WO2020115770A1

WO2020115770A1 - Speed deceleration system

Info

Publication number: WO2020115770A1
Application number: PCT/IN2019/050890
Authority: WO
Inventors: Rajvirendra SINGH; Sandeep Chawla
Original assignee: Hero Motocorp Ltd
Current assignee: Hero Motocorp Ltd
Priority date: 2018-12-06
Filing date: 2019-12-06
Publication date: 2020-06-11
Anticipated expiration: 2021-06-06

Abstract

A vehicle (100) is provided. The vehicle (100) comprises a body frame (102), a swing arm (120), and a speed deceleration system (140). The speed deceleration system (140) includes a front brake unit (142), a rear brake unit (144), a distribution device (200), a brake actuating unit (150), a support link assembly (170), a first force transmitting unit (152) operatively coupled to the brake actuating unit (150) and the support link assembly (170), a second force transmitting unit (154) operatively coupled to the rear brake unit (144) and the distribution device (200). The support link assembly (170) pivotally supports the first force transmitting unit (152) and the second force transmitting unit (154) to the swing arm (120).

Description

SPEED DECELERATION SYSTEM

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle, and more particularly, to a speed deceleration system of the vehicle.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Vehicle, particularly vehicle configured to be ridden such as motorized scooter, motorcycle, three -wheeled vehicle, and four-wheeled vehicle such as all-terrain vehicle comprise braking system to provide braking force for slowing or stopping the vehicle. Contemporary braking systems comprise mechanical or hydraulic mechanisms which facilitate in concurrent actuation of a front brake and a rear brake by application of a single brake lever or pedal, generally referred to as combined braking systems. During operation, these systems provide distribution of brake force to both front wheel and rear wheel of the vehicle.

[0003] One such combined braking system entitled: “combined brake device for vehicles” is disclosed in Patent Document WO 2016/156140. The patent discloses a combined brake device for vehicles. The combined brake device comprises a cable configured to activate a mechanical brake by means of a cable pull caused by a first activation and a distributing mechanism. The distributing mechanism comprises a brake pump configured to activate a hydraulic brake and an activation cam configured to actuate the brake pump through the action of the first activation. The cable is provided with a sheath linked to the activation cam, wherein the cable pull generates a reaction pull of the sheath capable of causing a movement of the activation cam configured to activate the brake pump, and the distributing mechanism comprises a transmission element configured to transmit the reaction pull of the sheath on the activation cam. According to the invention the transmission element is joined to the activation cam by means of a rotatory hinge, which enables the rotation of said activation cam, and has a junction end configured to retain the sheath while at the same time letting the cable pass through the transmission element. Further the brake pump and the activation cam are joined through a rotation shaft, which enables a relative rotation movement between the brake pump and the activation cam. However, the disclosed combined brake device when associated with a motorcycle type vehicle, the assembly comprising brake rod, cable connecting a rear brake unit and the combined brake device, and arm member connecting brake rod and cable are disposed in a hanging manner between the brake pedal and rear brake device, and due to weight of the assembly, there may be occurrence of vibrations in the braking system of the vehicle particularly in vertical direction. These vibrations may lead to failure of the combined brake device and the braking system of the vehicle.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0004] In one aspect of the present invention, a vehicle is provided. The vehicle comprises a body frame, a front ground engaging member that operatively coupled to the body frame, and a rear ground engaging member. The vehicle also comprises a swing arm swingably couple the rear ground engaging member to the body frame. The vehicle further comprises a speed deceleration system configured to apply brake forces to the front ground engaging member and the rear ground engaging member. The speed deceleration system comprises a front brake unit operatively coupled to the front ground engaging member to apply brake on the front ground engaging member. The speed deceleration system also comprises a rear brake unit operatively coupled to the rear ground engaging member to apply brake on the rear ground engaging member. The speed deceleration system further comprises a brake actuating unit rotatably coupled to the body frame. The speed deceleration system comprises a first force transmitting unit operatively coupled to the brake actuating unit. The speed deceleration system also comprises a support link assembly operatively coupled to the first force transmitting unit. The support link assembly having an arm block and a support link pivotally coupled to the swing arm and the arm block. The speed deceleration system further comprises a distribution device mounted to the body frame and configured to actuate the front brake unit. The speed deceleration system comprises a second force transmitting unit operatively coupled to the rear brake unit and the distribution device via the support link assembly. The second force transmitting unit embodies a cable having an outer sheath and an inner wire. The support link assembly pivotally supports the first force transmitting unit and the second force transmitting unit to the swing arm.

