US20190185057A1 - Autonomous all-terrain vehicle frame structure - Google Patents
Autonomous all-terrain vehicle frame structure Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20190185057A1 US20190185057A1 US15/845,613 US201715845613A US2019185057A1 US 20190185057 A1 US20190185057 A1 US 20190185057A1 US 201715845613 A US201715845613 A US 201715845613A US 2019185057 A1 US2019185057 A1 US 2019185057A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- frame members
- main frame
- frame structure
- sub
- mounting bracket
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
- 239000000725 suspension Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 28
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- HBBGRARXTFLTSG-UHFFFAOYSA-N Lithium ion Chemical compound [Li+] HBBGRARXTFLTSG-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000002253 acid Substances 0.000 description 1
- OJIJEKBXJYRIBZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N cadmium nickel Chemical compound [Ni].[Cd] OJIJEKBXJYRIBZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000002485 combustion reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000006870 function Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910001416 lithium ion Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 229910052987 metal hydride Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 229910052759 nickel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- PXHVJJICTQNCMI-UHFFFAOYSA-N nickel Substances [Ni] PXHVJJICTQNCMI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- -1 nickel metal hydride Chemical class 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
- B62D21/00—Understructures, i.e. chassis frame on which a vehicle body may be mounted
- B62D21/02—Understructures, i.e. chassis frame on which a vehicle body may be mounted comprising longitudinally or transversely arranged frame members
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
- B60K1/00—Arrangement or mounting of electrical propulsion units
- B60K1/04—Arrangement or mounting of electrical propulsion units of the electric storage means for propulsion
-
- B60L11/18—
-
- B60L11/1809—
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60L—PROPULSION OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; SUPPLYING ELECTRIC POWER FOR AUXILIARY EQUIPMENT OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; ELECTRODYNAMIC BRAKE SYSTEMS FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL; MAGNETIC SUSPENSION OR LEVITATION FOR VEHICLES; MONITORING OPERATING VARIABLES OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; ELECTRIC SAFETY DEVICES FOR ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES
- B60L50/00—Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle
- B60L50/50—Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by batteries or fuel cells
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60L—PROPULSION OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; SUPPLYING ELECTRIC POWER FOR AUXILIARY EQUIPMENT OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; ELECTRODYNAMIC BRAKE SYSTEMS FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL; MAGNETIC SUSPENSION OR LEVITATION FOR VEHICLES; MONITORING OPERATING VARIABLES OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; ELECTRIC SAFETY DEVICES FOR ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES
- B60L50/00—Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle
- B60L50/50—Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by batteries or fuel cells
- B60L50/60—Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by batteries or fuel cells using power supplied by batteries
- B60L50/66—Arrangements of batteries
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60L—PROPULSION OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; SUPPLYING ELECTRIC POWER FOR AUXILIARY EQUIPMENT OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; ELECTRODYNAMIC BRAKE SYSTEMS FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL; MAGNETIC SUSPENSION OR LEVITATION FOR VEHICLES; MONITORING OPERATING VARIABLES OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; ELECTRIC SAFETY DEVICES FOR ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES
- B60L53/00—Methods of charging batteries, specially adapted for electric vehicles; Charging stations or on-board charging equipment therefor; Exchange of energy storage elements in electric vehicles
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
- B62D21/00—Understructures, i.e. chassis frame on which a vehicle body may be mounted
- B62D21/08—Understructures, i.e. chassis frame on which a vehicle body may be mounted built up with interlaced cross members
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
- B62D21/00—Understructures, i.e. chassis frame on which a vehicle body may be mounted
- B62D21/11—Understructures, i.e. chassis frame on which a vehicle body may be mounted with resilient means for suspension, e.g. of wheels or engine; sub-frames for mounting engine or suspensions
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
- B62D25/00—Superstructure or monocoque structure sub-units; Parts or details thereof not otherwise provided for
- B62D25/08—Front or rear portions
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
- B62D33/00—Superstructures for load-carrying vehicles
- B62D33/02—Platforms; Open load compartments
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
- B60K1/00—Arrangement or mounting of electrical propulsion units
- B60K1/04—Arrangement or mounting of electrical propulsion units of the electric storage means for propulsion
- B60K2001/0405—Arrangement or mounting of electrical propulsion units of the electric storage means for propulsion characterised by their position
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60L—PROPULSION OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; SUPPLYING ELECTRIC POWER FOR AUXILIARY EQUIPMENT OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; ELECTRODYNAMIC BRAKE SYSTEMS FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL; MAGNETIC SUSPENSION OR LEVITATION FOR VEHICLES; MONITORING OPERATING VARIABLES OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; ELECTRIC SAFETY DEVICES FOR ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES
- B60L2260/00—Operating Modes
- B60L2260/20—Drive modes; Transition between modes
- B60L2260/32—Auto pilot mode
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
- G05D—SYSTEMS FOR CONTROLLING OR REGULATING NON-ELECTRIC VARIABLES
- G05D1/00—Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
- G05D1/02—Control of position or course in two dimensions
- G05D1/021—Control of position or course in two dimensions specially adapted to land vehicles
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02T—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO TRANSPORTATION
- Y02T10/00—Road transport of goods or passengers
- Y02T10/60—Other road transportation technologies with climate change mitigation effect
- Y02T10/70—Energy storage systems for electromobility, e.g. batteries
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02T—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO TRANSPORTATION
- Y02T10/00—Road transport of goods or passengers
- Y02T10/60—Other road transportation technologies with climate change mitigation effect
- Y02T10/7072—Electromobility specific charging systems or methods for batteries, ultracapacitors, supercapacitors or double-layer capacitors
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02T—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO TRANSPORTATION
- Y02T90/00—Enabling technologies or technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
- Y02T90/10—Technologies relating to charging of electric vehicles
- Y02T90/14—Plug-in electric vehicles
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates to a frame structure for an autonomous all-terrain vehicle.
