Vehicle rear compartment storage panel system

Abstract

A storage panel system for a rear compartment of a vehicle includes a cover and a panel frame assembly configured to be rotatably coupled to the rear compartment. The panel frame assembly defines a central opening and includes a first frame covering a second frame. At least a portion of the cover is sandwiched between the first frame and the second frame such that a remainder of the cover spans the central opening.

Description

[0001] The technical field generally relates to a storage panel system for a vehicle, and more particularly to a storage panel system for a rear compartment of a vehicle. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] A vehicle may be configured with a rear liftgate that is movable relative to the vehicle to provide access to a rear storage area or rear compartment. In some instances, it may be desirable to enclose the rear compartment to protect the contents of the rear compartment from view. In these instances, a storage panel may be used that cooperates with the liftgate to enclose the rear compartment and protect the contents of the rear storage area from view. Due to the size of the rear compartment, in some instances, the storage panel may sag or wrinkle, which is undesirable. Additionally, when the liftgate rotates relative to the vehicle, it may also be desirable for the storage panel to pivot with the liftgate to facilitate access to the rear compartment. In some instances, it may be difficult to incorporate pivoting into the storage panel.

[0003] Accordingly, it is desirable to provide a storage panel system for a rear compartment of a vehicle that spans the rear compartment without sagging or wrinkling and is capable of incorporating pivoting such that the storage panel system can pivot with the liftgate. Additionally, other desirable features and characteristics of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description and the appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] According to various embodiments, a storage panel system for a rear compartment of a vehicle is provided. The storage panel system includes a cover and a panel frame assembly configured to be rotatably coupled to the rear compartment. The panel frame assembly defines a central opening and includes a first frame that covers a second frame. At least a portion of the cover is sandwiched between the first frame and the second frame such that the remaining portion of the cover spans the central opening.

[0005] The cover is made of textile, and the first frame and the second frame are made of polymer-based materials. This part of the cover wraps around the first frame, and the remaining part of the cover covers the first frame. The first frame includes a first side opposite to a second side, and this part of the cover wraps around the first side such that at least one end of the cover is clamped between the second side of the first frame and the second frame. The second side of the first frame includes a pair of flanges and a plurality of first ribs, the plurality of first ribs including a central rib and a plurality of reinforcing ribs misaligned with respect to the central rib, and the plurality of reinforcing ribs interconnect the pair of flanges to the central rib. The second side of the first frame includes a boss, the third side of the second frame facing the second side of the first frame includes a fastener hole, the fastener hole at least partially receives the boss, and a mechanical fastener is coupled to the fastener hole and the boss. The storage panel system includes at least one tether. The second frame includes at least one tether anchor and at least one pivot socket defined substantially opposite to the at least one tether anchor. The at least one tether anchor receives the at least one tether to couple the at least one tether to the panel frame assembly, and the at least one pivot socket is configured to receive a pivot pin associated with the rear compartment to movably couple the storage panel system to the rear compartment. The second frame includes a plurality of second frame members, and the at least one pivot socket is defined on one of the plurality of second frame members, and the at least one tether anchor is defined on another of the plurality of second frame members. The area defined between the inner side of the cover and the fourth side of the second frame has no structural members.

[0006] A vehicle is also provided. The vehicle includes a passenger compartment and a cargo compartment defining a rear portion of the passenger compartment. The cargo compartment includes at least one pivot pin. The vehicle includes a storage panel system for covering a portion of the cargo compartment. The storage panel system includes a cover and a panel frame assembly defining a void central opening. The panel frame assembly includes a first frame covering a second frame. The second frame includes at least one pivot socket configured to be rotatably coupled to the at least one pivot pin, and at least a portion of the cover is clamped between the first frame and the second frame such that the remaining portion of the cover spans the central opening.

[0007] The cover is made of textile, and the first frame and the second frame are made of polymer-based materials. This portion of the cover wraps around the first frame. The first frame includes a first side opposite to a second side, and this portion of the cover wraps around the first side such that at least one end of the cover is clamped between the second side of the first frame and the second frame. The second side of the first frame includes a pair of flanges and a plurality of first ribs, the plurality of first ribs including a central rib and a plurality of reinforcing ribs misaligned with respect to the central rib, and the plurality of reinforcing ribs interconnect the pair of flanges to the central rib. The second side of the first frame includes a boss, and a third side of the second frame facing the second side of the first frame includes a fastener hole that at least partially receives the boss, and a mechanical fastener is coupled to the fastener hole and the boss. The vehicle includes at least one tether. The second frame includes at least one tether anchor, and at least one pivot socket is defined to be substantially opposite to the at least one tether anchor. The at least one tether anchor receives the at least one tether to couple the at least one tether to the panel frame assembly, and the at least one pivot socket is configured to receive a pivot pin associated with the rear compartment to movably couple the storage panel system to the rear compartment. The second frame includes a plurality of second frame members, and at least one pivot socket is defined on one of the plurality of second frame members, and at least one tether anchor is defined on another one of the plurality of second frame members. The area defined between the inner side of the cover and the fourth side of the second frame has no structural members.

[0008] According to various embodiments, a vehicle is also provided. The vehicle includes a cabin defining a passenger compartment and a rear compartment at the rear of the passenger compartment. The rear compartment includes at least one pivot pin. The vehicle includes a storage panel system for covering a portion of the rear compartment. The storage panel system includes a cover made of textile and a panel frame assembly defining a void central opening. The panel frame assembly includes a first frame covering a second frame made of polymer-based materials. The second frame includes at least one pivot socket configured to be rotatably coupled to the at least one pivot pin and at least one tether anchor opposite to the at least one pivot socket. The cover wraps around the first frame such that at least a portion of the cover is clamped between the first frame and the second frame, and the cover spans the central opening.

