The present disclosure relates to the field of automobiles. Particularly, but
not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to a modular vehicle being configured to operate in two-wheel and three-wheel configurations. Embodiments of the present disclosure discloses a seat for a modular vehicle.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Vehicles such as, but not limited to, motorized scooters, motorcycles, etc.,
among other of components and assemblies include body frame, a power unit, a passenger seating area, a storage space, and a set of wheels. The power unit is adapted to provide the necessary power to the wheels, to drive the vehicle. The power unit, seating area, storage space, etc., are all carried by the body frame. The wheels are connected to the body frame. Therefore, the body frame is designed to carry the load of the vehicle, including the weight of the power unit, other components, and sub-assemblies of the vehicle. Such weight carried by the body frame is transferred, through the ground engaging members, to the ground.
[0003] There are situations or needs which require a vehicle to be used as a two
wheeled at one instance and as a three wheeled vehicle at other. However, providing such modular vehicles which may be transformed from a two-wheeled vehicle to a three-wheeled vehicle and vice versa according to need is a difficult and cumbersome task. For instance, conversion of seat for three-wheeled configuration from two-wheeled configuration to meet comfort requirements of passenger in the three-wheeled configuration is a cumbersome task. Such conversion is expensive and requires considerable time and modifications.
[0004] The present disclosure is directed to overcome one or more limitations
stated above or any other limitations associated with the conventional vehicles.

SUMMARY
[0005] A modular vehicle is disclosed in accordance with an embodiment of the
present disclosure which is configured to selectively operate in either one of a two-wheeled configuration and a three-wheeled configuration. Said modular vehicle can be easily converted from a two wheeled vehicle to a three wheeled vehicle, and vice versa, according to the requirements.
[0006] In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, a seat for the modular
vehicle is described. The seat includes a substantially flat platform connectable to a seat rails in a frame of the vehicle. At least one of a first slat and a second slat are pivotally connectable to either lateral side of the substantially flat portion and is structured to displace between a first position and a second position. The seat of the defined structure may be used for various vehicle configuration i.e., two-wheeled configuration or three-wheeled configuration. The seat is relatively simple to manufacture and has less maintenance.
[0007] In an embodiment, the seat further includes an actuation unit operatively
coupled to the at least one of first slat and the second slat and is structured to operate the at least one of the first slat and the second slat between a first position and a second position. The first position of the at least one of the first slat and the second slat defines a first seating configuration of the seat and the second position of the at least one of the first slat and the second slat defines a second configuration of the seat in the vehicle. The seat of the present disclosure is cost effective and can be readily actuated without any modifications based on operational configuration of the vehicle.
[0008] In an embodiment, each of the at least one of the first slat and the second
slat is pivotally connectable to the substantially flat platform.
[0009] In an embodiment, the seat comprises a resilient member disposed between
the substantially flat platform and each of the at least one of the first slat and the second slat along the point of pivot. The resilient member is configured to retain seat in the first configuration. The resilient member ensures that the seat is held in first configuration

until there is an external force induced on the at least one of the first slat and the second slat to move it to the second configuration.
[00010] In an embodiment, at least one of the first slat and the second slat are
operated from first configuration to the second configuration when the vehicle is operated in the three-wheel configuration.
[00011] In an embodiment, the substantially flat platform, the at least one of the first
slat and the second slat are covered with a cushioning member.
[00012] In an embodiment, the actuation unit is structured to operate the at least one
of the first slat and the second slat between the first position and the second position by at least one of a mechanical actuation unit and an electronic actuation unit.
[00013] In an embodiment, the substantially flat platform is connected to the seat
rails of the frame by a support bracket. Each of the at least one of the first slat and the second slat is connectable to the support bracket through an auxiliary link. The auxiliary link is operatively coupled to the actuation unit to displace the at least one of first slat and the second slat to the second position from the first position. The auxiliary links are structured to support each of the at least one of the first slat and the second slat in the second position.
[00014] In an embodiment, the mechanical actuation unit is at least one of a push-
button release mechanism, hand-lever release mechanism, clip release mechanism, pneumatic actuators, and hydraulic actuators. The electronic actuation unit is at least one of actuators and solenoids which are configured to push each of the at least one of the first slat and the second slat to second position upon actuation. The actuators are at least one of electrical actuators including linear actuators.
[00015] In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a modular
vehicle is described. The modular vehicle includes a primary frame defining the two-wheel configuration, a secondary frame detachably connectable to the primary frame defining a three-wheel configuration. The modular vehicle further includes a seat

