DESC:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present subject matter relates generally to a two-wheeled vehicle. More particularly but not exclusively the present subject matter relates to a switch used in the two-wheeled vehicle.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Now-a-days, with the advancement in the technology, a vehicle is constantly added with a lot of new features. These features can be the design of the vehicle or related to the control of the vehicle by different advanced means. Many times, the advanced features on the vehicle can be controlled by a controller in the vehicle, or a portable device. However, most commonly, a plurality of switches is provided on the vehicle for enabling or controlling the features. Generally, the plurality of switches is provided at a handlebar of the vehicle for activating or controlling certain features of the vehicle, either at the time of starting the vehicle or at the time of riding the vehicle.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0003] The details are described with reference to an embodiment of a two-wheeled vehicle along with the accompanying diagrams. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to reference similar features and components.
[0004] Figure 1 exemplarily illustrates a side front view of a two-wheeled vehicle.
[0005] Figure 2 exemplarily illustrates a top view of the top mounting bracket, the instrument cluster, the handle bar assembly, and a fuel tank.
[0006] Figure 3 exemplarily illustrates a top view of the top mounting bracket, the instrument cluster and the handle bar assembly (partially shown).
[0007] Figure 4 exemplarily illustrates a side cross sectional view of the front portion of the two-wheeled vehicle.
[0008] Figure 5 exemplarily illustrates a magnified side cross sectional view of the head pipe accommodating the switch on the tightening nut.
[0009] Figure 6 exemplarily illustrates a side front view of a two-wheeled vehicle.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0001] Generally, one or more operating switches are provided on a handlebar of a two-wheeled vehicle. With the introduction of new technology, addition of new features, mounting location of the operating switches to enable the new feature is vital. Typically, the one or more operating switches are placed on the handlebar of the vehicle or on an instrument cluster of the vehicle intended for various different operations. Due to increase in the number of operations activated by the one or more switches, the number of switches to be mounted on the vehicle is also increasing. This leads to difficulty in mounting and packaging of the switches on the handlebar. This results in crowding of the switches on the handlebar.
[0002] Many times, addition of new switches like, ES switch (Emergency switch), turn signal lamps switches, hazard lamp switches, headlamp ON and OFF, headlamp high beam low beam, instrument cluster control switch, horn switch, ISS switch, and the like. This results in reduction of the size of the switch, making it difficult for the rider in differentiating the switches, and overcrowding the handlebar. This may result in confusion and create stress to a rider of the vehicle, while operating these switches. Also, due to overcrowding of switches on the handlebar may result unintended operation of one or more switches, which may lead to fatal accidents and is not at all safe. However, to avoid the above-mentioned problems, the one or more switches are accommodated on the instrument cluster, but this deteriorates its aesthetics, which is not desirable.
[0003] In order to overcome the problem mentioned above, in a known prior art, the switches are placed ahead of a steering column and is partially covered by a front cowl. The cowl includes a cut-out portion and the switch is placed in that cut-out portion. The switch can be push button or rotatory ring switch around push button switch. However, the present location of the switches is very difficult to access by the rider, while riding the vehicle. This location is not ergonomically accessible by the rider as the rider has to bent forward to operate the switch, which is not safe, while riding the vehicle. In addition, there is a possibility of hinderance for switch accessibility, as it is located in the cut-out portion of the front cowl. In another known art, the one or more operating switch is mounted side-wards of the front cowl, although the location can be ergonomically accessible but there is a possibility that it may go unnoticed by the rider of the vehicle, rendering the location for appropriate mounting of the switches. In an yet another known art, a plurality of switches, which are not frequently used are mounted on an engine. But the location of the switches on the engine is not feasible as thermal protection of the switch is required and also, mud splashes and dust ingress may happen in the switches at this location, damaging the switch.
