Longitudinal Frame Member Is Tubular Patents (Class 280/798)
  • Patent number: 11919573
    Abstract: A vehicle body structure includes a support member of a vehicle body, and a reinforcement member disposed along a longitudinal direction of the support member of the vehicle body to reinforce the support member of the vehicle body. The reinforcement member is a processed product formed by shaping a tubular body, and includes a flange portion that protrudes on an outer peripheral portion and that is formed in the longitudinal direction of the support member of the vehicle body. The flange portion is joined to the support member of the vehicle body at a location other than locations where the support member of the vehicle body is joined to other members different from the reinforcement member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2024
    Assignee: SUMITOMO HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventors: Satoshi Shimizu, Masayuki Ishizuka, Takashi Komatsu
  • Patent number: 11858555
    Abstract: A front body structure of a vehicle includes a dash member that extends in a vehicle width direction and separates a vehicle interior from an engine room, a pair of left and right front side frames that extend from left and right end portions of the dash member, and a pair of left and right suspension towers that are fixed to the pair of front side frames and support the upper portions of dampers of a suspension device. A first coupling member couples the dash member to the suspension towers. The first coupling member has a reinforced layer portion made of fiber reinforced plastic in which fibers are impregnated with a synthetic resin material. The fibers of the reinforced layer portion are oriented so that more fibers extend in a longitudinal direction than extend in directions other than the longitudinal direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: MAZDA MOTOR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kenji Nishida, Chikara Kawamura
  • Patent number: 11498504
    Abstract: A roll cage is formed by joining tubes using an intermediate member with shoulder portions that insert within the tubes. Two inserts secure within the tubes, at least one being threaded. A threaded bolt is inserted through a first insert, through the intermediate member, and threaded into the second insert. Other tubes secure to the intermediate member such that the tubes together form a roll cage that may be secured to the chassis of a vehicle. For multi-row vehicles, a third insert secures in the second tube and has a threaded shaft protruding from it. The threaded shaft is passed through a second intermediate member and threaded into a threaded insert in a third tube and the second tube is rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2022
    Assignee: JFG Products, LLC
    Inventors: Carroll Roberts Gittere, Kristopher Wayne Higdon
  • Patent number: 11155304
    Abstract: A utility vehicle includes a vehicle body frame, a pair of right and left front wheels disposed at a front end of the vehicle body frame, and a pair of right and left rear wheels disposed at a rear end of the vehicle body frame. The vehicle body frame has, at a bottom thereof, a bottom main frame extending in an anteroposterior direction at a center in a vehicle width direction, and a pair of right and left bottom side frames located width direction extending in the anteroposterior direction between the front wheels and the rear wheels at outer ends in the vehicle, and the bottom side frames are located above the bottom main frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2021
    Assignee: KAWASAKI JUKOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kazumasa Hisada, Gary Bozych, Nobuyuki Nishiguchi, Takeru Ohshima, Yusuke Nakashima
  • Patent number: 10286961
    Abstract: A body node for connecting shell-shaped body structures, of a vehicle, the body node having: a first connecting flange for connection to a first shell-shaped body structure, a second connecting flange for connection to a second shell-shaped body structure, a third connecting flange for connection to a third shell-shaped body structure, and a connecting structure rigidly connecting the connecting flanges with each other and, for example, forming a monolithic body with the connecting flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2019
    Assignees: EDAG ENGINEERING GMBH, LZN LASER ZENTRUM NORD GMBH, CONCEPT LASER GMBH, BLM S.P.A.
