Vehicle and shoulder bolster member

A vehicle includes a pair of front wheels, a pair of rear wheels, a frame portion, a seat unit including a first seat portion and a second seat portion arranged side by side in a width direction of the vehicle and supported by the frame portion, a steering wheel in front of the first seat portion, a roll-over protection cage supported by the frame portion to cover an area above the seat unit and the steering wheel, and a shoulder bolster portion. The first seat portion includes a seat bottom portion that supports a human body from below, and a back support portion that supports the human body from behind. In the width direction of the vehicle, at least a portion of the shoulder bolster portion is on an outer side of the seat unit. In a side view, at least a portion of the shoulder bolster portion is at a more rearward position than a forward end of the seat bottom portion, at a more forward position than the back support portion, at a higher position than a center of the steering wheel in an up-down direction, and at a lower position than an upper end of the steering wheel. The shoulder bolster portion has its upper end at a higher position than a midway point between a center of an upper surface of the seat bottom portion and an upper end of the back support portion in an up-down direction.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to vehicles and shoulder bolster members, and more specifically to a vehicle including a shoulder bolster portion, and to a shoulder bolster member attached to a vehicle.

2. Description of the Related Art

Conventionally, there is proposed a variety of off-road vehicles (e.g., Recreational Off-Highway Vehicles (ROVs)).

For example, U.S. Pat. No. 2012/0085588A1 discloses a vehicle which includes a pair of front wheels, a pair of rear wheels, a frame, a roll-over protection cage and a seat. The frame is supported by the pair of front wheels and the pair of rear wheels. The roll-over protection cage and the seat are supported by the frame.

In vehicles such as the one described above, it is preferable that the vehicle has a structure for reducing sway of the driver and passengers (hereinafter, the driver and the passengers will be called crew) during the ride. In the vehicle disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 2012/0085588A1, the roll-over protection cage has a pair of handles sandwiching the seat from both sides. The pair of handles are disposed at an approximate abdominal height of the crew sitting on the seat, so it is possible to reduce crew's sway in left or right directions.

However, in the vehicle disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 2012/0085588A1, the handles are likely to come in contact with the crew's abdominal areas when the crew is swayed left or right. This can degrade riding comfort of the crew.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Therefore, preferred embodiments of the present invention provide a vehicle, and a shoulder bolster member, capable of reducing sway of the crew without sacrificing their riding comfort.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle includes a pair of front wheels; at least a pair of rear wheels; a frame portion supported by the pair of front wheels and the pair of rear wheels; a seat unit including a first seat portion and a second seat portion arranged side by side in a width direction of the vehicle and supported by the frame portion; a steering wheel in front of the first seat portion; a roll-over protection cage supported by the frame portion and covering an area above the seat unit and the steering wheel; and a shoulder bolster portion. In this vehicle, the first seat portion includes a seat bottom portion that supports a human body from below, and a back support portion that supports the human body from behind; at least a portion of the shoulder bolster portion is on an outer side of the seat unit in the width direction of the vehicle; at least a portion of the shoulder bolster portion is, in a side view, at a more rearward position than a forward end of the seat bottom portion, at a more forward position than the back support portion, at a higher position than a center of the steering wheel in an up-down direction, and at a lower position than an upper end of the steering wheel. Further, the shoulder bolster portion has its upper end located at a higher position than a midway point between a center of an upper surface of the seat bottom portion and an upper end of the back support portion in an up-down direction.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, at least a portion of the shoulder bolster portion is at a more rearward position than the forward end of the seat bottom portion; at a more forward position than the back support portion; at a higher position than the center of the steering wheel in an up-down direction; and at a lower position than the upper end of the steering wheel. Further, the shoulder bolster portion has its upper end located at a higher position than the midway point between the center of the upper surface of the seat bottom portion and the upper end of the back support portion in an up-down direction. These arrangements described above make it possible to dispose the shoulder bolster portion at the same or substantially the same height as the height of the shoulders of the driver or of a passenger, which hereinafter will be generally referred to as “crew”). Thus, the shoulders of the crew can make contact with the shoulder bolster portion when the crew is swayed in left or right directions. In other words, even when the crew is swayed in left or right directions, the arrangement reduces chances for the crew's abdominal regions to make contact with the shoulder bolster portion. As a result, the arrangement prevents swaying of the crew while providing the crew with a comfortable ride.

Preferably, the shoulder bolster portion includes a platy member. In this case, the arrangement provides a sufficient area of contact between the shoulders of the crew and the shoulder bolster portion when the shoulders of the crew make contact with the shoulder bolster portion. This provides the crew with a more comfortable ride.

Further preferably, the platy member overlaps the back support portion in a side view. In this case, the arrangement provides a larger area of contact between the shoulders of the crew and the shoulder bolster portion. This provides the crew with a more comfortable ride.

Further, preferably, the platy member overlaps the seat bottom portion in a side view. In this case, the arrangement provides a larger area of contact between the crew and the shoulder bolster portion. This provides the crew with a more comfortable ride.

Preferably, the platy member does not overlap the roll-over protection cage in a side view. In this case, the arrangement makes it possible to dispose the platy member at an outermost position as much as possible in the width direction of the vehicle without increasing the overall width of the vehicle. This provides the crew with a more comfortable ride.

Further preferably, the platy member does not overlap the seat bottom portion in a plan view. In this case, the arrangement allows for sufficient space for the crew to sit, and therefore the crew enjoys a more comfortable ride.

Further, preferably, the shoulder bolster portion includes an elongated member which is elongated in an up-down direction. In this case, the arrangement provides a sufficient area of contact between the shoulders of the crew and the shoulder bolster portion when the shoulders of the crew make contact with the shoulder bolster portion. This provides the crew with a more comfortable ride. Also, the shoulders of the crew are more likely to make contact with the shoulder bolster portion regardless of the crew's body sizes (height, for example). Therefore, the above arrangement provides the crew with a comfortable ride regardless of their body sizes.

Preferably, the elongated member includes a main portion and a sub-portion at a lower position than the main portion. With this, at least a portion of the main portion is, in a side view, at a more rearward position than the forward end of the seat bottom portion; at a more forward position than the back support portion; at a higher position than the center of the steering wheel in an up-down direction; and at a lower position than the upper end of the steering wheel. Further, at least a portion of the sub-portion is, in a side view, at a more rearward position than the forward end of the seat bottom portion; at a more forward position than the back support portion; at a higher position than the seat bottom portion; and at a lower position than a lower end of the steering wheel; and in addition, the main portion has its forward end located at a more rearward position than a forward end of the sub-portion. According to the arrangement described above, when the crew is swayed in left or right directions, the shoulders of the crew make contact with the main portion, whereas the thighs of the crew make contact with the sub-portion. This sufficiently prevents the crew from being swayed. Also, since the main portion has its forward end located at a more rearward position than the forward end of the sub portion, it is possible to provide sufficient space in front of the main portion. The arrangement allows the crew to easily pass through the space when they get on/off the vehicle. As a result, the arrangement also improves the ease of getting on/off the vehicle of the crew while providing the crew with riding comfort.

Further preferably, the frame portion includes a main frame portion supported by the pair of front wheels and the pair of rear wheels; and a seat frame portion supported by the main frame portion and supporting the seat unit. With this arrangement, the shoulder bolster portion is fixed to the seat frame portion. In this case, the arrangement provides a simple configuration of the shoulder bolster portion near the seat unit.

Further, preferably, the shoulder bolster portion includes an elongated member which is elongated in an up-down direction; the back support portion includes a seat back portion; the seat frame portion includes a back frame portion extending in an up-down direction and supporting the seat back portion; and the shoulder bolster portion is fixed to the back frame portion. In this case, the arrangement provides a simple configuration of the elongated member along the seat back portion.

Preferably, the shoulder bolster portion is fixed to the back frame portion at least at two positions spaced from each other in an up-down direction. In this case, the arrangement provides a simple configuration supporting the shoulder bolster portion strongly.

Further preferably, the shoulder bolster portion is, in its entirety, located farther inward than an outermost portion of the roll-over protection cage in the width direction of the vehicle. In this case, the arrangement makes it possible to provide the shoulder bolster portion on the vehicle without increasing the overall width of the vehicle.

Further, preferably, the shoulder bolster portion includes a first shoulder bolster member on an outer side of the first seat portion in the width direction of the vehicle; the seat frame portion includes a first seat frame supporting the first seat portion; the first seat frame is supported by the main frame portion adjustably in a fore-aft direction; and the first shoulder bolster member is fixed to the first seat frame. In this case, the first shoulder bolster member moves in the fore-aft direction with the first seat portion when a position of the first seat portion is adjusted in the fore-aft direction. Thus, sway of the driver is reduced by the first shoulder bolster member regardless of the position of the first seat portion.

