Net structure for a vehicle

A net structure for attachment to a roll cage of a vehicle includes a mesh structure, a reinforcement structure attached to the mesh structure, and an overload indicator. Upon a rollover event during operation of a vehicle, to which the net structure is attached, with the net structure in a lowered, closed configuration, an operator of the vehicle may impact the net structure, causing the net structure to deflect outwardly. This outward deflection of the net structure may cause the overload indicator to become visible, which provides an indication to an operator or other person associated with the vehicle that the structural integrity of the net structure has been compromised, such that replacement of the net structure may be warranted.

CROSS REFERENCES

This application is related to co-pending U.S. patent application titled “Net Structure For A Vehicle”, filed on Mar. 31, 2010, and having Ser. No. 12/750,757, which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

A net structure is configured for attachment to a roll cage of a vehicle and can include an overload indicator.

BACKGROUND

Some conventional utility vehicles include a roll cage which assists in protecting properly seated and secured operators during a rollover situation or a situation involving a significant lateral incline of the vehicle.

SUMMARY

A net structure for attachment to a roll cage of a vehicle includes a mesh structure and a reinforcement structure attached to the mesh structure. Each of the mesh structure and the reinforcement structure is flexible. The net structure further includes means for attaching the net structure to a roll cage of a vehicle. The means for attaching the net structure is attached to the reinforcement structure and is configured for attachment to a roll cage of a vehicle. The net structure further includes an overload indicator. The overload indicator is at least substantially entirely obscured from view by at least one of the reinforcement structure and the means for attaching the net structure, until such time that a tensile force, which is equal to or greater than a predetermined tensile force, is applied to the means for attaching net structure wherein at least a portion of the overload indicator is visible and indicates that the structural integrity of the net structure has been compromised.

According to another embodiment, a net structure for attachment to a roll cage of a vehicle includes a mesh structure and a reinforcement structure attached to the mesh structure. Each of the mesh structure and the reinforcement structure is flexible. The net structure further includes a clip assembly that includes a flexible member and a clip associated with the flexible member. The flexible member is attached to the reinforcement structure. The clip assembly is configured for releasable attachment to a roll cage of a vehicle. The net structure further includes an overload indicator associated with the flexible member of the clip assembly. The overload indicator is at least substantially entirely obscured from view by at least one of the reinforcement structure and the flexible member of the clip assembly, until such time that a tensile force, which is equal to or greater than a predetermined tensile force, is applied to the flexible member wherein at least a portion of the overload indicator is visible and indicates that the structural integrity of the net structure has been compromised.

According to another embodiment, a vehicle includes a roll cage and a net structure attached to the roll cage. The net structure includes a mesh structure and a reinforcement structure attached to the mesh structure. Each of the mesh structure and the reinforcement structure is flexible. The net structure further includes means for attaching the net structure to the roll cage. The means for attaching the net structure is attached to the reinforcement structure. The net structure further includes an overload indicator. The overload indicator is at least substantially entirely obscured from view by at least one of the reinforcement structure and the means for attaching the net structure, until such time that a tensile force, which is equal to or greater than a predetermined tensile force, is applied to the means for attaching the net structure wherein at least a portion of the overload indicator is visible and indicates that the structural integrity of the net structure has been compromised.

According to another embodiment, a vehicle includes a roll cage and a net structure attached to the roll cage. The net structure includes a mesh structure, a reinforcement structure attached to the mesh structure and an overload indicator. Each of the mesh structure and the reinforcement structure is flexible. The net structure further includes a clip assembly. The clip assembly includes a flexible member and a clip. The clip is pivotally connected to the flexible member, and the flexible member is attached to the reinforcement structure. The clip assembly is selectively, releasably attached to the roll cage. The overload indicator is at least substantially entirely obscured from view by at least one of the reinforcement structure and the flexible member of the clip assembly, until such time that a tensile force, which is equal to or greater than a predetermined tensile force, is applied to the flexible member of the clip assembly wherein at least a portion of the overload indicator is visible and indicates that the structural integrity of the net structure has been compromised.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to the drawings, wherein like reference numbers indicate the same or corresponding elements throughout the views,FIG. 1illustrates a vehicle10that can include a frame, indicated generally at12, and a body14supported by frame12. Vehicle10can further include a pair of front wheels16and a pair of rear wheels18. The wheels16and18can be suspended from frame12and can be rotatable relative to frame12. Vehicle10can also include a source of motive power (not shown), which can be an internal combustion engine and/or one or more electric motors, and a drivetrain (not shown) for transferring torque from the source of motive power to the rear wheels18and/or the front wheels16.

Vehicle10is shown to be a utility-type vehicle that can include a utility bed20that can be fixed with respect to the body14, or that can be selectively pivotable as a dump-type bed. The utility bed20can be configured to support cargo and/or passengers for transportation by the vehicle10. Vehicle10can further include a seat22that can be supported by the frame12and/or body14, and that can be configured to support an operator (not shown). Seat22can be a bucket-type seat or a bench-type seat. Vehicle10can also include a steering wheel26that can be coupled to the front wheels16. By turning the steering wheel26, it will be appreciated that an operator can effect steering of the vehicle10.

Vehicle10can include a roll cage30which can be attached to, and supported by, the frame12and/or body14of vehicle10. The roll cage30can at least partially define a protected area, indicated generally at32inFIGS. 2,3A and3B. Seat22can be positioned within the protected area32, such that an operator of vehicle10can be located within the protected area32when seated upon seat22during operation of vehicle10. In one embodiment, as shown inFIGS. 1-4, it will be appreciated that the utility bed20might not be provided within the protected area32. As such, it will be appreciated that cargo and/or persons supported by the utility bed might not be provided within the protected area32. However, in other embodiments, a utility bed and/or cargo and/or persons supported by a utility bed might reside within a protected area at least partially defined by a roll cage of a vehicle. In still other embodiments, a vehicle incorporating a roll cage might not include a utility bed.

Referring toFIGS. 1,2,3A and3B, the roll cage30can include a forward tubular member34, a rearward tubular member36, and an upper tubular member38. Each of the tubular members34and36can be attached to the frame12and/or the body14of vehicle10. An upper end35of the forward tubular member34, and an upper end37of the rearward tubular member36, can each be integral with the upper tubular member38. The forward tubular member34, the rearward tubular member36and the upper tubular member38can be positioned on a left side of the vehicle10as shown inFIGS. 1,2,3A and3B.

