Motor vehicle comprising a multifunctional rear shelf and method for transforming a vehicle passenger compartment into a sleeping area

Abstract

Motor vehicle (1) comprising a floor (2) extending in a plane (XY) comprising a longitudinal axis (X) and a transverse axis (Y), a passenger compartment (6) comprising a first row (7) of at least one seat and a second row (8) of at least one seat spaced from the first row (7), the seat of the second row (8) comprising a seat (8a) and a backrest (8b) articulated relative to the seat (8a) between a position of use and a folded position in which the backrest (8b) extends along the longitudinal axis (X) of the vehicle, the vehicle (1) further comprising a trunk space (9) located at the rear of the second row (8) of seats.The vehicle comprises a multifunctional rear shelf (10) configured to move from a storage position to a support position, in which the rear shelf (10) forms a parallelepiped-shaped support extending in the longitudinal continuity of an upper surface (8d) of the backrest of the second row (8) of seats, said rear shelf comprising a plurality of panels (A, B, C, D, F, G) articulated together by textile hinges (H). Figure for the abstract: Fig 1.

Description

Title of the invention: Motor vehicle comprising a multifunctional rear shelf and method for transforming a vehicle passenger compartment into a sleeping area

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of motor vehicles and in particular the transformation of a passenger compartment of a motor vehicle into a sleeping space.

[0002] Users are increasingly eager for getaways and tend to bring in exterior elements allowing them to transform part of the passenger compartment into a night space, in particular to sleep in the vehicle.

[0003] To meet this need, external kits such as storage boxes containing in particular a folding bed base have been developed in order to be positioned in the trunk of the vehicle.

[0004] However, such a solution considerably reduces the available volume of the trunk once the storage box is loaded.

[0005] There is therefore a need to improve the transformation of a passenger compartment of a motor vehicle into a sleeping space without impacting the volume available in the trunk of the vehicle.

[0006] The objective of the present invention is to provide, from the design stage of the motor vehicle, the equipment necessary for transforming part of the passenger compartment into a sleeping area.

[0007] The present invention relates to a motor vehicle comprising a floor extending in a plane comprising a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis.

[0008] The vehicle further comprises a passenger compartment comprising a first row of at least one seat and a second row of at least one seat spaced a longitudinal distance from the first row, the seat of the second row comprising a seat and a backrest articulated relative to the seat along a transverse articulation axis or transverse articulation between a position of use, in which the seat and the backrest form an angle of between 80° and 120° relative to each other and a folded position in which the backrest is close to the corresponding seat and extends along the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, preferably substantially parallel to the floor.

[0009] The vehicle further comprises a trunk space located at the rear of the second row of seats.

[0010] The vehicle further includes a multi-function rear shelf configured to move from a storage position in which the rear shelf is secured to the vehicle and extends from an upper end of the second row backrest seat along the longitudinal axis partly in the trunk space in a support position, in which, in the folded position of the second row of seats, the rear shelf forms a parallelepiped-shaped support extending in the longitudinal distance between the first and second rows of seats in the longitudinal continuity of an upper surface of the backrest of the second row of seats, said rear shelf comprising a plurality of panels hinged together by textile hinges.

[0011] The trunk space is accessible by the user once the vehicle trunk door is open.

[0012] Advantageously, the transverse articulation axis connecting the backrest and the seat base of the second row of seats is mounted in translation in a dedicated rail secured to the seat base and the backrest, so that when the backrest pivots around the transverse articulation axis, said transverse articulation axis moves vertically upwards along the vertical axis in particular to allow the backrest to adopt a position parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, i.e. as horizontal as possible.

[0013] For example, the longitudinal distance between the first and second row of seat(s) is between 15cm and 50cm.

[0014] Preferably, each seat of the first row of seats and / or the second row of seat(s) is mounted to slide along the longitudinal axis relative to the floor of the vehicle, for example in dedicated rails.

[0015] The second row of seats may comprise a single seat delimiting two or three seats or comprise two or three parts each delimiting one or two seats.

[0016] The connection of the seats to the floor, as well as the configuration of the seats is known per se and will not be described further.

[0017] Advantageously, the vehicle further comprises a secondary floor secured to the motor vehicle in the storage position and in the support position and configured to pass from the storage position, in which the secondary floor obstructs a housing in the floor of the vehicle, generally comprising accessories such as warning triangles, etc., and the support position, in which the secondary floor extends from the second row of seat(s) partly into the trunk space in the longitudinal continuity of the upper surface of the backrest of said second row, on the side opposite the rear shelf.

[0018] Thus, in the support position, the rear shelf, the rear surface of the backrests of the second row of seat(s) and the secondary floor form a flat support surface extending in the XY plane, substantially horizontal and configured to receive equipment, such as an additional mattress or bed base.