Preferably, the shoulder bolster portion includes a second shoulder bolster member on an outer side of the second seat portion in the width direction of the vehicle; the seat frame portion includes a second seat frame supporting the second seat portion; and the second shoulder bolster member is fixed to the second seat frame. In this case, the arrangement provides a simple configuration of the second shoulder bolster member near the second seat portion.

Further preferably, the back support portion includes a seat back portion and a headrest portion, and the back support portion has its upper end provided by an upper end of the headrest portion. In this case, the arrangement makes it possible to position the upper end of the shoulder bolster portion at a sufficient height. Thus, the shoulders of the crew are more likely to make contact with the shoulder bolster portion even if the crew's sitting heights are high.

Further, preferably, the shoulder bolster portion includes a first shoulder bolster member on an outer side of the first seat portion in the width direction of the vehicle; and a second shoulder bolster member on an outer side of the second seat portion in the width direction of the vehicle. In this case, it is possible, with the first shoulder bolster member, to reduce sway of the driver sitting on the first seat portion, and to reduce, with the second shoulder bolster member, sway of the passenger sitting on the second seat portion. This provides a more comfortable ride of the crew (the driver and the passenger).

According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle includes a pair of front wheels; at least a pair of rear wheels; a frame portion supported by the pair of front wheels and the pair of rear wheels; a seat unit including a first seat portion and a second seat portion arranged side by side in a width direction of the vehicle and supported by the frame portion; a steering wheel in front of the first seat portion; a roll-over protection cage supported by the frame portion and covering an area above the seat unit and the steering wheel; a seat belt unit for the first seat portion; and a shoulder bolster portion on an outer side of the seat unit in the width direction of the vehicle. With this arrangement, the first seat portion includes a seat bottom portion and a seat back portion; the seat belt unit includes a belt member and a shoulder anchor that slidably supports the belt member at a support position higher than the seat back portion. Further, at least a portion of the shoulder bolster portion is, in a side view, at a more rearward position than a forward end of the seat bottom portion; at a more forward position than the seat back portion; at a higher position than a center of the steering wheel in an up-down direction; and at a lower position than an upper end of the steering wheel. In addition, the shoulder bolster portion has its upper end at a higher position than a midway point between a center of an upper surface of the seat bottom portion and the support position in an up-down direction.

In the present preferred embodiment of the present invention, at least a portion of the shoulder bolster portion is at a more rearward position than the forward end of the seat bottom portion; at a more forward position than the back support portion; at a higher position than the center of the steering wheel in an up-down direction; and at a lower position than the upper end of the steering wheel. Further, the shoulder bolster portion has its upper end at a higher position than the midway point between the center of the upper surface of the seat bottom portion and the belt supporting position by the shoulder anchor in an up-down direction. The arrangement makes it possible to dispose the shoulder bolster portion at a height equal to or substantially equal to the height of the crew's shoulders. Thus, the shoulders of the crew can make contact with the shoulder bolster portion when the crew is swayed in left or right directions. In other words, even when the crew is swayed in left or right directions, the arrangement reduces chances for the crew's abdominal regions to make contact with the shoulder bolster portion. As a result, the arrangement prevents swaying of the crew while providing the crew with a comfortable ride.

According to still another preferred embodiment of the present invention, a shoulder bolster member is provided for a vehicle which includes a seat unit including a seat bottom portion that supports a driver from below and a back support portion that supports the driver from behind; and a roll-over protection cage covering an area above the seat unit. The shoulder bolster member is to be disposed on an outer side of the seat unit, and includes a mounting portion that attaches the shoulder bolster member to the vehicle such that at least a portion of the shoulder bolster member is, in a side view of the vehicle, at a more rearward position than a forward end of the seat bottom portion; at a more forward position than the back support portion; at a higher position than a center of the steering wheel in an up-down direction; and at a lower position than an upper end of the steering wheel; and an upper end of the shoulder bolster portion is at a higher position than a midway point between a center of an upper surface of the seat bottom portion and an upper end of the back support portion in an up-down direction.

According to a shoulder bolster member according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, at least a portion of the shoulder bolster member is located at a more rearward position than the forward end of the seat bottom portion; at a more forward position than the back support portion; at a higher position than the center of the steering wheel in an up-down direction; and at a lower position than the upper end of the steering wheel as the shoulder bolster member is attached to the vehicle. Further, the shoulder bolster member has its upper end at a higher position than the midway point between the center of the upper surface of the seat bottom portion and the upper end of the back support portion in an up-down direction as the shoulder bolster member is attached to the vehicle. By attaching the shoulder bolster member to the vehicle in a fashion as described above, the shoulder bolster member is disposed at the same or substantially the same height as the height of the shoulders of the driver or of a passenger (hereinafter will be called crew). Thus, the shoulders of the crew can make contact with the shoulder bolster member when the crew is swayed in left or right directions. In other words, even when the crew is swayed in left or right directions, the arrangement reduces chances for the crew's abdominal regions to make contact with the shoulder bolster member. As a result, the arrangement prevents swaying of the crew while providing the crew with a comfortable ride.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. It is noted that the terms front and rear, right and left, up and down as used in the preferred embodiments of the present invention are determined from the driver's position on a seat portion198of a vehicle10, with the driver facing toward a steering wheel20.

Referring toFIG. 1throughFIG. 5, the vehicle10according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention preferably is a four-wheel-drive recreational off-highway vehicle (ROV), for example, and includes a pair of front wheels12, a pair of rear wheels14, a frame portion16, a seat unit18, a steering wheel20, a roll-over protection cage22, a shoulder bolster portion23and a cargo bed24. The frame portion16is supported by the pair of front wheels12and the pair of rear wheels14. Referring toFIG. 6, the frame portion16includes a main frame portion16asupported by the pair of front wheels12(seeFIG. 1) and the pair of rear wheels14(seeFIG. 1); and a seat frame portion16bsupported by the main frame portion16a. The seat unit18is supported by the seat frame portion16b.

Referring toFIG. 7, the main frame portion16aincludes a pair of side frame portions25a,25bextending in a fore-aft direction. The side frame portion25aand the side frame portion25bare parallel or substantially parallel to each other. The side frame portion25aand the side frame portion25bhave their respective forward ends connected to each other by a cross member26extending in a left-right direction (a width direction of the vehicle10).

From the cross member26, a pair of side frame portions28a,28bextend forward. In the width direction of the vehicle10, the side frame portions28a,28bare on an inner side than the side frame portions25a,25b. The side frame portion28aand the side frame portion28bare parallel or substantially parallel to each other. A pair of support frame portions30a,30bextend upward from respective rearward regions of the side frame portions28a,28b.

Above the side frame portions28a,28b, a pair of side frame portions32a,32bextend forward from the support frame portions30a,30b. The side frame portion32aand the side frame portion32bare parallel or substantially parallel to each other.

The side frame portions28a,28bhave their forward end regions connected to respective forward end regions of the side frame portions32a,32bby a pair of support frame portions34a,34bextending in an up-down direction. The side frame portions28a,28bhave their rearward regions connected to respective rearward regions of the side frame portions32a,32bby a pair of support frame portions36a,36bextending in an up-down direction. The support frame portions36a,36bare at a more rearward position than the support frame portions34a,34b.

The side frame portions32a,32bhave their forward end regions connected to a pair of support frame portions38a,38b. The support frame portions38a,38bextend upward from the side frame portions32a,32b, and then obliquely in a rearward and upward direction. The support frame portions30a,30bhave their upper ends connected to respective rearward end regions of the support frame portions38a,38b. The support frame portions38a,38bhave their rear ends connected to a cross member40extending in a left-right direction.

From the cross member40, a U-shaped or substantially U-shaped frame portion42extends forward, below the support frame portions38a,38b. The U-shaped or substantially U-shaped frame portion42includes two end regions connected to respective end regions of the cross member40. The U-shaped or substantially U-shaped frame portion42includes an intermediate portion connected to the support frame portions38a,38b.

The side frame portion25aand the side frame portion25bhave their respective rearward end regions connected to each other by a cross member44extending in a left-right direction. From the cross member44, a pair of side frame portions46a,46bextend rearward. In the width direction of the vehicle10, the side frame portions46a,46bare on an inner side than the side frame portions25a,25b. The side frame portion46aand the side frame portion46bare parallel or substantially parallel to each other.

