Rear seat for a utility vehicle

Abstract

A vehicle includes a frame and a plurality of seats supported by the frame, including at least one front row of seats and at least one rear row of seats. The at least one rear row of seats includes a seat back and a seat bottom that are movable between a lowered position and a raised position. The raised position is defined by the seat back and seat bottom of the at least one rear row of seats being at a first vertical height. The lowered position is defined by the seat back and seat bottom of the at least one rear row of seats being longitudinally rearward of the at least one front row of seats and at a second vertical height, the first vertical height being greater than the second vertical height.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a removable rear seat assembly for a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] During the use of various vehicles, such as multi-purpose vehicles and all-terrain vehicles, having a rear seat that can be folded down when not in use can be beneficial. Various removable rear seat assemblies are known in the art, but they may often require the seats to be completely removed from the vehicle, may at least compromise the vehicle's cargo-carrying practicality, and / or may not optimize passenger comfort. Therefore, there remains a need for a rear seat assembly that has the ability to support at least one rear seat while maintaining comfort and safety, and can also be folded down to increase storage space. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In one embodiment of this disclosure, a vehicle includes a frame and a plurality of seats supported by the frame, the plurality of seats including at least one front seat and at least one rear seat. The at least one rear seat includes a seat back and a seat base. The seat back and the seat base are movable between a lowered position and a raised position. The raised position is defined when the seat back and seat base of the at least one rear seat are at a first vertical height, and the lowered position is defined when the seat base and seat back of the at least one rear seat are longitudinally rearward of the at least one front seat and at a second vertical height, the first vertical height being greater than the second vertical height.

[0004] In another embodiment of this disclosure, a vehicle includes: a frame; a plurality of ground-contacting members supporting the frame; a body assembly supported by the frame; a plurality of seats, including at least one front seat and at least one rear seat; and a frame assembly supporting at least the at least one rear seat. The frame assembly and the at least one rear seat are movable from a first position to a second position. In the first position, the vertical height of the frame assembly is greater than the vertical height of the at least one front seat, and the frame assembly is coupled to the vehicle frame at a first coupling position. In the second position, the frame assembly is at least partially located longitudinally rear of the at least one front seat, and the frame assembly is coupled to the frame at a second coupling position. The second coupling position is spaced apart from the first coupling position.

[0005] In another embodiment of this disclosure, the vehicle includes: a frame supporting an operator area having a plurality of seats, including at least one rear seat and at least one front seat, the at least one rear seat being movable from a raised position to a lowered position; a plurality of ground-contacting members supporting the frame; a body assembly including a plurality of body panels supporting the frame; and a cargo assembly supported by the frame. The cargo assembly includes at least two upwardly extending side panels, a base, and a movable panel extending upwardly from the base. The movable panel is movable from a first position to a second position such that, when in the first position, the longitudinal length of the cargo assembly increases, and when in the second position, the longitudinal length of the cargo assembly decreases relative to that in the first position. When the rear seat is in the raised position, the movable panel is in either the first or the second position, and when the rear seat is in the lowered position, the movable panel is in the second position. Attached Figure Description

[0006] The above and other features of the invention, as well as the ways in which they are implemented, will become clearer and the invention itself will be better understood by referring to the following description of embodiments of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0007] Figure 1 It is a left front perspective view of a multi-purpose vehicle including multiple front and rear seats;

[0008] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Left rear perspective view of a multi-purpose vehicle, with the cargo component in the first or neutral position;

[0009] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Left rear perspective view of a multi-purpose vehicle, with the cargo component in a second or tilted position and the rear seats in a raised or first position;

[0010] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 Left side view of a multi-purpose vehicle;

[0011] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A top view of a multi-purpose vehicle;

[0012] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 Left side view of a multi-purpose vehicle, with multiple rear seats in the first position;

[0013] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Left side view of a multi-purpose vehicle with multiple rear seats in the second position;

[0014] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 Left-side view of a multi-purpose vehicle with multiple rear seats in the third position;

[0015] Figure 9 yes Figure 1 A left-side view of a multi-purpose vehicle, with multiple front seats in a forward-facing position and multiple rear seats in a forward-facing position. Figure 8 The third position;

[0016] Figure 10 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the cargo components of a multi-purpose vehicle;

[0017] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 Exploded view of the cargo components of a multi-purpose vehicle;

[0018] Figure 12 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a portion of a multi-purpose vehicle, showing Figure 8 Multiple rear seats are positioned as the third position and cargo components are located in... Figure 2 The first position;

[0019] Figure 13 yes Figure 1 A left-side view of a portion of a multi-purpose vehicle, showing Figure 7 Several rear seats are in the second position;

[0020] Figure 14 yes Figure 1 A left-side view of a portion of a multi-purpose vehicle, showing Figure 6 Multiple rear seats are positioned in the first position;

[0021] Figure 15 yes Figure 1 A left-side view of the multi-purpose vehicle, showing the modified upper frame components and Figure 6 The multiple rear seats are positioned in the first position;

[0022] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 A left-side view of a multi-purpose vehicle, showing Figure 6 Several rear seats are in the second position;

[0023] Figure 17 yes Figure 15 A left-side view of a multi-purpose vehicle, showing Figure 6 Multiple rear seats are in the first position and the cargo assembly is in the first position;

[0024] Figure 18 yes Figure 15A left-side view of the multi-purpose vehicle, showing the cargo assembly in the second position;

[0025] Figure 19 yes Figure 15 A left-side view of a multi-purpose vehicle supporting at least one accessory;

[0026] Figure 20 yes Figure 15 Another left-side view of a multi-purpose vehicle supporting at least one accessory;

[0027] Figure 21 yes Figure 15 Another left-side view of a multi-purpose vehicle supporting at least one accessory;

[0028] Figure 22 yes Figure 15 A left rear perspective view of a multi-purpose vehicle supporting at least one accessory, showing the cargo assembly in a second position.

[0029] Figure 23 This is a left-side view of a multi-purpose vehicle with modified upper frame components;

[0030] Figure 24 yes Figure 1 Another left-side view of a multi-purpose vehicle with modified upper frame components;

[0031] Figure 25 This is an additional left-side view of a multi-purpose vehicle with modified upper frame components; and

[0032] Figure 26 yes Figure 1 Another left-side view of the multi-purpose vehicle, featuring a modified upper frame assembly.

[0033] Throughout these views, corresponding reference numerals indicate the corresponding parts. Unless otherwise stated, the figures are to scale. Detailed Implementation

[0034] The embodiments disclosed below are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather, these embodiments were chosen and described to enable those skilled in the art to utilize their teachings. While this disclosure is primarily directed toward multi-purpose vehicles, it should be understood that the features disclosed herein are applicable to any vehicle, whether configured for off-road or on-road use. For example, this disclosure applies to off-road vehicles having one or more ground contact members and continuously variable transmissions (CVTs), including but not limited to all-terrain vehicles, agricultural vehicles, industrial vehicles, tractors, three-wheeled vehicles, and golf carts, and equally to tractors, agricultural vehicles and equipment, industrial vehicles and equipment, and on-road vehicles such as cars, trucks, SUVs, etc.

