Description:

FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
[See section 10, Rule 13]

REAR FENDER SUPPORT STRUCTURE FOR SUPPORTING A REAR FENDER OF A VEHICLE

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

THE FOLLOWING SPECIFICATION PARTICULARLY DESCRIBES THE INVENTION AND THE MANNER IN WHICH IT IS TO BE PERFORMED.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION:
[001] The present invention relates to rear fender support structure of a vehicle. The invention further particularly provides a rear fender support structure for supporting a rear fender of the vehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
[002] Conventionally, vehicle is provided with rear fender above a rear ground engaging member. The rear fender covers the rear ground engaging member to avoid any mud splashes coming out from the rear wheel during vehicle running condition. The rear fender is coupled to the vehicle via a rear fender support structure. A rear fender support structure comprises a first tubular section and a second tubular section extending in a rearward direction of the vehicle. The first and the second tubular sections may be attached via one or more cross members. Traditionally, diameters of the first and the second tubular sections are maintained such that the rear fender support structure has sufficient stiffness.

[003] Attempts to decrease diameter of the first and the second tubular sections results in reduction of the stiffness of the rear fender support structure . In some of the vehicles, the rear fender is provided with a license plate, a lighting device, reflector(s), etc. Addition of such components to the rear fender increases the overall weight of the rear fender and increases load on the rear fender support structure. Under such circumstances, a weight of the rear fender support structure has to be increased to cater to the increased load.

[004] In some vehicles, length of the rear fender is increased to meet the functional and aesthetic requirements. Since the rear fender is in the form of overhang structure connected to the rear fender support structure, an increase in the length of the rear fender increases load on the rear fender support structure. Under such circumstances, a weight of the rear fender support structure has to be increased to cater to the increased load.

[005] In some cases, the rear fender support structure is fabricated as a casted element to cater to an increased load of the rear fender. However, fabricating the rear fender support structure as a casted element increases an overall weight and cost of the vehicle.

[006] Thus, there exists a need to provide a rear fender support structure having increased stiffness without increasing the overall weight and cost of the vehicle.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
[007] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key or essential features.

[008] In one aspect of the invention, there is provided a rear fender support structure for supporting a rear fender of a vehicle. The rear fender support structure comprises a first tubular section extending a rearward direction of the vehicle; a second tubular section extending in the rearward direction of the vehicle, the second tubular section being spaced apart from the first tubular section along a width direction of the vehicle; and at least one cross member connected between the first tubular section and the second tubular section. In an embodiment of the invention, the first tubular section comprises a first tube member, a second tube member, and a third tube member coupled to one another. In an embodiment of the invention, the third tube member is disposed between the first tube member and the second tube member. In an embodiment of the invention, the third tube member being dissimilar than the first tube member and the second tube member. In an embodiment of the invention, the second tubular section comprises a fourth tube member, a fifth tube member, and a sixth tube member coupled to one another. In an embodiment of the invention, the sixth tube member is disposed between the fourth tube member and the fifth tube member. In an embodiment of the invention the sixth tube member being dissimilar than the fourth tube member and the fifth tube member.

[009] In an embodiment of the invention, the third tube member has a first arm and a second arm extending from the first arm at a first predetermined obtuse angle (?1).

[0010] In another embodiment of the invention, the first predetermined obtuse angle (?1) is in the range of 120o to 150o.

[0011] In yet another embodiment of the invention, a first curved portion is disposed between the first arm and the second arm.

[0012] In still another embodiment of the invention, the first tube member is connected to the first arm of the third tube member and the second tube member is connected to the second arm of the third tube member such that the first tube member penetrates to a first predetermined distance (PD1) into the first arm and the second tube member penetrates to a second predetermined distance (PD2) into the second arm.

[0013] In a further embodiment of the invention, the first predetermined distance (PD1) is in a range of 20 to 50% of a length of the first arm (L1).

[0014] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the second predetermined distance (PD2) is in a range of 20 to 50% of a length of the second arm (L2).

[0015] In an embodiment of the invention, the sixth tube member has a third arm and a fourth arm extending from the third arm at a second predetermined obtuse angle (?2).

[0016] In another embodiment of the invention, the second predetermined obtuse angle (?2) is in the range of 120o to 150o.