[0009] The first frame includes a first side opposite to a second side, and the cover wraps around the first side such that at least one end of the cover is clamped between the second side of the first frame and the second frame, and the remaining portion of the cover spans the central opening. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Exemplary embodiments will be described hereinafter in conjunction with the following drawings, wherein like numerals represent like elements, and wherein:

[0011] Figure 1is a functional block diagram showing a vehicle according to various embodiments, the vehicle including an exemplary storage panel system for use with a rear storage area or a rear cargo hold of the vehicle;

[0012] Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of a storage panel system coupled to a rear cargo hold according to various embodiments, wherein at least one tether of the storage panel system is decoupled from a liftgate of the vehicle and the storage panel system is in a second open position;

[0013] Figure 2A is a rear perspective view of a storage panel system coupled to a rear cargo hold according to various embodiments, wherein at least one tether of the storage panel system is decoupled from a liftgate of the vehicle and the storage panel system is in a first closed position;

[0014] Figure 3 is a rear perspective view of a storage panel system according to various embodiments;

[0015] Figure 4 is a partially exploded view of the storage panel system;

[0016] Figure 4A is a detailed view of a pivot socket associated with the storage panel system and coupled to a pivot pin associated with a rear cargo hold of the vehicle;

[0017] Figure 4B is a detailed partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the storage panel system, showing the storage panel system coupled to a liftgate of the vehicle;

[0018] Figure 4C is a detailed perspective view of at least one tether of at least one tether anchor coupled to the storage panel system;

[0019] Figure 5 is from Figure 4 a partially exploded cross-sectional view of the storage panel system taken along line 5-5 of;

[0020] Figure 6 is an exploded view of a first frame of a storage panel system according to various embodiments, showing a first side of the first frame;

[0021] Figure 6A is a perspective view of a second side of a first frame of a storage panel system according to various embodiments;

[0022] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a first side of a second frame of a storage panel system according to various embodiments;

[0023] Figure 7A is a perspective view of a second side of a second frame of a storage panel system according to various embodiments;

[0024] Figure 8 is from Figure 3 A partially exploded cross-sectional view of the first frame, the second frame, and the cover taken from the perspective of line 8-8 of FIG. 8, showing mechanical fasteners received within the first frame and the second frame; and

[0025] Figure 8A is along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the first frame, the second frame and the cover taken along line 8-8. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit application and use. In addition, it is not intended to be bound by any express or implied theory proposed in the aforementioned introduction, brief overview or the following detailed description. In addition, the connecting lines shown in the various figures included in this article are intended to represent example functional relationships and / or physical couplings between various elements. It should be noted that many alternative or additional functional relationships or physical connections may exist in the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0027] As used herein, the term "axial" refers to a direction that is generally parallel to or coincident with the axis of rotation, axis of symmetry, or centerline of one or more components. For example, in a cylinder or disk having a centerline and generally circular ends or opposing faces, the "axial" direction may refer to a direction that extends generally parallel to the centerline between the opposing ends or faces. In some instances, the term "axial" may be used for components that are not cylindrical (or otherwise radially symmetrical). For example, the "axial" direction of a rectangular housing containing an axis of rotation may be considered to be a direction that is generally parallel to or coincident with the axis of rotation of the shaft. In addition, the term "radial" as used herein may refer to the direction or relationship of a component relative to a line extending outward from a shared centerline, axis, or similar reference, for example in a plane perpendicular to the centerline or axis of a cylinder or disk. In some instances, components may be considered to be "radially" aligned even if one or both of the components may not be cylindrical (or otherwise radially symmetrical). In addition, the terms "axial" and "radial" (and any derivatives) may include directional relationships that are not precisely aligned (e.g., skewed) with the true axial and radial dimensions, provided that the relationship is primarily in the corresponding nominal axial or radial direction. As used herein, the term "about" means within 10% to account for manufacturing tolerances. In addition, the term "substantially" means within 10% to account for manufacturing tolerances.

[0028] refer to Figure 1, according to various embodiments, a storage panel system generally designated 100 is associated with a vehicle 10. The storage panel system 100 cooperates with a liftgate 99 to substantially enclose a rear loading area or cargo hold 102. As will be described, the storage panel system 100 spans the cargo hold 102, and the storage panel system 100 does not sag or wrinkle while also enabling the storage panel system 100 to be rotatably coupled to the vehicle 10.

[0029] As Figure 1 depicted therein, the vehicle 10 generally includes a chassis 12, a body 14, front wheels 16, and rear wheels 18. The body 14 is disposed on the chassis 12 and substantially encloses the components of the vehicle 10, including a passenger compartment generally designated 20 and the cargo hold 102. The body 14 and the chassis 12 may together form a frame. The vehicle wheels 16 - 18 are each rotatably coupled to the chassis 12 near a respective corner of the body 14. In various embodiments, the vehicle 10 is an autonomous vehicle or a semi - autonomous vehicle. It will be appreciated that the storage panel system 100 may be implemented in other non - autonomous systems and is not limited to the present embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the vehicle 10 is depicted as a sport utility vehicle (SUV), but it should be understood that any other vehicle may also be used, including motorcycles, passenger cars, hatchbacks, trucks, recreational vehicles (RVs), etc. In this example, the vehicle 10 includes a liftgate 99 that is movable or pivotable relative to the body 14 to enable access to the cargo hold 102. As will be discussed, the storage panel system 100 is coupled to the liftgate 99 to move or pivot in correspondence with the movement of the liftgate 99 to facilitate access to the cargo hold 102. In other examples, the storage panel system 100 may be fixed or may not move or pivot in correspondence with the movement of the liftgate 99.