At a more forward position than the cross member44, a pair of support frame portions48a,48bextend obliquely in an upward and rearward direction from the pair of side frame portions25a,25b. At a higher position than the side frame portions46a,46b, a pair of side frame portions50a,50bextend in a fore-aft direction. The side frame portion50aand the side frame portion50bare parallel or substantially parallel to each other. In the width direction of the vehicle10, the side frame portions50a,50bare located farther outward than the side frame portions46a,46b. The cargo bed24(seeFIG. 1) is supported by the side frame portions50a,50b. The side frame portions50a,50bhave their forward end regions connected to respective upper end regions of the support frame portions48a,48b. The support frame portions48a,48bhave their upper ends connected to a cross member52extending in a left-right direction.

Referring toFIG. 6andFIG. 7, the side frame portions46a,46band the side frame portions50a,50bare connected to each other by a pair of support frame portions54a,54bwhich extend in an up-down direction and a pair of support frame portions56a,56bwhich extend in an up-down direction. The support frame portions54a,54bare at a more forward position than the support frame portions56a,56b. The side frame portion50aand the side frame portion50bare connected to each other by a cross member58extending in a left-right direction. The cross member58is at a position which is more rearward than the support frame portions54a,54band more forward than the support frame portions56a,56b.

In the width direction of the vehicle10, there is provided a pair of L-shaped or substantially L-shaped support frame portions60a,60bon respective outer sides of the side frame portions25a,25b. The support frame portion60ais connected to the side frame portion25avia a plate frame portion62a, whereas the support frame portion60bis connected to the side frame portion25bvia a plate frame portion62b.

Referring toFIG. 7, the support frame portions60a,60bhave their upper regions connected to two end regions of the U-shaped or substantially U-shaped frame portion42via connecting members64a,64b. A pair of support frame portions66a,66bextend obliquely in an upward and rearward direction from rearward regions of the support frame portions60a,60b. The support frame portions66a,66bhave their substantially intermediate regions connected to two end regions of the cross member52.

A pair of support frame portions68a,68bextend upward from substantially intermediate regions of the side frame portions25a,25b. A pair of support frame portions70a,70bextend in a left-right direction, being supported by upper ends of the support frame portions68a,68b. The support frame portion70aincludes an end region (left end region in the present preferred embodiment) connected to a forward end region of a support frame portion72awhich extends in a fore-aft direction, whereas the support frame portion70bincludes an end region (right end region in the present preferred embodiment) connected to a forward end region of a support frame portion72bwhich extends in a fore-aft direction.

The support frame portion72aincludes a forward region connected to the support frame portion60aby a support frame portion74awhich extends in an up-down direction, whereas the support frame portion72bincludes a forward region connected to the support frame portion60bby a support frame portion74bwhich extends in an up-down direction. The support frame portion72aincludes a rearward region connected to the support frame portion66avia a connecting member76a, whereas the support frame portion72bincludes a rearward region connected to the support frame portion66bvia a connecting member76b.

Behind the support frame portion70a, a support frame portion78ais parallel or substantially parallel to the support frame portion70a, whereas behind the support frame portion70b, a support frame portion78bis parallel or substantially parallel to the support frame portion70b. The support frame portion78aincludes an end region (left end region in the present preferred embodiment) connected to the support frame portion72a, whereas the support frame portion78bincludes an end region (right end region in the present preferred embodiment) connected to the support frame portion72b.

A pair of support frame portions80a,80bextend forward from substantially intermediate regions of the support frame portions48a,48b. The support frame portions80a,80bhave their forward end regions connected to the support frame portions78a,78b.

Referring toFIG. 6andFIG. 7, the seat unit18is supported by the support frame portions70a,70b,78a,78bof the main frame portion16avia the seat frame portion16b. Referring toFIG. 1, the steering wheel20is in front of the seat portion198, which will be described later, of the seat unit18. The roll-over protection cage22covers an area above the seat unit18and the steering wheel20. The roll-over protection cage22is supported by the frame portion16.

Referring toFIG. 8, the roll-over protection cage22includes a pair of side cage members82,83extending in a fore-aft direction; a pair of roof members84a,84bextending in a left-right direction; and a cross member portion86extending in a left-right direction.

The side cage member82includes a main body portion82awhich has a shape of an inverted letter of U or a shape substantially of an inverted letter of U, in a side view; and a connecting portion82bat a rearward region of the main body portion82a. The connecting portion82bprotrudes inward (rightward in the present preferred embodiment) from the main body portion82ain the width direction of the vehicle10. The side cage member83includes a main body portion83awhich has a shape of an inverted letter of U or a shape substantially of an inverted letter of U, in a side view; and a connecting portion83bat a rearward region of the main body portion83a. The connecting portion83bprotrudes inward (leftward in the present preferred embodiment) from the main body portion83ain the width direction of the vehicle10.

The main body portions82a,83aare supported by the frame portion16. More specifically, the main body portion82aincludes an end region (forward end region in the present preferred embodiment), which is connected to an upper end region of the support frame portion60a; and the main body portion82aincludes another end region (rearward end region in the present preferred embodiment), which is connected to an upper end region of the support frame portion66a. The main body portion82ais fixed to the support frame portions60a,66awith, e.g., fasteners (such as bolts and nuts). Likewise, the main body portion83aincludes an end region (forward end region in the present preferred embodiment), which is connected to an upper end region of the support frame portion60b; and the main body portion83aincludes another end region (rearward end region in the present preferred embodiment), which is connected to an upper end region of the support frame portion66b. The main body portion83ais fixed to the support frame portions60b,66bwith, e.g., fasteners (such as bolts and nuts).

The roof members84a,84bconnect an upper region of the side cage member82to an upper region of the side cage member83. The roof member84bis at a more rearward position than the roof member84a. The roof member84bis at a higher position than a back support portion210to be described later (seeFIG. 18) of the seat unit18.

Referring toFIG. 3,FIG. 5andFIG. 8, the cross member portion86includes a support member88, a support member90and a support member92. The support member90is at an intermediate portion in the width direction of the vehicle10, the support member88connects the support member90and the side cage member82to each other, and the support member92connects the support member90and the side cage member83to each other.

Referring toFIG. 5, the support member88includes a main body portion88aextending in a left-right direction; a mounting portion88bfixed to an intermediate region of the main body portion88a; a connecting portion88cfixed to an end region (left end region in the present preferred embodiment) of the main body portion88a; and a connecting portion88dfixed to another end region (right end region in the present preferred embodiment) of the main body portion88a. To the mounting portion88b, a headrest portion218, which will be described later, of the seat unit18is attached. The connecting portion88cis connected detachably from/attachably to the connecting portion82bof the side cage member82. Specifically, the connecting portion88cis connected to the connecting portion82bof the side cage member82with unillustrated fasteners (such as bolts and nuts, for example. The connecting portion88dis connected to a connecting portion90d, which will be described later, of the support member90with unillustrated fasteners (such as bolts and nuts).

Referring toFIG. 5andFIG. 8, the support member90includes a main body portion90awhich has a shape of an inverted letter of U or a shape substantially of an inverted letter of U, in a front view; a mounting portion90blocated at an upper end region, i.e., an intermediate region, of the main body portion90a; and a mounting portion90cwhich extends obliquely upward from the main body portion90aon a side closer to the support member88when viewed from the mounting portion90b. Referring toFIG. 4, the upper end region of the main body portion90ais at a more rearward position than the main body portion88aand a main body portion92ato be described later. Therefore, referring toFIG. 5andFIG. 8, the mounting portion90bis at a more rearward position than the mounting portion88band a mounting portion92bto be described later.

Referring toFIG. 5, a headrest portion222, which will be described later, of the seat unit18is attached to the mounting portion90b. To the mounting portion90c, a shoulder anchor288cwhich will be described later (seeFIG. 25) is attached.

The support member90further includes a pair of connecting portions90d,90efixed to the main body portion90a. The connecting portion90dis on a side closer to the support member88than the mounting portion90cwhen viewed from the mounting portion90b, whereas the connecting portion90eis on a side closer to the support member92when viewed from the mounting portion90b. As has been described earlier, the connecting portion90dis connected to the connecting portion88dof the support member88. The connecting portion90eis connected to a connecting portion92d, which will be described later, of the support member92with unillustrated fasteners (such as bolts and nuts), for example.

Referring toFIG. 6andFIG. 8, the support member90further includes a pair of connecting portions90f,90gfixed to two end regions of the main body portion90a. The main body portion90aincludes two end regions connected detachably from/attachably to the side frame portions50a,50bvia the connecting portions90f,90g. Specifically, the connecting portions90f,90gof the support member90are connected to the side frame portions50a,50bwith unillustrated fasteners (such as bolts and nuts), for example.

