vehicle

Abstract

The present invention discloses a vehicle (100). The vehicle (100) includes a body frame (102), a front frame (126), a steering member (112), a swingarm (136), a rear suspension member (142) and a suspension support member (206). The front frame (126) extends rearwardly from a head tube (110) of the body frame (102) to secure one or more components of the vehicle (100) such as a battery (124) and a motor (122). The steering member (112) passes through the head tube (110). The rear suspension member (142) extends obliquely in the rearward and upward direction from the swingarm (136) and positions substantially parallel to the steering member (112). The suspension support member (206) includes a connecting portion (244) adapted to connect the suspension support member (206) to the body frame (102), and a mounting portion (240) adapted to mount the suspension support member (206) to the rear suspension member (142).

Description

DescriptionTitle of Invention: VEHICLECross-reference to related applications

[0001] This application claims priority from Indian provisional patent application 20231 1074322, filed on 31 st October 2023, and Indian provisional patent application 20231 1074321 filed on 31 -October 2023 which is incorporated herein in its entirety by this reference thereto.Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a vehicle, and more particularly relates to positioning and mounting arrangement of a rear suspension member of the vehicle.Background

[0003] A vehicle is provided with a rear suspension member. The rear suspension member is designed to provide comfort to a rider and a passenger by absorbing vibrations generated while running the vehicle on uneven roads. A wheel travel (i.e., a vertical distance traveled by the wheel) of a rear ground engaging member is dependent upon a stroke length of the rear suspension member. If the stroke length is less, the rear suspension member absorbs the load as per a limited stroke length. Consequently, the wheel travel of the rear ground engaging member is less, and therefore, the rider and the passenger may experience shock, vibration, etc., while riding the vehicle. On the other hand, if the stroke length is greater, the rear suspension member absorbs the same load with the increased stroke length. Consequently, the wheel travel of the rear ground engaging member is greater, and therefore, the rider and the passenger experience a smooth and comfortable ride.

[0004] Typically, in both internal combustion (IC) engine vehicles and electrical vehicles (EVs), the rear suspension member is positioned obliquely in a forward and upward direction between a swingarm and a rear frame member of the vehicle. However, due to other component packaging constraints, the mounting position of the swingarm and the body frame member cannot be altered. In other words, the rear suspension member needs to be designed for a fixed length. Moreover, rough terrain (i.e., uneven, or irregular surfaces) requires more wheel travel to overcome the hurdles, thus requiring more suspension stroke length for absorbing the load.

[0005] Further, the packaging constraints of one or more components disposed in the proximity of the rear suspension member (e.g., body frame components, seat, rear fender, etc.) limit the possibility of mounting the longer rear suspension member. Also, the vehicle needs to be designed for a specific ground clearance due to uneven roads, bumpy roads, etc. Therefore, a bottom mounting of the rear suspension member can be positioned downwardly up to the lower end of the vehicle body. If the bottom mounting is positioned below the lower end of the vehicle body, the vehicle ground clearance is affected.

[0006] Furthermore, in the case of an EV, a front frame member is located between a steering member and the rear suspension member. The front frame members are intended to secure one or more components, such as a battery, a motor, etc. of the vehicle. However, the space available to accommodate battery, motor, and other components is limited and the space availability is prominently dependent upon the position of the rear suspension member. In conventional EVs, the position of the rear suspension member is such that the available space to accommodate the battery, motor, and other components is limited, however, there is a need to install a big-size battery within the vehicle to improve the EV vehicle running range. Moreover, in conventional EVs, the battery is secured to the front frame members such that a center of gravity (CG) of the vehicle lies in a front portion of the vehicle. However, the desired position of the CG is in the mid portion of the vehicle to make the vehicle more compact and to improve the vehicle dynamics, and stability.SUMMARY

[0007] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that is 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.

[0008] In order to solve the foregoing problem and to provide other advantages, one aspect of the present invention is to provide a vehicle. The vehicle includes a body frame, a front frame, a front ground engaging member, and a rear ground engaging member. The front frame extends rearwardly from a head tube of the body frame and adapted to secure one or more components of the vehicle. The vehicle further includes a steering member, a swingarm, a rear suspension member, and a suspension support member. The steering member passes through the head tube to operatively couple the front ground engaging member. The swingarm operatively and swingably couples the rear ground engaging member to the body frame. The rear suspension member includes a top mounting member and a bottom mounting member. The top mounting member is adapted to be secured to the body frame and the bottom mounting member is adapted to be secured to the swingarm. The bottom mounting is positioned forward with respect to the top mounting member in a side view of the vehicle. The suspension support member includes a connecting portion adapted to connect the suspension support member to the body frame. The suspension support member further includes a mounting portion adapted to mount the suspension support member to the rear suspension member. The mounting portion is positioned above the connecting portion.

