Utility vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a utility vehicle (1), in particular a military utility vehicle, comprising a driver's cab (11) and a chassis (2) which supports the driver's cab (11), wherein: the driver's cab (11) comprises a driver's cab floor (18) having an indentation (34), which extends along a longitudinal direction (x) of the driver's cab (11) and extends into an interior (12) of the driver's cab (11), and the driver's cab comprises a seat cross-member (38A, 38B) on which a plurality of seats (25, 26, 27) for a crew of the utility vehicle (1) can be mounted and a dashboard (86) arranged inside the interior (12); the seat cross-member (38A, 38B) extends along a transverse direction (y) of the driver's cab (11) oriented perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction (x); the seat cross-member (38A, 38B) is led around the indentation (34) such that mounting levels (29, 30, 31) for the seats (25, 26, 27), said mounting levels being provided on the seat cross-member (38A, 38B), are arranged at different heights as seen along a vertical direction (z) of the driver's cab (11) oriented perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction (x) and perpendicularly to the transverse direction (y); the seat cross-member (38A, 38B) has a seat cross-member center part (39) which is arranged above the indentation (34) as seen along the vertical direction (z); and a foot recess (88) for a crew member (87) of the crew is arranged below the dashboard (86) as seen along the vertical direction (z) and in front of the seat cross-member center part (39) as seen along the longitudinal direction (x).

Description

[0001] RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0002] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0003] 1

[0004] COMMERCIAL VEHICLE

[0005] The present invention relates to a commercial vehicle, in particular a military commercial vehicle.

[0006] All-terrain vehicles for military use typically feature a protected cab. To protect the cab's occupants from gunfire, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), mines, or similar threats, the cab floor is armored. If the occupants' seats are directly connected to the floor, a cab explosion could result in the occupants experiencing significant accelerations, potentially leading to injury or even death.

[0007] These types of commercial vehicles can have a first seat or driver's seat, a second seat or passenger seat, and a third seat or middle seat located between the first and second seats. The third seat, positioned centrally in the cab, is often not ergonomically designed due to space constraints, but rather intended as an emergency seat. In contrast to conventional trucks, the engine of a cab-over-engine vehicle is usually located centrally under the cab. The cab floor is therefore curved upwards into the interior to accommodate the engine block.

[0008] A central section of the cab is therefore often already raised. Furthermore, a dashboard or instrument panel is located in front of the third seat, and a crew member sitting in the third seat can either rest their legs on the dashboard or remain seated with their legs drawn up. In both cases, this results in an RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0009] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0010] 2. A non-ergonomic sitting position or a non-ergonomic leg position. Consequently, this is uncomfortable, the legs can fall asleep. Furthermore, leg cramps can occur.

[0011] Common standards, such as DIN EN ISO 6682, specify certain requirements for seats in such driver's cabs, which must be met. These standards regulate, for example, the angles between the thighs and lower legs in the seated position. Furthermore, these standards refer to angles at the hips and the feet on the floor or footrest.

[0012] To comply with these guidelines, it is possible, for example, to move the third seat further back towards the rear wall of the cab, although this would restrict the sleeping space provided in the cab. Alternatively, the third seat can be omitted entirely, which would limit the cab to a maximum of two crew members. Another option is to restrict the use of the third seat to shorter crew members.

[0013] The aforementioned solutions are unsatisfactory. A particular problem is that driver's cabs can only be approved with two seats if the legal ergonomic requirements are not met. If approval is granted, this often results in a non-ergonomic and therefore very uncomfortable seating position. Long journeys are then difficult. Furthermore, there is little support for the crew member using the third seat, especially due to the lack of leg rests. This needs to be improved.

[0014] Against this background, one object of the present invention is to provide an improved commercial vehicle. RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0015] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0016] 3

[0017] Accordingly, a commercial vehicle, in particular a military commercial vehicle, is proposed. The commercial vehicle comprises a cab and a chassis which supports the cab, wherein the cab has a cab floor with a recess extending along a longitudinal direction of the cab and into an interior of the cab, a seat crossbeam on which several seats for a crew of the commercial vehicle can be mounted, and an instrument panel arranged within the interior, wherein the seat crossbeam extends along a transverse direction of the cab oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, wherein the seat crossbeam is guided around the recess in such a way that mounting planes for the seats provided on the seat crossbeam are arranged at different heights along a vertical direction of the cab oriented perpendicular to both the longitudinal and transverse directions.wherein the seat crossbeam has a seat crossbeam center section arranged above the indentation when viewed along the vertical direction, and wherein a foot recess for a crew member is arranged below the dashboard when viewed along the vertical direction and in front of the seat crossbeam center section when viewed along the longitudinal direction.

[0018] Because the seat crossbeam is routed around the recess, it is possible to decouple the seats from the cab floor in such a way that they are connected only to the seat crossbeam and not to the cab floor itself. Forces acting on the cab floor resulting from cab acceleration therefore do not directly affect the seat crossbeam and consequently not the seats. This reduces the risk of injury to the crew in the event of a cab explosion.

[0019] Advantageously, a crew member using a seat positioned in front of the foot recess can place their feet and / or lower legs in the RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0020] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0021] The foot recess provided allows for ergonomic and / or comfortable seating, enabling support, for example, in the event of abrupt deceleration of the vehicle. Body angles, such as those relating to the foot, knee, and / or hip, are within a recommended and comfortable range for the majority of potential crew members.

[0022] For mine protection, sufficient distance is maintained between the vehicle and the hood and / or the cab floor, as the legs and feet are elevated and the seat positioned in front of the footwell is mounted on the suspended seat crossbeam. This ensures sufficient distance from any surface on which an explosive device might be placed. When the seat in front of the footwell is not in use, the footwell can also be used as storage space. In this case, for example, a net can be hung in front of the footwell.

