Abstract: CHASSIS OF TWO-WHEELED VEHICLE Abstract In the present disclosure, a chassis for a two-wheeled vehicle is disclosed. A head tube is disposed at a top front end of the chassis, forming a first angle (?1) with a vertical axis. Connected to the head tube are left and right down tubes, forming a second angle (?2) between them. A gusset tube subassembly, connected to the down tubes, includes left and right gusset tubes. The gusset tubes possess bent and sloped portions, establishing third (?3) and fourth (?4) angles with respective down tubes. A first cross tube is positioned between the gusset tubes. A main tube subassembly, integrated into the chassis, connects to the gusset tube subassembly. The main tube subassembly comprises left and right main tubes extending to a rear end of the chassis. Further, parallelly-aligned second and third cross tubes are incorporated. The third cross tube is disposed at the rear end of the chassis. Fig.1
Description:CHASSIS OF TWO-WHEELED VEHICLE
Field of the Invention
[0001] The present invention relates to vehicle chassis and particularly to chassis of two-wheeled vehicles.
Background
[0002] The description in the Background section includes general information related to the field of the present application. The background is only meant to provide context to a reader in understanding the present invention. It is neither to be taken as an admission that any of the provided information relates to prior art for the presently claimed invention nor that any publication explicitly or implicitly referenced within this section relates to prior art. The background section is merely meant to be illustrative rather than exhaustive and is primarily intended to identify problems associated with the present state of the art.
[0003] Two-wheeled vehicles have seen a surge in popularity over recent years, particularly owing to the emergence of electric powertrains. Such electrically-propelled vehicles offer several advantages over their conventional fossil fuel-propelled counterparts, including reduced emissions, quieter operation, and lower operating costs. However, as with any technological transition, adaptation of electric systems into two-wheeled vehicles introduces numerous challenges.
[0004] A primary concern in development of electric two-wheeled vehicles is associated with the design of a frame or chassis of such vehicles. A need to house the battery that serves as primary energy source for electric vehicles (EVs) has posed significant design and structural challenges. Traditional frames associated with petrol- and diesel-powered vehicles are not always conducive to efficient and safe storage of bulky and heavy battery units. Further, batteries require specific conditions for optimal performance and safety, including a requirement to maintain them within particular temperature ranges, ensuring that they are protected from external elements and providing adequate space for potential expansion or contraction during usage due to thermal changes.
[0005] Additionally, electrical and electronic components associated with EV functionality introduce added complexity in design because such components that are vital for the operation, control, and safety of the vehicle, need to be strategically positioned within the vehicle to ensure that they remain protected, accessible for maintenance, and optimally cooled because such components can generate heat during operation. It will be appreciated that a front side of a vehicle, which is typically used for steering and accommodating other critical components, becomes a challenging area for packaging of such electrical and electronic components, especially when attempting to maintain a sleek design and efficient weight distribution of the overall two-wheeled vehicle.
[0006] In light of the above discussion, it can be readily recognised that there exists an urgent need for a redesigned frame or chassis that effectively addresses the challenges associated with battery packaging and the integration of electrical and electronic components, especially on the front side of electric two-wheeled vehicles to ensure that the electric two-wheeled vehicles are practical, safe, and efficient for broader consumer adoption.
Summary
[0007] The following Summary section provides only a brief introduction to the various embodiments of the present invention. It is to be understood that the following paragraphs are neither meant to constitute a complete and thorough description of the claimed subject matter nor is it intended to define the technical features or the scope of the claimed subject matter. Thus, the description in the Summary section is neither intended to identify only the essential features of the present invention nor limit the scope of the claimed subject matter in any manner.
[0008] The present invention relates to vehicle chassis and particularly to chassis of two-wheeled vehicles.
[0009] The present disclosure provides a chassis of a two-wheeled vehicle. The chassis comprises a head tube disposed at a top front end of the chassis. The head tube forms a first angle (?1) with respect to a vertical axis associated with an upright orientation of the two-wheeled vehicle. The chassis comprises a pair of down tubes connected to the head tube. The pair of down tubes comprise a left down tube and a right down tube. The left down tube forms a second angle (?2) with the right down tube. The chassis comprises a gusset tube subassembly connected to the pair of down tubes. The gusset tube subassembly comprises a left gusset tube connected to the left down tube. The left gusset tube comprises a first bent portion connected to the left down tube and a first sloped portion extending from the first bent portion. The first sloped portion forms a third angle (?3) with the left down tube. The left gusset tube comprises a second bent portion extending from the first sloped portion. The second bent portion forms a fourth angle (?4) with the left down tube. The gusset tube subassembly comprises a right gusset tube connected to the right down tube. The right gusset tube comprises a third bent portion connected to the right down tube and a second sloped portion extending from the third bent portion. The second sloped portion forms the third angle (?3) with the right down tube. The right gusset tube comprises a fourth bent portion extending from the second sloped portion. The fourth bent portion forms the fourth angle (?4) with the right down tube. The chassis further comprises a first cross tube disposed between the left gusset tube and the right gusset tube. The chassis comprises a main tube subassembly connected to the gusset tube subassembly. The main tube subassembly comprises a left main tube subassembly extending from the left gusset tube. The left main tube subassembly comprises a left main tube disposed longitudinally towards a rear end of the chassis and a left support tube disposed longitudinally towards the rear end of the chassis. The left support tube is positioned above the left main tube. The main tube subassembly further comprises a right main tube subassembly extending from the right gusset tube. The right main tube subassembly comprises a right main tube disposed longitudinally towards the rear end of the chassis and a right support tube disposed longitudinally towards the rear end of the chassis. The right support tube is positioned above the right main tube. The chassis comprises a second cross tube disposed between the left support tube and the right support tube. The second cross tube is aligned parallelly with the first cross tube. The chassis comprises a third cross tube disposed between the left main tube and the right main tube. The third cross tube is aligned parallelly with the second cross tube. The third cross tube is disposed at the rear end of the chassis.