[0004] In addition to this, with the increase in number of switches, wiring for the switches also increase, while routing, resulting in cluttering of the wires around a head pipe of the vehicle. The increased number of wiring results bulkiness of the wiring due to different thickness on a left side and a right side of the vehicle. This tends to disturb the center of gravity of the vehicle in a front portion and makes the vehicle balance difficult for the rider, and thus tilting the vehicle. This creates discomfort for the rider of the vehicle. Also, cluttering of the wires around the head pipe may also damage the wiring, when it comes in contact with other components having sharp edges. Apart from this, reachability and thus serviceability of the switches becomes difficult on the handlebar due to overcrowding and in case of a particular switch not working, the entire switch cluster is to be removed from the handlebar, adding to the unnecessary cost to the vehicle. Also, adding more number of switches on the instrument cluster will require increase in the size of the cluster, which is not desirable. Thus, there is a need to overcome the above-mentioned problems and other problems of known art.
[0005] An objective of the present subject matter is to provide a mounting location for one or more operating switches where the switch is ergonomically accessible by the rider while in operation of the vehicle, prevents unintentional operation, ensures space for the switch, reduces number of wires at the head pipe, while routing, ease of serviceability, prevents wire damage while maintaining the efficiency of the switch. The present subject matter further aims to provide a safe, easy to access, and operate, ease in serviceability, sufficient space for mounting the switch. The present subject matter is described using an exemplary two-wheeled vehicle, whereas the claimed subject matter can be used in any other vehicle, with required changes and without deviating from the scope of invention.
[0006] As per an aspect of the present subject matter, a two-wheeled vehicle comprising a head pipe, a steering column, a rear frame, a front fork assembly, and a handlebar assembly. The head pipe is configured to accommodate the steering column. The rear frame extending rearwardly from the head pipe. The head pipe and the front fork assembly is supported by a top mounting bracket and a bottom mounting bracket. The handlebar is mounted on the top mounting bracket. The one or more switch is disposed on the top mounting bracket to control the function of the two-wheeled vehicle.
[0007] As per an aspect of the present subject matter, the one or more switch is disposed at the rear side of an ignition lock.
[0008] As per an aspect of the present subject matter, the one or more switch is disposed to be at a rider side.
[0009] As per an aspect of the present subject matter, the one or more switch is disposed on the head pipe of the two-wheeled vehicle.
[00010] As per another aspect of the present subject matter, the one or more switch is disposed on a steering column tightening nut.
[00011] As per an aspect of the present subject matter, a wiring harness arising out of the one or more switch is routed through a hollow part formed inside of the head pipe.
[00012] As per an aspect of the present subject matter, the wiring harness exit from a bottom part of the head pipe.
[00013] As per an aspect of the present subject matter, one or more hole clip supports the wiring harness at the bottom part of the head pipe.
[00014] As per an aspect of the present subject matter, the wiring harness is coupled to a main wiring harness of the vehicle by means of one or more coupler. The one or more hole clip supports the wiring harness at a bracket mounted between the rear frame and the down frame of the vehicle.
[00015] As per an aspect of the present subject matter, the one or more switch provided with a threaded portion at an outer surface and an inner portion of the head pipe includes corresponding threaded portion to accommodate the one or more switches. The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to a two-wheeled vehicle along with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the present embodiments. The present subject matter is further described with reference to accompanying figures. It should be noted that the description and figures merely illustrate principles of the present subject matter. Various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, encompass the principles of the present subject matter. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and examples of the present subject matter, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.
[00016] Fig.1 exemplarily illustrates a side front view of a two-wheeled vehicle. The two-wheeled vehicle comprising of a frame assembly, a front fork assembly, a handle bar assembly, a headlamp assembly, and an instrument cluster. The frame assembly includes a head pipe, a rear frame, and a down. The head pipe is configured to receive a steering column (not shown) to steer the vehicle. The rear frame extends rearwardly from the head pipe. The down frame extends rearwardly in downward direction. The head pipe and the front fork assembly is supported by a top mounting bracket and a bottom mounting bracket. The handlebar is mounted on the top mounting bracket. One or more rear view mirrors are mounted on the handlebar assembly. The headlamp assembly is mounted in front of the fork assembly and is positioned below the top mounting bracket. The instrument cluster is positioned above the headlamp assembly, facing a display of the instrument cluster towards a rider of the vehicle. The display shows the vehicle parameters and displays various other indications and information to keep the rider of the vehicle informed. A main wiring harness from a front portion of the vehicle is routed through the rear frame to the corresponding components to be connected, positioned in the back portion (not shown) of the vehicle. A bracket is placed between the rear frame and the down frame to ensure structural rigidity of the frame. The steering column (not shown) housed in the head pipe is tighten by a nut so as to ensure proper steering of the steering column.