[0023] The commercial vehicle is preferably a land vehicle, in particular a truck. The commercial vehicle is specifically a military commercial vehicle. The commercial vehicle can therefore also be referred to as a military commercial vehicle. Therefore, the terms "commercial vehicle" and "military commercial vehicle" can be used interchangeably in this context. In particular, the commercial vehicle is an off-road truck. The commercial vehicle can be a protected commercial vehicle and can therefore also be referred to as such.

[0024] The commercial vehicle preferably comprises a plurality of axles. This means that the commercial vehicle can be a multi-axle vehicle, in particular a three-axle, four-axle, or five-axle vehicle. The commercial vehicle preferably comprises all-wheel drive. The commercial vehicle can therefore also be referred to as an all-wheel-drive commercial vehicle. The commercial vehicle can be a wheeled vehicle. Alternatively, the commercial vehicle can also be a tracked vehicle. RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0025] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0026] 5

[0027] The cab can also be called the driver's cab or driver's cabin. The cab is designed to accommodate the crew, for example, a driver and at least one passenger. The cab can be, or be described as, a protected cab. This means that the cab is protected against gunfire, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), mines, or similar threats. For this purpose, the cab can be constructed of, or incorporate, armored steel plates. However, aluminum alloys, ceramic composites, and / or fiber composites can also be used.

[0028] The cab preferably comprises a cab shell with a front wall, a rear wall opposite the front wall, two opposing side walls, and the aforementioned cab floor. Opposite the cab floor is a roof of the cab shell or cab. A windshield may be attached to the front wall. The windshield may be split. Doors may be provided in the side walls. The front wall, rear wall, side walls, roof, and cab floor enclose the interior of the cab and thus separate it from its surroundings. The interior may be accessible from the surroundings via doors and / or hatches. The cab floor is preferably multiply curved. In particular, the cab floor may have an egg-shaped or ovoid geometry, at least in sections.

[0029] Preferably, the driver's cab is assigned a coordinate system with the aforementioned longitudinal direction or x-direction, the aforementioned transverse direction or y-direction, and the aforementioned vertical direction or z-direction. The directions are oriented perpendicular to each other. The vertical direction may be oriented parallel to a direction of gravity. The terms "longitudinal direction" and "x-direction" may be interchanged as appropriate. RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0030] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0031] 6. The terms "transverse direction" and "y-direction" can be interchanged as appropriate. The terms "vertical direction" and "z-direction" can be interchanged as appropriate.

[0032] In this context, a "recess" refers in particular to a three-dimensional geometry of the cab floor that bulges from the surrounding area into the interior of the cab. This recess extending into the interior is particularly suitable for at least partially accommodating a drivetrain, preferably a transmission tunnel, of the commercial vehicle. The drivetrain, which may also include the vehicle's engine, is preferably arranged below the cab when viewed along its vertical axis. To provide access to the engine, the cab can be pivoted about an axis relative to the chassis from a closed to an open state and vice versa. Suitable hydraulic cylinders can be provided for this purpose. Viewed along its longitudinal axis, the recess preferably does not extend completely through the cab floor, but only partially.

[0033] Preferably, the commercial vehicle comprises several seats mounted on the seat crossmember. The seats are preferably part of the cab or the commercial vehicle. The seat crossmember and the seats form a seating arrangement of the cab. For example, the commercial vehicle may have a first seat or driver's seat, a second seat or first passenger seat, and a third seat or second passenger seat. The third seat may also be referred to as the middle seat. Viewed along the transverse direction, the third seat is preferably arranged between the first seat and the second seat. Viewed along the vertical direction, the third seat is preferably arranged above the recess and thus also above the first seat and above the second seat. The foot recess is positioned in front of the third seat when viewed along the longitudinal direction. RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0034] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0035] 7

[0036] The seat crossmember preferably runs transversely between the first and second side walls of the cab. A continuous gap or air gap is preferably arranged between the seat crossmember and the cab floor, viewed transversely. This gap or air gap also extends vertically. The seat crossmember thus "floats" above the cab floor.

[0037] The seat crossmember is preferably connected to the first and second side walls. The first and / or second side walls may have load-bearing structures to which the seat crossmember is mounted. The front and / or rear walls may also have such load-bearing structures. These load-bearing structures may, for example, be profile beams. The seat crossmember is preferably not rigidly connected to the cab floor. However, this does not preclude the seat crossmember from being coupled to the cab floor by means of elastically and / or plastically deformable components, for example, in the form of spring elements, damping elements, and / or deformation elements. The seat crossmember is located within the interior of the cab.

[0038] The fact that the seat crossmember is "guided around" the indentation primarily means that the seat crossmember follows a geometry or contour of the indentation. The seat crossmember thus runs around the indentation. The fact that mounting planes are "provided" on the seat crossmember primarily means that the seat crossmember can have mounting planes. In other words, the seat crossmember has multiple mounting planes.

[0039] A "mounting plane" can primarily be understood as a surface of the seat crossmember to which a particular seat can be mounted. RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0040] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0041] 8 Preferably, the seats are screwed to their respective mounting levels. The fact that the mounting levels are arranged at different heights means, in particular, that a gap is provided between the mounting levels along the vertical direction. For example, a first mounting level is provided for the first seat, a second mounting level for the second seat, and a third mounting level for the third seat. The third mounting level is preferably arranged above the first and second mounting levels, viewed along the vertical direction. For example, the third mounting level is positioned at a distance from the first and second mounting levels, as mentioned above, along the vertical direction.

[0042] The dashboard runs primarily along the transverse direction between the two side walls of the driver's cab. Viewed along the longitudinal direction, the footwell is positioned primarily in front of the third seat, allowing the crew member seated in the third seat to place their feet and / or lower legs in the footwell. A substructure is provided below the dashboard to support it. The footwell is molded into or onto this substructure. Accordingly, the footwell is a recess or depression provided in the substructure.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the seat cross member is mechanically decoupled from the cab floor.

