Frunk for a motor vehicle and procedures

Abstract

The invention relates to a frunk (10) for a motor vehicle (12), in particular for an electrically powered motor vehicle, comprising a frunk housing (14), a frunk compartment (16) formed within the frunk housing (14), and a frunk hood (18) movably mounted between an open position (P1) and a closed position, wherein a toilet area (20) is provided in the frunk compartment (16), within which at least one toilet unit (22) is arranged, which is connected to an associated disposal device (24) via which the contents of the toilet unit (22) can be removed from the toilet unit. The invention further relates to a method.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a frunk for a motor vehicle, in particular for an electrically powered motor vehicle, according to the preamble of claim 1. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for incorporating a toilet area in a frunk of a motor vehicle.

[0002] It is already known that frunks in motor vehicles are used to store luggage, tools, or technical components such as chargers. However, using the available space for sanitary purposes has not been previously considered.

[0003] The object of the invention is to provide a mobile toilet option by means of a frunk, which can be integrated in particular into electrically powered motor vehicles and enables hygienic and discreet use.

[0004] This problem is solved by means of a frunk having the features of claim 1 and by means of a method according to the invention. Advantageous embodiments of the frunk according to the invention are to be regarded as advantageous embodiments of the method according to the invention, wherein the means of the frunk can be used to carry out the respective method steps. Furthermore, advantageous developments of the invention are explained by the dependent claims as well as by the description of the exemplary embodiments and the figures.

[0005] One aspect of the invention relates to a frunk for a motor vehicle, particularly for an electric vehicle, comprising a frunk housing, a frunk compartment formed within the frunk housing, and a frunk cover movably mounted between an open and a closed position. The frunk is essentially designed to be integrated into the front of the vehicle and structurally connected to the body. The frunk housing forms the enclosing space, which is sealed against external influences, while the frunk compartment serves as usable storage space. The frunk cover allows the frunk to be opened and closed and can be held in different positions, for example, by gas springs or mechanical retaining elements.

[0006] To solve the problem of the invention and thus provide a toilet facility in a motor vehicle, the invention provides for a toilet area in the frunk, within which at least one toilet unit is arranged and connected to an associated disposal system, allowing the contents of the toilet unit to be removed. The toilet unit can be designed as a mobile unit or a permanently integrated module and includes a receptacle for solid and liquid waste. The disposal system is designed to enable the hygienic removal of feces and / or integrates a flushing or cleaning function. The arrangement within the frunk creates a protected yet easily accessible position, thus enabling the sanitary use of the vehicle in emergency situations or during extended journeys.

[0007] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, a washing unit is provided within the toilet area, preferably a pull-out washing unit, thus enabling hand hygiene immediately after using the toilet. The washing unit can be designed as a compact module with a basin, tap, and water reservoir and is preferably pull-out via a guide or pivoting mechanism. The integration of a pump allows operation independent of external water connections. This design improves hygiene and comfort when using the toilet area.

[0008] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, a protective device is provided which can be tensioned between the frunk hood and vehicle-side fastening means and which at least screens off the toilet area, thus enabling discreet use. The protective device can, for example, be designed as a flexible tarpaulin or folding structure made of textile or film-like material, which provides privacy when stretched. It is attached via integrated brackets, hook-and-loop fasteners, or magnetic elements, allowing the structure to be quickly assembled and disassembled.

[0009] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one retaining element is provided for the protective device, preferably at least one telescopic rod, which can be positioned between a vehicle-side mounting point and the frunk hood, thus enabling a stable and tensionable suspension of the protective device. The retaining elements are designed such that they additionally support the frunk hood in its open position and / or serve as a support for the protective device.

[0010] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the disposal device includes a flushing system, which enables the hygienic cleaning of the toilet unit. The flushing system can comprise an integrated water system with a tank, pump, and pipes to assist in cleaning the toilet bowl. This technical design ensures low-odor and clean use of the unit, thereby increasing user comfort.

[0011] A further aspect of the invention relates to a method for installing a toilet compartment in the frunk of a motor vehicle according to the previous aspect, in which the frunk hood is adjusted to an open position, at least one retaining element is attached between a vehicle-side mounting point and the frunk hood, and a protective device is stretched between the frunk hood and vehicle-side fastening means, by which the toilet compartment is at least partially screened. The method describes the sequence by which the toilet compartment is prepared and made usable, the aforementioned steps ensuring that both access and privacy are provided as desired.

