Subframe attachment system for vehicle

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a subframe attachment system for a vehicle. A subframe attachment system includes a mounting bracket configured to attach to a corresponding rail of a frame. Each mounting bracket includes a mounting structure configured to be accessible from the cargo bed, an inner member, and an outer member. An inner member is located on an inside side of a respective stringer and includes a first upper end positioned above a top side of the respective stringer and a first lower end positioned below a bottom side of the respective stringer. An outer member is located on an outer lateral side of a respective stringer and includes a second upper end positioned above the top side of the respective stringer and secured to the first upper end of the inner member and a second lower end positioned below the bottom side of the respective stringer and secured to the first lower end.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a subframe attachment system for a vehicle and a vehicle having the subframe attachment system. Background Art

[0002] The statements in this section merely provide background information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art.

[0003] It is well known in the towing industry to secure a trailer to the bed of a towing vehicle, such as a pickup truck, using a fifth wheel or hitch or gooseneck hitch. Chassis systems have been developed to accommodate fifth wheel hitch systems or gooseneck hitch systems. However, such systems are generally unable to accommodate both fifth wheel hitches and gooseneck hitches without requiring a labor-intensive conversion process. Furthermore, such systems do not provide additional uses other than accommodating fifth wheel hitches or gooseneck hitches.

[0004] The present disclosure addresses these and other problems associated with hitch systems. Summary of the invention

[0005] This section provides a general summary of the disclosure and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.

[0006] In one form, the present disclosure provides a subframe attachment system for a vehicle having a cargo box. The subframe attachment system includes a plurality of mounting brackets that are spaced apart from each other and configured to be attached to a first longitudinal beam and a second longitudinal beam of a vehicle frame independently of each other. Each of the plurality of mounting brackets includes a mounting structure configured to be accessible from the cargo box. Each of the plurality of mounting brackets also includes an inner member and an outer member. The inner member is located on an inner side of a corresponding longitudinal beam of the first longitudinal beam and the second longitudinal beam, and includes a first upper end, a first lower end, and a first body portion. The first upper end is positioned above the top side of the corresponding longitudinal beam, and the first lower end is positioned below the bottom side of the corresponding longitudinal beam. The first body portion connects the first upper end to the first lower end. The outer member is located on an outer side of the corresponding longitudinal beam, and includes a second upper end, a second lower end, and a second body portion. The second upper end is positioned above the top side of the corresponding longitudinal beam and is fixed to the first upper end of the inner member. The second lower end is positioned below the bottom side of the corresponding longitudinal beam and is fixed to the first lower end. The second body portion connects the second upper end to the second lower end.

[0007] In a variation of the subframe attachment system of the above paragraph, the variation may be implemented individually or in any combination: the plurality of mounting brackets include four mounting brackets; at least one mounting bracket of the plurality of mounting brackets includes: an outer beam attachment portion extending from the second main body portion of the outer member and configured to be mounted to the outer side of the corresponding longitudinal beam; and an inner beam attachment portion extending from the first main body portion of the inner member and configured to be mounted to the inner side of the corresponding longitudinal beam; a compression tube configured to extend at least partially through the corresponding longitudinal beam. a first annular protrusion extending from a first surface of the outer beam attachment portion toward the outer side surface of the corresponding longitudinal beam and configured to be received in a first opening formed in the outer side surface of the corresponding longitudinal beam; a second annular protrusion extending from a second surface of the inner beam attachment portion toward the inner side surface of the corresponding longitudinal beam; The inner member of each of the plurality of mounting brackets has an L-shaped cross-section; a first fastener extending through the first upper end of the inner member and the second upper end of the outer member to fix the inner member and the outer member to each other; a second fastener extending through the first lower end of the inner member and the second lower end of the outer member to further fix the inner member and the outer member to each other; at least one of the plurality of mounting brackets includes the an inner member having a channel formed in the first body portion, the channel being configured to receive one or more vehicle components; the one or more vehicle components including at least one of a brake line and a wiring harness; the cargo box having a floor, the floor of the cargo box defining an aperture through which the mounting structure is accessible from above the floor of the cargo box; and at least one of the plurality of mounting brackets including an annular protrusion extending from a bottom surface of the second upper end of the outer member and being configured to be received in an opening formed in the top side of the corresponding longitudinal beam.

