Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[001] The present invention relates to a two-wheeled vehicle. More particularly, the present invention relates to disposition of two storage tanks in the two-wheeled vehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[002] Conventional motorcycles have primarily relied on liquid fuels such as petrol or diesel for propulsion. However, concerns over environmental sustainability and the diminishing availability of fossil fuels have sparked interest in transitioning to cleaner energy alternatives. One promising possibility is the utilization of gaseous fuels like Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) as alternative fuel options for motorcycles.
[003] While the adoption of gaseous fuels presents an opportunity for reducing emissions and dependence on traditional fossil fuels, it also presents significant engineering challenges. Unlike liquid-fuelled motorcycles, which typically feature fuel tanks positioned either in front of or beneath the seat, gaseous-fuelled motorcycles face obstacles due to their increased space requirements for fuel storage. Liquid fuels are stored in relatively compact tanks, whereas gaseous fuels require larger storage space due to the need for high-pressure containers. Consequently, integrating larger CNG or LPG cylinders into motorcycles while maintaining performance, safety, and aesthetics presents a significant challenge.
[004] Existing configurations of the vehicles accommodate the bulky gaseous fuel cylinders on either side of the vehicle, thereby increasing vehicle width and causing difficulty for a pillion rider to place their feet. Moreover, this arrangement limits space for essential vehicular components such as electrical or electronic systems. Mounting larger gaseous fuel cylinders leads to undesirable changes in the motorcycle's center of gravity, impacting handling and maneuverability. Additionally, the increased weight and size of the vehicle necessitates significant alterations to the vehicle's frame and suspension systems, impacting overall performance and rider comfort. Furthermore, conventional mounting methods, including disposition of the gaseous fuel cylinders on either side of the vehicle, pose challenges in terms of structural integrity, component accessibility, and servicing requirements. The need for additional mounting brackets and reinforcement further complicates the manufacturing process and increases production costs. Servicing or replacing gaseous fuel cylinders in current configurations often involves cumbersome procedures, requiring the disassembly of multiple components and the manual lifting of heavy cylinders. This inconvenience discourages routine maintenance and compromises the user experience. Additionally, the layout and orientation of gaseous fuel cylinders significantly influence the positioning of the engine and associated components, leading to suboptimal engine performance and efficiency. Achieving an ideal balance between cylinder placement, component integration, and engine optimization remains a major challenge. In addition, concern arises when the fuel in a single cylinder is depleted, potentially leading to an abrupt breakdown of the vehicle causing inconvenience to the user by disrupting their travel plans. Hence, despite the environmental benefits offered by gaseous fuels, the complexities and limitations associated with their integration into motorcycles have hindered their broader acceptance in the market.
[005] Accordingly, there is a need for a two-wheeled vehicle that addresses at least the aforementioned problems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[006] In one aspect, the present invention is directed towards a two-wheeled vehicle. The two-wheeled vehicle has a head pipe and a main tube extending rearwardly from the head pipe when seen in a vehicle front-rear direction. The two-wheeled vehicle further has a first storage tank and a second storage tank mounted horizontally onto either side of the main tube along a longitudinal axis of the vehicle. Such that the first storage tank being disposed on a left side of the main tube and the second storage tank disposed on a right side of the main tube.
[007] In an embodiment, the first storage tank being enclosed within a first mounting unit and the second storage tank being enclosed within a second mounting unit.
[008] In an embodiment, the first mounting unit and the second mounting unit being a cage like structure.
[009] In an embodiment, each of the first mounting unit and the second mounting unit has an upper mounting bracket and a lower mounting bracket. The upper mounting bracket being hinged to the lower mounting bracket on one side, and the lower mounting bracket being detachably attached to a front portion of the main tube when viewed in the vehicle front-rear direction.
[010] In an embodiment, the two-wheeled vehicle has a fuel tank. The fuel tank being disposed above the first storage tank and the second storage tank.
[011] In an embodiment, the two-wheeled vehicle has a cover assembly. The cover assembly adapted to enclose the fuel tank, the first storage tank and the second storage tank.
[012] In an embodiment, each of the first storage tank and the second storage tank has a gas inlet. Each of the gas inlets being provided in a front portion of the vehicle when viewed in the vehicle front-rear direction.
[013] In an embodiment, the first storage tank and the second storage tank being mounted on either side of the main tube in a pre-defined inclination angle with respect to ground axis.
[014] In an embodiment, the pre-defined inclination angle ranges between 35 to 40 degrees with respect to ground axis.
[015] In an embodiment, the first storage tank and the second storage tank being mounted in opposite directions along a central vertical axis of the vehicle.
[016] In an embodiment, the first storage tank and the second storage tank being a cylinder for storing and supplying gaseous fuel to an engine of the vehicle.
[017] In an embodiment, the gaseous fuel includes at least one of Compressed natural gas (CNG), Liquefied natural gas (LNG), biogas and Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[018] Reference will be made to embodiments of the invention, examples of which may be illustrated in accompanying figures. These figures are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Although the invention is generally described in context of these embodiments, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to these particular embodiments.