[0012] In other words, the frunk of a motor vehicle is intended not only to serve as storage space but also to include an integrated toilet solution comprising a toilet area, toilet facilities, waste disposal, and a washing area. Furthermore, restraints and a protective barrier are provided, enabling the use of the toilet area in a secluded environment. This combination of components essentially enhances the vehicle's functionality by providing basic sanitation independent of external facilities, particularly for electric vehicles where the frunk offers additional space due to the absence of an engine.

[0013] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment and from the drawing(s). The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as the features and combinations of features mentioned below in the figure description and / or shown in the figure(s) alone, can be used not only in the combinations specified, but also in other combinations or individually, without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0014] This shows: Fig. 1. A perspective view of a frunk for a motor vehicle with a toilet area; and Fig. 2 A perspective view of the frunk with a protective device.

[0015] In the figures, identical or functionally equivalent elements are provided with the same reference symbols.

[0016] Fig. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a possible design of a frunk 10 for a motor vehicle 12, in particular for an electrically powered motor vehicle. The integration of a toilet solution into the frunk 10 expands the storage space into a multifunctional area that offers a hygienic and discreet toileting option in emergencies or when needed. The frunk 10 comprises a frunk housing 14, a frunk compartment 16 formed within the frunk housing 14, and a frunk hood 18 movably mounted between an open position P1 and a closed position.

[0017] In the Fig. Figure 1 shows a toilet area 20, designed to provide a sanitary function within the frunk 16, thus offering an immediate and discreet solution in emergency situations, such as unexpected needs of children, stomach upset, or illness. The toilet unit 22 is designed to offer the functionality of a camping toilet with appropriate chemicals, while also providing a water supply, for example via a pump and a fresh water tank, for subsequent handwashing and hygiene. The toilet unit 22 can be permanently integrated into the frunk 16 or designed as a removable unit, allowing for flexible use and cleaning as needed.

[0018] The disposal unit 24 may, in particular, have an integrated flushing system that enables hygienic cleaning of the toilet unit 22 after each use. For this purpose, a water tank may be provided that holds fresh water and is connected to the toilet unit 22 via an electrically or manually operated pump. The flushing water can be introduced into the toilet container via suitable pipes to remove residues and prevent odor formation.

[0019] The rinsing system can also be combined with an electronically controlled valve or sensor system to dose the amount of water as needed. This enables economical use of fresh water while simultaneously improving the cleaning effect.

[0020] Alternatively or additionally, the disposal unit 24 can include a wastewater tank that collects the used water and / or feces. This wastewater tank can be removable or accessible from the outside via a drain opening, allowing for easy and clean disposal. The wastewater tank can also be equipped with an odor filter or a chemical neutralization unit to reduce unpleasant odors. This design enables the disposal unit 24 to provide safe, hygienic, and low-maintenance disposal of waste from the toilet facility 22.

[0021] Furthermore, a washing unit 26 is arranged within the toilet area 20, preferably a pull-out washing unit that can be moved out of the frunk 16 for use and stowed away again after use. The washing unit 26 can, for example, be mounted on a telescopic or swiveling guide so that it is easily accessible and ergonomically operable without having to expose the entire frunk 16. Alternatively, the washing unit 26 can be integrated into a separate pull-out drawer or compartment that also includes a shelf or mirror.

[0022] The washing device 26 comprises a water basin 26a, a tap 26b, and a water tank 26c. The water tank 26c can be configured as a fresh water and / or wastewater tank and preferably has a filling and emptying connection. A small pump can be provided for water delivery, which is operated via the electrical supply of the motor vehicle 12 or a self-contained battery unit.

[0023] The water basin 26a can be designed to be foldable, retractable, or removable to optimize the use of available storage space. Alternatively, it can be a flexible folding basin that unfolds automatically as soon as the washing unit 26 is extended. The system can also include a heating element to provide warm water and a drain valve that directs the wastewater into the wastewater tank in a controlled manner.

[0024] The extendable design of the washing unit 26 allows for convenient hand hygiene immediately after using the toilet 22, without having to fully open the frunk 10 or force the user into an unergonomic posture. At the same time, the washing unit 26 can be stored in the frunk 16 in a space-saving and hygienic manner after use.

