SE2350214A1

SE2350214A1 - Vehicle comprising a Main Frame and a Subframe

Info

Publication number: SE2350214A1
Application number: SE2350214A
Authority: SE
Inventors: Christian Henriksen; Daniel Berggren; Jonas Ekberg
Original assignee: Scania Cv Ab
Priority date: 2023-02-24
Filing date: 2023-02-24
Publication date: 2024-08-25
Also published as: WO2024177553A1; CN120418145A

Abstract

A vehicle (2) is disclosed comprising a main frame (1), a subframe (3), and a first bracket (b1, b1’). The main frame (1) comprises a first elongated main frame member (m1 ) being elongated in a longitudinal direction (Id) of the vehicle (2) and the subframe (3) comprises a first subframe member (s1, s1’) attached to the first elongated main frame member (ml) via the first bracket (b1, b1’). The first bracket (b1, b1’) comprises a mounting portion (9, 9’) for mounting a further vehicle arrangement (5) to first bracket (b1, b1’).

Description

1 Vehicle comprising a Main Frame and a Subframe TECHNICAL FIELD The present disclosure relates to a vehicle comprising a main frame and a subframe, wherein the main frame comprises a first elongated main frame member being elongated in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle and the subframe comprises a first subframe member attached to the first elongated main frame member via a first bracket.

BACKGROUND Heavier types of vehicles, such as trucks and the like, normally comprise a main frame comprising two main frame beams extending along a longitudinal direction of the vehicle and a number of cross members connecting the two main frame beams. l\/loreover, these types of vehicles normally comprise a number of subframes mounted to the two main frame beams, wherein a subframe can support/carry one or more arrangements of the vehicle. Wheel suspensions of the vehicle are normally attached to the two main frame beams and during driving of the vehicle, some relative movement can occur between the two main frame beams and subframes mounted thereto. Such movements can impact damping of chassis vibrations or cause tension forces applied to components and arrangements mounted to the two main frame beams and to components and arrangements mounted to a subframe.

Traditionally, internal combustion engines have been used in vehicles to provide motive power to the vehicle. However, the use of electric drive for vehicles provides many advantages, especially regarding local emissions. Such vehicles comprise one or more electric propulsion motors configured to provide motive power to the vehicle. These types of vehicles can be divided into the categories pure electric vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles. Pure electric vehicles, sometimes referred to as battery electric vehicles, only-electric vehicles, and all-electric vehicles, comprise a pure electric powertrain and comprise no internal combustion engine and therefore produce no emissions in the place where they are used.

A hybrid electric vehicle comprises two or more distinct types of power, such as an internal combustion engine and an electric propulsion system. The combination of an internal combustion engine and an electric propulsion system provides advantages with regard to energy efficiency, partly because of the poor energy efficiency of an internal combustion engine at lower power output levels. l\/loreover, some hybrid electric vehicles are capable of operating in pure electric drive when wanted, such as when driving in certain areas. 2 The electricity is usually stored in a battery pack comprising a number of rechargeable battery cells. Some different types of battery cells are used, such as lithium-ion battery cells, lithium polymer battery cells, as well as other types of rechargeable battery cells. One problem with battery packs is that the battery cells occupy space and a large number of battery cells is normally needed to ensure a sufficient available operational range of a vehicle, system voltage and power, especially in heavier types of vehicles. Therefore, the use of electric drive for vehicles can cause packing problems, especially in heavier types of vehicles.

A driver experienced vehicle comfort is affected by a combination of multiple factors such as engine vibrations and road induced vibrations along with the contribution from vehicle supplied mass damping of vibrations. The vehicle supplied mass can be in the form of a main frame, sub frame and other vehicle mounted components. For described pure electric vehicles, without additional impact of combustion engines, the importance of a well-defined and controlled vehicle supplied mass is increased.

Moreover, in modern vehicle manufacturing, it is a great advantage if vehicles are designed in a modular manner allowing the manufacturing of different types of vehicles using the same or similar components and arrangements. However, usually, it is difficult to allow an assembly of different types of vehicles without having to redesign several basic components and arrangements of the vehicle.

Furthermore, generally, it is an advantage if products, such as vehicles and associated components, systems, and arrangements, have conditions and/or characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-efficient manner.

SUMMARY lt is an object of the present invention to overcome, or at least alleviate, at least some of the above-mentioned problems and drawbacks.

According to an aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by a vehicle comprising a main frame, a subframe, and a first bracket, wherein the main frame comprises a first elongated main frame member being elongated in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle and the subframe comprises a first subframe member attached to the first elongated main frame member via the first bracket, and wherein the first bracket comprises a mounting portion for mounting a further vehicle arrangement to first bracket. 3 Since the first bracket attaches the first subframe member to the first elongated main frame member and comprises the mounting portion for mounting the further vehicle arrangement to first bracket, conditions are provided for allowing the mounting of various types of further vehicle arrangements to the main frame and the subframe via the mounting portion of the first bracket in a quick, simple, and rigid manner without having to redesign one or more of the main frame, the subframe, and the first bracket.

Furthermore, since the first bracket attaches the first subframe member to the first elongated main frame member and comprises the mounting portion for mounting the further vehicle arrangement to first bracket, conditions are provided for a space-efficient attachment of the first subframe member to the first elongated main frame member and a space-efficient mounting of a further vehicle arrangement to the first bracket and thus also to the main frame and the subframe. ln other words, due to these features, a vehicle is provided having conditions for alleviated packing problems. ln addition, since the first bracket attaches the first subframe member to the first elongated main frame member and comprises the mounting portion for mounting the further vehicle arrangement to first bracket, conditions are provided for a smaller subframe which can free up space for other components and arrangements of the vehicle, such as for a further vehicle arrangement attached to the main frame and the subframe via the first bracket. Thus, also for these reasons, a vehicle is provided having conditions for alleviated packing problems.

Furthermore, since the first bracket attaches the first subframe member to the first elongated main frame member and comprises the mounting portion for mounting the further vehicle arrangement to first bracket, tension forces between components and arrangements of the vehicle can be reduced, such as between components and arrangements mounted to the first subframe member. ln addition, a more even load distribution can be provided between the first subframe member and the first elongated main frame member which also can reduce tension forces and occurrences of unwanted chassis vibrations.

Accordingly, a vehicle is provided overcoming, or at least alleviating, at least some of the above-mentioned problems and drawbacks. As a result, the above-mentioned object is achieved.

The feature that the first elongated main frame member is elongated in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle may encompass that the angle between a direction of elongation of 4 the first elongated main frame member and the Iongitudinal direction of the vehicle is less than 15 degrees or is less than 10 degrees.

Optionaily, the first subframe member is attached to the first elongated main frame member at a location above the main frame as seen relative to a vertical direction of the vehicle. Thereby, a vehicle is provided having conditions for supporting further vehicle arrangements relative to the main frame via the subframe in a space-efficient manner. ln addition, a more even load distribution can be ensured between the first subframe member and the first elongated main frame member so as to reduce tension forces and occurrences of unwanted chassis vibrations.

Optionaily, the first subframe member is elongated in a Iongitudinal direction of the vehicle. Thereby, a vehicle is provided having conditions for supporting further vehicle arrangements relative to the main frame via the subframe in a space-efficient manner. ln addition, a more even load distribution can be ensured between the first subframe member and the first elongated main frame member so as to reduce tension forces and occurrences of unwanted chassis vibrations.

The feature that the first subframe member is elongated in a Iongitudinal direction of the vehicle may encompass that the angle between a direction of elongation of the first subframe member and the Iongitudinal direction of the vehicle is less than 15 degrees or is less than 10 degrees.

Optionaily, the first bracket comprises a first attachment portion and a second attachment portion each comprising a number of through holes, wherein the first attachment portion is attached to the first elongated main frame member by a number of fastening elements each extending through a through hole of the first attachment portion, and wherein the second attachment portion is attached to the first subframe member by a number of fastening elements each extending through a through hole of the second attachment portion. Thereby, a vehicle is provided having conditions for alleviated packing problems while the vehicle has conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost- efficient manner.

Optionaily, the first bracket comprises a first attachment portion attached to the first elongated main frame member and a second attachment portion attached to the first subframe member, and wherein each of the first and second attachment portions of the first bracket is plate-like in a first plane, and wherein each of the angle between the first plane and the Iongitudinal direction of the vehicle and the angle between the first plane and a vertical direction of the vehicle is less than 15 degrees, or is less than 10 degrees. Thereby, conditions are provided for a quick, simple, and secure attachment of the first bracket to the first elongated main frame member and the first subframe member. l\/|oreover, due to these features, a vehicle is provided having conditions for alleviated packing problems while the vehicle has conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-efficient manner. Furthermore, due to these features, a more even load distribution can be ensured between the first subframe member and the first elongated main frame member so as to reduce tension forces and occurrences of unwanted chassis vibrations.

