WO2021161340A1

WO2021161340A1 - A swing arm of a modular vehicle

Info

Publication number: WO2021161340A1
Application number: PCT/IN2021/050134
Authority: WO
Inventors: Satyendra Dhar DWIVEDI; Ankit Agarwal; Rajat Bhardwaj; Anuj Jain; Gaurav DADHEECH
Original assignee: Hero MotoCorp Limited
Priority date: 2020-02-12
Filing date: 2021-02-12
Publication date: 2021-08-19

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a swing member of a modular vehicle (10) to help in converting a vehicle (10) from a two-wheeled configuration to a three-wheeled configuration. The vehicle (10) comprises a first body frame (106); a rear ground engaging member (184); and a swing arm (160) pivotally coupled with the first body frame (106), wherein the swing arm (160) configured to selectively lift the rear ground engaging member (184) from a ground surface to convert the vehicle (10) from the two- wheeled configuration to the three-wheeled configuration.

Description

“A SWING ARM OF A MODULAR VEHICLE”

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of automobiles. Particularly, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to a modular vehicle and having multiple configurations. More particularly, the present disclosure discloses a swing arm of the modular vehicle.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Vehicles such as, but not limited to, motorized scooters, motorcycles, etc., have a plurality of components and assemblies, such as a body frame, a power unit, a passenger seating area, a storage space, and a set of ground engaging members. The power unit is adapted to provide the necessary power to the ground engaging members, to drive the vehicle. The power unit, seating area, storage space, etc., are all carried by the body frame. The ground engaging members are connected to the body frame. Therefore, the body frame is designed to carry the load of the vehicle, including the weight of the power unit, other components, and sub-assemblies of the vehicle. Such weight carried by the body frame is transferred, through the ground engaging members, to the ground.

[0003] There are situations or needs which require a vehicle to be ridden as a two wheeled at one instance and as a three wheeled vehicle at other.

[0004] However, providing such modular vehicles which may be transformed from a two-wheeled vehicle to a three-wheeled vehicle and vice versa according to need is a complex task and suffers from many problems such as improper transfer of load from the body frame to the ground engaging members and increased wear and tear of ground engaging member (drive wheels). These problems result in decrease in the fuel efficiency and increases maintenance cost of the vehicle. Also, it would require a considerable time to complete the conversion from one form to another. Further, conventional systems do not provide any mechanism which can cater to the requirements put forth by these modular vehicles.

[0005] The present disclosure is directed to overcome one or more limitations stated above or any other limitations associated with the prior art.

SUMMARY

[0006] A vehicle is disclosed in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure which is configured to selectively operate in either one of a two-wheeled configuration or and a three-wheeled configuration. The vehicle can be easily converted from a two wheeled vehicle to a three wheeled vehicle and vice versa according to the requirements. The movement of the swing arm between a storage position and an operating position, allows easy insertion and coupling of the two wheeled vehicle into the attachment structure, thereby reducing the assembly time.

[0007] The vehicle comprises a first body frame, a rear ground engaging member; and a swing arm pivotally coupled with the first body frame; wherein the swing arm configured to selectively lift the rear ground engaging member from a ground surface to convert the vehicle from the two- wheeled configuration to the three- wheeled configuration.

[0008] In an aspect, the rear ground engaging member is rotatably supported by the swing arm. In another aspect, the first member of the swing arm is pivotally coupled to the first body frame.

[0009] A swing arm is disclosed in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure which is configured to selectively lift a rear ground engaging member from a ground surface to convert a vehicle from a two- wheeled configuration to a three- wheeled configuration, the swing member comprises a first member, a second member, and a swiveling mechanism; the swiveling mechanism is configured to selectively restrict rotation of the second member with respect to the first member.

[00010] In an aspect, the vehicle comprises a rear end structure, which comprises at least one suspension device operatively coupled between the first body frame and the first member of the swing arm.

[00011] In an aspect, the swing arm is configured to switch between the operating position and the storage position, in the operating position, the vehicle is in the two wheeled configuration and rear ground engaging member is in contact with the ground surface to provide traction to the vehicle. In another aspect, the swing arm is configured to lift the rear ground engaging member from ground surface, when the swing arm rotates towards the storage position.

[00012] In an aspect, the second member of the swing arm is rotatably coupled with the first member of the swing arm at one end, and rotatably supports the rear ground engaging member at the other end.

