CN109070970B

CN109070970B - Side panel for vehicle

Info

Publication number: CN109070970B
Application number: CN201680084778.2A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 勒内·勒米厄
Original assignee: Bombardier Recreational Products Inc
Current assignee: Bombardier Recreational Products Inc
Priority date: 2016-02-22
Filing date: 2016-03-30
Publication date: 2020-11-03
Anticipated expiration: 2036-03-30
Also published as: RU2707850C1; CA3015443A1; CN109070970A; WO2017144955A1

Abstract

A side panel for a vehicle having a straddle seat. The side panel has an outer surface and is configured to be attached to a side of the vehicle at least partially 5 longitudinally forward of and vertically below the straddle seat. The outer surface defines a first leg region configured to receive at least a portion of a leg of an operator seated in the straddle seat in a first position and a second leg region configured to receive at least a portion of a leg of an operator seated in the straddle seat in a second position. The second leg region is arranged at least partly 10 longitudinally forward of the first leg region when the side panel is attached to the vehicle. A vehicle having a left side panel and a right side panel is also disclosed.

Description

Side panel for vehicle

Cross-referencing

This application claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application No.62/298,043 filed on 22/2/2016. In the case of the united states, this application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application No.14/631,722 filed on 25/2/2015, which U.S. patent application No.14/631,722 claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application No.61/944,230 filed on 25/2/2014. The entire contents of the above-mentioned patent application are incorporated herein by reference.

Technical Field

The present technology relates to a side panel for a vehicle.

Background

When driving a straddle-type vehicle such as a snowmobile, the driver is usually seated upright on the seat while the vehicle is moving in a straight-ahead direction. However, when turning, the driver may lean towards the side in addition to turning the handle towards the inside of the curve. Typically, the driver leans further to perform a tighter and/or faster turn than when slowly turning the vehicle. Thus, particularly in high performance and sport vehicles, it is desirable to configure the vehicle so that the driver is comfortably and securely positioned on the vehicle both when driving in a straight-ahead orientation and when performing a turn.

Disclosure of Invention

It is an object of the present technology to alleviate at least some of the inconveniences of the prior art.

In accordance with one aspect of the present technique, a side panel for a vehicle having a straddle seat is provided. The side panel has an outer surface and is configured to be attached to a side of the vehicle at least partially longitudinally forward of and vertically below the straddle seat. The outer surface defines a first leg region configured to receive at least a portion of a leg of an operator seated in the straddle seat in a first position and a second leg region configured to receive at least a portion of a leg of an operator seated in the straddle seat in a second position. The second leg region is arranged to be at least partially longitudinally forward of the first leg region when the side panel is attached to the vehicle. A vehicle having a left side panel and a right side panel is also disclosed.

In some embodiments, the second leg region is arranged to be at least partially laterally outboard of the first leg region when the side panel is attached to the vehicle.

In some embodiments, the outer surface includes a first laterally extending surface and a second laterally extending surface arranged to be at least partially longitudinally forward of the first laterally extending surface when the side panel is attached to the vehicle. Each of the first and second laterally extending surfaces extends generally laterally and vertically when the side panel is connected on the vehicle. The first leg region is at least partially defined by a first laterally extending surface and the second leg region is at least partially defined by a second laterally extending surface.

In some embodiments, the second laterally extending surface extends laterally outboard of the first laterally extending surface.

In some embodiments, the outer surface comprises a longitudinally extending surface that extends generally longitudinally and vertically when the side panel is connected to the vehicle, the longitudinally extending surface being arranged to be at least partially longitudinally rearward of the second laterally extending surface and longitudinally forward of the first laterally extending surface when the side panel is connected to the vehicle.

In some embodiments, the longitudinally extending surface increases in longitudinal width from its lower end to its upper end.

In some embodiments, the outer surface extends continuously from the first laterally extending surface to the longitudinally extending surface.

In some embodiments, the outer surface further comprises a longitudinally extending surface extending generally longitudinally and vertically when the side panel is connected to the vehicle, the laterally extending surface being arranged to be at least partially longitudinally rearward of the first laterally extending surface when the side panel is connected to the vehicle. In some aspects, the longitudinally extending surface is a first longitudinally extending surface, and the longitudinally extending surface further comprises a second longitudinally extending surface extending generally longitudinally and vertically when the side panel is connected to the vehicle, the second longitudinally extending surface being arranged to be at least partially longitudinally rearward of the second laterally extending surface and longitudinally forward of the first laterally extending surface when the side panel is connected to the vehicle.

According to another aspect of the present technology, there is provided a vehicle having: a frame; a motor operatively connected to the frame; and a ground engaging member operatively connected to the motor and the frame. The ground engaging member is one of an endless track and a wheel. A straddle seat is connected to the frame and is configured to house at least a driver of the vehicle. The left side panel is connected on the left side of the frame and the right side panel is connected on the right side of the frame. Each of the left and right side panels is disposed at least partially longitudinally forward of and vertically below the straddle seat. The left side panel defines a rear left leg region and a front left leg region, the front left leg region disposed longitudinally forward of the rear left leg region, the rear left leg region selectively receiving a portion of a left leg of a driver in a first left leg position, and the front left leg region selectively receiving a portion of a left leg of the driver in a second left leg position. The right side panel defines a rear right leg region and a front right leg region arranged longitudinally forward of the rear right leg region. The rear right leg region selectively receives a portion of a right leg of the driver in a first right leg position and the front right leg region selectively receives a portion of a right leg of the driver in a second right leg position.

