Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention disclosure to a vehicle. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to an access window in a vehicle to access one or more components of vehicle.
5
BACKGROUND
[0002] In modern vehicle and maintenance practices, accessibility to crucial components housed within the vehicle's structure is of paramount importance. However, traditional methods often present challenges when it comes to accessing these components, particularly those located beneath the vehicle's floor. Such 10 components may include but are not limited to junction boxes, engines, gearboxes, controllers, and Electric Drive Units (EDUs). The conventional approach typically necessitates extensive disassembly or removal of various vehicle parts, leading to increased maintenance time, labor costs, and potential damage risks to surrounding structures. 15
[0003] One common area where these components are situated is beneath the passenger cabin floor, presenting a particularly complex accessibility challenge. Conventional designs lack efficient means for accessing these components without extensive disassembly, which is not only time-consuming but also impractical in emergency situations or during routine maintenance checks. Additionally, the need 20 for frequent access to these components for maintenance, repair, or inspection further underscores the necessity for an improved solution that streamlines accessibility while maintaining structural integrity and passenger safety.
[0004] Existing solutions often involve compromise, either sacrificing accessibility for structural integrity or vice versa. For instance, some vehicles provide access 25 through removable panels but compromise on passenger comfort and safety. Others may require partial disassembly of the vehicle's interior, resulting in inconvenience and potential damage to delicate components. Thus, there exists a need in the art for a floor structure that effectively addresses these challenges, providing convenient access to essential vehicle components housed beneath the passenger 30 cabin floor while ensuring structural integrity, passenger safety, and ease of maintenance.
[0005] Given these challenges, there is an urgent requirement to optimize the positioning, arrangement, and management of one or more accesswindow within
3
the vehicle architecture. These approaches should not only improve spatial utilization and accessibility but also streamline accessibility for maintenance purposes. [0006]
The above information as disclosed in this background section is only for enhancement of understanding of the background of the disclosure and therefore it 5 may contain information that does not form the prior art that is already known in this country to a person of ordinary skill in the art. Further limitations and disadvantages of conventional and traditional approaches will become apparent to one of skill in the art, through comparison of described systems with some aspects of the present disclosure, as set forth in the remainder of the present disclosure and 10 with reference to the drawings.
SUMMARY
[0007] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not 15 restrictive of the invention, as claimed.
[0008] The present invention addresses the challenges by providing a floor structure for a vehicle that incorporates an access window strategically positioned within the rear cabin area. This access window allows for convenient access to one or more components of the vehicle without compromising structural integrity or 20 passenger safety. The floor structure is designed to accommodate various components such as junction boxes, engines, gearboxes, controllers, and Electric Drive Units (EDUs), allowing for efficient maintenance, repair, or inspection.
[0009] Furthermore, the access window is configured with additional features to enhance functionality and usability. These features include a locking mechanism 25 and a sealing mechanism to ensure secure closure and protection against external elements. Additionally, the access window may be offset towards one side of an imaginary axis passing through the center of the vehicle, providing optimal positioning for accessibility while minimizing interference with passenger seating arrangements. 30
[00010] Moreover, the access window may be accessible from the tail door of the vehicle, further enhancing convenience, especially in emergency situations. A detachable cover, made of transparent or translucent materials, can be utilized to cover the access window when not in use, providing additional protection while
4
allowing visual inspection of the components underneath. Furthermore, the access window may be configured with a hinge mechanism, allowing for easy opening and closing without compromising structural integrity. [00011] In another embodiment, the access window may be accessible after tumbling the passenger seat assembly, providing an alternative means of access
5 while maintaining passenger comfort and safety. These features collectively contribute to a floor structure design that revolutionizes accessibility to essential vehicle components, thereby improving maintenance efficiency, reducing downtime, and enhancing overall vehicle reliability and performance.
