Driver cabin of a vehicle

Abstract

The present invention relates to a driver cabin (120) of a vehicle (100). The driver cabin (120) comprises a windshield assembly (200) and a headlamp assembly (300). The windshield assembly (200) being adapted to mount a windshield (104). The headlamp assembly (300) being adapted to mount at least one headlamp. A portion of headlamp assembly (300) overlaps at least with one end of the windshield assembly (200) forming a seamless integration.

Description

[0001] TITLE OF INVENTION:

[0002] DRIVER CABIN OF A VEHICLE

[0003] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0004]

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle. More particularly, the present invention relates to a driver cabin of the vehicle.

[0005] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0006]

[0002] Headlamp and windshield are essential components of a vehicle, each serving distinct yet complementary functions. The headlamp provides illumination for visibility during low-light conditions, ensuring safe driving, while the windshield acts as a protective barrier, offering clear visibility for the driver and shielding against environmental elements. Beyond their functional roles, the integration of the headlamp and windshield also contributes to the vehicle’s overall aesthetics and aerodynamic performance.

[0007]

[0003] In conventional vehicle designs, the headlamp and windshield glass are typically separated by a distinct body panel or a structural element. This separation results in a fragmented appearance, adding complexity to the overall vehicle design. The presence of additional components not only increases the weight of the vehicle but also leads to higher production costs and longer assembly times.

[0008]

[0004] Furthermore, the separate positioning of the headlamp and windshield introduces alignment challenges. Even minor misalignments during the assembly process leads to gaps or uneven transitions between components, compromising the aesthetic appeal and aerodynamic performance of the vehicle. These gaps also contribute to increased wind noise, reduced fuel efficiency, and greater susceptibility to water ingress. Additionally, the use of multiple fastening points and mounting brackets adds to the complexity of both initial assembly and subsequent maintenance or repairs.

[0005] Material compatibility also poses a concern in conventional positioning of the headlamp and windshield. The windshield glass, typically made from laminated safety glass, differs from the polycarbonate or acrylic materials often used for headlamp covers. Ensuring a consistent visual appearance and proper fitment across these materials can be difficult. Furthermore, additional sealing or weatherproofing measures are often required to prevent moisture or dirt ingress, further complicating the manufacturing process.

[0009]

[0006] Thus, there is a need in the art for a vehicle which addresses the aforementioned problems.

[0010] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011]

[0007] In an aspect, the present invention is directed towards a driver cabin of a vehicle. The driver cabin has a windshield assembly and a headlamp assembly. The windshield assembly being adapted to mount a windshield. The headlamp assembly being adapted to mount at least one headlamp. A portion of headlamp assembly overlaps at least with one end of the windshield assembly forming a seamless integration.

[0012]

[0008] In an embodiment of the invention, the headlamp assembly has an upper portion and a lower portion. The windshield assembly has an upper edge and a lower edge. The upper portion of the headlamp assembly extends around the lower edge of the windshield assembly.

[0013]

[0009] In a further embodiment of the invention, the windshield assembly has a window panel and the windshield. The window panel being adapted to mount the windshield. The headlamp assembly has at least one mounting member and an outer lens. The at least one mounting member being adapted to mount the headlamp.

[0014]

[0010] In a further embodiment of the invention, an upper portion of the at least one mounting member and the outer lens of the headlamp assembly extend around a lower edge of the window panel and the windshield of the windshield assembly.[Oil] In a further embodiment of the invention, the windshield and the outer lens of the headlamp assembly are aligned flush with each other forming a seamless and integrated appearance.

[0015]

[0012] In a further embodiment of the invention, the vehicle has a sealant. The sealant being disposed between the at least one mounting member and the window panel to prevent moisture ingress.

[0016]

[0013] In a further embodiment of the invention, the at least one mounting member has a mounting surface being adapted to affix the outer lens through a plurality of fastening means and an opposite surface being adapted to affix to the frame assembly and extend around the lower edge of the windshield assembly.

[0017]

[0014] In a further embodiment of the invention, the windshield assembly being stacked above the headlamp assembly in a vehicle up-down direction.

[0018]

[0015] In a further embodiment of the invention, the vehicle has a fender assembly. The fender assembly has a left fender portion and a right fender portion. A left headlamp assembly being disposed above left fender portion and a right headlamp assembly being disposed above the right fender portion.

[0019]

[0016] In a further embodiment of the invention, the vehicle has a front upper valance. The front upper valance being disposed between the left headlamp assembly and the right headlamp assembly. The front upper valance being adapted to mount a windshield wiper of the vehicle.

