Claims:An integrated rear body cover structure (215) for a vehicle (100), said vehicle comprising:
a frame assembly to provide skeletal support to the vehicle (100);
a seat assembly (108) supported by the frame assembly, and
an integrated rear body cover structure (215);
said integrated rear body cover structure (215) includes a utility box (205) and a tail cover top (210) integrated horizontally along the vehicle length wise direction in a linear profile parallel to the ground.

2. The integrated rear body cover structure (215) as claimed in Claim 1 wherein, said utility box (205) starts from the top portion of the side walls border of said utility box (205) and extends toward the rear side of the vehicle (100).
3. The integrated rear body cover structure (215) as claimed in Claim 1 wherein, said utility box (205) is integrated with said tail cover top (210) in a linear profile to form said integrated rear body cover structure (215) such that said integrated rear body cover structure (215) has a pillion handle (109) formed integrally.
4. The vehicle (100) as claimed in Claim 1 wherein, said utility box (205) is integrated with said tail cover top (210) in an inclined profile at an angle to the ground.
5. The vehicle (100) as claimed in Claim 1 wherein, said utility box (205) is integrated with the tail cover top (210) in a linear profile such that said integrated rear body cover structure (215) has at least one opening (405) for a fuel cap (410).
6. The vehicle (100) as claimed in Claim 1 wherein, said utility box (205) is integrated with said tail cover top (210) and side panels (103d, 505) to form said integrated rear body cover structure (215).
7. The vehicle (100) as claimed in Claim 1 wherein, said utility box (205) is integrated with said tail cover top (210) and a front panel (103d, 505) to form said integrated rear body cover structure (215).
8. The vehicle (100) as claimed in Claim 1 wherein, said utility box (205) is integrated with the tail cover top (210) in a curved profile such that said integrated rear body cover structure (215) has provisions for a pillion back rest formed integrally.
, Description:FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] The present subject matter relates generally to a vehicle. More particularly but not exclusively, the present invention relates to a rear body cover for the vehicle.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[0002] Generally, in a vehicle, e.g. a two-wheeled vehicle with a step-through type frame assembly, a floorboard is provided at a step-through space. A user rests his feet on the floorboard, which enables him to have a seating posture, while driving. A seat assembly is disposed in a posterior portion of the step-through space. The seat assembly comprises a rider seat and a passenger seat. A passenger grip is provided on a rear portion of the seat assembly. The passenger grip enables the pillion rider to get support. Generally, in a vehicle with a step-through type frame assembly, a utility box is disposed below the seat assembly. The seat assembly, in an open condition, provides access to the utility box. Hence, the utility box is placed under the seat and is generally the last component to be assembled on the rear half of the vehicle. Generally, the utility box is a load carrying member and is also used for storing the articles of the riders. The utility box is in general individually removed for servicing the parts beneath. Also, in a vehicle the tail cover top sits near to the tail lamp, acting as a member to protect the tail lamp. The tail cover top is a separate part or is a part of the rear sub-assembly. The tail cover top sits behind the utility box and seat. The utility box extends till the seat and the tail cover top sits near to the utility box to cover the gap and mismatch between the different parts. Further, the seat assembly is provided with a cushion material that provides comfortable ride. Also, the seat assembly provides an aesthetic look to the vehicle.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0003] The detailed description is described with reference to an embodiment of a saddle type vehicle along with the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to reference like features and components.
[0004] Figure 1 illustrates a two-wheeled vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0005] Figure 2 (a) illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary two-wheeled vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0006] Figure 2 (b) illustrates a top view of an exemplary two-wheeled vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0007] Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of an integrated rear body cover structure, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0008] Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of an integrated rear body cover structure, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0009] Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of an integrated rear body cover structure, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0001] Generally, a two-wheeled or a three-wheeled saddle type vehicle comprises of a frame assembly extending rearwardly from a head tube. The frame assembly acts as a skeleton and a structural member for the vehicle that supports the vehicle loads. The frame structure may also comprise of a down tube extending in a downward and rearward direction from the head tube, and a main tube extending in a straight and forward direction from the head tube. At least one front wheel is connected to a front portion of the frame assembly through one or more front suspension(s). The frame assembly extends towards a rear portion of the vehicle. At least one rear wheel is connected to a frame assembly through one or more rear suspension(s). The frame assembly comprises of a head pipe disposed in a front portion of the vehicle, wherein a down tube extends from the head pipe in a downward and rearward manner. Further, at least one main tube is typically provided which extends in a substantial straight and rearward fashion from the head pipe. In addition to it, a pair of cross tubes may be provided at a rearmost portion of the vehicle to accommodate a seat assembly.
