Switchable morphing body components and vehicles

Abstract

The application discloses a switchable vehicle body assembly and a vehicle. The vehicle body assembly comprises a body-in-white, a high cover assembly, a partition assembly, a roll cage assembly and a back door assembly. The body-in-white is internally formed with a passenger cabin and a cargo box in communication with the passenger cabin. The cargo box is located at the rear of the body-in-white and is open towards the top and the rear. The high cover assembly is detachably arranged at the top of the cargo box to close the top opening of the cargo box. The partition assembly is detachably arranged between the passenger cabin and the cargo box to close the communication opening between the passenger cabin and the cargo box. The roll cage assembly is detachably arranged in the cargo box, and a seat assembly connecting portion is arranged on the roll cage assembly. The back door assembly is arranged at the rear opening of the cargo box. Any two of the high cover assembly, the partition assembly and the roll cage assembly are selectively connected with the cargo box to switch the vehicle body shape. The vehicle body assembly can switch the shape according to the actual use requirement, the process is reversible, the cost is low, and the reliability is high.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of vehicle bodies, and more particularly to a vehicle body component and vehicle with switchable configurations. Background Technology

[0002] SUVs and pickup trucks are two popular vehicle types on the market. SUVs emphasize passenger comfort and enclosed storage space, while pickup trucks emphasize powerful open cargo carrying capacity. If consumers want both functions at the same time, they usually need to buy two vehicles, which is too costly. Currently, there is technology to convert SUVs into pickup trucks in some models, but these models usually involve complex mechanical structures, expensive hydraulic or electric mechanisms, or irreversible cutting and modification of the body. This is costly, unreliable, and poses safety hazards after modification. It may also lead to problems such as failing annual inspections or losing the original factory warranty. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. Therefore, one object of this invention is to provide a body assembly with switchable configurations. The body assembly according to the invention, by configuring the high cover assembly, partition assembly, and roll cage assembly as detachable structures, can be assembled with the body-in-white according to actual usage requirements, thereby realizing the switching of different configurations of the body assembly. The entire process is reversible, low-cost, and highly reliable.

[0004] The present invention also proposes a vehicle including the above-described body components.

[0005] The vehicle body assembly according to the present invention includes: a body-in-white, a high-cover assembly, a partition assembly, a roll cage assembly, and a tailgate assembly. The body-in-white contains a passenger compartment and a cargo box communicating with the passenger compartment. The cargo box is located at the rear of the body-in-white and opens towards the top and rear. The high-cover assembly is detachably disposed on the top of the cargo box to close the top opening of the cargo box. The partition assembly is detachably disposed between the passenger compartment and the cargo box to close the communication opening between the passenger compartment and the cargo box. The roll cage assembly is detachably disposed within the cargo box and has a seat assembly connection portion. The tailgate assembly is disposed at the rear opening of the cargo box. Any two of the high-cover assembly, the partition assembly, and the roll cage assembly can be selectively connected to the cargo box to switch vehicle body configurations.

[0006] This invention, by making the high cover assembly, partition assembly, and roll cage assembly detachable, allows users to selectively assemble any two of these three components onto the vehicle body according to their actual needs. This enables switching between different body styles without complex mechanical structures or irreversible modifications to the vehicle body, meeting consumers' usage needs in different scenarios. Users can experience two different vehicle models with just one purchase, reducing purchase costs. The structure is simple and reliable, the modification process is reversible, it does not create additional safety hazards, and it does not affect the vehicle's annual inspection or original factory warranty, resulting in lower overall costs.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the rear of the high cover assembly has an open mounting opening that connects the cargo box to the outside. The tailgate assembly includes an upper tailgate and a lower tailgate. The upper tailgate is rotatably disposed in the mounting opening to selectively open or close the cargo box. The lower tailgate is rotatably disposed in the open opening at the rear of the cargo box to selectively open or close the cargo box. The upper tailgate is adapted to be fitted to the mounting opening when the high cover assembly is connected to the body-in-white, and the lower tailgate is fixedly connected to the body-in-white.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the body assembly has a pickup truck form and an SUV form. In the pickup truck form, the partition assembly, the roll cage assembly, and the lower tailgate are respectively connected to the body-in-white. In the SUV form, the top cover assembly, the upper tailgate, the lower tailgate, and the partition assembly are respectively connected to the body-in-white, or the top cover assembly, the upper tailgate, the lower tailgate, and the roll cage assembly are respectively connected to the body-in-white.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a first connecting portion is provided at the rear edge of the cargo box, and a first hinge portion suitable for hinged engagement with the first connecting portion is provided at the bottom edge of the lower rear door; a first sealing strip and a latch are respectively provided on both sides of the lower rear door in the width direction, and a latch corresponding to the latch is provided at the edge of the rear opening of the cargo box.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the high cover assembly is provided with a second connecting part, and the top edge of the upper rear door is provided with a second hinge part, the second hinge part being adapted to hinge with the second connecting part when the upper rear door is assembled into the mounting opening; the upper rear door is provided with a second sealing strip on both sides in the width direction.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a third sealing strip is provided at the lower end of the upper rear door, and a fourth sealing strip is provided at the upper end of the lower rear door. The upper rear door and the lower rear door are adapted to engage when closed simultaneously to seal the cargo box.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the upper rear door is provided with a glass viewing area, and the lower rear door is constructed as a metal door panel.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the high-cover assembly includes: a top plate, a first side plate, and a second side plate. The front end of the top plate is provided with a plurality of first mounting portions arranged at intervals in the height direction, which are adapted to be connected to the body-in-white. The first side plate and the second side plate are respectively disposed on both sides of the top plate in the width direction. The bottom of the first side plate and the second side plate is provided with a plurality of second mounting portions arranged at intervals in the length direction, which are adapted to be connected to the side plate of the cargo box. The top plate is constructed of metal, and the first side plate and the second side plate are respectively provided with side windows.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the partition assembly includes: a first plate and a second plate, the first plate being disposed at the bottom of the second plate, the first plate being adapted to be connected to the body-in-white to separate the passenger compartment from the cargo box, and the second plate being provided with a rearview window.