[00010] In a first embodiment, each of the left main tube, the left support tube, the right main tube and the right support tube comprise at least two L-bends. Further, an angle associated with each L-bend is more than 90°.
[00011] In a second embodiment, the first cross tube is disposed orthogonally to each of the left gusset tube and the right gusset tube. Further, the second cross tube is disposed orthogonally to each of the left support tube and the right support tube.
[00012] In a third embodiment, the rear end of the chassis is U-shaped. The rear end of the chassis is formed by the third cross tube, the left main tube and the right main tube.
[00013] In a fourth embodiment, the left main tube subassembly is connected to the left gusset tube via a first welded joint and the right main tube subassembly is connected to the right gusset tube via a second welded joint.
[00014] In a fifth embodiment, the pair of down tubes receive a first component of the two-wheeled vehicle. The first component is selected from a motor controller, a direct current (DC) to DC converter and a glove box.
[00015] In a sixth embodiment, the left main tube subassembly and the right main tube subassembly receive a second component of the two-wheeled vehicle. The second component is selected from a battery pack, a swing arm, a foot peg, a pannier stay and a grab handle.
[00016] The various objects, features, and advantages of the claimed invention will become clear when reading the following Detailed Description along with the Drawings.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[00017] The following Brief Description of Drawings section will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. Although exemplary embodiments of the present invention are illustrated in the drawings, the embodiments are not limited to the specific features shown in the drawings. The drawings illustrate simplified views of the claimed invention and are therefore, not made to scale. Identical numbers in the drawings indicate like elements in the drawings.
[00018] The embodiments of the present invention will now be briefly described by way of example only with reference to the drawings in which:
[00019] FIG. 1 shows a chassis of a two-wheeled vehicle as per one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[00020] FIG. 2 shows a front perspective view of the chassis shown in FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[00021] FIG. 3 shows a rear perspective view of the chassis shown in FIGs. 1-2 as per an embodiment of the present disclosure; and
[00022] FIG. 4 shows another rear perspective view of the chassis shown in FIGs. 1-3 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
Detailed Description
[00023] The following is a detailed description of exemplary embodiments to illustrate the principles of the invention. The embodiments are provided to illustrate aspects of the invention, but the invention is not limited to any single embodiment. The scope of the invention encompasses without limitation numerous alternatives, modifications and combinations.
[00024] It shall be noted that as used within the current section as well as in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Further, the use of words such as “first”, “second”, “third” and the like does not represent any particular order. Such words have been merely employed to distinguish one individual component from another. Moreover, “each” refers to each member of a set or each member of a subset of a set.
[00025] An arrangement of two or more components, unless stated specifically, can be done without limitation in any manner relative to a three-dimensional coordinate system. Thus, a second component arranged underneath a first component may also be taken to mean that the first component is arranged underneath the second component.
[00026] The phrase “configured to” as used through the Detailed Description as well as the appended Claims is to be taken to mean that the particular component that is configured to perform a specific action is specially conceived, designed and subsequently manufactured to enable the particular component to be employed for conveniently performing the specific action. However, this should not be taken to mean that the particular component is only capable of performing one specific action that the particular component is configured to do. It may perform a variety of different actions in addition to the specific action that the particular component has been configured to do.
[00027] The phrase “operably coupled” as used throughout the Detailed Description as well as the appended Claims is to be understood to refer to a coupling between two or more components that such an action performed by or on a first of the components is transferable as an equivalent action of or on a second of the component that is operably coupled to the first component. It will be appreciated that more than two components may be operably coupled to each other.
[00028] Terms such as “slidably”, “pivotally”, “rotatably” and the like have been employed throughout the Detailed Description as well as the appended Claims to refer to coupling between two or more components such that a first component can move (such as, slide, pivot or rotate) with respect to a second component that is movably coupled to the first component without completely detaching from the first component. It will be appreciated that more than two components may be operably coupled to each other.
[00029] It will be appreciated that various components of the system may be permanently or temporarily (such as, detachably) coupled to each other using various permanent or temporary means, including but not limited to, welding the components together, using screws, nuts, bolts and the like to join the components together, attaching the components using magnets and the like. Such details are commonly available in the art and have therefore been omitted throughout the Detailed Description and the appended Claims for the sake of conciseness.
[00030] It will also be appreciated that modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the systems and apparatuses described hereinafter without departing from the scope of the Claims. The components of the systems and apparatuses may be integrated or separated. Moreover, the operations of the systems and apparatuses may be performed by more, fewer, or other components.
[00031] The present invention relates to vehicle chassis and particularly to chassis of two-wheeled vehicles.
[00032] Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a chassis 100 of a two-wheeled vehicle as per one embodiment of the present disclosure. The two-wheeled vehicle can be, for example, an electric two-wheeled vehicle comprising a battery pack. The chassis 100 enables to house the battery pack to provide electric propulsion to the two-wheeled vehicle. Further, the chassis 100 is implemented such that various components of the chassis 100 ensure stability and safety of the two-wheeled vehicle during operation, such as, by enabling to balance a weight associated with various electric components of the two-wheeled vehicle. The chassis 100 enables to embed conduits and channels through which electrical wiring and associated electronic components are routed, ensuring a streamlined design and efficient heat dissipation. The chassis 100 overcomes various problems associated with packaging of electronic components of the two-wheeled vehicle at towards a front portion of the two-wheeled vehicle. The chassis 100 also provides appropriate strategic locations for attaching auxiliary systems for smooth operation and comfortable usage of the two-wheeled vehicle, thereby, ensuring optimized weight distribution, efficient component integration, and enhanced safety features.