10
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES:
[00012] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and constitute part of this specification, illustrate preferred embodiments of the invention, and together with the general description given above and the detailed description given below, serve to explain features of the invention. 15
[00013] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[00014] Figure 2 depicts a rear cabin of the vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[00015] Figure 3 depicts a rear cabin of the vehicle with exploded view of the access 20 window in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[00016] Figure 4 illustrates a rear cabin of the vehicle with a seat assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[00017] Figure 5 illustrates a rear cabin of the vehicle with tumbled seat assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. 25
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[00018] Exemplary embodiments detailing features of the present disclosure in accordance with the present subject matter will be described hereunder with reference to the accompanying drawings. Various aspects of different embodiments 30 of the present invention will become discernible from the following description set out hereunder. Rather, the following description provides a convenient illustration for implementing exemplary embodiments of the present subject matter. Further, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the
5
purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. Additionally, all numerical terms, such as, but not limited to, “first”, “second”, “third”, “primary”, “secondary”, “main” or any other ordinary and/or numerical terms, should also be taken only as identifiers, to assist the reader's understanding of the various elements, embodiments, variations and/or modifications of the present disclosure, 5 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. [00019] The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers are used in the drawings and the 10 following description to refer to the same or similar elements. While embodiments may be described, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible. For example, substitutions, additions, or modifications may be made to the elements illustrated in the drawings, and the methods described herein may be modified by substituting, reordering, or adding stages to the disclosed methods. 15 Accordingly, the following detailed description does not limit the claimed subject matter. Instead, the proper scope of the claimed subject matter is defined by the appended claims. It should be noted that the description and figures merely illustrate principles of the present subject matter. Various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, encompass the 20 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.
[00020] Further, various embodiments disclosed herein are to be taken in the illustrative and explanatory sense and should in no way be construed as limiting of 25 the present disclosure. All joinder references (e.g., attached, affixed, coupled, disposed, etc.) are only used to aid the reader's understanding of the present disclosure, and may not create limitations, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use of the systems and/or methods disclosed herein. Therefore, joinder references, if any, are to be construed broadly. Moreover, such joinder 30 references do not necessarily infer those two elements are directly connected to each other.
[00021] 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
6
manner, or even removed or rendered as inoperable in certain cases, as is useful in accordance with a particular disclosure. Additionally, any signal hatches in the drawings/figures should be considered only as exemplary, and not limiting, unless otherwise specifically specified. [00022] The at least one object of the present disclosure is to enhance accessibility 5 to essential vehicle components housed beneath the passenger cabin floor. By incorporating an access window within the floor structure, the present disclosure aims to provide a convenient and efficient means of accessing components such as junction boxes, engines, gearboxes, controllers, and Electric Drive Units (EDUs). This enhanced accessibility facilitates easier maintenance, repair, and inspection 10 procedures, thereby reducing downtime and improving overall vehicle reliability.
[00023] The at least one object of the present disclosure is to maintain the structural integrity of the vehicle while incorporating the access window. Traditional methods of accessing components beneath the floor often involve compromises that may weaken the structural integrity of the vehicle or compromise passenger safety. The 15 present disclosure aims to overcome these challenges by providing a robust floor structure design that supports the access window without compromising the vehicle's structural integrity. This ensures that the vehicle maintains its safety standards and durability while facilitating component access.
[00024] The at least one object of the present disclosure is to prioritize the safety 20 and comfort of passengers in the vehicle. The present disclosure achieves this by strategically positioning the access window within the rear cabin area and incorporating features such as locking mechanisms and sealing mechanisms to prevent any compromise to passenger safety. Additionally, alternative access methods, such as accessing the window after tumbling the passenger seat assembly, 25 are configured to maintain passenger comfort while still providing efficient component access.
[00025] The at least one object of the present disclosure is to simplify maintenance procedures. Traditional methods often involve extensive disassembly or removal of vehicle parts, resulting in increased labor time and costs. By providing a floor 30 structure with an access window, the present disclosure streamlines maintenance procedures, allowing technicians to quickly and easily access components without the need for extensive disassembly. This not only reduces maintenance time and
7
costs but also minimizes the risk of damage to surrounding structures during maintenance activities. [00026] The at least one object of the present disclosure is to provide a versatile and adaptable solution that can be implemented across various vehicle models and configurations. By incorporating features such as detachable covers, hinge 5 mechanisms, and transparent or translucent materials, the floor structure design can accommodate different accessibility needs and preferences. This versatility ensures that the present disclosure can be effectively applied to a wide range of vehicles, regardless of their specific requirements or design constraints.