The roll cage30can further include a similar arrangement of tubular members on a right side of the vehicle10, as shown inFIG. 4, e.g., a forward tubular member1034, a rearward tubular member1036and an upper tubular member1038. The roll cage30can also include one or more cross-members, for example, cross-members40and41(FIG. 10) that can connect the upper tubular members38and1038. The tubular members of roll cage30can have a variety of configurations. In one embodiment, the tubular members can be generally cylindrical and can have a hollow interior, as shown inFIG. 12with respect to the rearward tubular member36. In other embodiments, roll cages can be provided that include generally cylindrical, solid tubular members. In still other embodiments, roll cages can be provided with tubular members having a variety of alternative shapes, e.g., tubular members having generally square or generally rectangular cross-sectional shapes.

Roll cage30can at least partially define one or more access openings. For example, roll cage30can at least partially define an access opening42(FIGS. 2,3A and3B) that communicates with the protected area32and is on the left side of vehicle10. The roll cage30can at least partially define a similar access opening on the right side of the vehicle10that communicates with the protected area32. The forward tubular member34, the rearward tubular member36and the upper tubular member38of roll cage30can cooperate to at least partially define the access opening42. An operator of vehicle10can pass through the access opening42into the protected area32when boarding the vehicle10, and can pass from the protected area32through the access opening42when exiting the vehicle10.

Any of a variety of other features of a vehicle can cooperate with roll cage30to define an access opening to a protected area, such as the access opening42that communicates with the protected area32. For example, in the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 1,2,3A and3B, the roll cage30is shown to cooperate with a door44and a stationary portion46of body14to define the access opening42. In one embodiment, a forward end of the door44can be hingedly attached to body14and/or frame12such that the door44can swing between open and closed positions. A door latch assembly can be provided (e.g., in the vicinity indicated generally at48) for selective use by an operator to selectively lock a rearward or swinging end of the door44to the stationary portion46of body14, thereby locking the door44in a closed position as shown inFIGS. 1,2,3A and3B. It will be appreciated that an access opening can additionally, or alternatively, be at least partially defined by one or more other features of a vehicle.

The protected area32can be sized and configured to substantially or entirely surround one or more occupants (e.g., an operator or driver, and a passenger, each not shown) of the vehicle10during operation of the vehicle10. As long as the occupants of vehicle10, e.g., an operator, remain within the protected area32during operation of vehicle10, the roll cage30can at least reduce the likelihood that the operator or other occupants of vehicle10will sustain injuries from direct contact with road or ground terrain, in the event vehicle10rolls over during operation. A seatbelt harness (not shown) can be associated with the seat22, and one or more restraint members, e.g., a hip bolster49(FIG. 2), can be provided for selectively restraining an operator's torso within the vehicle10, in the event a rollover occurs.

Vehicle10can further include a net structure50attached to the roll cage30and positioned on the left side of vehicle10. The net structure50can selectively block at least a portion of the access opening42. The vehicle10can also include a net structure1050attached to the roll cage30and positioned on the right side of vehicle10as shown inFIG. 4. The net structure1050is not shown inFIGS. 1,2,3A and3B for clarity of illustration. The net structure1050can include features that can correspond with those of the net structure50, and therefore net structure1050will not be described in detail herein. In an alternative embodiment, however, it will be appreciated that a vehicle can be provided that might have a right-side net structure that is substantially different than a left-side net structure, and/or might include only a left-side net structure or a right-side net structure. It will also be appreciated that a net structure can be provided in any of a variety of other locations and/or configurations for selectively blocking at least a portion of an access opening that communicates with a protected area on a vehicle.

Referring toFIGS. 6 and 7, the net structure50can include a mesh structure52and a reinforcement structure54that can be attached to the mesh structure52. The mesh structure52and the reinforcement structure54can each be flexible such that the net structure50can be easily folded, bent or rolled-up for example. The net structure50can be selectively configurable in any one of a lowered, closed configuration, e.g., a lowered, closed configuration shown inFIG. 1, a generally rolled-up, open configuration, e.g., a generally rolled-up, open configuration shown inFIGS. 2 and 5Aor an alternative generally rolled-up, open configuration shown inFIG. 5B, and a generally diagonally-folded, partially open configuration, e.g., a generally diagonally-folded, partially open configuration shown inFIG. 3Aor an alternative generally diagonally-folded, partially open configuration shown inFIG. 3B, when the net structure50is attached to the roll cage30. When the net structure50is in the lowered, closed configuration, net structure50can at least inhibit passage of an operator through the access opening42. For example, when the net structure50is in the lowered, closed configuration and the door44is in a closed position, as shown inFIG. 1, the net structure50can cooperate with the door44to substantially block the access opening42, and thus prevent the arms and/or legs of an operator from leaving the protected area32during operation of the vehicle10. For example, when both the net structure50and door44are in closed positions as shown inFIG. 1, the net structure50can prevent an operator's arms from leaving the protected area32through access opening42during operation of the vehicle10, and the door44can prevent an operator's legs from leaving the protected area32through access opening42during operation of vehicle10. It will be appreciated that, in other embodiments, a net structure might be used in any of a variety of other arrangements, with or without one or more associated doors, for substantially blocking an access opening to a protected area of a vehicle.

The mesh structure52can be formed from rope netting, web netting, fabric netting, screen, and/or any of a variety of other materials. In one embodiment, the mesh structure52can define a uniform arrangement of similarly-sized openings as shown inFIGS. 1,2,3A,3B,6and7. In one embodiment, these openings might each be small enough to prevent passage of an operator's hand through the opening. In another embodiment, these openings might each be small enough to prevent passage of an operator's finger through the opening. It will be appreciated that the mesh structure52, when so configured, can nevertheless permit visibility by an operator through the mesh structure52.

Although the reinforcement structure54can be flexible, the reinforcement structure54can be substantially resistant to stretching. For example, the reinforcement structure54can be formed from webbing, fabric, belting, wire, cable, and/or some other material, for example. In one embodiment, such as that shown inFIGS. 1,2,3A,3B,6and7, the reinforcement structure54might not facilitate visibility of an operator through the reinforcement structure54itself (e.g., such as when formed from nylon webbing), although in another embodiment, a reinforcement structure might be transparent (e.g., such as if formed from translucent PET material). The reinforcement structure54can be attached to the mesh structure52in any of a variety of suitable configurations to help ensure maintenance of the net structure50in a particular shape and/or configuration. In one such configuration, the reinforcement structure54can include a perimeter strip58and one or more connecting strips, such as connecting strips60,61shown inFIGS. 1,3A,3B,6and7.