[00033] The chassis 100 comprises a head tube 102 disposed at a top front end of the chassis 100. The head tube 102 forms a first angle ?1 with respect to a vertical axis OA associated with an upright orientation of the two-wheeled vehicle. The head tube 102 refers to a cylindrical component of the chassis 100 that is positioned at the top front end of chassis 100. The head tube 102 enables arrangement of a steering mechanism of the two-wheeled vehicle. The head tube 102 forms the first angle ?1 with respect to the vertical axis OA, enabling an improved alignment for the steering mechanism of the two-wheeled vehicle that can be arranged on the head tube 102. For example, such an arrangement enables enhanced steering responsiveness and precision, granting improved control and manoeuvrability of the two-wheeled vehicle to the rider on different terrains and conditions. Further, the orientation of the head tube 102 at the first angle ?1 with respect to the vertical axis facilitates optimal placement and integration of braking components of the two-wheeled vehicle. Such an arrangement of the braking components ensures that braking forces are distributed efficiently and uniformly, leading to more increased stopping power and improved safety offered to the two-wheeled vehicle. Moreover, the disposition of the head tube 102 at the first angle ?1 enables incorporation of lighting components on the two-wheeled vehicle that are essential for night-time or low-light visibility. It will be appreciated that the arrangement of the head tube at the first angle ?1 enables mounting of the lighting components on the head tube 102 in an angular manner, thereby, enabling projection of light at an angle with respect the vertical axis OA that maximizes visibility for both the rider and other road participants. Consequently, the arrangement of the head tube 102 at the first angle ?1 relative to the vertical axis OA enables optimized integration of vital components such as steering, braking, and lighting systems, thereby, increasing efficiency, safety, and user-centricity associated with the two-wheeled vehicle.
[00034] Referring now to FIG. 2, there is shown a front perspective view of the chassis 100 shown in FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the chassis 100 comprises a pair of down tubes 104 connected to the head tube 102. The pair of down tubes 104A-B comprise a left down tube 104A and a right down tube 104B. The left down tube 104A forms a second angle ?2 with the right down tube 104B. The down tube 104 refers to a primary structural element of the chassis 100 that extends downwards from the head tube 102, such as, towards wheels of the two-wheeled vehicle. The pair of down tubes 104A-B provide foundational support and stability to the overall chassis 100. Such an incorporation of the second angle ?2 between the left down tube 104A and the right down tube 104B enables to provide a wide base of support for the two-wheeled vehicle, thereby enhancing stability during turning or when navigating uneven terrains. It will be appreciated that such stability is important for electric two-wheeled vehicles having added weight and dynamic forces associated with electric propulsion systems (such as an electric motor). Further, the second angle ?2 between the left down tube 104A and the right down tube 104B provides an optimized space for housing essential components of the two-wheeled vehicle. The arrangement of such components between the left down tube 104A and the right down tube 104B ensures protection of such components while also promoting a balanced weight distribution, further enhancing the handling and performance of the two-wheeled vehicle. Moreover, the second angle ?2 improves aerodynamics associated with the two-wheeled vehicle by reducing an overall drag coefficient associated with the two-wheeled vehicle, increasing an operating efficiency of the two-wheeled vehicle while also increasing a range associated therewith. It will be appreciated that
increasing the range associated with electric vehicles is essential to promote adoption of electric vehicles, in addition to increasing structural robustness, performance, safety, and efficiency.
[00035] In one embodiment, the pair of down tubes 104A-B receive a first component of the two-wheeled vehicle. The first component is selected from a motor controller, a direct current (DC) to DC converter and a glove box. Such a first component is important for operation or functionality of the two-wheeled vehicle and can comprise one or more of: the motor controller, the DC-to-DC converter and the glove box. Such an incorporation of the first component within the pair of down tubes 104A-B enables efficient space utilization associated with the two-wheeled vehicle, ensuring protection and optimal functioning of critical electronic components such as the motor controller and DC-to-DC converter while also offering the rider a handy storage solution via the glove box. The motor controller is an electronic device that assists in modulating energy supply from the battery pack to the electric motor. The motor controller enables regulation of speed, torque and overall performance of the two-wheeled vehicle. It will be appreciated that housing the motor controller within the pair of down tubes 104A-B ensures protection of the motor controller from external environmental factors such as rain, dust and the like, while also enabling close proximity of the motor controller to the electric motor, thereby, optimizing response time and efficiency of the motor controller as well as the electric motor. The DC-to-DC converter refers to an electronic circuit or device that converts DC voltage from one level to another. It will be appreciated that different components of the electric two-wheeled vehicle might require different voltage levels. Consequently, the DC-to-DC converter housed within the down tubes 104A-B enables centralized voltage regulation, ensuring consistent power delivery and improved energy efficiency. The glove box refers to a storage compartment within the two-wheeled vehicle that enables storage of essential items for the rider, such as, legal documents including a driver’s license, identity cards and the like, mobile phone, mobile phone charger, wallet and the like. The integration of the glove box within the down tubes 104A-B optimizes space utilization, providing riders with easy access to the items stored within the glove box while also ensuring that the stored items are shielded from external elements such as rain, moisture, dust and the like. Consequently, the incorporation of the first component within the pair of down tubes 104A-B ensures functionality, performance, and convenience associated with the electric two-wheeled vehicles.
