Abstract: A tank for containing compressed air for supplying the air to one or more pneumatically-operated components, devices, or systems of a heavy-duty vehicle such as a tractor-trailer or straight truck, also serves as part of the structure of the frame or subframe of the vehicle. The frame or subframe includes a pair of spaced-apart, parallel, elongated and longitudinally extending main members. One or more of the tanks also serve as interconnecting cross members of the frame or subframe structure. Each tank/cross member generally extends between and is perpendicular to the main members and is secured to the main members and/or suspension hangers and/or the air springs to form a rigid, integrated frame or subframe structure having reduced weight, yet which is capable of reacting the loads imparted to the structure by the axle/suspension system during operation of the vehicle.

Abstract: Rear vehicle structure for housing one or more electrical system unit(s) in the rear of a vehicle, in which side members are provided proximate to a rear suspension of the vehicle, at least one side member on either side of the vehicle. Extension parts extend rearwardly from respective rearward ends of the side members, a forward cross member is located substantially at a forward end of the side members and above the rear suspension members, and a rearward cross member is located substantially at a rearward end of the side members and above the rear suspension members. The electrical system unit is fixedly attached to the top of at least one of the forward cross member or the rearward cross member.

Abstract: A vehicle chassis includes a frame defining a cavity, and a tank configured to store compressed hydrogen gas. The tank is at least partially located within the cavity, and is longitudinally oriented with respect to the frame to maximize the fuel-storage capability of the vehicle chassis. In an exemplary embodiment, a floorpan includes a concavity to accommodate at least a portion of the tank, with a corresponding protuberance in the passenger compartment floor surface of the vehicle chassis.

Abstract: A travel trailer configured to be coupled to and towed by a vehicle is provided. The travel trailer has a compartment that is attached to a chassis which includes a front end and a rear end. A plurality of wheels are attached to the chassis adjacent the rear end, and a hitch assembly is attached to the chassis adjacent the front end. The compartment at the front end of the chassis forms first and second corners. A recess, directed inwardly toward the interior of the compartment, is located at each corner of the compartment. Cavities formed by each recess may receive a portion of the vehicle while the vehicle is engaged in a turn.

Abstract: A rear structure of a gaseous fuel vehicle in this invention includes right and left rear frame members, and a support frame mounted to the right and left rear frame members, on which support frame a gaseous fuel tank is mounted. Each of the right and left rear frame members is constituted by a curved member which includes a curved portion curving upward, and a front linear portion and a rear linear portion which are lower than the highest portion of the curved portion. The support frame is attached to the front linear portions and the rear linear portions. The front linear portions are attached to the rear end of a vehicle frame to provide a low floor in a passenger compartment. A load applied to the rear ends of the right and left rear frame members is dispersed into the right and left rear frame members and the support frame, and transmitted to the vehicle frame.

Abstract: A structural member for use in a vehicle body and frame assembly includes an internal air tank for supplying pressurized air to an auxiliary device, such as an active suspension for the vehicle. The internal air tank may be generally cup-shaped, including a closed end portion, a plurality of side portions, and an outwardly extending flange portion that extends about an open end portion. The flange portion is secured to a first portion of the closed channel structural member to define an air-tight chamber. The chamber is adapted to selectively receive and store a quantity of a pressurized fluid therein, and further to selectively discharge such pressurized fluid to an auxiliary device. An opening can be formed through the structural member to facilitate fluid communication with the chamber. Alternately, the internal air tank may include a flexible bladder defining an air-tight chamber.

Abstract: An electric powered vehicle includes a chassis defining a battery module compartment and a battery module insertable into the battery module compartment of the chassis. A method of replacing a battery module of an electric powered vehicle provides a service facility including a plurality of battery modules and a system for charging the battery modules. Upon the entry into the service facility of a driver in an electric powered vehicle with a depleted battery module, the depleted battery module is removed from the electric powered vehicle and replaced with a battery module including a fully charged battery. The driver is then charged for the battery module including the fully charged battery.

Abstract: A high-voltage equipment component is disposed in a recessed accommodating portion which is formed on a vehicle body floor in such a manner as to be recessed downwardly. The high-voltage equipment component is accommodated in the recessed accommodating portion in a suspended state via a sub-assembly frame which is supported on the vehicle body floor. A heat insulating member for forming a flow path for allowing cooling air to flow towards the high-voltage equipment component is interposed between the high-voltage equipment component and a bottom portion of the recessed accommodating portion.