Figure 1 illustrates a side view of a frame assembly of a two-wheeled vehicle, depicting two storage tanks being disposed on the frame assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of the frame assembly of the two-wheeled vehicle, depicting the two storage tanks being disposed on the frame assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 3 illustrates an exploded view of the two-wheeled vehicle, depicting the two storage tanks being disposed on the frame assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figures 4a and 4b illustrate a perspective view of mounting units for supporting the storage tanks, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[019] The present invention generally relates to a two-wheeled vehicle. More particularly, the present invention relates to disposition of two storage tanks in the two-wheeled vehicle. In an embodiment, the storage tank may be a cylinder for storing and supplying gaseous fuel to an engine of the vehicle.
[020] In the present disclosure, arrow indications provided in Figures pertain to directional indications of the two-wheeled vehicle. As such, the terms “front side”, “rear side”, “right side”, “left side”, “upside” and “downside” respectively correspond to front, rear, right, left, up and down sides of the two-wheeled vehicle, until and unless specified otherwise.
[021] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of a frame assembly 130 of a two-wheeled vehicle 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In the present embodiment, the two-wheeled vehicle 100 (hereinafter referred to as ‘vehicle 100’) is a motorcycle or a saddle type vehicle.
[022] The vehicle 100 comprises a head pipe 102 and a main tube 104. The head pipe 102 is located at a front side of the vehicle 100 in a vehicle front-rear direction. The head pipe 102 supports a steering shaft (not shown) of the vehicle 100. The main tube 104 extends rearwardly from the head pipe 102 when seen in a vehicle front-rear direction. One side of the main tube 104 in a vehicle lateral direction is referred to as a left side of the main tube 104. The opposite side of the main tube 104 in the vehicle lateral direction is referred to as a right side of the main tube 104. The frame assembly 130 further includes a down tube 128 that may be located in front of an internal combustion engine (not shown) and extends slantly downward from the head pipe 102. Further, the vehicle 100 has a seat assembly 126 supported by the main tube 104.
[023] Referring to Figure 2 in conjunction with Figure 1, the vehicle 100 further comprises a first storage tank 108 and a second storage tank 110. The first storage tank 108 and the second storage tank 110 is also referred to as storage tanks 108, 110. The first storage tank 108 and the second storage tank 110 are mounted horizontally onto either side of the main tube 104 along a longitudinal axis (X-X’) of the vehicle 100. Such that the first storage tank 108 being disposed on the left side of the main tube 104 and the second storage tank 110 disposed on a right side of the main tube 104. Particularly, the first storage tank 108 and the second storage tank 110 are mounted in opposite direction along a central vertical axis (A-A’) of the vehicle 100. In an embodiment, the first storage tank 108 and the second storage tank 110 are mounted on either side of the main tube 104 in a pre-defined inclination angle with respect to ground axis (G-G’). In an embodiment, the first storage tank 108 and the second storage tank 110 are mounted on either side of the main tube 104 in an inclination angle (depicted as ‘a’) ranging between 35-40 degrees with respect to a ground axis (G-G’). Each of the first storage tank 108 and the second storage tank 110 comprises a gas inlet 116a, 116b. The gas inlets 116a, 116b of the storage tanks 108, 110 serve as the entry point through which the gaseous fuel, such as Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) or Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), is supplied into the storage tanks 108, 110. Its primary function is to allow for the safe and controlled filling of storage tanks 108, 110 with the desired gas. Each of the gas inlets 116a and 116b of the storage tanks 108, 110 are provided in a front portion of the vehicle 100 when viewed in the vehicle front-rear direction. The term “front portion” corresponds to a forward part or fore-front part of the vehicle 100. Such a disposition of the gas inlets 116a and 116b enables ease of refueling of the storage tanks 108, 110. In an embodiment, the storage tanks 108, 110 are cylinders for storing and supplying gaseous fuel to an engine of the vehicle 100. The gaseous fuel includes at least one of Compressed natural gas (CNG), Liquefied natural gas (LNG), biogas and Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). In an embodiment, the cylindrical storage tanks 108, 110 being configured to accommodate 10-12 litres gas.
[024] Referring to Figure 3 in conjunction with Figures 1 and 2, the storage tanks 108, 110 are enclosed within mounting units 114, 112. The first storage tank 108 is enclosed within a first mounting unit 114. The second storage tank 110 is enclosed within a second mounting unit 112. The first mounting unit 114 and the second mounting unit 112 is a cage like structure. In an embodiment, the cage like structure is a frame like structure composed of metal brackets, bars, or plates arranged in a manner that encloses the cylinder on multiple sides while allowing access for installation and maintenance. As seen in Figure 3, the vehicle 100 further comprises a fuel tank 118. The fuel tank 118 in the vehicle 100 serves as a critical component of the fuel system, providing storage for the liquid fuel such as gasoline, diesel, or biofuels necessary for the vehicle's propulsion. Its primary function is to store and supply fuel to the engine as needed during operation. The fuel tank 118 is disposed above the first storage tank 108 and the second storage tank 110. In an embodiment, the fuel tank 118 is positioned such that the fuel tank 118 covers the first storage tank 108 and the second storage tank 110. In an embodiment, the fuel tank 118 is configured to contain 2 to 4 litres of fuel. Further, the vehicle 100 comprises a cover assembly (not shown). The cover assembly is adapted to enclose the fuel tank 118 and the storage tanks 108, 110. In an embodiment, the fuel tank 118 is sandwich mounted between the storage tanks 108, 110 and the cover assembly.