[00013] In an aspect, the first member comprises a central portion; a plurality of frame attachment brackets integrally formed with the central portion, disposed at a front end of the first member; and a suspension device attachment portion extends from the central portion, configured to couple one end of the suspension device to the swing arm. The first member further comprises an extension portion extends from the central portion and bifurcates into the first extending member and second extending member whereby the first extending member extends further towards the rear portion of the vehicle; and a pair of first holes disposed closer towards the central portion and a pair of second holes disposed at a distance from the first holes.

[00014] In an aspect, the second member comprises a connection portion configured to be rotatably coupled with the first member, a middle portion having an abutment portion, and a hub attachment portion coupled to the rear ground engaging member via a wheel hub mounting hole. The connecting portion is disposed towards front of the vehicle, comprises a first aperture and a second aperture whereby the first aperture is disposed ahead of the second aperture.

[00015] In an aspect, a pin extending through the pair of first holes of the first member and the first aperture of the connection portion, rotatably couples the second member with the first member.

[00016] In an aspect, the swiveling mechanism comprises a third member and a fourth member wherein the third member is rotatably coupled with the fourth member. The third member is a substantially U-shaped member, comprises a left arm, a right arm and a pin member. The pin member is removably coupled to the third member. [00017] In an aspect, the third member comprises a pair of upper holes and a pair of lower holes disposed on the left arm and right arm at upper and lower ends of third member respectively, whereby the third member is releasably secured to the first member with a plurality of fasting members extending through the pair of second holes of the first member and the pair of lower holes of the third member. In another aspect, the plurality of fastening members are configured to be loosened to rotate the third member with respect to the first member.

[00018] In an aspect, the fourth member comprises a wedge portion; a first planar portion, and a second planar portion extends substantially parallel to one another and extends from the wedge portion; and a lock abutment portion configured to abut the abutment portion of the second member disposed at one end of the wedge portion.

The fourth member further comprises a pair of upper planar holes disposed on upper portion of the fourth member; and a pair of lower planar holes disposed on lower portion of the fourth member.

[00019] In an aspect, the fourth member is rotatably coupled to the second member with a pin extending through the pair of lower planar holes and the second aperture; and is rotatably coupled to the third member with help of a plurality of fastening members passing through the pair of upper planar holes and the pair of upper holes of the third member.

[00020] A method for converting a two-wheeled configuration to a three- wheeled configuration is disclosed in accordance with the embodiment of the present disclosure. The method comprising steps of moving a swing arm towards a storage position by rotating a third member of a swiveling mechanism in a first direction, thereby allowing and rotating a second member with respect to a first member; securing the second member with the first body frame after rotating the third member of the swiveling mechanism in a second direction, thereby locking the swing arm to the first body frame; and moving the swing arm into the attachment structure to couple an attachment structure with the two- wheeled vehicle.

[00021] In an aspect, the third member is rotatably coupled to a fourth member, is moved in the first direction such that there is no contact between a lock abutment portion of the fourth member and abut an abutment portion of the second member, thereby allowing the second member to rotate about the first member.

[00022] In an aspect, the third member is moved in the second direction such that the lock abutment portion of the fourth member abuts the abut abutment portion of the second member, thereby restricting the rotation of the second member with respect to the first member.

[00023] 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 DRAWINGS

[00024] The invention itself, together with further features and attended 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 disclosure are now described, by way of example only wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:

[00025] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary modular vehicle in two-wheeled vehicle configuration, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[00026] Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of a body frame and a swing arm of the vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[00027] Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of the swing arm of the vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[00028] Figures 4a and 4b illustrate different perspective views of a first member of the swing arm, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[00029] Figures 5a and 5b illustrate different perspective views of a second member of the swing arm, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; [00030] Figures 6a and 6b illustrate different perspective views of a third member of a rotating mechanism of the swing arm, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[00031] Figures 7a and 7b illustrate different perspective views of a fourth member of the rotating mechanism, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[00032] Figures 8a and 8b illustrate different perspective views of the swing arm and a rear ground engaging member of the vehicle in an operating position, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; [00033] Figures 9a and 9b illustrate different perspective views of the swing arm and a rear ground engaging member of the vehicle in a storage position, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[00034] Figures 10a and 10b illustrate different perspective views of the swing arm and a rear ground engaging member of the vehicle in an intermediate position between the operating position and storage position, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[00035] Figures 11a and lib illustrate different perspective view of the swing arm and a rear ground engaging member of the vehicle in another intermediate position between the operating position and storage position, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[00036] Figure 12 illustrates a perspective view of an attachment structure of the modular vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[00037] Figure 13 illustrates a perspective view of the modular vehicle in three- wheeled vehicle configuration, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[00038] 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 [00039] While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, an embodiment thereof has been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described here below. It should be understood, however that it is not intended to limit the invention to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternative falling within the spirit and the scope of the invention. [00040] The term “comprises”, comprising, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a setup, structure 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 structure 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.