[0008] In another form, the present disclosure provides a subframe attachment system for a vehicle having a cargo box. The subframe attachment system includes a plurality of mounting brackets configured to be attached to a first longitudinal beam and a second longitudinal beam of a vehicle frame independently of each other. Each of the plurality of mounting brackets includes a mounting structure configured to be accessible from the cargo box. Each of the plurality of mounting brackets also includes an inner member and an outer member. The inner member is located on an inner side of a corresponding longitudinal beam of the first longitudinal beam and the second longitudinal beam, and includes a first upper end, a first lower end, and a first main body portion. The first upper end is positioned above the top side of the corresponding longitudinal beam, and the first lower end is positioned below the bottom side of the corresponding longitudinal beam. The first main body portion connects the first upper end to the first lower end. The outer member is located on an outer side of the corresponding longitudinal beam, and includes a second upper end, a second lower end, and a second main body portion. The second upper end is positioned above the top side of the corresponding longitudinal beam and is fixed to the first upper end of the inner member. The second lower end is positioned below the bottom side of the corresponding longitudinal beam and is fixed to the first lower end. The second body portion connects the second upper end to the second lower end. At least one first fastener extends through the first upper end of the inner member and the second upper end of the outer member to secure the inner member and the outer member to each other. At least one second fastener extends through the first lower end of the inner member and the second lower end of the outer member to further secure the inner member and the outer member to each other. The mounting structure of each mounting bracket extends from the inner member and at least partially extends through a corresponding access opening in the cargo compartment.

[0009] In a variation of the subframe attachment system of the above paragraph, the variation may be implemented alone or in any combination: at least one of the plurality of mounting brackets includes: an outer beam attachment portion extending from the second body portion of the outer member and configured to be mounted to the outer side of the corresponding longitudinal beam; an inner beam attachment portion extending from the first body portion of the inner member and configured to be mounted to the inner side of the corresponding longitudinal beam; a compression tube configured to extend at least partially through the corresponding longitudinal beam and engage the outer beam attachment portion and the inner beam attachment portion; a third fastener extending extending through the outer beam attachment portion, the inner beam attachment portion, and the compression tube to secure the inner member, the outer member, and the compression tube to each other; at least one of the plurality of mounting brackets includes the inner member having a channel formed in the first body portion, the channel being configured to receive one or more vehicle components; the frame includes the first longitudinal beam and the second longitudinal beam; and at least one of the plurality of mounting brackets includes an annular protrusion extending from a bottom surface of the second upper end of the outer member and being configured to be received in an opening formed in the top side of the corresponding longitudinal beam.

[0010] In yet another form, the present disclosure provides a method for securing a plurality of mounting brackets to a first longitudinal beam and a second longitudinal beam of a vehicle frame having a cargo box secured thereto. The method includes positioning an inner member of each of the plurality of mounting brackets on an inner side of a corresponding longitudinal beam of the first longitudinal beam and the second longitudinal beam when the cargo box is secured to the frame; positioning an outer member of each of the plurality of mounting brackets on an outer side of the corresponding longitudinal beam when the cargo box is secured to the frame, inserting at least one first fastener through a first upper end of the inner member and a second upper end of the outer member to secure the inner member and the outer member to each other; and inserting at least one second fastener through a first lower end of the inner member and a second lower end of the outer member to further secure the inner member and the outer member to each other. The inner member includes the first upper end, the first lower end, and a first body portion connecting the first upper end to the first lower end. The first upper end is positioned above a top side of the corresponding longitudinal beam, and the first lower end is positioned below a bottom side of the corresponding longitudinal beam. The outer member includes the second upper end, the second lower end, and a second body portion connecting the second upper end to the second lower end. The first upper end is positioned above the top side of the corresponding longitudinal beam, and the first lower end is positioned below the bottom side of the corresponding longitudinal beam.

[0011] Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein.It should be understood that the description and specific examples are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] In order that the present disclosure may be better understood, various forms of the present disclosure will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0013] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle including a subframe attachment system according to the principles of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 2 It is mounted to the vehicle frame Figure 1 A perspective view of a subframe attachment system;

[0015] Figure 3 is mounted to the vehicle's frame and extends through the floor of the vehicle's cargo bed. Figure 1 Top view of the subframe attachment system;

[0016] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4D yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of a mounting bracket of a subframe attachment system;

[0017] FIG. 5A to FIG. 5D It is assembled Figure 1 A perspective view of a mounting bracket of a subframe attachment system;

[0018] Figure 6 is along Figure 3 The line shown in 6-6 is drawn Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of a portion of a subframe attachment system;

[0019] Figure 7 is along Figure 3 The line 7-7 shown in FIG. Figure 1 another cross-sectional view of a portion of a subframe attachment system;

[0020] Figure 8 is along Figure 3 The line 8-8 shown in FIG. Figure 1 another cross-sectional view of a portion of a subframe attachment system;

[0021] Fig. 9 is along Figure 3 The line 9-9 shown in Figure 1 another cross-sectional view of a portion of a subframe attachment system;

[0022] Fig.10 is along Figure 3 The line 10-10 shown in Figure 1another cross-sectional view of a portion of a subframe attachment system; and

[0023] Fig.11 is a flow chart illustrating a method for securing a mounting bracket to a vehicle frame according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0024] The drawings described herein are for illustration purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present disclosure, application, or uses.It should be understood that throughout the drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate the same or corresponding parts and features.

