Utility vehicle

Abstract

A utility vehicle includes a plurality of ground engaging members and a frame supported by the plurality of ground engaging members. Additionally, the utility vehicle includes an operator area having a front seat portion and a rear seat portion, with the front seat portion including an operator seat and a front passenger seat. Additionally, the utility vehicle includes a rear floor positioned within the rear seat portion and defining a footwell space of the rear seat portion, with the rear floor extending forward to a position below the front seat portion to increase the footwell space of the rear seat portion.

Description

[0001] This application is a second-generation divisional application based on the original invention patent application filed on March 14, 2014, with national application number 201480013040.8 (international application number PCT / US2014 / 028152) entitled "Multi-purpose vehicle", and the first-generation divisional application filed on March 14, 2014 (divisional filing date March 25, 2020) with application number 202010217741.0, entitled "Multi-purpose vehicle". Technical Field

[0002] This application generally relates to a side-by-side all-terrain vehicle, and more particularly, to a side-by-side all-terrain vehicle having a four-passenger seating arrangement. Background Technology

[0003] Typically, all-terrain vehicles (“ATVs”) and multi-purpose vehicles (“UVs”) are used to transport one or two passengers and a small amount of cargo across various terrains. Such vehicles may include long bench seats configured to support the driver and up to two passengers. Other vehicles may be configured with separate seats for the driver and passengers. Cargo racks may be installed behind the seats. To support more than two passengers, rear seats may be included to accommodate one or two additional passengers. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In one illustrative embodiment of this application, the multi-purpose vehicle includes a plurality of ground engagement members and a frame supported by the plurality of ground engagement members. Additionally, the multi-purpose vehicle includes an operator area having a front seat portion and a rear seat portion. The front seat portion includes an operator seat and a front passenger seat. The rear seat portion includes a first rear passenger seat, a second rear passenger seat, and a third rear passenger seat, with the second rear passenger seat integral with the first and third rear passenger seats.

[0005] In another illustrative embodiment of this application, the multi-purpose vehicle includes a plurality of ground engagement members and a frame supported by the plurality of ground engagement members. The multi-purpose vehicle also includes an operator area supported by the frame. The operator area includes a first seat portion and a second seat portion. The multi-purpose vehicle also includes a roll cage extending above the operator area and a canopy having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of the canopy is positioned generally above the first seat portion and held on the second portion and the roll cage. The second portion of the canopy is positioned generally above the second seat portion and held on the roll cage.

[0006] In another illustrative embodiment of this application, a multi-purpose vehicle includes a front frame assembly and a rear frame assembly. The front frame assembly includes a plurality of front frame tubes, and the rear frame assembly is coupled to the front frame assembly and includes a plurality of rear frame tubes. The multi-purpose vehicle also includes a plurality of connecting members coupled to the front frame assembly and the rear frame assembly. The connecting members are configured to connect to the front frame tubes and the rear frame tubes when they have various cross-sectional profiles.

[0007] In another illustrative embodiment of this application, the multi-purpose vehicle includes a lower frame assembly and an upper frame assembly connected to the lower frame assembly. The upper frame assembly includes a plurality of front uprights, a plurality of rear uprights, a front longitudinal member, and a rear longitudinal member. The multi-purpose vehicle also includes at least one cast connecting member integrally formed with one of the front longitudinal member and the rear longitudinal member.

[0008] In another illustrative embodiment of this application, the multi-purpose vehicle includes a plurality of ground engagement members, a frame supported by the plurality of ground engagement members, and an operator area having a front seat portion and a rear seat portion. The front seat portion includes an operator seat and a front passenger seat. The multi-purpose vehicle also includes a rear floor positioned within the rear seat portion and defining a footrest space for the rear seat portion. The rear floor extends forward to a position below the front seat portion to increase the footrest space for the rear seat portion.

[0009] In another illustrative embodiment of this application, a multi-purpose vehicle includes a lower frame assembly and an upper frame assembly coupled to the lower frame assembly to define a cab of the multi-purpose vehicle. The upper frame assembly includes a front upright member, a rear upright member, and an intermediate upright member positioned between the front and rear upright members. The multi-purpose vehicle also includes a front seat portion located within the cab of the vehicle. The front seat portion is located rear of the front upright member and in front of the intermediate upright member. Additionally, the multi-purpose vehicle includes a rear seat portion located within the cab of the vehicle and positioned rear of the front seat portion. The rear seat portion is located rear of the intermediate upright member and in front of the rear upright member. The multi-purpose vehicle also includes at least one rear door adjacent to the rear seat portion and operably coupled to the upper frame assembly. The at least one rear door is configured to rotate between an open position allowing access to the rear seat portion and a closed position allowing exit from the rear seat portion. The multi-purpose vehicle also includes a sealing member connected to the central upright and configured to cooperate with the rear door when the rear door is in the closed position.

[0010] The above-mentioned and other features of the invention, as well as the ways of obtaining these features, will become more apparent and the invention itself will be better understood from the following description of embodiments of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a front left perspective view of the vehicle in this application;

[0012] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the vehicle's right rear;

[0013] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A front left perspective view of the vehicle's frame components;

[0014] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The right rear 3D view of the frame components;

[0015] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A top view of the frame components;

[0016] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 A front view exploded view of the framework components;

[0017] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 The rear view exploded view of the framework components;

[0018] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A side-view perspective of a portion of the frame components;

[0019] Figure 9 yes Figure 3 An exploded view of the connectors of the frame components;

[0020] Figure 10 yes Figure 3 An exploded view of a portion of the framework components;

[0021] Figure 11 yes Figure 3 A front-view perspective of the front portion of the frame components;

[0022] Figure 12 yes Figure 10 An exploded view of a portion of the front seat section of the frame assembly;

[0023] Figure 13 yes Figure 3 A three-dimensional view of the rear part of the frame components from the left front.

[0024] Figure 14 yes Figure 13An exploded view of the rear seat section of the frame assembly;

[0025] Figure 15 yes Figure 3 Left rear 3D view of the tunnel component of the frame component;

[0026] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 Exploded view of the tunnel components;

[0027] Figure 17 yes Figure 15 Left rear perspective view of a portion of the tunnel component;

[0028] Figure 18 yes Figure 15 A cross-sectional view of the tunnel assembly supporting multiple cooling pipes and drive shafts;

[0029] Figure 19 yes Figure 3 Left front perspective view of the frame assembly that connects to the rollover protection frame assembly;

[0030] Figure 20 yes Figure 19 An exploded view of the roll cage assembly, including the windshield support components.

[0031] Figure 21 yes Figure 19 A front-view perspective view of the rollover protection frame assembly;

[0032] Figure 22 yes Figure 21 Exploded view of the roll cage assembly;

[0033] Figure 23 yes Figure 21 An exploded view of the exterior of a portion of the roll cage assembly;

[0034] Figure 24 yes Figure 23 An exploded internal view of a portion of the rollover protection frame assembly;

[0035] Figure 25 This is a left front perspective view of the operator's area of ​​the vehicle in this application;

[0036] Figure 26 yes Figure 25 A three-dimensional view of the operator's area from the left front;

[0037] Figure 27 It is positioned at Figure 25 A top view of the storage containers within the operator's area;

[0038] Figure 28 yes Figure 27 A cross-sectional view of the storage container;

[0039] Figure 29 yes Figure 25 A cross-sectional view of the lower part of the operator area;

[0040] Figure 30 yes Figure 25 Another cross-sectional view of the lower portion of the operator area;

[0041] Figure 31 yes Figure 25 A three-dimensional view of the right rear of the console in the operator area;

[0042] Figure 32 This is a rear-view perspective view of the vehicle of the present application, including a steering assembly and a throttle control device, and multiple operator control devices.

[0043] Figure 33 yes Figure 32 Rear-view perspective view of the steering components;

[0044] Figure 34 yes Figure 33 Part of the steering components and Figure 4 An exploded view of a portion of the framework components;

[0045] Figure 35 yes Figure 34 A cross-sectional view of said portion of the steering assembly and said portion of the frame assembly;

[0046] Figure 36 yes Figure 11 A top view of the rear portion of the frame assembly supporting the powertrain assembly.

[0047] Figure 37 yes Figure 36 A front-view perspective view of a portion of the powertrain components;

[0048] Figure 38 yes Figure 36 A side perspective view of the drive shaft of the powertrain components;

[0049] Figure 39 yes Figure 36 A detailed front perspective view of a portion of the fuel tank of the powertrain components;

[0050] Figure 40 yes Figure 36 A bottom-view perspective view of the intake assembly of the powertrain components;

[0051] Figure 41 yes Figure 40 A front-view perspective view of the intake supercharger of the intake assembly;

[0052] Figure 42 yes Figure 41 Exploded view of the intake supercharger;

[0053] Figure 43 yes Figure 36 An exploded view of the exhaust system components of the powertrain.