[00041] For better understanding of this disclosure, reference would now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the accompanying Figures and description here below, further, in the following Figures, the same reference numerals are used to identify the same components in various views.

[00042] While the present disclosure is illustrated in the context of a vehicle, however, swing arm and aspects and features thereof can be used with other type of vehicles as well. The terms “vehicle”, “two- wheeled vehicle”, “electric vehicle”,

“EV” and “motorcycle” have been interchangeably used throughout the description. The term “vehicle” comprises vehicles such as motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, mopeds, scooter type vehicle, and the like.

[00043] The terms “front / forward”, “rear / rearward / back / backward”, “up / upper / top”, “down / lower / lower ward / downward, bottom”, “left / leftward”, “right

/ rightward” used therein represents the directions as seen from a vehicle driver sitting astride and these directions are referred by arrows Fr, Rr, U, Lr, L, R in the drawing Figures.

[00044] Referring to Figures 1 and 13, an exemplary modular vehicle (10) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted. The modular vehicle (10) (hereinafter alternatively referred to as the vehicle (10)) is a vehicle which can be converted from a first vehicle to a second vehicle and vice-versa. The first vehicle may be a two- wheeled vehicle or a multi-wheeled vehicle such as a three wheeled vehicle or a four-wheeled vehicle. The second vehicle may be a two- wheeled vehicle, a three-wheeled vehicle or a four-wheeled vehicle. In the illustrated example, the first vehicle embodies a two- wheeled vehicle, and the second vehicle embodies a three- wheeled vehicle. Alternatively, the first vehicle may be a three- wheeled vehicle or a four-wheeled vehicle without limiting the scope of the disclosure. Alternatively, the second vehicle may be a two-wheeled vehicle, a four-wheeled vehicle without limiting the scope of the invention. The modular vehicle (10) comprises a two wheeled vehicle (100) and an attachment structure (300). The two-wheeled vehicle (100) referred to herein, embodies a step through type electric vehicle. Alternatively, the two-wheeled vehicle (100) may embody any other ridden vehicle such as electric motorcycle etc. without limiting the scope of the invention. The modular vehicle (10) can be interchanged between two-wheeled configuration (as shown in Figure 1) and three-wheeled configuration (as shown in Figure 13).

[00045] Referring to Figure 1, the modular vehicle (10) in two- wheeled configuration is illustrated. The two- wheeled vehicle (100) (herein after interchangeably referred to as vehicle (100)) comprises front end structure (102), a floorboard (134), and a rear end structure (104). The front end structure (102) comprises a steering mechanism (113), a leg shield (108), a front ground engaging member (110), a dash assembly (116), a head lamp unit (118), and a plurality of winkers (120). The steering mechanism (113) comprises a handlebar (114). The handlebar (114) is configured to be rotated by the rider to steer the vehicle (100). The steering mechanism (113) comprises a plurality of front forks (136) disposed at the front portion of the vehicle (100). The steering mechanism (113) is operatively coupled to the front ground engaging member (110) via the plurality of front forks (136).

[00046] In the illustrated example, the dash assembly (116) is provided on the steering mechanism (113). The dash assembly (116) comprises a display unit (not shown). The display unit displays information relating to the vehicle (100) to the rider. The dash assembly (116) may comprise additional components such as, LCD, GPS, graphical user interface (GUI) etc. without limiting the scope of the invention. In the illustrated example, the head lamp unit (118) is provided on the steering mechanism (113). Alternatively, the head lamp unit (118) may be provided on the leg shield (108), without limiting the scope of the invention.

[00047] The leg shield (108) is disposed on the front portion of the vehicle (100). The leg shield (108) encloses the steering mechanism (113). The leg shield (108) comprises an inner leg shield (109) and an outer leg shield (111). The leg shield (108) provides protection for the feet of the rider of the vehicle (100). In the illustrated example, the plurality of the winkers (120) are disposed on the leg shield (108). Alternatively, the plurality of the winkers (120) may be provided on the steering mechanism (113) of the vehicle (100), without any limitations. The floorboard (134) is disposed behind the front end structure (102) and the rear end structure (104). The floorboard (134) provides footrest for a rider riding the vehicle (100).