[025] Referring to Figures 4a and 4b in conjunction with Figures 1-3, the first storage tank 108 is enclosed within the first mounting unit 114 and the second storage tank 110 is enclosed within the second mounting unit 112. The first mounting unit 114 and the second mounting unit 112 are also referred to as mounting units 112, 114.The first mounting unit 114 and the second mounting unit 112 is a cage-like structure. The first mounting unit 114 comprises an upper mounting bracket 114a and a lower mounting bracket 114b. In an embodiment, the lower mounting bracket 114b is detachably attached to a front portion of the main tube 104 when viewed in the vehicle front-rear direction and the upper mounting bracket 114a is placed above the lower mounting bracket 114b such that the upper mounting bracket 114a and the lower mounting bracket 114b are hinged on one side, providing a mechanism for opening and closing the enclosure. The other side of the upper mounting bracket 114a and the lower mounting bracket 114b is equipped with a clasp or latch mechanism, enabling secure placement of the first storage tank 108 within the first mounting unit 114. The mounting units 112, 114 act as a housing for storage tanks 108, 110 while also facilitating easy access for maintenance or replacement when necessary.
[026] Similarly, the second mounting unit 112 comprises an upper mounting bracket 112a and a lower mounting bracket 112b. In an embodiment, the lower mounting bracket 112b is detachably attached to a front portion of the main tube 104 when viewed in the vehicle front-rear direction and the upper mounting bracket 112a is placed above the lower mounting bracket 112b such that the upper mounting bracket 112a and the lower mounting bracket 112b are hinged on one side, providing a mechanism for opening and closing the enclosure. The other side of the upper mounting bracket 112a and the lower mounting bracket 112b are equipped with a clasp or latch mechanism, enabling secure placement of the second storage tank 110 within the second mounting unit 112.
[027] In an embodiment, the upper mounting bracket 114a and the lower mounting bracket 114b of the first mounting unit 114 is placed side by side such that such that the upper mounting bracket 114a and the lower mounting bracket 114b are hinged on one side and is detachably attached to a support bracket 140. The support bracket 140 adapted to mount onto the main tube 104. The first mounting unit 114 is mounted onto the support bracket 140 through a conventional technique known in the art such as welding, riveting by set of nuts and the like. In an embodiment, the upper mounting bracket 114a and the lower mounting bracket 114b are curved in a shape. Further, the surface of the upper mounting bracket 114a and the lower mounting bracket 114b comprises a plurality of vents 136. The placement of vents within the cage-like structure of the mounting units 112, 114 ensures adequate ventilation for the storage tanks 108, 110 promoting efficient operation and minimizing the risk of overheating or pressurization of the storage tanks 108, 110. In an embodiment, the storage tanks 108, 110 are cylindrical in shape. The curved portion of the upper mounting bracket 114a and the lower mounting bracket 114b follow curvature of the cylindrical storage tank 108 thereby securing the cylindrical storage tank 108 onto the main tube 104 through the first mounting unit 114. Such an arrangement enhances the overall stiffness and structural rigidity to enable secure mounting of the storage tanks 108, 110 onto the main tube 104. The storage tank 108 is confined and securely accommodated in the cage like structure formed by the upper mounting bracket 114a and the lower mounting bracket 114b of the first mounting unit 114.
[028] In an embodiment, during assembly, the storage tanks 108, 110 are enclosed within the mounting units 114, 112, respectively. The one end of each of the mounting units 112, 114 is affixed to the support bracket 140 through a conventional technique known in the art such as welding, riveting by set of nuts and the like. The support bracket 140 is affixed onto the main tube 104 through a conventional technique known in the art such as welding, riveting by set of nuts and the like such that the storage tanks 108, 110 are mounted horizontally onto either side of the main tube 104 along a longitudinal axis (X-X’) of the vehicle 100. Such a disposition of the storage tanks 108, 110 supports and holds the storage tanks 108, 110 intact and firm against gravity. Any kind of jolt or shock received by the vehicle 100 is absorbed by the mounting units 112, 114, thereby maintaining the storage tanks 108, 110 undisturbed on the main tube 104.
[029] In an embodiment, during assembly the storage tanks 108, 110 are mounted inclinedly at a predetermined angle onto either side of the main tube 104 along a longitudinal central axis (X-X’) of the vehicle 100 using mounting units 112, 114.Thereafter, the fuel tank 118 is positioned above the storage tanks 108, 110. Then the cover assembly is installed to enclose both the fuel tank 118 and the storage tanks 108, 110 ensuring the protection of the storage tanks 108, 110 and integration within the vehicle's structure.
[030] The claimed invention as disclosed above is not routine, conventional, or well understood in the art, as the claimed aspects enable the following solutions to the existing problems in conventional technologies. The present invention improves the packaging of the storage tanks by decreasing the usage of additional mounting brackets and fasteners, thereby simplifying assembly, and reducing manufacturing complexity. Further, such a disposition of the storage tanks as claimed in present invention ensures that the vehicle maintains its aesthetic appeal, aligning with existing conventional fuel-powered vehicles available in the market. Further, the present invention enables ease of access for inspection and re-certification and ease of service of the storage tanks. Additionally, the present invention provides a strategic disposition of two storage tanks while facilitating ease of assembly and disassembly of the storage tanks resulting in reduced manufacturing cost, service time and manual effort. Moreover, the disposition of the storage tanks onto the main tube ensures that there is no adverse impact on the vehicle's ergonomics, maintaining rider comfort and usability. Additionally, the disposition of two storage tanks on either side of the main tube maintains the vehicle center of gravity (CG) adding to the stability and balance of the vehicle. Properly balanced vehicle CG and ergonomic design ensure a comfortable ride for the user, minimizing fatigue and enhancing overall driving experience. Furthermore, with no increase in the overall length and wheelbase of the vehicle, the present invention leads to enhanced handling capabilities of the vehicle and ensures a smooth and responsive riding experience. The present invention facilitates integration of utility box below the seat assembly of the vehicle.
[031] While the present invention has been described with respect to certain embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modification may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