- a frame structure for an autonomous all-terrain vehicle includes left and right laterally spaced upper main frame members extending in a longitudinal direction of the frame structure, each of the left and right upper main frame members being horizontally disposed and having an upper mounting surface, a front grille located longitudinally forward of the left and right laterally spaced upper main frame members, and a component attached to at least one of the left and right laterally spaced upper main frame members and disposed in a space between the left and right laterally spaced upper main frame members and the front grille.
- a frame structure for an autonomous all-terrain vehicle includes left and right laterally spaced upper main frame members extended in a longitudinal direction of the frame structure, each of the left and right upper main frame members is horizontally disposed and has an upper mounting surface, left and right laterally spaced lower main frame members extended in the longitudinal direction, each of the left and right lower main frame members having a forward portion and a rearward portion each inclined upwards and mounted to the respective left and right upper main frame members and a central portion extended in a lateral direction of the frame structure outward of the respective left and right upper main frame members, left and right first sub-frame members disposed bridgingly between and mounted to the forward and rearward portions of the respective left and right lower main frame members, the left and right first sub-frame members are laterally aligned with the respective left and right upper main frame members in a top view of the frame structure, and wherein the left and right first sub-frame members separate a component space defined by the frame structure into an upper component space and a lower component space, a component mounting bracket mounted
- an autonomous all-terrain vehicle includes a frame structure, an electric motor attached to the frame structure, a battery pack for providing electrical power to the electric motor attached to the frame structure, a charger for charging the battery pack, the charger including a housing surrounding the charger, the housing being mounted to the frame structure, and a front grille located longitudinally forward of the frame structure, and wherein the charger is disposed in a space between the frame structure and the front grille.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an autonomous all-terrain vehicle according to the present disclosure.
- FIGS. 2 and 3 are perspective views of an exemplary frame structure for the autonomous all-terrain vehicle of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 4 is a side view of the frame structure of FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 5 is a front view of the frame structure of FIG. 2 .
- FIGS. 6 and 7 are perspective views of the frame structure with operational components for driving and maneuvering the vehicle mounted thereto.
- FIG. 8 is a front view of the frame structure of FIG. 6 .
- FIG. 9 is a partially enlarged view of FIG. 1 .
- longitudinal directions refer to forward and rearward directions of vehicle travel
- transverse/lateral directions are across a width of the vehicle, i.e., left and right directions
- vertical directions relate to elevation, i.e., upward and downward directions.
- forward, rearward, rear, right, left, vertical, horizontal, and derivatives thereof shall relate to the frame structure of the vehicle as oriented in FIGS. 2 and 3 .
- FIG. 1 illustrates an autonomous all-terrain vehicle 100 according to the present disclosure.
- the vehicle 100 is designed to travel off-road on a variety of terrains, including roadless rugged terrain, for recreational, utility and/or other purposes.
- the vehicle 100 comprises a frame structure 102 supporting a plurality of operational components for driving and maneuvering the vehicle 100 , including a powertrain, a steering system, a suspension, and a braking system.
- the powertrain is configured for generating motive power and transmitting motive power to ground-engaging traction components, such as the depicted wheels 106 , to propel the vehicle 100 on the ground.
- the powertrain includes a prime mover (e.g., an internal combustion engine, an electric motor, etc.) for generating motive power, and is in a driving relationship with the wheels 106 to propel the vehicle 100 .
- the prime mover is an electric motor 110
- power output of the electric motor 110 FIGS. 7 and 8
- the controller may manage a rechargeable battery unit of the vehicle 100 , which can include a single battery or a plurality of batteries (e.g., a battery pack 112 ) and an associated battery generator/charger 312 .
- the battery pack 112 can include a conventional lead acid battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, a nickel metal hydride battery, a lithium ion battery, or a combination of conventional batteries.
- the powertrain includes a transmission having elements that are operable to transmit mechanical power from the electric motor 110 to the wheels 106 .
- the transmission can include a gearbox 114 , clutch, differential, and drive shafts.
- the transmission could include other operational elements known to one skilled in the arts.