[0017] In yet another embodiment of the invention, a second curved portion is disposed between the third arm and the fourth arm.

[0018] In still another embodiment of the invention, the fourth tube member is connected to the third arm of the sixth tube member and the fifth tube member is connected to the fourth arm of the sixth tube member such that the fourth tube member penetrates to a third predetermined distance (PD3) into the third arm and the fifth tube member penetrates to a fourth predetermined distance (PD4) into the fourth arm.

[0019] In a further embodiment of the invention, the third predetermined distance (PD3) is in a range of 20 to 50% of a length of the third first arm (L3).

[0020] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the fourth predetermined distance (PD4) is in a range of 20 to 50% of a length of the fourth arm (L4).

[0021] In another embodiment of the invention, the first tube member comprises a first rear fender holder and a second rear fender holder.

[0022] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the fourth tube member comprises a third rear fender holder and a fourth rear fender holder.

[0023] In a further embodiment of the invention, the third tube member comprises a fifth rear fender holder.

[0024] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the sixth tube member comprises a sixth rear fender holder.

[0025] In another embodiment of the invention, the first tube member is coupled to the third tube member at a first welding portion.

[0026] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the second tube member is coupled to the third tube member at a second welding portion.

[0027] In still another embodiment of the invention, the fourth tube member is coupled to the sixth tube member at a third welding portion.

[0028] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fifth tube member is coupled to the sixth tube member at a fourth welding portion.

[0029] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the second tube member is coupled to the fifth tube member via a first cross member.

[0030] In another embodiment of the invention, the third tube member is coupled to the sixth tube member via a second cross member.

[0031] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the third tube member is dimensionally greater than the first tube member. In a further embodiment of the invention, the third tube member is dimensionally greater than the second tube member.

[0032] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the sixth tube member is dimensionally greater than the fourth tube member. In a further embodiment of the invention, the third tube member is dimensionally greater than the fifth tube member.

[0033] In another embodiment of the invention, the first tubular section and the second tubular section is a circular tube shaped member.

[0034] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the first tubular section and the second tubular section is an oval tube shaped member.

[0035] In another aspect of the invention, there is provided a vehicle comprising a frame structure; a front ground engaging member and a rear ground engaging member supported with respect to the frame structure; a rear fender located above the rear ground engaging member; and a rear fender support structure supporting the rear fender. In an embodiment of the invention, the rear fender support structure comprises a first tubular section extending a rearward direction of the vehicle; a second tubular section extending in the rearward direction of the vehicle, the second tubular section being spaced apart from the first tubular section along a width direction of the vehicle; and at least one cross member connected between the first tubular section and the second tubular section. In an embodiment of the invention, the first tubular section comprises a first tube member, a second tube member, and a third tube member coupled to one another. In an embodiment of the invention, the third tube member is disposed between the first tube member and the second tube member. In an embodiment of the invention, the third tube member being dissimilar than the first tube member and the second tube member. In an embodiment of the invention, the second tubular section comprises a fourth tube member, a fifth tube member, and a sixth tube member coupled to one another. In an embodiment of the invention, the sixth tube member is disposed between the fourth tube member and the fifth tube member. In an embodiment of the invention the sixth tube member being dissimilar than the fourth tube member and the fifth tube member.

[0036] In an embodiment of the invention, the rear fender includes at least one of a license plate, a lighting device, and a reflector.

[0037] One advantage of the invention is that the rear fender support structure has increased stiffness without having increased diameters of the first and the second tubular sections. Another advantage of the invention, is that increased stiffness is obtained without increasing weight of the rear fender support structure.

[0038] To further clarify the advantages and features of the invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES:
[0039] In order that the invention may be readily understood and put into practical effect, reference will now be made to exemplary embodiments as illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views. The figures together with a detailed description below, are incorporated in and form part of the specification, and serve to further illustrate the embodiments and explain various principles and advantages, in accordance with the present invention where:

[0040] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of an exemplary vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of the frame structure, the rear fender and the rear fender support structure, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of rear fender support structure, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 4 illustrates an exploded view of the rear fender support structure, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and

[0044] Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of the third tube member, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and

[0045] Figure 6 illustrates a perspective view of the sixth tube member, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] It may be noted that to the extent possible, like reference numerals have been used to represent like elements in the drawings. Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have been 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 aspects of the present invention. Furthermore, one or more elements may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

Detailed Description of the Invention:
[0047] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated device, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.

