Vehicle handgrip assembly

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a hand grip structure and method of assembly to a handlebar. In one disclosed embodiment, the hand grip comprises a base configured to receive a clamp and a guard configured to protect the clamp. Additionally, the hand grip comprises an overmolded grip that conceals the clamp and guard and is configured to receive an operator's or user's hand. The clamp engages the handlebar and acts as a coupling mechanism such that the hand grip can be more easily removed from the handlebar. Among other things, the present disclosure solves problems associated with manufacturing and assembly.

Description

Background Art

[0001] [Related Applications]

[0002]

[0001] This application is related to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 249,782, filed on September 29, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference herein. [Field of the Disclosure]

[0003]

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a vehicle handgrip assembly, and more particularly, to a handgrip assembly without an adhesive and a method of assembling the same. [Background of the Disclosure]

[0004]

[0003] Handgrips are generally used to enhance the ability of a user to grip components of a vehicle. Typically, these components are bars or handles extending from assemblies designed to move and, in some cases, act as anchors. Generally, the prior art includes handgrip assemblies that require an adhesive to bond a base to a base bar or component. Thus, conventional designs are difficult to replace and may require destruction of the handgrip itself to remove the handgrip from the base bar or component. The embodiments disclosed below seek to ameliorate some of these problems.

[0005] Summary of the Disclosure

[0006]

[0004] In one embodiment, a steering assembly of a vehicle includes a handlebar operably coupled to at least one ground engaging member, the steering assembly being configured to steer the at least one ground engaging member. The steering assembly further includes a handgrip operably coupled to the handlebar. The handgrip includes a clamp and a base configured to receive the clamp, the clamp being configured to engage the handlebar. The handgrip further includes an outer portion configured to cover a portion of the base.

[0007]

[0005] In another embodiment, a method for assembling a handgrip includes the step of providing a base having a substantially cylindrical shape. The method for assembling a handgrip further includes a clamp that engages with a portion of the base, and further includes the step of forming an outer portion above the base and the clamp.

[0008]

[0006] In yet another embodiment, the handgrip assembly comprises a base configured to be substantially cylindrical and a clamp configured to engage with the end portion of the base. The handgrip further constitutes a fastener coupled to the clamp, the fastener configured to move the clamp from an engaged position to a disengaged position. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the vehicle of this disclosure, looking to the right rear. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the vehicle shown in Figure 1, looking to the right rear outside the steering input area (e.g., the handlebars). [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the handlebar handgrip in Figure 2, along line 3-3 in Figure 2. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the handgrip in Figure 2, taken along line 4-4 in Figure 2. [Figure 5A] Figure 5A is a perspective view of the pre-assembled clamp with the handgrip base shown in Figure 2. [Figure 5B] Figure 5B is a perspective view of the clamp assembly with the base of the handgrip shown in Figure 5A. [Figure 5C] Figure 5C is a perspective view of the handgrip base and clamp installed or the final assembly shown in Figure 5B. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the partially installed handgrip guard shown in Figure 3. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the assembly with the clamp from Figure 5C installed, including the handgrip guard from Figure 2. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is an exploded view of the handgrip shown in Figure 2. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the left handgrip of the handlebar in Figure 2, taken along line 3-3 in Figure 2. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the handgrip in Figure 9, taken along line 4-4 in Figure 2. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a perspective view of the guard assembly of the alternative handgrip of this disclosure, which is in an uninstalled state. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a perspective view of the guard assembly shown in Figure 11 in its installed state. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of the joint between the guard assembly shown in Figure 11 and the base of the replacement guard assembly.

[0010] Detailed description of the drawing

[0011]

[0022] For the purpose of facilitating an understanding of the principles of this disclosure, embodiments shown in the drawings described below will be referenced. The embodiments disclosed below are not intended to be exhaustive, nor are they intended to limit this disclosure to the exact forms disclosed in the detailed description below. Rather, embodiments are selected and described so that those skilled in the art can utilize the teachings. Accordingly, no limitation of the scope of this disclosure is intended. Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts through some of the drawings.

[0012]

[0023] The terms “joined,” “joined,” “coupler,” and their variations are used to include both arrangements in which two or more components are in direct physical contact with each other, and arrangements in which two or more components are not in direct contact with each other (for example, components are “joined” through at least a third component, but still cooperate or interact with each other).

