EP3947129A1

EP3947129A1 - A synchronized braking system for a vehicle

Info

Publication number: EP3947129A1
Application number: EP20779628.5A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Selvam DHEVARAJ; Shanmugam MOHAN; Shanmugasundaram GOWRISANKAR; Winney KAKKANATTU MATHEWS
Original assignee: TVS Motor Co Ltd
Current assignee: TVS Motor Co Ltd
Priority date: 2019-03-25
Filing date: 2020-03-17
Publication date: 2022-02-09
Also published as: CN113631474B; CN113631474A; WO2020194335A1; EP3947129A4

Abstract

The present subject matter provides a synchronized braking system (200) for a vehicle (100). A foot-operated brake lever (205) capable of synchronously transmitting brake actuating forces to both rear wheel brake (135) and front wheel brake (130) is movably pivoted to a moving-pivot member (210) about a first-pivot axis (F-F') to actuate any one brake. The moving-pivot member (210) operatively connected to a second actuating member (220) capable of actuating any other brake. The second actuating member (220) is actuated by pivotal reaction of the foot-operated brake lever (205) pivoted to the moving-pivot member (210). A secondary stopper (235) capable of restricting a pivotal movement of the moving-pivot member (210) beyond a pre-determined degree of rotation.

Description

A SYNCHRONIZED BRAKING SYSTEM FOR A

VEHICLE

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present subject matter relates to a synchronized braking system as provided in the patent application number 201741006510 and the present subject matter offers an improvement over the subject matter as claimed in aforementioned patent application.

BACKGROUND

[0002] In the last few decades, two-wheeled automobile industry has shown a remarkable growth and development, in terms of technology as well as sales. Moreover, three-wheelers like trikes are also gaining popularity and tend to offer riding posture similar to the conventional two-wheelers. Due to consistent advancement in technology, two-wheeled vehicles, such as bicycles, motorcycles, scooters and lightweight scooters, have succeeded in maintaining their popularity among different sections of society. Different sections of society, based on their requirement, utilize the two-wheeled vehicles for various purposes, such as a recreational activity, a means of transportation, and for sports activities. As a result, it becomes pertinent for the two-wheeler automobile industry to constantly develop and modify the components of the two-wheeled vehicles to suit requirements of different riders.

[0003] In accordance with the same ideology, various types of braking systems have been developed for facilitating braking functionalities in the two-wheeled vehicles. Conventionally, braking systems that allow simultaneous actuation of a front brake and a rear brake upon application of a single brake lever have gained widespread popularity across the globe.

[0004] Generally, two-wheeled vehicles are provided with a pair of mechanically operated drum brakes. However, with the advent of braking technology, hydraulically operated drum brakes, disc brakes, or a combination of both have come to use. Also, in some applications disc brake is installed on both front and rear wheels. However, such a determination of whether to use two disc brakes or one is primarily based on the capacity of the vehicle and the maximum load capable of being carried by the vehicle. Generally, irrespective of the type of brake used, the brake can be actuated mechanically or hydraulically or by a combination of both.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, similar numbers are used throughout the drawings to reference like features and components.

[0006] Fig. 1 illustrates a right side view of an exemplary a two-wheeled vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0007] Fig. 2 illustrates a right side schematic view of the synchronized braking system, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0008] Fig. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the synchronized braking system, in accordance with an embodiment as depicted in Fig 2.

[0009] Fig. 4 illustrates an exploded view of the synchronized braking system, in accordance with another embodiment as depicted in Fig. 3.

[00010] Fig. 5 illustrates another perspective view of the synchronized braking system with selected parts, in accordance with an embodiment as depicted in Fig.

4.

[00011] Fig. 6 depicts a side view of the synchronized braking system, in accordance with the embodiment of Fig. 4.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00012] Conventionally, two-wheeled or three-wheeled vehicles are provided with a braking system for slowing or stopping the vehicle. The braking system, usually, includes at least one brake assembly, such as a front wheel brake assembly and a rear wheel brake assembly for a front wheel and a rear wheel, respectively. Such brake assemblies may include, but are not limited to a cam lever, a hinge pin, and a pair of brake shoes. Further, each of the front wheel brake assembly and the rear wheel brake assembly is connected to a brake lever for actuation. For example, the brake lever may be coupled to a pair of brake shoes for applying friction to each wheel of the two-wheeled vehicle, as and when required. The brake lever can be connected to the brake assembly in a variety of ways. For example, the brake lever can be connected to the brake assembly by means of a cable, a brake rod, or a hose. In such a case, one end may be secured to the brake assembly, and the other end may be secured to the brake lever. Consequently, actuation of the brake lever may result in actuation of the brake assembly and subsequently, the brake may be applied.