[0019] The support surface is located at a height from the roof of the vehicle sufficiently large to allow the user to sit without touching the roof. The vertical distance between the support surface and the vehicle roof is between 50cm and 1.50m.

[0020] The goal is to be able to turn around or even move from a position lying on your back to lying on your stomach without having to get out of the vehicle.

[0021] By "height" is meant the dimension in the vertical direction.

[0022] Preferably, the support surface is located at a height below the openings of the vehicle in order to avoid any accidental damage to said openings.

[0023] The transverse dimension of the rear shelf in the support configuration is less than the dimension of the longitudinal distance between the first and second row of seats.

[0024] Advantageously, the rear beach comprises: - a main panel, - a first side panel hinged relative to the main panel by a first transverse main fold line parallel to the transverse axis, - a second side panel hinged relative to the main panel by a second transverse main fold line parallel to the transverse axis, - a third side panel hinged relative to the main panel by a third main longitudinal fold line parallel to the longitudinal axis; and - a fourth side panel hinged relative to the main panel by a fourth main longitudinal fold line parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0025] By “fold line” is meant a textile hinge.

[0026] For example, each textile hinge comprises a textile strip comprising a plurality of holes or eyelets integral with an adjacent panel by molding with said panel.

[0027] Alternatively, it could be provided to glue the sides of the textile ribbon to the corresponding panel.

[0028] In the supporting position, the upper surface of the main panel of the rear shelf extends between the first and second row of seats in longitudinal continuity with the upper surface of the backrests of the second row of seat(s).

[0029] Thus, in the support position, the upper surface of the main panel of the rear shelf, the rear surface of the backrests of the second row of seats and the secondary floor together form a flat support surface extending in the XY plane, substantially horizontal and configured to receive equipment, such as an additional mattress or bed base.

[0030] For example, the second side panel comprises a first portion connected to the main panel by the second transverse main fold line and a second portion, parallel to the first portion, and connected to said first portion by a transverse intermediate fold line parallel to the transverse main fold line and to the transverse axis, the first side panel, the first part of the second side panel and the main panel being aligned in the longitudinal direction, i.e. in the same plane, in the storage position.

[0031] In other words, the second part is hinged relative to the first part along the transverse intermediate fold line.

[0032] For example, the rear shelf further comprises a first bottom panel hinged relative to the first side panel by a first transverse secondary fold line parallel to the transverse axis and a second bottom panel hinged relative to the second side panel by a second transverse secondary fold line parallel to the transverse axis.

[0033] Preferably, in the supporting position, the bottom panels of the rear shelf rest on the upper surface of the floor.

[0034] For example, the first bottom panel comprises three parts each connected to the first side panel by the first transverse secondary fold line.

[0035] In other words, each of the parts of the first bottom panel are hinged relative to the first side panel along a corresponding transverse secondary fold line.

[0036] The first and third portions have, for example, an identical dimension and extend from the lateral edge of said first side panel while the second portion has, for example, a longitudinal dimension smaller than the longitudinal dimension of the first and third portions and extends from the lower surface of said first side panel.

[0037] Such an arrangement of the parts of the first bottom panel makes it possible, once in the rear shelf support configuration, to match any difference in height of the floor located between the two rows of seats.

[0038] For example, the second bottom panel comprises three parts each connected to the second side panel, in particular to the second part, by the second transverse secondary fold line.

[0039] In other words, each of the parts of the second bottom panel F are articulated relative to the second side panel, and in particular to the second part along a corresponding transverse secondary folding line.

[0040] The first and third parts have, for example, an identical dimension and extend from the lateral edge of the second part of the second side panel, while the second part has, for example, a longitudinal dimension smaller than the longitudinal dimension of the first and third parts and extends from the lower surface of said second part of the second side panel.

[0041] Such an arrangement of the parts of the second bottom panel allows, once in the rear shelf support configuration, to accommodate any difference in floor height between the two rows of seats.

[0042] Advantageously, the third side panel of the rear shelf comprises two lateral connecting tabs each extending from a transverse side of the third side panel along the longitudinal axis and two bottom connecting tabs extending from a longitudinal side of the third side panel, on the side opposite the third longitudinal main fold line, along the transverse axis, said connecting tabs comprising removable connecting means intended to cooperate with a corresponding panel in the support position.

[0043] For example, the connecting tabs are connected to the third panel by a corresponding fold line and are therefore hinged relative to the third panel along this corresponding fold line.

[0044] For example, the fourth side panel of the rear shelf comprises two lateral connecting tabs each extending from a transverse side of the fourth side panel along the longitudinal axis and two bottom connecting tabs extending from a longitudinal side of the fourth side panel, on the side opposite the fourth longitudinal main fold line, along the transverse axis, said connecting tabs comprising removable connecting means intended to cooperate with a corresponding panel in the support position.

[0045] For example, the connecting tabs are connected to the fourth panel by a corresponding fold line and are therefore hinged relative to the fourth panel along this corresponding fold line.