    Inventors: Martin Hillebrecht, Michael Schmidt, Eric Fritzsche, Frank Breitenbach, Claus Emmelmann, Frank Herzog, Sergio Raso
  • Patent number: 10246133
    Abstract: A rear vehicle body structure includes right/left side rear upper side members having ends respectively connected to right/left side center pillar members disposed at right/left sides along a width direction of a vehicle as well as being formed to extend along a height direction of a vehicle and a center pillar cross reinforcement member formed to extend along the width direction to connect the right/left side center pillar members, and disposed at the right/left sides along the width direction. A rear upper cross member is formed to extend along the width direction to connect the right/left side rear upper side members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2019
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Mun Soo Cha, Yoonkyoung Han
  • Patent number: 9944325
    Abstract: We improve still further the crashworthiness of a tubular-frame chassis by providing a means for absorbing lower-energy impacts without deforming the tubular steel frame, The vehicle comprises a chassis structure including a load-bearing tubular chassis member extending longitudinally within the vehicle, at least one crush structure located laterally outside of the chassis member, the crush structure having an upper and a lower extent that overlap with an upper and lower extent of the chassis member. In this way, the crush structure is able to interact with the chassis member, transferring impact forces to the chassis member and thereby reducing the necessary size (and weight) of the crush structure. The crush structure is preferably removable, to allow replacement after an impact. Alternatively, the crush structure part of a door of the vehicle, positioned as necessary when the door is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: Gordon Murray Design Limited
    Inventor: Ian Gordon Murray
  • Patent number: 9623912
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a utility vehicle includes a plurality of ground-engaging members configured to contact a ground surface, and a powertrain assembly operably coupled to the ground-engaging members. The utility vehicle also includes a frame supported by the ground-engaging members and extending along a longitudinal axis of the utility vehicle. The utility vehicle further includes a tunnel member coupled to the frame and extending along the longitudinal axis. The tunnel member is positioned at a first height from the ground surface. Additionally, the utility vehicle includes a cargo portion supported by the frame and positioned generally rearward of the tunnel member. The cargo portion has a cargo surface substantially aligned with the tunnel member and positioned at a second height from the ground surface. The first height is approximately equal to the second height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Assignee: Polaris Industries Inc.
    Inventor: Adam J. Schlangen
  • Patent number: 9604673
    Abstract: A rear vehicle body reinforcing structure may include a rear reinforcing member deployed on a periphery of a vehicle body rear door opening and configured to be coupled to a rear vehicle body, in which the rear reinforcing member is opened upward in a height direction of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Yong Dok An, Dae Seung Kim, Mun Soo Cha
  • Patent number: 9004535
    Abstract: A chassis for an electric vehicle comprises: a base frame, a front frame, a rear frame, two side frames, four suspension devices and four wheels. The front frame and the rear frame have the front arc-shaped tube and the arc-shaped rear tube fixed to the base frame, the arc-shaped tubes can not only reduce the number of tubes required but also increase the area of thrust force as compared to the straight tubes. Besides, the arc of the arc-shaped tubes avoids a connection point of an acute angle. Moreover, the height is larger than the width, which will produce less torque on the base frame as compared to that if the height is smaller than the width, thus preventing the torque acted on the base frame from damaging the connection points and improving the structural strength of the chassis at the connection points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Energy Control Limited.
    Inventor: Donald P. H. Wu
  • Patent number: 8967672
    Abstract: In a vehicle-body structure of a vehicle, where suspension forming members are attached to a vehicle body, there are provided a first face portion, through which the suspension forming member extends, a second face portion provided to face to the first face portion, and a support member provided between the first face portion and the second face portion and supporting the suspension forming members, and the support member is joined to said second face portion via a reinforcing member which is formed integrally with the support member or formed separately from the support member. Accordingly, vibrations of the support member can be properly restrained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Mazda Motor Corporation
    Inventors: Osamu Kurogi, Tsuyoshi Sugihara, Kohya Nakagawa, Kuniaki Nagao, Sakayu Terada, Miho Kowaki, Akira Iyoshi, Shigeaki Watanabe
  • Patent number: 8727048
    Abstract: A conveyance such as a wheelchair that includes a seat assembly and a chassis. The chassis comprises a central frame member disposed substantially along the centerline of the wheelchair. The central frame member includes portions for connecting to or supporting one or more front casters, a seat assembly, one or more drive wheel assemblies, an energy source (e.g., one or more batteries), rear anti-tip wheels, and/or at least one footplate. The central frame member is disposed substantially along the centerline of the wheelchair and structurally distributes of the weight of the seat assembly (and optionally the weight of the energy source) to the supporting drive wheels and casters. In this manner, a clean-looking, simple, and lightweight chassis structure is provided for a conveyance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Invacare Corp.
