Frame structure of electric vehicle

Abstract

The present invention relates to a frame structure of an electric vehicle in particular supporting at least a first battery and a second battery. The frame structure in particular comprises a battery carrying provision that can carry a substantially large weight corresponding to at least one battery without causing difficulty in maneuvering of the electric vehicle. The frame structure also comprises a retaining member which firmly holds the at least one battery with respect to the frame so that an electrical connection between the at least one battery and other electric / electronic components is secure and continuous. The frame structure further comprises provisions for routing of the at least one wire harness.

Description

FRAME STRUCTURE OF ELECTRIC VEHICLE FIELD OF THE INVENTION:

[0001] The present invention relates to a frame structure of an electric vehicle in particular supporting at least a first battery and a second battery. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:

[0002] Electric Vehicles such as electric motorcycles or electric scooters comprise at least one battery and a power generating motor to operate the vehicle. The power generating motor generates necessary drive force based on the electric power supplied by the battery. Currently, various types of electric motorcycles exist in the market such as an electric motorcycle in which a replaceable battery is used, wherein as the charge within the battery gets depleted it is replaced with another charged battery. However, the retrieval and installation of these batteries from these types of conventional electric motorcycles is a cumbersome process as multiple components of the vehicle need to be disassembled and assembled to retrieve and replace the battery. To delay the time between retrieval and installation process, either a greater number of batteries or large batteries are installed on the electric vehicle. However, installing a greater number of batteries or larger sized batteries come with their own disadvantage. In particular, a battery carrying structure has to carry a substantially large weight corresponding to the greater number of batteries or the large batteries. Thus, even under a vehicle stationary condition, a load on the battery carrying structure increases substantially. Especially, when the vehicle is moving, the jerks which are received by the greater number of batteries or the large batteries increases drastically.

[0003] Increasing a weight of the battery carrying structure may be one of the solutions for installing a greater number of batteries or larger sized batteries on the electric vehicle. However, the same is not the optimum solution as increasing a weight of the battery carrying structure will result in increase in an overall weight of the electric vehicle, which will have other associated disadvantages.

[0004] Additionally, it is essential to firmly hold the at least one battery with respect to the frame so that an electrical connection between the at least one battery and other electric / electronic components is secure and continuous. Since the at least one battery is generally accommodated in a casing, the casing in itself is shaped to firmly hold the at least one battery and more particularly, a lid member of the casing is used for restricting the at least battery’s movement in an upward direction.

[0005] However, in most cases, the lid member of the casing does not sufficiently restrict the at least battery’s movement in an upward direction. Thus, there exists a need to provide sufficiently restrict the at least battery’s movement in an upward direction.

[0006] Additionally, various other requirements are also needed to be met, for example, a construction of a mechanism which restricts the at least battery’s movement in an upward direction should be simple, the mechanism which restricts the at least battery’s movement in an upward direction should weigh less, the mechanism which restricts the at least battery’s movement in an upward direction should can be easily assembled as well as disassembled, the mechanism which restricts the at least battery’s movement in an upward direction should consume very less space, the mechanism which restricts the at least battery’s movement in an upward direction should not hamper with placement or functioning of other elements of the vehicle, etc.

[0007] For proper functioning of the electrical / electronic components, they need to be coupled using a wire harness. A frame structure of the vehicle assists in routing the wire harness. Especially, if we look at a frame structure that comprises a head pipe, an upper frame extending from the head pipe in a rearward direction; a set of lower frames extending from either the upper frame or the head pipe in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter; and a set of pivot frames extending from the upper frame in the rearward-downward direction and connected with the set of lower frames; the wire harness is solely placed along a side of the upper frame, which is not effective. Additionally, clips are needed to hold and route the wire harness especially along the upper frame. Thus, spacing available for routing the wire harness reduces. Additionally, a cost of the vehicle increases.

[0008] Thus, there exists a need to address one of the aforesaid disadvantages associated with the prior art. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:

[0009] 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 of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0010] Accordingly, the present invention provides a frame structure of an electric vehicle comprising: a head pipe; an upper frame extending from the head pipe in a rearward direction; a first lower frame extending from one the upper frame and the head pipe in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter; a second lower frame extending from one of the upper frame and the head pipe in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter; a first pivot frame extending from the upper frame in the rearward- downward direction and connected with the first lower frame; a second pivot frame extending from the upper frame in the rearward-downward direction and connected with the second lower frame; a mounting base for supporting at least a first battery and a second battery; and a supporting frame member located between the first lower frame, the second lower frame, the first pivot frame and the second pivot frame, the supporting frame member comprising a front joining part connected to at least one of the first lower frame and the second lower frame, a rear joining part connected to at least one of the first pivot frame and the second pivot frame, and an intermediate part for connecting to the mounting base.

[0011] In an embodiment of the invention, the mounting base comprises an H-shaped mounting base connected to the supporting frame member.

[0012] In another embodiment of the invention, the H-shaped mounting base comprises: a first cross member and a second cross member; a first longitudinal member and a second longitudinal member connecting the first cross member with the second cross member; a first set of reinforcing bracket connected to the first cross member and the first longitudinal member; a second set of reinforcing bracket connected to the first cross member and second longitudinal member; a thirdset of reinforcing bracket connected to the second cross member and the first longitudinal member; and a fourth set of reinforcing bracket connected to the second cross member with the second longitudinal member.

[0013] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the first cross member extends beyond the first set of reinforcing brackets and the second set of reinforcing brackets in the vehicle width direction; and the second cross member extends beyond the third set of reinforcing brackets and the fourth set of reinforcing brackets in the vehicle width direction so as to form the H-shape of the mounting base when viewed from top of the vehicle.

[0014] In still another embodiment of the invention, the first longitudinal member comprises a first pair of attachment means; the second longitudinal member comprises a second pair of attachment means; and the intermediate part of the supporting frame member comprises a third pair of attachment means and a fourth pair of attachment means co-operating with the first pair of attachment means and co-operating with the second pair of attachment means for connecting the H-shaped mounting base to the supporting frame member.

[0015] In a further embodiment of the invention, the front joining part is attached to a third cross member connected between the first lower frame and the second lower frame, and the rear joining part is attached to a joining bracket connected in between the first pivot frame and the second pivot frame.

[0016] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the first lower frame comprises a first portion extending in a downward-rearward direction from the head pipe and a second portion extending in a substantially rearward direction from the first portion; the second lower frame comprises a third portion extending in a downward-rearward direction from the head pipe and a fourth portion extending in a substantially rearward direction from the first portion; the third cross member being connected between the first portion of the first lower frame and the third portion of the second lower frame.

[0017] In an embodiment of the invention, the first cross member and the second cross member support a first box accommodating the first battery; the first cross member and the second cross member support a second box accommodating the second battery; the first cross membercomprises a first mounting provision and a second mounting provision, the second cross member comprises a third mounting provision and a fourth mounting provision; the first box comprising a first set of complementary mounting provisions co-operating with the first mounting provision and the third mounting provision enabling mounting of the first box over the mounting base from a first side; and the second box comprising a second set of complementary provisions co-operating with the second mounting provision and the fourth mounting provision enabling mounting of the second box over the mounting base from a second side.

[0018] In another embodiment of the invention, a cross-sectional dimension of the rear joining part of the supporting frame member is greater than a cross-sectional dimension of the front joining part of the supporting frame member and a cross-sectional dimension of the intermediate part of the supporting frame member.

