Vehicle with modular functional modules

Abstract

Main claim 1. Mobile vehicle, including: - a vehicle frame equipped with one or more module interfaces; - wherein at least one vending machine module or several vending machine modules are arranged side by side and can be coupled or uncoupled at the module interfaces; wherein the vehicle is designed so that several modules can be operated independently or simultaneously and that the number, type or arrangement of the modules can be changed without having to change the basic structure of the vehicle frame.

Description

1. Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a mobile vehicle designed to accommodate and flexibly utilize various modular functional modules. These include vending machine modules, work modules, and lounge and rest modules. The modules can be attached to or removed from the base vehicle without structural modifications. The invention belongs to the technical field of modular vehicle concepts, mobile work and sales stations, and energy-autonomous vehicle systems. 2. State of the art

[0002] In the mobile business sector, there is a growing need to combine several different functions in a single vehicle. However, standard commercial vehicles are generally designed for a specific purpose, such as transporting goods, sales, or accommodation.

[0003] Since conventional vehicles lack modular interfaces, integrating additional functional modules often requires structural modifications. Installing vending machines or work modules frequently necessitates alterations to the vehicle frame, which is costly and limits flexibility. Furthermore, existing vehicles lack the ability to quickly exchange modules or reposition them depending on the application.

[0004] These limitations contradict modern mobile business models, which require frequently changing functional requirements and a high degree of adaptability. 3. Technical Task

[0005] The technical objective of the invention is to provide a vehicle that allows the flexible use of various functional modules without requiring structural modifications to the base vehicle. In particular, the vehicle should: - able to accommodate a variable number of vending machine modules, - provide a fully usable mobile workspace, - integrate a lounge or rest area, - enable an independently reconfigurable interior, - provide a reliable energy management system that can power multiple modules simultaneously, - and ensure mobility for changing deployment locations.

[0006] The invention serves to solve a practical technical need and does not claim to represent the existing state of the art in its entirety. 4. Solution 4.1. Module interfaces

[0007] The vehicle has one or more module interfaces, which can be located on the front, rear, and sides. These interfaces serve the following purposes: - the mechanical fastening of the modules, - the electrical supply, - and optionally data transmission.

[0008] Their arrangement allows modules to be attached or repositioned depending on their position or function. 4.2. Vending machine modules

[0009] The vending machine modules can be operated individually or simultaneously. Up to four modules can be installed side-by-side at the rear of the vehicle. The modules can be refrigerated or unrefrigerated and are used for dispensing goods or other independent services. They can be exchanged or repositioned without tools. 4.3. Multifunctional interior

[0010] The interior includes at least: - a work area with seating, work surface, lighting and power supply, - a lounge or rest area that can serve as a reclining or seating area.

[0011] These areas are fully reconfigurable and can be used regardless of how many modules are attached to the outside or where they are located. 4.4. Hybrid energy management system

[0012] The vehicle features a hybrid energy management system that utilizes the following energy sources: - external AC mains power supply, - integrated batteries, - additional energy sources such as solar modules or functionally comparable systems.

[0013] The system automatically controls the energy distribution accordingly: - the power requirements of the vending machine modules, - the needs of the interior space, - the charge level of the batteries.

[0014] This means the vehicle can be used even without external energy sources. 5. Advantages of the invention

[0015] The invention offers the following advantages: - Multiple functional areas in one vehicle without structural changes, - High flexibility due to modular construction, - rapid replacement or relocation of modules, - Energy-autonomous operation possible, - expandable or reducible range of functions, - suitable for mobile business models with frequently changing locations. 6. Example of implementation

[0016] In one embodiment, a standard commercial van such as a VW Crafter or Mercedes Sprinter is used. Four vending machine modules are mounted at the rear. Directly in front of them is a work area, while the front part of the interior serves as a lounge. The hybrid energy management system powers the vending machines, lighting, work equipment, and charging ports.

[0017] In another variant, two modules can be installed, while a third module is replaced by a functional module such as a storage compartment or a work tool. All variants require no structural modifications to the vehicle frame.

Claims

Main claim 1. Mobile vehicle comprising: - a vehicle frame equipped with one or more module interfaces; - wherein at least one vending machine module or several vending machine modules are arranged side by side and can be coupled or uncoupled at the module interfaces; wherein the vehicle is designed such that several modules can be operated independently or simultaneously and that the number, type or arrangement of the modules can be changed without having to change the basic structure of the vehicle frame. Subclaim - Arrangement of Modules 2. Vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the module interfaces are arranged at one or more positions of the vehicle frame, including the front, rear, left side, right side or any combination thereof, and wherein two to four modules can be arranged side by side in the rear area, depending on the respective usage configuration. Subclaim - Reconfigurable Interior 3. Vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a multifunctional interior comprising at least the following: (i) a work area with basic equipment and power supply; (ii) a lounge or rest area; wherein these areas are reconfigurable, irrespective of the number or position of the sales modules attached to the vehicle. Subclaim - Hybrid Energy Management System 4. Vehicle according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a hybrid energy management system designed for: - selection between mains power supply (AC feed-in); - use of a battery storage system; - use of an additional energy source, including a solar module or a functionally comparable system; wherein the energy management system is controlled such that the energy distribution is carried out depending on the operating state of the vehicle, the power requirements of the modules and the requirements of the interior. Subclaim - Modular exchange system 5. Vehicle according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the modular system is designed for: - changing the number of vending machine modules; - changing the position at which a module is attached; - replacing a module with a functionally equivalent module; - adding further modules without having to change the basic structure of the vehicle frame.

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