[0048] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are explanatory of the invention and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.

[0049] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a”, “an” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0050] Reference throughout this specification to “an aspect”, “another aspect” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrase “in an embodiment”, “in another embodiment”, and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

[0051] The terms "comprises", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover anon-exclusive inclusion, such that one or more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures or components proceeded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices or other sub-systems or other elements or other structures or other components or additional devices or additional sub-systems or additional elements or additional structures or additional components.

[0052] As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the terms "coupled to", “connected to”, “operably connected to”, and “operatively connected to” are intended to include both direct connection / coupling (in which two elements that are coupled / connected to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling / connection (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements).Therefore, the terms "coupled to" and "coupled with" are used synonymously. Similarly, the terms “connected to” and “connected with” are used synonymously.

[0053] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one ordinary skilled in the art to which this invention belongs. The device, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

[0054] The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-mentioned element as being essential to the practice of the invention.

[0055] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all Markush groups used.

[0056] While the present invention is illustrated in the context of a vehicle, however, cover and aspects and features thereof can be used with other types of vehicles as well. The terms “vehicle”, “two wheeled vehicle” and “motorcycle” have been interchangeably used throughout the description. The term “vehicle” comprises vehicles such as motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, mopeds, scooter type vehicles, All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV) and the like.

[0057] 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 and these directions are referred by arrows Fr, Rr, U, Lr, L, R in the Figures.

[0058] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0059] Referring to Figure 1, there is illustrated a vehicle (10) that comprises a front end structure (12) and a rear end structure (14). The front end structure (12) forms the front portion of the vehicle (10) while the rear end structure (14) forms the rear portion of the vehicle (10).

[0060] The front end structure (12) comprises a front ground engaging member (16), and a steering mechanism (18). The front ground engaging member (16) is operatively connected to the steering mechanism (18). In the illustrated example, the front ground engaging member (16) embodies a wheel. Alternatively, the front ground engaging member (16) embodies a track, without limiting the scope of the invention. The steering mechanism (18) comprises a handlebar (20). The handlebar (20) is configured to be rotated by the rider to steer the vehicle (10). The handlebar (20) is coupled to the front ground engaging member (16) via a fork (22).

[0061] The front end structure (12) comprises a dash assembly (24). The dash assembly (24) comprises a display unit (not shown). The display unit displays information about the vehicle (10) to the rider. The dash assembly (24) may comprise additional components such as LCD, GPS, graphical user interface (GUI), etc. without limiting the scope of the invention. Further, the front end structure (12) may further comprise additional components such as mirror/s, head lamp/s, front fender/s, etc. without limiting the scope of the invention.

[0062] The rear end structure (14) comprises a seat (26), a rear ground engaging member (28), and a power unit (30). The seat (26) provides seating for a rider of the vehicle (10). The rear ground engaging member (28) underlies the seat (26) and is driven by the power unit (30). The power unit (30) is supported by a frame structure (32). The rear ground engaging member (28) is coupled to the power unit (30) via a transmission unit (34). In an embodiment of the invention, the power unit (30) comprises an engine or a motor driven by battery.

[0063] The vehicle (10) further comprises a fuel tank (36) disposed above the power unit (30). The rear end structure (14) further comprises a rear fender (38) disposed above the rear ground engaging member (28). The rear fender (38) is supported by the frame structure (32).

[0064] Now referring particularly to Figure 2 there is illustrated a perspective view of a part of the frame structure (32) connected to the rear fender (38) via rear fender support structure (100). The frame structure (32) comprises a first rear rail (40A) extending in a rear-ward direction of the vehicle; and a second rear rail (40B) extending in a rear-ward direction of the vehicle. The first rear rail (40A) and the second rear rail (40B) may be connected to each other at one or more locations. The rear fender support structure (100) supports the rear fender (38) and couples the rear fender (38) to the frame structure (32). In particular, the rear fender support structure (100) couples the rear fender (38) to the first rear rail (40A) and the second rear rail (40B). In an embodiment of the invention, the rear fender (38) includes at least one of a license plate (42), a lighting device (44), and a reflector (46).

