A frunk arrangement for a vehicle

Abstract

Frunk arrangement (100) of a vehicle (400), wherein the arrangement (100) comprises: a storage container (120) arranged under a hood (430) of the vehicle (400), wherein the storage container (120) comprises a plurality of compartments (122); an actuator (300) coupled to the storage container (120), wherein the actuator (300) is configured to rotate the storage container (120) in a predefined direction to facilitate access to one of the plurality of compartments (122) of the storage container (120), based on a signal received by the actuator (300), characterized in that the storage container (120) is rotatably mounted on a plurality of crossbeams (112) of a body frame (110) of the frunk assembly (100), wherein one crossbeam of the plurality of crossbeams (112) is attached at one end to inner walls (110a) of the body frame (110) and the other end is coupled to the storage container (120) via an actuator (300), wherein the plurality of crossbeams (112) are dampers designed to absorb impact forces and shocks acting on the storage container (120) may be transferred if the vehicle (400) is traveling on uneven terrain or a rough surface.

Description

[0001] The following description describes in particular the invention and the manner in which it is to be implemented.

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to automobiles. In particular, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to a frunk assembly of a vehicle. Further embodiments of the present disclosure disclose a storage container integrated into the frunk assembly, which is configured for selective movement between different positions.

[0003] Vehicles, whether passenger cars or commercial vehicles, are frequently used for commuting and transporting goods from one place to another. Engineering principles have addressed various vehicle applications over time through targeted design, modeling, and manufacturing. In some cases, where the transport of goods is a primary purpose, the focus of design and modeling has been on providing a practical storage system within the vehicle to facilitate efficient storage and streamlined logistics. While speed, comfort, and goods storage have been paramount in other instances, different approaches have been employed to address the challenges of transporting such goods while simultaneously providing comfort to the user or passenger.This approach is more common nowadays for passenger cars, where ample storage space is available due to various factors, such as the vehicle type SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle), MZF (Multi-purpose vehicle), sedan, etc.

[0004] The spaces under the hood of a vehicle are called a trunk, and in some cases, a frunk if the vehicle has a front trunk. Trunks provide ample volume for storing various items and goods, depending on need and use. These trunks are enclosed by walls that fit into, or are positioned within, an empty space on a vehicle's body frame specifically designed for trunk installation. There are essentially two types of trunks or compartments: open and closed. While open compartments are generally found in station wagons and SUVs, closed compartments have a trunk lid or hood, more commonly found in sedan-style vehicles.In addition, there are trunks that are attached to the rear door of a vehicle or to the roof of a vehicle, where cargo or goods are secured and tightened using straps, ropes or other locking elements.

[0005] While numerous factors influence the design and modeling of a vehicle cargo storage system, recent developments in the automotive industry have created a favorable design landscape for providing storage systems based on practicality and utility. This is due to the fact that electric and hybrid vehicles have become more prevalent on the roads in recent years and have gained widespread acceptance in automotive markets, as well as among users and customers willing to purchase such vehicles. Electric vehicles (EVs) are combustion- and emission-free vehicles and protect the environment by reducing their carbon footprint.Due to the design and arrangement of various components in electric vehicles, such as batteries and electric motor(s), there is plenty of space inside the vehicle where a motor is usually mounted along with other functional components of the vehicle.

[0006] Since electric vehicles and other vehicles powered by alternative energy sources instead of fossil fuels do not have an internal combustion engine, the space, for example under the hood, remains empty. Because the space previously used to house and mount an internal combustion engine can now be freed up, it becomes possible to provide organized storage space in the trunk or front cargo area, i.e., the frunk, of a vehicle. While there are trunks inside a vehicle for receiving and storing various goods and cargo, the challenge lies in the fact that some corners and areas of the trunk are not easily accessible for a user who wants to put items in or take them out. Handling items in the trunk thus appears less efficient and inconvenient for the user.Additionally, the vehicle's trunk is a general storage space for goods of all kinds and does not have any special provisions for storing fragile items or items that require other storage options or arrangements.

[0007] There are arrangements and mechanisms that allow for the organization of storage space in the vehicle to facilitate convenient use of the designated storage area. For example, patent application US 2020 / 0317135A1 ['135] discloses a cargo loading system, including a cargo storage device within a compartment, wherein the movement of the cargo storage device is controlled by a positioning mechanism. The aforementioned patent applications disclose a perspective on a cargo storage device inside a vehicle that can be operated between a storage position and a loading position. The mechanisms and arrangements disclosed in '135 do not address one or more of the aforementioned problems and challenges.