[0030] As shown, the vehicle 10 generally includes a propulsion system 24, a transmission system 26, a steering system 27, a braking system 28, a sensor system 30, an actuator system 32, and at least one controller 34. In various embodiments, the propulsion system 24 may include an internal combustion engine, an electric motor such as a traction motor, and / or a fuel cell propulsion system. The transmission system 26 is configured to transfer power from the propulsion system 24 to the vehicle wheels 16 and 18 according to selectable speed ratios. According to various embodiments, the transmission system 26 may include a step - ratio automatic transmission, a continuously variable transmission, or other suitable transmissions.

[0031] The braking system 28 is configured to provide braking torque to the vehicle wheels 16 and 18. In various embodiments, the braking system 28 may include friction brakes, brake - by - wire systems, regenerative braking systems such as electric motors, and / or other suitable braking systems.

[0032] The steering system 27 affects the position of vehicle wheels 16 and / or 18. Although depicted for illustrative purposes as including a steering wheel, in some embodiments contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure, the steering system 27 may not include a steering wheel.

[0033] The sensor system 30 includes one or more sensing devices 40a - 40n that sense observable conditions of the external and / or internal environment of the vehicle 10. In various embodiments, the sensing devices 40a - 40n include, but are not limited to, radar (e.g., long - range, mid - range, short - range), lidar, global positioning system, optical cameras (e.g., forward, 360 - degree, rearward, sideward, stereo, etc.), thermal (e.g., infrared) cameras, ultrasonic sensors, odometer sensors (e.g., encoders), and / or other sensors that can be used in conjunction with the systems and methods of the present subject matter. The sensor system 30 communicates with the controller 34 via a communication medium.

[0034] The actuator system 32 includes one or more actuator devices 42a - 42n that control one or more vehicle features, such as, but not limited to, the propulsion system 24, the transmission system 26, the steering system 27, and the braking system 28. In various embodiments, the vehicle 10 may also include Figure 1 interior and / or exterior vehicle features not shown, such as doors and cabin features such as air, music, lighting, touch - screen display components, etc., active safety seats or tactile seats, etc.

[0035] The controller 34 includes at least one processor 44 and a computer - readable storage device or medium 46. The processor 44 can be any custom or commercially available processor, central processing unit (CPU), graphics processing unit (GPU), application - specific integrated circuit (ASIC) (e.g., a custom ASIC implementing a neural network), field - programmable gate array (FPGA), an auxiliary processor among several processors associated with the controller 34, a semiconductor - based microprocessor (in the form of a microchip or chipset), any combination thereof, or any device generally used to execute instructions. For example, the computer - readable storage device or medium 46 can include volatile and non - volatile storage in read - only memory (ROM), random - access memory (RAM), and keep - alive memory (KAM). KAM is persistent or non - volatile memory that can be used to store various operating variables when the processor 44 is powered down. The computer - readable storage device or medium 46 can be implemented using any of a number of known memory devices, such as PROM (programmable read - only memory), EPROM (electrical PROM), EEPROM (electrically erasable PROM), flash memory, or any other electrical, magnetic, optical, or combination memory device capable of storing data, some of which represents executable instructions used by the controller 34 in controlling the vehicle 10.

[0036] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 2A show, in greater detail, a storage panel system 100 coupled to a liftgate 99. Briefly, the liftgate 99 is movably or rotatably coupled to the vehicle 10 so as to be pivotable between at least a first closed position ( Figure 1 and Figure 2A ) and a second open position ( Figure 2 ). In the first closed position, the liftgate 99 encloses the rear compartment 102, and in the second open position, the liftgate 99 provides access to the rear compartment 102. Typically, a pair of actuators associated with the actuator system 32 are coupled to opposite sides of the liftgate 99 and respond to one or more control signals from the controller 34 to move the liftgate 99 between the first closed position and the second open position. Additionally, the liftgate 99 may include a latch that includes an actuator that responds to one or more control signals to release the liftgate 99 from the body of the vehicle 10.

[0037] In this example, the storage panel system 100 is coupled to the rear compartment 102 to move as the liftgate 99 moves. In this example, reference Figure 2 and Figure 2A , the rear compartment 102 includes at least one or a pair of pivot pins 104, and the liftgate 99 includes at least one or a pair of anchoring posts 106 ( Figure 2 ). The pivot pins 104 are defined on opposite sides of the rear compartment 102 and are positioned adjacent to the top surfaces of one or more of the rearmost seats 108 in the passenger compartment 20. The pivot pins 104 are generally cylindrical to be received within a portion of the storage panel system 100. However, the pivot pins 104 may have any shape that cooperates with the storage panel system 100 to enable the storage panel system 100 to move or pivot as the liftgate 99 moves. Reference Figure 2 , a pair of anchoring posts 106 includes posts, bolts, etc., that are coupled to opposite sides of the liftgate 99 to receive a portion of the storage panel system 100 to couple the storage panel system 100 to the liftgate 99. The anchoring posts 106 enable the storage panel system 100 to be directly coupled to the liftgate 99 and move or pivot with the liftgate 99. Typically, the rear compartment 102 is defined at the rear of the passenger compartment 20 and is the area defined between the rearmost seats 108, the inner sidewall 10a of the vehicle 10, and the liftgate 99. The inner sidewall 10a of the vehicle 10 defines the sides of the rear compartment 102.