Referring toFIG. 5, the support member92includes a main body portion92aextending in a left-right direction; a mounting portion92bfixed to an intermediate region of the main body portion92a; a connecting portion92cfixed to an end region (right end region in the present preferred embodiment) of the main body portion92a; and a connecting portion92dfixed to another end region (left end region in the present preferred embodiment) of the main body portion92a. To the mounting portion92b, a headrest portion226, which will be described later, of the seat unit18is attached. The connecting portion92cis connected detachably from/attachably to the connecting portion83bof the side cage member83. Specifically, the connecting portion92cis connected to the connecting portion83bof the side cage member83with unillustrated fasteners (such as bolts and nuts), for example. As has been described earlier, the connecting portion92dis connected to the connecting portion90eof the support member90.

Due to the arrangement described above, the cross member portion86is attached detachably from/attachably to the side frame portions50a,50bof the frame portion16and the side cage members82,83of the roll-over protection cage22.

Referring toFIG. 9throughFIG. 12, the vehicle10further includes a pair of suspension assemblies94a,94bwhich suspend the pair of front wheels12(seeFIG. 1); a rotation transmission portion96which transmits rotation from an engine178(seeFIG. 13), which will be described later, to the pair of front wheels12; a pair of suspension assemblies98a,98bwhich suspend the pair of rear wheels14(seeFIG. 1); a rotation transmission portion100which transmits rotation from the engine178to the pair of rear wheels14; and a rear stabilizer102which connects the suspension assemblies98a,98bto each other. The frame portion16(seeFIG. 1) is supported by the pair of front wheels12and the pair of rear wheels14via the suspension assemblies94a,94b,98a,98b. In the present preferred embodiment, the suspension assemblies94a,94b,98a,98bpreferably are double wishbone type suspension assemblies, for example.

Referring toFIG. 10andFIG. 11, the suspension assembly94aincludes an upper arm104, a lower arm106, a knuckle arm108and a shock absorber110. The upper arm104and the lower arm106are provided by A arms, for example.

Referring toFIG. 11, the upper arm104includes a rear arm portion112which includes a first end portion112a; a front arm portion114which includes a second end portion114aand is at a more forward position than the rear arm portion112; and a connecting portion115which connects the rear arm portion112and the front arm portion114to each other.

The first end portion112ais an end region (right end region in the present preferred embodiment) of the rear arm portion112, whereas the second end portion114ais an end region (right end region in the present preferred embodiment) of the front arm portion114. The connecting portion115connects another end region (left end region in the present preferred embodiment) of the rear arm portion112and another end region (left end region in the present preferred embodiment) of the front arm portion114to each other.

The lower arm106includes a rear arm portion116which includes a first end portion116a; a front arm portion118which includes a second end portion118aand is at a more forward position than the rear arm portion116; and a connecting portion120which connects the rear arm portion116and the front arm portion118to each other.

The first end portion116ais an end region (right end region in the present preferred embodiment) of the rear arm portion116, whereas the second end portion118ais an end region (right end region in the present preferred embodiment) of the front arm portion118. The connecting portion120connects another end region (left end region in the present preferred embodiment) of the rear arm portion116and another end region (left end region in the present preferred embodiment) of the front arm portion118to each other.

Referring toFIG. 9, the upper arm104is supported by the support frame portions34a,36apivotably in an up-down direction. More specifically, referring toFIG. 11, the first end portion112aof the rear arm portion112is pivotably supported at an upper end region of the support frame portion36a(seeFIG. 9), whereas the second end portion114aof the front arm portion114is pivotably supported at an upper end region of the support frame portion34a(seeFIG. 9).

Referring toFIG. 9, the lower arm106is supported by the support frame portions34a,36apivotably in an up-down direction at a lower position than the upper arm104. More specifically, referring toFIG. 11, the first end portion116aof the rear arm portion116is pivotably supported at a lower end region of the support frame portion36a(seeFIG. 9), whereas the second end portion118aof the front arm portion118is pivotably supported at a lower end region of the support frame portion34a(seeFIG. 9).

The connecting portion115of the upper arm104is connected to an upper end region of the knuckle arm108via a ball joint122, whereas the connecting portion120of the lower arm106is connected to a lower end region of the knuckle arm108via a ball joint124. Thus, the upper arm104and the lower arm106are pivotable in an up-down direction with respect to the knuckle arm108. Also, the knuckle arm108is pivotable in a fore-aft direction with respect to the upper arm104and the lower arm106.

The shock absorber110has a lower end region supported pivotably in a left-right direction by the upper arm104(the connecting portion115). Referring toFIG. 9, the shock absorber110has an upper end region supported pivotably in a left-right direction by the U-shaped or substantially U-shaped frame portion42via a support member126. Referring toFIG. 6, the support member126has a shape of an inverted letter of U or substantially of an inverted letter of U in a side view, and is fixed to the U-shaped frame or substantially U-shaped portion42.

Referring toFIG. 10andFIG. 11, the suspension assembly94bpreferably is symmetrical to the suspension assembly94ain a left-right direction, and includes an upper arm128, a lower arm130, a knuckle arm132, and a shock absorber134. The knuckle arm132is connected to the upper arm128and the lower arm130via ball joints136,138.

The shock absorber134has a lower end region supported by the upper arm128pivotably in a left-right direction. Referring toFIG. 9, the shock absorber134has an upper end region supported pivotably in a left-right direction by the U-shaped or substantially U-shaped frame portion42via a support member140. Like the support member126, the support member140has a shape of an inverted letter of U or substantially an inverted letter of U in a side view, and is fixed to the U-shaped or substantially U-shaped frame portion42.

Referring toFIG. 10andFIG. 11, the rotation transmission portion96includes a differential device142, a pair of drive shafts144a,144b, a pair of constant-velocity joints146a,146b, and a pair of axles148a,148b. The differential device142is between the suspension assembly94aand the suspension assembly94bin the width direction of the vehicle10. The differential device142is supported by the main frame portion16a. The differential device142is connected to the engine178(seeFIG. 13) which will be described later, via a propeller shaft180(seeFIG. 13) which will be described later.

Referring toFIG. 11, the differential device142includes a pair of constant-velocity joints142a,142band a main body portion142c. The constant-velocity joint142ais on a left end region of the main body portion142c, whereas the constant-velocity joint142bis on a right end region of the main body portion142c. The drive shafts144a,144bextend in a left-right direction, to connect the constant-velocity joints142a,142bwith the constant-velocity joints146a,146b. More specifically, the drive shaft144aextends obliquely in a leftward and downward direction from the constant-velocity joint142aand is connected to the constant-velocity joint146a, whereas the drive shaft144bextends obliquely in a rightward and downward direction from the constant-velocity joint142band is connected to the constant-velocity joint146b. The drive shaft144apasses below the upper arm104and above the lower arm106, whereas the drive shaft144bpasses below the upper arm128and above the lower arm130. In the present preferred embodiment, in a front view, the drive shaft144apasses between the upper arm104and the lower arm106, whereas the drive shaft144bpasses between the upper arm128and the lower arm130.

The constant-velocity joint146aand the axle148aare connected to each other and are supported rotatably by the knuckle arm108. The constant-velocity joint146band the axle148bare connected to each other and are supported rotatably by the knuckle arm132. The axle148asupports the left front wheel12(seeFIG. 1), whereas the axle148bsupports the right front wheel12(seeFIG. 1).

The suspension assemblies98a,98band the rotation transmission portion100can be any known components, so the suspension assemblies98a,98band the rotation transmission portion100will be described only briefly.

Referring toFIG. 10andFIG. 12, the suspension assembly98aincludes an arm portion150and a shock absorber152. In the present preferred embodiment, the arm portion150includes an upper arm154, a lower arm156and a knuckle arm158. Referring toFIG. 9, the upper arm154is supported by the support frame portions54a,56apivotably in an up-down direction. The lower arm156is supported by the support frame portions54a,56apivotably in an up-down direction at a lower position than the upper arm154. More specifically, the upper arm154is supported at substantially intermediate regions in an up-down direction of the support frame portions54a,56a, whereas the lower arm156is supported by lower end regions of the support frame portions54a,56a. The shock absorber152connects the main frame portion16aand the arm portion150(lower arm156in the present preferred embodiment) to each other. More specifically, the shock absorber152has an upper end region supported pivotably by an end region (left end region in the present preferred embodiment) of the cross member58, whereas the shock absorber152has a lower end region supported pivotably by the lower arm156.

Referring toFIG. 10andFIG. 12, the suspension assembly98bpreferably is symmetrical with the suspension assembly98ain a left-right direction, and includes an arm portion160and a shock absorber162. In the present preferred embodiment, the arm portion160includes an upper arm164, a lower arm166and a knuckle arm168. Referring toFIG. 9, the upper arm164is supported by the support frame portions54b,56bpivotably in an up-down direction. The lower arm166is supported by the support frame portions54b,56bpivotably in an up-down direction at a lower position than the upper arm164. More specifically, the upper arm164is supported at substantially intermediate regions in an up-down direction of the support frame portions54b,56b, whereas the lower arm166is supported by lower end regions of the support frame portions54b,56b. The shock absorber162connects the main frame portion16aand the arm portion160(lower arm166in the present preferred embodiment) to each other. More specifically, the shock absorber162has an upper end region supported pivotably by another end region (right end region in the present preferred embodiment) of the cross member58, whereas the shock absorber162has a lower end region supported pivotably by the lower arm166.

