Loading floor for the luggage compartment of a motor vehicle

Abstract

Loading floor (1) for the luggage compartment of a motor vehicle, wherein the flat loading floor (1) is divided into a first, rear loading floor element (2), a second, middle loading floor element (3) and a third, front loading floor element (4), wherein the first and second loading floor elements (2, 3) and the second and third loading floor elements (3, 4) are designed to be movable relative to each other such that they can be pivoted relative to each other and also folded onto each other by means of a hinge-like connection provided between the loading floor elements (2, 3, 4), wherein the hinge-like connection (5) is a 180-degree pivot connection that allows pivoting in one direction, preferably upwards, between the first and second loading floor elements (2, 3) and pivoting in the opposite direction, preferably downwards, between the second and third loading floor elements (3, 4).so that, in conjunction with front and / or rear supports on the vehicle, different positions of the loading floor (1) can be adjusted, characterized in that two loading floor elements (2, 3, 4) are locked to each other in the folded state by means of locking means, wherein the locking means is a handle (15) of the front loading floor element (4) which engages in a recess (16) of the middle loading floor element (3).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a loading floor for the luggage compartment of a motor vehicle, in particular a passenger car equipped with a tailgate, with the features of the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] EP 2 292 468 A1 relates to a multi-part sliding load floor, in particular a load floor in the trunk of a passenger vehicle, which is slidable in a guide arranged in the trunk and which comprises at least two floor panels pivotably connected by a first hinge. The first panel has at least one locking device which is adjustable between a locked position, in which it blocks the first panel against displacement in the guide, and an unlocked position, in which it allows the first panel to be moved in the guide. The locking device is adjusted by an actuating element depending on the pivot angle of the second panel relative to the first panel. A longitudinal section of the multi-part sliding load floor is also shown.The load floor consists of three floor panels covered with a common carpet, which forms the connecting strips that allow the individual panels to be pivoted against each other. The first hinge is located between the first and second panels, and the second hinge between the second and third panels. The pivot axis of the first hinge is located on the top surface of the panels, while the pivot axis of the second hinge is located on the back surface of the panels, allowing all three panels to be joined together. The third panel has a handle at the rear for easy handling. The trunk is bordered at the front by the rear seatbacks and on the opposite side by a loading sill (not shown).

[0003] EP 2 878 489 A1 relates to a loading floor for a vehicle, comprising a first section and at least a second section arranged behind the first section in the direction of travel of the vehicle, wherein the second section is articulated and pivotable about an axis connected to the first section, and a locking element, wherein at least a part of the loading floor can be detachably fixed to the vehicle via the locking element. The loading floor can be removed from the vehicle in an unlocked state of the locking element, wherein the first section and the second section are arranged in the same plane in the fixed state, and wherein the first section of the loading floor can be locked via the locking element. In one embodiment, three load floor elements are disclosed which are foldable.

[0004] DE 10 2007 042 371 A1 relates to a height-adjustable device for the loading floor of a motor vehicle with at least one guide on which the loading floor is pivotably guided about a first pivot axis, wherein the loading floor can be moved from a lower loading floor position to an upper loading floor position. The loading floor has a rear loading floor section and a front loading floor section which are pivotably connected to each other about a second pivot axis, wherein the loading floor can be raised in the region of the second pivot axis such that the rear and the front loading floor sections are pivoted relative to each other, and the guide is designed such that the loading floor is moved from the lower to the upper loading floor position by raising it in the region of the second pivot axis along the guide.

[0005] It is common practice to equip luggage compartments or trunks of motor vehicles, especially passenger cars, with movable load floors in order to create a level surface relative to the uneven bodywork, to optimize the available storage space, and at the same time to allow access to the spare tire, etc., which is usually located underneath. The load floors are often designed as multi-part panels, with the parts being movable relative to each other.

[0006] From DE 10 2004 051 622 A1, a loading floor for the luggage compartment of a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle equipped with a tailgate, is known. The loading floor is divided into three parts: a first, movable loading floor element, a second, rear loading floor element, and a third, front loading floor element. The second and third loading floor elements are arranged side by side across the surface of the luggage compartment floor, and the movable loading floor element is held movable relative to the other two luggage compartment elements such that it can be positioned planarly adjacent to one of the other two loading floor elements and moved from this position to slide over the adjacent loading floor element.