[00036] Referring now to FIG. 3, there is shown a rear perspective view of the chassis 100 shown in FIGs. 1-2 as per an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the chassis 100 comprises a gusset tube subassembly 106A-B connected to the pair of down tubes 104A-B. The gusset tube subassembly 106A-B refers to reinforcing structural element arranged on each of the left side and the right side of the chassis to enhance the strength and rigidity of the chassis 100 while optimizing weight distribution. The gusset tube subassembly 106A-B also enables changing of an angle of arrangement of components of the chassis 100 (such as a main tube subassembly, described hereinafter) with respect to the pair of down tubes 104A-B. The gusset tube subassembly 106A-B comprises a left gusset tube 106A connected to the left down tube 104A. The left gusset tube 106A comprises a first bent portion 106A(i) connected to the left down tube 104A and a first sloped portion 106A(ii) extending from the first bent portion 106A(i). The first sloped portion 106A(ii) forms a third angle ?3 with the left down tube 104A. The left gusset tube 106A further comprises a second bent portion 106A(iii) extending from the first sloped portion 106A(ii). The second bent portion 106A(iii) forms a fourth angle ?4 with the left down tube 104A. The left gusset tube 106A is connected to the left down tube 104A via the first bent portion 106A(i). The first bent portion 106A(i) refers to a component associated with an angular deviation from the left down tube 104A. The first bent portion 106A(i) ensures a robust connection, fortifying a point of attachment of the first bent portion 106A(i) with the left down tube 104A against stresses and potential points of fatigue. The first sloped portion 106A(ii) that is connected to the first bent portion 106A(i) refers to a component associated with a distinct decline such that the first sloped portion 106A(ii) forms the third angle ?3 with the left down tube 104A. The third angle ?3 enables the left gusset subassembly 106A to achieve a specific angular orientation with respect to the left down tube 104A, thereby providing improved aerodynamics to the chassis 100 for reducing drag and enhancing the overall efficiency of the electric two-wheeled vehicle. Furthermore, the third angle ?3 ensures optimal weight distribution across the chassis 100, resulting in better stability, particularly at high speeds or during sharp turns of the electric two-wheeled vehicle. Moreover, the second bent portion 106A(iii) is connected to the first sloped portion 106A(ii) to provide a further angular deviation from the left down tube 104A such that a component connected to the second bent portion 106A(iii) is substantially horizontal with respect to the chassis 100. The second bent portion 106A(iii) forms the fourth angle ?4 with the left down tube 104A to provide resistance to torsional forces to the chassis 100, such as, during acceleration, deceleration, or when navigating uneven terrains. The fourth angle ?4 further enables the electric two-wheeled vehicle to maintain structural integrity, such as, against mechanical stresses encountered under demanding operational conditions.
[00037] Referring now to FIG. 4, there is shown another rear perspective view of the chassis 100 shown in FIGs. 1-3 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The gusset tube subassembly 106A-B comprises a right gusset tube 106B connected to the right down tube 104B. The right gusset tube 106B comprises a third bent portion 106B(i) connected to the right down tube 104B and a second sloped portion 106B(ii) extending from the third bent portion 106(i). The second sloped portion 106B(ii) forms the third angle (?3) with the right down tube. Further, the right gusset tube 106B comprises a fourth bent portion 106B(iii) extending from the second sloped portion 106B(ii). The fourth bent portion 106B(iii) forms the fourth angle (?4) with the right down tube 104B. The fourth gusset tube 106B refers to a reinforcing structural element that enhances rigidity and strength of the chassis 100, such as, along the right side of the chassis 100. The fourth gusset tube 106B ensures overall stability and durability of the two-wheeled vehicle by providing additional support for the weight and operational dynamics of electrical components and battery pack of the two-wheeled vehicle. The third bent portion 106B(i) of the right gusset tube 106B is an angled component of the right gusset tube 106B that facilitates a secure and robust connection to the right down tube 104B, thereby ensuring that mechanical stresses are effectively dispersed throughout the chassis 100. The second sloped portion 106B(ii), similarly to the first sloped portion 106A(ii), enables to provide an angular deviation to the components connected to the right gusset tube 106B with respect to the right down tube 104B. Further, the second sloped portion 106B(ii) forms the third angle ?3 with the right down tube 104B to optimize balance and weight distribution of the chassis 100, thereby enabling to maintain stability of the two-wheeled vehicle during high-speed manoeuvres and turns. Consequently, the second sloped portion 106B(ii) disposed at the third angle ?3 contributes to weight reduction of the chassis 100 while providing enhanced aerodynamics to the two-wheeled vehicle. The fourth bent portion 106B(iii) connected to the second sloped portion 106B(ii) provides additional strength and rigidity to the chassis 100 to enable the chassis 100 to withstand dynamic forces without deformation during operation of the two-wheeled vehicle. The fourth bent portion 106B(iii) is disposed at the fourth angle ?4 with the right down tube 104B to enhance handling characteristics of the electric two-wheeled vehicle by improving vibration dampening, ride comfort, and overall user experience for the rider.
[00038] The chassis 100 further comprises a first cross tube 107 disposed between the left gusset tube 106A and the right gusset tube 106B. The first cross tube 107 is arranged perpendicularly to both the left gusset tube 106A and the right gusset tube 106B. Such a perpendicular arrangement of the first cross tube 107 enables to uniformly distribute forces and stresses across the width of the chassis 100, thereby, leading to a significant reduction in possibility of localized stress concentrations that could potentially compromise structural integrity of the two-wheeled vehicle during dynamic manoeuvres or upon impact (such as, collision with another vehicle). Further, connection of the left gusset tube 106A and the right gusset tube 106B in a perpendicular manner enables the first cross tube 107 to provide a balanced weight distribution across the chassis 100. It will be appreciated that such a balanced configuration is beneficial for electric two-wheeled vehicles to ensure that the added weight of the battery pack and electrical components does not unbalance one side of the two-wheeled vehicle with respect to another. The first cross tube 107 introduces an additional axis of rigidity, thereby, ensuring that the chassis 100 remains resistant to torsional forces and bending moments, thereby, enabling improved handling and ride stability at higher speeds of the two-wheeled vehicle.