[0002] The vehicle body frame generally includes a head pipe, a pair of left and right main frames. The head pipe is positioned at a front-end portion of the vehicle body frame. The main frames extend in a leftward and rightward branching state obliquely downwardly rearwardly from a lower portion of the head pipe.
[0003] Generally, in a vehicle with a step-through type frame assembly, the seat assembly is provided with a cushion material to provide comfortable ride to the rider and the passenger. Further, the seat assembly provides access to the utility box and seat assembly secures the utility box. Further, in some vehicles, a fuel tank opening is provided below the seat assembly. Further, a pillion handle that has a pair of passenger grips that are disposed adjacent to the seat assembly and extending rearwardly of the seat assembly that is mounted to the frame assembly. Also, the seat locking is provided rearwardly below the seat assembly to secure the seat assembly to the frame assembly. The seat assembly, in an open condition, provides access to the utility box. Hence, the utility box is placed under the seat and is generally the last component to be assembled on the rear half of the vehicle. Generally, the utility box is a load carrying member and is also used for storing the articles of the riders. The utility box is in general individually removed for servicing the parts beneath. Also, in a vehicle the tail cover top sits near to the tail lamp, acting as a member to protect the tail lamp. The tail cover top is a separate part or is a part of the rear sub-assembly. The tail cover top sits behind the utility box and seat. The utility box extends till the seat and the tail cover top sits near to the utility box to cover the gap as well as mismatch between the different parts.
[0004] However, as the utility box and the tail cover top are two separate components it creates fitment problems like uneven gaps which can lead to mud, water entry inside, vibration noise irritation and poor aesthetics. Generally, it requires more assembly time in bringing the separate components together without any mismatch. Attaching different components also leads to the vibration issues which can occur at the junction where the components are linked. The attached components can have different vibration frequencies which if aggravated and can amplify, leading to component failure. This can lead to an increase in cost incurred for changing the components over the period of time. Further, since the components are not fitted in a compact manner the water, dust and other environmental elements may enter through the gap available, causing even more damage to the more critical parts which are located under the utility box. Also, in the configurations known in art, it requires different components to be removed individually so as to service the components which are present beneath them. Furthermore, the user has to remove more components like side panels along with the utility box in order to have more access. This makes the serviceability a more time consuming and cumbersome task. With reference to the strength of the rear assembly, utility box is already a load carrying member, however, attaching two separate components via different means may not deliver the same strength, as the chances of breaking and failure at the external joints are more.
[0005] The present subject matter relates generally to a tail cover top and a utility box, placed in the rear side and mostly on the top rear-side of the vehicle. However, it also relates to other elements like, side panels, pillion rider handle, etc. As discussed, these two components are generally dependent on each other’s outer profile and in most cases; they are designed to avoid visibility any internal mechanisms from the outside. This leads to fitment issues and increase in assembly time. Also, various other concerns as discussed above play a crucial role when the two separate components are involved. Hence, an object of the present subject matter is to provide an improved rear structure comprising of utility box and a tail cover top.
[0006] In an embodiment of the present subject matter, a utility box is integrated with a tail cover top in a linear profile parallel to the ground. Said integrated rear body cover structure is made such that the extension of said utility box forms an integrated tail cover top. The extension is spread horizontally along the vehicle length wise direction. In one of the embodiment of the present subject matter, the extension is formed such that it starts from the top portion of the side walls border of said utility box and extends toward the vehicle rear side so as to form said integrated tail cover top. Further, in one of the embodiments of the present subject matter said integrated rear body cover structure and tail cover top is made of same material i.e., of the material used for manufacturing utility box. As the material used for manufacturing the utility box is strong enough to make the utility box a load carrying member of the rear portion of the vehicle. Hence, integrating said utility box and said tail cover top increases the overall strength of the present subject matter and it also reduces the chances of component failure. In addition, since the extended part of said utility box is made with the same sturdy material it can also be used for carrying load during commute. Therefore, as discussed in the present subject matter, this single part formed by integrating said utility box and said tail cover top will continue doing the combined function of both the parts in a more efficient manner. Since, in the present subject matter said integrated rear body cover structure having said tail cover top is a single part; various fitment issues can be completely avoided. Also, manufacturing of said integrated rear body cover structure as a single component helps in reducing failures due to vibrations. Hence, lessen the chances of component failure and thereby, reduce the overall cost in replacing failed components. It must also be highlighted that in the present subject matter, removing a single part, i.e. said integrated rear body cover structure gives more access to the internal components located below said integrated rear body cover structure and hence, serviceability of the internal components is less cumbersome and comparatively easier. The configuration of the present subject matter as discussed above, also helps in removing the problems faced generally during fitment of the two parts and improves the vehicle aesthetics while reducing the assembly time for the same. Furthermore, there is a reduction in the number of parts and other connecting means, such as nuts, bolts, etc. which again reduces the assembly time and cost. Hence, manufacturing and assembly of said integrated rear body cover structure as discussed in the present subject matter is easier.