[0044] In this context, "mechanical decoupling" means, in particular, that no or only very reduced forces can be applied from the cab floor to the seat crossmember. This can be achieved, for example, by ensuring that the seat crossmember does not directly contact the cab floor and / or by connecting the seat crossmember only with the aid of elastically and / or plastically deformable components, such as RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO mentioned above.

[0045] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0046] 9

[0047] Spring elements, damping elements and / or deformation elements are operatively connected to the cab floor. Such spring elements, damping elements and / or deformation elements preferably exhibit their lowest stiffness when viewed along the vertical direction.

[0048] According to another embodiment, the seat cross member has a seat cross member center section arranged above the indentation when viewed along the vertical direction, which is interchangeable to adapt the seat cross member to a width of the driver's cab.

[0049] However, one or more seat crossmember side sections can be exchanged on the driver's and / or passenger's side to adapt the seat crossmember to the width of the cab. Furthermore, a combination of seat crossmember center section and seat crossmember side section(s) can also be interchangeable to adapt the seat crossmember to the width of the cab. This allows the seat crossmember to be adapted to different cab floor geometries. The seat crossmember center section is preferably plate-shaped. The third seat is preferably mounted to the seat crossmember center section. The seat crossmember center section has a surface facing the interior, which acts as a third mounting level. In other words, the seat crossmember center section provides the third mounting level. The third seat can be bolted to the seat crossmember center section.By replacing the seat crossmember's center section, the seat crossmember can be adapted to different configurations of the commercial vehicle. The seat crossmember is therefore multi-part. In this context, "multi-part" means, in particular, that the seat crossmember is constructed from a multitude of interconnected sub-components, such as the seat crossmember's center section, which are connected to form the seat crossmember, especially in a detachable manner, for example, by bolting them together. The seat crossmember thus has a modular design. RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO.

[0050] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0051] 10

[0052] According to another embodiment, the seat crossbeam has deformation elements, wherein the seat crossbeam middle part is connected to the indentation by means of the deformation elements.

[0053] The deformation elements are plastically deformable, particularly in the event of a collision with the commercial vehicle. These elements are specifically designed to convert kinetic energy into deformation energy. They can also be referred to as absorption elements or crash elements. Preferably, the deformation elements are very flexible or exhibit low stiffness when viewed along their vertical axis. "Stiffness" primarily refers to the resistance of a body, in this case the deformation elements, to elastic deformation induced by an external load, and establishes the relationship between the load on the body and its deformation. Stiffness is determined by the material of the body and its geometry.In particular, the deformation elements are designed such that they exhibit higher stiffness along the transverse direction than along the vertical and longitudinal directions. This prevents the seats from moving laterally in the event of a lateral impact on the cab, such as in an accident. The deformation elements can have a C-shaped cross-section. Specifically, the seat cross member exhibits its lowest stiffness along the vertical direction and its highest stiffness along the longitudinal direction.

[0054] According to a further embodiment, the seat cross member has a first seat cross member side part and a second seat cross member side part, wherein the seat cross member center part, viewed along the transverse direction, is arranged between the first seat cross member side part and the second seat cross member side part. RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0055] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0056] 11, wherein the first seat cross member side part is connected to the seat cross member middle part by means of a first connecting plate, and wherein the second seat cross member side part is connected to the seat cross member middle part by means of a second connecting plate.

[0057] The first seat crossmember is preferably associated with the first seat crossmember. The first seat can be connected to the first seat crossmember, in particular by screws. The second seat is preferably associated with the second seat crossmember. The second seat can be connected to the second seat crossmember, in particular by screws. The first seat crossmember has a first mounting plane. In particular, the first mounting plane is formed by a surface of the first seat crossmember facing the interior. The second seat crossmember has a second mounting plane. In particular, the second mounting plane is formed by a surface of the second seat crossmember facing the interior. The two seat crossmembers are preferably plate-shaped.The first seat crossbeam side section, the second seat crossbeam side section, the seat crossbeam center section, the first connecting plate, and the second connecting plate are preferably bolted together. The two connecting plates are arranged between the two seat crossbeam side sections, with the seat crossbeam center section positioned between the two connecting plates. Preferably, the connecting plates are sheet metal components with a Z-shaped geometry. The connecting plates exhibit their highest stiffness along the longitudinal direction. Along the vertical and transverse directions, the connecting plates exhibit lower stiffness compared to the vertical direction. The connecting plates, the seat crossbeam side section, and / or the seat crossbeam center section can be made of metallic materials, such as a steel alloy or an aluminum alloy, or of fiber-reinforced composite materials.RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO.

[0058] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0059] 12

[0060] According to a further embodiment, the first connecting plate runs obliquely to the transverse direction and obliquely to the vertical direction along the indentation, wherein the second connecting plate runs obliquely to the transverse direction and obliquely to the vertical direction along the indentation, so that the indentation, viewed along the transverse direction, is arranged between the first connecting plate and the second connecting plate.

[0061] In other words, the first and second connecting plates follow a geometry or contour of the indentation. The first and second connecting plates are preferably identical in construction. However, they are arranged symmetrically to a plane passing through the indentation, which can be spanned by the vertical and longitudinal directions. Viewed along the vertical direction, the connecting plates preferably converge towards each other.

[0062] According to another embodiment, the driver's cab has a cab shell which is connected to the cab floor, wherein the seat cross member is connected to the cab shell.

[0063] The seat crossmember is preferably connected only to the cab shell. Additionally, the seat crossmember can be connected to the recess using the aforementioned deformation elements; however, the low stiffness of the deformation elements along the vertical direction results in a mechanical decoupling of the seat crossmember from the cab floor. The cab shell preferably has load-bearing structures to which the seat crossmember is connected. In particular, the seat crossmember is bolted to the cab shell. RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0064] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0065] 13

[0066] According to another embodiment, the seat cross member is connected to a first side wall, a second side wall, a front wall and / or a rear wall of the cab shell.