[0015] The vehicle according to the present invention is briefly described below.

[0016] The vehicle according to the present invention includes the body components in the above embodiments. Since the vehicle according to the present invention is equipped with the body components in the above embodiments, the vehicle can be flexibly switched to pickup truck mode or SUV mode for different usage needs by removing and installing the original modules according to actual usage needs. There is no need to cut, weld or perform other irreversible modifications to the vehicle body. The operation is simple and the modification cost is low. After the mode is switched, the vehicle can still enjoy the original factory warranty and will not affect the vehicle's annual inspection. It can simultaneously meet the needs of users for various usage scenarios such as cargo transportation, daily commuting, family travel and multi-person travel, with higher flexibility and stronger overall vehicle practicality.

[0017] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is an exploded view of a body assembly in the form of an SUV according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is an exploded view of a pickup truck-shaped body assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a body assembly in the form of an SUV according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a structural diagram of a body-in-white according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure label: Body component 1; Body-in-white 11, passenger compartment 111, cargo box 112; High cover assembly 12, top plate 121, first side plate 122, second side plate 123, side window 124; Partition assembly 13, first plate 131, second plate 132, rear window 133; Roll cage assembly 14; Rear tailgate assembly 15, upper rear tailgate 151, second hinge 1511, third sealing strip 1512, glass viewing area 1513, lower rear tailgate 152, first hinge 1521, fourth sealing strip 1522. Detailed Implementation

[0020] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0021] SUVs and pickup trucks are two popular vehicle types on the market. SUVs emphasize passenger comfort and enclosed storage space, while pickup trucks emphasize powerful open cargo carrying capacity. If consumers want both functions at the same time, they usually need to buy two vehicles, which is too costly. Currently, there is technology to convert SUVs into pickup trucks in some models, but these models usually involve complex mechanical structures, expensive hydraulic or electric mechanisms, or irreversible cutting and modification of the body. This is costly, unreliable, and poses safety hazards after modification. It may also lead to problems such as failing annual inspections or losing the original factory warranty.

[0022] The following is for reference. Figures 1-4 A vehicle body assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0023] The vehicle body assembly 1 according to the present invention includes: a body-in-white 11, a high-cover assembly 12, a partition assembly 13, a roll cage assembly 14, and a tailgate assembly 15. A passenger compartment 111 and a cargo box 112 communicating with the passenger compartment 111 are formed within the body-in-white 11. The cargo box 112 is located at the rear of the body-in-white 11 and is open towards the top and rear. The high-cover assembly 12 is detachably disposed on the top of the cargo box 112 to close the top opening of the cargo box 112. The partition assembly 13 is detachably disposed on the top of the cargo box 112. The roll cage assembly 14 is located between the passenger compartment 111 and the cargo box 112 to close the communication opening between the passenger compartment 111 and the cargo box 112; the roll cage assembly 14 is detachably installed inside the cargo box 112 and is provided with a seat assembly connection part; the tailgate assembly 15 is located at the rear opening of the cargo box 112; any two of the high cover assembly 12, the partition assembly 13 and the roll cage assembly 14 can be selectively connected to the cargo box 112 to switch the vehicle body mode.