[0007] In one of the embodiments of the present subject matter, a utility box is integrated with a tail cover top in a linear profile such that said integrated rear body cover structure also has provisions for a pillion handle formed integrally. Said pillion handle is located at the rear end of said utility box unit of said integrated rear body cover structure. Further, in one of the embodiments of the present subject matter said integrated rear body cover structure, tail cover top and pillion handle is made of same material i.e., of the material used for manufacturing the utility box. Since, in the present subject matter said integrated rear body cover structure having said tail cover top and said pillion handle is a single part; various fitment issues can be completely avoided. In another embodiment of the present subject matter, a utility box is integrated with a tail cover top in a linear profile such that said integrated rear body cover structure also has provisions for a tail lamp mounting formed integrally. In one of the embodiments of the present subject matter, a utility box is integrated with a tail cover top in a linear profile such that said integrated rear body cover structure also has at least one opening for a fuel cap. This causes further reduction in the number of parts and assembly time. The embodiments as discussed in the present invention are easier to manufacture using a single mold. Also, manufacturing of said integrated rear body cover structure as a single component helps in reducing failures due to vibrations at the interfacing. Hence, lessen the chances of component failure and thereby, reduce the overall cost incurred in replacing failed components.
[0008] In another embodiment of the present subject matter, a utility box is integrated with a tail cover top in a curved profile such that said integrated rear body cover structure also has provisions for a pillion back rest formed integrally. Further, in one of the embodiments of the present subject matter said integrated rear body cover structure and tail cover top in curved profile is made of same material i.e., of the material used for manufacturing utility box. This material is strong enough to make the utility box a load carrying member of the rear portion of the vehicle. Hence, integrating said utility box and said tail cover top in curved profile increases the overall strength of the present subject matter and it also reduces the chances of component failure. In addition, the sturdiness of the material allows said curved profile to be used a pillion back rest formed as an integral component of said integrated rear body cover structure.
[0009] The aforesaid and other advantages of the present subject matter would be described in greater detail in conjunction with an embodiment of a two wheeled vehicle with the figures in the following description.
[00010] Arrows provided in the top right corner of each figure depicts direction with respect to the vehicle, wherein an arrow F denotes front direction, an arrow R indicated R direction, an arrow Up denotes upward direction, an arrow Dw denoted downward direction, an arrow Rh denotes right side, an arrow Lh denoted left side, as and where applicable.
[00011] Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary two-wheeled vehicle (hereinafter ‘vehicle’) (100) with the present subject matter. The described vehicle (100) typically includes a low-framework structure (hereinafter ‘frame’) (not shown), a handle bar assembly (101), and a headlamp assembly (102), a plurality of body panels (103), a front wheel (104), a rear wheel (105), a plurality of suspension units (106), an internal combustion engine (hereinafter ‘engine’) (not shown), a transmission system (107), a seat assembly (108), a utility box (not shown), and a pillion handle (109).
[00012] The frame (not shown) includes a head tube, a main tube, and a pair of side frames. The main tube extends downwards from an anterior portion of the head tube and then extends rearwards in an inclined manner. The pair of side tubes extends upwards from the main tube in an inclined manner, in rearward direction of the vehicle. Thus, the frame extends from a front portion (F) to a rear portion (R) of the vehicle (100).
[00013] The display unit (not shown), the handle bar assembly (101), and the headlamp assembly (102) are disposed above the main tube (not shown), in front portion (F) of the vehicle (100).
[00014] The plurality of body panels (103) covers multiple portions of the frame (not shown). The plurality of body panels (103) includes a front panel (103a), a leg shield (not shown), a floorboard (103b), an under-seat cover (103c), a left-side panel (103d), a right-side panel (not shown), a left-side trim cover (103e), and a right-side trim cover (not shown). The front panel (103a) and the leg shield (not shown) cover the front portion of the frame (not shown), particularly by covering the head tube and the front portion of the main tube. The floorboard (103b), the under-seat cover (103c), the left-side trim cover (103e), and the right-side trim cover (not shown) shield the center portion of the frame, particularly by covering the center and rear part of the main tube. Similarly, the left-side panel (103d) and the right-side panel (not shown) cover the rear end of the frame, particularly by covering the pair of side tubes.