[0038] In one example, the storage panel system 100 includes a cover 120, a panel frame assembly 122, and at least one tether 124. In this example, the cover 120 is substantially rectangular to conform to the shape of the rear compartment 102 and is sized to cooperate with the liftgate 99 to enclose the rear compartment 102 to protect the contents within the rear compartment 102 from view. It should be noted that the cover 120 can have any desired polygonal shape that conforms to the shape of the rear compartment 102. In one example, the cover 120 is constructed of a textile, fabric, cloth, or material made by weaving or knitting fibers, threads, etc., including but not limited to polyester knitted fabric. The cover 120 is a substantially planar structure. In other examples, the cover 120 can be constructed of a thin plastic sheet. Additional reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the cover 120 is substantially lightweight, which reduces the weight associated with the storage panel system 100. The cover 120 includes a first cover surface 130 (or upper surface) opposite the second cover surface 132 ( Figure 5 )(or lower surface), a first cover side 134 opposite the second cover side 136, and a third cover side 138 opposite the fourth cover side 140.

[0039] The first cover surface 130 defines the outer upper surface of the cover 120 and is visible when the liftgate 99 is in the first closed position. The second cover surface 132 faces the rear compartment 102 and is the inner lower surface of the cover 120. When the storage panel system 100 is coupled to the vehicle 10, the first cover side 134 is adjacent to the liftgate 99. When the storage panel system 100 is coupled to the vehicle 10, the second cover side 136 is adjacent to the rearmost seat 108. The third cover side 138 and the fourth cover side 140 interconnect the first cover side 134 and the second cover side 136, and when the storage panel system 100 is coupled to the vehicle 10, the third cover side 138 and the fourth cover side 140 are adjacent to the sides of the rear compartment 102 and the sides of the liftgate 99. Generally, each of the first cover side 134, the second cover side 136, the third cover side 138, and the fourth cover side 140 is shaped to conform to or correspond to the contour of the rear compartment 102 of the vehicle 10. The third cover side 138 and the fourth cover side 140 are also shaped to conform to or correspond to the contour of the inner sidewall 10a of the vehicle 10.

[0040] In this example, each of the first cover side 134, the second cover side 136, the third cover side 138, and the fourth cover side 140 is defined by a portion of the cover 120 that is folded or wrapped onto itself. In other words, reference Figure 5, in this example, a portion of the cover 120 is wrapped around a portion of the panel frame assembly 122 such that each of the first cover side 134, the second cover side 136, the third cover side 138, and the fourth cover side 140 is defined by a portion of the cover 120 extending around the panel frame assembly 122. Terminals 134a, 136a, 138a, 140a of a respective one of the first cover side 134, the second cover side 136, the third cover side 138, and the fourth cover side 140 are positioned to be received within a portion of the panel frame assembly 122. Generally, the terminals 134a, 136a, 138a, 140a extend inwardly or toward the center of the cover 120 a length L1. The length L1 is predetermined to ensure that the cover 120 is coupled or secured to the panel frame assembly 122.

[0041] The panel frame assembly 122 imparts rigidity to the cover 120. This enables the cover 120 to be made of textiles, fabrics, cloths, etc., without causing sagging or wrinkling. The panel frame assembly 122 defines a central opening 148 and includes a first frame 150 (or upper frame) and a second frame 152 (or lower frame). The cover 120 is coupled to the panel frame assembly 122 such that the terminals 134a, 136a, 138a, 140a of a respective one of the first cover side 134, the second cover side 136, the third cover side 138, and the fourth cover side 140 are sandwiched between the first frame 150 and the second frame 152. The cover 120 spans the entire central opening 148 on one side of the panel frame assembly 122. In this example, the cover 120 spans the central opening 148 along the side of the panel frame assembly 122 defined by the first frame 150. Generally, the cover 120 spans a single side of the panel frame assembly 122 or wraps around the first frame 150 such that the opposite side of the panel frame assembly 122 defined by the second frame 152 is without the cover 120. The second frame 152 defines the second side of the panel frame assembly 122. Both the first frame 150 and the second frame 152 are made of polymer-based materials and can be molded, additively manufactured, etc. In one example, the first frame 150 is made of a different polymer-based material than the second frame 152. In this example, the first frame 150 is made of talc-filled polypropylene and the second frame 152 is made of nylon 66. By making the first frame 150 and the second frame 152 of polymer-based materials, the first frame 150 and the second frame 152 can be formed to conform to the shape of the rear compartment 102 and / or the liftgate 99, which may include curvature. The first frame 150 and the second frame 152 are described herein as including a plurality of frame members coupled together via a press fit or snap fit. However, it should be understood that the first frame 150 and / or the second frame 152 may be made of a monolithic or one-piece structure. Additionally, if desired, one or more mechanical fasteners, adhesives, or other techniques may be used to couple the workpieces of the first frame 150 and / or the second frame 152 together. Generally, by making the first frame 150 and the second frame 152 of a plurality of frame members, the first frame 150 and the second frame 152 are robust and the deformation of the first frame 150 and the second frame 152 is reduced.