According to another aspect of the present technology, there is provided a vehicle including: a frame; a motor operatively connected to the frame; a ground engaging member operatively connected to the motor and the frame, the ground engaging member being one of an endless track and a wheel; a driven pulley operatively connecting the motor to the ground engaging member; a straddle seat connected to the frame and configured to accommodate at least a driver of the vehicle; a left side panel connected on a left side of the frame and a right side panel connected on a right side of the frame, each of the left and right side panels being disposed at least partially longitudinally forward of and vertically below the straddle seat. At least one of the left and right side panels defining a space for receiving the driven pulley therein, the at least one of the left and right side panels comprising: a front longitudinal surface extending generally longitudinally outboard of the driven pulley; a rear transverse surface extending generally upwardly and forwardly from behind the driven pulley to above the driven pulley, the front and rear longitudinal surfaces defining a space for receiving the driven pulley therein; and a front lateral surface extending laterally outboard of the rear lateral surface.

In some embodiments, at least one of the left and right side panels further comprises an inner portion disposed substantially above the driven pulley.

In some embodiments, at least one of the left and right side panels further comprises a rear longitudinal surface extending generally rearwardly from the rear transverse surface.

In some embodiments, the left side panel further defines a rear left leg region and a front left leg region, the front left leg region disposed longitudinally forward of the rear left leg region, the rear left leg region selectively accommodating a portion of the left leg of the driver in the first left leg position and the front left leg region selectively accommodating a portion of the left leg of the driver in the second left leg position, and the right side panel defines a rear right leg region and a front right leg region, the front right leg region disposed longitudinally forward of the rear right leg region, the rear right leg region selectively accommodating a portion of the right leg of the driver in the first right leg position and the front right leg region selectively accommodating a portion of the right leg of the driver in the second right leg position.

For purposes of this application, terms related to spatial orientation such as forward, rearward, upward, downward, left, and right are as understood by a vehicle operator sitting on the vehicle in a normal riding position. When describing or referring to vehicle components or sub-assemblies separate from a vehicle, such as for example a side panel, the terms related to spatial orientation should be understood as they are understood when these vehicle components or sub-assemblies are mounted to a vehicle. The definitions and explanations of the terms provided herein take precedence over the definitions and explanations of those terms in any document incorporated by reference.

Embodiments of the present technology each have at least one of the above-mentioned aspects, but do not necessarily have all of these aspects. It should be appreciated that some aspects of the present technology that have resulted from an attempt to achieve the above-mentioned objects may not meet this object and/or may meet other objects not specifically set forth herein.

Additional and/or alternative features, aspects, and advantages of embodiments of the present technology will become apparent from the following description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims.

Drawings

For a better understanding of the present technology, as well as other aspects and further features of the present technology, reference is made to the following description, which is to be used in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a right side elevational view of the snowmobile;

FIG. 2A is a right side elevational view of the portion of the snowmobile of FIG. 1 including the channel with the right side panel already installed;

FIG. 2B is a top plan view of the portion of the snowmobile of FIG. 2A, further showing a left side panel and a driven pulley and a countershaft of the continuously variable transmission;

FIG. 2C is a top plan view of the portion of the snowmobile of FIG. 2B, with the left side panel, the driven pulley, and the countershaft removed for clarity;

FIG. 2D is a cross-sectional view taken along line 2D-2D of FIG. 2B;

FIG. 3A is a right side elevational view of the right side panel of the snowmobile of FIG. 2A shown in isolation;

FIG. 3B is a top plan view of the right side panel of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 3C is a rear view of the right side panel of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 4A is a right side elevational view of the portion of the snowmobile of FIG. 1, with a rider seated on the snowmobile in an upright riding position and with the vehicle operating straight ahead;

FIG. 4B is a right side elevational view of the portion of the snowmobile of FIG. 4A and the rider, with the rider seated on the snowmobile in a right leaning position and the vehicle turning to the right;

FIG. 4C is a right side elevational view of the portion of the snowmobile of FIG. 4A and the rider, with the rider seated on the snowmobile in a steep right bank position and the vehicle making a sharp right turn;

FIG. 4D is a top plan view of portions of the snowmobile of FIG. 4B and a rider;

FIG. 4E is a top plan view of portions of the snowmobile of FIG. 4C and a rider;

FIG. 5A is a close-up top plan view of a portion of the left side panel of FIG. 2B, with the driven pulley and countershaft partially shown in phantom;

FIG. 5B is a left side elevational view of the left side panel, driven pulley, and countershaft of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the channel and driven pulley of FIG. 2B with a right side panel and a left side panel mounted according to another embodiment;

FIG. 7A is a close-up top plan view of a portion of the left side panel of FIG. 6, with the driven pulley and countershaft partially shown in phantom;

FIG. 7B is a left side view of the left side panel, driven pulley, and countershaft of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 8A is a right side elevational view of another embodiment of a right side panel similar to that of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8B is a top plan view of the right side panel of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 9A is a partial view of the right side panel of FIG. 8A with the latch in the closed position;

FIG. 9B is a partial view of the right side panel of FIG. 8A with the latch in the open position;

FIG. 10A is a rear left side perspective view of the latch assembly of the right side panel of FIG. 8A with the latch in the closed position;

FIG. 10B is a rear left side perspective view of the latch assembly of the right side panel of FIG. 8A with the latch in the open position;

FIG. 11 is a right side elevational view of the right side panel of FIG. 3A, with the rear longitudinal surface of the right side panel being hatched;

FIG. 12 is a right side elevational view of the right side panel of FIG. 3A, with the rear transverse surface of the right side panel being hatched;

FIG. 13 is a right side elevational view of the right side panel of FIG. 3A, with the front longitudinal surface of the right side panel being hatched;

FIG. 14 is a right side elevational view of the right side panel of FIG. 3A, with the front lateral surface of the right side panel being hatched; and

FIG. 15 is a right side elevational view of the right side panel of FIG. 3A, with the front exterior surface of the right side panel shown in phantom.

Detailed Description

Although the present technology is described below with reference to snowmobiles, it is contemplated that these aspects may be applied to other straddle-type vehicles such as motorcycles and the like.