[0026] refer to Figure 1 , for example, a vehicle 10, such as a pickup truck, is shown. The vehicle 10 includes a cab 12, a plurality of wheels, a cargo box or component 14, and a subframe attachment system 15. The cargo box 14 extends from the cab 12 and includes a plurality of side walls 16 and a tailgate 17. The plurality of side walls 16 extend from the rear end of the cab 12. The tailgate 17 is coupled to the side walls 16 and is pivotable about a horizontal axis (not shown) between a closed position (shown) and an open position (not shown). When the tailgate 17 is in the closed position, the tailgate 17 cooperates with the side walls 16 and the cargo box 14 to define a partially enclosed cargo area 24. As shown, the top of the cargo area 24 may be generally open, but a removable or retractable cover (e.g., a tonneau cover or truck hood) may be used. When the tailgate 17 is in the open position, the side walls 16 define an opening to the cargo area 24. In one example, cargo, such as 2x4s, pipes, tubing, and other materials to be transported from a facility to a job site or residence, may be stored and transported in cargo area 24 , for example.

[0027] Additional references Figure 2 and Figure 3 The frame 26 is the main supporting structure of the vehicle 10, to which various components such as the cargo box 14 are directly or indirectly attached. The frame 26 includes opposing longitudinal beams 28a, 28b and one or more cross beams 28c ( Figure 2 ). The longitudinal beams 28a, 28b are spaced apart from each other and may establish the length of the frame 26. The cross beams 28c extend in the lateral direction of the vehicle 10 and are spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle 10. The cross beams 28c also connect the longitudinal beams 28a, 28b to each other.

[0028] The subframe attachment system 15 is mounted to the frame 26 and is located substantially below the cargo bed 14. The subframe attachment system 15 can be secured to the frame 26 without removing the cargo bed 14. In this way, the time to install the subframe attachment system 15 to the vehicle 10 is reduced. It should also be understood that the subframe attachment system 15 can be secured to the frame 26 with the cargo bed 14 removed from the frame 26. The subframe attachment system 15 includes a plurality of mounting brackets 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d that are spaced apart from each other and are independently attached to the respective longitudinal beams 28a, 28b of the opposing longitudinal beams 28a, 28b. That is, the mounting bracket 30a is attached to the longitudinal beam 28a and is located in front of the rear axle 32 ( Figure 2 ), mounting bracket 30b is attached to longitudinal beam 28b and is located in front of rear axle 32, mounting bracket 30c is attached to longitudinal beam 28a and is located behind rear axle 32, and mounting bracket 30d is attached to longitudinal beam 28b and is located behind rear axle 32.

[0029] refer to Figure 4D and Figure 5D , the mounting bracket 30a includes an inner member 36a, an outer member 38a, and a mounting structure 40a. The inner member 36a of the mounting bracket 30a includes a body 44 and a rim 46. The body 44 includes a body portion 44a, an upper end 44b, and a lower end 44c. The body portion 44a has an inner surface 48a that engages the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. In other words, substantially the entire inner surface 48a of the body portion 44a engages the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. Figure 6 , the main body portion 44a also wraps around the lower inner portion of the inner side 42a of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. The upper end 44b extends upward from the main body portion 44a and is positioned above the top side 42b of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. In the example shown, the upper end 44b extends upward from the main body portion 44a in a substantially vertical direction and does not engage the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b (i.e., the upper end 44b is spaced apart from the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b). Fig. 9 , the lower end 44c extends downwardly from the main body portion 44a and is positioned below the bottom side 42c of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. In the example shown, the lower end 44c extends downwardly from the main body portion 44a in a substantially vertical direction and does not engage the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b (i.e., the lower end 44c is spaced apart from the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b). Figure 4D , the rim 46 extends substantially perpendicularly from the periphery of the body 44 and extends at least partially around the periphery of the body 44. In this way, the rigidity of the inner member 36a is enhanced.

[0030] The outer member 38a is located at the outboard side 42d of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b of the frame 26 and is at least partially wrapped around the outboard side 42d of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. That is, in the example shown, the outer member 38a is wrapped around the upper outboard portion of the outboard side 42d of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. In some forms, the outer member 38a can be wrapped around one or both of the lower outboard portion of the outboard side 42d of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b and the upper outboard portion of the outboard side 42d of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Return to Reference Figure 4D and Figure 5D , the outer member 38a includes a body 64 and a rim 66. The body 64 includes a body portion 64a, an upper end 64b, and a lower end 64c. The body portion 64a has an inner surface that engages the corresponding longitudinal beams 28a, 28b. In other words, substantially the entire inner surface of the body portion 64a engages the corresponding longitudinal beams 28a, 28b. Figure 6 The main body portion 64a also wraps around the upper inner portion of the outer side 42d of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. Figure 4D ) extends from the inner surface of the main body portion 64a and is configured to be received in an opening (not shown) formed in the top side 42b of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. In this manner, the protrusion 73 facilitates positioning the outer member 38a on the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. In the example shown, the protrusion 73 has an oval shape. In some forms, the protrusion 73 can have an annular shape, a rectangular shape, or any other shape that corresponds to the shape of the opening in the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b.