[0013]

[0024] In some instances, numerical terms such as 1, 2, 3, and 4 are used throughout this disclosure and claims with respect to various motion transmission components and other components and features. Such use is not intended to indicate an ordering of components. Rather, numerical terms are used to assist the reader in identifying the components being referenced and should not be strictly interpreted as providing a specific order of components.

[0014]

[0025] As shown in Figure 1, a vehicle 10 is shown. Exemplarily, vehicle 10 is a motorcycle. Vehicle 10 is supported by a plurality of ground engagement members 12. In the exemplary embodiment, there are two ground engagement members 12, which are shown as wheels. It is understood that tracks, skis or various other ground engagement members may be used. Vehicle 10 can be a variety of vehicles, including, but is not limited to, a tricycle, a snowmobile, an all-terrain vehicle, a jet ski, or any other vehicle that utilizes a steering system. In this embodiment, vehicle 10 further comprises a seat 14 configured to support an operator (not shown) and, in some scenarios, a passenger seat 15. Vehicle 10 further comprises a fuel tank 16 (exemplarily located in front of the seat 14), a pair of floorboards or foot supports 18 configured to receive the operator's feet, and a pair of passenger foot holds 19 (not shown) configured to receive the passenger's feet.

[0015]

[0026] Referring still to FIG. 1, vehicle 10 includes a steering assembly 20 operatively coupled to a ground engaging member 12 for steering vehicle 10. In this embodiment, steering assembly 20 includes a steering input, such as a handlebar 30, which can be configured to include a left hand grip 100, a right hand grip 32, a brake lever 34, a clutch lever 36, and other various components. Handlebar 30 extends outwardly in a lateral direction of vehicle 10 so as to act as a steering arm that can be steered by an operator (not shown). As is generally known, left hand grip 100 generally remains stationary, while right hand grip 32 is rotatable, and rotation of right hand grip 32 accelerates vehicle 10. Left hand grip 100 and right hand grip 32 include waveforms, protrusions, or other features on their outer facing surfaces, and it can be seen that the ability of an operator to grip left hand grip 100 and right hand grip 32 can be increased.

[0016]

[0027] Referring further to FIG. 1, vehicle 10 can incorporate a left switch cube 40 and a right switch cube 42. Left switch cube 40 and right switch cube 42 may include a plurality of switches including switches for controlling a light switch, an extended drive system switch, a heated grip switch, an engine kill switch, a volume switch for music or calls, or other various components on vehicle 10. Further details of the various components and / or features and functions of steering assembly 20 are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 734,846, entitled “Recreational Vehicle Having Heated Components,” filed on January 6, 2020, the complete disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0017]

[0028] Next, referring to FIG. 2, the present embodiment of the left handgrip 100 will be described in more detail. The left handgrip 100 illustratively has an overmold grip 110 having an inner end portion 112 and an outer end portion 114. Adjacent to the inner end portion 112, the left switch cube 40 is arranged such that an operator's hand can grip the left handgrip 100 and reach the left switch cube 40 at the same time. In an exemplary embodiment, the left switch cube 40 is configured to cooperate with the handlebar 30 such that the handlebar 30 extends through the left switch cube 40.

[0018]

[0029] Referring to FIG. 3, the cross-section of the left handgrip 100 appears to show the structure of the left handgrip 100. For example, the base structure of the left handgrip 100 is composed of a base body 120. In the present embodiment, the base body 120 is configured in a substantially cylindrical shape and is designed to slide on the end portion of the handlebar 30. In the present embodiment, the heating cover or element 176 can surround at least a part of the base body 120, and the heating cover 176 may be configured to raise the temperature of the left handgrip 100, particularly the overmold grip 110. In this way, the hand of the operator gripping the overmold grip 110 is warmed during the operation of the vehicle 10. For example, the heating cover 176 is positioned radially between the overmold grip 110 and the base body 120. The base body 120 is further configured to include a first opening 172 (FIG. 5B) in the first flange 121 and a second opening 174 in the second flange 123. The first opening 172 and the second opening 174 are designed to allow at least one electrical wire 170 to pass through the end portion of the base body 120. The electrical wire 170 is configured to supply power to the heating cover 176. The heating cover 176 is optional, and it is understood that a configuration of the left handgrip 100 without the heating cover 176 can be assembled on the left handgrip 100 in substantially the same manner as the present disclosure without the heating ability provided by the heating cover 176.

