Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[001] The present invention relates to a two-wheeled vehicle. More particularly, the present invention relates to disposition of a storage tank 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, with increasing concerns regarding environmental sustainability and the depletion of fossil fuel resources, there has been a growing interest in transitioning to cleaner energy sources. 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 reliance on traditional fossil fuels, it also poses significant engineering challenges. Conventional motorcycles fuelled by liquid fuels are typically designed with a fuel tank situated either in front of or beneath the seat. However, motorcycles utilizing gaseous fuel face a challenge due to their increased space requirements for fuel storage compared to their liquid-fuelled counterparts. Unlike liquid fuels, which can be stored in relatively compact tanks, 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. Such a configuration also results in insufficient space for other essential vehicular components such as electrical or electronic systems. Mounting larger gaseous fuel cylinders can lead to undesirable changes in the motorcycle's center of gravity, adversely affecting handling and maneuverability. Additionally, the increased weight and size necessitates significant alterations to the vehicle's frame and suspension systems, impacting overall performance and rider comfort. Also, 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. Moreover, 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. 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, a pair of main tubes extending rearwardly from the head pipe when seen in a vehicle front-rear direction and at least one cross member being adapted to connect the pair of main tubes. The two-wheeled vehicle further has a storage tank mounted inclinedly at a predetermined angle onto the pair of main tubes along a longitudinal central axis of the vehicle.
[007] In an embodiment, the two-wheeled vehicle has a fuel tank. The fuel tank being disposed above the storage tank.
[008] In an embodiment, the two-wheeled vehicle has a cover assembly. The cover assembly adapted to enclose the fuel tank and the storage tank.
[009] In an embodiment, the storage tank being detachably attached to the pair of main tubes through one or more mounting units.
[010] In an embodiment, each of the one or more mounting units comprises a pair of mounting brackets and a mounting support member. Each of the pair of mounting brackets being affixed to a portion of each of the pair of main tubes.
[011] In an embodiment, the storage tank has a gas inlet. The gas inlet provided below a front portion of a seat assembly of the vehicle when viewed in the vehicle front-rear direction.
[012] In an embodiment, the storage tank being inclinedly mounted on the pair of main tubes at the pre-determined angle ranging from 35 to 40 degrees with respect to ground axis.
[013] In an embodiment, at least one cross member has a plurality of connecting members. The plurality of connecting members adapted to connect at least one cross member to the pair of main tubes.
[014] In an embodiment, the two-wheeled vehicle has a down tube extending downwardly and rearwardly from the head pipe. One of the plurality of connecting members connected to the down tube.
[015] In an embodiment, the storage tank being a cylinder for storing and supplying gaseous fuel to an engine of the vehicle.
[016] 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
[017] 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 a storage tank being disposed on the frame assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 illustrates a side view of the frame assembly of the two-wheeled vehicle, depicting the storage tank being disposed inclinedly on the frame assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of a mounting unit for supporting the storage tank, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 4 illustrates an exploded view of the two-wheeled vehicle, depicting the storage tank being disposed on the frame assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 5 illustrates a top view of the two-wheeled vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[018] The present invention generally relates to a two-wheeled vehicle. More particularly, the present invention relates to disposition of a storage tank 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.
[019] 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.
[020] 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.
[021] The vehicle 100 comprises a head pipe 102, a pair of main tubes 104a, 104b and at least one cross member 106 (shown in Figure 2). 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 pair of main tubes 104a,104b extends rearwardly from the head pipe 102 when seen in a vehicle front-rear direction. The pair of main tubes 104a,104b is also referred to as a left main tube 104a and a right main tube 104b. The frame assembly 130 further includes a down tube 116 that may be located in front of an internal combustion engine (not shown) and extends slantly downward from the head pipe 102. A cross member 106 being adapted to connect the pair of main tubes 104a,104b. That is, the cross member 106 adjoins the left main tube 104a and the right main tube 104b. Further, the vehicle 100 has a seat assembly 112 supported by the pair of main tubes 104a, 104b.
[022] Referring to Figure 2 in conjunction with Figure 1, the cross member 106 comprises a plurality of connecting members 106a, 106b, 106c, 106d. The plurality of connecting members 106b, 106c adapted to connect the cross member 106 to the pair of main tubes 104a, 104b. The plurality of connecting members of the cross member 106 is provided on either side of the cross member 106. The connecting member 106b, 106c provided on one side of the cross member 106 connects the cross member 106 to the right main tube 104b. Similarly, connecting members (not shown) provided on the other side of the cross member 106 connects the cross member 106 to the left main tube 104a. Further, the connecting member 106a, 106d extend downward from the cross member 106 connects the cross member 106 to the down tube 116. Such an arrangement provides a cradle like arrangement. A storage tank 108 is mounted inclinedly at a predetermined angle onto the pair of main tubes 104a,104b along a longitudinal central axis X-X’ of the vehicle 100. In an embodiment, the storage tank 108 is inclinedly mounted on the pair of main tubes 104a, 104b at the pre-determined angle (depicted as ‘a’) ranging from 35-40 degrees with respect to a ground axis (G-G’). The storage tank 108 is confined and securely accommodated in the cradle like arrangement formed by the pair of main tubes 104a, 104b and the cross member 106. In an embodiment, the storage tank 108 is horizontally mounted along a longitudinal central axis (X-X’) of the vehicle 100 between the left main tube 104a and the right main tube 104b such that base portion of the storage tank 108 is supported by the cross member 106. Such an arrangement enhance the overall stiffness and structural rigidity to enable secure mounting of the storage tank 108 onto the pair of main tubes 104a,104b. The storage tank 108 comprises a gas inlet 122. The gas inlet 122 in storage tank 108 serves 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 tank 108. Its primary function is to allow for the safe and controlled filling of storage tank 108 with the desired gas. The gas inlet 122 is provided below a front portion of the seat assembly 112 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 seat assembly 112. In an embodiment, the storage tank 108 being a cylinder 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 tank 108 being configured to accommodate 10-12 litres gas.
[023] Referring to Figure 3 in conjunction with Figures 1 and 2, the storage tank 108 is detachably attached to the pair of main tubes 104a, 104b through one or more mounting units 110a, 110b. Each of the one or more mounting units 110a comprises a pair of mounting brackets 114a and a mounting support member 124a. Similarly, mounting units 110b comprises a pair of mounting brackets 114b and a mounting support member 124b. Each pair of mounting brackets 114a is affixed to a portion of each of the pair of main tubes 104a, 104b through a conventional technique known in the art such as welding and the like. The mounting units 110a, 110b is also referred to as a front mounting unit 110a and a rear mounting unit 110b. The mounting bracket 114a of the front mounting unit 110a is affixed at a front portion of the right main tube 104b. Similarly, another mounting bracket (not shown) of the front mounting unit 110a is affixed at a front portion of the left main tube 104a. The mounting bracket 114b of the rear mounting unit 110b is affixed at a rear portion of the right main tube 104b. Similarly, another mounting bracket (not shown) of the rear mounting unit 110b is affixed at a rear portion of the left main tube 104a. The front mounting unit 110a and the rear mounting unit 110b are adapted to facilitate secure mounting of the storage tank 108 onto the pair of main tubes 104a, 104b. In an embodiment, the mounting support member 124a, 124b are in a shape of omega (O). In an embodiment, the storage tank 108 is cylindrical in shape. The circular portion of the mounting support member 124a, 124b follow upper curvature of the cylindrical storage tank 108, thereby securing the cylindrical storage tank 108 onto the pair of main tube 104a, 104b. In an embodiment, the mounting support member 124a, 124b is aligned with the mounting brackets 114a, 114b and riveted by set of nuts thereby securing the storage tank 108 onto the pair pf main tubes 104a 104b and the cross member 106.
[024] During assembly, the storage tank 108 is first positioned on the pair of main tubes 104a, 104b through mounting units 110a, 110b such that the mounting support member 124a, 124b is aligned with the mounting brackets 114a, 114b and affixed through a conventional technique known in the art such as welding, riveting by set of nuts and the like. Such a disposition of the storage tank 108 supports and holds the storage tank 108 intact and firmly against gravity. Any kind of jolt or shock received by the vehicle 100 is absorbed by the mounting units 110a, 110b, thereby maintaining the storage tank 108 undisturbed within the pair of main tubes 104a, 104b.
[025] Referring to Figures 4 and 5 in conjunction with Figures 1 and 2. Figure 5 illustrates a top view of the two-wheeled vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle 100 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. In an embodiment, the fuel tank 118 is disposed above the storage tank 108. In an embodiment, the fuel tank 118 is configured to contain 2 to 4 litres of fuel. As seen in Figure 4, the vehicle 100 further comprises a cover assembly 120. The cover assembly 120 is adapted to enclose the fuel tank 118 and the storage tank 108. In an embodiment, the fuel tank 118 is sandwich mounted between the storage tank 108 and the cover assembly 120.
[026] In an embodiment, during assembly the storage tank 108 is mounted inclinedly at a predetermined angle onto the pair of main tubes 104a,104b along a longitudinal central axis (X-X’) of the vehicle 100 using one or more mounting units 110a, 110b.Thereafter, the fuel tank 118 is positioned above the storage tank 108. Then the cover assembly 120 is installed to enclose both the fuel tank 118 and the storage tank 108, ensuring the protection of the storage tank 108 and integration within the vehicle's structure.
[027] 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 tank by decreasing the usage of additional mounting brackets and fasteners, thereby simplifying assembly and reducing manufacturing complexity. Further, such a disposition of the storage tank 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 tank. Furthermore, the present invention enables assembly and disassembly of the storage tank resulting in reduced manufacturing cost, service time and manual effort. Moreover, the disposition of the storage tank onto the pair of main tubes ensures that there is no adverse impact on the vehicle's ergonomics, maintaining rider comfort and usability. Additionally, the disposition of the storage tank between the pair of main tubes and the cross member also 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. In addition, 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.
[028] 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
104a, 104b: Pair of Main Tubes
106: Cross Member
106a, 106b, 106c, 106d: Connecting Members
108: Storage tank
110a, 110b: Mounting Units
112: Seat Assembly
114a, 114b: Mounting brackets
116: Down Tube
118: Fuel Tank
120: Cover Assembly
122: Gas Inlet
124a, 124b: Mounting Support Member
130: Frame Assembly