[0020] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021]

[0017] Reference will be made to embodiments of the invention, examples of which may be illustrated in accompanying figures. These figures are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Although the invention is generally described in context of these embodiments, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to these particular embodiments.

[0022] Figure 1 illustrates a right perspective view of a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.Figure 2A illustrates a perspective view of a front portion of a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0023] Figure 2B illustrates shows a sectional view along A- A of the front portion of the vehicle shown in Figure 2 A.

[0024] Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0026]

[0018] Various features and embodiments of the present invention here will be discernible from the following further description thereof, set out hereunder.

[0027]

[0019] The present invention relates to a vehicle. More particularly, the present invention relates to disposition of a headlamp with respect to windshield of the vehicle. The term “vehicle” in the present invention includes conventional internal combustion engine vehicles, electric vehicle and hybrid vehicle.

[0028]

[0020] In the present disclosure, arrow indications provided in Figures pertain to directional indications of the vehicle. Furthermore, arrows provided in the top right corner of figures depict direction with respect to the vehicle, wherein an arrow F denotes front direction, an arrow R indicates rearward direction, an arrow Rt denotes right direction, an arrow Lt denotes left direction, an arrow Up denotes upward direction and an arrow Dw denotes downward direction, as and where applicable. As such, the terms “front side”, “rear side”, “right side”, “left side”, “upside”, and “downside” respectively correspond to front, rear, right, left, up, and down sides of the vehicle, until and unless specified otherwise.

[0029]

[0021] Figure 1 illustrates a right perspective view of a vehicle 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In an embodiment, the vehicle 100 can be a three-wheeled vehicle, four-wheeled vehicle or a multi-wheeled vehicle. The present invention finds its potential application in three-wheeled vehicles, four-wheeled vehicles, multi- wheeled vehicles. In some embodiments, the vehicle 100 can be a cargo vehicle or a passenger vehicle. In the present invention, the cargo vehicle is a threewheeled vehicle or a four-wheeled vehicle. However, it should not be meant to be limiting the scope of the present invention. In an embodiment, the vehicle 100 has an electric powertrain (not shown) including a traction motor and a battery pack for driving the vehicle 100, or an internal combustion engine or both wherein the vehicle 100 is a hybrid vehicle. The vehicle 100 further comprises one or more front wheels (not shown), two or more rear wheels (not shown), a seat assembly (not shown), and a frame assembly (110). The frame assembly 110 includes a pair of long members (not shown) that extend in a vehicle front-rear direction “F-R”. The frame assembly 110 further includes one or more cross members (not shown) that extend transversely between the pair of long members. The frame assembly 110 supports one or more body panels to form or define a cabin space in the vehicle 100. For example, the one or more body panels 130 define the cabin space that forms a driver cabin 120 of the vehicle 100, wherein at least a seat assembly (not shown) and a steering system (not shown) are disposed inside the driver cabin 120.

[0030]

[0022] The vehicle further includes a steering assembly (not shown) operatively connected to the front wheels. A front suspension (not shown) is adapted to support the front wheels of the vehicle. An upper portion of the front wheels is covered by a front fender (not shown) which is mounted to a lower portion of the front suspensions at the end of a steering shaft (not shown).

[0031]

[0023] A rear portion of the vehicle includes a cargo deck or a load deck (not shown) or passenger cabin that is mounted to the frame assembly 110 and supported onto the pair of long members. Each of the rear wheel of the vehicle is covered by a rear fender (not shown) that is disposed above the rear wheel. The rear wheels are rotated by a driving force of a vehicle powertrain (not shown).

[0032]

[0024] As further illustrated in Figure 1, the driver cabin 120 of the vehicle 100 comprises a windshield assembly 200. The windshield assembly 200 comprises a window panel 102 and a windshield 104. The window panel 102 serves as the primary mounting structure for the windshield 104. The window panel 102 is disposed orsupported on the one or more body panels. The window panel 102 provides the necessary support and ensures proper alignment of the windshield 104 during installation. That is, the window panel is adapted to mount the windshield 104. In a non-limiting example, the window panel 102 is made of steel or reinforced plastic, to withstand external forces while maintaining stability. The structural integrity of the window panel 102 is crucial for providing a secure mounting surface for the windshield 104. The windshield 104 is laminated safety glass which allows a driver, or a passenger seated inside the driver cabin 120 of the vehicle 100 to have a view of the outside of the cabin space of the vehicle 100. In an embodiment, the windshield 104 is mounted onto the window panel 102 using an adhesive (not shown), which ensures stability of the windshield 104 on the window panel 102, prevents water ingress and provides vibration dampening.