[0008] This necessitates finding solutions to the aforementioned challenges through a simplified design and a mechanism that offers a relevant and efficient solution to the problems discussed, with minimal capital expenditure in the production of the proposed components.

[0009] DE 10 2012 010 337 A1 discloses an arrangement of a motor vehicle body part and a container for receiving cargo in a recess of the body part. The container is rotatably mounted in the recess and can be moved from a lowered position to a raised position by means of adjusting devices. Devices are provided for fixing the container relative to the body part in the direction of rotation of the container when the container is in the lowered position and when the container is rotatable in its raised position.

[0010] In DE 10 2019 135 175 B4, a storage container with a locked position is disclosed, the storage container comprising: a housing defining a loading volume and an axis of rotation; a tubular element positioned along the axis of rotation and within the loading volume of the housing, the tubular element defining one or more slots aligned with the axis of rotation; a plurality of shelves, each defining one or more engagement features shaped to fit into a corresponding slot of the tubular element, defining a radially extendable space between a pair of adjacent shelves; and a plurality of partitions, each secured in a radially extending space when the storage container is in the locked position.wherein the loading volume is divided into individual compartments by interfaces between the partitions and the shelves, and each of the shelves is adapted to slide along the corresponding slot of the tubular element to set a volume of the individual compartments. wherein the storage container has an extended position and wherein the partitions are no longer arranged within the single radial space when the storage container is in the extended position, wherein the partitions are arranged to rotate about the axis of rotation when the storage container is in the extended position, characterized in that the storage container has a plurality of annular elements, each of the annular elements defining an opening dimensioned to receive the tubular element, wherein the partitions each have a plurality of openings, each shaped such thatthat they have a cross-sectional area that accommodates one of the annular elements, wherein the partitions rotate around the tubular element by sliding around the annular elements when the storage container is in the extended position.

[0011] German patent application DE 10 2004 034 072 A1 discloses a container that is stackable, rotatable, and rotatable in a recess designed as a cavity. The load can be placed in the recess provided for this purpose in the bodywork of a motor vehicle. The recess can also hold a spare wheel.

[0012] The present disclosure is directed towards overcoming one or more of the aforementioned limitations or other limitations associated with the prior art.

[0013] The information disclosed in this background section of the disclosure is intended only to improve the understanding of the general background of the invention and should not be construed as an acknowledgment or any form of suggestion that this information represents the prior art already known to a person skilled in the art.

[0014] One or more deficiencies of conventional systems are overcome by the system as claimed in the present disclosure, and additional advantages are provided. Additional functions and advantages are realized through the techniques of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of the disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered part of the claimed disclosure.

[0015] In a non-restrictive embodiment of the disclosure, a vehicle frunk assembly is disclosed. The frunk assembly includes a storage container and an actuator. The storage container is located under a hood of the vehicle and comprises a plurality of compartments. The actuator is coupled to the storage container and configured to rotate the storage container in a predefined direction based on a signal received from the actuator, in order to facilitate access to a specific compartment of the storage container. The storage container is rotatably mounted on several crossbeams of a body frame of the frunk assembly. Each crossbeam of the plurality of crossbeams is attached at one end to inner walls of the body frame and coupled to the storage container at the other end by the actuator, the plurality of crossbeams being designed as dampers to absorb impact forces and jolts.

[0016] In one embodiment of the disclosure, the actuator is a servo motor and it is arranged below the storage container and coupled to the storage container to provide a rotary motion.

[0017] In one embodiment of the disclosure, the storage container is rotatably mounted on a plurality of cross members of a body frame of the frunk assembly.

[0018] In one embodiment of the disclosure, the plurality of compartments is separated by a partitioner, wherein the partitioner is configured to be rotated into different locking positions within the storage container.

[0019] In one embodiment of the disclosure, the storage container is defined by a plurality of holes, based on a number of compartments of the plurality of compartments defined in the storage container, wherein each hole of the plurality of holes is designed to receive a corresponding pin of a plurality of pins to lock the storage container in the locking positions.

[0020] In one embodiment of the disclosure, the signal is transmitted by a user by pressing a power button attached to the hood of the vehicle.

[0021] In one embodiment of the disclosure, the cross-section of the storage container is circular.

[0022] In one embodiment of the disclosure, the storage container is provided with three compartments, and after receiving the signal from the user, the actuator (300) rotates the storage container by an angle of 120 degrees.

[0023] In one embodiment of the disclosure, a vehicle includes a hood, a frunk assembly, and a control unit. The hood is pivotally connected to fixed pivot points on the vehicle and is configured to move selectively between an open and a closed position. The frunk assembly is accessible when the hood is open. The control unit is configured to electronically control the actuator to enable the operation of the frunk assembly by transmitting electronic signals from the control unit to the actuator.