[0005] Aforementioned configuration helps to implement the present invention on Disc - Drum version of the vehicle, moreover it avoids vibration occurred within the speed deceleration system. [0006] In an embodiment of the present invention, one end of the first force transmitting unit is coupled to the brake actuating unit and other end is coupled to the arm block.

[0007] In an embodiment of the present invention, the outer sheath of the second force transmitting unit abuts the arm block, and the inner wire passes through an opening of the arm block and is coupled to the rear brake unit.

[0008] In an embodiment of the present invention, a first end of the support link is coupled to the swing arm at a pivot point and a second end is coupled to the arm block at a pivot point, and the pivot point is disposed at a rearward position with respect to the pivot point in a vehicle side view.

[0009] In an embodiment of the present invention, the arm block is an“L” shaped member or an“inverted T” shaped member, to support the first force transmitting unit and the second force transmitting unit to the swing arm via the support link.

[00010] In an embodiment of the present invention, the arm block comprises a flange portion and a planar portion.

[00011] In an embodiment of the present invention, the arm block has a first opening disposed on the flange portion of the arm block to pivotally mount the arm block on the swing arm via the support link.

[00012] In an embodiment of the present invention, the arm block has a second opening and a third opening disposed on the planar portion of the arm block to hold the first force transmitting unit and the second force transmitting unit.

[00013] In an embodiment of the present invention, the support link embodies a sheet metal component.

[00014] In an embodiment of the present invention, the support link embodies an elastic member.

[00015] In an embodiment of the present invention, the elastic member is a spring.

[00016] In an embodiment of the present invention, a first end of the support link is coupled to the swing arm at a pivot point and a second end is coupled to the arm block at a pivot point, and the pivot point is disposed at a forward position with respect to the pivot point in a vehicle side view. [00017] In another embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle is provided. The vehicle comprises a body frame, a front ground engaging member that operatively coupled to the body frame and a rear ground engaging member. The vehicle also comprises a swing arm configured to swingably couple the rear ground engaging member to the body frame. The vehicle further comprises a speed deceleration system configured to apply brake forces to the front ground engaging member and the rear ground engaging member. The speed deceleration system comprises a front brake unit operatively coupled to the front ground engaging member, to apply brake on the front ground engaging member, a rear brake unit operatively coupled to the rear ground engaging member to apply brake on the rear ground engaging member. The speed deceleration system also comprises a brake actuating unit rotatable coupled to the body frame. The speed deceleration system further comprises a first force transmitting unit operatively coupled to the brake actuating unit. The speed deceleration system comprises a support link assembly operatively coupled to the first force transmitting unit. The support link assembly having an arm block and a support link pivotally coupled to the swing arm and the arm block. The speed deceleration system also comprises a second force transmitting unit operatively coupled to the rear brake unit and the front brake unit via the support link assembly. The second force transmitting unit embodies a cable having an outer sheath and an inner wire. The support link assembly pivotally supports the first force transmitting unit and the second force transmitting unit to the swing arm.

[00018] Aforementioned configuration helps to implement the present invention on Drum - Drum version of the vehicle.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[00019] 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 invention are now described, by way of example only wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:

[00020] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of an exemplary vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[00021] Figure 2 illustrates a side view of a body frame of the vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present invention; [00022] Figure 3 illustrates a view of a speed deceleration system of the vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[00023] Figure 4 illustrates a view of the speed deceleration system, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[00024] Figures 5a & 5b illustrate different views of a support link assembly of the speed deceleration system, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[00025] Figure 6a illustrates a view of a support link of the support link assembly, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[00026] Figures 6b & 6c illustrate different views of an arm block of the support link assembly, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[00027] Figure 7 illustrates a view of a speed deceleration system, according to another embodiment of the present invention; and

[00028] Figure 8 illustrates a view of a speed deceleration system, according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[00029] 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

[00030] 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.