[0024] According to the present invention, the vehicle body assembly 1 includes a body-in-white 11, which is the most basic body frame structure of the entire vehicle, including the chassis, roof, and other structures. The body-in-white 11 forms a passenger compartment 111 and a cargo box 112. The passenger compartment 111 has reserved space for the assembly of seat components, such as... Figure 1-4 As shown, two rows of seats can typically be arranged in the passenger compartment 111; the front of the body-in-white 11 has an engine compartment for assembling vehicle components such as the engine, the passenger compartment 111 is located behind the engine compartment, and the cargo box 112 is located behind the passenger compartment 111. The top and rear of the cargo box 112 are open, facilitating loading and unloading of goods directly from above and behind; the cargo box 112 is connected to the passenger compartment, facilitating modular assembly of the body-in-white 11. Specifically, the body assembly 1 also includes a high cover assembly 12, a bulkhead assembly 13, and a roll cage assembly 14. The rear tailgate assembly 15, wherein the high cover assembly 12 is detachably mounted on the top of the cargo box 112. When the high cover assembly 12 is assembled with the body-in-white 11, the open opening at the top of the cargo box 112 is closed by the high cover assembly 12, and the interior of the cargo box 112 can form a closed space for storing goods, which can prevent the goods from getting wet and improve the privacy of the storage. Alternatively, the cargo box 112 can also serve as part of the passenger compartment 111, thereby increasing the usable space inside the vehicle, increasing the number of passengers the vehicle can carry, and improving the practicality of the vehicle. The partition assembly 13 is detachably disposed between the passenger compartment 111 and the cargo box 112. It can be used to close the connection between the passenger compartment 111 and the cargo box 112. When the partition assembly 13 is assembled with the body-in-white 11, the connection between the passenger compartment 111 and the cargo box 112 is separated by the partition assembly 13. At this time, the passenger compartment 111 becomes an independent seating space, which can isolate the noise and odor of the cargo box 112. At the same time, the cargo box 112 also becomes an independent storage space. The two do not interfere with each other, which can prevent the goods in the cargo box 112 from entering the passenger compartment 111 during driving, thus improving the riding comfort of the passenger compartment 111. The roll cage assembly 14 is detachably installed inside the cargo box 112. The roll cage assembly 14 is typically used to provide anchor points for goods stored within the cargo box 112 area, preventing goods from slipping off and improving the stability and reliability of the vehicle when transporting goods stored in the cargo box 112. At the same time, the roll cage assembly 14 can also improve the vehicle's rollover protection capability, providing a protective barrier for the passenger compartment 111 in the event of a rollover or tilt, thus improving vehicle safety. In addition, the roll cage assembly 14 is also equipped with a seat assembly connection part. When it is necessary to convert the cargo box 112 into additional seating space, the roll cage assembly 14 can be installed on the cargo box 112, and the additional seat assembly can be fixed inside the cargo box 112 through the seat assembly connection part, ensuring the stability of the seat assembly installation, improving vehicle safety, and increasing the number of passengers the vehicle can carry, which can meet the needs of multi-person travel. The rear door assembly is directly installed at the rear opening of the cargo box 112, which is used to selectively open or close the rear opening of the cargo box 112, making it convenient for users to load and unload goods in the cargo box 112 or enter the space of the cargo box 112 through the rear opening, making operation convenient.

[0025] The body component 1 provides a passenger compartment 111 and a cargo box 112 connected to the passenger compartment 111 on the body-in-white 11. By setting the high cover assembly 12, the partition assembly 13, and the roll cage assembly 14 as a detachable modular structure, the user only needs to select any two modules to assemble with the cargo box 112 of the body-in-white 11 to quickly change the overall shape of the body. For example, the high cover assembly 12 and the partition assembly 13 can be installed on the body-in-white 11, in which case the cargo box 112 is used for storage. The cover assembly 12 can close the open top of the cargo box 112 to prevent cargo from being exposed; alternatively, a high cover assembly 12 and a roll cage assembly 14 can be installed on the body-in-white 11, in which case a seat assembly can be installed inside the cargo box 112 to provide additional seating space and increase the vehicle's passenger capacity; alternatively, a partition assembly 13 and a roll cage assembly 14 can be installed on the body-in-white 11, in which case the cargo box 112 is directly open at the top and separated from the passenger compartment 111, allowing for the installation of large-volume cargo and higher storage capacity. During the switching process, no additional irreversible cutting or modification of the vehicle body structure is required, nor is a complex and expensive hydraulic or electric drive switching mechanism necessary. The switching operation is simple, the modification cost is low, and the structural reliability is high. Furthermore, all modules are original factory-designed, installable structures, preserving the vehicle's original factory warranty and preventing the vehicle from failing annual inspections. This eliminates the safety hazards associated with modifications and meets the user's needs for both pickup truck cargo carrying and SUV passenger riding functions, offering high practicality and low cost.

[0026] This invention, by setting the high cover assembly 12, the partition assembly 13, and the roll cage assembly 14 as detachable structures, allows users to selectively assemble any two of the above three components onto the body-in-white 11 according to their actual needs. This enables the switching of different body shapes without the need for complex mechanical structures or irreversible modifications to the body, meeting the user's needs in different scenarios. Users can experience two different vehicle models by purchasing only one vehicle, reducing the cost of purchasing a car. The structure is simple and reliable, the modification process is reversible, there are no additional safety hazards, and it does not affect the vehicle's normal annual inspection or enjoy the original factory warranty, resulting in a lower overall cost.

