Description:TECHNICAL FIELD

[001] The present disclosure relates in general to vehicles, for example, a modular vehicle. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a frontal structure of the modular vehicle.

BACKGROUND

[002] The information in this section merely provides background information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art(s) for the present disclosure.

There are situations which require vehicles to be ridden in a two wheeled configuration at one instance and to convert it into a three or four wheeled configuration at other instances. However, providing such kind of modular arrangement for a vehicle, or a modular vehicle, which can convert a two-wheeled vehicle into the three or four wheeled configuration, and vice versa, according to need is a difficult and cumbersome task. Such conversion could be expensive and requires considerable time and physical efforts.

[003] Moreover, there necessitates a need to design a frontal structure for the modular vehicle with a windshield and a dashboard. Such requirement of the windshield and the dashboard poses additional challenges for readily converting the two-wheeled vehicle into the three or four wheeled configuration.

[004] The present disclosure is directed to overcome one or more limitations stated above or any other limitations associated with the prior art.

SUMMARY

[005] The one or more shortcomings of the prior art are overcome by a frontal structure and a modular vehicle as claimed, and additional advantages are provided through the provision of the frontal structure and the modular vehicle as claimed in the present disclosure. Additional features and advantages are realized through the techniques of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of the disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered a part of the claimed disclosure.

[006] In one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, a frontal structure of a modular vehicle is disclosed. The frontal structure includes a frontal frame and a windshield panel movably coupled to the frontal frame. The windshield panel is configured to be operated between an elevated position and a closed position covering a frontal section of the modular vehicle. The frontal structure further includes a dashboard. At least a portion of the dashboard is secured to the windshield panel and is movable along with the windshield panel between the elevated position and the closed position. The configuration of the frontal structure according to the present disclosure, allows easy conversion from two-wheeled configuration to multi-wheeled configuration. This is achieved by providing windshield with dashboard which can be operated to the elevated position during conversion of the modular vehicle. Once the windshield and the dashboard are operated to the elevated position, the two-wheeler vehicle is ingressed into the frame of the multi-wheel vehicle and then the dashboard along with the windshield may be lowered to the closed position to enclose the entire front structure of the modular vehicle. This also reduces time taken to convert two-wheeled vehicle to multi-wheeled configuration.

[007] In an embodiment, the frontal structure includes two or more front pillars comprising a left-side pillar and a right-side pillar secured to and extending upwardly from a left-side long member and a right-side long member. A cross member is provided interconnecting free ends of the two or more front pillars. The windshield panel is movably coupled to at least one of the cross member and one of the two or more front pillars by a linkage.

[008] In an embodiment, the dashboard comprises a central portion, a first portion and a second portion at either ends of the central portion. The central portion of the dashboard is secured to the windshield panel through a mounting bracket. In other embodiments, the central portion of the dashboard is integrally defined with the windshield panel or pivotably connectable to the windshield panel. The right-side and second portion of the dashboard is secured to the right-side pillar and the left-side pillar of one or more front pillars, respectively. In the closed position of the windshield panel, the central portion of the dashboard substantially aligns with the first portion and the second portion of the dashboard. In the closed position of the windshield, the central portion of the dashboard is offset in an upward direction relative to the first portion and the second portion of the dashboard defining a clearance therebetween. The clearance enables the central portion of the dashboard to move along with the windshield panel between the elevated position and the closed position. This configuration of the dashboard allows only the central portion of the dashboard to move along with the windshield panel and remaining portion of the dashboard is connected to the two or more front pillars. In the closed position, the central portion aligns with the remaining portion of the dashboard to form a complete dashboard unit required for the multi-wheeled vehicle. The clearance between the central portion of the dashboard ensures that the movement between the elevated position or closed position doesn’t interfere with remaining portion of the dashboard.

[009] In an embodiment of the disclosure, the windshield panel comprises a windshield frame and a windshield secured within the windshield frame, and wherein an elastomeric seal extending along a periphery of the windshield panel to sealingly engage the windshield panel with the frontal structure in the closed condition.