The perimeter strip58of the reinforcement structure54of net structure50can include a first portion62and can include a second portion64opposite the first portion62. The perimeter strip58can also include a third portion66and a fourth portion68opposite the third portion66. When the net structure50is attached to the roll cage30, the first and second portions62,64of the perimeter strip58can be upper and lower portions, respectively, of the perimeter strip58. When the net structure50is attached to roll cage30, the third and fourth portions66,68of the perimeter strip58can be rearward and forward portions, respectively, of the perimeter strip58. Each of the portions62,64,66and68of the perimeter strip58can be a continuous respective strip. Alternatively, one or more portions of the perimeter strip58can be subdivided, or can include multiple strips that are attached together. For example, the first portion62of perimeter strip58is shown to include two strips identified as62aand62binFIGS. 6 and 7.

Each portion of the perimeter strip58can include two pieces of superimposed material, which can be inside and outside pieces of material that sandwich the mesh structure52between them. For example, as shown inFIG. 6, the second portion64of the perimeter strip58can include two pieces of superimposed webbing64a,64b(e.g., formed from nylon), which can be disposed upon opposite sides of a perimeter76of the mesh structure52to sandwich the perimeter76of the mesh structure52. The two pieces of superimposed webbing64a,64bcan be attached to one another (e.g., via adhesive and/or sewing), such that the second portion64of the perimeter strip58is attached to the mesh structure52. The remainder of the perimeter strip58can be attached to the mesh structure52in the same or similar manner, such that the perimeter strip58defines an outer perimeter78of the net structure50. However, it will be appreciated that a perimeter strip can be provided and/or attached to a mesh structure in any of a variety of suitable alternative configurations. For example, each portion of the perimeter strip58can be a single piece of material folded in half to sandwich the mesh structure52, and sewn together.

In one embodiment, the perimeter strip58can be attached to the mesh structure52about the entire perimeter78of the mesh structure52, as shown inFIGS. 6 and 7. However, in other embodiments, only a portion of a perimeter of a mesh structure might be attached to a perimeter strip or other portion of a reinforcement structure.

The connecting strips60,61, can be attached to the perimeter strip58, and/or can be attached to the mesh structure52as described above, whereby two pieces of webbing (e.g., formed from nylon) can be disposed upon opposite sides of the mesh structure52and can be attached to one another (e.g., via adhesive and/or sewing) to sandwich a portion of the mesh structure52. However, it will be appreciated that connecting strips can be provided and/or attached to a reinforcement structure and/or a mesh structure of a net structure in any of a variety of suitable configurations. Opposite ends of the connecting strips60,61can be attached to the perimeter strip58of the reinforcement structure54. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 1,2,3A,3B,6and7, one end of the connecting strip60can be attached to the fourth portion68of the perimeter strip58, and the opposite end of the connecting strip60can be attached to the perimeter strip58at the interface of the first portion62and the third portion66of the perimeter strip58. One end of the connecting strip61can be attached to the reinforcement structure54at the interface of the second portion64and the fourth portion68of the perimeter strip58, and the opposite end of the connecting strip61can be attached to the third portion66of the perimeter strip58. However, it will be appreciated that connecting strips can be provided and/or attached to a reinforcement structure of a mesh structure in any of a variety of suitable alternative configurations and can be attached to a reinforcement structure and/or a mesh structure at a variety of suitable locations. The perimeter strip58of the reinforcement structure54can cooperate with the mesh structure52and/or any connecting strips (e.g., connecting strips60,61) to ensure that the shape and size of the net structure50, as well as the position of the net structure50with respect to the roll cage30, remain substantially constant when the net structure50is in the lowered, closed configuration.

The connecting strips60,61can be positioned such that they do not interfere with an operator's line of sight of terrain during the operation of vehicle10. For example, the connecting strip60can be positioned above, and the connecting strip61can be positioned below, an operator's line of sight of terrain during operation of vehicle10. Additionally, the connecting strips60,61can be positioned to effectively resist stretching or flexing of the net structure50due to contact by the operator, e.g., the operator's left arm, when the net structure50is in the lowered, closed configuration shown inFIG. 1. In other embodiments, it will be appreciated that a net structure might include one or more alternatively configured connecting strips, one or more additional connecting strips, or no connecting strips whatsoever.

In one embodiment, the net structure50can be attached to the roll cage30as described in further detail below. The net structure50can be attached to the roll cage30such that the net structure50can be readily removable such as to facilitate cleaning, replacement, and/or repair of the net structure50. Additionally, the net structure can be attached to the roll cage30to facilitate selectively configuring the net structure50in the lowered, closed configuration shown inFIG. 1, the generally rolled-up, open configuration shown inFIGS. 2 and 5Aor the alternative generally rolled-up, open configuration shown inFIG. 5B, and either one of the generally diagonally-folded, partially open configurations shown inFIGS. 3A and 3B. The net structure50is shown inFIG. 1to extend vertically from the upper tubular member38of the roll cage30to a position generally adjacent to a lowermost portion of the seat22when the net structure50is in the lowered, closed configuration. However, it will be appreciated that a net structure might be attached to a roll cage and/or other components of a vehicle in any of a variety of other configurations and/or arrangements.

In one embodiment, the net structure50can be attached to the upper tubular member38of the roll cage30, and to each of the forward tubular member34and the rearward tubular member36of the roll cage30at locations proximate the upper tubular member38, using one or more straps and/or one or more strap assemblies, wherein the straps and/or strap assemblies can be used in conjunction with stays, or brackets, attached to the roll cage30, as subsequently described in greater detail. Further, in one such configuration, the net structure50can be releasably attached to lower portions of each of the forward tubular member34and the rearward tubular member36of the roll cage30using one or more clip assemblies and a latch assembly. For example, as discussed subsequently in greater detail, a latch assembly can be used to releasably attach net structure50to a lower portion of the forward tubular member34of the roll cage30, and a plurality of clip assemblies can be used to releasably attach the net structure50to a lower portion of the rearward tubular member36of the roll cage30, which facilitates configuring the net structure50in the generally rolled-up, open configuration shown inFIGS. 2 and 5A, or the alternative generally rolled-up, open configuration shown inFIG. 5B.

