Attachment system for attaching a storage container to a vehicle

Abstract

An attachment system for attaching a storage container to a vehicle includes a passive attachment device for securing the storage container to the vehicle. When the storage container is positioned in a proper position on the vehicle, the passive attachment device automatically secures the storage container to the vehicle. The attachment system also includes an active attachment device that can be manually operated by a user to selectively lock the storage container in a proper position on the vehicle when the storage container is secured to the vehicle by the passive attachment device. When the active attachment device is engaged, the active attachment device prevents the storage container from moving relative to the vehicle, thereby locking the storage container in a proper position on the vehicle. A vehicle including a storage container and an attachment system is also provided. A storage container assembly is also provided, including a storage container and a passive attachment device and an active attachment device.

Description

[0001] Cross-references

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 877,170, filed on July 22, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present technology relates to attachment systems for attaching a storage container to a vehicle. Background Art

[0004] Storage is an important design consideration for vehicles, especially for small vehicles with limited storage space, such as three-wheeled motor vehicles and motorcycles. For this reason, these vehicles are sometimes provided with removable storage containers that can be selectively removed from the vehicle.

[0005] A lock is often provided to secure such a removable storage container to the vehicle. However, such locks may be susceptible to user error, as the user may incorrectly use the lock, thereby failing to properly secure the removable storage container to the vehicle, or in some cases, the user may even forget to use the lock altogether, resulting in the removable storage container not being secured to the vehicle. Improperly securing the removable storage container to the vehicle may in turn result in the storage container falling from the vehicle, or in some cases, the storage container being stolen.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for an attachment system for attaching a storage container to a vehicle that addresses at least some of these disadvantages. Summary of the invention

[0007] The purpose of the present technology is to improve at least some of the inconveniences existing in the prior art.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present technology, an attachment system for attaching a storage container to a vehicle is provided. The attachment system includes a passive attachment device for securing the storage container to the vehicle. When the storage container is positioned in an appropriate position on the vehicle, the passive attachment device automatically secures the storage container to the vehicle. The attachment system also includes an active attachment device that can be manually operated by a user to selectively lock the storage container in an appropriate position on the vehicle when the storage container is secured to the vehicle by the passive attachment device. When the active attachment device is engaged, the active attachment device prevents the storage container from moving relative to the vehicle, thereby locking the storage container in an appropriate position on the vehicle.

[0009] In some embodiments, when the storage container is secured to the vehicle via the passive attachment means and the storage container is unlocked from the vehicle via the active attachment means, the storage container has a limited range of motion relative to the frame of the vehicle.

[0010] In some embodiments, the passive attachment device includes a movable member configured to be movably connected to the bottom side of the storage container. The movable member can move between a latched position and an unlatched position relative to the storage container. In the latched position, the movable member restricts the removal of the storage container from the vehicle. In the unlatched position, the movable member does not engage with the vehicle so that the storage container can be removed from the vehicle.

[0011] In some embodiments, the passive attachment device further comprises at least one post configured to be connected to the vehicle. The movable member defines at least one post receiving recess, each of the at least one post receiving recess being configured to receive a corresponding one of the at least one post therein. Each of the at least one post receiving recess has a first size at a first portion thereof and a second size at a second portion thereof. In a latched position of the movable member, each of the at least one post is disposed in a first portion of a corresponding one of the at least one post receiving recess. In an unlatched position of the movable member, each of the at least one post is disposed in a second portion of a corresponding one of the at least one post receiving recess. The dimensions of the at least one post receiving recess are such that: when the at least one post is in the first portion of the at least one post receiving recess, the at least one post cannot be disengaged from the at least one post receiving recess; and when the at least one post is in the second portion of the at least one post receiving recess, the at least one post can be disengaged from the at least one post receiving recess.

[0012] In some embodiments, the at least one post is a plurality of posts and the at least one post-receiving recess is a plurality of post-receiving recesses.

[0013] In some embodiments, the at least one post is two posts and the at least one post-receiving recess is two post-receiving recesses.

[0014] In some embodiments, the movable member is configured to be slidably connected to a bottom side of the storage container.

[0015] In some embodiments, the passive attachment device further includes a biasing element configured to be mounted between the storage container and the movable member to bias the movable member toward the latched position.

[0016] In some embodiments, the biasing element is a spring.

[0017] In some embodiments, the movable member automatically moves from the latched position to the unlatched position when the storage container is positioned in position on the vehicle.

[0018] In some embodiments, when the storage container is positioned in position on the vehicle, the at least one post interacts with the movable member to move the movable member from a latched position to an unlatched position, thereby receiving the at least one post in the at least one post receiving recess.

[0019] In some embodiments, the movable member forms a handle for a user to move the movable member from the latched position to the unlatched position in order to remove the storage container from the vehicle.

[0020] In some embodiments, when the storage container is secured to the vehicle by the passive attachment means and the storage container is unlocked from the vehicle by the active attachment means, the storage container has a limited range of motion relative to the frame of the vehicle. When the storage container has a limited range of motion, the handle of the movable member may be accessible through a gap formed between the storage container and the vehicle frame.

[0021] In some embodiments, the movable member is configured to be connected to the storage container via a plurality of fasteners; the movable member is provided with a plurality of guide slots for receiving each of the fasteners therein to slidably connect the movable member to the storage container. The fasteners are movable along the guide slots.

[0022] In some embodiments, the active attachment device includes: a quick connect actuator configured to be operated by a user; a locking member operably connected to the quick connect actuator. The locking member is configured to be inserted into a locking opening defined by a vehicle. The quick connect actuator and the locking member are configured to be mounted to a storage container. The locking member can be moved between a locked position and an unlocked position by a user through the quick connect actuator. In the locked position of the locking member, the locking member cannot be removed through the locking opening defined by the vehicle, so that the active attachment device locks the storage container in place on the vehicle. In the unlocked position of the locking member, the locking member can be removed through the locking opening defined by the vehicle, so that the active attachment device unlocks the storage container from the vehicle.

[0023] In some embodiments, the locking member is rotatable between a locked position and an unlocked position.

[0024] In some embodiments, when the passive attachment device secures the storage container to the vehicle and the locking member is moved to the unlocked position, the storage container remains secured to the vehicle by the passive attachment device.

[0025] In some embodiments, the locking member of the active attachment device is configured to protrude from a bottom side of the storage container and to be inserted into an opening defined by the vehicle.The quick connect actuator is configured to be accessible through an interior space defined by the storage container.

[0026] In some embodiments, the invention further comprises: a first connection structure configured to be connected to a vehicle; and a second connection structure configured to be connected to a storage container. When the storage container is positioned in a proper position on the vehicle, the second connection structure engages with and is supported by the first connection structure. The shapes of the first and second connection structures are complementary to prevent the second connection structure from lifting upward when the second connection structure engages with the first connection structure.

[0027] In some embodiments, the first connection structure is one of a shaft assembly and a hook connector. The second connection structure is the other of the shaft assembly and the hook connector.

[0028] In some embodiments, the second connection structure is pivotable about an axis defined by the first connection structure.

