Vehicle for the trunk of a vehicle

Abstract

Vehicle (1) for a trunk (22) of a vehicle (23), comprising a support (2) and a chassis (3) which are movably connected to each other by at least two connecting rods (4, 5) and associated pivot axes (6, 7, 8, 9), further comprising wheels (10, 11) which are attached to the chassis (3), a rail device (21) which can be arranged or is arranged in the trunk (22) with at least one rail (20) into which the support (2) can be inserted, a folding mechanism which enables the vehicle (1) to be folded between an unfolded position and a folded position by a rotation of the chassis (3) about the support (2), wherein the vehicle (1) in the folded state can be fully inserted into the at least one rail (20) and can be stowed in the trunk (22).

Description

[0001] The technical field of the invention is vehicles for the trunk of a vehicle.

[0002] The current state of the art reveals various approaches to the design of vehicles that can be stored in the trunk of a vehicle. Systems that utilize a foldable design or a rail system to efficiently stow and reuse a vehicle are particularly relevant.

[0003] WO 2015 / 188321 A1 discloses a foldable transport platform equipped with a combination of translational and rotational bearing points.

[0004] WO 2017 / 037702 A1 describes a vehicle with complex kinematics that requires a large number of moving components.

[0005] The object of the invention is to provide a vehicle that can be stored in the trunk of a vehicle in a space-saving manner and can be easily taken out and used when needed.

[0006] The invention relates to a vehicle for the trunk of a vehicle, comprising a support and a subframe which are movably connected to each other by at least two connecting rods and associated pivot axes, further comprising wheels which are attached to the subframe and / or to one of the connecting rods, a rail device which can be arranged or is arranged in the trunk with at least one rail into which the support can be inserted, a folding mechanism which enables the vehicle to be folded between an unfolded position and a folded position by a rotation of the subframe around the support, wherein the vehicle in the folded state can be completely inserted into the at least one rail and can be stored in the trunk.

[0007] The carrier is the central component of the vehicle, serving as the connecting element between the chassis and the rail system. The chassis is a movable unit connected to the carrier via connecting rods and pivots, and it carries wheels that enable sliding movement. The connecting rods are pivot components attached to the carrier and chassis, allowing them to rotate freely, thus ensuring the structure's mobility. The rail system is a fixed, reversible component installed in the trunk. It includes at least one rail into which the vehicle's carrier can be inserted and removed. The rail system can be securely fastened and easily removed. Similar to transport securing devices, the rail system is fixed in the trunk using suitable fastening mechanisms, ensuring a secure and stable connection.At the same time, the system allows for tool-free disassembly, making the rail system flexible and adaptable to specific needs. This reversible installation ensures that the rail system can be easily removed or reinstalled depending on the application, without permanently altering the vehicle's structure.

[0008] The folding mechanism allows the chassis to be folded around the carrier to adjust the vehicle between an extended and a folded position.

[0009] The advantages of the vehicle lie in the space-saving storage of the vehicle in the folded state, the stability and rigidity of the construction due to the continuous pivot axes, and in the easy handling due to the mechanisms for locking and fixing included in the rail device.

[0010] Advantageously, the vehicle can be designed such that the wheels of the chassis are arranged below the support in the unfolded position and above the support in the folded position, wherein the chassis performs a rotational movement around the support when adjusting between the unfolded position and the folded position, wherein at least one connecting rod performs a rotational movement of at least 180°.

[0011] The rotational movement of the bogie around the support is achieved through the rotatable connection via the connecting rods.

[0012] This allows for compact storage of the vehicle when folded, while the wheels ensure stable pushing in the unfolded position.

[0013] In an alternative embodiment, the rear connecting rod can have a similar length to the front connecting rod. This would prevent the subframe from rotating excessively when folded, instead allowing it to be moved into the folded position in a more compact motion. In this case, it is not strictly necessary for the rotation of the connecting rod to exceed 180°, although such a rotation would still be possible.

[0014] Advantageously, the connecting rods can be equipped with a first locking mechanism that enables the vehicle to be fixed in the folded position, wherein a mechanism for folding the vehicle comprises a ramp on at least one of the connecting rods, wherein the connecting rod, directly or indirectly, upon reaching a predetermined position, in particular the folded position, pushes back or releases a locking bolt, so that the locking mechanism engages.