    Inventors: Damon Jurkiewicz, Joshua Greiner, Daniel James Yee, Daniel Watson, Traian Mohan, Robert Bekoscke
  • Publication number: 20130306394
    Abstract: A universal chassis apparatus for an automotive vehicle includes a battery and/or fuel storage compartment in a rigid backbone structure. In another aspect, a vehicle chassis that incorporates the engine structure, transaxle structure and a backbone structure provided as a unitary structure onto which other components of a vehicle, such as suspension, steering, body and crash absorbers may be attached. The backbone structure is a closed tubular structure in which a relatively rigid drive shaft can be supported for rotational power delivery between the engine and the transaxle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2013
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: Theodore & Associates LLC
    Inventor: Chris P. Theodore
  • Patent number: 8544587
    Abstract: A three wheeled vehicle is disclosed having a vehicle frame with a frame sidewall providing a substantially flat surface, with recesses in the flat surface. Alignment arms have inner ends and outer ends, where the inner ends are mounted to the frame sidewall, and the outer ends mount a wheel hub. The inner ends have couplings with pivotal portions and fixed portions, the pivotal portions being at least partially positioned within the recesses, and the fixed portions being attached to the substantially flat surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Polaris Industries Inc.
    Inventors: James A. J. Holroyd, Gustavo A. Aramayo, Brian T. Utter, Jason J. Hohenstein, Vittorio Tomolillo, Mark Alan Ziliak
  • Patent number: 8499882
    Abstract: A utility vehicle comprises a vehicle body frame including a main frame including a floor member and a pair of right and left side members and a sub-frame for reinforcing the main frame, each of the side members includes a side pipe element, a first pillar pipe element, a second pillar pipe element and a third pillar pipe element, the sub-frame includes a first cross member provided between and coupled to second pillar pipe elements, one end portion of the first cross member is detachably coupled to one of the second pillar pipe elements and an opposite end portion of the first cross member is detachably attached to the other second pillar pipe element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yoshinori Tsumiyama, Hidetoshi Kaku, Tyler Furman, Kazuhiro Maeda
  • Patent number: 8496268
    Abstract: A vehicle chassis that incorporates the engine structure, transaxle structure and a backbone structure provided as a unitary structure onto which other components of a vehicle, such as suspension, steering, body and crash absorbers may be attached. The backbone structure is a closed tubular structure in which a relatively rigid drive shaft can be supported for rotational power delivery between the engine and the transaxle. Several variations of the basic chassis embodiment are disclosed to accommodate rear wheel drive, front wheel drive, four wheel drive, as well as internal combustion, electrical and hybrid powered vehicles. Front and rear energy absorbing crash structures are rigidly fixed to front and rear sub-frames of the vehicle chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Theodore & Associates LLC
    Inventor: Chris P. Theodore
  • Patent number: 8469132
    Abstract: A body frame for a motorcycle includes a seat rail formed from a circular pipe that extends horizontally rearward from an upper rear end of a main frame. A backstay formed from a square pipe extends obliquely upward and rearward from a lower rear end of the main frame. A bent part formed at a rear end of the backstay faces the seat rail in the longitudinal direction. Projecting parts are formed on both sides of a concave groove formed in an upper surface of the backstay. The projecting parts are offset in the width direction with respect to a center line of the seat rail and the backstay to allow the seat rail and the backstay to be easily welded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Fumihiko Noichi
  • Patent number: 8439148
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a vehicle body frame, an engine attached to the vehicle body frame, and a power transmission unit for transmitting output from the engine to a wheel of the vehicle. The vehicle body frame includes a plate-shaped suspension-supporting bracket which is integrally connected to front end portions of main frame sections extending in a forward/rearward direction of a vehicle at a lower portion of the vehicle body frame, and also is integrally connected to lower end sides of front frame sections vertically extending at a front portion of the vehicle body frame. The plate-shaped suspension-supporting bracket includes suspension arm-supporting portions formed integrally therewith. The lightweight vehicle body frame reduces total weight of the vehicle and, at the same time, enhances assembling accuracy thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiromitsu Shiina, Akihiro Yamashita, Hajime Uchiyama
  • Patent number: 8322750