[0029] According to another aspect of the present technology, a vehicle is provided. The vehicle includes: a frame; at least one front ground engaging member operably connected to the frame; at least one rear ground engaging member operably connected to the frame; a seat supported by the frame; and a storage container supported by the frame and secured to the frame. The vehicle also includes a passive attachment device that secures the storage container to the frame. When the storage container is in place, the passive attachment device automatically secures the storage container to the frame. The vehicle also includes an active attachment device that can be manually operated by a user to selectively lock the storage container in place when the storage container is secured to the frame by the passive attachment device. When the active attachment device is engaged, the active attachment device prevents the storage container from moving relative to the frame, thereby locking the storage container in place.

[0030] In some embodiments, when the storage container is secured to the vehicle frame by the passive attachment means and the storage container is unlocked from the vehicle frame by the active attachment means, the storage container has a limited range of motion relative to the vehicle frame.

[0031] In some embodiments, the passive attachment device includes a movable member movably connected to the bottom side of the storage container. The movable member is movable between a latched position and an unlatched position relative to the storage container. In the latched position, the movable member restricts the storage container from being removed from the rest of the vehicle. In the unlatched position, the movable member is not engaged with the vehicle, so that the storage container can be removed from the rest of the vehicle.

[0032] In some embodiments, the passive attachment device further comprises at least one post connected to the vehicle frame. The movable member defines at least one post receiving recess, each of the at least one post receiving recess being configured to receive a corresponding one of the at least one post therein. Each of the at least one post receiving recess has a first size at a first portion thereof and a second size at a second portion thereof. In a latched position of the movable member, each of the at least one post is disposed in a first portion of a corresponding one of the at least one post receiving recess. In an unlatched position of the movable member, each of the at least one post is disposed in a second portion of a corresponding one of the at least one post receiving recess. The dimensions of the at least one post receiving recess are such that: when the at least one post is in the first portion of the at least one post receiving recess, the at least one post cannot be disengaged from the at least one post receiving recess; when the at least one post is in the second portion of the at least one post receiving recess, the at least one post can be disengaged from the at least one post receiving recess.

[0033] In some embodiments, the at least one post is a plurality of posts and the at least one post-receiving recess is a plurality of post-receiving recesses.

[0034] In some embodiments, the at least one post is two posts and the at least one post-receiving recess is two post-receiving recesses.

[0035] In some embodiments, the movable member is slidably connected to the bottom side of the storage container.

[0036] In some embodiments, the passive attachment device further includes a biasing element mounted between the storage container and the movable member to bias the movable member toward the latched position.

[0037] In some embodiments, the biasing element is a spring.

[0038] In some embodiments, the movable member automatically moves from the latched position to the unlatched position when the storage container is positioned in place.

[0039] In some embodiments, when the storage container is positioned in place, the at least one post interacts with the movable member to move the movable member from a latched position to an unlatched position, thereby receiving the at least one post in the at least one post receiving recess.

[0040] In some embodiments, the movable member forms a handle for a user to move the movable member from the latched position to the unlatched position in order to remove the storage container from the rest of the vehicle.

[0041] In some embodiments, when the storage container is secured to the vehicle by the passive attachment means and the storage container is unlocked from the vehicle frame by the active attachment means, the storage container has a limited range of motion relative to the vehicle frame. When the storage container has a limited range of motion, the handle of the movable member may be accessible through a gap formed between the storage container and the vehicle frame.

[0042] In some embodiments, the movable member is connected to the storage container by a plurality of fasteners, and the movable member defines a plurality of guide slots in which corresponding fasteners are received for slidably connecting the movable member to the storage container. The fasteners are movable along the guide slots.

[0043] In some embodiments, the active attachment device includes: a quick connect actuator configured to be operated by a user, and a locking member connected to the quick connect actuator. The quick connect actuator and the locking member are mounted to the storage container. The frame defines a locking opening, and the locking member is inserted through the locking opening. The locking member can be moved between a locked position and an unlocked position by the user via the quick connect actuator. In the locked position of the locking member, the locking member cannot be removed through the locking opening, so that the active attachment device locks the storage container in place. In the unlocked position of the locking member, the locking member can be removed through the locking opening, so that the active attachment device unlocks the storage container from the rest of the vehicle.

[0044] In some embodiments, the locking member is rotatable between a locked position and an unlocked position.

[0045] In some embodiments, the locking member of the active attachment device protrudes from the bottom side of the storage container; the quick connect actuator is accessible through the interior space defined by the storage container.

[0046] In some embodiments, the vehicle further comprises a first connection structure connected to the vehicle frame. The storage container comprises a second connection structure engaged with and supported by the first connection structure. The first and second connection structures are complementary in shape to prevent the second connection structure from lifting upward when the second connection structure is engaged with the first connection structure.

[0047] In some embodiments, the first connection structure is one of a shaft assembly and a hook connector. The second connection structure is the other of the shaft assembly and the hook connector.

[0048] In some embodiments, the second connection structure is pivotable about an axis defined by the first connection structure.

[0049] In some embodiments, one of the shaft assembly and the hook connector is a shaft assembly. The other of the shaft assembly and the hook connector is a hook connector. The storage container has a front wall, a rear wall, a left side wall, and a right side wall. The hook connector extends forward from the front wall of the storage container.

[0050] In some embodiments, the shaft assembly includes two shaft portions coaxially aligned with each other. The hook connector includes two hooks, each hook being supported by one of the two shaft portions of the shaft assembly.

[0051] In some embodiments, the storage container is disposed behind the seat.

[0052] In some embodiments, the storage container has a lid that at least partially encloses an interior space of the storage container.At least a portion of the active attachment device is accessible from the interior space of the storage container.

[0053] According to another aspect of the present technology, a storage container assembly for a vehicle is provided. The storage container assembly includes a storage container defining an interior space. The storage container has a bottom side. The storage container assembly also includes a passive attachment device for securing the storage container to the vehicle. The passive attachment device is connected to the bottom side of the storage container. When the storage container is positioned in an appropriate position on the vehicle, the passive attachment device automatically secures the storage container to the vehicle. The storage container assembly also includes an active attachment device that can be manually operated by a user to selectively lock the storage container in an appropriate position on the vehicle when the storage container is secured to the vehicle by the passive attachment device. When the active attachment device is engaged, the active attachment device prevents the storage container from moving relative to the vehicle, thereby locking the storage container in an appropriate position on the vehicle.

[0054] For the purposes of this application, terms related to spatial orientation, such as front, rear, up, down, left, and right, when used herein, refer to the general directions understood by a vehicle driver sitting in a seat in the vehicle and facing the direction of straight forward travel. Unless otherwise specified in this application, when describing or referring to components or subassemblies of the vehicle that are separate from the vehicle, terms related to spatial orientation should be understood as when these components or subassemblies are installed in the vehicle.

[0055] The embodiments of the present technology all have at least one of the above-mentioned purposes and / or aspects, but not necessarily all of these purposes and / or aspects. It should be understood that some aspects of the present technology generated by attempting to achieve the above-mentioned purpose may not meet the purpose and / or may meet other purposes not specifically listed herein.

[0056] Additional and / or alternative features, aspects, and advantages of embodiments of the present technology will become apparent from the following description, drawings, and appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0057] For a better understanding of the present technology, as well as other aspects and further features thereof, reference is made to the following description which will be used in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0058] Figure 1 It is a left side view of the vehicle;

[0059] Figure 2 is from Figure 1 a perspective view of a portion of the left front side of the vehicle taken away, including a passenger seat and a storage container of the vehicle;

[0060] Figure 3 is from Figure 2 a perspective view of a portion of the left front side of the vehicle cut away with the passenger seat removed to expose the lower portion of the vehicle frame;

[0061] Figure 4 is from Figure 3 a perspective view of a portion of the left rear side of the vehicle;

[0062] Figure 5 is from Figure 3 a perspective view of a portion of the left rear side of a vehicle with a top storage container of the vehicle removed;

[0063] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A top view of a portion of a vehicle.