[00015] The front wheel (104) is disposed in the front portion F of the vehicle (100), under a front fender (104a). The front fender (104a) is further disposed below the front panel (103a) and the leg shield. The front fender (104a) covers at least a portion of the front wheel (104). The front wheel (104) includes a front hub (104b) and a front tire (104c), removably attached with each other.
[00016] The rear wheel (105) is disposed at the rear portion R of the vehicle (100) under a rear fender (105a). The rear fender (105a) is further disposed below and between the left side panel (103d) and the right side panel (not shown). The rear fender (105a) covers at least a portion of the rear wheel (105). The rear wheel (105) includes a rear hub (105b), a rear tire (105c) removably attached with each other.
[00017] The plurality of suspension units (106) includes a front suspension unit (106a) and a rear suspension unit (106b). The front suspension unit (106a) connects the front wheel (104) to the front portion of the frame through the front hub (104b). The rear suspension unit (106b) connects the rear wheel (105) to the rear portion of the frame through the rear hub (105b). The front and rear suspension unit (106a, 106b) may include one or more suspension units. For example, the front suspension unit (106a) may include a mono suspension or a left front suspension unit and a right front suspension unit. Similarly, the rear suspension unit (106b) may include a mono suspension or a left-rear suspension unit and a right-rear suspension unit.
[00018] The engine (not shown) is disposed behind the floorboard (103b) and the under-seat cover (103c) and is supported between the pair of side tubes. The engine is disposed on a swing arm through one or more mounting bosses (not shown) being attached therein. A front end of the swing arm is attached to the rear portion of the main tube and a rear end of the swing arm is attached to the rear wheel (105). The engine generates fuel combustion induced power that is to be transferred to the rear wheel (105) during engine-based propulsion of the vehicle (100). The vehicle (100) may also include a motor (not shown) driven using a battery (not shown) power in case of electric vehicles.
[00019] The seat assembly (108) is disposed above the under-seat cover (103c) and between the left-side panel (103d) and the right-side panel (not shown). The seat assembly (108) is pivotally mounted to the top portion of the under-seat cover (103c). The seat assembly 130 includes a rider seat and a passenger seat that are integrally formed. The utility box (refer to Figure 2a, 2b) is disposed below the seat assembly (108). The utility box (refer to Figure 2a, 2b) can be accessed by opening the seat assembly (103).
[00020] The pillion handle (109) is disposed behind the seat assembly (108) and acts as a holding support for the pillion rider. In a preferred embodiment, front end of the pillion handle (109) is attached to the rearmost portion of the frame.
[00021] Figure 2a illustrates a top perspective view and Figure 2b illustrates a top view of the vehicle with an embodiment of the present subject matter. The utility box (205) is mounted to the pair of railing(s) of the frame of the vehicle (100). In an embodiment, the seat assembly (108) is supported by the utility box (205) that is mounted to the pair of railing(s) and the seat assembly (108). In an embodiment of the present subject matter, said utility box (205) is integrated with a tail cover top (210) along the horizontal axis with respect to the ground. In one of the embodiments of the present subject matter an extension of said utility box (205) and the tail cover top (210) combine to form an integrated rear body cover structure (215) as shown in Figure 3. As per an embodiment of the present subject matter the extension of said utility box (205) is spread horizontally along the vehicle length wise direction. In one of the embodiment of the present subject matter the extension of said utility box (205) starts from the top portion of the side walls border of said utility box (205) and extends toward the rear side of the vehicle (100) so as to form said integrated rear body cover structure (215). Further, in one of the embodiments of the present subject matter said integrated rear body cover structure (215) including the extension forming tail cover top (210) is made of same material i.e., of the material used for manufacturing the utility box (205). The material used for manufacturing the utility box (205) is strong enough to make the utility box (205) a load carrying member of the rear portion of the vehicle (100). Hence, integrating said utility box (205) and said tail cover top (210) to form said integrated rear body cover structure (215) increases the overall strength of the integrated rear body cover structure (215) and it also reduces the chances of any component failure. In addition, since the extension of said utility box (205) is made with the same sturdy material it can also be used for carrying load during commute. Therefore, as discussed in the present subject matter, this single part formed by integrating said utility box (205) and said tail cover top (210) will continue doing the combined function of both the parts in a more efficient manner.