[0054] Figure 44 This is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the vehicle of this application, including a roof assembly, door assembly, and windshield operator's cab.

[0055] Figure 45 yes Figure 44 The image includes a rear-view perspective of the operator's cab with a rear window;

[0056] Figure 46 yes Figure 44 A frontal 3D view of the operator's cab;

[0057] Figure 47 yes Figure 44 A rear-view 3D view of the operator's cab;

[0058] Figure 48 yes Figure 46 Exploded front view of the operator's cab;

[0059] Figure 49 yes Figure 44 Side view of the door assembly of the operator's cab;

[0060] Figure 50 yes Figure 49 Detailed 3D view of the door components;

[0061] Figure 51 yes Figure 49 A detailed perspective view of a door assembly including sealing components;

[0062] Figure 52 yes Figure 51 Internal rear-view perspective view of the sealing component;

[0063] Figure 53 yes Figure 52 Exploded view of the sealing component;

[0064] Figure 54 yes Figure 44 A side view of part of the operator's cab;

[0065] Figure 55 yes Figure 44 A 3D view of the ceiling components from below;

[0066] Figure 56 yes Figure 55Side cross-sectional view of the roof assembly;

[0067] Figure 57 yes Figure 55 Exploded view of the ceiling components from below; and

[0068] Figure 58 yes Figure 55 An exploded view of a portion of the roof assembly. Detailed Implementation

[0069] In all the multiple views, corresponding reference numerals indicate the corresponding parts. Unless otherwise stated, these drawings are to scale.

[0070] The embodiments disclosed below are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the exact configurations disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are selected and described so that others skilled in the art can utilize their teachings. Although this application relates primarily to multi-purpose vehicles, it should be understood that the features disclosed herein can be applied to other types of vehicles, such as all-terrain vehicles, motorcycles, boats, snowmobiles, public transport vehicles, and golf carts.

[0071] Reference Figures 1 to 2 The multi-purpose vehicle 2 generally includes a frame assembly 50 supported by multiple ground-connecting members, such as front wheels 4 and rear wheels 6. The wheelbase of the illustrative vehicle 2 may be approximately 110 inches to 115 inches. In one embodiment, the wheelbase of the vehicle 2 is approximately 113 inches. The front wheels 4 and rear wheels 6 may each include dual-piston brake calipers as further described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 11 / 494,891, filed July 28, 2006, and published October 26, 2010, as U.S. Patent No. 7,819,220, the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference. The multi-purpose vehicle 2 includes a front end 8 having a hood 10 and body panels 12. The rear end 14 of the multi-purpose vehicle 2 includes a multi-purpose cargo box 16.

[0072] An integrated operator's cab 20 is supported on a frame assembly 50 and located between the front end 8 and the rear end 14, illustratively enclosing the operator's area 22. The upper frame assembly, illustratively serving as a rollover protection frame assembly 260, surrounds the operator's cab 20. Figure 44 and Figure 45As shown, the roll cage assembly 260 can support the front windshield 24, door assembly 560, roof assembly 610, and rear windshield 26, all of which can be connected in a manner removable from the roll cage assembly 260, as described in further detail herein. The operator area 22 includes a seat assembly 200, which has at least a front seat portion 202 and a rear seat portion 220 (in... Figure 25 (As best shown in the text).

[0073] The cab 20 houses operator control devices such as a steering assembly 430 and a throttle control device 460. These operator control devices can be positioned on or within the instrument panel 28 of the operator's cab 20. The operator control devices are configured to monitor, operate, and control various systems of the multi-purpose vehicle 2, such as the powertrain assembly 470. Figure 36 The vehicle 2 includes an electrical system and an HVAC system. Additionally, operator controls may include controls for HVAC components. Illustratively, vehicle 2 includes at least a heating system. Other operator controls may be configured to control control accessories such as winches, and some operator controls may include wireless remote control.

[0074] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 50 framework components support Figure 1 The front suspension assembly 30 shown includes an upper alignment arm 32, a lower alignment arm 34, and a shock absorber 36. The shock absorber 36 may include spring coils and / or may be hydraulically actuated. The frame assembly 50 also supports a rear suspension assembly 40, which includes an upper alignment arm 42, a lower alignment arm 44, and a shock absorber 46, as shown... Figure 2 As shown in the diagram. Details of the front suspension assembly 30 and the rear suspension assembly 40 are included in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 11 / 494,891, filed July 28, 2006 and published as U.S. Patent No. 7,819,220 on October 26, 2010; U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 442,071, filed February 11, 2011; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 370,139, filed February 9, 2012; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 464,603, filed May 4, 2012; and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 492,589, filed June 8, 2012, the entire disclosures of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0075] like Figures 3 to 7As shown, the frame assembly 50 generally includes a front frame portion 51, a middle frame portion 52, and a rear frame portion 54. The frame assembly 50 extends along the longitudinal axis L (… Figure 5 A plurality of lower longitudinal frame tubes 60 extend between the front frame portion 51 and the rear frame portion 54. Illustratively, each lower longitudinal frame tube 60 includes a front portion 60a and a rear portion 60b. The rear portion 60b expands outward from the front portion 60a. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As best shown herein, the guard plate 130 can be connected to the front portion 60a of the lower longitudinal frame tube 60, as described in further detail here. An outer frame member 62 is positioned laterally outside the lower longitudinal frame tube 60. More specifically, the front portion 62a of the outer frame member 62 is adjacent to and connected to the front portion 60a of the lower longitudinal frame tube 60, and the rear portion 62b of the outer frame member 62 is spaced apart from the rear portion 60b of the lower longitudinal frame tube 60. The rear portion 62b is connected to a longitudinal member 63, and a transverse tube 64 extends between the lower longitudinal frame tube 60 and the longitudinal member 63. Frame grooves 66 integrally connect each longitudinal frame tube 60 to the adjacent outer frame member 62.

[0076] Reference Figure 9Multiple connectors 140 join the various components of the frame assembly 50 together. Illustratively, connectors 140 join the front portion 60a and the rear portion 60b of the lower longitudinal frame tube 60. Additionally, connectors 140 join the rear portion 62b of the frame member 62 to the longitudinal member 63. Connectors 140 include an outer member 142 and an inner member 144. In one embodiment, the outer member 142 and the inner member 144 may be identical components arranged in opposite orientations. A portion of the outer member 142 may be received within the front portion 60a of the lower longitudinal frame tube 60 and / or the rear portion 62b of the outer frame member 62 and may be connected to the front portion 60a and / or the rear portion 62b by conventional fastening methods (e.g., welding, bolts, screws, rivets, adhesives). Similarly, a portion of the inner member 144 may be received within the rear portion 60b of the lower longitudinal frame tube 60 and / or the longitudinal member 63 and may be coupled to the rear portion 60b and / or the longitudinal member 63 by welding, bolting, riveting, adhesive, or other conventional fastening methods. As shown, the outer member 142 and the inner member 144 may be castings or otherwise formed with complementary surfaces such that the outer member 142 and the inner member 144 mate when coupled together by fasteners 146 and 148. Fastener 146 is received through a hole 150 in the outer member 142 and a hole 152 in the inner member 144 to engage with fastener 148. Illustrative couplings 140 may be configured to engage with various frame tube sizes and / or frame tube profiles (e.g., square, round). In one embodiment, the frame assembly 50 may include eight couplings 140 for connecting the various components and portions of the frame assembly 50. Further details of the connector 140 can be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 796,495, filed June 8, 2010, which was published on December 11, 2012 as U.S. Patent No. 8,328,235, the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0077] Refer again Figures 3 to 7 The removable frame portion 70 is attached to each outer frame member 62 via bracket 72. The rear portion 62b of the outer frame member 62 is connected to the bracket 72 via fasteners 194 and 196, as shown. Figure 12 As best shown in the diagram, the support 72 extends around the rear portion 62b. (As...) Figure 6 and Figure 7As best shown, the removable frame portion 70 has a lower frame portion 70a and a vertical support portion 70b. The removable frame portion 70 also includes a gusset plate 74 and conventional fasteners 71 connecting to the vertical support portion 70b and the front transverse support member 76. The gusset plate 74 can support the windshield 24, as described in further detail here. Additionally, a lower railing 68 is connected to the removable frame portion 70. Figures 3 to 7 As shown, the lower rail 68 is also connected to the longitudinal member 63 via a bracket 75 and a support member 77. Further details of the removable frame portion 70 and the bracket 72 may be included in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 442,071, filed February 11, 2011; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 370,139, filed February 9, 2012; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 464,603, filed May 4, 2012; and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 492,589, filed June 8, 2012, the entire disclosures of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0078] In one implementation, such as Figure 9 As shown, the frame assembly 50 includes a guardrail 160. The guardrail 160 may include a front portion 162 and a rear portion 164. The front portion 162 and the rear portion 164 may be configured with attachment friction portions 166 to assist in entering and exiting the vehicle 2. Illustratively, the front portion 162 is connected to the bracket 72 via a circular tube 168. The tube 168 is connected to the bracket 72 via a plate 172 and fasteners 170 and 174. The plate 172 may be connected to the front-facing side of the bracket 72. The front portion 162 and the rear portion 164 may be connected together via the tube 176. In addition, the tube 176 connects the front portion 162 and the rear portion 164 to a bracket 75 on the longitudinal member 63. More specifically, the plate 180 of the tube 176 is connected to the front-facing and rear-facing sides of the bracket 75 and is fastened to the front-facing and rear-facing sides by fasteners 178 and 179. The guard bar 160 is also connected to the support post 100 via tube 182 and plate 186. Plate 180 and support post 100 are configured to receive fasteners 184 and 188.