Abstract: A mounting arrangement for a modular component such as a fuel tank on a vehicle includes sub-assembly of the fuel tank on a carrier for installation on the chassis. Alignment is provided by alignment arms extending outwardly from the chassis cooperating with mounting tabs disposed downwardly from the module. The alignment arms are members of a pair of brackets which are attached to the frame rails. The module rests on the brackets when lowered onto the chassis. Frame and module are connected by fasteners between the brackets and the mounting tabs.

Abstract: The structural platform (11) of the vehicle comprises two tanks (T1) and (T2) for the storage on a vehicle of fluids under pressure. Each tank comprises at least one network of cells (2) connected to one another via orifices (3), the orifices being conformed so that the flow of fluid caused by the consumption of fluid necessary for the use of the vehicle exhibits only pressure drops which do not affect the use, and being conformed so that, in the event of rupture of one or more cells (2), the leakage flow causes sufficiently large pressure drops to limit the flow thereof.

Abstract: A body structure of a forklift truck is provided, with which no dead space is formed in a cross member while securing the constructional strength of the cross member, an increase in length of the truck body due to the space needed in the prior art to locate the exhaust muffler can be evaded resulting in a compact forklift truck, and winding-up of dust on the ground caused when the radiator cooling air flows to the underside of the truck body is prevented without an increase in manufacturing cost. The structure of the vehicle body having a cross member fixed to the inside faces of a pair of left and right side frames is characterized in that the cross member is composed of a vertical plate and a horizontal plate fixed to the vertical plate at a substantially right angle to form a crooked member having the general shape of an inversed letter “L” with an axle support member fixed the lower end of the vertical plate.

Abstract: A chassis having systems responsive to nonmechanical control signals and a simplified body-attachment interface includes regions optimized for energy absorption from an impact to the chassis periphery. A structural frame defines open spaces within which chassis systems are positioned. Material configured to absorb energy from an impact to the chassis periphery is located between the chassis periphery and the open spaces.

Abstract: The object of the present teachings is to provide an improved battery-operated towing tractor. A representative towing tractor is operated by means of battery and the battery may be installed to and removed from the battery storage chamber of the towing tractor by using an opening disposed at the side surface of the battery storage chamber. Because the battery is installed and removed through the side surface of the battery storage chamber, the tractor surface can be effectively used.

Abstract: A device for storing fuel in an engine-powered transport vehicle including at least one closed construction element which is incorporated as an integral part of the body or chassis structure of the transport vehicle. The closed construction element is arranged as a storage unit for the fuel. As a result of the invention, an improved fuel storage unit is provided for, in particular, hydrogen-gas-powered motor vehicles.

Abstract: A supplemental chassis platform comprising a box structure is rigidly mounted to travel trailer chassis main rails. The supplemental platform assumes the role of axle support from the chassis rails, where a plurality of cross beams cooperate to form a framework that supports the axle assembly outside of the chassis' twin main rails. With the axles supported by the box section, the chassis rails' spacing can be reduced to increase the storage space available under the shell.

Abstract: An electric powered vehicle includes a chassis defining a battery module compartment and a battery module insertable into the battery module compartment of the chassis. A method of replacing a battery module of an electric powered vehicle provides a service facility including a plurality of battery modules and a system for charging the battery modules. Upon the entry into the service facility of a driver in an electric powered vehicle with a depleted battery module, the depleted battery module is removed from the electric powered vehicle and replaced with a battery module including a fully charged battery. The driver is then charged for the battery module including the fully charged battery.

Abstract: A supplemental chassis platform comprising a box structure is rigidly mounted to a travel trailer chassis main rails. The supplemental platform assumes the role of axle support from the chassis rails, where a plurality of cross beams cooperate to form a framework that supports the axle assembly outside of the chassis' twin main rails. With the axles supported by the box section, the chassis rails' spacing can be reduced to increase the storage space available under the shell.

Abstract: A frame structure for an industrial vehicle includes a lower plate, a front frame portion, a rear frame portion and a battery chamber. The front frame portion is spaced from the rear frame portion. The battery chamber is located between the front frame portion and the rear frame portion. The battery chamber has an opening at a side of the frame structure for receiving a battery. The frame structure further includes a side bar for coupling the front frame portion with the rear frame portion. The side bar extends along the periphery of the opening.

Abstract: A trailing arm suspension, alone or in combination with a vehicle having a vehicle frame supported by an axle with ground engaging wheels. The trailing arm suspension comprises a pair of spaced trailing arm assemblies, each of which includes a trailing arm pivotally mounted to a the vehicle frame and a spring operably coupling the trailing arm to the frame to resist the pivotal movement of the trailing arm. A pneumatic lift mechanism is provided to selectively raise the trailing arm relative to the frame. The axle has at least a portion of which that is hollow and defines a pressurized air reservoir, which is coupled to the spring and/or the pneumatic lift mechanism to provided pressurized air for altering the resistance of the spring and/or actuating the pneumatic lift mechanism to selective lift the trailing arm.