[0065] Now referring particularly to Figure 3 and Figure 4 there is illustrated a perspective view and an exploded view of the rear fender support structure (100). The rear fender support structure (100) comprises a first tubular section (102) extending a rearward direction of the vehicle (10); a second tubular section (104) extending in the rearward direction of the vehicle (10), the second tubular section (104) being spaced apart from the first tubular section (102) along a width direction of the vehicle (10); and at least one cross member (106a, 106b) connected between the first tubular section (102) and the second tubular section (104).

[0066] In an embodiment of the invention, the first tubular section (102) comprises a first tube member (108), a second tube member (110) and a third tube member (112) coupled to one another. The third tube member (112) is disposed between the first tube member (108) and the second tube member (110).

[0067] In an embodiment of the invention, the second tubular section (104) comprises a fourth tube member (114), a fifth tube member (116) and a sixth tube member (118) coupled to one another. The sixth tube member (118) disposed between the fourth tube member (114) and the fifth tube member (116).

[0068] In an embodiment of the invention, the third tube member (112) is dissimilar than the first tube member (108). In particular, the third tube member (112) is dimensionally greater than the first tube member (108). In particular, a cross-sectional dimension of the third tube member (112) is greater than the cross-sectional dimension of the first tube member (108).

[0069] In particular, an inner cross-sectional dimension of the third tube member (112) is greater than an outer cross-sectional dimension of the first tube member (108). By way of a non-limiting example, if we treat the first tube member (108) and the third tube member (112) as having a circular cross-section, and refer to an outer cross-sectional dimension of the first tube member (108) as D1, then an inner cross-sectional dimension (D3) of the third tube member (112) is provided by the equation:

D3 = {D1 + (0.1 mm to 0.8 mm)} …. Equation 1

[0070] In an embodiment of the invention, the third tube member (112) is dissimilar than the second tube member (110). In particular, the third tube member (112) is dimensionally greater than the second tube member (110). In an embodiment of the invention, a cross-sectional dimension of the third tube member (112) is greater than a cross-sectional dimension of the second tube member (110). In particular, an inner cross-sectional dimension of the third tube member (112) is greater than an outer cross-sectional dimension of the second tube member (110). By way of a non-limiting example, if we treat the first tube member (108) and the second tube member (110) as having a circular cross-section, and refer to an outer cross-sectional dimension of the second tube member (110) as D2, then an inner cross-sectional dimension (D3) of the third tube member (112) is provided by the equation:

D3 = {D2 + (0.1 mm to 0.8 mm)} …. Equation 2

[0071] It may be noted that the first tube member (108), the second tube member (110), and the third tube member (112) may have having an oval cross-section, then an inner cross-sectional dimension of the oval third tube member (112) will be greater than an outer cross-sectional dimension of the oval first tube member (108) and the oval second tube member (110).

[0072] In an embodiment of the invention, the sixth tube member (118) is dissimilar than the fourth tube member (114). In particular, the sixth tube member (118) is dimensionally greater than the fourth tube member (114). In an embodiment of the invention, a cross-sectional dimension of the sixth tube member (118) is greater than a cross-sectional dimension of the fourth tube member (114). In particular, an inner cross-sectional dimension of the sixth tube member (118) is greater than an outer cross-sectional dimension of the fourth tube member (114). By way of a non-limiting example, if we treat the fourth tube member (114) and the sixth tube member (118) as having a circular cross-section, and refer to an outer cross-sectional dimension of the fourth tube member (114) as D4, then an inner cross-sectional dimension (D6) of the sixth tube member (118) is provided by the equation:

D6 = {D4 + (0.1 mm to 0.8 mm)} …. Equation 3

[0073] In an embodiment of the invention, the sixth tube member (118) is dissimilar than the fifth tube member (116). In particular, the sixth tube member (118) is dimensionally greater than the fifth tube member (116). In an embodiment of the invention, a cross-sectional dimension of the sixth tube member (118) is greater than a cross-sectional dimension of the fifth tube member (116). In particular, an inner cross-sectional dimension of the sixth tube member (118) is greater than an outer cross-sectional dimension of the fifth tube member (116). By way of a non-limiting example, if we treat the fifth tube member (116) and the sixth tube member (118) as having a circular cross-section, and refer to an outer cross-sectional dimension of the fifth tube member (116) as D5, then an inner cross-sectional dimension (D6) of the sixth tube member (118) is provided by the equation:

