TECHNICAL FIELD
The Present disclosure in general, relates to a field of automobile engineering.
Particularly, but not exclusively, the disclosure relates to a clamp assembly for a vehicle.
Further, embodiments of the disclosure, discloses switch housing mounted to the clamp
assembly of a handlebar of the vehicle.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
A switch assembly is usually mounted on the handlebar/dashboard of the vehicle such
that, the switches embedded in the assembly are proximal and easily accessible by the user.
The switch assembly is operated by the user to actuate various functions of the vehicle which
aid in safer means of commuting. The switches in the switch assembly are configured for
various functions such as, but not limiting to, horn, turn-indicators, engine ignition, pass-by
light, cruise control etc. which form essential requirements in any vehicle.
Conventionally, the switch assembly is mounted over the handlebar with the help of
plurality fasteners and at least one metallic insert. Switch assemblies are basically made of
two halves or two components that are brought together and joined by suitable means. The
metallic inserts are insert molded in one half of the switch housing. The mounting screws are
fastened in order to bring the two halves of switch assembly together. This secures the switch
assembly around the handlebar and prevents it from dismantling. However, the switch
assembly is free to slide on the handlebar and also to rotate about the axis of the handlebar.
This causes interference between the two switch housing and handlebar. Additionally, the
switch assembly tends to rotate due to vibrations of the vehicle, wherein the fasteners over a
period of time tend to lose out on torque and the switch assembly loses its grip on the
handlebar. In order to curb the movement or rotation of switch assembly on the handlebar, a
hole is drilled in the handlebar and the metallic insert is inserted to prevent switch housing
from rotation on the handlebar. The metallic insert is used to stop the switch assembly from
sliding and rotating on the handlebar, thereby securing the position of the switch housing
over the handlebar. On the contrary, drilling of holes on the handlebar reduces the stress
applied by the fasteners and inserts. However drilling of holes reduces the strength of the
handlebar and the handlebar fails in application of additional stress. This may lead to
potential failures of the handlebar over prolonged usage of the handlebar.
3
Due to the provision of metallic insert in any of the two halves of the housing, the
switch housing position is fixed with respect to the handlebar. This arrangement of the switch
housing restricts the user from customizing its position with respect to the handlebar. Further,
in the assembly line or during maintenance, the mounting screws are torqued to the maximum
in order to obtain a stronger joint. However, torqueing the mounting screws to the maximum
extent induces stress on the screw as well as the switch housing, after a period of time. This
induced stress results in self-locking of the mounting screws and also reduces the joint
strength between the halves of switch housing.
In light of the foregoing discussion, there is a need to develop a clamp assembly for
mounting the switching assembly on the handlebar of the vehicle by overcoming the one or
more limitations stated above.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE:
One or more shortcomings of the prior art are overcome by a mechanism and
assembly as claimed and additional advantages are provided through the mechanism and
assembly as claimed in the present disclosure. Additional features and advantages are
realized through the techniques of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of
the disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered a part of the claimed
disclosure.
In one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, a clamp assembly for a
vehicle is disclosed. The clamp assembly comprises a first clamp body and a second clamp
body, wherein the first clamp body and the second clamp body are pivotally mounted around
a handlebar of the vehicle. Further, at least one flange is provided on the first clamp body and
the second clamp body which are in-line with one another around the handlebar. A switch
assembly comprises a first switch body and a second switch body mounted on the clamp
assembly, wherein the first switch body is fixed to the first clamp body and the second switch
body is fixed to the second clamp body by at least one protrusion. Moreover, at least one
fastener is provided on each of the at least one flange for securing the clamp assembly and
the switch assembly on the handlebar of the vehicle.
In an embodiment of present disclosure, the first switch body and the second switch
body are provided with guide slots to accommodate at least one protrusion.
4
In an embodiment of present disclosure, the at least one protrusion is snap-fitted into
the guide slots of the first clamp body and the second clamp body.
In an embodiment of present disclosure, the at least one fastener is provided on each
of the at least one flange which is operated to exert compressive force on the handlebar by the
first clamp body and the second clamp body.
In an embodiment of present disclosure, the clamp assembly which is mounted on the
handlebar restricts rotational movement of the switch assembly.
In an embodiment of present disclosure, at least one fastener is joined to at least one
flange by at least one of welding, soldering, brazing and any other means of joining.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a stopper pin is provided on either of the
at least one first clamp body and at least one second clamp body, wherein the stopper pin
secures the switch assembly on the clamp assembly.