[0025] Lighting elements 28 can also be arranged to enable comfortable use even in poor lighting conditions.

[0026] Likewise, holding devices 32 (preferably telescopic rods) can be used for a protective device 30 (see Fig. 2) be arranged in designated storage areas. Corresponding holding points 34 for the holding devices 32 are designed as holes for telescopic poles. An entry aid 36, for example a small, foldable stool, can also be arranged as a removable component within the frunk 10.

[0027] Fig. Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the frunk 10 with a protective device 30. The protective device 30 is shown, which can be tensioned between the frunk hood 18 and vehicle-side fastenings 12a and at least partially shields the toilet area 20. The protective device 30 provides privacy and discretion during use, which is particularly important and necessary in public or busy environments.

[0028] The protective device 30 is designed in particular as a flexible protective cover, which can consist of a textile, film-like, or multi-layered material, for example, a water-repellent fabric, plastic, or composite material. It can be provided with fastening elements at the edges, such as eyelets, magnetic strips, hook-and-loop fasteners, zippers, or snap fasteners, so that it can be detachably attached to the frunk hood 18, the retaining elements 32, or the fastening devices 12a. This design allows the protective device 30 to be easily attached, tensioned, and stored in a space-saving manner when not in use, while at the same time ensuring a secure and stable privacy screen.

[0029] For the protective device 30, at least one retaining element 32 is provided, preferably two telescopic rods which can be erected between the vehicle-side retaining points 34 and the frunk hood 18.

[0030] The retaining elements 32 are not only intended for positioning the protective device 30, but can also be designed to hold and support the frunk hood 18 in an open position. Alternatively or additionally, the retaining elements 32 can be designed as pivotable elements that are coupled to the frunk hood 18 and are moved into an upright position when opened. In this position, the retaining elements 32 can simultaneously hold the protective device 30 in a tensioned position. Furthermore, it can be provided that the protective device 30 can be attached directly to the retaining elements 32 to enable a stable and tensile-resistant arrangement and to prevent unintentional detachment or slippage during use.

[0031] To use the toilet area 20 in the frunk 10 of a motor vehicle 12, the frunk cover 18 is first adjusted to an open position P1 to provide access to the frunk space 16. Then, at least one retaining element 32 is attached between a vehicle-side mounting point 34 and the frunk cover 18. Next, the protective device 30 is stretched between the frunk cover 18 and the vehicle-side mounting points 12a, thereby at least partially shielding the toilet area 20. In this way, a protected and discreet environment is created, enabling the frunk 10 to be used as a toilet area and providing a degree of privacy.

[0032] The in Fig. 1 and Fig. The representation shown in Figure 2 is for illustrative purposes only and does not limit the scope of protection.

Claims

[1] Frunk (10) for a motor vehicle (12), in particular for an electrically powered motor vehicle, comprising a frunk housing (14), a frunk space (16) formed within the frunk housing (14) and a frunk hood (18) movably mounted between an open position (P1) and a closed position, characterized by , that in the frunk room (16) a toilet area (20) is provided, within which at least one toilet facility (22) is arranged, which is connected to an associated disposal facility (24) via which the contents of the toilet facility (22) can be removed from the toilet facility. [2] Frunk (10) according to claim 1, characterized by , that within the toilet area (20) a washing facility (26) is arranged, preferably a pull-out washing facility (26). [3] Frunk (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that a protective device (30) is arranged which can be stretched between the frunk hood (18) and vehicle-side fastening means (12a) and by which the toilet area (20) can at least be shielded. [4] Frunk (10) according to claim 3, characterized by , that at least one retaining element (32) is provided for the protective device (30), preferably at least one telescopic rod, which can be erected between a vehicle-side retaining point (34) and the frunk hood (18). [5] Frunk (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the disposal facility (24) has a flushing system. [6] Method for applying a toilet area (20) in a frunk (10) of a motor vehicle (12) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein - the frunk hood (18) is adjusted to an open position (P1), - at least one retaining element (32) is attached between a vehicle-side retaining point (34) and the frunk hood (18) and - a protective device (30) is stretched between the frunk hood (18) and vehicle-side fastening means (12a), by which the toilet area (20) is at least partially shielded.

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