    Abstract: One embodiment of a beam structure may include a first side panel and a second side panel spaced apart from the first side panel. An intermediate panel extends from an intermediate portion of the first side panel to an intermediate portion of the second side panel. Further, the beam structure may include an end panel extending from an end portion of the first side panel to an end portion of the second side panel. The end panel may be spaced apart from the intermediate panel for configuring an enclosed channel bounded by the first and second side panels, the intermediate panel, and the end panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: EZ Loader Custom Boat Trailers, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael A. Crow, Gary L. Potter
  • Patent number: 8308193
    Abstract: A frame assembly for a vehicle includes a subframe, a collar assembly with a collar member and a mounting pin, and a main frame with a saddle. The main frame has a contact side that faces toward the collar assembly and the saddle is located on the contact side. The subframe is connected to the main frame with a bolt that extends from the subframe and into a bore in the mounting pin. The mounting pin is in contact with the saddle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Matthew R. Lux, Eric J. Boettcher, Robb L. Augustine, Martyn L. Morrish
  • Publication number: 20120223514
    Abstract: A conveyance such as a wheelchair that includes a seat assembly and a chassis. The chassis comprises a central frame member disposed substantially along the centerline of the wheelchair. The central frame member includes portions for connecting to or supporting one or more front casters, a seat assembly, one or more drive wheel assemblies, an energy source (e.g., one or more batteries), rear anti-tip wheels, and/or at least one footplate. The central frame member is disposed substantially along the centerline of the wheelchair and structurally distributes of the weight of the seat assembly (and optionally the weight of the energy source) to the supporting drive wheels and casters. In this manner, a clean-looking, simple, and lightweight chassis structure is provided for a conveyance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2010
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Applicant: Invacare Corp.
    Inventors: Damon Jurkiewicz, Joshua Greiner, Daniel James Yee, Daniel Watson, Traian Mohan, Robert Bekoscke
  • Patent number: 8256555
    Abstract: A three-wheel motorcycle having a support frame with rear wheels mounted on a double axle with differential there between for a drive from a powerful automobile type engine. A front portion of the frame supporting the front motorcycle type single steerable wheel and handlebars mounted thereto for conventional steering. Other features include a unique shock and spring mechanism for the support frame measuring no more than 6 inches off of the ground and having a center of gravity of 14 inches or less powered by an internal combustion engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Inventor: Raymond Ackley
  • Patent number: 8240682
    Abstract: According to the present invention, there is provided a jackhammer trolley comprising a mainframe member with a clamp member at the bottom end and an extension bracket portion at the top end, a base frame member removably attached to the mainframe member by pivoting joints with at least one wheel member removably attached to its bottom, a handle member having a hand lever attached to said top end, and at least one vibration dampener fixed to said top or bottom end of the mainframe member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Rory Kennard
  • Publication number: 20120175863
    Abstract: A vehicle chassis that incorporates the engine structure, transaxle structure and a backbone structure provided as a unitary structure onto which other components of a vehicle, such as suspension, steering, body and crash absorbers may be attached. The backbone structure is a closed tubular structure in which a relatively rigid drive shaft can be supported for rotational power delivery between the engine and the transaxle. Several variations of the basic chassis embodiment are disclosed to accommodate rear wheel drive, front wheel drive, four wheel drive, as well as internal combustion, electrical and hybrid powered vehicles. Front and rear energy absorbing crash structures are rigidly fixed to front and rear sub-frames of the vehicle chassis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2012
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Applicant: THEODORE & ASSOCIATES LLC
    Inventor: Chris P. Theodore
  • Patent number: 8051935
    Abstract: An air-cushioned vehicle or hovercraft includes a three-dimensional frame comprising a latticework of tubular members. A pressure plate is coupled to the underside of the frame and includes at least one aperture therein and a skirt attached adjacent a periphery thereof. At least one lifting fan is positioned relative to the at least one aperture to generate a current of air therethrough. The frame may be configured to generate a visual indication of damage thereto. Methods of making and air-cushion vehicle are disclosed. Methods of using an air-cushion vehicle are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Weber State University
    Inventor: William G. Clapp
  • Patent number: 7967338