Optionally, the mounting portion comprises a first mounting section, and wherein the first mounting section is planar in a second plane, wherein the angle between the second plane and the Iongitudinal direction of the vehicle is less than 15 degrees, or is less than 10 degrees, and wherein the angle between the second plane and a vertical direction of the vehicle is within the range of 75 - 105 degrees or is within the range of 80 - 100 degrees. Thereby, a vehicle is provided having conditions for a quick, simple, and secure mounting of a further vehicle arrangement to the first bracket and thus also to the first elongated main frame member and the first subframe member. Moreover, due to these features, further improved conditions are provided for allowing the mounting of various types of further vehicle arrangements to the main frame and the subframe via the mounting portion of the first bracket in a simple and rigid manner without having to redesign one or more of the main frame, the subframe, and the first bracket.

Optionally, the first mounting portion comprises a number of holes each configured to receive a fastening element for mounting the further vehicle arrangement to first bracket. Thereby, conditions are provided for a quick, simple, and secure mounting of a further vehicle arrangement to the first bracket and thus also to the first elongated main frame member and the first subframe member. Moreover, due to these features, further improved conditions are provided for allowing the mounting of various types of further vehicle arrangements to the main frame and the subframe via the mounting portion of the first bracket in a simple and rigid manner without having to redesign one or more of the main frame, the subframe, and the first bracket.

Optionally, the vehicle comprises a second bracket, wherein the main frame comprises a second elongated main frame member being elongated in the Iongitudinal direction of the vehicle, and wherein the subframe comprises a second subframe member attached to the second elongated main frame member via the second bracket, wherein the second bracket 6 comprises a second mounting portion for mounting the further vehicle arrangement to second bracket. Thereby, it can be further ensured that various types of further vehicle arrangements can be mounted to the main frame and the subframe in a quick, simple, and rigid manner while providing conditions for alleviated packing problems. Furthermore, due to these features, a more even load distribution can be ensured between the second subframe member and the second elongated main frame member so as to reduce tension forces and occurrences of unwanted chassis vibrations.

Optionally, the second bracket is arranged at the same longitudinal position on the vehicle as the first bracket. Thereby, it can be further ensured that various types of further vehicle arrangements can be mounted to the main frame and the subframe in a quick, simple, and rigid manner while providing conditions for alleviated packing problems.

Optionally, the second bracket has an equal but mirrored design and layout as the first bracket. Thereby, it can be further ensured that various types of further vehicle arrangements can be mounted to the main frame and the subframe in a quick, simple, and rigid manner while providing conditions for alleviated packing problems. l\/loreover, due to these features, the first and second bracket can be manufactured in a cost-efficient manner.

Optionally, the mounting portion of the first bracket comprises a first mounting section being planar in a second plane, wherein the angle between the second plane and the longitudinal direction of the vehicle is less than 15 degrees, or is less than 10 degrees, and wherein the angle between the second plane and a vertical direction of the vehicle is within the range of 75 - 105 degrees or is within the range of 80 - 100 degrees, and wherein the mounting portion further comprises a second mounting section being planar in a third plane, wherein the third plane is angled relative to the second plane. Thereby, it can be further ensured that various types of further vehicle arrangements can be mounted to the main frame and the subframe in a quick, rigid, and reliable manner while providing conditions for alleviated packing problems.

Optionally, the angle between the third plane and the longitudinal direction of the vehicle is within the range of 75 - 105 degrees or is within the range of 80 - 100 degrees. Thereby, it can be further ensured that various types of further vehicle arrangements can be mounted to the main frame and the subframe in a quick, rigid, and reliable manner while providing conditions for alleviated packing problems. 7 Optionally, the second mounting section comprises a number of holes each configured to receive a fastening element for mounting the further vehicle arrangement to first bracket. Thereby, conditions are provided for a quick, simple, and secure mounting of a further vehicle arrangement to the first bracket and thus also to the first elongated main frame member and the first subframe member. I\/|oreover, due to these features, further improved conditions are provided for allowing the mounting of various types of further vehicle arrangements to the main frame and the subframe via the mounting portion of the first bracket in a simple and rigid manner without having to redesign one or more of the main frame, the subframe, and the first bracket.

Optionally, the subframe comprises a third subframe member, and wherein the first bracket comprises a third attachment portion attached to the third subframe member. Thereby, a vehicle is provided in which the first subframe member, the third subframe member, the first elongated main frame member, and the further vehicle arrangement can be attached relative to each other via one component, i.e., the first bracket. Accordingly, in this manner, a vehicle is provided capable of alleviating packing problems, capable of allowing the mounting of various types of further vehicle arrangements, while the vehicle has conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-efficient manner. Furthermore, due to these features, a more even load distribution can be ensured between the first subframe member, the first elongated main frame member, and the third subframe member so as to reduce tension forces and occurrences of unwanted chassis vibrations.

Optionally, the third attachment portion of the first bracket is plate-like in a first plane, wherein each of the angle between the first plane and the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and the angle between the first plane and a vertical direction of the vehicle is less than 15 degrees or is less than 10 degrees. Thereby, conditions are provided for a quick, simple, and secure attachment of the first bracket to the first elongated main frame member, the first subframe member, and the third subframe member. I\/|oreover, due to these features, a vehicle is provided having conditions for alleviated packing problems while the vehicle has conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost- efficient manner. Furthermore, due to these features, a more even load distribution can be ensured between the first subframe member, the first elongated main frame member, and the third subframe member so as to reduce tension forces and occurrences of unwanted chassis vibrations.

Optionally, the first elongated main frame member is formed as a beam having a U-shaped cross section in a plane perpendicular to a direction of elongation of the first elongated main 8 frame member. Thereby, a rigid and durable first elongated main frame member can be provided having conditions for a low weight. I\/|oreover, it can be further ensured that the first subframe member can be attached to the first elongated main frame member in a quick, simple, and rigid manner using the first bracket.

Optionaily, the first subframe member is formed as a beam having a U-shaped cross section in a plane perpendicuiar to a direction of elongation of the first subframe member. Thereby, a rigid and durable first subframe member can be provided having conditions for a low weight. Moreover, it can be further ensured that the first subframe member can be attached to the first elongated main frame member in a quick, simple, and rigid manner using the first bracket. Furthermore, a low degree of tension forces and unwanted chassis vibrations can be ensured.

Optionaily, the further vehicle arrangement is configured to supply energy to a propulsion system of the vehicle. Thereby, conditions are provided for a space-efficient and cost- efficient mounting of a further vehicle arrangement capable of increasing the operational range of the vehicle.

Optionaily, the further vehicle arrangement comprises at least one of a propulsion battery, a fuel gas tank, and a pantograph. Thereby, conditions are provided for a space-efficient and cost-efficient mounting of a further vehicle arrangement capable of increasing the operational range of the vehicle.

Optionaily, the further vehicle arrangement comprises a power take-off assembly. Thereby, conditions are provided for a space-efficient and cost-efficient mounting of a further vehicle arrangement comprising a power take-off assembly.

Optionaily, the vehicle is a heavy road vehicle, such as a truck or a bus. Thereby, a heavy road vehicle is provided having at least some of the above-mentioned advantages.

Further features of, and advantages with, the present invention will become apparent when studying the appended claims and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Various aspects of the invention, including its particular features and advantages, will be readily understood from the example embodiments discussed in the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a vehicle according to some embodiments, Fig. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a frame assembly according to some embodiments of the vehicle illustrated in Fig. 1, Fig. 3 illustrates a side view of a portion of the frame assembly illustrated in Fig. 2, Fig. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a first bracket of the frame assembly according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, Fig. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a frame assembly according to some further embodiments, Fig. 6 illustrates a side view of a portion of the frame assembly illustrated in Fig. 5, Fig. 7 illustrates a perspective view of a first bracket of the frame assembly according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Aspects of the present invention will now be described more fully. Like reference signs refer to like elements throughout. Well-known functions or constructions will not necessarily be described in detail for brevity and/or clarity.

Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a vehicle 2 according to some embodiments. According to the illustrated embodiments, the vehicle 2 is a truck, i.e., a type of heavy road vehicle, as well as a type of heavy commercial vehicle. According to further embodiments, the vehicle 2, as referred to herein, may be another type of heavy or lighter type of manned or unmanned vehicle for land-based propulsion such as a lorry, a construction vehicle, a tractor, a bus, or the like.

