I. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to vehicle frames and, more particularly, to an improved vehicle frame construction.
II. Description of the Prior Art
Many vehicles, such as truck or automotive vehicles, utilize a ladder frame to provide the structural support needed to support all of the loads during the operation of the vehicle. An exemplary model of such a prior art vehicle frame 10 is illustrated in FIG. 1.
With reference then to FIG. 1, the prior art vehicle frame 10 includes longitudinally extending and elongated framing members 12 and 14 which extend along opposite sides of the vehicle. The frame 10 also includes a number of cross members 16 which extend laterally between and connect to the framing members 12 and 14. Any conventional method, such as welding, may be used to secure the cross members 16 to the framing members 12 and 14.
In many types of vehicles, the frame 10 must be sufficiently strong to support vehicle loads and the ability to withstand the vertical loads is known as “beaming strength” because the entire frame acts as a beam and is designed to absorb vertical loads. Traditionally, designers have increased the beaming strength by increasing the size and/or number of the cross members 16 and framing members 12 and 14.
Although the previously known vehicle frames have proven adequate in absorbing vertical loads, the ladder frames in such vehicles are inadequate at absorbing torsional loads. Furthermore, many vehicles require torsional stiffness in order to provide the required structure for a solid ride and better handling while the vehicle is in use.
In addition, even though the use of stronger or heavier frame members 12 and 14 and cross members 16 does provide the required strength to carry heavier loads, such a frame design also adds to the overall weight of the frame. Increasing the weight of the frame undesirably decreases the gas economy and vehicle acceleration and increases the costs.