[0009] In an aspect, the one or more components of the vehicle secured to the front frame are a battery and a motor of the vehicle.

[0010] In an aspect, the battery is disposed towards the rear suspension member to position a center of gravity of the vehicle towards the rear suspension member.

[0011] In an aspect, the battery is disposed on a front side of the rear suspension member and is located in between a seat member and the motor of the vehicle.

[0012] In an aspect, the rear suspension member extends obliquely in a rearward and upward direction from the swingarm. The rear suspension member is positioned substantially parallel to the steering member.

[0013] In an aspect, the motor is secured to the front frame, and positioned below the battery and in a front direction of the rear suspension member.

[0014] In an aspect, the battery is secured within the front frame and oriented obliquely in the rearward and downward direction.

[0015] In an aspect, the suspension support member includes a channel section, a left arm, and a right arm. The left arm extends downwardly from a left distal end of the channel section and the right arm extends downwardly from a right distal end of the channel section. The channel section is adapted to be secured to the rear suspension member, and the left arm and the right arm are adapted to be connected to the body frame.

[0016] In an aspect, the channel section, the left arm, and the right arm collectively formed an inverted U-shaped structure.

[0017] In an aspect, the channel section includes a mounting member adapted to be secured to a top mounting member of the rear suspension member.

[0018] In an aspect, the left arm includes a first set of connecting elements adapted to be connected to a first set of complementary connecting elements of the body frame. Further, the right arm includes a second set of connecting elements adapted to be connected to a second set of complementary connecting elements of the body frame.

[0019] In an aspect, the bottom mounting member is secured to the swingarm through a linkage mechanism.

[0020] In an aspect, the linkage mechanism includes a first link and a second link. The first link is adapted to be pivotally coupled to the body frame. The second link has a first end, a second end, and a third end. The first end is adapted to be pivotally coupled to the swingarm. The second end is adapted to be pivotally mounted to the bottom mounting member of the rear suspension member. The third end is adapted to be pivotally coupled to the first link.

[0021] In an aspect, the bottom mounting member is mounted to a cross member of the swingarm.

[0022] In an aspect, the battery is removably secured to the front frame in a direction that is substantially parallel to one of the steering member and the rear suspension member.

[0023] In an aspect, the suspension support member is made up of sheet metal.

[0024] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects,embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0025] The invention itself, together with further features and advantages, will become apparent from consideration of the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. One or more embodiments of the present invention are now described, by way of example only wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:

[0026] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 2A illustrates a perspective view of the vehicle of Figure 1 without a seat member, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 2B illustrates a side view of the vehicle without the seat member of Figure 2A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 2C illustrates an exploded view of the vehicle without the seat member of Figure 2A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 2D illustrates an exploded view of the vehicle of Figure 2B without a front ground engaging member and a rear ground engaging member, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and

[0031] Figure 3 illustrates a side view of the rear suspension member of the vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] The drawings referred to in this description are not to be understood as being drawn to scale except if specifically noted, and such drawings are only exemplary in nature.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, a specific embodiment thereof has been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail below. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the invention to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and the scope of the invention.

[0034] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a setup, device, or method that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or device or method. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus proceeded by “comprises... a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus.

[0035] For a better understanding of this invention, a reference would now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the accompanying figures and description herein below. Further, in the following figures, the same reference numerals are used to identify the same components in various views.

[0036] While the present invention is illustrated in the context of a two-wheeled or saddle-riding type vehicle, however, an apparatus and aspects and features thereof can be used with other types of vehicles as well. It is to be noted that terms such as “vehicle”, “scooter-type vehicle”, “two-wheeled vehicle”, “electric vehicle”, and “EV” are interchangeably used throughout the description. The term “vehicle” includes vehicles such as motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, mopeds, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and the like.

