Support structure of a vehicle

Abstract

The present invention discloses a support structure (112) of a vehicle (100). The support structure (112) includes an intermediate member (216), a plurality of ribs (308), a first wall (302) including at least one first mounting element (312), a second wall (304) including at least one second mounting element (316), a bottom wall (306) including a third mounting element (318) and a fourth mounting element (320), and the top wall (246) connected to the intermediate member (216), and the plurality of ribs (308). The first wall (302), the second wall (304), the top wall (246), the bottom wall (306), and the plurality of ribs (308) form a closed structure thereof. A headlamp (114) of the vehicle (100) is mounted to the at least one first mounting element (312), the at least one second mounting element (316), the third mounting element (318), and the fourth mounting element (320).

Description

DescriptionTitle of Invention: SUPPORT STRUCTURE OF A VEHICLECross-reference to related applications

[0001] This application claims priority from Indian provisional patent application 202311088356, filed on 22 December 2023, and 202311088355 filed on 22 December 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, to a support structure of the vehicle designed to support one or more vehicle components in a front portion of the vehicle.Background

[0003] A front portion of a vehicle is provided with a front support structure to support one or more vehicle components such as a headlamp, a license plate, a speedometer, a left mirror support structure, a right mirror support structure, a visor, etc. The front support structure is also designed to mount a left side cover and a right side cover on its respective left and right sides. Additionally, the front support structure is adapted to surround or locate one or more electrical and electronic components, such as a headlamp, an Electronic Control Unit (ECU), an On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) connector, an Engine Control Module (ECM), a Central Control Module (CCM), a Telematics Control Unit (TCU), a Vehicle Control Unit (VCU), etc.

[0004] The front support structure is mainly designed to withstand a load of one or more of the components mentioned above that are mounted on it. However, in order to support multiple components on the front support structure, a challenge arises where the structure tends to grow in size due to its complexity and increases in weight to ensure the required strength. Further, one or more of the above-mentioned electronic components surrounded by the front support structure generate a significant amount of heat during their operation. However, due to structural requirements, no or limited passage is provided to the front support structure to escape the hot air outside the vehicle. Consequently, the life of one or more above-mentioned electronic components decreases.

[0005] Furthermore, in certain vehicles, the headlamp is mounted significantly away from a head pipe of a vehicle body frame in a frontward direction. Such a mounting position of the headlamp forms an overhang with respect to the head pipe, thereby making the design of the front support structure complicated. The overhang of the headlamp significantly increases stresses in the head pipe such as bending stress, shear stress, etc. For large-size headlamps, the stress generation is more severe. Therefore, installation of the large-size headlamp is more challenging in the design where the headlamp is mounted significantly away from the head pipe in a frontward direction. Further, in thecase of supporting such a large headlamp away from the head pipe, the front support structure has to be more rigid. Therefore, the front support structure member in certain vehicles is made of a plurality of metal pipe-shaped members. However, such provision increases the weight, cost, and the number of manufacturing stages required.SUMMARY

[0006] 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.

[0007] 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 support structure, and a headlamp. The support structure is mounted forwardly to a head tube of the body frame. The support structure includes an intermediate member, a plurality of ribs, a first wall, a second wall, a bottom wall, and a top wall. The intermediate member is connected to a head tube of the body frame and extended along a vehicle length direction. The plurality of ribs extends along the vehicle length direction. The first wall includes at least one first mounting element connecting to the intermediate member through at least one first rib of the plurality of ribs. The second wall includes at least one second mounting element connecting to the intermediate member through at least one second rib of the plurality of ribs. The bottom wall connects the first wall with the second wall. The bottom wall includes a third mounting element and a fourth mounting element. The third mounting element is connected to the at least one first mounting element and the intermediate member through a third set of ribs of the plurality of ribs. The fourth mounting element is connected to the at least one second mounting element and the intermediate memberthrough a fourth set of ribs of the plurality of ribs. The top wall is connected to the intermediate member through a fifth set of ribs of the plurality of ribs and adapted to connect the first wall with the second wall. The first wall, the second wall, the top wall, the bottom wall, the at least one first rib, the at least one second rib, the third set of ribs, the fourth set of ribs, and the fifth set of ribs form a plurality of through channels therebetween along the vehicle length direction. Additionally, the first wall, the second wall, the top wall, the bottom wall, and the plurality of ribs form a closed structure thereof. The headlamp includes complementary mounting elements adapted to be mounted to the at least one first mounting element, the at least one second mounting element, the third mounting element, and the fourth mounting element.

[0008] In an aspect, the support structure includes a mounting plate, a protruding wall, a first extension, and a second extension. The mounting plate extends forwardly and upwardly from the top wall. The protruding wall extends forwardly and downwardly from a distal end of the mounting plate. The first extension extends outwardly from the first wall along a vehicle width direction. Additionally, the second extension extends outwardly from the second wall along the vehicle width direction.

[0009] In an aspect, the first extension is removably coupled to the first wall and the second extension is removably coupled to the second wall.

[0010] In an aspect, the vehicle further includes one or more electrical components, a speedometer, a first mirror support, a second mirror support, a license plate, a connecting plate, a visor, and a front body cover. The one or more electrical components supported onto the support structure. The speedometer is supported onto the mounting plate. The first mirror support is secured to a left securing element of the first extension, and the second mirror support is secured to a right securing element of the second extension. The connecting plate is secured to the first extension and the second extension. The connecting plate is adapted to mount the license plate. The visor is adapted to be supported onto the protruding wall. The front body cover is mounted to the left securing element and the right securing element. The front body cover is adapted to be positioned below the visor at least to form a space therebetween to pass through air.

[0011] In an aspect, the one or more electric components are at least one of an Electronic Control Unit, an On-Board Diagnostics connector, an Engine Control Module, a Central Control Module, a Telematics Control Unit, and a Vehicle Control Unit.

[0012] In an aspect, the support structure includes a first receiving element, a second receiving element, a third receiving element, and a fourth receiving element. The first receiving element extends outwardly from the at least one first mounting element and the second receiving element extends outwardly from the third mounting element. The first receiving element and the second receiving element are adapted to mount a first side cover of the vehicle. Further, the third receiving element extends outwardly from the at least one second mounting element and the fourth receiving element extends outwardly from the fourth mounting element. The third receiving element and the fourth receiving element are adapted to mount a second side cover of the vehicle.