[0046] For example, the connecting tabs are made of magnetic material and cooperate with the corresponding panels partly comprising a metallic material to form the removable connecting means.

[0047] Alternatively, other systems for attaching the connecting tabs to the corresponding panels could be provided, for example, using a Velcro system or press studs.

[0048] Generally, the connecting tabs are fixed to the corresponding panels by removable connecting means, i.e. detachable without damaging the rear shelf.

[0049] Preferably, each of the panels has a rectangular shape of low thickness, for example between 2 cm and 10 cm.

[0050] Preferably, in the storage position, the first bottom panel and the second bottom panel of the rear shelf are integral with side walls of the trunk space, for example by fitting into a corresponding upper groove or guide rail provided in each side wall.

[0051] The upper guide grooves extend along the longitudinal axis and are pa- rally among themselves.

[0052] According to an exemplary embodiment, in the support position, the secondary floor is secured to the side walls of the trunk space, for example by fitting into a corresponding lower guide groove in each side wall.

[0053] Alternatively, it could be provided that the secondary floor comprises transverse lugs cooperating with lower complementary notches provided in the side walls of the trunk space in the support position.

[0054] According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a method of transforming the passenger compartment of a motor vehicle as described above, into a sleeping space, in which: - the rear shelf is separated from the vehicle, for example by unclipping the main portion and / or the parts forming support for the side walls of the trunk space, - the second row of seats is tilted into the folded position in which the backrest is brought closer to the corresponding seat and in which the backrest extends along the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, substantially parallel to the floor; and - the rear shelf is manipulated to move it from the storage position to the support position.

[0055] Advantageously, the method comprises a step of manipulating the secondary floor into the support position, in which the secondary floor extends from the second row of seats partly into the trunk space in the longitudinal continuity of the upper surface of the backrest of said second row, on the side opposite the rear shelf.

[0056] It would also be possible to provide a step during which the trunk volume is emptied by the user.

[0057] It will be noted that the step of tilting the second row of seat(s) could be provided after the step of manipulating the rear shelf.

[0058] Advantageously, the step of manipulating the rear shelf to move it from the storage position into the support position comprises the following steps: - unfolding the third and fourth side panels along the main longitudinal fold lines relative to the main panel so as to each form a 90° angle with said main panel; - folding the side connecting tabs of each of the third and fourth side panels onto the corresponding third and fourth side panels; - folding the first side panel along the main transverse junction line with the main panel in order to form a 90° angle with said main panel; - folding the first part of the second side panel along the line of main transverse junction with the main panel in order to form a 90° angle with said main panel.

[0059] In this step, the first part and the second part of the second side panel are aligned vertically and the second side panel forms an angle of 90° with said main panel.

[0060] The method further comprises unfolding the bottom panels along corresponding secondary fold lines respectively relative to the first side panel and the second portion of the second side panel so as to each be vertically aligned with said corresponding side panel.

[0061] In other words, the first bottom panel is vertically aligned with the first side panel and the second bottom panel is vertically aligned with the second side panel.

[0062] The method further comprises folding the bottom connecting tabs of each of the third and fourth side panels onto the corresponding third and fourth side panel; and folding the bottom panels along the corresponding secondary fold lines relative to the first side panel and the second portion of the second side panel respectively so as to each form a 90° angle with said corresponding side panel.

[0063] At the end of this second step, a rear shelf is obtained forming a parallelepiped-shaped support.

[0064] A preliminary step could be provided for manipulating the rear shelf into the storage position as follows:

[0065] The parts of the first bottom panel are folded along the transverse secondary fold lines with the first side panel to come under said first side panel.

[0066] The parts of the second bottom panel are folded along the transverse secondary fold lines with the second side panel, and in particular the second part, to come under said second part.

[0067] The second part of the second side panel is folded along the intermediate fold line with the first part of said second side panel to be inclined relative to said first part by an angle of between 160° and 90°, for example here 120°.

[0068] The third and fourth side panels are folded along the corresponding longitudinal main fold line with the main panel.

[0069] The rear shelf thus folded is mounted in the vehicle in the storage position, fitted into the upper guide grooves or resting on projections provided on the side walls of the trunk space.

[0070] Other aims, characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the following description, given solely by way of non-limiting example, and made with reference to the appended drawings in which:

[0071] [Fig.l] illustrates in a very schematic manner the passenger compartment of a motor vehicle according to the invention;

[0072] [Fig.2] represents the passenger compartment of the vehicle in [Fig.l] after transformation into a sleeping area;

[0073] [Fig.3] is a rear view of the motor vehicle of [Fig.l];

[0074] [Fig.4] is a rear view of the motor vehicle of [Fig.2];

[0075] [Fig.5] illustrates a bottom view of the rear shelf of the vehicle of [Fig.l] in an unfolded configuration;

[0076] [Fig.6A], [Fig.6B] respectively represent a bottom view and a side view of a first stage of transformation of the rear range of [Fig.5];

[0077] [Fig.7A], [Fig.7B] respectively represent a bottom view and a side view of a second stage of transformation of the rear range of [Fig.5];

[0078] [Fig.8A], [Fig.8B] respectively represent a bottom view and a side view of a third stage of transformation of the rear beach of [Fig.5];

[0079] [Fig.9] is a schematic view of a textile hinge between two adjacent panels; and

[0080] [Fig. 10] represents a flowchart of a process for converting the passenger compartment of the vehicle of [Fig.l] into a sleeping area.