The vehicle 2 comprises a propulsion system 10 configured to provide motive power to the vehicle 2 via wheels 47 of the vehicle 2. As is further explained below, according to the illustrated embodiments, the propulsion system comprises an electric motor for providing motive power to the vehicle 2. This is because the propulsion system 10 of the vehicle 2 according to the illustrated embodiments is a pure electrical propulsion system. However, according to further embodiments, the propulsion system 10 of the vehicle 2 may comprise an internal combustion engine configured to provide motive power to the vehicle 2. The internal combustion engine may be arranged in addition to one or more electric motors for providing motive power the vehicle 2 or may be provided as the only means for providing motive power to the vehicle 2. ln Fig. 1, the vehicle 2 is illustrated as positioned in an intended use position on a flat surface 51 supporting the vehicle 2. As seen in Fig. 1, wheels 47', 47 of the vehicle 2 abut against the flat surface 51 when the vehicle 2 is positioned in the intended use position thereon. Moreover, in Fig. 1, a fon/vard moving direction fd and a reverse moving direction rd of the vehicle 2 are indicated. The reverse moving direction rd of the vehicle 2 is opposite to the fon/vard moving direction fd of the vehicle 2.

The vehicle 2 in Fig. 1 is illustrated as comprising two wheel axles each comprising a number of wheels 47', 47. According to the illustrated embodiments, the wheels 47' of a first wheel axle W1 constitutes front wheels of the vehicle 2. The wheels 47' of the first wheel axle W1 may also be referred to as front wheels of the vehicle 2. According to the illustrated embodiments, the wheels 47' of the first wheel axle W1 are steered non-driven wheels. However, according to further embodiments, the wheels 47' of the first wheel axle W1 may be driven wheels, i.e., may be driven to rotate by a propulsion system 10 of the vehicle 2.

Moreover, according to the illustrated embodiments, the wheels 47 of a second wheel axle W2 of the vehicle 2 constitutes rear wheels of the vehicle 2. The wheels 47 of the second wheel axle W2 may also be referred to as rear wheels of the vehicle 2. According to the illustrated embodiments, the wheels 47 of the second wheel axle W2 are non-steered driven wheels. That is, according to the illustrated embodiments, the wheels 47 of the second wheel axle W2 have a fixed rolling direction relative to a frame assembly 40, 40' of the vehicle 2 of the vehicle 2 and are arranged to be rotated by the propulsion system 10 of the vehicle 2.

The rolling direction of the wheels 47 of the second wheel axle W2 is at least substantially parallel to the fon/vard moving direction fd of the vehicle 2 as well as to the reverse moving direction rd of the vehicle 2. The feature that the rolling direction of the wheels 47 of the second wheel axle W2 is at least substantially parallel to the fon/vard moving direction fd of the vehicle 2 as well as to the reverse moving direction rd of the vehicle 2 may encompass that that the angle between the rolling direction of the wheels 47 of the second wheel axle W2 and each of the fon/vard moving direction fd of the vehicle 2 and the reverse moving direction rd of the vehicle 2 is less than 7 degrees.

According to some further embodiments, the wheels 47 of the second wheel axle W2 may be non-driven wheels. l\/loreover, according to some embodiments, the wheels 47 of the second wheel axle W2 may be steered wheels, i.e., may be arranged such that the rolling direction thereof relative to the frame assembly 40, 40' of the vehicle 2 can be changed by a steering device. 11 Moreover, according to further embodiments, the vehicle 2 may be provided with a different configuration of wheels 47', 47 and wheel axles than depicted in Fig. 1. For example, the vehicle 2 may comprise two or more rear wheel axles.

Moreover, in Fig. 1, a longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2 is indicated. The longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2 is parallel to a flat surface 51 supporting the vehicle 2 when the vehicle 2 is positioned in the intended upright use position thereon. I\/|oreover, the longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2 is parallel to the fon/vard moving direction fd of the vehicle 2 as well as to the reverse moving direction rd of the vehicle 2. Furthermore, in Fig. 1, the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2 is indicated. The vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2 is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2. I\/|oreover, when the vehicle 2 is positioned in the intended use position on a flat horizontal surface, the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2 coincides with a gravity vector at the location of the vehicle 2.

The vehicle 2 comprises a main frame 1. The wheel axles of the vehicle 2 are connected to the main frame 1 of the vehicle 2 via a respective suspension arrangement. The suspension arrangements of the vehicle 2 are not illustrated in Fig. 1 for reasons of brevity and clarity. As is further explained herein, the main frame 1 supports various vehicle arrangements of the vehicle 2, such as a cab, a cargo unit 13, the propulsion system 10, and the like.

Moreover, the vehicle 2 further comprises a subframe 3. As is further explained below, the subframe 3 is attached to the main frame 1 via a number of attachment members 15, 17 and a first bracket b1, b1'. According to the illustrated embodiments, the subframe 3 is attached to the main frame 1 at a location above the main frame 1 as seen relative to the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2. According to the illustrated embodiments, the subframe 3 supports the cargo unit 13 of the vehicle 2 relative to the main frame 1. As an alternative, or in addition, the subframe 3 may be arranged to support one or more other types of arrangements, components, and systems relative to the main frame 1 of the vehicle 2. The main frame 1, the subframe 3, the number of attachment members 15, 17, and the first bracket b1, b1' are comprised in the frame assembly 40, 40' of the vehicle 2 referred to above.

Fig. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a frame assembly 40 according to some embodiments of the vehicle 2 illustrated in Fig. 1. Below, simultaneous reference is made to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, if not indicated othen/vise. 12 As mentioned, the frame assembly 40 of the vehicle 2 comprises the main frame 1, the subframe 3, and the first bracket b1. As is seen in Fig. 2, the main frame 1 comprises a first elongated main frame member m1. The first elongated main frame member m1 is elongated in the longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2. The feature that the first elongated main frame member m1 is elongated in the longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2 may encompass that the angle between a direction of elongation de of the first elongated main frame member m1 and the longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2 is less than 15 degrees or is less than 10 degrees.

The subframe 3 comprises a first subframe member s1. According to the illustrated embodiments, the first subframe member s1 is elongated in the longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2. Therefore, according to the illustrated embodiments, the first subframe member s1 may also be referred to as a first elongated subframe member. The feature that the first subframe member s1 is elongated in the longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2 may encompass that the angle between a direction of elongation de' of the first subframe member s1 and the longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2 is less than 15 degrees or is less than 10 degrees.

The direction of elongation de' of the first subframe member s1 and the direction of elongation de of the first elongated main frame member m1 are also indicated in Fig. 1. According to the illustrated embodiments, the direction of elongation de' of the first subframe member s1 coincides with the direction of elongation de of the first elongated main frame member m1.

The first subframe member s1 is attached to the first elongated main frame member m1 via the first bracket b1. ln other words, the first bracket b1 attaches the first subframe member s1 to the first elongated main frame member m1. According to the illustrated embodiments, the first subframe member s1 is attached to the first elongated main frame member m1 at a location above the first elongated main frame member m1 of the main frame 1 as seen relative to the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2. I\/|oreover, as indicated above, according to the illustrated embodiments, the frame assembly 40 of the vehicle 2 comprises the number of attachment members 15, 17 attaching first subframe member s1 to the first elongated main frame member m1. in more detail, according to the illustrated embodiments, the number of attachment members 15, 17, which attaches the first subframe member s1 to the first elongated main frame member m1, comprises four rigid attachment members 17 and two spring-loaded attachment 13 members. ln fig. 2, only tvvo of the four rigid attachment members 17 are seen. However, all four rigid attachment members 17 are seen and are indicated in Fig. 1.

The rigid attachment members 17 are configured to connect the first subframe member s1 to the first elongated main frame member m1 in a rigid manner meaning that they are arranged to prevent relative movement between the first subframe member s1 and the first elongated main frame member m1 in directions parallel to the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2.

The spring-loaded attachment members 15 are configured to connect the first subframe member s1 to the first elongated main frame member m1 in a less rigid manner meaning that they are arranged to allow some relative movement betvveen the first subframe member s1 and the first elongated main frame member m1 in directions parallel to the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2. Each of the spring-loaded member 15 comprises a number of springs arranged to be compressed upon an increase in the relative distance between the first subframe member s1 and the first elongated main frame member m1 in directions parallel to the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2. ln this manner, the spring-loaded attachment members 15 biases the first subframe member s1 towards the first elongated main frame member m1 in the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2.

According to further embodiments, the frame assembly 40 of the vehicle 2 may comprise another number of rigid attachment members 17 attaching first subframe member s1 to the first elongated main frame member m1. Likewise, the frame assembly 40 of the vehicle 2 may comprise another number of spring-loaded attachment members 15 attaching first subframe member s1 to the first elongated main frame member m1.

Fig. 3 illustrates a side view of a portion of the frame assembly 40 illustrated in Fig. 2. Below, simultaneous reference is made to Fig. 1 - Fig. 3, if not indicated otherwise.