- the drive shafts can include one or more axles that can be coupled to the one or more wheels 106 .
- the frame structure 102 supports a horizontally disposed cargo carrying platform 116 ; although, additional user components can be supported by the frame structure 102 .
- an accessory rack for, e.g., power tools
- the frame structure 102 can be mounted to the frame structure 102 .
- the frame structure 102 includes left and right laterally spaced upper main frame members 120 , 122 extended in a longitudinal direction of the frame structure 102 .
- Each of the left and right upper main frame members 120 , 122 is horizontally disposed and has an upper mounting surface 124 , 126 .
- each of the left and right upper main frame members 120 , 122 is rectangular shaped in cross-section taken along the lateral direction of the frame structure 102 .
- Each of the left and right upper main frame members 120 , 122 includes a forward end portion 130 , 132 and a rear end portion 134 , 136 (forward and rear directions of the frame structure 102 identified in the figures).
- a forward support member 140 interconnects the forward end portions 130 , 132 and a rear support member 142 interconnects the rear end portions 134 , 136 . Further, a component support plate or pan 144 located rearward of the forward support member 140 can be disposed bridgingly between the left and right upper main frame members 120 , 122 .
- the frame structure 102 further includes left and right laterally spaced lower main frame members 150 , 152 extended in the longitudinal direction of the frame structure 102 .
- Each of the left and right lower main frame members 150 , 152 has a first or forward portion 154 , 156 and a rearward portion 158 , 160 .
- the forward portions 154 , 156 which can be inclined forward and upwards, are mounted to the left and right upper main frame members 120 , 122 .
- the rearward portions 158 , 160 which can be inclined rearward and upwards, are also mounted to the left and right upper main frame members 120 , 122 .
- the forward end portions 130 , 132 of the left and right upper main frame members 120 , 122 are extended forward of the forward portions 154 , 156 of the left and right lower main frame members 150 , 152 , and the rear end portions 134 , 136 of the left and right upper main frame members 120 , 122 terminate at the rearward portions 158 , 160 of the left and right lower main frame members 150 , 152 .
- the left and right lower main frame members 150 , 152 further include central portions 164 , 166 .
- the central portions 164 , 166 are extended in a lateral direction of the frame structure 102 outward of the respective left and right upper main frame members 120 , 122 in a top view of the frame structure 102 . Therefore, a lateral dimension of an upper part of the frame structure 102 is narrowed compared to a lower part of the frame structure.
- left and right first sub-frame members 170 , 172 are disposed bridgingly between and mounted to the forward portions 154 , 156 and the rearward portions 158 , 160 of the left and right lower main frame members 150 , 152 .
- the left and right first sub-frame members 170 , 172 are laterally aligned with the respective left and right upper main frame members 120 , 122 in a top view of the frame structure 102 , which further provides for a narrowed lateral dimension of the frame structure 102 .
- first sub-frame members 170 , 172 separate a component space 174 defined by the frame structure 102 into an upper component space 176 for mounting of an associated first operational component (for example, the battery pack 112 ) and a lower component space 178 for mounting of an associated second operational component (for example, the electric motor 110 ) and an adjacent associated third operational component (for example, the gearbox 114 ).
- first operational component for example, the battery pack 112
- second operational component for example, the electric motor 110
- third operational component for example, the gearbox 114
- mounting brackets 180 , 182 for components of the vehicle 100 connected between the central portion 164 of the left lower main frame member 150 and the left first sub-frame member 170 .
- a forward lower cross brace or support 184 for mounting of an operational component and lower cross members 186 , 188 are disposed bridgingly between and mounted to the left and right lower main frame members 150 , 152 .
- the gearbox 114 is mounted to mounting bracket 180
- the electric motor 110 is mounted to the mounting bracket 182 .
- left and right laterally spaced upper rear frame members 190 , 192 are extended in the longitudinal direction rearward of the left and right main frame members 120 , 122 .
- Each of the left and right upper rear frame members 190 , 192 is horizontally disposed, extended parallel to the respective left and right main frame members 120 , 122 , and is offset in a downward vertical direction from the respective left and right upper main frame members 120 , 122 .
- first or forward end portions 194 , 196 of the left and right upper rear frame members 190 , 192 are mounted to the rearward portions 158 , 160 of the left and right lower main frame members 150 , 152 .
- a second or rear end portion 198 , 200 of each left and right upper rear frame member 190 , 192 can be curved downwardly.
- Left and right upper rear suspension sub-frame members 210 , 212 are disposed bridgingly between and mounted to the rearward portions 158 , 160 of the respective left and right lower main frame members 150 , 152 and the rear end portions 198 , 200 of the respective left and right upper rear frame members 190 , 192 .
- Left and right lower rear suspension sub-frame members 216 , 218 can be mounted to a U-shaped frame member 220 connected to the rearward portions 158 , 160 of the respective left and right lower main frame members 150 , 152 .
- a rearmost cross member 226 is disposed bridgingly between and mounted to one of the left and right upper rear frame members 190 , 192 and the left and right upper rear suspension sub-frame members 210 , 212 .