[0081] In the following description, the terms "longitudinal", "transverse", "vertical", "front", "rear", "left" and "right" are defined according to the usual orthogonal reference system for motor vehicles, shown in the drawings, and which includes:

[0082] - a longitudinal axis X, horizontal and oriented from the front to the rear of the vehicle;

[0083] - a transverse axis Y, horizontal, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X and oriented left to right of the vehicle when the vehicle is moving;

[0084] - a vertical axis Z, orthogonal to the longitudinal and transverse axes X and Y and directed from bottom up.

[0085] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate an example of a motor vehicle 1 comprising a floor 2 extending in an XY plane comprising the longitudinal axis X and the transverse axis Y of the vehicle and a body 3 delimiting the outline of the vehicle.

[0086] The vehicle 1 notably comprises a front apron 4 delimiting an engine space 5 of a passenger compartment 6 of the vehicle.

[0087] The passenger compartment 6 comprises a first row of seats 7, here a driver's seat and a front passenger seat and a second row of seat(s) 8 located at the rear of the first row of seats 7 and spaced apart by a longitudinal distance EL

[0088] The longitudinal distance El is between 15cm and 50cm.

[0089] Each seat of the first row of seats 7 and / or the second row of seat(s) 8 is mounted to slide along the longitudinal axis relative to the floor 2 of the vehicle, for example in dedicated rails.

[0090] The second row of seats 8 may comprise a single seat delimiting two or three seats or comprise two or three parts each delimiting one or two seats.

[0091] Each seat 7, 8 comprises a seat 7a, 8a and a backrest 7b, 8b articulated relative to the corresponding seat 7a, 8a along a transverse articulation axis 8c between a position of use, in which the seat and the backrest form an angle of between 80° and 120° relative to each other and a folded position in which the backrest is close to the corresponding seat.

[0092] The connection of the seats to the floor, as well as the configuration of the seats are known and will not be described further.

[0093] The seat(s) of the second row of seats 8 are configured so that, in the folded position, the backrest 8b extends along the longitudinal axis X of the vehicle, substantially parallel to the floor.

[0094] Thus, the transverse articulation 8c connecting the backrest 8b and the seat 8a of the seat(s) of the second row of seats 8 is mounted in translation in a dedicated rail (not shown) secured to the seat 8a and the backrest 8b, so that when the backrest 8b pivots around the articulation 8c, the articulation 8c moves vertically upwards along the vertical axis Z to allow the backrest 8b to adopt a position parallel to the longitudinal axis X of the vehicle, that is to say as horizontal as possible.

[0095] The horizontality of the backrest 8b depends on the horizontality of the road and the loading of the vehicle.

[0096] The vehicle 1 further comprises a trunk space 9 located at the rear of the second row of seat(s) 8 and accessible by the user once the trunk door 3a of the vehicle is open.

[0097] The vehicle 1 further comprises a rear shelf 10 secured to the vehicle 1 in a storage position.

[0098] The rear range 10 is configured to move from the storage position, visible on Figures 1, 3, 6A and 6B, in which the rear shelf 10 extends into the trunk space 9, here entirely into said space 9, in a support position, visible in Figures 2, 4, 8A and 8B, in which, in the folded position of the second row of seat(s) 8, the rear shelf 10 extends between the first and second row of seats 7, 8 in the longitudinal continuity of the upper surface 8d of the backrests 8b of the second row of seats 8.

[0099] In the storage position, visible in [Fig.l], the rear shelf 10 extends from an upper end of the backrests 8b of the second row of seat(s) 8 along the longitudinal axis X towards the rear of the vehicle and here completely covers the trunk space 9.

[0100] In the unfolded configuration of the rear shelf 10, visible in [Fig. 5], the rear shelf 10 comprises a main panel A adjoining a first side panel B and a second side panel D by first and second transverse main fold lines H1, H2 parallel to each other and to the transverse axis Y.

[0101] The first side panel B and the second side panel D are hinged relative to the main panel A along a corresponding transverse main fold line H1, H2.

[0102] The second side panel D comprises a first part DI connected to the main panel A by the transverse main fold line H2 and a second part D2, parallel to the first part D1, and connected to said first part DI by a transverse intermediate fold line H5 parallel to the transverse main fold line H2 and to the transverse axis Y.