[0013] In an aspect, the first wall is connected to a first side of the intermediate member via the at least one first rib. The second wall is connected to a second side of the intermediate member via the at least one second rib. The bottom wall is connected to a bottom side of the intermediate member via the third set of ribs and the fourth set of ribs. The top wall is connected to an upper side of the intermediate member via the fifth set of ribs. The intermediate member, the first wall, the second wall, the top wall, the bottom wall, and the plurality of ribs are integrated to form a unitary structure.

[0014] In an aspect, the first wall, the first side, and the at least one left rib collectively form left-through channels of the plurality of through channels to pass the air therethrough along the vehicle length direction. Additionally, the second wall, the second side, and the at least one right rib collectively form right-through channels of the plurality of through channels to pass the air therethrough along the vehicle length direction. Further, the bottom wall, the bottom side, the third set of ribs, and the fourth set of ribs collectively form bottom-through channels of the plurality of through channels to pass the air therethrough along the vehicle length direction. Furthermore, the top wall, the upper side, and the fifth set of ribs collectively form upper-through channels of the plurality of through channels to the pass the air therethrough along the vehicle length direction.

[0015] In an aspect, the support structure is, a single-piece structure, made up of one of nylon and resin.

[0016] In an aspect, the at least one first mounting element, the at least one second mounting element, the third mounting element, and the fourth mounting element form cylindrically shaped structures.

[0017] In an aspect, the intermediate member has one of a rectangular cross-section, square crosssection, and inverted U-shaped cross-section.

[0018] In an aspect, the headlamp is configured with a size greaterthan a size of the support structure in a vehicle width direction.

[0019] In another aspect, a support structure of a vehicle is disclosed. The support structure includes an intermediate member, a plurality of ribs, a first wall, a second wall, a bottom wall, and a top wall. The intermediate member is extended along a vehicle length direction and adapted to be connected to the vehicle. The plurality of ribs extends along the vehicle length direction. The first wall includes at least one first mounting element connecting to the intermediate memberthrough at least one first rib of the plurality of ribs. The second wall includes at least one second mounting element connecting to the intermediate member through at least one second rib of the plurality of ribs. The bottom wall connects the first wall with the second wall. The bottom wall includes a third mounting element and a fourth mounting element. The third mounting element is connected to the at least one first mounting element and the intermediate member through a third set of ribs of the plurality of ribs. The fourth mounting element is connected to the at least one second mounting element and the intermediate memberthrough a fourth set of ribs of the plurality of ribs. The top wall is connected to the intermediate member through a fifth set of ribs of the plurality of ribs and adapted to connect the first wall with the second wall. The first wall, the second wall, the top wall, the bottom wall, the at least one first rib, the at least one second rib, the third set of ribs, the fourth set of ribs, and the fifth set of ribs form a plurality of through channels therebetween along the vehicle length direction. Additionally, the first wall, the second wall, the top wall, the bottom wall, and the plurality of ribs form a closed structure thereof. The headlamp includes complementary mounting elements adapted to be mounted to the at least one first mounting element, the at least one second mounting element, the third mounting element, and the fourth mounting element.

[0020] Various embodiments of the present invention offer multiple advantages and technical effects. Without limiting the scope of the invention, the support structure is designed to mount the headlamp, the speedometer, the left side cover, the right side cover, the license plate, the visor, the front body cover, the first mirror support, and the second mirror support. Each of the left-through channels, the right-through channels, and the bottom-through channels of the plurality of through channels are adapted to pass air therethrough along the length direction at least to reduce an air drag generated during the movement of the vehicle. Consequently, while riding the vehicle, the air strikes a front part of the support structure and passes through the plurality of ribs, along the vehicle length direction, which reduces the drag force of the vehicle. Further, the plurality of through channels provides passage for hot air that receives heat from one or more electrical and electroniccomponents (e.g., a headlamp, an Electronic Control Unit (ECU), an On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) connector, an Engine Control Module (ECM), etc.) surrounded by the support structure. Consequently, the functionality and operating life of one or more above-mentioned electronic components improves significantly. Further, the first wall, the second wall, the bottom wall, the plurality of ribs, and the intermediate member form a closed structure thereof. The closed structure is compact in design which reduces the overall weight of the support structure. The decrease in the weight of the support structure led to a decrease in the material cost, the overall weight of the vehicle, and the packaging constraints of the front portion of the vehicle. Furthermore, the design of the support structure enhances the aesthetic appearance of the front portion of the vehicle.

[0021] 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

[0022] 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:

[0023] Figure 1A illustrates a side view of a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 1 B illustrates a top view of a part of a front portion of the vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 1C illustrates a front view of a part of the front portion of the vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 2A illustrates a perspective view of an assembly of a body frame, a support structure, a left side cover, a right side cover, and a headlamp of the vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 2B illustrates an exploded perspective view of the assembly of the body frame, the support structure, the left side cover, the right side cover, and the headlamp of the vehicle of Figure 2A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 3A illustrates a left rear perspective view of the support structure, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 3B illustrates a right rear perspective view of the support structure, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 3C illustrates a rear view of the support structure of Figure 3A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 3D illustrates a front view of the support structure of Figure 3A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and

[0032] Figure 3E illustrates a top view of the support structure of Figure 3A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] 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

[0034] 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 particularforms disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is to coverall modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and the scope of the invention.

[0035] 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.

[0036] Fora 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.

[0037] While the present invention is illustrated in the context of a two-wheeled or saddle-riding type vehicle, an apparatus and aspects and features thereof can be used with othertypes 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.

[0038] The terms “front I forward”, “rear / rearward / back I backward”, “up I upper / top / upward”, “down I lower I lowerward I downward”, “left I leftward”, “right / 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.

[0039] The term “left side” used therein represents a left side of the vehicle as seen from a rider seated astride to drive the vehicle.

[0040] The term “right side” used therein represents a right side of the vehicle as seen from the rider seated astride to drive the vehicle.