According to the illustrated embodiments, the first elongated main frame member m1 is formed as a beam having a U-shaped cross section in a plane P4 perpendicular to a direction of elongation de of the first elongated main frame member m1. The plane p4 is indicated in Fig. 3. l\/loreover, according to the illustrated embodiments, also the first subframe member s1 is formed as a beam having a U-shaped cross section in the plane P4 perpendicular to the direction of elongation de' of the first subframe member s1. 14 As is indicated in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the first bracket b1 comprises a mounting portion 9 for mounting a further vehicle arrangement 5 to first bracket b1. ln Fig. 1 and Fig. 3, the further vehicle arrangement 5 is schematically illustrated as a dashed box.

According to the illustrated embodiments, the further vehicle arrangement 5 comprises a propulsion battery. The propulsion battery may also be referred to as a propulsion battery pack and may comprise a number of rechargeable battery cells, such as lithium-ion battery cells, lithium polymer battery cells, or the like. According to these embodiments, the propulsion battery of the further vehicle arrangement 5 is configured to provide electricity to the propulsion system 10 of the vehicle 2 during operation of the vehicle 2.

According to some further embodiments, the further vehicle arrangement 5, as referred to herein, may comprise a pantograph. Also in these embodiments, the pantograph of the further vehicle arrangement 5 may be configured to supply electricity to the propulsion system 10 of the vehicle 2 during operation of the vehicle 2.

Moreover, according to some embodiments, the further vehicle arrangement 5 may comprise a fuel gas tank. According to these embodiments, propulsion system 10 of the vehicle 2 may comprise an internal combustion engine configured to operate on fuel gas stored by the fuel gas tank of the further vehicle arrangement 5.

Thus, in all of the above described embodiments, the further vehicle arrangement 5 is configured to supply energy to a propulsion system 10 of the vehicle 2. However, according to further embodiments, the further vehicle arrangement 5, as referred to herein, may comprise another type of arrangement, such as a power take-off assembly comprising one or more power take-off units.

A power take-off, generally abbreviated as PTO, is an arrangement for taking power from a propulsion system 10 of a vehicle 2 and transmitting it to a power consumer, such as a fixed installation, an attached implement, or a separate machine. The power-take off may be configured to drive a temporarily or permanently attached unit, such as for example a hydraulic unit, configured to tilt a tipper body of a tipper truck, a crane, or the like.

Since the first bracket b1 attaches the first subframe member s1 to the first elongated main frame member m1 and comprises the mounting portion 9 for mounting the further vehicle arrangement 5 to first bracket b1, conditions are provided for allowing the mounting of various types of further vehicle arrangements 5 to the main frame 1 and the subframe 3 via the mounting portion 9 of the first bracket b1 in a quick, simple, and rigid manner without having to redesign one or more of the main frame 1, the subframe 3, and the first bracket b1 when changing the type of further vehicle arrangement 5 attached to the mainframe 1 and the subframe 3.

Furthermore, since the first bracket b1 attaches the first subframe member s1 to the first elongated main frame member m1 and comprises the mounting portion 9 for mounting the further vehicle arrangement 5 to first bracket b1, conditions are provided for a space-efficient mounting of a further vehicle arrangement 5 to the first bracket b1 and thus also to the main frame 1 and the subframe 3. ln other words, due to these features, a vehicle 2 is provided having conditions for alleviated packing problems. ln addition, since the first bracket b1 attaches the first subframe member s1 to the first elongated main frame member m1 and comprises the mounting portion 9 for mounting the further vehicle arrangement 5 to first bracket b1, conditions are provided for a smaller subframe 3 which can free up space for other components and arrangements of the vehicle, such as for a further vehicle arrangement 5 attached to the main frame 1 and the subframe 3 via the first bracket b1. That is, normally, the subframe 3 extend all the way to a front wheel axle of the vehicle 2, such as to the first wheel axle w1 indicated in Fig. 1. However, according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, a relatively short subframe 3 can be used which can free up space for other components and arrangements of the vehicle, such as for the further vehicle arrangement 5 attached to the main frame 1 and the subframe 3 via the first bracket b1. Accordingly, also for these reasons, a vehicle 2 is provided having conditions for alleviated packing problems.

Furthermore, since the first bracket b1 attaches the first subframe member s1 to the first elongated main frame member m1 and comprises the mounting portion 9 for mounting the further vehicle arrangement 5 to first bracket b1, tension forces between components and arrangements of the vehicle 2 can be reduced, such as between components and arrangements mounted to the first subframe member s1. ln addition, a more even load distribution can be provided between the first subframe member s1 and the first elongated main frame member m1 which also can reduce tension forces and occurrences of unwanted chassis vibrations. That is, by connecting the first subframe member s1 to the first elongated main frame member m1 via the first bracket b1, the first subframe member s1 can be better utilized to stiffen the frame assembly 40 so as to reduce tension forces and occurrences of unwanted chassis vibrations. 16 As is indicated in Fig. 3, the first bracket b1 comprises a first attachment portion a1 and a second attachment portion a2 each comprising a number of through holes h1, h2. The first attachment portion a1 is configured to be attached to the first elongated main frame member m1 by a number of fastening elements 4 each extending through a through hole h1 of the first attachment portion a1 and into a hole provided in the first elongated main frame member m1. The holes provided in the first elongated main frame member m1 are not indicated in Fig. 3 for reasons of brevity and clarity. in Fig. 3, a fastening element 4 in the form of a bolt is schematically illustrated. According to the illustrated embodiments, the first attachment portion a1 is configured to be attached to the first elongated main frame member m1 by a number of fastening elements 4 each extending through a through hole h1 of the first attachment portion a1 and through a hole provided in the first elongated main frame member m1, wherein the fastening elements 4 are secured relative the first attachment portion a1 and the first elongated main frame member m1 using a nut threaded onto a threaded portion of the respective fastening element 4.

According to further embodiments, the holes provided in the first elongated main frame member m1 may be threaded, wherein the first attachment portion a1 is secured relative to the first elongated main frame member m1 by the threaded portions of the fastening elements being threaded into the treaded holes of the first main frame member m1.

As understood from the above, in Fig. 3, the frame assembly 40 is illustrated in a part|y assembled state in which no fastening elements 4 are inserted into the through holes h1 of the first attachment portion a1. However, when the frame assembly 40 is in a fully assembled state, the first attachment portion a1 is attached to the first elongated main frame member m1 by the number of fastening elements 4 each extending through a through hole h1 of the first attachment portion a1.

Likewise, the second attachment portion a2 is configured to be attached to the first subframe member s1 by a number of fastening elements 4 each extending through a through hole h2 of the second attachment portion a2 and into a hole provided in the first subframe member s1. The holes provided in the first subframe member s1 are not indicated in Fig. 3 for reasons of brevity and clarity.

According to the illustrated embodiments, the second attachment portion a2 is configured to be attached to the first subframe member s1 by a number of fastening elements 4 each extending through a through hole h2 of the second attachment portion a2 and through a hole 17 provided in the first subframe member s1, wherein the fastening elements 4 are secured relative the second attachment portion a2 and the first subframe member s1 using a nut threaded onto a threaded portion of the respective fastening element 4.

According to further embodiments, the ho|es provided in the first subframe member s1 may be threaded, wherein the second attachment portion a2 is secured relative to the first subframe member s1 by the threaded portions of the fastening elements being threaded into the treaded ho|es of the first main frame member m1. ln the partly assembled state illustrated in Fig. 3, no fastening elements 4 are inserted into the through ho|es h2 of the second attachment portion a2. However, when the frame assembly 40 is in a fully assembled state, the second attachment portion a2 is attached to the first subframe member s1 by the number of fastening elements 4 each extending through a through hole h2 of the second attachment portion a2. Accordingly, in summary, the first attachment portion a1 of the first bracket b1 is attached to the first elongated main frame member m1 and the second attachment portion a2 of the first bracket b1 is attached to the first subframe member s1 when the frame assembly 40 is in the fully assembled state.

Fig. 4 illustrates a perspective view of the first bracket b1 of the frame assembly 40 according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. Below, simultaneous reference is made to Fig. 1 - Fig. 4, if not indicated othen/vise. ln Fig. 4, the |ongitudina| direction ld and the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2 are indicated and the first bracket b1 illustrated in Fig. 4 is illustrated in an intended mounting orientation relative to these directions.

As is indicated in Fig. 4, according to the illustrated embodiments, each of the first and second attachment portions a1, a2 of the first bracket b1 is plate-like in a first plane P1. Moreover, as can be seen in Fig. 4, according to the illustrated embodiments, the first plane P1 is parallel to each of the |ongitudina| direction ld and the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2. According to further embodiments, each of the angle between the first plane P1 and the |ongitudina| direction ld of the vehicle 2 and the angle between the first plane P1 and the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2 may be less than 15 degrees or may be less than 10 degrees.