In another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of assembling
the clamp assembly for a vehicle is disclosed. The method comprises steps of mounting a
first clamp body and a second clamp body, wherein the first clamp body and the second
clamp body are pivoted around a handlebar of the vehicle. Providing at least one flange on
the first clamp body and the second clamp body wherein, the at least one flange provided on
the first clamp body and the second clamp body is in-line with one another around the
handlebar. Further, mounting a switch assembly comprises a first switch body and a second
switch body mounted on the clamp assembly, wherein the first switch body is fixed to the
first clamp body and the second switch body is fixed to the second clamp body by at least one
protrusion. Securing the clamp assembly and the switch assembly on the handlebar of the
vehicle by at least one fastener provided on each of the at least one flange.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, slotting the at least one protrusion of first
clamp body and second clamp body into the guide slots of the first switch body and the
second switch body.
In an embodiment of present disclosure, operating the at least one fastener provided
on the at least one flange to exert compressive force on the handlebar by the first clamp body
and the second clamp body.
5
It is to be understood that the aspects and embodiments of the disclosure described
above may be used in any combination with each other. Several of the aspects and
embodiments may be combined together to form a further embodiment of the disclosure.
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 THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS
The novel features and characteristic of the disclosure are set forth in the appended
claims. The disclosure itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives
and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed
description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying
figures. One or more embodiments are now described, by way of example only, with
reference to the accompanying figures wherein like reference numerals represent like
elements and in which:
Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a clamp assembly according to an exemplary
embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 2 illustrates another perspective view of Figure 1 according to an exemplary
embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 3 illustrates an exploded view of a switch assembly and clamp assembly
according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 4 illustrates a side view of the switch assembly and clamp assembly according
to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 5 illustrates an embodiment of the clamp assembly in perspective view.
Figure 6 illustrates another embodiment of the clamp assembly in perspective view.
Figure 7 illustrates perspective view of yet another embodiment of the clamp
assembly.
6
Figure 8 illustrates perspective view of yet another embodiment of the clamp
assembly with stopper pin.
The figures depict embodiments of the disclosure for purposes of illustration only.
One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative
embodiments of the mechanism and assembly illustrated herein may be employed without
departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
While the embodiments in the disclosure are subject to various modifications and
alternative forms, specific embodiment thereof has been shown by way of example in the
figures and will be described 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 alternative falling within the scope of the
disclosure.
The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof used in the
disclosure, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a device, assembly,
mechanism, system, method that comprises a list of components does not include only those
components but may include other components not expressly listed or inherent to such
system, or assembly, or device. In other words, one or more elements in a system proceeded
by “comprises… a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other
elements or additional elements in the system or mechanism.
In order to overcome one or more limitations stated in the background, the present
disclosure provides a clamp assembly for a vehicle, wherein the clamp assembly is used for
mounting a switch assembly on a handlebar of the vehicle. The clamp assembly comprises a
first clamp body and a second clamp body. The first clamp body and the second clamp body
are pivotally mounted around the handlebar. Further, at least one flange is provided on the
first clamp body and the second clamp body. Also, the at least one flange of the first clamp
body and the second clamp body are in-line with one another around the handlebar. A switch
assembly comprises a first switch body and a second switch body to be mounted on the clamp
assembly. The first switch body is fixed to the first clamp body and the second switch body is
fixed to the second clamp body by at least one protrusion. At least one fastener is provided on
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each of the at least one flange to secure the clamp assembly, and in turn the switch assembly
on the handlebar of the vehicle.
Embodiments of the disclosure are described in the following paragraphs with
reference to Figures 1 to 8. In the figures, the same element or elements which have same
functions are indicated by the same reference signs. It is to be noted that, the vehicle is not
illustrated in the figures for the purpose of simplicity. One skilled in the art would appreciate
that the assembly and method as disclosed in the present disclosure can be used in any
vehicle including but not liming to a bicycle, a moped passenger car, heavy vehicles, light
duty vehicles or any other vehicle.
Figure 1 is an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure which illustrates a
perspective view of a clamp assembly (25) for a vehicle. The clamp assembly (25) is
mounted on a handlebar (10) [shown in figure 4] of the vehicle. The clamp assembly (25)
comprises a first clamp body (1a) and a second clamp body (1b). The first clamp body (1a) is
provided with male projections (6) on one side, while female projections (7) are provided on
the second clamp body (1b) on the same side. The male projections (6) and female
projections (7) are on the same plane and on same side of the first clamp body (1a) and the
second clamp body (1b). The first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b) with their
male projections (6) and female projections (7) are in line with each other upon assembly.