[0037] The terms “front I forward”, “rear I rearward I back I backward”, “up I upper I top / upward”, “down I lower I lowerward I downward”, “left I leftward”, “right I rightward” used therein represents the directions as seen from a vehicle rider sitting astride and these directions are referred by arrows Fr, Rr, U, Lr, L, R in the drawing figures.

[0038] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of a vehicle (100) (also referred to as an “electric vehicle (100)), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle (100) referred to herein, embodies a two-wheeled motorcycle. Alternatively, the vehicle (100) may embody any other ridden vehicles such as scooters, three-wheeled vehicles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), etc. without limiting the scope of the invention.

[0039] The vehicle (100) includes a body frame (102), a steering assembly (104), and a front ground engaging member (106). The body frame (102) supports the steering assembly (104) and the front ground engaging member (106) in a front portion (108) of the vehicle (100). Specifically, a head tube (1 10) of the body frame (102) supports a steering member (1 12) of the steering assembly (104). The steering member (1 12) extends obliquely in a rearward (Rr) and upward (U) direction from the front ground engaging member (106) and passes through the head tube (1 10), thereby operatively coupling the front ground engaging member (106) to the head tube (1 10). The steering assembly (104) includes a handlebar (1 14). The handlebar (1 14) is configured to be rotated by a rider to steer the vehicle (100). The front portion (108) of the vehicle (100) may also include a headlight assembly, front fenders, a dash assembly, mirrors, indicator lights, etc. without limiting the scope of the invention.

[0040] Further, the vehicle (100) includes a power unit (1 16) and a rear ground engaging member (1 18). The body frame (102) supports the power unit (1 16) in a middle portion (120) of the vehicle (100). The power unit (1 16) includes a motor (122), a battery (124), and a transmission system (125). A front frame (126) is adapted to secure one or more components of the vehicle (100). In an embodiment, the one or more components of the vehicle (100) secured to the front frame are the motor (122) and the battery (124). A rear frame (127) extends obliquely in a rearward and upward direction from the front frame (126). The battery (124) is adapted to supply electrical power to the motor (122). Further, the motor (122) provides the necessary power required to drive the rear ground engaging member (1 18). Alternatively, the motor (122) may provide the necessary powerto drive the front ground engaging member (106), or both the front ground engaging member (106) and the rear ground engaging member (1 18) simultaneously, without limiting the scope of the invention. The motor (122) is connected to the rear ground engaging member (1 18) through the transmission system (125).

[0041] Furthermore, the rear ground engaging member (1 18) is supported by the body frame (102) in a rear portion (128) of the vehicle (100). As shown, the body frame (102) supports a seat member (130). In the illustrated configuration, the seat member (130) is located in the middle portion (120) of the vehicle (100). However, in another configuration, based on the design of the body frame (102), the seat member (130) may be located between the middle portion (120) and the rear portion (128) of the vehicle (100). The seat member (130) may include a rider seat (132) and a pillion rider seat (134). The rider seat (132) provides seating for the rider and the pillion rider seat (134) provides seating for the pillion rider.

[0042] Moreover, the vehicle (100) includes a swingarm (136) extending from the middle portion (120) to the rear portion (128). The swingarm (136) operatively and swingably couples the rear ground engaging member (1 18) to the body frame (102). As shown, a first portion (138) of the swingarm (136) is located in the middle portion (120) of the vehicle (100), whereas a second portion (140) of the swingarm (136) is located in the rear portion (128) of the vehicle (100). The first portion (138) is adapted to be operatively coupled to a rear suspension member (142) of the vehicle (100) through a linkage mechanism (not shown in Figure 1 ) and the second portion (140) is adapted to be coupled to the rear ground engaging member (1 18). In an embodiment, the rear suspension member (142) is positioned substantially parallel to the steering member (1 12).

[0043] It may be noted that the vehicle (100) is shown to have included the above-stated parts, however, those skilled in the art would appreciate that the vehicle (100) includes other parts which may not be relevant for explaining the present invention and hence are not shown and described.