[0019] The present invention additionally provides an electric vehicle comprising: a frame structure supporting a front fork, a front ground engaging member, a steering handle bar, a rear ground engaging member, at least a first battery and a second battery; the frame structure comprising: a head pipe; an upper frame extending from the head pipe in a rearward direction; a first lower frame extending from one the upper frame and the head pipe in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter; a second lower frame extending from one the upper frame and the head pipe in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter, a first pivot frame extending from the upper frame in the rearward- downward direction and connected with the first lower frame; a second pivot frame extending from the upper frame in the rearward-downward direction and connected with the second lower frame; a mounting base for supporting at least the first battery and the second battery; and a supporting frame member located between the first lower frame, the second lower frame, the first pivot frame and the second pivot frame, the supporting frame member comprising a front joining part connected to at least one of the first lower frame and the second lower frame, a rear joining part connected to at least one of the first pivot frame and the second pivot frame, and an intermediate part for connecting to the mounting base.

[0020] The present invention further provides a frame structure of an electric vehicle comprising: a head pipe; an upper frame extending from the head pipe in a rearward direction; a first lowerframe extending from at least one of the upper frame or the head pipe in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter; a second lower frame extending from at least one of the upper frame or the head pipe in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter; a first pivot frame extending from the upper frame in the rearward-downward direction and connected with the first lower frame; a second pivot frame extending from the upper frame in the rearward-downward direction and connected with the second lower frame; a mounting base supporting at least a first battery and a second battery; and a retaining member spaced apart from the mounting base, the retaining member restricting an upward movement of the at least first battery and the second battery.

[0021] In an embodiment of the invention, the retaining member being coupled to the upper frame.

[0022] In another embodiment of the invention, the mounting base being located between the first lower frame, the second lower frame, the first pivot frame and the second pivot frame.

[0023] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the retaining member being coupled to a first arm member and a second arm member; the first arm member being spaced apart from the second arm member in a vehicle width direction; the first arm member being coupled to the upper frame and extending above and along a first side of the upper frame; and the second arm member being coupled to the upper frame and extending above and along a second side of the upper frame.

[0024] In still another embodiment of the invention, the first arm member comprises: a fifth portion connected to the first side of the upper frame at a first location; a sixth portion connected to the first side of the upper frame at a second location; and a first intermediate portion located between the first portion and the second portion.

[0025] In a further embodiment of the invention, the second arm member comprises a seventh portion connected to the second side of the upper frame at a third location; an eighth portion connected to the second side of the upper frame at a fourth location; and a second intermediate portion located between the seventh portion and the eighth portion.

[0026] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the first intermediate portion comprises a fifth mounting provision and the second intermediate portion comprises a sixth mountingprovision, the retaining member being releasably coupled to the fifth mounting provision and the sixth mounting provision.

[0027] In an embodiment of the invention, the fifth mounting provision and the sixth mounting provision engage with a set of first connection provisions provided in the retaining member.

[0028] In another embodiment of the invention, the retaining member comprises an H-shaped retaining member.

[0029] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the H-shaped retaining member comprises: a first longitudinal portion and a second longitudinal portion spaced apart from the first longitudinal portion; a cross portion connecting the first longitudinal portion and the second longitudinal portion; the first longitudinal portion and the second longitudinal portion comprising a first set of resilient members adapted to come in contact with the at least first battery and the second battery; and the cross portion comprising a set of first connecting provisions for coupling the retaining member to at least one of the upper frame, the first arm member and the second arm member.

[0030] The present invention furthermore provides an electric vehicle comprising: a frame structure supporting a front fork, a front ground engaging member, a steering handle bar, a rear ground engaging member, at least a first battery and a second battery; the frame structure comprising: a head pipe; an upper frame extending from the head pipe in a rearward direction; a first lower frame extending from at least one of the upper frame or the head pipe in a downward- rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter; a second lower frame extending from at least one of the upper frame or the head pipe in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter; a first pivot frame extending from the upper frame in the rearward-downward direction and connected with the first lower frame; a second pivot frame extending from the upper frame in the rearward-downward direction and connected with the second lower frame; a mounting base supporting the at least first battery and the second battery; and a retaining member spaced apart from the mounting base, the retaining member restricting an upward movement of the at least first battery and the second battery.

[0031] In yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a frame structure of a vehicle comprising: a head pipe; an upper frame extending from the head pipe in a rearward direction; afirst lower frame extending from at least one of the upper frame and the head pipe in a downward- rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter; a second lower frame extending from at least one of the upper frame and the head pipe in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter; a first pivot frame extending from the upper frame in the rearward-downward direction and connected with the first lower frame; a second pivot frame extending from the upper frame in the rearward-downward direction and connected with the second lower frame; a first arm member coupled to the upper frame and extending above and along a first side of the upper frame; and a second arm member coupled to the upper frame and extending above and along a second side of the upper frame.

[0032] In an embodiment of the invention, the first arm member is spaced apart from the second arm member in a vehicle traverse direction.

[0033] In another embodiment of the invention, the first arm member, the second arm member and a top surface of the upper frame define a channel for accommodating at least one wire harness.

[0034] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the first arm member comprises: a fifth portion connected to the first side of the upper frame at a first location; a sixth portion connected to the first side of the upper frame at a second location; and a first intermediate portion located between the first portion and the second portion.

[0035] In still another embodiment of the invention, the second arm member comprises: a seventh portion connected to the second side of the upper frame at a third location; an eighth portion connected to the second side of the upper frame at a fourth location; and a second intermediate portion located between the seventh portion and the eighth portion.

[0036] In a further embodiment of the invention, the frame structure comprises at least one cross member connected between the first intermediate portion and the second intermediate portion, such that the at least one cross member is spaced from the top surface of the upper frame.

[0037] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the fifth portion projects in a vehicle downward direction.

[0038] In an embodiment of the invention, the seventh portion projects in a vehicle downward direction.

[0039] In another embodiment of the invention, the sixth portion projects in a vehicle downward and rearward direction.

[0040] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the eighth portion projects in a vehicle downward and rearward direction.

[0041] In a further embodiment of the invention, the first intermediate portion comprises a ninth portion proximate to the fifth portion and projecting in a vehicle upward and rearward direction and a tenth portion proximate to the sixth portion and projecting in a vehicle downward and rearward direction.

[0042] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the second intermediate portion comprises an eleventh portion proximate to the seventh portion and projecting in a vehicle upward and rearward direction and a twelfth portion proximate to the eighth portion and projecting in a vehicle downward and rearward direction.

[0043] In an embodiment of the invention, a first space is left between the first location and the head pipe along the first side of the upper frame, the first space being utilized for routing a front portion of the at least one wire harness; and a second space is left behind the second location along the first side of the upper frame, the second space can be utilized for routing a rear portion of the at least one wire harness.

[0044] In another embodiment of the invention, a third space is left between the third location and the head pipe along the second side of the upper frame, the third space being utilized for routing a front portion of the at least one wire harness; and a fourth space is left behind the fourth location along the second side of the upper frame, the fourth space being utilized for routing a rear portion of the at least one wire harness.

[0045] The present invention furthermore provides an electric vehicle comprising a frame structure supporting a front fork, a front ground engaging member, a steering handle bar, a rearground engaging member, and at least one wire harness; the frame structure comprising: a head pipe; an upper frame extending from the head pipe in a rearward direction; a first lower frame extending from at least one of the upper frame and the head pipe in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter; a second lower frame extending from at least one of the upper frame and the head pipe in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter; a first pivot frame extending from the upper frame in the rearward- downward direction and connected with the first lower frame; a second pivot frame extending from the upper frame in the rearward-downward direction and connected with the second lower frame; a first arm member coupled to the upper frame and extending above and along a first side of the upper frame; and a second arm member coupled to the upper frame and extending above and along a second side of the upper frame.