- Left and right rear connecting frame members 230 , 232 are disposed bridgingly between and mounted to the respective left and right lower rear suspension sub-frame members 216 , 218 and the rearmost cross member 226 .
- Upper and lower support brackets for rear suspension assemblies are mounted to the respective left and right upper and lower rear suspension sub-frame members 216 , 218 .
- a component mounting bracket 240 for an operational component of the vehicle (e.g., a battery generator/charger 312 ) is mounted to the forward end portion 130 , 132 of each left and right upper main frame member 120 , 122 forward of the forward support member 140 .
- the component mounting bracket 240 includes a vertically extended support wall 242 having an upper end portion 244 which can be folded to at least partially overlie the upper mounting surfaces 124 , 126 of the left and right upper main frame members 120 , 122 .
- a horizontally extended support wall 246 extends forward from a lower end portion 248 of the support wall 242 .
- the exemplary frame structure 102 further includes left and right upper forward suspension sub-frame members 250 , 252 mounted to the forward portions 154 , 156 of the respective left and right lower main frame members 150 , 152 .
- the support wall 246 of the component mounting bracket 240 can mounted to the left and right upper forward suspension sub-frame members 250 , 252 .
- Left and right lower forward suspension sub-frame members 256 , 258 are disposed bridgingly between and mounted to downward curved forward end portions 260 , 262 of the respective left and right upper forward suspension sub-frame members 250 , 252 and the forward portions 154 , 156 of the respective left and right lower main frame members 150 , 152 .
- Upper and lower support brackets for forward suspension assemblies are mounted to the respective left and right upper and lower forward suspension sub-frame members 250 , 252 .
- Left and right second sub-frame members 270 , 272 are disposed bridgingly between and mounted to the forward end portions 130 , 132 of the respective left and right upper main frame members 120 , 122 and the respective left and right upper forward suspension sub-frame members 250 , 252 .
- the support wall 242 of the component mounting bracket 240 is located forward of the left and right second sub-frame members 270 , 272 .
- left and right frame rails 280 , 282 mounted to the frame structure 102 are left and right frame rails 280 , 282 which are extended in the longitudinal direction of the frame structure 102 .
- Each of the left and right frame rails 280 , 282 can be provided with an array of apertures (only apertures 284 in the left frame rail are shown) for releasably attaching quick detach pins 294 for mounting of associated vehicle accessories to the frame structure 102 .
- the horizontally disposed cargo carrying platform 116 is mounted to the left and right frame rails 280 , 282 above the left and right upper main frame members 120 , 122 , and a width of the cargo carrying platform 116 is greater than a spacing between the left and right frame rails 280 , 282 .
- left and right forward platform mounting brackets 286 , 288 and left and right rear platform mounting brackets 290 , 292 are mounted to the frame structure 102 , particularly one of the respective left and right upper main frame members 120 , 122 and the respective left and right lower main frame members 150 , 152 .
- the left and right forward platform mounting brackets 286 , 288 can be mounted to the forward portions 154 , 156 of the respective left and right lower main frame members 150 , 152 .
- the left and right rear platform mounting brackets 290 , 292 can be mounted to the rearward portions 158 , 160 of the respective left and right lower main frame members 150 , 152 .
- the left frame rail 280 is mounted to mounting surfaces of the left forward and rear platform mounting brackets 286 , 290
- the right frame rail 282 is mounted to mounting surfaces of the right forward and rear platform mounting brackets 288 , 292 .
- the mounting surfaces of the respective left and right forward mounting brackets 286 , 288 and the left and right rear platform mounting brackets 290 , 292 are parallel to (and, for example, coplanar with) the upper mounting surfaces 124 , 126 of the respective left and right upper main frame members 120 , 122 .
- the left and right frame rails 280 , 282 are offset in a height direction of the frame structure 102 from the left and right upper main frame members 120 , 122 . Accordingly, the upper surfaces 124 , 126 of the left and right upper main frame members 120 , 122 together define an uppermost mounting plane of the frame structure 102 , and the operational components for driving and maneuvering the vehicle 100 which are mounted to the frame structure 102 are disposed entirely beneath the uppermost mounting plane of the frame structure 102 .
- FIGS. 6-8 depict the electric motor 110 and the battery pack 112 mounted to the frame structure 102 beneath the uppermost mounting plane of the frame structure 102 .
- a housing 310 mounted to the component mounting bracket 240 for enclosing a battery generator/charger 312 , which locates the housing 310 forward of the forward end portions 130 , 132 of the respective left and right upper main frame members 120 , 122 .
- the housing 310 is provided in a space between the component mounting bracket 240 and a front grille 314 of the vehicle 100 .
- the front grille 314 includes a frame 316 surrounding a securing a screen 320 , and openings 324 for associated operating lights are located on the front grille 314 .