[0041] Figure 1A illustrates a side view of a vehicle (100), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 B illustrates a top view of a part of a front portion (108) of the vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1C illustrates a front view of a part of the front portion (108) of the vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle (100) referred to herein, embodies a two-wheeled fairing motorcycle. Alternatively, the vehicle (100) may embody any other ridden fairing vehicles such as scooters, three-wheeled vehicles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), etc. without limiting the scope of the invention.

[0042] Referring to Figure 1A, 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). The steering assembly (104) is pivotally mounted on the body frame (102). The front ground engaging member (106) is operatively coupled to the steering assembly (104) of the body frame (102). The steering assembly (104) includes a handlebar (110). The handlebar (110) is configured to be rotated by a rider to steer the vehicle (100).

[0043] Referring to Figures 1 B and 1C, a support structure (112) is mounted to the body frame (102) in the front portion (108) of the vehicle (100). The support structure (112) is adapted to mount at least a headlamp (114), a first side cover (116), a second side cover (118), a first mirror support (120L), a second mirror support (120R), a speedometer (122), a license plate (123), a visor (125), and a front body cover (127) (shown in Figure 1C). The front portion (108) of the vehicle (100) may also include front fenders, a dash assembly, indicator lights, etc., without limiting the scope of the invention.

[0044] Referring now to Figure 1A, the vehicle (100) includes a power unit (124) and a rear ground engaging member (126). In an illustrated example, the power unit (124) provides the necessary power required to drive the rear ground engaging member (126) of the vehicle (100). Alternatively, the power unit (124) may provide the necessary power to drive the front ground engaging member (106), or both the front ground engaging member (106) and the rear ground engaging member (126) simultaneously, without limiting the scope of the invention.

[0045] The body frame (102) supports the power unit (124) in a middle portion (128) of the vehicle (100). The power unit (124) includes an engine (130) and a transmission unit (not shown in Figures 1A, 1 B, and 1C). The engine (130) is mounted to the body frame (102) and configured to generate the power required by the vehicle (100). The transmission unit transmits the generated power to the rear ground engaging member (126). The engine (130) is connected to an exhaust system (132). The exhaust system (132) is positioned along a vehicle length direction (133).

[0046] The vehicle (100) includes a fuel tank (134) and a seat member (136). The fuel tank (134) is configured to store the fuel required by the engine (130) to power the vehicle (100). The fuel tank (134) extends from the front portion (108) to the middle portion (128) of the body frame (102). Further, the body frame (102) supports the seat member (136) which extends from the middle portion (128) to a rear portion (138) of the vehicle (100). The rear ground engaging member (126)is supported by the body frame (102) at the rear portion (138) of the vehicle (100). The fuel tank (134) provides the necessary fuel to the engine (130) to generate power within the vehicle (100). The seat member (136) provides seating for the rider and a passenger of the vehicle (100). Further, the seat member (136) includes a rider’s seat (140), and a passenger seat (142). The rider’s seat (140) provides seating for the rider, and the passenger seat (142) provides seating for the passenger of the vehicle (100).

[0047] 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.

[0048] Figure 2A illustrates a perspective view of an assembly (200) of the body frame (102), the support structure (112), the first side cover (116), the second side cover (118), and the headlamp (114) of the vehicle (100), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2B illustrates an exploded perspective view of the assembly (200) of the body frame (102), the support structure (112), the first side cover (116), the second side cover (118), and the headlamp (114) of the vehicle (100) of Figure 2A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] The body frame (102) includes a head tube (202), a left centre frame member (204L), and a right centre frame member (204R). The head tube (202) is designed to pass through a steering member of the steering assembly (104). The left centre frame member (204L) extends obliquely in a rearward and downward direction from a rear surface (206R) of an upper portion (208U) (shown in Figure 2A) of the head tube (202) to a left pivot plate (210L) of the body frame (102). Likewise, the right centre frame member (204R) extends obliquely in the rearward and downward direction from the rear surface (206R) of the upper portion (208U) of the head tube (202) to a right pivot plate (21 OR) of the body frame (102). The left centre frame member (204L) and the right centre frame member (204R) are designed at least to mount the fuel tank (134). The body frame (102) also includes a left down frame member (212L) and a right down frame member (212R). Each of the left down frame member (212L) and the right down frame member (212R) extends obliquely in the rearward and downward direction from the rear surface (206R) of a lower portion (208L) (shown in Figure 2A) of the head tube (202) to the left pivot plate (210L) and the right pivot plate (210R), respectively. The left down frame member (212L) and the right down frame member (212R) are designed to provide support to the power unit (124).

[0050] It may be noted that the body frame (102) is shown to have included the above-stated parts, however, those skilled in the art would appreciate that the body frame (102) includes other parts which may not be relevant for explaining the present invention and hence are not shown and described. Also, it should be noted that the design of the body frame (102) is not limited to the design disclosed herein. In other embodiments of the invention, the design of the body frame (102) can be varied.

[0051] A front surface (206F) of a centre portion (208C) (shown in Figure 2A) of the head tube (202) is adapted to form a connection with the support structure (112). In the illustrated configuration, thesupport structure (112) is mounted forward to the head tube (202). The front surface (206F) of the head tube (202) includes a connecting bracket (214). The connecting bracket (214) is adapted to form a connection with an intermediate member (216) of the support structure (112). The intermediate member (216) extends between the headlamp (114) and the front surface (206F) of the head tube (202), along the vehicle length direction (133). Specifically, a front side (218F) (shown in Figure 2B) of the intermediate member (216) faces toward the headlamp (114), whereas a rear side (218R) (shown in Figure 2B) of the intermediate member (216) faces toward the connecting bracket (214) is mounted to the front surface (206F) of the head tube (202).

[0052] The connecting bracket (214) extends in a forward direction from the front surface (206F) of the centre portion (208C) of the head tube (202) up to a predetermined length. The connecting bracket (214) can form a temporary or permanent connection with the front surface (206F) of the head tube (202). In the illustrated configuration, the connecting bracket (214) is temporarily mounted to the front surface (206F) of the head tube (202) through a suitable fastener (e.g., nut and bolt, screw, etc.). However, in another configuration, the connecting bracket (214) can be permanently mounted to the front surface (206F) of the head tube (202) through a suitable permanent joining technique (e.g., welding).