[0064] Figure 7 is from Figure 1 a perspective view taken from the left front side of an overhead storage container of a vehicle;

[0065] Figure 8 is from Figure 7 A perspective view of a top storage container taken from the rear lower right side;

[0066] Fig. 9 is from Figure 7 A perspective view of a top storage container taken from the upper rear left side of the bottom portion;

[0067] Fig.10 yes Fig. 9 A top view of the base of

[0068] Fig.11 yes Figure 7 a bottom view of a top storage container of wherein a movable member of a passive attachment device connected thereto is shown in a latched position;

[0069] Fig.12 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a top storage container, a movable member, and a frame of a vehicle when the movable member is in a latched position;

[0070] Fig.13 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the top storage container and the movable member taken along a guide slot of the movable member when the movable member is in an unlatched position;

[0071] Fig.14 yes Figure 7a bottom view of a top storage container of the invention, wherein the movable member is shown in an unlatched position;

[0072] Fig.15 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the top storage container, the movable member, and a portion of the frame when the movable member is in an unlatched position;

[0073] Fig.16 yes Figure 7 a bottom view of a top storage container of , wherein a locking member of an active attachment device connected thereto is shown in an unlocked position;

[0074] Fig.17 is a perspective view of a quick connect actuator of the active attachment device taken from the upper rear left side with the locking member in an unlocked position;

[0075] Fig.18 is a cross-sectional view of an active attachment device with a locking member shown in a locked position;

[0076] Fig.19 is a cross-sectional view of the active attachment device with the locking member shown in an unlocked position; and

[0077] Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an overhead storage container, a movable member, and a portion of a vehicle frame, wherein the movable member is shown in a latched position and in its maximum range of motion. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0078] The present technology will be described herein with respect to a three-wheeled straddle-type vehicle 100. It is contemplated that the present technology may also be implemented with vehicles with two, four, or more wheels, as well as other types of vehicles including, but not limited to, snowmobiles.

[0079] refer to Figure 1 The vehicle 100 has a front end 102, a rear end 104, and a longitudinal center plane (not shown) defined in accordance with the forward travel direction of the vehicle 100. The vehicle 100 has a frame 108 for supporting various components of the vehicle 100, and left and right front wheels 110 ( Figure 1 108). In particular, the left front wheel 110 is mounted on the frame 108 on the left side thereof by a left front suspension assembly (not shown), and the right front wheel 110 is mounted on the frame 108 on the right side thereof by a right front suspension assembly (not shown). More specifically, the left and right front wheels 110 are rotatably mounted to left and right steering knuckles supported by the left and right front suspension assemblies. A single rear wheel 118 is mounted to the frame 108 at its rear end by a rear suspension assembly 120. The left and right front wheels 110 and the rear wheel 118 each have a tire fixed thereto. The front wheels 110 are arranged equidistant from the longitudinal center plane, and the rear wheel 118 is centered relative to the longitudinal center plane.

[0080] In the present embodiment, each front suspension assembly is a double A-arm suspension, also known as a double wishbone suspension, and includes a corresponding shock absorber. It is contemplated that other types of front suspensions, such as a MacPherson suspension or a swing arm, may be used. The rear suspension assembly 120 includes a swing arm 126 and a shock absorber (not shown). The shock absorber is connected between the swing arm 126 and the frame 108. It is contemplated that other types of rear suspensions may be used.

[0081] The vehicle 100 has a driver's seat 130 mounted to the upper portion of the vehicle frame 108 and arranged along the longitudinal center plane. The vehicle 100 also has a passenger seat 134 arranged behind the driver's seat 130. Figure 2 As best shown, the passenger seat 134 has a seat portion 135 and a backrest portion 136 for supporting the back of a passenger in the passenger seat 134. The seat portion 135 of the passenger seat 134 is supported by and connected to the rear upper frame member 114 of the frame 108, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 The rear of the vehicle 100 is shown with the passenger seat 135 removed from the rear. In this embodiment, the driver and passenger seats 130, 134 are straddle-style seats.

[0082] Driver foot pedals 132 are provided on both sides of the vehicle 100 to support the driver's feet. The driver foot pedals 132 are connected to the lower portion of the vehicle frame 108. In this embodiment, the driver foot pedals 132 are in the form of foot pedals extending longitudinally in front of the driver's seat 130. The vehicle 100 is also provided with passenger foot pedals 137, which are provided behind the driver foot pedals 132 on both sides of the vehicle 100 for supporting the passenger's feet. A brake pedal (not shown) is connected to the right driver foot pedal 132 for braking the vehicle 100.

[0083] like Figure 1 As shown schematically, the vehicle 100 has a power pack including a motor 138 and a transmission assembly 140. The power pack is supported by and housed within the frame 108. The transmission assembly 140 includes a semi-automatic transmission. The motor 138 is in the form of an internal combustion engine. However, it is contemplated that the motor 138 may not be an internal combustion engine, such as an electric motor, a hybrid, etc. It is also contemplated that the transmission assembly 140 may be another type, such as a manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The motor 138 is operably connected to the rear wheels 118 through the transmission assembly 140 to drive the rear wheels 118.

[0084] Continue to refer Figure 1The vehicle 100 has a steering system 142 including a handlebar assembly 143, a steering column assembly (not shown) connected to the handlebar assembly 143, and a plurality of links operatively connecting the steering column assembly to the steering knuckle.

[0085] The handlebar assembly 143 includes a handlebar 144 disposed forwardly of the driver's seat 130. A left grip is disposed about the left side of the handlebar 144 near its left end, and a right grip is disposed about the right side of the handlebar 144 near its right end. The right grip has a twist-grip throttle control. It is contemplated that different types and / or locations of throttle controls may be used. The handlebar 144 is operably connected to the front wheel 110 via a steering column assembly. The steering system defines a steering axis about which the handlebar 144 rotates relative to the frame 108. The driver turns the handlebar 144 about the steering axis to steer the front wheel 110, thereby steering the vehicle 100.

[0086] It should be understood that the front wheels 110 are one example of a steerable ground engaging member with which embodiments of the steering system 142 may be used. It is contemplated that embodiments of the steering system 142 may be used on a vehicle where the steerable ground engaging components are, for example, skis or a circular track.

[0087] The vehicle 100 also has a plurality of cowlings 148 surrounding the motor 138 and the transmission assembly 140, thereby providing an enclosure that not only protects the motor 138 and the transmission assembly 140 but also makes the vehicle 100 more aesthetically pleasing. The cowlings 148 include a cover 149 and one or more side panels that can be opened to allow access to the motor 138 and the transmission assembly 140 when necessary, such as for inspection or maintenance. A windshield is connected to the cowling 148 near the front end 102 of the vehicle 100. The windshield acts as a windshield to reduce the force of air on the driver when the vehicle 100 is moving.

[0088] The vehicle 100 includes various other components known in the art and thus will not be described in detail herein.