[0046] In an embodiment of the invention, the electric vehicle further comprises an upper cowl located between the steering handle bar and a seat, the upper cowl covers at least one wire harness in a top view of the electric vehicle.

[0047] One advantage of the present invention is that the weight of the batteries gets evenly distributed on the frame structure, which contributes to stability of the electric vehicle during the movement. One of the advantages of the present invention includes enabling mounting of multiple batteries without compromising the strength of the frame structure. Other advantage of the present invention is that batteries of higher weight can be mounted without compromising the strength of the frame structure. An advantage of the present invention is that there is an increase in strength of the frame structure. Another advantage of the present invention is that a minimum number of parts are required for modifying an existing frame structure in to the frame structure of the present invention, which results in an increase in adaptability of the present invention.

[0048] Yet another advantage of the present invention includes an ease in transportation of the frame structure from one production facility to other production facility. An advantage of the present invention that a single storage box is enough for transportation of the frame structure leading to an optimization of transporting cost. Another advantage of the present invention includes a lower weight of the electric vehicle in comparison to other existing electric vehicles. Afurther advantage of the present invention is that the vehicular performance in terms of distance covered per full capacity of the batteries gets increased.

[0049] Another advantage of the invention comprises the retaining member sufficiently restricts the at least battery’s movement in the upward direction. In particular, the retaining member sufficiently restricts the movement of both the first battery and the second battery in the upward direction. Thus, a singular retaining member is sufficient to restrict movement of both the first battery and the second battery in the upward direction.

[0050] Another advantage of the invention comprises the construction of the retaining member being simple. For instance, the retaining member which is a H-shaped retaining member is very easy to construct and can be made of a single piece.

[0051] Yet another advantage of the invention comprises the retaining member having very less weight. As compared to a lid member, which restricts movement of both the first battery and the second battery in the upward direction, the weight of the retaining member is substantially less.

[0052] Still another advantage of the invention comprises the ability to easily assemble as well as disassemble the retaining member. In fact, the retaining member can be assembled in multiple ways, for instance being coupled to the upper frame, being coupled to the first arm member, being coupled to the second arm member, being coupled to both the first arm member and the second arm member.

[0053] A further advantage of the invention comprises the retaining member consuming very less space.

[0054] A furthermore advantage of the invention comprises the retaining member not hampering with either placement or functioning of other elements of the vehicle.

[0055] Another advantage of the invention comprises the frame member effectively accommodating the wire harness. In particular, no special space has to be created for accommodating the wire harness.

[0056] Another advantage of the invention comprises the wire harness being located in the channel defined by the first arm member, the second arm member and a top surface of the upper frame.

[0057] Yet another advantage of the invention comprises the ability to route the wire harness without requiring any additional clips.

[0058] Still another advantage of the invention comprises the ability of utilize each of the upper frame, the first lower frame, the second lower frame, the first pivot frame, the second pivot frame, the first arm member, and the second arm member for multiple purposes. For instance, the upper frame, the first lower frame, the second lower frame, the first pivot frame, the second pivot frame can be used for accommodating at least one battery while the first arm member and the second arm member being used for restricting an upward movement of the at least one battery. Thus, all the components of the invention have multiple purposes and hence, there is a substantial cost advantage.

[0059] 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:

[0060] 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:

[0061] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of the electric vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0062] Figure 2 illustrates an isometric view of a frame structure of the electric vehicle accommodating a first battery when viewed from a first side in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0063] Figure 3 illustrates an isometric view of the frame structure of the electric vehicle accommodating a second battery when viewed from a second side in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0064] Figure 4 illustrates an isometric view of the frame structure mounted with a first box when viewed from the first side in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0065] Figure 5 illustrates an isometric view of the frame structure mounted with a second box when viewed from the second side in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0066] Figure 6 illustrates an isometric view of the frame structure with a mounting base when viewed from the first side in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0067] Figure 7 illustrates an isometric view of the frame structure with the mounting base when viewed from the second side in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0068] Figure 8 illustrates an isometric view of the mounting base in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0069] Figure 9 illustrates an isometric view of the frame structure without the mounting base when viewed from the first side in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0070] Figure 10 illustrates an exploded isometric view of the frame structure and the retaining member when viewed from the first side in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0071] Figure 11 illustrates an exploded isometric view of the frame structure and the retaining member when viewed from the second side in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0072] Figure 12 illustrates an exploded isometric view of the frame structure and the retaining member when viewed from the first side in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0073] Figure 13 illustrates an exploded isometric view of the frame structure and the retaining member when viewed from the second side in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0074] Figure 14 illustrates an isometric view of the retaining member in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0075] Figure 15 illustrates an isometric view of the frame structure from the first side in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0076] Figure 16 illustrates an isometric view of the frame structure from the second side in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and

[0077] Figure 17 illustrates a perspective view of the first arm member and the second arm member in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0078] 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:

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] The terms "comprises", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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 inventionbelongs. The device, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

[0086] 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 otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as being essential to the practice of the invention.

[0087] 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 in the appended claims.

[0088] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] Referring to Figure 1, there is illustrated a first side view of an electric vehicle (10). The electric vehicle (10) comprises, inter-alia, a front fork (12), a front ground engaging member (14), a steering handle bar (16) and a rear ground engaging member (18), that are supported by the framestructure (100). The frame structure (100) further supports a motor unit (20) which supplies driving power to one of the front ground engaging member (14) and the rear ground engaging member (18). In the illustrated example, the motor unit (20) supplies driving power to the rear ground engaging member (18) via a transmission system (22). The electric vehicle (10) further comprises a front fender (24) disposed above the front ground engaging member (14) and a headlight (26) disposed above the front fender (24). The electric vehicle (10) further comprises a display unit (28) disposed between the headlight (26) and the steering handle bar (16). The electric vehicle (10) further comprises a seat (30) disposed above the frame structure (100). An upper cowl (32) is located between the seat (30) and the steering handle bar (16). The electric vehicle (10) further comprises a rear fender (34) disposed above the rear ground engaging member (18) and a rear lighting unit (36) disposed above the rear fender (34). The electric vehicle (10) further comprises a first battery (38) and a second battery (40) for providing power to the motor unit (20). In an embodiment of the invention, the first battery (38) and the second battery (40) are supported by the frame structure (100). It may be noted that the electric vehicle (10) may include other parts which may not be relevant for explaining the present invention and hence not shown and described.

[0092] Referring to Figure 2 and Figure 3, there is illustrated a first side view and a second side view of the frame structure (100) of the electric vehicle (10). The frame structure (100) supports at least a first battery (38) and a second battery (40). In particular the first battery (38) and the second battery (40) are accommodated by a first box (160) and a second box (162) supported by the frame structure (100). Specifically, the first box (160) accommodates the first battery (38) and the second box (162) accommodates the second battery (40).

[0093] Now referring to Figure 4 and Figure 5, the frame structure (100) comprises a head pipe (102), an upper frame (108) that extends from the head pipe (102) in a rearward direction. Further, a first lower frame (104) extends from the upper frame (108) in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter and a second lower frame (106) extends from the upper frame (108) in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter. In an embodiment of the present invention, the first lower frame (104) and the second lower frame (106) may extend from the head pipe (102) in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter.