[0010] In another non-limiting embodiment, a modular vehicle configured to be convertible into a multi-wheeled configuration from a two wheeled configuration is disclosed. The vehicle includes a body frame comprising a left side long member and a right-side long member. The body frame defines a modular front end and a closed rear end. The closed rear end supports a rear ground engaging member and the modular front end defining a receiving portion in a front end to detachably receive a frame of a two-wheeled vehicle to convert into the multi-wheeled configuration. The modular vehicle includes a frontal structure. The frontal structure including of the modular vehicle includes a frontal frame and a windshield panel movably coupled to the frontal frame. The windshield panel is configured to be operated between an elevated position and a closed position covering a frontal section of the modular vehicle. The frontal structure further includes a dashboard. At least a portion of the dashboard is secured to the windshield panel and is movable along with the windshield panel between the elevated position and the closed position.

[0011] It is to be understood that the aspects and embodiments of the disclosure described above may be used in any combination with each other. Several of the aspects and embodiments may be combined to form a further embodiment of the disclosure.

[0012] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0013] The novel features and characteristics of the disclosure are set forth in the description. The disclosure itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives, and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. One or more embodiments are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:

[0014] FIG.1 illustrates a perspective view of a frontal structure of a modular vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG.2 illustrates side view the frontal structure with a windshield panel at an elevated position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG.3 illustrates a perspective view the frontal structure with a windshield panel at elevated position during conversion, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] FIG.4 illustrates rear perceptive view the frontal structure of FIG.3;

[0018] FIG.5 illustrates a rear view of the modular vehicle having the windshield panel at closed position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0019] Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the FIG 1-6b and will be described in detail below. It should be understood, however that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

[0021] Before describing detailed embodiments, it may be observed that the novelty and inventive step that are in accordance with the present disclosure resides in a modular vehicle. More particularly, a wind shield panel and at least a portion of the dashboard connected to the windshield panel covering the frontal section of the modular vehicle, which can operate between an elevated position and a closed position. However, such modifications should be construed within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings are showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having benefit of the description herein.

[0022] In the present disclosure, the term “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment or implementation of the present subject matter described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.

[0023] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusions, such that a device that comprises a list of components does not include only those components but may include other components not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or device. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus proceeded by “comprises… a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus. The terms like “at least one” and “one or more” may be used interchangeably or in combination throughout the description.

[0024] While the present disclosure is illustrated in the context of a two wheeled vehicle, the features illustrated thereof can be used with other type of vehicles as well. The terms “vehicle”, “two-wheeled vehicle”, “electric vehicle”, “EV”, “modular vehicle” and “motorcycle” have been interchangeably used throughout the description. The term “vehicle” comprises vehicles such as motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, mopeds, scooter type vehicle, and the like.

[0025] The term “modular vehicle” may be configured to be selectively operable in at least one of a two-wheeled configuration and a multi-wheeled configuration. The terms “front/forward”, “rear/rearward/back/backward”, “up/upper/top”, “elevated/closed”, and “down/lower/lower ward/downward, bottom”, used therein represents the directions as seen from a vehicle driver sitting astride.

[0026] Reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, same numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts. Embodiments of the disclosure are described in the following paragraphs with reference to FIG.1 to 6b. In Figures. 1 to 6b, the same element or elements which have same functions are indicated by the same reference signs.

[0027] Embodiments of the present disclosure discloses a modular vehicle (200). The modular vehicle (200) is configured to be converted from a two-wheeled configuration to a multi-wheel configuration including three-wheeled or four wheeled configurations. The modular vehicle (200) includes a body frame (110) having rear ground engaging members (111) such as wheels. The body frame (110) of the modular vehicle (200) is adapted to be coupled with a wheel of a two-wheeled vehicle received through a receiving portion defined in a modular front end of the body frame (110). The body frame (110) is further configured to receive of a frame of the two-wheeled vehicle. The two-wheeled vehicle is moved towards an attachment structure and converted into three or four wheeled configurations. The two-wheeled vehicle may be moved away from the attachment structure and converted it back into two-wheeled configuration. The two-wheeled vehicle referred to herein, embodies a motorized scooter vehicle, moped.

[0028] As illustrated in Figure 1, the modular vehicle (200) includes the body frame (110) having a left-side long member (10a) and right-side long member (10b). The body frame (110) defines a closed rear side that is configured to support the rear ground engaging members (111) and a receiving portion at a modular front end to detachably receive the frame of the two-wheeled vehicle, to convert into the multi-wheeled configuration. The left-side long member (10a) and the right-side long member (10b) together form a ladder type chassis for the modular vehicle (200), and they bear the rear ground engaging members (111) such as wheels, axle assembly, transmission, brakes, and suspensions. In an embodiment, the body frame (110) may be a monocoque platform not limiting to the same.