[00013] Generally, the front wheel and the rear wheel are provided with separate braking systems. During operation of the brakes, usually, riders apply the rear wheel brake alone. Such a practice stems from the fact that actuating both the brake levers at the same time may be inconvenient for the rider. In addition, when the front wheel brake is applied, less weight on the front wheel and weight transfer towards the front wheel cause the front wheel to brake abruptly, and may result in a sudden jerk to the vehicle. The sudden jerk may affect the ride quality and may disturb the balance and stability of the vehicle leading to an accident. However, on the other hand, the braking force applied for braking the rear wheel may have to be limited, to prevent skidding of the vehicle. As a result, the deceleration experienced by the vehicle may also be limited and subsequently, the stopping distance of the vehicle may be significantly large.

[00014] Conventionally, in order to address the above-mentioned concerns, braking systems that allow simultaneous actuation of a front brake and a rear brake by application of a single brake lever have been developed. Such braking system is capable of uniting the braking operation of both the front wheel brake and the rear wheel brake with the help of a single braking force transmitting member, for example a rear wheel brake actuating member. Accordingly, upon actuation of the single braking force transmitting member, such a braking system may allow application of braking force to the front wheel as well as the rear wheel of the vehicle. Therefore, the front wheel brake and the rear wheel brake can be simultaneously applied by actuating a single braking force transmitting member, for example, the rear wheel brake actuating member. In addition to being convenient for the rider, such braking systems may ensure that the deceleration of the vehicle can be increased and subsequently, the stopping distance may be reduced. Further, as would be understood, in saddle type vehicles with such braking systems, a front wheel brake lever may also be provided to independently operate the front wheel brake.

[00015] Conventional two-wheeler or three-wheeler braking systems usually include either hand-operated brakes for both the wheels or include a combination of hand-operated and foot-operated brakes. In the latter case, generally, the front wheel brakes are hand-operated, and include a front wheel brake lever mounted on a handle of the two-wheeled vehicle for actuation, whereas the rear wheel brakes can be foot-operated by a rear wheel brake pedal provided near a foot-rest of the rider.

[00016] Generally, the rear brake lever acts as a combined brake force transmitting member. Upon actuation of the combined braking force transmitting member, the braking force is distributed to the front wheel brake and the rear wheel brake. Conventional combined braking systems employ a large number of components and linkages to connect the combined brake lever to both the rear wheel brake assembly and the front wheel brake assembly. For example, prior art braking systems that involves simultaneous operation of front wheel brake and rear wheel brake includes an additional lever, which are often referred to as an equalizer, balancing element, or pulley and like, used to connect the combined braking force transmitting member to the brake actuating members like brake cables or brake rods. Presence of such additional levers reduces the effective braking force. Especially, foot-operated braking systems involving longer brake actuating members are further subjected to transmission loss.

[00017] Consequently, weight of such braking systems may be substantially high. As the large number of components used are made of rigid material like metal to with stand the braking forces.

[00018] Such large number of components makes the system heavy and requires lot of space. In addition, in a motorcycle type vehicle, the vehicle has a naked appearance, exposing the braking system to atmosphere. Presence of large number of components that are subject to movement may result in rusting, failure, or damage of components. Moreover, some systems are provided with additional casing for enclosing the braking system. Further, such heavy and complex braking systems with the large number of components may requires additional cost and greater maintenance, and skilled labor. Such a situation may add to the maintenance cost of the vehicle.

[00019] Also, the foot-operated braking system lacks space on the vehicle for accommodating such a bulky arrangement as the power unit, exhaust pipe, and main stand surrounding the foot pedal. Also, the braking system is close to the ground and is exposed to dirt, dust, and water affecting the life of the system. Accordingly, the conventional braking systems may suffer from lack of overall braking effectiveness, increased weight, and high costs.

[00020] Moreover, brake feel and safety are two important aspects and achieving both at the same time is a challenge. In conventional braking systems there is comprise on one of the two. However, for improved riding, both brake feel and safety are desired by user.

[00021] Thus, there is a need for a braking system that is simple, having less weight, reliable, and cost effective. The braking system as disclosed in the patent application number 201741006510 tries to address the aforementioned problems in the prior art. However, it uses a moving-pivot member which is pivotally supported on the vehicle. However, the braking system as provided tends to offer inconsistent free-play of the front brake due to undesired pivotal movement of the moving-pivot member. Moreover, the inconsistent free-play can result in spongy feel or early lock of front wheel because of which the driver may lose vehicle control. This could lead to fatal accidents as the functioning of the braking system is affected.

[00022] Further, if the moving-pivot member does not return to its intended position after successive usage of brake application on vehicle, there might be some amount of brake that is always applied to the front wheel, say the front wheel brake is acting as the independent brake, even when the brake lever is not actuated by the driver. This is also results in early wear out of the frictional members of the brake, which reduces life of the brake. This also requires frequent replacement of the frictional members like the brake pads. Further, the braking system may offer over braking or under braking as mentioned above leading to fatal accidents. Alternatively, the wear may lead to excess free play which deteriorates the effectiveness of the braking system potentially leading to safety risk.