    Abstract: The trailer chassis includes a plurality of frame members forming a substantially rectangular box frame. The rectangular box frame includes a central, elongate main sub-frame integral with a pair of spaced outboard frame rail sections where wheel wells are formed. The central main sub-frame is devoid of cross members to provide unhindered storage space. Select sections of the rectangular box frame are covered with rigid plating to strengthen the torsional rigidity of the trailer chassis. The front section of the rectangular box frame includes a raised platform with a hitch frame integral thereto for installing a hitch. The trailer chassis is detachably mounted to the trailer in order to permit separate shipment of the trailer chassis in a shipping container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Inventor: Russell L Anderson
  • Patent number: 7934744
    Abstract: A technique of enhancing the flexibility of arranging members provided in the vicinity of a steering handlebar in a saddle-ride type vehicle equipped with an airbag module. A straddle-ride type vehicle includes a head pipe and a seat which is provided to the rear of the head pipe with a straddle space defined between the steering handlebar and the seat and an airbag module provided forward of the seat. The airbag module is disposed to the rear of the head pipe to vertically overlap the head pipe in the height-direction thereof and to partially face the straddle space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuhiro Suzuki, Yuki Kobayashi
  • Publication number: 20110049855
    Abstract: A vehicle frame structure includes a central frame member, extending in a vehicle longitudinal direction at a central portion of a body frame. The central frame member includes a front end joined to a second front cross pipe, and a rear end joined to a second lower crossmember behind the second front cross pipe. When viewed from the side, the central frame member extends in a substantially straight line along with the left and right front reinforcing pipes. The front end portion of the central frame member is joined to the second front cross pipe at a position inwardly of a joint between the left front reinforcing pipe and the second front cross pipe, and inwardly of a joint between the right front reinforcing pipe and the second front cross pipe. Such frame structure lowers level of a center of gravity of the vehicle, and enhances rigidity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2010
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Shinichi KARUBE, Toshiyuki SUZUKI, Hiroyuki KIDO, Ryota YAMAGISHI, Takeyuki KARIYASU, Naoki KUWABARA
  • Patent number: 7887093
    Abstract: Described herein are several embodiments of a vehicle chassis with frame rails having a dropped center section. According to one embodiment, a motor vehicle chassis includes a forward frame rail section and a rear frame rail section that is spaced apart from the forward frame rail section. The chassis also includes a center frame rail section that is parallel to both the forward and rear frame rail sections and extends at least partially between the forward and rear frame rail sections. A forward portion of the center frame rail section can be positioned below a rear section of the forward frame rail section to form a forward overlapping section. The forward overlapping section can define a first open space between the two sections. Similarly, a rear portion of the center frame rail section is positioned below a front section of the rear frame rail section to form a rear overlapping section. The rear overlapping section can define a second open space between the two sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Daimler Trucks North America LLC
    Inventors: Mark Waitman Pitsenbarger, Travis Bach
  • Publication number: 20110025014
    Abstract: A wheelchair frame includes left and right first frame members, each having a first leg for supporting a seat. The first legs are arranged on opposite sides of a central axis of the wheelchair. At least one cross-brace is connected, by the ends, to the first legs of the left and right frame members. The cross-brace has a non-circular cross-section along a section between the ends. The wheelchair frame includes left and right second frame members that are pivotally connected to the left and right first frame members. The second frame members are foldable and may be fixed in a position in that is generally parallel to the first legs of the left and right first frame members. A cross-brace is connected, by the ends, to the left and right second frame members. The cross-brace has a non-circular cross-section along a section between the ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Inventor: Michael Knopf
  • Patent number: 7832155
    Abstract: A drop floor for a mobile home or a park model home creates additional space and headroom between the ceiling and floor. A home built according to the invention typically includes a frame supported upon an axle. The frame has numerous cross members extending between a pair of opposite side members and includes a first portion located at a first height with respect to the axle and a second portion located at a second height below the first height. A building structure is supported on the first and second frame portions. The invention includes a drop floor construction method where floor decking is attached to the second portion of the frame so that the floor decking is in contact with the frame and located at the second height, which is below the first height. The drop floor includes nailers, closure material and insulation so that the drop floor can rest upon the ground surface if desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Fairmont Homes, Inc.