[0029] Referring to Figures. 1 and 2, a frontal structure (100) of the modular vehicle (200) is shown. The frontal structure (100) of the modular vehicle (200) includes a frontal frame (118a). The frontal frame (118a) of the frontal structure (100) includes a two or more front pillars (21) secured to and extending upwardly from a left-side long member (10a) and a right-side long member (10b) of the modular vehicle (200). These two or more front pillars (21) comprise a left-side pillar (21a) and a right-side pillar (21b), extending from the left-side long member (10a) and the right-side long member (10b), respectively. The left-side pillar (21a) is in a spaced apart configuration in a vehicle width wise direction from the right-side pillar (21b). The two or more front pillars (21) may be configured to an elongated cylindrical tubes or rods. One end of each of two or more front pillars (21) is secured to the respective left-side long member (10a) and the right-side long member (10b) using mechanical or thermal joining process, and free end extend upwardly from a front end of the left-side long member (10a) and the right-side long member (10b). The frontal structure (100) also includes intermediate pillars (22) comprising a left-side intermediate pillar (22a) and a right-side intermediate pillar (22b) secured to and extending upwardly from the left side long member (10a) and the right-side long member (10b). The pair of intermediate pillars (22) are in spaced apart configuration in a vehicle length wise direction from the two or more front pillars (21) and positioned at rear of the two or more front pillars (21). Further, free ends (21c) of the two or more front pillars (21) at an upper portion of the frontal structure (100), are interconnected using cross member (30) for structural rigidity. Furthermore, at least one support member (31) is structured to interconnect the pair of intermediate pillars (22) and the two or more front pillars (21).

[0030] The frontal structure (100) further includes a windshield panel (40) movably coupled to at least one of the cross members (30) and the two or more front pillars (21). The windshield panel (40) comprises a windshield frame (42) and a windshield (41) secured within the windshield frame (42). The windshield (41) is transparent or semi-transparent glass material. The windshield panel (40) is configured to be operated between an elevated position (A) [as shown in FIG.2/3] about the cross member (30) and a closed position (B) [as shown in FIG.1] covering the frontal structure (100) of the modular vehicle (200). Further, a periphery on a rear portion of the windshield panel (40) which abuts the frontal structure (100), is provided with an elastomeric seal (90) to sealingly engage the windshield panel (40) with the frontal structure (100) in the closed condition. The windshield panel (40) may include a wiper mechanism (80) [refer FIG.4] coupled to the windshield frame (42). The wiper mechanism (80) may include a wiper blade (81) [refer FIG.4] adapted to be oscillated over the windshield (42) of the windshield panel (40). A motor (not shown on figures) may be in coupled with the wiper blade to actuate the wiper blade (81). Further, a spray nozzle (not shown on figures) may be fluidly connected wiper blade (81). The spray nozzle is configured to direct a liquid on the windshield (41) of the windshield panel (40), such that the spray nozzle is coupled to a conduit that is in fluid communication with a pump (not shown on figures) connected to a fluid storage (not shown on figures).

[0031] The frontal structure (100) further includes a dashboard (D). In an embodiment, the dashboard (D) may be secured to the windshield panel (40). The dashboard (D) may be secured to a portion of the windshield frame (42) substantially below the windshield (41). The dashboard (D) may be secured to the windshield panel (40) using at least one of mechanical or thermal joining methods. The dashboard (D) connected to the windshield panel (40) may be movable along with the windshield panel (40) between the elevated position (A) and the closed position (B). The dashboard (D) of the present disclosure may be at least one of a split-type dashboard or a unified dashboard. According to the present disclosure, split type dashboard may be used and the same should not be construed as a limitation of the present disclosure. The split type of dashboard may include one or more dashboard portions (D1, D2 and D3) as apparent from FIG.3. The one or more dashboard portions (D1, D2, and D3) include a central portion (D3), a first portion (D2) and a second portion (D1). Each of the one or more dashboard portions (D1, D2, and D3) may be secured to portions on the frontal structure (100) of the vehicle (200) which will be explained in the forthcoming paragraphs.