[0019]

[0030] The base 120 further comprises a plurality of channels 122, and the overmolded grip 110 comprises a plurality of complementary projections 116. In this embodiment, the channels 122 are configured to receive the projections 116 and assist in the alignment and coupling of the overmolded grip 110 and the base 120. In exemplary embodiments, the channels 122 and complementary projections 116 may be essentially linear in nature, but it is understood that the channels 122 and complementary projections 116 may have a variety of shapes, configurations, and quantities to assist in the coupling of the overmolded grip 110 and the base 120. Furthermore, the complementary projections 116 provide a direct coupling point between the overmolded grip 110 and the handlebar 30. At the coupling point between the overmolded grip 110 and the handlebar 30, the complementary projections 116 act as isolators, absorbing vibrations from the handlebar 30. Furthermore, the joint between the overmolded grip 110 and the handlebar 30 helps prevent the overmolded grip 110 from rotating relative to the base 120.

[0020]

[0031] In this embodiment, the base plate 120 further comprises a first flange 121 and a second flange 123, both of which are generally circular. In exemplary embodiments, the first flange 121 has a larger diameter than the second flange 123, and the first flange 121 is laterally outward of the second flange 123. As can be seen from Figure 3, the first flange 121 is configured to engage with the inner end 112 of the overmolded grip 110, and, although not shown, the second flange 123 is configured to engage with the interior portion of the left switch cube 40, thereby coupling the left handgrip 100 to the left switch cube 40. In this embodiment, as best shown in Figure 6, the second flange 123 comprises a first clocking feature 127A and a second clocking feature 127B. The first clocking feature section 127A and the second clocking feature section 127B are configured to engage with a complementary feature section (not shown) of the left switch cube 40. The clocking feature sections 127A and 127B ensure that the left handgrip 100 is properly positioned relative to the left switch cube 40.

[0021]

[0032] Referring further to Figure 3, the left handgrip 100 further comprises a clamp 130 configured to engage with the base 120 and the handlebar 30. The clamp 130 will be described in more detail below, but it is shown that the clamp 130 is positioned approximately at the inner end 112 of the left handgrip 100. In this embodiment, the clamp 130 abuts against the first flange 121, preventing the clamp 130 from moving inward along the handgrip longitudinal axis 50. The clamp 130 is also held by a retaining feature 128 molded into the base 120, which in turn prevents the clamp 130 from moving outward along the handgrip longitudinal axis 50. In this way, the clamp 130 is installed and uninstalled by moving the clamp 130 radially outward from the base 120. Figure 3 also shows a guard 150 configured to cover the clamp 130, a portion of the base 120, the first flange 121, and the retaining feature 128.

[0022]

[0033] Referring next to Figure 4, the base body 120 further comprises a first tab 124 and a second tab 125. The first tab 124 and the second tab 125 are configured to connect the first flange 121 and the second flange 123 to the main body of the base body 120. This is to increase the structural integrity of the base body 120, but also to provide a bridge for material to pass through during the injection molding process, which is one of several potential manufacturing processes for the base body 120. The clamp 130 is configured to engage the first tab 124 with the receiving tab 131, and further, the clamp 130 is configured to engage the second tab 125 with the receiving portion 132. The engagement of the clamp 130 with the first tab 124 and the second tab 125 will be described further below. The clamp 130 further comprises a wire receiving portion 133 configured to receive the electrical wire 170 when the heating cover 176 is installed in the left handgrip 100. It will be understood that the receiving portion 133 may include a wire-holding feature for holding the electrical wire 170.

