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Modular Vehicle

Abstract: An attachment structure (210) of a modular vehicle (1) configured to be converted from a two wheeled configuration (100) to a multi wheeled configuration (200) and from the multi wheeled configuration (200) to the two wheeled configuration (100). The attachment structure (210) comprises a body frame (212), and a windshield panel (40) pivotably coupled to a front portion of the body frame (212). The windshield panel (40) is configured to be operated between a closed position and an open position and lockable in the closed position. Further, a locking unit (44) of the windshield panel (40) is actuatable, upon activation of an attachment structure conversion control system of the attachment structure (210), to facilitate a movement of the windshield panel (40) from the closed position to the open position. FIG. 3

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Notices, Deadlines & Correspondence

Patent Information

Application #
Filing Date
01 December 2022
Publication Number
23/2024
Publication Type
INA
Invention Field
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
Status
Email
Parent Application

Applicants

HERO MOTOCORP LIMITED
The Grand Plaza, Plot No.2, Nelson Mandela Road, Vasant Kunj- Phase -II, New Delhi 110 070, India

Inventors

1. DADHEECH, Gaurav
s/o Mr. Jagdish Chandra Joshi, 506, Suriya Mohalla, Koshithal, Distt.- Bhilwara, Rajasthan - 311805, India
2. CHOUDHARY, Deepak
FCA-3120, SGM Nagar, NIT-Faridabad, Haryana – 12100, India
3. JAIN, Anuj
s/o Mr. Sanjeev Jain, FF-1, Shastri Apartment, Panchwati Extension, Ghaziabad, U.P. – 201001, India
4. BHARDWAJ, Rajat
s/o Dr. Ram Lal Bhardwaj, House Number 13A, Saraswati Vihar Colony, Dadi Bhola, Nalagarh, Himachal Pradesh – 174101, India
5. DWIVEDI, Satyendra Dhar
H.no- 61A, Block - C, Ashok Vihar Ph-2, Gurgaon, Haryana – 122001, India
6. AGARWAL, Ankit
S/o Mr. Ashok Kumar Agarwal 20 Rana Pratap Enclave, Behind Sports Colony, Victoria Park, Meerut, U.P. - 250001, India

Specification

Description:FORM 2

THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See section 10, rule 13)

“MODULAR VEHICLE”

HERO MOTOCORP LIMITED, an Indian company, of The Grand Plaza, Plot No. 2, Nelson Mandela Road, Vasant Kunj- Phase-II, New Delhi – 110070, India,


The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.

TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] The present disclosure relates to the field of automobiles, for example, a modular vehicle having multiple configurations, for example, a two-wheeled configuration and a multi-wheeled configuration.

BACKGROUND
[002] The information in this section merely provides background information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art(s) for the present disclosure.
[003] Vehicles, such as, but not limited to, motorized scooters, motorcycles, etc., have a plurality of components and assemblies, such as a body frame, a power unit, a passenger seating area, a storage space, and a set of wheels. The power unit is adapted to provide the necessary power to the wheels, to drive the vehicle. The power unit, the seating area, the storage space, etc., are all carried by the body frame. The wheels are connected to the body frame and the body frame is designed to carry the load of the vehicle, including the weight of the power unit, other components, and sub-assemblies of the vehicle. Such weight carried by the body frame is transferred, through the ground engaging members, to the ground.
[004] Often, there arises situations which require the vehicle to be ridden as a two wheeled vehicle at one instance and as a three wheeled vehicle or a four wheeled vehicle at the other instance.
[005] However, providing such modular vehicles which may be converted from a two-wheeled vehicle to a three-wheeled vehicle, and vice versa, according to need is a difficult and cumbersome task. Such conversion is expensive and requires considerable time and physical efforts. Further, conventional systems do not provide any mechanism which can cater to the requirements put forth by these modular vehicles. Also, it is required to prepare the sub-units of the modular vehicle for conversion from one configuration to the other, which requires considerable efforts and consumes time. Particularly, it is often required to lift/ raise a windshield panel and a seat unit of an attachment structure of the modular vehicle to accommodate a two wheeled vehicle of the modular vehicle, which requires considerable efforts and consumes time.
[006] The present disclosure is directed to overcome one or more limitations stated above or any other limitations associated with the prior art.