[0103] In other words, the second part D2 is articulated relative to the first part D1 along the transverse intermediate folding line H5.

[0104] The main panel A is also adjoined to a third side panel G1 and to a fourth side panel G2 by third and fourth longitudinal main fold lines H3, H4 parallel to each other and to the longitudinal axis X.

[0105] In other words, the third side panel G1 and the fourth side panel G2 are hinged relative to the main panel A along a corresponding longitudinal main fold line H3, H4.

[0106] The rear shelf 10 further comprises a first bottom panel C here comprising three parts C1, C2, C3 each connected to the first side panel B by a transverse secondary fold line H7 parallel to the transverse axis Y.

[0107] In other words, each of the parts C1, C2, C3 of the first bottom panel C are articulated relative to the first side panel B along a corresponding transverse secondary folding line H7.

[0108] The first and third parts C1, C3 here have an identical dimension and extend from the lateral edge of said first side panel B, while the second part C2 here has a longitudinal dimension smaller than the longitudinal dimension of the first and third parts C1, C3 and extends from the lower surface of said first side panel B.

[0109] Such an arrangement of the parts of the first bottom panel C makes it possible, once in the rear shelf support configuration, to match any difference in height of the floor located between the two rows 7, 8 of seats.

[0110] The rear shelf 10 further comprises a second bottom panel F here comprising three parts F1, F2, F3 each connected to the second part D2 of the second side panel D respectively by a second transverse secondary fold line H6 parallel to the transverse axis Y.

[0111] In other words, each of the parts F1, F2, F3 of the second background panel F are hinged relative to the second side panel D, and in particular to the second part D2 along a corresponding transverse secondary folding line H6.

[0112] The first and third parts F1, F3 here have an identical dimension and extend from the lateral edge of the second part D2 of the second side panel D, while the second part F2 here has a longitudinal dimension smaller than the longitudinal dimension of the first and third parts F1, F3 and extends from the lower surface of said second part D2 of the second side panel D.

[0113] Such an arrangement of the parts of the second bottom panel F makes it possible, once in the rear shelf support configuration, to match any difference in height of the floor located between the two rows 7, 8 of seats.

[0114] The third side panel G1 comprises two lateral connecting tabs G3, G4 each extending from a transverse side of the third side panel G1 along the longitudinal axis X and two bottom connecting tabs G7, G8 extending from a longitudinal side of the third side panel G1, on the side opposite the longitudinal main fold line H3, along the transverse axis Y.

[0115] The connecting tabs G3, G4, G7, G8 are connected to the third panel Gl by a corresponding fold line (not referenced) and are therefore articulated relative to the third panel Gl along this corresponding fold line.

[0116] The fourth side panel G2 comprises two lateral connecting tabs G5, G6 each extending from a transverse side of the fourth side panel G2 along the longitudinal axis X and two bottom connecting tabs G9, G10 extending from a longitudinal side of the fourth side panel G2, on the side opposite the main longitudinal fold line H4, along the transverse axis Y.

[0117] The connecting tabs G5, G6, G9, G10 are connected to the fourth panel G2 by a corresponding fold line (not referenced) and are therefore articulated relative to the fourth panel G2 along this corresponding fold line.

[0118] Each of the panels or tabs described A, B, C, D1, D2, F, G1 to G10, here have a rectangular shape of low thickness, for example between 2cm and 10cm.

[0119] The rear range 10 is manipulated in a storage configuration, visible in Figures 1, 3, 6A and 6B as follows:

[0120] The parts C1, C2, C3 of the first bottom panel C are folded along the transverse secondary fold lines H7 with the first side panel B to come under said first side panel B.

[0121] The parts F1, F2, F3 of the second bottom panel F are folded along the transverse secondary fold lines H6 with the second side panel D, and in particular the second part D2, to come under said second part D2.

[0122] The second part D2 of the second side panel D is folded along the intermediate fold line H5 with the first part D1 of said second side panel D to be inclined relative to said first part D1 at an angle of between 160° and 90°, for example here 120°.

[0123] The third and fourth side panels G1, G2 are folded along the main longitudinal fold line H3, H4 corresponding to the main panel A.

[0124] The rear shelf 10 thus folded is mounted in the vehicle in the storage position, in corresponding longitudinal upper grooves 9b or guide rail provided in each side wall 9a of the trunk space 9. It would also be possible to provide projections provided on the side walls 9a of the trunk space 9 on which the rear shelf 10 rests in the storage position.

[0125] Figures 7A, 7B, 8A, 8B illustrate the steps for transforming the rear shelf from the storage configuration to a support configuration, visible in Figures 2 and 4.

[0126] The rear shelf 10 is manipulated in the support configuration as follows:

[0127] In a first step, visible in [Fig.7A] and [Fig.7B], the third and fourth side panels G1, G2 are unfolded along the longitudinal main folding lines H3, H4 relative to the main panel A in order to each form an angle of 90° with said main panel A.