[0053] Further, the intermediate member (216) can be temporarily or permanently connected to the connecting bracket (214) of the head tube (202). In the illustrated configuration, the intermediate member (216) is temporarily connected to the connecting bracket (214). The intermediate member (216) includes a set of connecting elements (220) (shown in Figure 2B). The set of connecting elements (220) is adapted to be connected to a set of complementary connecting elements (222) (shown in Figure 2B) of the connecting bracket (214) of the head tube (202) through a set of fastening elements (224) (shown in Figure 2B). In the illustrated configuration, the set of connecting elements (220) and the set of complementary connecting elements (222) are provided with threaded holes of a predetermined diameter, designed to pass through screws having a thread profile complementary to a thread profile of the threaded holes. This configuration of the screws connects the support structure (112) to the connecting bracket (214) of the head tube (202) in a secure manner. It should be noted that the set of fastening elements (224) used herein are not limited to the screws, and othertypes of fasteners, such as, but not limited to, nuts and bolts, studs, eye bolts, and the like can also be used for fastening the support structure (112) to the connecting bracket (214) of the head tube (202) in a secure manner.

[0054] Figure 3A illustrates a left rear perspective view of the support structure (112), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3B illustrates a right rear perspective view of the support structure (112), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3C illustrates a rear view of the support structure (112) of Figure 3A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3D illustrates a front view of the support structure (112) of Figure 3A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3E illustrates a top view of the support structure (112) of Figure 3A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] The support structure (112) includes a first wall (302), a second wall (304), a top wall (246), and a bottom wall (306). The first wall (302), the second wall (304), the top wall (246), and the bottom wall (306) are connected to the intermediate member (216) through a plurality of ribs (308) extending along the vehicle length direction (133). Specifically, the first wall (302) is connected to a first side (310L) of the intermediate member (216), the second wall (304) is connected to a second side (31 OR) of the intermediate member (216), the top wall (246) is connected to an upper side (310U) of the intermediate member (216), and the bottom wall (306) is connected to a bottom side (310B) of the intermediate member (216). In this regard, the intermediate member (216) is designed to form a shape of a rectangular cross-section. However, based on feasibility and design requirements, the intermediate member (216) can form the shape of other cross-sections, such as but not limited to a square cross-section, an inverted U-shaped cross-section, a hexagonal crosssection, and the like.

[0056] The first wall (302) of the support structure (112) is formed with at least one first mounting element (312) (also referred to as “first mounting element (312)”). As shown in Figure 3A, the first mounting element (312) has a hollow cylindrically shaped structure which extends along the vehicle length direction (133). The cylindrically shaped structure provides additional strength to the first mounting element (312) to hold the headlamp (114) far away from the head tube (202) of the body frame (102). An outer circumferential surface of the first mounting element (312) is connected to the first side (310L) of the intermediate member (216) through at least one first rib (314L) of the plurality of ribs (308).

[0057] The second wall (304) of the support structure (112) is formed with at least one second mounting element (316) (also referred to as “second mounting element (316)”). As shown in Figure 3B, the second mounting element (316) has a hollow cylindrically shaped structure which extends along the vehicle length direction (133). The cylindrically shaped structure provides additional strength to the second mounting element (316) to hold the headlamp (114) far away from the head tube (202) of the body frame (102). An outer circumferential surface of the second mounting element (316) is connected to the second side (310R) of the intermediate member (216) through at least one second rib (314R) of the plurality of ribs (308).

[0058] The bottom wall (306) connects the first wall (302) with the second wall (304). In other words, the bottom wall (306) is positioned between the first wall (302) and the second wall (304). The bottom wall (306) is formed with a third mounting element (318) and a fourth mounting element (320). As shown, the third mounting element (318) is located at a left end of the bottom wall (306) and the fourth mounting element (320) is located at a right end of the bottom wall (306).

[0059] In the depicted configuration, the third mounting element (318) has a hollow cylindrically shaped structure which extends along the vehicle length direction (133). The cylindrically shaped structure provides additional strength to the third mounting element (318) to hold the headlamp (114) far away from the head tube (202) of the body frame (102). An outer circumferential surface of the third mounting element (318) is connected to the first mounting element (312) and the bottom side (310B)of the intermediate member (216) through a third set of ribs (322L) (shown in Figures 3A, 3C, and 3D) of the plurality of ribs (308).

[0060] Likewise, in the depicted configuration, the fourth mounting element (320) has a hollow cylindrically shaped structure which extends along the vehicle length direction (133). The cylindrically shaped structure provides additional strength to the fourth mounting element (320) to hold the headlamp (114) far away from the head tube (202) of the body frame (102). An outer circumferential surface of the fourth mounting element (320) is connected to the third mounting element (318), the second mounting element (316), and the intermediate member (216) through a fourth set of ribs (322R) of the plurality of ribs (308).

[0061] The top wall (246) connects the first wall (302) with the second wall (304). In other words, the top wall (246) is positioned between the first wall (302) and the second wall (304). The top wall (246) is connected to the intermediate member (216) through a fifth set of ribs (323) of the plurality of ribs (308). More specifically, the top wall (246) is connected to the upper side (310U) of the intermediate member (216) through the fifth set of ribs (323).

[0062] Referring to Figures 2B, 3A to 3E, the headlamp (114) is mounted to the support structure (112). The headlamp (114) includes complementary mounting elements (226) (shown in Figure 2B) adapted to be mounted to the at least one first mounting element (312), the at least one second mounting element (316), the third mounting element (318), and the fourth mounting element (320). In the illustrated embodiment, the complementary mounting elements (226) of the headlamp (114) are protruded elements designed to be secured within the at least one first mounting element (312), the at least one second mounting element (316), the third mounting element (318), and the fourth mounting element (320). The complementary mounting elements (226) form a cylindrical shape having a length and diameter approximately equal to a length and inner diameter of the at least one first mounting element (312), the at least one second mounting element (316), the third mounting element (318), and the fourth mounting element (320). In an embodiment, the headlamp (114) has a size greater than a size of the support structure (112) in a vehicle width direction (258), thereby covering the support structure (112) from the front direction. Such an arrangement improves the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle (100).

