Description:FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] The present invention is generally related to an electric vehicle, and more particularly to a seat hinge bracket assembly for use with the electric vehicle.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[0002] The demand for boot space in vehicles, particularly in two-wheelers, holds significant importance for consumers. This requirement becomes even more pronounced in compact vehicles and Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), where space is at a premium. However, accommodating boot space in BEVs presents unique challenges, primarily due to the space occupied by the battery, leaving little room for additional storage, such as a helmet.
[0003] In response to this challenge, our engineering team has diligently worked to provide a solution that addresses the need for boot space while ensuring the convenience and safety of the end customer. The present invention allows users to access the boot space by lifting the seat after unlocking it using a key. Once lifted manually by the customer, the seat provides ample space for storing essentials like helmets and groceries.
[0004] However, in the process of closing the seat, a significant issue arises. The downward motion of the seat, when released, often results in a hard-hitting noise as it makes contact with the seat base. This noise not only causes discomfort but also has the potential to damage the structural integrity of the seat and the battery bin.
[0005] Existing patents, such as the Chinese patent application CN2695334Y by Dong Hongxiang et al. and CN209852120U by Wang Xingzhi et al., have attempted to address similar challenges by introducing backrest support structures and chassis brackets. However, these solutions fail to adequately resolve the issues of structural damage and noise generation during the seat-closing process.
[0006] Moreover, the current seat and boot space arrangements in two-wheeler electric vehicles present several shortcomings. These include structural damage to the battery bin and seat base, impulsive noise during seat closure, lack of user-friendliness, and the potential for injury if fingers become trapped between the seat base and the battery bin.
[0007] To address these concerns, there is a pressing need for a seat hinge bracket assembly specifically designed for two-wheeler electric vehicles. This assembly should effectively minimize the noise generated during seat closure and prevent damage to mechanical and structural components. This specification aims to fulfill this need by presenting an innovative solution that enhances the overall user experience and protects critical vehicle components from potential harm.
[0008] Thus, in view of the above, there is a long-felt need in the industry to address the aforementioned deficiencies and inadequacies.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] A seat hinge bracket assembly for use with a vehicle is provided substantially, as shown in and/or described in connection with at least one of the figures.
[0010] An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a seat hinge bracket assembly for use with a vehicle including a top seat hinge bracket; a bottom seat hinge bracket; a rubber damper; a step bolt; and a nut. The bottom seat hinge bracket includes a plurality of slots. The bottom seat hinge bracket is mounted on a battery bin using a plurality of first screws. The rubber damper includes a plurality of apertures. The top seat hinge bracket and the rubber damper are aligned with and placed onto the slots of the bottom seat hinge bracket, and then the step bolt is inserted through a plurality of holes of the top seat hinge bracket, the bottom seat hinge bracket, and the apertures of the rubber damper to form the seat hinge bracket assembly. The nut is used for securing the seat hinge bracket assembly. The top seat hinge bracket is further fastened to a seat base using a plurality of second screws.
[0011] In an aspect, during an opening of the seat base, the top seat hinge bracket rotates in an anti-clockwise direction around the axis of the step bolt.
[0012] In an aspect, during the closing of the seat base, the top seat hinge bracket rotates in a clockwise direction around the axis of the step bolt.
[0013] In an aspect, the top seat hinge bracket is positioned on the rubber damper to compress the rubber damper located on the bottom seat hinge bracket during the rotation in the anti-clockwise direction and the clockwise direction.
[0014] In an aspect, the rubber damper is a vibration member that is configured to absorb and mitigate vibrations.
[0015] In an aspect, during the opening and closing of the seat base, the seat base and the top seat hinge bracket are in motion and the bottom seat hinge bracket, the rubber damper, the step bolt, and the nut are fixed.
[0016] In an aspect, the rubber damper is made of a resilient material selected from one or more of rubber, and silicone.
[0017] In an aspect, the step bolt includes a threaded portion for engaging with the nut to secure the seat hinge bracket assembly.
[0018] In an aspect, the nut is a self-locking nut to prevent loosening due to vibrations, or movements during the operation of the vehicle.
[0019] In an aspect, the plurality of first screws used to fasten the bottom seat hinge bracket to the battery bin are made of a corrosion-resistant material such as stainless steel.
[0020] In an aspect, the rubber damper is replaceable to facilitate maintenance and repair of the seat hinge bracket assembly.
[0021] Accordingly, one advantage of the present invention is that it reduces noise by not making direct hard contact between mechanical components.
[0022] Accordingly, one advantage of the present invention is that it provides controlled compression due to the usage of the top seat hinge bracket and the bottom seat hinge bracket.
[0023] Accordingly, one advantage of the present invention is that it provides a premium user-friendly experience.
[0024] Accordingly, one advantage of the present invention is that it is cost-effective and can be easily installed.
[0025] Accordingly, one advantage of the present invention is that it uses rubber properties in a structural assembly.
