Vehicle and chassis therefor
US9944325B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 16, 2014 |
| Grant date | Apr 17, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 16, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62D23/005
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
We improve still further the crashworthiness of a tubular-frame chassis by providing a means for absorbing lower-energy impacts without deforming the tubular steel frame, The vehicle comprises a chassis structure including a load-bearing tubular chassis member extending longitudinally within the vehicle, at least one crush structure located laterally outside of the chassis member, the crush structure having an upper and a lower extent that overlap with an upper and lower extent of the chassis member. In this way, the crush structure is able to interact with the chassis member, transferring impact forces to the chassis member and thereby reducing the necessary size (and weight) of the crush structure. The crush structure is preferably removable, to allow replacement after an impact. Alternatively, the crush structure part of a door of the vehicle, positioned as necessary when the door is closed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.