00050] Further, by mitigating the substantial weight on the rear wheels 125, as observed in setups where the one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 is mounted at the rear, one can reduce the stress on the rear wheels 125 and the resulting tire wear. This leads to cost savings and prolongs the life of the tires.
[00051] Placing the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 along the longitudinal direction of the of the vehicle 100, can reduce exposure to potential impacts from both the front and rear of the vehicle 100. This can enhance the safety of the one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 and reduce the risk of damage or rupture in the event of a collision or impact.
[00052] Further, placing the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle 100, on right-hand side or left-hand side of the vehicle's central longitudinal axis, can minimize the need for longer connecting tubes connecting the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 and the power assembly 140, as seen in setups with front-mounted cylinders. Thereby, simplifying the overall vehicle's construction and reducing associated costs. This can also make servicing and maintenance more straightforward, further enhancing the vehicle's safety and efficiency.
[00053] Further, placing the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle 100, on right-hand side or left-hand side of the, provides more flexibility in designing the vehicle's layout and cargo space. It may allow for optimizing the use of available space for various purposes, such as accommodating passengers or cargo, without being constrained by the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder's location. Further, such positioning may enable the development of modular vehicle layout, where different types of power assembly sources (e.g., gas, electric, hybrid) or an additional gaseous fuel cylinder can be accommodated without major structural modifications, enhancing versatility and adaptability.
[00054] Further, the placement of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle 100, on right-hand side or left-hand side of the , can make a vehicle adaptable to various vehicle types, not limited to three-wheeled vehicles. It may also be suitable for other types of vehicles, including four-wheelers or different vehicle categories, where balanced weight distribution is crucial for stability and safety.
[00055] Further, in an embodiment the vehicle 100 is provided with a safety shut-off valve. The safety shut-off valve is disposed beside the gaseous fuel filling unit 120, to ensure the safe and complete filling of the gaseous fuel in the vehicle 100. This safety feature can help prevent overfilling, leaks, or other potential hazards associated with gaseous fuel filling in the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155.
[00056] Because of the positioning of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder’s 155 central axis (A’B’) away from the vehicle’s central longitudinal axis (AB), particularly on either the right-hand side or the left-hand side, multiple advantages are achieved. Such as positioning of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 distributes the weight of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 evenly between the front 105 and rear wheels 125, enhancing driving stability and reducing the risk of the front wheel 105 lifting during operation. This balanced weight distribution not only improves driving stability but also amplifies steering control and manoeuvrability. Particularly in bustling urban environments, these enhancements render the vehicle more responsive and agile. Additionally, the positioning of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 on either right-hand side or left-hand side of the vehicle’s longitudinal axis (AB) allows for the allocation of bulky components such as the fuel tank assembly 150 and the gaseous fuel filling unit 175 to the opposite side of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155. Such configuration not only contributes to optimized weight distribution but also enables a more compact packaging of bulky components without making any significant structural changes.
[00057] Furthermore, because of positioning the gaseous fuel cylinder 155 on either the right-hand side or the left-hand side of the vehicle’s longitudinal axis (AB), the other available side can be used to accommodate an additional gaseous fuel cylinder (not shown) as a backup. This configuration further optimizes weight distribution and enables a more compact layout configuration for bulky components without necessitating substantial structural changes.
[00058] Further, the vehicle 100 includes a fuel tank assembly 150 disposed in proximity of the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155. The fuel tank assembly 150 includes a fuel filling unit 175 being affixed with one of a right long member 130a and a left long member 130b of a frame assembly 130 of the vehicle 100.
[00059] In an embodiment the fuel filling unit 175 is affixed on the opposite long member (130a, 130b) of the frame assembly 130 where the gaseous fuel filling unit 120 is also affixed. For example, if the fuel filling unit 175 is affixed to the right long member 130a, the gaseous fuel filling unit 120 is affixed to the left long member 130b.