[00031] 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. [00032] For better understanding of this invention, 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.

[00033] While the present invention is illustrated in the context of a vehicle, however, speed deceleration system and aspects and features thereof can be used with other type of vehicles as well. The terms“vehicle”,“two-wheeled vehicle” and“motorcycle” have been interchangeably used throughout the description. The term“vehicle” comprises vehicles such as motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, mopeds, scooter type vehicle, all-terrain vehicles (ATV) and the like.

[00034] 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.

[00035] Referring to Figure 1, an exemplary vehicle (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention is depicted. The vehicle (100) referred to herein, embodies a motorcycle. Alternatively, the vehicle (100) may embody any other ridden vehicle such as scooter, three-wheeled vehicle, all-terrain vehicle (ATV) etc. without limiting the scope of the invention.

[00036] The vehicle (100) comprises a body frame (102), a steering assembly (104), and a front ground engaging member (106). The body frame (102) supports the steering assembly (104), and the front ground engaging member (106) in front portion of the vehicle (100). The steering assembly (104) is pivotally mounted on the body frame (102). The front ground engaging member (106) is operatively connected to the steering assembly (104). The steering assembly (104) comprises a handle bar (108). The handle bar (108) is configured to be rotated by a rider to steer the vehicle (100). The steering assembly (104) comprises a steering shaft (not shown) and a pair of front forks (117). The handle bar (108) is mounted on an upper end portion of the steering shaft. The handle bar (108) is integrally rotated with the steering shaft (not shown) in response to a steering manipulation by the rider. The front forks (117) are disposed on the lower end portion of the steering shaft (not shown). The front forks (117) are rod-shaped members that rotatably support the front ground engaging member (106). In the illustrated example, the front ground engaging member (106) and the rear ground engaging member (111) embodies a front and rear wheel respectively. Alternatively, the front ground engaging member (106) and the rear ground engaging member (111) embodies a front and rear track without limiting the scope of the invention.

[00037] The vehicle (100) comprises a head lamp unit (109) and a pair of turn signal lamp units (not shown). The head lamp unit (109) and the turn signal lamp units are provided for safety of the rider and in conformance with the traffic regulations. Further, front portion of the vehicle (100) may comprise front fender, dash assembly, mirrors etc. without limiting the scope of the invention.

[00038] Further, the vehicle (100) comprises a power unit (110), and a rear ground engaging member (111). In the illustrated example, the power unit (110) provides necessary power required to drive the rear ground engaging member (111) of the vehicle (100). Alternatively, the power unit (110) may provide necessary power to drive the front ground engaging member (106), or both the front ground engaging member (106) and the rear ground engaging member (111) simultaneously, without limiting the scope of the disclosure.

[00039] The body frame (102) supports the power unit (110) in middle portion of the vehicle (100). The power unit (110) comprises an engine (112) and a transmission unit (not shown). The engine (112) generates power required by the vehicle (100). The transmission unit transmits the generated power to the rear ground engaging member (111). Alternatively, the transmission unit may transmit the generated power to both the front ground engaging member (106) and the rear ground engaging member (111), without any limitations.

[00040] Referring further to Figure 1, the vehicle (100) comprises a fuel tank (114), and a seat (116). The fuel tank (114) is configured to store fuel required by the engine (112) to power the vehicle (100). The fuel tank (114) extends from front portion to middle portion of the body frame (102). Further, the body frame (102) supports the seat (116) which extends from middle portion to rear portion of the vehicle (100). The rear ground engaging member (111) is supported by the body frame (102) at rear portion of the vehicle (100). The fuel tank (114) provides necessary fuel to the engine (112) to generate power to propel the vehicle (100). The seat (116) provides seating for a rider and a passenger of the vehicle (100). Further, the seat (116) comprises a rider’s seat (118), and a passenger seat (119). The rider’s seat (118) provides seating for the rider, and the passenger seat (119) provides seating for the passenger of the vehicle (100). [00041] The vehicle (100) comprises a swing arm (120) and a torque rod (122). The swing arm (120) is operatively coupled to body frame (102). The swing arm (120) swingably couples the rear ground engaging member (111) to the body frame (102). The swing arm (120) comprises a left arm (not shown) and a right arm (121) (shown in Figure 3). The rear ground engaging member (111) is pivotally supported between the left arm and the right arm (121) of the swing arm (120). The torque rod (122) is operatively coupled to the body frame (102). The vehicle (100) comprises a speed deceleration system (140). The speed deceleration system (140) provides braking forces to the front ground engaging member (106) and the rear ground engaging member (111), for slowing or stopping the vehicle (100). Further, rear portion of the vehicle (100) may comprise tail light/s, suspension system/s, rear grip/s etc. without limiting the scope of the invention.