[0032] In an embodiment, the central portion (D3) of the dashboard (D) may be secured to the portion of the windshield frame (42) substantially below the windshield (41). The central portion (D3) of the dashboard (D) may be secured at a substantially central portion of the windshield frame (42) below the windshield (41). However, the position of the central portion (D3) should not be construed as a limitation of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the central portion (D3) of the dashboard (D) may be secured to the portion of the windshield panel (40) using at least one of mounting bracket/a pivot mechanism (M) [refer FIG.5]. The mounting bracket is configured to fixedly secure the central portion (D3) of the dashboard (D) to the windshield panel (40). In case of the pivot mechanism, it may be used for connecting the central portion (D3) to the windshield panel (40) [hereinafter referred to as panel (40) and used alternatively] enables the central portion (D3) to pivot towards the panel (40) [i.e., to closed condition] or away from the panel (40) [i.e., to open condition]. In some embodiments, the central portion (D3) of the dashboard (D) may be integrally defined or formed with the windshield panel (40). In an embodiment, the central portion (D3) of the dashboard (D) may be coupled defined with a receiving platform (not shown) configured to accommodate commodities such as mobiles, keys and the like. In an embodiment, the central portion (D3) may be securely connected to a front section of the two-wheeled vehicle without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0033] Further, the dashboard (D) includes the second portion (D1) and the first portion (D2). The first portion (D2) of the dashboard (D) may be secured to the right-side pillar (21b) and the second portion (D1) may be secured to the left side pillar (21a) of the two or more front pillars (21). A gap (G) may be defined between the second portion (D1) and the first portion (D2) of the dashboard (D). The central portion (D3) of the dashboard (D) may be received by the gap (G) between the second portion (D1) and the first portion (D2) of the dashboard (D) in the closed position (B) of the windshield panel (40). In the closed position (B) of the windshield panel (40), the central portion (D3) of the dashboard (D) substantially aligns with the first portion (D2) and the second portion (D1) of the dashboard (D) as apparent from FIG.5. Word/term of approximation such as “substantially” when used in reference to physical characteristics, should be understood to contemplate a range of deviations that would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art to operate satisfactorily for a corresponding use, function, purpose or the like. The term “substantially” is a descriptive term commonly used in disclosures to avoid a strict numerical boundary to the specified parameter. As evident from the magnified portions referred by F and C in the FIG.6a and 6b, the central portion (D3) of the dashboard (D) may be offset in an upward direction relative to the first portion (D2) and the second portion (D1) of the dashboard (D). A clearance (T) may be defined between the central portion (D3) and the right-side and second portion (D2 and D1) due to the offset of the central portion (D3). The clearance (T) is defined between the central portion (D3) and the remaining portion i.e., second portion (D1) and the first portion (D2) based on the mounting of the central portion (D3) on the windshield panel (40). For instance, the central portion (D3) may be coupled to the portion of the windshield panel (40) proximal to the windshield (41) [refer dotted lines depicted as D3 illustrated in FIG.5]. In the said condition a maximum clearance may be defined between the central portion (D3) and the remaining portion (D1 and D2) of the dashboard (D). Similarly, the central portion (D3) may be coupled to the portion of the windshield panel (40) at a distance away from the windshield (41) [as indicated by D3 depicted in solid line] defining a sufficient clearance for the central portion (D3) to move between elevated position (A) and the closed position (C). This clearance (T) ensures that the central portion (D3) of the dashboard (D) move along with the windshield panel (40) between the elevated position (A) and the closed position (B) without hinderance or contacting/rubbing the first portion (D2) and the second portion (D1) of the dashboard (D). The central portion (D3) may be defined with flange portions extending from either ends of the central portion (D3) in width wise direction of the vehicle. The flange portions of the central portion (D3) may be adapted to overlap with first portion and second portion (D2 and D1), so that dashboard (D) in looks seamless in closed condition of the windshield panel (40) and coupling/joining portions of the dashboard (D) can be concealed to improve aesthetics.

