Utility Vehicle ROPS Posts and Loading Platform Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
In utility vehicles with a platform system that allows the loading platform to switch positions, the rear posts of the ROPS obstruct access to the loading platform from the lateral side when it is moved to the second position, hindering easy loading and unloading operations.
Innovation Solution
The ROPS posts are arranged to not overlap the loading platform from a lateral side view in both positions, with rear posts positioned forward of the loading platform in the second position, and the upper frame is supported by posts ahead of the boarding spaces, ensuring unobstructed access. Additionally, the rear seat unit has a foldable structure to create space for the loading platform to enter the rear boarding space without raising the platform, allowing sufficient length for access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the loading platform is moved to the second position where the front end enters the rear boarding space, then the loading platform can be stored in the rear boarding space, but the rear posts obstruct access to the loading platform from the lateral side
Solution Approach 1:
The ROPS posts are arranged in the fore-and-aft direction rather than laterally, changing the spatial dimension of obstruction. By positioning posts forward of the loading platform in the second position, the structure eliminates lateral obstruction while maintaining vertical protection, allowing access from the lateral side without compromising structural integrity
2Strength
If the rear posts are positioned to support the upper frame, then the ROPS structure is strengthened, but the posts obstruct the access to the rear boarding space from the lateral side
Solution Approach 1:
The upper frame acts as an intermediary element that connects the front posts and rear posts, distributing structural loads while allowing lateral access. The frame transfers forces between posts without requiring lateral obstruction, enabling both structural strength and accessibility functions to coexist
Data Source
AI summary
A utility vehicle includes a front boarding section, a rear boarding section having a rear seat unit, a ROPS delimiting space including a front boarding space acting as a ride-in space of the front boarding section and a rear boarding space acting as a ride-in space of the rear boarding section, and a loading platform mounted rearward of the vehicle body. The ROPS includes a plurality of posts and an upper frame supported to the posts and delimiting upper space of the front boarding space and the rear boarding space. The loading platform is switchable between a first position in which a front end of the loading platform is positioned rearward of the rear boarding space and a second position in which the front end of the loading platform enters the rear boarding space.