[00039] Referring back to FIG. 3, the chassis comprises a main tube subassembly 108A-B connected to the gusset tube subassembly 106A-B. The main tube subassembly 108A-B comprises a left main tube subassembly 108A extending from the left gusset tube 106A. The left main tube subassembly 108A comprises a left main tube 108A(i) disposed longitudinally towards a rear end of the chassis 100 and a left support tube 108A(ii) disposed longitudinally towards the rear end of the chassis 100. The left support tube 108A(ii) is positioned above the left main tube 108A(i). The left main tube 108A(i) that is disposed longitudinally towards the rear end of the chassis 100 serves as a foundational structural member, thereby, contributing to longitudinal rigidity of the chassis 100. Such a positioning and orientation of the left main tube 108A(i) ensure that the electric two-wheeled vehicle retains stability thereof during linear accelerations and decelerations, thereby, improving dynamic performance of the electric two-wheeled vehicle. Moreover, positioning of one end of the left main tube 108A(i) towards the rear end of the chassis 100 provides support to the propulsion system of the two-wheeled vehicle (such as the electric motor and related components). The left support tube 108A(ii) amplifies structural robustness of the chassis 100 by providing additional reinforcement and counteracting vertical stresses and vibrations, thereby enhancing comfort for the rider. Moreover, the left support tube 108A(ii) can serve as a conduit or protective channel for wiring or ancillary components associated with the electrical system of the electric two-wheeled vehicle. The disposition of the left support tube 108A(ii) above the left main tube 108A(i) enables to provide a balanced weight distribution, thereby ensuring responsive and predictable handling characteristics in the electric two-wheeled vehicle. Such a positioning of the left support tube 108A(ii) also allows efficient space utilization, thereby providing space for additional storage or housing of electrical components without compromising structural integrity of the chassis.
[00040] Referring again to FIG. 4, the main tube subassembly 1081-B comprises a right main tube subassembly 108B extending from the right gusset tube 106B. The right main tube subassembly 108B comprises a right main tube 108B(i) disposed longitudinally towards the rear end of the chassis 100 and a right support tube 108B(ii) disposed longitudinally towards the rear end of the chassis 100. The right support tube 108B(ii) is positioned above the right main tube 108B(i). The right main tube 108B(i) imparts enhanced longitudinal rigidity to the chassis 100, such as, to the right side of the chassis 100. Further, arrangement of a rear side of the right main tube 108B(i) towards the rear end of the chassis 100 provides stability to the two-wheeled vehicle, such as, during rapid accelerations or decelerations. It will be appreciated that such stability is important for electric two-wheeled vehicles that are associated with instantaneous torque delivery from the electric motor. Moreover, the right main tube 108B(i) provides space for the propulsion system of the two-wheeled vehicle (such as the electric motor and associated elements). The right support tube 108B(ii) provides structural resilience to the chassis 100. Further, an additional layer of reinforcement provided by the right support tube 108B(ii) enables the chassis 100 to overcome vertical vibrations during operation of the two-wheeled vehicle, thereby enhancing riding experience. Moreover, the right support tube 108B(ii) can be employed for arrangement of electrical wiring or ancillary electric modules associated with the two-wheeled vehicle, thereby safeguarding such wiring and modules from external factors (such as dust, rain and the like) and ensuring optimal performance. Further, the arrangement of the right support tube 108B(ii) above the right main tube 108B(i) complements the arrangement of the left support tube 108A(ii) above the left main tube 108A(i) to ensure a balanced chassis 100, thereby enabling precise and intuitive vehicular handling. The arrangement of the right support tube 108B(ii) above the right main tube 108B(i) also enables strategic placement of electrical components, the battery pack or storage compartments without taking space associated with other structural elements of the chassis 100. As shown, the arrangement of the right support tube 108B(ii) above the right main tube 108B(i) also enables to provide a streamlined chassis 100, thereby, overcoming aerodynamic resistance and augmenting the energy efficiency of the electric two-wheeled vehicle.
[00041] In one embodiment, the left main tube subassembly 108A is connected to the left gusset tube 106A via a first welded joint and the right main tube subassembly 108B is connected to the right gusset tube 106B via a second welded joint. The first welded joint and the second welded joint provide improved joint strength between the left gusset tube 106A and the left main tube subassembly 108A as well as the right gusset tube 108A and the right main tube subassembly 108B, thereby, ensuring that the interconnected components function as a singular, cohesive unit, and therefore, elevating overall structural robustness of the chassis 100. It will be appreciated that welded connections are highly resistant to fatigue, ensuring longevity and reduced maintenance frequency of the chassis 100. The first welded joint and the second welded joint also offers a smooth, continuous surface at the respective joints, thereby, eliminating protrusions or sharp edges, consequently, enhancing aerodynamics and aesthetics of the chassis 100.