[0089] In this embodiment, if Figure 1 and 2 As shown, the vehicle 100 is also provided with lateral side storage containers 145, which are provided on either lateral side of the vehicle 100, near the rear end 104 of the vehicle 100. The side storage containers 145 may also be referred to as "saddle bags". Figure 2 As shown, each saddle bag 145 extends on either lateral side of the seat portion 135 of the passenger seat 134 and is supported by the frame 108. Each saddle bag 145 has an entry door 151 on its outer side that can be selectively opened to enter the interior space defined by the saddle bag 145.

[0090] The vehicle 100 is also provided with an overhead storage container 150, commonly referred to as a top box 150, which is disposed rearwardly of the seat portion 135 of the passenger seat 134 and laterally centered on the vehicle 100. More specifically, the overhead storage container 150 is received on the rear upper frame member 114. The overhead storage container 150 is selectively removable from the remainder of the vehicle 100. The overhead storage container 150 has a base 154 and a lid 156, which is hingedly connected to the base 154 (about a hinge 157). Figure 7 ). The lid 156 can be opened (ie, pivoted about the hinge 157) to provide access to the interior space 155 defined by the storage container 150 ( Fig. 9 A key receiving member 159 is provided ( Figure 4 ) to receive a key to unlock the cover 156 from the base 154. Figure 3 , 4 8, the top storage container 150 has a front wall 158, a rear wall 160, left and right side walls 162 and 164, a top wall 166, and a bottom wall 168. Walls 158, 160, 162, 164, 166, 168 are each formed by one or both of the base 154 and the cover 156.

[0091] In this embodiment, the top storage container 150 has two speakers 152 on the front side thereof and is positioned such that the speakers 152 are respectively located on one side of the passenger seat 134. In addition, the backrest portion 136 of the passenger seat 134 is connected to the front wall 158 of the storage container 150. Therefore, the backrest portion 136 of the illustrated embodiment may be provided only when the top storage container 150 is provided on the vehicle 100.

[0092] like Figure 7 As shown, the container connection structure 170 is connected to the storage container 150 and is configured to engage a complementary frame connection structure 172 that is connected to the frame 108 of the vehicle 100 so as to be supported when the storage container 150 is positioned in place on the vehicle 100. More specifically, as described below, the connection structures 170, 172 have complementary shapes to help prevent the container connection structure 170 from being lifted upward when the connection structures 170, 172 are engaged with each other.

[0093] In particular, in this embodiment, the container connection structure 170 is a hook connector 170 extending forward from the front side of the storage container 150. In this embodiment, the hook connector 170 includes two arms 174 and two hooks 176 disposed at the ends of the arms 174. Each hook 176 has two prongs 178 for hooking on the frame connection structure 172. In addition, referring to Figure 5 and Figure 6In this embodiment, the frame connection structure 172 is an axle assembly 172 that includes two axle portions 180 that extend transversely and are longitudinally aligned with each other to define an axis A1 ( Figure 6 ). More specifically, the shaft portion 180 is disposed in a corresponding recess 181 defined by the rear upper frame member 114 of the frame 108. The hook connector 170 is pivotable about an axis A1 defined by the shaft assembly 172.

[0094] The connection structures 170, 172 are components that first engage with each other in order to mount the storage container 150 on the vehicle 100. Specifically, to mount the storage container 150 on the vehicle 100, the hook 176 engages with the shaft portion 180, and then the storage container 150 is pivoted downward about the axis A1.

[0095] It is contemplated that in other embodiments, the connection structures 170 , 172 may be reversed such that the hook connector 170 is connected to the frame 108 and the shaft assembly 172 is connected to the storage container 150 .

[0096] As will be described below, an attachment system is provided to attach the storage container 150 to the frame 108 of the vehicle 100 in conjunction with the connection structures 170, 172. More specifically, the attachment system includes two separate and distinct attachment devices 200, 250 for securely attaching the storage container 150 to the vehicle 100. The first attachment device 200 will be referred to as a "passive attachment device" hereinafter because the device 200 is automatically actuated when the storage container 150 is positioned in position on the frame 108 of the vehicle 100 without requiring a user to operate it. In contrast, the second attachment device 250 will be referred to as an "active attachment device" hereinafter because the device 250 can be operated by a user to lock the storage container to the frame 108 of the vehicle 100.

[0097] refer to Figure 8 , the passive attachment device 200 includes a movable member 210, which is movably connected to the bottom side of the storage container 150. More specifically, as Fig.11 and 14 As shown, the movable member 210 is fixed to the bottom side of the storage container 150 by fasteners 202, 205. The movable member 210 can be relative to the storage container 150 in a latched position (such as Fig.11 and 12 ) and the unlatched position (as Fig.14 and 15In the latched position, the movable member 210 restricts the storage container 150 from being removed from the vehicle 100. On the other hand, in the unlatched position, the movable member 210 is not engaged with the vehicle 100, so that the storage container 150 can be removed from the vehicle 100. The manner in which the movable member 210 moves from the unlatched position to the latched position and vice versa will be described in more detail below.

[0098] like Fig.11 As shown, in this embodiment, the movable member 210 is generally U-shaped, having two arm portions 212 and a central portion 214 interconnected with the arm portions 212. The central portion 214 forms a handle 215 for a user to move the movable member 210 from a latched position to an unlatched position to remove the storage container 150 from the vehicle 100, as will be described in more detail below. The shape and size of the handle 215 are designed to be easily engaged by the user's hand. The movable member 210 also has two longitudinal extensions 216 extending from the central portion 214 in the same direction as the arm portions 212. The movable member 210 is symmetrical about a plane extending through the central portion 214.

[0099] In order to connect the movable member 210 to the storage container 150, the movable member 210 defines four guide slots 218 extending longitudinally and configured to receive the fasteners 205 attached to the storage container 150. A central guide slot of the guide slots 218 is defined in the longitudinal extension, while two outer guide slots of the guide slots 218 are defined near the ends of the arm portion 212.

[0100] Now refer to Fig.13The manner in which the movable member 210 is connected to the storage container 150 is described. In the present embodiment, the fastener 205 is a bolt, which is fixedly connected to the bottom wall 168 of the storage container 150. The bolt 205 is accommodated in a corresponding guide protrusion 207 extending downward from the bottom wall 168 of the storage container 150. The guide protrusion 207 thus serves as a sleeve for the bolt 205. The head of each bolt 205 is caught by an inner shoulder formed at the base of each guide protrusion 207, so that each bolt 205 is fixed in place. Each guide protrusion 207 is received in a corresponding guide groove 218 to guide its movement. A portion of each bolt 205 extends beyond the end of the corresponding guide protrusion 207. A washer 203 is placed around a portion of each fastener 205 and is clamped on the distal end of the corresponding guide protrusion 207 by the nut 202. The washer 203 thus prevents the nut 202 from entering the guide groove 218 and prevents the movable member 210 from being separated from the rest of the storage container 150. The size and shape of the guide protrusion 207 and the movable member 210 are designed so that the movable member 210 is connected to the storage container 150 while allowing the movable member 210 to move relative thereto. In particular, in this way, the engagement of the guide groove 218 with the guide protrusion 207 and the bolt 205 allows the movable member 210 to slide relative to the storage container 150 under the guidance of the guide groove 218.