connectable to the primary frame of the vehicle. The seat includes a substantially flat platform connectable to a seat rails defined on a frame of the vehicle. At least one of the first slat and a second slat are pivotally connectable to either lateral side of the substantially flat portion and is structured to displace between a first position and a second position.
[00016] 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 DRAWINGS
[00017] The disclosure itself, together with further features and attended
advantages, will become apparent from consideration of the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. One or more embodiments of the present disclosure are now described, by way of example only wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:
[00018] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary modular vehicle in a
two-wheeled configuration, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00019] FIG.2 illustrates a perspective view of the exemplary modular vehicle in a
three-wheeled configuration, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00020] FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic view of a seat with cushioning member for the
exemplary modular vehicle in a first configuration, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[00021] FIG.4a illustrates a skeletal perspective view of the seat of FIG.3, in
accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[00022] FIG.4b illustrates a portion of the seat of FIG.2, in accordance with an
embodiment of the present disclosure;
[00023] FIG. 5 illustrates a schematic view of a seat with the cushioning member for
a modular vehicle in a second configuration, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[00024] FIG.6 illustrates a skeletal perspective view of the seat in the second
configuration, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and
[00025] FIGS.7a and 7b illustrates an exemplary schematic view of the seat of FIG.3
in first and second configuration respectively, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00026] The drawings referred to in this description are not to be understood as being
drawn to scale except if specifically noted, and such drawings are only exemplary in nature.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[00027] While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative
forms, an embodiment thereof has been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described here below. It should be understood, however that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure.
[00028] The term "comprises", comprising, or any other variations thereof, are
intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusions, such that a setup, structure, or method that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or structure or method. 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.
[00029] The following paragraphs describe the present disclosure with reference to
FIG(s) 1 to 7b. In the figure, the same element or elements which have similar functions are indicated by the same reference signs. With general reference to the drawings, a seat for a modular vehicle in accordance with preferred embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated and generally identified with reference numeral 10. The modular vehicle may refer to the vehicle that may be configured to be selectively operable in at least one of a two-wheeled configuration 100a and a three-wheeled configuration 100b. It will be understood that the teachings of the present disclosure are not limited to any particular vehicle. Also, the corresponding figures illustrate only a schematic of the seat (10). The complete modular vehicle is not illustrated in the corresponding figures for ease of understanding of the invention.
[00030] The terms "modular vehicle", "vehicle", "two-wheeled vehicle", "electric
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.
[00031] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not
intended to limit application and uses. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory presented in the preceding background or summary or the following detailed description. It is to be understood that the disclosure may assume various alternative orientations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices or components illustrated in the attached drawings and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be descried referring to the accompanying drawings. While some specific terms of "front / forward", "rear / rearward / back / backward", "up / upper / top", "down / lower / lower ward / downward, bottom", "left / leftward", "right / rightward" and other terms containing these specific terms and

directed to a specific direction will be used, the purpose of usage of these terms or words is merely to facilitate understanding of the present invention referring to the drawings. Accordingly, it should be noted that the meanings of these terms or words should not improperly limit the technical scope of the present invention.
[00032] Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used
herein is for description and should not be regarded as limiting. Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms "accommodated," "mounted," "connected," "supported," and "coupled" and variations thereof are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings. Further, "connected" and "coupled" are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings. It is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific devices, methods, applications, conditions, or parameters described and/or shown herein and that the terminology used herein is to describe embodiments by way of example and is not intended to be limiting of the claimed invention. Hereinafter in the following description, various embodiments will be described. For purposes of explanation, specific configurations and details are outlined to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will also be apparent to one skilled in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without the specific details. Furthermore, well-known features may be omitted or simplified in order not to obscure the embodiment being described.
[00033] Forthcoming embodiments are elucidated with reference to FIG.l and
FIG.2 in conjunction. The modular vehicle (M) configuration is described in brief. The modular vehicle (M) [hereinafter, alternatively referred to as the vehicle] is a vehicle which can be converted from a first configuration (100a) to a second configuration (100b) [refer FIG.l and FIG.2 respectively], and vice-versa. The modular vehicle (M) includes front end structure (122) and a plurality of modular rear body structures. The various configurations may be such as but not limiting to a two-wheeled vehicle, a three-wheeled vehicle, or a four wheeled vehicle [not shown]. The first configuration (100a) of the vehicle may be a two-wheeled vehicle while the second configuration (100b) of the vehicle may be a three-wheeled vehicle or a four-wheeled vehicle. In the illustrated