Referring to fig. 1, a snowmobile 10 includes a front end 12 and a rear end 14 defined in line with a direction of travel of the vehicle 10. The snowmobile 10 includes a body in the form of a frame or chassis 16, the frame or chassis 16 including a rear channel 18, an engine support structure 20, a front suspension module 22, and a superstructure 24. The channel 18 is formed from sheet metal components that are assembled to form an inverted U-shape when viewed from either the front end 12 or the rear end 14. The inverted U-shaped channel 18 has a left side portion 18a and a right side portion 18 a. A vertically extending longitudinal plane 13 (fig. 2B) through the lateral center of the snowmobile 10 is referred to herein as the longitudinal center plane 13 of the snowmobile 10.

A motor 26 (shown schematically in fig. 1 and 2B) is carried in an engine compartment defined by the engine support structure 20 of the frame 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the motor 26 is an internal combustion engine, but it is contemplated that the motor may be other than an internal combustion engine, such as an electric or hybrid motor. A fuel tank 28 supported above the channel 18 supplies fuel to the engine 26 for operation of the engine 26.

The endless drive track 30 is positioned generally below the trough 18, and the endless drive track 30 is operatively connected to the engine 26 via a drive train that includes a belt drive system (driven pulley 52 and countershaft 54 of the belt drive system shown in fig. 2B) and a reduction gear assembly (not shown). The endless drive track 30 is driven to travel around a rear suspension assembly 32 connected to the frame 16 to propel the snowmobile 10. The endless drive track 30 has a plurality of lugs 31 extending from an outer surface of the endless drive track 30 to provide traction to the track 30. Further details regarding snowmobile powertrains may be found in U.S. patent No.8,012,050, issued on 6/9/2011, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

The rear suspension assembly 32 includes a pair of sprockets 34 (shown schematically) mounted on a drive shaft 35 (shown schematically), one or more idlers 36, and a pair of slide rails 38 in sliding contact with the endless drive track 30. A drive shaft 35, to which the sprocket 34 is mounted, defines a drive shaft axis 34 a. The sliding guide rail 38 is attached to the channel 18 by front and rear suspension arms 40, 40 and one or more shock absorbers 42, the one or more shock absorbers 42 comprising a coil spring surrounding each shock absorber 42. It is contemplated that the snowmobile 10 may be provided with embodiments of the rear suspension assembly 32 that differ from the rear suspension assembly 32 shown herein.

A straddle seat 60 is positioned above the fuel tank 28. A fuel tank filling opening covered by a cap 92 is disposed on the upper surface of fuel tank 28, in front of seat 60. It is contemplated that fuel tank fill opening 92 may be disposed elsewhere on fuel tank 28. The seat 60 is adapted to receive a driver of the snowmobile 10. The seat 60 may also be configured to accommodate a passenger. A footrest 64 is positioned on each side beneath the seat 60 of the snowmobile 10 to accommodate the feet of the driver. Each of the left-footrest 64 and the right-footrest 64 extend generally laterally outward from corresponding left and right side portions of the channel 18. In the illustrated embodiment, each side portion 18a of channel 18 is bent laterally outward at its bottom edge to form a corresponding shoe plate 64. However, it is contemplated that the footrest 64 may not be integrally formed with the channel 18, but rather may be separately formed and mounted to the channel 18. A foot stop 63 (best seen in fig. 2C) is connected to the forward end of each footrest 64. In the illustrated embodiment, each foot stop 63 is in the form of a wall-like structure extending generally laterally and vertically upwardly from the corresponding footrest 64, and thereby prevents the feet of a driver resting on the footrest 64 from sliding forward past the forward end of the footrest 64. It is contemplated that one or both of foot stops 63 may be configured differently than the foot stops shown herein. It is contemplated that one or both of the foot stops 63 may be integrally formed with the corresponding footrest 64 and/or channel 18. Toe retainer 65 is disposed above the front portion of each footrest 64 and longitudinally rearward of the corresponding foot stop 63. Each toe retainer 65 is in the form of a cantilevered structure connected at and extending laterally outwardly from its laterally inner end. The right toe retainer 65 is mounted to the chain case 19, which chain case 19 is mounted to the right side portion 18a of the channel 18. The chain case 19 extends over a reduction gear assembly (not shown) of the snowmobile drive train. As can be seen in fig. 2B, the left toe retainer 65 is mounted to the left side portion 18a of the channel 18 and extends laterally outward from the left side portion 18a of the channel 18. As can be observed in fig. 2B to 2D, the outer end of each toe retainer 65 is disposed laterally outwardly with respect to the portion of the corresponding footrest 64 disposed below the toe retainer 65. It is contemplated that one or both of toe retainers 65 may be configured differently than the toe retainers shown herein. It is contemplated that one or both of the toe retainers 65 may be integrally formed with the corresponding footrest 64 and/or channel 18 and/or corresponding foot stop 63.

At the front end 12 of the snowmobile 10, a cowling 66 surrounds the engine 26, the continuously variable transmission system, and other components of the powertrain, such as the air intake system. The fairing 66 includes a hood 68 that may be opened to allow access to the engine 26 and other internal components of the snowmobile 10 from the top and front as may be required, for example, for inspection or maintenance of the engine 26 and/or power pack. The fairing 66 also includes a left side panel 100 (fig. 2B) that extends on the left side of the snowmobile 10 and a right side panel 100 that extends on the right side of the snowmobile 10. The engine 26 and the transmission system are disposed between the left and

right side panels

100 and 100. Both left side panel 100 and right side panel 100 are removably connected to frame 15 and/or other fairing panels, and left side panel 100 and right side panel 100 may be removed to access the internal components from the corresponding lateral sides. In the illustrated embodiment, the panel 100 is hinged for connection to the frame 16 and/or other fairing panels 66. It is contemplated that the panel 100 may be removably connected to the frame 16 and/or other fairing panels 66 by other types of removable connections such as latches, clips, and the like. The side panel 100 will be described in more detail below. The windshield 69, which is connected to the fairings 66, acts as a wind deflector to reduce the force of the air on the rider as the snowmobile 10 moves.