[00023] Further, if the moving-pivot member goes beyond an intended position after successive usage of brake application on vehicle, there might be some additional clearance at the front wheel brake, say the front wheel brake is acting as the independent brake. Thus, even when the brake lever is actuated by the driver, the braking force may not get transferred to front wheel whereby the desired braking is not achieved. This may lead to unsafe riding conditions. The aforementioned problems and other problems of the prior art will be applicable to a hand operated brake lever.

[00024] Thus, the present subject matter offers an improvement over the synchronized braking system (SBS) & to solve the problems of known arts. The synchronized braking system is capable of applying braking forces to at least one of the front wheel, and to at least one of the rear wheels of a two-wheeled or three-wheeled vehicle upon application of a single brake lever offering improved brake feel and performance.

[00025] It is an aspect of the present subject matter that the synchronized braking system includes a foot-operated brake lever, in accordance with an embodiment, movably pivoted to a moving-pivot member. The terms‘movably pivoted’ implies that the foot-operated brake lever is pivotable about a pivot point and is also movable as the pivot point is a floating type pivot. The pivotal movement of the foot-operated brake lever is restricted by a primary stopper. The foot-operated brake lever acts as a synchronized brake lever.

[00026] In one embodiment, a hand operated brake lever acts as the synchronized brake lever.

[00027] In one embodiment, the primary stopper constitutes a stopper provided on a foot support structure, which is part of the frame member of the vehicle. In other embodiment, the function of the primary stopper may be performed by the moving-pivot member. It is another aspect that the foot-operated brake lever is pivotable about a first-pivot support, and the foot-operated brake lever pivots upon application of force by user. The foot-operated brake lever includes an input arm and an output arm, wherein the input arm and the output arm are provided at a first distance therebetween and at a first angle therebetween and a junction portion thereof forms the first-pivot support to provide pivot reaction force.

[00028] It is an aspect that a first actuating member is connected to the output arm of the foot-operated brake lever and the first actuating member is capable of actuating any one brake of a front wheel brake and a rear wheel brake. The foot- operated brake lever is spring-loaded type and is capable of returning to an initial state after release of the brake or release of force applied by user. Further, the primary stopper restricts the rotation of the foot-operated brake lever beyond a pre-determined degree/angle i.e. beyond the initial state/condition of the lever. The pre-determined degree of rotation is the degree of rotation for the moving- pivot member 210 to reach an unactuated condition whereby the braking force being applied on the front wheel brake, in the present embodiment, is released.

[00029] It is yet another aspect that the actuation of foot-operated brake lever directly actuates the first actuating member and in addition the force offered by the first actuating member creates a pivot reaction force at the first-pivot support. It is an advantage that the first actuating member is directly actuated through the output arms thereby providing improved brake feel.

[00030] It is yet another aspect that the pivot reaction force acts on the moving- pivot member, which supports the foot-operated brake lever thereby creating movement of moving-pivot member, which includes movement of the first-pivot support.

[00031] It is yet another additional aspect that the synchronized braking system includes a guiding member that provides a pre-determined degree of freedom of movement for the moving-pivot member.

[00032] It is a feature that the synchronized braking system includes a secondary stopper that is capable of restricting a pivotal movement of the moving- pivot member at least in one direction beyond a pre-determined degree of rotation. In one embodiment, the moving-pivot member is spring loaded by a torsional spring or extension type.

[00033] In one implementation, the guiding member is in line with a second- pivot axis, wherein the first-pivot support having a first-pivot axis is away from the second-pivot axis. Also, the moving-pivot member is provided with a boss member to mount the moving-pivot member to the second-pivot support, wherein the moving-pivot member is fixedly pivoted to the frame through the second-pivot support, which is about a fixed pivot axis.

[00034] In the aforementioned implementation, the moving-pivot member moves about a predefined degree of freedom of movement, which is angular movement about the second-pivot support/ second-pivot axis.

[00035] In another implementation, the foot-operated brake lever is mounted to a moving-pivot member, wherein the moving-pivot member is operatively connected to the second actuating member itself. In this particular embodiment, the guiding member is adapted to provide a translational motion of the moving- pivot member about the guiding member. In this embodiment, the guiding member is a tubular member affixed to the frame and the tubular member is preferably having a non-circular cross-section to provide one degree of freedom of movement, which is translational.

[00036] It is an aspect of the present subject matter that, in one implementation, the first-pivot support and the second-pivot support are provided on a base portion of the moving-pivot member, wherein the first-pivot support and the second-pivot support are disposed parallel to each other and extending outward in a vehicle lateral direction.

[00037] It is another aspect that connecting portions of the first-pivot support and the second-pivot support are provided on a base portion, which is substantially disposed in a vertical plane.

[00038] It is an additional aspect that the first-pivot support and the second- pivot support are coplanar in a vertical plane.

[00039] It is yet another additional aspect that the second actuating member is preloaded with a restoring member to balance the effect of weight of the foot- operated brake lever acting downward due to gravity, whereby the foot-operated brake lever is retained in a desired portion during non-operation condition of the foot-operated brake lever. In one embodiment, the restoring member is a spring.