[0027] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the rear of the high cover assembly 12 is formed with an open mounting opening that connects the cargo box 112 to the outside. The tailgate assembly 15 includes an upper tailgate 151 and a lower tailgate 152. The upper tailgate 151 is rotatably disposed in the mounting opening to selectively open or close the cargo box 112. The lower tailgate 152 is rotatably disposed in the open opening at the rear of the cargo box 112 to selectively open or close the cargo box 112. The upper tailgate 151 is adapted to be fitted to the mounting opening when the high cover assembly 12 is connected to the body-in-white 11, and the lower tailgate 152 is fixedly connected to the body-in-white 11.

[0028] Since the tailgate is located at the rear opening of the cargo box 112, and the top opening of the cargo box 112 can be selectively fitted with the high cover assembly 12, in order to avoid interference between the high cover assembly 12 and the tailgate assembly 15, and to improve the privacy and convenience of the vehicle, the body assembly 1 also provides a rearward-opening mounting opening on the high cover assembly 12. Correspondingly, the tailgate assembly 15 is designed as a two-part structure, namely the upper tailgate 151 and the lower tailgate. 152, wherein: the upper rear tailgate 151 is rotatably connected to the mounting opening, and the lower rear tailgate 152 is directly rotatably connected to the lower edge of the cargo box 112 of the body-in-white 11. When the high cover assembly 12 is mounted on the top of the cargo box 112, the upper rear tailgate 151 is mounted with the high cover assembly 12. When it is necessary to open or close the upper part of the cargo box 112, only the upper rear tailgate 151 needs to be rotated, which is simple and convenient to operate. At this time, the lower rear tailgate 152 can be kept closed, or it can be opened or closed according to loading and unloading needs. The lower rear tailgate 152 is opened synchronously to achieve a larger opening and closing space, making it easier to retrieve goods from different locations. The upper and lower rear tailgates 152 work together to meet the loading and unloading needs of goods of different heights, improving the flexibility and convenience of vehicle loading and unloading. When the high cover assembly 12 is not required, the upper rear tailgate 151 can be removed together with the high cover assembly 12, and the top of the cargo box 112 remains open. At this time, the cargo box 112 can be used to store large-volume goods. The lower rear tailgate 152 remains connected to the body-in-white 11. When loading and unloading goods, only the lower rear tailgate 152 needs to be rotated to open or close the rear opening of the cargo box 112, without obstructing or hindering the loading and unloading of large-volume goods. This ensures the normal use of the open cargo box 112. The structural design is reasonable, and the use is more flexible. It can adapt to two different forms without modifying the original structure, which has higher adaptability and reliability. Moreover, there will be no problem of module assembly interference, and the operation is more flexible and convenient.

[0029] It is important to note that the lower rear tailgate 152 is fixedly connected to the body-in-white 11. Regardless of the vehicle's configuration, the lower rear tailgate 152 must be installed. The lower rear tailgate 152 can always seal and protect the rear opening of the cargo box 112. If the vehicle model requires the installation of the high cover assembly 12, the upper rear tailgate 151 can be installed together with the high cover assembly 12. Different opening areas can be opened and closed by the cooperation of the upper rear tailgate 151 and the lower rear tailgate 152 to meet different usage needs. If the high cover assembly 12 is not required, the lower rear tailgate 152 can be used normally without additional disassembly of the lower rear tailgate 152, reducing operation steps and making it more convenient to use. At the same time, the fixed connection of the lower rear tailgate 152 can also ensure sealing and protection performance, avoiding the decline in sealing performance due to long-term disassembly and reassembly, and thus improving reliability.

[0030] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the body assembly 1 has a pickup truck form and an SUV form. In the pickup truck form, the partition assembly 13, the roll cage assembly 14, and the lower tailgate 152 are respectively connected to the body-in-white 11. In the SUV form, the high cover assembly 12, the upper tailgate 151, the lower tailgate 152, and the partition assembly 13 are respectively connected to the body-in-white 11, or the high cover assembly 12, the upper tailgate 151, the lower tailgate 152, and the roll cage assembly 14 are respectively connected to the body-in-white 11.