Two gliders 70 positioned at the front end 12 of the snowmobile 10 are attached to the front suspension module 22 of the frame 16 by a front suspension assembly 72. The front suspension module 22 is connected to a front end of an engine support structure 24. The front suspension assembly 72 includes a glide leg 74, a shock absorber 75, a support arm 76, and a ball and socket joint (not shown) for operative connection to the respective glide leg 74, support arm 76, and steering column 82.

A steering assembly 80 including a steering column 82 and a handlebar 84 is disposed generally forward of the seat 60. The steering column 82 is rotatably connected to the frame 16. The lower end of steering column 82 is connected to skid leg 74 via a steering rod (not shown). A handlebar 84 is attached to the upper end of the steering column 82. Handle 84 is positioned forward of seat 60. The handle 84 is used to rotate the steering column 82 and, thus, the glider 70 in order to steer the vehicle 10. A throttle operator (not shown) in the form of a thumb-actuated throttle lever is mounted to the right side of the handle 84. Other types of throttle operators are also contemplated, such as finger-actuated throttle levers and twist handles. On the left side of the handlebar 84, a brake actuator (not shown) in the form of a hand brake lever is provided for braking the snowmobile 10 in a known manner. It is contemplated that the windshield 69 may be directly connected to the handlebar 84.

At the rear end of the snowmobile 10, a snowboard 94 extends downwardly from the rear end of the channel 18. The snowboard 94 blocks dirt thrown up from the drive track 30 when the snowmobile 10 is being driven. It is contemplated that the snow shield 94 may be omitted.

The snowmobile 10 includes other components such as a display cluster, an exhaust system, an air intake system, and the like. Further description and illustration of these components will not be provided herein, as it is believed that one of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize these components.

The right side panel 100 will now be described with reference to fig. 2A to 3C.

Referring to fig. 2A to 2C, the right side panel 100 is arranged on the right side of the longitudinal center plane 13 (fig. 2B). The right side panel 100 extends partially upward from the channel 18, partially forward from the channel 18, and partially to the right of the right side portion 18a of the channel 18. The right side panel 100 has a front portion 100a and a rear portion 100 b. The bottom edge of the right side panel 100 is disposed to the right of the right portion 18a of the channel 18 and vertically between the channel upper surface and the shoe plate 64. The right toe holder 65 is disposed in the space defined by the bottom edge of the rear portion 100b of the right side panel 100 and the right footrest 64. The front portion 100a extends forward and upward from the bottom edge of the right side panel 100. The front portion 100a extends longitudinally forward of the right footrest 64, right toe retainer 65 and forward of the channel 18. The rear portion 100b of the right side panel 100 extends rearward and upward from the bottom edge over the retainer 65 on the right side of the right channel section 18 a. A portion of rear portion 100b extends above channel 18 and is located to the right of tank 28. A portion of the lower edge of the rear portion 100b is disposed on the upper surface of the channel 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the right side panel 100 is formed as a single unitary panel. It is contemplated that the right side panel 100 may have multiple panels that are individually secured to the snowmobile 10 and disposed or connected together adjacent to each other.

Referring to fig. 2A-3C, the right side panel 100 has an outer surface 101, the outer surface 101 facing laterally outward away from the longitudinal center plane 13, the fuel tank 28, the engine 26, and other interior components of the snowmobile 10. The exterior surface 101 has a longitudinally extending rear surface portion 110, a laterally extending rear surface portion 120, a longitudinally extending front surface portion 130, a laterally extending front surface portion 140, and a front exterior surface portion 150, which will be described in further detail below. For convenience, the

surface portions

110, 120, 130, 140, 150 are referred to as the rear longitudinal surface 110, the rear transverse surface 120, the front longitudinal surface 130, the front transverse surface 140, and the front outer surface 150, respectively. Each of the rear and front

transverse surfaces

120, 140 extends in a transverse direction and a longitudinal direction. However, these

surfaces

120, 140 are referred to as

transverse surfaces

120, 140 because the contribution of the

surfaces

120, 140 to the overall width of the rear portion 100b of the side panel 100 is greater than the contribution of the

longitudinal surfaces

110, 130 to the overall width of the rear portion 100b of the side panel 100. As can be observed in the figures, each of the rear longitudinal surface 110 and the front longitudinal surface 130 extends in a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction, but the extension in the transverse direction is much smaller than the extension in the longitudinal direction.

Referring to fig. 2A to 3C, the rear longitudinal surface 110 extends substantially vertically and longitudinally on the right side of the fuel tank 28. The tank fill opening and cap 92 on the upper surface of the fuel tank 28 are disposed in longitudinal alignment with a forward portion of the rear longitudinal surface 110. A vertical plane 34x containing the drive shaft axis 34a intersects the rear longitudinal surface 110. As can be observed in fig. 2B, the rear longitudinal surface 110 is arranged above the right-hand portion 18a of the channel 18 and above the right edge of the upper surface of the channel 18.

Referring to fig. 2A to 3C, the rear transverse surface 120 extends transversely outward from the front end of the rear longitudinal surface 110. The rear lateral surface 120 is slightly inclined forward from the lower end to the upper end thereof. The rear transverse surface 120 has a width 122, 124 (i.e., a width measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal center plane 13). The width 122 of the lower portion of the rear lateral surface 120 is less than the width 124 of the upper portion of the rear lateral surface 120. In the lower portion, the width 122 increases continuously in the upward direction. In the upper portion, the width 124 is generally constant, as best seen in fig. 3C. It is contemplated that the

lateral widths

122, 124 of the laterally extending rear surface 120, or a portion thereof, may decrease in the upward direction, or remain constant. As can be seen in fig. 2D, the outer edge of the rear transverse surface 120 is disposed to the right of the channel 18, above the footrest 64. As can be seen in fig. 2A, the lower end of rear transverse surface 120 is disposed longitudinally forward of vertical plane 34x containing drive shaft axis 34a and is generally longitudinally aligned with toe retainer 65. An upper portion of the rear lateral surface 120 is disposed longitudinally forward of the toe retainer 65.