[0007] DE 10 2008 035 398 A1 discloses a loading floor in a motor vehicle comprising a rear loading floor section pivotable about a first pivot axis and a front loading floor section pivotable about a second pivot axis relative to the first loading floor section, as well as a handle for handling the loading floor. To simplify handling the loading floor, the handle is designed as a grip between the front and rear loading floor sections, the longitudinal axis of which is oriented essentially parallel to the pivot axes.

[0008] In contrast, the object of the invention is to provide a loading floor that improves the flexible use of the available storage space.

[0009] The problem is solved with a loading floor having the features of claim 1.

[0010] A loading floor for the luggage compartment of a motor vehicle is shown, wherein the flat loading floor is divided into a first, rear loading floor element, a second, middle loading floor element, and a third, front loading floor element, wherein the first and second loading floor elements and the second and third loading floor elements are designed to be movable relative to each other such that they can be pivoted relative to each other and also folded onto each other by means of a hinge-like connection provided between the loading floor elements, wherein the hinge-like connection is a 180-degree pivot connection that allows pivoting in one direction, preferably upwards, between the first and second loading floor elements, and pivoting in the opposite direction, preferably downwards, between the second and third loading floor elements.so that, in conjunction with front and / or rear mountings on the vehicle, different positions of the loading floor can be adjusted. According to the invention, two loading floor elements are locked together in the folded state by means of locking means, wherein the locking means is a handle of the front loading floor element that engages in a recess of the middle loading floor element.

[0011] It has been recognized that if the first and second loading floor elements and the second and third loading floor elements are designed to be movable relative to each other in such a way that they can be pivoted relative to each other and also folded on top of each other by means of a hinge-like connection provided between the loading floor elements, and the hinge-like connection is a 180-degree pivot connection that allows pivoting in one direction, preferably upwards, between the first and second loading floor elements, and pivoting in the opposite direction, preferably downwards, between the second and third loading floor elements, so that different positions of the loading floor can be set in conjunction with front and / or rear supports on the vehicle, it is possible to provide a flexible usage concept for the trunk.

[0012] It is therefore possible to adjust the loading floor to different positions by swiveling and / or folding the individual loading floor elements relative to each other in order to meet different storage space requirements.

[0013] The load floor elements can not only be laid flat as usual, but also folded on top of each other and pivoted against each other. This allows the front load floor element (with or without the middle element) to be used as a pivoting flap for quick access to the storage space underneath. Similarly, the front and middle, or rear and middle, load floor elements can be folded on top of each other to provide access to additional storage space beneath the load floor.

[0014] Accordingly, all three parts can also be folded and stored on top of each other to allow full access. The resulting "package" is then preferably folded up and placed behind the rear seats.

[0015] Therefore, it is advantageous if the front brackets are arranged laterally on the vehicle in such a way that the second, middle loading floor element and the third, front loading floor element can be folded up together.

[0016] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the rear supports are arranged in such a way that the completely folded load floor can be laid as a package against the back of the rear seats.

[0017] A recess for the first load floor element is conveniently located at the bottom of the rear seatbacks, near the base. This recess is designed, for example, as a slot to accommodate the end of the first load floor element when the load floor package is folded up. This facilitates folding and, in conjunction with an optional locking mechanism, ensures the element remains in this position.

[0018] In other words, it is preferred if a releasable flexible fixing is also provided in the area behind the rear seats.

[0019] As already mentioned, the loading floor elements, in particular the second middle and first front loading floor elements, have locking devices to be detachably fixed to one another, so that they are secured in the folded-over position.

[0020] The locking devices may include electromagnets and / or spring-loaded lever-bolt assemblies (similar to door locks) and / or hook-rubber tension assemblies.

[0021] If the first front loading floor element (additionally) includes laterally positioned locking means, it can be detachably fixed to a vehicle side wall in an upright position. Preferably, the locking means are provided on both sides. These can be designed like latches and, in the extended position, engage in recesses in the side wall for locking.

[0022] If the hinge-like connection is formed by an elastic element and a flexible element, wherein the elastic element is designed to pull the load floor elements towards each other, and the flexible element is designed to allow the load floor elements to pivot against each other and also to fold the load floor elements towards each other, it is possible to utilize the available storage space even more flexibly, since the load floor can be used in even more diverse configurations and positions.