SUMMARY
[007] The one or more shortcomings of the prior art(s) are overcome by the system/ assembly as claimed, and additional advantages are provided through the provision of the system/ 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.
[008] Pursuant to an aspect of the present disclosure, an attachment structure of a modular vehicle is disclosed. The modular vehicle is configured to be converted from a two wheeled configuration to a multi wheeled configuration and from the multi wheeled configuration to the two wheeled configuration. The attachment structure comprises a body frame, and a windshield panel pivotably coupled to a front portion of the body frame. The windshield panel is configured to be operated between a closed position and an open position, and is lockable in the closed position. Further, a locking unit of the windshield panel is actuatable, upon activation of an attachment structure conversion control system of the attachment structure, to facilitate a movement of the windshield panel from the closed position to the open position.
[009] In another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, the attachment structure comprises a seat unit pivotably coupled to the front portion of the body frame. The seat unit is adapted to be disposed above a rear portion of a two wheeled vehicle of the modular vehicle and is configured to be operated between a closed position and an open position. Further, a locking unit of the seat unit is actuatable to facilitate a movement of the seat unit from the closed position to the open position.
[010] In another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, the attachment structure comprises a control system adapted to control one or more operations of the attachment structure. The control system is configured to activate, by a key, the attachment structure conversion control system. The control system is further configured to supply power to the attachment structure conversion control system, when the key is remotely connected to or inserted into a key slot provided on a control panel of the attachment structure, to activate the attachment structure conversion control system. Further, the attachment structure conversion control system is configured to unlock one or more latches of the locking unit of the windshield panel and one or more latches of a locking unit of a seat unit. The windshield panel is movable upwards from the closed position to the open position and the seat unit is movable from a closed position to an open position.
[011] In another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, the key comprises one of a mechanical key, an electronic key, a Radio Frequency (RF) key and a mobile application.
[012] In another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, the attachment structure comprises a left-side pillar and a right-side pillar secured to and extending upwardly from a left-side longitudinal member and a right-side longitudinal member of the attachment structure, respectively, and a cross-member interconnecting free ends of the left-side pillar and the right-side pillar. The attachment structure further comprises a linkage unit for movably coupling the windshield panel with at least one of the cross-member, the left-side pillar and the right-side pillar, and the windshield panel is movably coupled to at least one of the cross-member, the left-side pillar and the right-side pillar. The linkage unit comprises a goose neck hinge that is adapted to couple an upper rear portion of the windshield panel to the cross-member, and that is configured to move the windshield panel to the open position about the cross-member. Further, the goose neck hinge comprises a goose neck link having a first end pivotably coupled to the cross-member, and a second end coupled to the windshield panel.
[013] In another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, the windshield panel comprises a frame, a windshield secured within the frame, and an elastomeric seal extending along a periphery of the windshield panel to sealingly engage the windshield panel with the left-side pillar and the right-side pillar, in the closed position of the windshield panel.
[014] Pursuant to another aspect of the present disclosure, an attachment structure of a modular vehicle is disclosed. The modular vehicle is configured to be converted from a two wheeled configuration to a multi wheeled configuration and from the multi wheeled configuration to the two wheeled configuration. The attachment structure comprises a body frame, and a seat unit pivotably coupled to a front portion of the body frame. The seat unit is configured to be operated between a closed position and an open position, and is lockable in the closed position. Further, a locking unit of the seat unit is actuatable, upon activation of an attachment structure conversion control system of the attachment structure, to facilitate a movement of the seat unit from the closed position to the open position.
[015] Pursuant to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a modular vehicle is disclosed. The modular vehicle is configured to be converted from a two wheeled configuration to a multi wheeled configuration and from the multi wheeled configuration to the two wheeled configuration. The modular vehicle comprises an attachment structure configured to be coupled with a two wheeled vehicle. The attachment structure comprises a body frame, and a windshield panel pivotably coupled to a front portion of the body frame. The windshield panel is configured to be operated between a closed position and an open position, and is lockable in the closed position. Further, a locking unit of the windshield panel is actuatable, upon activation of an attachment structure conversion control system of the attachment structure, to facilitate a movement of the windshield panel from the closed position to the open position.
[016] In another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, the attachment structure comprises a seat unit pivotably coupled to the front portion of the body frame. The seat unit is adapted to be disposed above a rear portion of the two wheeled vehicle and is configured to be operated between a closed position and an open position. Further, a locking unit of the seat unit is actuatable to facilitate a movement of the seat unit from the closed position to the open position.
[017] In another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, the attachment structure comprises a control system adapted to control one or more operations of the attachment structure. The control system is configured to activate, by a key, the attachment structure conversion control system. The control system is further configured to supply power to the attachment structure conversion control system, when the key remotely connected to or inserted into a key slot provided on a control panel of the attachment structure, to activate the attachment structure conversion control system. Further, the attachment structure conversion control system is configured to unlock one or more latches of the locking unit of the windshield panel and one or more latches of a locking unit of a seat unit. The windshield panel is movable upwards from the closed position to the open position and the seat unit is movable from a closed position to an open position.
[018] In another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, the key comprises one of a mechanical key, an electronic key, a Radio Frequency (RF) key and a mobile application.
[019] In another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, the attachment structure comprises a left-side pillar and a right-side pillar secured to and extending upwardly from a left-side longitudinal member and a right-side longitudinal member of the attachment structure, respectively, and a cross-member interconnecting free ends of the left-side pillar and the right-side pillar. The attachment structure further comprises a linkage unit for movably coupling the windshield panel with at least one of the cross-member, the left-side pillar and the right-side pillar, and the windshield panel is movably coupled to at least one of the cross-member, the left-side pillar and the right-side pillar. The linkage unit comprises a goose neck hinge that is adapted to couple an upper rear portion of the windshield panel to the cross-member, and that is configured to move the windshield panel to the open position about the cross-member. Further, the goose neck hinge comprises a goose neck link having a first end pivotably coupled to the cross-member, and a second end coupled to the windshield panel.
[020] In another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, the windshield panel comprises a frame, a windshield secured within the frame, and an elastomeric seal extending along a periphery of the windshield panel to sealingly engage the windshield panel with the left-side pillar and the right-side pillar, in the closed position of the windshield panel.
[021] In another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, the modular vehicle comprises a first control system adapted to control one or more operations of the two wheeled vehicle. The first control system is configured to activate, by a key, a two wheeled vehicle conversion control system. The modular vehicle further comprises a second control system of the attachment structure. The second control system is adapted to control one or more operations of the attachment structure. The second control system is configured to activate, by the key, the attachment structure conversion control system. Further, when the two wheeled vehicle is coupled with the attachment structure, the multi wheeled configuration of the modular vehicle is configured to be driven by the key.
[022] In another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, the two wheeled vehicle conversion control system and the attachment structure conversion control system are in wireless communication with each other. Also, the attachment structure conversion control system unlocks the locking unit of the windshield panel, when the attachment structure conversion control system determines an active state of the two wheeled vehicle conversion control system.
[023] In another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, the two wheeled vehicle conversion control system remains active, when the key is removed or disconnected from the first control system to activate the attachment structure conversion control system.
[024] Within the scope of the present disclosure, the attachment structure of the modular vehicle described above provides convenient movement of the windshield panel between the closed position and the open position and covers the front portion of the attachment structure/ the modular vehicle. The attachment structure of the present disclosure also facilitates readily converting the modular vehicle from the two wheeled configuration to the multi wheeled configuration.
[025] Further, the linkage unit provided at the attachment structure allows the windshield panel to be moved between the closed and the open positions without any need of complex mechanisms to operate. The elastomeric seal extending along a periphery of the windshield panel aids in secured sealing of the windshield panel with the attachment structure and also prevents entry of any foreign material/ debris. Also, the attachment structure provides convenient movement of the seat unit between the closed position and the open position and facilitates readily converting the modular vehicle from the two wheeled configuration to the multi wheeled configuration, without any need of complex mechanisms to operate.
[026] 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.
[027] 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 FIGURES
[028] The novel features and characteristics of the disclosure are set forth in the description. 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 description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. One or more embodiments are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:

[029] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary modular vehicle comprising a two wheeled vehicle and an attachment structure adapted to be coupled to the two wheeled vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[030] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the attachment structure of FIG. 1, the attachment structure comprising a windshield panel disposed in a closed position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[031] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the attachment structure of FIG. 2, the attachment structure comprising the windshield panel disposed in an open position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[032] FIG. 4 illustrates a first perspective of a linkage unit adapted to pivotably couple the windshield panel with a front portion of a body frame of the attachment structure of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[033] FIG. 5 illustrates a second perspective view of the linkage unit of FIG. 5, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and
[034] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the attachment structure of FIG. 1, the attachment structure comprising a frame for mounting a seat unit of the attachment structure, the frame for mounting the seat unit disposed in a closed position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[035] Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[036] While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in FIGS. 1 to 6 and will be described in detail below. It should be understood, however that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
[037] Before describing detailed embodiments, it may be observed that the novelty and inventive step that are in accordance with the present disclosure resides in an attachment structure of a modular vehicle, and a modular vehicle comprising the attachment structure. It is to be noted that a person skilled in the art can be motivated from the present disclosure and modify the various constructions of the attachment structure and the modular vehicle. However, such modification should be construed within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings are showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having benefit of the description herein.
[038] In the present disclosure, the term “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment or implementation of the present subject matter described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.
[039] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusions, such that a device that comprises a list of components does not include only those components but may include other components not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or device. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus proceeded by “comprises… a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus.
[040] The terms like “at least one” and “one or more” may be used interchangeably or in combination throughout the description.
[041] While the present disclosure is illustrated in the context of a vehicle, however, attachment structure and aspects and features thereof can be used with other type of vehicles as well. The terms “modular vehicle”, “vehicle”, “two-wheeled vehicle”, “electric vehicle”, “EV” and “motorcycle” have been interchangeably used throughout the description. The term “vehicle” comprises vehicles such as motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, mopeds, scooter type vehicle, and the like.
[042] The terms “front/forward”, “rear/rearward/back/backward”, “up/upper/top”, “down/lower/lower ward/downward, bottom”, “left/leftward”, “right/rightward” used therein represents the directions as seen from a vehicle driver sitting astride.
[043] Pursuant to an aspect of the present disclosure, an attachment structure of a modular vehicle is disclosed. The modular vehicle is configured to be converted from a two wheeled configuration to a multi wheeled configuration and from the multi wheeled configuration to the two wheeled configuration. The attachment structure comprises a body frame, and a windshield panel pivotably coupled to a front portion of the body frame. The windshield panel is configured to be operated between a closed position and an open position, and is lockable in the closed position. Further, a locking unit of the windshield panel is actuatable, upon activation of an attachment structure conversion control system of the attachment structure, to facilitate a movement of the windshield panel from the closed position to the open position.
[044] In an embodiment, the attachment structure comprises a seat unit pivotably coupled to the front portion of the body frame. The seat unit is adapted to be disposed above a rear portion of a two wheeled vehicle of the modular vehicle and is configured to be operated between a closed position and an open position. Further, a locking unit of the seat unit is actuatable to facilitate a movement of the seat unit from the closed position to the open position. In a further embodiment, the attachment structure comprises a control system adapted to control one or more operations of the attachment structure. The control system is configured to activate, by a key, the attachment structure conversion control system. The control system is further configured to supply power to the attachment structure conversion control system, when the key is remotely connected to or inserted into a key slot provided on a control panel of the attachment structure, to activate the attachment structure conversion control system. Further, the attachment structure conversion control system is configured to unlock one or more latches of the locking unit of the windshield panel and one or more latches of a locking unit of a seat unit. The windshield panel is movable upwards from the closed position to the open position and the seat unit is movable from a closed position to an open position. Further, the key comprises one of a mechanical key, an electronic key, a Radio Frequency (RF) key and a mobile application.
[045] Pursuant to another aspect of the present disclosure, an attachment structure of a modular vehicle is disclosed. The modular vehicle is configured to be converted from a two wheeled configuration to a multi wheeled configuration and from the multi wheeled configuration to the two wheeled configuration. The attachment structure comprises a body frame, and a seat unit pivotably coupled to a front portion of the body frame. The seat unit is configured to be operated between a closed position and an open position, and is lockable in the closed position. Further, a locking unit of the seat unit is actuatable, upon activation of an attachment structure conversion control system of the attachment structure, to facilitate a movement of the seat unit from the closed position to the open position.
[046] Pursuant to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a modular vehicle is disclosed. The modular vehicle is configured to be converted from a two wheeled configuration to a multi wheeled configuration and from the multi wheeled configuration to the two wheeled configuration. The modular vehicle comprises an attachment structure configured to be coupled with a two wheeled vehicle. The attachment structure comprises a body frame, and a windshield panel pivotably coupled to a front portion of the body frame. The windshield panel is configured to be operated between a closed position and an open position, and is lockable in the closed position. Further, a locking unit of the windshield panel is actuatable, upon activation of an attachment structure conversion control system of the attachment structure, to facilitate a movement of the windshield panel from the closed position to the open position.
[047] In an embodiment, the attachment structure comprises a seat unit pivotably coupled to the front portion of the body frame. The seat unit is adapted to be disposed above a rear portion of the two wheeled vehicle and is configured to be operated between a closed position and an open position. Further, a locking unit of the seat unit is actuatable to facilitate a movement of the seat unit from the closed position to the open position. In a further embodiment, the attachment structure comprises a control system adapted to control one or more operations of the attachment structure. The control system is configured to activate, by a key, the attachment structure conversion control system. The control system is further configured to supply power to the attachment structure conversion control system, when the key is remotely connected to or inserted into a key slot provided on a control panel of the attachment structure, to activate the attachment structure conversion control system. Further, the attachment structure conversion control system is configured to unlock one or more latches of the locking unit of the windshield panel and one or more latches of a locking unit of a seat unit. The windshield panel is movable upwards from the closed position to the open position and the seat unit is movable from a closed position to an open position. Further, the key comprises one of a mechanical key, an electronic key, a Radio Frequency (RF) key and a mobile application.
[048] In an embodiment, the modular vehicle comprises a first control system adapted to control one or more operations of the two wheeled vehicle. The first control system is configured to activate, by a key, a two wheeled vehicle conversion control system. The modular vehicle further comprises a second control system of the attachment structure. The second control system is adapted to control one or more operations of the attachment structure. The second control system is configured to activate, by the key, the attachment structure conversion control system. Further, when the two wheeled vehicle is coupled with the attachment structure, the multi wheeled configuration of the modular vehicle is configured to be driven by the key. Also, the two wheeled vehicle conversion control system and the attachment structure conversion control system are in wireless communication with each other. Also, the attachment structure conversion control system unlocks the locking unit of the windshield panel, when the attachment structure conversion control system determines an active state of the two wheeled vehicle conversion control system. Further, the two wheeled vehicle conversion control system remains active, when the key is removed or disconnected from the first control system to activate the attachment structure conversion control system.
[049] Reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, same numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts. Embodiments of the disclosure are described in the following paragraphs with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6. In FIGS. 1 to 6, the same element or elements which have same functions are indicated by the same reference signs.