As can be observed in fig. 2A, the rear transverse surface 120 and the rear longitudinal surface 110 are disposed longitudinally rearward of the foot stop 63. The rear longitudinal surface 110 and the rear transverse surface 120 define the rear right leg region 102 discussed below with reference to fig. 4A. The rear longitudinal surface 110 is located above a portion of the snowmobile 10 that may include, but is not limited to, the fuel tank 28. In some embodiments, the rear longitudinal surface 110 may be omitted and the rear right leg region 102 will be defined by the rear transverse surface 120 and a portion of the snowmobile. In some embodiments, the rear right leg region 102 may be defined by the rear lateral surface 120 and the fuel tank 28. In those embodiments where the rear longitudinal surface 110 is omitted, the right side panel 100 will have a rear edge 109, as shown by the dashed line 109 in fig. 3A.

Referring to fig. 2A to 3C, the front longitudinal surface 130 extends substantially vertically and longitudinally from the outer edge of the rear transverse surface 120. As can be observed in fig. 2B, the front longitudinal surface 130 is aligned with the footrest 64 in the lateral direction. The front end of the front longitudinal surface 130 extends slightly laterally outward relative to its rear end (connected to the rear lateral surface 120). As can be observed in fig. 3A, the longitudinal surface 130 has lengths 132, 134 (measured in the longitudinal direction) that increase from a lower portion (length 132) to an upper portion (length 134) for the lengths 132, 134.

Referring to fig. 2A to 3C, the front transverse surface 140 extends transversely outward from the front end of the front longitudinal surface 130. Thus, as can be observed in fig. 2B, the front lateral surface 140 is disposed laterally outboard of the rear lateral surface 120. A width 144 of an upper portion of the front transverse surface 140 (measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal center plane 13) is substantially the same as the width 142 of the lower portion. The width 144 of the upper portion of the front lateral surface 140 is less than the width 124 of the upper portion of the rear lateral surface 120. However, it is contemplated that the

lateral widths

142, 144 may be different than those illustrated herein. It is also contemplated that the lateral width of the front lateral surface 140, or a portion thereof, may decrease in the upward direction, or remain constant. As can be seen when viewed from the same side as in fig. 2A and 3A, the front lateral surface 140 is also inclined forwardly from its lower end toward its upper end. The front transverse surface 140 is inclined more forwardly than the rear transverse surface 120 and away from a vertical plane (e.g., plane 34x) extending perpendicular to the longitudinal center plane 13. As can be observed in fig. 2A, the lower end of the front transverse surface 140 is longitudinally closer to the lower end of the rear transverse surface 120 than the upper end of the front transverse surface 140 is to the upper end of the rear transverse surface 120. A vertical plane 63x extending perpendicular to the longitudinal centerline 13 and including the foot stop 63 intersects the front transverse surface 140 and the front longitudinal surface 130. The front longitudinal surface 130 and the front transverse surface 140 define the front right leg region 104 discussed below with reference to fig. 4B and 4D.

Referring to fig. 2A-3C, the front outer surface 150 extends laterally outward and forward from the front transverse surface 140 to the front portion 100a of the right side panel 100. The front outer surface 150 has a generally triangular lower portion connected to a narrow strip-shaped portion forming a front upper portion. As can be observed in fig. 2A, the triangular lower portion of the front outer surface 150 extends vertically below the lower end of the front transverse surface 140. As can be observed in fig. 2A, the triangular lower portion of the front outer surface 150 extends vertically below the upper surface of the channel 18. As can be seen in fig. 2B, in the illustrated embodiment, the triangular lower portion of the front exterior surface 150 is disposed above the outer edge of the front portion of the footrest 64. The triangular portion of the front outer surface 150 is disposed longitudinally forward of the outboard portion of the toe retainer 65. The outboard portion of toe retainer 65 extends rearwardly in a laterally outward direction.

Referring to fig. 2B, 2C, 3B, and 3C, the front portion 100a of the right side panel 100 will now be briefly described. As best shown in fig. 2B and 2D, in the front portion 100a, a portion of the outer surface 101 extends laterally outward and forward from the right end of the front outer surface 150 around a portion of the right side of the engine 26. However, it is contemplated that the right side panel 100 may extend laterally outward more or less than the configuration shown herein. As best shown in fig. 2B and 3B, an upper portion of the outer surface 101 is disposed vertically above and longitudinally forward of the upper ends of the front transverse and longitudinal surfaces 130, the upper portion of the outer surface 101 being curved laterally inward. An upper portion of the outer surface 101 in the front portion 110a extends above the engine 26. It is contemplated that the shape of the front portion 100a may be different than that shown herein.

Referring to fig. 3B, the inner portion 160 of the right side panel 100 has an aperture 162 formed therein. The inner portion 160 is disposed forward of the front longitudinal surface 130 and the rear transverse surface 120 and laterally inward of the front transverse surface 140. The right side panel 100 is fastened by this inner portion 160 to another panel of the fairing 66 (see fig. 1, but not labeled) by means of bolts (163) inserted through the apertures 162. It is contemplated that other types of fasteners may be used or that right side panel 100 may be fastened by press-fit, snap-fit, etc. It is contemplated that the right side panel 100 may be secured to the frame 16 of the snowmobile 10 via another panel of the fairings 66, via another component of the snowmobile 10, or directly to the frame 16.

Referring to fig. 2B, 5A and 5B, in the illustrated embodiment, the left side panel 100 is almost a mirror image of the right side panel 100 described above. As such, corresponding features of the left side panel 100 and the right side panel 100 have been identified with the same reference numerals and will not be described in detail herein. It is contemplated that the left side panel 100 may be a mirror image of the right side panel 100. As best shown in fig. 2B, 5A and 5B, on the left side of the snowmobile 10, the driven pulley 52 is housed in the space formed by the front longitudinal surface 130 and the rear transverse surface 120 of the left side panel 100. The rear lateral surface 120 of the left side panel 100 extends upward and forward from the rear of the driven pulley 52 to above the driven pulley 52. The front longitudinal surface 130 extends generally longitudinally on the left side of the driven pulley 52. The inner portion 160 is disposed above the driven pulley 52.