[0023] For example, the front loading floor element (closest to the rear of the vehicle) can be positioned and locked in a vertical position to divide the storage space into two.

[0024] All these functions are possible, among other things, due to the special hinge-like connection between the individual loading floor elements, i.e., between the first and second, and preferably between the second and third.

[0025] The hinge-like connection comprises an elastic element and a flexible element.

[0026] The elastic element is designed to pull the load floor elements together; that is, it is stretchable but generates a restoring force. For example, the elastic element is a strip made of rubber or a similar material.

[0027] The flexible element is designed to allow the loading floor elements to pivot relative to each other and also to fold onto each other; in other words, it provides the actual hinge capability. For example, the flexible element could be a fabric strip.

[0028] Preferably, the elastic element is arranged between the opposing end faces of the respective loading floor elements. This ensures that the elements bear against each other. One end of the elastic element can be fixed in a groove located in the respective end face.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the flexible element connects a top surface of one loading floor element with a bottom surface of the other loading floor element of opposite end face regions of the respective loading floor elements, or vice versa.

[0030] It is understood that more than one hinge-like connection or elastic and flexible element can be provided between the loading floor elements.

[0031] It is also conceivable that the loading floor according to the invention is a secondary loading floor, which is arranged at a distance from a lower primary loading floor by means of spacers. This allows for even more variable use of the storage space and makes retrofitting possible.

[0032] The spacers can be laterally arranged rails, which may also be removable or retrofittable.

[0033] Further features and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description of the drawing. The drawing shows: Fig. 1 a schematic perspective view of a loading floor for the trunk of a car; Fig. 2 a schematic view of the loading floor Fig. 1 during step-by-step folding; Fig. 3. An overview of possible positions and uses of the loading floor. Fig. 1 in a trunk; Fig. 4 a schematic perspective view of alternative locking devices between loading floor elements; Fig. 5 a schematic sectional view of locking devices between loading floor elements; Fig. 6 a schematic sectional view of further alternative locking devices between loading floor elements; and Fig. 7 a schematic view of an alternative hinge-like connection in different positions; Fig. 8 a schematic perspective view of the loading floor Fig. 7 in the raised position of the front loading floor.

[0034] The figures show a loading platform labelled as a whole with the number 1.

[0035] The loading floor 1 comprises a first, rear loading floor element 2, a second, middle loading floor element 3 and a third, front loading floor element 4.

[0036] The first and second loading floor elements 2, 3 and the second and third loading floor elements 3, 4 are each designed to be movable relative to each other via a hinge-like connection 5 in such a way that they can be pivoted relative to each other and also folded on top of each other, as can be seen from Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, for example.

[0037] In the Fig. In the invention, the loading floor 1 is a secondary loading floor which is spaced apart from a lower primary loading floor 7 by means of spacers 6. The spacers 6 are laterally arranged rails.

[0038] The hinge-like 180-degree connection 5 is formed by at least known 180-degree hinges. Usually, several hinge elements are arranged across the width of the loading floor elements 2, 3, 4. It is also possible for the hinge function to be achieved by a fabric band. Thus, the following can be formed from Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 positions and arrangements are taken as shown.

[0039] In Fig. 2 shows the loading floor 1 when it is swung open or gradually folded in the direction of the arrows.

[0040] In step I, the front load floor element 4 is first lifted in a flap-like manner together with the middle load floor element 3 relative to the rear element 2. This allows access to the storage space underneath. Additionally, a bracket (33 in) is attached to each side wall of the trunk. Fig. 3) intended to maintain this position at least temporarily.

[0041] Then, in step II, the loading floor elements 4 and 3 are folded against each other, so that in step III the middle loading floor element 3 rests on the rear loading floor element 2.

[0042] The front loading floor element 4 is then placed onto the middle loading floor element 3. When placing or folding the elements together, they can be detachably secured to one another using locking mechanisms. This can be done automatically by snapping them into place or manually (see diagram). Fig. 4, Fig. 5 and Fig. 6).

[0043] The resulting package arrangement (step IV) of the load floor elements can then be folded against the back of the rear seats and locked or fixed there to completely remove the load floor from the way. Therefore, a bracket (34 in) is required on each side of the trunk wall. Fig. 3) provided to maintain this position at least temporarily. Alternatively, fixation in the manner of Fig. 4 can be used.