Abstract: An apparatus for tuning the weight distribution in a vehicle, typically a high performance automobile, is provided. The apparatus includes a weight tray having an internal passage, a screw element, typically a threaded bolt, that extends into an end of the internal passage, a retainer at the same end of the passage, defining a hole through which the screw is rotatably retained, a primary weight is disposed within the passage and having a bore into which the screw extends and a nut or a threaded portion (i.e., a tapped portion) disposed within the bore that operatively engages the threads of the screw. Additional weights may be attached to the primary weight to increase the weight in the weight tray. The primary and additional weights may further include interlocking portions that are suitably configured to interlock with a corresponding interlocking portion on another weight. One or more of the weights may be assembled from two weight segments to facilitate assembly of the apparatus with minimal tools.

Abstract: A recreational vehicle construction is constructed with a durable, open, and accessible subfloor, or subfloor frame assembly, placed between a skeletal chassis and the floor of the vehicle. The general structure of the subfloor includes a center portion and two outrigger assemblies on the flanks of the center portion. The subfloor frame assembly includes a pair of spaced basic beams secured to the underlying chassis, a plurality of upwardly extending spaced posts, and two overlying spaced apart center beams secured to the upper ends of said posts. The subfloor enhances overall stability and rigidity of the vehicle and increases storage space. The open and accessible design of the subfloor eases post-production installation of various components of the vehicle and also increases serviceability, thereby reducing production and service costs.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a vehicle or machinery (1) having a chassis (2) provided with ground engaging members (3) mounted on at least one transverse chassis member (4) and laterally spaced apart longitudinal chassis members (5). Each of the longitudinal chassis members (5) includes a plurality of modular elements (6) fastened together end-to-end (13, 14), which modular elements (6) are substantially hollow for housing therein moving parts (8) of the vehicle or machinery. The modular elements have access openings (18) for accessing the moving parts (8) in the interior (16) of the hollow modular elements (6), and closure panels (19) provided therefor. The present invention also extends to a modular chassis member (5) and a modular chassis element (6).

Abstract: A self-propelled golf cart has a cart body which effectively defines a chamber in the rearward portion of the body; the chamber has first and second side walls generally opposed to each other; each of the side walls has a plurality of apertures formed therethrough which respectively communicate with tubular members which are within the chamber and generally between the side walls; and golf clubs are respectively inserted into and through the apertures as to result in the shafts of such clubs extending into respective ones of the tubular members.

Abstract: A supporting structure for a lightweight vehicle has a central cross tube (10) extending across the vehicle under driver's and occupant's seats. The tube has an enclosed volume formed from a floor plate (14), a top plate (11), a front wall (12) and a rear wall (13). The ends of the cross tube are fixedly attached to longitudinal support members (21, 22), forming a lightweight, rigid and safe structure. The cross-section of the central cross tube is made large (at least 15.times.25 cm) to absorb side impact forces and can contain traction power batteries which results in good weight distribution. Side rings define door openings and are rigidly attached to the cross tube and longitudinal support structure and to transverse roof struts to form a complete passenger enclosure.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to the construction of new and improved motor homes and, more particularly, to the construction of a superstructure platform and the mounting of the platform on a unit chassis. In addition to improving the stability of the vehicle, the present invention also provides rigidity in the motor home, as well as storage space for goods that is easily accessible from the outside of the motor home.

Abstract: A floor structure of an electric vehicle powered by batteries mounted thereon comprises an upper unit and a lower unit which are detachably coupled. The upper unit includes a first panel and a first base structure. The first panel is securely mounted on the first base structure in a manner to define a first given space which faces downward. The lower unit includes a second panel and a second base structure. The second base structure is securely mounted on the second panel in a manner to define a second given space which faces upward. Bolts and nuts are used for detachably coupling the upper and lower units in such a manner that the first and second given spaces are merged to constitute a united space. A grid structure is further employed which divides the united space into a plurality of container spaces. Each container space is sized to contain therein at least one of the batteries.

Abstract: A chassis for vehicles, notably for motor vehicles, is characterized in that it includes a rigid base frame 2 and two absorption zones 4, 6 at the front and the rear associated with the frame 2 and in that said frame 2 and the absorption zones 4, 6 have a cell-like unitary structure.

Abstract: The invention relates to an amphibious motor vehicle chassis including a central box structure (74), at least one front longitudinal member (77) and at least one rear longitudinal member (78) to define two lateral spaces on each side of each longitudinal member. This chassis includes a main internal structure (2) placed inside a sealed hull (19) and external structural elements (3, 4, 5) extending outside the hull (19).