[0094] The frame structure (100) further comprises a first pivot frame (110) extending from the upper frame (108) in the rearward-downward direction and connected with the first lower frame (104). Similarly, the frame structure (100) comprises a second pivot frame (112) extending from the upper frame (108) in the rearward-downward direction and connected with the second lower frame (106).

[0095] In the Figure 4, the first pivot frame (110) is shown to be connected with the first lower frame (104), however in an alternative embodiment, which is not illustrated, the first pivot frame (110) may be spaced apart from the first lower frame (104) and not per se connected to the first lower frame (104). For instance, the first pivot frame (110) may be connected to the first lower frame (104) vide one or more other additional vehicular component (not shown). Thus, the phrase “the first pivot frame (110) extending from the upper frame (108) in the rearward-downward direction and connected with the first lower frame (104)” is intended to include both direct connection as well as connection vide one or more other additional vehicular component.

[0096] In the Figure 5, the second pivot frame (112) is shown to be connected with the second lower frame (106), however in an alternative embodiment, which is not illustrated, the second pivot frame (112) may be spaced apart from the second lower frame (106) and not per se connected to the second lower frame (106). For instance, the second pivot frame (112) may be connected to the second lower frame (106) vide one or more other additional vehicular component (not shown). Thus, the phrase “the second pivot frame (112) extending from the upper frame (108) in the rearward-downward direction and connected with the second lower frame (106)” is intended to include both direction connection as well as connected vide one or more other additional vehicular component.

[0097] Now referring to Figure 6 and Figure 7, the frame structure (100) comprises a supporting frame member (116) located between the first lower frame (104), the second lower frame (106), the first pivot frame (110) and the second pivot frame (112). The supporting frame member (116) comprises a front joining part (118), a rear joining part (120) and an intermediate part (122). In an embodiment of the invention, the front joining part (118) is connected to at least one of the first lower frame (104) and the second lower frame (106). In another embodiment of the invention, the rear joining part (120) is connected to at least one of the first pivot frame (110) and the secondpivot frame (112). In another embodiment of the invention, the intermediate part (122) is adapted to connect to a mounting base (114). In an embodiment of the invention at least the first box (160) and the second box (162) are supported by the mounting base (114).

[0098] Now referring to Figure 8, the mounting base (114) comprises an H-shaped mounting base (114) connected to the supporting frame member (116). The H-shaped mounting base (114) comprises a first cross member (124), a second cross member (126), a first longitudinal member (128) and a second longitudinal member (130). The first longitudinal member (128) and the second longitudinal member (130) connect the first cross member (124) with the second cross member (126).

[0099] The H-shaped mounting base (114) further comprises a first set of reinforcing brackets (132), a second set of reinforcing brackets (134), a third set of reinforcing brackets (136) and a fourth set of reinforcing brackets (138). In an embodiment of the invention, the first set of reinforcing brackets (132) is connected to the first cross member (124) and the first longitudinal member (128). The second set of reinforcing brackets (134) is connected to the first cross member (124) and second longitudinal member (130). The third set of reinforcing brackets (136) connected to the second cross member (126) and the first longitudinal member (128). The fourth set of reinforcing bracket (138) connected to the second cross member (126) with the second longitudinal member (130).

[0100] In an embodiment of the present invention, the first cross member (124) extends beyond the first set of reinforcing brackets (132) and the second set of reinforcing brackets (134) in the vehicle width direction. Similarly, the second cross member (126) extends beyond the third set of reinforcing brackets (136) and the fourth set of reinforcing brackets (138) in the vehicle width direction. The extension of the first cross member (124) and the second cross member (126) results in forming the H-shape of the mounting base (114) when viewed from top of the vehicle (10). The first (132), second (134), third (136) and fourth set of reinforcing brackets (138) prevent any distortion in shape of the mounting base (114) due to load of the first battery (38) and the second battery (40) mounted on the frame structure (100).

[0101] Now referring to Figure 9, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the front joining part (118) is attached to a third cross member (148) connected between the first lower frame (104) and the second lower frame (106) while, the rear joining part (120) is attached to a joining bracket (150) connected in between the first pivot frame (110) and the second pivot frame (112).

[0102] In an embodiment of the present invention, a cross-sectional dimension of the rear joining part (120) of the supporting frame member (116) is greater than a cross-sectional dimension of the front joining part (118) of the supporting frame member (116) and a cross-sectional dimension of the intermediate part (122) of the supporting frame member (116). Due to larger cross-sectional dimension of the rear joining part (120), there is a formation of larger contacting area between the rear joining part (120) and the joining bracket (150). The larger contacting area makes the connection between the rear joining part (120) and the joining bracket (150) stronger, which contributes in an increase in the load carrying capacity of the supporting frame member (116).

[0103] Further, the first lower frame (104) comprises a first portion (152) extending in a downward-rearward direction from the head pipe (102) and a second portion (154) extending in a substantially rearward direction from the first portion (152). Similarly, the second lower frame (106) comprises a third portion (156) extending in a downward-rearward direction from the head pipe (102) and a fourth portion (158) extending in a substantially rearward direction from the first portion (156). In an embodiment of the invention, the third cross member (148) is connected between the first portion (152) of the first lower frame (104) and the third portion (156) of the second lower frame (106).

[0104] Now, coming to connecting the H-shaped mounting base (114) to the supporting frame member (116), as explained below with reference to the Figure 8 and Figure 9. In an embodiment of the invention, the first longitudinal member (128) comprises a first pair of attachment means (140) and the second longitudinal member (130) comprises a second pair of attachment means (142). Further, the intermediate part (122) of the supporting frame member (116) comprises a third pair of attachment means (144) and a fourth pair of attachment means (146). The third pair of attachment means (144) and the fourth pair of attachment means (146) co-operates with the first pair of attachment means (140) from the first side of the electric vehicle (10). Similarly, the third pair of the attachment means (144) and the fourth pair of attachment means (146) co-operates withthe second pair of attachment means (142) from the second side of the electric vehicle (10). In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the H-shaped mounting base (114) is connected to the supporting frame member (116) via fasteners.

[0105] Now, coming to an aspect of mounting the first box (160) and the second box (162) over the frame structure (100), as explained below with reference to the Figure 9, Figure 4 and Figure 5. The first cross member (124) comprises a first mounting provision (164) and a second mounting provision (166). Similarly, the second cross member (126) comprises a third mounting provision (168) and a fourth mounting provision (170). Further, the first box (160) comprises a first set of complementary mounting provisions (172) (best visible in Figure 4) co-operating with the first mounting provision (164) and the third mounting provision (168) enabling mounting of the first box (160) over the mounting base (114) from the first side. Similarly, the second box (162) comprises a second set of complementary provisions (174) (best visible in Figure 5) co-operating with the second mounting provision (166) and the fourth mounting provision (170) enabling mounting of the second box (162) over the mounting base (114) from the second side.

[0106] Since, the first battery (38) and the second battery (40) are accommodated within the first box (160) and the second box (162), and the first box (160) and the second box (162) are supported by the first cross member (124) and the second cross member (126). The load of the first battery (38) and the second battery (40) ultimately gets transferred to the mounting base (114). Since, the mounting base (114) is connected to the intermediate part (122), the load of the first battery (38) and the second battery (40) ultimately gets transferred to the frame structure (100) of the electric vehicle (10). Thus, one advantage of the present invention is that the weight of the batteries gets evenly distributed on the frame structure (100), which contributes to stability of the electric vehicle (10) during the movement.