    Inventor: James Shea
  • Patent number: 7832519
    Abstract: Rigidity of a frame of a working vehicle is improved by a simple structure and production costs are reduced by reducing the number of parts of a working vehicle. Pipes 66 are provided on both left and right sides at the center in the front-rear direction of a side frame 62, and each pipe 66 has a rectangular cross-section and penetrates an intermediate partition in the front-rear direction from a mast section 64 up to a transmission section. Tie-down holes are formed in a front face plate 61 to which the front end of a frame 9 is connected, and a plate 64b connected to a side frame 62 is provided at the bottom surface of each mast section 64 protruding outward from the side frame 62. Tanks installed on the working vehicle are suspended from the plate bodies 64b, and a lift arm installation boss provided at each mast section 64 is supported at both ends. A U-shaped reinforcement member 81 connects the upper surface of mast partition plate of a mast section 64 and left and right bosses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Yanmar Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kunihiko Sakamoto, Kouichi Takata, Nagahiro Ogata, Yousuke Yamashita, Makiko Tajima, Hiroaki Ayabe
  • Patent number: 7810835
    Abstract: A sport trailer including a center load supporting rail, wheels, mounting assemblies for the wheels, and a stowable towing tongue, the wheel mounting assemblies include a shock absorber connected to each wheel and to a bifurcated strut that extends outward from the center rail. Upper and lower dual swing arms pivot and extend from the center rail to a mounting bracket attached to the wheels. The upper swing arms are shorter than the lower swing arms to achieve negative camber. The towing tongue is removably received within an inner channel of the center rail and telescopes relative to the center rail to achieve different length configurations of the trailer. A rear tongue is removably received within the center rail inner channel at the back end of the trailer. The rear tongue telescopes relative to the center rail and includes a taillight assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Yakima Products, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Koch
  • Patent number: 7765699
    Abstract: A method of forming a space frame for a cab, including forming each of a pair of hydroformed, longitudinally extending inner side rails, a hydroformed connecting member, a hydroformed first upper cross member, each of a pair of hydroformed upper longitudinal members, and each of a pair of hydroformed A-pillar members. The method including, providing a tubular metallic blank having a tubular metallic wall. The method also including placing the tubular metallic blank into a die cavity of a die assembly, the die cavity having die surfaces, and providing a high pressure fluid into an interior of the blank to expand the metallic wall of the central portion of the blank outwardly into conformity with the surfaces of the die cavity to define the respective hydroformed member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Magna International Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Corcoran, Richard Ashley
  • Publication number: 20100156082
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing at least one frame member for use as a support element in a vehicle frame includes providing a tubular element. According to the method, a pressure is applied in the interior of the tubular element while the tubular element is positioned at least partly inside a mould, thereby causing the tubular element to conform to the internal shape of said mould so as to change the longitudinal extension direction and/or cross-section of the tubular element in at least one position along the tubular element. A frame member is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Applicant: VOLVO LASTVAGNAR AB
    Inventors: Hans Adlersson, Lena Larsson
  • Publication number: 20090230666
    Abstract: A vehicle frame structure for a saddle-type vehicle has a vehicle frame including a subframe portion detachably mounted on a main frame, and a joint between the main frame and the subframe which is disposed in a longitudinally intermediate portion of a continuously extending frame component, wherein the frame component is kept rigid and the joint is maintained in a small size. In the joint, the frame component has a portion divided by a vertical plane into a main-frame-side joint arm and a subframe-side joint arm. The joint arms have distal ends having arcuate outer walls cut off around their fastening positions. The joint arms further have integral upstanding walls disposed on proximal ends thereof, corresponding to the cut-off arcuate outer walls of the joint arms. The joint arms are fastened to each other with the distal ends thereof fitted in cavities surrounded by the upstanding walls.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2009
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Applicant: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takashi Kudo
  • Patent number: 7562905
    Abstract: A square shaped sub-frame for a vehicle manufactured from an especially designed aluminium profile (1). The profile comprises a first and a second channel (11, 13) separated by an intervening channel (12). Said first and second channels (11, 13) are separated in localized areas by removing wall material from the intervening channel (12). Then, the profile (1) is bent into a U-shaped or square, closed frame, said second channel (13) defining a load carrying frame. The first channel (11) is machined into mounting brackets for control arms etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Raufoss Technology AS