[0015] The first locking mechanism is a device that holds the vehicle in a fixed position.

[0016] This ensures a secure and stable fixation of the vehicle in the folded position, which allows for easy handling and storage.

[0017] Advantageously, the rail device can have a further second locking mechanism designed in such a way as to enable the vehicle to be fixed or locked in the unfolded position and / or in the folded position and / or in at least one intermediate position between the unfolded position and the folded position.

[0018] The second locking mechanism is an additional device within the rail system that ensures secure positioning of the vehicle in various positions.

[0019] This increases the flexibility of the vehicle's use, as it can be stably fixed in different positions to meet the respective usage requirements.

[0020] Advantageously, the vehicle's axes of rotation can be designed as continuous axes to ensure increased stability and rigidity of the vehicle.

[0021] This results in increased strength of the entire structure, thereby improving the vehicle's load-bearing capacity and lifespan.

[0022] Advantageously, the carrier can have a flat structure that serves to mechanically stabilize the vehicle and has brackets for attaching accessories, such as a shopping basket or a baby carrier.

[0023] The carrier has a flat surface and features special fixings that allow for the secure attachment of accessories.

[0024] This increases the versatility of the vehicle, as it can be adapted to different transport requirements.

[0025] In an alternative embodiment, it is not strictly necessary to provide a flat surface for the carrier. Instead, a frame connecting the fixings and coupling bearings may suffice. This frame would also integrate the counterpart to the rail, ensuring a stable and precise connection between the carrier and the rail system. This simplified design reduces material requirements and enables a functional, compact solution that simultaneously provides the necessary stability and flexibility for securing the vehicle in the trunk.

[0026] Advantageously, the carrier can also be designed as a single, integrated component that performs additional functions, such as serving as a shopping basket or baby carrier. This integrated design allows for versatile use of the vehicle by directly integrating the carrier as a functional element for transporting specific items. Such a construction eliminates the need for separate accessories, simplifies assembly, and increases practicality, while maintaining stability and connection to the other system components.

[0027] Advantageously, the chassis can have steerable front wheels and larger rear wheels mounted on separate axles, with the rear wheels of the chassis being equipped with a parking brake that allows for secure fixing during loading or unloading.

[0028] The steerable front wheels are movable elements that, through their steering capability, enable precise control of the vehicle, while the larger rear wheels offer increased stability and can be held in a fixed position by the parking brake.

[0029] This makes handling the vehicle easier, both when maneuvering and when loading and unloading, which increases safety during use.

[0030] Advantageously, the chassis and / or the carrier can include an adjustment device for height adjustment, designed to allow for different loading heights.

[0031] The adjustment device is a mechanism that allows the chassis to be moved vertically in order to adapt the height of the vehicle to the respective loading requirements.

[0032] This expands the functionality of the vehicle, as it can be adapted to different usage scenarios, such as storing bulky items or ergonomic handling at different vehicle heights.

[0033] Advantageously, the adjustment device can also be designed so that the coupling positions are adjusted when the height of the chassis is changed. This adjustment ensures that the geometry and movement mechanics of the vehicle are optimally adapted to the changed height. This enables precise control of the kinematics, regardless of the set load height.

[0034] Advantageously, the mechanism for folding the vehicle can include a mechanical release device that can be activated by manual operation or by entering the rail device.

[0035] The mechanical release device is a component that triggers the folding of the bogie, either by manual operation or by contact with the rail device.

[0036] This simplifies the operation of the vehicle, as folding is achieved through an intuitive movement or automatic triggering, which increases user-friendliness.

[0037] A further object of the invention is a method for using the vehicle described above for a vehicle trunk, comprising the following steps: driving the vehicle towards the open trunk, inserting the carrier into the at least one rail of the rail device arranged in the trunk and fixing it in a locking mechanism in the rail device, releasing a further locking mechanism of the carrier on the carrier and pulling the carrier into a folded position by a rotational movement of at least 180°, fully inserting the vehicle into the at least one rail and locking it into the end position of the rail device by means of the first locking mechanism, and closing the trunk, wherein the vehicle is securely fixed in the rail device.

[0038] This procedure describes a sequence of steps required to safely stow the vehicle in the trunk or to remove it from it for use.