[0107] One of the advantages of the present invention includes enabling mounting of multiple batteries (38 and 40) without compromising the strength of the frame structure (100). Since, the load carrying capacity of the frame structure (100) is high, one advantage of the present invention is that batteries (38 and 40) of higher weight can be mounted without compromising the strength of the frame structure (100). One advantage of the present invention is that there is an increase in strength of the frame structure (100) due to presence of the supporting frame member (116).Another advantage of the present invention is that a minimum number of parts are required for modifying an existing frame structure in to the frame structure (100) of the present invention, which results in an increase in adaptability of the present invention.

[0108] Since, the supporting frame (116) member is a part of the frame structure (100). An advantage of the present invention includes an ease in transportation of the frame structure (100) from one production facility to other production facility. Another advantage of the present invention that a single storage box is enough for transportation of the frame structure (100) leading to an optimization of transporting cost.

[0109] Since, number of parts required for supporting the batteries are less, an advantage of the present invention includes a lower weight of the electric vehicle (10) in comparison to other existing electric vehicles. Since, the weight of the electric vehicle (10) gets a reduction in comparison to the weight of the existing electric vehicle. One advantage of the present invention is that the vehicular performance in terms of distance covered per full capacity of the batteries gets increased.

[0110] Now it may be noted that it is essential to firmly hold the at least one battery (38, 40) with respect to the frame (100) so that an electrical connection between the at least one battery (38, 40) and other electric / electronic components (for instance the motor unit (20)) is secure and continuous. In particular, it is essential to restrict the at least battery’s (38, 40) movement in an upward direction. In the following paragraphs the structure used by the present invention to firmly hold the at least one battery (38, 40) with respect to the frame (100) and more particularly the structure which is used for restricting the at least battery’s (38, 40) movement in an upward direction will be explained in detail. It may be noted that parts of the electric vehicle (10) and parts of the frame structure (100) that are not essential to understand the aforesaid functionality may not have been described and the same can be inferred from the above provided description.

[0111] Now referring to Figure 2, Figure 3, Figure 6, Figure 7, Figure 10, and Figure 11, there is illustrated a perspective view of the frame structure (100) specifically adapted to store the first battery (38) and the second battery (40). The frame structure (100) is shown to comprise of a retaining member (176) that restricts an upward movement of the first battery (38) and the secondbattery (40). For instance, there may be disposed a first box (160) on a first side of the frame structure (100) which accommodates the first battery (38) and a second box (162) on a second side of the frame structure (100) which accommodates the second battery (40). The first box (160) is placed on the supporting frame member (114) and coupled to the frame structure (100). Similarly, the second box (162) is placed on the supporting frame member (114) and coupled to the frame structure (100).

[0112] Now referring to Figure 10, there is illustrated an exploded perspective view of the frame structure (100) in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention from a first side of the vehicle (10) and referring to Figure 11, there is illustrated an exploded perspective view of the frame structure (100) in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention from a second side of the vehicle (10). The frame structure (100) comprises a head pipe (102); an upper frame (108) extending in a vehicle rearward direction from the head pipe (102); a first lower frame (104) extending from at least one of the upper frame (108) or the head pipe (102) in a downward- rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter; a second lower frame (106) extending from at least one of the upper frame (108) or the head pipe (102) in a downward- rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter. The frame structure (100) further comprises a mounting base (114) that may be located between the first lower frame (104), the second lower frame (106), the first pivot frame (110) and the second pivot frame (112). The frame structure (100) may comprise further elements which may not be relevant for explaining the present invention and hence not shown or not described (even if shown in the figures). As best seen in Figure 10, the first lower frame (104) and the first pivot frame (110) extend from a first side (182) of the upper frame (108). As best seen in Figure 11, the second lower frame (106) and the second pivot frame (112) extend from a second side (184) of the upper frame (108). Although not shown in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 10 and Figure 11, the first battery (24) and the second battery (26) are supported by the mounting base (114). It may be noted that the mounting base (114) may be have alternative constructions and the construction as shown in Figure 10 and Figure 11 is only by way of a non-limiting example. Especially, the mounting base (114) may have the construction as shown in Figure 8. The retaining member (176) is disposed above the upper frame (108) in a plan view of the vehicle (10) and may be connected directly to the upperframe (108). For instance, the retaining member (116) may be coupled to a top surface (220) of the upper frame (108).

[0113] Now referring to Figure 12, there is illustrated an exploded perspective view of the frame structure (100) in accordance with another embodiment of the invention from a first side of the vehicle (10) and referring to Figure 13, there is illustrated an exploded perspective view of the frame structure (100) in accordance with another embodiment of the invention from a second side of the vehicle (10). The frame structure (100) further comprises a first arm member (178) and a second arm member (180). In an embodiment of the invention, the first arm member (178) is spaced apart from the second arm member (180) in a vehicle width direction. In an embodiment of the invention, the first arm member (178) is coupled to the upper frame (108) and extends above the upper surface (220) of the upper frame (108). In an embodiment of the invention, the second arm member (180) is coupled to the upper frame (108) and extends above the upper surface (220) of the upper frame (108). As best seen in Figure 12, the first lower frame (104), the first pivot frame (110) and the first arm member (178) extend along the first side (182) of the upper frame (108). As best seen in Figure 13, the second lower frame (106), the second pivot frame (112), and the second arm member (180) extends along the second side (184) of the upper frame (108).

[0114] Now referring particularly to Figure 12, it can be seen that the first arm member (178) in particular comprises a fifth portion (186) connected to the first side (182) of the upper frame (108) at a first location (188); a sixth portion (190) connected to the first side (182) of the upper frame (108) at a second location (192); and a first intermediate portion (194) located between the fifth portion (186) and the sixth portion (190). Now referring particularly to Figure 13, it can be seen that the second arm member (180) in particular comprises a seventh portion (196) connected to the second side (184) of the upper frame (108) at a third location (198); an eighth portion (200) connected to the second side (184) of the upper frame (108) at a fourth location (202); and a second intermediate portion (204) located between the seventh portion (196) and the eighth portion (200). The first intermediate portion (194) comprises a fifth mounting provision (206) and the second intermediate portion (204) comprises a sixth mounting provision (208). The retaining member (176) is coupled to at least one of the fifth mounting provision (206) and the sixth mounting provision (208). By connecting the retaining member (176) to the first arm member (178) and the second arm member (180), a height of the retaining member (176) from the ground can beincreased. Thus, it becomes possible to accommodate a battery having battery having increased height, without increasing a dimension of the upper frame (108).

[0115] Now referring particularly to Figure 14, there is illustrated a perspective view of the retaining member (176) constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The retaining member (176) comprises an H-shaped retaining member (176). In particular, it can be seen that the H-shaped retaining member (176) comprises a first longitudinal portion (212), a second longitudinal portion (214) spaced apart from the first longitudinal portion (212), and a cross portion (216) connecting the first longitudinal portion (212) and the second longitudinal portion (214). In an embodiment of the invention, the first longitudinal portion (212) and the second longitudinal portion (214) comprise a first set of resilient members (218) adapted to come in contact with the at least first battery (38) and the second battery (40). The resilient members (218) can dampen vibrations which may be transmitted to the retaining member (176). By way of a non- limiting example, a life of the retaining member (176) may be improved by providing the resilient members (218). In an embodiment of the invention, the cross portion (216) comprising a set of connecting provisions (210) for coupling the retaining member (176) to at least one of the upper frame (108) (best seen in Figure 10 and Figure 11), the first arm member (118) and the second arm member (120) (best seen in Figure 12 and Figure 13).