[00040] It is an advantage that the present subject matter provides an improved brake feel as the first actuating member is directly actuated through the foot- operated brake lever and the second actuating member is actuated through the pivot reaction of the foot-operated brake lever. As the user operates the synchronized brake lever similar to a conventional brake lever, which results in no major change in terms of brake feel even after prolonged usage. Also, the locking of lever even when brake is released or variation is free -play is eliminated due to the secondary stopper thereby improving safety.

[00041] It is an additional advantage that the present subject matter provides a simple synchronized braking system that is compact and is having less weight, whereby the synchronized braking system is accommodated in compact vehicles like two or three wheeled vehicles. The weight of the system is substantially less as the moving pivot member is having smaller foot print (area occupied), wherein in a side view the moving pivot member is substantially overlapped by the foot- operated brake lever (acting as synchronized brake lever).

[00042] It is yet another advantage that the synchronized braking system requires minimum components thereby requiring minimum space.

[00043] It yet another additional advantage that the synchronized braking systems requires minimum components, which is cost effective, and requires nominal skill for maintenance.

[00044] In one embodiment, the synchronized braking system is disposed upward and rearward to a foot support structure of the vehicle.

[00045] It is an aspect of the present subject matter that the synchronous braking system enables actuation of at least two brakes installed on different wheels by the operation of a single control, which is the foot-operated brake lever. In one implementation, the synchronized braking system is operated by the method of pivot a foot-operated brake lever movably actuated about a first-pivot support of a moving-pivot member. The foot-operated brake lever capable of synchronously transmitting brake actuating forces to both the real wheel brake and the front wheel brake during application thereof. Actuating any one brake of a front wheel brake and a rear wheel brake of the vehicle directly through an output arm of the foot-operated brake lever. Pivoting the moving-pivot member about a second-pivot support acting as a fixed pivot provided on a rigid member like frame member. Actuating any other brake of the front wheel brake and the rear wheel brake by pivotal reaction of the foot-operated brake lever pivoted to the moving-pivot member.

[00046] It is a feature that in one embodiment, the stopper is provided with a stepped profile or stepped cross-section, wherein the portion inward in vehicle width direction is higher thickness than a portion outward in vehicle direction thereby offering material reduction and at the same time retaining the structural rigidity.

[00047] These and other advantages of the present subject matter would be described in greater detail in conjunction with an embodiment of a two wheeled saddle type motorcycle with foot operated rear brake with the figures in the following description.

[00048] Fig. 1 depicts a right side view of an exemplary vehicle 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. The vehicle 100 includes a frame member 105 supporting a front wheel 110 and a rear wheel 115. The front wheel 110 and the rear wheel 115 are rotatably supported by front suspension system 120 and the rear suspension system 125, respectively. In one embodiment, the rear wheel 115 is additionally supported by a swingarm (not shown). The front wheel 110 is provided with a front wheel brake 130 and the rear wheel 115 is provided with a rear wheel brake 135. In the present embodiment, the front wheel brake 130 is a disc brake. However, the front wheel brake 130 can be a drum brake or the disc brake, which are actuated using either hydraulic actuation, mechanical actuation, or a combination of hydraulic and mechanical actuation.

[00049] In the present embodiment, a power unit 140 is mounted to a front portion of the frame member 105 and is disposed substantially below a fuel tank 145 and rearward of the front wheel 110. The power unit 140 is coupled to a transmission system (not shown) for transferring power to the rear wheel 115. Further, a carburetor or a fuel injection system or the like (not shown) supplies air-fuel mixture to the power unit 140 including an internal combustion engine. Further, the front wheel 110 is pivotally supported by the frame member 105 and a handlebar assembly 150 is functionally connected to the front wheel 110 for maneuvering the vehicle 100. The handlebar assembly 150 supports an instrument cluster, vehicle controls including throttle, clutch, or electrical switches. Further, the handlebar assembly 150 supports at least one brake lever 151. The vehicle 100 includes another lever that is foot-operated brake lever 205 disposed adjacent to a rider foot support structure 185. The foot-operated brake lever 205 acts as the synchronized brake lever 205 in the depicted embodiment. Thus, the terms foot- operated brake lever 205 and synchronized brake lever 205 are interchangeably used.

[00050] Further, a seat assembly 155 is mounted to the frame member 105 and disposed rearward of the fuel tank 145. The rider can operate the vehicle 100 in a seated position on the seat assembly 155. Moreover, the vehicle 100 includes a pair of rider foot support structure 185 disposed on either sides of the vehicle 100 for the user to rest feet. The rider foot support structure 185 extends in a lateral direction RH-LH of the vehicle 100 and is secured to the frame member 105 of the vehicle 100.