It is contemplated that the drive train may be implemented in a mirror image configuration. In such an embodiment, the driven pulley 52 would be housed in the space formed by the surface of the right side panel 100. It is also contemplated that the left side panel 100 may be different from the right side panel 100. For example, the rear longitudinal surface 110 may be omitted from the left side panel 100, or the front transverse surface 140 of the left side panel 100 may be different from the corresponding front transverse surface 140 of the right side panel 100.

Referring to fig. 4A, as seen in fig. 4A, when the driver is seated on the snowmobile 10 in an upright position when the snowmobile 10 is operating straight forward, the right leg below the knee of the driver is intended to be placed in the right rear leg region 102 (shown in fig. 2A) with the inner surface of the right leg abutting the rear longitudinal surface 110 and the front surface of the right leg disposed adjacent (near or abutting) the rear transverse surface 120. The width of the rear lateral surface 120 is large enough to prevent the front surface of the driver's leg from inadvertently sliding forward. The rear longitudinal surface 110 abutting the inside of the driver's leg provides stability for the driver when riding the snowmobile 10. In this upright position, the driver's right knee is generally longitudinally aligned with the right foot resting on the right footrest 64. Similarly, although not shown, the left leg below the knee of the driver is intended to be placed in the rear left leg region 102 defined by the left panel 100, with the inner surface of the left leg placed in abutment with the rear longitudinal surface 110 and the front surface of the left leg placed near the rear transverse surface 120. The driver's left knee is generally longitudinally aligned with the left foot resting on the left footrest 64.

Referring to fig. 4B and 4D, the driver leans forward and toward the right side of the snowmobile 10 while making a right turn with the snowmobile 10. In this rightward leaning position, the driver's knees and right legs below the knees are intended to be placed in the front leg region 104. When the driver is in the right-leaning position shown in fig. 4B, the driver's right knee is placed longitudinally forward of the driver's right foot so that the driver's right shin forms a smaller angle with the driver's foot than when in the upright position of fig. 4A. As can be seen in fig. 4D, in this rightward tilted position, the driver's left foot is intended to rotate slightly such that the front of the left foot is located near the left edge of the left-footrest 64, while the rear of the driver's left foot is located approximately along the lateral center of the left-footrest 64. When the driver is in this right leaning position, the inside of the driver's right leg presses against the front longitudinal surface 130 and the front surface of the driver's right leg presses against the front transverse surface 140 for support and stability.

Referring to fig. 4C and 4E, in some situations, such as when making a sharp right turn with the snowmobile 10, the driver leans further to the right and forward than the position shown in fig. 4B. In this case, sharp right turn may refer to turning while driving at a greater speed than in fig. 4B or performing a sharper turn than in fig. 4B. However, the steep position shown in FIG. 4C is not limited by any particular vehicle speed or turning curvature, but rather is defined relative to the driver's position on the snowmobile 10 regardless of the vehicle operating conditions the driver is in. In this steep right-leaning position, the driver bends the right leg such that the right knee is placed more forward than the position shown in fig. 4B with respect to the right foot. When the driver is in this steep right-leaning position shown in fig. 4C, the angle formed by the driver's right shin and the driver's foot is less than when in the upright position of fig. 4A or the leaning position of fig. 4B. As can be observed in fig. 4C, in this steep right-leaning position, the inside of the right leg above the driver's foot is pressed against the front outer surface 150 for support. As can be observed in fig. 4E, when the driver is in the tight right bank position of fig. 4C and 4E while making a tight right turn, the driver's torso is supported near the right edge of the seat 60 and the driver's left foot is positioned to point laterally outward. The rear portion of the driver's left foot rests on the left-footrest 64 adjacent the left channel surface 18a, while the front portion of the driver's left foot rests adjacent the left edge of the left-footrest 64. The position where the driver's left foot is directed outward serves to relieve the pressure on the driver's left lap as compared to the position where the driver's left foot is directed forward.

As will be appreciated, when the driver turns the snowmobile 10 to the left, the driver's position on the snowmobile 10 will generally be a mirror image of the position described above with reference to fig. 4B, 4C, and 4D.

The intended positioning of the driver's leg relative to the side panel 100 and the snowmobile 10 is described above. The shape of the panel 100 described above is intended to facilitate the positioning of the driver described above. However, it should be understood that the driver of the snowmobile 10 may choose to position one or both legs differently than the intended positioning described above.

Referring to fig. 6-7B, a left side panel 100 'and a right side panel 100' of another embodiment of the snowmobile 10 will now be discussed. The right side panel 100' is similar to the right side panel 100 described above. Accordingly, features of the right side panel 100' that correspond to features of the right side panel 100 have been identified with the same reference numerals and will only be discussed with respect to differences herein. The left side panel 100 'is almost a mirror image of the right side panel 100', and therefore, corresponding features of the left side panel 100 'and the right side panel 100' have been identified with the same reference numerals.

In the right side panel 100', the rear transverse surface 120 is more upright (forms a smaller angle with the transversely extending vertical plane) than the rear transverse surface 120 of the right side panel 100. In the right side panel 100', as can be observed by comparing fig. 2B and 6, the rear lateral surface 120 is also wider than the rear lateral surface 120 of the right side panel 100. Thus, in the right side panel 100, the front longitudinal surface 130 is curved forward more gently than the front longitudinal surface 130 in the right side panel 100'.