[050] Referring to FIG. 1, an exemplary modular vehicle (1) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is disclosed. The modular vehicle (1) is a vehicle which can be converted from a first vehicle to a second vehicle, and vice-versa. The first vehicle may be a two wheeled configuration or a multi-wheeled configuration, such as a three wheeled configuration or a four-wheeled configuration. The second vehicle may be a three wheeled configuration or a four-wheeled configuration. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the first vehicle embodies a two wheeled configuration (100), and the second vehicle embodies a three wheeled configuration (200). In alternate embodiments, the first vehicle may be a three wheeled configuration or a four-wheeled configuration, and the second vehicle may be a two wheeled configuration or a four-wheeled configuration, without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the modular vehicle (1) comprises a two wheeled structure/ configuration adapted to be driven as a two wheeled vehicle (100), and an attachment structure (210) that is configured to be coupled to the two wheeled configuration (100) to form a three wheeled configuration (200) adapted to be driven as a three wheeled vehicle (200). In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the two wheeled configuration (100) is a step through type electric vehicle and/or a scooter. In alternate embodiments, the two wheeled configuration (100) may embody any other ridden vehicle, such as, electric motorcycle, etc., without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Within the scope of the present disclosure, the modular vehicle (1) can be interchanged between the two wheeled configuration (100) and the three wheeled configuration (200).
[051] The two wheeled configuration (100) (hereinafter, referred to as “a two wheeled vehicle (100)”) comprises a first body frame (102) having a front-end structure (104) and a rear end structure (106). The front-end structure (104) may comprise a steering mechanism (110), a leg shield (not shown), a front wheel (114), a floorboard (116), a dash assembly (not shown), a head lamp unit (not shown), and a plurality of winkers (not shown). The steering mechanism (110) may comprise a handlebar (118) configured to be rotated by the rider to steer the two wheeled vehicle (100). The steering mechanism (110) may comprise a plurality of front forks (120) disposed at the front-end structure (104) of the two wheeled vehicle (100). The steering mechanism (110) is operatively coupled to the front wheel (114) via the plurality of front forks (120).
[052] In accordance with the present disclosure, the dash assembly may be provided on the steering mechanism (110). The dash assembly may comprise a display unit (not shown). The display unit may be adapted to display information relating to the two wheeled vehicle (100) and/or the modular vehicle (1) to the rider. The dash assembly may comprise additional components, such as, LCD, GPS, graphical user interface (GUI), etc., without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Further, the head lamp unit may be provided on the steering mechanism (110). Alternatively, the head lamp unit may be provided on the leg shield, without limiting the scope of the present disclosure.
[053] The leg shield may be disposed on the front-end structure (104) of the two wheeled vehicle (100). The leg shield may be adapted to provide protection for the feet of the rider of the two wheeled vehicle (100). Further, the plurality of winkers may be disposed on the leg shield. Alternatively, the plurality of winkers may be provided on the steering mechanism (110) of the two wheeled vehicle (100), without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Also, the floorboard (116) may provide footrest for the rider riding the two wheeled vehicle (100).
[054] The two wheeled vehicle (100) may further comprise a rider seat (not shown) and/ or a passenger seat (not shown) adapted to be disposed on left and right seat rails (122) of the two wheeled vehicle (100). The left and right seat rails (122) may be provided at the rear end structure/ rear portion (106) of the two wheeled vehicle (100). The rider seat and the passenger seat may be formed either as a single unit or as individual members, without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. The two wheeled vehicle (100) may further comprise a control system (not shown). The control system may be adapted to control various operations of the modular vehicle (1) in the two wheeled configuration (100) and/ or the three wheeled configuration (200). In an embodiment, the two wheeled vehicle (100) may comprise a first control system that is adapted to control one or more operations of the two wheeled vehicle (100). The two wheeled vehicle (100) may further comprise one or more sensors (not shown) communicably coupled with the first control system. The one or more sensors may be in electronic communication with the first control system and may be adapted to receive input signals from the first control system for performing functions of the sensors and/ or the two wheeled vehicle (100)/ the modular vehicle (1). The one or more sensors may be further adapted to transmit output signals to the first control system. The first control system may be communicably coupled with a processor having a memory. The processor may facilitate computing the signals transmitted by the sensors to the first control system for controlling one or more operations of the two wheeled vehicle (100). The processor may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, state machines, logic circuitries, and/or any devices that manipulate signals based on operational instructions. Among other capabilities, the processor may be configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in the memory associated with the first control system.
[055] In accordance with the present disclosure, the two wheeled vehicle (100) comprises a primary battery unit (not shown). The primary battery unit may be disposed below the left and right seat rails (122). Alternatively, the primary battery unit may be disposed around the leg shield or underneath the floorboard (116), without limiting the scope of the present disclosure.
[056] Referring to FIG. 1, the rear end structure (106) of the two wheeled vehicle (100) is disposed at the rear portion of the two wheeled vehicle (100). The rear end structure (106) may comprise a tail lamp (not shown) and rear side covers (not shown). The rear side cover may be disposed on the rear portion (106) of the two wheeled vehicle (100) for covering the hind area below the rider seat and/or the passenger seat. Also, the tail lamp may be disposed on the rear side cover. Moreover, a plurality of turn signal indicators may be disposed on either side of the tail lamp.
[057] The rear end structure (106) further comprises a rear wheel (124), a power generating motor (not shown), and may comprise a wheel repositioning system. In accordance with the present disclosure, the primary battery unit is configured to be electrically coupled to the first control system and the power generating motor and provides necessary power, if and when required. The first control system may be adapted to control the supply of electric power from the first battery unit to the power generating motor. In an embodiment, the power generating motor may be associated with a wheel hub (126) of the rear wheel (124). The power generating motor is configured to drive the rear wheel (124) of the two wheeled vehicle (100). Further, the rear wheel (124) may be disposed below the rider seat and/or the passenger seat.
[058] Further, in accordance with the present disclosure, the two wheeled vehicle (100) comprises a swinging arm (128) pivotally coupled with the first body frame (102) at one end of the swinging arm (128). The swinging arm (128) may be supported on an axle of the rear wheel (124) of the two wheeled vehicle (100) at the other end of the swinging arm (128). Without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure, the swinging arm (128) may be configured to facilitate repositioning of the rear wheel (124) of the two wheeled vehicle (100) for converting the modular vehicle (1) from the two wheeled configuration (100) to the three wheeled configuration (200) and from the three wheeled configuration (200) to the two wheeled configuration (100). In a specific embodiment of the present disclosure, the swinging arm (128) may facilitate moving the rear portion (106) of the two wheeled vehicle (100) towards and away from the rear wheel (124) of the two wheeled vehicle (100). The swinging arm (128) may be operatively coupled with a suspension unit and an actuator unit for moving the rear portion (106) of the two wheeled vehicle (100) towards and away from the rear wheel (124) of the two wheeled vehicle (100).
[059] In accordance with the present disclosure, the first control system of the two wheeled vehicle (100) is configured to activate a two wheeled vehicle conversion control system of the two wheeled vehicle (100). The two wheeled vehicle conversion control system may be communicably coupled with the one or more sensors of the two wheeled vehicle (100). The two wheeled vehicle conversion control system may be further communicably coupled with a processor having a memory. The processor may facilitate computing the signals transmitted by the sensors to the two wheeled vehicle conversion control system for controlling one or more operations of the two wheeled vehicle (100). The processor may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, state machines, logic circuitries, and/or any devices that manipulate signals based on operational instructions. Among other capabilities, the processor may be configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in the memory associated with the two wheeled vehicle conversion control system.
[060] Without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure, the two wheeled vehicle conversion control system is configured to be activated by a key that may be embodied as a mechanical key, an electronic key, a Radio Frequency (RF) key or a mobile application. The key may be either physically or wirelessly connected to the two wheeled vehicle (100) or the first control system of the two wheeled vehicle (100) to activate the two wheeled vehicle conversion control system. The key is remotely connected to or inserted into a key slot of the two wheeled vehicle (100) and consequently, the first control system is configured to supply power to the two wheeled vehicle conversion control system to activate the two wheeled vehicle conversion control system. When activated, the two wheeled vehicle conversion control system is configured to move the rear portion (106) of the two wheeled vehicle (100) towards and away from the rear wheel (124) of the two wheeled vehicle (100).