[00048] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the vehicle (100) comprises the first body frame (106). The first body frame (106) comprises a head tube (122), a down frame (124), a first cross member (126), a left seat rail (128), and a right seat rail (130). The down frame (124) extends in a rearward and downward direction from the head tube (122). The down frame (124) extends between the head tube (122) and the first cross member (126). The steering mechanism (113) is pivotally supported on the first body frame (106). More particularly, the head tube (122) supports the steering mechanism (113). Further, at least portion of the head tube (122) and the down frame (124) is enclosed by at least portion of the leg shield (108). The left seat rail (128) and the right seat rail (130) extend rearward and upward from the first cross member (126).

The vehicle (100) comprises a passenger’s seat (170). The rider’s seat (112) and the passenger’s seat (170) are disposed on the left seat rail (128) and the right seat rail (130). The rider’s seat (112) and the passenger seat (170) may be formed as a single unit or may be individual members, without any limitations. The vehicle (100) comprises a control unit (not shown). The control unit controls various operations of the modular vehicle (10) in both two- wheeled configuration and the three- wheeled configuration.

[00049] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the vehicle (100) comprises a front side cover (141), a left side cover (142) and a right side cover (not shown). The front side cover (141) is disposed adjacent to the floorboard (134) and covers front area below the rider’s seat (112). The left side cover (142) and the right side cover (not shown) are disposed on both sides of vehicle body and covers lower sides of the rider’s seat (112) and the passenger’s seat (170). Further, the vehicle (100) comprises a first battery unit (not shown). In the illustrated example, the first battery unit is disposed below the left seat rail (128) and the right seat rail (130). In one example, the first battery unit may be disposed within the leg shield (108). In another example, the first battery unit is disposed underneath the floorboard (134), without limiting the scope of the invention.

[00050] Referring to Figures 1, and 3, the vehicle (100) comprises the rear end structure (104). The rear end structure (104) is disposed at the rear portion of the vehicle (100). The rear end structure (106) comprises a swing arm (160), a tail lamp ( 182) and a rear side cover (188). The rear side cover ( 188) is disposed on rear portion of the vehicle (100) and covers hind area below the passenger’s seat (170). In the illustrated example, the tail lamp (182) is disposed on the rear side cover (188). A plurality of turn signal indicators (183) are disposed on either side of the tail lamp (182).

[00051] The rear end structure (104) comprises a rear ground engaging member (184), a power generating motor (179) (shown in Figure 8a), a second battery unit (not shown), and at least one suspension device (not shown). In the illustrate example, the rear ground engaging member (184) is disposed below the rider’s seat (112) and the passenger’s seat (170). In the illustrated example, the second battery unit (not shown) is disposed below the rider’s seat (112). In another example, at least portion of the passenger’s seat (170) overlaps the at least portion of the second battery unit (not shown). In the illustrated example, the second battery unit is disposed on the second battery holding portion (not shown) disposed below the left seat rail (128) and the right seat rail (130). The second battery unit (not shown) stores the energy required to power the power generating motor (179). The second battery unit is electrically coupled to the power generating motor (179) via the control unit. The first battery unit is electrically coupled to the control unit and the power generating motor (179) and provides necessary power if and when required.

[00052] The control unit controls the supply of the electric power from the second battery unit and the first battery unit to the power generating motor (179). In the illustrated example, the power generating motor (179) is disposed on a hub of the rear ground engaging member (184). Alternatively, the power generating motor (179) may be disposed on the swing arm (160) without limiting the scope of the invention.

The power generating motor (179) drives the rear ground engaging member (184). The swing arm (160) is pivotally coupled to the first body frame (106). The rear ground engaging member (184) is rotatably supported on the swing arm (160).

[00053] The rear end structure (104) comprises the at least one suspension device. In the illustrated example, the rear end structure (104) comprises one suspension device which is operatively coupled between the first body frame (106) and the swing arm (160). The suspension device embodies a shock absorber. The rear end structure (104) may comprise additional components such as rear grip, rear fender, license plate etc. without limiting the scope of the invention. [00054] Further, the vehicle (100) comprises first electronic connections (not shown) and first hydraulic connections (not shown). The first electronic connections may embody a wire harness. The first hydraulic connections may embody fluid hoses. Further, the vehicle (100) may further comprise additional components such as mirrors, front fenders etc. without limiting the scope of the invention.

[00055] Referring to Figures 2, 3, 4a & 4b, in the illustrated example, the swing arm (160) embodies a single sided swing arm comprising a first member (162), a second member (164), and a swiveling mechanism (165). The swing arm (160) is configured to move between an operating position (A) (as shown in Figures 8a and 8b 9) and a storage position (B) (as shown in Figures 9a and 9b).