[0042] Reference Figure 6, more particularly showing the first frame 150. In this example, the first frame 150 surrounds or defines a portion of the central opening 148 and includes four members: a first frame member 160, a second frame member 162, a third frame member 164, and a fourth frame member 166. In other examples, the first frame 150 may include a greater or lesser number of frame members. The first frame member 160 includes a first end 170 and an opposite second end 172. The first frame member 160 generally strengthens the cover 120 along the second cover side 136, and the second cover side 136 wraps around the outer surface of the first frame member 160. In this example, the first frame member 160 is substantially straight to correspond to the shape of the rear compartment 102. The first frame member 160 is opposite the second frame member 162. The first end 170 is coupled to the third frame member 164, and the second end 172 is coupled to the fourth frame member 166. In this example, the first end 170 and the second end 172 include sockets having a shape conforming to the first ends 174, 176 of the respective one of the third frame member 164 and the fourth frame member 166. In this example, the respective first ends 174, 176 of each of the third frame member 164 and the fourth frame member 166 are received within the respective one of the first end 170 and the second end 172 to couple the third frame member 164 and the fourth frame member 166 to the first frame member 160 via a press fit or snap fit.

[0043] The second frame member 162 includes a first end 178 and an opposite second end 180. The second frame member 162 generally strengthens the cover 120 along the first cover side 134, and the first cover side 134 wraps around the outer surface of the second frame member 162. In this example, the second frame member 162 is arcuate to correspond to the shape of the rear compartment 102. The first end 178 is coupled to the third frame member 164, and the second end 180 is coupled to the fourth frame member 166. In this example, the first end 178 and the second end 180 may include plugs shaped to be received within the respective second ends 182, 184 of the third frame member 164 and the fourth frame member 166. In this example, the first end 178 and the second end 180 of the second frame member 162 are received within the respective second ends 182, 184 of each of the third frame member 164 and the fourth frame member 166 to couple the third frame member 164 and the fourth frame member 166 to the second frame member 162 via a press fit or snap fit.

[0044] The third frame member 164 includes a first end 174 and an opposite second end 182. The third frame member 164 generally strengthens the cover 120 along the third cover side 138, and the third cover side 138 wraps around the outer surface of the third frame member 164. In this example, the third frame member 164 is substantially straight to correspond to the shape of the side of the rear compartment 102. The first end 174 is coupled to the first frame member 160, and the second end 182 is coupled to the second frame member 162. In this example, the first end 174 includes a plug that is shaped to be received within the first end 170 of the first frame member 160. The second end 182 includes a socket that is shaped to receive the first end 178 of the second frame member 162. The first end 174 couples the third frame member 164 to the first frame member 160, and the second end 182 couples the third frame member 164 to the second frame member 162.

[0045] The fourth frame member 166 includes a first end 176 and an opposite second end 184. The fourth frame member 166 generally strengthens the cover 120 along the fourth cover side 140, and the fourth cover side 140 wraps around the outer surface of the fourth frame member 166. In this example, the fourth frame member 166 is substantially straight to correspond to the shape of the side of the rear compartment 102. The first end 176 is coupled to the first frame member 160, and the second end 184 is coupled to the second frame member 162. In this example, the first end 176 includes a plug that is shaped to be received within the first end 170 of the first frame member 160. The second end 184 includes a socket that is shaped to receive the first end 178 of the second frame member 162. The first end 176 couples the fourth frame member 166 to the first frame member 160, and the second end 184 couples the fourth frame member 166 to the second frame member 162.

[0046] Each of the first frame member 160, the second frame member 162, the third frame member 164, and the fourth frame member 166 also has a first side 190 that is opposite the second side 192. In other words, the first frame 150 has a first side 190 that is opposite the second side 192. The first side 190 is substantially smooth and is coupled to or in contact with the second cover surface 132. Refer Figure 6A , the second side 192 is substantially U-shaped and includes a pair of flanges 194, a plurality of ribs 196, and at least one or more bosses 198. The flanges 194 extend outwardly or radially from the second side 192 along opposite surfaces of the second side 192. The flanges 194 are coupled to the respective cover sides 134, 136, 138, 140 of the cover 120. One flange 194a defines the outer perimeter of the first frame 150, and the other flange 194b defines the inner perimeter of the first frame 150.

[0047] In one example, the plurality of ribs 196 includes a center rib 196a and a plurality of reinforcing ribs 196b. The center rib 196a is substantially uniformly defined between flanges 194a, 194b. The center rib 196a extends around the perimeter of the second side 192 and cooperates with the reinforcing ribs 196b to provide reinforcement to the boss 198 and rigidity to the first frame 150. In this example, the reinforcing ribs 196b are staggered or stepped on opposite sides of the center rib 196a. In other words, a first subset of the reinforcing ribs 196b is defined between the flange 194a and the center rib 196a, and a second subset of the reinforcing ribs 196b is defined between the flange 194b and the center rib 196a. The first subset of reinforcing ribs 196b is offset, misaligned, or staggered relative to the second subset of reinforcing ribs 196b such that the reinforcing ribs 196b are offset along an axis extending substantially perpendicular to the center rib 196a. The reinforcing ribs 196b generally extend along an axis that is substantially perpendicular to the axis defined by the center rib 196a associated with each of the first frame member 160, the second frame member 162, the third frame member 164, and the fourth frame member 166.

[0048] The boss 198 receives a mechanical fastener 260( Figure 4B ), such as a self-tapping screw. The boss 198 is defined on the second side 192 around the perimeter of the first frame 150. As will be described, the boss 198 receives the mechanical fastener 260 to further couple the first frame 150 to the second frame 152. In one example, the second side 192 includes approximately 10 bosses 198, however, any number of bosses 198 may be employed. Each of the first frame member 160 and the second frame member 162 also includes a boss 198 within the middle or mid-portion of each of the first frame member 160 and the second frame member 162 to provide rigidity to the respective elongate first frame member 160 and second frame member 162.