[00060] In another embodiment, the gaseous fuel filling unit 120 is and the at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 is configured to be positioned on same side, offering advantages related to compact packaging, structural integrity, weight distribution, load capacity, maintenance efficiency, customization, safety, and manufacturing.
[00061] Placing the fuel tank assembly 150 and the gaseous fuel cylinder 155 on different side of the frame assembly 130, can help to maintain a balanced weight distribution across the vehicle 100, while maintaining the compact packaging. Further, such separation of the filling units (175, 120) can simplify access for servicing and maintenance. It makes it easier to identify the different fuel filling units (175, 120). Further, such separation of the filling units (175, 120) along with the fuel tank assembly 150 and the gaseous fuel cylinder 155 makes it easier for service person to work on each component independently without disassembling or navigating around other components, leading to more efficient and cost-effective maintenance procedures. Furthermore, by isolating the filling units (175, 120) along the fuel tank assembly 150 and the gaseous fuel cylinder 155 on different frame members, the risk of vibrations or oscillations transferring from one unit to another is minimized. This can help maintain the integrity of the units and reduce wear and tear due to vibration.
[00062] Figure 5 exemplarily illustrates top view of an exemplary three-wheeled vehicle 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. The present embodiment illustrates the top view of the three-wheeled vehicle 100 without the load-carrying tray 115 (shown in Figure 1) and at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155.
[00063] The at least one gaseous fuel cylinder 155 is securely mounted on the support structure 170 attached to the frame assembly 130. The support structure 170 is configured to be attached or affixed or integrated with the frame assembly 130, preferably by welding to the frame assembly 130. The support structure 170 is positioned substantially in proximity of the partition wall 110a of the driver cabin 110. The support structure 170 includes at least one first member 170a, longitudinally disposed in a vehicle front-rear direction. The support structure 170 further includes at least one second member 170b, transversally disposed in a vehicle left-right direction. At least one first member 170a and at least one second member 170b are positioned perpendicularly to each other.
[00064] The present subject matter is described using an exemplary three wheeled vehicle, whereas the claimed subject matter can be used in any other type of vehicle employing above-mentioned gaseous fuel cylinder, with required changes and without deviating from the scope of invention. Further, it is intended that the disclosure and examples given herein be considered as exemplary only.
List of Reference numerals
100: vehicle
F: front portion
R: rear portion
105: front wheel
110: driver cabin
110a: partition wall
115: load-carrying tray
120: gaseous fuel filling unit
125: rear wheel
130: frame assembly
130a: right long member
130b: left long member
130c: engine suspension member
130cc: joining structure
130d: rear cross member
130e: middle cross member
135: loading compartment
135a: accommodating space
140: power assembly
150: fuel tank assembly
155: gaseous fuel cylinder
155a: gaseous fuel inlet
155b: first connecting tube
155c: second connecting tube
160: securing clamp
170: support structure
170a: first member
170b: second member
175: fuel filling unit
180: front cowl
185: wind shield
AB: longitudinal axis
A’B’: central axis of gaseous fuel cylinder , Claims:I/We claim:
1. A vehicle (100) comprising:
a front portion (F) including a driver cabin (110), and
a rear portion (R) including an accommodating space (135), said accommodating space (135) being configured for accommodating one of goods and passengers,
wherein said vehicle (100) includes a central longitudinal axis (AB), said central longitudinal axis (AB) being a central imaginary line running along the length of said vehicle (100) from said front portion (F) of said vehicle (100) to said rear portion (R) of said vehicle (100),
wherein at least one gaseous fuel cylinder (155) being configured to be disposed within said accommodating space (135) of said rear portion (R), behind said driver cabin (100) and in front of a power assembly (140); and
wherein said at least one gaseous fuel cylinder (155) being configured to be disposed on one of a right-hand side and a left-hand side of said longitudinal axis (AB) of said vehicle (100).
2. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one gaseous fuel cylinder (155) being disposed below a load-carrying tray (115), and between said driver cabin (110) and said power assembly (140).
3. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said power assembly (140) being one of a battery, and an engine assembly.
4. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said accommodating space (135) being an accommodating space between a frame assembly (130) of said vehicle (100) and one of a load-carrying tray (115) and an enclosed luggage compartment of said vehicle (100).
5. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one gaseous fuel cylinder (155) being mounted on a support structure (170), said support structure (170) being configured for being attached with said frame assembly (130), wherein said support structure (170) being positioned substantially in proximity of a partition wall (110a) of said driver cabin (110).
6. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one gaseous fuel cylinder (155) includes a gaseous fuel inlet (155a) being configured to be disposed on one of a right-hand side and a left-hand side of said longitudinal axis (AB) of said vehicle (100).
7. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein said vehicle (100) includes a first connecting tube (155b), said first connecting tube (155b) being configured to connect said gaseous fuel inlet (155a) of said at least one gaseous fuel cylinder (155) to a power assembly (140).
8. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein said vehicle (100) includes a second connecting tube (155c), said second connecting tube (155c) being configured to connect said gaseous fuel inlet (155a) of said at least one gaseous fuel cylinder (155) to a gaseous fuel filling unit (120), wherein said gaseous fuel filling unit (120) being affixed with one of a right long member (130a) and a left long member (130b) of a frame assembly (130) of said vehicle (100).
9. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein said vehicle (100) includes a safety shut-off valve, wherein said safety shut-off valve being disposed beside said gaseous fuel filling unit (120).
10. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one gaseous fuel cylinder (155) being placed substantially in one of a lesser than and equal to half the length of said accommodating space (135).
11. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said vehicle (100) includes a fuel tank assembly (150) disposed in proximity of said at least one gaseous fuel cylinder (155).
12. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein said fuel tank assembly (150) includes a fuel filling unit (175) being affixed with one of a right long member (130a) and a left long member (130b) of a frame assembly (130) of said vehicle (100), wherein said fuel filling unit (175) being configured to be disposed opposite to said at least one gaseous fuel cylinder (155).
13. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein one of said right long member (130a) and said left long member (130b) of said frame assembly (130) on which said fuel filling unit (175) being configured to be affixed, being separate from one of a right long member (130a) and said left long member (130b) on which a gaseous fuel filling unit (120) being configured to be affixed.
14. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein said at least one gaseous fuel cylinder (155) includes at least one holding bracket fixed to said support structure (170), wherein said at least one holding bracket being substantially of a shape confirming with an outer surface of said at least one gaseous fuel cylinder (155), extending downward, creating a space for accommodating said at least one gaseous fuel cylinder (155).
15. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one gaseous fuel cylinder (155) includes at least one securing clamp (160), said at least one securing clamp (160) being configured to be wrapped around said at least one gaseous fuel cylinder (155) for securing said at least one gaseous fuel cylinder (155) in position.
| # | Name | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 202441018984-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [15-03-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-03-15 |
| 2 | 202441018984-REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION (FORM-18) [15-03-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-03-15 |
| 3 | 202441018984-FORM 18 [15-03-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-03-15 |
| 4 | 202441018984-FORM 1 [15-03-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-03-15 |
| 5 | 202441018984-FIGURE OF ABSTRACT [15-03-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-03-15 |
| 6 | 202441018984-DRAWINGS [15-03-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-03-15 |
| 7 | 202441018984-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [15-03-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-03-15 |
| 8 | 202441018984-Proof of Right [13-09-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-09-13 |
| 9 | 202441018984-REQUEST FOR CERTIFIED COPY [27-01-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-01-27 |
| 10 | 202441018984-Retyped Pages under Rule 14(1) [04-02-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-02-04 |
| 11 | 202441018984-2. Marked Copy under Rule 14(2) [04-02-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-02-04 |