With reference toFIGS. 6 and 7, the net structure50can include a plurality of straps86. Each of the straps86can be configured as a loop and can be attached to the first portion62of the perimeter strip58of the reinforcement structure54(e.g., via adhesive and/or sewing). One or more upper stays (e.g.,88) can be used in conjunction with the straps86to attach the net structure50to the upper tubular member38of roll cage30. For example, with reference toFIGS. 1,2,3A,3B and6, like quantities of straps86and upper stays88can be provided, with each of the upper stays88inserted through an opening defined by the looped configuration of a respective one of the straps86and then attached to the upper tubular member38of the roll cage30. Three straps86and three upper stays88are shown inFIGS. 1,2,3A and3B. However, it will be appreciated that different quantities of straps86and upper stays88can be used, and that the quantity of straps86can be different than the quantity of upper stays88. In one embodiment, a single upper stay can be used in conjunction with a plurality of the straps86, with the single upper stay passing through the openings defined by each of the straps86, and attached to the upper tubular member38.

As shown inFIG. 8with respect to one of the upper stays88, each of the upper stays88can be attached indirectly to the upper tubular member38using a pair of conventional fasteners, such as bolts90. Each of the bolts90can be threaded into a respective embossment92attached to the upper tubular member38(e.g., by welding), to attach the respective upper stay88to the upper tubular member38. The upper stays88, embossments92, and upper tubular member38can cooperate to define an aperture93that can be sized and configured to receive a strap, e.g., one of the straps86, and/or to receive an attachment member of a retainer assembly, as subsequently described. It will be appreciated that stays, or brackets, can be provided having different configurations and/or that can be attached directly to the upper tubular member38, and that can cooperate with at least the upper tubular member38to define an aperture suitable for receiving a strap, e.g., one of the straps86, and/or an attachment member of a retainer assembly.

With reference toFIG. 9, the net structure50can further include a strap94that can be attached to the reinforcement structure54of the net structure50, e.g., the third portion66of the perimeter strip58of the reinforcement structure54. The strap94can be attached to the rearward tubular member36of roll cage30using a rearward, upper stay96that can be attached to the rearward tubular member36at a location proximate the upper tubular member38such that an upper portion of the net structure50is attached to the rearward tubular member36. Strap94can be configured as a loop and the rearward, upper stay96can pass through an opening defined by the strap94. The rearward, upper stay96can be attached indirectly to the rearward tubular member36using a pair of conventional fasteners, such as bolts100. Each of the bolts100can be threaded into a respective one of a pair of embossments98attached to the rearward tubular member36(e.g., welded), to attach the strap94to the rearward, upper stay96and to the rearward tubular member36. The rearward, upper stay96can be configured the same as, similar to, or different than, the upper stays88fastened to the upper tubular member38of roll cage30. Alternatively, an upper stay can be provided that passes through the opening defined by the strap94, and that is attached directly to the rearward tubular member36.

The net structure50can further include a strap assembly110that can be attached to the reinforcement structure54of net structure50, e.g., the fourth portion68of the perimeter strip58, and that can be releasably attached to the forward tubular member34of the roll cage30to releasably attach an upper portion of the net structure50to the forward tubular member34of the roll cage30. As shown inFIG. 10, the strap assembly110can include a strap112attached to the reinforcement structure54and a pair of D-rings114that can be attached to the reinforcement structure54of the net structure50using strap112. A forward, upper stay116can be attached to the forward tubular member34of the roll cage30at a location proximate the upper tubular member38of roll cage30. As shown inFIG. 10, the forward, upper stay116can be fastened to a pair of embossments118, which can be attached to the forward tubular member34(e.g., welded), using conventional fasteners such as bolts120. It will be appreciated that a stay or bracket having a different configuration can be provided and/or that is attached directly to the forward tubular member34, for use with the strap assembly110. The strap112can be wrapped at least partially around the forward, upper stay116and can be releasably attached to the D-rings114, as shown inFIG. 10, to releasably attach the strap assembly110to the forward, upper stay116, and therefore to the forward tubular member34of roll cage30at a location proximate the upper tubular member38. The forward, upper stay116and the rearward, upper stay96can be spaced from the upper tubular member38of roll cage30by approximately the same distance. However, in other embodiments, stays96and116can be spaced from the upper tubular member38by differing distances.

In other embodiments, the positions of the strap94and strap assembly110can be reversed, such that the strap94is attached to the fourth portion68of perimeter strip58and to the forward, upper stay116, and such that the strap assembly110is attached to the third portion66of the perimeter strip58and is releasably attached to the rearward, upper stay96. In still other embodiments, strap94can be attached to the rearward, upper stay96as shown and another strap can be attached to the forward, upper stay116in lieu of strap assembly110, or alternatively, strap assembly110can be releasably attached to the forward, upper stay116as shown and another strap assembly can be used in lieu of strap94and releasably attached to the rearward, upper stay96. Also, in other embodiments, one or more strap assemblies can be used in lieu of one or more of the straps86and each can be releasably attached to a respective one of the upper stays88, or alternatively each of the strap assemblies can be releasably attached to a single upper stay used in lieu of the upper stays88and attached to the upper tubular member38.

A latch assembly130can be provided for use by an operator in releasably attaching net structure50to a lower portion of the forward tubular member34of the roll cage30, and selectively locking the net structure50in the lowered, closed configuration shown inFIG. 1. As shown inFIG. 16, the latch assembly130can include a first interlocking portion132and a second interlocking portion134that can be configured to selectively interlock with one another. The first interlocking portion132can be attached to the net structure50via a strap131that can be attached at one end to the reinforcement structure54of net structure50, and at the opposite end to the first interlocking portion132.

In one embodiment, as shown inFIGS. 6,7and16, the first interlocking portion132can be a male member that can include one or more flexible fingers133. The second interlocking portion134can be a female member and can be attached to a flange136that can be attached to a lower portion of the forward tubular member34. The first interlocking portion132can selectively engage the second interlocking portion134in a snap fit that can releasably attach a lower portion of the net structure50to the forward tubular member34, as shown inFIG. 1. The first interlocking portion132can be disengaged, or detached, from the second interlocking portion134by depressing the flexible fingers133and withdrawing the first interlocking portion132from the second interlocking portion134. Alternatively, it will be appreciated that a male member of a latch assembly can be attached to the forward tubular member34and a mating female member of a latch assembly can be attached to net structure50, and that further, mechanical interlocking arrangements having other configurations can be utilized.