[0031] The body assembly 1 incorporates a detachable modular structure for the high cover assembly 12, partition assembly 13, roll cage assembly 14, upper rear tailgate 151, and lower rear tailgate 152. Different modules can be selected and assembled with the body-in-white 11 as needed, thereby transforming the vehicle's form and improving its flexibility and practicality. Specifically, the body assembly 1 has both pickup truck and SUV forms. When the body assembly 1 needs to be converted to pickup truck form, the partition assembly 13 and roll cage assembly 14 can be installed on the body-in-white 11. In this case, the partition assembly 13 separates the passenger compartment 111 from the cargo box 112, forming an independent passenger space and an open cargo space. The roll cage assembly 14 not only enhances the vehicle's rollover protection but also provides anchor points for the cargo in the cargo box 112, ensuring the stability of cargo transportation. Only the lower rear tailgate 152 remains connected to the body-in-white 11, meeting the opening and closing requirements of the open cargo box 112. Large cargo can be loaded and unloaded directly from the top opening, increasing cargo capacity and meeting the needs of pickup trucks. When body component 1 needs to be converted into an SUV form, it can be equipped with a high cover assembly 12, upper rear tailgate 151, lower rear tailgate 152, and partition assembly 13. The high cover assembly 12 closes the top opening of the cargo box 112, and together with the partition assembly 13, separates an independent enclosed cargo box 112 storage space, forming a standard SUV five-seat layout, balancing passenger comfort and storage privacy, and meeting the needs of daily commuting and family travel. Alternatively, it can be equipped with a high cover assembly 12, upper rear tailgate 151, lower rear tailgate 152, and roll cage assembly 14. In this case, the passenger compartment 111 is connected to the cargo box 112, and a third row of seats can be added through the seat connection on the roll cage, expanding to a seven-seat layout, increasing the vehicle's passenger capacity, meeting the needs of multiple people traveling, and also meeting the usage positioning of SUV models. Moreover, whether in pickup truck or SUV form, the body component 1 is simply a matter of freely splicing and combining modules such as the high cover assembly 12, partition assembly 13, roll cage assembly 14, upper rear tailgate 151, and lower rear tailgate 152 with the body-in-white 11. The form change can be completed by simply removing and installing the original modules. The operation is simple, the cost is low, the modification process is reversible, there will be no additional safety hazards, and it will not affect the vehicle's normal annual inspection and enjoy the original factory warranty.

[0032] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a first connecting part is provided on the rear edge of the cargo box 112, and a first hinge part 1521 suitable for hinged engagement with the first connecting part is provided on the bottom edge of the lower rear door 152; a first sealing strip and a latch are respectively provided on both sides of the lower rear door 152 in the width direction, and a latch corresponding to the latch is provided on the edge of the rear opening of the cargo box 112.

[0033] The first connecting part is integrated into the rear frame structure of the body-in-white 11. The lower tailgate 152 is hinged to the first connecting part through the first hinge part 1521, which facilitates disassembly and maintenance. At the same time, the hinge structure is stable and reliable, capable of withstanding the weight of the lower tailgate 152 itself and the force during opening and closing, avoiding the problem of loosening of the hinge or even structural damage after long-term use. Meanwhile, the lower tailgate 152 is provided with first sealing strips on both sides in the width direction. When the lower tailgate 152 is closed, the first sealing strips on both sides can fit against the edge of the open opening of the cargo box 112, realizing the connection between the lower tailgate 152 and the body-in-white 11. The seal between the compartments effectively prevents rainwater and dust from entering the cargo box 112, avoiding wetting or soiling the goods stored inside. The sealing performance is excellent. In addition, a latch is provided on the lower rear door 152, and a locking tongue is provided on the edge of the open opening of the cargo box 112. The latch and the locking tongue can work together to lock the lower rear door 152 in the closed state, preventing the lower rear door 152 from being accidentally opened during vehicle operation, ensuring the safety of the goods stored in the cargo box 112. The structure is simple and reliable, the locking operation is convenient, and it can adapt to the usage needs of the lower rear door 152 in different configurations, improving the safety of vehicle operation.

[0034] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a second connecting portion is provided on the high cover assembly 12, and a second hinge portion 1511 is provided on the top edge of the upper rear door 151. The second hinge portion 1511 is adapted to be hinged with the second connecting portion when the upper rear door 151 is assembled into the mounting opening; a second sealing strip is provided on both sides of the upper rear door 151 in the width direction.

[0035] Unlike the lower tailgate 152, which is directly connected to the body-in-white 11, the upper tailgate 151 is used in conjunction with the high cover assembly 12. To facilitate the installation of the upper tailgate 151, an open mounting port is provided at the rear of the high cover assembly 12, which connects to the cargo box 112. When the body component 1 needs to be converted into an SUV form, the upper tailgate 151 can be installed to the mounting port and, together with the high cover assembly 12, mounted on the top of the cargo box 112. Specifically, a second hinge portion 1511 is provided on the top edge of the upper tailgate 151. Correspondingly, a second connecting portion is provided on the high cover assembly 12. The second hinge portion 1511 can directly hinge with the second connecting portion. Before assembling the high cover assembly 12, the upper tailgate 151 can be first installed with the mounting port of the high cover assembly 12, and then the high cover assembly 12 can be installed on the body-in-white 11. At this time, the engagement of the second hinge portion 1511 and the second connecting portion allows the upper tailgate 151 to be directly hinged to the high cover assembly 12. Door 151 can rotate, opening or closing the mounting opening by rotation, making it convenient for passengers to access goods on top of the cargo box 112. The operation is convenient and smooth. The entire assembly process does not require any additional modifications to the high cover assembly 12 or the body-in-white 11. Assembly can be completed simply by assembling the corresponding modules in sequence. It is flexible to assemble and disassemble and has strong adaptability. At the same time, the upper rear door 151 is also equipped with second sealing strips on both sides in the width direction. After the high cover assembly 12 and the upper rear door 151 are assembled, when the upper rear door 151 is closed, the second sealing strips can fit against the edge of the mounting opening to achieve a seal between the upper rear door 151 and the high cover assembly 12. This can also prevent rainwater and dust from entering the cargo box 112. Together with the first sealing strip of the lower rear door 152, it can achieve a complete seal at the rear and top openings of the entire cargo box 112, with a better sealing effect, further improving the protective capability of the cargo box 112.