Moreover, as is indicated in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, the mounting portion 9 of the first bracket b1 comprises a first mounting section ms1. As is indicated in Fig. 4, the first mounting section 18 ms1 is planar in a second plane P2. According to the illustrated embodiments, the second plane is parallel to the longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2 and is perpendicular to the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2. According to further embodiments, the angle between the second plane P2 and the Iongitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2 may be less than 15 degrees, or may be less than 10 degrees, and wherein the angle between the second plane P2 and the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2 may be within the range of 75 - 105 degrees or may be within the range of 80 - 100 degrees.

Furthermore, as is indicated in Fig. 4, according to the illustrated embodiments, the first mounting portion 9 comprises a number of holes h9. Each of the number of holes h9 is configured to receive a fastening element 4' for mounting the further vehicle arrangement 5 to first bracket b1. Also in Fig. 4, a fastening element 4' in the form of a bolt is schematically illustrated. The fastening elements 4' may be attached to the first bracket b1 by being threaded into a threaded part of a respective hole h9 of the first bracket b1. ln other words, each of the hole h9 of the first mounting portion 9 of the first bracket b1 may be a threaded hole. According to further embodiments, the fastening elements 4' may be attached to the first bracket b1 using a nut. ln other words, according to such embodiments, each of the hole h9 of the first mounting portion 9 of the first bracket b1 may be a through hole.

As can be seen in Fig. 2, the frame assembly 40 of the vehicle 2 comprises a second bracket b2. I\/|oreover, the main frame 1 comprises a second elongated main frame member m2 being elongated in the Iongitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2. Furthermore, the subframe 3 comprises a second subframe member s2 attached to the second elongated main frame member m2 via the second bracket b2. As is indicated in Fig. 2, the second bracket b2 comprises a second mounting portion 19 for mounting the further vehicle arrangement 5 to second bracket b2 and thereby also to the main frame 1 and the subframe 3 of the vehicle 2.

Moreover, as can be seen in Fig. 2, according to the illustrated embodiments, the second bracket b2 is arranged at the same Iongitudinal position on the vehicle 2 as the first bracket b1. The second bracket b2 has an equal but mirrored design and layout as the first bracket b1. I\/|oreover, the second elongated main frame member m2 has an equal but mirrored design and layout as the first elongated main frame member m1. Likewise, the second subframe member s2 has an equal but mirrored design and layout as the first subframe member s1.

The second bracket b2 is attached to the second elongated main frame member m2 and the second subframe member s2 in the same manner as described for the attachment of the first 19 bracket b1 to the respective elongated main frame member m1 and the first subframe member s1. Therefore, for reasons of brevity and clarity, some features of the second bracket b2, the second elongated main frame member m2, and the second subframe member s2 are not further explained in detail herein.

Furthermore, according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 2, the frame assembly 40 comprises a third and a fourth bracket b3, b4. The third bracket b3 is attached to the first elongated main frame member m1 of the main frame 1 whereas the fourth bracket b4 is attached to the second elongated main frame member m2 of the main frame 1. According to the illustrated embodiments, the fourth bracket b4 is arranged at the same longitudinal position on the vehicle 2 as the third bracket b3.

The third bracket b3 is also seen and indicated in Fig. 3. The third bracket b3 comprises an attachment portion comprising a number of though holes. The attachment portion and the number of though holes of the third bracket b3 have not been provided with reference signs in Fig. 3 for reasons of brevity and clarity. The attachment portion of the third bracket b3 is configured to be attached to the first elongated main frame member m1 by a number of fastening elements 4 each extending through a through hole of the attachment portion of the third bracket b3 and into a hole provided in the first subframe member s1. The third bracket b3 may be attached to the first elongated main frame member m1 in the same manner as described above for the attachment of the first bracket b1 to the first elongated main frame member m1. l\/loreover, the fourth bracket b4 may be attached to the second elongated main frame member m2 in the same manner.

Each of the third and the fourth bracket b3, b4 comprises a mounting section provided with a number of holes each configured to receive a fastening element 4' for mounting the further vehicle arrangement 5 to respective third and the fourth bracket b3, b4. The mounting section ms3 of the third bracket is indicated in Fig. 3. Each of the first, second, third, and fourth bracket b1, b2, b3, b4 may be provided by moulding. ln other words, each of the first, second, third, and fourth bracket b1, b2, b3, b4 may be moulded parts, i.e., parts provided in a moulding process. According to the illustrated embodiments, each of the first, second, third, and fourth bracket b1, b2, b3, b4 is formed by metal, such as steel.

As is seen when comparing Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, according to the illustrated embodiments, each mounting section ms1, ms3 of the first, second, third, and fourth bracket b1, b2, b3, b4 is parallel to the longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2 as well as to a lateral direction of the vehicle 2. Moreover, according to the illustrated embodiments, each mounting section ms1, ms3 of the first, second, third, and fourth bracket b1, b2, b3, b4 has a surface normal pointing in a direction opposite to the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2 indicated in Fig. 2, Fig. 3, and Fig. 4. ln other words, according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 2 and 3, the surface normals of the mounting sections ms1, ms3 of the first, second, third, and fourth bracket b1, b2, b3, b4 points in a direction opposite to a local gravity vector when the vehicle 2 is positioned in the intended use position on a flat horizontal support surface. According to further embodiments, the angle between the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2 and the respective surface normal of the mounting section ms1, ms3 of the first, second, third, and fourth bracket b1, b2, b3, b4 may be less than 15 degrees, or may be less than 10 degrees.

I\/|oreover, according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, each of the fifth and the sixth bracket b5, b6 comprises a mounting section provided with a number of ho|es each configured to receive a fastening element 4' for mounting the further vehicle arrangement 5 to respective fifth and the sixth bracket b5, b6. The mounting section ms5 of the fifth bracket b5 is indicated in Fig. 3.

As is seen when comparing Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, according to the illustrated embodiments, each mounting section ms5 of the fifth and sixth bracket b5, b6 is parallel to the vertical direction ld of the vehicle 2 as well as to a lateral direction of the vehicle 2 and is perpendicular to the |ongitudina| direction ld of the vehicle 2. I\/|oreover, according to the illustrated embodiments, each mounting section ms5 of the fifth and sixth bracket b5, b6 has a surface normal pointing in the reverse moving direction rd of the vehicle 2. The reverse moving direction rd of the vehicle 2 is indicated in Fig. 1. According to further embodiments, the angle between the reverse moving direction rd of the vehicle 2 and the respective surface normal of the mounting section ms5 of the fifth and sixth bracket b5, b6 may be less than 15 degrees, or may be less than 10 degrees.

According to the illustrated embodiments, each of the fifth and sixth bracket b5, b6 is provided from a sheet metal material, such as steel. According to further embodiments, each of the fifth and sixth bracket b5, b6 may be provided by moulding. ln other words, in such embodiments, each of the fifth and sixth bracket b5, b6 may be moulded parts, i.e., parts provided in a moulding process.

Fig. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a frame assembly 40' according to some further embodiments. The vehicle 2 illustrated in Fig. 1 may comprise a frame assembly 40' according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 5. Therefore, below, simultaneous reference is made to Fig. 1 and Fig. 5, if not indicated othen/vise. 21 Also in these embodiments, the frame assembly 40' comprises a main frame 1, a subframe 3, and a first bracket b1 '_ As is seen in Fig. 2, the main frame 1 comprises a first elongated main frame member m1. The first elongated main frame member m1 is elongated in the longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2. As described above, the feature that the first elongated main frame member m1 is elongated in the longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2 may encompass that the angle between a direction of elongation de of the first elongated main frame member m1 and the longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2 is less than 15 degrees or is less than 10 degrees.

Moreover, the subframe 3 comprises a first subframe member s1 '_ According to the illustrated embodiments, the first subframe member s1' is elongated in the longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2. Therefore, according to the illustrated embodiments, the first subframe member s1' may also be referred to as a first elongated subframe member. The feature that the first subframe member s1' is elongated in the longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2 may encompass that the angle between a direction of elongation de' of the first subframe member s1' and the longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2 is less than 15 degrees or is less than 10 degrees.

The direction of elongation de' of the first subframe member s1' and the direction of elongation de of the first elongated main frame member m1 are indicated in Fig. 1 and in Fig. 5. According to the illustrated embodiments, the direction of elongation de' of the first subframe member s1 coincides with the direction of elongation de of the first elongated main frame member m1.