The net structure50can include one or more clip assemblies that can be configured for releasable attachment to the roll cage30of vehicle10. Referring toFIGS. 6,7and11-13, the net structure50can include a plurality of clip assemblies140that can be configured for releasable attachment to the roll cage30of vehicle10. The net structure50is shown to include three of the clip assemblies140. However, in other embodiments, different quantities of clip assemblies140can be used, and/or clip assemblies having different configurations can be used. Clip assembly140can include a flexible member142that can be attached to the reinforcement structure54of the net structure50. The flexible member142can be a strap, which can be made from any suitable material, e.g., nylon webbing. The flexible member142of each of the clip assemblies140can be attached to the perimeter strip58of the reinforcement structure54. As shown inFIG. 6, the flexible member142of one of the clip assemblies140can be attached to the third portion66of the perimeter strip58and can also be attached to the lower connecting strip61. The flexible member142of the lowermost one of the clip assemblies140can be attached to each of the second and third portions64,66of the perimeter strip58. It will be appreciated that clip assemblies140can be attached to net structure50in other suitable locations.

With reference toFIGS. 11-13, clip assembly140can include a clip144associated with the flexible member142. The clip144can be pivotally connected to the flexible member142. The clip144can include a hook146and a gate150that can cooperate to define an aperture148. The gate150that can be pivotable with respect to hook146to selectively open and close an entrance to the aperture148. The clip assembly140can also include a connector152. The clip144can be pivotally attached to the connector152, and the connector152can be pivotally attached to the flexible member142. Accordingly, the clip144can be pivotable with respect to the flexible member142. The hook146of the clip144can be pivotable about an axis (not shown) that can extend through a first pivot member154of the connector152. A second pivot member156of the connector152can pass through a loop defined by the flexible member142, such that the connector152can be pivotable about an axis (not shown) that extends through the second pivot member156of connector152, with respect to the flexible member142.

The clip assembly140can further include a ring member160that can be attached to the flexible member142at a location that is spaced apart from the location at which the clip144is attached to the flexible member142. The ring member160is shown to be a D-ring. However, it will be appreciated that suitable ring members can have alternative shapes and configurations. One or more rearward stays, or brackets,162can be attached to the rearward tubular member36of the roll cage30. A like quantity of rearward stays162and clip assemblies140can be provided, such that each of the clip assemblies140can be releasably attached to a respective one of the rearward stays162. In other embodiments, each of the clip assemblies140can be releasably attached to a single rearward stay, which can be attached to the rearward tubular member36. Each of the rearward stays162, or alternative stays having different configurations, can be attached either directly or indirectly to the rearward tubular member36and each of the rearward stays162can be positioned below the rearward, upper stay96. In one embodiment, each of the rearward stays162can be fastened to a pair of embossments164, which are attached to the rearward tubular member36, using conventional fasteners, such as bolts166, as shown inFIG. 11for one of the rearward stays162. Each of the rearward stays162can cooperate with the respective pair of embossments164and the rearward tubular member36to define an aperture that can be sized and configured to receive the flexible member142.

For each of the clip assemblies140, the flexible member142can be wrapped at least partially around a respective one of the rearward stays162, and the clip144can be releasably attached to the ring member160to releasably attach the clip assembly140to a respective one of the rearward stays162and therefore to the rearward tubular member36of the roll cage30. The gate150, which can be biased in a closed position, facilitates retaining a portion of the ring member160within the aperture148defined by the hook146of the respective clip144. The selective, releasable attachment of the clip assemblies140to the rearward tubular member36of roll cage30, releasably attaches the portion of net structure50below strap94to the rearward tubular member36of the roll cage30.

FIG. 14illustrates a clip assembly170according to an alternative embodiment. One or more of the clip assemblies170can be used in lieu of and/or in addition to, the clip assemblies140, to releasably attach a portion of a net structure2050, which can otherwise be the same as, or similar to, the net structure50, to the rearward tubular member36of the roll cage30. For example, the net structure2050can include a plurality of the clip assemblies170(one shown), with each of the clip assemblies170being releasably attached to a respective one of the rearward stays162, which can be attached to the rearward tubular member36of the roll cage30as described previously. Clip assembly170can include a flexible member172that can be attached to a reinforcement structure of the net structure2050. In one embodiment, the flexible member172can be attached to a perimeter strip, e.g., a third portion2066of the perimeter strip (e.g., via adhesive and/or sewing). Clip assembly170can also include a clip174associated with the flexible member172. The clip174can include an end flange176that can define an aperture178. The flexible member172can be looped through the aperture178to attach the flexible member172to the clip174. The clip174of each clip assembly170can be releasably attached to a respective one of the rearward stays162, as shown inFIG. 14for one of the clip assemblies170, or alternatively all of the clip assemblies170can be releasably attached to a single rearward stay attached to the rearward tubular member36.

FIG. 15illustrates a clip assembly184according to another alternative embodiment, which can be used in lieu of and/or in addition to one or more of the clip assemblies140or the clip assemblies170, to releasably attach a portion of a net structure3050, which can otherwise be the same as, or similar to, net structure50, to the rearward tubular member36of roll cage30. For example, the net structure3050can include a plurality of the clip assemblies184(one shown), with each of the clip assemblies184being selectively, releasably attached to the rearward tubular member36of roll cage30. In one embodiment, a plurality of rearward stays195(one shown) can be attached directly to the rearward tubular member36of roll cage30, for example by welding the rearward stays195to the rearward tubular member36. Like quantities of the clip assemblies184and rearward stays195can be provided, such that each of the clip assemblies184can be releasably attached to a respective one of the rearward stays195. In other embodiments, each of the clip assemblies184can be attached to a single rearward stay, which can be attached to the rearward tubular member36. Clip assembly184can include a flexible member186and a clip188that can be a carabiner-type clip. The flexible member186can be attached to a reinforcement structure of net structure3050(e.g., a third portion3066of a perimeter strip of the reinforcement structure) and can define a first looped portion190proximate the perimeter strip of the reinforcement structure. The flexible member186can also define a second looped portion192that can be spaced apart from the first looped portion190. The carabiner-type clip188can be releasably attached to the first looped portion190of the flexible member186. The flexible member186of each clip assembly184can be wrapped at least partially around a respective one of the rearward stays195, and the carabiner-type clip188can be releasably attached to the second looped portion192of the flexible member186to releasably attach the clip assembly184to the rearward stay195, and therefore to the rearward tubular member36. The carabiner-type clip188can be opened and closed in a manner known in the art, which can facilitate releasably attaching the carabiner-type clip188to the looped portions190,192of the flexible member186.