[0036] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a third sealing strip 1512 is provided at the lower end of the upper rear door 151, and a fourth sealing strip 1522 is provided at the upper end of the lower rear door 152. The upper rear door 151 and the lower rear door 152 are adapted to dock when closed simultaneously to seal the cargo box 112. When the body assembly 1 is in SUV form, the upper tailgate 151 is assembled to the body-in-white 11 along with the high cover assembly 12, and the lower tailgate 152 is also assembled to the body-in-white 11. In order to improve the sealing performance of the cargo box 112, the body assembly 1 also provides a third sealing strip 1512 at the lower end of the upper tailgate 151. Correspondingly, a fourth sealing strip 1522 is provided at the upper end of the lower tailgate 152. When the upper and lower tailgates 152 are closed at the same time, the lower end of the upper tailgate 151 and the upper end of the lower tailgate 152 are connected to each other. The third sealing strip 1512 and the fourth sealing strip 1522 will also be pressed and adhered to each other, filling the gap at the joint of the upper and lower tailgates 152. This further improves the overall sealing performance of the rear of the cargo box 112, and can prevent rainwater and dust from seeping into the cargo box 112 from the joint gap of the upper and lower tailgates 152, thereby ensuring the dryness and cleanliness of the interior of the cargo box 112 and improving the overall protective effect of the cargo box 112.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the upper rear tailgate 151 is provided with a glass viewing area 1513, and the lower rear tailgate 152 is constructed as a metal door panel. When the body assembly 1 is in SUV form, in order to increase the passenger capacity of the vehicle, the partition assembly 13 may not be provided. Instead, a roll cage assembly 14 is provided in the cargo box 112. The roll cage assembly 14 is provided with a seat assembly connecting part. At this time, a row of seat assemblies can be installed in the cargo box 112 as the third row of seats of the vehicle. The seat assemblies are fixed to the seat assembly connecting part on the roll cage assembly 14 to ensure the stability of the third row of seats. At this time, the cargo box 112 can be used as part of the passenger compartment 111 of the vehicle. Passengers can enter the vehicle through the door at the position of the second row of passenger compartment 111, and then enter the cargo box 112 through the connection between the cargo box 112 and the passenger compartment 111 to sit in the third row of seat assemblies. At this time, in order to improve the seating comfort and lighting of the third row of passengers, The effect is that a glass viewing area 1513 can be set on the upper rear tailgate 151, that is, the upper rear tailgate 151 is mainly made of glass, which can provide good lighting for the interior of the vehicle, and at the same time, it is convenient for the driver to observe the status of the third row of passengers or the road conditions behind the vehicle through the interior rearview mirror, thus improving driving and riding safety. When the body-in-white 11 is equipped with both the partition assembly 13 and the high cover assembly 12, the cargo box 112 serves as the storage space of the vehicle in SUV form. The upper rear tailgate 151 with the glass viewing area 1513 will not affect the storage of goods. Moreover, the light transmittance of the glass viewing area 1513 also allows the driver and passengers to directly observe the storage status of the goods in the cargo box 112 from outside the vehicle when the vehicle is stopped, making it easy to quickly confirm whether the goods have fallen off, further improving the safety and reliability of the vehicle. Unlike the upper rear tailgate 151, the lower rear tailgate 152 is always connected to the body-in-white 11 and serves as the lower closed structure of the open rear opening of the cargo box 112. To improve the overall safety of the vehicle, the lower rear tailgate 152 can be constructed as a metal door panel, which can provide sufficient structural strength for the rear of the cargo box 112 and withstand greater external impacts. At the same time, the structural strength of the metal door panel itself can better adapt to the locking cooperation of the latch and the bolt. After locking, the structure is more stable and reliable, less prone to deformation and loosening, and has a longer service life. It can also better meet the usage requirements of the open cargo box 112 in pickup truck mode. The metal door panel has stronger impact resistance. Even if there is a scrape or collision during loading and unloading, it is not easy to break. The maintenance cost is lower. It can reliably cover and protect the lower part of the cargo box 112, reducing the risk of external debris entering the cargo box 112 during vehicle operation. At the same time, it works in conjunction with the glass viewing area 1513 of the upper rear tailgate 151, taking into account both structural strength and functionality, and the structural design is more reasonable.