[0044] To facilitate folding, a slot-shaped recess 32 is provided in the spacers 6 in the lower area of ​​the back of the seatbacks, into which the end of the first loading floor element 2 slides when the package is erected. This also facilitates fixing it as a counter-support.

[0045] Fig. Figure 3 shows an overview of possible positions (1) - (6) and uses of the loading floor 1. Fig. 1 in a trunk.

[0046] Position 1 shows the flat folding position. In position (2), the front loading floor element 4, located closest to the rear of the vehicle, is positioned approximately vertically and locked to divide the storage space in two. This is achieved with a flexible and elastic connection ( Fig. 7) of the loading floor elements possible.

[0047] It is also possible to fold the front load floor element 4 and middle load floor element 3 (position (3)) or the rear load floor element 2 and middle load floor element 3 (position (5)) on top of each other to allow access to additional storage space below the load floor 1 when the rear seat is folded down.

[0048] Accordingly, all three load floor elements 2, 3, 4 can be folded on top of each other and stowed away (position (4)) to allow full access. All load floor elements 2, 3, 4 can be secured to the back of the rear seat, for example, using a detachable fastener.

[0049] It is also conceivable to use the front loading floor element 4, with or without the middle loading floor element 3, as a swiveling flap in position (6) for quick access to the storage space below.

[0050] When the loading floor elements 3 and 4 are placed or unfolded on top of the other loading floor elements 2 and 3 respectively, the loading floor elements can be locked together.

[0051] Fig. Figure 4 shows an alternative locking mechanism between load floor elements, which is well suited for securing the three folded load floor elements to the back of the rear seat backrest or for locking load floor element 3 to 4; see also Fig. 4, Position (4).

[0052] The locking mechanism comprises a receiving recess 22 located on the underside of the loading floor element 4, into which a hook 23 can engage. The hook 23 is attached to the rear loading floor element 2 via elastic tensioning rubbers 24. The hook 23 can form a grip recess 25 for the fingers of an operator.

[0053] In Fig. Figure 5 shows a locking mechanism for the loading floor element 4 on the loading floor element 3.

[0054] The loading floor element 4 has a handle 15 which engages in a recess 16 of the loading floor element 3.

[0055] The handle 15 is arranged in a corresponding opening 17 in the loading floor element 4 and has a lever tab 18 pre-tensioned by a spring 20 with a protruding locking hook 19, which engages in a locking manner when it engages the recess 16. The spring 20 causes the handle to automatically assume this position. This also facilitates the fixing of the loading floor assembly (position 4, see figure). Fig. 3), since the first and second shop floor elements are already connected to each other.

[0056] Fig. Figure 6 shows another alternative locking mechanism between load floor elements, which is based on the use of electromagnets 26. These electromagnets are embedded, for example, in the load floor elements 4 (or 3) and interact (activate) with corresponding metal inserts 27 in the load floor element 3 (or 2) when current is applied. Alternatively, switching off the current can also trigger activation.

[0057] A switch 28 can be integrated into the corresponding loading floor element (here 4) to regulate the power supply.

[0058] The alternative hinge-like connection 5 (cf. Fig. 7) is each formed by at least one elastic element 9 and one flexible element 10. Usually, several elastic elements 9 and one flexible element 10 will be arranged across the width of the loading floor elements 2, 3, 4.

[0059] The elastic element 9 is arranged between the opposing end faces of the respective loading floor elements 2, 3 and 3, 4. This causes the elements 2, 3 and 3, 4 to abut each other. One end of the elastic element 9 is fixed in a groove 11, 12 located in the respective end face.

[0060] The flexible element 10 connects a top surface 13 of one loading floor element with a bottom surface 14 of the other loading floor element of opposite end face regions of the respective loading floor elements 2, 3 or 3, 4, or vice versa. It therefore has an approximately Z-shape in cross-section.

[0061] In other words, the flexible element 10 is fixed to a top surface 13 of one loading floor element and to a bottom surface 14 of the other loading floor element and crosses the end gap loosely (without fixing).