[00042] Referring to Figure 2, the vehicle (100) comprises the body frame (102). The body frame (102) is formed by integrally joining number of steel members and the like, by welding or the like. In the illustrated example, the body frame (102) having a specific construction is disclosed. Alternatively, the body frame (102) may have different body frame constructions generally associated with motorcycles, without limiting the scope of the invention.

[00043] The body frame (102) comprises a head tube (124), a lower frame member (125) and an upper frame member (126). The upper frame member (126) extends downward and rearward in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle (100) from the head tube (124). The upper frame member (126) supports the fuel tank (114). The lower frame member (125) extends downward and rearward in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle (100) from the head tube (124), and is disposed below the upper frame member (126). The lower frame member (125) supports the power unit (110) (shown in Figure 1). The head tube (124) is a cylindrical member which supports the steering assembly (104) and the front ground engaging member (106). The steering shaft (not shown) is rotatably supported on the head tube (124). The front fork (117) is inclined at an inclination angle substantially similar to that of the head tube (124).

[00044] The body frame (102) comprises a pair of seat rail members (127). The seat rail members (127) extend rearwards from the upper frame member (126). The seat rail members (127) support the seat (116) of the vehicle (100). The body frame (102) comprises a pair of center frame members (128) extending obliquely in a rearward and downward direction from the upper frame member (126) and thereafter in a downward direction. The lower frame member (125) and the center frame members (128) support the engine (112) of the vehicle (100). The body frame (102) comprises a pair of sub frame members (129). The sub frame members (129) extend between the seat rail members (127) and the center frame members (128). The sub frame members (129) provide support for the seat rail members (127). Further, the body frame (102) comprises a first mounting member (132), and a second mounting member (134). The first mounting member (132) rotatably mounts the swing arm (120) to the body frame (102) of the vehicle (100).

[00045] Referring to Figures 3 and 4, the vehicle (100) comprises the speed deceleration system (140). The speed deceleration system (140) comprises a front brake unit (142), and a rear brake unit (144). The front brake unit (142) is disposed either on the right side of the front ground engaging member (106) (shown in Figure 1) or on the left side of the front ground engaging member (106) (not shown). The front brake unit (142) stops or decelerates the front ground engaging member (106). In the illustrated example, the front brake unit (142) embodies a hydraulic brake device such as disc type brake device. In another example of the present invention (as shown in Figure 8), the front brake unit (142) may be a mechanical brake device such as drum type brake device etc. Further, the rear brake unit (144) is disposed on the right side of the rear ground engaging member (111). The rear brake unit (144) stops or decelerates the rear ground engaging member (111). In the illustrated example, the rear brake unit (144) embodies a mechanical brake device such as drum type brake device. Alternatively, the rear brake unit (144) may embody a hydraulic brake device such as disc type brake device, without limiting the scope of the invention.