[0023]

[0034] Furthermore, the clamp 130 comprises a first end 137 and a second end 138. The first end 137 is comprised of a first hole 136A, and the second end 138 is comprised of a second hole 136B. The first end 137 and the second end 138 are configured to receive a fastener 140 through the first hole 136A and the second hole 136B. In an exemplary embodiment, hole 136A is a through hole, hole 136B is threaded, and the fastener 140 has corresponding threads that pass through hole 136A and are screwed into hole 136B. The clamp 130 is configured such that when the clamp 140 is inserted into holes 136A and 136B and moved into a configuration in which the fastener 140 is engaged, the first end 137 and the second end 138 move closer to each other. Exemplary, the space between the first end 137 and the second end 138 is the clamp distance 135. In this way, as the fastener 140 is moved into the engagement configuration and the first end 137 and the second end 138 move closer to each other, the clamp distance 135 decreases. The clamp 130 has an inner diameter 130A, and the inner diameter 130A decreases as the clamp distance 135 decreases. Conversely, when the fastener 140 is disengaged, the first end 137 and the second end 138 move further apart, thereby increasing the clamp distance 135 and increasing the inner diameter 130A of the clamp 130. The clamp 130 is further configured to engage with the handlebar 30 along at least a portion of the inner diameter 130A of the clamp 130. In this way, as the clamp distance 135 decreases, the inner diameter 130A of the clamp 130 also decreases, increasing the clamping force of the clamp 130 on the handlebar 30, making it difficult to remove the left handgrip 100 from the handlebar 30.

[0024]

[0035] Referring again to Figure 4, the guard 150 is configured to surround the clamp 130. In this embodiment, the radially outer extent of the guard 150 is formed to profile the outlines of the clamp 130, the first tab 124, the second tab 125, and the fastener 140. As seen in Figures 4 and 8, the guard 150 further comprises a fastener opening 151, which receives the fastener 140 and is configured to allow the fastener 140 to pass through the guard 150 when the guard 150 covers the clamp 130, so that the fastener 140 can engage with the clamp 130 and holes 136A and 136B. The guard 150 is designed to be installed before the overmolding process that forms the overmolded grip 110 onto the left hand grip 100, and in this way the guard 150 protects the clamp 130 from the overmolding process of the overmolded grip 110. Furthermore, the overmolded grip 110 includes an opening 118 configured to cooperate with the fastener opening 151, which then allows the fastener 140 to pass through the opening 118, and the fastener opening 151 to be received by holes 136A and 136B.

[0025]

[0036] The installation of clamp 130 will be further explained with reference to Figures 5A to 5C. Figure 5A shows clamp 130 in a first position ready to be installed on the base 120. Exemplarily, clamp 130 is aligned so that the clamp distance 135 can cooperate with the second tab 125. Referring to Figure 5B, clamp 130 is moved to a second position partially installed on the base 120. As it moves from the first position to the second position, clamp 130 passes through the second tab 125 by passing through the second tab 125, thereby passing through the clamp distance 135.

[0026]

[0037] Figure 5C shows a third position in which the clamp 130 is fully mounted on the base 120. This configuration is also seen in Figures 3 and 4. As seen in Figure 5C, the wire receiving portion 133 is aligned with the first opening 172 and the second opening 174, allowing the wire to pass through the base 120 and over the clamp 130. Furthermore, during the transition from the second to the third position, as shown in Figure 4, the receiving tab 131 engages with the first tab 124 and the receiving portion 132 engages with the second tab 125. The engagement of the receiving tab 131 with the first tab 124 and the engagement of the receiving portion 132 with the second tab 125 provide a standard rotational position for the clamp 130 on the base 120. In this way, the clamp 130 is clocked to a reference position so that the hole 136 aligns with the fastener opening 151 and the opening 118 (Figure 4). In this position, as described above, the fastener 140 can be engaged with the openings 136A and 136B to form a friction fit between the clamp 130 and the handlebar 30, preventing the left handgrip 100 from moving longitudinally along the handgrip vertical axis 50.

[0027]

[0038] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the guard 150 comprises multiple profiled surfaces configured to cooperate with various profiles of the clamp 130. In this embodiment, the guard 150 includes a fastener cavity 152, a first tab cavity 154, and a second tab cavity 156 (Figure 4). Exemplarily, the guard 150 is designed such that the fastener cavity 152 cooperates with the first end 137 and the second end 138, the first tab cavity 154 cooperates with the first tab 124 and the receiving tab 131, and the second tab cavity 156 cooperates with the second tab 125 and the receiving portion 132. In this way, the guard 150 can protect these movable components from the overmolding process when the overmolded grip 110 is molded onto the left hand grip 100.

[0028]

[0039] Figure 6 shows the partially installed position of the guard 150. Exemplarily, the guard 150 is displaced longitudinally along the handgrip longitudinal axis 50 and aligned with the clamp 130 so that the fastener cavity 152, the first tab cavity 154, and the second tab cavity 156 are aligned with the complementary profile of the clamp 130.