[00051] Further, the vehicle 100 includes a front fender 160 covering at least a portion of the front wheel 110 and a rear fender 165 covering at least a portion of the rear wheel 115. Also, the vehicle 100 is provided with plurality of panels 170, 171 mounted to the frame member 105 and covering the frame member 105 and/or parts of the vehicle 100. Further, the vehicle 100 includes a headlamp 175 and a tail lamp 180. Also, the vehicle 100 is employed with plurality of mechanical, electronic, and electromechanical system including an anti-lock braking system, a vehicle safety system, or an electronic control system. The vehicle 100 is also employed with a synchronized braking system 200. [00052] Fig. 2 illustrates a right side schematic view of the synchronized braking system 200 employed on a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. The synchronized braking system 200, which is a foot- operated synchronized braking system, includes the front wheel brake 130 capable of applying braking forces to the front wheel 110 of the vehicle 100. In one embodiment, the front wheel brake 130 is a drum brake assembly actuated by a mechanical actuating member including a brake cable or a brake rod, or a hydraulic actuating member including a brake hose. In another embodiment, the front wheel brake 130 can be a disc brake actuated through either mechanical or hydraulic actuating member.

[00053] Similarly, the rear wheel brake 135 is capable of applying braking forces to the rear wheel 115 of the vehicle 100. In one embodiment, the front wheel brake 130 is a drum brake assembly actuated by a mechanical actuating member including a brake cable or a brake rod, or a hydraulic actuating member including a brake hose. In another embodiment, the rear wheel brake 135 can be a mechanical actuating member including a brake cable or a disc brake actuated through either mechanical or hydraulic actuating member.

[00054] The foot-operated brake lever 205 is capable of synchronously transmitting brake-actuating forces to the front wheel brake 130 and the rear wheel brake 135. The foot-operated brake lever is pivoted to a moving-pivot member 210. In the present embodiment, the moving-pivot member 210 includes a first-pivot support 211 about which the foot-operated brake lever 205 is pivotally mounted and the foot-operated brake lever 205 is pivotable about a first- pivot axis F-F’ (shown in Fig 3) that coincides with an axis of the first-pivot support 211. The foot-operated brake lever 205 is operatively connected to a first actuating member 215 capable of actuating any one brake of the front wheel brake 130 and the rear wheel brake 135. In the present implementation, the first actuating member 215 is a rear brake rod 215 having one end operatively connected to an output arm 208 of the foot-operated brake lever 205 and other end is connected to the rear wheel brake 135. [00055] In a preferred embodiment, the foot-operated brake lever 205 includes an input arm 206 and the output arm 208. The input arm 206 includes a pedal foot-peg 207, through which user actuates the foot-operated brake lever 205, disposed at front end. In the present implementation, the input arm 206 and the output arm 208 are disposed at an angle with respect to each other to provide a pivot reaction at the first-pivot support 211. This enables exertion of force on the moving-pivot member 210. In the present embodiment, the front wheel brake 130 is operatively connected to the moving-pivot member 210, wherein the front wheel brake 130 is actuated through the movement of the moving -pivot member 210 due to the pivot reaction at the first-pivot support 211 thereof during actuation of the foot-operated brake lever 205. The moving-pivot member 210 is connected to the front wheel brake 130 through a second actuating member 220.

[00056] Fig. 3 depicts a rear perspective view of the synchronized braking system 200 employed on a vehicle, in accordance with the embodiment as depicted in Fig. 2 (a). In the present implementation, the first-pivot support 211 is a pin or a cylindrical member provided on the moving-pivot member 210 that pivotally supports the foot-operated brake lever 205. The first-pivot support 211 is a movable pivot member due to the pivot reaction force acting at the first-pivot support 211. In the present implementation, the moving -pivot member 210, supporting the foot-operated brake lever 205, is fixedly pivoted to the frame member 105 through a second-pivot support 212. The second -pivot support 212 acts as a guiding member. The moving -pivot member 210 is mounted to a pivot bracket 108 of the frame member 105, wherein the pivot bracket 108 is secured to a main tube 107 of the frame member 105 extending rearwardly downward from the head tube 106 and surrounding at least a circumference of the power unit 140.

[00057] The actuation of the foot-operated brake lever 205 creates a pivot reaction force at the first-pivot support 211. The first-pivot support 211 being affixed to the moving-pivot member 210 exerts force on the moving-pivot member 210. Further, the moving-pivot member 210 being fixedly pivoted to the second-pivot support 212, the pivot reaction force acting on the moving-pivot member 210 enables movement of the moving -pivot member 210. Furthermore, the moving-pivot member 210 rotates angularly about the second-pivot axis S-S’ at a pre-determined degree of freedom of movement provided thereof. Specifically, the pivot reaction force, in the present implementation, enables angular rotation of the moving-pivot member 210 in a clockwise direction.

[00058] In another similar implementation, the moving-pivot member 210 rotates in an anti-clock wise direction depending on input and output positions of the pivot reaction force. Furthermore, the second actuating member 220 pivotally connected to the moving-pivot member 210 actuates the front wheel brake 130 due to the rotation of the moving-pivot member 210. Further, the synchronized braking system 200 is having a secondary stopper 235 (shown in Fig. 4) that is capable of restricting rotational/pivotal movement of the moving-pivot member 210. In one embodiment, the second actuating member 220 is pulled for actuating the front wheel brake 130. For example, the second actuating member 220 can be a cable comprising an outer sheath 221 and an inner cable 222 (shown in Fig. 2), wherein the inner cable is slidable about the outer sheath 221.