[0128] The lateral connecting tabs G4, G5, G3, G6 of each of the third and fourth side panels Gl, G2 are folded down onto the corresponding third and fourth side panel Gl, G2.

[0129] The first side panel B is folded along the transverse main joining line H1 with the main panel A in order to form an angle of 90° with said main panel A and the first part D1 of the second side panel D is folded along the transverse main joining line H2 with the main panel A in order to form an angle of 90° with said main panel A.

[0130] During this step, the first part DI and the second part D2 of the second side panel D are aligned vertically and the second side panel D forms an angle of 90° with said main panel A.

[0131] The bottom panels C, F are unfolded along the corresponding secondary fold lines H7, H6 with respect to the first side panel B and the second part D2 of the second side panel D respectively so as to each be vertically aligned with said corresponding side panel. In other words, the first bottom panel C is vertically aligned with the first side panel B and the second bottom panel F is vertically aligned with the second side panel D.

[0132] In a second step, visible in [Fig.8A] and [Fig.8B], the bottom connecting tabs G8, G10, G7, G9 of each of the third and fourth side panels G1, G2 are folded down onto the corresponding third and fourth side panel G1, G2 and the bottom panels C, F are folded along the corresponding secondary folding lines H7, H6 with respect respectively to the first side panel B and to the second part D2 of the second side panel D in order to each form an angle of 90° with said corresponding side panel.

[0133] At the end of this second step, a rear shelf is obtained forming a parallelepiped-shaped support.

[0134] The longitudinal dimension of the rear shelf 10 in the support configuration is less than the longitudinal distance El between the first and second row of seats 7, 8.

[0135] In the support position, the bottom panels C, F of the rear shelf 10 rest on the upper surface of the floor 2.

[0136] In the support position, the upper surface of the main panel A of the rear shelf 10 extends between the first and second row of seats 7, 8 in the longitudinal continuity of the upper surface 8d of the backrests of the second row of seats 8.

[0137] Generally, the rear shelf 10 is configured to move from the storage position, visible in Figures 1 and 3, in which the rear shelf 10 extends at least partly into the trunk space 9 to a support position, visible in Figures 2 and 4, in which, in the folded position of the second row of seat(s) 8, the rear shelf 10 extends between the first and second row of seats 7, 8 in the longitudinal continuity of the upper surface 8d of the backrests 8b of the second row of seats 8.

[0138] The motor vehicle 1 further comprises a secondary floor 12 secured to the motor vehicle in the storage position and in the support position.

[0139] The secondary floor 12 is configured to move from the storage position, visible in Figures 1 and 3, in which the secondary floor 12 obstructs a housing (not shown) provided in the floor 2 of the vehicle, generally comprising accessories such as warning triangles, etc., in a support position, visible in Figures 2 and 4, in which, in the folded position of the second row of seat(s) 8, the secondary floor 12 extends from the second row of seats 8 partly into the trunk space 9 in the longitudinal continuity of the upper surface 8d of the backrests 8b of the second row of seats 8.

[0140] Thus, in the support position, the upper surface of the main panel A of the rear shelf 10, the upper surface 8d of the backrests 8b of the second row of seats 8 and the secondary floor 12 together form a flat support surface extending in the XY plane, substantially horizontal, configured to receive equipment, such as a mattress 20 or an additional bed base.

[0141] The support surface is located at a height from the roof of the vehicle sufficiently high to allow the user to sit without touching the roof. The distance between the support surface and the roof of the vehicle is between 50cm and 1.50m.

[0142] Preferably, the support surface is located at a height below the openings (not shown) of the vehicle in order to avoid any accidental damage to said openings.

[0143] In the support position, the secondary floor 12 is here secured to the side walls 9a of the trunk space 9, here by fitting into a corresponding lower guide groove 9c in each side wall 9a.

[0144] Alternatively, it could be provided that the secondary floor 12 comprises transverse lugs cooperating with lower complementary notches provided in the side walls 9a of the trunk space 9 in the support position.

[0145] The rear shelf 10 may be made of plastic material, for example provided on one of its faces with a honeycomb ribbing to combine finesse, structure and rigidity on the support surface.

[0146] Alternatively, the rear shelf 10 could be made of metallic material, such as for example aluminum.

[0147] [Fig.9] illustrates an example of a fold line H formed by a textile hinge between two adjacent panels, here a panel P and a tab L.

[0148] In the example illustrated, the textile hinge comprises a ribbon R made of textile material comprising a plurality of holes or eyelets O secured to an adjacent panel by molding with said panel.

[0149] Alternatively, it could be provided to glue the sides of the textile ribbon to the corresponding P panel.

[0150] The fold line H illustrated in [Fig.9] corresponds to one or other of the lines referenced H1 to H7 previously described.