Referring toFIG. 10, the rear stabilizer102is at a more forward position than the shock absorbers152,162, and connects the arm portion150of the suspension assembly98aand the arm portion160of the suspension assembly98bto each other. In the present preferred embodiment, the rear stabilizer102connects the upper arm154and the upper arm164to each other.

Referring toFIG. 10andFIG. 12, the rotation transmission portion100includes a differential device170, a pair of drive shafts172a,172b, a pair of constant-velocity joints174a,174b, and a pair of axles176a,176b. The differential device170is between the suspension assembly98aand the suspension assembly98bin the width direction of the vehicle10. The differential device170is supported by the main frame portion16a. The differential device170is connected to the engine178(seeFIG. 13) which will be described later, via a propeller shaft182(seeFIG. 13) which will be described later.

The drive shafts172a,172bconnects the differential device170with the constant-velocity joints174a,174b. The constant-velocity joint174aand the axle176aare connected to each other and are supported rotatably by the knuckle arm158. The constant-velocity joint174band the axle176bare connected to each other and are supported rotatably by the knuckle arm168. The axle176asupports the left rear wheel14(seeFIG. 5), whereas the axle176bsupports the right rear wheel14(seeFIG. 5).

Referring toFIG. 13, the engine178is supported at a rearward region of the main frame portion16a. Referring toFIG. 7andFIG. 13, a majority of the engine178is within a space surrounded by the side frame portions25a,25b, the side frame portions46a,46b, the support frame portions48a,48b, the side frame portions50a,50b, and the support frame portions54a,54b. In the present preferred embodiment, at least a portion of the engine178is at a more rearward position than the roll-over protection cage22.

Referring toFIG. 13, the propeller shaft180extends forward from a lower end region of the engine178, whereas the propeller shaft182extends rearward from a lower end region of the engine178. In order to avoid complication in the drawing, the propeller shaft180and the propeller shaft182are illustrated only partially inFIG. 13.

The propeller shaft180is connected to the differential device142(seeFIG. 10), whereas the propeller shaft182is connected to the differential device170(seeFIG. 10). Referring toFIG. 11andFIG. 13, rotation from the engine178is transmitted by the propeller shaft180, the differential device142, the drive shafts144a,144b, the constant-velocity joints146a,146b, and the axles148a,148b, to the pair of front wheels12. Thus, the pair of front wheels12are rotated. Also, referring toFIG. 12andFIG. 13, rotation from the engine178is transmitted by the propeller shaft182, the differential device170, the drive shafts172a,172b, the constant-velocity joints174a,174b, and the axles176a,176b, to the pair of rear wheels14. Thus, the pair of rear wheels14are rotated.

Referring toFIG. 14throughFIG. 17, the vehicle10further includes a transfer mechanism184which transmits movements of the steering wheel20to the pair of front wheels12. The transfer mechanism184can be any known rack and pinion type transfer mechanism, for example. Therefore, the transfer mechanism184will be described only briefly. The transfer mechanism184includes a steering column portion186, a steering shaft portion188, a rack-and-pinion portion190and a pair of tie rods192a,192b.

The steering column portion186is hollow, rotatably supporting the steering wheel20. The steering column portion186is supported by a cross member40of the frame portion16via brackets194,196.

The steering shaft portion188includes a first shaft188aand a second shaft188b. The first shaft188ais inserted into the steering column portion186rotatably. The first shaft188ahas an upper end region (not illustrated) connected to the steering wheel20. The first shaft188ahas a lower end region connected to an upper end region of the second shaft188b.

The second shaft188bhas a lower end region connected to the rack-and-pinion portion190. Since the rack-and-pinion portion190can be any known rack-and-pinion portion, the rack-and-pinion portion190will not be described in any more detail. The tie rods192a,192bpass behind the shock absorbers110,134and above the upper arms104,128, to connect the rack-and-pinion portion190with the knuckle arms108,132.

Movement of the steering wheel20is transmitted through the steering shaft portion188, the rack-and-pinion portion190and the pair of tie rods192a,192b, to the knuckle arms108,132. Then the knuckle arms108,132pivots in a left-right direction, to steer the pair of front wheels12.

Referring toFIG. 18throughFIG. 21, the seat unit18includes a plurality (for example, three in the present preferred embodiment) of seat portions198,200,202arranged side by side in this order in the width direction of the vehicle10. In the width direction of the vehicle10, the seat portion200is in the middle of the seat unit18. In other words, the seat portion200is adjacent to the seat portion198and is adjacent to the seat portion202in the width direction of the vehicle10. When viewed from the seat portion200, the seat portion202is on the side spaced away from the seat portion198. Referring toFIG. 18andFIG. 19, the steering wheel20is in front of the seat portion198. Specifically, in the present preferred embodiment, the seat portion198is a seat portion for the driver, whereas the seat portions200,202are seat portions for passengers.

Referring toFIG. 20andFIG. 21, the seat portion198includes a seat bottom portion204which supports a human body from below, and a back support portion206which supports the human body from behind. Likewise, the seat portion200includes a seat bottom portion208and a back support portion210, whereas the seat portion202includes a seat bottom portion212and a back support portion214.

The back support portion206includes a seat back portion216which supports the back of the human body, and a headrest portion218which supports the head of the human body. Likewise, the back support portion210includes a seat back portion220and a headrest portion222, whereas the back support portion214includes a seat back portion224and a headrest portion226.

In the present preferred embodiment, the seat portion198represents the first seat portion, the seat portion202represents the second seat portion, the seat frame228represents the first seat frame, and the seat frame232represents the second seat frame.

The seat bottom portion204includes a seat surface204awhich supports the buttocks of the human body, the seat bottom portion208includes a seat surface208awhich supports the buttocks of the human body, and the seat bottom portion212includes a seat surface212awhich supports the buttocks of the human body. Referring toFIG. 20, the seat back portion216includes a backrest surface216awhich supports the back of the human body, the seat back portion220includes a backrest surface220awhich supports the back of the human body, and the seat back portion224includes a backrest surface224awhich supports the back of the human body. In the present preferred embodiment, each of the seat surfaces204a,208a,212aincludes a downward receding recess in its middle region in a left-right direction. Each of the backrest surfaces216a,220a,224ahas a backward receding recess in its middle region in a left-right direction. The seat unit18is supported by the seat frame portion16b, with each of the backrest surfaces216a,220a,224atilted backward.

Referring toFIG. 20andFIG. 21, the seat frame portion16bincludes a seat frame228which supports the seat portion198, a seat frame230which supports the seat portion200, and a seat frame232which supports the seat portion202. In the present preferred embodiment, the seat frame228supports the seat bottom portion204and the seat back portion216of the seat portion198, the seat frame230supports the seat bottom portion208and the seat back portion220of the seat portion200, and the seat frame232supports the seat bottom portion212and the seat back portion224of the seat portion202.

Referring toFIG. 5, as has been described earlier, the headrest portion218of the seat portion198is attached to the mounting portion88bof the cross member portion86, the headrest portion222of the seat portion200is attached to the mounting portion90bof the cross member portion86, and the headrest portion226of the seat portion202is attached to the mounting portion92bof the cross member portion86. Referring toFIG. 8, as has been described earlier, the mounting portion90bis located at a more rearward position than the mounting portions88b,92b. Therefore, referring toFIG. 20, the headrest portion222is located at a more rearward position than the headrest portions218,226.

Referring toFIG. 20andFIG. 21, the seat frame228includes a pair of bottom frame portions234extending in a fore-aft direction and a back frame portion236extending in an up-down direction. In the present preferred embodiment, the pair of bottom frame portions234and the back frame portion236are integral with each other. The back frame portion236is shaped in an inverted letter of U or substantially in an inverted letter of U in a rear view, extending obliquely from rear ends of the pair of bottom frame portions234in an upwardly rearward direction. A connecting member282, which will be described later, of a shoulder bolster portion23is fixed to the back frame portion236.

The seat frame228further includes a cross member238which connects forward end regions of the pair of bottom frame portions234to each other, and a cross member240which connects rearward end regions of the pair of bottom frame portions234to each other. Referring toFIG. 20andFIG. 22, the seat bottom portion204has its forward end region attached to the cross member238via a mounting member242. Referring toFIG. 20throughFIG. 22, the seat bottom portion204has its rearward end region supported by the cross member240. Thus, the seat bottom portion204is supported by the pair of bottom frame portions234via the cross members238,240.