[00056] In the illustrated example, the swing arm (160) is pivotally coupled to the first body frame (106). More particularly, the first member (162) of the swing arm (160) is pivotally coupled to the first body frame (106). In the illustrated example, the first member (162) comprises a plurality of frame attachment brackets (200), a central portion (202), a suspension device attachment portion (204) and an extension portion (206). Additionally, the first member (162) may comprise additional components such as brackets etc., according to requirements, without limitations.

[00057] The plurality of frame attachment brackets (200) are disposed at front end of the first member (162) and are configured to pivotally couple the first member (162) with the first body frame (106). The plurality of frame attachment brackets (200) are spaced from one another on opposite sides in width direction of the vehicle (100). The plurality of frame attachment brackets (200) are integral formed with the central portion (202). The suspension device attachment portion (204) extends from the central portion (202) and is configured to couple one end of the suspension device to the swing arm (160). The extension portion (206) extends from the central portion (202) and bifurcates into the first extending member (208) and second extending member (210). In the illustrated example, the first extending member (208) extends further towards the rear portion of the vehicle (100) as compared to the second extending member (210). [00058] The first member (162) comprises a pair of first holes (209) and a pair of second holes (211). The pair of first holes (209) are disposed closer towards the central portion (202). One of the pair of first holes (209) is disposed on the first extending member (208) and the other on the second extending member (210). The pair of second holes (211) are disposed at a distance from the first holes (209). One of the pair of second holes (211) is disposed on the first extending member (208) and the other on the second extending member (210). As shown in figure 3, a pin (213) extending through the pair of first holes (209) and the second member (164) rotatably couples the second member (164) with the first member (162).

[00059] Referring to Figures 3, 5a and 5b, the second member (164) at one end is rotatably coupled to the first member (162). At the other end, in the illustrated example, the second member (164) rotatably supports the rear ground engaging member (184) via the power generating motor (179). The second member (164) comprises a connection portion (230), a middle portion (232), a hub attachment portion (234). The connection portion (230) is disposed towards front of the vehicle (100). The connection portion (230) comprises a first aperture (231) and a second aperture (233). The first aperture (231) is disposed ahead of the second aperture (233) towards front of the vehicle (100). . The connection portion (230) is rotatably coupled to the first member (162). More particularly, as shown in figure 3, the pin (213) extending through the pair of first holes (209) of the first member (162) and the first aperture (231) of the connection portion (230), rotatably couples the second member (164) with the first member (162). The middle portion (232) extends from the connection portion (230) towards the rear portion of the vehicle (100). The hub attachment portion (234) extends from the middle portion (232) towards the rear portion of the vehicle (100). The hub attachment portion (234) is coupled to the rear ground engaging member (184) via a wheel hub mounting hole (238). The middle portion (232) comprises an abutment portion (235). [00060] Referring to Figures 3, 6a, 6b, 7a & 7b, the swiveling mechanism (165) is configured to selectively restrict or allow the rotation of the second member (164) with respect to the first member (162). The swiveling mechanism (165) comprises a third member (166). In the illustrated example, the third member (166) is a substantially U-shaped member having a left arm (240), a right arm (242), and a pin member (246). The pin member (246) is removably coupled to the third member (166). Further, the third member (166) comprises a pair of upper holes (244) and a pair of lower holes (245). The pair of upper holes (244) are disposed closer to the U- bend of the third member (166). One of the pair of upper holes (244) is disposed on the left arm (240) and the other on the right arm (242). The pair of lower holes (245) are disposed at the ends of the left arm (240) and the right arm (242). More particularly, one of the pair of lower holes (245) is disposed on the left arm (240) and the other is disposed on the right arm (242).

[00061] The third member (166) is releasably secured to the first member (162). More particularly, as shown in figure 3, a plurality of fasting members (247) extending through the pair of second holes (211) of the first member (162) and the pair of lower holes (245) of the third member (166) releasably secures the first member (162) and the third member (166). In the illustrated example, the plurality of fastening members (247) are loosened to rotate the third member ( 166) with respect to the first member (162). As shown in figure 10a, 10b, lla and lib, the third member (166) is configured to move in a first direction (Dl) and in a second direction (D2). In the illustrated example, the first direction (Dl) is anti-clockwise direction and the second direction (D2) is clockwise direction.