[0044] Figure 2A illustrates a perspective view of the vehicle (100) of Figure 1 without the seat member (130), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2B illustrates a side view of the vehicle (100) of Figure 2A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2C illustrates an exploded view of the vehicle (100) of Figure 2A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2D illustrates an exploded view of the vehicle (100) of Figure 2B without a front ground engaging member (106) and a rear ground engaging member (1 18), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to Figures 1 , 2A, and 2B, the rear suspension member (142) extends obliquely in the rearward and upward direction from the first portion (138) of the swingarm (136) to the body frame (102) (shown in Figure 1 ). In particular, the rear suspension member (142) is positioned between the first portion (138) of the swingarm (136) and the body frame (102) in a manner that the rear suspension member (142) is substantially parallel to the steering member (1 12). As shown, a longitudinal axis (202) of the steering member (1 12) is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis (204) of the rear suspension member (142). In one configuration, the longitudinal axis (204) of the rear suspension member (142) can bepositioned exactly parallel to the longitudinal axis (202) of the steering member (1 12). However, in another configuration, the longitudinal axis (204) of the rear suspension member (142) can be skewed with respect to the longitudinal axis (202) of the steering member (1 12) by a threshold angle. The positioning of the rear suspension member (142) with respect to the steering member (1 12) is dependent upon one or more design factors, discussed subsequently.

[0045] The rear suspension member (142) includes a top mounting member (210) and a bottom mounting member (212). The top mounting member (210) is adapted to be secured to the body frame (102) (shown in Figure 1 ) and the bottom mounting member (212) is adapted to be secured to the swingarm (136). The top mounting member (210) is secured to the body frame (102) through a mounting bracket (214). The mounting bracket (214) acts as a connecting link between the top mounting member (210) and the body frame (102). The mounting bracket (214) may be provided with a plurality of fasteners (not shown in Figures 2A-2C) adapted to connect the top mounting member (210) to the body frame (102).

[0046] A linkage mechanism (216) includes a first link (224) and a second link (217). The first link (224) is adapted to be pivotally coupled to the body frame (102). In one embodiment, the bottom mounting member (212) is mounted to the swingarm (136) through the second link (217) of the linkage mechanism (216). The second link (217) is formed in a triangular shape that includes a first end (218), a second end (220), and a third end (222), respectively at a first vertex portion, a second vertex portion, and a third vertex portion of the triangle. The first end (218) is adapted to be pivotally coupled to the swingarm (136). The swingarm (136) includes a first arm (228) (shown in Figure 2C) and a second arm (230) (shown in Figure 2C). In the illustrated configuration, the first end (218) of the second link (217) is pivotally coupled to the first arm (228) of the swingarm (136) through a suitable mounting arrangement. Further, the second end (220) of the second link (217) is adapted to be pivotally mounted to the bottom mounting member (212). The mounting arrangement of the second link (217) with the bottom mounting member (212) is such that both translational and rotational movements of the bottom mounting member (212) are constrained. In the illustrated configuration, each of the second end (220) and bottom mounting member (212) includes a through hole of a predetermined diameter, designed to receive a fastener, like a screw. A thread profile formed on each of the holes is complementary to a thread profile of the screw, thereby ensuring a tightening of the screw with respect to the holes. It should be noted that the fastener used herein is not limited to the screw, and the other type of fastener such as, but not limited to, nut and bolt, stud, eye bolt, and the like, can also be used. Furthermore, the third end (222) of the second link (217) is adapted to be pivotally coupled to the first link (224). As shown, the first link (224) connects the third end (222) of the first link (224) with the body frame (102).

[0047] The mounting arrangement of the bottom mounting member (212) with the swingarm (136) through the second link (217) allows for an extension of a longitudinal length of the rear suspension member (142) on a bottom side thereof. Consequently, the overall stroke length of the rear suspension member (142) increases, and therefore, the wheel travel (i.e., a vertical distance) of therear ground engaging member (1 18) increases. As a result, the rider and the pillion rider experience a smooth and comfortable ride while riding the vehicle (100) on uneven roads, bumpy roads, etc.

[0048] In another embodiment, the bottom mounting member (212) of the rear suspension member (142) can be mounted to a cross member (226) (shown in Figures 2A and 2C) of the swingarm (136). The cross member (226) is adapted to connect a first arm (228) (shown in Figure 2C) of the swingarm (136) with a second arm (230) (shown in Figure 2C) of the swingarm (136) in the first portion (138). In this embodiment, the requirement of the linkage mechanism (216) is eliminated, and the bottom mounting member (212) can be directly mounted to the cross member (226) through a suitable mounting arrangement.