[0079] Refer again Figures 3 to 7 and Figure 10The front lateral support 76 also supports the frame tube 80 at the front frame portion 51. The frame tube 80 extends forward from the front lateral support 76 and includes a generally horizontal portion 80a and a generally vertical portion 80b. Specifically, the horizontal portion 80a is connected to the front lateral support 76, while the generally vertical portion 80b extends downward and can be connected to the lower longitudinal frame tube 60. The frame tube 80 includes gusset plates 82 for removably mounting various components of the vehicle 2 (e.g., brush protectors, front end attachments, and / or body panels). A front support plate 83 is mounted to the frame tube 80 and the lower longitudinal frame tube 60.

[0080] like Figures 3 to 7 and Figure 10 As shown, a transverse member 86 extends between the frame tubes 80, and this transverse member 86 is illustratively positioned in front of the front transverse support 76 and behind the front support plate 83. Figure 4 and Figure 7 As best shown, a shear plate 88 with an opening 89 is connected to and angled rearward relative to a cross member 86, as disclosed in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 442,071, filed February 11, 2011; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 370,139, filed February 9, 2012; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 464,603, filed May 4, 2012; and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 492,589, filed June 8, 2012, the entire disclosures of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference. The opening 89 allows cables, multiple cooling pipes 479, hydraulic lines, and other conduits to extend between the components of the vehicle 2. The lower portion of the shear plate 88 is connected to a lower longitudinal frame tube 60 and / or an external frame member 62. In one embodiment, the shear plate 88 is connected to the longitudinal frame tube 60 via a gusset plate 84, as... Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 7 and Figure 10 As shown in the diagram. The gusset plate 84 can retain the bending stress of the vehicle 2 and provide increased strength and stiffness to the frame assembly 50. The shear plate 88 is also supported by multiple supports 87 ( Figures 3 to 5 and Figure 10 Connect to support plate 83.

[0081] Reference Figure 10 The front frame portion 51 includes a steering assembly 430 with a support member 190. The support member 190 is connected to the front lateral support 76 and is also connected to the corner brace 74 of the removable frame portion 70 via fasteners 71 and 192.

[0082] Reference Figure 11 and Figure 12 The intermediate frame portion 52 of the frame assembly 50 includes a seat assembly 200, which has a front seat portion 202 and a rear seat portion 220. The front seat portion 202 supports the operator seat 330 and the front passenger seat 336 within the operator area 22. Figure 25 The front seat portion 202 includes transversely extending frame tubes 92 and 94 supported by upright supports 96, 97 and diagonal supports 98, 204. The diagonal supports 98 and the upright supports 96 are connected to the rear portion 62b of the outer frame member 62. The upright supports 96 can also be connected to the transverse frame member 212 via a plate 214 and fasteners 216, 218 and 219, such as... Figure 12 As best shown herein, the transverse frame member 212 includes a plate 213 for connection with other components of the vehicle 2, as described in further detail herein. The upright support 97 is connected to the diagonal support 98 by fasteners 208. The diagonal support 204 extends between the frame tube 92 and the upright support 97. The frame tube 94 can be connected to the transverse frame tube 206 by fasteners 210.

[0083] like Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, the intermediate frame portion 52 of the frame assembly 50 also supports the rear seat portion 220 for the first rear passenger seat 342, the second rear passenger seat 348, and the third rear passenger seat 354. Figure 25 The rear seat portion 220 includes laterally extending frame tubes 222 and 224 supported by upright portions 226. More specifically, frame tube 222 is connected to upright portion 226 via diagonal support 228. The rear seat portion 220 is connected to longitudinal member 63 via diagonal support 230. Upright portion 226 is connected to diagonal support 230 via fastener 229. Figure 14 As shown, the inclined support 230 also supports the frame member 232, which, together with the fastener 235, connects the frame member 234 to the frame tube 224.

[0084] Support member 236 connects diagonal support member 230 to support column 100 extending upward from longitudinal member 63. Support column 100 and support member 236 are connected to transverse beam 102 via mounting flanges 112 and 104, respectively. Figure 14As best shown, mounting flange 104 includes a bracket 238 connected to transverse beam 102, and mounting flange 104 is connected to support member 236 via fasteners 242, 244. Additionally, mounting flange 112 is connected to transverse beam via fastener 240. Support column 100 is connected to diagonal support member 230 via support member 236. In one embodiment, transverse beam 102 may be removable from support column 100 to assemble components of powertrain assembly 470 with frame assembly 50.

[0085] like Figures 5 to 7 and Figure 14 As best shown, the intermediate frame portion 52 of the frame assembly 50 also includes a guard plate 122 extending between the outer frame members 62. The guard plate 122 is connected to the longitudinal member 63 and the transverse tube 64. The guard plate 122 includes a plurality of holes 128. Figure 5 This reduces the weight of the frame assembly 50 and allows heat from the powertrain assembly 470 to dissipate from the vehicle 2.

[0086] Now refer to Figures 3 to 7 and Figure 13 The rear frame portion 54 includes an engine housing 106, which is positioned behind the skid plate 122 and extends between the lower longitudinal frame tubes 60. The housing 106 defines a support platform for the powertrain assembly 470 of the vehicle 2, and is supported by a plurality of lower frame members 120. Illustratively, the housing 106 is integrally joined to the lower frame members 120 by a stamping process. Alternatively, the housing 106 and the lower frame members 120 may be separate components joined by conventional joining methods (bolts, welding, adhesives, rivets, etc.). The illustrative housing 106 includes a plurality of holes 107 (…). Figure 5 This reduces the weight of the frame assembly 50 and allows heat from the powertrain assembly 470 to dissipate from the vehicle 2.

[0087] Multiple vertical extension tubes 108 are connected to the receiving portion 106 and multiple upper frame arms 110. The upper frame arms 110 are also connected to the column 100 via mounting flanges 112. The rear frame portion 54 also includes a rear support plate 116 connected to the vertical extension tubes 108 and the lower frame member 120.

[0088] Reference Figures 15 to 18The tunnel member 132 is defined by a guard plate 130, a first fixing device 133, a second fixing device 134, a first bracket 135, and a second bracket 136. The tunnel member 132 is connected to a shear plate 88 and a cross tube 64. The tunnel member 132 is supported on the frame assembly 50 and located above the lower longitudinal frame tube 60, and more specifically, the tunnel member 132 is positioned above the front portion 60a of the frame tube 60. Illustratively, the tunnel member 132 extends between the front frame portion 51 and the rear frame portion 54.

[0089] like Figures 15 to 18 As shown, the first fixing device 133 and the second fixing device 134 may be made of polymeric material and illustratively include retaining clips 137 for supporting the cooling pipe 479, hydraulic pipe, wires, and / or other pipes. Additionally, the first fixing device 133 supports a guide member 138, which, together with the retaining clips 137, positions and aligns the cooling pipe 479, hydraulic pipe, wires, and / or other pipes at the front frame portion 51.

[0090] like Figure 16 As shown, the first fixing device 133 is connected to the gusset plate 84 by fastener 256. The first fixing device 133 can also be supported on the horizontal tube 66 by a first bracket 135. The first bracket 135 is connected to the first fixing device 133 by fastener 252 and to the horizontal tube 66 by fastener 254.

[0091] The first fixing device 133 is connected to the second fixing device 134 via a fastener 250. Illustratively, the first fixing device includes a flange 139 that receives the second fixing device 134 and the fastener 250. The second fixing device 134 is connected to the horizontal tube 64 via a second bracket 136. The second bracket 136 is connected to the horizontal tube 64 via a fastener 259 and to the second fixing device 134 via a fastener 258.