[00059] In one another embodiment, the second actuating member 220 is a brake cable extending upward from the moving-pivot member 210 and forward towards a head tube 106. In another implementation, the second actuating member 220 extends forward and inclinedly upward towards a head tube 106 of the frame member 105.

[00060] Fig. 4 depicts an exploded view of the synchronized braking system 200, in accordance with the embodiment depicted in Fig. 3. The pivot bracket 108 of frame member 105 is provided with the second-pivot support 212. The second- pivot support 212 is affixed to the frame member 105, wherein the second-pivot support 212 extends outward in a lateral direction RH-LH of the vehicle 100. The second-pivot support 212 has a fixed pivot axis and the second-pivot support 212 pivotally supports the moving -pivot member 210, wherein the moving -pivot member 210 is pivotable about second-pivot axis S-S’ of the second-pivot support 212. The moving-pivot member 210 includes the first-pivot support 211, wherein the first-pivot support 211 pivotally supports the foot-operated brake lever 205, and the first-pivot support 211 is a moving-pivot axis. Thus, second-pivot support 212 is a fixed pivot secured to a rigid member of the vehicle 100, and the first- pivot support 211 acts a dynamic pivot point movable within a pre-determined angle with respect to the second-pivot support 212. The secondary stopper 235 is provided to restrict pivotal movement of the moving -pivot member 210beyond a pre-determined point when the foot-operated brake lever 205 is released.

[00061] The moving-pivot member 210 includes a connection portion 225 at which the second actuating member 220 gets connected. In the present embodiment, the inner cable 222 of the second actuating member 220 gets connected to the moving-pivot member 210 at the connection portion 225.

[00062] The foot-operated brake lever 205 is pivotable about the first-pivot axis F-F’ and the pivotal movement/rotation of the foot-operated brake lever 205 in one direction is restricted by a spring member, with one end of the spring member secured to the frame member 105 and the other end connected to the foot-operated brake lever 205. Further, a stopper restricts the pivotal motion of the foot-operated brake lever 205 beyond a pre-determined degree in other direction. In the present implementation, the boss member 214 acts as the stopper and an abutting portion 209 of the foot-operated brake lever 205 abuts against the boss member 214. The stopper disposed on at least one of the moving -pivot member 210 or on the frame member 105 restricts the motion of the foot-operated brake lever in a non actuating condition of the foot-operated brake lever 205 beyond a pre-determined degree of movement. Furthermore, in one embodiment, a primary stopper 186 shown in Fig. 5 also acts as a stopper that restricts the pivotal motion of the foot- operated brake lever 205.

[00063] Further, the secondary stopper 235 is fixedly provided on the frame member 105. In the present embodiment, the secondary stopper 235 is provided on the pivot bracket 108, wherein the secondary stopper 235 protrudes outward from the pivot bracket 108. The secondary stopper 235 restrict the pivotal movement of the moving-pivot member 210 beyond a certain point or beyond a pre-determined degree of rotation. Especially, when the brake is released, the moving-pivot member 210 retracts to its initial position and the movement is restricted by the secondary stopper 235. The moving-pivot member 210 is spring loaded by providing a torsional spring (not shown) or the like that enables retraction. The torsional spring exerts force on moving -pivot member 210 whereby the moving -pivot member 210 is rotated to reach the initial position until abutting the secondary stopper 235.

[00064] In the present implementation, the synchronized braking system (SBS) 200 is disposed upward and behind the rider foot support structure 185. Therefore, the SBS 200 disposed substantially upward from the ground and away from dirt, dust, and water. The input arm 206 of the foot-operated brake lever 205 extends downward and ahead of the rider foot support structure 185 from the first-pivot support 211. The output arm 208 extends upward from the first-pivot support 211. The first actuating member 215, which is the brake rod, is pivoted to the output arm 208.

[00065] In the present embodiment, the second actuating member 220 includes an outer cable/sheath 221 and an inner cable 222. The outer cable 221, having two ends, is affixed to the frame member 105 through one end. The inner cable 222 having one end connected to the moving-pivot member 210 and the other end is operatively connected to the front wheel brake 130. Further, in a preferred embodiment, the second actuating member 220 includes a restoring member (not shown) having at least a preload balancing weight of the foot-operated brake lever 205. The restoring member can be a return spring. This enables in retaining the foot-operated brake lever 205 at pre-determined position, when in a non-engaging condition.