D6 = {D5 + (0.1 mm to 0.8 mm)} …. Equation 4

[0074] It may be noted that the fourth tube member (114), the fifth tube member (116), and the sixth tube member (118) may have having an oval cross-section. In such a case, an inner cross-sectional dimension of the oval sixth tube member (118) will be greater than an outer cross-sectional dimension of the oval fourth tube member (114) and the oval fifth tube member (116).

[0075] In an embodiment of the invention, the cross-sectional dimension of the first tube member (108) (D1) is equal to the cross-sectional dimension of the second tube member (110) (D2). In such case, the third tube member (112) has uniform cross-sectional dimension along a length thereof. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the cross-sectional dimension of the first tube member (108) (D1) is unequal to the cross-sectional dimension of the second tube member (110) (D2), in which case, the third tube member (112) has non-uniform cross-sectional dimension along a length thereof. Under both scenarios, cross-sectional dimension of the third tube member (112) is provided by Equations 1 and 2 as provided above.

[0076] In an embodiment of the invention, the cross-sectional dimension of the fourth tube member (114) (D4) is equal to the cross-sectional dimension of the fifth tube member (116) (D5). In such case, the sixth tube member (118) has uniform cross-sectional dimension along a length thereof. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the cross-sectional dimension of the fourth tube member (114) (D4) is unequal to the cross-sectional dimension of the fifth tube member (116) (D5), in which case the third tube member (112) has non-uniform cross-sectional dimension along a length thereof. Under both scenarios, diameter of the sixth tube member (118) is provided by Equations 3 and 4 as provided above.

[0077] Referring to Figure 5, there is illustrated a perspective view of the third tube member (112) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The third tube member (112) comprises a first arm (120) and a second arm (122) extending from the first arm (120) at a first predetermined obtuse angle (?1). By way of a non-limiting example, the first predetermined obtuse angle (?1) is in the range of 120o to 150o. In an embodiment of the invention, the third tube member (112) comprises a first curved portion (124) disposed between the first arm (120) and the second arm (122).

[0078] In an embodiment of the invention, the first tube member (108) is connected to the first arm (120) of the third tube member (112) and the second tube member (110) is connected to the second arm (122) of the third tube member (112) such that the first tube member (108) penetrates to a first predetermined distance (PD1) into the first arm (120) and the second tube member (110) penetrates to a second predetermined distance (PD2) into the second arm (122). By way of a non-limiting example, the first predetermined distance (PD1) is in a range of 20 to 50% of a length of the first arm (120) (L1). By way of another non-limiting example, the second predetermined distance (PD2) is in a range of 20 to 50% of a length of the second arm (120) (L2).

[0079] In an embodiment of the invention, the first tube member (108) may additionally comprise a first rear fender holder (132) and a second rear fender holder (134). The first tube member (108) may be connected to the first rear rail (40A) via the first rear fender holder (132). The first tube (108) may be connected to the rear fender (38) via the second rear fender holder (134).

[0080] In another embodiment of the invention, the third tube member (112) comprises a fifth rear fender holder (140). The third tube member (112) may be connected to the rear fender (38) via the fifth rear fender holder (140).

[0081] Referring to Figure 6, there is illustrated a perspective view of the sixth tube member (118) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The sixth tube member (118) has a third arm (126) and a fourth arm (128) extending from the third arm (126) at a second predetermined obtuse angle (?2). By way of a non-limiting example, the second predetermined obtuse angle (?2) is in the range of 120o to 150o. In an embodiment of the invention, the sixth tube member (118) comprises a second curved portion (130) disposed between the third arm (126) and the fourth arm (128).