[00046] Further, the rear brake unit (144) comprises a rear brake cam shaft (not shown), a brake housing (147), and a torque rod mounting (149). The rear brake cam shaft extends outward from the brake housing (147). The speed deceleration system (140) comprises a rear brake arm (146). The rear brake arm (146) is operatively coupled to the rear brake cam shaft. The torque rod mounting (149) is disposed on the brake housing (147). Further, the details of construction and working of the brake units are well known in the art and are not explained in detail herein. One end of the torque rod (122) is coupled to the torque rod mounting (149) and the other end of the torque rod (122) is coupled to the body frame (102) (shown in Figure 1). [00047] The speed deceleration system (140) comprises a brake lever (196) (shown in Figure 1), a brake actuating unit (150), a pedal connecting arm (166), a first force transmitting unit (152), a second force transmitting unit (154), a support link assembly (170), a first hydraulic hose (190) (shown in Figure 3), a second hydraulic hose (192) (shown in Figure 3), a brake arm force transmitting unit (194) and a distribution device (200). The brake lever (196) is disposed on the right side of the vehicle (100) (shown in Figure 1). The brake lever (196) is rotatably supported on a first connection member (not shown) which is attached to the handle bar (108). A master cylinder (not shown) is disposed adjacent to the brake lever (196) on the handle bar (108). The master cylinder operatively coupled to the brake lever (196) is fluidly coupled to the distribution device (200) via the first hydraulic hose (190). The second hydraulic hose (192) fluidly couples the distribution device (200) to a hydraulic caliper (195) of the front brake unit (142). In the illustrated example, the brake lever (196) is a front brake unit (142) operating device. During operation, when the brake lever (196) is actuated by the rider, the brake lever (196) actuates the master cylinder which propels the brake fluid through the first hydraulic hose (190), the distribution device (200), and the second hydraulic hose (192) into the hydraulic caliper (195) of the front brake unit (142), thereby actuating the front brake unit (142).

[00048] The distribution device (200) is coupled to the body frame (102). The distribution device (200) comprises brake fluid pressurizing means which generates fluid pressure which facilitates in actuating the front brake unit (142). The distribution device (200) comprises a brake pump (202) and an actuation cam (204). The brake pump (202) and the actuation cam (204) are joined to one another via a rotation shaft (not shown), which enables a relative movement between the brake pump (202) and the actuation cam (204). The brake pump (202) is configured to propel brake fluid, through the hydraulic circuit towards the hydraulic caliper (195) of the front brake unit (142) via the second fuel hose (192). Those skilled in the art are familiar with distribution mechanisms generally associated with vehicles comprising hydraulic and mechanical brake units and the general manner in which they are operated, and such known aspects will not be described in detail herein.

[00049] The brake actuating unit (150) may be operable by hand or by foot. In the illustrated example, the brake actuating unit (150) embodies a brake pedal operated by foot of rider riding the vehicle (100). Alternatively, the brake actuating unit (150) may be a brake lever disposed on the handle bar (108) without limiting the scope of the invention. Further, the brake actuating unit (150) is rotatably mounted on the body frame (102) of the vehicle (100). The brake actuating unit (150) comprises a first end (151) and a second end (153). The first end (151) of the brake actuating unit (150) is the end where rider of the vehicle (100) places his foot, and generates a brake operating force by treading on the brake actuating unit (150). The second end (153) is operatively connected to the pedal connecting arm (166) which is rotatably coupled the body frame (102) via a shaft. More particularly, the brake actuating unit (150) is rotatably mounted on the second mounting member (134) via a shaft (not shown) fixed to the body frame (102) via the pedal connecting arm (166).

[00050] The pedal connecting arm (166) is disposed at the second end (153) of the brake actuating unit (150). The pedal connecting arm (166) extends upwards from the shaft fixed to the body frame (102) of the vehicle (100). In the illustrated example, the pedal connecting arm (166) is integrated with the brake actuating unit (150). Alternatively, the pedal connecting arm (166) may be a separate component operatively connected to the brake actuating unit (150), without limitations. The brake actuating unit (150) is operatively coupled to the first force transmitting unit (152). More particularly, the pedal connecting arm (166) of the brake actuating unit (150) is operatively coupled to the first force transmitting unit (152). The first force transmitting unit (152) embodies a brake rod. One end of the first force transmitting unit (152) is operatively coupled to the pedal connecting arm (166). Other end of the first force transmitting unit (152) is coupled to the support link assembly (170). The first force transmitting unit (152) is configured to transmit brake operating force generated by treading of the brake actuating unit (150). Further, a spring (193) is disposed between the swing arm (120) and the first force transmitting unit (152). The spring (193) is configured to restore the brake actuating unit (150) to its rest position once the rider of the vehicle (100) stops treading on the brake actuating unit (150).