[0035] See Figure 1 This illustration shows an exemplary embodiment of a multi-purpose vehicle 2. Vehicle 2 is configured for off-road operation; however, this disclosure is not limited to such vehicles. Vehicle 2 includes a plurality of front ground contact members 4 (shown as front wheels) and a plurality of rear ground contact members 6 (shown as rear wheels). In one embodiment, one or more of the ground contact members 4, 6 may be replaced by tracks, such as Prospector II tracks available from Polaris Industries, Inc., 2100 Highway 55 in Medina, MN 55340; or by non-pneumatic tires, such as those shown in U.S. Patent Nos. 8,176,957 and 8,104,524, the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0036] Vehicle 2 further includes a frame assembly 10 defined by a lower frame assembly 12, which is supported by a front ground contact member 4 and a rear ground contact member 6. Additionally, in one embodiment, vehicle 2 may include an upper frame assembly 14 extending vertically above the lower frame assembly 12. The upper frame assembly 14 may include a vertically extending frame member 14a, a laterally extending frame member 14b, and a longitudinally extending frame member 14c. In various embodiments, the upper frame assembly 14 may include additional frame members, such as frame members extending between the laterally extending frame member 14b and / or the longitudinally extending frame member 14c. In some embodiments, diagonally extending frame members or downwardly extending frame members may be incorporated. The lower frame assembly 12 supports a cargo assembly 70 and a vehicle body 20, which includes multiple body panels, such as a hood, front fenders, rear fenders, etc.

[0037] like Figure 2As shown, the upper frame assembly 14 includes two pairs of longitudinally extending frame members 14c. More specifically, the upper frame assembly 14 includes a rear pair 17 of longitudinally extending frame members 14c, which is located longitudinally rear of the front pair 19 of longitudinally extending frame members 14c. As shown, the front pair 19 and the rear pair 17 of the longitudinally extending frame members 14c are connected to each other at the rearmost extent of each of the front pair 19 and the forwardmost extent of each of the rear pair 17. In this way, and as further described, the front pair 19 of the longitudinally extending frame members 14c can be positioned above the front portion of the operator area 22, while the rear pair 17 of the longitudinally extending frame members 14c is positioned above the rear seat portion of the operator area 22. Thus, the configuration of the upper frame assembly 14 can be described as a "one-layer" configuration, since the front pair 19 and the rear pair 17 of the longitudinally extending frame members 14c extend upward to approximately equal heights. However, various other configurations with longitudinally extending frame members 14c can be combined, as will be referred to in the following figures. Figures 15 to 18 Further description.

[0038] Vehicle 2 also includes an operator area 22 comprising multiple seats. Operator area 22 further includes multiple operator controls 24, such as a steering wheel 26, through which the operator can provide input to operate vehicle 2. Various operator controls, including a steering assembly, are further described in International Patent Application No. PCT / US13 / 64516 (Attorney's File No. PLR-15-25448.04P-WO), filed October 11, 2013, the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0039] See still Figure 1 Vehicle 2 includes a front suspension assembly (not shown) and a rear suspension assembly (not shown), both of which are supported by a lower frame assembly 12. Both the front and rear suspension assemblies include shock absorbers. Additional details of the rear and front suspension assemblies may be disclosed in the following documents: U.S. Patent No. 9,566,858 (Attorney's File No. PLR-15-26601.01P), published February 14, 2017, and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 226,797 (Attorney's File No. PLR-15-28340.05P-US), filed December 20, 2018, the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0040] See still Figure 1Vehicle 2 further includes a powertrain assembly (not shown), supported by the lower frame assembly 12 and comprising at least a prime mover (shown as an engine) (not shown), a gear train (which may be configured as or include a shiftable transmission, not shown), and a continuously variable transmission (“CVT”) (not shown). The powertrain assembly may further include a final drive or differential, such as a front drive and / or a rear drive. It is understood that vehicle 2 can have any powertrain configuration, such as an internal combustion engine, a hybrid system, or an electric powertrain. Furthermore, while a CVT is noted as an option for the powertrain assembly, any transmission or gearbox, such as a shiftable transmission, can be used.

[0041] The engine may be located behind the operator area 22. Although the prime mover is disclosed as an engine, it may be any type of device configured to power vehicle 2, such as an electric motor, a fuel-based engine, a hybrid engine, a generator, etc. The engine may be of any size and include any number of cylinders, such as one, two, three, four, six, or eight cylinders.

[0042] See still Figure 1The operator area 22 includes multiple seats, shown as a front seat 40 for an operator and one or more passengers and a rear seat 46 for one or more passengers. In some embodiments, the operator area 22 is exposed to ambient air and is not completely enclosed, while in other embodiments, the operator area 22 may be at least partially enclosed by the roof, doors, windshield, and / or (a plurality of) other components. An upper frame assembly 14 may be generally positioned around the operator area 22 such that the front seat 40 and the rear seat 46 are at least partially surrounded by the upper frame assembly 14. More specifically, and as previously described, the longitudinally extending frame members 14c front pair 19 may at least partially surround the front seat 40, and the longitudinally extending frame members 14c rear pair 17 may at least partially surround the rear seat 46. The upper frame assembly 14 may be configured such that the view of one or more passengers in the front seat 40 or the rear seat 46 is not obstructed by the upper frame assembly 14. In various embodiments, the front seat 40 may include at least one front seat 40. In various embodiments, the front seats 40 may include two front seats 40, such as a first front seat 40a and a second front seat 40b. The rear seats 46 may include at least one rear seat 46. In various embodiments, the rear seats 46 may include at least two rear seats 46, such as a first rear seat 46a and a second rear seat 46b. Each front seat 40 includes a seat base 42 and a seat back 44, and each rear seat 46 includes a seat base 48 and a seat back 50. The front seats 40 and rear seats 46 may be configured as individual bucket seats or as bench seats. The rear seats 46 may be positioned in a lowered or raised position such that each seat base 48 and seat back 50 can be in a lowered or raised position, as further described herein. In various embodiments, the vehicle 2 may include only a single rear seat 46 or may include multiple rear seat assemblies, such that two or more rear seats are used. For example, the vehicle 2 may include two rows of rear seats 46 to accommodate at least four rear seats. For the purposes of this disclosure, the rear seat 46 will be described as including two rear seats, but any variations as described above may be used with reference to the description herein.

[0043] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, vehicle 2 includes a frame assembly 60, also referred to herein as a frame member, supporting at least one of the rear seats 46. The frame member 60 may include a vertically extending frame member 60a on either side of the seat back 50 and a laterally extending frame member 60b extending across the rear portion of the seat back 50. The frame member 60 may also extend to support at least a portion of the seat base 48, and / or may include additional frame members 60 for supporting the seat base 48. Although shown in a lowered position, the rear seats 46 may be in a raised position, as will be seen in… Figure 3 Further described. In these embodiments, the first rear seat 46a and the second rear seat 46b, along with the frame member 60, are connected such that the rear seats 46 and the frame member 60 move together to form a modular assembly. The frame member 60 of the rear seat 46 is configured to provide structure for the rear seat 46 when it is in a lowered position and to provide additional headroom frame when it is in a raised position.

[0044] Frame member 60 is configured to be pivotally but fixedly or permanently connected to upper frame assembly 14. For example, vehicle 2 includes at least two connectors 58 and at least two linear force elements, such as damping members 59, which connect vertically extending frame member 60a to upper frame assembly 14, specifically the vertically extending frame member 14a of upper frame assembly 14, and secure to rear seat 46 in both raised and lowered positions. In various embodiments, vehicle 2 includes three or more connectors 58 and / or three or more damping members 59. Connectors 58 can be connected to frame member 60 by fastening elements such as hinges or pins to allow frame member 60 to be pivotally or hingedly connected to upper frame assembly 14. Thus, rear seat 46 can be lowered from a ( Figure 1 and Figure 2 Pivot to the elevated position ( Figure 3 Meanwhile, it is connected to the upper frame assembly 14 via connector 58.