[0049] The positioning of the rear suspension member (142) with respect to the steering member (1 12) is dependent upon one or more design factors such as a size (i.e., length and width) of the front frame (126), a size of the battery (124) secured within the front frame (126), number of batteries to be secured within the front frame (126), location of the battery (124) with respect to the rear suspension member (142), and the like. Considering these factors, the rear suspension member (142) is mounted in between the swingarm (136) and the body frame (102) in a manner that the bottom mounting member (212) is positioned forwardly with respect to the top mounting member (210), in a side view of the vehicle (100). Compared to a conventional mounting arrangement of the rear suspension member (142) which extends obliquely in a forward and upward direction from the swingarm (136), the mounting arrangement of the rear suspension member (142) disclosed herein which extends obliquely in the rearward and upward direction from the swingarm (136) provides additional space within the front frame (126).

[0050] In the illustrated configuration, the bottom mounting member (212) is positioned forwardly with respect to the top mounting member (210) by a predetermined length (L), in the side view of the vehicle (100). The predetermined length (L) is dependent upon one or more design factors of the front frame (126), as discussed above. As shown, the front frame (126) extends rearwardly from the head tube (1 10) to the rear suspension member (142). Therefore, the more the predetermined length (L), the more would be the length of the front frame (126). Herein, the predetermined length (L) can be increased by altering the mounting position of the top mounting member (210) with the body frame (102) in the rearward direction.

[0051] In the illustrated configuration, the battery (124) is removably secured to the front frame (126) in a direction that is substantially parallel to one of the steering member (1 12) and the rear suspension member (142). The battery (124) can be secured or removed from the front frame (126) in the rearward and upward direction that is substantially parallel to the steering member (1 12) and the rear suspension member (142). A top surface (232) (shown in Figure 2C) of the battery (124) is faced toward the seat member (130) (see, Figure 1 ) and a bottom surface (234) (shown in Figure 2C) of the battery (124) is faced toward the motor (122). In other words, the battery (124) is disposed on a front side (236) (shown in Figures 2B and 2C) of the rear suspension member (142) and located in between the seat member (130) and the motor (122). The motor (122) is secured tothe front frame (126) and positioned below the battery (124) and in a front direction of the swingarm (136).

[0052] Specifically, the battery (124) is mounted within the front frame (126) obliquely in the rearward and downward direction. The mounting orientation of the battery (124) is identical to the orientation (i.e., obliquely in the rearward and downward direction) of the front frame (126). This mounting orientation of the battery (124) enables a center of gravity (CG) of the vehicle (100) to position towards the rear suspension member (142), which is the desired position of the CG. In other words, the substantially parallel position of the rear suspension member (142) with respect to the steering member (1 12) allows the positioning of the CG nearer the front side (236) of the rear suspension member (142) and the cross member (226) of the swingarm (136) located in the middle portion (120) of the vehicle (100), making the vehicle (100) more compact and to improve the vehicle dynamics and stability.

[0053] As described, the rear suspension member (142) can be easily mounted in between the swingarm (136) and the body frame (102) of the vehicle (100). The top mounting member (210) is removably secured to the body frame (102) through the mounting bracket (214). The bottom mounting member (212) is removably mounted to the swingarm (136) through a suitable mounting arrangement. The bottom mounting member (212) can be mounted to the swingarm (136) using the linkage mechanism (216) or the cross member (226).

[0054] Figure 3 illustrates a side view of the rear suspension member (142) of the vehicle (1 00), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The rear suspension member (142) includes one or more components such as, but not limited to a chamber (302), a piston (not shown in Figure 3), a valve (not shown in Figure 3), seals (not shown in Figure 3), and a coil (304). The piston slides within the chamber (302) during the operation of the rear suspension member (142). The piston exerts pressure on the hydraulic fluid stored within the chamber (302) to slow down the coil (304). The coil (304) is a spring that supports the weight of the vehicle (100) and absorbs an impact of a road, during riding the vehicle (100).

[0055] Referring to Figures 2D and 3, the top mounting member (210) of the rear suspension member (142) is adapted to be secured to the body frame (102). The top mounting member (210) is secured to the body frame (102) through a suspension support member (206). The suspension support member (206) extends upwardly and rearwardly from the front frame (126) and is positioned below the seat member (130) of the vehicle (100). As shown, the suspension support member (206) extends upwardly and rearwardly along a longitudinal axis of the rear suspension member (142) which is positioned substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the steering member (1 12). This arrangement allows the rear suspension member (142) to be mounted in a manner that the bottom mounting member (212) is positioned forward as compared to the top mounting member (210). The positioning of the rear suspension member (142) further helps to create more packaging space in the front frame (126) for mounting one or more components of the vehicle (100) such as the battery (124), motor (122), etc.