, Claims:WE CLAIM:
1. A two-wheeled vehicle (100), comprising:
a head pipe (102);
a pair of main tubes (104a, 104b), the pair of main tubes (104a,104b) extending rearwardly from the head pipe (102) when seen in a vehicle front-rear direction;
at least one cross member (106), at least one cross member (106) being adapted to connect the pair of main tubes (104a, 104b); and a storage tank (108), the storage tank (108) mounted inclinedly at a predetermined angle onto the pair of main tubes (104a,104b) along a longitudinal central axis (X-X’) of the vehicle (100).

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

3. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 2 comprises a cover assembly (120), the cover assembly (120) being adapted to enclose the fuel tank (118) and the storage tank (108).

4. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the storage tank (108) being detachably attached to the pair of main tubes (104a, 104b) through one or more mounting units (110a, 110b).

5. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein each of the one or more mounting units (110a, 110b) comprises a pair of mounting brackets (114a) and a mounting support member (124a), each of the pair of mounting brackets (114a) being affixed to a portion of each of the pair of main tubes (104a, 104b).

6. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the storage tank (108) comprises a gas inlet (122), the gas inlet (122) being provided below a front portion of a seat assembly (112) of the vehicle (100) when viewed in the vehicle front-rear direction.

7. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the storage tank (108) being inclinedly mounted on the pair of main tubes (104a, 104b) at the pre-determined angle ranging from 35 to 40 degrees with respect to ground axis (G-G’).

8. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one cross member (106) comprises a plurality of connecting members (106a, 106b, 106c, 106d), the plurality of connecting members (106b, 106c) adapted to connect the at least one cross member (106) to the pair of main tubes (104a, 104b).

9. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 8 comprising a down tube (116) extending downwardly and rearwardly from the head pipe (102), one of the plurality of connecting members (106a) connected to the down tube (116).

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

11. The two-wheeled vehicle as claimed in claim 10, 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