[00062] The swiveling mechanism (165) comprises a fourth member (168). The fourth member (168) comprises a first planar portion (250), a second planar portion (252), a wedge portion (254), a lock abutment portion (256). In the illustrated example, the first planar portion (252) and the second planar portion (254) extends substantially parallel to one another and extends from the wedge portion (254). The lock abutment portion (256) is disposed at one end of the wedge portion (254). The fourth member (168) comprises a pair of upper planar holes (257) and a pair of lower planar holes (258). The pair of upper planar holes (257) are disposed on upper portion of the fourth member (168). One of the pair of upper planar holes (257) is disposed on the first planar portion (250) and the other is disposed on the second planar portion (252). The pair of lower planar holes (258) are disposed on lower portion of the fourth member (168). One of the pair of lower planar holes (258) is disposed on the first planar portion (250) and the other is disposed on the second planar portion (252).

[00063] The fourth member (168) is rotatably coupled to the second member (164) and the third member (166). As shown in figure 3, a plurality of fastening members (259) extending through the pair of upper planar holes (257) and the pair of upper holes (244) of the third member (166) rotatably couples the fourth member (168) with the third member (166). A pin (not shown) extending through the pair of lower planar holes (258) and the second aperture (233) rotatably secures the fourth member (168) with second member (164). The lock abutment portion (256) of the fourth member (168) is configured to abut the abutment portion (235) of the second member (164) when the rotation of the second member (164) is to be restricted with respect to the first member (162). As shown in figure 10a and 10b, the third member (166) rotatably coupled to the fourth member (168) is moved in the first direction (Dl) such that there is no contact between the lock abutment portion (256) of the fourth member (168) and the abut abutment portion (235) of the second member (164), thereby allowing the second member (164) to rotate about the first member (162). Further, as shown in figure 11a and lib, when the rotation of the second member (164) with respect to the first member (162) is to be restricted the third member (166) is moved in the second direction (D2) such that the lock abutment portion (256) of the fourth member (168) abuts the abut abutment portion (235) of the second member (164), and the rotation of the second member (164) is restricted. [00064] Referring to Figures 12 and 13, the modular vehicle (10) comprises the attachment structure (300). The attachment structure (300) is detachably coupled to the vehicle (100) to convert the modular vehicle (10) from the two- wheeled configuration to the three-wheeled configuration (as shown in Figures 1 and 13). The attachment structure (300) comprises a seat unit (302), a tail lamp (not shown), a rear side cover (not shown), a left side cover (not shown), a right cover (not shown) and a second body frame (308). The rear side cover is disposed on rear portion of the attachment structure (300) and covers hind area below the seat unit (302). In the illustrated example, the tail lamp is disposed on the rear side cover. A plurality of turn signal indicators (not shown) are disposed on either side of the tail lamp. The left side cover and the right side cover are disposed on both sides of attachment structure (300) and cover lower sides of the seat unit (302).

[00065] Further, the attachment structure (300) comprises at least one rear ground engaging member (306), at least one power generating motor (not shown), a third battery unit (not shown), and at least one suspension device (not shown). In the illustrate example, the attachment structure (300) comprises two rear ground engaging members (306). The rear ground engaging members (306) are disposed below the seat unit (302) and the second body frame (308). In the illustrated example, the attachment structure (300) comprises two power generating motors. The power generating motors are disposed on a hub of the rear ground engaging member (306). Alternatively, the attachment structure (300) may comprise a single power generating motor which may be disposed on the second body frame (308) without limiting the scope of the invention.

[00066] In the illustrated example, the third battery unit is disposed below the seat unit (302). The third battery unit stores the energy required to power the power generating motors. The third battery unit is electrically coupled to the power generating motors via the control unit of the vehicle (100), when the attachment structure (300) is coupled to the two wheeled vehicle (100). The attachment structure (300) may have an additional control unit to control various operations. When the attachment structure (300) is coupled to the two- wheeled vehicle (100), the additional control unit is in electronic communication with the control unit of the vehicle (100).

[00067] The control unit controls the supply of the electric power from the third battery unit and the first battery unit to the power generating motors. Each of the power generating motors drives each of the rear ground engaging members.

[00068] The attachment structure (300) comprises the at least one suspension device (not shown). In the illustrated example, the attachment structure (300) comprises two suspension devices, one of which is operatively coupled between an axle of the one of the rear ground engaging member (306) and the second body frame

(308), and another between an axle of another rear ground engaging member (306) and the second body frame (308).

[00069] The second body frame (308) is detachably coupled to the first body frame (106). The second body frame (308) comprises a plurality of first body frame receiving members (310). The plurality of first body frame receiving members (310) are disposed on front portion of the second body frame (308). In the illustrated example, the second body frame (308) comprises two first body frame receiving members (310) disposed on either side of the second body frame (308). The two first body frame receiving members (310) are configured to receive and detachably couple the first body frame (106).

