Longitudinal Frame Member Is Tubular Patents (Class 280/798)
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Patent number: 11919573Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 27, 2022Date of Patent: March 5, 2024Assignee: SUMITOMO HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.Inventors: Satoshi Shimizu, Masayuki Ishizuka, Takashi Komatsu
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Patent number: 11858555Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 2, 2022Date of Patent: January 2, 2024Assignee: MAZDA MOTOR CORPORATIONInventors: Kenji Nishida, Chikara Kawamura
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Patent number: 11498504Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 31, 2020Date of Patent: November 15, 2022Assignee: JFG Products, LLCInventors: Carroll Roberts Gittere, Kristopher Wayne Higdon
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Patent number: 11155304Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 15, 2016Date of Patent: October 26, 2021Assignee: KAWASAKI JUKOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Kazumasa Hisada, Gary Bozych, Nobuyuki Nishiguchi, Takeru Ohshima, Yusuke Nakashima
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Patent number: 10286961Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 26, 2016Date of Patent: May 14, 2019Assignees: 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
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Patent number: 10246133Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 12, 2017Date of Patent: April 2, 2019Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors CorporationInventors: Mun Soo Cha, Yoonkyoung Han
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Patent number: 9944325Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 16, 2014Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: Gordon Murray Design LimitedInventor: Ian Gordon Murray
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Patent number: 9623912Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 20, 2013Date of Patent: April 18, 2017Assignee: Polaris Industries Inc.Inventor: Adam J. Schlangen
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Patent number: 9604673Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 30, 2015Date of Patent: March 28, 2017Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventors: Yong Dok An, Dae Seung Kim, Mun Soo Cha
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Patent number: 9004535Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 11, 2013Date of Patent: April 14, 2015Assignee: Energy Control Limited.Inventor: Donald P. H. Wu
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Patent number: 8967672Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 30, 2012Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Assignee: Mazda Motor CorporationInventors: Osamu Kurogi, Tsuyoshi Sugihara, Kohya Nakagawa, Kuniaki Nagao, Sakayu Terada, Miho Kowaki, Akira Iyoshi, Shigeaki Watanabe
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Patent number: 8727048Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 15, 2010Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Invacare Corp.Inventors: Damon Jurkiewicz, Joshua Greiner, Daniel James Yee, Daniel Watson, Traian Mohan, Robert Bekoscke
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Publication number: 20130306394Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: July 24, 2013Publication date: November 21, 2013Applicant: Theodore & Associates LLCInventor: Chris P. Theodore
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Patent number: 8544587Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 21, 2012Date of Patent: October 1, 2013Assignee: Polaris Industries Inc.Inventors: James A. J. Holroyd, Gustavo A. Aramayo, Brian T. Utter, Jason J. Hohenstein, Vittorio Tomolillo, Mark Alan Ziliak
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Patent number: 8499882Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 28, 2010Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yoshinori Tsumiyama, Hidetoshi Kaku, Tyler Furman, Kazuhiro Maeda
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Patent number: 8496268Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 15, 2012Date of Patent: July 30, 2013Assignee: Theodore & Associates LLCInventor: Chris P. Theodore
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Patent number: 8469132Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 5, 2008Date of Patent: June 25, 2013Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Fumihiko Noichi
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Patent number: 8439148Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 25, 2011Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hiromitsu Shiina, Akihiro Yamashita, Hajime Uchiyama
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Patent number: 8322750Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 1, 2010Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignee: EZ Loader Custom Boat Trailers, Inc.Inventors: Michael A. Crow, Gary L. Potter
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Patent number: 8308193Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 26, 2010Date of Patent: November 13, 2012Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Matthew R. Lux, Eric J. Boettcher, Robb L. Augustine, Martyn L. Morrish
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Publication number: 20120223514Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: November 15, 2010Publication date: September 6, 2012Applicant: Invacare Corp.Inventors: Damon Jurkiewicz, Joshua Greiner, Daniel James Yee, Daniel Watson, Traian Mohan, Robert Bekoscke
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Patent number: 8256555Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 9, 2010Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Inventor: Raymond Ackley
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Patent number: 8240682Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 4, 2009Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Inventor: Rory Kennard
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Publication number: 20120175863Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2012Publication date: July 12, 2012Applicant: THEODORE & ASSOCIATES LLCInventor: Chris P. Theodore
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Patent number: 8051935Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 1, 2008Date of Patent: November 8, 2011Assignee: Weber State UniversityInventor: William G. Clapp