[0029]

[0040] Figure 7 shows the installation position of the guard 150. Exemplarily, the guard 150 completely covers the clamp 130. Furthermore, the fastener 140 is positioned within the fastener opening 151 and engages with holes 136A and 136B (Figure 4). The guard 150 is also configured to be movable along the base 120 along the handgrip longitudinal axis 50. The guard 150 is also constrained by a first flange 121 at its inner end and further constrained by a notch 126 in the base 120. In this embodiment, the notch 126 is molded into the base 120 during the manufacturing process of the base 120. During the assembly of the left handgrip 100, the guard 150 slides along the handgrip longitudinal axis 50 over the notch 126 onto the base 120, and is further prevented from moving inward by the first flange 121. Once installed, the guard 150 is prevented from moving outward by the notch 126.

[0030]

[0041] As best shown in Figure 8, an exploded view of the left handgrip 100 is provided, and the manufacturing of the left handgrip 100 can be further described. In this embodiment, the base 120 and guard 150 are made of a polymer material such as polypropylene and can be manufactured using injection molding or the like. Furthermore, the clamp 130 is made of a metal material (e.g., aluminum) and may be manufactured using extrusion, machining, casting, or any combination of extrusion, machining, printing, etc. As previously described, the clamp 130 is mounted on the base 120 via engagement with the first tab 124 and the second tab 125. After mounting the clamp 130, the guard 150 is slid onto the left handgrip 100 to engage with the clamp 130. In one embodiment having a heated handgrip, a heating cover 176 is mounted before the overmolded grip 110 is molded onto the left handgrip 100. The overmolded grip 110 is further configured with an opening 118 configured to receive a fastener 140. The fastener 140 is inserted through the opening 118 on the overmolded grip 110 and guard 150 and engages with the holes 136A and 136B of the clamp 130. In this way, after final assembly, the fastener 140 can be inserted or removed to provide a higher or lower clamping force on the handlebar 30 of the left handgrip 100.

[0031]

[0042] Next, other embodiments of the left handgrip will be described in more detail. Referring to Figure 9, the left handgrip 200 is shown as a replacement for the left handgrip 100, where the left handgrip 200 is operably coupled to the handlebar 30 of the vehicle 10. Furthermore, the left handgrip 200 comprises a base 220, a clamp 230, and an overmolded grip 210. In this embodiment, the clamp 230 is molded together with the base 220 during the molding process. In this way, the clamp 230 is integral with the base 220, and no further installation of the clamp 230 is required. Once the base 220 is molded around the clamp 230, the overmolded grip 210 is molded on top of the base 220 and clamp 230 to create a gripping surface for the operator's hand. It should be understood that a guard similar to the guard 150 can also be used here to protect the components.

[0032]

[0043] As best shown in Figure 10, the overmolded grip 210 includes an opening 218 configured to receive a fastener 240, which is received in holes at the first end 237 and the second end 238 of the clamp 230. The fastener 240 can be used to move the clamp 230 from the disengaged position to the engaged position, in which case the first end 237 and the second end 238 move closer to each other, thereby reducing the inner diameter of the clamp 230. In this way, the clamping force of the clamp 230 on the handlebar 30 is increased, thereby increasing the difficulty of removing the left handgrip 200 from the handlebar 30.

[0033]

[0044] Further describing this embodiment, the overmolded grip 210 may include a projection 216 configured to cooperate with a channel 222 in the base 220. In exemplary embodiments, the channel 222 and the complementary projection 216 may be essentially linear in nature, but it is understood that the channel 222 and the complementary projection 216 may include various shapes, configurations, and quantities to assist in the coupling of the overmolded grip 210 and the base 220. Furthermore, the complementary projection 216 provides a direct coupling point between the overmolded grip 210 and the handlebar 30. At the coupling point between the overmolded grip 210 and the handlebar 30, the complementary projection 216 acts as an isolator, absorbing vibrations from the handlebar 30. Furthermore, the coupling point between the overmolded grip 210 and the handlebar 30 helps prevent the overmolded grip 110 from rotating relative to the base 120.