[0067] Thus, the cab shell comprises the first side wall, the second side wall, the front wall, the rear wall, and a ceiling as previously mentioned. The seat crossbeam can be connected to the first and second side walls. Additionally, the seat crossbeam can be connected to the rear wall. A connection of the seat crossbeam to the front wall is also possible. As mentioned previously, the seat crossbeam is preferably connected to load-bearing structures of the cab shell or the side walls, the rear wall, and / or the front wall. Optionally, the seat crossbeam can also be connected only to the front and rear walls. In this case, no connection to the side walls is provided.

[0068] According to another embodiment, the seat crossbeam has a first rear wall attachment point where the seat crossbeam is connected to the rear wall, and a second rear wall attachment point where the seat crossbeam is connected to the rear wall.

[0069] In this context, a "rear wall mounting point" is not to be understood as a point in the geometric sense, but rather as an area where the seat cross member is connected to the rear wall. Accordingly, such a rear wall mounting point can, for example, have several screws or screw connections by means of which the seat cross member is connected to the rear wall at the respective rear wall mounting point. Preferably, the seat cross member comprises a first rear wall mounting element, which is connected to the first seat cross member side part and / or the first connecting plate. The first rear wall mounting element forms the first rear wall mounting point on the rear wall. In addition to the first rear wall mounting element, RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0070] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0071] 14. The seat cross member preferably has a second rear wall mounting element, which is connected to the second seat cross member side member and / or the second connecting plate. The second rear wall mounting element forms the second rear wall mounting point on the rear wall. The first rear wall mounting element and the second rear wall mounting element are preferably sheet metal bending parts. The first rear wall mounting element and the second rear wall mounting element can be identical in construction and mirror-symmetrical. Both the first rear wall mounting element and the second rear wall mounting element extend obliquely to the longitudinal direction and obliquely to the vertical direction from the respective seat cross member side member towards the rear wall. Alternatively, the rear wall mounting elements can also extend straight towards the rear wall.The angle of the back panel mounting elements can be adjusted depending on the geometry of the back panel.

[0072] According to another embodiment, the indentation is arranged between the first rear wall mounting point and the second rear wall mounting point when viewed along the transverse direction.

[0073] Thus, the first back panel mounting element and the second back panel mounting element are arranged in such a way that the indentation is placed between the first back panel mounting element and the second back panel mounting element.

[0074] According to a further embodiment, the seat cross member has a first side wall attachment point at which the seat cross member is connected to the first side wall, and a second side wall attachment point at which the seat cross member is connected to the second side wall, wherein the two rear wall attachment points and the two RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0075] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0076] 15 side wall attachment points are arranged at different heights along the vertical direction.

[0077] The term "side wall mounting point," analogous to the previously mentioned rear wall mounting points, does not refer to a point in the geometric sense, but preferably to an arrangement of screws or bolts by which the seat cross member is connected to the respective side wall. In particular, the two side wall mounting points are provided on load-bearing structures of the first and second side walls. The seat cross member preferably comprises a first side wall mounting element, which is connected to the first seat cross member side component and / or the first connecting plate. The first side wall mounting element forms the first side wall mounting point on the first side wall. Furthermore, the seat cross member has a second side wall mounting element, which is connected to the second seat cross member side component and / or the second connecting plate.The second seat crossbeam side section forms the second side wall attachment point on the second side wall. Viewed along the transverse direction, the two rear wall attachment points are arranged between the first and second side wall attachment points, with the indentation positioned between the first and second rear wall attachment points. Viewed along the vertical direction, the two rear wall attachment points are preferably located above the two side wall attachment points. In addition to the rear and side wall attachment points, the seat crossbeam can also have a first and a second front wall attachment point, which allow the seat crossbeam to be connected to the front wall. The seat crossbeam can thus be connected to the side walls, the rear wall, and the front wall.RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO.

[0078] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0079] 16

[0080] According to a further embodiment, the seat crossbeam has a first mounting level for a first seat, a second mounting level for a second seat and a third mounting level for a third seat which can be mounted between the first seat and the second seat when viewed along the transverse direction.

[0081] Preferably, the indentation is arranged between the first and second seats when viewed along the transverse direction. The third seat is preferably arranged above the indentation when viewed along the vertical direction. As mentioned previously, the seats are part of a seating arrangement that includes the seat crossbeam. The first seat is connected to the seat crossbeam at the first mounting level, the second seat is connected to the seat crossbeam at the second mounting level, and the third seat is connected to the seat crossbeam at the third mounting level. The mounting levels preferably run parallel to a plane spanned by the longitudinal and transverse directions.

[0082] According to another embodiment, the first mounting level and the second mounting level are arranged at the same height when viewed along the vertical direction, with the third mounting level being arranged above the first mounting level and above the second mounting level when viewed along the vertical direction.

[0083] In other words, the first and second mounting levels can be identical. The third mounting level is positioned above the indentation when viewed along the vertical direction. The third mounting level is positioned at the previously mentioned distance from the first and second mounting levels when viewed along the vertical direction.

[0084] According to another embodiment, the first mounting level and the second mounting level, viewed along the vertical direction, are on different RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0085] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0086] 17

[0087] The mounting levels are arranged at heights, with the third mounting level being positioned above the first mounting level and above the second mounting level when viewed along the vertical direction.

[0088] Preferably, the second mounting level, viewed along the vertical direction, is arranged above the first mounting level. Viewed along the vertical direction, the second mounting level can thus be arranged between the first and third mounting levels. Alternatively, the first mounting level, viewed along the vertical direction, can also be arranged above the second mounting level.

[0089] According to another embodiment, the foot recess has a foot support which is inclined at an angle of less than 90° relative to the mounting planes.

[0090] The footrest is angled slightly towards the crew member using the third seat, so that the angle between the feet and the lower legs or shins of the crew member corresponds to an ergonomic 90° ±10°. In the event of abrupt deceleration of the vehicle, the crew member using the third seat can thus brace themselves against centrifugal forces and is not solely suspended by the seatbelts.