[0038] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the high-cover assembly 12 includes: a top plate 121, a first side plate 122 and a second side plate 123. The front end of the top plate 121 is provided with a plurality of first mounting portions adapted to be connected to the body-in-white 11 and arranged at intervals in the height direction. The first side plate 122 and the second side plate 123 are respectively provided on both sides of the top plate 121 in the width direction. The bottom of the first side plate 122 and the second side plate 123 is provided with a plurality of second mounting portions adapted to be connected to the side plate of the cargo box 112 and arranged at intervals in the length direction. The top plate 121 is constructed of metal, and the first side plate 122 and the second side plate 123 are respectively provided with side windows 124.

[0039] like Figure 1As shown, the high-cover assembly 12 is provided with a top plate 121, a first side plate 122, and a second side plate 123. The top plate 121 is located directly above the open top of the cargo box 112 and is used to close the top of the cargo box 112. The top plate 121 is constructed of metal, ensuring the overall structural strength of the high-cover assembly 12, improving its resistance to deformation and impact, meeting the structural strength requirements for daily use, and extending the service life of the high-cover assembly 12. Multiple first mounting parts are arranged at intervals along the height direction at the front end of the top plate 121. Each first mounting part can be fixedly connected to the connection structure at the front of the body-in-white 11. This multi-point connection ensures the stability of the connection between the front of the high-cover assembly 12 and the body-in-white 11, preventing loosening and shaking of the high-cover assembly 12 during vehicle operation, resulting in higher connection reliability. One side panel 122 and the second side panel 123 are respectively fixedly connected to the left and right sides of the top panel 121 in the width direction and extend downward to the top of the side panels of the cargo box 112. Each side panel has multiple second mounting parts arranged at intervals along the length direction at its bottom. The second mounting parts can be connected and fixed to the side panels of the cargo box 112, thereby stably fixing the left and right sides of the high cover assembly 12 to the cargo box 112, further improving the overall assembly stability of the high cover assembly 12. In addition, side windows 124 can also be provided on the first side panel 122 and the second side panel 123. The side windows 124 can improve the lighting effect inside the cargo box 112 or the passenger compartment 111 after the third row of seats is added. At the same time, it can also facilitate the driver and passengers to observe the road conditions to the side and rear of the vehicle, improve driving safety, and make the overall appearance of the SUV more coordinated and beautiful, in line with the design style of passenger cars.

[0040] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the partition assembly 13 includes: a first plate 131 and a second plate 132. The first plate 131 is disposed at the bottom of the second plate 132 and is adapted to be connected to the body-in-white 11 to separate the passenger compartment 111 from the cargo box 112. A rearview window 133 is provided on the second plate 132. The partition is a structure used to separate the passenger compartment 111 and the cargo box 112. When the body assembly 1 is in the form of a pickup truck or in the form of an SUV where the cargo box 112 is used to load cargo, the partition assembly 13 needs to be arranged at the connection between the passenger compartment 111 and the cargo box 112. The partition assembly 13 separates the vehicle's storage space from the passenger space, preventing cargo loaded in the cargo box 112 from rushing into the passenger compartment 111 during driving, thus ensuring the safety of the passengers. At the same time, it also prevents dust and odors generated by the cargo from entering the passenger compartment 111, improving passenger comfort.

[0041] like Figure 1As shown, the partition assembly 13 is provided with a first plate 131 and a second plate 132. The first plate 131 is located at the bottom and is connected and fixed to the floor structure of the body-in-white 11. The second plate 132 is connected above the first plate 131 and extends to the roof of the passenger compartment 111, achieving complete separation between the passenger compartment 111 and the cargo box 112. The rearview window 133 opened on the second plate 132 ensures that the driver's view of the road conditions behind the vehicle through the rearview mirror is unobstructed and does not affect the original rearview mirror observation function. This design ensures basic driving safety without requiring adjustments to the original rearview mirrors, offering greater adaptability. The first plate 131, constructed of metal, guarantees the overall structural strength of the partition assembly 13. In the event of sudden braking or a collision, it effectively prevents cargo in the cargo box 112 from rushing forward into the passenger compartment 111, improving overall vehicle safety. Furthermore, the metal first plate 131 offers greater impact resistance, reducing the risk of damage during loading and unloading, resulting in a longer service life and lower maintenance costs. Through the design of the first plate 131 and the second plate 132, the partition assembly 13 balances structural strength with visibility requirements. Whether the vehicle body component 1 needs to be converted into a pickup truck or an SUV, the partition assembly 13 can be installed as needed without affecting the original vehicle's basic functionality, enhancing safety and practicality.

[0042] The vehicle according to the present invention is briefly described below.

[0043] The vehicle according to the present invention includes the body component 1 in the above embodiments. Since the vehicle according to the present invention is equipped with the body component 1 in the above embodiments, the vehicle can be flexibly switched to a pickup truck mode or an SUV mode for different usage needs by disassembling and assembling the original module according to actual usage needs. There is no need to cut, weld or perform other irreversible modifications to the vehicle body 11. The operation is simple and the modification cost is low. After the mode is switched, the vehicle can still enjoy the original factory warranty normally and will not affect the vehicle's annual inspection. It can simultaneously meet the needs of users for various usage scenarios such as cargo transportation, daily commuting, family travel and multi-person travel, with higher flexibility of use and stronger practicality of the whole vehicle.