[0026] These features and advantages of the present disclosure may be appreciated by reviewing the following description of the present disclosure, along with the accompanying figures wherein reference numerals refer to like parts.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] The accompanying drawings illustrate the embodiment of devices, systems, methods, and other aspects of the disclosure. Any person with ordinary skills in the art will appreciate that the illustrated element boundaries (e.g., boxes, groups of boxes, or other shapes) in the figures represent an example of the boundaries. In some examples, one element may be designed as multiple elements, or multiple elements may be designed as one element. In some examples, an element shown as an internal component of one element may be implemented as an external component in another and vice versa. Furthermore, the elements may not be drawn to scale.
[0028] Various embodiments will hereinafter be described in accordance with the appended drawings, which are provided to illustrate, not limit, the scope, wherein similar designations denote similar elements, and in which:
[0029] FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate assembled views of a seat hinge bracket assembly, in accordance with at least one embodiment.
[0030] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a top seat hinge bracket, in accordance with at least one embodiment.
[0031] FIG. 3A-3B illustrate perspective views of a bottom seat hinge bracket, in accordance with at least one embodiment.
[0032] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a rubber damper, in accordance with at least one embodiment.
[0033] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a step bolt, in accordance with at least one embodiment.
[0034] FIG. 6 illustrates a first perspective view of the seat hinge bracket assembly installed on the seat and the battery bin, in accordance with at least one embodiment.
[0035] FIG. 7 illustrates a second perspective view of the seat hinge bracket assembly installed on the seat and the battery bin, in accordance with at least one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS HEREIN
[0036] The present disclosure is best understood with reference to the detailed figures and description set forth herein. Various embodiments have been discussed with reference to the figures. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed descriptions provided herein with respect to the figures are merely for explanatory purposes, as the methods and systems may extend beyond the described embodiments. For instance, the teachings presented and the needs of a particular application may yield multiple alternative and suitable approaches to implement the functionality of any detail described herein. Therefore, any approach may extend beyond certain implementation choices in the following embodiments.
[0037] References to “one embodiment,” “at least one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “one example,” “an example,” “for example,” and so on indicate that the embodiment(s) or example(s) may include a particular feature, structure, characteristic, property, element, or limitation but that not every embodiment or example necessarily includes that particular feature, structure, characteristic, property, element, or limitation. Further, repeated use of the phrase “in an embodiment” does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.
[0038] Frequent access to boot space is a common requirement for riders of two-wheeler vehicles, whether for storing helmets or other essential items. The process of opening and closing the seat base is integral to the daily routine of two-wheeler riders, and as such, smooth and hassle-free operation is paramount. However, a significant challenge arises during the closing of the seat base, where the gravitational force accelerates its descent, resulting in a hard-hitting impact against the battery bin. This impact not only generates impulsive noise but also poses a risk of structural damage to mechanical components.
[0039] To address these issues and enhance the overall user experience, it is imperative to devise a solution that mitigates the hard-hitting noise associated with the closing of the seat base. By doing so, the present invention provides the riders with a seamless and efficient operation while safeguarding the integrity of critical vehicle components. In this disclosure, a seat hinge bracket assembly is invented to alleviate these challenges and deliver optimal functionality for two-wheeler electric vehicles.
[0040] FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate assembled views of a seat hinge bracket assembly (100), in accordance with at least one embodiment. The seat hinge bracket assembly (100) is used with a vehicle. Examples of the vehicle include but are not limited to a two-wheeler electric vehicle and two-wheeler vehicle. In an embodiment, the seat hinge bracket assembly (100) may also be referred as a seat hinge bracket device, a seat hinge bracket apparatus, a seat hinge bracket, and a seat hinge bracket system. The seat hinge bracket assembly (100) includes a top seat hinge bracket (102); a bottom seat hinge bracket (104); a rubber damper (106); a step bolt (108); and a nut (110). FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a top seat hinge bracket (102), in accordance with at least one embodiment. FIG. 2 to FIG. 7 are explained in conjunction with FIG. 1. FIG. 3A-3B illustrate perspective views of a bottom seat hinge bracket (104), in accordance with at least one embodiment. The bottom seat hinge bracket (104) includes a plurality of slots (104a, 104b, 104c, 104d, 104e, and 104f). The bottom seat hinge bracket (104) is mounted on a battery bin (602) using a plurality of first screws (702a, 702b, 702c, and 702d). In an embodiment, the top seat hinge bracket (102); and the bottom seat hinge bracket (104) are made of E350 steel. Typically, E350 steel is a high-tensile steel utilized in the mining, welding, and heavy construction industries.
[0041] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a rubber damper (106), in accordance with at least one embodiment. The rubber damper (106) includes a plurality of apertures (402). In an embodiment, the rubber damper (106) is made of a resilient material selected from either rubber or silicone. In an embodiment, the rubber damper (106) is replaceable to facilitate maintenance and repair of the seat hinge bracket assembly (100). In an embodiment, the rubber damper (106) is made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). TPU has a characteristic of both plastic and rubber. Thus, it exhibits properties like durability, flexibility, and excellent tensile strength.
[0042] In an embodiment, the rubber damper (106) is a vibration member that is configured to absorb and mitigate vibrations. Vibration member provides critical benefits such as vibration isolation, noise reduction, shock absorption, and improved stability. Their versatility and effectiveness make them indispensable in enhancing the performance, durability, and comfort of mechanical systems and devices.