[0056] The suspension support member (206) includes a channel section (208), a left arm (238L), and a right arm (238R). The left arm (238L) extends downwardly from a left distal end (239L) of the channel section (208) and the right arm (238R) extends downwardly from a right distal end (239R) of the channel section (208). The channel section (208) of the suspension support member (206) includes a mounting portion (240). The mounting portion (240) is adapted to mount the suspension support member (206) to the rear suspension member (142). The mounting portion (240) includes a mounting member (242) adapted to be mounted to the top mounting member (210) of the rear suspension member (142). A suitable fastener (e.g., nut and bolt) is used to mount the mounting portion (240) to the top mounting member (210).

[0057] The left arm (238L) extends downwardly from the left distal end (239L) of the channel section (208) up to a first predetermined height (H1 ), along the longitudinal axis of the rear suspension member (142). Likewise, the right arm (238R) extends downwardly from the right distal end (239R) of the channel section (208) to a second predetermined height (H2), along the longitudinal axis of the rear suspension member (142). In one embodiment, the left arm (238L) and the right arm (238R) form a unitary structure that covers the rear suspension member (142) from the front side (236), a left side by the first predetermined height (H1 ), and a right side by the second predetermined height (H2). Depending upon the geometrical configuration of the rear suspension member (142), the first predetermined height (H1 ) and the second predetermined height (H2) may be the same or different. In the illustrated configuration, the first predetermined height (H1 ) is the same as that of the second predetermined height (H2). However, in another embodiment, the left arm (238L) and the right arm (238R) are individual members that cover the rear suspension member (142) from the left side by the first predetermined height (H1 ) and the right side by the second predetermined height (H2), in the side view of the vehicle (100).

[0058] This design of the suspension support member (206) allows the rear suspension member (142) to increase an existing length thereof on a top side (i.e. , along the top mounting member (210)). As a result, the stroke length of the rear suspension member (142) increases, and therefore, the increased wheel travel enables a smooth and comfortable ride for the rider and the pillion rider on uneven roads, bumpy roads, etc.

[0059] The left arm (238L) and the right arm (238R) include a connecting portion (244). The connecting portion (244) is adapted to connect the suspension support member (206) to the front frame (126) of the body frame (102). The connecting portion (244) of the left arm (238L) includes a first set of connecting elements (245). The first set of connecting elements (245) is adapted to be connected to a first set of complementary connecting elements (247) of the front frame (126) of the body frame (102). The first set of connecting elements (245) connects to the first set of complementary connecting elements (247) through a first set of fasteners (249) (e.g., screws). In the illustrated configuration, each of the first set of connecting elements (245) and the first set of complementary connecting elements (247) is provided with a thread profile complementary to a thread profile of the first set of fasteners (249) to hold and tighten the left arm (238L) securely. However, in anotherconfiguration, other types of fasteners such as, but not limited to, nuts and bolts, studs, eye bolts, and the like, can also be used to connect the first set of connecting elements (245) of the left arm (238L) to the first set of complementary connecting elements (247) of the front frame (126) of the body frame (102).

[0060] Likewise, the connecting portion (244) of the right arm (238R) includes a second set of connecting elements (251 ). The second set of connecting elements (251 ) is adapted to be connected to a second set of complementary connecting elements (253) of the front frame (126) of the body frame (102). The second set of connecting elements (251 ) connects to the second set of complementary connecting elements (253) through a second set of fasteners (255) (e.g., screws). In the illustrated configuration, each of the second set of connecting elements (251 ) and the second set of complementary connecting elements (253) is provided with a thread profile complementary to the thread profile of the second set of fasteners (255) to hold and tighten the left arm (238L) securely. However, in another configuration, other types of fasteners such as, but not limited to, nuts and bolts, studs, eye bolts, and the like, can also be used to connect the second set of connecting elements (251 ) of the right arm (238R) to the second set of complementary connecting elements (253) of the front frame (126) of the body frame (102).