[0101] The movable member 210 also defines two post receiving recesses 220 in the arm portion 212, laterally adjacent to the corresponding outer guide slots 218. As will be described in more detail below, the post receiving recesses 220 are configured to receive corresponding posts 230 ( 230 ) connected to the frame 108 of the vehicle 100 therein. Figure 5 , 6 ).like Figure 5 and 12 As shown, each column 230 extends upward from the rear upper frame member 114 of the frame 108 and has a rod 231 and a head 232 disposed at the upper end of the rod 231. The diameter of the head 232 is greater than the diameter of the rod 231. The column 230 can be connected to the frame 108 in any suitable manner. For example, in this embodiment, the lower end of the rod 231 of each column 230 is threadedly connected and fixed to the rear upper frame member 114 by a nut 233 ( Figure 2 ).like Fig.12 As best shown in FIG. 1 , the skirt 236 of the post 230 is disposed a predetermined distance from the lower end of the rod 231 so that the head 232 of the post 230 protrudes from the rear upper frame member 114 at a set height.

[0102] The configuration of the post receiving recesses 220 and their interaction with the post 230 will now be described. The post receiving recesses 220 are identical to one another, and therefore a single post receiving recess 220 will be described herein. It should be understood that the same description applies to both post receiving recesses 220.

[0103] like Fig.11 and 14 As shown, the shape and size of the post receiving recess 220 are such that when the corresponding post 230 is received in a portion of the post receiving recess 220 (i.e., when the rod 231 of the post 230 extends through a portion of the post receiving recess 220), the post 230 cannot be disengaged from the post receiving recess 220, while on the other hand, when the post 230 is accommodated in another portion of the post receiving recess 220, the post 230 can be disengaged from the post receiving recess 220. In particular, in this embodiment, the post receiving recess 220 is generally in the shape of a keyhole and has an oversized portion 222 and an undersized portion 224. Fig.11 As shown, the oversized portion 222 has a dimension D1 that allows the head 232 of the post 230 to pass therethrough. In contrast, the undersized portion 224 has a dimension D2 that is sized to prevent the head 232 of the post 230 from passing therethrough. In this embodiment, the oversized and undersized portions 222, 224 are partially circular (i.e., shaped as a portion of a circle defining a radius), and thus the dimensions D1, D2 are diameters. The oversized and undersized portions 222, 224 may have any other suitable shape.

[0104] Therefore, it can be understood that when the post 230 is accommodated in the oversized portion 222, the post 230 can be disengaged from the post receiving recess 220 because the diameter of the head 232 of the post 230 is smaller than the diameter D1 of the oversized portion 222. On the other hand, when the post 230 is accommodated in the undersized portion 224, the post 230 cannot be disengaged from the post receiving recess 220 because the diameter of the head 232 of the post 230 is larger than the diameter D2 of the undersized portion 224. The oversized portion and the undersized portion 222, 224 therefore correspond to the latched position and the unlatched position of the movable member 210, respectively. It is worth noting that when the movable member 210 is in the latched position, the post 230 is disposed in the oversized portion 222 of the post receiving recess 230, as shown in FIG. Fig.14 The dashed lines in the figure are for reference and are also shown in Fig.15 When the movable member 210 is in the latched position, the post 230 is disposed in the undersized portion 224 of the post receiving recess 220, as shown in FIG. Fig.11 As shown for reference, Fig.12 shown.

[0105] The movable member 210 is configured to interact with the post 230 so that the movable member 210 automatically moves from the latched position to the unlatched position when the storage container 150 is positioned in position on the vehicle 100. More specifically, each post receiving recess 220 is shaped so that when the storage container 150 is positioned in position on the frame 108 of the vehicle 100 by pivoting the storage container 150 downward about the axis A1, the movable member 210 is forced into the unlatched position to receive the post 230 therein. To this end, as shown in FIG. Fig.14 and 15 As shown, in this embodiment, the undersized portion 224 of each post receiving recess 220 is defined by an inclined surface 235 surrounding the undersized portion 224. In this embodiment, the inclined surface 235 is formed by a rounded edge that defines the undersized portion 224 of the post receiving recess 220. As will be described in more detail below, when the inclined surface 235 encounters the head 232 of the corresponding post 230, the movable member 210 is urged to the unlatched position so as to receive the post 230 into the oversized portion 230 of the post receiving recess 220.

[0106] refer to Figures 11 to 14 , the passive attachment device 230 also includes two biasing elements 226 for biasing the movable member 210 toward the latched position. The biasing elements 226 are therefore provided to ensure that the movable member 210 naturally remains in the latched position, thereby restricting the removal of the storage container 150 from the vehicle 100, unless intentional user intervention causes the movable member 210 to disengage from the column 230 as will be further described below. In addition, the biasing elements 226 ensure that the movable member 210 will return to the latched position after the movable member 210 has been pushed to the unlatched position by the head 232 of the column 230 and the head 232 of the column 230 has passed through the oversized portion 222 of the column receiving recess. In the present embodiment, the biasing elements 226 are springs that are connected between the movable member 210 and the storage container 150. It is contemplated that any other suitable type of biasing element may be used in place of a spring.

[0107] like Fig.13 As best shown, which illustrates the movable member 210 in the unlatched position, for each spring 226, one end 227 thereof is connected to one end of a corresponding arm 212 of the movable member 210, and the other end 228 thereof is connected to one of the guide projections 207 extending from the bottom wall 168 of the storage container 150. In this manner, the spring 226 exerts a biasing force on the movable member 210 to bias the movable member 210 toward the latched position.

[0108] Therefore, when the storage container 150 is mounted on the vehicle 100, the movable member 210 is in the latched position due to the biasing force applied thereto by the spring 226. Thus, when the storage container 150 is lowered onto the rear upper frame member 114, the head 232 of the post 230 abuts against the surface of the movable member 210 surrounding the undersized portion 224 of the post receiving recess 220. In particular, the inclined surface of the head 232 of the post 230 (specifically, in this embodiment, the conical surface of the frustoconical shape of the head 232 of each post 230) abuts against the inclined surface 235 defining the undersized portion 224 of the post receiving recess 220. Due to the angled arrangement of the inclined surface 235 and the inclined surface of the head 232, when the storage container 150 is pressed downward by gravity (i.e., the load applied by the weight of the storage container 150) or by a user, the post 230 applies a force on the movable member 210 having a component in the opposite direction to the biasing force of the spring 226. In particular, when the load applied to the storage container 150 is sufficiently large, the force applied by the post 230 on the inclined surface 235 overcomes the biasing force of the spring 226, thereby causing the movable member 210 to slide forward relative to the storage container 150. The movable member 210 is thus moved from the latched position to the unlatched position, whereby the post 230 is aligned with and enters the oversized portion 222 of the post receiving recess 220. When the force applied by the post 230 on the inclined surface 235 ceases (i.e., when the head 232 of the post 230 passes through the oversized portion 222 of the post receiving recess 220), the movable member 210 slides back into the latched position in response to the now unopposed biasing force of the spring 226. The movable member 210 is thus locked to the vehicle 100 and cannot be removed therefrom unless the user intentionally intervenes to disengage the movable member 210 from the post 230. Notably, to disengage movable member 210 from post 230 when the movable member is in the locked position, the user pushes movable member 210 forward via handle 215 , which moves movable member 210 to the unlatched position, thereby allowing post 230 to exit post receiving recess 220 .