[0092] like Figure 18As shown, cooling pipe 479 is fluidly connected to powertrain assembly 470, and cooling pipe 479 can be supported, for example, by tunnel member 132 to extend from the radiator at the front frame portion 51 toward the engine 472 of powertrain assembly 470 located in the rear frame portion 54. Cooling pipe 479, as it extends toward the rear frame portion 54, can be supported and aligned by guide member 138 and retaining clip 137. Illustratively, guide member 138 is angled downwards such that cooling pipe 479 is angled downwards to engage with retaining clip 137. Retaining clip 137 retains cooling pipe 479 by friction, preventing it from moving along tunnel member 132. Illustratively, retaining clip 137 is approximately half the outer diameter of cooling pipe 479. Additionally, straps or couplings (e.g., cable ties) can hold cooling pipe 479, along with other electrical wires and hydraulic lines, on tunnel member 132.

[0093] Additionally, tunnel component 132 can support drive shaft 490 of power transmission assembly 470. Illustratively, drive shaft 490 can be positioned between first fixing device 133 and second fixing device 134 and guard plate 130 and is generally located in the middle of longitudinal extension tube 60. Further details of tunnel component 132 are disclosed in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 442,071, filed February 11, 2011; U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 696,519 (Attorney’s No. PLR-06-25478.01P), filed September 4, 2012; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 1370,139, filed February 9, 2012; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 464,603, filed May 4, 2012; and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 492,589, filed June 8, 2012, the entire disclosures of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0094] Now refer to Figures 19 to 24 The rollover protection frame assembly 260 generally surrounds the operator's cab 20 and the operator's area 22. The rollover protection frame assembly 260 may be removable from the frame assembly 50. The rollover protection frame assembly 260 includes a front portion 262 and a rear portion 264. The front portion 262 includes an upright portion 266, a horizontal portion 268, an upper crossbeam 270 defining a surface 272, and a lower crossbeam 274 defining a surface 276. Figure 20 As shown, the lower crossbeam 274 can support the front windshield 24 ( Figure 44The lower crossbeam 274 is connected to the frame assembly 50 via a gusset plate 74 and fasteners 278. The lower crossbeam 274 can be made of metal or polymer and can be formed by metal stamping, injection molding, or other similar manufacturing methods. Additionally, the lower crossbeam 274 is also connected to a support member 280 via fasteners 282. The support member 280 is supported on the gusset plate 74 and can also support the windshield 24. The lower crossbeam 274 can also be connected to a bracket 284 via fasteners 286. Illustratively, the bracket 284 is connected to the removable frame portion 70 of the frame assembly 50. The bracket 284 can be formed by casting. Figure 20 As shown, the lower crossbeam 274 is also connected to the front transverse support 76 of the frame assembly 50 via fasteners 288. The front transverse support 76, together with fasteners 289, can support the support member 290. The support member 290 can be operably connected to the windshield 24.

[0095] The upright portion 266 of the rollover protection frame assembly 260 is coupled to the bracket 284 and extends between the bracket 284 and the upper crossbeam 270. Illustratively, the lower end portion 265 of the upright portion 266 is profiled to complement the bracket 284, such that the upright portion 266 is flush with the bracket 284 and forms a continuous frame member of the rollover protection frame assembly 260. In one embodiment, the lower end portion 265 is formed by casting and may be integrally coupled to or otherwise coupled to the upright portion 266. The upright portion 266 may include handholds 292 for the operator and / or front passenger. The outlines of the vertical portion 266 and the horizontal portion 268 of the front portion 262 may be configured in a generally hourglass or figure-eight shape, as described in detail in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 442,071, filed February 11, 2011; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 1370,139, filed February 9, 2012; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 464,603, filed May 4, 2012; and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 492,589, filed June 8, 2012, the entire disclosures of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0096] The rear portion 264 of the rollover protection frame assembly 260 includes an upright portion 294, a horizontal portion 296, an upper crossbeam 298, a middle crossbeam 300, and a lower crossbeam 302. The upright portion 294 is connected to a bracket 238 of the frame assembly 50 and the upper crossbeam 298. In one embodiment, the upright portion 294 supports a support rail 308, which can protect rear passengers inside the vehicle 2. The horizontal portion 296 is also connected to the upper crossbeam 298 by fasteners 310. Figure 23 ).like Figure 23 and Figure 24 As shown, the outer end portion 299 of the upright portion 294 can be a cast component and its profile can be configured to complement the cast inner end portion 297 of the horizontal portion 296, such that the horizontal portion 296 and the upright portion 294 are approximately flush when joined together. The cast inner end portion 297 can be integrally formed with the horizontal portion 296 by a casting method. The outlines of the vertical portion 294 and the horizontal portion 296 of the rear portion 264 may be configured in a generally hourglass or figure-eight shape, as described in detail in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 442,071, filed February 11, 2011; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 1370,139, filed February 9, 2012; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 464,603, filed May 4, 2012; and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 492,589, filed June 8, 2012, the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0097] Reference Figure 21 The upper crossbeam 298, the middle crossbeam 300, and the lower crossbeam 302 are connected to the upright portion 294. Additionally, the inclined member 304 is connected to the middle crossbeam 300 and extends outward to connect with the upright portion 294. The inclined member 304 may include a rear passenger headrest 312. The panel 306 may be connected to both the middle crossbeam 300 and the lower crossbeam 302. The illustrative panel 306 may support multiple parts of the vehicle's electrical system, such as taillights.

[0098] The front portion 262 and rear portion 264 of the rollover protection frame assembly 260 can be connected together via a transverse frame tube 314. The transverse frame tube 314 extends between the upright portions 316. Additionally, a first support member 318 and a second support member 320 extend between the upright portions 316. In one embodiment, the upright portions 316 may also support a support railing 322 for protecting the driver and front passenger inside the vehicle 2. Unlike the generally vertical upright portion 294, the upright portion 316 may include a bend 317 that angles the lower end of the upright portion 316 rearward. This bend 317 increases the access space for the operator and the front passenger.

[0099] like Figure 23 and Figure 24 As shown, the transverse frame tube 314 and the vertical portion 316 are connected to the horizontal portions 268 and 296 at connection position 324. Connection position 324 illustratively defines a "T"-shaped member between the horizontal portions 268 and 296 and the vertical portion 316. For positioning and alignment of the horizontal portions 268 and 296 with the vertical portion 316, a positioning pin 246 can be received within the positioning recess 248. Figure 24 ).

[0100] Additionally, the horizontal portion 268 includes a cast end 267 having an inner surface 269. The cast end 267 can be integrally formed with the horizontal portion 268 by a casting method. The horizontal portion 296 also includes a cast end 291 having an outer surface 293 and an inner surface 295. The cast end 291 can be integrally formed with the horizontal portion 296 by a casting method. The contour of the outer surface 293 of the cast end 291 of the horizontal portion 296 can be configured to complement the inner surface 269 of the cast end 267 of the horizontal portion 268, such that when the horizontal portion 296 is connected to the horizontal portion 268 by fasteners 326, the horizontal portion 296 is substantially flush with the horizontal portion 268. In this way, the horizontal portion 268 of the front portion 262 and the horizontal portion 296 of the rear portion 264 of the rollover protection frame assembly 260 form a continuous frame member. Similarly, the contour of the inner surface 295 of the cast end 291 of the horizontal portion 296 can be configured to complement the outer surface 315 of the cast end 319 of the vertical portion 316, such that when the horizontal portion 296 is connected to the vertical portion 316 by fasteners 328, the horizontal portion 296 and the vertical portion 316 are substantially flush. The cast end 319 can be integrally formed with the vertical portion 316 by a casting method. In this way, adjacent components of the rollover protection frame assembly 260 appear to form a continuous portion.

[0101] Now refer to Figure 25 The rollover protection frame assembly 260 generally surrounds the seat assembly 200, which includes a front seat portion 202 and a rear seat portion 220 of the frame assembly 50. The front seat portion 202 is located in front of the rear seat portion 220 and supports an operator seat 330 and a front passenger seat 336 arranged side by side. The operator seat 330 and the front passenger seat 336 can be connected to the frame tube 94 by a latching device including pins and polymer cushioning devices. Illustratively, the operator seat 330 and the front passenger seat 336 can be separated by a center console 392, as described in further detail herein. The operator seat 330 and the front passenger seat 336 are positioned on the front floor 420. Figure 1 The operator seat 330 is defined by a seat base 332 and a seat back 334, and the front passenger seat 336 is defined by a seat base 338 and a seat back 340. The seat bases 332 and 338 may be pivotally connected to the front seat portion 202 of the frame assembly 50, as described in further detail herein. The operator seat 330 and the front passenger seat 336 may include seat restraint devices such as three-point or multi-point seat belts. A portion of the seat belt of the front seat portion 202 may be connected to a bracket 219 on the transverse frame member 212. Figure 11 ).