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Patent number: 7967338Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 24, 2010Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Inventor: Russell L Anderson
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Patent number: 7934744Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 18, 2008Date of Patent: May 3, 2011Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kazuhiro Suzuki, Yuki Kobayashi
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Publication number: 20110049855Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: July 29, 2010Publication date: March 3, 2011Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventors: Shinichi KARUBE, Toshiyuki SUZUKI, Hiroyuki KIDO, Ryota YAMAGISHI, Takeyuki KARIYASU, Naoki KUWABARA
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Patent number: 7887093Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 7, 2007Date of Patent: February 15, 2011Assignee: Daimler Trucks North America LLCInventors: Mark Waitman Pitsenbarger, Travis Bach
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Publication number: 20110025014Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: December 22, 2008Publication date: February 3, 2011Inventor: Michael Knopf
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Patent number: 7832155Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 26, 2007Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Assignee: Fairmont Homes, Inc.Inventor: James Shea
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Patent number: 7832519Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 23, 2006Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Assignee: Yanmar Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kunihiko Sakamoto, Kouichi Takata, Nagahiro Ogata, Yousuke Yamashita, Makiko Tajima, Hiroaki Ayabe
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Patent number: 7810835Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 31, 2007Date of Patent: October 12, 2010Assignee: Yakima Products, Inc.Inventor: John C. Koch
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Patent number: 7765699Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 18, 2005Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Assignee: Magna International Inc.Inventors: Brian Corcoran, Richard Ashley
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Publication number: 20100156082Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: April 24, 2008Publication date: June 24, 2010Applicant: VOLVO LASTVAGNAR ABInventors: Hans Adlersson, Lena Larsson
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Publication number: 20090230666Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: February 11, 2009Publication date: September 17, 2009Applicant: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Takashi Kudo
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Patent number: 7562905Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 21, 2003Date of Patent: July 21, 2009Assignee: Raufoss Technology ASInventor: Trygve Ruste
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Metal frame made up of the union of a plurality of extruded elements, and method for its fabrication
Patent number: 7503623Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 15, 2004Date of Patent: March 17, 2009Assignee: Ferrari S.p.A.Inventor: Fabrizio Favaretto -
Patent number: 7464964Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 28, 2005Date of Patent: December 16, 2008Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masanori Shinta, Daizou Miyata, Kenichi Yoshihara
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Patent number: 7461851Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 12, 2005Date of Patent: December 9, 2008Assignees: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha, Yamaha Motor Manufacturing CorporationInventors: Takashi Yamamura, Katsuhisa Shimizu, Minoru Seto, Tomoaki Ooishi, Craig Smith
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Patent number: 7441830Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 8, 2005Date of Patent: October 28, 2008Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Ari Caliskan, Dean Gericke
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Publication number: 20080246263Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: April 9, 2007Publication date: October 9, 2008Applicant: LOAD RITE TRAILERS, INC.Inventor: Gary M. McPherson
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Patent number: 7431317Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 25, 2006Date of Patent: October 7, 2008Assignee: Giant Manufacturing Co., Ltd.Inventor: K. U. Wu
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Patent number: 7422241Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 22, 2004Date of Patent: September 9, 2008Assignee: voestalpine STAHL GmbHInventors: Christian Schmaranzer, Alois Leitner
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Publication number: 20080179870Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: January 24, 2008Publication date: July 31, 2008Applicant: Theodore & Associates LLCInventor: Chris P. Theodore
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Patent number: 7331417Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 30, 2004Date of Patent: February 19, 2008Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Akihiro Yamashita
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Patent number: 7201247Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 10, 2006Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: CNH America LLCInventor: Joseph C. Hurlburt
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Patent number: 7175204Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 16, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignees: 3M Innovative Properties Company, General Motors CorporationInventors: Kent S. Tarbutton, Joseph M. Lendway, IV
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Patent number: 6908111Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 6, 2001Date of Patent: June 21, 2005Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masaomi Takagi, Hideyori Sakuragi, Takahiro Watanabe
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Patent number: 6834887Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 29, 2002Date of Patent: December 28, 2004Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AGInventor: Christiaan Burgers