[0151] Panel P illustrated in [Fig.9] corresponds to one or other of the panels A, B, Cl to C3, Dl, D2, Fl to F3, Gl, G2 previously described.

[0152] The tab L illustrated in [Fig.9] corresponds to one or other of the connecting tabs G3, G4, G5, G6, G7, G8, G9, G10 previously described.

[0153] The connecting tabs G3 to G10 are preferably made of magnetic material, in order to be able to magnetize themselves to the corresponding panels B, D, C, F.

[0154] The side panels B, D and the bottom panels C, F are thus preferably made of plastic material comprising at least one metal part.

[0155] Alternatively, other systems could be provided for attaching the connecting tabs G3 to G10 to the corresponding panels B, D, C, F, for example, by a Velcro system or press studs.

[0156] Generally, the connecting tabs G3 to G10 are fixed to the corresponding panels B, D, C, F by removable connecting means, i.e. detachable without damaging the rear shelf 10.

[0157] [Fig. 10] illustrates the steps of a method 30 for transforming the passenger compartment 6 of the vehicle 1 into a sleeping space.

[0158] During a first step 31, the rear shelf 10 is separated from the vehicle, for example by unclipping the trunk space 9.

[0159] It would also be possible to provide a step during which the trunk volume is emptied by the user.

[0160] The method 30 further comprises a step 32 during which the second row of seat(s) 8 is tilted into the folded position in which the backrest is close to the corresponding seat and in which the backrest 8b extends along the longitudinal axis X of the vehicle, substantially parallel to the floor 2.

[0161] The rear shelf 10 is then manipulated, during step 33, to find itself in the support position, in which the rear shelf forms a parallelepiped-shaped support according to the steps detailed with reference to FIGS. 7A, 7B, 8A, 8B and positioned between the first and second row of seats 7, 8.

[0162] It will be noted that the step 32 of tilting the second row of seat(s) 8 could be provided after the step of manipulating the rear shelf 10.

[0163] The method 30 further comprises a step 34 during which the secondary floor 12 is manipulated to fit it into the lower guide grooves 9c.

[0164] Thanks to the multifunctional rear shelf 10, we benefit from equipment integrated into the design of the vehicle capable of acting as a support for a sleeping mattress.

Claims

Claims

1. A motor vehicle (1) comprising a floor (2) extending in a plane (XY) comprising a longitudinal axis (X) and a transverse axis (Y), a passenger compartment (6) comprising a first row (7) of at least one seat and a second row (8) of at least one seat spaced a longitudinal distance (El) from the first row (7), the seat of the second row (8) comprising a seat (8a) and a backrest (8b) articulated relative to the seat (8a) along a transverse articulation axis (8c) between a position of use, in which the seat and the backrest (8a, 8b) form an angle of between 80° and 120° relative to each other and a folded position in which the backrest (8b) is brought closer to the corresponding seat (8a) and extends along the longitudinal axis (X) of the vehicle, the vehicle (1) comprising further a trunk space (9) located at the rear of the second row (8) of seats,characterized in that it comprises a multifunctional rear shelf (10) configured to move from a storage position in which the rear shelf (10) is integral with the vehicle (1) and extends from an upper end of the backrest of the second row (8) of seats along the longitudinal axis (X) partly into the trunk space (9) to a support position, in which, in the folded position of the second row (8) of seats, the rear shelf (10) forms a parallelepiped-shaped support extending in the longitudinal distance (El) between the first and second rows of seats (7, 8) in the longitudinal continuity of an upper surface (8d) of the backrest of the second row (8) of seats, said rear shelf comprising a plurality of panels (A, B, C, D, F, G) articulated together by textile hinges (H).,

2. Vehicle (1) according to claim 1, further comprising a secondary floor (12) integral with the motor vehicle in the storage position and in the support position and configured to pass from the storage position, in which the secondary floor (12) obstructs a housing in the floor (2) of the vehicle and the support position, in which the secondary floor (12) extends from the second row (8) of seats partly into the trunk space (9) in the longitudinal continuity of the upper surface (8d) of the backrest (8b) of said second row (8), on the side opposite the rear shelf (10).

3. Vehicle (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the rear shelf (10) comprises a main panel (A), a first side panel (B) hinged relative to the main panel (A) by a first transverse main fold line (Hl) parallel to the transverse axis (Y), a second side panel (D) hinged relative to the main panel (A) by a second transverse main fold line (H2) parallel to the transverse axis (Y), a third side panel (Gl) hinged relative to the main panel (A) by a third longitudinal main fold line (H3) parallel to the longitudinal axis (X) and a fourth side panel (G2) hinged relative to the main panel (A) by a fourth longitudinal main fold line (H4) parallel to the longitudinal axis (X).