[0061] In another embodiment, the connecting portion (244) of the left arm (238L) and the right arm (238R) can be connected to the front frame (126) of the body frame (102) through a suitable permanent joining technique (e.g., welding). In a non-limiting example, the connecting portion (244) of the left arm (238L) and the right arm (238R) may be connected to the front frame (126) through a metal inert gas (MIG) welding.

[0062] Herein, the suspension support member (206) is designed in a manner that the mounting portion (240) is positioned above the connecting portion (244) to serve the purpose of connecting the suspension support member (206) to the body frame (102) and mounting the suspension support member (206) to the rear suspension member (142). However, in another configuration, based on feasibility and design requirements, the location of the connecting portion (244) and the mounting portion (240) on the suspension support member (206) can be altered. The shape of the suspension support member (206) is dependent upon the shape of the top mounting member (210) of the rear suspension member (142). In the illustrated configuration, the top mounting member (210) forms a cylindrical shape that is covered from the front side (236) by the channel section (208).

[0063] In the illustrated configuration, the channel section (208), the left arm (238L), and the right arm (238R) collectively formed an inverted U-shaped structure. However, based on the geometrical profile of the top mounting member (210) of the rear suspension member (142), the structural profile of the suspension support member (206) can be varied.

[0064] In the disclosed embodiment, the channel section (208), the left arm (238L), and the right arm (238R) are integrated with each other to form a unitary structure of the suspension support member (206). However, in another embodiment, the channel section (208), the left arm (238L), and the right arm (238R) may not be integrated with each other. The channel section (208), the left arm(238L), and the right arm (238R) may be fabricated separately and then assembled to form the suspension support member (206). In a non-limiting example, the left arm (238L) may be connected to the left distal end (239L) of the channel section (208) and the right arm (238R) may be connected to the right distal end (239R) of the channel section (208) through the MIG welding.

[0065] The suspension support member (206) is made up of a suitable material that is light in weight and possesses at least superior mechanical properties like bending strength, shear strength, tearing strength, elasticity, toughness, etc., In the illustrated example, the material of the suspension support member (206) is a sheet metal that is light in weight and possesses the above- mentioned superior mechanical properties. The suspension support member (206) made up of sheet metal is manufactured using suitable manufacturing processes such as punching, shearing, forming, and the like. These manufacturing processes are cheaper compared to other manufacturing processes, and therefore, the overall manufacturing cost of the suspension support member (206) is reduced. However, in another example, the suspension support member (206) can be made up of a suitable metal (e.g., steel, aluminum, etc.) or non-metal (e.g., polymer) that is light in weight and possesses the above-mentioned superior mechanical properties.

[0066] As described, the suspension support member (206) can be easily connected to the body frame (102) using the connecting portion (244). Herein, the connecting portion (244) is designed to connect the suspension support member (206) to the body frame (102) temporarily (through fasteners) or permanently (through welding). Further, the suspension support member (206) can be easily mounted to the front frame (126) of the body frame (102). The mounting portion (240) includes the mounting member (242) adapted to be mounted to the top mounting member (210) of the rear suspension member (142). A suitable fastener (e.g., nut and bolt) is used to mount the mounting portion (240) to the top mounting member (210). Overall, the suspension support member (206) is adapted to connect the rear suspension member (142) with the body frame (102).

[0067] Various embodiments of the present invention offer multiple advantages and technical effects. Without limiting the scope of the invention, the rear suspension member (142) extends obliquely in the rearward and upward direction from the swingarm (136) to the body frame (102) and is positioned substantially parallel to the steering member (1 12). This mounting arrangement provides additional space within the front frame (126) of the vehicle (100). Therefore, a large-sized battery, more than one battery, etc., can be accommodated within the front frame (126) to achieve a longer operating range for the electric vehicle (100). To get the additional space within the front frame (126), the size of the front frame (126) need not be increased, and therefore, a sleek design of the vehicle (100) is possible. Also, the substantially parallel position of the rear suspension member (142) with respect to the steering member (1 12) allows the positioning of the CG nearer to the front side (236) of the rear suspension member (142) and the cross member (226) located in the middle portion (120) of the vehicle (100). This mounting arrangement of the rear suspension member (142) improves the vehicle dynamics and makes a compact design of the vehicle (100).