[0049] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 7A, in one example, the second frame 152 surrounds or defines a portion of the central opening 148 and includes four members: a fifth frame member 200, a sixth frame member 202, a seventh frame member 204, and an eighth frame member 206. In other examples, the second frame 152 may include more or fewer frame members. The fifth frame member 200 includes a first end 210 and an opposite second end 212. The fifth frame member 200 generally strengthens the cover 120 along the second cover side 136, and the fifth frame member 200 is coupled to the first frame member 160 such that the second cover side 136 is sandwiched between the fifth frame member 200 and the first frame member 160. In this example, the fifth frame member 200 is substantially straight to correspond to the shape of the rear cabin 102. The fifth frame member 200 is opposite the sixth frame member 202. The first end 210 is coupled to the seventh frame member 204, and the second end 212 is coupled to the eighth frame member 206. In this example, the first end 210 and the second end 212 include sockets having shapes conforming to the first ends 214, 216 of the corresponding one of the seventh frame member 204 and the eighth frame member 206. In this example, the respective first ends 214, 216 of each of the seventh frame member 204 and the eighth frame member 206 are received within the corresponding one of the first end 210 and the second end 212 to couple the seventh frame member 204 and the eighth frame member 206 to the fifth frame member 200 via a press fit or snap fit.

[0050] The sixth frame member 202 includes a first end 218 and an opposite second end 220. The sixth frame member 202 generally strengthens the cover 120 along the first cover side 134, and the sixth frame member 202 is coupled to the second frame member 162 such that the first cover side 134 is sandwiched between the sixth frame member 202 and the second frame member 162. In this example, the sixth frame member 202 is arcuate to correspond to the shape of the rear cabin 102. The first end 218 is coupled to the seventh frame member 204, and the second end 220 is coupled to the eighth frame member 206. In this example, the first end 218 and the second end 220 may include plugs shaped to be received within the second ends 222, 224 of the corresponding one of the seventh frame member 204 and the eighth frame member 206. In this example, the first end 218 and the second end 220 of the sixth frame member 202 are received within the respective second ends 222, 224 of each of the seventh frame member 204 and the eighth frame member 206 to couple the seventh frame member 204 and the eighth frame member 206 to the sixth frame member 202 via a press fit or snap fit.

[0051] In one example, the sixth frame member 202 includes a pair of tether anchors 230. One of the tether anchors 230 is defined near or at the first end 218, and the other of the tether anchors 230 is defined near or at the second end 220. The tether anchors 230 extend outwardly from the outer surface of the sixth frame member 202. Generally, the tether anchors 230 are defined along the sixth frame member 202 such that at least one tether 124 can interconnect the storage panel system 100 and the lift gate 99. In this example, each of the tether anchors 230 includes a post 232 that is spaced from the sixth frame member 202 by a pair of legs 234. It should be noted that the tether anchors 230 can be configured differently to couple at least one tether 124 to the storage panel system 100. The post 232 is generally cylindrical, and the legs 234 have a length that spaces the respective post 232 from the sixth frame member 202 such that at least one tether 124 can be coupled around the respective post 232.

[0052] The seventh frame member 204 includes a first end 214 and an opposite second end 222. The seventh frame member 204 generally strengthens the cover 120 along the third cover side 138, and the seventh frame member 204 is coupled to the third frame member 164 such that the third cover side 138 is sandwiched between the seventh frame member 204 and the third frame member 164. In this example, the seventh frame member 204 is generally straight to correspond to the shape of the side of the rear compartment 102. The first end 214 is coupled to the fifth frame member 200, and the second end 222 is coupled to the sixth frame member 202. In this example, the first end 214 includes a plug that is shaped to be received within the first end 210 of the fifth frame member 200. The second end 222 includes a socket that is shaped to receive the first end 218 of the sixth frame member 202. The first end 214 couples the seventh frame member 204 to the fifth frame member 200, and the second end 222 couples the seventh frame member 204 to the sixth frame member 202.

[0053] The eighth frame member 206 includes a first end 216 and an opposite second end 224. The eighth frame member 206 generally strengthens the cover 120 along the fourth cover side 140, and the eighth frame member 206 is coupled to the fourth frame member 166 such that the fourth cover side 140 is sandwiched between the eighth frame member 206 and the fourth frame member 166. In this example, the eighth frame member 206 is substantially straight to correspond to the shape of the side of the rear compartment 102. The first end 216 is coupled to the fifth frame member 200, and the second end 224 is coupled to the sixth frame member 202. In this example, the first end 216 includes a plug that is shaped to be received within the first end 210 of the fifth frame member 200. The second end 224 includes a socket that is shaped to receive the first end 218 of the sixth frame member 202. The first end 216 couples the eighth frame member 206 to the fifth frame member 200, and the second end 224 couples the eighth frame member 206 to the sixth frame member 202.

[0054] Each of the fifth frame member 200, the sixth frame member 202, the seventh frame member 204, and the eighth frame member 206 also has a first side 240 (or third side) that is opposite the second side 242 (or fourth side). In other words, the second frame 152 has a first side 240 that is opposite the second side 242. The first side 240 is substantially U-shaped and includes a pair of second flanges 243, a plurality of second ribs 244, and at least one or more fastener holes 245. The second flanges 243 extend outwardly or radially from the first side 240 along opposite surfaces of the first side 240. The second flanges 243 are coupled to the respective cover sides 134, 136, 138, 140 of the cover 120. One second flange 243a defines the outer perimeter of the second frame 152, and the other second flange 243b defines the inner perimeter of the second frame 152.