The first subframe member s1' is attached to the first elongated main frame member m1 via the first bracket b1 '_ ln other words, the first bracket b1' attaches the first subframe member s1' to the first elongated main frame member m1. According to the illustrated embodiments, the first subframe member s1' is attached to the first elongated main frame member m1 at a location above the first elongated main frame member m1 of the main frame 1 as seen relative to the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2. l\/loreover, the frame assembly 40' of the vehicle 2 comprises the number of attachment members 15' attaching first subframe member s1' to the first elongated main frame member m1. According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 5, the frame assembly 40' comprises two spring-loaded attachment members 15' of the type explained above with reference to Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. According to further embodiments, the frame assembly 40' may comprise another number of attachment members 15' of the 22 spring-loaded type and/or a number of rigid attachment members for attaching first subframe member s1" to the first elongated main frame member m1.

The spring-loaded attachment members 15" are configured to connect the first subframe member s1" to the first elongated main frame member m1 in a less rigid manner meaning that they are arranged to allow some relative movement between the first subframe member s1" and the first elongated main frame member m1 in directions parallel to the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2. Each of the spring-loaded member 15" comprises a number of springs arranged to be compressed upon an increase in the relative distance between the first subframe member s1" and the first elongated main frame member m1 in directions paraliel to the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2. ln this manner, the spring-loaded attachment members 15" biases the first subframe member s1" towards the first elongated main frame member m1 in the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2.

According to the embodiments i||ustrated in Fig. 5, the subframe 3 comprises a third subframe member s1 The third subframe member s1"" is elongated in the Iongitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2. Therefore, according to the i||ustrated embodiments, the third subframe member s1"" may also be referred to as a third elongated subframe member. The feature that the third subframe member s1"" is elongated in the Iongitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2 may encompass that the angle between a direction of elongation of the third subframe member s1"" and the Iongitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2 is less than 15 degrees or is less than 10 degrees.

The third subframe member s1"" may have an equal design and layout as the first subframe member s1 explained with reference to Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 above. According to the embodiments i||ustrated in Fig. 5, the frame assembly 40' comprises a number of attachment members 15, 17 which attaches the third subframe member s1"" to the first elongated main frame member m1. ln more detail, the frame assembly 40' comprises four rigid attachment members 17 and two spring-loaded attachment members 15. ln fig. 5, only two of the four rigid attachment members 17 are seen. However, all four rigid attachment members 17 are seen and are indicated in Fig. 1.

The rigid attachment members 17 are configured to connect the third subframe member s1"" to the first elongated main frame member m1 in a rigid manner meaning that they are arranged to prevent relative movement between the third subframe member s1"" and the first elongated main frame member m1 in directions paraliel to the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2. 23 The spring-Ioaded attachment members 15 are configured to connect the third subframe member s1" to the first elongated main frame member m1 in a less rigid manner meaning that they are arranged to allow some relative movement between the third subframe member s1" and the first elongated main frame member m1 in directions parallel to the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2. Each of the spring-Ioaded member 15 comprises a number of springs arranged to be compressed upon an increase in the relative distance between the third subframe member s1" and the first elongated main frame member m1 in directions parallel to the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2. ln this manner, the spring-Ioaded attachment members 15 biases the third subframe member s1" towards the first elongated main frame member m1 in the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2.

According to further embodiments, the frame assembly 40' of the vehicle 2 may comprise another number of rigid attachment members 17 attaching third subframe member s1" to the first elongated main frame member m1 _ Likewise, the frame assembly 40' of the vehicle 2 may comprise another number of spring-Ioaded attachment members 15 attaching third subframe member s1" to the first elongated main frame member m1.

Fig. 6 illustrates a side view of a portion of the frame assembly 40' illustrated in Fig. 5. Below, simultaneous reference is made to Fig. 1, Fig. 5, and Fig. 6, if not indicated othenivise.

As is indicated in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, the first bracket b1' comprises a mounting portion 9' for mounting a further vehicle arrangement 5 to first bracket b1'. ln Fig. 1 and Fig. 6, the further vehicle arrangement 5 is schematically illustrated as a dashed box. The further vehicle arrangement 5 may be a further vehicle arrangement 5 of a type explained with reference to Fig. 3 above.

Also in the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, the first elongated main frame member m1 is formed as a beam having a U-shaped cross section in a plane P4 perpendicular to a direction of elongation de of the first elongated main frame member m1. The plane p4 is indicated in Fig. 6. l\/loreover, also in these embodiments, the first subframe member s1' is formed as a beam having a U-shaped cross section in the plane P4 perpendicular to a direction of elongation de' of the first subframe member s1'. According to the illustrated embodiments, the direction of elongation de' of the first subframe member s1' coincides with the direction of elongation de of the first elongated main frame member m1. Furthermore, the third subframe member s1" is formed as a beam having a U-shaped cross 24 section in the plane perpendicular to a direction of elongation of the third subframe member st.

As is indicated in Fig. 6, the first bracket bt' comprises a first attachment portion at' and a second attachment portion a2' each comprising a number of through holes ht ', h2'. The first attachment portion at' is configured to be attached to the first elongated main frame member mt by a number of fastening elements 4 each extending through a through hole ht' of the first attachment portion at' and into a hole provided in the first elongated main frame member mt. The holes provided in the first elongated main frame member mt are not indicated in Fig. 6 for reasons of brevity and clarity. in Fig. 6, a fastening element 4 in the form of a bolt is schematically illustrated. According to the illustrated embodiments, the first attachment portion at' is configured to be attached to the first elongated main frame member mt by a number of fastening elements 4 each extending through a through hole ht' of the first attachment portion at' and through a hole provided in the first elongated main frame member mt, wherein the fastening elements 4 are secured relative the first attachment portion at' and the first elongated main frame member mt using a nut threaded onto a threaded portion of the respective fastening element 4.

According to further embodiments, the holes provided in the first elongated main frame member mt may be threaded, wherein the first attachment portion at' is secured relative to the first elongated main frame member mt by the threaded portions of the fastening elements being threaded into the treaded holes of the first main frame member mt.

As understood from the above, in Fig. 6, the frame assembly 40' is illustrated in a partly assembled state in which no fastening elements 4 are inserted into the through holes ht' of the first attachment portion at '_ However, when the frame assembly 40' is in a fully assembled state, the first attachment portion at' is attached to the first elongated main frame member mt by the number of fastening elements 4 each extending through a through hole ht' of the first attachment portion at '_ Likewise, the second attachment portion a2' is configured to be attached to the first subframe member st' by a number of fastening elements 4 each extending through a through hole h2' of the second attachment portion a2' and into a hole provided in the first subframe member st '_ The holes provided in the first subframe member st' are not indicated in Fig. 6 for reasons of brevity and clarity.

According to the illustrated embodiments, the second attachment portion a2' is configured to be attached to the first subframe member st' by a number of fastening elements 4 each extending through a through hole h2' of the second attachment portion a2' and through a hole provided in the first subframe member st ', wherein the fastening elements 4 are secured relative the second attachment portion a2' and the first subframe member st' using a nut threaded onto a threaded portion of the respective fastening element 4.

According to further embodiments, the ho|es provided in the first subframe member st' may be threaded, wherein the second attachment portion a2' is secured relative to the first subframe member st' by the threaded portions of the fastening elements being threaded into the treaded ho|es of the first main frame member mt. ln the part|y assembled state illustrated in Fig. 6, no fastening elements 4 are inserted into the through ho|es h2' of the second attachment portion a2'. However, when the frame assembly 40' is in a fully assembled state, the second attachment portion a2' is attached to the first subframe member st' by the number of fastening elements 4 each extending through a through hole h2' of the second attachment portion a2'.

According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 6, the first bracket bt' comprises a third attachment portion a3 configured to be attached to the third subframe member st " by a number of fastening elements 4 each extending through a through hole h3 of the third attachment portion a3 and into a hole provided in the third subframe member st The ho|es provided in the third subframe member st " are not indicated in Fig. 6 for reasons of brevity and clarity.

According to the illustrated embodiments, the third attachment portion a3 is configured to be attached to the third subframe member st " by a number of fastening elements 4 each extending through a through hole h3 of the third attachment portion a3 and through a hole provided in the third subframe member st wherein the fastening elements 4 are secured relative the third attachment portion a3 and the third subframe member st " using a nut threaded onto a threaded portion of the respective fastening element 4.

According to further embodiments, the ho|es provided in the third subframe member st " may be threaded, wherein the third attachment portion a3 is secured relative to the third subframe member st " by the threaded portions of the fastening elements being threaded into the treaded ho|es of the third subframe member st 26 Accordingly, in summary, the first attachment portion a1' of the first bracket b1' is attached to the first elongated main frame member m1, the second attachment portion a2' of the first bracket b1' is attached to the first subframe member s1', and the third attachment portion a3 of the first bracket b1' is attached to the third subframe member s1" when the frame assembly 40' is in the fully assembled state.