[0068] Further, the design of the suspension support member (206) allows the rear suspension member (142) to increase an existing length thereof on a top side (i.e., along the top mounting member (210). As a result, the stroke length of the rear suspension member (142) increases, and therefore, the increased wheel travel enables a smooth and comfortable ride for the rider and the pillion rider on uneven roads, bumpy roads, etc. Additionally, the design of the suspension support member (206) helps in meeting the requirement of a vehicle ground clearance. Specifically, for offroad vehicles, where the requirement of a vehicle ground clearance is more to overcome hurdles, this design of the suspension support member (206) is more advantageous. Further, the suspension support member (206) provides torsional rigidity to the body frame (102).

[0069] While few embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the above embodiments and modifications may be appropriately made thereto within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0070] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the particular features of this invention, it will be appreciated that various modifications can be made and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the invention. These and other modifications in the nature of the invention or the preferred embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the invention herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the invention and not as a limitation.

Claims

Claims

1. A vehicle (100), comprising: a body frame (102) comprising a head tube (110); a front frame (126) extending rearwardly from the head tube (110) to secure one or more components of the vehicle (100); a front ground engaging member (106) and a rear ground engaging member (118); a steering member (112) passing through the head tube (110) to operatively couple the front ground engaging member (106); a swingarm (136) operatively and swingably couples the rear ground engaging member (118) to the body frame (102); a rear suspension member (142) comprising a top mounting member (210) and a bottom mounting member (212), the top mounting member (210) adapted to be secured to the body frame (102) and the bottom mounting member (212) adapted to be secured to the swingarm (136), wherein the bottom mounting member (212) is positioned forwardly with respect to the top mounting member (210) in a side view of the vehicle (100); and a suspension support member (206) comprising a connecting portion (244) adapted to connect the suspension support member (206) to the body frame (102), and a mounting portion (240) adapted to mount the suspension support member (206) to the rear suspension member (142), wherein the mounting portion (240) is positioned above the connecting portion (244).

2. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the one or more components of the vehicle (100) secured to the front frame (126) are a battery (124) of the vehicle (100) and a motor (122) of the vehicle (100).

3. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the battery (124) is disposed towards the rear suspension member (142) to position a center of gravity (CG) of the vehicle (100) towards the rear suspension member (142).

4. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the battery (124) is disposed on a front side (236) of the rear suspension member (142) and located in between a seat member (130) of the vehicle (100) and the motor (122).

5. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the rear suspension member (142) extends obliquely in a rearward and upward direction from the swingarm (136), wherein the rear suspension member (142) is positioned substantially parallel to the steering member (112).

6. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the motor (122) is secured to the front frame (126), and positioned below the battery (124), and in a front direction of the rear suspension member (142).

7. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the battery (124) is secured within the front frame (126) and oriented obliquely in the rearward and downward direction.

8. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the suspension support member (206) comprises a channel section (208), a left arm (238L), and a right arm (238R), the left arm (238L) extending downwardly from a left distal end (239L) of the channel section (208) and the right arm (238R) extending downwardly from a right distal end (239R) of the channel section (208), the channel section (208) adapted to be secured to the rear suspension member (142), and the left arm (238L) and the right arm (238R) adapted to be connected to the body frame (102).

9. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the channel section (208), the left arm (238L), and the right arm (238R) collectively formed an inverted U-shaped structure.

10. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the channel section (208) comprises a mounting member (242) adapted to be secured to a top mounting member (210) of the rear suspension member (142).

11. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the left arm (238L) comprises a first set of connecting elements (245) adapted to be connected to a first set of complementary connecting elements (247) of the body frame (102), and the right arm (238R) comprises a second set of connecting elements (251 ) adapted to be connected to a second set of complementary connecting elements (253) of the body frame (102).

12. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the bottom mounting member (212) is secured to the swingarm (136) through a linkage mechanism (216).

13. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the linkage mechanism (216) comprises: a first link (224) adapted to be pivotally coupled to the body frame (102); and a second link (217) comprising a first end (218), a second end (220), and a third end (222), the first end (218) adapted to be pivotally coupled to the swingarm (136), the second end (220) adapted to be pivotally mounted to the bottom mounting member (212), and the third end (222) adapted to be pivotally coupled to the first link (224).

14. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the bottom mounting member (212) is mounted to a cross member (226) of the swingarm (136).

15. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the battery (124) is removably secured to the front frame (126) in a direction substantially parallel to one of the steering member (112) and the rear suspension member (142).

16. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the suspension support member (206) is made up of sheet metal

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