Referring toFIG. 20andFIG. 21, the seat frame228further includes a plurality (for example, three in the present preferred embodiment, although only two are shown inFIG. 20) of brackets244fixed to the back frame portion236. The seat back portion216is attached to the plurality of brackets244. Thus, the seat back portion216is supported by the back frame portion236.

Referring toFIG. 20throughFIG. 22, the seat frame228further includes a pair of brackets246and a pair of brackets248. Each of the brackets246is fixed to a forward region of the bottom frame portion234, whereas each of the brackets248is fixed to a rearward region of the bottom frame portion234. Referring toFIG. 20, each bracket246includes a plurality (for example, three in the present preferred embodiment) of through-holes246apenetrating in an up-down direction, whereas each bracket248includes a plurality (for example, three in the present preferred embodiment) of through-holes248apenetrating in an up-down direction.

Referring toFIG. 8,FIG. 18andFIG. 20, the pair of brackets246are fixed to a support frame portion70aof the frame portion16, whereas the pair of brackets248are fixed to a support frame portion78aof the frame portion16. Thus, the seat frame228is fixed to the support frame portions70a,78a. Specifically, the seat portion198(the seat bottom portion204and the seat back portion216as components of the seat portion198in the present preferred embodiment) is supported by the frame portion16.

The support frame portion70aincludes a pair of through-holes (not illustrated) at positions corresponding to the pair of brackets246, whereas the support frame portion78aincludes a pair of through-holes (not illustrated) at positions corresponding to the pair of brackets248. In the present preferred embodiment, the brackets246and the support frame portion70aare connected to each other by, e.g., inserting a fastener (such as a bolt) through one of the through-holes246ain each bracket246and a corresponding one in the support frame portion70a. Likewise, the brackets248and the support frame portion78aare connected to each other by, e.g., inserting a fastener (such as a bolt) through one of the through-holes248ain each bracket248and a corresponding one in the support frame portion78a.

In the present preferred embodiment, one through-hole246ais appropriately selected from the three through-holes246ain each bracket246for connection between the support frame portion70aand the brackets246. Likewise, one through-hole248ais appropriately selected from the three through-holes248ain each bracket248for connection between the support frame portion78aand the brackets248. Thus, the seat portion198(the seat bottom portion204and the seat back portion216as components of the seat portion198in the present preferred embodiment) is adjustable in its position in a fore-aft direction. In the present preferred embodiment, the headrest portion218of the seat portion198does not move in a fore-aft direction.

For example, the through-hole246aat the most forward position in each of the brackets246and the through-hole248aat the most forward position in each of the brackets248are used to connect the brackets246,248to the support frame portions70a,78a. In this case, the seat portion198(the seat bottom portion204and the seat back portion216) is disposed at the most rearward position. Also, for example, the through-hole246aat the most rearward position in each of the brackets246and the through-hole248aat the most rearward position in each of the brackets248are used to connect the brackets246,248to the support frame portions70a,78a. In this case, the seat portion198(the seat bottom portion204and the seat back portion216) is disposed at the most forward position. InFIG. 6, solid lines show the seat bottom portion204and the seat back portion216disposed at their most rearward positions, whereas alternate long and short dash lines show the seat bottom portion204and the seat back portion216at their most forward positions. It should be noted here that the vehicle10may be arranged such that the seat portion198(seat frame228) is slidable in a fore-aft direction with respect to the main frame portion16a.

Referring toFIG. 20andFIG. 21, the seat frame230includes a pair of bottom frame portions250extending in a fore-aft direction and a back frame portion252extending in an up-down direction. The pair of bottom frame portions250preferably have the same shape as the pair of bottom frame portions234. The back frame portion252preferably has the same shape as the back frame portion236except that it is slanted more rearward than the back frame portion236.

The seat frame230further includes a cross member254which is of the same design as the cross member238, a cross member256which is of the same design as the cross member240, and a plurality (for example, three in the present preferred embodiment, although only two are shown inFIG. 20) of brackets258which are of the same design as the plurality of brackets244.

Referring toFIG. 20, the seat bottom portion208has its forward end region attached to the cross member254via a mounting member260. The seat bottom portion208has its rearward end region supported by the cross member256. Thus, the seat bottom portion208is supported by the pair of bottom frame portions250via the cross members254,256. Referring toFIG. 20andFIG. 21, the seat back portion220is attached to the plurality of brackets258. Thus, the seat back portion220is supported by the back frame portion252.

Referring toFIG. 20andFIG. 21, the seat frame230further includes a pair of brackets262and a pair of brackets264. Each of the brackets262is fixed to a forward region of the bottom frame portion250, whereas each of the brackets264is fixed to a rearward region of the bottom frame portion250. Referring toFIG. 20, each of the brackets262includes a through-hole262apenetrating in an up-down direction, whereas each of the brackets264includes a through-hole264apenetrating in an up-down direction.

Referring toFIG. 18andFIG. 20, the bracket262on the left side is fixed to a right end region of the support frame portion70awith unillustrated fasteners (such as bolt and nut) for example, whereas the bracket262on the right side is fixed to a left end region of the support frame portion70bwith unillustrated fasteners, for example. Referring toFIG. 8andFIG. 20, the bracket264on the left side is fixed to a right end region of the support frame portion78awith unillustrated fasteners, for example, whereas the bracket264on the right side is fixed to a left end region of the support frame portion78bwith unillustrated fasteners, for example. Thus, the seat frame230is fixed to the support frame portions70a,70b,78a,78b. Specifically, the seat portion200(the seat bottom portion208and the seat back portion220as components of the seat portion200in the present preferred embodiment) is supported by the frame portion16.

As has been described earlier, the back frame portion252of the seat frame230tilts more rearward than the back frame portion236of the seat frame228. For this reason, the seat back portion220which is supported by the back frame portion252has a greater rearward tilting angle than the seat back portion216which is supported by the back frame portion236. More specifically, the backrest surface220aof the seat back portion220tilts more rearward than the backrest surface216aof the seat back portion216.

Referring toFIG. 20andFIG. 21, the seat frame232preferably has the same arrangement as the seat frame228, and includes a pair of bottom frame portions266, a back frame portion268, cross members270,272, a plurality of brackets274, a pair of brackets276and a pair of brackets278. The seat frame232supports the seat bottom portion212and the seat back portion224. Also, Referring toFIG. 8,FIG. 18andFIG. 20, the brackets276,278of the seat frame232are fixed to the support frame portions70b,78b. Thus, the seat portion202(the seat bottom portion212and the seat back portion224as components of the seat portion202in the present preferred embodiment) is supported by the frame portion16. Referring toFIG. 20, to the back frame portion268, a connecting member285, which will be described later, of the shoulder bolster portion23is fixed.

In the present preferred embodiment, the seat frame232is supported by the main frame portion16ain a non-adjustable manner in a fore-aft direction.

Referring toFIG. 20, in the present preferred embodiment, the seat frame portion16bis preferably constructed such that the back frame portions236,252,268are not adjustable in their rearward tilting angle. Therefore, the rearward tilting angle of the backrest surface216aand the rearward tilting angle of the backrest surface220acannot be set to the same angle as each other in the vehicle10. It should be noted here that the seat frame portion16bmay be so made that the back frame portions236,252,268are adjustable in their rearward tilting angle, for example. Even in this case, it is preferable that the seat frame portion16bis designed so as not to allow the rearward tilting angle of the backrest surface216aand the rearward tilting angle of the backrest surface220ato be set to the same angle as each other.

Referring toFIG. 18throughFIG. 21, the shoulder bolster portion23includes a first portion23aand a second portion23b. In the width direction of the vehicle10, at least a portion of the shoulder bolster portion23is located outward of the seat unit18. Referring toFIG. 18, in the present preferred embodiment, in the width direction of the vehicle10, the entire shoulder bolster portion23is located farther inward than any outermost portion of the roll-over protection cage22. In other words, in a front view, the entire shoulder bolster portion23is located farther inward than outer edges of the roll-over protection cage22.

Referring toFIG. 20throughFIG. 22, the first portion23aincludes a first shoulder bolster member280and a connecting member282. Referring toFIG. 20andFIG. 21, the second portion23bincludes a second shoulder bolster member284and a connecting member285. Each of the first shoulder bolster member280and the second shoulder bolster member284includes a platy member, for example. Further, in the present preferred embodiment, each of the first shoulder bolster member280and the second shoulder bolster member284is provided by an elongated member which is elongated in an up-down direction. Each of the connecting member282and the connecting member285is provided by a pipe member, for example. In the width direction of the vehicle10, the first shoulder bolster member280and the second shoulder bolster member284are on the outer sides of the seat unit18. In the present preferred embodiment, in the width direction of the vehicle10, the first shoulder bolster member280is on an outer side of the seat portion198, whereas the second shoulder bolster member284is on an outer side of the seat portion202.