4. Vehicle (1) according to claim 3, wherein the second side panel (D) comprises a first part (D1) connected to the main panel (A) by the second transverse main fold line (H2) and a second part (D2), parallel to the first part (D1), and connected to said first part (D1) by a transverse intermediate fold line (H5) parallel to the transverse main fold line (H2) and to the transverse axis (Y), the first side panel (B), the first part (D1) of the second side panel (D) and the main panel (A) being aligned in the longitudinal direction in the storage position.

5. Vehicle (1) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the rear shelf (10) further comprises a first bottom panel (C) hinged relative to the first side panel (B) by a first transverse secondary fold line (H7) parallel to the transverse axis (Y) and a second bottom panel (F) hinged relative to the second side panel (D) by a second transverse secondary fold line (H6) parallel to the transverse axis (Y).

6. Vehicle (1) according to claim 5, wherein the first bottom panel (C) comprises three parts (C1, C2, C3) each connected to the first side panel (B) by the first transverse secondary fold line (H7).

7. Vehicle (1) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the second bottom panel (F) comprises three parts (F1, F2, F3) each connected to the second side panel (D) by the second transverse secondary fold line (H6).

8. Vehicle (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 7, wherein the third side panel (G1) of the rear shelf (10) comprises two lateral connecting tabs (G3, G4) extending each from a transverse side of the third side panel (Gl) along the longitudinal axis (X) and two bottom connecting tabs (G7, G8) extending from a longitudinal side of the third side panel (Gl), on the side opposite the third longitudinal main fold line (H3), along the transverse axis (Y), said connecting tabs (G3, G4, G7, G8) comprising removable connecting means intended to cooperate with a corresponding panel in the support position.

9. Vehicle (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 8, wherein the fourth side panel (G2) of the rear shelf (10) comprises two lateral connecting tabs (G5, G6) each extending from a transverse side of the fourth side panel (G2) along the longitudinal axis (X) and two bottom connecting tabs (G9, G10) extending from a longitudinal side of the fourth side panel (G2), on the side opposite the fourth longitudinal main fold line (H4), along the transverse axis (Y), said connecting tabs (G5, G6, G9, G10) comprising removable connecting means intended to cooperate with a corresponding panel in the support position.

10. Vehicle (1) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the connecting tabs (G3, G4, G7, G8, G5, G6, G9, G10) are made of magnetic material and cooperate with the corresponding panels partly comprising a metallic material to form the removable connecting means.

11. Vehicle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, each of the panels (A, B, C, D, F, G) has a rectangular shape of small thickness, for example between 2cm and 10cm.

12. Vehicle (1) according to claim 2 in combination with any one of the preceding claims, wherein in the supporting position the secondary floor (12) cooperates with lower guide grooves (9c) provided in the side walls (9a) of the trunk space (9).

13. Method (30) for transforming the passenger compartment (6) of a motor vehicle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, into a sleeping space, in which: - the rear shelf (10) is detached from the vehicle, - the second row (8) of seats is tilted into the folded position in which the backrest is brought closer to the corresponding seat and in

14.

15. in which the backrest (8b) extends along the longitudinal axis (X) of the vehicle, substantially parallel to the floor (1); and - the rear shelf (10) is manipulated to move it from the storage position to the support position. Method (30) according to claims 2 and 13, comprising a step of manipulating the secondary floor (12) into the support position, in which the secondary floor (12) extends from the second row (8) of seats partly into the trunk space (9) in the longitudinal continuity of the upper surface (8d) of the backrest (8b) of said second row (8), on the side opposite the rear shelf (10). Method (30) according to claims 13 and 14, wherein the step of manipulating the rear shelf (10) to move it from the storage position into the support position comprises the following steps: - unfolding the third and fourth side panels (G1, G2) along the longitudinal main fold lines (H3, H4) relative to the main panel (A) so as to each form an angle of 90° with said main panel (A) - folding the lateral connecting tabs (G4, G5, G3, G6) of each of the third and fourth side panels (G1, G2) onto the corresponding third and fourth side panels (G1, G2); - folding the first side panel (B) along the main transverse junction line (Hl) with the main panel (A) in order to form an angle of 90° with said main panel (A); - folding the first part (Dl) of the second side panel (D) along the main transverse junction line (H2) with the main panel (A) in order to form an angle of 90° with said main panel (A) - unfolding the bottom panels (C, F) along the corresponding secondary fold lines (H7, H6) respectively with respect to the first side panel (B) and to the second part (D2) of the second side panel (D) in order to each be vertically aligned with said corresponding side panel; - folding the bottom connecting tabs (G8, G10, G7, G9) of each of the third and fourth side panels (G1, G2) onto the corresponding third and fourth side panel (G1, G2); and - folding the bottom panels (C, F) along the corresponding secondary folding lines (H7, H6) relative respectively to the first side panel (B) and to the second part (D2) of the second side panel (D) so as to each form a 90° angle with said corresponding side panel.

Images