Referring to fig. 8A and 8B, a right side panel 100 "of another embodiment of the snowmobile 10 is shown. The right side panel 100 "is similar to the right side panel 100' described above. Accordingly, features of the right side panel 100 "that correspond to features of the right side panel 100' have been identified with the same reference numerals and will only be discussed herein with respect to differences. Although not shown, the left side panel is almost a mirror image of the right side panel 100 "and is therefore not discussed further herein.

As can be observed by comparing fig. 6 and 8B, the right side panel 100 ″ differs from the right side panel 100' in an inner portion 160 disposed forward of the front longitudinal surface 130 and the rear transverse surface 120. Further, the front longitudinal surface 130 and the rear transverse surface 120 comprise horizontal ridges. The right side panel 100 "also includes a rear latch 210 and a top latch 310 for removably connecting the right side panel 100" to the frame 16. The latch 210 is seen in more detail in fig. 9A-10B, the latch 310 includes similar features and therefore will not be described again herein.

Fig. 9A shows the latch 210 in a closed position, the latch 210 connecting the right side panel 100 "to the frame 16. As shown in fig. 9B, the right side panel 100 "may be removed from the frame 16 when the latch 210 is opened by turning the latch handle 260. To remove the right side panel 100 ", both

latches

210, 310 are rotated to their open positions and the right side panel 100" is pivoted away from the frame 16 of the snowmobile 10.

The latch 210 is shown removed from the right side panel 100 "in fig. 10A and 10B, along with the pin 230 about which the latch 210 is attached. The latch 210 is pivotably connected to the right side panel 100 "by a bolt 250.

The pin 230 has an inner portion 240 connected to the frame 16. The inner portion 240 is bolted to the frame 16, but it is contemplated that the pin 230 may be connected to the frame by other means. The pin 230 may be welded or glued to the frame 16, for example, or the pin 230 may be integral with the frame 16.

The pin 230 has an outer portion 235 that passes through the right side panel 100 "(see also fig. 9B). The latch 210 includes a hook portion 220 and an adjacent stop portion 222. When the latch 210 is rotated to the closed position, the hook portion 220 hooks around the pin 230, wherein the outer portion 235 of the pin 230 enters the channel 215 in the latch 210.

The pin 230 includes a notch 232 generally aligned with the hook portion 220 of the latch 210, the notch 232 receiving the stop portion 222 when the latch 210 is in the closed position. The stop portion 222, when disposed in the notch 232, helps prevent the latch 210 and the right side panel 100 "from pivoting generally away from the frame 16.

It is contemplated that the right side panel 100', 100 "may be secured to the frame 16 of the snowmobile 10 via another panel of the fairings 66, via another component of the snowmobile 10, or directly to the frame 16.

Modifications and improvements to the above-described embodiments of the present technology will become apparent to those skilled in the art. The foregoing description is intended to be exemplary rather than limiting. Accordingly, the scope of the present technology is intended to be limited only by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A side panel for a vehicle having a straddle type seat,

the side panel having an outer surface and being configured to be attached on one side of the vehicle, at least partially longitudinally forward of and vertically below the straddle seat,

the outer surface includes a rear transverse surface and a front transverse surface arranged at least partially longitudinally forward of the rear transverse surface when the side panel is connected to the vehicle, each of the rear and front transverse surfaces extending generally transversely and vertically when the side panel is connected to the vehicle, and

the outer surface defines:

a rear leg region configured to receive at least a portion of a leg of a driver seated in the straddle seat in a first position, the rear leg region being at least partially defined by the rear transverse surface; and

a front leg region configured to accommodate at least a portion of the leg of the driver seated in the straddle seat in a second position, the front leg region being disposed at least partially longitudinally forward of the rear leg region when the side panel is connected to the vehicle, the front leg region being at least partially defined by the front transverse surface.

2. The side panel of claim 1, wherein the front leg region is arranged to be at least partially laterally outboard of the rear leg region when the side panel is connected on the vehicle.

3. The side panel of claim 1, wherein the front lateral surface extends laterally outward of the rear lateral surface.

4. The side panel of any of claims 1-3, wherein the outer surface further comprises a longitudinal surface that extends generally longitudinally and vertically when the side panel is connected to the vehicle, the longitudinal surface being arranged to be at least partially longitudinally rearward of the front transverse surface and longitudinally forward of the rear transverse surface when the side panel is connected to the vehicle.

5. The side panel of claim 4, wherein the longitudinal width of the longitudinal surface increases continuously in the upward direction.

6. The side panel of claim 4, wherein the outer surface extends continuously from the rear transverse surface to the longitudinal surface.

7. The side panel of claim 4, wherein the longitudinal surface is a front longitudinal surface, and the outer surface further comprises a rear longitudinal surface extending generally longitudinally and vertically when the side panel is connected on the vehicle, the rear longitudinal surface being arranged to be at least partially longitudinally rearward of the rear transverse surface when the side panel is connected on the vehicle.

8. The side panel of claim 7, wherein the outer surface extends continuously from the rear longitudinal surface to the rear transverse surface.

9. The side panel of claim 4, wherein the outer surface further comprises a front outer surface extending laterally outward and forward from the front transverse surface when the side panel is connected on the vehicle.

10. The side panel of claim 9, wherein a portion of the front outer surface is disposed below the front lateral surface when the side panel is connected on the vehicle.

11. A vehicle, comprising:

a frame;

a motor operatively connected to the frame;

a ground engaging member operatively connected to the motor and the frame, the ground engaging member being one of an endless track and a wheel;

a straddle seat connected to the frame and configured to house at least a driver of the vehicle; and

a left side panel connected on a left side of the frame and a right side panel connected on a right side of the frame, each of the left and right side panels being disposed at least partially longitudinally forward of and vertically below the straddle seat, an outer surface of each of the left and right side panels including a rear transverse surface and a front transverse surface arranged at least partially longitudinally forward of the rear transverse surface, each of the rear and front transverse surfaces extending generally transversely and vertically,

the left side panel defining a rear left leg region and a front left leg region, the front left leg region disposed longitudinally forward of the rear left leg region, the rear left leg region selectively receiving a portion of a left leg of the driver in a first left leg position and the front left leg region selectively receiving a portion of the left leg of the driver in a second left leg position, the rear left leg region being at least partially defined by the rear lateral surface of the left side panel, the front left leg region being at least partially defined by the front lateral surface of the left side panel,

the right side panel defines a rear right leg region and a front right leg region, the front right leg region disposed longitudinally forward of the rear right leg region, the rear right leg region selectively receiving a portion of a right leg of the driver in a first right leg position and the front right leg region selectively receiving a portion of the right leg of the driver in a second right leg position, the rear right leg region defined at least in part by the rear lateral surface of the right side panel and the front right leg region defined at least in part by the front lateral surface of the right side panel.