Referring toFIG. 22andFIG. 23, the first shoulder bolster member280includes a main portion280aand a sub-portion280bwhich is at a lower position than the main portion280a.FIG. 22andFIG. 23show a border between the main portion280aand the sub-portion280bin an alternate long and short dash line. Referring toFIG. 22, the main portion280ahas its forward end f1at a more rearward position than a forward end f2of the sub-portion280b.

Referring toFIG. 23, the first shoulder bolster member280further has a rearward opening hollow portion280c. The hollow portion280cis arranged across the main portion280aand the sub-portion280b.

Referring toFIG. 21andFIG. 22, the connecting member282includes a first portion282a, a second portion282b, a third portion282c(seeFIG. 22), a fourth portion282d, a fifth portion282eand a sixth portion282f. The first portion282aextends from the back frame portion236, outward (leftward in the present preferred embodiment) in the width direction of the vehicle10. The second portion282bextends from an end (left end in the present preferred embodiment) of the first portion282a, forward and upward. The third portion282cextends from a forward end of the second portion282bforward and downward. The fourth portion282dextends from a lower end of the third portion282crearward and downward. The fifth portion282eextends from a rear end of the fourth portion282d, inward (rightward in the present preferred embodiment) in the width direction of the vehicle10, and is connected to the back frame portion236. The sixth portion282fextends from a rear region of the second portion282bforward and downward, and is connected to a rear region of the fourth portion282d.

Referring toFIG. 21andFIG. 22, the connecting member282is inserted into the hollow portion280c(seeFIG. 21) of the first shoulder bolster member280. In the present preferred embodiment, the second portion282b, the third portion282c(seeFIG. 22), the fourth portion282dand the sixth portion282fare inserted into the hollow portion280c. Thus, the first shoulder bolster member280is attached to the connecting member282. In the present preferred embodiment, the hollow portion280cdefines a mounting portion of the first shoulder bolster member280.

The first portion282aand the fifth portion282eare fixed to the back frame portion236by welding, for example. Thus, the first shoulder bolster member280is supported by the seat frame228(more specifically, the back frame portion236) at two locations spaced from each other in an up-down direction.

The second portion23bis left-right symmetrical with the first portion23a. Therefore, the second portion23bwill be described only briefly.

Referring toFIG. 24, the second shoulder bolster member284includes a main portion284aand a sub-portion284b. The main portion284aand the sub-portion284bare preferably arranged in the same relationship as in the main portion280aand the sub-portion280b. Referring toFIG. 21, the second shoulder bolster member284further includes a hollow portion284cwhich is like the hollow portion280c.

The connecting member285is inserted into the hollow portion284c. Thus, the second shoulder bolster member284is attached to the connecting member282. In the present preferred embodiment, the hollow portion284cserves as a mounting portion of the second shoulder bolster member284. The connecting member285is fixed to the back frame portion268by welding, for example. In the present preferred embodiment, the connecting member285is fixed to the back frame portion268at two locations spaced from each other in an up-down direction. Thus, the second shoulder bolster member284is supported by the seat frame232(more specifically, the back frame portion268) at two locations spaced from each other in an up-down direction.

In the arrangement described above, the shoulder bolster portion23is fixed to the seat frame portion16b.

Referring toFIG. 22andFIG. 24, in a side view, at least a portion of the shoulder bolster portion23is at a more rearward position than a forward end (see broken line L1) of the seat bottom portion204; at a more forward position than the back support portion206; at a higher position than a center (see broken line L2) of the steering wheel20in an up-down direction; and at a lower position than an upper end (see broken line L3) of the steering wheel20. The shoulder bolster portion23has its upper end (see broken line L4) located at a higher position than a midway position (see broken line L7) between a center C (see broken line L5) of an upper surface (the seat surface204a(seeFIG. 20) in the present preferred embodiment) of the seat bottom portion204and an upper end (see broken line L6) of the back support portion206in an up-down direction.

It should be noted here that in the present preferred embodiment, the height of the upper end of the first shoulder bolster member280and the height of the upper end of the second shoulder bolster member284preferably are equal or substantially equal to each other. Also, in the present preferred embodiment, the upper end of the first shoulder bolster member280(the second shoulder bolster member284) is the upper end of the shoulder bolster portion23.

In a side view, at least a portion of the main portion280aand at least a portion of the main portion284aare located at a more rearward position than the forward end (see broken line L1) of the seat bottom portion204; at a more forward position than the back support portion206; at a higher position than the center (see broken line L2) of the steering wheel20in an up-down direction; and at a lower position than the upper end (see broken line L3) of the steering wheel20. In a side view, at least a portion of the sub portion280band at least a portion of the sub portion284bare at a more rearward position than the forward end (see broken line L1) of the seat bottom portion204; at a more forward position than the back support portion206; at a higher position than the seat bottom portion204; and at a lower position than a lower end (see broken line L8) of the steering wheel20.

In a side view, the first shoulder bolster member280and the second shoulder bolster member284overlap the seat bottom portion204. Further, in a side view, the first shoulder bolster member280and the second shoulder bolster member284overlap the back support portion206. In the present preferred embodiment, in a side view, the first shoulder bolster member280and the second shoulder bolster member284overlap the seat back portion216. Referring toFIG. 20, in a plan view, the first shoulder bolster member280does not overlap the seat bottom portion204, nor does the second shoulder bolster member284overlap the seat bottom portion212.

Referring toFIG. 2, in a side view, the first shoulder bolster member280does not overlap the roll-over protection cage22. In the present preferred embodiment, the first shoulder bolster member280and the second shoulder bolster member284are at the same position in a side view. Therefore, the second shoulder bolster member284does not overlap the roll-over protection cage22in a side view, either.

Referring toFIG. 18andFIG. 25, the vehicle10further includes a plurality (for example, three in the present preferred embodiment) of seat belt units286,288,290. The seat belt unit286is for the seat portion198, the seat belt unit288is for the seat portion200and the seat belt unit290is for the seat portion202.

Referring toFIG. 25, the seat belt unit286includes a belt member286a; a winding device286bthat winds the belt member286a; a shoulder anchor286cwhich slidably supports the belt member286awhen it is pulled out of the winding device286b; a tongue member286dwhich is attached to the belt member286a; and a buckle portion286ewhich engages with the tongue member286dand thus fixes the belt member286a. The shoulder anchor286cslidably supports the belt member286aat a support position P which is higher than the seat back portion216.

The seat belt units288,290preferably have the same configuration with the seat belt unit286. The seat belt unit288includes a belt member288a, a winding device288b, a shoulder anchor288c, a tongue member288dand a buckle portion288e. The seat belt unit290includes a belt member290a, a winding device290b, a shoulder anchor290c, a tongue member290dand a buckle portion290e.

Referring toFIG. 8andFIG. 25the winding device286bis supported by the cross member52via a bracket292, the winding device288bis supported by the cross member52via a bracket294, and the winding device290bis supported by the cross member52via a bracket296. The shoulder anchor286cis supported by the connecting portion82bvia unillustrated fasteners (such as bolts and nuts), the shoulder anchor288cis supported by the mounting portion90cvia unillustrated fasteners, and the shoulder anchor290cis supported by the connecting portion83bvia unillustrated fasteners. The buckle portion286eis supported by the support frame portion48avia a connecting member298, the buckle portion288eis supported by the support frame portion48bvia a connecting member300, and the buckle portion290eis supported by the support frame portion48bvia a connecting member302.

Referring toFIG. 25, the shoulder bolster portion23has its upper end (see broken line L4) at a higher position than a midway point (see broken line L9) between the center C of the upper surface of the seat bottom portion204and the support position P in an up-down direction.

Hereinafter, functions and advantages of the vehicle10will be described.

In the vehicle10, at least a portion of the shoulder bolster portion23is at a more rearward position than the forward end of the seat bottom portion204; at a more forward position than the back support portion206; at a higher position than the center of the steering wheel20in an up-down direction; and at a lower position than the upper end of the steering wheel20. Further, the shoulder bolster portion23has its upper end at a higher position than the midway position between the center C of the upper surface of the seat bottom portion204and the upper end of the back support portion206in an up-down direction. The arrangement described above positions the shoulder bolster portion23(more specifically, the first shoulder bolster member280and the second shoulder bolster member284) at a height which is equal to or substantially equal to the shoulders of the driver or of the passenger (hereinafter called the crew). Thus, when the crew is swayed left or right, the shoulders of the crew can make contact with the shoulder bolster portion23(more specifically, the first shoulder bolster member280or the second shoulder bolster member284). In other words, even when the crew is swayed left or right, the arrangement reduces chances for the crew's abdominal regions to make contact with the shoulder bolster portion23. As a result, the arrangement prevents swaying of the crew while providing the crew with a comfortable ride.