[0055] In one example, the plurality of second ribs 244 includes a second central rib 244a and a plurality of second reinforcing ribs 244b. The second central rib 244a is substantially evenly defined between the second flanges 243a, 243b. The second central rib 244a extends around the perimeter of the first side 240 and cooperates with the second reinforcing ribs 244b to provide reinforcement for the fastener holes 245 and rigidity for the second frame 152. In this example, the second reinforcing ribs 244b are staggered or stepped on opposite sides of the second central rib 244a. In other words, a first subset of the second reinforcing ribs 244b is defined between the second flange 243a and the second central rib 244a, and a second subset of the second reinforcing ribs 244b is defined between the second flange 243b and the second central rib 244a. The first subset of the second reinforcing ribs 244b is offset from, misaligned with, or staggered with respect to the second subset of the second reinforcing ribs 244b such that the second reinforcing ribs 244b are offset along an axis extending substantially perpendicular to the second central rib 244a. The second reinforcing ribs 244b generally extend along an axis extending substantially perpendicular to the axis defined by the second central rib 244a associated with each of the fifth frame member 200, the sixth frame member 202, the seventh frame member 204, and the eighth frame member 206.

[0056] Each fastener hole 245 is coaxially aligned with a corresponding boss 198 to receive a mechanical fastener 260( Figure 4B ), to couple the first frame 150 to the second frame 152. The fastener holes 245 are defined on the first side 240 around the perimeter of the second frame 152 and extend through the first side 240 to the second side 242( Figure 7A ). In one example, the first side 240 includes approximately 10 fastener holes 245, however, any number of fastener holes 245 corresponding to the bosses 198 of the first frame 150 may be employed. In this example, the fastener holes 245 are defined near the pivot socket 246 and the tether anchor 230 such that the mechanical fastener 260 can provide reinforcement for the movement of the storage panel system 100. Each of the fifth frame member 200 and the sixth frame member 202 also includes a fastener hole 245 within the middle or midsection of each of the fifth frame member 200 and the sixth frame member 202 such that the mechanical fastener 260 can provide stiffness for the respective elongate fifth frame member 200 and sixth frame member 202. In one example, reference Figure 8A, each fastener hole 245 includes a countersunk portion 245a and a cylindrical portion 245b. The countersunk portion 245a is defined through the second side 242 and receives the head of the mechanical fastener 260. The cylindrical portion 245b extends axially from the countersunk portion 245a and is sized to receive and surround a portion of the corresponding boss 198 when the first frame 150 is coupled to the second frame 152.

[0057] The second side 242 is substantially smooth. In this example, reference Figure 7A , the second side 242 of each of the seventh frame member 204 and the eighth frame member 206 also defines a respective one of the pivot sockets 246. Each pivot socket 246 is substantially C-shaped and extends slightly outward from the second side 242. Reference Figure 4A , each of the pivot sockets 246 receives a respective one of the pivot pins 104 to pivotally couple the storage panel system 100 to the rear compartment 102. Generally, each of the pivot sockets 246 is defined to be substantially opposite a respective one of the tether anchors 230.

[0058] Referring again to Figure 4 , at least one tether 124 includes two tethers 124a, 124b. Each of the tethers 124a, 124b is made of a polymer-based material, textile, etc. and includes a first loop 250 at the first end and a second loop 252 at the opposite second end. The first loop 250 and the second loop 252 are separated by a predetermined length such that the storage panel system 100 can be substantially planar when the liftgate 99 is in the first closed position ( Figure 2A ). In one example, reference Figure 4B , the first loop 250 of the tether 124a is coupled to the liftgate 99, and additionally referring to Figure 4C , the second loop 252 of the tether 124a is coupled to the post 232 of the tether anchor 230 near the first end 218 of the sixth frame member 202. The first loop 250 of the tether 124b is coupled to the liftgate 99, and the second loop 252 of the tether 124b is coupled to the post 232 of the tether anchor 230 near the second end 220 of the sixth frame member 202.

[0059] In one example, for assembling the storage panel system 100, reference Figures 4 - 7A, in the case of forming the first frame member 160, the second frame member 162, the third frame member 164, and the fourth frame member 166, the third frame member 164 and the fourth frame member 166 are coupled to each of the first frame member 160 and the second frame member 162 to form the first frame 150. The cover sides 134, 136, 138, 140 of the cover 120 are wound around the first frame 150. In the case of forming the fifth frame member 200, the sixth frame member 202, the seventh frame member 204, and the eighth frame member 206, the seventh frame member 204 and the eighth frame member 206 are coupled to each of the fifth frame member 200 and the sixth frame member 202 to form the second frame 152. The second frame 152 is coupled to the first frame 150 such that the cover 120 is sandwiched between the first frame 150 and the second frame 152, and the cover 120 spans the central opening 148 defined by the panel frame assembly 122 along the first side 190 of the first frame 150. Generally, a distance Ds ( Figure 4B ) is defined around the perimeter of the central opening 148 between the cover 120 (second cover side 136) and the second side 242 of the second frame 152. The second side 242 of the second frame 152 is generally the lower boundary of the central opening 148. In this example, there is no structure, support, or reinforcement within the central opening 148 such that there is no support or reinforcement within the distance Ds of the central opening 148. In other words, a void area or air gap is defined around the perimeter of the central opening 148 between the second cover side 136 and the lower boundary defined by the second side 242 of the second frame 152. This void area defined between the second cover side 136 of the cover 120 and the lower boundary defined by the second side 242 of the second frame 152 has no structural members. Thus, generally, the central opening 148 is a void surrounded by the first frame 150 and the second frame 152 and is closed at one end by the cover 120. This void area or void reduces the weight associated with the storage panel system 100.