[0109] It is contemplated that the head 232 of the post 230 may have a shape other than a frustoconical shape so as to define an inclined surface thereof. For example, the head 232 of each post 230 may be dome-shaped so as to define an inclined surface thereof.

[0110] We will now refer specifically to Figure 8 , 917 to 20 describe the active attachment device 250. The active attachment device 250 can be manually operated by a user to selectively lock the storage container 150 in place on the vehicle 100. As described above, since the passive attachment device 200 automatically engages the storage container 150 with the frame 108 of the vehicle 100 when the storage container 150 is positioned in place on the vehicle 100, once the storage container 150 has been secured to the vehicle 100 by the passive attachment device 200, the storage container 150 is locked in place on the vehicle by the active attachment device 250. However, when the active attachment device 250 is engaged, the active attachment device 250 additionally prevents the storage container 150 from moving relative to the vehicle 100, thereby tightly locking the storage container 150 in place on the vehicle 100.

[0111] Reference Figure 5 , 6 , 8 and 9, the active attachment device 250 is fixed to the bottom side of the storage container 150 and is configured to engage the locking opening 115 defined in the rear upper frame member 114. The active attachment device 250 has a quick connection actuator 252 and a locking member 254 operably connected to the quick connection actuator 252. The quick connection actuator 252 and the locking member 254 are mounted to the storage container 150. The quick connection actuator 252 is configured to be operated by a user and can be accessed through the interior space 155 of the storage container 150, as shown. Fig. 9 and 10 As shown. Therefore, when the cover 156 of the storage container 150 is locked to the base 154, the active attachment device 250 cannot be unlocked. More specifically, in this embodiment, the quick connection actuator 252 has a circular body 256 and a rod 258 formed on the body 256. Fig.18 As shown, the body 256 is inserted into the circular recess 182 defined in the inner bottom surface 183 of the storage container 150. The user grasps the lever 258 to operate the active attachment device 250. In particular, the lever 258 is manipulated by the user to rotate the quick connect actuator 252 to lock or unlock the active attachment device 250, as will be described in more detail below. Fig.17 As shown, a mark 253 is provided in the inner bottom surface 183 of the storage container 150 to indicate whether the active attachment device 250 is locked and unlocked. The indicator 217 provided on the quick connection actuator 252 is aligned with a given one of the marks 253 to lock or unlock the active attachment device 250. In this embodiment, the quick connection actuator 252 rotates a quarter turn (i.e., 90°) to move the locking member 254 from the unlocked position to the locked position, and vice versa. In order to limit the rotation of the quick connection actuator 252 to a quarter turn, a structure (not shown) is formed on the inner bottom surface 183 of the storage container 150 to prevent the main body 256 of the quick connection from rotating more than a quarter turn in each direction.

[0112] It is contemplated that the rod 258 may be replaced by any other suitable structure that may be grasped by a user (eg, a handle).

[0113] like Fig.18 and 19 As shown, the locking member 254 is disposed on a side of the bottom wall 168 opposite to the quick-connect actuator 252, such that the locking member 254 protrudes from the bottom side of the storage container 150. The locking member 254 is connected to the quick-connect actuator 252 by a central fastener 255 that extends through the opposite side of the bottom wall 168 of the storage container 150. The spring 260 is received in a central recess 262 defined by the locking member 254 and surrounds a portion of the fastener 255 extending in the central recess 262. The nut 263 is threadedly engaged to one end of the fastener 255 and compresses the spring 260 in the central recess 262.

[0114] like Fig.18 As shown, the locking member 254 has a hub 270 and an end 272. The hub 270 is inserted into a hole 274 defined by a protruding base 275 formed by the bottom wall 168 of the storage container 150. Fig.16 As shown, the end 272 has an elongated hexagonal shape. Similarly, the protruding base 275 has an elongated hexagonal shape. Therefore, the end 272 has an elongated dimension measured along its elongated direction. Therefore, the dimension of the end 272 measured perpendicular to its elongated direction is smaller than the elongated dimension.

[0115] The locking member 254 can be moved by the user in a locked position (eg, Fig.18 as shown) and unlocked position (as shown Fig.19 More specifically, the locking member 254 can rotate with the quick connect actuator 252 between a locked position and an unlocked position.

[0116] Thus, in order to secure the storage container 150 to the vehicle 100 via the active attachment device 250, the locking member 254 is inserted into the locking opening 115 of the rear upper frame member 114. Specifically, the storage container 150 is placed on the rear upper frame member 114 to place the protruding base 275 and the end 272 of the locking member 254 into the locking opening 115. The locking opening 115 has an elongated hexagonal shape similar to the protruding base 275 and is sized to accommodate the protruding base 275 therein. Once in position in the locking opening 115 of the rear upper frame member 114, when the locking member 254 is in the locked position, the locking member 254 cannot be removed through the locking opening 115 due to the elongated dimension of the end 272 of the locking member being aligned with the portion of the locking opening 115 having a smaller dimension. Thus, the active attachment device 250 locks the storage container 250 in place on the vehicle 100. Furthermore, in the locked position of the locking member 254, the end 272 does not have any significant vertical range of motion because the end 272 is blocked from vertical movement by the lower surface of the rear upper frame member 114. Thus, in the locked position of the locking member 254, the storage container 150 does not have any significant range of motion and is locked in place on the vehicle 100. However, when the locking member 254 is in the unlocked position, the locking member 254 can be removed from the locking opening 115 because the elongated dimension of the end 272 of the locking member 254 is aligned with the portion of the locking opening 115 having a larger dimension. The active attachment device 250 thus unlocks the storage container 150 from the vehicle 100.

[0117] When the storage container 150 is secured to the vehicle 100 by the passive attachment device 200 and the storage container 150 is unlocked from the vehicle 100 by the active attachment device 250, the storage container 150 has a limited range of motion relative to the frame 108 of the vehicle 100. More specifically, even when the active attachment device 250 is in the unlocked position and thus does not lock the storage container 150 in place, the passive attachment device 200 allows the storage container 150 to pivot about the axis A1 via the connector structures 170, 172. In particular, as shown in FIG. Fig. 20 As shown, in this embodiment, when the storage container 150 is secured to the vehicle 100 by the passive attachment device 200 and the storage container 150 is unlocked from the vehicle 100 by the active attachment device 250, the storage container 150 has a vertical range of motion of approximately 20 mm before being stopped by the engagement between the movable member 210 and the head 232 of the post 230. Therefore, this limited range of motion allows a gap 280 ( Fig. 20 ). The handle 215 of the movable member 210 is accessible through the gap 280 to allow a user to separate the movable member 210 from the post 230 in the manner described above.

[0118] Thus, to attach the storage container 150 to the vehicle 100, the hook connector 170 is first engaged with the shaft assembly 172. The storage container 150 can then be pivoted about the axis A1. As the storage container 150 is lowered toward the rear upper frame member 114, the movable member 210 will engage the post 230, automatically locking the passive attachment device 200 and thereby securing the storage container 150 to the vehicle 100. With the storage container 150 now in place, located on top of the frame member 114, the locking member 254 (in the unlocked position) simultaneously enters the locking opening 115. The quick connect actuator 252 is then actuated by the user to move the locking member 254 to the locked position, thereby further and completely securing the storage container 150 to the vehicle 100.