[0091] According to another embodiment, the commercial vehicle has several seats mounted on the seat cross member, the seats being separate components.

[0092] The fact that the seats are "separate components" means, in this case, in particular, that the seats can be individually mounted to and removed from the seat crossmember. Each seat can therefore be replaced independently. RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0093] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0094] 18 seats can be installed without removing the other seats. Therefore, the multiple seats do not form a continuous bench seat.

[0095] According to another embodiment, the commercial vehicle has several seats mounted on the seat cross member, with one of the seats being connected to the foot recess by means of a connecting unit.

[0096] Preferably, the third seat is connected to the footwell by means of a connecting unit. Specifically, the connecting unit is connected to the footrest of the footwell. The connecting unit serves, in particular, to allow the legs to rest on it, thus preventing them from falling asleep. The connecting unit is specifically designed as a plate or sheet of metal. The advantage of such a plate or sheet is that, in the event of a collision with the vehicle, there is no connection between the occupant's limbs and the cab floor, thereby reducing the risk of limb injury. However, the connecting unit can also comprise a multitude of interconnected connecting elements. These connecting elements can, for example, be flexibly connected to one another, particularly with the aid of textile straps, so that the connecting unit can be rolled up.Furthermore, this makes the connecting unit flexibly deformable. The connecting elements can be strip-shaped or rod-shaped.

[0097] According to a further embodiment, the seat crossbeam has a first stiffness when viewed along its length, a second stiffness when viewed along its transverse direction, and a third stiffness when viewed along its vertical direction, wherein the third stiffness is smaller than the first stiffness and smaller than the second stiffness, and wherein the second stiffness is smaller than the first stiffness. RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0098] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0099] 19

[0100] This prevents the acceleration of the cab during a crash, which acts primarily along the vertical direction, from being transferred to the seat crossmember. This is because the seat crossmember, due to its low third stiffness, deforms easily under forces acting along the vertical direction. Specifically, the deformation elements undergo plastic deformation. In an accident scenario where high accelerations can occur, primarily along the longitudinal and / or transverse directions, excessive deformation of the seat crossmember is avoided due to its greater stiffness along these directions. In particular, the connecting plates stiffen the seat crossmember along its longitudinal direction, while the deformation elements stiffen it along its transverse direction.

[0101] According to another embodiment, the driver's cab is mounted on the chassis so that it can pivot about an axis of rotation.

[0102] The pivot point can be located at or near a front edge of the cab floor. Using this pivot point, the cab can be rotated from a closed position, as previously mentioned, to an open position, and vice versa. In the open position, for example, the engine of the commercial vehicle, located beneath the cab, is accessible.

[0103] "One" in this context is not necessarily to be understood as restricting to exactly one element. Rather, multiple elements, such as two, three, or more, are also possible. Likewise, every other counter used here is not to be understood as restricting to precisely the aforementioned RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO.

[0104] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0105] 20

[0106] The number of elements is given. Rather, numerical deviations above and below are possible unless otherwise stated.

[0107] Other possible implementations of the commercial vehicle also include combinations of features or embodiments described previously or subsequently with regard to the exemplary embodiments, even if not explicitly mentioned. In such cases, the person skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or additions to the respective basic form of the commercial vehicle.

[0108] Further advantageous embodiments and aspects of the commercial vehicle are the subject of the dependent claims and the exemplary embodiments of the commercial vehicle described below. The commercial vehicle will be explained in more detail below with reference to preferred embodiments and the accompanying figures.

[0109] Fig. 1 shows a schematic side view of an embodiment of a commercial vehicle;

[0110] Fig. 2 shows a schematic front view of an embodiment of a driver's cab for the commercial vehicle according to Fig. 1;

[0111] Fig. 3 shows a schematic sectional view of the driver's cab according to section line III-III of Fig. 2;

[0112] Fig. 4 shows a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a cab floor for the cab according to Fig. 2;

[0113] Fig. 5 shows a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a seat cross member for the driver's cab according to Fig. 2; RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0114] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0115] 21

[0116] Fig. 6 shows a schematic top view of the seat crossbeam according to Fig. 5;

[0117] Fig. 7 shows a schematic front view of the seat cross member according to Fig. 5;

[0118] Fig. 8 shows a schematic side view of the seat crossbeam according to Fig. 5;

[0119] Fig. 9 shows a schematic perspective exploded view of the seat crossbeam according to Fig. 5;

[0120] Fig. 10 shows a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a seating arrangement for the driver's cab according to Fig. 2;

[0121] Fig. 11 shows a schematic front view of another embodiment of a seat cross member for the driver's cab according to Fig. 2;

[0122] Fig. 12 shows another schematic sectional view of the driver's cab according to section line XII-XII of Fig. 2; and

[0123] Fig. 13 shows a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a foot recess for the driver's cab according to Fig. 2.

[0124] In the figures, identical or functionally equivalent elements have been given the same reference symbols, unless otherwise indicated.

[0125] Fig. 1 shows a schematic side view of an embodiment of a commercial vehicle 1.

[0126] Commercial vehicle 1 is a land vehicle. Specifically, commercial vehicle 1 is a military commercial vehicle. Commercial vehicle 1 can therefore also be referred to as a military commercial vehicle. Commercial vehicle 1 can be an RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0127] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0128] 22. Specifically, commercial vehicle 1 is an off-road truck. Commercial vehicle 1 can be a protected vehicle. Therefore, commercial vehicle 1 can also be referred to as a protected commercial vehicle.

[0129] The commercial vehicle 1 is assigned a coordinate system with a longitudinal direction (x-direction), a transverse direction (y-direction), and a vertical direction (z-direction). The x, y, and z directions are oriented perpendicular to each other. The z-direction is oriented parallel to a gravity direction (g). In the orientation shown in Fig. 1, the gravity direction (g) is oriented from top to bottom.