[0034]

[0045] It should be understood that the advantage of the enclosed embodiments is that both the left handgrip 100 and the left handgrip 200 rely on friction from the clamping force for attachment to the handlebar 30. The conventional invention relies on various adhesives for attachment to the handlebar 30, and in this way, both the left handgrip 100 and the left handgrip 200 are configured to be attached without any type of adhesive. A particular advantage of the enclosed embodiments is that a vehicle configured with either the left handgrip 100 or the left handgrip 200 can more easily replace either the left handgrip 100 or the left handgrip 200 with another type of handgrip. In configurations where the handgrip is attached with adhesive, breakage of the handgrip often occurs when the handgrip is removed. Furthermore, adhesive residue may remain, causing further difficulties after the removal of the handgrip. In the presented disclosure, both the left handgrip 100 and the left handgrip 200 can be installed without adhesive and therefore do not present the same difficulties during removal.

[0035]

[0046] Another advantage of this disclosure is the increased fit or tightening of the left handgrip 100 or left handgrip 200 to the handlebar 30. Conventional inventions that rely on adhesive to bond the handgrip to the handlebar typically required larger tolerances designed for parts that could cause undesirable movement between the handgrip and the handlebar if the adhesive loses its effectiveness or is improperly applied. In this disclosure, since no adhesive is used and does not need to be considered in the manufacturing process, tolerances can be reduced, and the clamps 130 and 230 of the left handgrip 100 and left handgrip 200 provide sufficient clamping force to hold the left handgrip 100 and left handgrip 200 to the handlebar 30.

[0036]

[0047] Another advantage of this disclosure is that the left hand grips 100 and 200 can be mounted on a variety of handlebars. Both the left hand grips 100 and 200 require only friction fitting and do not require any specific features on the handlebar 30 to accommodate the left hand grips 100 and 200. In this way, the left hand grips 100 and 200 are configured for use in a variety of vehicles.

[0037]

[0048] While a left handgrip 100 is disclosed herein, it can be understood that similar assembly methods and configurations of the components are applicable to the right handgrip 32.

[0038]

[0049] Next, referring to Figures 11-12, an alternative handgrip 300 is provided. As shown in Figures 11-12, the handgrip 300 comprises a base 320 having a first flange 321 and a second flange 323 coupled to the main body of the base 320 by a first tab 324 and a second tab. The second tab is not shown, but the second tab has a similar or identical configuration to the tab 125 shown in Figure 4. In this embodiment, the first tab 324 comprises an extension 325 extending radially outward from the first tab 324. The overmolding is not shown, but the overmolding has a similar or identical configuration to the overmolding 110 shown in Figure 2 and is configured to cover the base 320 and provide a gripping surface to the operator of the vehicle 10. The base 320 also comprises a plurality of spaced notches 326 around the outside of the base 320. The retaining feature portion 328 is positioned laterally between the notch 326 and the first flange 321. Exemplarily, the retaining feature portion 328 is a flange extending radially outward from the base body 320. In one embodiment, the retaining feature portion 328 may be formed integrally with the base body 320, but in other embodiments, the retaining feature portion 328 may be separate from the base body 320. The clamp 330 (similar to the clamp 130 in Figures 5A-5C) is configured to engage with the base body 120 in substantially the same manner as the clamp 130 engages with the base body 320, as described above. The clamp 330 is positioned between the laterally intermediate retaining feature portion 328 and the first flange 321. The clamp 330 further comprises a first end portion 337 spaced apart from a second end portion 338. The fastener 340 is inserted through the first end 337 and screwed into the second end 338, and is configured to change the distance between the first end 337 and the second end 338.

[0039]

[0050] The handgrip 300 further comprises a guard 350 configured to slide laterally along a base 320 (Figure 11). The guard 350 is configured to cover the clamp 330 when the clamp 330 is engaged with the base 320 (Figure 12). The guard 350 is designed to be installed before the overmolding process that forms the overmolded grip on the left handgrip 300, and in this way the guard 350 protects the clamp 330 from the overmolding process used to form the overmolded grip. The guard 350 comprises a fastener cavity 352 configured to cover the fastener 340, a first end 337 and a second end 338. Exemplarily, the fastener cavity includes a plurality of laterally extending ribs 353. The ribs 353 are configured to provide additional rigidity and strength to the guard 350 and the fastener cavity 352 during the overmolding process.