[0045] Similar to connector 58, damping member 59 remains connected to frame member 60 and upper frame assembly 14 (because damping member 59 can extend or retract during the transition from a lowered position to an raised position), while remaining fixed to frame member 60 and upper frame assembly 14. Damping member 59 extends from each vertically extending frame member 14a of upper frame assembly 14 to a portion of frame member 60 and can function to offset the rear seat 46 away from the vertically extending members 14a from which damping member 59 extends. Thus, when the rear seat 46 is manually actuated from a raised position to a lowered position, damping member 59 can absorb the downward force of the rear seat 46 and protect frame member 60 and upper frame assembly 14 from impact, as will be seen in [reference needed]. Figures 6 to 8Further description. It can be understood that the damping member 59 can be configured as any linear force element, such as a shock absorber or strut.

[0046] Vehicle 2 further includes a connector 52 defining at least a first connecting member positioned on one of the laterally extending frame members 14b and at a vertical height greater than that of the front seat 40. The connector 52 is a receiving portion of the seatbelt assembly, shown as a recessed connector for the seatbelt assembly, configured to engage with a latch 53 of the seatbelt assembly. Figure 12 The latch 53 can be reversibly engaged. The latch 53 may be a second connecting member attached to the rear seat 46. For example, the latch 53 is shown as a convex connector for a seatbelt assembly. The latch 53 is connected to the frame member 60 of the rear seat 46 by one of various conventional connecting means, such as, but not limited to, adhesives and fasteners.

[0047] In various embodiments, the coupling 52 includes a belt portion that, when manually actuated by an operator and / or passenger, can extend outward with the coupling 52 relative to the lateral extension frame member 14b to facilitate engagement with the latch 53. When the coupling 52 and latch 53 are disengaged by the operator and / or passenger, the belt portion can retract into the coupling 52 to reduce the space occupied by the coupling 52 and the belt portion. In various embodiments, the belt portion can be coupled to the latch 53 to facilitate the latch 53 extending outward relative to the rear seat 46 to engage with the coupling 52. In these embodiments, when disengaged, the belt portion can retract into the latch 53. In some cases, both the coupling 52 and the latch 53 include a belt portion. The belt portion can be a seatbelt assembly belt, rope, cord, or any other suitable extension mechanism.

[0048] Vehicle 2 further includes at least one attachment assembly 54 located on at least one vertically extending frame member 14a of the upper frame assembly 14. In other words, this at least one attachment assembly 54 is longitudinally rearward of the front seat 40 and laterally outward relative to the rear seat 46. Thus, this at least one attachment assembly 54 may be outside the field of vision of any passenger in the rear seat 46. Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the illustrative embodiment, vehicle 2 includes two attachment components 54. Attachment components 54 illustratively include a first coupling member, such as a recessed connector for a seatbelt assembly, configured to be removably coupled to a second coupling member (shown as a plurality of connectors 55 on the frame member 60 of the rear seat 46). The connectors 55 (shown as convex connectors for the seatbelt assembly) are coupled to the frame member 60 of the rear seat 46 and can be coupled to the frame member 60 via conventional coupling members (such as, but not limited to, adhesives and fasteners).

[0049] Similar to connector 52 and latch 53, in various embodiments, attachment assembly 54 includes one or more belt portions that can extend outward relative to the vertically extending frame member 14a together with attachment assembly 54 to facilitate engagement between attachment assembly 54 and connector 55. When disengaged by an operator and / or passenger, the belt portions can retract into attachment assembly 54 to reduce the space occupied by attachment assembly 54. In various embodiments, the one or more belt portions are coupled to connector 55, and connector 55 is capable of extending outward relative to rear seat 46 when actuated by an operator and / or passenger. In these embodiments, when disengaged, the one or more belt portions can retract into connector 55.

[0050] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the illustrative embodiment, the rear seat 46 is shown in a lowered position and engaged with two attachment components 54, while the connector 52 is disengaged from the rear seat 46. In other words, after the rear seat 46 is lowered, the connector 55 is engaged with the attachment components 54 by being manually inserted into them by an operator and / or (or multiple) passengers. This defines a first engagement position in which the engagement of the frame member 60 with the upper frame assembly 14 occurs longitudinally rearward of the front seat 40. This is achieved by the connector 52 and the latch 53 attached to the rear seat 46. Figure 12 The connector 52 can be disengaged manually. Specifically, the connector 52 may include a button, wherein actuation of the button allows release of the connector 52, but various other release mechanisms may be incorporated. Although in Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the illustrative embodiment, the connector 52 and attachment assembly 54 are generally shown as a seatbelt attachment assembly between the rear seat 46 and the upper frame assembly 14; however, various other embodiments of the connector 52 and attachment assembly 54 may still be used. For example, the connector 52 and / or attachment assembly 54 may be configured as a kink, buckle, latch, or any other suitable coupling or latching mechanism. Although the illustrative connector 52 and attachment assembly 54 are shown as a manual, seatbelt-type coupling assembly, it is understood that any other type of coupling assembly, whether manual, magnetic, hydraulic, electronic, or otherwise, may be used.

[0051] In some embodiments, each of the attachment components 54 may include a speed sensor, such that a speed limit can be applied to the vehicle 2 when the attachment component 54 engages with the rear seat 46 to indicate that the rear seat 46 is in a lowered position. In these embodiments, the vehicle 2 cannot operate at speeds exceeding a predetermined speed limit based on whether the seatbelt sensor is activated. For example, the vehicle 2 may be configured such that when the speed sensor is activated by engagement of the attachment component 54, the vehicle 2 cannot operate at speeds exceeding a value of 30 to 50 miles per hour. In some embodiments, the speed limit may be 40 miles per hour. This allows for enhanced safety based on whether a passenger is in the rear seat 46 of the vehicle 2 and whether the attachment component 54 is being used.

[0052] At least as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, vehicle 2 further includes a cargo assembly 70 positioned behind the rear seats 46 and above at least a portion of the rear ground contact member 6. The cargo assembly 70 can be configured to support tools, accessories, or products intended to be transported by vehicle 2. Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the illustrative embodiment, the cargo assembly 70 is in a first neutral position, such that the cargo assembly 70 is relatively flat or horizontal and along the longitudinal axis L ( Figure 1 The cargo assembly 70 can be pivoted to a second tilted position, such that at least a portion of the cargo assembly 70 (e.g., the base or floor) is angled relative to the longitudinal axis L. In various configurations, it can be advantageous for the operator to empty the contents of the cargo assembly 70 by moving it to the tilted position, which can be easily actuated by pivoting the rear seat 46 to a raised position, as referenced. Figure 3 Further description. As should be understood herein, the rear seat 46 is located within a portion of the cargo assembly 70 when in the lowered position, and such that it can be pivoted or rotated to the raised position when it is necessary to tilt the cargo assembly 70 and / or utilize the maximum longitudinal length of the cargo assembly 70.