[0102] The rear seat portion 220 supports a first rear passenger seat 342 defined by a seat bottom 344 and a seat back 346, a second rear passenger seat 348 defined by a seat bottom 350 and a seat back 352, and a third rear passenger seat 354 defined by a seat bottom 356 and a seat back 358. The rear passenger seats 342, 348, and 354 are positioned on the rear floor 418. Figure 29 Illustratively, the first rear passenger seat 342 is positioned generally behind the operator seat 330, the second rear passenger seat 348 is positioned generally behind the center console 392, and the third rear passenger seat 354 is positioned generally behind the front passenger seat 336. Thus, the second rear passenger seat 348 is correspondingly positioned between the first rear passenger seat 342 and the third rear passenger seat 354. The first rear passenger seat 342, the second rear passenger seat 348, and the third rear passenger seat 354 can be connected to the frame tube 224 via a latching assembly including at least one pin and at least one polymer cushioning device. A headrest 312 can be connected to the inclined member 304 of the rear portion 264 of the rollover protection frame assembly 260 to provide support to the passengers in the first rear passenger seat 342 and / or the third rear passenger seat 354.

[0103] In one embodiment, the seat base 344 of the first rear passenger seat 342, the seat base 350 of the second rear passenger seat 348, and the seat base 356 of the third rear passenger seat 354 can be correspondingly connected together to form a long bench seat. For example, the seat bases 344, 350, and 356 can also be configured in a 60 / 40 arrangement, such that the seat bases 344 and 350 can include most of the long bench seat. Alternatively, the seat bases 344, 350, and 356 can be separate seat bases. Similarly, the seat backs 346, 352, and 358 can be connected together to form a single seat back for multiple rear passengers. Alternatively, the seat backs 346, 352, and 358 can be separate seat backs.

[0104] The first rear passenger seat 342, the second rear passenger seat 348, and the third rear passenger seat 354 may each include seat restraint devices 343, 349, and 355, respectively. For example... Figure 25As shown, the seat restraint device 343 of the first rear passenger seat 342, the seat restraint device 349 of the second rear passenger seat 348, and the seat restraint device 355 of the third rear passenger seat 354 can be respectively connected to the inclined member 304. More specifically, shoulder members 343a, 349a, and 355a can be connected adjacent to the headrest 312 to the inclined member 304 to prevent the seat restraint devices 343, 349, and 355 from rubbing against the passenger's neck. The shoulder members 343a, 349a, and 355a are configured to be connected to locking members 343b, 349b, and 355b, respectively. The locking members 343b, 349b, and 355b are adjacent to the seat bottoms 344, 450, and 356, respectively, and can be connected to the bracket 103 located on the crossbeam 102. Figure 13 Illustratively, each of the seat restraints 343, 349 and 355 is a three-point anchored seatbelt.

[0105] Reference Figures 26 to 31 The operator area 22 of the operator's cab 20 may include multiple accessories. For example, multiple storage containers 360, 406, and 408 may be disposed below seats 330, 336, 342, 348, and 354, as described in further detail herein. More specifically, the front storage container 360 may be positioned below the operator seat 330 and the front passenger seat 336. Similarly, the rear storage container 406 may be positioned below the first rear passenger seat 342 and the third rear passenger seat 354, respectively. Additionally, the rear storage container 408 may be positioned below the second rear passenger seat 348. In one embodiment, the illustrative storage containers 360, 406, and 408 may be "dry" storage containers for sealing goods and other components therein to protect them from water, dust, and debris.

[0106] like Figure 26 As shown, the first seat portion 202 includes a hinge 362 located on the frame tube 92. The hinge 362 is operably connected to the seat base 332 of the operator seat 330 and the seat base 338 of the front passenger seat 336, respectively. Thus, the seat bases 332, 338 are configured to pivot about the hinge 362 in a forward direction to expose the storage container 360.

[0107] Reference Figures 27 to 29The storage container 360 includes a front wall 364, a rear wall 366, an outer side wall 368, an inner side wall 370, and a bottom surface 372 that generally surround an interior space 374 of the storage container 360. The interior space 374 of the storage container 360 can hold goods and other items that can be easily accessed by pivoting the operator seat 330 and / or the front passenger seat 336 about a hinge 362 to an open position. In one embodiment, the storage container 360 may include an electrical outlet operably connected to the electrical system of the vehicle 2 to charge or power user accessories such as mobile phones, GPS devices, and / or computers. Additionally, the front floor 420 ( Figure 1 It may also include at least one electrical outlet for auxiliary power supply.

[0108] The bottom surface 372 of the storage container 360 may include a drain outlet 376, which allows any fluid, dust, or debris within the interior space 374 to fall through the drain outlet 376. Thus, the drain outlet 376 prevents dust and fluid from accumulating in the storage container 360. During operation of the vehicle 2, a plug or other sealing member (not shown) may cover the drain outlet 376 to prevent dust and debris below the vehicle 2 from entering the storage container 360 through the drain outlet 376.

[0109] Additionally, the top surface 378 of the storage container 360 includes an outer edge 380 and an inner edge 382, ​​which define a groove 384 between them. Figure 27 As shown, the trough 384 may include multiple outlets 386. Thus, any fluid, dust, or debris within the trough 384 can fall through the outlets 386 and out of the vehicle 2. During operation of the vehicle 2, plugs or other sealing members (not shown) may cover the outlets 386.

[0110] In one embodiment, the seat bottoms 322, 328 can be used to enclose the internal space 374 of the storage container 360. Alternatively, the illustrative storage container 360 may include a lid 388, such as Figure 29 As shown in the diagram, the lid 388 is positioned on the interior space 374 and can be held on the inner edge 382 of the top surface 378 by means of an external latching device 390. Illustratively, the lid 388 is configured to "snap" onto the storage container 360 because the external latching device 390 "hooks" or engages around the inner edge 382. Thus, the lid 388 can be easily assembled with the storage container 360 to seal the interior space 374 without the use of tools and can be easily removed from the storage container 360.

[0111] Reference Figure 31The operator area 22 of the driver's cab 30 also includes a storage container 400 within the center console 392. The center console 392 may be supported by frame tubes 92, 94 welded or riveted to the front seat portion 202 to prevent the center console 392 from being removed from the vehicle 2. Alternatively, in one embodiment, the center console 392 can be removed from the vehicle 2. The center console 392 is located between the operator seat 330 and the front passenger seat 336 and may include a cover 394, a base 396, a hinge 398, and accessories such as a front cup holder 402. The cover 394 is connected to the base 396 via the hinge 398 and pivots about the hinge 398 in a generally rearward direction. Illustratively, the hinge 398 may be molded into the cover 394 and the base 396 such that the hinge 398 is integral with the cover 394 and the base 396. Thus, the hinge 398 on the lid 394 snaps or clamps into the hinge 398 on the base 396, eliminating the need for additional hardware or connecting parts. Alternatively, the hinge 398 can be connected to the lid 394 and the base 396 using conventional fasteners. The storage container 400 can be a "dry" storage container because a seal 395 is supported on the lid 394 and / or the base 396.

[0112] When the cover 394 is opened, the storage container 400 is exposed. The storage container 400 may be configured to support cargo belonging to an operator and / or passenger, or it may be configured to support components of the vehicle 2. In one embodiment, the storage container 400 may include an electrical outlet operatively connected to the electrical system of the vehicle 2 to charge or power accessories such as mobile phones, GPS devices, and / or computers. The storage container 400 may include a drain outlet (not shown) similar to the drain outlet 376 of the storage container 360.

[0113] like Figure 26 and Figure 29As shown, the rear seat portion 220 includes a hinge 404 located on the frame tube 222. The hinge 404 is operably connected to the seat base 344 of the first rear passenger seat 342, the seat base 350 of the second rear passenger seat 348, and the seat base 356 of the third rear passenger seat 354, respectively. Thus, the seat bases 344, 350, and 356 are configured to pivot forward about the hinge 404 to expose storage containers 406 and 408. Goods and other items can be held within the storage containers 406 and 408, and these goods and other items can be easily accessed by pivoting the seat bases 344, 350, and 356 about the hinge 404 to an open position. Alternatively, components of the vehicle 2, such as electrical system components, can be supported within the storage containers 406 and 408. For example, electrical system controls and fuses can be supported in a storage container 408 located below the seat base 350, bringing them closer to the powertrain assembly 470. In this way, the electrical connection originating from the controls and fuses can be shorter due to their proximity to the powertrain assembly 470. Additionally, any controls and / or fuses in the storage container 408 can be easily accessed by the user for replacement or repair.