Referring toFIGS. 2,5A,5B,7and10, the net structure50can further include a plurality of retainer assemblies200. Each of the retainer assemblies can be attached to the reinforcement structure54of the net structure50, and each of the retainer assemblies200can be configured for releasable attachment to the upper tubular member38of the roll cage30, to facilitate selectively retaining the net structure50in a generally rolled-up, open configuration, e.g., the generally rolled-up, open configuration shown inFIGS. 2 and 5A, or the alternative generally rolled-up, open configuration shown inFIG. 5B. The net structure50can be rolled-up along the outside of net structure50as shown inFIGS. 2 and 5A, or alternatively, the net structure50can be rolled-up along the inside of net structure50as shown inFIG. 5B. Each of the retainer assemblies200can include a resilient member202and an attachment member204, and the resilient member202can be attached to the attachment member204.

The resilient member202of each of the retainer assemblies200can be attached to the reinforcement structure54of the net structure50. For example, the resilient member202of each of the retainer assemblies200can be attached (e.g., via adhesive and/or sewing) to the perimeter strip58of the reinforcement structure54. In one embodiment, the resilient member202of each of the retainer assemblies can be attached to the first portion62of the perimeter strip58. The resilient member202can be an elastic cord, or any other suitable resilient member, which can be extended, or lengthened, to facilitate selectively retaining the net structure50in a generally rolled-up, open configuration, e.g., as shown inFIGS. 5A and 5B. In another embodiment, retainer assemblies can be provided that each include a non-resilient member attached to a net structure and to an attachment member, and that can be configured for releasable attachment to a roll cage of a vehicle. The resilient member202can be looped through an aperture205defined by the attachment member204, to attach the resilient member202to the attachment member204. The attachment member204is shown inFIG. 10to be a hook. Alternatively, attachment members can have other configurations. In one embodiment, an attachment member can be a clip that can include a hook and a gate pivotally attached to the hook.

The net structure50can be configured in a lowered, closed configuration, e.g., the lowered, closed configuration shown inFIG. 1, for use during operation of vehicle10by releasably attaching the clip assemblies140and/or clip assemblies having other configurations (e.g., clip assemblies170,184) to the rearward stays162and latching or locking the latch assembly130, in addition to attaching straps86to the upper stays88, attaching strap94to the rearward, upper stay96, and releasably attaching the strap assembly110to the forward, upper stay116.

When vehicle10is not being operated, the net structure50can be configured in a generally rolled-up, open configuration, e.g., the generally rolled-up, open configuration shown inFIGS. 2 and 5Aor the alternative generally rolled-up, open configuration shown inFIG. 5B, to facilitate passage of an operator from the protected area32through the access opening42, to exit vehicle10, and to facilitate passage of an operator through the access opening42into the protected area32to board vehicle10. The net structure50can be configured in a generally rolled-up, open configuration, e.g., the generally rolled-up, open configuration shown inFIGS. 2 and 5Aor the alternative generally rolled-up, open configuration shown inFIG. 5B, by detaching each of the clip assemblies140from the respective ones of the rearward stays162, or from a single rearward stay, unlatching or unlocking the latch assembly130, and rolling up a portion of the net structure50indicated generally at206inFIGS. 5A and 5B. The straps86and strap94can remain attached to the upper tubular member38and the rear tubular member36, respectively, of roll cage30, and the strap assembly110can remain releasably attached to the forward tubular member34of roll cage30, when the net structure50is in a generally rolled-up, open configuration, e.g., the generally rolled-up, open configuration shown inFIGS. 2 and 5Aor the alternative generally rolled-up, open configuration shown inFIG. 5B. The rolled-up portion206can correspond to all, or substantially all, of the net structure50extending below the strap assembly110and the strap94that can remain attached to the forward tubular member34and the rearward tubular member36, respectively, when the net structure50is in a generally rolled-up, open configuration, e.g., the generally rolled-up, open configuration shown inFIGS. 2 and 5Aor the alternative generally rolled-up open configuration shown inFIG. 5B. The resilient member202of each of the retainer assemblies200can then be extended such that the resilient member202of each of the retainer assemblies200is wrapped at least partially around the generally rolled-up portion206of the net structure50, and the attachment member204of each of the retainer assemblies200can then be releasably attached to a respective one of the upper stays88, or to a single upper stay, such that each of the retainer assemblies200is releasably attached to the upper tubular member38of the roll cage30, to facilitate retaining the net structure50in a generally rolled-up, open configuration e.g., the generally rolled-up, open configuration shown inFIGS. 2 and 5Aor the alternative generally rolled-up, open configuration shown inFIG. 5B. The attachment member204of each retainer assembly200can be received by the aperture93defined by the respective one of the upper stays88, the upper tubular member38and the respective ones of the embossments92.

As shown inFIG. 7, the net structure50can further include a ring member210, which can be a D-ring, which can be attached to the reinforcement structure54of the net structure50. In one embodiment, a strap212can pass through an aperture defined by the D-ring210and can be attached, at both ends, to the perimeter strip58of the reinforcement structure54, to attach the D-ring210to the reinforcement structure54. As shown inFIG. 7, the D-ring210can be attached to the fourth portion68of the perimeter strip58of the reinforcement structure54. It will be appreciated that D-rings and/or ring members having other configurations can be attached to the reinforcement structure54at other locations. The D-ring210can be used to facilitate retaining the net structure50in a generally diagonally-folded, partially open configuration, e.g., either one of the generally diagonally-folded, partially open configurations shown inFIGS. 3A and 3B. For example, when vehicle10is not in operation, the latch assembly130can be unlatched or unlocked, the net structure50can be generally diagonally-folded and the D-ring210can be releasably attached to the attachment member204of one of the retainer assemblies200, as shown inFIG. 3B. The net structure50can be generally diagonally-folded along the inside of net structure50as shown inFIG. 3A, or alternatively, the net structure50can be generally diagonally-folded along the outside of net structure50as shown inFIG. 3B.

The net structure50can also include a strap assembly214(FIG. 7) that can be attached to the reinforcement structure54of the net structure50, at a location proximate the hip bolster49of vehicle10. For example, the strap assembly214can be attached to the second portion64of the perimeter strip58. The strap assembly214can include a pair of D-rings216(one shown) and a strap218. The D-ring216can be attached to the second portion64of the perimeter strip58using the strap218. When the net structure50is in a lowered, closed configuration, e.g., the lowered, closed configuration shown inFIG. 1, the strap218can be selectively wrapped at least partially around the hip bolster49and releasably attached to the D-rings216, in order to facilitate further retention and tensioning of the net structure50when the net structure50is in a lowered, closed configuration, e.g., the lowered, closed configuration shown inFIG. 1.