[0053] Figure 3This is a rear perspective view of vehicle 2, which includes a rear seat 46 in a raised position. In this configuration, frame member 60 is disengaged from attachment assembly 54, vertically raised, and fastened to longitudinal extension member 14a by connector 52. In this way, connector 52 holds the rear seat 46 in the raised position. This connection between connector 52 and frame member 60 defines a second connection position spaced apart from the first connection position, wherein frame member 60 is connected to upper frame assembly 14 at a vertical height greater than that of front seat 40. The first vertical height of rear seat 46 is greater than that of front seat 40 and other components within operator area 22, and when in the raised position, at least a portion of rear seat 46 is longitudinally aligned with at least a portion of upper frame assembly 14. Additionally, when rear seat 46 is in the raised position, the first vertical height of frame member 60 is greater than that of front seat 40. Furthermore, the shock-absorbing member 59 and the coupling 52 are used to support the rear seat 46 in a raised position. For example, as previously described, the coupling 52 can engage with the latch 53 of the rear seat 46 ( Figure 12 Engagement. Thus, the operator can raise the rear seat 46 to the raised position and manually engage the connector 52 and latch 53 by inserting the latch 53 into the connector 52. Since the connector 52 is fastened to at least one of the lateral extension frame members 14b of the upper frame assembly 14, engagement of the connector 52 secures the rear seat 46 in the raised position and thus secures the rear seat 46 to the at least one lateral extension frame member 14b. Additionally, a shock absorber 59 extends from a vertical extension member 14a of the upper frame assembly 14 and biases the rear seat 46 away from the vertical extension member 14a from which the shock absorber 59 extends. As shown in the raised position, the shock absorber 59 extends to maintain connection with and support the rear seat 46 while engaging the at least one lateral extension frame member 14b. In the raised position, the frame member 60 (specifically the longitudinally extending frame member 60b) together with the seat back 50 of the rear seat 46 defines an additional headspace frame or structure above the cargo assembly 70.

[0054] like Figure 3The cargo assembly 70 shown includes a base plate or base 72, a plurality of side panels 74 extending vertically upward from the base 72, a movable front panel 76 extending vertically upward from the base 72, and a rear panel 78 extending vertically upward from the base 72. In one embodiment, the rear panel 78 may define a movable reargate. The movable front panel 76 is positioned relative to the rear panel 78 at the foremost position of the cargo assembly 70, and the longitudinal length between the panels 76 and 78 defines the longitudinal length of the cargo assembly 70. In this embodiment, the side panels 74 include a first side panel 74a opposite a second side panel 74b, both of which extend generally parallel to the longitudinal axis L and generally perpendicular to the panels 76 and 78. The rear panel 78 is located at the rearmost position of the cargo assembly 70, extends upward from the base 72, and extends between the first side panel 74a and the second side panel 74b. In various embodiments, as will be further described herein, the movable front panel 76 may be positioned at different locations within the cargo assembly 70 such that it may not be positioned at the foremost point of the cargo assembly 70 relative to the rear panel 78. For example, the movable front panel 76 may be positioned within the central portion of the cargo assembly 70 such that the base 72 and a portion of the side panel 74 define the foremost portion of the cargo assembly 70.

[0055] When the rear seat 46 is in position Figure 3 When in the raised position, the front portion of the cargo assembly 70 is vertically below the rear seat 46 when the rear seat 46 is in the lowered and raised positions. For example, in some embodiments, in the raised and lowered positions of the rear seat 46, the rear seat 46 is positioned above the foremost half of the base 72 (as defined in the longitudinal direction).

[0056] exist Figure 3 In this configuration, it is further clarified that the cargo assembly 70 is also in a tilted position. Since the rear seats 46 have been rotated to a raised position and at least a portion of the rear seats 46 are longitudinally aligned with the upper frame assembly 14, the cargo assembly 70 can be tilted to provide easier emptying. The tilting of the cargo assembly 70 also facilitates access to components of the vehicle 2, such as the engine or other powertrain components. The upper frame assembly 14 and the rear seats 46 are configured such that they do not interfere with the cargo assembly when it is tilted. As shown, in the tilted position, the front end of the cargo assembly 70 is raised, while the rear end of the cargo assembly 70 can be lowered, causing the cargo assembly 70 to be angled relative to the longitudinal axis L. Specifically, the longitudinal axis Y of the base 72 of the cargo assembly 70 is tilted at an angle θ relative to the longitudinal axis L of the vehicle 2. In various embodiments, the angle θ between the longitudinal axis Y and the longitudinal axis X ranges from 0 degrees to 90 degrees. In a preferred embodiment, the angle θ is approximately 45 degrees.

[0057] Figure 4 This is a left-side view of vehicle 2, with the rear seat 46 in a lowered position. As shown, the rear seat 46 is directly above at least a portion of the rear grounding member 6. In the lowered position, the second vertical height of the rear seat 46 is less than the first vertical height of the rear seat 46. Furthermore, the second vertical height of the frame member 60 is less than the first vertical height of the frame member 60. An operator is located in the first front seat 40a, and passengers can be located in the first rear seat 46a. A first line of sight, or line of sight A, defines the operator's line of sight. A second line of sight, or line of sight B, defines the line of sight of at least one passenger in the rear seat 46 (shown as the first front seat 46a). The first line of sight A is vertically below the second line of sight B. This is because the seat base 48 of each of the first rear seat 46a and the second rear seat 46b is vertically above each seat base 42 of the first front seat 40a and the second front seat 40b. In other words, the vertical height of the seat base 48 of the rear seat 46 relative to the ground is greater than the vertical height of the seat base 42 of the front seat 40, thus defining a seating configuration that allows rear passengers to generally see those in the front seats 40. In this way, by positioning the rear seat 46 vertically higher than the front seats 40, the field of vision of passengers in the rear seat 46 is increased, so that even when at least the operator is in the first front seat 40a, the field of vision of passengers in the rear seats is not affected. The upper frame assembly 14 is configured such that the front seats 40 and the rear seats 46 each include vertical distances between the front seats 40 and the respective frame members of the upper frame assembly 14. For example, although the rear seat 46 is positioned vertically higher than the front seats 40, the vertical distances between the seat base 42 and the upper frame assembly 14 (e.g., longitudinally extending frame member 14c), and between the seat base 48 and the upper frame assembly 14 (e.g., longitudinally extending frame member 14c), are substantially the same. The upper frame component 14 may include different profiles and configurations to accommodate this configuration.

[0058] Figure 5 A top view shows vehicle 2, the operator in the first front seat 40a, the passenger in the second front seat 40b, the passenger in the first rear seat 46a, and the passenger in the second rear seat 46b. Similar to... Figure 4As shown, a first line of sight A is illustrated for each of the first front seats 40a and the second front seats 40b. The first lines of sight A are generally parallel to each other and laterally spaced by a distance corresponding to the distance between the first front seats 40a and the second front seats 40b (e.g., the lateral distance is approximately equal to the lateral distance between the lateral midpoints of each front seat 40). Furthermore, a second line of sight B for the first rear seat 46a is shown extending in front of the passenger in the first rear seat 46a. The second lines of sight B also extend from the passenger in the second rear seat 46b, such that each second line of sight B extends parallel to each other and is laterally spaced by a distance corresponding to the distance between the first rear seats 46a and the second rear seats 46b (e.g., the lateral distance is approximately equal to the lateral distance between the lateral midpoints of each rear seat 46b). In addition to... Figure 4 The vertical height of the second line of sight B shown is greater than the vertical height of the first line of sight A to increase the field of vision of the rear seat 46. Figure 5 The lateral spacing between the first line of sight A and the second line of sight B is shown. In these embodiments, each second line of sight B is laterally closer to the longitudinal axis L of the vehicle 2 than the first line of sight A, such that the first line of sight A is laterally outside the second line of sight B. This staggered positioning is achieved because the rear seat 46 is positioned closer to the longitudinal axis L of the vehicle 2 compared to the positioning of the front seat 40. In these embodiments, the lateral and vertical staggered positioning of the rear seat 46 and the front seat 40 can increase passenger comfort and experience by increasing the field of vision of passengers in the rear seat 46.