example, the first configuration (100a) of the vehicle embodies a two-wheeled vehicle, and the second configuration (100b) of the vehicle embodies a three-wheeled vehicle. Alternatively, the first configuration (100a) of the vehicle may be a three-wheeled vehicle or a four-wheeled vehicle without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Also, the second configuration (100b) of the vehicle may be a two-wheeled vehicle, a four-wheeled vehicle without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. The modular vehicle (M) comprises a two-wheeled vehicle and an attachment structure herein referred to as a secondary frame (106) which may be coupled to the two-wheeled vehicle. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the two-wheeled vehicle is an internal combustion vehicle or an electric vehicle but not limiting to the same. The modular vehicle (M) can be interchanged between a two-wheeled configuration (100a) and a three-wheeled configuration (100b).
[00034] Referring to FIG.l, the two-wheeled vehicle configuration (100a)
(hereinafter, interchangeably referred to as "the vehicle") comprises a front-end structure (122) and a rear end structure (134). The front-end structure (122) comprises a steering mechanism (107), a leg shield [not shown], a front ground engaging member (105), a floorboard also referred to as a footrest region (104), a dash assembly [not shown], a head lamp unit [not shown], and a plurality of blinkers [not shown]. The floorboard (104) provides footrest for a rider riding the vehicle. The steering mechanism (107) comprises a handlebar. The handlebar may be configured to be rotated by the rider to steer the two-wheeled vehicle. The steering mechanism (107) comprises a plurality of front forks (111) disposed at the front portion of the vehicle. The steering mechanism (107) is operatively coupled to the front ground engaging members (105) via the plurality of front forks (111).
[00035] The vehicle of the two-wheeled configuration (100a) comprises the primary
frame (102). The primary frame (102) comprises a head tube (112), a down frame (113), a first cross member (114), a left seat rail (115), and a right seat rail (116). The down frame (113) extends in a rearward and downward direction from the head tube (112). The down frame (113) extends between the head tube (112) and the first cross member (114). The steering mechanism (107) is pivotally supported on the primary frame (102). More particularly, the head tube (112) supports the steering mechanism (107). Further, at least

portion of the head tube (112) and the down frame (113) is enclosed by at least portion of the leg shield [not shown]. The left seat rail (115) and the right seat rail (116) extend rearward and upward from the first cross member (114). The vehicle (100a) may include a passenger's seat (10) which will be elucidated in forthcoming embodiments. The rider's seat and the passenger's seat are disposed on the left seat rail (116) and the right seat rail (115). The rider's seat and the passenger's seat may be formed as a single unit or may be individual members, without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. The vehicle comprises a control unit (not shown). The control unit may be configured to control various operations of the two-wheeled vehicle. In an embodiment, the control unit may be configured to control various operations of the modular vehicle (M) in three-wheeled configuration.
[00036] . Further, the vehicle comprises the rear end structure (134). The rear end
structure (134) may be disposed at the rear portion of the vehicle (100a). The rear end structure (100a) comprises a swing arm [SA]..
[00037] The rear end structure comprises a rear ground engaging member (103a), a
driving source, and at least one suspension device (not shown). In the illustrative example, the rear ground engaging member (103a) is disposed below the passenger's seat. In another embodiment, the suspension device may be operatively coupled between the primary frame (102) or the seat rail (116 and 115) and the swing arm. In accordance with the present disclosure, the suspension device embodies a shock absorber. Further, the rear ground engaging members (103 a) may be provided with the driving source which drives the rear ground engaging members (103 a). In an embodiment, the driving source may be disposed on the swing arm without limiting to the scope of the present disclosure. The driving source may be a power generating motor or a belt/chain forming a connection between the engine and the rear ground engaging members.
[00038] The vehicle comprises electronic connections (not shown) and hydraulic
connections (not shown). The first electronic connections may embody a wire harness. The first hydraulic connections may embody fluid hoses. Further, the vehicle may further