[0116] An advantage of the invention comprises the retaining member (176) sufficiently restricts the at least battery’s (38, 40) movement in the upward direction. In particular, the retaining member (176) sufficiently restricts the movement of both the first battery (38) and the second battery (40) in the upward direction. Thus, a singular retaining member (176) is sufficient to movement of both the first battery (38) and the second battery (40) in the upward direction.

[0117] Another advantage of the invention comprises the construction of the retaining member (176) being simple. For instance, the retaining member (176) which is a H-shaped retaining member is very easy to construct and can be made of a single piece.

[0118] Yet another advantage of the invention comprises the retaining member (176) having very less weight. As compared to a lid member, which restricts movement of both the first battery (38)and the second battery (40) in the upward direction, the weight of the retaining member (176) is substantially less.

[0119] Still another advantage of the invention comprises the ability to easily assemble as well as disassemble the retaining member (176). In fact, the retaining member (176) can be assembled in multiple ways, for instance being coupled to the upper frame (108), being coupled to the first arm member (178), being coupled to the second arm member (180), being coupled to both the first arm member (178) and the second arm member (180).

[0120] A further advantage of the invention comprises the retaining member (176) consuming very less space. A furthermore advantage of the invention comprises the retaining member (176) not hampering with either placement or functioning of other elements of the electric vehicle (10).

[0121] One or more (preferably, all of the above factors) also contribute to a decrease in a cost of manufacturing the electric vehicle (10).

[0122] It may be noted that vehicle (10) comprises at least one wire harness (224) which is used for electrically connecting for example the first battery (38) and the second battery (40) to various electrical and electronic components carried by the electric vehicle (10). For instance, the at least one wire harness (224) electrically connects the first battery (38) and the second battery (40) to the motor unit (20), the headlight (26), the display unit (28), and the rear lighting unit (36). The one or more wire harness (224) needs to be suitably routed. It is required to provide suitable way of routing the at least one wire harness (224) and the same will be explained in the following paragraphs. It may be noted that parts of the frame structure that are not relevant for understanding the routing of the at least one wire harness (224) are not explained in detail and the same can be understood from the description provided above.

[0123] Now referring to Figure 15 there is illustrated a perspective view of the frame structure (100) in accordance with a furthermore embodiment of the invention from a first side of the vehicle (10) and referring to Figure 16, there is illustrated a perspective view of the frame structure (100) in accordance with a furthermore embodiment of the invention from a second side of the vehicle (10). The frame structure (100) comprises a head pipe (102); an upper frame (108) extending in a vehicle rearward direction from the head pipe (102); a first lower frame (104) extending from atleast one of the upper frame (108) or the head pipe (102) in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter; a second lower frame (106) extending from at least one of the upper frame (108) or the head pipe (102) in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter. The frame structure (100) further comprises a first pivot frame (110) extending from the upper frame (108) in the rearward-downward direction and connected with the first lower frame (104); and a second pivot frame (112) extending from the upper frame (108) in the rearward-downward direction and connected with the second lower frame (106). The frame structure (100) furthermore comprises a first arm member (178) coupled to the upper frame (108) and extending above and along a first side (182) of the upper frame (108); and a second arm member (180) coupled to the upper frame (108) and extending above and along a second side (184) of the upper frame (108). In an embodiment of the invention, the first arm member (178) is spaced apart from the second arm member (180) in a vehicle traverse direction.

[0124] In an embodiment of the invention, since the first arm member (178) extends above and along a first side (182) of the upper frame (108), and since the second arm member (180) extends above and along a second side (184) of the upper frame (108), a top surface (220) of the upper frame (108) together with the first arm member (178) and the second arm member (180) define a channel (222) for accommodating at least one wire harness (224).

[0125] As previously mentioned, the first arm member (178) in particular comprises a fifth portion (186) connected to the first side (182) of the upper frame (108) at a first location (188); a sixth portion (190) connected to the first side (182) of the upper frame (108) at a second location (192); and a first intermediate portion (194) located between the fifth portion (186) and the sixth portion (190) while the second arm member (180) in particular comprises a seventh portion (196) connected to the second side (184) of the upper frame (108) at a third location (198); an eighth portion (200) connected to the second side (184) of the upper frame (108) at a fourth location (202); and a second intermediate portion (204) located between the seventh portion (196) and the eighth portion (200). In an embodiment of the invention, there is provided at least one cross member (226) connected between the first intermediate portion (194) and the second intermediate portion (204), such that the at least one cross member (226) is spaced from the top surface (220) of the upper frame (108). The at least one cross member (226) ensures that the at least one wire harness (224) does not come out of the channel (222). When the first arm member (178) and thesecond arm member (180) are attached to the upper frame (108), the fifth portion (186) projects in a vehicle downward direction; the seventh portion (196) projects in a vehicle downward direction; the sixth portion (190) projects in a vehicle downward and rearward direction; and the eighth portion (200) projects in a vehicle downward and rearward direction.

[0126] Now referring particularly to Figure 17, which shows the perspective view of the first arm member (178) and the second arm member (180), it can be seen that the first intermediate portion (194) of the first arm member (178) comprises a ninth portion (228) proximate to the fifth portion (186) and projecting in a vehicle upward and rearward direction and a tenth portion (230) proximate to the sixth portion (190) and projecting in a vehicle downward and rearward direction; and the second intermediate portion (204) of the second arm member (180) comprises an eleventh portion (232) proximate to the seventh portion (196) and projecting in a vehicle upward and rearward direction and a twelfth portion (234) proximate to the eighth portion (200) and projecting in a vehicle downward and rearward direction.

[0127] Now referring to back to Figure 15 in an embodiment of the invention, a first space (236) is left between the first location (188) and the head pipe (108) along the first side (182) of the upper frame (108), the first space (236) being utilized for routing a front portion of the at least one wire harness (224); and a second space (238) is left behind the second location (192) along the first side (182) of the upper frame (108), the second space (238) can be utilized for routing a rear portion of the at least one wire harness (224).

[0128] Alternatively, referring back to Figure 16, a third space (240) is left between the third location (198) and the head pipe (108) along the second side (184) of the upper frame (108), the third space (240) being utilized for routing a front portion of the at least one wire harness (224); and a fourth space (242) is left behind the fourth location (202) along the second side (184) of the upper frame (108), the fourth space (242) being utilized for routing a rear portion of the at least one wire harness (224). Also, referring to Figure 1, the upper cowl (32) covers at least one wire harness (224) in a top view of the vehicle (10).

[0129] Thus, the first arm member (178) and the second arm member (180) may actually support one or more components of the vehicle and are not provided solely for the purposes of creating the channel (222).

[0130] Thus, an advantage of the invention comprises the frame member (100) effectively accommodating the at least one wire harness (224). In particular, no special space has to be created for accommodating the at least one wire harness (224).

[0131] Another advantage of the invention comprises the at least one wire harness (224) is located in the channel (222) defined by the first arm member (178), the second arm member (180) and a top surface (220) of the upper frame (108). In case the frame member (100) further comprises at least one cross member (226), the at least one wire harness (224) is furthermore located in a space between the top surface (220) of the upper frame (108) and the at least one cross member (226). Thus, unwanted movement, especially, movement of the at least one wire harness (224) outside the channel (222) is substantially prohibited.

[0132] It may be noted that the upper cowl (32) additionally covers the at least one wire harness (224) located in the channel (222) in a top view of the vehicle (10).