[0043] In an embodiment, the rubber damper (106) mitigates the motion of the object by compressing itself. It facilitates the smooth motion and subsequent rest of the object. The rubber damper (106) utilizes rubber materials known for their ability to dampen vibrations in various structures due to their low elastic modulus and high bulk modulus. Leveraging this property of rubber, the present invention refines the motion of the seat base during both opening and closing actions. Compression is an inherent characteristic of rubber materials, and the present invention capitalizes on this feature to counter impulsive motion.
[0044] Several specific properties of rubber make it suitable for use as a damper in this invention. Rubber is commonly utilized as a damper material due to its unique characteristics, which enable it to effectively absorb and dissipate energy. Some specific properties of rubber that contribute to its suitability as a damper include:
[0045] 1. Elasticity: Rubber is highly elastic, allowing it to deform under load or force and return to its original shape once the load or force is removed. This elasticity enables rubber dampers to absorb and dissipate energy by flexing and deforming in response to vibrations or impacts.
[0046] 2. Damping Capacity: Rubber exhibits viscoelastic behavior, meaning it can dissipate mechanical energy as heat during deformation. This damping capacity allows rubber dampers to effectively attenuate vibrations, shocks, and noise by converting kinetic energy into thermal energy.
[0047] 3. Flexibility: Rubber is inherently flexible and can undergo significant deformations without sustaining permanent damage. This flexibility enables rubber dampers to accommodate a wide range of dynamic loads and provide effective vibration isolation in various applications.
[0048] 4. Resilience: Rubber possesses a high resilience, allowing it to recover its original shape after deformation. This property ensures that rubber dampers maintain their effectiveness and longevity over multiple cycles of loading and unloading.
[0049] 5. Chemical Resistance: Rubber exhibits resistance to many chemicals, oils, and environmental factors, making it suitable for use in diverse operating conditions and environments. This chemical resistance contributes to the durability and reliability of rubber dampers in various applications.
[0050] 6. Low Stiffness: Rubber typically has a lower stiffness compared to metals or other materials, making it ideal for applications requiring compliance and flexibility. Rubber dampers can effectively control vibrations while minimizing the transmission of forces to adjacent structures or components.
[0051] Overall, the combination of elasticity, damping capacity, flexibility, resilience, chemical resistance, and low stiffness makes rubber an excellent choice for use as a damper material in a wide range of applications.
[0052] The top seat hinge bracket (102) and the rubber damper (106) are aligned with and placed onto the slots (104e, and 104f) of the bottom seat hinge bracket (104), and then the step bolt (108) is inserted through a plurality of holes (202a, and 202b) of the top seat hinge bracket (102), the bottom seat hinge bracket (104), and the apertures (402) of the rubber damper (106) to form the seat hinge bracket assembly (100). In an embodiment, the step bolt (108) includes a threaded portion for engaging with the nut (110) to secure the seat hinge bracket assembly (100).
[0053] The nut (110) is used for securing the seat hinge bracket assembly. In an embodiment, the nut (110) is a self-locking nut to prevent loosening due to either vibrations or movements during the operation of the vehicle. The top seat hinge bracket (102) is further fastened to a seat base (606) using a plurality of second screws (604a, and 604b). In an embodiment, the seat base (606) is a seat where a rider sits.
[0054] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a step bolt (108), in accordance with at least one embodiment. In an embodiment, during an opening of the seat base (606), the top seat hinge bracket (102) rotates in an anti-clockwise direction around the axis of the step bolt (108). In an embodiment, the step bolt (108) is made of steel (grade 10.9). In an embodiment, during the closing of the seat base (606), the top seat hinge bracket (102) rotates in a clockwise direction around the axis of the step bolt (108). In an embodiment, the top seat hinge bracket (102) is positioned on the rubber damper (106) to compress the rubber damper (106) located on the bottom seat hinge bracket (104) during the rotation in the anti-clockwise direction and the clockwise direction. In an embodiment, during the opening and closing of the seat base (606), the seat base (606) and the top seat hinge bracket (102) are in motion and the bottom seat hinge bracket (104), the rubber damper (106), the step bolt (108), and the nut (110) are fixed. In an embodiment, the plurality of first screws (702a, 702b, 702c, and 702d) used to fasten the bottom seat hinge bracket (104) to the battery bin (602) are made of a corrosion-resistant material such as stainless steel.
[0055] In an embodiment, the bottom seat hinge bracket (104) further comprises a plurality of reinforcement ribs (302a and 302b) for providing additional structural stability. According to an embodiment herein, the seat hinge bracket assembly (100) further includes a protective coating applied to the top seat hinge bracket (102) and the bottom seat hinge bracket (104) to enhance corrosion resistance and durability. In an embodiment, the seat base (606) may include mounting holes aligned with the screws for secure attachment to the top seat hinge bracket (102). According to an embodiment herein, the seat hinge bracket assembly (100) further includes a locking mechanism integrated into the top seat hinge bracket (102) to prevent unintentional movement of the seat base (606) during vehicle operation. In an embodiment, the rubber damper (106) is sandwiched between the top seat hinge bracket (102) and the bottom seat hinge bracket (104).