[00027] Figure 1 illustrates a side perspective view of the three-wheeled vehicle 10 (100) (hereinafter ‘vehicle’), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle (100) generally includes a frame structure (300), a front cowl (102), at least one front wheel (103), a wheel cover (104), a front suspension unit (105), a windscreen (106), a headlamp assembly (107), a handle bar assembly (108), a floorboard (109), a driver seat (110), a driver backrest (111), at least one 15 passenger seat assembly (112), a rear body panel or cover body (113), at least a pair of rear wheels (114), a rear suspension (115), a soft-top (116), and a power-train assembly. The vehicle (100) is divided into two compartments along the line X-X’, a front cabin (118) defining the driver’s compartment (118) which is comprising driving unit of the vehicle (100) and a rear cabin (119) defining the passenger’s 20 compartment and comprising passenger seat assembly (112). Further, the line X-X’ is passing through the partition wall of the vehicle (100).
[00028] The frame structure of the vehicle (100) extending from a front side (F) of the vehicle (100) towards a rear side (R) of the vehicle (100) to support the aforesaid mentioned elements of the vehicle (100). The front cowl (102), at its lower end, is 25 connected to the at least one front wheel (103) such that the wheel cover (104) is disposed in between. The front suspension unit (105) supports the at least one front wheel (103) and connects the at least one front wheel (103) to the frame structure (300). An upper portion of the front cowl (102) supports the windscreen (106) that provides a front view from inside of the vehicle (100). The headlamp assembly 30 (107) is disposed on at least a portion of the front cowl (102) of the vehicle (100). The handlebar assembly (108) is disposed behind the front cowl (102) in the front cabin (118).
8
[00029] The floorboard (109) extends from a bottom portion of the front cowl (102) towards the rear side (R) of the vehicle (100) and supported by the frame structure (300). The floorboard (109) extends from the driver compartment (118) to the rear cabin (119) to provide leg space to passenger as well as the driver. The driver seat (110) and the driver backrest (111) are disposed in the driver compartment (118), 5 whereas the at least one passenger seat is disposed in the rear cabin (119). The rear cabin (119) is covered by the rear body panel (113) such that the soft-top (116) connects a top end of the front cowl (102) and a top end of the rear body panel (113). The soft-top (116) is adapted to provide a top cover for the front cabin (118) and the rear cabin (119). The rear body panel (113) accommodates the at least one 10 pair of rear wheels (114) supported on the frame structure (300) through a rear axle (not shown) and the rear suspension (115).
[00030] In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the front cabin (118) is located in front side of the vehicle (100) and the rear cabin (119) is located at a rear side of the vehicle (100). The front cabin is configured to accommodate a driver 15 of the vehicle (100) and the rear cabin is configured to accommodate at least one of a load deck or to accommodate passengers of the vehicle (100). Further, the front and the rear cabin are configured to accommodate one or more energy storage unit which is configured to power the plurality of electronic control units of the vehicle (100). 20
[00031] In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the vehicle (100) is a two-wheeled type vehicle, a three wheeled vehicle, a four wheeled vehicle, a multi axle vehicle, and the like. In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure the vehicle (100) may be an Electric Vehicle (EV), a Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV), an Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) based vehicle and have components suitable 25 for traction.
[00032] The vehicle (100) is also provided with one or more energy storage units (not shown) which stores an energy which is used to power various components of the vehicle such as the power unit. The energy storage units have a limited storage capacity and requires to be often recharged to operate the vehicle. 30
[00033] Figure 2 depicts the rear cabin (119) of the vehicle (100) in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. Further, Figure 3 depicts the rear cabin (119) of the vehicle (100) with exploded view of the access window (304) in the floor structure (206) in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject
9
matter. The figures 2 and 3 are taken together for describing the present subject matter. [00034] In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the vehicle (100) is provided with a lockable tail door (202) which is used to provide access to a storage portion of the vehicle (100). The lockable tail door (202) is installed on the cover 5 body (113) on the rear side of the vehicle (100). The storage portion is provided in the rear portion of the vehicle (100) as per the preferred embodiment. The storage portion is disposed in the rear cabin (119) of the vehicle behind the passenger seat assembly (112). Further, the one or more loads of the vehicle are configured to be stored in the storage portion of the vehicle (100). The one or more loads are like 10 luggage of a user, tool kits, spare components such as spare wheel, and other components of a vehicle.