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Transportation (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Power Engineering (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Sustainable Development (AREA)
- Sustainable Energy (AREA)
- Arrangement Or Mounting Of Propulsion Units For Vehicles (AREA)
- Electric Propulsion And Braking For Vehicles (AREA)
- Body Structure For Vehicles (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- There are increasing applications for autonomous vehicles, especially autonomous all-terrain vehicles that are adapted and configured to traverse unprepared terrain. The present disclosure relates to a frame structure for an autonomous all-terrain vehicle.
- The features and advantages described in the specification are not all inclusive and, in particular, many additional features and advantages will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the drawings, specification, and claims. Moreover, it should be noted that the language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes, and may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the inventive subject matter.
- According to one aspect, a frame structure for an autonomous all-terrain vehicle includes left and right laterally spaced upper main frame members extending in a longitudinal direction of the frame structure, each of the left and right upper main frame members being horizontally disposed and having an upper mounting surface, a front grille located longitudinally forward of the left and right laterally spaced upper main frame members, and a component attached to at least one of the left and right laterally spaced upper main frame members and disposed in a space between the left and right laterally spaced upper main frame members and the front grille.
- According to another aspect, a frame structure for an autonomous all-terrain vehicle includes left and right laterally spaced upper main frame members extended in a longitudinal direction of the frame structure, each of the left and right upper main frame members is horizontally disposed and has an upper mounting surface, left and right laterally spaced lower main frame members extended in the longitudinal direction, each of the left and right lower main frame members having a forward portion and a rearward portion each inclined upwards and mounted to the respective left and right upper main frame members and a central portion extended in a lateral direction of the frame structure outward of the respective left and right upper main frame members, left and right first sub-frame members disposed bridgingly between and mounted to the forward and rearward portions of the respective left and right lower main frame members, the left and right first sub-frame members are laterally aligned with the respective left and right upper main frame members in a top view of the frame structure, and wherein the left and right first sub-frame members separate a component space defined by the frame structure into an upper component space and a lower component space, a component mounting bracket mounted to a forward end portion of each left and right upper main frame member, left and right upper forward suspension sub-frame members mounted to the forward inclined portions of the respective left and right lower main frame members, the component mounting bracket mounted to the left and right upper forward suspension sub-frame members, left and right second sub-frame members disposed bridgingly between and mounted to the forward end portions of the respective left and right upper main frame members and the respective left and right upper forward suspension sub-frame members, the component mounting bracket being forward of the left and right second sub-frame members, and a component mounted to the component mounting bracket.
- According to yet another aspect, an autonomous all-terrain vehicle includes a frame structure, an electric motor attached to the frame structure, a battery pack for providing electrical power to the electric motor attached to the frame structure, a charger for charging the battery pack, the charger including a housing surrounding the charger, the housing being mounted to the frame structure, and a front grille located longitudinally forward of the frame structure, and wherein the charger is disposed in a space between the frame structure and the front grille.
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an autonomous all-terrain vehicle according to the present disclosure. -
FIGS. 2 and 3 are perspective views of an exemplary frame structure for the autonomous all-terrain vehicle ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 4 is a side view of the frame structure ofFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 5 is a front view of the frame structure ofFIG. 2 . -
FIGS. 6 and 7 are perspective views of the frame structure with operational components for driving and maneuvering the vehicle mounted thereto. -
FIG. 8 is a front view of the frame structure ofFIG. 6 . -
FIG. 9 is a partially enlarged view ofFIG. 1 . - It should, of course, be understood that the description and drawings herein are merely illustrative and that various modifications and changes can be made in the structures disclosed without departing from the present disclosure. As used herein, longitudinal directions refer to forward and rearward directions of vehicle travel, transverse/lateral directions are across a width of the vehicle, i.e., left and right directions, and vertical directions relate to elevation, i.e., upward and downward directions. Further, for purposes of description herein, the terms forward, rearward, rear, right, left, vertical, horizontal, and derivatives thereof shall relate to the frame structure of the vehicle as oriented in
FIGS. 2 and 3 . - Referring now to the drawings, wherein like numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views,