[0033]

[0025] The driver cabin 120 of the vehicle 100 further comprises a headlamp assembly 300. The headlamp assembly 300 is disposed or supported on the one or more body panels. In an embodiment, the headlamp assembly 300 is mounted below the window panel 102 of the windshield assembly 200. In an embodiment, the headlamp assembly 300 is mounted on to the body part of the vehicle 100 using a plurality of fastening means 118. The headlamp assembly 300 comprises at least a mounting member 108, a light source (not shown) and an outer lens 106. In a non-limiting example, the light source may be a LED. The outer lens 106 is adapted to illuminate light from the light source. The outer lens 106 serves as the protective cover for the components of the headlamp assembly 200. In a non-limiting example, the outer lens 106 is made of durable, impact-resistant materials such as polycarbonate or acrylic. The at least one mounting member 108 is adapted to mount the headlamp. Specifically, the at least one mounting member 108 comprises a mounting surface being adapted to affix the outer lens 106 through a plurality of fastening means and an opposite surface being adapted to affix to the frame assembly 110. In a non-limiting example, the mounting member 108 is a mounting bracket.

[0026] Further, as illustrated in Figure 1, the windshield assembly 200 is positioned above the headlamp assembly 300 when viewed from the front of the vehicle. That is, the windshield assembly 200 is stacked above the headlamp assembly 300 in a vehicle up-down direction. In this arrangement, a portion of headlamp assembly 300 overlaps the windshield assembly 200 forming a seamless integration. More particularly, the windshield 104 of the windshield assembly 200 and the outer lens 106 of the headlamp assembly 300 are aligned flush with each other forming a seamless and integrated appearance. The present invention provides a seamless integration between the windshield assembly 200 and the headlamp assembly 300, eliminating the conventional gap that typically exists due to a separate body panel, thereby enhancing the vehicle's aerodynamic profile and visual aesthetics. Additionally, in an embodiment, the windshield assembly 200 and the headlamp assembly 300 are adapted to share a common structural support element to improve rigidity and reduce vibrations.

[0034]

[0027] Figure 2 A illustrates a perspective view of a front portion of a vehicle 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 2B illustrates shows a sectional view along A-A of the front portion of the vehicle 100 shown in Figure 2A. The vehicle 100 comprises a pair of headlamp assembly 300 mounted at left edge and right edge of a front structure of the vehicle 100. Hereinafter, the left side vehicle headlamp assembly indicated by section A-A that is mounted on the left side of the vehicle 100 will be described. It is to be noted that the right side vehicle headlamp assembly that is mounted on the right side of the vehicle 100 forms a construction that is substantially identical to that of the left side vehicle headlamp. Further, for explanation purposes and to avoid redundancy in description, only one left side headlamp assembly is considered. However, the explanation for the right side headlamp is not described since the disposition, construction and working of both the headlamp assembly 300 are same.

[0035]

[0028] Further, as illustrated in Figure 2A, the driver cabin 120 of the vehicle 100 comprises a fender assembly 114. The fender assembly 114 comprises a left fenderportion 114a and a right fender portion 114b. A left headlamp assembly 302 is disposed above left fender portion 114a and a right headlamp assembly 304 is disposed above the right fender portion 114b. Further, the driver cabin 120 of the vehicle 100 comprises a front upper valance 116. The front upper valance 116 is disposed between the left headlamp assembly 302 and the right headlamp assembly 304. The front upper valance 116 is adapted to mount a windshield wiper (not shown) of the vehicle 100.

[0036]

[0029] Further, the headlamp assembly 300 is mounted on to the body part of the vehicle 100 below the windshield assembly 200 and above the fender assembly 114 using the plurality of fastening means 118. In an embodiment, the plurality of fastening means 118 refers to the structural mounting feature used to securely attach the headlamp assembly 300 to the body of the vehicle 100. The plurality of fastening means 118 is located on either side of the headlamp assembly 300 and comprises a pair of screws that fasten the headlamp assembly 300 to the underlying vehicle structure. These screws are anchored into reinforced mounting points the front body framework of the vehicle 100 ensuring a stable and vibration-resistant connection of the headlamp assembly 300. In an embodiment, the headlamp assembly 300 is mounted on to the body part of the vehicle 100 using a pair of screws on either sides of the headlamp assembly 300. The use of dual screws on each side not only guarantees a balanced load distribution but also maintains precise optical alignment of the headlamps relative to the vehicle body. Additionally, this arrangement allows for ease of assembly and disassembly during manufacturing or maintenance, without disturbing the adjacent components such as the windshield or fender panels. By anchoring the headlamp assembly through the plurality of fastening means 118, the design achieves both structural rigidity and visual continuity across the vehicle’s front profile.