[0024] In one embodiment of the disclosure, an operating method of a frunk arrangement includes the actuation of at least one portable device or a switch button to transmit a signal from the portable device or the switch button to a control unit of the vehicle. Furthermore, an electronic signal is transmitted from the control unit to the actuator to operate the storage container in different locking positions.

[0025] The foregoing summary serves only for illustration and is in no way intended to be limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

[0026] The novel features and properties of the disclosure are set forth in the accompanying claims. However, the disclosure itself, as well as its use, further tasks and advantages, are best understood by reference to the following detailed description of an embodiment, when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. One or more embodiments are now described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which identical reference numerals represent identical elements and in which: Fig. 1 illustrates a front view of a vehicle with a frunk arrangement according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 2 a top view of a hood of the vehicle made of Fig. 1 illustrated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 3 a perspective view of a frunk arrangement Fig. 1 illustrated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 4 a section view of the frunk arrangement Fig. 1 illustrated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; and Fig. 5 a top view of a storage container of the frunk arrangement Fig. 1 illustrated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; and Fig. 6 a schematic view of the operation of the frunk arrangement Fig. 1 illustrated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] The figures represent embodiments of the disclosure for illustrative purposes only. A person skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the arrangement shown here can be used without deviating from the principles of the disclosure described herein.

[0028] While the embodiments in the disclosure are subject to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments are shown by way of example in the figures and are described below. It should be understood, however, that the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the specific disclosed form, but rather that the disclosure is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives that fall within the scope of the disclosure.

[0029] It should be noted that a person skilled in the art would be motivated by the present disclosure to modify various features of a frunk arrangement for a vehicle without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Therefore, such modifications are considered part of the disclosure. Consequently, the drawings show only those specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure, so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that are readily apparent to the average person skilled in the art who benefits from the description herein. Furthermore, the arrangement of the present disclosure can be used in any type of vehicle, including commercial vehicles, passenger cars, and the like. However, for the sake of simplicity, the drawings of the disclosure do not illustrate the complete vehicle.

[0030] The terms “includes…”, “comprehensive”, or any other variations thereof used in the disclosure are not intended to cover exclusive inclusions, so that an arrangement may comprise a list of components that includes not only those components but also other components not expressly listed or inherent in such a mechanism. In other words, one or more elements in a mechanism preceded by the statement “includes…” do not, without further limitations, preclude the existence of other or additional elements in the system or arrangement.

[0031] Embodiments of the present disclosure disclose a frunk arrangement for a vehicle. Throughout the disclosure, the terms "frunk arrangement" and "arrangement" may be used synonymously. The vehicle frunk arrangement advantageously has a compact and simple design without compromising functionality or manufacturing requirements. The vehicle frunk arrangement of the present disclosure can be used in a wide variety of vehicles, including, but not limited to, electric vehicles (EVs). Furthermore, the vehicle frunk arrangement of the present disclosure provides a stable and secure attachment to a storage container in the trunk of a vehicle and is operated either automatically or manually.

[0032] The vehicle's frunk arrangement can include a storage container divided into several compartments. The frunk arrangement described herein can be controlled and operated via a smart key system or a portable device such as a key fob or smartphone, which acts as a remote control for moving the frunk arrangement between different positions. The frunk arrangement is configured to be accessible within a physically accessible zone for a user who uses the frunk arrangement to store and retrieve items. The frunk arrangement includes a storage container with three compartments. The storage container is configured to move in a predefined direction, preferably to rotate. The rotation of the storage container is initiated or activated by a signal from the user.The storage container is rotated by an actuator through a predefined angle, preferably, but not limited to, an angle of 120 degrees. Further features and details of the frunk arrangement can be described in the following paragraphs of this disclosure.

[0033] The following paragraphs describe the present disclosure with reference to Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5 to Fig. 6. In the figures, identical elements or elements with similar functions are designated by the same reference numerals. With general reference to the drawings, the frunk arrangement for the vehicle according to the teachings of preferred embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated and generally designated by reference numeral 100 in the corresponding figures. Other features and elements of the frunk arrangement (100) for the vehicle are designated by corresponding reference numerals [see list of reference numerals] in the corresponding figures and are used below according to the respective features. It is understood that the teachings of the present disclosure are not limited to a specific vehicle. Furthermore, for the sake of simplicity, the corresponding illustrations do not depict the entire vehicle.Consequently, the drawings show only those specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure, so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that are readily apparent to average persons skilled in the art in this field who benefit from the description herein.