[0130] Commercial vehicle 1 is a wheeled vehicle. Commercial vehicle 1 comprises a chassis 2 with a plurality of axles 3, 4, 5, 6. The axles 3, 4, 5, 6 carry wheels 7, 8, 9, 10. Each of the axles 3, 4, 5, 6 is assigned at least one pair of wheels 7, 8, 9, 10. For example, four axles 3, 4, 5, 6 can be provided. This means that commercial vehicle 1 is a four-axle vehicle in this case. However, the number of axles 3, 4, 5, 6 is arbitrary. Commercial vehicle 1 can also be a two-axle, three-axle, or five-axle vehicle. Commercial vehicle 1 preferably includes all-wheel drive. This means that all axles 3, 4, 5, 6 can be driven. Commercial vehicle 1 can therefore also be referred to as an all-wheel-drive commercial vehicle. At least one of axles 3, 4, 5, or 6 is steerable. Preferably, two front axles or front axles 3 and 4 are steerable. All axles 3, 4, 5, or 6 can also be steerable.

[0131] The chassis 2 carries a driver's cab 11 of the commercial vehicle 1. The aforementioned coordinate system can also be assigned to the driver's cab 11. The driver's cab 11 is preferably protected against gunfire, booby traps, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), mines, or the like. The driver's cab 11 encloses an interior space 12 in which a crew of the commercial vehicle 1, for example RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO, can be located.

[0132] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria GmbH 23 a driver and one or two passengers. The cab 11 encloses the interior 12 and thus separates it from the surrounding area 13. The interior 12 is accessible from the surrounding area 13 by means of openable doors 14.

[0133] The chassis 2 is suitable for carrying an interchangeable body 15 of the commercial vehicle 1 in addition to the driver's cab 11. The body 15 can be, for example, a flatbed, a container, a box body, a tank, or the like. Figure 1 shows a body 15 in the form of a container.

[0134] The commercial vehicle 1 can move along a surface 17 in a direction of travel 16 using its wheels 7, 8, 9, 10. The direction of travel 16 is oriented opposite to the x-direction x. However, this does not preclude the commercial vehicle 1 from moving in the opposite direction of travel 16 on the surface 17 – for example, in reverse. The surface 17 can be a road or any type of terrain.

[0135] Fig. 2 shows a schematic front view of an embodiment of a driver's cab 11 for the commercial vehicle 1 as previously mentioned. Fig. 3 shows a schematic sectional view of the driver's cab 11 along section line III-IH of Fig. 2. Fig. 4 shows a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a driver's cab floor 18 for the driver's cab 11. Reference is made hereafter to Figs. 2 to 4 simultaneously.

[0136] The previously mentioned coordinate system with directions x, y, z can also be assigned to the driver's cab 11. The driver's cab 11 comprises a mine-protected, in particular mine-protection-optimized, driver's cab floor 18 and a driver's cab shell 19, which is firmly connected to the driver's cab floor 18.

[0137] The cab floor 18 is in particular part of the cab shell 19. The cab shell 19 has a RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO opposite the cab floor 18.

[0138] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0139] The vehicle comprises a roof 20, two opposing side walls 21, 22, in particular a first side wall 21 and a second side wall 22, which may be provided with doors 14 as mentioned above, a front wall 23, and a rear wall 24 opposite the front wall 23. The front wall 23 may have a windshield. The windshield may be divided.

[0140] The cab floor 18 and the cab shell 19, or in other words the roof 20, the side walls 21, 22, the front wall 23, and the rear wall 24, enclose the interior 12. The interior 12 can be accessed from the surroundings 13 by means of doors 14 and / or hatches (not shown) as mentioned above. The roof 20, the side walls 21, 22, the front wall 23, and / or the rear wall 24 may have reinforcements or load-bearing structures, for example, in the form of profile beams.

[0141] The driver's cab 11, and thus located within the interior space 12, contains a driver's seat or first seat 25, a first passenger seat or second seat 26, and a second passenger seat or third seat 27. The seats 25, 26, and 27 are positioned side by side and spaced apart along the y-direction y. The third seat 27 is positioned between the first seat 25 and the second seat 26. The seats 25, 26, and 27 are separate components and can be individually replaced. Therefore, the seats 25, 26, and 27 do not form a continuous bench seat. Figure 3 shows only the first seat 25. Seats 26 and 27 are not shown in Figure 3.

[0142] Seats 25, 26, and 27 are part of a seating arrangement 28 in the driver's cab 11. In addition to seats 25, 26, and 27, the seating arrangement 28 includes several mounting levels 29, 30, and 31. The first seat 25 is assigned a first mounting level 29, on which the first seat 25 can be mounted. The second seat 26 is assigned a second mounting level 30, on which the second seat 26 can be mounted. RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0143] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria GmbH 25 can. The third seat 27 is assigned a third mounting level 31, on which the third seat 27 can be mounted. In Fig. 3 only the first mounting level 29 is shown. The mounting levels 30, 31 are not shown in Fig. 3.

[0144] The mounting planes 29, 30, and 31 run parallel to and spaced apart from a plane spanned by the x-direction x and the y-direction y. The first mounting plane 29 and the second mounting plane 30 are at the same height when viewed along the z-direction z. In other words, the first mounting plane 29 and the second mounting plane 30 can be identical. The third mounting plane 31 is at a different height than the first mounting plane 29 and the second mounting plane 30 when viewed along the z-direction z.

[0145] In particular, the third mounting level 31 is arranged above the first mounting level 29 and above the second mounting level 30 when viewed along the z-direction z. Specifically, a distance a is provided between the two mounting levels 29, 30 and the third mounting level 31. The distance a extends along the z-direction z. This means, in particular, that the third seat 27, which is arranged between the first seat 25 and the second seat 26 when viewed along the y-direction y, is arranged above the first seat 25 and the second seat 26 when viewed along the z-direction z.