    Inventor: Trygve Ruste
  • Patent number: 7503623
    Abstract: A metal frame made up of a plurality of linear bars, which have a constant cross section, are obtained by extrusion, and are joined to one another by means of welding at structural nodes defined by jointing bodies provided with pockets for housing the linear bars. The jointing bodies have box type structures and are made up of the union of respective a load-bearing element, which is obtained by extrusion and has a given direction of extrusion, with a pair of plane closing metal sheets, which are set perpendicular to the direction of extrusion and are welded to the load-bearing element on opposite sides of the load-bearing element. The load-bearing element may also be formed by the lateral union of a number of simple elements, each of the simple elements being obtained directly via extrusion and having a given direction of extrusion parallel to the direction of extrusion of the other simple elements, and wherein the simple elements are joined to one another laterally by mechanical slots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Assignee: Ferrari S.p.A.
    Inventor: Fabrizio Favaretto
  • Patent number: 7464964
    Abstract: A vehicle front body structure which includes: a longitudinal structural member provided at a front end thereof with a bracket which has a portion projecting downward from a lower side face of the longitudinal structural member; a transverse member connected to the longitudinal structural member at the bracket thereof; and a suspension member mounted to the longitudinal structural member with a front portion thereof fixed to the lower side face of the longitudinal structural member at a position in the vicinity of a rear side face of the downward projecting portion of the bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masanori Shinta, Daizou Miyata, Kenichi Yoshihara
  • Patent number: 7461851
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a wheel suspension device on a right side and a wheel suspension device on a left side, with the right and left side wheel suspension devices being connected to each other through a rear frame mounted on a body frame. The right and left side wheel suspension devices include a lower arm supported at an inner end of the rear frame so as to extend outward and so as to be pivotally movable in a vertical direction. The right and left side wheel suspension devices also include an upper arm connected to the outer end of the lower arm through a wheel-supporting knuckle and so as to extend outward from the knuckle. The wheel suspension devices are provided with a rear cushion unit connected at one end to the swinging side end of one of the lower and upper arm members. At least one of the inner end of the upper arm and the other end of the rear cushion unit is supported on the rear frame so as to be pivotally movable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignees: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha, Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Takashi Yamamura, Katsuhisa Shimizu, Minoru Seto, Tomoaki Ooishi, Craig Smith
  • Patent number: 7441830
    Abstract: A lower frame midrail structure for an automotive vehicle is formed from a pair of tubular members manufactured through a hydroforming process. The two tubular members are welded together in a longitudinally extending portion to provide support for the mounting structure of a bumper assembly. The joinder of the two tubular members creates a lower frame midrail cross-section that has a generally vertical internal web to strengthen and stiffen the midrail structure. The two tubular members laterally diverge from one another in a divergent zone in which the laterally spaced tubular members provide a stable interior and exterior support for a shock tower support member to be welded to the top of the tubular members. The hydroforming process can form openings in the sidewalls of the tubular members to permit passage of cross frame members to enhance the welding of the cross frame members to the midrail structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Ari Caliskan, Dean Gericke
  • Publication number: 20080246263
    Abstract: A structural member for a vehicle has a slot extending into one structural wall thereof, for receiving and holding a bolt, wherein said structural member including said slot has been formed by extrusion. The slot extends the length of the structural member for slidably receiving the head of one or more bolts wherein the land area of each bolt head extends beyond the slot opening to overlay the wall area carrying the slot. Each bolt carries at least two flat faces below its head wherein the juxtaposed edges of the slot carrying wall retains, i.e., refrains, the bolt from rotating. The slot includes an interior wall or sidewalls continuous with the slotted structural wall. The structural member may include an I-beam, a rectangular tube, a C-channel and the like. Corners are radiuses and right angles are avoided to reduce or remove stress risers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2007
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Applicant: LOAD RITE TRAILERS, INC.