[00035] The frame assembly of the vehicle (100) is configured to offer structural support. This frame assembly comprises a series of long members and cross members (502) intricately arranged to provide stability and reinforcement 15 throughout the vehicle's structure. The long members extend from the front (F) to the rear (R) of the vehicle along its longitudinal axis, with a notable feature being their vertical bending to form a step structure, adding both functionality and aesthetic appeal to the vehicle's. The cross members (502) are positioned to connect the long members in a vehicle width direction, ensuring a robust and well-integrated 20 framework. In one of the embodiments of the present application, the plurality of long members (502) comprising a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion disposed towards a rear side of the vehicle (100). Further, the first portion having a pre-defined orientation, wherein the pre-defined orientation being achieved by providing a bend structure moving vertically up toward the seat to form 25 a step structure (208).
[00036] The vehicle (100) comprising plurality of electronic control units, responsible for managing and regulating the various electric components within the vehicle. These electronic control units perform many vehicle's functions such as from propulsion systems to onboard electronics. The plurality of electronic control 30 units comprising at least one of a Vehicle Control Unit (VCU), an onboard charger, a motor, a gear box, an engine, a controller, Electric Drive Unit (EDU) or a junction box. In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the plurality of electronic control units being disposed within a pre-defined distance from each other. The
10
VCU is a critical component of the vehicle (100) and is configured to coordinate various functions to ensure optimal performance, efficiency, and safety. The onboard charger is an essential component in electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, configured to manage the charging process of the vehicle's battery pack. Its primary functionality lies in converting the alternating current (AC) from an external power
5 source, typically a charging station or wall outlet, into direct current (DC) to recharge the vehicle's battery pack. The motor serves as the primary source of propulsion, converting electrical energy into mechanical energy to drive the vehicle's wheels. The junction box serves as a central hub for connecting and distributing electrical power to various components and systems within the vehicle. 10 The engine is configured for providing the necessary power for propulsion and operation. The gearbox serves to transmit power from the engine to the wheels, allowing for efficient control of speed and torque. Additionally, the controller is configured for overseeing and regulating its various functions and subsystems. The Electric Drive Unit (EDU) constitutes an integral part of electric or hybrid vehicles, 15 providing the means for electric propulsion and energy management. [00037] The inclusion of these diverse components underscores the complexity and sophistication of modern vehicle systems, highlighting the need for efficient accessibility and maintenance procedures. By housing these components beneath the floor structure (206) and providing an access window (304) for convenient 20 inspection and servicing, aims to streamline maintenance operations and ensure the continued reliability and performance of the vehicle (100). Further, the versatility allows for adaptation to various vehicle configurations and requirements, accommodating different propulsion systems and/or powertrains.
[00038] Figure 4 illustrates the rear cabin (119) of the vehicle (100) with a seat 25 assembly (112) in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. Figure 5 illustrates the rear cabin (119) of the vehicle (100) with tumbled seat assembly (112) in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. The figures 4 and 5 are taken together for describing the present subject matter.
[00039] In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the floor structure 30 (206) for the vehicle (100) comprises an access window (304) integrated into the floor structure (206). The access window (304) serves as a portal through which one or more components of the vehicle (100) located beneath the floor can be readily accessed. Accordingly, the same addresses a longstanding challenge in
11
vehicle maintenance, where accessing components housed beneath the floor typically involves cumbersome disassembly procedures. The access window (304) is meticulously mounted within the vehicle's rear cabin (119), a positioning choice that prioritizes convenience and practicality. Placing the access window (304) in this area ensures that it remains easily reachable for technicians or operators 5 needing to perform maintenance or inspections on the vehicle's components. Moreover, by situating the access window (304) beneath the passenger seat assembly (112), the floor structure optimizes space utilization within the vehicle (100). This not only maximizes accessibility but also minimizes interference with passenger seating arrangements (112), thereby preserving passenger comfort and 10 safety. [00040] The positioning of the access window (304) above at least one connecting member (502) is considered for serving multiple purposes. Firstly, it ensures that the structural integrity of the vehicle (100) remains intact. By incorporating the access window (304) in a manner that avoids compromising connecting members, 15 the floor structure (206) maintains the vehicle's overall stability and robustness. Secondly, this placement facilitates efficient maintenance access without necessitating the disassembly or removal of connecting members, streamlining maintenance procedures and reducing associated costs and downtime.