Further, the male projections (6) mates with the female projections (7) to form a hinge,
thereby enables the clamp assembly (25) to pivot about the handlebar axis. In an embodiment
of the present disclosure, the clamp assembly (25) is pivoted and assembled over the
handlebar (10) by expanding the first clamp body (1a) and second clamp body (1b) to seat
over the handlebar (10). The first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b) are
provisioned with at least one protrusion (3). The at least one protrusion (3) provided on the
first clamp body (1a) fits in the guide slots (8) of the first switch body (2a) to secure the first
switch body (2a) [shown in Figure 3] on the first clamp body (1a). The at least one protrusion
(3) provided on the second clamp body (1b) fits in the guide slots (8) of the second switch
body (2b) to secure the second switch body (2b) on the second clamp body (1b).
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the material for manufacturing the clamp
assembly (25) is at least one of of aluminium, copper, steel, plastic, fibre-reinforced plastic,
alloys or any other material that serves the purpose.
8
In an embodiment of present disclosure, the first clamp body (1a) and the second
clamp body (1b) are hinged or pivoted by providing at least one male projection (6) and at
least one female projection (7).
In an embodiment of present disclosure, the male projections (6) and the female
projections (7) are configured with multiple projections for pivoting or hinging the clamp
assembly (25).
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the male projections (6) are configured on
the second clamp body (1b) and the female projections (7) are configured on the first clamp
body (1a) or vice versa.
In an embodiment of present disclosure, the male projections (6) and the female
projections (7) form an integral part of the first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body
(1b).
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the male projections (6) and the female
projections (7) are integrated to the first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b) by
at least one of welding, soldering, brazing, casting, or any other method that serves the
purpose.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the handlebar (10) of the vehicle is
configured to a fork assembly [not shown in figure] to steer the vehicle.
In an embodiment of present disclosure, the handlebar (10) is at least one of a solid
shaft, a hollow shaft, a clip-on handlebar or any other handlebar configuration which serves
the purpose of mounting a switch assembly (50) and steering of the vehicle.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the handlebar (10) is at least one of
plastic, fibre-reinforced plastic, metal, wood, alloy or any other material that serves the
purpose.
Figure 2 is an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure which illustrates
another perspective view of the clamp assembly (25) as disclosed in Figure 1. The first clamp
body (1a) is provided with male projections (6) at one end and at least one flange (5) on the
other end of the first clamp body (1a). The second clamp body (1b) is provided with female
9
projections (7) at one end and at least one flange (5) on the other end of the second clamp
body (1b). The first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b) are pivotally mounted
around the handlebar (10) of the vehicle such that, the at least one flange (5) configured to the
first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b) are in-line with one another.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one flange (5) is configured to
the first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b) by at least one of welding,
soldering, brazing, casting, forging or any other method that serves the purpose.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one flange (5) is manufactured
by at least one of casting, blanking and punching, forging or any other method that serves the
purpose.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one flange (5) is at least one
of slip-on flange, flat flange, welding neck flange, threaded flange or any other flange that
serves the purpose.
The at least one flange (5) is configured to receive at least one fastener (4). The at
least one fastener (4) is fixed to the at least one flange (5) of the first clamp body (1a).
Fastening of the at least one fastener (4) fixed to at least one flange (5) on either of the first
clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b) induces a compressive force on at least one
flange (5), thereby bringing the first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b) closer,
whilst by gripping to the handlebar (10) of the vehicle. Further, the compressive force
induces a compressive stress on the first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b).
Due to compressive stress on the first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b), the
clamp assembly (25) exerts circumferential pressure on the handlebar (10) thereby tightening
the grip of the clamp assembly (25) around the handlebar (10) of the vehicle.
The magnified portion of Figure 2 illustrates at least one fastener (4) fixed to the at
least one flange (5) provided on the first clamp body (1a). In an embodiment of the present
disclosure, the at least one fastener (4) is at least one of a nut, a screw, a bolt, threaded
washer, a rivet, grommet or any fasteners in combination that serves the purpose.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one fastener (4) is fixed to at
least one flange (5) of the second clamp body (1b).
10
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one fastener (4) is fixed to at
least one flange (5) of the first clamp body (1a) by at least one of welding, soldering, brazing
and any other means of fixing.
Figure 3 is an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure which illustrates an exploded
view of the clamp assembly (25) and the switch assembly (50). The switch assembly (50) is
operated by the user to actuate various functions of the vehicle which aid in creature comforts
and allows safer means of commuting. The switches in the switch assembly (50) are
configured for various functions such as but not limiting to horn, turn-indicators, engine
ignition, pass-by light, cruise control etc. which form essential requirements in any vehicle.