[00051] Referring to Figures 4, 5a and 5b, the support link assembly (170) is operatively coupled to the second force transmitting unit (154) and the brake arm force transmitting unit (194). The second force transmitting unit (154) embodies a cable. The second force transmitting unit (154) comprises an outer sheath (210) and an inner wire (212). One end of the outer sheath (210) abuts the support link assembly (170) and other end of the outer sheath (210) abuts a supporting body (not shown) of the brake pump (202) of the distribution device (200). One end of the inner wire (212) is operatively coupled to the actuation cam (204) of the distribution device (200) and the other end of the inner wire (212) is operatively coupled to the brake arm force transmitting unit (194). The brake arm force transmitting unit (194) is operatively coupled to the rear brake arm (146) of the rear brake unit (144). An expandable annular bellow (214) is disposed between the brake arm force transmitting unit (194) and the support assembly (170). The bellow (214) acts as a biasing member during motion of the brake arm force transmitting unit (194) relative to the support link assembly (170).

[00052] In an another embodiment as illustrated in Figure 8, one end of the second force transmitting unit (154) is operatively coupled to the rear brake unit (144) and other end of the second force transmitting unit (154) is operatively coupled to the front brake unit (142) in such a way that the support link assembly (170) is operatively coupled to the second force transmitting unit (154) and the brake arm force transmitting unit (194). The second force transmitting unit (154) embodies a cable. The second force transmitting unit (154) comprises an outer sheath (210) and an inner wire (212). One end of the outer sheath (210) abuts the support link assembly (170) and other end of the outer sheath (210) abuts to a supporting body (not shown) of the front brake unit (142) and the inner wire (212) operatively coupled to a front brake arm (148) of the front brake unit (142).

[00053] Referring to Figures 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b and 6c, the support link assembly (170) comprises an arm block (216). The arm block (216) is operatively coupled to the first force transmitting unit (152), the second force transmitting unit (154), and the brake arm force transmitting unit (194). In the illustrated example, the arm block (216) is an L-shaped member. In another example, the arm block (216) embodies an inverted T-shaped member. Alternatively, the arm block (216) may have any geometrical shape including, but not limited to trapezoidal, circular, rectangular etc., to support the first force transmitting unit (152) and the second force transmitting unit (154) to the swing arm (120) via the support link (172). The arm block (216) comprises a planar portion (218), a flange portion (220), a first opening (222), a second opening (224), and a third opening (226). The first opening (222) is disposed on the flange portion (220). The second opening (224) and the third opening (226) are disposed on the planar portion (218). The first force transmitting unit (152) is operatively coupled to the arm block (216) via the second opening (224). The outer sheath (210) of the second force transmitting unit (154) abuts the periphery of the third opening (226), and the inner wire (212) passes through the third opening (226) and is operatively coupled to the brake arm force transmitting unit (194).

[00054] The support link assembly (170) comprises a support link (172). The support link (172) is rotatably coupled to the arm block (216) via the first opening (222). The support link (172) comprises a first end (174) and a second end (176) disposed opposite to the first end (174). The support link (172) comprises a first link mounting hole (184) and a second link mounting hole (186). The first link mounting hole (184) is disposed at the first end (174) and the second link mounting hole (186) is disposed at the second end (176). In the illustrated example, the support link (172) is of a planar shape. Alternatively, the support link (172) may have any shape according to the space available within the vehicle layout, without any limitations. In the illustrated example, the support link (172) embodies a sheet metal component. In the illustrated example, the speed deceleration system (140) comprises one support link (172). Alternatively, the speed deceleration system (140) may comprises multiple support links, without any limitations. In the illustrated example, the support link (172) is pivotally coupled to each of the swing arm (120) and the arm block (216). In the illustrated example, the first end (174) of the support link (172) is coupled to the swing arm (120) at a pivot point (A) and the second end (176) is coupled to the arm block (216) via first opening (222) at a pivot point (B) (shown in Figure 4). In the illustrated example, the pivot point (A) is disposed at a rear ward position with respect to the pivot point (B). In another example, the pivot point (A) may be disposed at a forward position with respect to the pivot point (B), without limiting the scope of the invention. The pivot point (A) and the pivot point (B) are positioned so as to limit rotation of the support link (172) during operation. The pivot point (B) moves with respect to the pivot point (A) as the brake actuating unit (150) is actuated from non-actuated position to fully actuated position, thereby limiting the vibrations occurring within the speed deceleration system (140) in upward direction.