[0059] also, Figure 4 and Figure 5 The aforementioned positioning of the rear seat 46 relative to the front seat 40, as shown in the diagram, allows for a consistent wheelbase length 90 regardless of whether the rear seat 46 is in a lowered position. Since the rear seat 46 is located within a portion of the cargo assembly 70, when the rear seat is in a lowered position, the vehicle 2 accommodates rear passengers on the rear seat 46, and thus the cargo area / volume of the cargo assembly 70 is reduced. Conversely, when the rear seat 46 is in a raised position, the cargo area / volume of the cargo assembly 70 can be maximized. In this way, since the rear seat 46 is raised and lowered within the existing cargo area, the wheelbase length 90 does not change to accommodate rear passengers; instead, space for rear passengers can be obtained by only reducing the available cargo area / volume. This is preferable for allowing the vehicle 2 to be more compact and reducing modifications to the vehicle 2 that require the rear seat 46. The transition of the rear seat 46 from a raised to a lowered position will refer to... Figures 6 to 8 Further details will be provided.

[0060] Figure 6The left-side view of vehicle 2 is shown, with the various body panels of vehicle body 20 omitted and the rear seats 46 in a raised position, where the rear seats 46 are not currently needed to support any rear passengers. The omission of the various body panels allows the cargo assembly 70 and deflection member 66 to be shown in dashed lines. (See previously...) Figure 3 The coupling 52 and damping member 59 assist in supporting the rear seat 46 when in the raised position. The rear seat 46 and therefore the frame member 60 are at least partially longitudinally aligned with the upper frame assembly 14. As previously stated... Figure 4 As mentioned, the upper frame assembly 14 is configured to maintain the vertical distance between the seat base 42 of the front seat 40 and the seat base 48 of the rear seat 46 and the longitudinally extending frame member 14c, respectively, when the rear seat 46 is in the lowered position. Similarly, when in such a position... Figure 6 In the raised position, the vertical distance between the seat base 42 and the longitudinally extending frame member 14c remains consistent with the vertical distance between the seat base 42 and the upper frame assembly 14 in the lowered position. In this way, the available space above one or more passengers in the front seats 46 can be consistent regardless of whether the rear seats 46 are in the raised or lowered position.

[0061] As previously mentioned, because the rear seats 46 are in a raised position, the cargo area within the cargo module 70 or the space available for supporting cargo can be optimized. For example, in Figure 6 In this configuration, because the cargo assembly 70 is in a neutral position, its cargo volume or area is maximized, and because the rear seat 46 is not in a lowered position, the movable panel 76 is positioned at the foremost part of the base 72 of the cargo assembly 70. This reduces the seating area within the cargo assembly 70 available for the rear seat 46 to be incorporated. Therefore, because the movable panel 76 is located at the foremost part of the base 72, the cargo assembly 70 has a first base length 94 extending across the base 72 between the movable panel 76 and the rear panel 78, thereby defining the maximum cargo area of ​​the cargo assembly 70. The first base length 94 extends from the foremost part to the rearmost part of the base 72. See also... Figures 7 to 8 Further described, the length of the first base 94 is greater than the length of the second base of the cargo assembly 70 defined when the rear seat 46 is in the lowered position.

[0062] For example, Figure 7 Vehicle 2 is shown, in which various body panels are omitted and the rear seats 46 are in a repositioned position. In this position, the rear seats 46 are partially lowered, causing the seat back 50 to lower, but the seat base or bottom 48 is not fully lowered. Figure 7As shown, the attachment assembly 54 engages to secure the frame member 60 of the rear seat 46 to the vertical extension member 14a of the upper frame assembly 14. After releasing or disengaging the coupling 52, the rear seat 46 can pivot from a raised position to a lowered position. Furthermore, the shock-absorbing member 59 secures the upper frame assembly 14 and the frame member 60 of the rear seat 46 and is configured to compress or extend depending on the position of the rear seat 46. Exemplarily, as... Figure 6 As shown, the shock absorber 59 is compressed. The shock absorber 59 also helps absorb the impacts released and reduced by the rear seat 46, which can reduce degradation and / or damage to the frame member 60 and the upper frame assembly 14.

[0063] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, when the rear seat 46 is desired to be in a lowered position, the movable panel 76 must move from the foremost edge of the base 72 to accommodate the rear seat 46. Therefore, the movable panel 76 can be removed from this position on the base 72 and moved rearward to a position near the longitudinal center of the base 72, such that the position of the movable panel 76 relative to... Figure 6 The movable panel 76 is positioned relatively rearward. In these configurations, when the rear seat 46 is lowered to the reversible position, the frame member 60 and seat back 50 of the rear seat 46 extend downward into the cargo assembly 70 and are located in front of the movable panel 76. As the seating area within the cargo assembly 70 that can accommodate the rear seat 46 increases, this reduces the available storage space or cargo area of ​​the cargo assembly 70 (which is defined by the longitudinal distance between the movable panel 76 and the rear panel 78). Therefore, it is possible to accommodate the rear seat 46 within the cargo assembly 70 while also retaining some storage space for supporting and carrying tools, accessories, and other desired cargo. In these embodiments, the second base length 96 defines the available cargo length of the cargo assembly 70, and as shown, the second base length 96 is less than Figure 6 The first base shown is 94 cm long. As previously mentioned, the seat base 48 is not yet lowered during this change of position and requires further manual actuation to position it in the lowered position.

[0064] Figure 8 Vehicle 2 is shown, with the various body panels of the vehicle body 20 omitted to demonstrate the positioning of the rear seat 46 in the lowered position. In this configuration, the seat base 48 of the rear seat 46 has changed from extending generally vertically upward in the shifted position to extending longitudinally and generally parallel to the base 72 of the cargo assembly 70 in the lowered position. Figure 7The repositioning is similarly illustrated. In the lowered position, the seat base 48 of the rear seat 46 is directly above a portion of the base 72 of the cargo assembly 70. In one embodiment, the seat base 48 is directly above approximately the longitudinal front half of the base 72. The movable panel 76 is located behind the seat back 50 of the rear seat 46, such that the cargo assembly 70 still retains some available storage space extending between the movable panel 76 and the rear panel 78 (as defined by the second base length 96).

