Side by Side ATV Frame Channel Member Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current side-by-side all terrain vehicles lack optimal design features for passenger comfort, cargo capacity, and versatility, particularly in terms of seating arrangement, powertrain configuration, and modular components for easy maintenance and customization.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a frame with a channel member supporting transport lines, a powertrain assembly with a continuously variable transmission, and modular components such as a removable roll cage and adjustable seating, along with a fuel fill cup that vents vapors and contains excess fuel, enhancing passenger comfort and cargo hauling capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the driver and passenger are seated beside each other on laterally spaced apart seats, then the passenger can share the driver's viewpoint and riding experience, but the vehicle structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle is divided into modular sections including a frame with channel members, separate seating areas for driver and passenger, and distinct powertrain components. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each module while maintaining overall integration, resolving the complexity issue of side-by-side seating arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame structure with channel members serves multiple functions: structural support, routing for transport lines, and mounting positions for various components. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate structural elements, thereby reducing overall vehicle structure complexity while accommodating the side-by-side seating configuration.
2Reliability
If a channel member is positioned intermediate the drive shaft and the transport lines to support the transport lines, then the transport lines are protected and organized, but the frame structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The channel member is designed as a multi-functional component that provides structural support for the frame, serves as a protective conduit for transport lines, and offers mounting positions for other vehicle components. By consolidating these functions into a single element, the design protects transport lines without proportionally increasing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The transport lines are nested within or alongside the channel member structure, allowing the transport lines to be protected and organized while utilizing the existing frame space. This nesting approach minimizes additional structural requirements while ensuring transport line protection.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a fuel fill cup is configured to contain excess fuel therein and release vapor, then fuel safety is improved, but the fuel system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel fill cup acts as an intermediary component between the fuel container and the external environment. It provides a controlled interface for fuel filling, contains excess fuel to prevent overflow, and incorporates vapor release mechanisms. This intermediary structure enhances fuel safety by controlling fuel flow and vapor management while adding minimal complexity to the overall fuel system.
Solution Approach 2:
The fuel fill cup captures and contains excess fuel that would otherwise be wasted or create safety hazards, converting a potential harmful overflow situation into a controlled containment system. Similarly, vapor release mechanisms convert potentially harmful fuel vapors into safely vented emissions, improving fuel safety while maintaining relatively simple system architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
A utility vehicle comprises at least one front ground engaging member; at least one rear ground engaging member; and a frame extending in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The frame includes a front portion, a rear portion, and a channel member extending in the longitudinal direction between the front and rear portions. The vehicle further comprises a floor board coupled to the channel member and a powertrain assembly having a drive shaft operably coupled to at least one of the front ground engaging member and the rear ground engaging member. Additionally, the vehicle comprises a plurality of transport lines configured to transport at least one of a fluid and an electrical connection between the front portion and the rear portion of the frame. The channel member is positioned intermediate the drive shaft and the transport lines and is configured to support the transport lines.