[0114] Illustratively, seat bases 344, 350, and 356 are joined together to form a single elongated seat, allowing seat bases 344, 350, and 356 to simultaneously pivot about hinge 404 to expose storage containers 406 and 408. In one embodiment, storage containers 406 and 408 include electrical outlets operably connected to the electrical system of vehicle 2 for charging or powering user accessories such as mobile phones, GPS devices, and / or computers. An additional auxiliary power outlet may be connected to the rear floor 418. The rear storage containers 406 and 408 can have less cargo space compared to the front storage container 360 because other components of vehicle 2, such as the fuel tank 500 and battery, can be supported by the frame assembly 50 beneath the rear passenger seats 342, 348, and 354.

[0115] In one embodiment, storage containers 406 and 408 are closed when the seat bottoms 344, 350, and 356 are latched against the frame tube 224. Alternatively, storage containers 406 and 408 may also include lids (not shown). These lids can be easily assembled with and removed from storage containers 406 and 408 without the use of tools.

[0116] like Figure 29 and Figure 30As shown, the rear seat portion 202 of the frame assembly 50 can also support additional accessories such as a rear cup holder 410. The rear cup holder 410 and / or other accessories can be attached to a body panel 412 that separates the front seat portion 202 from the rear seat portion 220. The body panel 412 is attached to the rear floor 418 and illustratively angled downwards in the forward direction. With this angled configuration, the body panel 412 extends partially below the operator seat 330 and the front passenger seat 336, thereby increasing the rear passenger footwell 414. To accommodate the increased footwell 414 in the rear seat portion 220, the lower portion 416 of the rear wall 366 of the front storage container 360 is recessed. More specifically, the profile and angle of the lower portion 416 substantially correspond to the profile and angle of the body panel 412 to maximize the rear passenger footwell 414. Additionally, the body panel 412 may include a toeboard 422. The rear passenger can position their toes against the toeboard 422, thereby increasing the rear passenger's footrest space 414 and legroom. Illustratively, the rear passenger's feet can extend partially in front of the transverse frame member 212 and the seat backs 334 and 340 of the front seat portion 202, such that the rear passenger's feet are partially located under a portion of the front storage container 360.

[0117] Reference Figures 32 to 35 The operator area 22 of the operator's cab 20 also includes a steering assembly 430 and a throttle control device 460. The steering assembly 430 includes a steering wheel 432, a steering column 434, a steering shaft 436, a coupling member 438, a housing 440, a bracket 442, and an adjusting member 452. The steering wheel 432 is coupled to the steering column 434 and the steering shaft 436 to transmit motion of the steering wheel 432 to the front wheels 4. The steering shaft 436 is coupled to the coupling member 438 for coupling with other components of the steering assembly 430. The housing 440 extends generally around the coupling member 438 and a portion of the steering column 434 and the steering shaft 436. The housing 440 can be coupled to the bracket 442 by means of a mounting assembly including a fastener 444, a washer 446, a support member 448, a sleeve 450, and a connector 451. In one embodiment, the sleeve 450 may be a plastic "locking" component. Alternatively, sleeve 450 can be a riveted component. For example... Figure 34 and Figure 35 As shown, fastener 444 is received through an opening in bracket 442 and housing 440 and connected to bracket 442 and housing 440 via connector 451. Illustratively, connector 451 is adjacent to the inner surface of housing 440. Washer 446 and support 448 may be positioned between fastener 444 and connector 451. Sleeve 450 may be positioned on fastener 444, washer 446, and support 448.

[0118] The steering assembly 430 may also include an adjustment member 452 for adjusting the height and tilt position of the steering wheel 432. Illustratively, the adjustment member 452 is a hydraulic damper that raises and lowers the steering wheel 432 when the operator depresses lever 458. Alternatively, the adjustment member 452 may be other devices configured to adjust the position of the steering wheel 432. Lever 458 is operably coupled to the adjustment member 452. When the adjustment member 452 adjusts the position of the steering wheel 432, the housing 440 is configured to move with the steering wheel 432. The adjustment member 452 is coupled to lever arm 454 via fastener 456. Additionally, the adjustment member is coupled to steering column 434 via bracket 455 and fastener 456.

[0119] like Figure 32 As shown, the throttle control device 460 includes an electronic throttle control (“ETC”) assembly 462, surrounded by a housing 464 and operatively coupled to the accelerator pedal 466, as described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 464,603, filed May 4, 2012, and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 492,589, filed June 8, 2012, the entire disclosures of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference. A lever arm 465 is operatively coupled to the accelerator pedal 466. The accelerator pedal 466 is adjacent to the brake pedal 468.

[0120] Reference Figures 36 to 43 The diagram shows a powertrain assembly 470. The powertrain assembly 470 includes an engine 472, a transmission 474, an intake assembly 476, and an exhaust assembly 478. The powertrain assembly 470 is also connected to a fuel tank 500 for supplying fuel to the engine 472. Figure 39 Additionally, the powertrain assembly 470 is connected to a cooling assembly having a cooling pipe 479 extending from a radiator located at the front end 8 of the vehicle 2. Figure 18The powertrain assembly 470 may be configured to output approximately 60 hp, and the vehicle 2 may reach a maximum speed of approximately 50 mph. The illustrative engine 472 may be configured to operate using diesel or gasoline fuel from fuel tank 500 and operably coupled to transmission 474. The illustrative transmission 474 may be a continuously variable transmission (“CVT”). Further details of the engine 472 and transmission 474 are disclosed in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 385,802 (Attorney’s No. PLR-00PT-24365.01P), filed September 23, 2010; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 242,229, filed September 23, 2011; and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 242,239, filed September 23, 2011, the entire disclosures of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0121] like Figure 37 and Figure 38 As shown, the powertrain assembly 470 also includes a rear differential assembly 480. The rear differential assembly 480 is enclosed within a housing 482 supported on the rear frame portion 54 and includes an input shaft 484 and an output shaft 486. The input shaft 484 is operably coupled to the transmission 474, and the output shaft 486 is operably coupled to the drive shaft 490 to drive the front wheels 4 of the vehicle 2. The rear differential assembly 480 also includes a splined bearing 488 for coupling with the half-shafts of the rear wheels 6 to drive the rear wheels 6.

[0122] like Figure 38 As shown, the driveshaft 490 includes a front portion 490a and a rear portion 490b. The front portion 490a is operably connected to the rear portion 490b via a coupling 491—illustratively a universal joint. By dividing the driveshaft 490 into the front portion 490a and the rear portion 490b, less vibration and vibration from rotational rpm (revolutions per minute) can be transmitted between the front end 8 and the rear end 14 of the vehicle 2 via the driveshaft. The rear portion 490b is supported on the longitudinal frame tube 60 by a support member 492. In one embodiment, the support member 492 is a suspension support. The support member 492 is connected to the bracket 494 (and additionally in…) via fasteners 496 and 498. Figure 9 (As shown in the diagram). The rear portion 490b is rotatably connected to the output shaft 486 of the rear differential assembly 480. Similarly, the front portion 490a is rotatably connected to the front differential assembly.

[0123] Reference Figure 39The powertrain assembly 470 is operably connected to the fuel tank 500. Specifically, fuel flows from the fuel tank 500 through fuel line 502 to the engine 472. A vent pipe 504 of the fuel tank 500 extends outward toward the outside of the vehicle 2 and exhausts gases from the side of the vehicle 2 toward the operator's side. The vent pipe 504 can be connected to the frame member 234 by a belt or other fastener. When cap 506 ( Figure 1 When removed, fuel can be added to the fuel tank 500 through the fuel inlet. The cap 506 is supported on the side body panel 508. Further details of the fuel tank 500 are disclosed in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 442,071, filed February 11, 2011; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 1370,139, filed February 9, 2012; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 464,603, filed May 4, 2012; and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 492,589, filed June 8, 2012, the entire disclosures of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0124] The intake assembly 476 includes an intake assembly 510 for the transmission 474 and an intake assembly 520 for the engine 472. The transmission intake assembly 510 includes an inlet 512 supported on a side body panel 514. Figure 2 ).like Figure 36 As shown, air from inlet 512 located on the passenger side of vehicle 2 flows inward and enters transmission 474. Air is exhausted from exhaust port 516 and flows outward toward the passenger side of vehicle 2, for example, through exhaust assembly 478. Further details of the transmission exhaust assembly 510 are disclosed in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 442,071, filed February 11, 2011; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 1370,139, filed February 9, 2012; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 464,603, filed May 4, 2012; and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 492,589, filed June 8, 2012, the entire disclosures of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0125] Reference Figures 40 to 42 The engine intake assembly 520 includes an inlet 522 supported on a side body panel 524 located on the operator side of the vehicle 2. Figure 1Illustratively, inlet 522 is positioned above cap 506 of fuel tank 500. Inlet 522 is connected to hose 526 via conventional fasteners—illustratively, clamps. Similarly, hose 526 is connected to hose 528 via clamps. Hose 528 includes a one-way port or one-way valve, illustratively, a duckbill port 530, which allows water within hose 528 to flow out of hose 528 but prevents air or particulate matter (e.g., dust, debris) from flowing into hose 528. Hose 528 is connected to air tank assembly 532, which includes cap 534 and base 536. Cap 534 is connected to base 536 via latching device 538. Base 536 may include an outlet. Air tank assembly 532 also includes a filter supported between cap 534 and base 536. Air flows from the air box assembly 532 through the hose 540 into the intake booster assembly 542.