[0031] The upper end 64b extends upward from the main body portion 64a and is positioned above the top side 42b of the respective longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. In the example shown, the upper end 64b extends upward from the main body portion 64a in a substantially vertical direction and does not engage the respective longitudinal beam 28a, 28b (i.e., the upper end 64b is spaced apart from the respective longitudinal beam 28a, 28b). Fig. 9 , the lower end 64c extends downwardly from the main body portion 64a and is positioned below the bottom side 42c of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. In the example shown, the lower end 64c extends downwardly from the main body portion 64a in a substantially vertical direction and does not engage the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b (i.e., the lower end 64c is spaced apart from the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b). For example, at least one fastener 69 (such as a bolt, screw, or rivet) extends through the hole 67a ( Figure 4D ) and hole 67b ( Figure 4D), thereby removably securing the inner member 36a and the outer member 38a to each other. In the example shown, the lower end 44c of the inner member 36a and the lower end 64c of the outer member 38a are joined to each other at a position along the outer side 42d of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b.

[0032] The rim 66 extends substantially perpendicularly from the perimeter of the body 64 and extends at least partially around the perimeter of the body 64. In this manner, the rigidity of the outer member 38a is enhanced. For example, fasteners 70, such as bolts, screws, or rivets, extend through corresponding holes 71a ( 14a ) formed in the upper end 64b of the outer member 38a above the top side 42b of the corresponding stringer 20a. Figure 4D ) and through corresponding holes 71b ( Figure 4D ). In this manner, the inner member 36a and the outer member 38a are further removably secured to one another in a clamping configuration. In the example shown, the upper end 64b of the outer member 38a and the upper end 44b of the inner member 36a engage one another at a location along the inboard side 42a of the respective longitudinal beams 28a, 28b.

[0033] refer to Figure 6 The mounting structure 40a extends at least partially through a corresponding opening 87 ( Figure 7 ) so that the mounting structure 40a can be accessed from the floor 84. In the example shown, the mounting structure 40a extends from the inner member 36a of the mounting bracket 30a. In some forms, the mounting structure 40a can extend from the outer member 38a of the mounting bracket 30a without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In the example shown, the mounting structure 40a extends at least partially upward through the floor 84 of the cargo box 14 and is positioned below the ridge 86 of the cargo box 14. In this way, cargo (not shown) disposed in the cargo box 14 will not be obstructed by the mounting structure 40a. In some forms, the mounting structure 40a is flush with the ridge 86 of the cargo box 14. The mounting structure 40a includes an opening that is configured to cooperate with a towing component (such as a leg of a fifth wheel platform, a hitch mounting mechanism above the cargo box, a chain tie-down member, or other items of desired height strength to provide a robust attachment). In some forms, the mounting structure 40a includes internal and / or external threads (not shown) to facilitate attachment to the towing component. The mounting structure 40a is also positioned between two adjacent ridges 86 of the cargo bed 14 and is sized to allow for various uses of the mounting structure 40a using common fasteners, such as bolts or screws.

[0034] refer to Figure 4C and Figure 5C, the mounting bracket 30b includes an inner member 36b, an outer member 38b and a mounting structure 40b. The inner member 36b of the mounting bracket 30b includes a body 144 and a rim 146. The body 144 includes a body portion 144a, an upper end 144b and a lower end 144c. The body portion 144a has an inner surface 148a that engages the corresponding longitudinal beams 28a, 28b. Figure 6 , the main body portion 144a also wraps around the lower inner portion of the inner side 42a of the corresponding longitudinal rail 28a, 28b. The main body portion 144b of the mounting bracket 30b includes a channel 50 formed therein, which is configured to receive a vehicle component 51 (e.g., one or more brake lines and / or one or more wiring harnesses). In this way, the subframe attachment system 15 accommodates the vehicle component 51 between the main body portion 144b and the inner side 42a of the corresponding longitudinal rail 28a, 28b without changing the route of the vehicle component 51 or modifying the positioning of the vehicle component 51. It should be understood that although the mounting bracket 30b of the subframe attachment system 15 includes the channel 50, one or more of the mounting brackets 30a, 30c, 30d may also include the channel 50 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0035] The upper end 144b extends upward from the main body portion 144a and is positioned above the top side 42b of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b, and the lower end 144c extends downward from the main body portion 144a and is positioned below the bottom side 42c of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. The structure and function of the upper end 144b and the lower end 144c are similar or identical to the structure and function of the upper end 44b and the lower end 44c described above, respectively, and therefore will not be described in detail. The edge 146 extends substantially vertically from the periphery of the main body 144 and extends at least partially around the periphery of the main body 144. In this way, the rigidity of the inner member 36b is enhanced.