[0034] The following detailed description is merely exemplary and is not intended to limit the filing and uses. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory set forth in the preceding background, summary, or the following detailed description. It is understood that the disclosure may take various alternative directions unless expressly stated otherwise. It is also understood that the specific devices or components illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the following patent specification are merely exemplary embodiments of the concepts of the invention defined in the accompanying claims. Therefore, specific dimensions or other physical properties relating to the embodiments that may be disclosed are not to be considered limiting unless expressly stated otherwise in the claims.Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Although certain terms are used that indicate a particular direction, the use of these terms or words is solely intended to facilitate understanding of the present invention with reference to the drawings. Consequently, it should be noted that the meaning of these terms or words is not intended to unreasonably limit the technical scope of the present invention.

[0035] Furthermore, it is understood that the language and terminology used herein serve only for descriptive purposes and are not to be construed as limitations. Unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "received," "attached," "connected," "supported," and "coupled," and variations thereof, are used in the broadest sense and include both direct and indirect fastenings, connections, supports, and couplings. Furthermore, "connected" and "attached" are not limited to physical or mechanical connections. It is understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific devices, methods, applications, conditions, or parameters described and / or shown herein, and that the terminology used herein serves as an example to describe specific embodiments and is not intended to limit the claimed invention.The following description details various embodiments. For explanatory purposes, certain configurations and details are outlined to provide a comprehensive understanding of the embodiments. However, it will also be apparent to a person skilled in the art that the embodiments can be implemented in practice without these specific details. Furthermore, known features may be omitted or simplified so as not to obscure the described embodiment. The frunk arrangement for the vehicle is described below with reference to [reference to relevant document]. Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5 to Fig. 6 explained in detail.

[0036] With reference to Fig. Figure 1 illustrates a vehicle (400) having a frunk assembly (100). The vehicle (400) according to this disclosure may include a plurality of wheels (410) to provide mobility to the vehicle (400). The vehicle (400) includes a set of headlights (420) and taillights [not explicitly shown] at a front and rear part of the vehicle (400), respectively. The vehicle (400) has a hood (430) or an electrical cover that is movably attached to a frame of the vehicle, preferably, but not exclusively, at the front part of the vehicle. The hood (430) is pivotally connected to the frame or the vehicle (400) at pivot points (432) defined on the side periphery of the vehicle (400). Space is provided under the hood (430) for mounting the frunk assembly (100). The hood (430) can be operated between an open position (430a) and a closed position (430b).The open position (430a) of the hood (430) is a position or condition that grants a user access to the frunk assembly (100). In some cases, the rear hood of a vehicle provides space for either electrically charging the vehicle or, in other cases, for supplying fuel to the vehicle's fuel tank (400). A pair of side mirrors (440) is mounted near the A-pillar of the vehicle (400) to provide a rearward and side view of the road on which the vehicle is traveling. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to the vehicle, it is assumed that the vehicle may have at least several different uses and may be designated as a passenger car, heavy-duty vehicle, light-duty vehicle, etc.In some embodiments, the vehicle may be a passenger car, a commercial vehicle, an SUV (Sports Utility Vehicle), a station wagon, a multi-purpose vehicle, or any other vehicle without deviating from the scope of the disclosure. Furthermore, the vehicle (400) may include a vehicle frame [not shown in the figures]. In one embodiment, the vehicle (400) may have the body on a frame structure such as may be known for use as a passenger car or the like. However, such structures should not be construed as limiting the present disclosure, since the vehicle may have several other configurations, such as a monocoque chassis, etc. The vehicle (400) may have a bumper (450) that is coupled or connectable to a support located at a front end (F) of the vehicle.

[0037] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the cover (430) may be provided with a power button (460). The power button (460) may be attached to an inner surface of the cover (430) facing the frunk assembly (100) when the cover (430) is moved into the closed position (430b). Providing the power button (460) on the inner surface of the cover (430) ensures a durable and longer service life for the internal circuitry of the power button (460), which is protected from external particles and liquids that could interfere with the operation of the frunk assembly (100) or send faulty signals. Throughout the disclosure, the terms “power button” and “button” may be used synonymously. The power button (460) may be used for the selective operation of the frunk assembly (100), which may be explained in further embodiments of the present disclosure.The vehicle frame is also referred to as the chassis and may be used synonymously in the following. The vehicle frame may include a pair of left and right lower elements [side frames] that extend the vehicle directly from front to rear and are connected to the underside of a metallic floor panel, which is also referred to as the floor or floor section of the vehicle in the following. The underbody elements are formed from a metal with a substantially hat-shaped cross-sectional profile, and their flange sections, which project in the vehicle width direction, are each connected and fastened to the underside of both end sections of the floor panel, which extend in the vehicle width direction, by at least one mechanical joining method and one thermal joining method, for example, but not limited to fasteners or welding.The floor panel is a surface section that forms the cabin floor. The floor panel is manufactured, for example, by pressing a steel plate and forms part of the monocoque structure of the vehicle body.