List of Reference Numerals
100: Vehicle
102: Head Pipe
104: Main Tube
108: First Storage Tank
110: Second Storage Tank
112: Second Mounting Unit
112a: Upper Mounting Bracket of Second Mounting Unit
112b: Lower Mounting Bracket of Second Mounting Unit
114: First Mounting Unit
114a: Upper Mounting Bracket of First Mounting Unit
114b: Lower Mounting Bracket of First Mounting Unit
116a, 116b: Gas Inlet
118: Fuel Tank
126: Seat Assembly
128: Down Tube
130: Frame Assembly
140: Support Bracket , Claims:WE CLAIM:
1. A two-wheeled vehicle (100), comprising:
a head pipe (102);
a main tube (104), the main tube (104) extending rearwardly from the head pipe (102) when seen in a vehicle front-rear direction; and
a first storage tank (108) and a second storage tank (110) mounted horizontally onto either side of the main tube (104) along a longitudinal axis (X-X’) of the vehicle (100) such that the first storage tank (108) being disposed on a left side of the main tube (104) and the second storage tank (110) disposed on a right side of the main tube (104).

2. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first storage tank (108) being enclosed within a first mounting unit (114) and the second storage tank (110) being enclosed within a second mounting unit (112).

3. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the first mounting unit (114) and the second mounting unit (112) being a cage like structure.

4. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein each of the first mounting unit (114) and the second mounting unit (112) comprises an upper mounting bracket (112a, 114a) and a lower mounting bracket (112b, 114b), the upper mounting bracket (112a, 114a) being hinged to the lower mounting bracket (112b, 114b) on one side, and the lower mounting bracket (112b, 114b) being detachably attached to a front portion of the main tube (104) when viewed in the vehicle front-rear direction.

5. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprises a fuel tank (118), the fuel tank (118) being disposed above the first storage tank (108) and the second storage tank (110).

6. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 5 comprises a cover assembly, the cover assembly being adapted to enclose the fuel tank (118), the first storage tank (108) and the second storage tank (110).

7. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the first storage tank (108) and the second storage tank (110) comprises a gas inlet (116a, 116b), each of the gas inlets (116a, 116b) being provided in a front portion of the vehicle (100) when viewed in the vehicle front-rear direction.

8. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first storage tank (108) and the second storage tank (110) being mounted on either side of the main tube (104) in a pre-defined inclination angle with respect to ground axis (G-G’).

9. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the pre-defined inclination angle ranges between 35 to 40 degrees with respect to ground axis (G-G’).

10. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first storage tank (108) and the second storage tank (110) being mounted in opposite directions along a central vertical axis (A-A’) of the vehicle.

11. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first storage tank (108) and the second storage tank (110) being a cylinder for storing and supplying gaseous fuel to an engine of the vehicle (100).

12. The two-wheeled vehicle as claimed in claim 11, wherein the gaseous fuel includes at least one of Compressed natural gas (CNG), Liquefied natural gas (LNG), biogas and Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).

Dated this 20th day of March 2024
TVS MOTOR COMPANY LIMITED
By their Agent & Attorney

(Nikhil Ranjan)
of Khaitan & Co
Reg No IN/PA-1471