comprise additional components, such as, mirrors, front fenders, etc., without limiting the scope of the present disclosure.
[00039] The three-wheeled configuration (100b) of the vehicle comprises an
attachment structure referred to as a secondary frame (106) [as shown in FIG.3]. The secondary frame (106) may be adapted to be detachably coupled to the primary frame (102) of the vehicle in two-wheeled configuration (100a) for converting the vehicle from the two-wheeled configuration (100a) to the three-wheeled configuration (100b)..
[00040] Further, the secondary frame (106) may include rear ground engaging
members (103b), at least one transmission module, and at least one suspension device (not shown). In the illustrated example, the secondary frame (106) comprises two rear ground engaging member (103b). The rear ground engaging members (103b) are disposed below the seat unit [seat unit here refers to occupants' seat other than that of the rider's seat] of the secondary frame (106). The secondary frame (106) may have an additional control unit to control various operations. When the secondary frame (106) is coupled to the vehicle in the two-wheeled configuration (100a), the additional control unit is in electronic communication with the control unit of the vehicle. The control unit controls the supply of the electric power to various modules of the vehicle from the battery sources. In case of an electric vehicle, the control unit may also control the supply of electric power to the motors driving the wheels. The secondary frame (106) may include at least one suspension device, one of which is operatively coupled between an axle of the one of the rear ground engaging member (103b) and the second body frame (106), and another between an axle of another rear wheel and the secondary frame (106).
[00041] Further, the secondary frame (106) may include a latching mechanism. The
latching mechanism may be configured to detachably couple the primary frame (102) and the secondary frame (106) to selectively convert the modular vehicle (M) from the two-wheeled configuration (100a) to the three-wheeled configuration (100b). In an embodiment, the latching mechanism may comprise at least one pin disposed on the secondary frame (106) extending transversely, and at least one corresponding slot provided on the primary frame (102) to detachably couple the primary frame (102) with

the secondary frame (106). Alternatively, the latching mechanism comprises at least one pin disposed on the primary frame (102) extending transversely, and at least one corresponding slot provided on the secondary frame to detachably couple the primary frame (102) with the secondary frame (106). In an embodiment, the at least one pin may be disposed in the primary frame (102) below the floorboard (104) of the two-wheel configuration (100a). In another embodiment, the at least slot may be disposed at the primary frame (102) below the floorboard (104) of the two-wheeled configuration (100a).
[00042] In an example, the secondary frame (106) connected to the primary frame
(102), forms and defines the modular frame (M) of the vehicle having three-wheeled configuration (100b). The secondary frame (106) may further comprise second electronic connections (not shown) and second hydraulic connections (not shown). The second electronic connections may embody a wire harness. The second hydraulic connections may embody fluid hoses. The secondary frame may comprise additional components, such as, rear grip, rear fender, license plate, etc., without limiting the scope of the present disclosure.
[00043] The embodiments described above illustrate the conversion of two-wheeled
vehicle to the three-wheeled vehicle for better understanding of the present disclosure. Henceforth, a configuration of the seat (10) for the rider and passenger of the modular vehicle (M) is elucidated in correspondence to FIGS 3 to 6b. In the corresponding figures, only the components necessary for elucidation of the present disclosure may be depicted. The complete modular vehicle nor the complete components described in the above embodiments are depicted in the figures for ease of understanding of the configuration of the seat for the modular vehicle.
[00044] The seat (10) for the modular vehicle (M) may be connectable to the seat
rails (115 and 116) [i.e., right seat rail and the left seat rail of the primary frame]. In an embodiment, the seat (10) may be configured as a rider's seat or a passenger's seat. As described above, the rider's seat and the passenger's seat may be formed as a single unit or may be individual members, without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. The rider's seat and the passenger's seat may be fixedly connectable to the seat rails (115 and