[00042] In another embodiment, the left main tube subassembly 108A and the right main tube subassembly 108B receive a second component of the two-wheeled vehicle. The second component is selected from a battery pack, a swing arm, a foot peg, a pannier stay and a grab handle. Such an arrangement of the second component within the left main tube subassembly 108A and the right main tube subassembly 108B enhances utility and functionality associated with the two-wheeled vehicle. The battery pack refers to a primary energy source of the electric two-wheeled vehicle. The battery pack comprises a collection of cells configured to store and supply the electric power. It will be appreciated that the arrangement of the battery pack within the left main tube subassembly 108A and the right main tube subassembly 108B, enables to provide optimal weight distribution of the chassis 100 as well as balanced and stable vehicle dynamics of the electric two-wheeled vehicle. The swing arm refers to a component for rear wheel suspension of the electric two-wheeled vehicle. The swing arm ensures that the real wheel remains in contact with the ground, thereby, providing smoother rides. Further, integration of the swing arm within the left main tube subassembly 108A and the right main tube subassembly 108B strengthens connection of the swing arm to the chassis 100, thereby, offering enhanced durability and reduced vibrations. The foot peg refers to a footrest for the rider during usage of the electric two-wheeled vehicle. The foot peg offers ergonomic support for the rider. Further, arrangement of the foot peg within left main tube subassembly 108A and the right main tube subassembly 108B enables riders to enjoy a more stable and comfortable positioning, thereby enhancing riding experience. The pannier stay refers to a structural component adapted to hold side boxes or bags. The arrangement of the pannier stay within left main tube subassembly 108A and the right main tube subassembly 108B ensures even distribution of weight associated with the pannier stay, thereby, ensuring vehicle balance when laden with luggage. The grab handle refers to a component that is located towards the rear side of the electric two-wheeled vehicle and aids a pillion rider in holding onto the vehicle. The arrangement of the grab handle within left main tube subassembly 108A and the right main tube subassembly 108B ensures superior grip and stability for the pillion rider.
[00043] In one embodiment, each of the left main tube 108A(i), the left support tube 108A(ii), the right main tube 108B(i) and the right support tube 108A(ii) comprise at least two L-bends. Further, an angle associated with each L-bend is more than 90°. The angle associated with each L-bend being more than 90° enables to enhance the structural rigidity of each of the left main tube 108A(i), the left support tube 108A(ii), the right main tube 108B(i) and the right support tube 108A(ii), thereby providing such tubes with superior resistance against bending and torsional stresses that are commonly encountered during operation of two-wheeled vehicles. Further, the angle enables a more spread-out distribution of material across a length of each of the left main tube 108A(i), the left support tube 108A(ii), the right main tube 108B(i) and the right support tube 108A(ii), thus, ensuring a more balanced weight distribution and vehicle stability during various riding conditions. Moreover, in an event of impact, the angle of the L-bends can dissipate the force more effectively across a structure of the corresponding tube, thereby, reducing damage to the vehicle and increasing rider safety.
[00044] Referring back to FIG. 2, the chassis 100 comprises a second cross tube 110 disposed between the left support tube 108A(ii) and the right support tube 108B(ii). The second cross tube 110 is aligned parallelly with the first cross tube 107. The parallel disposition of the second cross tube 110 with the first cross tube 107 ensures an even distribution of stresses and forces across the chassis 100, thereby enhancing stability of the vehicle, such as, during dynamic manoeuvres. Further, the parallel disposition of the second cross tube 110 with the first cross tube 107 enables a symmetrical load distribution and minimization of torsional strains, such as, during uneven load-bearing situations (such as when carrying a pillion rider or additional cargo). Moreover, the parallel disposition of the second cross tube 110 with the first cross tube 107 enables to create a uniformed space within the chassis 110, such as, for housing various components that require a consistent spacing, such as the battery pack.
[00045] In one embodiment, the first cross tube 107 is disposed orthogonally to each of the left gusset tube 106A and the right gusset tube 106B. The second cross tube 110 is disposed orthogonally to each of the left support tube 108A(ii) and the right support tube 108B(ii). The orthogonal disposition of the first cross tube 107 to each of the left gusset tube 106A and the right gusset tube 106B ensures a more rigid joint and offers enhanced resistance against torsional and lateral forces, thereby improving the overall structural strength of the chassis 100. Further, the orthogonal disposition of the first cross tube 107 to each of the left gusset tube 106A and the right gusset tube 106B enables an even distribution of weight and forces, thereby minimizing localized stresses and increasing the lifespan of the chassis 100. The second cross tube 110 being disposed orthogonally to each of the left support tube 108A(ii) and the right support tube 108B(ii) increases lateral stability of the two-wheeled vehicle, thereby making the two-wheeled vehicle more resilient to side impacts and sharp turns. Further, the orthogonal arrangement creates an optimized and consistent space within the chassis 100 that is suitable for accommodating various vehicular components without interference for storage (such as, within a boot space).
[00046] The chassis 100 further comprises a third cross tube 112 disposed between the left main tube 108A(i) and the right main tube 108B(i). The third cross tube 112 is aligned parallelly with the second cross tube 110 and the third cross tube 112 is disposed at the rear end of the chassis 100. The parallel alignment of the third cross tube 112 with the second cross tube 110 enables to ensure an evenly distributed stress pattern during vehicular operations, thereby reducing potential weak points and enhancing durability. Also, the parallel alignment provides a consistent and predictable space framework within the chassis 100, thereby, enabling a more streamlined incorporation of vehicle components and systems. Also, arrangement of the third cross tube 112 at the rear end of the chassis 100 provides an important reinforcement for the rear end of the chassis 100, such as, for supporting components like the rear wheel, electric motor and any auxiliary systems. Also, the integration of the third cross tube 112 at the rear end of the chassis 100 enables to partially or completely absorb damage during collision, thereby preventing the chassis and other components of the electric two-wheeled vehicle (such as the battery pack) and thus, improving rider safety.