[061] When the modular vehicle (1) is required to be converted from the two-wheeled configuration (100) to the three-wheeled configuration (200), the two-wheeled configuration (100) (or the two-wheeled vehicle (100)) is removably or detachably coupled to the attachment structure (210). In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, to couple the two-wheeled vehicle (100) with the attachment structure (210), the two-wheeled vehicle (100) may be re-configured to move the rear portion (106) of the two-wheeled vehicle (100) towards the rear wheel (124) of the two-wheeled vehicle (100) such that the rider seat and/or the passenger seat of the two-wheeled vehicle (100) remains substantially horizontal (i.e., parallel to the ground surface or the terrain) in the three-wheeled configuration (200). Subsequently, the two-wheeled vehicle (100) is brought closer to the attachment structure (210), specifically the rear wheel (124) of the two-wheeled vehicle (100) is received on a wheel receiving unit (230) of the attachment structure (210), for coupling the two-wheeled vehicle (100) with the attachment structure (210).
[062] Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 6, the modular vehicle (1) comprises the attachment structure (210) having a second body frame (212) that is adapted to be detachably coupled to the two wheeled vehicle (100) for converting the modular vehicle (1) from the two wheeled configuration (100) to the three wheeled configuration (200). The attachment structure (210) may comprise a seat unit/ platform (214), at least one tail lamp (not shown), and side covers (not shown). The side covers may be disposed on a rear portion of the attachment structure (210) for covering a hind area below the seat unit/ platform (214). A plurality of turn signal indicators (not shown) may be disposed on either side of a tail lamp of the attachment structure (210).
[063] Further, the attachment structure (210) may comprise at least two wheels (216), at least one power generating motor (not shown), at least one battery unit (not shown), and at least one suspension device (not shown). In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the attachment structure (210) comprises two rear wheels (216) disposed below the seat unit/ platform (214). In accordance with the present disclosure, the attachment structure (210) may be detachably coupled to the two wheeled vehicle (100) by means of mechanical coupling and/or electrical coupling.
[064] Further, the attachment structure (210) may comprise a control system (not shown). The control system may be adapted to control various operations of the attachment structure (210) and/ or that of the modular vehicle (1) in the three wheeled configuration (200). In an embodiment, the attachment structure (210) may comprise a second control system that is adapted to control one or more operations of the attachment structure (210). The attachment structure (210) may further comprise one or more sensors (not shown) communicably coupled with the second control system. The one or more sensors may be in electronic communication with the second control system and may be adapted to receive input signals from the second control system for performing functions of the sensors and/ or the attachment structure (210)/ the modular vehicle (1). The one or more sensors may be further adapted to transmit output signals to the second control system. The second control system may be communicably coupled with a processor having a memory. The processor may facilitate computing the signals transmitted by the sensors to the second control system for controlling one or more operations of the attachment structure (210). The processor may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, state machines, logic circuitries, and/or any devices that manipulate signals based on operational instructions. Among other capabilities, the processor may be configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in the memory associated with the second control unit.
[065] In accordance with the present disclosure, with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, a front portion of the attachment structure (210) of the modular vehicle (1) is shown. The front portion of the attachment structure (210) comprises a pair of front pillars (21) secured to and extending upwardly from a left-side longitudinal bar (218a) and a right-side longitudinal bar (218b) of the attachment structure (210). The pair of front pillars (21) comprises a left-side pillar (21a) and a right-side pillar (21b), extending from the left-side longitudinal bar (218a) and the right-side longitudinal bar (218b), respectively, of the attachment structure (210). The left-side pillar (21a) is in a spaced apart configuration in a vehicle width wise direction from the right-side pillar (21b). The pair of front pillars (21) may be configured to an elongated cylindrical tubes or rods. One end of each of pair of front pillars (21) is secured to the respective left-side longitudinal bar (218a) and the right-side longitudinal bar (218b) using mechanical or thermal joining process. The front portion of the attachment structure (210) further comprises a pair of intermediate pillars (22) comprising a left-side intermediate pillar (22a) and a right-side intermediate pillar (22b) secured to and extending upwardly from the left-side longitudinal bar (218a) and the right-side longitudinal bar (218b) of the attachment structure (210). The pair of intermediate pillars (22) are in spaced apart configuration in a vehicle length wise direction from the pair of front pillars (21) and positioned at rear of the pair of front pillars (21). Further, free ends (21c) of the pair of front pillars (21) are interconnected using cross member (30) for structural rigidity. Furthermore, at least one support member (31) is structured to interconnect the pair of intermediate pillars (22) and the pair of front pillars (21).
[066] The front portion of the attachment structure (210) further includes a windshield panel (40) movably coupled to at least one of the cross members (30) and the pair of front pillars (21). The windshield panel (40) comprises a windshield frame (42) and a windshield (41) secured within the windshield frame (42). The windshield (41) can be transparent or semi-transparent glass material. The windshield panel (40) is configured to be operated between an open position and a closed position about the cross member (30). The closed position of the windshield panel (40) may be defined as a position of the windshield panel (40) in which the windshield panel (40) abuts the pair of front pillars (21), as shown in FIG. 2. Further, the open position of the windshield panel (40) may be defined as a position of the windshield panel (40) in which the windshield panel (40) is away from the pair of front pillars (21), as shown in FIG. 3. Further, a periphery on a rear portion of the windshield panel (40) which abuts the front portion of the attachment structure (210) may be provided with an elastomeric seal to sealingly engage the windshield panel (40) with the front portion of the attachment structure (210) in the closed position of the windshield panel (40).
[067] The windshield panel (40) may include a wiper mechanism (80) coupled to the windshield frame (42). The wiper mechanism (80) may include a wiper blade (81) adapted to be oscillated over the windshield (42) of the windshield panel (40). A motor (not shown on figures) may be coupled with the wiper blade (81) to actuate the wiper blade (81). Further, a spray nozzle (not shown on figures) may be fluidly connected with the wiper blade (81). The spray nozzle may be configured to direct a liquid on the windshield (41) of the windshield panel (40), such that the spray nozzle is coupled to a conduit that is in fluid communication with a pump (not shown on figures) connected to a fluid storage (not shown on figures).
[068] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the front portion of the attachment structure (210) comprises a linkage unit (60). The linkage unit (60) is adapted to movably couple the windshield panel (40) with the at least one of the cross member (30) and the pair of front pillars (21). In an embodiment, the linkage unit (60) is adapted to pivotably couple the windshield panel (40) with the at least one of the cross member (30) and the pair of front pillars (21) such that the windshield panel (40) is pivotable between the open position and the closed position.
[069] As show in FIGS. 4 and 5, the linkage unit (60) may comprise a goose neck hinge (65) coupling an upper rear portion of the windshield panel (40) with the cross member (30). The goose neck hinge (65) may include an elongated goose neck link (61) having a first end (61a) pivotally fixed to the cross member (30), and a second end (61b) coupled to the windshield panel (40). The goose neck hinge (65) may be configured to operate the windshield panel (40) to the open position about the cross member (30). In an embodiment, at least one linear actuator, for example, a telescopic arm, etc., is configured to selectively operate the windshield panel (40) between the open position and the closed position. The linkage unit (60) according to said embodiment is operated to lift or lower the windshield panel (40) sequentially between the closed position, an intermediate position, and the open position about the cross member (30). The linear actuator may be a pneumatic or hydraulic actuator. The linear actuator may include a cylinder and a piston, fixed to at least one of the left-side pillar (21a) and the right-side pillar (21b) of the pair of front pillars (21) and the windshield panel (40) to actuate and operate the windshield panel (40) between the open position and the closed position. In an embodiment, the windshield panel (40) may be manually moved in between the closed position and the open position. In this embodiment, the linkage unit (60) may be provided on right side and left side of the cross member (30) to couple with the windshield panel (40).
[070] In accordance with the present disclosure, the windshield panel (40) comprises a locking unit (44), as shown in FIG. 3, adapted to lock the windshield panel (40) with the pair of front pillars (21) of the attachment structure (210), in the closed position of the windshield panel (40). The locking unit (44) of the windshield panel (40) may comprise one or more latches that may be engageable with the corresponding locking elements provided on the pair of front pillars (21) or the cross member (30) of the attachment structure (210) for locking the windshield panel (40) with the attachment structure (210), in the closed position of the windshield panel (40). Accordingly, it can be understood that the windshield panel (40) is configured to be operated between the closed position and the open position and is lockable in the closed position of the windshield panel (40).