[0126] like Figure 41 and Figure 42 As best shown, the intake supercharger assembly 542 includes a top portion 544 and a bottom portion 546. The top portion 544 and bottom portion 546 may be made of metallic or polymeric material and may be formed by casting or injection molding methods. The top portion 544 may be joined to the bottom portion 546 by thermal welding or ultrasonic welding. Alternatively, the top portion 544 may be joined to the bottom portion 546 by conventional fasteners. A filter may be included within the intake supercharger assembly 542. The intake supercharger assembly 542 includes an intake port 548 for receiving air from the airbox assembly 532 through a hose 540. Additionally, the intake supercharger assembly 542 includes at least one outlet port 549. Illustratively, the intake supercharger assembly 542 includes two outlet ports 549. The outlet ports 549 are coupled to the engine 472 to supply air to the engine 472 for combustion. Figure 42 As shown, the air intake 548 and air outlet 549 are supported on the top portion 544 of the intake supercharger assembly 542. Further details of the engine's intake assembly 520 are disclosed in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 442,071, filed February 11, 2011; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 1370,139, filed February 9, 2012; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 464,603, filed May 4, 2012; and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 492,589, filed June 8, 2012, the entire disclosures of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0127] The exhaust assembly 478 is also fluidly connected to the engine 472 to exhaust gases from the engine 472. (See reference...) Figure 43The exhaust assembly 478 includes an intake hose 550, a muffler 552, an exhaust pipe 554, and a heat shield 556. The intake hose 550 is connected to a portion of the engine 472 to exhaust gases from the engine 472. Gases from the engine 472 flow through the intake hose 550 and into the muffler 552. Gases from the muffler 552 flow through the exhaust pipe 554 to the outside of the vehicle 2. The heat shield 556 is connected to the muffler 552 by fasteners 557 and 558. More specifically, as Figure 43 As shown, fasteners 557 and 558 are engaged with bracket 559 on muffler 552 to secure heat shield 556 to muffler 552. Heat shield 556 generally surrounds or encloses muffler 552. Further details of exhaust assembly 478 are disclosed in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 442,071, filed February 11, 2011; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 1370,139, filed February 9, 2012; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 464,603, filed May 4, 2012; and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 492,589, filed June 8, 2012, the entire disclosures of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0128] Now refer to Figures 44 to 58 In one embodiment, the operator's cab 20 may be enclosed by a roof assembly 610, a door assembly 560, a front windshield 24, and a rear windshield 26. Further details of the front windshield 24 and the rear windshield 25, including details of mounting the windshields 24 and 26 to the frame assembly 50, are disclosed in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 442,071, filed February 11, 2011; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 1370,139, filed February 9, 2012; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 464,603, filed May 4, 2012; and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 492,589, filed June 8, 2012, the entire disclosures of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0129] like Figures 44 to 54As shown, door assembly 560 includes a front door 562 and a rear door 564. Door 562 is removably hinged at upright portion 316, and door 564 is removably hinged at upright portion 294, such that doors 562 and 564 rotate rearward when opened. Doors 562 and 564 include a window 569 and a latching device 568. When doors 562 and 564 are opened, the latching device 568 is released, and when doors 562 and 564 are closed against the rollover protection frame assembly 260, the latching device 568 is engaged. Further details of window 569 and latching device 568 are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 1370,139, filed February 9, 2012; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 464,603, filed May 4, 2012; and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 492,589, filed June 8, 2012, the entire disclosures of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference. Because roll cage assembly 260 includes molded components, doors 562, 564 can be substantially flush with roll cage assembly 260 when closed. Doors 562, 564 also include sealing member 566, which is compressed against doors 562, 564 and roll cage assembly 260 to seal and isolate operator cab 20 and operator area 22.

[0130] like Figures 49 to 51As shown, the upright portions 294, 316 of the roll cage assembly 260 can support the hinge member 570. The hinge member 570 is configured to receive the hinge pin 574. The front door 562 is supported on the plate 213 of the transverse frame member 212 by the hinge pin 574 via fasteners 576. Similarly, the rear door 564 is supported on the bracket 238 by the hinge pin 574 via fasteners 576. The hinge pin 574 is received within the hinge member 570 and rotates within the hinge member 570 when the doors 562, 564 are opened and closed. No tools are required when assembling the doors 562, 564 to the roll cage assembly 260 because the doors 562, 564 are secured to the roll cage assembly 260 when the hinge pin 574 is received within the hinge member 570. Additionally, doors 562 and 564 can be easily removed from the rollover protection assembly 260 by lifting them upwards. Each door 562 and 564 may also include an auxiliary latching assembly for restricting the movement of doors 562 and 564 when they are open. For example, the auxiliary latching assembly may be a strap with a buckle. Further details of doors 562 and 564, hinge member 570, hinge pin 574, and auxiliary latching assemblies are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 1370,139, filed February 9, 2012; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 464,603, filed May 4, 2012; and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 492,589, filed June 8, 2012, the entire disclosures of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0131] like Figure 49 As shown, the front door 562 may include an interior cover member or skin 578 that substantially covers the inside of the front door 562. Conversely, the illustrative rear door 564 may include an interior cover member or skin 579 that partially covers the inside of the rear door 564. In particular, the interior cover member 579 of the rear door 564 covers the portion of the door 564 that a rear passenger may come into contact with. Illustratively, the interior cover member 579 is positioned in the middle portion of the rear door 564 to protect the hands and arms of the rear passenger.

[0132] Reference Figures 51 to 54 Seal 566 ( Figure 49 The rear door 564 can be compressed between the doors 562, 564 and the roll cage assembly 260 to seal the operator's cab 20. Additionally, the rear door 564 can be further sealed against the roll cage assembly 260 by a sealing assembly 580, and specifically, against the upright portion 316. An exemplary sealing assembly 580 is made of injection-molded polymeric material. The sealing assembly 580 is coupled to the upright portion 316 and also to body panels 588, 589 (which are coupled to the upright portion 316). Figure 44 and Figure 45 The sealing assembly 580 includes an upper portion 582 and a lower portion 584. The upper portion 582 and the lower portion 584 are joined together at a protrusion 590. The protrusion 590 is positioned adjacent to a post 571 of a door latching device 568.

[0133] The upper portion 582 includes a top member 586, which may be integrally formed with the upper portion 582 or connected to the upper portion 582 by conventional fastening means (e.g., welding, rivets, adhesives, bolts, screws, or nails). Illustratively, the top member 586 is circular and contacts both the upright portion 316 and the horizontal portion 294.

[0134] The upper portion 582 is connected to the inner molded surface 600 of the upright portion 316 via fastener 592. Fastener 592 extends through a hole 594 in the sealing assembly 580 and through a hole 598 in the molded inner surface 600 of the upright portion 316. The lower portion 584 is connected to the side surfaces 602 of the body panel 588 and 604 of the body panel 589. Specifically, fastener 592 extends through the hole 594 in the lower portion 584 and the hole 596 in the body panels 588 and 589. Fastener 592 can also connect the body panels 588 and 589 to multiple portions of the frame assembly 50, such that fastener 592 performs both the function of connecting the sealing assembly 580 to the vehicle 2 and the function of connecting the body panels 588 and 589 to the frame assembly 50. When the sealing assembly 580 is assembled with the body panels 588, 589 and the upright portion 316, the lower portion 584 can extend rearward from the side surface 602 of the body panel 588 and the side surface 604 of the body panel 589, respectively. Figure 54 As shown, when closed, the rear door 564 is flush with the sealing assembly 580, so that the rear door 564 is sealed against the body panels 588, 589 and the upright portion 316. In addition, the sealing member 566 can also seal the rear door 564 against the horizontal portion 296 and the upright portion 294 of the roll cage assembly 260.