[0040]

[0051] The guard 350 also includes a fastener opening 351 configured to receive the fastener 340. The fastener 340 extends through the fastener opening 351 and is configured to screw into the second end 338 through the first end 337. The fastener 340 operates substantially the same as the fastener 140, as described above. The sleeve 351A extends outward from the opening 351 and at least partially covers the fastener 340 when coupled to the first end 337 and the second end 338.

[0041]

[0052] The guard 350 also includes a first tab cavity 354 configured to cover and fit the first tab 324. The first tab cavity 354 includes a hollow extension 355 configured to form a joint with the extension 325. That is, the first tab cavity 354 and the hollow extension 355 cover the first tab and the extension 325 and form a joint with them. The extension 325 acts like a clocking member of the guard 350 so as to prevent it from rotating relative to the base 320 when the guard 350 is engaged with the clamp 330.

[0042]

[0053] Referring to Figures 11 and 12, the guard 350 also comprises a plurality of flanges 356 extending laterally outward along the base 320. In this embodiment, the flanges 356 extend around a portion of the base 320 and have openings configured to receive notches 326. That is, the flanges 356 extend between the notches 326 around the base 320. The flanges 356 are configured to provide additional clamping force to the base 320 by the guard 350. During the overmolding process, the flanges 356 provide additional protection from additional material flowing under the guard and contact clamps 330.

[0043]

[0054] Referring here to Figure 13, the guard 350 may be bonded to the first flange 321 by multiple methods. In this embodiment, the guard 350 is bonded to the first flange 321 by an acoustic welding process. During the acoustic welding process, the energy director 360 on the guard 350 is configured to contact the first flange 321. High-frequency acoustic vibrations are projected onto the energy director 360, increasing the thermal energy of the energy director. Subsequently, the energy director 360 melts due to the high thermal energy, effectively bonding the guard 350 to the first flange 321. By bonding the guard 350 to the first flange 321, material is prevented from getting under the guard 350 during the overmolding process, thereby preventing contact with the clamp 330.

[0055] Examples

[0056] Example 1

[0044] A steering assembly for a vehicle is provided. The steering assembly comprises a handlebar operably coupled to at least one ground engagement member for steering the at least one ground engagement member, and a handgrip operably coupled to the handlebar. The handgrip comprises a clamp, a base configured to receive the clamp, and an outer part configured to cover a portion of the base. The clamp is configured to engage with the handlebar.

[0057] Example 2

[0045] A steering assembly of Embodiment 1, in which the clamp includes a hole configured to receive a screw.

[0058] Example 3

[0046] The steering assembly of Example 2, in which the outer part conceals a portion of the clamp.

[0059] Example 4

[0047] A steering assembly of Embodiment 3, the outer portion of which includes holes configured to receive screws.

[0060] Example 5

[0048] A steering assembly of Embodiment 4, wherein the base body comprises multiple channels configured to receive multiple ribs on its outer portion.

[0061] Example 6

[0049] A steering assembly of Embodiment 1, in which the clamp is positioned adjacent to the inner end of the handlebar.

[0062] Example 7

[0050] A method for assembling a handgrip is provided. This method includes the steps of providing a substantially cylindrical base, providing a clamp configured to engage with a portion of the base, and forming an outer portion above the base and the clamp.

[0063] Example 8

[0051] A method for assembling the handgrip of Embodiment 7, further comprising the steps of: providing a clamp and a fastener operably coupled to a handlebar; positioning the handgrip on the handlebar; fastening the fastener to the clamp; and engaging the clamp with the handlebar.

[0064] Example 9

[0052] A method for assembling the handgrip of Example 8, further comprising the steps of: providing a plurality of channels in a base; providing a plurality of extruded portions inside an outer portion; and positioning the plurality of extruded portions within the plurality of channels.

[0065] Example 10

[0053] A method for assembling a handgrip according to Example 8, wherein the outer part conceals the clamp.

[0066] Example 11

[0054] A method for assembling the handgrip of Example 8, further comprising the steps of providing an external part configured to have holes, and inserting fasteners through the holes.

[0067] Example 12

[0055] A handgrip assembly comprising a base body configured in a substantially cylindrical shape, a clamp configured to engage with the end portion of the base body, and a fastener connected to the clamp and configured to move the clamp from an engaged position to an unengaged position.