[0038] In one embodiment, the frunk assembly (100) can be mounted in a front trunk compartment, i.e., a frunk. The frunk assembly (100) according to some embodiments of the present disclosure can be modified into a smaller model and furthermore arranged inside the vehicle in spaces such as between a driver's and a passenger's seat without restricting the functionality of the frunk assembly (100). The frunk assembly (100) according to some embodiments of the present disclosure can include lighting designed to illuminate various sections and areas of the frunk assembly (100) that are essential for a user's clear vision when accessing and using the frunk assembly (100).

[0039] Fig. Figure 2 illustrates a top view of the hood (430) of the vehicle (400) in the closed position (430b). The closed position (430b) corresponds to a scenario in which the vehicle (400) is in motion to provide the user with a view through a windshield located behind the hood (430) [not explicitly shown]. In the closed position (430b) of the hood (430), the frunk assembly (100) is protected from external influences, and it is also prevented from allowing items from the frunk assembly (100) to escape into the environment. In one embodiment, the power button (460) may be provided on an outer surface of the hood (430) that is exposed to the external environment.In this embodiment, the power button (460) can be provided with a higher degree of protection (IP, Ingress Protection) to protect the internal circuitry of the power button (460) and to prevent the deposition of dust and other external particles on the power button (460).

[0040] In one embodiment, the frunk arrangement (100) for the vehicle can be provided in a trunk, a frunk or in a space within the vehicle where there is sufficient space to accommodate the frunk arrangement without affecting the features and design aspects of the frunk arrangement (100).

[0041] With reference to Fig. 3 and Fig. Section 4 describes various aspects of the frunk assembly (100) located under the hood (430). The frunk assembly (100) of this disclosure may include a body frame (110). The body frame (110) may be defined as a closed structure configured to be securely attached to the vehicle frame [not explicitly shown] and to define peripheries for components provided in the frunk assembly (100). In one embodiment, attaching the body frame (110) of the frunk assembly (100) to the vehicle frame of the vehicle (400) may be facilitated by mechanical fastening methods or thermal joining methods. The body frame (110) according to some embodiments of this disclosure may be, but is not limited to, a regular polygonal structure. In one embodiment, the body frame (110) may be a circular structure.The frunk assembly (100) can include a storage container (120) located under the hood (430) of the vehicle (400). The storage container (120) can be rotatably mounted on a plurality of crossbeams (112). In one embodiment, the storage container (120) can be a cylindrical element, but such a shape and design should not be considered a limitation. In another embodiment, the storage container (120) can be a frustoconical cylindrical element, the lower section of which has a smaller cross-sectional area compared to an upper section.

[0042] A crossbeam of the plurality of crossbeams (112) can be attached at one end to inner walls (110a) of the body frame (110), and the other end can be coupled to the storage container (120) via an actuator (300). The actuator (300) can have a first end (300a), which is defined as one of its ends, while a second end (300b) of the actuator (300) can be arranged opposite the first end (300a) of the actuator (300). In one embodiment, the plurality of crossbeams (112) can be flexibly supported on the inner walls (110a) of the body frame (110) of the frunk assembly (100) via pivot connections to allow vertical movement of the storage container (120) along its longitudinal axis (LA). In one embodiment, the cross-section of a crossbeam of the plurality of crossbeams (112) can have a regular polygonal or circular shape.

[0043] The plurality of crossbeams (112) are dampers designed to absorb impact forces and shocks that may be transmitted to the storage container (120) when the vehicle (400) travels on uneven terrain or a rough surface. In one embodiment, a plurality of dampers can be mounted between outer walls (110b) of the body frame (110) of the storage container (120) and the vehicle frame [not explicitly shown] of the vehicle (400). In another embodiment, the plurality of crossbeams (112) can be extended to initiate a vertical movement parallel to the longitudinal axis (LA) of the storage container (120), thereby raising the storage container (120) to a height at which a user can easily access it and thus avoid any physical inconvenience to the user.