[0063] In a non-limiting example, an interference fit is formed between the complementary mounting elements (226) and the at least one first mounting element (312), the at least one second mounting element (316), the third mounting element (318), and the fourth mounting element (320). The interference fit avoids looseness and creates a press fit that is held together by friction. Instead of a cylindrical shape, the complementary mounting elements (226) of the headlamp (114) can have other profiles, such as square, rectangular, etc., and accordingly, the shape of the at least one first mounting element (312), the at least one second mounting element (316), the third mounting element (318), and the fourth mounting element (320) will be varied.

[0064] It should be noted that the geometrical characteristics (i.e., length, inner diameter, outer diameter, and thickness) and mounting arrangement of the at least one first mounting element (312),the at least one second mounting element (316), the third mounting element (318), and the fourth mounting element (320) are dependent upon the geometrical configuration, weight, and mounting arrangement of the headlamp (114). Based on the geometrical configuration ofthe headlamp (114), the geometrical design of the support structure (112) shall be changed accordingly.

[0065] In the illustrated embodiment, the first wall (302), the second wall (304), the top wall (246), and the bottom wall (306) also act as ribs. The first wall (302), the second wall (304), the top wall (246), the bottom wall (306), the at least one first rib (314L), the at least one second rib (314R), the third set of ribs (322L), the fourth set of ribs (322R), and the fifth set of ribs (323) form a plurality of through channels (324) therebetween along the vehicle length direction (133).

[0066] Specifically, the first wall (302), the first side (310L) of the intermediate member (216), and the at least one first rib (314L) collectively form left-through channels (326L) of the plurality of through channels (324). The second wall (304), the second side (31 OR) of the intermediate member (216), and the at least one second rib (314R) collectively form right-through channels (326R) of the plurality of through channels (324). The bottom wall (306), the bottom side (310B) of the intermediate member (216), the third set of ribs (322L), and the fourth set of ribs (322R) collectively form bottom-through channels (326B) of the plurality of through channels (324). Also, the top wall (246), the upper side (310U), and the fifth set of ribs (323) collectively form upper-through channels (326U) ofthe plurality of through channels (324). Each ofthe left-through channels (326L), the right- through channels (326R), the upper-through channels (326U), and the bottom-through channels (326B) of the plurality of through channels (324) are adapted to pass air therethrough along the vehicle length direction (133) at least to reduce an air drag generated during the movement of the vehicle (100). Consequently, while riding the vehicle (100), the air strikes a front part of the support structure (112) is passed through the plurality of ribs (308), along the vehicle length direction (133), which reduces the drag force of the vehicle (100).

[0067] Further, one or more electrical components of the vehicle (100), such as but not limited to, an Electronic Control Unit (ECU), an On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) connector, an Engine Control Module (ECM), a Central Control Module (CCM), a Telematics Control Unit (TCU), and a Vehicle Control Unit (VCU) are supported on the support structure (112). These electrical components are adapted to control the operations of a plurality of components (e.g., braking system, fuel ignition system, etc.) electrically or electronically. During the running of the vehicle (100), these electrical components generate a significant amount of heat. The plurality of through channels (324) provides passage for hot air that receives heat from the abovementioned one or more electrical components supported by the support structure (112). Consequently, the functionality and operating life of one or more above-mentioned electrical components improves significantly. The support structure (112) forms a compact design which reduces the overall weight thereof. The decrease in the weight of the support structure (112) led to a decrease in the material cost, the overall weight of the vehicle (100), and the packaging constraints of the front portion (108) of the vehicle (100).

[0068] In a specific embodiment, the first wall (302), the second wall (304), the top wall (246), the bottom wall (306), the plurality of ribs (308), and the intermediate member (216) form a closed structure thereof. The closed structure is compact in design which reduces the overall weight of the support structure (112). The decrease in the weight of the support structure (112) led to a decrease in the material cost, the overall weight of the vehicle (100), and the packaging constraints of the front portion (108) of the vehicle (100).

[0069] The support structure (112) is also designed to mount the first side cover (116) and the second side cover (118). The first side cover (116) is mounted to a first receiving element (228) and a second receiving element (230) of the support structure (1 12). The first receiving element (228) extends outwardly from the at least one first mounting element (312) and the second receiving element (230) extends outwardly from the third mounting element (318). In the illustrated configuration, the first receiving element (228) is integrated into the outer circumferential surface of the at least one first mounting element (312). Similarly, the second receiving element (230) is integrated into the outer circumferential surface of the third mounting element (318). Each of the first receiving element (228) and the second receiving element (230) forms a shape of a hollow cylinder of a predetermined size (i.e., predetermined inner diameter, outer diameter, and length), designed to form a connection with left complementary receiving elements (232) (shown in Figure 2B) of the first side cover (116). The left complementary receiving elements (232) are mounted to the first receiving element (228) and the second receiving element (230) through left fasteners (234) (shown in Figure 2B). In the illustrated configuration, the left fasteners are screws. The thread profile provided on the inner surface of the hollow cylinder forms complementary to the thread profile of the screws. It should be noted that the left fasteners (234) used herein is not limited to the screws, and the other types of fasteners such as, but not limited to, nut and bolt, stud, eye bolt, and the like, can also be used.

[0070] The second side cover (118) is mounted to a third receiving element (236) and a fourth receiving element (238) of the support structure (112). The third receiving element (236) extends outwardly from the at least one second mounting element (316) and the fourth receiving element (238) extends outwardly from the fourth mounting element (320). In the illustrated configuration, the third receiving element (236) is integrated into the outer circumferential surface of the at least one second mounting element (316). Similarly, the fourth receiving element (238) is integrated into the outer circumferential surface of the fourth mounting element (320). Each of the third receiving element (236) and the fourth receiving element (238) forms the shape of a hollow cylinder of a predetermined size (i.e., predetermined innerdiameter, outerdiameter, and length), designed to form a connection with right complementary receiving elements (240) (shown in Figure 2B) of the second side cover (1 18).