[00047] In one embodiment, the rear end of the chassis 100 is U-shaped. The rear end of the chassis 100 is formed by the third cross tube 112, the left main tube 108A(i) and the right main tube 108B(i). As shown, the third cross tube 112 serves as a base of the U-shape and the left main tube 108A(i) and the right main tube 108B(i) serve as two parallel arms of the U-shape. The U-shape provides a stable and robust framework because a curvature and width of the U-shape enables effective lateral distribution of stresses, thereby making the chassis 100 more resistant to side impacts or torsional forces. The U-shape provides a space that can accommodate or store various components, such as the battery pack of the vehicle or to provide a storage compartment (such as the boot space), thereby optimizing the internal space usage of the electric two-wheeled vehicle. The U-shape and the curvature associated with the U-shape promotes smoother airflow around the rear end of the two-wheeled vehicle, thereby, reducing drag and ensuring energy-efficient operation of the electric two-wheeled vehicle. Additionally, the U-shape enables incorporation of future upgrades or additional components without compromising the structural integrity or the visual aesthetics of the electric two-wheeled vehicle.
[00048] The following paragraphs briefly describe the different advantages that are possible to be achieved through implementation of the present invention, including but not limited to, overcoming various drawbacks associated with conventional systems and methods known in the art.
[00049] An advantage of the present invention is that the proposed chassis allows for an integrated and seamless battery pack placement within a main tube subassembly of the chassis, thereby enhancing the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle in addition to ensuring protection and optimal functioning of the battery pack.
[00050] Another advantage of the present invention is that the proposed chassis that is associated with strategic arrangement of head tube, down tubes, gusset tube subassembly and main tube subassembly on the chassis facilitates a more organized and efficient placement of electrical and electronic components at a front side of the two-wheeled vehicle, thereby, enhancing accessibility of the electrical and electronic components for easier repair and/or replacement as well as improved performance thereof.
[00051] Another advantage of the present invention is that the proposed chassis associated with specific angles and positioning of the tubes and subassemblies within the chassis contributes to a more balanced weight distribution of the chassis as well as the overall two-wheeled vehicle, thereby, resulting in improved stability and handling of the vehicle and providing riders with a smoother and safer ride.
[00052] Still another advantage of the present invention is that the configuration of main tube subassembly, gusset tube assembly and cross tubes, ensures efficient utilization of space associated with the chassis, thereby, minimizing wasted space and allowing for inclusion of additional components or features within the chassis.
Claims
I/we claim:
1. A chassis of a two-wheeled vehicle, the chassis comprising:
a head tube disposed at a top front end of the chassis, wherein the head tube forms a first angle (?1) with respect to a vertical axis associated with an upright orientation of the two-wheeled vehicle;
a pair of down tubes connected to the head tube, wherein the pair of down tubes comprise a left down tube and a right down tube and wherein the left down tube forms a second angle (?2) with the right down tube;
a gusset tube subassembly connected to the pair of down tubes, wherein the gusset tube subassembly comprises:
a left gusset tube connected to the left down tube, wherein the left gusset tube comprises:
a first bent portion connected to the left down tube;
a first sloped portion extending from the first bent portion, wherein the first sloped portion forms a third angle (?3) with the left down tube; and
a second bent portion extending from the first sloped portion, wherein the second bent portion forms a fourth angle (?4) with the left down tube; and
a right gusset tube connected to the right down tube, wherein the right gusset tube comprises:
a third bent portion connected to the right down tube;
a second sloped portion extending from the third bent portion, wherein the second sloped portion forms the third angle (?3) with the right down tube; and
a fourth bent portion extending from the second sloped portion, wherein the fourth bent portion forms the fourth angle (?4) with the right down tube;
;
a main tube subassembly connected to the gusset tube subassembly, wherein the main tube subassembly comprises:
a left main tube subassembly extending from the left gusset tube, wherein the left main tube subassembly comprises:
a left main tube disposed longitudinally towards a rear end of the chassis; and
a left support tube disposed longitudinally towards the rear end of the chassis, wherein the left support tube is positioned above the left main tube;
a right main tube subassembly extending from the right gusset tube, wherein the right main tube subassembly comprises:
a right main tube disposed longitudinally towards the rear end of the chassis; and
a right support tube disposed longitudinally towards the rear end of the chassis, wherein the right support tube is positioned above the right main tube;
a first cross tube disposed between the left gusset tube and the right gusset tube;
a second cross tube disposed between the left support tube and the right support tube, wherein the second cross tube is aligned parallelly with the first cross tube; and
a third cross tube disposed between the left main tube and the right main tube, wherein the third cross tube is aligned parallelly with the second cross tube and wherein the third cross tube is disposed at the rear end of the chassis.
2. The chassis as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the left main tube, the left support tube, the right main tube and the right support tube comprise at least two L-bends and wherein an angle associated with each L-bend is more than 90°.
3. The chassis as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
the first cross tube is disposed orthogonally to each of the left gusset tube and the right gusset tube; and
the second cross tube is disposed orthogonally to each of the left support tube and the right support tube.
4. The chassis as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rear end of the chassis is U-shaped and wherein the rear end of the chassis is formed by the third cross tube, the left main tube and the right main tube.
5. The chassis as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
the left main tube subassembly is connected to the left gusset tube via a first welded joint; and
the right main tube subassembly is connected to the right gusset tube via a second welded joint.
6. The chassis as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pair of down tubes receive a first component of the two-wheeled vehicle and wherein the first component is selected from: a motor controller; a direct current (DC) to DC converter; a glove box.
7. The chassis as claimed in claim 1, wherein the left main tube subassembly and the right main tube subassembly receive a second component of the two-wheeled vehicle and wherein the second component is selected from: a battery pack; a swing arm; a foot peg; a pannier stay; a grab handle.
CHASSIS OF TWO-WHEELED VEHICLE
Abstract
In the present disclosure, a chassis for a two-wheeled vehicle is disclosed. A head tube is disposed at a top front end of the chassis, forming a first angle (?1) with a vertical axis. Connected to the head tube are left and right down tubes, forming a second angle (?2) between them. A gusset tube subassembly, connected to the down tubes, includes left and right gusset tubes. The gusset tubes possess bent and sloped portions, establishing third (?3) and fourth (?4) angles with respective down tubes. A first cross tube is positioned between the gusset tubes. A main tube subassembly, integrated into the chassis, connects to the gusset tube subassembly. The main tube subassembly comprises left and right main tubes extending to a rear end of the chassis. Further, parallelly-aligned second and third cross tubes are incorporated. The third cross tube is disposed at the rear end of the chassis.