[0044] The plurality of crossbeams (112) are mounted within the inner walls (110a) of the body frame (110). In one embodiment, a crossbeam of the plurality of crossbeams (112) can be mounted between two opposing, parallel inner walls (110a) of the body frame (110). In another embodiment, the plurality of crossbeams (112) can be arranged in two sets, namely a first set (112a) and a second set (112b). The two sets (112a, 112b) comprise two crossbeams of the plurality of crossbeams (112) in each set. In another embodiment, the first set (112a) and the second set (112b) of the crossbeams (112) can be arranged on two parallel horizontal planes that are orthogonal to the longitudinal axis (LA) of the storage container (120), as shown in Fig. Figure 3 illustrates this. This arrangement of the crossbeams (112) on two parallel, spaced-apart horizontal planes provides space between a first horizontal plane [not explicitly shown] and a second horizontal plane [not explicitly shown] for the provision of the actuator (300). In one embodiment, the first set (112a) of the crossbeams (112) lies on the first horizontal plane and the second set (112b) of the crossbeams (112) lies on the second horizontal plane.

[0045] The first end (300a) of the actuator (300) and the lower end of the storage container (120) can be rotatably coupled together as a single element to the crossbeams provided in the first horizontal plane [not explicitly shown]. The second end (300b) of the actuator (300) is configured to be attached to the crossbeams of the plurality of crossbeams (112) provided in the second horizontal plane [not explicitly shown]. In one embodiment, the actuator (300) can be a servo motor; however, this should not be considered a limitation, and other drive elements with the same functionality can be used as the actuator in the present disclosure without limiting the scope. In one embodiment, the shaft of the actuator (300) can be attached to the storage container (120) to perform a rotary movement of the storage container (120).

[0046] The storage container (120) serves for the transport of goods and other tools and is provided with a plurality of compartments (122), which are defined as spaces separated from one another by a partitioner (130). In one embodiment, the partitioner (130) can divide the storage container (120) into more than two compartments. Providing multiple compartments (122) inside the storage container (120) enables the storage and transport of goods of different types according to their nature, shape, size, and chemical composition. In one embodiment, the partitioner (130) can provide a compartment for storing fragile items, for which purpose the same compartment can be equipped with padded walls and other soft materials such as foam.In one embodiment, a further compartment of the plurality of compartments (122) can provide an environmentally controlled compartment for storing and transporting chemicals related to pharmaceutical goods that must be stored at a temperature corresponding to cold ambient conditions. In yet another embodiment, a further compartment of the plurality of compartments (122) can be provided with walls made of a material capable of supporting and storing sharp tools. It should be noted that the described embodiments of the compartments of the storage container (120) should not be considered the only type of compartments that can be provided; rather, the storage container of the present disclosure can provide compartments specifically designed and constructed for storing a particular type of goods, cargo, items, etc.

[0047] With reference to Fig. 4 and Fig. In conjunction with section 5, the storage container (120) can be provided with a plurality of holes (124) on its body. This provision of holes (124) enables the storage container (120) to be locked in various positions. Depending on user input, the locking positions of the storage container (120) allow easy access to a specific compartment (122). The storage container (120) can be rotated by the actuator (300) to position and lock a desired compartment (122) near the user, facilitating easy access to goods and items. Locking the storage container (120) in a desired position is facilitated by a releasable lock between a hole (124) and a corresponding pin (114).The plurality of pins (114) is flexibly provided on the inner walls (110a) of the body frame (110) of the frunk assembly (100). A pin of the plurality of pins (114) can be defined as a cylindrical element whose longitudinal axis is orthogonal to the inner walls (110a) of the body frame (110). In one embodiment, a pin of the plurality of pins (114) can be flexibly connected to the inner walls (110a) of the body frame to allow axial movement of the pin in extended and retracted positions for locking and unlocking with a corresponding hole of the plurality of holes (124).

[0048] Without limiting the scope of the locking function of the storage container (120) in different positions, in one embodiment a pin of the plurality of pins (114) can be extended outwards from the storage container (120) [as in Fig. 5 shown] protrude towards the inner walls (110a) of the body frame (110) to lock and unlock with a hole provided on the inner walls (110a) of the body frame (110) of the frunk assembly (100).

[0049] In one embodiment, the base (126) of the storage container (120) and the partitioner (130) can be securely connected as a single element, and the walls of the storage container (120) may not be attached to the base (126), allowing independent rotation of the base (126) together with the partitioner (130). Such a configuration enables a locking function for the compartments of the plurality of compartments (122) and a rigidly fixed storage container (120) in cases where the load in the storage container (120) is high. This configuration can reduce the weight of the rotatable component by eliminating the weight of the walls of the storage container (120).

[0050] In one embodiment, the storage container (120) can be provided with lighting inside the compartments of the plurality of compartments (122) to allow a better view of the positioning of the goods placed in the compartments of the plurality of compartments (122).