If a rollover event occurs during operation of vehicle10, with the net structure50and/or net structure1050in respective lowered, closed configurations, as shown inFIGS. 1 and 4, respectively, an operator of vehicle10may impact one of the net structures, for example the net structure50, which is adjacent to the operator. In this event, the operator's body applies a force to the net structure, such as net structure50, which can cause the net structure50to deflect outwardly. This may also occur if net structure2050, net structure3050, or net structures having other configurations are used and are in respective lowered, closed configurations adjacent the operator of vehicle10. This deflection can cause forces, such as tensile forces, to be applied to one or more of the means for attaching the net structure50to the roll cage30. In some instances, this can result in one or more of the means for attaching the net structure50to the roll cage30becoming at least partially detached from the reinforcement structure54of the net structure50, such that the structural integrity of the net structure50is compromised. In such an instance, it can be desirable to replace the net structure50.

The net structure50(FIGS. 1,2,3A and3B), net structure1050(FIG. 4), net structure2050(shown partially inFIG. 14), net structure3050(shown partially inFIG. 15), or net structures having other configurations, can include one or more overload indicators, to facilitate identifying when the structural integrity of the particular net structure has been compromised, such that replacement of the net structure may be warranted. Overload indicators can be associated with any of a wide variety of means for attaching a net structure (e.g.,50) to a roll cage (e.g.,30). In one embodiment, net structure50can include an overload indicator300that can be associated with one of the clip assemblies140of net structure50, as shown inFIGS. 17A-17C.

The overload indicator300, flexible member142of clip assembly140, and the reinforcement structure54of net structure50can be attached to one another using various methods, for example using thread, adhesives, rivets, heat welding or any other suitable method that is compatible with the particular materials of construction of overload indicator300, flexible member142and reinforcement structure54. Additionally, the overload indicator300can be attached separately to either the flexible member142or the reinforcement structure54, using any suitable method.

In one embodiment, overload indicator300can be a patch, that can be attached separately to flexible member142using thread, for example with a plurality of rows310of stitching as shown inFIGS. 17A and 17B(not shown inFIG.17Cfor clarity of illustration). Overload indicator300can be sewn, or stitched, to each of the flexible member142of clip assembly140and the third portion66of the perimeter strip58of the reinforcement structure54of net structure50using thread, with three rows of stitching, indicated at320a,320band320c, shown inFIG. 17A. It will be appreciated that other configurations and/or quantities of stitching can be used.

Overload indicator300can be a flexible material, e.g., nylon, any other suitable synthetic material, or any suitable fabric, that can move with the flexible member142, as shown inFIGS. 17B and 17C. In other embodiments, overload indicators can be provided that can be made of a material, e.g., plastic or metal, that is relatively inflexible, such that the overload indicator can remain stationary, or substantially stationary, with respect to the flexible member142and the reinforcement structure54.

While overload indicator300is shown inFIGS. 17A-17Cto be generally rectangular, overload indicators can be provided having other shapes and having any suitable thickness. Overload indicator300can have any suitable color, which can contrast with the color of one or both of the flexible member142and the reinforcement structure54. For example, in one embodiment, each of the flexible member142of clip assembly140and reinforcement structure54of net structure50can be silver or black, and the overload indicator300can be red or orange. The contrasting color of overload indicator300can facilitate detection of overload indicator300by an operator of vehicle10, or other person associated with vehicle10, when the structural integrity of net structure50has been compromised.

The overload indicator300can be at least substantially entirely, i.e., substantially entirely or entirely, obscured from an operator's view, or that of other persons such as other occupants of vehicle10or maintenance personnel associated with vehicle10, by at least one of the third portion66of the perimeter strip58of the reinforcement structure54, and the flexible member142of the clip assembly140, until such time that a tensile force, which is equal to or greater than a predetermined tensile force, is applied to the flexible member142, wherein at least a portion of the overload indicator300is visible and indicates that the structural integrity of the net structure50has been compromised. For example, as shown inFIG. 17A, the flexible member142and the third portion66of the perimeter strip58are shown to cooperate to substantially entirely obscure the overload indicator300, prior to the net structure50being overloaded.

As shown inFIG. 17A, and as discussed previously in conjunction withFIGS. 11-13, the flexible member142of clip assembly140can be attached to a ring member160of clip assembly140and can be pivotally connected to the clip144of clip assembly140, via connector152. The flexible member142can wrap at least partially around one of the rearward stays162attached to the rearward tubular member36of roll cage30when the net structure50is in a lowered, closed configuration. If a rollover event occurs during operation of vehicle10, with the net structure50in a lowered, closed configuration, an operator of vehicle10may impact the net structure50, causing the net structure50to deflect outwardly. This can cause a tensile force, indicated generally with arrow330inFIG. 17B, to be applied to the third portion66of perimeter strip58of reinforcement structure54, and to the flexible member142of clip assembly140, with the tensile force330being applied in a generally forward direction away from the rearward tubular member36of roll cage30.

The tensile force330can cause the ring member160and clip144to be pulled rearward toward the rearward stay162attached to the rearward tubular member36of roll cage30, as will be appreciated by comparing the positions of ring member160and clip144shown inFIG. 17Bto the position of ring member160and clip144shown inFIG. 17A. Due to the pivotal connection of clip144to the flexible member142, via connector152, movement of the ring member160and clip144toward the rearward stay162can result in connector152applying a force to the flexible member142that can cause one or more of the rows of stitching to break (e.g.,320a as shown inFIGS. 17B and 17C). In this event, at least a portion of the flexible member142, and at least a portion of the overload indicator300can separate from, and rotate away from, the third portion66of the perimeter strip58as shown inFIGS. 17B and 17C, with the direction of rotation indicated generally by arrow340inFIG. 17B. As a result, this portion of the overload indicator300can be visible, which provides an indication to an operator or other person associated with vehicle10that the structural integrity of the net structure50has been compromised, such that replacement of the net structure50may be warranted.

FIGS. 18A and 18Billustrate an overload indicator1300according to another embodiment. The overload indicator1300can be a flag and can be made of a resilient material. For example, the overload indicator1300can be made of an elastomeric material, such as natural or synthetic rubber. The overload indicator1300can be a unitary member that can include a first portion1302and a second portion1304that are integral with one another. Overload indicator1300can have a color that contrasts with a color of the flexible member142and/or a color of reinforcement structure54.