116) defined on the primary frame of the vehicle in two wheeled configurations. In an embodiment, the seat (10) of the present disclosure may also be provided on the seat unit defined on the secondary frame (106) without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. The configuration of the seat (10) that is provided on the seat rails (115 and 116) of the modular vehicle (M) is explained with corresponding figures 1 to 7b.
[00045] The seat (10) may include a seat base (B), a cushioning member (2) and a
seat leather or fabric. The seat base (B) may be a moulded component created according to the requirements of the modular vehicle (M). In an embodiment, the seat base (B) may be made of at least one of but not limiting to a plastic, resin, or ceramic material. The seat base (B) may include a substantially flat platform (3) [best seen in FIG(s) 2a and 4]. In an embodiment, the substantially flat platform (3) may be connectable to the seat rails (115 and 116) [i.e., right seat rail or the left seat rail]. In an embodiment, the substantially flat platform (3) may extend along the entire length of the seat rails (115 and 116) in case the rider's seat and passenger's seat is formed of a single unit. In case the rider's seat and passenger's seat are individual units, the length of the substantially flat platform (3) may be split into substantially equally lengths. The split section of the substantially flat platform (3) may be connected at respective positions on the seat rails (115 and 116) [i.e., rider's and passenger's seat]. In an embodiment, shape of the substantially flat platform (3) may correspond to the contours of the seat rails (115 and 116).
[00046] In an embodiment, the substantially flat platform (3) may be connected to
the seat rails (115, 116) defined on the vehicle frame by a support bracket (L) [refer FIG. 7a]. In an embodiment, the support bracket (L) may be a yoke type link or a Y-shaped link. One end of the support bracket (L) may be connected to the substantially flat platform (3) and other end of the support bracket (L) may be connected to either of the left seat rail (115) and the right seat rail (116). In some embodiments, the support bracket (L) may be defined with one or more provisions to receive auxiliary links (LI and L2). The one or more provisions may be at least one of but not limiting to a guideway, a track or a slot that enable the auxiliary links (LI and L2) to move along the same. The function of the auxiliary links (LI and L2) is elucidated in forthcoming embodiments. In an embodiment, the substantially flat platform (3) may be connected to the support bracket

(L) by at least one of mechanical joining methods or thermal joining methods including fastening and welding respectively. Similarly, the support bracket (L) may be connected to either of the seat rails (115, 116) [i.e., the left seat rail and the right seat rail] by the at least one of mechanical or thermal joining process but not limiting to the same.
[00047] In addition to the substantially flat platform (3), the seat (10) also includes
at least one of a first slat (4) and a second slat (5). The at least one of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) may be pivotally connected to the substantially flat platform (3) as shown in FIG(s) 2a and 4. Each of the at least one of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) may be connected to the substantially flat platform (3) by a pivot member. In an embodiment, each of the at least one of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) may be pivotally connected to the substantially flat platform (3) along longitudinal ends. In an embodiment, the at least one of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) may be trapezoidal in shape but not limiting to any particular shape. Contours of longitudinal side of each of the at least one of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) may correspond to the longitudinal sides of the substantially flat platform (3). In an embodiment, the pivot member may be at least one of but not limiting to a ball-spigot joint, a hinge joint and the like. In some embodiments, the end of each of the at least one of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) opposite to the pivotally connected end may be connected to the support bracket (L) by the auxiliary links (LI and L2) [best viewed in FIG.7b]. As described in earlier embodiments, the auxiliary links (LI and L2) may be configured to move relative to the support bracket (L).
[00048] The configuration described above allows each of the first slat (4) and the
second slat (5) to swivel relative to the substantially flat platform (3). In an embodiment, each of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) may be structured to displace between a first position and a second position relative to the substantially flat platform (3). In an embodiment, the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) may be actuated between the first position and the second position by an actuation unit (AU) which will be elucidated in the forthcoming embodiments. The first position of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) defines a first seating configuration (10a) [depicted in FIG(s) 3, 4a and 7a]. The first seating configuration (10a) is a standard seating configuration and may be used when the