[0056] Whenever the seat opens or closes, the seat rotates the top seat hinge bracket (102) in an anti-clockwise and clockwise direction, respectively. As the top seat hinge bracket (102) is positioned on the rubber damper, it applies a pushing force on the rubber. Due to this force, the rubber becomes compressed according to its hardness values. Hard rubber undergoes less compression for the same force, whereas soft rubber undergoes more compression. This compression aids in dampening the motion, converting the kinetic energy of motion into stored energy in the form of compression. This energy is released during the expansion of the compressed rubber. Compression and expansion are fundamental properties of rubber materials, and the present invention leverages these properties to dampen hard mechanical motion until the point where rubber can no longer be compressed. To prevent excessive compression, two reinforcement ribs or dimples (302a and 302b) are placed on the bottom seat hinge bracket (104). Rubber helps to slow down and smoothen impulsive motion.
[0057] In addition to the above, the step bolt (108) is used to secure all components. To control compression during tightening by the nut (110), the step shape of the step bolt (108) acts as a stopper, restricting further tightening in the axial direction of the step bolt (108).
[0058] As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the term “configured to” or “coupled to” is intended to include both direct coupling (in which two elements that are coupled to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements). Therefore, the terms “configured to”, “configured with”, “coupled to” and “coupled with” are used synonymously. Within the context of this document terms “configured to”, “coupled to” and “coupled with” are also used euphemistically to mean “communicatively coupled with” over a network, where two or more devices can exchange data with each other over the network, possibly via one or more intermediary device.
[0059] FIG. 6 illustrates a first perspective view 600 of the seat hinge bracket assembly installed on the seat and the battery bin, in accordance with at least one embodiment. FIG. 6 is explained in conjunction with FIG. 1. FIG. 7 illustrates a second perspective view 700 of the seat hinge bracket assembly installed on the seat and the battery bin, in accordance with at least one embodiment. In another embodiment, the bottom seat hinge bracket 104 is mounted on the battery bin 602 using first screws 702a, 702b, 702c, and 702d. FIG. 7 is explained in conjunction with FIG. 6.
[0060] In the operation of the seat hinge bracket assembly 100 described herein, four distinct stages encompass the cycle from opening to closing of the seat base (606):
[0061] a. Closed (Off) Position of Seat (606): Initially, the seat (606) remains in a closed (off) state, secured firmly before unlocking. In this configuration, the rubber damper (106) experiences compression from the 'Top Seat Hinge Bracket' at the upper side of the rubber, compressing it by approximately 3 to 4 mm. The seat (606) is horizontally oriented on the vehicle, maintaining a 0-degree angle with the ground, typical during regular vehicle operation.
[0062] b. Unlocking the Seat (606) Using a Key: To access the storage space beneath the seat (606), the rider must unlock it using an ignition key. Upon unlocking, the compressed rubber begins to expand, exerting force to lift the seat upwards. As a result, the seat base elevates by approximately 15 degrees, establishing a slight contact between the 'Top Seat Hinge Bracket' and the rubber. This position acts as a release state, disengaging the seat base from its lock and allowing the rubber to decompress.
[0063] c. Open (On) Position of Seat: Subsequently, the rider manually lifts the seat base upward by hand, positioning it vertically and nearly perpendicular to the ground at an angle of approximately 85 degrees. This action alters the compression of the rubber by the 'Top Seat Hinge Bracket,' compressing it by around 3.5 to 4 mm on the bottom side. Stoppers, resting on dimples of the 'Bottom Seat Hinge Bracket,' regulate this compression. The seat (606) remains in this vertical orientation, enabling the rider to place a helmet or other items inside the vehicle.
[0064] d. Just Before Seat (606) Closing: To close the seat (606), the rider manually nudges it downward by hand. The seat base transitions from a vertical to a horizontal position, traversing an angle of almost 65 degrees. The 'Top Seat Hinge Bracket' makes contact with the rubber, which restricts further motion of the seat base by resisting compression. Subsequently, the rider applies manual pressure to the top side of the seat (606), ensuring it travels the remaining 20 degrees to engage the mechanical latch and lock securely. This returns the seat to its original locked position.
[0065] This operational sequence ensures a smooth interaction with the rubber damper, mitigating noise generation and minimizing the risk of mechanical or structural damage during seat closure. Additionally, the reduced potential for finger entrapment enhances safety, offering a premium user-friendly experience for the end customer when closing seat 606. In an embodiment, the top seat hinge bracket 102 is fastened to the seat base 606 using second screws 604a, and 604b or two mounting means.
[0066] It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many more modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced.
[0067] No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.
[0068] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention. There is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form or forms enclosed. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims. Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover the modifications and variations of this invention, provided they are within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
, Claims:I/We claim:
1. A seat hinge bracket assembly (100) for use with a vehicle, comprising:
a top seat hinge bracket (102);
a bottom seat hinge bracket (104) with a plurality of slots (104a, 104b, 104c, 104d, 104e, and 104f), wherein the bottom seat hinge bracket (104) is mounted on a battery bin (602) using a plurality of first screws (702a, 702b, 702c and 702d);
a rubber damper (106) with a plurality of apertures (402);
a step bolt (108), wherein the top seat hinge bracket (102) and the rubber damper (106) are aligned with and placed onto the slots (104e, and 104f) of the bottom seat hinge bracket (104), and then the step bolt (108) is inserted through a plurality of holes (202a, and 202b) of the top seat hinge bracket (102), the bottom seat hinge bracket (104), and the apertures (402) of the rubber damper (106) to form the seat hinge bracket assembly (100); and
a nut (110) for securing the seat hinge bracket assembly, wherein the top seat hinge bracket (102) is further fastened to a seat base (606) using a plurality of second screws (604a, and 604b).