[0071] The right complementary receiving elements (240) are mounted to the third receiving element (236) and the fourth receiving element (238) through right fasteners (242) (shown in Figure 2B). In the illustrated configuration, the right fasteners are screws. The thread profile provided on the innersurface of the hollow cylinder forms complementary to the thread profile of the screws. It should be noted that the right fasteners (242) used herein are not limited to the screws, and the other types of fasteners such as, but not limited to, nut and bolt, stud, eye bolt, and the like, can also be used.

[0072] Referring now to Figures 2B, 3A, and 3B, the support structure (112) also includes a mounting plate (244). The mounting plate (244) extends obliquely in a forward and upward direction from the top wall (246). The top wall (246) has a top surface (248) (shown in Figure 3B). The mounting plate (244) is adapted to mount the speedometer (122). Geometrical characteristics (e.g., length, width, etc.) of the mounting plate (244) are dependent upon the geometrical characteristics of the speedometer (122). A predetermined angular orientation of the mounting plate (244) with respect to the top wall (246) and the top surface (248) provides ease in visualizing the speedometer (122) for the rider while riding the vehicle (100). Also, the predetermined angular orientation of the mounting plate (244) with respect to the top wall (246) and the top surface (248) prevents the mounting plate (244) from bending, deflection, shear, etc. The mounting plate (244) includes securing members (250). The securing members (250) are adapted to secure complementary securing members (252) (shown in Figure 2B) of the speedometer (122). In the illustrated configuration, the complementary securing members (252) of the speedometer (122) are protruded elements, and the securing members (250) of the mounting plate (244) are holes adapted to receive the protruded elements in a secured manner. However, in another configuration, other types of securing members (250) and the complementary securing members (252) can also be used to mount the speedometer (122) to the mounting plate (244) of the support structure (112).

[0073] Further, the support structure (112) includes a first extension (254) and a second extension (256). The first extension (254) extends outwardly from the first wall (302). Specifically, the first extension (254) extends outwardly from the first wall (302), along a vehicle width direction (258) (shown in Figure 2B) of the vehicle (100). In an embodiment, the first extension (254) is removably coupled to the first wall (302). In a non-limiting example, the first extension (254) is coupled to the first wall (302) through a snap-fit arrangement. The snap-fit arrangement eases the engagement and disengagement of the first extension (254) with the first wall (302). An end portion (260) of the first extension (254) is provided with a left securing element (262). The left securing element (262) is adapted to secure the first mirror support (120L). In the illustrated configuration, the left securing element (262) is a hole having a diameter approximately equal to the diameter of the first mirror support (120L) and a thread profile complementary to a thread profile of the first mirror support (120L), thereby securing the first mirror support (120L) to the left securing element (262) in a tight manner.

[0074] Likewise, the second extension (256) extends outwardly from the second wall (304). Specifically, the second extension (256) extends outwardly from the second wall (304), along the vehicle width direction (258). In an embodiment, the second extension (256) is removably coupled to the second wall (304). In a non-limiting example, the second extension (256) is coupled to the second wall (304) through a snap-fit arrangement. The snap-fit arrangement eases the engagementand disengagement of the second extension (256) with the second wall (304). An end portion (264) of the second extension (256) is provided with a right securing element (266). The right securing element (266) is adapted to secure the second mirror support (120R). In the illustrated configuration, the right securing element (266) is a hole having a diameter approximately equal to the diameter of the second mirror support (120R) and a thread profile complementary to a thread profile of the second mirror support (120R), thereby securing the second mirror support (120R) to the right securing element (266) in a tight manner.

[0075] Furthermore, a connecting plate (268) is secured to the first extension (254) with the second extension (256) on the front side of the support structure (112). Specifically, the connecting plate (268) is secured to the left securing element (262) of the first extension (254) and the right securing element (266) of the second extension (256). The connecting plate (268) is designed to mount the license plate (123). In a non-limiting example, the license plate (123) is mounted to the connecting plate (268) using suitable fastening elements (e.g., nuts and bolts).

[0076] Referring now to Figures 1 C, 2B, 3A, and 3B, the front body cover (127) is positioned below the visor (125) and mounted to the left securing element (262) of the first extension (254) and the right securing element (266) of the second extension (256). The front body cover (127) is mounted to the left securing element (262) in a manner that is sandwiched between the first mirror support (120L) and the connecting plate (268). Likewise, the front body cover (127) is mounted to the right securing element (266) in a manner that is sandwiched between the second mirror support (120R) and the connecting plate (268). The front body cover (127) is adapted to position below the visor (125) at least to form a space (111) (shown in Figure 1 C) therebetween to pass through the air via the plurality of through channels (324).

[0077] A protruding wall (270) of the support structure (1 12) extends obliquely in a rearward and upward direction from a distal end (272) of the mounting plate (244) up to a predetermined length. In an embodiment, the protruding wall (270) is adapted to provide support to the visor (125). In a non-limiting example, the visor (125) is mounted to the protruding wall (270) using suitable fastening elements (e.g., nuts and bolts). In an embodiment, the visor (125) is made up of a transparent material (e.g., polycarbonate). When viewed from the front side of the vehicle (100), a top part of the support structure (112) is visible through the visor (125) made up of transparent material. This enhances the aesthetic appearance of the front portion (108) of the vehicle (100).

[0078] It may be noted that the support structure (112) is shown to have included the above-stated parts, however, the support structure (1 12) may include other parts that may not be relevant for explaining the present invention and hence are not shown and described. Also, it should be noted that the design of the support structure (112) is not limited to the design disclosed herein. In other embodiments of the invention, the design of the support structure (112) can be varied.

[0079] In the disclosed embodiment, the intermediate member (216), the first wall (302), the second wall (304), the top wall (246), the bottom wall (306), and the plurality of ribs (308) are integrated with each other to form a unitary structure of the support structure (112). However, in anotherembodiment, the intermediate member (216), the first wall (302), the second wall (304), the bottom wall (306), and the plurality of ribs (308) may not be integrated with each other. The intermediate member (216), the first wall (302), the second wall (304), the bottom wall (306), and the plurality of ribs (308) may be fabricated separately and then assembled to form the support structure (112). In a non-limiting example, the intermediate member (216), the first wall (302), the second wall (304), the bottom wall (306), and the plurality of ribs (308) may be connected to each other through a suitable joining technique such as gluing, welding, etc.

