GB602988A - Improvements in vehicle bodies - Google Patents

Abstract

602,988. Extensible bodies. BUTEMENT, J. C. I. Nov. 15, 1945, No. 30541. [Class 108 (i)] [Also in Group X] An opening in the side or end of a vehicle body is closed by a folding structure comprising an upper prismatic member 10 having a partcylindrical surface 20 and end surfaces, and hinged about a line 12 to the frame of the opening, and a lower prismatic member 24 having plane surfaces 23 and end surfaces and hinged about a line 25 to the frame of the opening. The members 10, 24 are constrainted by links 28 to move together either counter clockwise from the position shown to form an extension of the vehicle or clockwise to lie within the body, in which position the opening in the vehicle is closed by one surface 23 and by a flap 16 secured to links 29. Further links similar to 28 may be provided within the vehicle body, and a channel member 21 on the upper member 10 limits the extent of outward movement. The vehicle body structure is reinforced around the opening by vertical lattice frame 37 which may include part of one of the cross-bars 38 of the chassis. For moving the upper member between its two extreme positions parts of its surface 20 may'be formed with racks (e.g. lengths of sprocket chain) engaging a pair of pinions or sprocket wheels on a horizontal shaft above the member 10. The structure may be spring loaded to facilitate its movement. The surfaces of the structure may be covered in part by transparent material to serve as a window, and by removing the links 28 and moving the upper member 10 relatively to the lower member 24 the structure may be used to secure ventilation (see Group X).