Fig.1
, Claims:Claims
I/we claim:
1. A chassis of a two-wheeled vehicle, the chassis comprising:
a head tube disposed at a top front end of the chassis, wherein the head tube forms a first angle (?1) with respect to a vertical axis associated with an upright orientation of the two-wheeled vehicle;
a pair of down tubes connected to the head tube, wherein the pair of down tubes comprise a left down tube and a right down tube and wherein the left down tube forms a second angle (?2) with the right down tube;
a gusset tube subassembly connected to the pair of down tubes, wherein the gusset tube subassembly comprises:
a left gusset tube connected to the left down tube, wherein the left gusset tube comprises:
a first bent portion connected to the left down tube;
a first sloped portion extending from the first bent portion, wherein the first sloped portion forms a third angle (?3) with the left down tube; and
a second bent portion extending from the first sloped portion, wherein the second bent portion forms a fourth angle (?4) with the left down tube; and
a right gusset tube connected to the right down tube, wherein the right gusset tube comprises:
a third bent portion connected to the right down tube;
a second sloped portion extending from the third bent portion, wherein the second sloped portion forms the third angle (?3) with the right down tube; and
a fourth bent portion extending from the second sloped portion, wherein the fourth bent portion forms the fourth angle (?4) with the right down tube;
;
a main tube subassembly connected to the gusset tube subassembly, wherein the main tube subassembly comprises:
a left main tube subassembly extending from the left gusset tube, wherein the left main tube subassembly comprises:
a left main tube disposed longitudinally towards a rear end of the chassis; and
a left support tube disposed longitudinally towards the rear end of the chassis, wherein the left support tube is positioned above the left main tube;
a right main tube subassembly extending from the right gusset tube, wherein the right main tube subassembly comprises:
a right main tube disposed longitudinally towards the rear end of the chassis; and
a right support tube disposed longitudinally towards the rear end of the chassis, wherein the right support tube is positioned above the right main tube;
a first cross tube disposed between the left gusset tube and the right gusset tube;
a second cross tube disposed between the left support tube and the right support tube, wherein the second cross tube is aligned parallelly with the first cross tube; and
a third cross tube disposed between the left main tube and the right main tube, wherein the third cross tube is aligned parallelly with the second cross tube and wherein the third cross tube is disposed at the rear end of the chassis.
2. The chassis as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the left main tube, the left support tube, the right main tube and the right support tube comprise at least two L-bends and wherein an angle associated with each L-bend is more than 90°.
3. The chassis as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
the first cross tube is disposed orthogonally to each of the left gusset tube and the right gusset tube; and
the second cross tube is disposed orthogonally to each of the left support tube and the right support tube.
4. The chassis as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rear end of the chassis is U-shaped and wherein the rear end of the chassis is formed by the third cross tube, the left main tube and the right main tube.
5. The chassis as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
the left main tube subassembly is connected to the left gusset tube via a first welded joint; and
the right main tube subassembly is connected to the right gusset tube via a second welded joint.
6. The chassis as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pair of down tubes receive a first component of the two-wheeled vehicle and wherein the first component is selected from: a motor controller; a direct current (DC) to DC converter; a glove box.
7. The chassis as claimed in claim 1, wherein the left main tube subassembly and the right main tube subassembly receive a second component of the two-wheeled vehicle and wherein the second component is selected from: a battery pack; a swing arm; a foot peg; a pannier stay; a grab handle.
| # | Name | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 202341069320-STARTUP [14-10-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-10-14 |
| 2 | 202341069320-REQUEST FOR EARLY PUBLICATION(FORM-9) [14-10-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-10-14 |
| 3 | 202341069320-POWER OF AUTHORITY [14-10-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-10-14 |
| 4 | 202341069320-OTHERS [14-10-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-10-14 |
| 5 | 202341069320-FORM28 [14-10-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-10-14 |
| 6 | 202341069320-FORM-9 [14-10-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-10-14 |
| 7 | 202341069320-FORM FOR STARTUP [14-10-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-10-14 |
| 8 | 202341069320-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY(FORM-28) [14-10-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-10-14 |
| 9 | 202341069320-FORM 18A [14-10-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-10-14 |
| 10 | 202341069320-FORM 1 [14-10-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-10-14 |
| 11 | 202341069320-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI(FORM-28) [14-10-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-10-14 |
| 12 | 202341069320-DRAWINGS [14-10-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-10-14 |
| 13 | 202341069320-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [14-10-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-10-14 |
| 14 | 202341069320-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [14-10-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-10-14 |
| 15 | 202341069320-Response to office action [30-11-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-11-30 |
| 16 | 202341069320-FER.pdf | 2023-12-14 |
| 17 | 202341069320-OTHERS [14-01-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-01-14 |
| 18 | 202341069320-FER_SER_REPLY [14-01-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-01-14 |
| 19 | 202341069320-DRAWING [14-01-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-01-14 |
| 20 | 202341069320-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [14-01-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-01-14 |
| 21 | 202341069320-CLAIMS [14-01-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-01-14 |
| 22 | 202341069320-ABSTRACT [14-01-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-01-14 |
| 23 | 202341069320-PatentCertificate31-05-2024.pdf | 2024-05-31 |
| 24 | 202341069320-IntimationOfGrant31-05-2024.pdf | 2024-05-31 |
| 1 | search_202341069320E_13-12-2023.pdf |