[0034] The frontal structure (100) further includes a linkage (60) as shown in FIG 1 and 2. The linkage (60) movably couples the windshield panel (40) with the at least one of the cross member (30) and the two or more front pillars (21) [refer FIG.2]. The linkage (60) may be a goose neck hinge (65) [partly evident from FIG.2 and FIG.5] coupling an upper rear portion of the windshield panel (40) with the cross member (30). The goose neck hinge (65) includes an elongated goose neck link having a first end pivotally fixed to the cross member (30), and a second end coupled to the windshield panel (40). The goose neck hinge (65) is configured to operate the windshield panel (40) to the elevated position (A) about the cross member (30). In an embodiment, at least one linear actuator (50) [refer FIG.2/4] is provided between the windshield panel (4) and the frontal portion and is configured to selectively operate the windshield panel (40) between the elevated position (A) and the closed position (C). The linkage (60) according to this embodiment is operated to lift or lower the windshield panel (40) sequentially between the closed position (C), an intermediate position, and the elevated position (A) about the cross member (30). The linear actuator (50) may be a pneumatic or hydraulic actuator. The linear actuator (50) may include a cylinder and a piston, fixed to at least one of the left-side pillar (21a) and the right-side pillar (21b) of the two or more front pillars (21) and the windshield panel (40) to actuate and operate the windshield panel (40) between the elevated position and the closed position. In an embodiment, the windshield panel (40) may be manually moved in between the closed position (C) and the elevated position (A). In an embodiment, at least one of a pneumatic strut or a hydraulic strut may be provided along with the windshield panel (40) to aid in movement of the windshield panel (40) and support the windshield panel (40) in the closed and the elevated position (C and A). In this embodiment, the linkage (60) may be provided on right side and left side of the cross member (30) to couple with the windshield panel (40). In some embodiments, the linkage (60) may be coupled to a side portion of the windshield panel (40) and at least one pillar of the two or more front pillars (21). The linkage (60) according to this embodiment is operated to lift or lower the windshield panel (40) sequentially between the closed position (C), an intermediate position, and the elevated position (A) about the at least one pillar of the two or more front pillars (21). In another embodiments, the linkage (60) may be a four-bar linkage, three-bar linkage, and the like.

[0035] In an aspect the present disclosure a method for converting a modular vehicle (200) to multi-wheeled configuration is disclosed. Initially, a body frame (110) is provided. The body frame (110) includes a left-side long member (10a) and right-side long member (10b). Also, the body frame (110) defines a closed rear side supporting a rear ground engaging members (111) and a receiving portion in a modular front end to detachably receive a frame of a two-wheeled vehicle. Then, the windshield panel (40) along with a portion of the dashboard (D) [hereinafter referred to as windshield panel (40)] is operated manually from closed position (C) to the intermediate position, then the linear actuator (50) operates the windshield panel (40) to the elevated position (A). The windshield panel (40) along with a portion of the dashboard (D) is operated an elevated position (A) followed by at least one of a closed position (C) or intermediate position by the linkage (60). The linkage (60) may be a goose neck hinge (65) or four bar linkage. Once the windshield panel (40) along with a portion of the dashboard (D) is operated an elevated position (A) a frame of the two wheeled vehicle inserted into the receiving portion and the frame of a two-wheeled vehicle is secured to the body frame (110). Further, the windshield panel (40) along with a portion of the dashboard (D) is operated, from an elevated position (A) to a closed position (C) to conceal a frontal structure (100) of the modular vehicle (200). In one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, the configuration of frontal structure (100) of the present disclosure, allows easy conversion from two wheeled configuration to multi-wheeled configuration. This is achieved by providing a provision to operate the windshield panel (40) along with the dashboard (D) to elevated position (A) to receive the two-wheeled vehicle and to lower the windshield panel (40) to the closed position (C) to enclose the entire front structure of the modular vehicle (200).

[0036] In an embodiment, the frontal structure (100) according to present disclosure provides a simple mechanism to operate the windshield panel (40) along with at least the portion of the dashboard (D) between the closed and elevated position (C and D) without greater application of manual efforts. The configuration of the frontal structure (100) according to the present disclosure, allows easy conversion from two-wheeled configuration to multi-wheeled configuration. This is achieved by providing windshield panel (40) with dashboard (D) which can be operated to the elevated position (A) during conversion of the modular vehicle (200). Once the windshield panel (40) and the dashboard (D) is operated to the elevated position (A), the two-wheeled vehicle may be ingressed into the frame of the multi-wheel vehicle and then the dashboard (D) along with the windshield panel (40) can be lowered to the closed position (C) to enclose the entire front section of the modular vehicle (200). This also reduces time taken to convert two-wheel vehicle to multi-wheel configuration

[0037] In an embodiment, the size, configuration of the frontal structure (100) comprising linkage can be varied according to the application requirement.