[0039] One advantage of this method is that it ensures user-friendly handling of the vehicle, which is both simple and efficient, while allowing for the secure fixing and stowing of the vehicle in the trunk.

[0040] It is understood that the features mentioned above and those to be explained below can be used not only in the combinations specified, but also in other combinations or on their own, without leaving the scope of the present invention.

[0041] The invention is schematically illustrated with reference to embodiments in the drawings. It shows: Fig. 1 a perspective view of a vehicle with carrier, chassis and connecting rods according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 2 a side view of the vehicle in a rail device in the trunk of a vehicle; Fig. 3 a step in which the vehicle is inserted into the rail device and locked in place; Fig. 4. Folding the chassis by rotation around axes of rotation; Fig. 5 the vehicle in folded position, inserted into the trunk; Fig. 6 the final position of the vehicle, fixed in the rail device; Fig. 7 an embodiment of the vehicle with a carrier and accessory mounts.

[0042] The figures are described in a coherent and comprehensive manner. The same reference symbols are assigned to the same components.

[0043] Fig. Figure 1 shows a sketchy, perspective view of an embodiment of a vehicle 1, consisting of a support 2 and a chassis 3, which are movably connected to each other via two connecting rods 4, 5 on each side, with associated pivot axes 6, 7, 8, 9. The support 2 serves as the central support of the vehicle 1, while the chassis 3 carries two wheels 10, 11 on each side, enabling movement. The pivot axes 6 and 7 are attached to the support 2, while the pivot axes 8 and 9 are attached to the chassis 3 and ensure the movement of the connecting rods 4, 5. The wheels 10, 11 are mounted on the chassis 3, with the wheels 10 of the front axle being designed for steering and the wheels 11 of the rear axle providing stability and braking capability by means of a parking brake 12 or a brake unit.

[0044] Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic side view of the vehicle. Fig. 1. The connecting rods 4, 5 connect the support 2 to the chassis 3 and allow its rotation about the axes of rotation 6, 7, 8, 9. This design allows the chassis 3 to be folded into a collapsed position. A shopping basket 24 is attached to the support 2 as an accessory.

[0045] Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic representation to illustrate one step of the procedure for using the vehicle from Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. In this step, the vehicle 1 is driven towards the open trunk 22 of a vehicle 23, whereby the carrier 2 is inserted into the rails 20 of a rail device 21, which is installed in a trunk 22. After insertion, the carrier 2 engages in a first locking mechanism 30, which positions the carrier 2 rotationally fixed relative to the rails 20.

[0046] Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of a further step of the process. After engaging the rails 20, at least a second locking mechanism 40 is triggered, which fixes the support 2 and the carriage 3 relative to the connecting rods 4, 5. The carriage 3 is then pulled upwards and performs a rotational movement 41 about the axes of rotation 6 and 7 until it reaches a folded position.

[0047] Fig. Figure 5 shows a schematic representation of a further step of the process. Here, vehicle 1 is in a folded position and is being pushed further into the trunk 22 on the rails 20. A further locking mechanism 50, or a further fixing, ensures that the chassis 3 is held securely in the folded position. The locking mechanism 50 can be located between the support 2 and the first connecting rod 4, fixing them in relation to each other. Simultaneously, the first locking mechanism 30 is released on one side to allow vehicle 1 to be fully inserted into the trunk 22.

[0048] Fig. Figure 6 shows a schematic representation of a further step of the procedure. The vehicle 1 is inserted into an end position 60, as indicated by arrow 61, and a further locking mechanism or fixation is engaged. The trunk 22 can then be closed while the vehicle 1 is securely fixed in the rail device 21.