    Inventor: Gary M. McPherson
  • Patent number: 7431317
    Abstract: A bicycle frame part having a disproportionally enlarged end section and a method for making the same. The tube may be used as a bicycle frame part, and it may include a first section having a thickness, a second section configured to be forged from a first shape having a thickness that is different from the thickness of the first section to a second shape having a thickness that is less than the thickness of the first shape. The second shape of the second section may be proportionally enlarged relative to the first shape of the second section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Giant Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: K. U. Wu
  • Patent number: 7422241
    Abstract: A girder is described for a vehicle chassis made of at least two sheet metal profiles (4, 5) composed along their longitudinal edges into a circumferentially enclosed hollow profile (1), which hollow profile comprises at least two longitudinal sections (2, 3) which are both materially joined by way of a joining seam (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: voestalpine STAHL GmbH
    Inventors: Christian Schmaranzer, Alois Leitner
  • Publication number: 20080179870
    Abstract: A vehicle chassis that incorporates the engine structure, transaxle structure and a backbone structure provided as a unitary structure onto which other components of a vehicle, such as suspension, steering, body and crash absorbers may be attached. The backbone structure is a closed tubular structure in which a relatively rigid drive shaft can be supported for rotational power delivery between the engine and the transaxle. Several variations of the basic chassis embodiment are disclosed to accommodate rear wheel drive, front wheel drive, four wheel drive, as well as internal combustion, electrical and hybrid powered vehicles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2008
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Applicant: Theodore & Associates LLC
    Inventor: Chris P. Theodore
  • Patent number: 7331417
    Abstract: A frame structure for a vehicle body frame includes a first and second hollow member, wherein a plate thickness of the second hollow member is greater than the plate thickness of the first hollow member. A heavy body is supported on a side of the first hollow member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Akihiro Yamashita
  • Patent number: 7201247
    Abstract: A utility vehicle that has a bogey beam suspension for the front steered wheels is also provided with all wheel drive by mounting a drive shaft within the bogey beam so that power can be furnished to the front axle. For a six wheel vehicle the middle axle is mounted on the rear of the bogey beam and driven from the rear drive axle by a universal drive assembly. In the four wheel version in which a resilient member is attached between the vehicle and the rear of the bogey beam, the rear drive axle is interconnected with the rear of the front wheel drive shaft by a universal drive assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2007
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventor: Joseph C. Hurlburt
  • Patent number: 7175204
    Abstract: A hydroformable frame element is formed from the combination of at least two elements. The at least two elements are designed with a partially overlapping region, with an annular space defined within the overlapping region. The annular space is filled with adhesive, which is then cured to bond the at least two elements together. The adhesive bond is designed to withstand the stresses caused by the hydroforming operation and to retain its strength so that the hydroformed article is then usable as a vehicular frame element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignees: 3M Innovative Properties Company, General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Kent S. Tarbutton, Joseph M. Lendway, IV
  • Patent number: 6908111
    Abstract: A metallic product has a metallic curved hollow member having a hollow cross section which has a thin wall portion and a thick wall portion which is thicker than the thin wall portion. The metallic curved hollow member is produced by bending a metallic straight hollow member produced by extrusion of aluminum material which is one of aluminum and aluminum alloy. Another metallic product has a metallic curved hollow member having a hollow cross section which has a cross-shaped portion. The metallic curved hollow member is produced by bending a metallic straight hollow member produced by extrusion of aluminum material which is one of aluminum and aluminum alloy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masaomi Takagi, Hideyori Sakuragi, Takahiro Watanabe
  • Patent number: 6834887
    Abstract: In a body structure for a motor vehicle made of assembled members spaced partition plates are arranged in the member. A working opening is formed between consecutive partition plates, and after the connection of adjacent members, the working opening can be closed by way of a cover plate, whereby a reinforced stability range is formed in the area of the member connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AG
    Inventor: Christiaan Burgers