[00070] The attachment structure (300) comprises third electronic connections (not shown) and third hydraulic connections (not shown). The third electronic connections may embody a wire harness. The third hydraulic connections may embody fluid hoses. The attachment structure (300) may comprise additional components such as rear grip, rear fender, license plate etc. without limiting the scope of the invention. [00071] When the modular vehicle ( 10) is required to be converted from the two wheeled configuration to three-wheeled vehicle configuration. The two wheeled vehicle (100) is removably coupled to the attachment structure (300). To couple the two wheeled vehicle (100) to the attachment structure (300), the swing arm (160) and the rear ground engaging member (184) of the two-wheeled vehicle (100) are rotated towards the storage position (B) (shown in Figure 9a and 9b) i.e. towards the left seat rail (128) and the right seat rail (130). The movement of the swing arm (160) is done by rotating the third member (166) in the first direction (Dl), thereby allowing and rotating the second member (164) with respect to the first member (162). Thereafter the second member (164) is secured to the first body frame (106), thereby locking the swing arm (160) to the first body frame (106). In the illustrated example, the two wheeled vehicle (100) is inserted into the attachment structure (300), thereafter the swing arm (160) is moved to the storage position. In another example, the swing arm (160) of the two wheeled vehicle (100) is rotated towards the storage position (B) (shown in Figure 9a and 9b) and then moved into the attachment structure (300) to couple one another. Electronic connections and hydraulic connections between various components of the attachment structure (300) and the vehicle (100) are attached. More particularly, the first electronic connections and the third electronic connections are detachably coupled to one another. The first hydraulic connections and the third hydraulic connections are detachably coupled to one another. Thereby converting the modular vehicle (100) from two-wheeled configuration to three wheeled configuration.

[00072] Herein the above description of the disclosure only one control unit is being used to control the operations of the modular vehicle, however multiple control units in communication with one another may be used, without limiting the scope of the invention.

[00073] Herein the above description, the fastening members may be nuts, bolts, rivets etc., without limiting the scope of the invention. [00074] Herein the above description, the coupling may be using fastening members, welding, or any other coupling methods known in the art, without limiting the scope of the invention.

[00075] The present disclosure discloses the modular vehicle (10) which can be easily converted from a two wheeled vehicle to a three wheeled vehicle and vice versa according to the requirements. The movement of the swing arm (160) between the storage position (B) and the operating position (A), allows easy insertion and coupling of the two wheeled vehicle (100) into the attachment structure (300), thereby reducing the assembly time.

[00076] While few embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments and modifications may be appropriately made thereto within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[00077] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the particular features of this disclosure, 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 disclosure. These and other modifications in the nature of the disclosure or the preferred embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation.

Claims

The Claims:

1. A vehicle (10) configured to selectively operate in one of a two-wheeled configuration and a three-wheeled configuration, the vehicle (10) comprising: a first body frame (106); a rear ground engaging member (184); and a swing arm (160) pivotally coupled with the first body frame (106), wherein the swing arm (160) configured to selectively lift the rear ground engaging member (184) from a ground surface to convert the vehicle (10) from the two wheeled configuration to the three-wheeled configuration.

2. The vehicle (10) as claimed in the claim 1, wherein the rear ground engaging member (184) is rotatably supported by the swing arm (160).

3. A swing arm ( 160) configured to selectively lift a rear ground engaging member ( 184) from a ground surface to convert a vehicle (10) from a two- wheeled configuration to a three -wheeled configuration, the swing member (160) comprising: a first member (162); a second member (164); and a swiveling mechanism (165); wherein the swiveling mechanism (165) is configured to selectively restrict rotation of the second member (164) with respect to the first member (162).

4. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claims 1 and 3, comprises a rear end structure (104), comprises at least one suspension device operatively coupled between the first body frame (106) and the first member of the swing arm (162).

5. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claims 1 and 3, wherein the swing arm (160) is configured to selectively operate between an operating position (A) and a storage position (B), in the operating position (A), the vehicle (100) is in the two-wheeled configuration and rear ground engaging member (184) is in contact with the ground surface to provide traction to the vehicle (100).

6. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claims 1, 3 and 5, wherein the swing arm (160) is configured to lift the rear ground engaging member ( 184) from ground surface, when the swing arm (160) rotates towards the storage position (B).

7. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claims 1 and 3, wherein the first member (162) of the swing arm (160) is pivotally coupled to the first body frame (106).

8. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claims 1 and 3, wherein the second member (164) of the swing arm (160) is rotatably coupled with the first member (162) of the swing arm ( 160) at one end, and rotatably supports the rear ground engaging member (184) at the other end.

9. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claims 1 and 3, wherein the first member (162) comprises a central portion (202); a plurality of frame attachment brackets (200) integrally formed with the central portion (202), disposed at a front end of the first member (162); and a suspension device attachment portion (204) extends from the central portion (202), configured to couple one end of the suspension device to the swing arm (160).

10. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claims 1 and 3, wherein the first member (162) comprising: an extension portion (206) extends from the central portion (202) and bifurcates into the first extending member (208) and second extending member (210) whereby the first extending member (208) extends further towards the rear portion of the vehicle (100); and a pair of first holes (209) disposed closer towards the central portion (202) and a pair of second holes (211) disposed at a distance from the first holes (209).

11. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claims 1 and 3, wherein the second member (164) comprises a connection portion (230) configured to be rotatably coupled with the first member (162), a middle portion (232) having an abutment portion (235), and a hub attachment portion (234) coupled to the rear ground engaging member (184) via a wheel hub mounting hole (238).

12. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claims 1 and 3, wherein the connecting portion (230) is disposed towards front of the vehicle, comprises a first aperture (231) and a second aperture (233) whereby the first aperture (231) is disposed ahead of the second aperture (233).

13. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claims 1, 3, 10 and 12, wherein a pin (213) extending through the pair of first holes (209) of the first member (162) and the first aperture (231) of the connection portion (230), rotatably couples the second member (164) with the first member ( 162) .

14. The vehicle ( 10) as claimed in claims 1 and 3, wherein the swiveling mechanism (165) comprises a third member (166) and a fourth member (168) wherein the third member (166) is rotatably coupled with the fourth member (168).

15. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the third member is a substantially U-shaped member, comprises a left arm (240), a right arm (242) and a pin member (246).

16. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 15, wherein the pin member (246) is removably coupled to the third member (166).

17. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claims 1, 3 and 14, wherein the third member (166) comprises a pair of upper holes (244) and a pair of lower holes (245) disposed on the left arm (240) and right arm (242) at upper and lower ends of third member respectively, whereby the third member (166) is releasably secured to the first member (162) with a plurality of fasting members (247) extending through the pair of second holes (211) of the first member (162) and the pair of lower holes (245) of the third member (166).

18. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claims 1, 3 and 14, wherein the plurality of fastening members (247) are configured to be loosened to rotate the third member (166) with respect to the first member (162).

19. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the fourth member comprises a wedge portion (254); a first planar portion (250), and a second planar portion (252) extends substantially parallel to one another and extends from the wedge portion (254); and a lock abutment portion (256) configured to abut the abutment portion (235) of the second member (164) disposed at one end of the wedge portion (254).

20. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the fourth member comprises a pair of upper planar holes (257) disposed on upper portion of the fourth member (168); and a pair of lower planar holes (258) disposed on lower portion of the fourth member (168).

21. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claims 1, 3 and 14, wherein the fourth member (168) is rotatably coupled to the second member (164) with a pin (255) extending through the pair of lower planar holes (258) and the second aperture (233); and is rotatably coupled to the third member ( 166) with help of a plurality of fastening members (259) passing through the pair of upper planar holes (257) and the pair of upper holes (244) of the third member (166).

22. A method for converting a two-wheeled configuration to a three-wheeled configuration, comprising steps of: moving a swing arm (160) towards a storage position (B) by rotating a third member (166) of a swiveling mechanism (165) in a first direction (Dl), thereby allowing and rotating a second member (164) with respect to a first member (162); securing the second member (164) with a first body frame (106) after rotating the third member (166) of the swiveling mechanism (165) in a second direction (D2), thereby locking the swing arm (160) to the first body frame (106); and moving the swing arm (160) into the attachment structure (300) to couple an attachment structure (300) with the two-wheeled vehicle.

23. The method as claimed in claim 22, wherein the third member (166) rotatably coupled to a fourth member (168) is moved in the first direction (Dl) such that there is no contact between a lock abutment portion (256) of the fourth member (168) and an abut abutment portion (235) of the second member ( 164), thereby allowing the second member (164) to rotate about the first member (162).

24. The method as claimed in claim 22, wherein the third member (166) is moved in the second direction (D2) such that the lock abutment portion (256) of the fourth member (168) abuts the abut abutment portion (235) of the second member (164), thereby restricts the rotation of the second member (164) with respect to the first member (162).