FIG. 1 illustrates an autonomous all-terrain vehicle 100 according to the present disclosure. Thevehicle 100 is designed to travel off-road on a variety of terrains, including roadless rugged terrain, for recreational, utility and/or other purposes. Thevehicle 100 comprises aframe structure 102 supporting a plurality of operational components for driving and maneuvering thevehicle 100, including a powertrain, a steering system, a suspension, and a braking system. The powertrain is configured for generating motive power and transmitting motive power to ground-engaging traction components, such as the depictedwheels 106, to propel thevehicle 100 on the ground. The powertrain includes a prime mover (e.g., an internal combustion engine, an electric motor, etc.) for generating motive power, and is in a driving relationship with thewheels 106 to propel thevehicle 100. In the depicted aspect, the prime mover is anelectric motor 110, and, it should be appreciated, that power output of the electric motor 110 (FIGS. 7 and 8 ) can be controlled by a controller using parameters based on the particular specifications of theelectric motor 110. With use of theelectric motor 110, it should further be appreciated that the controller may manage a rechargeable battery unit of thevehicle 100, which can include a single battery or a plurality of batteries (e.g., a battery pack 112) and an associated battery generator/charger 312. This may allow the controller to monitor the state of therechargeable battery pack 112 as well as to affect the power output of theelectric motor 110 based on current battery levels. Thebattery pack 112 can include a conventional lead acid battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, a nickel metal hydride battery, a lithium ion battery, or a combination of conventional batteries. As is well known, the powertrain includes a transmission having elements that are operable to transmit mechanical power from theelectric motor 110 to thewheels 106. To this end, the transmission can include agearbox 114, clutch, differential, and drive shafts. The transmission could include other operational elements known to one skilled in the arts. The drive shafts can include one or more axles that can be coupled to the one ormore wheels 106. According to one aspect, theframe structure 102 supports a horizontally disposed cargo carryingplatform 116; although, additional user components can be supported by theframe structure 102. By way of example, instead of (or in addition to) the cargo carryingplatform 116, an accessory rack (for, e.g., power tools) can be mounted to theframe structure 102. - With reference to
FIGS. 2-5 , theframe structure 102 includes left and right laterally spaced uppermain frame members frame structure 102. Each of the left and right uppermain frame members upper mounting surface main frame members frame structure 102. Each of the left and right uppermain frame members forward end portion rear end portion 134, 136 (forward and rear directions of theframe structure 102 identified in the figures). Aforward support member 140 interconnects theforward end portions rear support member 142 interconnects therear end portions pan 144 located rearward of theforward support member 140 can be disposed bridgingly between the left and right uppermain frame members - The
frame structure 102 further includes left and right laterally spaced lowermain frame members frame structure 102. Each of the left and right lowermain frame members forward portion rearward portion forward portions main frame members rearward portions main frame members forward end portions main frame members forward portions main frame members rear end portions main frame members rearward portions main frame members main frame members central portions central portions frame structure 102 outward of the respective left and right uppermain frame members frame structure 102. Therefore, a lateral dimension of an upper part of theframe structure 102 is narrowed compared to a lower part of the frame structure. - Further, left and right
first sub-frame members forward portions rearward portions main frame members first sub-frame members main frame members frame structure 102, which further provides for a narrowed lateral dimension of theframe structure 102. It should be appreciated that the left and rightfirst sub-frame members component space 174 defined by theframe structure 102 into anupper component space 176 for mounting of an associated first operational component (for example, the battery pack 112) and alower component space 178 for mounting of an associated second operational component (for example, the electric motor 110) and an adjacent associated third operational component (for example, the gearbox 114). - Further depicted are mounting
brackets vehicle 100 connected between thecentral portion 164 of the left lowermain frame member 150 and the leftfirst sub-frame member 170. A forward lower cross brace orsupport 184 for mounting of an operational component andlower cross members main frame members gearbox 114 is mounted to mountingbracket 180, and theelectric motor 110 is mounted to themounting bracket 182. - With continued reference to
FIGS. 2-5 , left and right laterally spaced upperrear frame members main frame members rear frame members main frame members main frame members forward end portions rear frame members rearward portions main frame members rear end portion rear frame member suspension sub-frame members rearward portions main frame members rear end portions rear frame members suspension sub-frame members U-shaped frame member 220 connected to therearward portions main frame members rearmost cross member 226 is disposed bridgingly between and mounted to one of the left and right upperrear frame members suspension sub-frame members frame members suspension sub-frame members rearmost cross member 226. Upper and lower support brackets for rear suspension assemblies are mounted to the respective left and right upper and lower rearsuspension sub-frame members - A