Further, the switch assembly (50) comprises two halves, a first switch body (2a) and a second
switch body (2b). The first switch body (2a) and the second switch body (2b) are provisioned
with guide slots (8) wherein the guide slots (8) are configurable with the at least one
protrusion (3) provided on the first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b). At least
one protrusion (3) provided on the first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b)
protrude outwardly such that, the protrusions (3) slot into the guide slots (8) provided on each
of the first switch body (2a) and the second switch body (2b) of the switch assembly (50) for
securing the switch assembly (50) on the clamp assembly (25).
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one protrusion (3) is designed
in accordance with the design of guide slots (8) provided in first switch body (2a) and second
switch body (2b). The at least one protrusion (3) provided on the first clamp body (1a)
secures the first switch body (2a) by slotting into a guide slot (8), provided in the first switch
body (2a). The at least one protrusion (3) provided on the second clamp body (1b) secures the
second switch body (2b) by slotting into the guide slots (8), provided in the second switch
body (2b).
In an embodiment, the at least one protrusion (3) of the first clamp body (1a) and the
second clamp body (1b) are snap fitted or press fitted with the guide slots (8), provided on the
first switch body (2a) and second switch body (2b).
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, assembly of the first switch body (2a) and
the second switch body (2b) on the first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b) is
achieved by at least one of fastening, adhesive bonding, welding, press fitting or any other
method that serves the purpose of joining the two components with each other.
11
Figure 4 is an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure which illustrates side
view of the switch assembly (50) mounted on the clamp assembly (25). The clamp assembly
(25) is fixed to the handlebar (10) by means of applying torque to the at least one fastener (4)
fixed to at least one flange (5) on either of first clamp body (1a) and second clamp body (1b).
Fastening of the at least one fastener (4) fixed to at least one flange (5) on either of the first
clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b) induces a compressive force on at least one
flange (5), thereby bringing the first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b) closer,
whilst by gripping to the handlebar (10) of the vehicle. Further, the compressive force
induces a compressive stress on the first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b).
Due to compressive stress on the first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b), the
clamp assembly (25) exerts circumferential pressure on the handlebar (10), thereby tightening
the grip of the clamp assembly (25) around the handlebar (10) of the vehicle.
Figures 5 and 6 are exemplary embodiments of the disclosure illustrating various
configurations of clamp assembly (25). Referring to Figure 5, the clamp assembly (25) is
manufactured using a circular clamp, wherein the clamp assembly (25) comprises an upper
flange (UF) and a lower flange (LF). In an embodiment of the present disclosure, fastening
threads are provided on the upper flange (UF) and the lower flange (LF) for threading inserts
to tighten the clamp assembly (25) on the handlebar (10).
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, fastening threads are provided on either
of the upper flange (UF) and the lower flange (LF). At least one fastener (4) [as shown in
Figure 2] is fastened to either of the upper flange (UF) and the lower flange (LF). The at least
one fastener (4) induces compressive stress on the upper flange (UF) and the lower flange
(LF) thereby bringing the upper flange (UF) and the lower flange (LF) closer, whilst by
gripping to the handlebar (10) of the vehicle.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one protrusion (3) is provided
on top portion (TP) and bottom potion (BP) of the clamp assembly (25). The at least one
protrusion (3) enables the clamp assembly (25) to accommodate a switch assembly (50)
around the handlebar (10) of the vehicle.
Figure 6 illustrates assembling of the clamp assembly (25) using two U-clamps as
another embodiment of the present disclosure. Plurality of flanges (5) is provided on either
side of the first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b). In an embodiment of the
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present disclosure, the at least one fastener (4) [shown in Figure 2] is fixed on the plurality of
flanges (5) of the first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b). In an embodiment of
the present disclosure, the at least one fastener (4) is fixed to the at least one flange (5) of the
first clamp body (1a) and at least one flange (5) of the second clamp body (1b). In an another
embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one fastener (4) is fixed to the flanges (5)
of the first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b), wherein torqueing the fastener
(4) brings the flanges (5) of the first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b) closer,
whilst by gripping to the handlebar (10) of the vehicle.
Further, the first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b) are provisioned
with at least one protrusion (3) on the outer surface. The at least one protrusion (3) enables
the clamp assembly (25) to secure the switch assembly (50) around the handlebar (10) of the
vehicle.
Figure 7 illustrates yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first clamp
body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b) are hinged at one end using a hinge pin (G). The
hinge pin (G) enables hinging action between first clamp body (1a) and second clamp body
(1b) around the handlebar (10).
Figure 8 illustrates yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, comprises at
least one stopper pin (9) configured on the second clamp body (1b) wherein, the stopper pin
(9) secures the switch assembly (50) on the clamp assembly (25). The stopper pin (9)
restricts rotary movement of the switch assembly (50) on the handlebar (10).