2. The seat hinge bracket assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein during an opening of the seat base (606), the top seat hinge bracket (102) rotates in an anti-clockwise direction around the axis of the step bolt (108).

3. The seat hinge bracket assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein during a closing of the seat base (606), the top seat hinge bracket (102) rotates in a clockwise direction around the axis of the step bolt (108).

4. The seat hinge bracket assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the top seat hinge bracket (102) is positioned on the rubber damper (106) to compress the rubber damper (106) located on the bottom seat hinge bracket (104) during the rotation in the anti-clockwise direction and the clockwise direction.

5. The seat hinge bracket assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein during the opening and closing of the seat base (606), the seat base (606) and the top seat hinge bracket (102) are in motion and the bottom seat hinge bracket (104), the rubber damper (106), the step bolt (108), and the nut (110) are fixed.

6. The seat hinge bracket assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rubber damper (106) is made of a resilient material selected from one or more of rubber, and silicone.

7. The seat hinge bracket assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the step bolt (108) includes a threaded portion for engaging with the nut (110) to secure the seat hinge bracket assembly (100).

8. The seat hinge bracket assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the nut (110) is a self-locking nut to prevent loosening due to one or more of vibrations, and movements during operation of the vehicle.

9. The seat hinge bracket assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of first screws (702a, 702b, 702c, and 702d) used to fasten the bottom seat hinge bracket (104) to the battery bin (602) are made of a corrosion-resistant material.

10. The seat hinge bracket assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rubber damper (106) is replaceable to facilitate maintenance and repair of the seat hinge bracket assembly (100).