[0082] In an embodiment of the invention, the fourth tube member (114) is connected to the third arm (126) of the sixth tube member (118) and the fifth tube member (116) is connected to the fourth arm (128) of the sixth tube member (118) such that the fourth tube member (114) penetrates to a third predetermined distance (PD3) into the third arm (126) and the fifth tube member (116) penetrates to a fourth predetermined distance (PD4) into the fourth arm (128). By way of a non-limiting example, the third predetermined distance (PD3) is in a range of 20 to 50% of a length of the third first arm (126) (L3). By way of another no-limiting example, the fourth predetermined distance (PD4) is in a range of 20 to 50% of a length of the fourth arm (128) (L4).

[0083] In an embodiment of the invention, the fourth tube member (114) may comprise a third rear fender holder (136) and a fourth rear fender holder (138). The fourth tube member (114) may be connected to the second rear rail (40A) via the third rear fender holder (136). The fourth tube member (114) may be connected to the rear fender (38) via the fourth rear fender holder (138).

[0084] In another embodiment of the invention, the sixth tube member (118) comprises a sixth rear fender holder (142). The sixth tube member (118) may be connected to the rear fender (38) via the sixth rear fender holder (142).

[0085] Now referring back to Figure 3, in an embodiment of the invention, the first tube member (108) is coupled to the third tube member (112) at a first welding portion (144). In another embodiment of the invention, the second tube member (110) is coupled to the third tube member (112) at a second welding portion (146). In yet another embodiment of the invention, the fourth tube member (114) is coupled to the sixth tube member (118) at a third welding portion (148). In still another embodiment of the invention, the fifth tube member (116) is coupled to the sixth tube member (118) at a fourth welding portion (150).

[0086] In an embodiment of the invention, the second tube member (110) may be coupled to the fifth tube member (116) via a first cross member (106a). The first cross member (106a) may include provisions for coupling to the rear fender (56). In another embodiment of the invention, the third tube member (112) is coupled to the sixth tube member (118) via a second cross member (106b). The second cross plate (106b) may include provisions for coupling to the rear fender (56).

[0087] Because of the construction of the first tubular section (102) and the second tubular section (104) as provided in the present invention, the rear fender support structure has increased stiffness. The increased stiffness is obtained without increasing the overall diameter of the first tubular section or the second tubular section. This contributes to attaining an increase in the stiffness without increasing weight of the rear fender support structure.

[0088] While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations arising on account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein.

[0089] The figures and the forgoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, orders of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover, the actions of any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts necessarily need to be performed. Also, those acts that are not dependent on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples.

[0090] Numerous variations, whether explicitly given in the specification or not, such as differences in structure, dimension, and use of material, are possible. The scope of embodiments is at least as broad as given by the following claims.
, Claims:WE CLAIM:

1. A rear fender support structure (100) for supporting a rear fender (38) of a vehicle (10), said rear fender support structure (100) comprising:
a first tubular section (102) extending a rearward direction of the vehicle (10);
a second tubular section (104) extending in the rearward direction of the vehicle (10), the second tubular section (104) being spaced apart from the first tubular section (102) along a width direction of the vehicle (10); and
at least one cross member (106a, 106b) connected between the first tubular section (102) and the second tubular section (104);
the first tubular section (102) comprising a first tube member (108), a second tube member (110) and a third tube member (112) coupled to one another, the third tube member (112) disposed between the first tube member (108) and the second tube member (110), and the third tube member (112) being dissimilar than the first tube member (108) and the second tube member (110);
the second tubular section (104) comprising a fourth tube member (114), a fifth tube member (116) and a sixth tube member (118) coupled to one another, the sixth tube member (118) disposed between the fourth tube member (114) and the fifth tube member (116), and the sixth tube member (118) being dissimilar than the fourth tube member (114) and the fifth tube member (116).

2. The rear fender support structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
• the third tube member (112) has a first arm (120) and a second arm (122) extending from the first arm (120) at a first predetermined obtuse angle (?1); and
• the sixth tube member (118) has a third arm (126) and a fourth arm (128) extending from the third arm (126) at obtuse angle (?2).

3. The rear fender support structure as claimed in claim 2, wherein:
• the first predetermined obtuse angle (?1) is in the range of 120o to 150o; and
• the second predetermined obtuse angle (?2) is in the range of 120o to 150o.