[00041] In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the access window 20 (304) being offset towards one side of an imaginary axis (AA’) introduces an intentional asymmetry into the vehicle's floor structure (206). This deliberate offsetting is configured for optimizing the functionality and accessibility of the access window (304). By aligning the access window (304) position in this manner, with the imaginary axis (AA’) passing through the center of the vehicle (100), 25 several benefits are achieved. Firstly, this asymmetrical placement allows for a more efficient utilization of space within the vehicle (100), accommodating other structural elements or components while still providing easy access to the access window (304). Further, this positioning serves to optimize weight distribution or improve the vehicle's aerodynamics, enhancing its overall performance and 30 efficiency.
[00042] In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the accessibility of the access window (304) from a tail door (202) further underscores the emphasis on convenience and practicality in the layout of the vehicle (100). By enabling access
12
from the tail door (202), the floor structure (206) facilitates ease of entry for technicians or operators needing to reach the components housed beneath the floor. This accessibility feature is particularly advantageous in scenarios where quick access to these components is essential, such as during emergency repairs or routine maintenance checks. Furthermore, accessibility from the tail door (202) enhances 5 the versatility of the vehicle's layout, allowing for greater flexibility in loading and unloading cargo or equipment. [00043] In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, for optimizing both functionality and passenger comfort within the vehicle (100), at least a portion of the access window (304) is covered with the passenger seat assembly (112), to 10 ensure a seamless blend of accessibility and passenger seating arrangements. By incorporating the passenger seat assembly (112) in such a way that it partially covers the access window (304), several benefits are achieved. Firstly, this allows for efficient utilization of space within the rear cabin (119) of the vehicle (100), ensuring that floor space is maximized without sacrificing accessibility to essential 15 vehicle components. Further, integrating the seat assembly (112) in this manner helps to maintain a streamlined and aesthetically pleasing interior design, enhancing the overall passenger experience. Furthermore, covering a portion of the access window (304) with the passenger seat assembly (112) serves to enhance passenger comfort and safety. By effectively concealing the window beneath the 20 seat assembly, potential hazards associated with exposed access points are mitigated. This ensures that passengers can comfortably occupy their seats without any compromise to their safety or convenience.
[00044] In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the access window (304) is detachably covered using a cover (204). Further, the cover (204) is mounted 25 to the access window (304) using plurality of connecting units (302). Accordingly, incorporating a detachable cover for the access window (304), the same allows for added protection of the components housed beneath the floor structure (206) while providing the flexibility to uncover them when necessary for maintenance or inspection purposes. This detachable cover (204) serves as a protective barrier, 30 shielding the access window (304) and the components beneath it from external elements such as dust, moisture, or debris, thereby helping to maintain the integrity and performance of these components over time.
13
[00045] By utilizing multiple connecting units (302), the cover (204) can be securely attached to the access window (304), ensuring a snug fit and effective protection for the components beneath. Accordingly, enhances the durability and stability of the cover (204) and also facilitates quick and convenient removal or replacement of the cover (204) when access to the components is required. Further, the use of 5 connecting units (302) allows for easy customization and adaptation of the cover (204) to different vehicle models or configurations, further enhancing the versatility and applicability. The connecting units (302) are such as but not limited to bolts.
[00046] In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the access window (304) is configured with a locking mechanism and/or a sealing mechanism for 10 ensuring security and/or protection for the vehicle's components housed beneath the floor structure (206). By integrating a locking mechanism, the access window (304) can be securely closed and sealed, preventing unauthorized access to the components or any potential tampering. This enhances the overall security of the vehicle, particularly in scenarios where sensitive components such as controllers or 15 Electric Drive Units (EDUs) are housed within the accessible area. Further, the sealing mechanism ensures that the access window (304) is tightly sealed when closed, effectively preventing the ingress of external elements such as dust, water, or debris. This helps to safeguard the integrity and functionality of the components, particularly in harsh environmental conditions or during vehicle operation in 20 challenging terrains. In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the combination of the locking and sealing mechanisms within the access window (304) configured for both security and protection of the vehicle's essential components, contributing to enhanced reliability and longevity.