[0080] The support structure (112) disclosed herein is a single-piece structure that is made up of a suitable material that is light in weight, possesses at least superior mechanical properties like bending strength, shear strength, compressive strength, elasticity, toughness, etc., and is able to withstand an external load of the vehicle components such as the headlamp (114), the first side cover (116), the second side cover (118), and the like. In the illustrated example, the material of the support structure (112) is nylon which is light in weight, possesses the above-mentioned superior mechanical properties, and is able to withstand the external load of the vehicle components mentioned above. The support structure (112) made up of sheet metal is manufactured using a suitable manufacturing process such as injection molding. However, in another embodiment, the support structure (112) can be made up of one of resin, aluminium, sheet metal, and metal alloy that is light in weight and possesses the above-mentioned superior mechanical properties.

[0081] The disclosed support structure (112) is mounted forward to the head tube (202) of the body frame (102). The intermediate member (216) of the support structure (112) is connected to the connecting bracket (214) of the head tube (202) through the set of fastening elements (224). Further, the support structure (112) is provided with the at least one first mounting element (312), the at least one second mounting element (316), the third mounting element (318), and the fourth mounting element (320) for mounting the headlamp (114). Furthermore, the support structure (112) is also designed to mount the first side cover (116) and the second side cover (118). The first side cover (116) is mounted to a first receiving element (228) and a second receiving element (230) of the support structure (112) through the left fasteners (234). Similarly, the second side cover (1 18) is mounted to a third receiving element (236) and a fourth receiving element (238) of the support structure (112) through the right fasteners (242).

[0082] 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.

[0083] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the particular features ofthis 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 theforegoing 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 (202); a support structure (112) mounted forwardly to the head tube (202), the support structure (112) comprising: an intermediate member (216) connecting to the head tube (202) and extending along a vehicle length direction (133); a plurality of ribs (308) extending along the vehicle length direction (133); a first wall (302) comprising at least one first mounting element (312) connecting to the intermediate member (216) through at least one first rib (314L) of the plurality of ribs (308); a second wall (304) comprising at least one second mounting element (316) connecting to the intermediate member (216) through at least one second rib (314R) of the plurality of ribs (308); a bottom wall (306) connecting the first wall (302) with the second wall (304), the bottom wall (306) comprising: a third mounting element (318) connected to the at least one first mounting element (312) and the intermediate member (216) through a third set of ribs (322L) of the plurality of ribs (308); and a fourth mounting element (320) connected to the at least one second mounting element (316) and the intermediate member (216) through a fourth set of ribs (322R) of the plurality of ribs (308); a top wall (246) connected to the intermediate member (216) through a fifth set of ribs (323) of the plurality of ribs (308) and adapted to connect the first wall (302) with the second wall (304), wherein the first wall (302), the second wall (304), the top wall (246), the bottom wall (306), the at least one first rib (314L), the at least one second rib (314R), the third set of ribs (322L), the fourth set of ribs (322R), andthe fifth set of ribs (323) form a plurality of through channels (324) therebetween along the vehicle length direction (133), and wherein the first wall (302), the second wall (304), the top wall (246), the bottom wall (306), and the plurality of ribs (308) form a closed structure thereof; and a headlamp (114) comprising complementary mounting elements (226) adapted to be mounted to the at least one first mounting element (312), the at least one second mounting element (316), the third mounting element (318), and the fourth mounting element (320).

2. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the support structure (112) comprises: a mounting plate (244) extending forwardly and upwardly from the top wall (246); a protruding wall (270) extending forwardly and downwardly from a distal end (272) of the mounting plate (244); and a first extension (254) and a second extension (256), the first extension (254) extending outwardly from the first wall (302) along a vehicle width direction (258) and the second extension (256) extending outwardly from the second wall (304) along the vehicle width direction (258).

3. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the first extension (254) is removably coupled to the first wall (302) and the second extension (256) is removably coupled to the second wall (304).

4. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 2, comprising: one or more electrical components supported onto the support structure (112); a speedometer (122) supported onto the mounting plate (244); a first mirror support (120L) and a second mirror support (120R), the first mirror support (120L) secured to a left securing element (262) of the first extension (254), and the second mirror support (120R) secured to a right securing element (266) of the second extension (256);a license plate (123); a connecting plate (268) secured to the first extension (254) and the second extension (256), wherein the connecting plate (268) is adapted to mount the license plate (123); a visor (125) adapted to be supported onto the protruding wall (270); and a front body cover (127) mounted to the left securing element (262) and the right securing element (266), wherein the front body cover (127) is adapted to be positioned below the visor (125) at least to form a space(111) therebetween to pass through air.

5. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the one or more electric components comprise at least one of an Electronic Control Unit (ECU), an On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) connector, an Engine Control Module (ECM), a Central Control Module (CCM), a Telematics Control Unit (TCU), and a Vehicle Control Unit (VCU).

6. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the support structure(112) comprises: a first receiving element (228) extending outwardly from the at least one first mounting element (312); a second receiving element (230) extending outwardly from the third mounting element (318), wherein the first receiving element (228) and the second receiving element (230) are adapted to mount a first side cover (116) of the vehicle (100); a third receiving element (236) extending outwardly from the at least one second mounting element (316); and a fourth receiving element (238) extending outwardly from the fourth mounting element (320), wherein the third receiving element (236) and the fourth receiving element (238) are adapted to mount a second side cover (118) of the vehicle (100).

7. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1 , whereinthe first wall (302) is connected to a first side (310L) of the intermediate member (216) via the at least one first rib (314L), the second wall (304) is connected to a second side (31 OR) of the intermediate member (216) via the at least one second rib (314R), the bottom wall (306) is connected to a bottom side (31 OB) of the intermediate member (216) via the third set of ribs (322L) and the fourth set of ribs (322 R), the top wall (246) is connected to an upper side (31 OU) of the intermediate member (216) via the fifth set of ribs (323), and the intermediate member (216), the first wall (302), the second wall (304), the top wall (246), the bottom wall (306), and the plurality of ribs (308) are integrated to form a unitary structure.

8. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the first wall (302), the first side (310L), and the at least one left rib (314L) collectively form left-through channels (326L) of the plurality of through channels (324) to pass the air therethrough along the vehicle length direction (133), the second wall (304), the second side (31 OR), and the at least one right rib (314R) collectively form right-through channels (326R) of the plurality of through channels (324) to pass the air therethrough along the vehicle length direction (133), the bottom wall (306), the bottom side (310B), the third set of ribs (322L), and the fourth set of ribs (322R) collectively form bottom-through channels (326B) of the plurality of through channels (324) to pass the air therethrough along the vehicle length direction (133), and the top wall (246), the upper side (310U), and the fifth set of ribs (323) collectively form upper-through channels (326U) of the plurality of through channels (324) to pass the air therethrough along the vehicle length direction (133).

9. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the support structure (112) is, a single-piece structure, made up of one of nylon and resin.

10. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the at least one first mounting element (312), the at least one second mounting element (316), the third mounting element (318), and the fourth mounting element (320) form cylindrically shaped structures.

11. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the intermediate member (216) has one of a rectangular cross-section, square crosssection, and inverted U-shaped cross-section.

12. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the headlamp (114) has a size greater than a size of the support structure (112) in a vehicle width direction (258).

13. A support structure (112) of a vehicle (100), comprising: an intermediate member (216) extended along a vehicle length direction (133) and adapted to be connected to the vehicle (100); a plurality of ribs (308) extending along the vehicle length direction (133); a first wall (302) comprising at least one first mounting element (312) connecting to the intermediate member (216) through at least one first rib (314L) of the plurality of ribs (308); a second wall (304) comprising at least one second mounting element (316) connecting to the intermediate member (216) through at least one second rib (314R) of the plurality of ribs (308); a bottom wall (306) connecting the first wall (302) with the second wall (304), the bottom wall (306) comprising: a third mounting element (318) connected to the at least one first mounting element (312) and the intermediate member (216) through a third set of ribs (322L) of the plurality of ribs (308); and a fourth mounting element (320) connected to the at least one second mounting element (316) and the intermediate member (216) through a fourth set of ribs (322R) of the plurality of ribs (308); anda top wall (246) connected to the intermediate member (216) through a fifth set of ribs (323) of the plurality of ribs (308) and adapted to connect the first wall (302) with the second wall (304); wherein the first wall (302), the second wall (304), the top wall (246), the bottom wall (306), the at least one first rib (314L), the at least one second rib (314R), the third set of ribs (322L), the fourth set of ribs (322R), and the fifth set of ribs (323) form a plurality of through channels (324) therebetween along the vehicle length direction (133), and wherein the first wall (302), the second wall (304), the top wall (246), the bottom wall (306), and the plurality of ribs (308) form a closed structure thereof.

14. The support structure (112) as claimed in claim 13, comprising: a mounting plate (244) extending forwardly and upwardly from the top wall (246); a protruding wall (270) extending forwardly and downwardly from a distal end (272) of the mounting plate (244); and a first extension (254) and a second extension (256), the first extension (254) extending outwardly from the first wall (302) along a vehicle width direction (258) and the second extension (256) extending outwardly from the second wall (304) along the vehicle width direction (258).

15. The support structure (112) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the first extension (254) is removably coupled to the first wall (302) and the second extension (256) is removably coupled to the second wall (304).

16. The support structure (112) as claimed in claim 13, comprising: a first receiving element (228) extending outwardly from the at least one first mounting element (312); a second receiving element (230) extending outwardly from the third mounting element (318), wherein the first receiving element (228) and the second receiving element (230) are adapted to mount a first side cover (116) of the vehicle (100);a third receiving element (236) extending outwardly from the at least one second mounting element (316); and a fourth receiving element (238) extending outwardly from the fourth mounting element (320), wherein the third receiving element (236) and the fourth receiving element (238) are adapted to mount a second side cover (118) of the vehicle (100).

17. The support structure (112) as claimed in claim 13, wherein the first wall (302) is connected to a first side (310L) of the intermediate member (216) via the at least one first rib (314L), the second wall (304) is connected to a second side (31 OR) of the intermediate member (216) via the at least one second rib (314R), the bottom wall (306) is connected to a bottom side (310B) of the intermediate member (216) via the third set of ribs (322L) and the fourth set of ribs (322 R), the top wall (246) is connected to an upper side (310U) of the intermediate member (216) via the fifth set of ribs (323), and the intermediate member (216), the first wall (302), the second wall (304), the top wall (246), the bottom wall (306), and the plurality of ribs (308) are integrated to form a unitary structure.

18. The support structure (112) as claimed in claim 13, wherein the first wall (302), the first side (310L), and the at least one left rib (314L) collectively form left-through channels (326L) of the plurality of through channels (324) to pass air therethrough along the vehicle length direction (133), the second wall (304), the second side (31 OR), and the at least one right rib (314R) collectively form right-through channels (326R) of the plurality of through channels (324) to pass the air therethrough along the vehicle length direction (133), the bottom wall (306), the bottom side (310B), the third set of ribs (322L), and the fourth set of ribs (322R) collectively form bottom-throughchannels (326B) of the plurality of through channels (324) to pass the air therethrough along the vehicle length direction (133), and the top wall (246), the upper side (31 OU), and the fifth set of ribs (323) collectively form upper-through channels (326U) of the plurality of through channels (324) to pass the air therethrough along the vehicle length direction (133).

19. The support structure (112) as claimed in claim 13, wherein the support structure (112) is, a single-piece structure, made up of one of nylon and resin.

20. The support structure (112) as claimed in claim 13, wherein the at least one first mounting element (312), the at least one second mounting element (316), the third mounting element (318), and the fourth mounting element (320) form cylindrically shaped structures.

21. The support structure (112) as claimed in claim 13, wherein the intermediate member (216) has one of a rectangular cross-section, square cross-section, and inverted U-shaped cross-section.

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