[0037]

[0030] Further, as illustrated in Figure 2B, the windshield assembly 200 comprises an upper edge 200a and a lower edge 200b. The upper edge 200a of the windshield assembly 200 interfaces with a roof structure of the vehicle 100. This ensures stability and provides additional support for the windshield 104. The lower edge 200b of thewindshield assembly 200 is adapted to integrate seamlessly with the headlamp assembly 300. The headlamp assembly 300 comprises an upper portion 300a and a lower portion 300b. As illustrated by dashed line C, the upper portion 300a extends around the lower edge 200b of the windshield assembly 200. Such an arrangement provides a flush interface where the windshield glass 104 and the outer lens 106 of the headlamp assembly 300 align with each other. Such alignment results in a visually unified front structure of the vehicle 100, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the vehicle 100.

[0038]

[0031] A portion of the headlamp assembly 300 overlaps at least with one end of the windshield assembly 200 forming a seamless integration. Specifically, the lower edge 200b of the windshield assembly 200 is adapted to interface tightly with the upper portion 300a of the headlamp assembly 300, resulting in a flush alignment between the windshield glass 104 and the outer lens 106 of the headlamp. More particularly, the upper portion of the at least one mounting member 108 and the outer lens 106 of the headlamp assembly 300 extend around a lower edge of the window panel 102 and the windshield 104 of the windshield assembly 200. The overlap happens in both the opaque region including the window panel 102 and the mounting member 108 and transparent region including the windshield glass 104 and outer lens 106, ensuring structural integration and visual continuity. The headlamp assembly 300 is disposed above the fender assembly 114. Specifically, the lower portion 300b of the headlamp assembly 300 rests on a first portion 114c of the fender assembly 114, thereby supported by the fender assembly 114. The first portion 114c of the fender assembly 114 is an upper portion of the fender assembly 114. This connection ensures alignment between body panels and lighting components.

[0039]

[0032] In an embodiment, the structural geometry of the lower edge 200b of the windshield assembly 200 may be contoured or precisely shaped to match the upper portion 300a of the headlamp assembly 300. Specifically, an upper portion of the at least one mounting member 108 and the outer lens 106 of the headlamp assembly 300extend around a lower edge of the window panel 102 and the windshield 104 of the windshield assembly 200. As such, the window panel 102 of the windshield assembly 200 and the mounting member 108 of the headlamp assembly 300 overlap in the opaque region, contributing to the structural integration of the components. This overlap enhances the rigidity and stability of the assembly, providing secure mounting and effective load distribution. Similarly, in the transparent region, the windshield 104 and the outer lens 106 of the headlamp assembly 300 are aligned to create a seamless visual transition. This alignment ensures a flush, continuous surface that enhances the aesthetic appeal of the vehicle's front end. Further, this precise alignment minimizes visible gaps and creates a smooth surface transition, which not only contributes to the visual appeal but also reduces the aerodynamic drag of the vehicle 100, contributing to better fuel efficiency and reduced wind noise. In an embodiment, the mounting member 108 comprises a shock absorbing material (not shown) to reduce impact forces transmitted between the windshield assembly 200 and the headlamp assembly 300.

[0040]

[0033] Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of a vehicle 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As illustrate in Figure 3 in conjunction with Figure 2B, in an embodiment, the lower edge 200b of the windshield assembly 200 may include a slight overlap or recessed feature to accommodate the upper portion 300a of the headlamp assembly. This overlap creates a natural shadow line that conceals minor alignment deviations and adds a refined visual effect. Moreover, the integration of the windshield assembly 200 and headlamp assembly 300 in this manner reduces the reliance on separate trim pieces or filler panels, leading to a reduction in overall component count and production costs. In another embodiment, the upper portion 300a of the headlamp assembly 300 exhibits a curved profile. Specifically, the upper portion 300a of the headlamp assembly 300 is concave in relation to the lower edge 200b of the windshield assembly 200. The concave shape of the upper portion 300a allows it to wrap around and conform to the contour of the lower edge 200b of the windshield assembly 200. Thus, the present invention facilitates a snug fit,enhancing the seamless integration between the headlamp assembly 300 and the windshield assembly 200. The vehicle 100 further comprises a sealant 112 being disposed between the at least one mounting member 108 and the window panel 102 to prevent moisture ingress.

[0041]

[0034] Advantageously, in the present invention, the windshield assembly is positioned above the headlamp assembly in a vehicle up-down direction, providing a seamless and integrated appearance, thus eliminating the visual discontinuity and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the vehicle.