[0051] With reference to Fig. Figure 6 illustrates the operation of the frunk assembly (100) by means of an automated control system. The frunk assembly (100) with the storage container (120) is configured to be moved into various locking positions by manual actuation of the switch-on button (460) provided on the hood (430) of the vehicle (400), as described in earlier embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0052] In scenarios where automated control is required, an application of a control unit (500) can be provided. The control unit (500) can be located in a vehicle to establish electronic communication between the actuator (300) and the control unit (500). In one embodiment of the disclosure, the control unit (500) can be a central control module or a dedicated control module. The control unit (500) can be implemented by any computer system used to implement the features of this disclosure. The control unit (500) includes a processing module comprising at least one data processor for executing program components to fulfill user- or system-generated requests.The processing module can be a specialized processing module, such as integrated system (bus) controllers, memory management controllers, floating-point units, graphics processing modules, digital signal processing modules, etc. The processing module can include a microprocessor, such as an AMD Athlon, Duron, or Opteron; an ARM application; embedded or secure processors; IBM PowerPC; Intel Core; Itanium; Xeon; Celeron; or another processor family, etc. The processing module can be implemented using a mainframe, a distributed processor, a multi-core, parallel, grid, or other architecture. Some implementations may use embedded technologies such as application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), etc.

[0053] The control unit (500) can be configured to receive a signal from the user and transmit a signal to the actuator (300). The actuator (300) is configured to receive signals or pulses and rotate the storage container (120) between different locking positions. The user signal can be supported by a software application available on a portable device such as a smartphone. The software application can be supported on different operating systems of various smartphones. In one embodiment, the user can access the software application via a smartphone and send the signal to actuate the actuator (300) to further position the storage container (120) of the frunk assembly via the control unit (500) and lock it between different locking positions.The control unit (500) can receive various types of commands as input from the software application used by the user, for example, to change the environmental conditions of a specific compartment of the plurality of compartments (122) in which the stored goods must be kept under specific environmental conditions. In one embodiment, the portable device or smartphone can be operated by the user to selectively actuate the hood (430) of the vehicle between its open position (430a) and its closed position (430b). Since the frunk assembly (100) is accessible to the user in the open position (430a) of the hood (430), the storage container (120) can also be brought into and locked in various locking positions by the locking mechanism, as explained in earlier embodiments of the present disclosure.The locking mechanism can also be operated by the portable device or the smartphone used by the user.

[0054] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a robust, rigid, and properly aligned frunk assembly (100) that can be arranged inside the vehicle (400) on the vehicle frame. The frunk assembly (100) includes the storage container (120), which is easily accessible and operable by a user of the vehicle (400). The design of the frunk assembly (100) is such that the storage container (120) can be rotatably actuated about its longitudinal axis (LA) to access various compartments of the plurality of compartments (122), and that the storage container (120) can also be selectively actuated linearly along its longitudinal direction to position it vertically according to the user's requirements, thereby avoiding unnecessary bending and stretching of the user's body.

[0055] The frunk arrangement (100) allows for the full utilization of the vehicle's front trunk space. Since the storage container (120) is a circular element, it is easily accessible for storing and retrieving goods without straining the user's body. The frunk arrangement (100) can be equipped with dampers that support the vehicle frame (110) or the storage container (120) to prevent any damage to fragile items transported within it. Controlled by a portable device such as a smartphone, the frunk arrangement (100) offers customizable functions for each of the numerous compartments (122), depending on the type of items, cargo, or goods being stored.

[0056] It is understood that a person skilled in the art in this field can develop a system with a similar configuration without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. Such modifications and variations can be made without leaving the scope of the present invention. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure covers such modifications and variations, provided they fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0057] With regard to the use of essentially all plural and / or singular terms herein, experts may translate from plural to singular and / or from singular to plural depending on the context and / or application. For the sake of clarity, the various singular / plural permutations are explicitly set out herein.