[00017] Fig.2 exemplarily illustrates a top view of the top mounting bracket, the instrument cluster, the handle bar assembly, and a fuel tank. Fig.3 exemplarily illustrates a top view of the top mounting bracket, the instrument cluster and the handle bar assembly (partially shown). Fig.2 and Fig.3 shall be discussed together. The top mounting bracket is supported by the head pipe and the front fork assembly. The instrument cluster is placed ahead of the top mounting bracket. An ignition lock is placed on the front side of the top mounting bracket, in the vicinity of the instrument cluster. One or more switch is disposed at the rear side of the ignition lock on the top mounting bracket. The one or more switch is placed on the top mounting bracket such that it is in the reach of the rider, so the switch is placed at the rider side of the top mounting bracket. The one or more switch is disposed on a central axis of the head pipe of the two-wheeled vehicle. In an embodiment, the one or more switch is disposed on a steering column tightening nut. The present location of the switch enables to be ergonomically accessible by the rider while in operation of the vehicle. Also, this location reduces the overcrowding on the handlebar and eliminates the space constraints as adjusting small switches in space constraint area adds cost to the vehicle. Also, now there is no need to reduce the size of the switches to accommodate it on the handlebar. Further, it also improves visibility and operability ensuring safety of the vehicle while in operation. This helps in avoiding any unintended actuation of the switches. Now, serviceability of the switches on the top mounting bracket and the handlebar are easier. The location of the switch is such that it is easily visible to the rider for operation. This mounting of the switch on the tightening nut acts as a steering cap for covering the nut and thus protecting the nut from the outside environment, as well as improving the aesthetic appeal of the front portion of the two-wheeled vehicle. No additional components like steering cap are required for covering the nut as the switch sufficiently covers the nut. Apart from this, if any other accessories are added to the vehicle, this switch can be used to control that accessory as well.
[00018] The one or more switches can be an electrical, magnetic, piezoelectric or any other type of switching mechanism. In the present embodiment the one or more switch is a control switch, used to control the vehicle elements such as the instrument cluster, the vehicle lamps, instrument cluster, hazard lamp control, brake lamp, engine start, and the like. In an embodiment, the switch can also be connected to a vehicle ECU (electronic control unit) (not shown), so that the signal can be processed for further operations. In an embodiment, the switch can also be connected to the vehicle ECU for keyless-access of the vehicle by an owner. The switch can be used for various vehicle control like rider display control, vehicle lamp control, input to vehicle ECUs, horn control, and the like. The switch can be one of an electromechanical, toggle, rotatory or a combination thereof, and the like, with any other switching mechanism. In the present invention, no additional mounting bracket for mounting the switch is required and the already existing part is used, thus reducing the assembly time, cost and number of components added to the vehicle.
[00019] Fig.4 exemplarily illustrates a side cross sectional view of the front portion of the two-wheeled vehicle. Fig.5 exemplarily illustrates a magnified side cross sectional view of the head pipe accommodating the switch on the tightening nut. Fig.4 and Fig.5 shall be discussed together. In the present embodiment, the switch is mounted on the central axis of the head pipe of the two-wheeled vehicle. The switch can be mounted on the head pipe by snap fit, press fit, by a threaded arrangement, and the like. In the present embodiment, the control switch includes a threaded structure on its outer surface to be mounted inside the head pipe. The head pipe also include a corresponding threaded portion on its inner portion to accommodate the switch. In another embodiment, the switch can be mounted by press fitting. In another embodiment, the switch can be mounted with interference fit, where no threading operation is required. The threaded structure is fitted with the corresponding threaded portion of the head pipe such that a portion of switch is raised above the surface of the top mounting bracket, so that the rider of the vehicle can actuate the switch. Wiring harness from the switch is routed inside the head pipe and exits from a bottom side of the head pipe. The routing of the wiring harness inside the head pipe prevents the wiring harness to be crowded around the head pipe and prevents it from any damage. In an embodiment, the tightening of the steering column nut is done by detaching the switch from the head pipe. In another embodiment, the tightening of the nut is done without removing the one or more switch by means of a specialized tool (not shown) without harming the one or more switch. In case of the switch failure, only the switch on the head pipe is replaced instead of replacing the complete handlebar switch.