vehicle is operated in two-wheeled configuration (100a). In an embodiment, the first slat
(4) and the second slat (5) may act as side supports of the seat (10) and may flush with
the body of the vehicle. The first and second salt (4 and 5) may support a portion of legs
of the rider riding the vehicle. The second position of the first slat (4) and the second slat
(5) relative to the substantially flat platform (3) may define a second seating
configuration (10b) [depicted in FIG(s) 3, 4 and 5b]. In an embodiment, the first slat (4)
and the second slat (5) may be actuated to second position/second configuration (10b)
when the vehicle may be operated in the three-wheel configuration. In the second
configuration, position of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) may remain in the same
plane or substantially same plane as that of the substantially flat platform (3). The
auxiliary links (LI and L2) described above aid in moving the first slat (4) and the second
slat (5) to the second position upon actuation. Also, the auxiliary links (LI and L2) may
support each of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) in the second position.
[00049] In some embodiments, a resilient member (6) may be disposed between
each of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) along the point of pivot (1). The resilient member (6) may be best viewed in FIG.4b of the corresponding figures. In an embodiment, the resilient member (6) may be a torsional spring but not limiting to the same. The resilient member (6) may be disposed between the substantially flat platform
(3) and each of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) along the point of pivot (1). In an embodiment, the resilient member (6) and the pivot member may be formed as a single unit or may be individually assembled. For instance, each of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) may be connected to the substantially flat platform (3) using a spring-loaded hinge. The spring-loaded hinge may be configured to hold each of the first slat
(4) and the second slat (5) in a defined position. In an embodiment, the resilient member
(6) may be configured to restrain the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) in first position
until an external force is applied onto the first and second slat (5) to displace it from the
first to the second position.
[00050] The actuation unit (AU) that is configured to actuate the first slat (4) and
the second slat (5) as depicted in earlier embodiment will be elucidated hereinafter. The actuation unit (AU) may be operatively coupled to each of the first slat (4) and the second

slat (5). In some embodiments, the actuation unit (AU) may be operatively coupled to the auxiliary links without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. In other embodiments, the actuation unit (AU) may be operatively coupled to both the auxiliary links (LI and L2) and each of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5). The actuation unit (AU) may be manually triggered or may be automated by providing a sensor module. For instance, the sensor module may be configured to detect the conversion of two-wheeled configuration (100a) to three-wheeled configuration (100b) and vice-versa and send corresponding signals to the control unit. The control unit based on the signals received from the sensor module may further trigger the actuation unit (AU) to actuate the first and second slat (4 and 5) to second position. In some instances, the actuation unit (AU) may be triggered manually by operating switches that may be provided on the steering mechanism or any other suitable places in the vehicle. Also, the first slat and second slat (4 and 5) may be moved to second position by manually operating the actuation unit (AU) i.e., physically operating the first and second slat (4 and 5) to second position. The various actuating methods described above should not be construed as a limitation of the present disclosure.
[00051] Further, the actuation unit (AU) may be at last one of a mechanical actuation
unit (AU) or an electronic actuation unit. The mechanical actuation unit may be at last one of push-button release mechanism, hand lever release mechanism, a clip release mechanism, pneumatic actuator or a hydraulic actuator and the like. In an exemplary embodiment, actuation unit (AU) employed for actuating the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) to the second position may be a hand lever release mechanism. In this case, the operator/rider of the vehicle may be able to access the hand lever [not shown] coupled to the auxiliary links (LI and L2) and release it from an engaged position. In the engaged position, the auxiliary links (LI and L2) may be locked relative to the support bracket (L). Thus, releasing the auxiliary links (LI and L2) from engaged position unlocks the auxiliary links (LI and L2) from the support bracket (L), thereby enabling the links (LI and L2) to move relative to the support bracket (L). Using the hand lever, the operator may bring the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) to the second position to define the second configuration (10a) of the seat (10). Once the seat (10) is in second configuration