[0119] As the reader will appreciate, the passive attachment device 200 serves as a backup to the active attachment device 250. Notably, since the passive attachment device 200 is automatically engaged when the storage container 150 is disposed at a designated location on the vehicle 100 regardless of whether the active attachment device 250 has been actuated by the user, the passive attachment device 200 maintains the ability to mount the storage container 150 to the vehicle 100 even when the active attachment device 250 has not been actuated by the user. Thus, in the event that, for example, the active attachment device 250 fails or the user forgets to lock the storage container 150 to the frame 108 of the vehicle 100 via the active attachment device 250, the passive attachment device 200 still secures the storage container 150 to the vehicle 100 and prevents the storage container 150 from detaching from the vehicle 100.

[0120] Furthermore, the active attachment device 250 is operated by the user without the use of any tools (i.e., tool-free), which simplifies the process of locking or unlocking the active attachment device 250. Furthermore, since the passive attachment device 200 automatically engages the movable member 210 when the storage container 150 is in place on the vehicle 100, the passive attachment device 200 also securely engages the storage container 150 with the frame 108 of the vehicle 100 without the use of any tools. Thus, the entire attachment system including the two attachment devices 200, 250 securely engages the storage container 150 to the vehicle 100 without the use of any tools, while providing a failsafe in the event that the active attachment device 250 is not properly engaged.

[0121] It is contemplated that a storage container assembly including the storage container 150 and the passive and active attachments 200, 250 may be provided as an aftermarket accessory. Although the post 230 has been described as forming part of the passive attachment 200, it is contemplated that, for example, in an embodiment where the storage container assembly is provided as a separate product from the vehicle 100, the passive attachment 200 of the storage container assembly comprises only the movable member 210 connected to the storage container 150.

[0122] Although the attachment system for the storage container 150 has been described herein in the context of a three-wheeled vehicle 100, it is contemplated that the attachment system may be a storage container for other types of vehicles. For example, motorcycles may also benefit from such a storage container and attachment system. Watercraft (i.e., boats) may also be provided with such a storage container and attachment system.

[0123] Modifications and improvements to the above-described embodiments of the present technology will be apparent to those skilled in the art.The foregoing description is intended to be illustrative rather than limiting.

Claims

1. An attachment system for attaching a storage container to a vehicle, the attachment system comprising: a passive attachment device for securing the storage container to the vehicle, the passive attachment device automatically securing the storage container to the vehicle when the storage container is positioned in a suitable position on the vehicle, the passive attachment device comprising a movable member configured to be movably connected to the bottom side of the storage container, the movable member being movable relative to the storage container between a latched position and an unlatched position; wherein: In the latched position, the movable member restricts removal of the storage container from the vehicle, and in the unlatched position, the movable member is not engaged with the vehicle, enabling removal of the storage container from the vehicle; and an active attachment device that is manually operated by a user to selectively lock the storage container in place on the vehicle when the storage container is secured to the vehicle by the passive attachment device, and when the active attachment device is engaged, the active attachment device prevents movement of the storage container relative to the vehicle so as to lock the storage container in place on the vehicle.

2. The attachment system of claim 1, wherein: When the storage container is secured to the vehicle by the passive attachment means and the storage container is unlocked from the vehicle by the active attachment means, the storage container has a limited range of motion relative to a frame of the vehicle.

3. The attachment system of claim 1, wherein: The passive attachment device further includes at least one post configured to be connected to the vehicle; the movable member defining at least one post receiving recess, the at least one post receiving recess each configured to receive a respective one of the at least one post therein; The at least one post receiving recess each has a first dimension at a first portion thereof and a second dimension at a second portion thereof; In the latched position of the movable member, the at least one post is each disposed in a first portion of a respective one of the at least one post receiving recess; In the unlatched position of the movable member, the at least one post is each disposed in a second portion of a respective one of the at least one post receiving recess; The at least one post receiving recess is dimensioned such that: When the at least one post is in the first portion of the at least one post receiving recess, the at least one post cannot be disengaged from the at least one post receiving recess; and The at least one post is disengageable from the at least one post receiving recess when the at least one post is in the second portion of the at least one post receiving recess.

4. The attachment system of claim 3, wherein: The at least one column is a plurality of columns; and The at least one post receiving recess is a plurality of post receiving recesses.

5. The attachment system of claim 4, wherein: The at least one column is two columns; and The at least one post receiving recess is two post receiving recesses.

6. An attachment system according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein: The movable member is configured to be slidably connected to a bottom side of the storage container.

7. An attachment system according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein: The passive attachment means further comprises: A biasing element is configured to be mounted between the storage container and the movable member to bias the movable member toward the latched position.

8. The attachment system of claim 7, wherein: The biasing element is a spring.

9. The attachment system of claim 3, wherein: The movable member automatically moves from the latched position to the unlatched position when the storage container is positioned in place on the vehicle.

10. The attachment system of claim 4, wherein: When the storage container is positioned in position on the vehicle, the at least one post interacts with the movable member to move the movable member from the latched position to the unlatched position, thereby receiving the at least one post in the at least one post receiving recess.

11. An attachment system according to any one of claims 3 to 5, 9 and 10, wherein: The movable member forms a handle for the user to move the movable member from the latched position to the unlatched position to remove the storage container from the vehicle.

12. The attachment system of claim 11, wherein: the storage container having a limited range of motion relative to a frame of the vehicle when the storage container is secured to the vehicle by the passive attachment means and the storage container is unlocked from the vehicle by the active attachment means; and When the storage container has a limited range of motion, the handle of the movable member may be accessible through a gap formed between the storage container and the frame of the vehicle.

13. An attachment system according to any one of claims 4, 5, 9 and 10, wherein: The movable member is configured to be connected to the storage container via a plurality of fasteners; and The movable member defines a plurality of guide slots for receiving corresponding fasteners therein for slidably connecting the movable member to the storage container, the fasteners being movable along the guide slots.

14. The attachment system of claim 1, wherein: The active attachment device includes: a quick connect actuator configured to be operated by the user; and a locking member operably connected to the quick connect actuator, the locking member being configured to be inserted into a locking opening defined by the vehicle, in: The quick connect actuator and the locking member are configured to be mounted to the storage container; the locking member being movable by the user between a locked position and an unlocked position via the quick connect actuator; In the locked position of the locking member, the locking member cannot be removed through the locking opening defined by the vehicle such that the active attachment device locks the storage container in place on the vehicle; and In the unlocked position of the locking member, the locking member is removable through the locking opening defined by the vehicle such that the active attachment device unlocks the storage container from the vehicle.

15. The attachment system of claim 14, wherein: The locking member is rotatable between the locked position and the unlocked position.

16. An attachment system according to claim 14 or 15, wherein: When the passive attachment device secures the storage container to the vehicle and the locking member is displaced to the unlocked position, the storage container remains secured to the vehicle by the passive attachment device.

17. An attachment system according to claim 14 or 15, wherein: The locking member of the active attachment device is configured to protrude from a bottom side of the storage container and be inserted into an opening defined by the vehicle; and The quick connect actuator is configured to be accessible through an interior space defined by the storage container.

18. The attachment system of claim 1, further comprising: a first connection structure configured to be connected to the vehicle; and a second connection structure configured to connect to the storage container, the second connection structure being engaged with and supported by the first connection structure when the storage container is positioned in position on the vehicle, The first connection structure and the second connection structure have complementary shapes to prevent the second connection structure from lifting upward when the second connection structure is engaged with the first connection structure.