[0065] The rear seat 46 further includes multiple handles 62 for passengers, such as Figure 12 Additionally, positioning each handle 62 near the seat base 48, rather than in front of the rear seat 46 or on the rear surface of the front seat 40, can free up space in front of the passenger to increase legroom or armroom, and / or for storing or supporting accessories or cargo within the cargo assembly 70. In various embodiments, the handle 62 can be positioned on either side of the first rear seat 46a and the second rear seat 46b ( Figure 5 Furthermore, the handle 62 is integrated with the frame member 60 of the rear seat 46, such that each handle 62 is adjacent to the seat base 50 of the rear seat 46 in both the raised and lowered positions. The vehicle 2 also includes deflecting members 66 positioned near the rear seat 46. These deflecting members can be configured to at least protect rear passengers from mud or debris entering the rear seat 46, thus providing additional protection for rear passengers on either side of the vehicle 2. Additionally, as... Figures 6 to 8 As shown, vehicle 2 includes a rear footrest space 49 for the rear seats 46. The rear footrest space 49 extends forward from various vertically extending frame members 14a (e.g., the central vertical member 15 of the upper frame assembly 14) and can extend at least partially below the front seats 40 to provide increased space for rear passengers to place their feet when they are in the rear seats 46. The rear footrest space 49 can also provide space for storing various cargo items and / or accessories. For example, when the rear seats 46 are not in use, one or more front passengers can use the rear footrest space 49 to store bags, tools, coolers, and / or various other cargo items. In some embodiments, the rear footrest space 49 extends laterally across the width of the lower frame assembly 12 of vehicle 2 at a vertical height equal to or less than the vertical height of the seat base 42 of the front seats 40. The rear footwell 49 may have a generally flat and / or horizontal surface configuration to accommodate cargo storage and increase the ease with which rear passengers can enter or exit the vehicle 2, as referenced. Figure 9 Further described. In other embodiments, the rear footwell 49 may have an inclined, curved, or any other suitable configuration.

[0066] Figure 9 Vehicle 2 is shown, in which at least one front seat 40 is in a tilted position, such that at least one of the first front seat 40a and the second front seat 40b is tilted forward. This allows the creation of a passageway to the rear seats 46, providing easy access for passengers. This passageway provides passengers with a method of entering and exiting the rear seats 46. In some embodiments, a rear footrest 49 is positioned within the passageway, allowing rear passengers to stand on and be supported by the rear footrest 49 when entering or exiting the rear seats 46. As previously mentioned, the generally flat and level surface of the rear footrest 49 increases the ease with which passengers can access the rear seats 46 and / or the cargo assembly 70. In these embodiments, vehicle 2 may include only the front doors and eliminate the need for a rear door due to the use of the passageway for access to the rear seats 46 from the front doors. The tilting of the front seats 40 is actuated by a belt 79 located on the rear side of the front seats 40. The positioning of the belt 79 on the rear surface of the front seat 40 allows easy access for passengers seated in the rear seat 46 and for operators or passengers outside the vehicle 2. The belt 79 engages and is connected to one or more latches 81 that are secured to each seat base 42 of the front seat 40. In this manner, the belt 79 can be actuated and lifted upward to disconnect from the one or more latches 81, thereby allowing the front seat 40 to recline forward. In various embodiments, at least one linear force element (shown as a damping member 59) is positioned between the seat base 42 and the frame member of the lower frame assembly 12 such that when the front seat 40 reclines forward, the at least one damping member 59 extends and supports the front seat 40 forward. Although shown as a seatbelt, the belt 79 can be selected from a wide variety of products, materials, or configurations that allow easy actuation of at least one of the first front seat 40a and the second front seat 40b. The passageway created for passengers to access the rear seats 46 eliminates the need for a rear door, allowing the vehicle 2 to maintain its overall compact size while using the rear seats 46, and allowing for reduced dust and / or debris accumulation on the rear seats 46, among various other advantages. A belt 79 may be configured to allow the front seats 40 to tilt forward or pivot (e.g., Figure 9 Additional details of other similar actuation mechanisms (as shown) may be disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 8,905,435 (Attorney’s File No. PLR-02-1993.02P), published December 9, 2014, the full disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0067] Figure 10A left front perspective view of the cargo assembly 70 is shown. As illustrated, the cargo assembly 70 includes a base 72, multiple side panels 74, a rear panel 78, and a movable panel 76, wherein a deflecting member 66 extends upward from the side panels 74 of the cargo assembly 70. In various embodiments, the deflecting member 66 may be mounted on an upper frame assembly 14 (e.g., a vertically extending frame member 14a, a laterally extending frame member 14b, and / or a longitudinally extending frame member 14c). Figure 10 As shown, the movable panel 76 is positioned at the foremost portion of the cargo assembly 70, such that the cargo assembly 70 has a first base length 94, as shown in the figure. Figure 6 As described. The movable panel 76 includes multiple openings 77 to allow an operator or (multiple) passengers to raise and reposition the movable panel 76. Figure 10 The dotted line also shows the position when the rear seat 46 is lowered. Figure 8 The movable panel 76 is shown in its rearward position. As previously described, if the movable panel 76 is positioned in this configuration, the cargo assembly 70 has a length of 96 (m²) from the second base. Figure 9 The available storage space or cargo area is defined by the second base, whose length is less than that of the first base by 94 ( ). Figure 6 The cargo assembly 70 further includes a base 72 having a longitudinal axis Y, which can be transitioned from a neutral position to an inclined position, as previously described. Figures 1 to 3 As described.

[0068] Figure 11 An exploded view of the cargo assembly 70 is shown. First side panels 74a and second side panels 74b are positioned opposite each other and each is connected to a base 72. In various embodiments, the side panels 74a, 74b and the base 72 are integrally formed, while a movable panel 76 and a rear panel 78 are removably coupled to the base 72, as will be further described herein. The cargo assembly 70 may include guards 80 adjacent to a first slot 82, each guard extending along at least a portion of each of the first sidewalls 74a and second sidewalls 74b and along the base 72 at its foremost point. The cargo assembly 70 further includes a second slot 84 extending upwardly along the first sidewalls 74a and second sidewalls 74b. The guards 80 are configured to prevent any liquids, materials, or products within the cargo assembly 70 from leaking out. The first slot 82 is configured to receive the movable panel 76 when the rear seat 46 is in a raised position, for example… Figure 8 As shown, the second slot 84 is configured to receive the movable panel 76 when the rear seat 46 is in the lowered position, for example... Figure 6 What is shown.

[0069] In various embodiments, the rear panel 78 includes a plurality of openings 86 configured to receive a plurality of pins 88 of the first side panel 74a and the second side panel 74b. In these embodiments, the rear panel 78 is operatively coupled to the first side panel 74a and the second side panel 74b, such that the rear panel 78 can be pivoted outward and / or removed. See previously. Figure 3 As disclosed, the cargo component 70 can be positioned at an angle.

[0070] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of a portion of vehicle 2, specifically showing the rear seats 46, which include the frame member 60 and are positioned within a portion of the cargo assembly 70. Figure 12 In the illustrative embodiment, the rear seat 46 is in a lowered position. A movable panel 76 is positioned behind the seat back 50 of the rear seat 46, such that the available cargo area / volume of the cargo assembly 70 has a second base length 96. Additionally, a deflecting member 66 is positioned to extend upward from the side panel 74 of the cargo assembly 70 and is at least partially laterally aligned with the seat back 50 of the rear seat 46. Furthermore, in Figure 12 In the illustrative embodiment, handles 62 are shown on each side of the first rear seat 46a and the second rear seat 46b. As shown, the plurality of handles 62 includes a first handle 62a located to the right of the seat base 48 of the second rear seat 46b, a second handle 62b located to the left of the seat base 48 of the second rear seat 46b, a third handle 62c located to the right of the first rear seat 46a, and a fourth handle 62d located to the left of the first rear seat 46a. In other embodiments, the plurality of handles 62 may include one, two, three, four or more lower handles with different positions within the vehicle 2.