[0036] The outer member 38b is located at the outboard side 42d of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b of the frame 26 and is at least partially wrapped around the outboard side 42d of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. That is, in the example shown, the outer member 38b is wrapped around the upper outboard portion of the outboard side 42d of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. In some forms, the outer member 38b can be wrapped around one or both of the lower outboard portion of the outboard side 42d of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b and the upper outboard portion of the outboard side 42d of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The outer member 38b includes a body 164 and a rim 166. The body 164 includes a body portion 164a, an upper end 164b and a lower end 164c. The structure and function of the main body portion 164a, upper end 164b and lower end 164c may be similar or identical to the structure and function of the main body portion 64a, upper end 64b and lower end 64c described above, and therefore will not be described in detail. Figure 6 , the mounting structure 40b extends at least partially through a corresponding opening 87 in the floor 84 of the cargo bed 14 such that the mounting structure 40b is accessible from the floor 84. The structure and function of the mounting structure 40b may be similar or identical to the structure and function of the mounting structure 40a described above, and therefore will not be described in detail.

[0037] refer to Figure 4B and Figure 5B The mounting bracket 30c includes an inner member 36c, an outer member 38c and a mounting structure 40c. The inner member 36c of the mounting bracket 30c includes a body 244 and an edge 246. The body 244 includes a body portion 244a, an upper end 244b and a lower end 244c ( Fig.10 ). The main body portion 244a has an inner surface that engages the corresponding longitudinal beams 28a, 28b. In other words, substantially the entire inner surface of the main body portion 244a engages the corresponding longitudinal beams 28a, 28b. Figure 7 , the main body portion 244a also wraps around the lower inner portion of the inner side 42a of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. The upper end 244b extends upward from the main body portion 244a and is positioned above the top side 42b of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. In the example shown, the upper end 244b extends upward from the main body portion 244a in a substantially vertical direction and does not engage the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b (i.e., the upper end 244b is spaced apart from the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b). Fig.10, the lower end 244c extends downwardly from the main body portion 244a and is positioned below the bottom side 42c of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. In the example shown, the lower end 244c extends downwardly from the main body portion 244a in a substantially vertical direction and does not engage the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b (i.e., the lower end 244c is spaced apart from the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b). The edge 246 ( Figure 4B ) extends substantially perpendicularly from the periphery of the body 244 and at least partially around the periphery of the body 244. In this way, the rigidity of the inner member 36c is enhanced.

[0038] refer to Figure 4B and Figure 5B In the subframe attachment system 15 of the present disclosure, the mounting bracket 30c also includes an extension or inner beam attachment portion 54 extending rearwardly from the main body 244 of the inner member 36c. Figure 8 ) extends from an inner surface of the extension 54 (the inner surface facing the inner side 42a of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b) and is configured to be received in an opening formed in the inner side 42a of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. In this way, the protrusion 56 facilitates positioning the outer member 36c of the mounting bracket 30c on the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. In the example shown, the protrusion 56 has an annular shape. In some forms, the protrusion 56 can have an elliptical shape, a rectangular shape, or any other shape corresponding to the shape of the opening in the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. In the example shown, the protrusion 56 also surrounds a hole 59 formed in the extension 54 and aligned with the opening in the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b.

[0039] The outer member 38c is located at the outboard side 42d of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b of the frame 26 and is at least partially wrapped around the outboard side 42d of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. That is, in the example shown, the outer member 38c is wrapped around the upper outboard portion of the outboard side 42d of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. In some forms, the outer member 38c can be wrapped around one or both of the lower outboard portion of the outboard side 42d of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b and the upper outboard portion of the outboard side 42d of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The outer member 38c includes a body 264 and a rim 266. The body 264 includes a body portion 264a, an upper end 264b and a lower end 264c ( Fig.10 The main body portion 264a has an inner surface 268 that engages the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. The main body portion 264a also wraps around the upper outer portion of the outer side 42d of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b.

[0040] The upper end 264b extends upward from the main body portion 264a and is positioned above the top side 42b of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. In the example shown, the upper end 264b extends upward from the main body portion 264a in a substantially vertical direction and does not engage the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b (i.e., the upper end 264b is spaced apart from the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b). The lower end 264c extends downward from the main body portion 264a and is positioned below the bottom side 42c of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. In the example shown, the lower end 264c extends downward from the main body portion 264a in a substantially vertical direction and does not engage the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b (i.e., the lower end 264c is spaced apart from the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b). For example, at least one fastener 69 (such as a bolt, screw, or rivet) extends through the hole 267a ( Figure 4B ) and the hole in the lower end 244c of the inner member 36c, thereby removably fixing the inner member 36c and the outer member 38c to each other. In the example shown, the lower end 244c of the inner member 36c and the lower end 264c of the outer member 38c are joined to each other at a position along the outboard side 42d of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b.

[0041] The edge 266 extends substantially vertically from the periphery of the body 264 and extends at least partially around the periphery of the body 264. In this way, the rigidity of the outer member 38c is enhanced. For example, a fastener 70 such as a bolt, a screw or a rivet extends through a corresponding hole 271a in the upper end 264b of the outer member 38c formed above the top side 42b of the corresponding longitudinal beam 20a and through a corresponding hole in the upper end 244b of the inner member 36c formed above the top side 42b of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. In this way, the inner member 36c and the outer member 38c are further removably fixed to each other in a clamping configuration. In the example shown, the upper end 264b of the outer member 38c and the upper end 244b of the inner member 36c are engaged with each other at a position along the inner side 42a of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b.