[00022] Since, in the present subject matter said integrated rear body cover structure (215) having said tail cover top (210) is a single part; various fitment issues can be completely avoided. Also, manufacturing of said integrated rear body cover structure (215) as a single component helps in reducing failures due to vibrations. Hence, lessen the chances of component failure and thereby, reduce the overall cost in replacing failed components. It must also be highlighted that in the present subject matter, removing a single part, i.e. said integrated rear body cover structure (215) gives more access to the internal components located below said integrated rear body cover structure (215) and hence, serviceability of the internal components is less cumbersome and comparatively easier. The configuration of the present subject matter as discussed above, also helps in removing the problems faced generally during fitment of the two parts and improves the vehicle aesthetics while reducing the assembly time for the same. Furthermore, there is a reduction in the number of parts and other connecting means, such as nuts, bolts, etc. which again reduces the assembly time and cost. Hence, manufacturing and assembly of said integrated rear body cover structure (215) as discussed in the present subject matter is easier.
[00023] As per one of the embodiments of the present subject matter, said utility box (205) is integrated with said tail cover top (210) in a linear profile to form said integrated rear body cover structure (215) such that said integrated rear body cover structure (215) also has provisions for a pillion handle (109) formed integrally as shown in Figure 4. Said pillion handle (109) is located at the rear end of said utility box (205) unit of said integrated rear body cover structure (215). Further, in one of the embodiments of the present subject matter said integrated rear body cover structure (215), said tail cover top (210) and said pillion handle (109) is made of same material i.e., of the material used for manufacturing the utility box (205). Since, in the present subject matter said integrated rear body cover structure (215) having said tail cover top (210) and said pillion handle (109) is a single part; various fitment issues can be completely avoided. In another embodiment of the present subject matter, the utility box (205) is integrated with the tail cover top (210) in a linear profile such that said integrated rear body cover structure (215) also has provisions for a tail lamp mounting formed integrally. In one of the embodiments of the present subject matter, said utility box (205) is integrated with the tail cover top (210) in a linear profile such that said integrated rear body cover structure (215) also has at least one opening (405) for a fuel cap (410) as shown in Figure 4. This causes further reduction in the number of parts and assembly time. The embodiments as discussed in the present invention are easier to manufacture using a single mold.
[00024] In one of the embodiment of the present subject matter, said utility box (205) is integrated with said tail cover top (210) in a linear profile along with side panels (103d, 505) to form said integrated rear body cover structure (215) as shown in Figure 5. According to another embodiment of the present subject matter said integrated rear body cover structure (215) includes a front panel (103a). Also, manufacturing of said integrated rear body cover structure (215) as a single component helps in reducing failures due to vibrations at the interfacing. Hence, lessen the chances of component failure and thereby, reduce the overall cost incurred in replacing failed components. As per one aspect of the present subject matter, the utility box (205) is integrated with the tail cover top (210) in a curved profile such that said integrated rear body cover structure (215) also has a pillion back rest formed integrally. Further, in one of the embodiments of the present subject matter said integrated rear body cover structure (215) and tail cover top (210) in curved profile is made of same material i.e., of the material used for manufacturing utility box. This material is strong enough to make the utility box (205) a load carrying member of the rear portion of the vehicle. In addition, as per one aspect of the present subject matter, said utility box (205) is integrated with said tail cover top (210) in an inclined profile at an angle to the ground forming an integral rear body cover structure. The inclined profile provides better protection from rain as the water will slide down due to gravitation force and will not collect near or sweep in to the more delicate components protected beneath the integrated rear body cover structure (215).
[00025] It is to be understood that the aspects of the embodiments are not necessarily limited to the features described herein. Many modifications and variations of the present subject matter are possible in the light of above disclosure. Therefore, within the scope of claims of the present subject matter, the present disclosure may be practiced other than as specifically described.
List of Reference Signs
100 Vehicle 410 Fuel Cap
102 Headlamp assembly 505 Side Panels
103 Body Panels
103a Front panel
103b Floorboard
103c Under-seat cover
103d Left-side panel
103e Left-side trim cover
104 Front wheel
104a Front fender
104b Front hub
105 Rear wheel
106 Suspension unit
106a Front suspension Unit
106b Rear Suspension Unit
107 Transmission system
108 Seat Assembly
109 Pillion Handle
205 Utility Box
210 Tail cover top
215 Integrated rear body cover structure
405 Opening