[0042]

[0035] Further, in the present invention, the headlamp assembly and windshield assembly are aligned in a flush configuration, ensuring a continuous surface. This alignment minimizes aerodynamic drag, resulting in improved efficiency and reduced wind noise during vehicle operation.

[0043]

[0036] The present invention eliminates the need for additional body panels between the headlamp and windshield. This reduction in parts lowers material and manufacturing costs while simplifying the vehicle's assembly and disassembly processes.

[0044]

[0037] The use of a sealant between the windshield and the mounting member in the present invention ensures secure and stable installation, preventing moisture ingress and improving the longevity of both the windshield and headlamp assemblies.

[0045]

[0038] Additionally, the overlapping arrangement of the mounting member and window panel provides structural reinforcement at the junction of the windshield and headlamp. This robust connection enhances the overall durability of the front-end assembly and minimizes vibrations during vehicle operation.

[0046]

[0039] The present invention also simplifies the maintenance process. With fewer components and secure mounting using fasteners, technicians can efficiently access and replace the headlamp or windshield without extensive disassembly of surrounding vehicle parts.

[0040] While the present invention has been described with respect to certain embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

[0047] List of Reference Numerals

[0048] 100: Vehicle

[0049] 102: Window Panel

[0050] 104: Windshield

[0051] 106: Outer Lens

[0052] 108: Mounting member

[0053] 110: Frame Assembly

[0054] 112: Sealant

[0055] 114: Fender assembly

[0056] 114a: Left fender portion

[0057] 114b: Reft fender portion

[0058] 114c: First portion of the fender assembly

[0059] 116: Front upper valance

[0060] 118: Fastening Means

[0061] 120: Driver Cabin

[0062] 200: Windshield Assembly

[0063] 200a: Upper edge of Windshield Assembly

[0064] 200b: Lower edge of Windshield Assembly

[0065] 300: Headlamp Assembly

[0066] 300a: Upper portion of Headlamp Assembly

[0067] 300b: Lower portion of Headlamp Assembly

[0068] 302: Left headlamp assembly

[0069] 304: Right headlamp assembly

Claims

WE CLAIM:

1. A driver cabin (120) of a vehicle (100), the driver cabin (120) comprising:a windshield assembly (200) being adapted to mount a windshield (104); and a headlamp assembly (300) being adapted to mount at least one headlamp, and a portion of headlamp assembly (300) overlaps at least with one end of the windshield assembly (200) forming a seamless integration.

2. The driver cabin (120) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the headlamp assembly (300) comprises an upper portion (300a) and a lower portion (300b), the windshield assembly (200) comprises an upper edge (200a) and a lower edge (200b), the upper portion (300a) of the headlamp assembly (300) extends around the lower edge (200b) of the windshield assembly (200).

3. The driver cabin (120) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the windshield assembly (200) comprising a window panel (102) and the windshield (104), the window panel (102) being adapted to mount the windshield (104), and the headlamp assembly (300) comprising at least one mounting member (108) and an outer lens (106), the at least one mounting member (108) being adapted to mount the headlamp.

4. The driver cabin (120) as claimed in claim 3, wherein an upper portion of the at least one mounting member (108) and the outer lens (106) of the headlamp assembly (300) extend around a lower edge of the window panel (102) and the windshield (104) of the windshield assembly (200).

5. The driver cabin (120) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the windshield (104) and the outer lens (106) of the headlamp assembly (300) are aligned flush with each other forming a seamless and integrated appearance.

6. The driver cabin (120) as claimed in claim 3 comprising a sealant (112), wherein the sealant (112) being disposed between the at least one mounting member (108) and the window panel (102) to prevent moisture ingress.

7. The driver cabin (120) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the at least one mounting member (108) comprises a mounting surface being adapted to affix the outer lens (106) through a plurality of fastening means and an opposite surface being adapted to affix to the frame assembly (110) and extend around the lower edge (200b) of the windshield assembly (200).

8. The driver cabin (120) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the windshield assembly (200) being stacked above the headlamp assembly (300) in a vehicle up-down direction.

9. The driver cabin (120) as claimed in claim 1 comprising a fender assembly (114), the fender assembly (114) having a left fender portion (114a) and a right fender portion (114b), a left headlamp assembly (302) being disposed above left fender portion (114a) and a right headlamp assembly (304) being disposed above the right fender portion (114b).

10. The driver cabin (120) as claimed in claim 9 comprising a front upper valance (116), the front upper valance (116) being disposed between the left headlamp assembly (302) and the right headlamp assembly (304), and the front upper valance (116) being adapted to mount a windshield wiper of the vehicle (100).

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