[0068] Example 13

[0056] A handgrip assembly of Example 12, further comprising an overmolded grip configured to connect with a base.

[0069] Example 14

[0057] A handgrip assembly of Embodiment 13, in which the overmolded grip is configured to conceal a portion of the clamp.

[0070] Example 15

[0058] A handgrip assembly of Example 14, in which the outer portion of the overmolding has a corrugated surface.

[0071] Example 16

[0059] A handgrip assembly of Example 14, in which the guard is positioned between the clamp and the overmolding.

[0072] Example 17

[0060] A handgrip assembly of Embodiment 12, wherein the base comprises multiple channels configured to receive multiple ribs on the external portion.

[0073] Example 18

[0061] A handgrip assembly of Embodiment 12, wherein the base has openings configured to receive multiple wires.

[0062]

[0074] Although the present invention has been described as having an exemplary design, the invention may be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Accordingly, this application is intended to cover any variation, use, or adaptation of the invention using its general principles. Furthermore, this application is intended to cover any deviations from this disclosure that fall within the scope of known or customary practices in the art to which the invention relates.

Claims

1. In a vehicle steering assembly, A handlebar operably coupled to at least one ground engagement member and for steering at least one ground engagement member, A handgrip operably attached to the handlebars, The hand grip is equipped with, Clamp and, A guard configured to receive the clamp, A base configured to receive the clamp, wherein the clamp is configured to engage with the handlebar, and the base comprises a plurality of channels, An outer part configured to cover a portion of the base and a portion of the clamp and guard, comprising a plurality of ribs configured to be received within the plurality of channels, A steering assembly equipped with the following features.

2. The steering assembly according to claim 1, wherein the clamp includes a hole configured to receive a screw.

3. The steering assembly according to claim 2, wherein the outer portion conceals a portion of the clamp.

4. The steering assembly according to claim 3, wherein the outer portion includes a hole configured to receive the screw.

5. The steering assembly according to claim 1, wherein the clamp is positioned adjacent to the inner end of the handlebar.

6. A method for assembling a handgrip with a guard, A step of providing a substantially cylindrical substrate, wherein the substrate comprises a plurality of channels, The steps include providing a clamp configured to engage with a portion of the base, The steps include providing a guard configured to receive the clamp, The step of forming the outer portion above the base and clamp, The outer portion comprises a plurality of ribs configured to be received within the plurality of channels, and the plurality of ribs are configured to be received by the plurality of channels. The guard protects the clamp during the molding step, and the outer portion covers the clamp and a portion of the guard during the molding step. Methods that include...

7. A method for assembling the handgrip described in claim 6, The steps include providing a fastener operably coupled to the clamp and the handlebar, The steps include positioning the hand grip on the handlebar, The steps include fastening the fastener to the clamp, The steps include engaging the clamp with the handlebar, Methods that include...

8. A method for assembling the handgrip described in claim 7, The steps include providing a plurality of channels to the substrate, The steps include providing a plurality of protrusions on the inside of the aforementioned external portion, The steps include positioning the plurality of protrusions within the plurality of channels, Methods that include...

9. A method for assembling the handgrip described in claim 8, A method in which the aforementioned outer portion conceals the clamp.

10. A method for assembling the handgrip described in claim 8, The steps include providing an external part that is configured with holes, The step of inserting the fastener through the hole, Methods that include...

11. A handgrip assembly, A substrate configured in a roughly cylindrical shape, comprising a plurality of channels, A clamp configured to engage with the end portion of the base, positioned between the first flange and the holding feature portion of the base, A guard configured to receive the clamp, An external part configured to cover a part of the base body and a part of the clamp and the guard, A fastener connected to the clamp and configured to move the clamp from an engaged position to an unengaged position, A handgrip assembly equipped with [the necessary components].

12. The handgrip assembly according to claim 11, further comprising an overmolded grip configured to be coupled to the base.

13. The handgrip assembly according to claim 12, wherein the overmolded grip is configured to conceal a portion of the clamp.

14. The handgrip assembly according to claim 13, wherein the outer portion of the overmolded grip has a corrugated surface.

15. The handgrip assembly according to claim 13, wherein the guard is positioned between the clamp and the overmolded grip.

16. The handgrip assembly according to claim 11, wherein the base body has openings configured to receive a plurality of wires.

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