[00055] During operation of the vehicle (100), when the rider of the vehicle (100) generates a brake operating force on the brake actuating unit (150), the brake actuating unit (150) rotates in clockwise direction about the shaft connecting the brake actuating unit (150) to the body frame (102) when viewed from right side. When the brake actuating unit (150) rotates in clockwise direction, the generated brake operating force is transmitted to the first force transmitting unit (152) via the pedal connecting arm (166) of the brake actuating unit (150), thereby pulling the first force transmitting unit (152), the arm block (216), the second force transmitting unit (154), and the brake arm force transmitting unit (194) towards front of the vehicle (100). The brake arm force transmitting unit (194) transmits the brake operating force to the rear brake arm (146) of the rear brake unit (144), thereby actuating the rear brake unit (144). As the outer sheath (210) of the second force transmitting unit (154) is disposed between the arm block (216) of the support link assembly (170) and the support body of the brake pump (202), forward movement of the second force transmitting unit (154) sandwiches the outer sheath (210) between the support body and the arm block (216), thereby generating a reaction pull of the inner wire (212) coupled to the actuation cam (204) of the distribution device (200). The reaction pull of the inner wire (212) rotates the actuation cam (204), thereby actuating the brake pump (202). The brake pump (202) pressurizes the brake fluid contained therein within towards the hydraulic caliper (195) of the front brake unit (142), thereby actuating the front brake unit (142).

[00056] In an another embodiment as illustrated in Figure 8 of the present invention, during operation of the vehicle (100), when the rider of the vehicle (100) generates a brake operating force on the brake actuating unit (150), the brake actuating unit (150) rotates in clockwise direction about the shaft connecting the brake actuating unit (150) to the body frame (102) when viewed from right side. When the brake actuating unit (150) rotates in clockwise direction, the generated brake operating force is transmitted to the first force transmitting unit (152) via the pedal connecting arm (166) of the brake actuating unit (150), thereby pulling the first force transmitting unit (152), the arm block (216), the second force transmitting unit (154), and the brake arm force transmitting unit (194) towards front of the vehicle (100). The brake arm force transmitting unit (194) transmits the brake operating force to the rear brake arm (146) of the rear brake unit (144), thereby actuating the rear brake unit (144) to decelerate the rear ground engaging member (111). As the outer sheath (210) of the second force transmitting unit (154) is disposed between the arm block (216) of the support link assembly (170) and the support body of the front brake unit (142), forward movement of the second force transmitting unit (154) sandwiches the outer sheath (210) between the support body and the arm block (216), thereby generating a reaction pull of the inner wire (212) coupled to the front brake arm (148) of the front brake unit (142). The reaction pull of the inner wire (212) actuates the front brake unit (142) to decelerate the front ground engaging member (106).

[00057] In another example of the present invention as shown in Figure 7, the support link (172) embodies a biasing member (300). One end of the biasing member (300) is coupled to an attachment bracket (302) coupled to the swing arm (120) and the other end of the biasing member (300) is operatively coupled to the first force transmitting unit (152). The biasing member (300) is configured to reduce the vibration occurring within the speed deceleration system (140) and also restore the brake actuating unit (150) to its rest position once the rider of the vehicle (100) stops treading on the brake actuating unit (150).

[00058] The present invention discloses the speed deceleration system (140) comprising the support link assembly (170). In an example, the support link assembly (170) comprises the support link (172) and the arm block (216). The support link (170) is coupled to each of the swing arm (120) and the arm block (216) which is operatively coupled to the first force transmitting unit (152), the second force transmitting unit (154), and the brake arm force transmitting unit (194). The support link (172) rotatably coupled to the arm block (216) reduces or eliminates the vibrations occurring in the first force transmitting unit (152), the second force transmitting unit (154), and the brake arm force transmitting unit (194), thereby reducing or eliminating the chances of failure of the speed deceleration system (140). Further, the support link (172) eliminates the noise generated due to the vibrations occurring in the speed deceleration system (140). In another example, the support link assembly (170) comprises a biasing member (300). The biasing member (300) is configured to reduce the vibration occurring within the speed deceleration system (140) and also restore the brake actuating unit (150) to its rest position once the rider of the vehicle (100) stops treading on the brake actuating unit (150).