component mounting bracket 240 for an operational component of the vehicle (e.g., a battery generator/charger 312) is mounted to theforward end portion main frame member forward support member 140. In the depicted embodiment, thecomponent mounting bracket 240 includes a vertically extendedsupport wall 242 having anupper end portion 244 which can be folded to at least partially overlie the upper mounting surfaces 124, 126 of the left and right uppermain frame members support wall 246 extends forward from alower end portion 248 of thesupport wall 242. - The
exemplary frame structure 102 further includes left and right upper forwardsuspension sub-frame members forward portions main frame members support wall 246 of thecomponent mounting bracket 240 can mounted to the left and right upper forwardsuspension sub-frame members suspension sub-frame members forward end portions suspension sub-frame members forward portions main frame members suspension sub-frame members second sub-frame members forward end portions main frame members suspension sub-frame members support wall 242 of thecomponent mounting bracket 240 is located forward of the left and rightsecond sub-frame members - As depicted in
FIGS. 1 and 9 , mounted to theframe structure 102 are left and right frame rails 280, 282 which are extended in the longitudinal direction of theframe structure 102. Each of the left and right frame rails 280, 282 can be provided with an array of apertures (onlyapertures 284 in the left frame rail are shown) for releasably attaching quick detachpins 294 for mounting of associated vehicle accessories to theframe structure 102. The horizontally disposedcargo carrying platform 116 is mounted to the left and right frame rails 280, 282 above the left and right uppermain frame members cargo carrying platform 116 is greater than a spacing between the left and right frame rails 280, 282. For example, upper surfaces of the left and right frame rails 280, 282 can be provided with an array of mounting apertures which allow for the releasable attachment of thecargo carrying platform 116. As shown inFIGS. 2-5 , in the depicted embodiment, left and right forwardplatform mounting brackets platform mounting brackets frame structure 102, particularly one of the respective left and right uppermain frame members main frame members platform mounting brackets forward portions main frame members platform mounting brackets rearward portions main frame members left frame rail 280 is mounted to mounting surfaces of the left forward and rearplatform mounting brackets right frame rail 282 is mounted to mounting surfaces of the right forward and rearplatform mounting brackets brackets platform mounting brackets main frame members frame structure 102 from the left and right uppermain frame members upper surfaces main frame members frame structure 102, and the operational components for driving and maneuvering thevehicle 100 which are mounted to theframe structure 102 are disposed entirely beneath the uppermost mounting plane of theframe structure 102. -
FIGS. 6-8 depict theelectric motor 110 and thebattery pack 112 mounted to theframe structure 102 beneath the uppermost mounting plane of theframe structure 102. Further depicted is ahousing 310 mounted to thecomponent mounting bracket 240 for enclosing a battery generator/charger 312, which locates thehousing 310 forward of theforward end portions main frame members housing 310 is provided in a space between thecomponent mounting bracket 240 and afront grille 314 of thevehicle 100. As shown, thefront grille 314 includes aframe 316 surrounding a securing ascreen 320, andopenings 324 for associated operating lights are located on thefront grille 314. - It will be appreciated that the above-disclosed features and functions, or alternatives or varieties thereof, may be desirably combined into many other different systems or applications. Also that various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations or improvements therein may be subsequently made by those skilled in the art which are also intended to be encompassed by the following claims.
Claims (20)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US15/845,613 US10336370B1 (en) | 2017-12-18 | 2017-12-18 | Autonomous all-terrain vehicle frame structure |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US15/845,613 US10336370B1 (en) | 2017-12-18 | 2017-12-18 | Autonomous all-terrain vehicle frame structure |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20190185057A1 true US20190185057A1 (en) | 2019-06-20 |
US10336370B1 US10336370B1 (en) | 2019-07-02 |
Family
ID=66815026
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US15/845,613 Expired - Fee Related US10336370B1 (en) | 2017-12-18 | 2017-12-18 | Autonomous all-terrain vehicle frame structure |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US10336370B1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20190152527A1 (en) * | 2017-11-22 | 2019-05-23 | Honda Motor Co., Ltd. | Autonomous all-terrain vehicle frame structure |
US11066106B2 (en) * | 2017-04-04 | 2021-07-20 | Somic Management Holdings Inc. | Versatile platform |
US11113220B2 (en) | 2019-05-14 | 2021-09-07 | Qorvo Us, Inc. | Single-wire peer-to-peer bus |
Families Citing this family (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10710635B2 (en) * | 2017-12-18 | 2020-07-14 | Honda Motor Co., Ltd. | Autonomous all-terrain vehicle frame structure |
Family Cites Families (23)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5975624A (en) * | 1996-04-03 | 1999-11-02 | Polaris Industries Inc. | All terrain vehicle frame |
US20040100225A1 (en) | 2002-11-20 | 2004-05-27 | Neil Robert Miles | Cooling and control system for battery charging |
US7513516B2 (en) | 2005-08-23 | 2009-04-07 | Jri Development Group, Llc | Shock isolation cradle |
JP2007153053A (en) | 2005-12-02 | 2007-06-21 | Toyota Motor Corp | Cooling device of electric equipment mounted on vehicle |