[071] In accordance with the present disclosure, the second control system of the attachment structure (210) is configured to activate an attachment structure conversion control system of the attachment structure (210). The attachment structure conversion control system may be communicably coupled with the one or more sensors of the attachment structure (210). The attachment structure conversion control system may be further communicably coupled with a processor having a memory. The processor may facilitate computing the signals transmitted by the sensors to the attachment structure conversion control system for controlling one or more operations of the attachment structure (210) and the modular vehicle (1) in the three wheeled configuration (200). The processor may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, state machines, logic circuitries, and/or any devices that manipulate signals based on operational instructions. Among other capabilities, the processor may be configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in the memory associated with the attachment structure conversion control system.
[072] Without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure, the attachment structure conversion control system is configured to be activated by a key that may be embodied as a mechanical key, an electronic key, a Radio Frequency (RF) key or a mobile application. The key may be either physically or wirelessly connected to the attachments structure (210) or the second control system of the attachment structure (210) to activate the attachment structure conversion control system. The key is remotely connected to or inserted into a key slot of the attachment structure (210) and consequently, the second control system is configured to supply power to the attachment structure conversion control system to activate the attachment structure conversion control system. In an embodiment, a single common key is configured to activate the two wheeled vehicle conversion control system of the two wheeled vehicle (100) and the attachment structure conversion system of the attachment structure (210). When activated, the attachment structure conversion control system is configured to unlock the one or more latches of the locking unit (44) of the windshield panel (40), and the locking unit of the windshield panel (40) is actuatable to facilitate a movement of the windshield panel (40) from the closed position to the open position. Also, upon unlocking of the one or more latches of the windshield panel (40), the windshield panel (40) is movable upwards from the closed position to the open position.
[073] Further, in a further embodiment of the present disclosure, the two wheeled vehicle conversion control system and the attachment structure conversion control system are in wireless communication with each other, and the attachment structure conversion control system unlocks the locking unit (44) of the windshield panel (40), when the attachment structure conversion control system determines an active/ activated state of the two wheeled vehicle conversion control system.
[074] Further, with reference to FIG. 6, the attachment structure (210) may comprise a seat unit (240) that may be pivotably attached to the second body frame (212) of the attachment structure (210). The seat unit (240) may be adapted to be disposed above the rear portion (106) (or the rear wheel (124)) of the two-wheeled vehicle (100), when the two wheeled vehicle (100) is coupled with the attachment structure (210). The seat unit (240) may provide a seating surface for the driver of the modular vehicle (1) in the multi-/ three wheeled configuration (200). For sake of clarity, FIG. 6 illustrates a frame (250) of the seat unit (240) of the attachment structure (210). The frame (250) is adapted to be coupled to the second body frame (212) of the attachment structure (210). As illustrated in FIG. 6, the frame (250) is adapted to be positioned at the rear end of the longitudinal bars (218) of the attachment structure (210). In an embodiment, and as also illustrated in FIG. 6, the frame (250) may be embodied as a ‘box-like’ structure (252) that is coupled with the second body frame (212) of the attachment structure (210). The box-like structure (252) of the frame (250) may be provided above the wheel receiving unit (230) of the attachment structure (210) such that the wheel receiving unit (230) and the frame (250) define a space (270) therebetween to accommodate the rear portion (106) of the first body frame (102) of the two wheeled vehicle (100), in the three wheeled configuration (200) of the modular vehicle (1). For instance, when the modular vehicle (1) is to be driven in the three wheeled configuration (200), and the first body frame (102) of the two wheeled vehicle (100) is to be coupled with the second body frame (212) of the attachment structure (210), the rear portion (106) of the two wheeled vehicle (100) along with the rear wheel (124) of the two wheeled vehicle (100) is received on the wheel receiving unit (230) of the attachment structure (210) and the rear portion (106) along with the rear wheel (124) of the two wheeled vehicle (100) is accommodated in the space (270) defined between the wheel receiving unit (230) and the frame (250) of the attachment structure (210).
[075] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the frame (250) may be pivotably coupled to the second body frame (212) of the attachment structure (210). The frame (250) of the seat unit (240) may be configured to be pivotably coupled with the second body frame (212) of the attachment structure (210) by one or more hinges (272) and is pivotable between a closed position and an open position. The closed position of the seat unit (240) may be defined as a position of the seat unit (240) in which the frame (250) of the seat unit (240) is disposed above the wheel receiving unit (230) of the attachment structure (210), as shown in FIG. 6. Further, the open position of the seat unit (240) may be defined as a position of the seat unit (240) in which the frame (250) of the seat unit (240) is away from the wheel receiving unit (230) of the attachment structure (210). Further, the seat unit (240) may comprise a locking unit adapted to lock the seat unit (240) with the longitudinal bars (218) of the attachment structure (210), in the closed position of the seat unit (240). The locking unit of the seat unit (240) may comprise one or more latches that may be engageable with the corresponding locking elements provided on the longitudinal bars (218) of the attachment structure (210) for locking the seat unit (240) with the attachment structure (210), in the closed position of the seat unit (240). Accordingly, it can be understood that the seat unit (240) is configured to be operated between the closed position and the open position and is lockable in the closed position of the seat unit (240).
[076] When activated, the attachment structure conversion control system is configured to unlock the one or more latches of the locking unit of the seat unit (240), and the locking unit of the seat unit (240) is actuatable to facilitate a movement of the seat unit (240) from the closed position to the open position. Also, upon unlocking of the one or more latches of the seat unit (240), the seat unit (240) is movable away and/ or upwards from the longitudinal bars (218), i.e., from the closed position to the open position of the seat unit (240).
[077] In an embodiment of the present disclosure where a single common key is configured to activate the two wheeled vehicle conversion control system of the two wheeled vehicle (100) and the attachment structure conversion system of the attachment structure (210), when the two wheeled vehicle (100) is coupled with the attachment structure (210), the multi-/ three- wheeled configuration (200) of the modular vehicle (1) is configured to be driven by the same key. Also, in said embodiment, the two wheeled vehicle conversion control system remains in an active state, even when the key is removed or disconnected from the first control system of the two wheeled vehicle (100) to activate the attachment structure conversion control system of the attachment structure (210).
[078] Within the scope of the present disclosure, the attachment structure (210) of the modular vehicle (1) described above provides convenient movement of the windshield panel (40) between the closed position and the open position and covers the front portion of the attachment structure (210)/ the modular vehicle (1). The attachment structure (210) of the present disclosure also facilitates readily converting the modular vehicle (1) from the two wheeled configuration (100) to the multi wheeled configuration (200). The linkage unit (60) provided at the attachment structure (210) allows the windshield panel (40) to be moved between the closed and the open positions, without any need of complex mechanisms to operate. The elastomeric seal extending along a periphery of the windshield panel (40) aids in secured sealing of the windshield panel (40) with the attachment structure (210) and also prevents entry of any foreign material/ debris. Also, the attachment structure (210) provides convenient movement of the seat unit (240) between the closed position and the open position and facilitates readily converting the modular vehicle (1) from the two wheeled configuration (100) to the multi wheeled configuration (200), without any need of complex mechanisms to operate.
[079] The various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. The present disclosure is not limited to the illustrated embodiments; rather, these embodiments are intended to fully and completely disclose the subject matter of the disclosure to those skilled in this art. In the drawings, like numbers refer to like elements throughout. Thicknesses and dimensions of some components may be exaggerated for clarity.
[080] Herein, the terms “attached”, “connected”, “interconnected”, “contacting”, “mounted”, “coupled” and the like can mean either direct or indirect attachment or contact between elements, unless stated otherwise.
[081] Well-known functions or constructions may not be described in detail for brevity and/or clarity. As used herein the expression “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
[082] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises”, “comprising”, “includes” and/or “including” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.
[083] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the particular features of this disclosure, it will be appreciated that various modifications can be made, and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the disclosure. These and other modifications in the nature of the disclosure or the preferred embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation.