Fig. 7 illustrates a perspective view of the first bracket b1' of the frame assembly 40' according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6. Below, simultaneous reference is made to Fig. 1, Fig. 5 - Fig. 7, if not indicated othenivise. ln Fig. 7, the longitudinal direction ld and the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2 are indicated and the first bracket b1' illustrated in Fig. 7 is illustrated in an intended mounting orientation relative to these directions.

As is indicated in Fig. 7, according to the illustrated embodiments, each of the first, second, and third attachment portions a1', a2', a3 of the first bracket b1' is plate-like in a first plane P1. I\/|oreover, as can be seen in Fig. 7, according to the illustrated embodiments, the first plane P1 is parallel to each of the longitudinal direction ld and the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2. According to further embodiments, each of the angle between the first plane P1 and the longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2 and the angle between the first plane P1 and the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2 may be less than 15 degrees or may be less than 10 degrees.

Moreover, as is indicated in Fig. 6 and Fig. 7, the mounting portion 9' of the first bracket b1' comprises a first mounting section ms1'. As is indicated in Fig. 7, the first mounting section ms1' is planar in a second plane P2. According to the illustrated embodiments, the second plane P2 is parallel to the longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2 and is perpendicular to the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2. According to further embodiments, the angle between the second plane P2 and the longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2 may be less than 15 degrees, or may be less than 10 degrees, and wherein the angle between the second plane P2 and the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2 may be within the range of 75 - 105 degrees or may be within the range of 80 - 100 degrees.

Furthermore, as is indicated in Fig. 7, according to the illustrated embodiments, the first mounting portion 9' comprises a number of holes h9'. Each of the number of holes h9' is configured to receive a fastening element 4' for mounting the further vehicle arrangement 5 to first bracket b1'. 27 According to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 5 - Fig. 7, the mounting portion 9' further comprises a second mounting section ms2. The second mounting section ms2 is planar in a third plane P3. According to the illustrated embodiments, the angle between the third plane P3 and the longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2 is 90 degrees. I\/|oreover, according to the illustrated embodiments, the third plane p3 is parallel to a |atera| direction of the vehicle 2. ln other words, according to the illustrated embodiments, the angle between the second plane P2 and the third plane P3 is 90 degrees.

According to further embodiments, the angle between the third plane P3 and the longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2 may be within the range of 75 - 105 degrees or may be within the range of 80 - 100 degrees. Moreover, the angle between the second plane P2 and the third plane P3 may be within the range of 75 - 105 degrees or may be within the range of 80 - 100 degrees. Furthermore, according to some embodiments, the angle between the third plane P3 and the |atera| direction of the vehicle 2 may be less than 15 degrees or may be less than 10 degrees.

I\/|oreover, according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 5 - Fig. 7, the second mounting section ms2 has a surface normal coinciding with the forward moving direction fd of the vehicle 2. According to further embodiments, the angle between the surface normal of the second mounting section ms2 and the forward moving direction fd of the vehicle 2 may be less than 15 degrees or may be less than 10 degrees.

As is indicated in Fig. 7, the second mounting section ms2 comprises a number of holes h9". Each of the holes h9" is configured to receive a fastening element 4' for mounting the further vehicle arrangement 5 to first bracket b1'. Also in Fig. 7, a fastening element 4' in the form of a bolt is schematically illustrated. The fastening elements 4' may be attached to the first and second mounting sections ms1', ms2 of the first bracket b1' by being threaded into a threaded part of a respective hole h9', h9" of the first bracket b1'. ln other words, each of the hole h9', h9" of the first and second mounting sections ms1', ms2 of the first bracket b1' may be a threaded hole. According to further embodiments, the fastening elements 4' may be attached to the first bracket b1' using a nut. ln other words, according to such embodiments, each of the hole h9', h9" of the first and second mounting sections ms1', ms2 of the first bracket b1' may be a through hole.

As can be seen in Fig. 5, the frame assembly 40' of the vehicle 2 comprises a second bracket b2'. I\/|oreover, the main frame 1 comprises a second elongated main frame member 28 m2 being elongated in the longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2. Furthermore, the subframe 3 comprises a second subframe member s2' attached to the second elongated main frame member m2 via the second bracket b2'. Moreover, in these embodiments, the subframe 3 comprises a fourth subframe member s2" attached to the second elongated main frame member m2 via the second bracket b2'. As is indicated in Fig. 5, the second bracket b2' comprises a second mounting portion 19' for mounting the further vehicle arrangement 5 to second bracket b2' and thereby also to the main frame 1 and the subframe 3 of the vehicle 2.

Moreover, as can be seen in Fig. 5, according to the illustrated embodiments, the second bracket b2' is arranged at the same longitudinal position on the vehicle 2 as the first bracket b1 '_ The second bracket b2' has an equal but mirrored design and layout as the first bracket b1 '_ l\/loreover, the second elongated main frame member m2 has an equal but mirrored design and layout as the first elongated main frame member m1. Likewise, the second subframe member s2' has an equal but mirrored design and layout as the first subframe member s1 '_ Furthermore, the fourth subframe member s2" has an equal but mirrored design and layout as the third subframe member s1 The second bracket b2' is attached to the second elongated main frame member m2 and the second subframe member s2' in the same manner as described for the attachment of the first bracket b1' to the respective elongated main frame member m1 and the first subframe member s1 '_ Therefore, for reasons of brevity and clarity, some features of the second bracket b2', the second elongated main frame member m2 and the second subframe member s2' are not explained in detail herein.

Furthermore, according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 5, the frame assembly 40' comprises a third and a fourth bracket b3', b4'_ The third bracket b3' is attached to the first subframe member s1' whereas the fourth bracket b4' is attached to the second subframe member s2'. According to the illustrated embodiments, the fourth bracket b4' is arranged at the same longitudinal position on the vehicle 2 as the third bracket b3'.

The third bracket b3' is also seen and indicated in Fig. 6. The third bracket b3' comprises an attachment portion comprising a number of though holes. The attachment portion and the number of though holes of the third bracket b3' have not been provided with reference signs in Fig. 6 for reasons of brevity and clarity. The attachment portion of the third bracket b3' is configured to be attached to the first subframe member s1' by a number of fastening elements 4 each extending through a through hole of the attachment portion of the third 29 bracket b3' and into a hole provided in the first subframe member s1'. The third bracket b3' may be attached to the first subframe member s1' in the same manner as described above for the attachment of the first bracket b1' to the first elongated main frame member m1. Moreover, the fourth bracket b4' may be attached to the second subframe member s2' in the Same manner.

Each of the third and the fourth bracket b3', b4' comprises a mounting section provided with a number of holes each configured to receive a fastening element 4' for mounting the further vehicle arrangement 5 to respective third and the fourth bracket b3', b4'. The mounting section ms3' of the third bracket is indicated in Fig. 6. Each of the first, second, third, and fourth bracket b1', b2', b3', b4' may be provided by moulding. ln other words, each of the first, second, third, and fourth bracket b1', b2', b3', b4' may be moulded parts, i.e., parts provided in a moulding process. According to the illustrated embodiments, each of the first, second, third, and fourth bracket b1', b2', b3', b4' is formed by metal, such as steel.

As is seen when comparing Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, according to the illustrated embodiments, each mounting section ms1', ms3' of the first, second, third, and fourth bracket b1', b2', b3', b4' is parallel to the longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2 as well as to a lateral direction of the vehicle 2. Moreover, according to the illustrated embodiments, each mounting section ms1', ms3' of the first, second, third, and fourth bracket b1', b2', b3', b4' has a surface normal pointing in a direction opposite to the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2 indicated in Fig. 5, Fig. 6, and Fig. 7. ln other words, according to these embodiments, the surface normals of the mounting sections ms1', ms3' of the first, second, third, and fourth bracket b1', b2', b3', b4' points in a direction opposite to a local gravity vector when the vehicle 2 is positioned in the intended use position on a flat horizontal support surface. According to further embodiments, the angle between the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2 and the respective surface normal of the mounting section ms1', ms3' of the first, second, third, and fourth bracket b1', b2', b3', b4' may be less than 15 degrees, or may be less than 10 degrees.

Moreover, according to the embodiments illustrated in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, each of the fifth and the sixth bracket b5, b6 comprises a mounting section provided with a number of holes each configured to receive a fastening element 4' for mounting the further vehicle arrangement 5 to respective fifth and the sixth bracket b5, b6. The mounting section ms5' of the fifth bracket b5 is indicated in Fig. 6.

As is seen when comparing Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, according to the illustrated embodiments, each mounting section ms5' of the fifth and sixth bracket b5, b6 is parallel to the vertical direction ld of the vehicle 2 as well as to a lateral direction of the vehicle 2 and is perpendicuiar to the longitudinal direction ld of the vehicle 2. l\/loreover, according to the illustrated embodiments, each mounting section ms5' of the fifth and sixth bracket b5, b6 has a surface normal pointing in the reverse moving direction rd of the vehicle 2. The reverse moving direction rd of the vehicle 2 is indicated in Fig. 1. According to further embodiments, the angle between the reverse moving direction rd of the vehicle 2 and the respective surface normal of the mounting section ms5' of the fifth and sixth bracket b5, b6 may be less than 15 degrees, or may be less than 10 degrees.