[0042] refer to Figure 4B and Figure 5BIn the subframe attachment system 15 of the present disclosure, the mounting bracket 30c also includes an extension or inner beam attachment portion 74 extending rearwardly from the body 264 of the inner member 38c. A protrusion 76 extends from an inner surface of the extension 74 (the inner surface faces the outer side 42d of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b) and is configured to be received in an opening formed in the outer side 42d of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. In this way, the protrusion 76 facilitates positioning the outer member 38c of the mounting bracket 30c on the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. In the example shown, the protrusion 76 has an annular shape. In some forms, the protrusion 76 can have an elliptical shape, a rectangular shape, or any other shape corresponding to the shape of the opening in the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. In the example shown, the protrusion 76 also surrounds a hole 81 formed in the extension 74 and aligned with the opening in the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b.

[0043] refer to Figure 4B and Figure 8 , a compression tube or compression limiter 82 extends at least partially through the respective side rails 28a, 28b and engages the extension 54 of the inner member 36c and the extension 74 of the outer member 38c. For example, the compression limiter 82 inhibits deformation of the side rails 28a, 28b during assembly of the subframe attachment system 15 to the vehicle 10. For example, a fastener 83, such as a bolt or screw, extends through the compression limiter 82, a hole 81 formed in the extension 74 of the outer member 38c, a hole 59 formed in the extension 54 of the inner member 36c, and the respective side rails 28a, 28b, thereby securing the compression limiter 82 and the extensions 54, 74 of the inner and outer members 36c, 38c, respectively, to the respective side rails 28a, 28b. The mounting structure 40c extends at least partially through a respective opening 87 in the floor 84 of the cargo bed 14 so that the mounting structure 40c is accessible from the floor 84. The structure and function of the mounting structure 40c may be similar or identical to the structure and function of the mounting structure 40a described above, and therefore will not be described in detail.

[0044] refer to Figure 4A and Figure 5A, the mounting bracket 30d includes an inner member 36d, an outer member 38d and a mounting structure 40d. The inner member 36d of the mounting bracket 30d includes a body 344 and an edge 346. The body 344 includes a body portion 344a, an upper end 344b and a lower end 344c. The body portion 344a has an inner surface 348a that engages the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. The body portion 344a is also wrapped around the lower inner portion of the inner side 42a of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. The structure and function of the body portion 344a can be similar or the same as the above-mentioned body portion 244a, and therefore will not be described in detail. The upper end 344b extends upward from the body portion 344a and is positioned above the top side 42b of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b, and the lower end 344c extends downward from the body portion 344a and is positioned below the bottom side 42c of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. The structure and function of the upper end 344b and the lower end 344c are similar or identical to the upper end 244b and the lower end 244c described above, respectively, and therefore will not be described in detail. The edge 346 extends substantially vertically from the periphery of the body 344 and extends at least partially around the periphery of the body 344. In this way, the rigidity of the inner member 36d is enhanced. The mounting bracket 30d also includes an extension 354 extending rearwardly from the body 344 of the inner member 36d. The structure and function of the extension 354 are similar or identical to the extension 54 described above, and therefore will not be described in detail.

[0045] The outer member 38d is located at the outer side 42d of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b of the frame 26 and is at least partially wrapped around the outer side 42d of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. That is, in the example shown, the outer member 38d is wrapped around the upper outer portion of the outer side 42d of the corresponding longitudinal beam 28a, 28b. The outer member 38d includes a body 364 and an edge 366. The body 364 includes a body portion 364a, an upper end 364b and a lower end 364c. The structure and function of the body portion 364a, the upper end 364b and the lower end 364c can be similar or the same as the structure and function of the above-mentioned body portion 264a, the upper end 264b and the lower end 264c, and therefore will not be described in detail. The outer member 38d also includes an extension portion 374 extending rearward from the body 364 of the outer member 38d. The compression limiter 382 engages both the extension 374 of the outer member 38d and the extension 354 of the inner member 38d. The structure and function of the extension 374 and the compression limiter 382 are similar or identical to the extension 74 and the compression limiter 82 described above, respectively, and therefore will not be described in detail.

[0046] Mounting structure 40d extends at least partially through a corresponding opening 87 in floor 84 of cargo bed 14 such that mounting structure 40d is accessible from floor 84. The structure and function of mounting structure 40d may be similar or identical to that of mounting structure 40a described above, and therefore will not be described in detail.