Abstract: An integrated chassis and compressed gaseous fuel system of an automotive vehicle provide long-range fuel capacity for the automotive vehicle. The chassis is a support structure defining at least one cavity in which a respective tank of compressed gaseous fuel is accommodated. By so designing the chassis to specifically accommodate a discrete tank(s) of compressed gaseous fuel, a much larger volume of fuel can be stored in the vehicle than in the case where existing storage space, such as trunk space, in a conventional automobile is used to store the compressed gaseous fuel. Accordingly, the present invention greatly increases the range of automotive vehicles powered by compressed gaseous fuel.

Abstract: For the skeletal chassis of very-lengthily longitudinally extending motor-home roadway vehicles, the chassis' major and pre-eminent weight-bearing capability has traditionally been furnished by two or more lengthily longitudinally extending, parallel structural members. Departing from such prior art, the very-lengthily longitudinally extending skeletal chassis herein utilizes a single, longitudinally elongate central-axis tubular member as the major and pre-eminent weight-bearing structural member. Such reliance upon a single only central-axial structural member has numerous advantages for motor-home vehicles including, inter alia, providing a torsionally rigid underlying chassis therefor, capability for accommodating longitudinally consecutive and sidewardly-open storage compartments therealong, and for providing therealong a conduit for power and utility lines.

Abstract: A cargo vehicle includes a vehicle chassis and a body. The vehicle chassis has a pair of chassis frame rails to which the body is mounted. The body has a rear structural section and a front structural section. In the rear structural section, a pair of body longitudinal rails are mounted above the chassis rails. The body rails and the chassis rails are separated by a thin, vibration attenuating sheet of resilient material. A plurality of floor support members are mounted on and extend from the sides of the body and chassis rails, in contrast to prior art cargo vehicles which mounted the floor support members above the body rails. The thin, resilient separator material and the lowered floor support advantageously reduce the height of the cargo section floor. A ramp storage region is defined in the space within the body rails. In the front structural section, the ramp storage region is not required. A second pair of body longitudinal body rails is provided in the front section above the chassis rails.

Abstract: A method and system is provided for blocking the access opening to a loading ramp storage space in a truck body to prevent theft of the ramp. The system employs a pair of telescoped blocking members having forks on the distal ends thereof. The forks are adapted to engage opposed frame members at the access opening. One of the blocking members has a series of holes therethrough to receive the hasp of a lock to limit telescopic movement of the blocking members. With the forks in place on the opposed frame members and the lock hasp in place the blocking members extend across the access opening and prevent removal of the ramp.

Abstract: A truck chassis frame is constructed to provide storage space for a loading ramp between the longitudinal frame members. A transverse frame member positioned beneath the longitudinal frame members is connected to the longitudinal frame members by brackets secured to end regions of the transverse member and to the outer face of the C-shaped longitudinal members. The space above the transverse member including the open regions of said longitudinal members is open to provide the storage space.

Abstract: A combined trailer and vehicle bridge for detachable connection to a tow vehicle, the trailer being convertible to a bridge for spanning the opposite sides of a gulf in order to permit a vehicle to drive thereacross, including an elongate bed supported on a wheel assembly and provided with means extendable from either end of the bed on the opposite side of a gulf when the bed is being positioned thereacross by the tow vehicle.

Abstract: A fuel storage vessel supporting structure comprising a front bracket member rigidly interconnecting the vehicle body structure and the front end portion of the fuel storage vessel, and a rear bracket member interconnecting the vehicle body structure and the rear end portion of the fuel storage vessel and partially deformable.

Abstract: The trailer converts from a hopper for hauling grain to an overwidth flatbed with tracks for carrying a harvesting machine. The side and front panels of the hopper fold to a horizontal position from the erected position. The rear panel of the hopper is removable and stores on the folded front panel. A base track extends along each side of the trailer frame. An extensible track is hinged to the base track and folds in a vertical plane from a storage position on top of the base track to an extended position laterally outward of the base track, to increase the trailer width for hauling harvesting machines with wide wheel width. Transverse tapered box beams support the base track and extensible track. A second extensible track has beams that slide into the transverse box beams of the first extensible track for further widening.

Abstract: A structure for protecting a fuel tank which is mounted at the rear of and above the frame of a motor vehicle and between two parallel frame members extending along the side of the fuel tank. The protective structure includes reinforcing members coupled to the frame members adjacent the fuel tank such that the frame members along both sides of the fuel tank are reinforced and the frame members before and behind the fuel tank are not reinforced thereby allowing collision forces to be absorbed by the nonreinforced sections of the frame members.