4. The rear fender support structure as claimed in claim 2, wherein:
• the first tube member (108) is connected to the first arm (120) of the third tube member (112) and the second tube member (110) is connected to the second arm (122) of the third tube member (112) such that the first tube member (108) penetrates to a first predetermined distance (PD1) into the first arm (120) and the second tube member (110) penetrates to a second predetermined distance (PD2) into the second arm (122); and
• the fourth tube member (114) is connected to the third arm (126) of the sixth tube member (118) and the fifth tube member (116) is connected to the fourth arm (128) of the sixth tube member (118) such that the fourth tube member (114) penetrates to a third predetermined distance (PD3) into the third arm (126) and the fifth tube member (116) penetrates to a fourth predetermined distance (PD4) into the fourth arm (128).

5. The rear fender support structure as claimed in claim 4, wherein:
• the first predetermined distance (PD1) is in a range of 20 to 50% of a length of the first arm (120) (L1) and the second predetermined distance (PD2) is in a range of 20 to 50% of a length of the second arm (120) (L2); and
• the third predetermined distance (PD3) is in a range of 20 to 50% of a length of the third first arm (126) (L3) and the fourth predetermined distance (PD4) is in a range of 20 to 50% of a length of the fourth arm (128) (L4).

6. The rear fender support structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
the first tube member (108) comprises a first rear fender stay holder (132) and a second rear fender stay holder (134);
the fourth tube member (114) comprises a third rear fender stay holder (136) and a fourth rear fender stay holder (138);
the third tube member (112) comprises a fifth rear fender stay holder (140);
the sixth tube member (118) comprises a sixth rear fender stay holder (142);
the second tube member (110) is coupled to the fifth tube member (116) via a first cross member (106a); and
the third tube member (112) is coupled to the sixth tube member (118) via a second cross member (106b).

7. The rear fender support structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the third tube member (112) is dimensionally greater than the first tube member (108) and the second tube member (110); the sixth tube member (118) is dimensionally greater than the fourth tube member (114) and the fifth tube member (116).

8. The rear fender support structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the third tube member (112) has a diameter greater than a diameter of the first tube member (108) and a diameter of the second tube member (110); the sixth tube member (118) has a diameter greater than a diameter of the fourth tube member (114) and has a diameter of the fifth tube member (116).

9. The rear fender support structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first tubular section (102), and the second tubular section (104) is a circular tube shaped member.

10. The rear fender support structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first tubular section (102), and the second tubular section (104) is an oval tube shaped member.

11. The rear fender support structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rear fender (38) includes at least one of a license plate (42), a lighting device (44), and a reflector (46).

12. A vehicle (10), comprising:
a frame structure (32);
a front ground engaging member (16) and a rear ground engaging member (28) supported with respect to the frame structure (32);
a rear fender (38) located above the rear ground engaging member (28); and
a rear fender support structure (100) supporting the rear fender (38), said rear fender support structure (100) comprising:
a first tubular section (102) extending a rearward direction of the vehicle (10);
a second tubular section (104) extending in the rearward direction of the vehicle (10), the second tubular section (104) being spaced apart from the first tubular section (102) along a width direction of the vehicle (10); and
at least one cross member (106a, 106b) connected between the first tubular section (102) and the second tubular section (104);
the first tubular section (102) comprising a first tube member (108), a second tube member (110) and a third tube member (112) coupled to one another, the third tube member (112) disposed between the first tube member (108) and the second tube member (110), and the third tube member (112) being dissimilar than the first tube member (108) and the second tube member (110);
the second tubular section (104) comprising a fourth tube member (114), a fifth tube member (116) and a sixth tube member (118) coupled to one another, the sixth tube member (118) disposed between the fourth tube member (114) and the fifth tube member (116), and the sixth tube member (118) being dissimilar than the fourth tube member (114) and the fifth tube member (116).

13. The vehicle as claimed in claim 12, wherein the third tube member (112) has a diameter greater than a diameter of the first tube member (108) and a diameter of the second tube member (110); the sixth tube member (118) has a diameter greater than a diameter of the fourth tube member (114) and has a diameter of the fifth tube member (116).

14. The vehicle as claimed in claim 12, wherein the rear fender (38) includes at least one of a license plate (42), a lighting device (44), and a reflector (46).