[0060] Reference Figure 8 , the second frame 152 is coupled to the first frame 150 such that each boss 198 is coaxially aligned with the fastener hole 245, and the first frame 150 covers the second frame 152. The mechanical fasteners 260 are each coaxially aligned with the fastener hole 245. Reference Figure 8A, each of the mechanical fasteners 260 is inserted through a corresponding fastener hole 245 in the second frame 152, through the cover 120 and into a corresponding boss 198 in the first frame 150 to couple the first frame 150 to the second frame 152. It should be noted that additional mechanical fasteners 260 can be used, or other techniques can be employed, including but not limited to adhesives, ultrasonic welding, etc. The coupling of the mechanical fasteners 260 to the first frame 150 can also apply tension to the cover 120 and assist in compressing the cover 120 when the cover 120 is sandwiched between the first frame 150 and the second frame 152, which reduces the sagging of the cover 120.

[0061] With the first frame 150 coupled to the second frame 152 and the cover 120 compressed between the first frame 150 and the second frame 152, the cover 120 and the panel frame assembly 122 can be positioned within the rear compartment 102 such that the pivot socket 246 receives the pivot pin 104. The second loops 252 of the tethers 124a, 124b are coupled to the posts 232 of the tether anchors 230, and the first loops 250 are coupled to the anchor posts 106 of the liftgate 99 to couple the storage panel system 100 to the liftgate 99.

[0062] With the storage panel system 100 coupled to the liftgate 99, when the liftgate 99 moves between a first closed position and a second open position, the storage panel system 100 moves or pivots together with the liftgate 99. In the first closed position, the storage panel system 100 substantially encloses the rear compartment 102 to protect the items in the rear compartment 102 from view. In the second open position, the storage panel system 100 provides increased access to the rear compartment 102. By incorporating the panel frame assembly 122 made of a polymer-based material, the panel frame assembly 122 reduces the weight associated with the storage panel system 100 while providing rigidity to the cover 120 and suppressing the generation of noise during the operation of the vehicle 10 by the storage panel system 100. Additionally, by wrapping the cover sides 134, 136, 138, 140 of the cover 120 around the first frame 150, the first frame 150 assists in reducing or suppressing the sagging or wrinkling of the cover 120. Additionally, by forming the panel frame assembly 122 from a polymer-based material, the tether anchors 230 and the pivot sockets 246 can be integrally formed with the panel frame assembly 122. Additionally, the use of a polymer-based material for the panel frame assembly 122 enables the first frame 150 and the second frame 152 to be shaped to match the profile or shape of the rear compartment 102, which ensures that the storage panel system 100 substantially completely encloses or covers the rear compartment 102.

[0063] Although at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented in the foregoing detailed description, it should be understood that there are numerous variations. It should also be understood that the exemplary embodiment or embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit in any way the scope, applicability, or configuration of the present disclosure. On the contrary, the foregoing detailed description will provide those skilled in the art with a convenient roadmap for implementing the exemplary embodiment or embodiments. It should be understood that various changes may be made to the functions and arrangements of the elements without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as set forth in the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

Claims

1. A storage panel system for a rear compartment of a vehicle, comprising: A cover; And A panel frame assembly configured to be rotatably coupled to the rear compartment, the panel frame assembly defining a central opening and including a first frame covering a second frame, and at least a portion of the cover being sandwiched between the first frame and the second frame such that the remaining portion of the cover spans the central opening.

2. The storage panel system according to claim 1, wherein, The cover is made of a textile, and the first frame and the second frame are made of a polymer-based material.

3. The storage panel system according to claim 1, wherein The portion of the cover is wrapped around the first frame, and the remaining portion of the cover covers the first frame.

4. The storage panel system according to claim 3, wherein, The first frame includes a first side opposite a second side, and the portion of the cover is wrapped around the first side such that at least one end of the cover is sandwiched between the second side of the first frame and the second frame.

5. The storage panel system according to claim 4, wherein, The second side of the first frame includes a pair of flanges and a plurality of first ribs, the plurality of first ribs including a central rib and a plurality of reinforcing ribs misaligned with respect to the central rib, and the plurality of reinforcing ribs interconnect the pair of flanges to the central rib.

6. The storage panel system according to claim 4, wherein The second side of the first frame includes a boss, a third side of the second frame facing the second side of the first frame includes a fastener hole, the fastener hole at least partially receives the boss, and a mechanical fastener is coupled to the fastener hole and the boss.

7. The storage panel system according to claim 1, further comprising at least one tether, wherein, The second frame includes at least one tether anchor and at least one pivot socket defined substantially opposite the at least one tether anchor, the at least one tether anchor receiving the at least one tether to couple the at least one tether to the panel frame assembly, and the at least one pivot socket being configured to receive a pivot pin associated with the rear compartment to movably couple the storage panel system to the rear compartment.

8. The storage panel system according to claim 7, wherein, The second frame includes a plurality of second frame members, and the at least one pivot socket is defined on one of the plurality of second frame members, and the at least one tether anchor is defined on another of the plurality of second frame members.

9. The storage panel system according to claim 1, wherein The area defined between the inner side of the cover and the boundary defined by the fourth side of the second frame has no structural members.

10. A vehicle, comprising: A passenger compartment defining a passenger compartment and a rear compartment at the rear of the passenger compartment, the rear compartment including at least one pivot pin; And The storage panel system according to claim 1, including the cover and the panel frame assembly defining the central opening, the central opening being a void, the second frame including at least one pivot socket configured to be rotatably coupled to the at least one pivot pin, and at least a portion of the cover being sandwiched between the first frame and the second frame such that the remaining portion of the cover spans the central opening.

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