According to some embodiments, the first and third subframe members s1", s1" may be provided as one continuous part. According to such embodiments, the first bracket b1' may lack the third attachment portion a3.

Since the first bracket b1' attaches the first subframe member s1" to the first elongated main frame member m1 and comprises the mounting portion 9' for mounting the further vehicle arrangement 5 to first bracket b1', conditions are provided for allowing the mounting of various types of further vehicle arrangements 5 to the main frame 1 and the subframe 3 via the mounting portion 9' of the first bracket b1' in a quick, simple, and rigid manner without having to redesign one or more of the main frame 1, the subframe 3, and the first bracket b1' when changing the type of further vehicle arrangement 5 attached to the mainframe 1 and the subframe 3.

Furthermore, since the first bracket b1' attaches the first subframe member sf' to the first elongated main frame member m1 and comprises the mounting portion 9' for mounting the further vehicle arrangement 5 to first bracket b1', conditions are provided for a space-efficient mounting of a further vehicle arrangement 5 to the first bracket b1' and thus also to the main frame 1 and the subframe 3. ln other words, due to these features, a vehicle 2 is provided having conditions for alleviated packing problems.

Furthermore, since the first bracket b1' attaches the first subframe member sf' to the first elongated main frame member m1 and comprises the mounting portion 9' for mounting the 31 further vehicle arrangement 5 to first bracket b1', tension forces between components and arrangements of the vehicle 2 can be reduced, such as between components and arrangements mounted to the first subframe member s1". ln addition, a more even load distribution can be provided between the first subframe member s1" and the first eiongated main frame member m1 which also can reduce tension forces and occurrences of unwanted chassis vibrations. That is, by connecting the first subframe member s1' to the first eiongated main frame member m1, and by connecting the third subframe member s1" to the first eiongated main frame member m1, via the first bracket b1', the first subframe member s1" and the third subframe member s1" can be better utilized to stiffen the frame assembly 40' so as to reduce tension forces and occurrences of unwanted chassis vibrations.

As understood from the herein described, the fastening elements 4, 4' referred to herein may be comprised in the frame assembly 40, 40' as well as in a vehicle 2 comprising the frame assembly 40, 40'. lt is to be understood that the foregoing is illustrative of various example embodiments and that the invention is defined only by the appended independent claims. A person skilled in the art will realize that the example embodiments may be modified, and that different features of the example embodiments may be combined to create embodiments other than those described herein, without departing from the scope of the present invention, as defined by the appended independent claims.

As used herein, the term "comprising" or "comprises" is open-ended, and includes one or more stated features, elements, steps, components, or functions but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, steps, components, functions, or groups thereof.

Claims

1. A vehicle (2) comprising a main frame (1), a subframe (3), and a first bracket (b1, b1”), wherein the main frame (1) comprises a first elongated main frame member (m1) being elongated in a longitudinal direction (ld) of the vehicle (2), and the subframe (3) comprises a first subframe member (s1, s1') attached to the first elongated main frame member (m1) via the first bracket (b1, b1”), and wherein the first bracket (b1, b1') comprises a mounting portion (9, 9') for mounting a further vehicle arrangement (5) to first bracket (b1, b1”). The vehicle (2) according to claim 1, wherein the first subframe member (s1, s1') is attached to the first elongated main frame member (m1) at a location above the main frame (1) as seen relative to a vertical direction (vd) of the vehicle (2). The vehicle (2) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first subframe member (s1, s1”) is elongated in a longitudinal direction (ld) of the vehicle (2). The vehicle (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first bracket (b1, b1') comprises a first attachment portion (a1, a1') and a second attachment portion (a2, a2') each comprising a number of through holes (h1, h2, h1', h2'), wherein the first attachment portion (a1, a1”) is attached to the first elongated main frame member (m1) by a number of fastening elements (4) each extending through a through hole (h1, h1”) of the first attachment portion (a1, a1”), and wherein the second attachment portion (a2, a2') is attached to the first subframe member (s1, s1”) by a number of fastening elements (4) each extending through a through hole (h2, h2') of the second attachment portion (a2, a2'). The vehicle (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first bracket (b1, b1') comprises a first attachment portion (a1, a1') attached to the first elongated main frame member (m1) and a second attachment portion (a2, a2') attached to the first subframe member (s1, s1'), and wherein each of the first and second attachment portions (a1, a2, a1', a2') of the first bracket (b1, b1') is plate-like in a first plane (P1), and wherein each of the angle between the first plane (P1) and the longitudinal direction (ld) of the vehicle (2) and the angle between the first plane (P1) and a vertical direction (vd) of the vehicle (2) is less than 15 degrees, or is less than 10 degrees. The vehicle (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mounting portion (9, 9') comprises a first mounting section (ms1, ms1'), and wherein the first mounting section (ms1, ms1') is planar in a second plane (P2), wherein the anglebetween the second plane (P2) and the Iongitudinal direction (ld) of the vehicle (2) is less than 15 degrees, or is less than 10 degrees, and wherein the angle between the second plane (P2) and a vertical direction (vd) of the vehicle (2) is within the range of 75 - 105 degrees or is within the range of 80 - 100 degrees. The vehicle (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first mounting portion (9, 9') comprises a number of ho|es (h9, h9', h9”) each configured to receive a fastening element (4') for mounting the further vehicle arrangement (5) to first bracket (b1, b1'). The vehicle (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the vehicle (2) comprises a second bracket (b2, b2”), wherein the main frame (1) comprises a second elongated main frame member (m2) being elongated in the Iongitudinal direction (ld) of the vehicle (2), and wherein the subframe (3) comprises a second subframe member (s2, s2') attached to the second elongated main frame member (m2) via the second bracket (b2, b2”), wherein the second bracket (b2, b2') comprises a second mounting portion (19, 19') for mounting the further vehicle arrangement (5) to second bracket (b2, b2'). The vehicle (2) according to claim 8, wherein the second bracket (b2, b2”) is arranged at the same Iongitudinal position on the vehicle (2) as the first bracket (b1, b1”). The vehicle (2) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the second bracket (b2, b2') has an equal but mirrored design and layout as the first bracket (b1, b1”). The vehicle (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mounting portion (9') of the first bracket (b1') comprises a first mounting section (ms1') being planar in a second plane (P2), wherein the angle between the second plane (P2) and the Iongitudinal direction (ld) of the vehicle (2) is less than 15 degrees, or is less than 10 degrees, and wherein the angle between the second plane (P2) and a vertical direction (vd) of the vehicle (2) is within the range of 75 - 105 degrees or is within the range of 80 - 100 degrees, and wherein the mounting portion (9') further comprises a second mounting section (ms2) being planar in a third plane (P3), wherein the third plane (P3) is angled relative to the second plane (P2). The vehicle (2) according to claim 11, wherein the angle between the third plane (P3) and the Iongitudinal direction (ld) of the vehicle (2) is within the range of 75 - 105 degrees or is within the range of 80 - 100 degrees.The vehicle (2) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the second mounting section (ms2) comprises a number of holes (h9”) each configured to receive a fastening element (4') for mounting the further vehicle arrangement (5) to first bracket (b1”). The vehicle (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the subframe (3) comprises a third subframe member (s1”), and wherein the first bracket (b1”) comprises a third attachment portion (a3) attached to the third subframe member (s1”). The vehicle (2) according to claim 14, wherein the third attachment portion (a3) of the first bracket (b1') is plate-like in a first plane (P1), wherein each of the angle between the first plane (P1) and the longitudinal direction (ld) of the vehicle (2) and the angle between the first plane (P1) and a vertical direction (vd) of the vehicle (2) is less than 15 degrees, or is less than 10 degrees. The vehicle (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first elongated main frame member (m1) is formed as a beam having a U-shaped cross section in a plane (P4) perpendicular to a direction of elongation (de) of the first elongated main frame member (m1). The vehicle (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first subframe member (s1, s1') is formed as a beam having a U-shaped cross section in a plane (P4) perpendicular to a direction of elongation (de') of the first subframe member (s1, s1'). The vehicle (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the further vehicle arrangement (5) is configured to supply energy to a propulsion system (10) of the vehicle (2)- The vehicle (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the further vehicle arrangement (5) comprises at least one of a propulsion battery, a fuel gas tank, and a pantograph. The vehicle (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the further vehicle arrangement (5) comprises a power take-off assembly. The vehicle (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the vehicle (2) is a heavy road vehicle, such as a truck or a bus.