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, plurality of stopper pins (9) are
configured on the first clamp body (1a) and second clamp body (1b) for securing the switch
assembly (50) on the clamp assembly (25) and restrict rotary movement of the switch
assembly (50) on the handlebar (10).
ADVANTAGES
In an embodiment, the clamp assembly prevents the need of drilling hole in the
handlebar, thereby reducing the stress induced on the handlebar.
In an embodiment, the clamp assembly improves durability of the handlebar as
induced stresses are mitigated.
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In an embodiment, the clamp assembly utilizes a single fastener to secure the switch
assembly on the handlebar.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the clamp assembly is economical to
manufacture as minimal components are used to secure the switch assembly on the clamp
assembly of the handlebar.
EQUIVALENTS
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.
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
14
intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a
system 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 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.”
In addition, where features or aspects of the disclosure are described in terms of
Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure is also thereby
described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.
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 and spirit being indicated by the following claims.
REFERAL NUMERICALS
PARTICULARS REFERRAL NUMERAL
First clamp body
1a
Second clamp body 1b
First switch body 2a
Second switch body 2b
At least one protrusion 3
Fastener 4
Flange 5
Male projection 6
15
Female projection 7
Guide slots 8
Stopper pin 9
Handlebar 10
Clamp assembly 25
Switch assembly 50
Hinge pin G

WE CLAIM:
1. A clamp assembly (25) for a vehicle comprising:
a first clamp body (1a) and a second clamp body (1b), wherein the first clamp
body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b) are pivotally mounted around a handlebar
(10) of the vehicle;
at least one flange (5) provided on the first clamp body (1a) and the second
clamp body (1b) are in-line with one another around the handlebar (10);
a switch assembly (50) comprising:
a first switch body (2a) and a second switch body (2b) mounted on the
clamp assembly (25), wherein the first switch body (2a) is fixed to the first clamp
body (1a) and the second switch body (2b) is fixed to the second clamp body (1b) by
at least one protrusion (3);
at least one fastener (4) provided on each of the at least one flange (5) for
securing the clamp assembly (25) and the switch assembly (50) on the handlebar (10)
of the vehicle.
2. The assembly (25) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first switch body (2a) and the
second switch body (2b) are provided with guide slots (8) to accommodate at least
one protrusion (3).
3. The assembly (25) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the at least one protrusion (3) of
first clamp body (1a) and second clamp body (1b) is snap-fitted into the guide slots
(8) of the first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b).
4. The assembly (25) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one fastener (4)
provided on each of the at least one flange (5) is operated to exert compressive force
on the handlebar (10) by the first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b).
5. The assembly (25) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the clamp assembly (25) mounted
on the handlebar (10) restricts rotational movement of the switch assembly (50).
6. The assembly (25) as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one fastener (4) is joined to
at least one flange (5) by at least one of welding, soldering, brazing and any other
means of placing and joining.
17
7. The assembly (25) as claimed in claim 1, comprises a stopper pin (9) provided on
either of the at least one of first clamp body (1a) and the at least one second clamp
body (1b), wherein the stopper pin (9) secures the switch assembly (50) on the clamp
assembly (25) to mitigate movement around the handlebar (10).
8. A method of assembling the clamp assembly (25) for a vehicle comprising steps of:
mounting a first clamp body (1a) and a second clamp body (1b), wherein the
first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b) are pivoted around a handlebar
(10) of the vehicle;
providing at least one flange (5) on the first clamp body (1a) and the second
clamp body (1b) wherein, the at least one flange (5) provided on the first clamp body
(1a) and the second clamp body (1b) is in-line with one another around the handlebar
(10);
mounting a switch assembly (50) comprising:
a first switch body (2a) and a second switch body (2b) mounted on the
clamp assembly (25), wherein the first switch body (2a) is fixed to the first
clamp body (1a) and the second switch body (2b) is fixed to the second clamp
body (1b) by at least one protrusion (3);
securing the clamp assembly (25) and the switch assembly (50) on the
handlebar (10) of the vehicle by at least one fastener (4) provided on each of
the at least one flange (5).
9. The assembly (25) as claimed in claim 2, wherein slotting at least one protrusion (3)
of first clamp body (1a) and second clamp body (1b) into the guide slots (8) of the
first switch body (2a) and the second switch body (2b).
10. The assembly (25) as claimed in claim 1, wherein operating the at least one fastener
(4) provided on each of the at least one flange (5) exerts compressive force on the
handlebar (10) by the first clamp body (1a) and the second clamp body (1b).