19. The attachment system of claim 18, wherein: The first connection structure is one of a shaft assembly and a hook connector; and The second connection structure is the other of the shaft assembly and the hook connector.

20. An attachment system according to claim 18 or 19, wherein: The second connection structure is pivotable about an axis defined by the first connection structure.

21. A vehicle comprising: Frame; at least one front ground engaging member operably connected to the frame; at least one rear ground engaging member operably connected to the frame; a seat supported by the frame; a storage container supported by and secured to the frame; a passive attachment device that secures the storage container to the vehicle frame, the passive attachment device automatically securing the storage container to the vehicle frame when the storage container is positioned in an appropriate position, the passive attachment device comprising a movable member configured to be movably connected to the bottom side of the storage container, the movable member being movable relative to the storage container between a latched position and an unlatched position; wherein: In the latched position, the movable member restricts removal of the storage container from the vehicle, and in the unlatched position, the movable member is not engaged with the vehicle, enabling removal of the storage container from the vehicle; and An active attachment device that can be manually operated by a user to selectively lock the storage container in place when the storage container is secured to the frame by the passive attachment device. When the active attachment device is engaged, the active attachment device prevents the storage container from moving relative to the frame so as to lock the storage container in place.

22. The vehicle of claim 21, wherein: When the storage container is secured to the vehicle frame by the passive attachment means and the storage container is unlocked from the vehicle frame by the active attachment means, the storage container has a limited range of motion relative to the vehicle frame.

23. The vehicle of claim 21, wherein: The passive attachment device also includes at least one post connected to the frame; the movable member defining at least one post receiving recess, the at least one post receiving recess each configured to receive a respective one of the at least one post therein; The at least one post receiving recess each has a first dimension at a first portion thereof and a second dimension at a second portion thereof; In the latched position of the movable member, the at least one post is each disposed in a first portion of a respective one of the at least one post receiving recess; In the unlatched position of the movable member, the at least one post is each disposed in a second portion of a respective one of the at least one post receiving recess; The at least one post receiving recess is dimensioned such that: When the at least one post is in the first portion of the at least one post receiving recess, the at least one post cannot be disengaged from the at least one post receiving recess; and The at least one post is disengageable from the at least one post receiving recess when the at least one post is in the second portion of the at least one post receiving recess.

24. The vehicle of claim 23, wherein: The at least one column is a plurality of columns; and The at least one post receiving recess is a plurality of post receiving recesses.

25. The vehicle of claim 24, wherein: The at least one column is two columns; and The at least one post receiving recess is two post receiving recesses.

26. A vehicle according to any one of claims 21 to 25, wherein The movable member may be slidably connected to a bottom side of the storage container.

27. A vehicle according to any one of claims 21 to 25, wherein: The passive attachment means further comprises: A biasing element is mounted between the storage container and the movable member to bias the movable member toward the latched position.

28. The vehicle of claim 27, wherein: The biasing element is a spring.

29. The vehicle of claim 21, wherein: The movable member automatically moves from the latched position to the unlatched position when the storage container is positioned in place.

30. The vehicle of claim 23, wherein: When the storage container is positioned in place, the at least one post interacts with the movable member to move the movable member from the latched position to the unlatched position, thereby receiving the at least one post in the at least one post receiving recess.

31. A vehicle according to any one of claims 21 to 25, 29 and 30, wherein: The movable member forms a handle for the user to move the movable member from the latched position to the unlatched position to remove the storage container from the remainder of the vehicle.

32. The vehicle of claim 31, wherein: the storage container having a limited range of motion relative to the vehicle frame when the storage container is secured to the vehicle by the passive attachment means and the storage container is unlocked from the vehicle frame by the active attachment means; and When the storage container has a limited range of motion, the handle of the movable member may be accessible through a gap formed between the storage container and the vehicle frame.

33. A vehicle according to any one of claims 23 to 25, 29 and 30, wherein: The movable member is connected to the storage container via a plurality of fasteners; and The movable member has a plurality of guide grooves that receive corresponding ones of the fasteners therein for slidably connecting the movable member with the storage container, and the fasteners are movable along the guide grooves.

34. The vehicle of claim 21, wherein: The active attachment device comprises: a quick connect actuator configured to be operated by said user; and a locking member connected to the quick connect actuator, The quick connect actuator and the locking member are mounted to the storage container; in: The frame defines a locking opening through which the locking member is inserted; the locking member being movable by the user between a locked position and an unlocked position via the quick connect actuator; In the locked position of the locking member, the locking member cannot be removed through the locking opening such that the active attachment device locks the storage container in place; and In the unlocked position of the locking member, the locking member is removable through the locking opening such that the active attachment device unlocks the storage container from the rest of the vehicle.

35. The vehicle of claim 34, wherein: The locking member is rotatable between the locked position and the unlocked position.

36. A vehicle as claimed in claim 34 or 35, wherein: a locking member of the active attachment device protruding from a bottom side of the storage container; and The quick connect actuator is accessible through an interior space defined by the storage container.

37. The vehicle of claim 21, wherein: The vehicle also includes a first connection structure connected to the frame; The storage container includes a second connection structure that is engaged with and supported by the first connection structure; and The first connection structure and the second connection structure have complementary shapes to prevent the second connection structure from lifting upward when the second connection structure is engaged with the first connection structure.

38. The vehicle of claim 37, wherein: The first connection structure is one of a shaft assembly and a hook connector; and The second connection structure is the other of the shaft assembly and the hook connector.

39. A vehicle according to claim 37 or 38, wherein: The second connection structure is pivotable about an axis defined by the first connection structure.

40. The vehicle of claim 38, wherein: one of the shaft assembly and the hook connector being the shaft assembly; the other of the shaft assembly and the hook connector being the hook connector; The storage container has a front wall, a rear wall, a left side wall, and a right side wall, and the hook connector extends forward from the front wall of the storage container.

41. A vehicle as claimed in claim 38 or 40, wherein: The shaft assembly includes two shaft portions coaxially aligned with each other; The hook connector includes two hooks, each hook being supported by one of the two shaft portions of the shaft assembly.

42. A vehicle according to any one of claims 21 to 25, 29, 30, 34, 35, 37, 38 and 40, wherein: The storage container is disposed behind the seat.

43. The vehicle of claim 21, wherein: The storage container has a lid that at least partially encloses an interior space of the storage container, and at least a portion of the active attachment device is accessible from the interior space of the storage container.

44. A storage container assembly for a vehicle, comprising: a storage container defining an interior space, the storage container having a bottom side; a passive attachment device for securing the storage container to the vehicle, the passive attachment device being connected to the bottom side of the storage container, the passive attachment device automatically securing the storage container to the vehicle when the storage container is positioned in a suitable position on the vehicle, the passive attachment device comprising a movable member configured to be movably connected to the bottom side of the storage container, the movable member being movable relative to the storage container between a latched position and an unlatched position; wherein: In the latched position, the movable member restricts removal of the storage container from the vehicle, and in the unlatched position, the movable member is not engaged with the vehicle, enabling removal of the storage container from the vehicle; and an active attachment device that is manually operated by a user to selectively lock the storage container in place on the vehicle when the storage container is secured to the vehicle by the passive attachment device, and that, when engaged, prevents movement of the storage container relative to the vehicle so as to lock the storage container in place on the vehicle.

Images