[00047] In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the utilization of 25 transparent or translucent materials for at least a portion of the cover (204) of the access window (304). By incorporating transparent or translucent materials into the cover (204), operators or technicians can visually inspect the components housed beneath the floor structure without the need to open the access window (304). This streamlines maintenance or inspection procedures, allowing for quick visual checks 30 of component status or condition, thereby minimizing downtime and optimizing efficiency. Further, the transparency of the cover (204) enhances overall visibility within the vehicle's interior, contributing to a safer and more comfortable environment for both operators and passengers. Furthermore, the use of transparent
14
or translucent materials adds an aesthetic element to the vehicle, creating a modern and visually appealing appearance for the vehicle's floor structure (206). [00048] In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a hinge mechanism is configured with the access window (304) for enhancing the functionality and usability of the vehicle's floor structure (206). By incorporating a hinge mechanism, 5 the access window (304) is afforded the ability to open and close with ease, facilitating convenient access to the components housed beneath the floor. This streamlines maintenance and inspection procedures, allowing technicians or operators to access the underlying components quickly and efficiently without the need for extensive disassembly or removal of the window itself. Additionally, the 10 hinge mechanism ensures that the access window (304) remains securely attached to the floor structure when closed, minimizing the risk of displacement or damage during vehicle operation. Further, the utilization of a hinge mechanism introduces added versatility to the access window (304), allowing for various opening configurations to suit different accessibility needs and preferences. For instance, 15 the access window (304) may be configured to open upwards, downwards, or sideways, depending on factors such as space constraints or ergonomic considerations. Furthermore, the integration of a hinge mechanism into the access window (304) contributes to a seamless and aesthetically pleasing appearance for the vehicle's floor structure (206). By allowing the access window (304) to blend 20 seamlessly with the surrounding surfaces when closed, the hinge mechanism helps maintain the overall sleek and streamlined appearance of the vehicle's interior.
[00049] In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the access window (304) is accessible after tumbling the passenger seat assembly (112) enhancing accessibility within the vehicle's floor structure (206). By allowing the access 25 window (304) to be reached after tumbling the passenger seat assembly (112), optimizes space utilization while ensuring convenient access to the components housed beneath the floor. This is particularly advantageous in vehicles where space is limited, as it eliminates the need for additional access points or compromises to passenger seating arrangements. By seamlessly integrating the access window 30 (304) with the passenger seat assembly (112), the same maintains a streamlined and efficient layout within the vehicle's interior, maximizing both functionality and comfort for occupants. Further, the accessibility of the access window (304) after tumbling the passenger seat assembly (112) allows for quick and easy access to
15
underlying components for maintenance or inspection purposes, without the need for complex disassembly procedures. By simplifying access to essential vehicle components, helps to reduce downtime and maintenance costs, ultimately contributing to improved efficiency and reliability of the vehicle. Additionally, this enhances the overall user experience for operators or technicians, providing them 5 with a convenient and ergonomic access point that minimizes physical strain and effort. [00050] In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the access window (304) could be equipped with a motorized mechanism that allows it to be opened and closed remotely using a key fob or a smartphone application. This provides 10 added convenience for operators or technicians, allowing them to access the components beneath the floor structure without the need to physically interact with the window itself. Further, the remote-controlled opening mechanism could be integrated with the vehicle's onboard computer system, enabling automated opening of the access window (304) in response to specific maintenance or 15 diagnostic alerts. Accordingly, enhances the overall usability and efficiency of the vehicle's maintenance procedures, further streamlining operations and reducing downtime.