EQUIVALENTS:
[084] The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained with reference to the non-limiting embodiments in the description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.
[085] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the embodiments as described herein.
[086] Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles and the like that has been included in this specification is solely for the purpose of providing a context for the disclosure. It is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form a part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the disclosure as it existed anywhere before the priority date of this application.
[001] The numerical values mentioned for the various physical parameters, dimensions or quantities are only approximations and it is envisaged that the values higher/lower than the numerical values assigned to the parameters, dimensions or quantities fall within the scope of the disclosure, unless there is a statement in the specification specific to the contrary.
, Claims:CLAIMS

We Claim:

1. An attachment structure (210) of a modular vehicle (1) configured to be converted from a two wheeled configuration (100) to a multi wheeled configuration (200) and from the multi wheeled configuration (200) to the two wheeled configuration (100), the attachment structure (210) comprising:
a body frame (212); and
a windshield panel (40) pivotably coupled to a front portion of the body frame (212), the windshield panel (40) configured to be operated between a closed position and an open position and lockable in the closed position,
wherein a locking unit (44) of the windshield panel (40) actuatable, upon activation of an attachment structure conversion control system of the attachment structure (210), to facilitate a movement of the windshield panel (40) from the closed position to the open position.

2. The attachment structure (210) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the attachment structure (210) comprises a seat unit (240) pivotably coupled to the front portion of the body frame (212), the seat unit (240) adapted to be disposed above a rear portion (106) of a two wheeled vehicle (100) of the modular vehicle (1) and configured to be operated between a closed position and an open position,
wherein a locking unit of the seat unit (240) actuatable to facilitate a movement of the seat unit (240) from the closed position to the open position.

3. The attachment structure (210) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the attachment structure (210) comprises a control system adapted to control one or more operations of the attachment structure (210), wherein the control system configured to activate, by a key, the attachment structure conversion control system,
wherein the control system configured to supply power to the attachment structure conversion control system, when the key remotely connected to or inserted into a key slot provided on a control panel of the attachment structure (210), to activate the attachment structure conversion control system,
the attachment structure conversion control system configured to unlock one or more latches of the locking unit (44) of the windshield panel (40) and one or more latches of a locking unit of a seat unit (240), and
the windshield panel (40) movable upwards from the closed position to the open position and the seat unit (240) movable from a closed position to an open position.

4. The attachment structure (210) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the key comprises one of a mechanical key, an electronic key, a Radio Frequency (RF) key and a mobile application.