[0133] Yet another advantage of the invention comprises the ability to route the wire harness (224) without requiring any additional clips. By avoiding usage of clips, a space which would be otherwise consumed by the clips is gained. Additionally, the cost is saved by not using the clips. Using clips to locate / hold the at least one wire harness (224) with respect to the frame structure (100) increases a complexity and a time involved in assembling. Since the at least one wire harness (224) is placed directly with respect to the frame structure (100) without using the clips, a complexity as well a time involved in assembling the electric vehicle (10) reduces substantially. Thus, a cost of manufacturing the electric vehicle (10) decreases substantially.

[0134] 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.

[0135] 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.

Claims

CLAIM:

1. A frame structure (100) of an electric vehicle (10) comprising: a head pipe (102); an upper frame (108) extending from the head pipe (102) in a rearward direction; a first lower frame (104) extending from one the upper frame (108) and the head pipe (102) in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter; a second lower frame (106) extending from one of the upper frame (108) and the head pipe (102) in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter; a first pivot frame (110) extending from the upper frame (108) in the rearward- downward direction and connected with the first lower frame (104); a second pivot frame (112) extending from the upper frame (108) in the rearward- downward direction and connected with the second lower frame (106); a mounting base (114) for supporting at least a first battery (38) and a second battery (40); and a supporting frame member (116) located between the first lower frame (104), the second lower frame (106), the first pivot frame (110) and the second pivot frame (112), the supporting frame member (116) comprising a front joining part (118) connected to at least one of the first lower frame(104) and the second lower frame(106), a rear joining part (120) connected to at least one of the first pivot frame (110) and the second pivot frame (112), and an intermediate part (122) for connecting to the mounting base (114).

2. The frame structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the mounting base (114) comprises an H-shaped mounting base (114) connected to the supporting frame member (116).

3. The frame structure (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the H-shaped mounting base (114) comprises: a first cross member (124) and a second cross member (126);a first longitudinal member (128) and a second longitudinal member (130) connecting the first cross member (124) with the second cross member (126); a first set of reinforcing bracket (132) connected to the first cross member (124) and the first longitudinal member (128); a second set of reinforcing bracket (134) connected to the first cross member (124) and second longitudinal member (130); a third set of reinforcing bracket (136) connected to the second cross member (126) and the first longitudinal member (128); and a fourth set of reinforcing bracket (138) connected to the second cross member (126) with the second longitudinal member (130).

4. The frame structure (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the first cross member (124) extends beyond the first set of reinforcing bracket (132) and the second set of reinforcing bracket (134) in the vehicle width direction; and the second cross member (126) extends beyond the third set of reinforcing bracket (136) and the fourth set of reinforcing bracket (138) in the vehicle width direction so as to form the H-shape of the mounting base (114) when viewed from top of the vehicle (10).

5. The frame structure (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein: the first longitudinal member (128) comprises a first pair of attachment means (140); the second longitudinal member (130) comprises a second pair of attachment means (142); and the intermediate part (122) of the supporting frame member (116) comprises a third pair of attachment means (144) and a fourth pair of attachment means (146) co-operating with the first pair of attachment means (140) and co-operating with the second pair of attachment means (142) for connecting the H-shaped mounting base (114) to the supporting frame member (116).

6. The frame structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the front joining part (118) is attached to a third cross member (148) connected between the first lower frame (104) and the second lower frame (106), and the rear joining part (120) is attached to a joining bracket (150) connected in between the first pivot frame (110) and the second pivot frame (112).

7. The frame structure (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein: the first lower frame (104) comprises a first portion (152) extending in a downward- rearward direction from the head pipe (102) and a second portion (154) extending in a substantially rearward direction from the first portion (152); the second lower frame (106) comprises a third portion (156) extending in a downward- rearward direction from the head pipe (102) and a fourth portion (158) extending in a substantially rearward direction from the first portion (152); the third cross member (148) being connected between the first portion (152) of the first lower frame (104) and the third portion (156) of the second lower frame (106).

8. The frame structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein: the first cross member (124) and the second cross member (126) support a first box (160) accommodating the first battery (38); the first cross member (124) and the second cross member (126) support a second box (162) accommodating the second battery (40); the first cross member (124) comprises a first mounting provision (164) and a second mounting provision (166), the second cross member (126) comprises a third mounting provision (168) and a fourth mounting provision (170); the first box (160) comprising a first set of complementary mounting provisions (172) co- operating with the first mounting provision (164) and the third mounting provision (168) enabling mounting of the first box (160) over the mounting base (114) from a first side; and the second box (162) comprising a second set of complementary provisions (174) co- operating with the second mounting provision (166) and the fourth mounting provision (170) enabling mounting of the second box (162) over the mounting base (114) from a second side.

9. The frame structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a cross-sectional dimension of the rear joining part (120) of the supporting frame member (116) is greater than a cross- sectional dimension of the front joining part (118) of the supporting frame member (116)and a cross-sectional dimension of the intermediate part (122) of the supporting frame member (116).

10. An electric vehicle (10) comprising: a frame structure (100) supporting a front fork (12), a front ground engaging member (14), a steering handle bar (16), a rear ground engaging member (18), at least a first battery (38) and a second battery (40); the frame structure (100) comprising: a head pipe (102); an upper frame (108) extending from the head pipe (102) in a rearward direction; a first lower frame (104) extending from one the upper frame (108) and the head pipe (102) in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter; a second lower frame (106) extending from one the upper frame (108) and the head pipe (102) in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter, a first pivot frame (110) extending from the upper frame (108) in the rearward- downward direction and connected with the first lower frame (104); a second pivot frame (112) extending from the upper frame (108) in the rearward- downward direction and connected with the second lower frame (106); a mounting base (114) for supporting at least the first battery (38) and the second battery (40); and a supporting frame member (116) located between the first lower frame (104), the second lower frame (106), the first pivot frame (110) and the second pivot frame (112), the supporting frame member (116) comprising a front joining part (118) connected to at least one of the first lower frame (104) and the second lower frame (106), a rear joining part (120) connected to at least one of the first pivot frame (110) and the second pivot frame (112), and an intermediate part (122) for connecting to the mounting base (114).

11. A frame structure (100) of an electric vehicle (10) comprising: a head pipe (102); an upper frame (108) extending from the head pipe (102) in a rearward direction;a first lower frame (104) extending from at least one of the upper frame (108) or the head pipe (102) in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter; a second lower frame (106) extending from at least one of the upper frame (108) or the head pipe (102) in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter; a first pivot frame (110) extending from the upper frame (108) in the rearward- downward direction and connected with the first lower frame (104); a second pivot frame (112) extending from the upper frame (108) in the rearward- downward direction and connected with the second lower frame (106); a mounting base (114) supporting at least a first battery (38) and a second battery (40); and a retaining member (176) spaced apart from the mounting base (114), the retaining member (176) restricting an upward movement of the at least first battery (38) and the second battery (40).

12. The frame structure (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the retaining member (176) being coupled to the upper frame (108).

13. The frame structure (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the mounting base (114) being located between the first lower frame (104), the second lower frame (106), the first pivot frame (110) and the second pivot frame (112).

14. The frame structure (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the retaining member (176) being coupled to a first arm member (178) and a second arm member (180); the first arm member (178) being spaced apart from the second arm member (180) in a vehicle width direction; the first arm member (178) being coupled to the upper frame (108) and extending above and along a first side (182) of the upper frame (108); and the second arm member (180) being coupled to the upper frame (108) and extending above and along a second side (184) of the upper frame (108).