[0049] Fig. Figure 7 shows a schematic representation of another embodiment of the vehicle 1. The carrier 2 is designed as a simple frame with interfaces or holders 70 for accessories, such as a shopping basket, in an upper area. In the lower area, the carrier 2 is shaped so that it fits into the vehicle-side rails 20. Fig.2-5 are inserted and can be held by these. The connecting rods 4, 5 are closed and made of a high-strength plastic or metal to ensure stability and durability. The rear wheels 11 are larger than the front wheels 10, have a brake unit or a parking brake 12, and are mounted on a separate axle. The front wheels 10 are steerable to allow precise control of the vehicle. The bearings of the front wheels 10 are attached either to the connecting rod 4 or to the chassis 3. The chassis 3 is also designed as a flat component and therefore provides mechanical stability for mounting the two connecting rods 4, 5 relative to each other. Furthermore, a handle 71 is attached to the support 2, which is suitable for pushing the vehicle 1, especially with a shopping cart mounted on it. REFERENCE MARK LIST: 1 vehicle 2 carriers 3 bogies 4 Stabilizer link (first) 5. Connecting rod (second) 6. Axis of rotation (first, on the support) 7. Axis of rotation (second, on the support) 8. Pivot axis (first, on the chassis) 9. Pivot axis (second, on the subframe) 10 front wheel 11 Rear wheel 12 Parking brake / brake unit 20 rails 21 Rail device 22 trunk 23 vehicles 24 shopping basket 30 first locking mechanism 40 second locking mechanism 41 Rotational movement 50 additional locking mechanisms / fixings 60 End position 61 Arrow 70 interfaces / mounts 71 handle QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] WO 2015 / 188321 A1

[0003] WO 2017 / 037702 A1

[0004]

Claims

Vehicle (1) for a trunk (22) of a vehicle (23), comprising a support (2) and a chassis (3) which are movably connected to each other by at least two connecting rods (4, 5) and associated pivot axes (6, 7, 8, 9), further comprising wheels (10, 11) which are attached to the chassis (3) and / or to one of the connecting rods (4, 5), a rail device (21) which can be arranged or is arranged in the trunk (22) with at least one rail (20) into which the support (2) can be inserted, a folding mechanism which enables the vehicle (1) to be folded between an unfolded position and a folded position by a rotation of the chassis (3) about the support (2), wherein the vehicle (1) in the folded state can be fully inserted into the at least one rail (20) and can be stowed in the trunk (22). Vehicle (1) according to claim 1, wherein the wheels (10, 11) of the chassis (3) are arranged below the support (2) in the unfolded position and above the support (2) in the folded position, wherein the chassis (3) performs a rotational movement (41) about the support (2) when adjusted between the unfolded position and the folded position, wherein at least one connecting rod (4, 5) performs a rotational movement by at least 180°. Vehicle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting rods (4, 5) are equipped with a locking mechanism (50) which enables the vehicle (1) to be fixed in the folded position, wherein a mechanism for folding the vehicle (1) comprises a ramp on at least one of the connecting rods (4, 5), wherein the connecting rod (4, 5) indirectly or directly upon reaching a predetermined position, in particular the folded position, pushes back or releases a locking bolt, so that the locking mechanism (50) engages. Vehicle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the rail device (21) has a further locking mechanism (30) which is designed to enable the vehicle (1) to be fixed or locked in the unfolded position and / or in the folded position and / or in at least one intermediate position between the unfolded position and the folded position. Vehicle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the axes of rotation (6, 7, 8, 9) are designed as continuous axes to ensure increased stability and stiffness of the vehicle (1). Vehicle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier (2) has a planar structure which serves to mechanically stabilize the vehicle (1) and has holders (70) for attaching accessories, such as a shopping basket or a baby carrier. Vehicle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the chassis (3) has steerable front wheels (10) and larger rear wheels (11) mounted on separate axles, wherein the rear wheels (11) of the chassis (3) are equipped with a parking brake (12) which enables secure fixing during loading or unloading. Vehicle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the chassis (3) and / or the support (2) comprises an adjustment device for height adjustment, which is designed such that different loading heights can be set. Vehicle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the mechanism (40) for folding the vehicle (1) includes a mechanical release device which can be activated by manual actuation or by entering the rail device (21). A method for using a vehicle (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9 for a vehicle trunk, comprising the steps of: driving the vehicle (1) towards the open trunk (22), driving the carrier (2) into the at least one rail (20) of the rail device (21) and engaging it in a first locking mechanism (30) in the rail device (21), releasing a further second locking mechanism (40) of the carriage (3) on the carrier (2) and raising the carriage (3) into a folded position by a rotation movement (41) by at least 180°, fully inserting the vehicle (1) into the at least one rail (20) and engaging it in the end position of the rail device (21) by means of the first locking mechanism (30) and / or by means of a further locking mechanism, closing the trunk (22), wherein the vehicle (1) is securely fixed in the rail device (21).

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