12. The vehicle of claim 11, wherein, for each of the left and right side panels:

the front transverse surface extends laterally outboard of the rear transverse surface.

13. The vehicle according to claim 11 or 12, wherein, for each of the left and right side panels:

the outer surface further includes a longitudinal surface extending generally longitudinally and vertically, the longitudinal surface being disposed at least partially longitudinally rearward of the front transverse surface and longitudinally forward of the rear transverse surface.

14. The vehicle of claim 13, further comprising a drive shaft operatively connecting the motor to the ground engaging member, the drive shaft defining a drive shaft axis, a longitudinal surface of each of the left and right side panels being disposed longitudinally forward of a vertical plane containing the drive shaft axis.

15. The vehicle of claim 11 or 12, further comprising a drive shaft operatively connecting the motor to the ground engaging member, the drive shaft defining a drive shaft axis, the front lateral surface of each of the left and right side panels being disposed longitudinally forward of a vertical plane containing the drive shaft axis.

16. The vehicle of claim 13, further comprising a drive shaft operatively connecting the motor to the ground engaging member, the drive shaft defining a drive shaft axis, the front lateral surface of each of the left and right side panels being disposed longitudinally forward of a vertical plane containing the drive shaft axis.

17. The vehicle of claim 14, wherein the front transverse surface of each of the left and right side panels is disposed longitudinally forward of a vertical plane containing the drive shaft axis.

18. The vehicle of claim 13, wherein, for each of the left and right side panels:

the outer surface further includes a front outer surface extending laterally outward and forward from the front transverse surface.

19. The vehicle of claim 18, wherein, for each of the left and right side panels:

the front outer surface is arranged lower than the front transverse surface.

20. The vehicle of claim 18, wherein:

the vehicle is a snowmobile;

the frame includes a channel having a generally longitudinally and transversely extending upper surface; and

for each of the left and right side panels:

each of the front and rear transverse surfaces and the longitudinal surface are arranged vertically higher than the upper surface of the channel; and is

A portion of the front outer surface extends below the upper surface of the channel.

21. The vehicle of claim 13, wherein, for each of the left and right side panels:

the longitudinal surface is a front longitudinal surface; and is

The outer surface further includes a rear longitudinal surface extending generally longitudinally and vertically, the rear longitudinal surface being disposed at least partially longitudinally rearward of the rear transverse surface.

22. A vehicle, comprising:

a frame;

a motor operatively connected to the frame;

a driven pulley operatively connecting the motor to the ground engaging member;

a left side panel connected on a left side of the frame and a right side panel connected on a right side of the frame, each of the left side panel and the right side panel being disposed at least partially longitudinally forward of and vertically lower than the straddle seat,

at least one of the left and right side panels defining a space for receiving the driven pulley therein, the at least one of the left and right side panels comprising:

a front longitudinal surface extending generally longitudinally outboard of the driven pulley,

a rear transverse surface extending generally upwardly and forwardly from a rear of the driven pulley to above the driven pulley, the front longitudinal surface and the rear transverse surface defining the space for receiving the driven pulley therein; and

a front transverse surface extending laterally outboard of the front longitudinal surface, the front transverse surface engaging a lower edge of the front longitudinal surface.

23. The vehicle of claim 22, wherein the at least one of the left and right side panels further comprises an interior portion disposed substantially above the driven pulley.

24. The vehicle of claim 22 or 23, wherein the at least one of the left and right side panels further comprises a rear longitudinal surface extending generally rearwardly from the rear transverse surface.

25. The vehicle according to claim 22 or 23, wherein:

the at least one of the left side panel and the right side panel is the left side panel; and

the left side panel further defines a rear left leg region disposed longitudinally forward of the rear left leg region and a front left leg region selectively receiving a portion of the left leg of the driver in a first left leg position and the front left leg region selectively receiving a portion of the left leg of the driver in a second left leg position.

26. The vehicle of claim 24, wherein:

27. The vehicle of claim 25, wherein:

the rear left leg region is defined at least in part by the rear transverse surface such that the rear left leg region is located rearward of the driven pulley; and

the front left leg region is defined at least in part by the front transverse surface such that the front left leg region is located to the left of the driven pulley and at least partially forward of a rearmost portion of the driven pulley.

28. The vehicle of claim 26, wherein:

29. The vehicle of claim 22, wherein the at least one of the left and right side panels further comprises a front outer surface extending longitudinally from the front transverse surface.

30. The vehicle of claim 29, wherein the front longitudinal surface and the front outer surface overlap at least a portion of the driven pulley in a side view of the vehicle.

31. The vehicle of claim 30, wherein the front transverse surface extends transversely and forwardly from the front longitudinal surface such that, in the side view of the vehicle, the front transverse surface overlaps a portion of the driven pulley.

32. The vehicle of claim 31, wherein:

the front longitudinal surface and the front outer surface extend in both a transverse direction and a longitudinal direction; and

the front longitudinal surface and the front outer surface extend more in the longitudinal direction than in the transverse direction.

33. The vehicle of claim 32, wherein:

the front and rear transverse surfaces extend in both a transverse direction and a longitudinal direction; and

the front and rear transverse surfaces extend more in the transverse direction than in the longitudinal direction.