[0146] The cab 11 has a width b when viewed along the y-direction y. Depending on whether the cab 11 is protected or not, it can have different widths b. The width b is therefore variable in such a way that different embodiments (not shown) of the cab 11 can also result in different widths b.

[0147] The cab floor 18 is not flat, but has a three-dimensionally shaped geometry, in particular in the form of a freeform surface. A "freeform surface" is primarily defined as any three-dimensionally shaped surface, as shown in RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO.

[0148] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria GmbH 26. A freeform surface can be described, in particular, using piecewise polynomial functions. Specifically, freeform surfaces are three-dimensional, usually doubly curved surfaces.

[0149] The cab floor 18 has a first bulge 32 molded onto it, which curves outwards from the interior 12 towards the surroundings 13. That is, the first bulge 32 curves into the surroundings 13 of the cab 11. Preferably, a first bulge 32, which is associated with the first seat 25, and a second bulge 33, which is associated with the second seat 26, are provided. Viewed along the z-direction z, the first seat 25 is arranged above the first bulge 32. Similarly, viewed along the z-direction z, the second seat 26 is arranged above the second bulge 33. The bulges 32 and 33 are preferably identical in construction. The bulges 32 and 33 can also be referred to as bulges or projections.

[0150] The protrusions 32, 33 exhibit a three-dimensional and buckling-optimized geometry, resulting in high stiffness or structural strength. In this context, "stiffness" refers specifically to a body's resistance to elastic deformation induced by an external load and conveys the relationship between the load on the body and its deformation. Stiffness is determined by the material of the body and its geometry.

[0151] The protrusions 32, 33 are at least partially egg-shaped or ovoid. The terms "egg-shaped" or "ovoid" here refer to a three-dimensional, rounded figure that, in the broadest sense, resembles the profile of a bird's egg. In particular, the egg-shaped geometry can be created by rotating an oval around an axis of symmetry. Unlike an ellipse, however, the oval has only one axis of symmetry, to which the oval RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0152] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0153] 27 is mirror-symmetrical. The geometry of the protrusions 32, 33 can also be described as ovoid geometry or as ovoid.

[0154] Between the first protrusion 32 and the second protrusion 33, a recess 34 is formed in the cab floor 18. The recess 34 projects inwards into the interior 12 of the cab 11 and extends along the x-direction x. Viewed from the surroundings 13, the recess 34 curves away from the surroundings 13 and inwards into the interior 12. For example, the recess 34 can accommodate a drivetrain of the commercial vehicle 1, in particular a transmission tunnel.

[0155] Furthermore, a third protrusion 35 is provided centrally between the protrusions 32 and 33. The third protrusion 35 projects less far from the interior 12 than the protrusions 32 and 33. The third seat 27 is associated with the third protrusion 35. Viewed along the z-direction, the third seat 27 is positioned above the third protrusion 35. The protrusions 32, 33, 35 and the indentation 34 are oriented in opposite directions when viewed along the z-direction. The protrusions 32, 33, 35 are not visible in Fig. 4.

[0156] As shown in Fig. 4, a pivot axis 37 is provided at or in the area of ​​the front edge 36 of the cab floor 18, about which the cab 11 can be pivoted relative to the chassis 2 in order to move the cab 11 from a closed state, in which the cab 11 conceals an engine of the commercial vehicle 1 located below the cab 11, to an open state in which the engine is accessible, and vice versa. Suitable hydraulic cylinders can be provided for this purpose. Hinges can be attached to or in the area of ​​the front edge 36 for this purpose. The cab floor 18 is pivotably connected to the chassis 2 by means of the hinges. RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0157] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0158] 28

[0159] Fig. 5 shows a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a seat crossmember 38A for the driver's cab 11. Fig. 6 shows a schematic top view of the seat crossmember 38A. Fig. 7 shows a schematic front view of the seat crossmember 38A. Fig. 8 shows a schematic side view of the seat crossmember 38A. Fig. 9 shows a schematic exploded view of the seat crossmember 38A. Fig. 10 shows a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a seat arrangement 28 as previously mentioned. Reference is made hereafter to Figs. 5 to 10 simultaneously.

[0160] The seat crossmember 38A extends along the y-direction y, i.e., between the two side walls 21, 22 of the driver's cab 11. The seat crossmember 38A exhibits different stiffnesses when viewed along the x, y, and z directions. In particular, the seat crossmember 38A has a lower stiffness along the z-direction z than along the x-direction x and the y-direction y. Conversely, the seat crossmember 38A has a lower stiffness along the y-direction y than along the x-direction x. These differences in stiffness are achieved through an optimized geometry of the seat crossmember 38A, as will be explained below.

[0161] The seat crossmember 38A and the seats 25, 26, 27 together form the aforementioned seat arrangement 28. The seat crossmember 38A has the previously described mounting levels 29, 30, 31 for the seats 25, 26, 27. The seat crossmember 38A is located in the interior 12 of the driver's cab 11. The seat crossmember 38A is guided around the recess 34 of the driver's cab floor 18 such that the mounting levels 29, 30, 31 associated with the seat crossmember 38A are arranged at different heights when viewed along the z-direction z. The seats 25, 26, 27 are firmly connected to the seat crossmember 38A at the mounting levels 29, 30, 31, in particular by bolting them to it. RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0162] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0163] 29

[0164] The seat cross member 38A is multi-part. This means, in particular, that the seat cross member 38A is composed of numerous interconnected sub-components. These sub-components are detachably connected, primarily by screws. Individual sub-components of the seat cross member 38A can be replaced as needed. This results in a modular design for the seat cross member 38A.