15. The frame structure (100) as claimed in claim 14, wherein at least one of: the first arm member (178) comprises: a fifth portion (186) connected to the first side (182) of the upper frame (108) at a first location (188); a sixth portion (190) connected to the first side (182) of the upper frame (108) at a second location (192); and a first intermediate portion (194) located between the first portion (186) and the second portion (190); and the second arm member (180) comprises: a seventh portion (196) connected to the second side (184) of the upper frame (108) at a third location (198); an eighth portion (200) connected to the second side (184) of the upper frame (108) at a fourth location (202); and a second intermediate portion (204) located between the seventh portion (196) and the eighth portion (200).

16. The frame structure (100) as claimed in claim 15, wherein the first intermediate portion (194) comprises a fifth mounting provision (206) and the second intermediate portion (204) comprises a sixth mounting provision (208), the retaining member (176) being releasably coupled to the fifth mounting provision (206) and the sixth mounting provision (208).

17. The frame structure (100) as claimed in claim 16, wherein the fifth mounting provision (206) and the sixth mounting provision (208) engage with a set of first connection provisions (210) provided in the retaining member (176).

18. The frame structure (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the retaining member (176) comprises an H-shaped retaining member (176).

19. The frame structure (100) as claimed in claim 18, wherein the H-shaped retaining member (176) comprises: a first longitudinal portion (212) and a second longitudinal portion (214) spaced apart from the first longitudinal portion (212);a cross portion (216) connecting the first longitudinal portion (212) and the second longitudinal portion (214); and the first longitudinal portion (212) and the second longitudinal portion (214) comprising a first set of resilient members (218) adapted to come in contact with the at least first battery (38) and the second battery (40); and the cross portion (216) comprising a set of first connecting provisions (210) for coupling the retaining member (176) to at least one of the upper frame (108), the first arm member (178) and the second arm member (180).

20. An electric vehicle (10) comprising: a frame structure (100) supporting a front fork (12), a front ground engaging member (14), a steering handle bar (16), a rear ground engaging member (18), at least a first battery (38) and a second battery (40); the frame structure (100) comprising: a head pipe (102); an upper frame (108) extending from the head pipe (102) in a rearward direction; a first lower frame (104) extending from at least one of the upper frame (108) or the head pipe (102) in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter; a second lower frame (106) extending from at least one of the upper frame (108) or the head pipe (102) in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter, a first pivot frame (110) extending from the upper frame (108) in the rearward- downward direction and connected with the first lower frame (104); a second pivot frame (112) extending from the upper frame (108) in the rearward- downward direction and connected with the second lower frame (106); a mounting base (114) supporting the at least first battery (38) and the second battery (40); and a retaining member (176) spaced apart from the mounting base (114), the retaining member (176) restricting an upward movement of the at least first battery (38) and the second battery (40).

21. A frame structure (100) of a vehicle (10) comprising: a head pipe (102); an upper frame (108) extending from the head pipe (102) in a rearward direction; a first lower frame (104) extending from at least one of the upper frame (108) and the head pipe (102) in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter; a second lower frame (106) extending from at least one of the upper frame (108) and the head pipe (102) in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter; a first pivot frame (110) extending from the upper frame (108) in the rearward- downward direction and connected with the first lower frame (104); a second pivot frame (112) extending from the upper frame (108) in the rearward- downward direction and connected with the second lower frame (106); a first arm member (178) coupled to the upper frame (108) and extending above and along a first side (182) of the upper frame (108); and a second arm member (180) coupled to the upper frame (108) and extending above and along a second side (184) of the upper frame (108).

22. The frame structure (100) as claimed in claim 21, wherein the first arm member (178) is spaced apart from the second arm member (180) in a vehicle traverse direction.

23. The frame structure (100) as claimed in claim 21, wherein the first arm member (178), the second arm member (180) and a top surface (220) of the upper frame (108) define a channel (222) for accommodating at least one wire harness (224).

24. The frame structure (100) as claimed in claim 21, wherein at least one of: the first arm member (178) comprises: a fifth portion (186) connected to the first side (182) of the upper frame (108) at a first location (188); a sixth portion (190) connected to the first side (182) of the upper frame (108) at a second location (192); anda first intermediate portion (194) located between the first portion (186) and the second portion (190); and the second arm member (180) comprises: a seventh portion (196) connected to the second side (184) of the upper frame (108) at a third location (198); an eighth portion (200) connected to the second side (184) of the upper frame (108) at a fourth location (202); and a second intermediate portion (204) located between the seventh portion (196) and the eighth portion (200).

25. The frame structure (100) as claimed in claim 24, comprising at least one cross member (226) connected between the first intermediate portion (194) and the second intermediate portion (204), such that the at least one cross member (226) is spaced from the top surface (220) of the upper frame (108).

26. The frame structure (100) as claimed in claim 24, wherein at least one of: the fifth portion (186) projects in a vehicle downward direction; the seventh portion (196) projects in a vehicle downward direction; the sixth portion (190) projects in a vehicle downward and rearward direction; and the eighth portion (200) projects in a vehicle downward and rearward direction.

27. The frame structure (100) as claimed in claim 24, wherein at least one of: the first intermediate portion (194) comprises a ninth portion (228) proximate to the fifth portion (186) and projecting in a vehicle upward and rearward direction and a tenth portion (230) proximate to the sixth portion (190) and projecting in a vehicle downward and rearward direction; and the second intermediate portion (204) comprises an eleventh portion (232) proximate to the seventh portion (196) and projecting in a vehicle upward and rearward direction and a twelfth portion (234) proximate to the eighth portion (200) and projecting in a vehicle downward and rearward direction.

28. The frame structure (100) as claimed in claim 24, wherein at least one of: a first space (236) is left between the first location (188) and the head pipe (108) along the first side (182) of the upper frame (108), the first space (236) being utilized for routing a front portion of the at least one wire harness (224); and a second space (238) is left behind the second location (192) along the first side (182) of the upper frame (108), the second space (238) can be utilized for routing a rear portion of the at least one wire harness (224); and a third space (240) is left between the third location (198) and the head pipe (108) along the second side (184) of the upper frame (108), the third space (240) being utilized for routing a front portion of the at least one wire harness (224); and a fourth space (242) is left behind the fourth location (202) along the second side (184) of the upper frame (108), the fourth space (242) being utilized for routing a rear portion of the at least one wire harness (224).

29. A vehicle (10) comprising: a frame structure (100) supporting a front fork (12), a front ground engaging member (14), a steering handle bar (16), a rear ground engaging member (18), and at least one wire harness (126); the frame structure (100) comprising: a head pipe (102); an upper frame (108) extending from the head pipe (102) in a rearward direction; a first lower frame (104) extending from at least one of the upper frame (108) and the head pipe (102) in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter; a second lower frame (106) extending from at least one of the upper frame (108) and the head pipe (102) in a downward-rearward direction and in a substantially rearward direction thereafter; a first pivot frame (110) extending from the upper frame (108) in the rearward- downward direction and connected with the first lower frame (104); a second pivot frame (112) extending from the upper frame (108) in the rearward- downward direction and connected with the second lower frame (106);a first arm member (178) coupled to the upper frame (108) and extending above and along a first side (182) of the upper frame (108); and a second arm member (180) coupled to the upper frame (108) and extending above and along a second side (184) of the upper frame (108).

30. The vehicle as claimed in claim 29, comprising an upper cowl (32) located between the steering handle bar (16) and a seat (30), the upper cowl (32) covers at least one wire harness (224) in a top view of the vehicle (10).

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