[00051] In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a self-diagnostic system is integrated within the access window (304). More specifically, one or more 20 sensors could be incorporated into the access window (304) to monitor various parameters such as temperature, pressure, or voltage levels within the components housed beneath the floor structure (206). These sensors would continuously monitor the condition and performance of the components, providing real-time feedback to the vehicle's onboard computer system. In the event of any 25 abnormalities or malfunctions detected, the self-diagnostic system could trigger alerts or notifications to the operator, prompting them to take appropriate action. This enhances the reliability and safety of the vehicle (100) by enabling proactive maintenance and pre-emptive measures to address potential issues before they escalate. 30
[00052] The present disclosure offers several significant advantages that revolutionize accessibility, maintenance efficiency, and overall usability within a vehicle's floor structure. More specifically, the enhanced accessibility provided by the access window (304), strategically positioned within the rear cabin area. This
16
facilitates quick and convenient access to essential vehicle components housed beneath the floor, such as junction boxes, engines, gearboxes, controllers, and Electric Drive Units (EDUs). By streamlining access to these components, operators or technicians can perform maintenance, repairs, or inspections with greater ease and efficiency, reducing downtime and minimizing disruption to 5 vehicle operations. This enhanced accessibility contributes to improved reliability and longevity of the vehicle, ensuring optimal performance over its lifespan. [00053] Further, the access window (304) with a detachable cover (204) enhances the versatility and functionality of the floor structure. The detachable cover adds an extra layer of protection to the components housed beneath the floor, shielding them 10 from external elements such as dust, moisture, or debris. Additionally, the transparent or translucent materials used in at least a portion of the cover (204) allow for visual inspection of the components without the need to open the access window (304). This streamlines maintenance procedures by providing operators with a quick and convenient means of assessing component status or condition, 15 thereby facilitating proactive maintenance and pre-emptive measures to address potential issues before they escalate.
[00054] The incorporation of a hinge mechanism into the access window (304) adds to the practicality and usability of the floor structure. The hinge mechanism enables the access window (304) to open and close smoothly, allowing for easy access to 20 the components beneath the floor without compromising structural integrity. This feature enhances user experience by providing operators with a convenient and ergonomic access point, minimizing physical strain and effort during maintenance procedures. Additionally, the integration of a locking mechanism and a sealing mechanism within the access window (304) ensures security and protection for the 25 components, further enhancing the reliability and safety of the vehicle.
[00055] The above-described embodiments, and particularly any “preferred” embodiments, are possible examples of implementations and merely set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the invention. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that changes in form, connection, and detail may be made therein 30 without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
[00056] Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments of the invention are described with reference to the following figures, wherein like reference numerals
17
refer to like parts throughout the various views unless otherwise specified. It should be appreciated that the following figures may not be drawn to scale. [00057] The foregoing disclosure is not intended to limit the present disclosure to the precise forms or particular fields of use disclosed. As such, it is contemplated that various alternate embodiments and/or modifications to the present disclosure, 5 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. Therefore, it is intended that the present invention is not limited to the particular embodiment 10 disclosed, but that the present invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.
[00058] In the foregoing specification, the disclosure has been described with reference to specific embodiments. However, as one skilled in the art will appreciate, various embodiments disclosed herein can be modified or otherwise 15 implemented in various other ways without departing from scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, this description is to be considered as 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 disclosure herein shown and described are to be taken as representative embodiments. 20 Equivalent elements, materials, processes 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”, 25 “consisting of”, “have”, “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. , Claims:We Claim:
1. A floor structure (206) for a vehicle (100), the floor structure (206) comprising:
an access window (304), the access window (304) is configured to access one or more components of the vehicle (100); and 5
the access window (304) is mounted:
in a rear cabin (119) of the vehicle (100);
underneath a passenger seat assembly (112); and
above at least one connecting member (502).
10
2. The floor structure (206) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the access window (304) is offset towards one side of an imaginary axis (AA’), wherein the imaginary axis (AA’) is passing through center of the vehicle (100).
3. The floor structure (206) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the access window (304) 15 is accessible from a tail door (202) of the vehicle (100).
4. The floor structure (206) as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the access window (304) is covered with the passenger seat assembly (112).
20
5. The floor structure (206) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the access window (304) is detachably covered using a cover (204); and
wherein the cover (204) is mounted to the access window (304) using plurality of connecting units (302).
25
6. The floor structure (206) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more components of the vehicle comprising at least one of a junction box, an engine, a gear box, a controller, and Electric Drive Unit (EDU).
7. The floor structure (206) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the access window (304) 30 is equipped with a locking mechanism and a sealing mechanism.
19
8.The floor structure (206) as claimed in claim 5, wherein at least a portion of thecover (204) of the access window (304) is made up of transparent or translucentmaterials.
9.The floor structure (206) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the access window (304) 5 is configured with a hinge mechanism.
10.The floor structure (206) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the access window (304)is accessible after tumbling the passenger seat assembly (112).