[0071] Figure 13 and Figure 14 The image shows a left-side view of the upper portion of vehicle 2, with the rear seats 46 in both lowered and raised positions. Figure 13 In one embodiment, the attachment component 54 is fastened to the upper frame assembly 14 and engages with the frame member 60 of the rear seat 46. Figure 14 The rear seat 46 is shown in a raised position, such that the attachment assembly 54 is no longer engaged to secure the frame member 60 to the vertically extending frame member 14a of the upper frame assembly 14. The connector 52 engages with the frame member 60 of the rear seat 46 to maintain the rear seat in the raised position. Therefore, the frame member 60 is positioned directly above the cargo assembly 70 vertically, such that in the raised position, the frame member 60 defines an additional headspace frame or structure above the cargo assembly 70, as previously referenced. Figure 3As described above. In the raised position, frame member 60 provides additional protection against dust or debris during vehicle 2 operation. Furthermore, damping member 59 maintains engagement with both the vertically extending frame member 14a of the upper frame assembly 14 and the frame member 60 of the rear seat 46. In this configuration, damping member 59 relative to... Figure 13 The configuration is relatively elongated. Additional details regarding the various components described herein may be disclosed in the following documents: U.S. Patent No. 63 / 168,525, filed March 31, 2021 (Attorney’s File No. PLR-06-28276.01P-US), and U.S. Patent No. 9,725,023, issued August 8, 2017 (Attorney’s File No. PLR-06-26801-02P-US-E), the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0072] It is understood that other configurations of the first and second positions of the rear seats 46 are possible. For example, the rear seats 46 can be moved to a stowed position by pivoting the rear seats 46 forward and stowing them directly behind the front seats 40. In another example, the rear seats 46 can be configured to pivot laterally, such that the rear seats 46 are positioned along one or more of the left and right sides of the vehicle 2.

[0073] As previously described, it is possible to have other upper frame component 14 configurations for optimizing passenger space in vehicle 2 and / or for supporting cargo space within or on vehicle 2. For example... Figures 15 to 18 Vehicle 2 was shown, which has the same features as Figures 1 to 14 The overall representation shows a modified or alternative upper frame assembly 14. As shown, the upper frame assembly 14 includes a rear pair 17 of longitudinally extending frame members 14c extending at a vertical height H1 (relative to the ground), which is greater than the vertical height H2 (relative to the ground) of the front pair 19 of the longitudinally extending frame members 14c. Furthermore, each of the rear pair 17 of the longitudinally extending frame members 14c is coupled to the front pair 19 at a longitudinal position aligned with at least a portion of the front seat 40 and / or in front of it. In other words, the rear pair 17 of the longitudinally extending frame members 14c at least partially overlaps vertically with the front pair 19 of the longitudinally extending frame members 14c at a position longitudinally rearward of the connection point between these pair 17, 19 along the longitudinal distance between them. In this manner, as... Figures 15 to 18 The modified upper frame assembly 14 shown is defined by a “two-layer” configuration, wherein pairs 17 and 19 are spaced apart by a vertical distance d1. In this way, the vehicle 2 can have increased headroom for rear passengers seated at least in the rear seats 46 within the operator area 22, while still being configured to allow the rear seats 46 to be secured in the raised position.

[0074] For example, Figure 15 and Figures 17 to 18 The rear seat 46 is shown positioned in an elevated position and secured to the upper frame assembly 14. The vertical height of the seat base 48 of the rear seat 46 can be higher than the vertical height H2 of the front pair 19 of the longitudinally extending frame member 14c. This increases the area available for storing cargo in the cargo assembly 70, while allowing the cargo assembly 70 to be placed in an inclined position. For example, Figure 18 The rear seats 46 are shown to remain in the raised configuration when the cargo component 70 is tilted.

[0075] also, Figure 16 The rear seat 46 is shown in a lowered position, with at least one passenger seated within it. In these embodiments, the “two-tier” configuration of the upper assembly 14 can increase headroom available to any passenger seated in the rear seat 46. However, as previously mentioned, the “two-tier” configuration of the upper assembly can also optimize the ability to support cargo on the upper assembly 14, as will be referred to herein. Figures 19 to 22 As described.

[0076] like Figure 19 As shown, vehicle 2 can support a first accessory 100a, such as a light strip typically extending laterally between a portion of the front pair 19 of the longitudinally extending frame members 14c. Vehicle 2 can also simultaneously support a second accessory 100b, such as a tent, on top of the rear pair 17 of the longitudinally extending frame members 14c. Due to distance d1, the second accessory 100b does not interact with or obstruct the first accessory 100a and can be positioned vertically above it. For example, Figure 20 Vehicle 2 is shown with an upper frame assembly 14 having a "two-layer" configuration and a third attachment 100c (shown as a kayak) extending vertically above and longitudinally forward of the light strip 100a. However, various other attachments may alternatively or additionally support vehicle 2. For example, Figure 21 A fourth accessory 100d (shown as a hunting platform) is shown supported on the upper component 14. As shown, the upper frame component 14 can also support smaller cargo items, such as gun cases, along one side of the upper component 14.

[0077] See Figure 22The fifth accessory 100e (shown as a winch) can also be supported by the upper frame assembly 14. The winch 100e can be used to at least assist in loading and / or unloading large cargo into and / or from the cargo assembly 70. For example, the winch 100e can engage or support a large cargo and lift it into or lower it out of the cargo assembly 70. In this way, the winch 100e can assist in loading heavy cargo or unloading heavy cargo into the cargo assembly 70. In these embodiments, the rear seat 46 can be secured in a raised position to ensure sufficient clearance in the cargo assembly 70 to raise and / or lower the cargo assembly, especially if it contains large cargo.

[0078] Furthermore, various other configurations of the upper frame component 14 can be incorporated into the vehicle 2, as will be discussed in [reference 2]. Figures 23 to 26 As described. In these embodiments, the upper frame assembly 14 may include a front portion 21 and a rear portion 23. The front portion 21 and the rear portion 23 may be modular, such that one or both of the front portion 21 and the rear portion 23 can be manufactured separately and assembled with the vehicle 2. Exemplarily, Figure 23 The upper frame assembly 14 can be designed to enclose the front seats 40 within the vehicle 2, as the front portion 21 includes longitudinally extending frame members 14c and vertically extending frame members 14a for surrounding the operator area 22. The rear portion 23 may include diagonally extending frame members 14d that extend from the front pair 19 of the longitudinally extending frame members 14c to the rear pair 17 of the longitudinally extending frame members 14c.

[0079] Figure 24 An additional embodiment of the upper frame assembly 14, including a front portion 21 and a rear portion 23, is shown, wherein the front portion 21 and the rear portion 23 can be configured to accommodate a front seat 40 and a rear seat 46. As shown, the upper frame assembly 14 may have Figures 15 to 18 The "two-layer" configuration. However, in some embodiments, the upper frame component 14 can define a "single-layer" configuration, for example... Figure 26 As shown, the front portion 21 and the rear portion 23 have the same vertical height relative to the ground.

[0080] Furthermore, in some embodiments, only the front portion 21 of the upper frame assembly 14 may be incorporated into the vehicle 2. For example, Figure 25 The vehicle 2 shown has a front portion 21 of the upper frame assembly but no rear portion 23. In this way, the cargo assembly 70 is not surrounded by the upper frame assembly 14. The above embodiment of the modular portion of the upper frame assembly 14 ( Figures 23 to 26 This allows for various configurations of the upper frame component 14 to meet different user preferences and applications of the vehicle 2. However, the above configurations are merely examples, and various other configurations for the upper frame component 14 can also be combined.