[0135] Reference Figures 55 to 58 The image shows a canopy assembly 610. The canopy assembly 610 includes a first outer member 612, a second outer member 614, a first inner member 616, and a second inner member 620. The first outer member 612 includes a connecting member for connection to the upper crossbeam 270 of the rollover protection frame assembly 260; illustratively, this connecting member is a hook 632. The hook 632 extends into an opening 271 in the upper crossbeam 270. Figure 21The first external member 612 is held in place of the upper crossbeam 270. A seal 636 may be positioned between the first external member 612 and the upper crossbeam 270. The seal 636 is compressed between the first external member 612 and the upper crossbeam 270 to isolate the operator's cab 20. The external member 612 also includes a plurality of bosses 634. The bosses 634 may be internally threaded to receive fasteners, as described in further detail herein. As shown, the first external member 612 is generally positioned above the front portion 262 of the rollover protection frame assembly 260 and the first seat portion 202 of the frame assembly 50.

[0136] The second external member 614 includes a plurality of connecting members, illustratively, a front hook 640 and a rear hook 642. The front hook 640 extends around the front side of the transverse frame tube 314 of the roll cage assembly 260 and includes a protrusion 641 for receiving fasteners, as described in further detail herein. The rear hook 642 extends into an opening 287 in the upper rear crossbeam 298 of the roll cage assembly 260. In this way, the second external member 614 is held on the roll cage assembly 260. A seal 664 may be positioned between the second external member 614 and the upper rear crossbeam 298 to isolate the operator's cab 20. The second external member 614 may also include a plurality of bosses 644, which may be internally threaded to receive fasteners, as described in further detail herein. As shown, the second external member 624 is generally positioned above the rear portion 264 of the rollover protection frame assembly 260 and the second seat portion 220 of the frame assembly 50.

[0137] The first outer members 612 and 614 are joined together and illustratively overlap each other at the intermediate portion 646. The intermediate portion 646 defines the top of the canopy assembly 610 such that the first outer members 612 and the second outer members 614 taper downwards from the intermediate portion 646. Thus, the intermediate portion 646 prevents water or debris from forming mud on the canopy assembly 610. A seal 648 can be positioned between the first outer members 612 and the second outer members 614 to seal the canopy assembly 610 at the intermediate portion 646.

[0138] The first internal member 616 is positioned below the first external member 612 and includes an auxiliary portion 618 for supporting a speaker, a lamp, or other components of the vehicle 2. Additionally, the first internal member 616 includes a plate 650 and a plurality of slots 652 for engagement with the second internal member 620, as described in further detail herein. The first internal member 616 is configured to receive fasteners 630 for engaging the first internal member 616 to the first external member 612. More specifically, as Figure 56As shown, the fastener 630 is received within the boss 634 of the first outer member 612 and tightened to minimize the vertical gap between the first inner member 616 and the first outer member 612 and to prevent recesses between the first inner member 616 and the first outer member 612. Seal 654 ( Figure 57 It can be positioned between the first outer member 612 and the first inner member 616 to seal the roof assembly 610.

[0139] The second internal member 620 is positioned behind the first internal member 616 and below the second external member 614. The second internal member 620 includes an auxiliary portion 622 for supporting a speaker, lamp, or other components of the vehicle 2. Additionally, the second internal member 620 includes a protrusion 656 having a plurality of fingers 658 and an opening 660. The protrusion 656 is V-shaped and configured to receive a transverse frame tube 314. The second internal member 620 is configured to receive fasteners 626 for connecting the second internal member 620 to the second external member 614. More specifically, as Figure 56 As shown, fastener 626 is received within the boss 644 of the second outer member 614 and tightened to minimize the vertical gap between the second inner member 620 and the second outer member 614 and to prevent recesses between the second inner member 620 and the second outer member 614. Seal 662 ( Figure 57 It can be positioned between the second outer member 614 and the second inner member 620 to seal the roof assembly 610.

[0140] The second internal member 620 can be connected to the first internal member 616 via the protrusion 656. More specifically, the plate 650 of the first internal member 616 is received within the protrusion 656 of the second internal member 620, as... Figure 56 As best shown in the diagram, the finger-like portion 658 of the protrusion 656 extends upward along the plate 650 and is received within the groove 652 of the first inner member 616. Thus, the first inner member 616 is held onto the second inner member 620 without the need for tools. Additionally, a fastener 628 can be received through the protrusion 656 of the second inner member 620 and the protrusion 641 of the front hook 640 of the second outer member 614. Thus, the fastener 628 and the protrusion 641 connect the second outer member 614 to the second inner member 620.

[0141] When the roof assembly 610 is assembled to the vehicle 2, the first outer member 612 and the second outer member 614 can be positioned on the roll cage assembly 260 and moved into the appropriate position and aligned by pulling them backward on the roof assembly 610. In this way, the hook 632 of the first outer member 612 engages with the opening 271 of the front upper crossbeam 279, and the first outer member 612 slides backward into the second outer member 614 at the middle portion 646. The front hook 640 of the second outer member 614 also slides backward to extend around a portion of the transverse frame tube 314. In addition, when the roof assembly 610 is pulled backward, the rear hook 642 of the second outer member 614 extends into the opening 287 of the rear upper crossbeam 298. In this way, the first outer member 612 and the second outer member 614 are held together on the roll cage assembly 260 in a tool-less manner (i.e., without the need for tools).

[0142] After the first outer member 612 and the second outer member 614 have been attached to the rollover protection frame assembly 260, the first inner member 616 and the second inner member 620 are assembled. Seals 636, 648, 654, 662, and 664 can be positioned around the periphery of the canopy assembly 610 and compressed between the first outer member 612, the first inner member 616, the second outer member 614, and the second inner member 620. The first inner member 616 can be attached to the first outer member 612 via fasteners 630 and bosses 634. The second inner member 620 can subsequently be attached to the first inner member 616 by positioning the fingers 658 of the protrusion 656 in the grooves 652 of the first inner member 616. Additionally, the protrusion 656 can receive fasteners 628 passing through the protrusions 641 of the front hook 640 to secure the second inner member 620 to the second outer member 616. The second internal component 620 can also be connected to the second external component 614 via a fastener 626. The fastener 626 can be received within a boss 644 of the second external component 614 and tightened to secure the second internal component 620 to the second external component 614. Additionally, a fastener 624 can be received through the second internal component 620 to further connect the second internal component 620 to the second external component 614. It is understood that assembling the canopy assembly 610 with the roll cage assembly 260 can be a tool-less operation (i.e., no tools are required for assembling the canopy assembly 610 with the roll cage assembly 260). No tools are also required for connecting the first external component 612, the second external component 614, the first internal component 616, and the second internal component 620 together.

[0143] Although the invention has been described with exemplary design, further modifications can be made to the invention within the spirit and scope of this application. Therefore, this application tends to cover any variations, uses, or modifications of the invention that utilize its general principles. Furthermore, this application tends to cover deviations from this application that fall within the scope of practices known or customary in the field to which this invention pertains.

Claims

1. A multi-purpose vehicle, comprising: Multiple ground-mounted components; The frame is supported by the plurality of ground-jointing members; An operator area having a front seat portion and a rear seat portion, the front seat portion including an operator seat and a front passenger seat; Body panel, which separates the front seat portion from the rear seat portion; as well as A rear floor, positioned within the rear seat portion and defining a footrest space for the rear seat portion, extends forward to a position below the front seat portion to increase the footrest space of the rear seat portion. The vehicle body panel is connected to the rear floor, and the vehicle body panel includes a first portion angled downward in the forward direction and a second portion angled upward in the forward direction, the second portion extending from the rear floor toward the first portion.

2. The multi-purpose vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The operator seat includes a seat base and a seat back, and the vehicle body panel and the rear floor extend forward to a position in front of the seat back of the operator seat.

3. The multi-purpose vehicle according to claim 2, wherein, The front passenger seat includes a seat bottom and a seat back, and the rear floor extends forward to a position in front of the seat back of the front passenger seat.

4. The multi-purpose vehicle according to claim 1, further comprising a first storage container located below the operator's seat and a second storage container located below the front passenger seat.

5. The multi-purpose vehicle according to claim 4, wherein, The lower end of the first storage container includes a recessed portion to increase the footrest space of the rear seat portion.

6. The multi-purpose vehicle according to claim 5, wherein, The lower end of the second storage container includes a recessed portion to increase the footrest space of the rear seat portion.

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