[00020] Fig.6 exemplarily illustrates a side front view of a two-wheeled vehicle. In the present embodiment, the wiring from the switch is routed through the hollow portion of the head pipe and the wiring harness exits from the bottom portion of the head pipe. A hole clip is provided at the bottom portion of the head pipe to clip the wiring harness on the inner portion of the head pipe. This is done so that the wiring harness from switch is not interfered by any nearby components, thus keeping it safe from any damage. The wiring harness, after exiting is routed along the rear frame and is met with one or more coupler so as to be coupled with the main wiring harness, so as to get connected to their corresponding vehicle components. The one or more coupler is supported and clipped by one or more hole clips on the bracket between the rear frame and the down frame of the vehicle. The clipping of wiring harness prevents the harness from hanging, which otherwise causes slacking in the wiring harness, resulting inefficient working of the switches and its related operation. This routing of the wiring harness also maintains the centre of gravity and balance of the vehicle. Many other improvements and modifications may be incorporated herein without deviating from the scope of the invention.

List of Reference numerals
F: Front portion
100: Two wheeled vehicle
102: Frame assembly
104: Front fork assembly
106: Handle bar assembly
108: Headlamp assembly
110: Instrument cluster
110(a): Display of 110
112: Head pipe
114: Rear frame
116: Down frame
118: Top mounting bracket
120: Bottom mounting bracket
122: One or more rear view mirror
124: Main wiring harness
126: Bracket
128: Fuel tank
130: Ignition lock
132: One or more switch
134: Tightening nut
136: Threaded structure on 132
138: Threaded portion on 112
140: Wiring harness
142: Hole clip
144: One or more couplers
,CLAIMS:We claim:
1. A two-wheeled vehicle (100) comprising:
a head pipe (112), said head pipe (112) being configured to accommodate a steering column (not shown);
a rear frame (114) extending rearwardly from the head pipe (112);
a front fork assembly (104); and
a handlebar assembly (106);
the head pipe (112) and the front fork assembly (104) being supported by a top mounting bracket (118) and a bottom mounting bracket (120);
the handlebar assembly (106) being mounted on the top mounting bracket (118);
wherein, one or more switch (132) being disposed on the top mounting bracket (118) to control the function of the two-wheeled vehicle (100).
2. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more switch (132) being disposed at the rear side of an ignition lock (130) when seen in a side view of the vehicle (100).
3. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the one or more switch (132) being disposed to be at a rider side.
4. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1 or claim 3, wherein the one or more switch (132) being disposed on the head pipe (112) of the two-wheeled vehicle (100).
5. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the one or more switch (132) being disposed on a steering column tightening nut (134).
6. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a wiring harness (140) arising out of the one or more switch (132) being routed through a hollow part (not labelled) formed inside of the head pipe (112).
7. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the wiring harness (140) exits from a bottom part of the head pipe (112).
8. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein a one or more hole clip (142) supports the wiring harness (140), said hose clip (142) being provided rearwards of head pipe (112).
9. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the wiring harness (140) being coupled to a main wiring harness (124) of the vehicle (100) by means of one or more coupler (144).
10. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the one or more hose clip (142) supports the wiring harness (140) at a bracket (126) mounted between the rear frame (114) and a down frame (116) of the vehicle (100).
11. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the one or more switch (132) being provided with a threaded structure (136) at its outer surface and an inner portion of the head pipe (112) includes corresponding threaded portion (138) to accommodate the one or more switches (132).
12. The two-wheeled vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more switch (132) being mounted by snap fit.