[00066] Further, as shown in Fig. 4, which depicts an exploded view of selective parts of the foot-operated synchronized braking system 200, in accordance with the embodiment and from Fig. 5, which is perspective view of the synchronized braking system with selected parts. The first-pivot axis F-F’, and the second-pivot axis S-S’ are disposed parallel to each other. The second actuating member 220 is connected to the moving-pivot member 210 at a pivot output 213. The first-pivot support 211 provides the input force to the moving- pivot member 210 to provide a pulling output at the pivot output 213. The second actuating member 220 connected to the moving -pivot member 210 is actuated due to the pivot reaction force acting thereon whereby the inner cable 222 is pulled for actuating a front wheel brake 130. A tension member 255 is provided in the braking system 200. One end of the tension member 255 is connected to a mounting provision 250 on the moving -pivot member 210 and other end of the tension member 255 is connected to the frame assembly 105. In the depicted embodiment, the tension member 255 may be secured to the pivot bracket 108. Thus, the tension member 255 provides required return force for the moving-pivot member 210 to rotate about the second -pivot axis S-S’, when the foot-operated brake lever 205 is releases. In one embodiment, the tension member 255 is a tension spring, which is subjected to expansion and thereby creating a pulling nature of the tension spring thereby causing retraction during release of braking force. Further, the moving -pivot member 210 reached its initial condition and rests against the secondary stopper 235. Moreover, from the rest position of the moving-pivot member 210, free-play of the braking system can be corrected/ set to desired value. This will ensure consistent brake performance with easy free- play adjustment of the brake system.

[00067] The moving-pivot member 210 includes a boss member 214 provided for fixedly pivoting the moving -pivot member 210 to the second-pivot support 212. In the present embodiment, the second-pivot support 212 is mounted to the pivot bracket 108 of the frame member 105 of the vehicle 100.

[00068] The moving -pivot member 210 includes output 213 connected to the second actuating member 220 through the inner cable 222 connected thereof and the outer cable 221 is fixedly secured to the frame member 105, wherein the inner cable 222 is movable about the outer cable 221.

[00069] The moving-pivot member 210 is provided with the first-pivot support 211 and the boss member 214 are provided on a base portion 210B. The second- pivot axis S-S’ coincides with the axis of the boss member of 214. The first-pivot axis of the first-pivot support 211 and the second-pivot axis of the second-pivot support 212 are substantially parallel to each other. The first-pivot support 211 and the second-pivot support 212 extend outward in a lateral RH-LH direction of the vehicle 100. [00070] Further, the primary stopper 186 restricts the pivotal motion of the foot- operated brake lever 205 beyond a pre-determined degree of movement. In the present implementation, the boss member 214 additionally acts as the stopper. The stopper disposed on at least one of the moving-pivot member 210 or on the frame member 105 restricts the motion of the foot-operated brake lever in a non actuating condition of the foot-operated brake lever 205 beyond a pre-determined degree of movement.

[00071] Fig. 6 depicts a side view of the synchronized braking system, in accordance with the embodiment of Fig. 4. The primary stopper 186 is provided at a bottom portion on the rider foot support structure 185. A motion of the foot- operated brake lever 205 is restricted by the primary stopper 186, wherein an elastic member (not shown) provided on the foot-operated brake lever 205 will travel only till an imaginary primary line 191, which is a horizontal line, when the foot-operated brake lever 205 is released. Similarly, the secondary stopper 235 includes an imaginary secondary line 190, which is a horizontal line, passing therethrough. The moving-pivot member 210 is movable till the imaginary secondary line 190 due to the secondary stopper 235. In one embodiment, the stopper is provided with a stepped cross-section to save material without compromising on structural rigidity and at the same time maintaining required clearances with adjacent parts for assembling/during assembly and also for maintenance.

[00072] It is to be understood that the aspects of the embodiments are not necessarily limited to the features described herein. Many modifications and variations of the present subject matter are possible in the light of above disclosure. Therefore, within the scope of claims of the present subject matter, the present disclosure may be practiced other than as specifically described. List of reference signs:

100 vehicle 191 imaginary primary line

105 frame member 200 synchronized braking system

106 head tube 205 foot-operated brake lever 107 main tube 206 input arm

108 pivot bracket 207 pedal foot-peg

110 front wheel 208 output arm

115 rear wheel 209 abutting portion

120 front suspension system 210 moving -pivot member 125 rear suspension system 211 first-pivot support

130 front wheel brake 212 second-pivot support 135 rear wheel brake 213 output

140 power unit 214 boss member

145 fuel tank 215 first actuating member 150 handle bar assembly 220 second actuating member 151 independent brake lever 221 outer cable

155 seat assembly 222 inner cable

160 front fender 225 connection portion

165 rear fender 230 main stand

170/171 panels 235 secondary stopper

175 head lamp 240 main stand

180 tail lamp 250 mounting provision

185 foot support structure 255 tension member

186 primary stopper F-F' first-pivot axis

90 imaginary secondary line S-S' second-pivot axis

Claims

We claim:

1. A synchronized braking system (200) for a vehicle (100), said synchronized braking system (200) comprising:

a front wheel brake (130) capable of applying braking forces to one or more front wheel(s) (110) of said vehicle (100);

a rear wheel brake (135) capable of applying braking forces to one or more rear wheel(s) (115) of said vehicle (100);

an independent brake lever (151) mounted to a handlebar assembly (150) of said vehicle (100), said independent brake lever (151) coupled to any one of said front wheel brake (130) and said rear wheel brake (135); and

a foot-operated brake lever (205) capable of synchronously transmitting brake actuating forces to both said rear wheel brake (135) and said front wheel brake (130), said foot-operated brake lever (205) is movably pivoted to a moving- pivot member (210) about a first-pivot axis (F-F’) and operatively connected to a first actuating member (215) capable of actuating any one brake of said front wheel brake (130) and said rear wheel brake (135), said moving-pivot member (210) operatively connected to a second actuating member (220) capable of actuating any other brake of said front wheel brake (130) and said rear wheel brake (135), additionally said second actuating member (220) is actuated by pivotal reaction of said foot-operated brake lever (205) pivoted to said moving- pivot member (210), and

said synchronized braking system (200) includes a secondary stopper (235) capable of restricting a pivotal movement of said moving-pivot member (210) beyond a pre-determined degree of rotation.

2. The synchronized braking system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said foot-operated brake lever (205) includes an output arm (208) coupled to said first actuating member (215) for actuating said any one of said front wheel brake (130) and said rear wheel brake (135) directly through said output arm (208).

3. The synchronized braking system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said moving-pivot member (210) includes a first-pivot support (211) capable of pivotally supporting said foot-operated brake lever (205) and said moving-pivot member (210) is pivoted to a second-pivot support (212), and said foot-operated brake lever (205) is spring-loaded and a primary stopper (186) is provided to restrict said pivotal movement of said foot-operated brake lever (205) beyond a pre-determined point when said foot-operated brake lever (205) is released.

4. The synchronized braking system (200) as claimed in claim 3, wherein said second-pivot support (212) is a fixed pivot secured to a rigid member of said vehicle (100), and said first-pivot support (211) is a dynamic pivot point movable within a pre-determined angle with respect to said second -pivot support (212), and wherein a secondary stopper (235) is provided to restrict pivotal movement of said moving-pivot member (210) beyond a pre-determined point when said foot- operated brake lever (205) is released.

5. The synchronized braking system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said second actuating member (220) connected to said moving-pivot member (210) includes a return spring having at least a preload balancing weight of said foot-operated brake lever (205).

6. The synchronized braking system (200) as claimed in claim 4, wherein said moving-pivot member (210) is fixedly pivoted to a frame member (105) of said vehicle (100) at a second-pivot axis (S-S’) away from said first-pivot axis (F- F’), and wherein said secondary stopper (235) is secured to said frame member (105).

7. The synchronized braking system (200) as claimed in claim 1 or 6, wherein said first-pivot axis (F-F’), and said second-pivot axis (S-S’) are disposed parallel to each osaidr.

8. The synchronized braking system (100) as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein said output arm (208) of said foot-operated brake lever (205) abuts a stopper (214) in a non-actuating condition of said foot-operated brake lever (205), and said stopper (214) dispsoed on at least one of said moving-pivot member (210) or on a frame member (105) of said vehicle (100).

9. The synchronized braking system (200) as claimed in claim 3, wherein said first-pivot support (211) and said second-pivot support (212) are substantially parallelly disposed extend in a lateral direction (RH-LH) of said vehicle (100).

10. The synchronized braking system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said braking system (200) includes a tension member (255), said tension member (255) having one end secured to said moving -pivot member (210) and other end of said tension member (255) secured to a frame member (105) of said motor vehicle.

11. A synchronized braking system for a vehicle (100), said synchronized braking system (200) comprising:

a synchronous brake lever, mounted to said handlebar assembly (150), capable of synchronously transmitting brake actuating forces to both said rear wheel brake (135) and said front wheel brake (130), said synchronous brake lever is movably pivoted to a moving-pivot member (210) about a first-pivot axis (F-F’) and operatively connected to a first actuating member (215) capable of actuating any one brake of said front wheel brake (130) and said rear wheel brake (135), said moving-pivot member (210) operatively connected to a second actuating member (220) capable of actuating any other brake of said front wheel brake (130) and said rear wheel brake (135), additionally said second actuating member (220) is actuated by pivotal reaction of said synchronous brake lever pivoted to said moving-pivot member (210), and

12. A method of operating a synchronized braking system (200), said method comprising said steps of: pivoting a foot-operated brake lever (205) movably about a first-pivot support (211) of a moving-pivot member (210), said foot-operated brake lever (205) capable of synchronously transmitting brake actuating forces to both said real wheel brake (135) and said front wheel brake (130);

actuating any one brake of a front wheel brake (130) and a rear wheel brake (135) of said vehicle directly through said foot-operated brake lever (205); pivoting said moving-pivot member (210) about a second-pivot support (212) acting as a fixed pivot, a secondary stopper (235) capable of restricting a pivotal movement of said moving-pivot member (210); and

actuating any other brake of said front wheel brake (130) and said rear wheel brake (135) by pivotal reaction of said foot-operated brake lever (205) pivoted to said moving-pivot member (210).