[0062] Thus, the loading floor elements 2, 3 and 3, 4 can not only assume a flat position (A), but also an upright position (B) in which the elastic element 9 is stretched and exerts a restoring force, as well as a folded position (C) in which the loading floor elements 2, 3 and 3, 4 lie on top of each other, so that the elastic element 9 is “overstretched”.

[0063] Based on Fig. 8 is an example position (here position (2) from Fig. 3) will be explained in more detail, in which the special variant of the hinge-like connection made of Fig. 7 is used.

[0064] The raised position (4) of the load floor element 4 in the trunk behind a rear seat 29 can be seen. The load floor element 4 is releasably locked to a side panel 30 of the trunk. The load floor 1 rests with the load floor elements 2, 3 on the spacers 6 on the primary load floor 7.

[0065] By swiveling the lid open, two separate loading areas A and B are created, which can be used separately for dry and wet items, for example.

[0066] The locking of the loading floor element 4 to the side panel 30 is effected by a retractable H-shaped latch 31, whereby the edge of the loading floor element 4 is received between the webs of the “H” in the extended position of the latch 31.

[0067] The locking bar 31 is designed to be extended and retracted via a spring-loaded push-push mechanism of a known type. Ideally, the locking mechanism is located on both sides of the vehicle.

Claims

[1] Loading floor (1) for the luggage compartment of a motor vehicle, wherein the flat loading floor (1) is divided into a first, rear loading floor element (2), a second, middle loading floor element (3) and a third, front loading floor element (4), wherein the first and second loading floor elements (2, 3) and the second and third loading floor elements (3, 4) are designed to be movable relative to each other such that they can be pivoted relative to each other and also folded on top of each other by means of a hinge-like connection provided between the loading floor elements (2, 3, 4), wherein the hinge-like connection (5) is a 180-degree pivot connection which allows pivoting in one direction, preferably upwards, between the first and second loading floor elements (2, 3) and pivoting in the opposite direction, preferably downwards, between the second and third loading floor elements (3, 4),so that, in conjunction with front and / or rear brackets on the vehicle, different positions of the loading floor (1) can be adjusted, characterized by , that two loading floor elements (2,3,4) are locked to each other in the folded state by means of locking means, wherein the locking means is a handle (15) of the front loading floor element (4) which engages in a recess (16) of the middle loading floor element (3). [2] Loading floor (1) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the front brackets are arranged laterally on the vehicle in such a way that the second, middle loading floor element (3) and the third, front loading floor element (4) can be folded up together. [3] Loading floor (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the rear supports are arranged in such a way in the area of ​​the rear seats that the fully folded load floor (1) can be laid as a package against the back of the rear seats. [4] Loading floor (1) according to claim 3, characterized by , that in the lower area at the base of the rear of the rear seats a receptacle for the first, rear load floor element (2) is arranged. [5] Loading floor (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that in addition a detachable flexible fixing is arranged in the area of ​​the back of the rear seats. [6] Loading floor (1) according to claim 1, characterized by that the locking devices include electromagnets and / or spring-loaded lever-latch assemblies and / or hook-rubber tension assemblies. [7] Loading floor (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the first front loading floor element (2) includes laterally displaced locking means. [8] Loading floor (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the hinge-like connection (5) is formed by an elastic element (9) and a flexible element (10), wherein the elastic element (9) is designed to pull the loading floor elements (2,3,4) towards each other, and the flexible element (10) is designed to allow the loading floor elements (2,3,4) to pivot relative to each other and also to allow the loading floor elements (2,3,4) to fold towards each other. [9] according to claim 8, characterized by , that the elastic element (9) is arranged between the opposite end faces of the respective loading floor elements (2,3,4). [10] according to claim 9, characterized by , that the elastic element (9) is fixed at one end in a groove (11,12) arranged in the respective end face. [11] Loading floor (1) according to one of claims 8 to 10, characterized by, that the flexible element (10) connects a top (13) of one loading floor element (2,3,4) with a bottom (14) of the other loading floor element (2,3,4) of opposite end face areas of the respective loading floor elements (2,3,4), or vice versa. [12] Loading floor (1) according to one of the preceding claims, which is a secondary loading floor which is spaced apart from a lower primary loading floor (7) by means of spacers (6). [13] Loading floor (1) according to claim 13, characterized by , that the spacers (6) are laterally arranged rails.

Images