(10a), the operator engages the auxiliary links (LI and L2) with the support bracket (L) thus locking the seat (10) in second configuration (10a). Other mechanical actuation units may be employed similar to the above-described exemplary embodiments to actuate the first and second slats (4 and 5) to second position from the first position.
[00052] The electronic actuation unit for actuating the first slat (4) and the second
slat (5) to second position may include at least one of but not limiting to an actuator such as an electrical actuator, a solenoid, and the like. The electrical actuation unit may be actuated by a press of switch that may be provided at accessible locations in the vehicle. In some embodiments, the electrical actuation unit may be operated by the control unit of the vehicle based on the signals received from the sensor module. In an exemplary embodiment, the electronic actuation unit according to the present disclosure may be a solenoid which can be triggered to actuate the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) from the first position and to the second position. Referring now to FIG(s) 5a and 5b, which illustrates an exemplary schematic view of the seat (10) with solenoid (S) used as the actuation unit (AU). The solenoid (S) may be provided on either of the auxiliary links (LI and L2) and may be electrically coupled to a power source. The solenoid (S) may include a coil of wire, housing, and a moveable plunger defined with in the housing. The housing may be secured to the auxiliary links (LI and L2) at pre-defined position and the plunger defined in the housing may be disposed in the provision defined in the support bracket (L). The plunger may be initially engaged in a first locking position (F) defined in the support bracket (L) when the seat (10) is in the first position [as shown in FIG.3 and 4a]. To displace the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) from the first position to the second position, the plunger may be disengaged from the support bracket (L). To disengage the plunger, an electrical current may be introduced in the coil wire which may for magnetic field around the coil. The magnetic field around the coil draws the plunger towards the auxiliary links (LI and L2), thereby disengaging the plunger from the support bracket (L). Once the plunger is disengaged, the auxiliary links (LI and L2) may be free to move relative to the support bracket (L). The auxiliary links (LI and L2) push the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) to the second position to define the second configuration (10b) of the seat (10) [as shown in FIG.5 and 6]. Once, the first slat (4) and the second

slat (5) reach the second position, the auxiliary links (LI and L2) may be locked relative to the support bracket (L). To lock the auxiliary links (LI and L2), the electrical current is introduced through the coils may be interrupted which kills the magnetic field. Once the magnetic field around the coil is obliterated, the plunger may be released into a second locking position (Z) in the support bracket. Thus, locking the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) in the second position. The same operation described above may be performed in case the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) to be displaced from the second position to the first position. The above elucidated mechanism is exemplary in nature and should not be construed as a limitation of the present disclosure. Other actuators may be employed in the similar manner to displace the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) from the first position to the second position and vice versa.
[00053] The seat (10) as illustrated in the previous embodiments may include the
cushioning member (2) which may be applied to the seat base (B). In an embodiment, the cushioning member (2) may cover the entire seat base (B) [refer FIG(s) 1, 3, 5a and 5b]. The substantially flat platform (3), each of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) may be covered with the cushioning member (2) as a single unit or individually. The purpose of the cushioning member (2) is to provide a cushioning effect to the rider and/or the pillion while sitting on the vehicle, the cushioning member (2) may be at least one of memory foam, cotton sponge, and the like. The final layer may be the seat leather which may be tightly fixed on the seat base after sandwiching the cushioning member (2) in between. The fixing of seat leather may be done either by stitching or pasting or other means.
[00054] In an embodiment, the seat (10) of the present disclosure may be used for
various configuration of the vehicles i.e., two-wheeled configuration (100a) or three-wheeled configuration (100b). The seat (10) of the present disclosure is relatively simple to manufacture and has less maintenance. The seat (10) of the present disclosure is cost effective and can be readily actuated without any modifications based on operational configuration of the vehicle.

[00055] It is to be understood that a person of ordinary skill in the art may develop
a system of similar configuration without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. Such modifications and variations may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure covers such modifications and variations provided they come within the ambit of the appended claims and their equivalents.
[00056] Equivalents:
[00057] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms
herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.
[00058] It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used
herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as "open" terms (e.g., the term "including" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to," the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least," the term "includes" should be interpreted as "includes but is not limited to," etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to inventions containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and/or "an" should typically be interpreted to mean "at least one" or "one or more"); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the

art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of "two recitations," without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a system (108) having at least one of A, B, and C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances, where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, or C, etc." is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a system (108) having at least one of A, B, or C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" will be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A and B." While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope being indicated by the following claims.