The overload indicator1300, flexible member142of clip assembly140, and reinforcement structure54can be attached to one another, and overload indicator1300can be attached separately to either the flexible member142or reinforcement structure54, using any suitable method. In one embodiment, the first portion1302of the overload indicator1300can be sewn, with one or more rows1310of thread stitching, to the third portion66of the perimeter strip58of reinforcement structure54as shown inFIGS. 18A and 18B. The flexible member142is shown inFIGS. 18A and 18Bto be sewn to the third portion66of the perimeter strip58of the reinforcement structure54using thread, with three rows of stitching indicated at1320a,1320band1320c, being shown inFIGS. 18A and 18B. However, it will be appreciated that different configurations and/or amounts of stitching, other than that shown, can be used to sew the flexible member142to the reinforcement structure54. As shown inFIG. 18A, the row of stitching1320acan also attach both the first and second portions1302,1304of the overload indicator1300to each of the flexible member142and the reinforcement structure54.

The overload indicator1300can be folded and positioned between the flexible member142and the third portion66of perimeter strip58such that the first and second portions1302,1304of overload indicator1300are positioned adjacent to, and in contacting engagement with, one another. In this configuration, the overload indicator1300can be substantially entirely obscured from view, as shown inFIG. 18A. The overload indicator1300can remain in this configuration until such time that the net structure50becomes overloaded and the structural integrity of the net structure50is compromised.

As discussed previously, if a rollover event occurs during operation of vehicle10, with the net structure50in a lowered, closed configuration, an operator of vehicle10may impact the net structure50, causing net structure50to deflect outwardly. This in turn can apply a tensile force, indicated at1330inFIG. 18B, to the third portion66of the perimeter strip58of reinforcement structure54and to the flexible member142of clip assembly140, with the tensile force1330being applied in a generally forward direction away from the rearward tubular member36of roll cage30.

The tensile force1330can cause the ring member160and clip144to be pulled rearward toward the rearward stay162attached to the rearward tubular member36of roll cage30, as will be appreciated by comparing the positions of ring member160and clip144shown inFIG. 18Bto the positions of ring member160and clip144shown inFIG. 18A. Due to the pivotal connection of clip144to the flexible member142, via connector152, movement of the ring member160and clip144toward the rearward stay162can result in connector152applying a force to the flexible member142that can cause one or more of the rows of stitching, such as stitching row1320a, to break as shown inFIG. 18B. In this event, at least a portion of the flexible member142can separate from, and rotate away from, the third portion66of the perimeter strip58, as shown inFIG. 18B, with the direction of rotation indicated generally by arrow1340. When this occurs, the second portion1304of overload indicator1300can “spring”, or move, away from the flexible member142, such that the second portion1304of overload indicator1300is spaced apart from each of the flexible member142and the reinforcement structure54as shown inFIG. 18B. The first portion1302of overload indicator1300can remain attached to the reinforcement structure54due to stitching1310. As a result, the second portion1304of overload indicator1300can be visible, which can facilitate detection of the overload indicator1300by an operator or other person associated with vehicle10, indicating that the structural integrity of net structure50has been compromised and that replacement of the net structure50may be warranted.

FIG. 19illustrates an overload indicator2300according to another embodiment. The overload indicator2300is shown to be a matrix of thread that is sewn, or stitched, to the flexible member142. The overload indicator2300can be at least substantially entirely, i.e., substantially entirely or entirely, obscured from view by an operator or other person associated with vehicle10, by at least one of the third portion66of the perimeter strip58of the reinforcement structure54, and the flexible member142of the clip assembly140, until such time that a tensile force, which is equal to or greater than a predetermined tensile force, is applied to the flexible member142wherein at least a portion of the overload indicator2300is visible and indicates that the structural integrity of the net structure50has been compromised.

The flexible member142can be attached to the reinforcement structure54using any suitable method, e.g., those discussed previously. Flexible member142can be attached to the third portion66of the perimeter strip58of reinforcement structure54using thread, with three rows of stitching, indicated at2320a,2320band2320c, being shown inFIG. 19. It will be appreciated that other quantities and configurations of stitching can be used to attach the flexible member142to the reinforcement structure54. The row of stitching2320ais shown to be broken inFIG. 19, which can be a result of a tensile force, in excess of a predetermined tensile force, being applied to the third portion66of the reinforcement structure54and to the flexible member142that can cause a portion of the flexible member142to be pulled away from the reinforcement structure54as shown inFIG. 19. This facilitates detection of the overload indicator2300by an operator or other person associated with vehicle10, indicating that the structural integrity of the net structure50has been compromised and that replacement of the net structure50may be warranted.

In another embodiment, an overload indicator can be at least one of dye, ink, paint, or any other suitable substance which can be applied to the flexible member142. The substance can be applied to the flexible member142in an area adjacent to connector152, for example the same area, or approximately the same area, where overload indicator2300is sewn to the flexible member142in the embodiment depicted inFIG. 19. Such a substance can have a color (e.g., red or orange) that can contrast with a color (e.g., silver or black) of one or both of the flexible member142and the reinforcement structure54, which can facilitate detection of the overload indicator by an operator or other person associated with vehicle10, when the flexible member142has at least partially separated from the reinforcement structure54, revealing at least a portion of the overload indicator.

The net structure50, or other net structure incorporating one or more overload indicators, such as overload indicators300,1300, and2300, can be calibrated together with the respective overload indicator(s), for example in a tensile tester, to determine the load rating of the particular net structure. The use of one or more overload indicators, such as one or more of any or all of the overload indicators300,1300, and2300, with any net structure attached to a roll cage of a vehicle, for example net structures50,1050,2050, and3050, can provide an indication of when the structural integrity of the respective net structure has been compromised, such that replacement of the net structure may be warranted to enhance the safety of operation of vehicle10. While the overload indicators300,1300, and2300have been illustrated in association with the flexible member142of clip assembly140and the third portion66of the perimeter strip58of the reinforcement structure54of net structure50, overload indicators such as overload indicators300,1300, and2300can be used in association with other means to attach the respective net structures (e.g.,50) to a roll cage (e.g.,30) of a vehicle (e.g.,10) and can be associated with other portions of the reinforcement structure54of net structure50. For example, any one of the overload indicators300,1300, and2300, can be used in association with any one of the straps86, strap94, strap assembly112, latch assembly130, clip assembly170, clip assembly184, and strap assembly214, and in association with the respective portions of the reinforcement structure54of net structure50.

While various embodiments of a net structure for attachment to a roll cage of a vehicle, and a vehicle, have been illustrated by the foregoing description and have been described in considerable detail, it is not intended to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Additional modifications will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.