US20090014993A1 (en) * | 2007-06-25 | 2009-01-15 | Mark Tope | Weight distributed low impact vehicle system capable of remote area access |
KR20100137960A (en) | 2009-06-24 | 2010-12-31 | 도재윤 | Atv frame |
DE102010008343A1 (en) | 2010-02-17 | 2011-08-18 | GM Global Technology Operations LLC, ( n. d. Ges. d. Staates Delaware ), Mich. | Front grill for vehicle, such as electric vehicles and electrical hybrid vehicles, has plug connector holder arranged in front grill and has plug connector, which is located in connection with automotive battery |
DE112011101671B4 (en) | 2010-05-19 | 2016-12-15 | Suzuki Motor Corporation | Vehicle battery cooling device |
US8276699B2 (en) * | 2010-09-30 | 2012-10-02 | Deere & Company | Mounting arrangement for tractor front grille to shroud |
US8950533B2 (en) | 2011-01-31 | 2015-02-10 | GM Global Technology Operations LLC | Cooling arrangement for a component in a vehicle |
JP5672493B2 (en) | 2011-04-25 | 2015-02-18 | スズキ株式会社 | Electric vehicle cooling system |
DE102011112386A1 (en) * | 2011-09-03 | 2013-03-07 | Gm Global Technology Operations, Llc | Pipe frame structure for a three-wheeled motor vehicle |
JP5861387B2 (en) | 2011-10-27 | 2016-02-16 | トヨタ自動車株式会社 | Vehicle front structure |
JP5714720B2 (en) | 2011-11-14 | 2015-05-07 | 本田技研工業株式会社 | Electric car |
JP5935988B2 (en) | 2012-04-27 | 2016-06-15 | マツダ株式会社 | Vehicle power supply system |
JP6074840B2 (en) | 2012-11-05 | 2017-02-08 | パナソニックIpマネジメント株式会社 | Vehicle |
CN106029417B (en) * | 2014-02-27 | 2018-09-25 | 株式会社小松制作所 | Dumper |
US9827846B2 (en) | 2015-06-10 | 2017-11-28 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Traction battery cooling system |
US10065500B2 (en) * | 2015-08-20 | 2018-09-04 | Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha | Vehicle body structure of autonomous traveling vehicle |
US11052776B2 (en) | 2015-09-24 | 2021-07-06 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Charging station for electrified vehicles |
US10196094B2 (en) * | 2016-12-29 | 2019-02-05 | Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Utility vehicle |
CN206327495U (en) | 2016-12-30 | 2017-07-14 | 浙江华洋赛车股份有限公司 | Electronic ATV vehicle frames |
US10300808B2 (en) * | 2017-04-20 | 2019-05-28 | Nio Usa, Inc. | Preconditioned charging using an autonomous vehicle |
-
2017
- 2017-12-18 US US15/845,613 patent/US10336370B1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Cited By (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11066106B2 (en) * | 2017-04-04 | 2021-07-20 | Somic Management Holdings Inc. | Versatile platform |
US20190152527A1 (en) * | 2017-11-22 | 2019-05-23 | Honda Motor Co., Ltd. | Autonomous all-terrain vehicle frame structure |
US10633028B2 (en) * | 2017-11-22 | 2020-04-28 | Honda Motor Co., Ltd. | Autonomous all-terrain vehicle frame structure |
US11113220B2 (en) | 2019-05-14 | 2021-09-07 | Qorvo Us, Inc. | Single-wire peer-to-peer bus |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US10336370B1 (en) | 2019-07-02 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US10710635B2 (en) | Autonomous all-terrain vehicle frame structure | |
US10336370B1 (en) | Autonomous all-terrain vehicle frame structure | |
US11104384B2 (en) | Side-by-side all terrain vehicle | |
US9162558B2 (en) | Electric vehicle | |
US10023039B2 (en) | Work vehicle with a power-travel drive unit | |
US10160344B2 (en) | Modular battery assembly | |
US8720636B2 (en) | Motor vehicle having an electromotive unit and the power supply module thereof arranged in the vicinity of a running gear of the vehicle | |
CN108367660B (en) | Mounting structure of high-voltage control device unit | |
US20130174804A1 (en) | Mounting structure for battery and fuel tank of gasoline-electric hybrid vehicle | |
CN103358871A (en) | Battery pack mounting structure for electric car | |
US11458829B2 (en) | Hybrid vehicle | |
US10633028B2 (en) | Autonomous all-terrain vehicle frame structure | |
EP2423087A1 (en) | Electric vehicle with tow batteries and a charger | |
JPWO2019044291A1 (en) | Electric vehicle | |
EP3981631A1 (en) | A battery assembly | |
US20220219522A1 (en) | Electric Truck Frame | |
US10081245B2 (en) | Cradle to body joint release mechanism | |
US11173777B2 (en) | Battery pack mounting system and mounting method | |
CN111717013A (en) | All-terrain vehicle | |
CN112590521A (en) | Battery pack to vehicle attachment assembly and method | |
JP6594195B2 (en) | 4 wheel drive work vehicle | |
US11472278B2 (en) | Traction battery protection assembly and method | |
CN213292434U (en) | All-terrain vehicle | |
JP6021676B2 (en) | Body structure of electric powered vehicle | |
US20130264163A1 (en) | Pantograph mounting structure |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD., JAPAN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:LOWERY, RICHARD M., JR;WINTER, JUSTIN M.;REEL/FRAME:044424/0586 Effective date: 20171218 |
|
FEPP | Fee payment procedure |
Free format text: ENTITY STATUS SET TO UNDISCOUNTED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: BIG.); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY |
|
STCF | Information on status: patent grant |
Free format text: PATENTED CASE |
|
FEPP | Fee payment procedure |
Free format text: MAINTENANCE FEE REMINDER MAILED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: REM.); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY |
|
LAPS | Lapse for failure to pay maintenance fees |
Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED FOR FAILURE TO PAY MAINTENANCE FEES (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: EXP.); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY |
|
STCH | Information on status: patent discontinuation |
Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED DUE TO NONPAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEES UNDER 37 CFR 1.362 |
|
FP | Lapsed due to failure to pay maintenance fee |
Effective date: 20230702 |