5. The attachment structure (210) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the attachment structure (210) comprises:
a left-side pillar (21a) and a right-side pillar (21b) secured to and extending upwardly from a left-side longitudinal member (218a) and a right-side longitudinal member (218b) of the attachment structure (210), respectively;
a cross-member (30) interconnecting free ends (21c) of the left-side pillar (21a) and the right-side pillar (21b);
a linkage unit (60) for movably coupling the windshield panel (40) with at least one of the cross-member (30), the left-side pillar (21a) and the right-side pillar (21b),
wherein the windshield panel (40) movably coupled to at least one of the cross-member (30), the left-side pillar (21a) and the right-side pillar (21b),
wherein the linkage unit (60) comprises a goose neck hinge (65) adapted to couple an upper rear portion of the windshield panel (40) to the cross-member (30), the goose neck hinge (65) configured to move the windshield panel (40) to the open position about the cross-member (30), and
wherein the goose neck hinge (65) comprises a goose neck link (61) having a first end (61a) pivotably coupled to the cross-member (30), and a second end (61b) coupled to the windshield panel (40).

6. The attachment structure (210) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the windshield panel (40) comprises:
a frame (42),
a windshield (41) secured within the frame (42), and
an elastomeric seal extending along a periphery of the windshield panel (40) to sealingly engage the windshield panel (40) with the left-side pillar (21a) and the right-side pillar (21b), in the closed position of the windshield panel (40).

7. An attachment structure (210) of a modular vehicle (1) configured to be converted from a two wheeled configuration (100) to a multi wheeled configuration (200) and from the multi wheeled configuration (200) to the two wheeled configuration (100), the attachment structure (210) comprising:
a body frame (212); and
a seat unit (240) pivotably coupled to a front portion of the body frame (212), the seat unit (240) configured to be operated between a closed position and an open position and lockable in the closed position,
wherein a locking unit of the seat unit (240) actuatable, upon activation of an attachment structure conversion control system of the attachment structure (210), to facilitate a movement of the seat unit (240) from the closed position to the open position.

8. A modular vehicle (1) configured to be converted from a two wheeled configuration (100) to a multi wheeled configuration (200) and from the multi wheeled configuration (200) to the two wheeled configuration (100), the modular vehicle (1) comprising:
an attachment structure (210) configured to be coupled with a two wheeled vehicle (100), the attachment structure (210) comprising:
a body frame (212); and
a windshield panel (40) pivotably coupled to a front portion of the body frame (212), the windshield panel (40) configured to be operated between a closed position and an open position and lockable in the closed position,
wherein a locking unit (44) of the windshield panel (40) actuatable, upon activation of an attachment structure conversion control system of the attachment structure (210), to facilitate a movement of the windshield panel (40) from the closed position to the open position.

9. The modular vehicle (1) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the attachment structure (210) comprises a seat unit (240) pivotably coupled to the front portion of the body frame (212), the seat unit (240) adapted to be disposed above a rear portion (106) of the two wheeled vehicle (100) and configured to be operated between a closed position and an open position,
wherein a locking unit of the seat unit (240) actuatable to facilitate a movement of the seat unit (240) from the closed position to the open position.

10. The modular vehicle (1) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the attachment structure (210) comprises a control system adapted to control one or more operations of the attachment structure (210), wherein the control system configured to activate, by a key, the attachment structure conversion control system,
wherein the control system configured to supply power to the attachment structure conversion control system, when the key remotely connected to or inserted into a key slot provided on a control panel of the attachment structure (210), to activate the attachment structure conversion control system,
the attachment structure conversion control system configured to unlock one or more latches of the locking unit (44) of the windshield panel (40) and one or more latches of a locking unit of a seat unit (240), and
the windshield panel (40) movable upwards from the closed position to the open position and the seat unit (240) movable from a closed position to an open position.

11. The modular vehicle (1) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the key comprises one of a mechanical key, an electronic key, a Radio Frequency (RF) key and a mobile application.

12. The modular vehicle (1) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the attachment structure (210) comprises:
a left-side pillar (21a) and a right-side pillar (21b) secured to and extending upwardly from a left-side longitudinal member (218a) and a right-side longitudinal member (218b) of the attachment structure (210), respectively;
a cross-member (30) interconnecting free ends (21c) of the left-side pillar (21a) and the right-side pillar (21b);
a linkage unit (60) for movably coupling the windshield panel (40) with at least one of the cross-member (30), the left-side pillar (21a) and the right-side pillar (21b),
wherein the windshield panel (40) movably coupled to at least one of the cross-member (30), the left-side pillar (21a) and the right-side pillar (21b),
wherein the linkage unit (60) comprises a goose neck hinge (65) adapted to couple an upper rear portion of the windshield panel (40) to the cross-member (30), the goose neck hinge (65) configured to move the windshield panel (40) to the open position about the cross-member (30), and
wherein the goose neck hinge (65) comprises a goose neck link (61) having a first end (61a) pivotably coupled to the cross-member (30), and a second end (61b) coupled to the windshield panel (40).

13. The modular vehicle (1) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the windshield panel (40) comprises:
a frame (42),
a windshield (41) secured within the frame (42), and
an elastomeric seal extending along a periphery of the windshield panel (40) to sealingly engage the windshield panel (40) with the left-side pillar (21a) and the right-side pillar (21b), in the closed position of the windshield panel (40).

14. The modular vehicle (1) as claimed in claim 8, comprising:
a first control system adapted to control one or more operations of the two wheeled vehicle (100), the first control system configured to:
activate, by a key, a two wheeled vehicle conversion control system; and
a second control system of the attachment structure (210), the second control system adapted to control one or more operations of the attachment structure (210), the second control system configured to:
activate, by the key, the attachment structure conversion control system;
wherein, when the two wheeled vehicle (100) coupled with the attachment structure (210), the multi wheeled configuration (200) of the modular vehicle (1) configured to be driven by the key.

15. The modular vehicle (1) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the two wheeled vehicle conversion control system and the attachment structure conversion control system are in wireless communication with each other, and
the attachment structure conversion control system unlocks the locking unit (44) of the windshield panel (40), when the attachment structure conversion control system determines an active state of the two wheeled vehicle conversion control system.

16. The modular vehicle (1) as claimed in claim 15, wherein the two wheeled vehicle conversion control system remains active, when the key removed or disconnected from the first control system to activate the attachment structure conversion control system.

Documents

Application Documents

# Name Date
1 202211069333-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [01-12-2022(online)].pdf 2022-12-01
2 202211069333-POWER OF AUTHORITY [01-12-2022(online)].pdf 2022-12-01
3 202211069333-FORM 1 [01-12-2022(online)].pdf 2022-12-01
4 202211069333-DRAWINGS [01-12-2022(online)].pdf 2022-12-01
5 202211069333-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [01-12-2022(online)].pdf 2022-12-01
6 202211069333-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [01-12-2022(online)].pdf 2022-12-01
7 202211069333-Proof of Right [13-04-2023(online)].pdf 2023-04-13
8 202211069333-FORM 18 [07-02-2025(online)].pdf 2025-02-07