[0044] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0045] In the description of this invention, "first feature" and "second feature" may include one or more of the features.

[0046] In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0047] In the description of this invention, the first feature being "above" or "below" the second feature may include the first and second features being in direct contact, or it may include the first and second features not being in direct contact but being in contact through another feature between them.

[0048] In the description of this invention, the terms "above," "over," and "on top" for the first feature and the second feature include the first feature being directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicating that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature.

[0049] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0050] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A switchable body component, characterized in that, include: Body-in-white (11), wherein a passenger compartment (111) is formed therein and a cargo box (112) communicating with the passenger compartment (111), the cargo box (112) being located at the rear of the body-in-white (11) and opening towards the top and rear. A high-cover assembly (12) is detachably disposed on the top of the cargo box (112) to close the top opening of the cargo box (112); A partition assembly (13) is detachably disposed between the passenger compartment (111) and the cargo box (112) to close the communication opening between the passenger compartment (111) and the cargo box (112); Roll cage assembly (14), which is detachably disposed in the cargo box (112), and the roll cage assembly (14) is provided with a seat assembly connection part; A tailgate assembly (15) is provided at the rear opening of the cargo box (112); wherein Any two of the high cover assembly (12), the partition assembly (13), and the roll cage assembly (14) may be selectively connected to the cargo box (112) to switch vehicle body configurations.

2. The switchable body assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rear of the high-cover assembly (12) has an open mounting opening that connects the cargo box (112) to the outside. The rear door assembly (15) includes: Upper rear door (151), which is rotatably disposed at the mounting opening to selectively open or close the cargo box (112). A lower rear hatch (152) is rotatably disposed at an opening at the rear of the cargo box (112) to selectively open or close the cargo box (112); wherein The upper rear hatch (151) is adapted to be fitted to the mounting port when the high cover assembly (12) is connected to the body-in-white (11), and the lower rear hatch (152) is fixedly connected to the body-in-white (11).

3. The switchable body assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The body assembly has a pickup truck form and an SUV form. In the pickup truck form, the partition assembly (13), the roll cage assembly (14), and the lower rear tailgate (152) are respectively connected to the body-in-white (11). In the SUV form, the high cover assembly (12), the upper rear tailgate (151), the lower rear tailgate (152), and the partition assembly (13) are respectively connected to the body-in-white (11), or the high cover assembly (12), the upper rear tailgate (151), the lower rear tailgate (152), and the roll cage assembly (14) are respectively connected to the body-in-white (11).

4. The switchable body assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The rear edge of the cargo box (112) is provided with a first connecting part, and the bottom edge of the lower rear door (152) is provided with a first hinge part (1521) suitable for hinged engagement with the first connecting part; the lower rear door (152) is provided with a first sealing strip and a latch on both sides in the width direction, and the edge of the rear opening of the cargo box (112) is provided with a latch corresponding to the latch.

5. The switchable body assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The high cover assembly (12) is provided with a second connecting part, and the top edge of the upper rear door (151) is provided with a second hinge part (1511). The second hinge part (1511) is adapted to be hinged with the second connecting part when the upper rear door (151) is assembled into the mounting port. The upper rear door (151) is provided with a second sealing strip on both sides in the width direction.

6. The switchable body assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that, The lower end of the upper rear door (151) is provided with a third sealing strip (1512), and the upper end of the lower rear door (152) is provided with a fourth sealing strip (1522). The upper rear door (151) and the lower rear door (152) are adapted to dock when closed at the same time to seal the cargo box (112).

7. The switchable body assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The upper rear door (151) is provided with a glass viewing area (1513), and the lower rear door (152) is constructed as a metal door panel.

8. The switchable body assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The high-cover assembly (12) includes: The top plate (121) has a plurality of first mounting parts arranged at intervals in the height direction, which are suitable for connecting to the body-in-white (11). A first side plate (122) and a second side plate (123) are respectively disposed on both sides of the top plate (121) in the width direction. The bottom of the first side plate (122) and the second side plate (123) are provided with a plurality of second mounting portions arranged at intervals in the length direction, suitable for connection with the side plate of the cargo box (112). The top plate (121) is constructed of metal, and the first side plate (122) and the second side plate (123) are respectively provided with side windows (124).

9. The switchable body assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The partition assembly (13) includes: A first plate (131) and a second plate (132), wherein the first plate (131) is disposed at the bottom of the second plate (132), the first plate (131) is adapted to be connected to the body-in-white (11) to separate the passenger compartment (111) from the cargo box (112), and the second plate (132) is provided with a rearview window (133).

10. A vehicle, characterized in that, Includes the vehicle body component as described in any one of claims 1-9.

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