[0081] While the invention has been described as having an exemplary design, further modifications can be made to the invention within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using the general principles of the invention. Furthermore, this application is intended to cover such deviations from this disclosure as those known or conventional practices within the field to which this invention pertains.

Claims

1. A vehicle comprising: The framework, including the upper framework components; Multiple seats, which are supported by the frame and include at least one front seat and at least one rear seat; A cargo assembly including at least two upwardly extending side panels and a deflection member extending upward from the at least two upwardly extending side panels. The at least one rear seat includes a frame member pivotally connected to the upper frame assembly at a first end, the frame member supporting a seat back and a seat base, wherein the rear seat is capable of switching between a lowered position and a raised position. The raised position is defined as follows: the frame member pivots upward relative to the upper frame assembly, and the seat back is folded against the seat base at a position near the top of the upper frame assembly; and the lowered position is defined as follows: the frame member pivots downward relative to the upper frame assembly, and the seat base and seat back are positioned to accommodate a passenger; when the at least one rear seat is in the lowered position, the deflector is positioned near the at least one rear seat to protect the rear passenger from debris entering the at least one rear seat; and the rear seat also includes a latch located near a second end of the frame member, the latch being configured to secure the rear seat to the upper frame assembly in the raised position.

2. The vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The seat back and seat base, when in the raised position, have a first vertical height greater than the vertical height of the at least one front seat.

3. The vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein, In the lowered position, the at least one rear seat is connected to the frame via at least one attachment component, and the at least one attachment component includes a first connecting member connected to the at least one rear seat and a second connecting member connected to the frame, and the first connecting member and the second connecting member are removably connected to each other.

4. The vehicle as claimed in claim 3, wherein, The at least one attachment component includes a second attachment component, the second attachment component including a first connecting member coupled to the at least one rear seat and a second connecting member coupled to the frame, and the first connecting member and the second connecting member are removably coupled to each other.

5. The vehicle as claimed in claim 3, wherein, In the raised position, the at least one rear seat is connected to the frame via a connector and the at least one attachment component is disengaged.

6. The vehicle as claimed in claim 5, wherein, The connector includes a first connecting member connected to the frame and a second connecting member connected to the at least one rear seat, and the first connecting member and the second connecting member are removably connected to each other.

7. The vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The frame member supports the at least one rear seat and is connected to the seat base and seat back of the at least one rear seat.

8. The vehicle as claimed in claim 7, wherein, When the at least one rear seat is in the raised position, the frame member supporting the rear seat is at a first vertical height, and wherein when the at least one rear seat is in the lowered position, the frame member supporting the rear seat is at a second vertical height, the first vertical height being greater than the second vertical height.

9. The vehicle as claimed in claim 8, wherein, The first vertical height of the frame member is greater than the vertical height of the at least one front seat.

10. The vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The cargo assembly also includes a movable panel, and when the at least one rear seat is in the lowered position, the seat base is located directly above the base of the cargo assembly and each seat back is positioned in front of the movable panel of the cargo assembly.

11. The vehicle as claimed in claim 7, wherein, The vehicle includes two rear seats, and the frame member supports the two rear seats and extends laterally across the two seats.

12. A vehicle comprising: frame; Multiple ground-contact components supporting the frame; Ontology components supported by this framework; Multiple seats, including at least one front seat and at least one rear seat; At least one frame assembly supporting the at least one rear seat, the frame assembly and the at least one rear seat being movable from a first position to a second position; and A cargo assembly defining a plurality of uprights and a base, the plurality of uprights including at least two upwardly extending side panels, the cargo assembly further including a deflecting member extending upwardly from the at least two upwardly extending side panels, the cargo assembly being configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein the movement of the cargo assembly is independent of the movement of at least one rear seat, and the deflecting member protecting a passenger seated in the at least one rear seat from debris in the first and second positions. In the first position, the vertical height of the frame assembly is greater than the vertical height of the at least one front seat, and the frame assembly is connected to the vehicle frame at a first connection position. In the second position, the frame assembly is at least partially located longitudinally rear of the at least one front seat, and the frame assembly is connected to the frame at a second connection position, which is spaced apart from the first connection position. In the first position, the frame assembly is reversibly connected to the vehicle frame via a connector located on a lateral extension frame member of the frame, the connector being at a vertical height greater than the vertical height of the at least one front seat, and the frame assembly is connected to the vehicle frame via a seatbelt attachment assembly.

13. The vehicle as claimed in claim 12, wherein, In the first and second positions, the at least one rear seat is connected to the vehicle frame via at least two shock-absorbing members.

14. The vehicle as claimed in claim 12, wherein, In the second position, the frame assembly is reversibly connected to the frame of the vehicle via at least one attachment component positioned longitudinally rearward of at least a portion of the at least one front seat.

15. The vehicle as claimed in claim 14, wherein, The at least one attachment component includes a first coupling member coupled to the frame assembly and a second coupling member coupled to the rear seat, the first coupling member and the second coupling member being removably coupled.

16. A vehicle comprising: A frame supporting an operator area with multiple seats, including at least one seat. The rear seats and at least one front seat, wherein the at least one rear seat is movable from a raised position to a lowered position; Multiple ground-contact components supporting the frame; The body component includes multiple body panels that support the framework. A cargo assembly supported by the frame and including at least two upwardly extending side panels, deflecting members extending upward from the at least two upwardly extending side panels, a base, and a movable panel extending upward from the base. The movable panel can move from a first position to a second position, such that when in the first position, the longitudinal length of the cargo component increases, and when in the second position, the longitudinal length of the cargo component decreases relative to that in the first position. Specifically, when the rear seat is in the raised position, the movable panel is operably movable between the first position and the second position, and when the rear seat is in the lowered position, the movable panel is in the second position. When the at least one rear seat moves between the raised position and the lowered position, the deflecting member remains positioned near the at least one rear seat to protect the passenger sitting in the at least one rear seat from debris entering the at least one rear seat. The cargo assembly also includes a first slot and a second slot. In the first position, the movable panel engages with the first slot, and in the second position, the movable panel engages with the second slot, wherein the second slot is positioned closer to the longitudinal center of the base than the first slot.

17. The vehicle as claimed in claim 16, wherein, In the first position, the rear seat area decreases, and in the second position, the rear seat area increases.

18. The vehicle as claimed in claim 16, wherein, When in the lowered position, the at least one rear seat is located longitudinally behind the at least one front seat, and wherein, when in the raised position, the vertical height of the at least one rear seat is greater than the vertical height of the at least one front seat.

19. The vehicle as claimed in claim 16, wherein, When the at least one rear seat is in the lowered position and the movable panel is in the first position, the seat base of the at least one rear seat is located directly above the base of the cargo assembly.

20. The vehicle as claimed in claim 16, wherein, The base of the cargo assembly includes a leak-proof device positioned in front of the movable panel, the leak-proof device being configured to prevent the contents of the cargo assembly from leaving the cargo assembly.

21. The vehicle as claimed in claim 16, wherein, When the at least one rear seat is in the raised position, the cargo assembly can be in a neutral position defined as extending along the longitudinal axis of the vehicle or in an inclined position defined as extending along an axis angled relative to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle.

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