[0058] Those skilled in the art understand that the terms used here, and in particular in the attached claims (e.g., the main parts of the attached claims), are generally to be understood as "open" terms (e.g., the term "including" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to", the term "having" as "having at least", the term "comprises" as "comprises but is not limited to", etc.). Those skilled in the art further understand that if a specific number of introductory claim repetitions is intended, this intention will be explicitly stated in the claim, and that the absence of such a repetition indicates that no such intention exists. For the sake of clarity, the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" may be used in the following attached claims, for example, to introduce claim repetitions.However, the use of such expressions should not be interpreted as meaning that introducing a claim repetition with the indefinite articles "a" or "an" restricts a particular claim containing such an introduced claim repetition to inventions containing only such a repetition, even if the same claim contains the introductory expressions "a or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and / or "an" should generally be interpreted as "at least one" or "a or more"). The same applies to the use of specific articles to introduce claim repetitions. At the very least, even if a specific number of an introduced claim repetition is explicitly stated, it is clear to a person skilled in the art that such a repetition is generally to be interpreted as referring to at least the number stated (e.g.,The mere recitation of "two recitations" without other modifiers generally means at least two recitations or two or more recitations. Furthermore, in cases where a convention is used analogously to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc.", such a construction is generally meant in the sense that a specialist would understand the convention (e.g., "a system that has at least one of A, B, and C" would include, but not be limited to, systems that have only A, only B, only C, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and / or A, B, and C together, etc.). In these cases where a convention is used analogously to "at least one of A, B, or C, etc.", such a construction is generally meant in the sense that a specialist would understand the convention (e.g.,The phrase "a system comprising at least one of A, B, or C" would include, but not be limited to, systems comprising only A, only B, only C, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and / or A, B, and C together, etc. Furthermore, those skilled in the art understand that virtually all disjoint words and / or expressions representing two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, are to be understood as including the possibility of one of the terms, each of the terms, or both of the terms. For example, the expression "A or B" is to be understood as including the possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A and B". Although various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments are apparent to those skilled in the art.The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein serve only for illustration and are not to be understood as a limitation; the true scope and spirit are specified by the following claims. Reference symbol list 100 Frunk arrangement 110 body frames 110a Interior walls 110b Exterior walls 112 Numerous crossbeams 112a First sentence 112b Second sentence 114 Variety of pens 120 storage containers 122 diverse subjects 124 Variety of Holes 130 partitioners 300 actuator 300a First End 300b Second End 400 vehicles 410 wheels 420 headlights 430 Hood 430a Open position 430b Closed position 432 pivot points 440 side mirrors 450 bumper 460 Power button 500 control unit F Front end LA Longitudinal axis

Claims

[1] Frunk arrangement (100) of a vehicle (400), wherein the arrangement (100) comprises: a storage container (120) arranged under a hood (430) of the vehicle (400), wherein the storage container (120) comprises a plurality of compartments (122); an actuator (300) coupled to the storage container (120), wherein the actuator (300) is configured to rotate the storage container (120) in a predefined direction to facilitate access to one compartment of the plurality of compartments (122) of the storage container (120), based on a signal received from the actuator (300), characterized by, that the storage container (120) is rotatably mounted on a plurality of crossbeams (112) of a body frame (110) of the frunk assembly (100), wherein one crossbeam of the plurality of crossbeams (112) is attached at one end to inner walls (110a) of the body frame (110) and the other end is coupled to the storage container (120) via an actuator (300), wherein the plurality of crossbeams (112) are dampers designed to absorb impact forces and shocks that may be transmitted to the storage container (120) when the vehicle (400) travels on uneven terrain or a rough surface. [2] Frunk arrangement (100) according to claim 1, wherein the actuator (300) is a servo motor arranged below the storage container (120) and coupled to the storage container (120) to provide a rotary motion. [3] Frunk arrangement (100) according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of compartments (122) is separated by a partitioner (130), wherein the partitioner (130) is configured to be rotated into different locking positions within the storage container (120). [4] Frunk arrangement (100) according to claim 1, wherein the storage container (120) is defined by a plurality of holes (124) based on a number of compartments defined in the storage container (120), each hole of the plurality of holes (124) being designed to receive a corresponding pin of a plurality of pins (114) for locking the storage container (120) in the locking positions. [5] Frunk arrangement (100) according to claim 1, wherein the signal is transmitted by a user by pressing a power button (460) provided on the hood (430) of the vehicle (400). [6] Frunk arrangement (100) according to claim 1, wherein the cross-section of the storage container (120) is circular. [7] Frunk arrangement (100) according to claim 1, wherein the storage container (120) is defined by three compartments, and wherein the actuator (300) rotates the storage container (120) by an angle of 120 degrees after receiving the signal from the user. [8] Vehicle, comprising: a hood (200) which is pivotably connected to pivot points (432) defined on the vehicle, wherein the hood (200) is configured for selective actuation between an open position (430a) and a closed position (430b); a subdivided frunk arrangement (100), wherein the frunk arrangement (100) is accessible in the open position (430a) of the hood (200); a control unit (500) configured to electronically control an actuator (300) to enable the operation of the frunk arrangement (100) by transmitting an electronic signal from a control unit (500) to the actuator (300). [9] Operating method of a frunk arrangement (100) according to claim 1, comprising: Activating at least one portable device or a power button to transmit a signal from the portable device to a control unit (500) of the vehicle; Transmission of an electronic signal from the control unit (500) to the actuator to operate the storage container (120) in different locking positions.

Images