[0038] In an embodiment, the present disclosure provides the frontal structure (100) that is simple in construction, along with being robust and compact.

[0039] In an embodiment, the frontal structure (100) of the present disclosure eliminates need of complex mechanism and components to operate the windshield panel secured with at least the portion of the dashboard (D).

[0040] The various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. The present disclosure is not limited to the illustrated embodiments; rather, these embodiments are intended to disclose the subject matter of the disclosure fully and completely to those skilled in this art. In the drawings, like numbers refer to like elements throughout. Thicknesses and dimensions of some components may be exaggerated for clarity.

[0041] Herein, the terms “attached”, “connected”, “interconnected”, “contacting”, “mounted”, “coupled” and the like mean either direct or indirect attachment or contact between elements, unless stated otherwise.

[0042] Well-known functions or constructions may not be described in detail for brevity and/or clarity. As used herein the expression “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0043] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises”, “comprising”, “includes” and/or “including” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

[0044] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the particular features of this disclosure, it will be appreciated that various modifications can be made, and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the disclosure. These and other modifications in the nature of the disclosure or the preferred embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation.

EQUIVALENTS:
[0045] The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained with reference to the non-limiting embodiments in the description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.
[0046] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the embodiments as described herein.
[0047] Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles and the like that has been included in this specification is solely for the purpose of providing a context for the disclosure. It is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form a part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the disclosure as it existed anywhere before the priority date of this application.
[0048] The numerical values mentioned for the various physical parameters, dimensions or quantities are only approximations and it is envisaged that the values higher/lower than the numerical values assigned to the parameters, dimensions or quantities fall within the scope of the disclosure, unless there is a statement in the specification specific to the contrary.
, Claims:We claim:
1. A frontal structure (100) of a modular vehicle (200), the frontal structure (100) comprising:
a frontal frame (118a); and
a windshield panel (40) movably coupled to the frontal frame (118a), wherein the windshield panel (40) configured to be operated between an elevated position (A) and a closed position (B) covering a frontal section of the modular vehicle (200); and
a dashboard (D), at least a portion of the dashboard (D) secured to the windshield panel (40) and movable along with the windshield panel (40) between the elevated position (A) and the closed position (B).
2. The frontal structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the frontal frame (118a) comprises:
two or more front pillars (21) comprising a left-side pillar (21a) and a right-side pillar (21b) secured to and extending upwardly from a left-side long member (10a) and a right-side long member (10b) of the modular vehicle (200), respectively; and
a cross member (30) interconnecting free ends (21c) the two or more front pillars (21),
wherein the windshield panel (40) is movably coupled to at least one of the cross member (30) and one of the two or more front pillars (21) by a linkage (60).

3. The frontal structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the dashboard (D) comprises a central portion (D3), a first portion (D2) and a second portion (D1) at either side of the central portion (D3).

4. The frontal structure (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the central portion (D3) of the dashboard (D) secured to the windshield panel (40) through a mounting bracket (M).

5. The frontal structure (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the central portion (D3) of the dashboard (D) is integrally defined with the windshield panel (40).

6. The frontal structure (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the central portion (D3) of the dashboard (D) is pivotably connectable to the windshield panel (40).

7. The frontal structure (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the first portion (D2) and the second portion (D1) of the dashboard (D) secured to the right-side pillar (21b) and the left-side pillar (21a) of two or more front pillars (21), respectively.

8. The frontal structure (100) as claimed in claim 1 and 3, wherein in the closed position of the windshield panel (40), the central portion (D3) of the dashboard (D) substantially aligns with the first portion (D2) and the second portion (D1) of the dashboard (D).
9. The frontal structure (100) as claimed in claim 1 and 3, wherein in the closed position of the windshield panel (40), the central portion (D3) of the dashboard (D) is offset in an upward direction relative to the first portion (D2) and the second portion (D1) of the dashboard (D) defining a clearance (T) between the central portion (D3) to move along with the windshield panel (40) between the elevated position (A) and the closed position (B).