[0047] refer to Fig.11 , a method 200 for securing the mounting brackets 30a, 30b, 30c, 30d to the frame 26 is described in detail. First, at 204, the inner members 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d are positioned at the inboard side 42a of the corresponding longitudinal beams 28a, 28b so that the mounting structures 40a, 40b, 40c, 40d extend at least partially through the corresponding openings 87 in the floor 84 of the cargo bed 14 and are accessible from above the floor 84. In some forms, when the cargo bed 14 is secured to the frame 26, the inner members 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d are positioned at the inboard side 42a of the corresponding longitudinal beams 28a, 28b. In other forms, when the cargo bed 14 is removed from the frame 26, the inner members 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d are positioned at the inboard side 42a of the corresponding longitudinal beams 28a, 28b.

[0048] Then, at 208, the outer members 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d are positioned at the outboard sides 42d of the respective longitudinal beams 28a, 28b. In some forms, the outer members 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d are positioned at the outboard sides 42d of the respective longitudinal beams 28a, 28b when the bed 14 is secured to the frame 26. In other forms, the outer members 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d are positioned at the outboard sides 42d of the respective longitudinal beams 28a, 28b when the bed 14 is removed from the frame 26. Then, at 212, fasteners 69, 70 are inserted through the inner members 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d and the outer members 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d to secure the inner members 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d and the outer members 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d to each other, and fasteners 83 are inserted through the compression limiters 82, 382, ​​the inner members 36c, 36d and the outer members 38c, 38d to further secure the inner members 36c, 36d and the outer members 38c, 38d to each other.

[0049] Unless otherwise expressly indicated herein, all numerical values ​​indicating mechanical / thermal properties, composition percentages, dimensions and / or tolerances or other characteristics when describing the scope of the present disclosure should be understood to be modified by the word "about" or "approximately". Such modifications are desirable for a variety of reasons, including: industrial practice; material, manufacturing and assembly tolerances; and testing capabilities.

[0050] As used herein, the phrase at least one of A, B, and C should be construed to mean a logical (A or B or C), using a non-exclusive logical "or", and should not be construed to mean "at least one of A, at least one of B, and at least one of C."

[0051] The description of the present disclosure is merely exemplary in nature, and therefore, variations that do not depart from the essence of the present disclosure are intended to be within the scope of the present disclosure. Such variations should not be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0052] According to the present invention, a subframe attachment system for a vehicle with a cargo box is provided, the subframe attachment system comprising: a plurality of mounting brackets, the plurality of mounting brackets being configured to be fixed to a first longitudinal beam and a second longitudinal beam of the vehicle frame independently of each other, each mounting bracket of the plurality of mounting brackets comprising a mounting structure configured to be accessible from the cargo box; each mounting bracket of the plurality of mounting brackets further comprising: an inner member, the inner member being located on an inner side surface of a corresponding longitudinal beam of the first longitudinal beam and the second longitudinal beam and comprising a first upper end, a first lower end and a first main body portion, the first upper end being positioned above a top side of the corresponding longitudinal beam and the first lower end being positioned below a bottom side of the corresponding longitudinal beam, the first main body portion connecting the first upper end to the first lower end; an outer member, the outer member being located on an outer side surface of the corresponding longitudinal beam and comprising a second upper end, a second lower end an end and a second body portion, the second upper end being positioned above the top side of the corresponding longitudinal beam and fixed to the first upper end of the inner member, the second lower end being positioned below the bottom side of the corresponding longitudinal beam and fixed to the first lower end, the second body portion connecting the second upper end to the second lower end; at least one first fastener, the at least one first fastener extending through the first upper end of the inner member and the second upper end of the outer member to fix the inner member and the outer member to each other; and at least one second fastener, the at least one second fastener extending through the first lower end of the inner member and the second lower end of the outer member to further fix the inner member and the outer member to each other, wherein the mounting structure of each mounting bracket extends from the inner member and at least partially extends through a corresponding access opening in the cargo box.

[0053] According to an embodiment, at least one of the plurality of mounting brackets comprises an outer beam attachment portion extending from the second body portion of the outer member and configured to be mounted to the outer side surface of the corresponding longitudinal beam; and an inner beam attachment portion extending from the first body portion of the inner member and configured to be mounted to the inner side surface of the corresponding longitudinal beam.

[0054] According to an embodiment, the invention also features a compression tube configured to extend at least partially through the respective longitudinal beam and engage the outer beam attachment portion and the inner beam attachment portion.

[0055] According to an embodiment, the present invention is also characterized by a third fastener extending through the outer beam attachment portion, the inner beam attachment portion, and the compression tube to secure the inner member, the outer member, and the compression tube to each other.

[0056] According to an embodiment, at least one mounting bracket of the plurality of mounting brackets includes the inner member having a channel formed in the first body portion, the channel being configured to receive one or more vehicle components.

[0057] According to an embodiment, the invention also features a vehicle frame including the first longitudinal beam and the second longitudinal beam.

[0058] According to an embodiment, at least one mounting bracket of the plurality of mounting brackets includes an annular protrusion extending from a bottom surface of the second upper end of the outer member and configured to be received in an opening formed in the top side of the corresponding stringer.