Claims:

We claim:

1. A seat (10) for a modular vehicle (M) configured to be selectively operable in at least
one of a two-wheel configuration (100a) and a three-wheel configuration (100b), the
seat (10) comprising:
a substantially flat platform (3) connectable to a frame of the vehicle; and at least one of a first slat (4) and a second slat (5), each pivotally connectable
to either lateral side of the substantially flat portion (3) and structured to displace
between a first position and a second position.
2. The seat (10) as claimed in claim 1 comprises an actuation unit (AU) operatively coupled to at least one of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) and structured to operate the at least one of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) between the first position and the second position.
3. The seat (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first position of the at least one of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) defines a first seating configuration (10a).
4. The seat (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second position of the at least one of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) defines a second seating configuration (10b) in the vehicle (M).
5. The seat (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the at least one of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) pivotally connectable to the substantially flat platform (3).
6. The seat (10) as claimed in claim 1 comprises a resilient member (6) disposed between the substantially flat platform (3) and each of the at least one of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5), wherein the resilient member (6) is configured to retain the seat (10) in the first configuration (10a).
7. The seat (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) are operated from first configuration (10a) to the second configuration (10b) when the vehicle is operated in three-wheel configuration.

8. The seat (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the substantially flat platform (3), the each of the at least one of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) are covered with a cushioning member (2).
9. The seat (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the actuation unit (AU) is structured to operate the at least one of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) between the first position and second position by at least one of mechanical actuation unit and an electronic actuation unit.
10. The seat (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the at least one of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) connectable to a support bracket (L) through an auxiliary link (LI and L2), the auxiliary link (LI and L2) is operatively coupled to the actuation unit (AU) to displace the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) to the second position from the first position and is structured to support each of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) in the second position.
11. The seat (10) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the mechanical actuation unit is at least one of a push-button release mechanism, hand lever release mechanism and clip release mechanism, pneumatic actuators, hydraulic actuators.
12. The seat (10) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the electronic actuation unit is at least one of actuators and solenoids which are configured to push each of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) to second position upon actuation.
13. A modular vehicle (M) configured to be selectively operable in at least one of two-wheel configuration (100a) and three-wheel configuration (100b), the modular vehicle (M) comprising:
a primary frame defining the two-wheel configuration (100a);
a secondary frame detachably connectable to the primary frame (102) defining a three-wheel configuration;
a seat (10) connectable to the primary frame, the seating structure (10) comprising:

a substantially flat platform (3) connectable in the primary frame (102) of the vehicle; and
at least one of a first slat (4) and a second slat (5), each pivotally connectable to either lateral side of the substantially flat portion (3) and is structured to displace between a first position and a second position; and
14. The modular vehicle (M) as claimed in claim 14 comprises an actuation unit (AU) operatively coupled to at least one of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) and structured to operate the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) between the first position and the second position.
15. The modular vehicle (M) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the first position of the at least one of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) defines a first seating configuration (10a).
16. The modular vehicle (M) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second position of the at least one of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) defines a second seating configuration (10b) in the vehicle (M).
17. The modular vehicle (M) as claimed in claim 14, wherein each of the at least one of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) pivotally connectable to the substantially flat platform (3).
18. The modular vehicle (M) as claimed in claim 14 comprises a resilient member disposed between the substantially flat platform (3) and each of the at least one of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5).
19. The modular vehicle (M) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the substantially flat platform (3) is connected to seat rails (115, 116) of the frame by a support bracket (L) and each of the at least one of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) is connectable to the support bracket (L) through an auxiliary link (LI and L2).

20. The modular vehicle (M) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the actuation unit (AU) is structured to operate the at least one of the first slat (4) and the second slat (5) between the first position and second position by at least one of mechanical actuation unit (AU) and an electronic actuation unit (AU).