[00059] While few embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the above embodiments and modifications may be appropriately made thereto within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[00060] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the particular features of this invention, it will be appreciated that various modifications can be made, and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the invention. These and other modifications in the nature of the invention or the preferred embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the invention and not as a limitation.

Claims

We Claim:

1. A vehicle (100) comprising:

a body frame (102);

a front ground engaging member (106) and a rear ground engaging member (H I), wherein the front ground engaging member (106) is operatively coupled to the body frame (102);

a swing arm (120) configured to swingably couple the rear ground engaging member (111) to the body frame (102);

a speed deceleration system (140) configured to apply brake forces to the front ground engaging member (106) and the rear ground engaging member

(11 1), wherein the speed deceleration system (140) comprises:

a front brake unit (142) operatively coupled to the front ground engaging member (106), wherein the front brake unit (142) is configured to apply brake on the front ground engaging member (106);

a rear brake unit (144) operatively coupled to the rear ground engaging member (111), wherein the rear brake unit (144) is configured to apply brake on the rear ground engaging member (111);

a brake actuating unit (150) rotatably coupled to the body frame

(102);

a first force transmitting unit (152) operatively coupled to the brake actuating unit (150);

a support link assembly (170) operatively coupled to the first force transmitting unit (152), wherein the support link assembly (170) comprises:

a arm block (216); and

a support link (172) pivotally coupled to the swing arm (120) and the arm block (216);

a distribution device (200) mounted to the body frame (102), wherein the distribution device (200) is configured to actuate the front brake unit (142); a second force transmitting unit (154) operatively coupled to the rear brake unit (144) and the distribution device (200) via the support link assembly (170), wherein the second force transmitting unit (154) comprises an outer sheath (210) and an inner wire (212);

wherein the support link assembly (170) pivotally supports the first force transmitting unit (152) and the second force transmitting unit (154) to the swing arm (120).

2. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein one end of the first force transmitting unit (152) coupled to the brake actuating unit (150) and other end coupled to the arm block (216).

3. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the outer sheath (210) of the second force transmitting unit (154) abuts the arm block (216), and the inner wire (212) passes through an opening (226) of the arm block (216) and is coupled to the rear brake unit (144).

4. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a first end (174) of the support link (172) is coupled to the swing arm (120) at a pivot point (A) and a second end (176) is coupled to the arm block (216) at a pivot point (B), and the pivot point (A) is disposed at a rearward position with respect to the pivot point (B) in a vehicle side view.

5. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the arm block (216) is an“L” shaped member.

6. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the arm block (216) is an“inverted T” shaped member.

7. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the arm block (216) comprises a flange portion (220) and a planar portion (218).

8. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the arm block (216) has a first opening (222) disposed on the flange portion (220) of the arm block (216) to pivotally mount the arm block (216) on the swing arm (120) via the support link (172).

9. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the arm block (216) has a second opening (224) and a third opening (226) disposed on the planar portion (218) of the arm block (216) to hold the first force transmitting unit (152) and the second force transmitting unit (154).

10. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the support link (172) embodies a sheet metal component.

11. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the support link (172) embodies an elastic member (300).

12. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the elastic member (300) is a spring member.

13. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a first end (174) of the support link (172) is coupled to the swing arm (120) at a pivot point (A) and a second end (176) is coupled to the arm block (216) at a pivot point (B), and the pivot point (A) is disposed at a forward position with respect to the pivot point (B) in a vehicle side view.

14. A vehicle (100) comprising:

a body frame (102);

a front ground engaging member (106) and a rear ground engaging member (111), wherein the front ground engaging member (106) is operatively coupled to the body frame (102);

a speed deceleration system (140) configured to apply brake forces to the front ground engaging member (106) and the rear ground engaging member (11 1), wherein the speed deceleration system (140) comprises:

a brake actuating unit (150) rotatably coupled to the body frame

(102);

a support link assembly (170) operatively coupled to the first force transmitting unit (152), wherein the support link assembly (170) comprises: a arm block (216); and

a second force transmitting unit (154) operatively coupled to the rear brake unit (144) and the front brake unit (141) via the support link assembly

(170), wherein the second force transmitting unit (154) comprises an outer sheath (210) and an inner wire (212);