The shoulder bolster portion23includes the first shoulder bolster member280and the second shoulder bolster member284, and each of the first shoulder bolster member280and the second shoulder bolster member284is provided by a platy member. In this case, the arrangement provides a sufficient area of contact between the shoulders of the crew and the shoulder bolster portion23(the first shoulder bolster member280or the second shoulder bolster member284) when the shoulders of the crew make contact with the shoulder bolster portion23. This provides the crew with a more comfortable ride.

In a side view, the first shoulder bolster member280and the second shoulder bolster member284overlap the seat back portion216. In this case, the arrangement provides a larger area of contact between the shoulders of the crew and the shoulder bolster portion23(the first shoulder bolster member280or the second shoulder bolster member284). This provides the crew with a more comfortable ride.

In a side view, the first shoulder bolster member280and the second shoulder bolster member284overlap the seat bottom portion204. In this case, the arrangement provides a larger area of contact between the crew and the shoulder bolster portion23(the first shoulder bolster member280or the second shoulder bolster member284). This provides the crew with a more comfortable ride.

In a side view, neither the first shoulder bolster member280nor the second shoulder bolster member284overlaps the roll-over protection cage22. In this case, the arrangement makes it possible to dispose the first shoulder bolster member280and the second shoulder bolster member284at outermost positions as much as possible without increasing an overall width of the vehicle10. This provides the crew with a more comfortable ride.

In a plan view, the first shoulder bolster member280does not overlap the seat bottom portion204, nor does the second shoulder bolster member284overlap the seat bottom portion212. In this case, the arrangement allows for sufficient space for the crew to sit on each of the seat bottom portion204and the seat bottom portion208. This provides the crew with a more comfortable ride.

Each of the first shoulder bolster member280and the second shoulder bolster member284is provided by an elongated member which is elongated in an up-down direction. In this case, the arrangement provides a sufficient area of contact between the shoulders of the crew and the shoulder bolster portion23(the first shoulder bolster member280or the second shoulder bolster member284) when the shoulders of the crew make contact with the shoulder bolster portion23. This provides the crew with a more comfortable ride. Also, the shoulders of the crew are likely to make contact with the shoulder bolster portion23regardless of the crew's body sizes (height for example). Therefore, the arrangement provides the crew with a comfortable ride regardless of their body sizes.

In a side view, at least a portion of the main portion280aand at least a portion of the main portion284aare at a more rearward position than the forward end of the seat bottom portion204; at a more forward position than the back support portion206; at a higher position than the center of the steering wheel20in an up-down direction; and at a lower position than the upper end of the steering wheel20. Further, in a side view, at least a portion of the sub portion280band at least a portion of the sub portion284bare at a more rearward position than the forward end of the seat bottom portion204; at a more forward position than the back support portion206; at a higher position than the seat bottom portion204; and at a lower position than the lower end of the steering wheel20. According to the arrangement described above, when the crew is swayed in left or right directions, the shoulders of the crew make contact with the main portion280a(or the main portion284a), whereas the thighs of the crew make contact with the sub-portion280b(or the sub-portion284b). This sufficiently prevents the crew from being swayed. The forward ends of the main portions280a,284aare at a more rearward position than the forward ends of the sub-portions280b,284b. The arrangement makes it possible to provide sufficient space in front of the main portions280a,284a, thus allowing the crew to easily pass through the space when they get on/off the vehicle10. As a result, the arrangement also improves ease of getting on/off the vehicle of the crew while providing the crew with riding comfort.

The shoulder bolster portion23is supported by the seat frame portion16b. In this case, the arrangement provides a simple configuration of the shoulder bolster portion23near the seat unit18.

The first portion23ais fixed to the back frame portion236, whereas the second portion23bis fixed to the back frame portion268. In this case, the arrangement provides a simple configuration of the first shoulder bolster member280and the second shoulder bolster member284along the back support portions206,214.

The first portion23ais fixed to the back frame portion236at least at two positions which are spaced from each other in an up-down direction, whereas the second portion23bis fixed to the back frame portion268at least at two positions spaced from each other in an up-down direction. In this case, the arrangement provides a simple configuration that supports the shoulder bolster portion23strongly.

In the width direction of the vehicle10, the entire shoulder bolster portion23is located farther inward than the outermost portion of the roll-over protection cage22. In this case, the arrangement enables to dispose the shoulder bolster portion23in the vehicle10without increasing the overall width of the vehicle10.

The seat frame228, which supports the seat portion198, is supported by the main frame portion16aadjustably in a fore-aft direction, whereas the first shoulder bolster member280is fixed to the seat frame228via the connecting member282. In this case, the first shoulder bolster member280moves in the fore-aft direction with the seat portion198when position adjustment is made to the seat portion198(the seat bottom portion204and the seat back portion216of the seat portion198, in the present preferred embodiment) in a fore-aft direction. Thus, the arrangement reduces sway of the driver, with the first shoulder bolster member280regardless of the position of the seat portion198.

The second shoulder bolster member284is fixed to the seat frame232, which supports the seat portion202, via the connecting member285. In this case, the arrangement provides a simple configuration of the second shoulder bolster member284near the seat portion202.

The shoulder bolster portion23has its upper end at a higher position than the midway position between the center C of the upper surface of the seat bottom portion204and the upper end of the headrest portion218in an up-down direction. In this case, the arrangement makes it possible to position the upper end of the shoulder bolster portion23at a sufficient height. Thus, the shoulders of the crew are more likely to make contact with the shoulder bolster portion23even if the crew's sitting heights are high.

The shoulder bolster portion23includes the first shoulder bolster member280which is on an outer side of the seat portion198and the second shoulder bolster member284which is on an outer side of the seat portion202in the width direction of the vehicle10. In this case, it is possible with the first shoulder bolster member280to reduce sway of the driver sitting on the seat portion198, and to reduce sway of the passenger sitting on the seat portion202with the second shoulder bolster member284. This provides a more comfortable ride for the crew (the driver and the passenger).

The shoulder bolster portion23has its upper end at a higher position than the midway point in an up-down direction between the center C of the upper surface of the seat bottom portion204and the support position P where the belt member286ais supported by the shoulder anchor286c. The arrangement makes it possible to dispose the shoulder bolster portion23at a height equal to or substantially equal to the height of the crew's shoulders. In this arrangement, the shoulders of the crew can make contact with the shoulder bolster portion23when the crew is swayed in left or right directions. In other words, even when the crew is swayed in left or right directions, the arrangement reduces chances for the crew's abdominal regions to make contact with the shoulder bolster portion23. As a result, the arrangement prevents sway of the crew while providing the crew with a comfortable ride.

In the preferred embodiment described above, description was made for a case where the shoulder bolster portion23preferably is fixed to the seat frame portion16b. However, the shoulder bolster portion23may be fixed to the main frame portion16a.

In the preferred embodiment described above, description was made for a case where the shoulder anchors286c,288c,290cpreferably are supported by the roll-over protection cage22. However, the shoulder anchors286c,288c,290cmay be supported by the main frame portion16a, or by the seat frame portion16b.

In the preferred embodiment described above, description was made for a case where the shoulder bolster portion23preferably includes the first shoulder bolster member280and the second shoulder bolster member284. However, the shoulder bolster portion need not include the first shoulder bolster member280or the second shoulder bolster member284. In this case, the connecting member282provides the function of the first shoulder bolster member280while the connecting member285provides the function of the second shoulder bolster member284.

In the preferred embodiment described above, description was made for a case where the seat unit18preferably includes a plurality of seat portions198,200,202which are made individually from each other. However, the seat unit may include a plurality of seat portions which are made integrally with each other. Therefore, preferred embodiments of the present invention are also applicable to vehicles which include a bench seat.

In the preferred embodiment described above, description was made for a case where the seat back portion and the headrest portion preferably are made independently from each other. However, the seat back portion and the headrest portion may be made integrally with each other.

In the preferred embodiment described above, description was made for a case where the seat unit18preferably includes three seat portions198,200,202, for example. However, the number of the seat portions in the seat unit is not limited to the preferred embodiment described above. For example, the seat unit may only include the first seat portion and the second seat portion, or the seat unit may include four or more seat portions.

In the preferred embodiment described above, description was made for a case where the vehicle10preferably includes one seat unit18. However, the vehicle may include a plurality (two, for example) of seat units arranged in a fore-aft direction.

In the preferred embodiment described above, description was made for a case where the vehicle10preferably includes a pair of rear wheels14. However, the vehicle may include two or more pairs of rear wheels.