[0059] According to the present invention, a method for fixing multiple mounting brackets to a first longitudinal beam and a second longitudinal beam of a vehicle frame to which a cargo box is fixed comprises: when the cargo box is fixed to the vehicle frame, positioning an inner member of each mounting bracket of the multiple mounting brackets on an inner side surface of a corresponding longitudinal beam of the first longitudinal beam and the second longitudinal beam, the inner member comprising a first upper end, a first lower end and a first main body portion connecting the first upper end to the first lower end, the first upper end being positioned above a top side of the corresponding longitudinal beam and the first lower end being positioned below a bottom side of the corresponding longitudinal beam; when the cargo box is fixed to the vehicle frame, positioning an inner member of each mounting bracket of the multiple mounting brackets on an inner side surface of a corresponding longitudinal beam of the first longitudinal beam and the second longitudinal beam an outer member positioned at an outer side of the corresponding longitudinal beam, the outer member including a second upper end, a second lower end, and a second body portion connecting the second upper end to the second lower end, the first upper end being positioned above the top side of the corresponding longitudinal beam and the first lower end being positioned below the bottom side of the corresponding longitudinal beam; inserting at least one first fastener through the first upper end of the inner member and the second upper end of the outer member to secure the inner member and the outer member to each other; and inserting at least one second fastener through the first lower end of the inner member and the second lower end of the outer member to further secure the inner member and the outer member to each other.

Claims

1. A subframe attachment system for a vehicle having a cargo box, the subframe attachment system comprising: a plurality of mounting brackets spaced apart from one another and configured to be attached to the first and second longitudinal rails of the vehicle frame independently of one another, each mounting bracket of the plurality of mounting brackets comprising a mounting structure configured to be accessible from the cargo bed; Each of the plurality of mounting brackets further comprises: an inner member located on an inner side surface of a corresponding one of the first and second longitudinal beams and including a first upper end positioned above a top side of the corresponding longitudinal beam and a first lower end positioned below a bottom side of the corresponding longitudinal beam, and a first body portion connecting the first upper end to the first lower end; and an outer member located on an outer side of the corresponding longitudinal beam and including a second upper end, a second lower end, and a second body portion, wherein the second upper end is positioned above the top side of the corresponding longitudinal beam and fixed to the first upper end of the inner member, the second lower end is positioned below the bottom side of the corresponding longitudinal beam and fixed to the first lower end, and the second body portion connects the second upper end to the second lower end.

2. The subframe attachment system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of mounting brackets includes four mounting brackets.

3. The subframe attachment system of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the plurality of mounting brackets comprises: an outer rail attachment portion extending from the second body portion of the outer member and configured to be mounted to the outboard side of the respective longitudinal rail; as well as An inner beam attachment portion extends from the first body portion of the inner member and is configured to be mounted to the inboard side of the corresponding longitudinal beam.

4. The subframe attachment system of claim 3, further comprising a compression tube configured to extend at least partially through the respective longitudinal rail and engage the outer rail attachment portion and the inner rail attachment portion.

5. The subframe attachment system of claim 4, further comprising a fastener extending through the outer beam attachment portion, the inner beam attachment portion, and the compression tube to secure the inner member, the outer member, and the compression tube to one another.

6. The subframe attachment system of claim 3, wherein: a first annular protrusion extending from a first surface of the outer beam attachment portion toward the outboard side of the corresponding longeron and configured to be received in a first opening formed in the outboard side of the corresponding longeron; as well as A second annular protrusion extends from a second surface of the inner beam attachment portion toward the inner side surface of the corresponding longeron and is configured to be received in a second opening formed in the inner side surface of the corresponding longeron.

7. The subframe attachment system of claim 1, wherein the inner member of each of the plurality of mounting brackets has an L-shaped cross-section.

8. The subframe attachment system of claim 1 further comprising: a first fastener extending through the first upper end of the inner member and the second upper end of the outer member to secure the inner member and the outer member to each other; as well as A second fastener extends through the first lower end of the inner member and the second lower end of the outer member to further secure the inner member and the outer member to each other.

9. The subframe attachment system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of mounting brackets comprises the inner member having a channel formed in the first body portion, the channel configured to receive one or more vehicle components.

10. The subframe attachment system of claim 9, wherein the one or more vehicle components include at least one of a brake line and a wiring harness.

11. The subframe attachment system of claim 1 further comprising said cargo bed having a floor, said floor of said cargo bed defining an aperture through which said mounting structure is accessible from above said floor of said cargo bed.

12. The subframe attachment system of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the plurality of mounting brackets includes an annular protrusion extending from a bottom surface of the second upper end of the outer member and configured to be received in an opening formed in the top side of the corresponding longitudinal rail.

13. The subframe attachment system of claim 1 further comprising the vehicle frame, the vehicle frame comprising the first longitudinal rail and the second longitudinal rail.

14. The subframe attachment system of claim 1, wherein the mounting structure of each mounting bracket extends from the inner member and at least partially through a corresponding access opening in the cargo bed.

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