10. The frontal structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the windshield panel (40) comprises a windshield frame (42) and a windshield (41) secured within the windshield frame (42), and wherein an elastomeric seal (90) extending along a periphery of the windshield panel (40) to sealingly engage the windshield panel (40) with the frontal structure (100) in the closed condition (B).

11. A modular vehicle (200) configured to be convertible into a multi-wheeled configuration from a two wheeled configuration, the modular vehicle (200) comprising:
a body frame (110) comprising a left-side long member (10a) and right-side long member (10b), wherein the body frame (110) define a modular front end and a closed rear end, the closed rear end (118b) supporting a rear ground engaging members (111) and the modular front end defining a receiving portion in a front end to detachably receive a frame of a two-wheeled vehicle, to convert into the multi-wheeled configuration;
a frontal structure (100) of the modular vehicle (200), the frontal structure (100) comprising:
a frontal frame (118a) defining the modular front-end; and
a windshield panel (40) movably coupled to the frontal frame (118a), wherein the windshield panel (40) configured to be operated between an elevated position (A) and a closed position (B) covering a frontal section of the modular vehicle (200);
a dashboard (D), at least a portion of the dashboard (D) secured to an inner surface of the windshield panel (40) and movable along with the windshield panel (40) between the elevated position (A) and the closed position (B); and
a linkage (60) movably coupling the windshield panel (40) with the at least one of the cross member (30) and the pair of front pillars (21)

12. The modular vehicle (200) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the frontal frame (118a) comprises:
two or more front pillars (21) comprising a left-side pillar (21a) and a right-side pillar (21b) secured to and extending upwardly from a left-side long member (10a) and a right-side long member (10b) of the modular vehicle (200), respectively;
a cross member (30) interconnecting free ends (21c) the pair of front pillars (21); and
a linkage (60) movably coupling the windshield (40) with at least one of the cross member (30) and the two or more pillars (21).

13. The modular vehicle (200) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the dashboard (D) comprises a central portion (D3), a first portion (D2) and a second portion (D1) at either side of the central portion (D3)

14. The modular vehicle (200) as claimed in claim 13, wherein the central portion (D3) of the dashboard (D) secured to the windshield panel (40) through a mounting bracket.

15. The modular vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the central portion (D3) of the dashboard (D) is integrally defined with the windshield panel (40).

16. The modular vehicle (200) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the central portion (D3) of the dashboard (D) is pivotably connectable to the windshield panel (40).

17. The modular vehicle (200) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the first portion (D2) and the second portion (D1) of the dashboard (D) is secured the right-side pillar (21b) and the left-side pillar (21a) of one or more front pillars (21), respectively.

18. The modular vehicle (200) as claimed in claim 11 and 14, wherein in the closed position of the windshield panel (40), the central portion (D3) of the dashboard (D) substantially aligns with the first portion (D2) and the second portion (D1) of the dashboard (D), the central portion (D3) of the dashboard (D) is offset in an upward direction relative to the first portion (D2) and the second portion (D1) of the dashboard (D) defining a clearance between the central portion (D3) to move along with the windshield panel (40) between the elevated position and the closed position.

19. The modular vehicle (200) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the windshield panel (40) comprises a windshield frame (42) and a windshield (41) secured within the windshield frame (42), and wherein an elastomeric seal (90) extending along a periphery of the windshield panel (40) to sealingly engage the windshield panel (40) with the frontal structure (100) in the closed condition (B).

20. A method for converting a modular vehicle (200) to multi-wheeled configuration , the method comprising:
providing a body frame (110) comprising a left-side long member (10a) and right-side long member (10b), wherein the body frame (110) defining a closed rear side supporting a rear ground engaging members (111) and a receiving portion in a front end to detachably receive a frame of a two-wheeled vehicle;
operating, a windshield panel (40) integrated with a portion of dashboard (D) to an elevated position;
inserting a frame of the two wheeled vehicle into the receiving portion and securing the frame of a two-wheeled vehicle to the body frame (110); and
operating, the windshield panel (40) integrated with the portion of dashboard (D) from the elevated position to a closed position to conceal a frontal structure (100) of the modular vehicle (200),
wherein in the closed position of the windshield panel (40), the central portion (D3) of the dashboard (D) substantially aligns with the first portion (D2) and the second portion (D1) of the dashboard (D).