Split ATV Frame Rigidity via Engine Subframe Linking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional split-type motorcycle body frames lack rigidity due to bolting together at only one site on each side, which compromises structural integrity.

Innovation Solution

A double cradle-type body frame with split subframes linked via bolts, where the engine unit acts as a rigid body to connect and enhance the rigidity between the split frame sections, utilizing cross members and suspension sections to distribute load and absorb dimensional errors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If the body frame is split into front and rear parts and bolted together at only one site on each side, then the ease of manufacture and assembly is improved, but the rigidity and structural integrity of the body frame deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of manufactureVSAvoidrigidity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The body frame is divided into multiple subframes (front subframe, rear subframe, and engine subframe) that can be manufactured separately and assembled together. This segmentation allows for easier manufacturing and assembly while maintaining structural integrity through multiple connection points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The engine subframe serves as a connecting element that merges the front and rear subframes into a unified rigid structure. By positioning the engine subframe between the upper and rear suspension sections, it creates additional connection points that enhance overall rigidity while preserving the benefits of segmented construction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the body frame is split into multiple subframes detachably linked via bolts, then the adaptability and ease of repair are improved, but the rigidity at the splitting sites deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidrigidity at splitting sites
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The engine subframe acts as an intermediary element between the front and rear subframes. It provides additional connection points and creates a rigid triangular structure that compensates for the potential weakness at the splitting sites, while still allowing for detachable linking via bolts for adaptability and ease of repair.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Strength

If the linking section is disposed between the engine upper suspension section and engine rear suspension section, then the rigidity of the entire body frame is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverigidity of entire body frameVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The engine subframe serves multiple functions simultaneously: it connects the front and rear subframes, supports the engine unit, and provides suspension mounting points. This multi-functionality increases rigidity without proportionally increasing complexity, as a single component performs multiple structural roles.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention merges the functions of structural connection and engine support into a single engine subframe component. By combining these functions, the overall device complexity is minimized while achieving the desired rigidity enhancement through the strategic positioning of the linking section.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS7407031B2All terrain vehicle
Publication Date: 2008.08.05 YAMAHA MOTOR CO LTD
  • US7407031B2 patent drawing
  • US7407031B2 patent drawing
  • US7407031B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An all terrain vehicle has necessary rigidity despite a split-type body frame being used. A body frame is split into front and rear subframes along a front-to-rear direction of the vehicle, the subframes being detachably linked to each other via bolts. An upper linking section between the subframes is disposed between an engine upper suspension section for suspending an upper portion of an engine unit and an engine rear suspension section for suspending a rear portion of the engine unit.