[0165] The seat cross member 38A comprises a seat cross member center section 39 arranged above the recess 34 along the z-direction z. The seat cross member center section 39 is plate-shaped. The third mounting level 31 is assigned to the seat cross member center section 39, which is formed in particular by a surface 40 of the seat cross member center section 39 facing the interior 12. The seat cross member center section 39 has two lateral mounting sections 41, 42, in particular a first mounting section 41 and a second mounting section 42. The seat cross member center section 39 can be made, for example, of a metallic material, in particular a steel alloy or an aluminum alloy, or of a fiber composite material.

[0166] The seat crossmember center section 39 can be coupled to the recess 34 by means of two deformation elements 43, 44. Screw connections can be provided for this purpose. The deformation elements 43, 44 are plastically deformable in the event of an impact on the commercial vehicle 1. The deformation elements 43, 44 are capable of converting kinetic energy into deformation energy. The deformation elements 43, 44 can also be referred to as absorption elements or crash elements. In the event of an impact on the commercial vehicle 1, the deformation elements 43, 44 can absorb energy, particularly on a single occasion. The deformation elements 43, 44 can be screwed to the seat crossmember center section 39 and the recess 34. The deformation elements 43, 44 can have a C-shaped cross-sectional geometry. RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0167] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0168] 30 Deformation elements 43, 44 exhibit a higher stiffness along the y-direction y than along the x-direction x and the z-direction z.

[0169] In addition to the seat crossmember center section 39, the seat crossmember 38A comprises a first seat crossmember side section 45, to which the first mounting level 29 and the first seat 25 are assigned, and a second seat crossmember side section 46, to which the second seat 26 and the second mounting level 30 are assigned. The seat crossmember side sections 45 and 46 are each plate-shaped. The first seat 25 is screwed to the first seat crossmember side section 45. The second seat 26 is screwed to the second seat crossmember side section 46. The first seat crossmember side section 45 comprises a surface 47 facing the interior 12, which forms the first mounting level 29. The second seat crossmember side section 46 comprises a surface 48 facing the interior 12, which forms the second mounting level 30.The seat crossbeam side parts 45, 46 can, for example, be made of a metallic material, in particular a steel alloy or an aluminum alloy, or of a fiber composite material.

[0170] The first seat crossmember side section 45 is connected to the seat crossmember center section 39 by means of a first connecting plate 49, in particular by screws. In particular, the first seat crossmember side section 45 can be screwed to the first connecting plate 49, wherein the first connecting plate 49 is in turn screwed to the first fastening section 41 of the seat crossmember center section 39.

[0171] The first connecting plate 49 comprises a Z-shaped geometry with a first mounting section 50, to which the first seat crossmember side section 45 is connected, a second mounting section 51, which is connected to the first mounting section 41 of the seat crossmember center section 39, and a connecting section 52, which connects the first mounting section 50 to the second mounting section 51. The two mounting sections RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0172] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd. 31

[0173] Sections 50 and 51 are arranged parallel to each other and spaced apart. In particular, the fastening sections 50 and 51 are arranged parallel to the mounting planes 29, 30, and 31. The connecting section 52 runs obliquely to the z-direction and obliquely to the y-direction. In particular, the connecting section 52 runs laterally past the indentation 34.

[0174] A second connecting plate 53 is associated with the second seat crossmember side member 46. The second connecting plate 53 is preferably identical in construction to the first connecting plate 49 and arranged in a mirror-symmetrical manner. The second connecting plate 53 comprises a first mounting section 54 to which the second seat crossmember side member 46 is attached, a second mounting section 55 which is connected to the second mounting section 42 of the seat crossmember center member 39, and a connecting section 56 which connects the two mounting sections 54 and 55 to each other. The connecting plates 49 and 53 are preferably sheet metal components. However, the connecting plates 49 and 53 can also each be made of a fiber-reinforced composite material.

[0175] The first connecting plate 49 has a first side wall fastening element

[0176] 57, by means of which the first connecting plate 49 is connected to the cab shell 19, in particular to the first side wall 21, preferably to a load-bearing structure of the first side wall 21 as previously mentioned. The first side wall connecting element 57 forms a first side wall attachment point 58, at which the seat cross member 38A is connected to the first side wall 21. In this context, a "side wall attachment point" is not to be understood as a point in the geometric sense, but rather the first side wall attachment point 58 forms an area at which the seat cross member 38A is connected to the first side wall 21. The first side wall attachment point

[0177] 58 can include multiple screw connections or bolted joints. RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0178] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0179] 32

[0180] A second side wall fastening element 59 is associated with the second connecting plate 53. This second side wall fastening element 59 is identical in construction to the first side wall fastening element 57 and is arranged symmetrically to it. The second side wall fastening element 59 forms a second side wall fastening point 60, at which the seat cross member 38A is connected to the second side wall 22. The side wall fastening elements 57 and 59 are preferably sheet metal components. However, the side wall fastening elements 57 and 59 can also each be made of a fiber composite material.

[0181] Furthermore, the first connecting plate 49 is connected to a first rear wall fastening element 61 via its first fastening section 50. The first rear wall fastening element 61 extends from the first fastening section 50 of the first connecting plate 49 obliquely to the x-direction x and obliquely to the z-direction z towards the rear wall 24 of the driver's cab 11 and is connected to it, in particular by bolting. The first rear wall fastening element 61 forms a first rear wall fastening point 62 at which the seat cross member 38A is connected to the rear wall 24, in particular to a supporting structure of the rear wall 24.

[0182] The second connecting plate 53 is connected to a second rear wall mounting element 63 via its first mounting section 54. The second rear wall mounting element 63 is preferably identical in construction to the first rear wall mounting element 61 and arranged symmetrically to it. The second rear wall mounting element 63 forms a second rear wall mounting point 64, at which the seat cross member 38A is connected to the rear wall 24, in particular to a supporting structure of the rear wall 24. The rear wall mounting elements 61, 63 are preferably sheet metal components. However, the rear wall mounting elements 61, 63 can also each be made of a fiber composite material. RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0183] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd. 33

[0184] As shown in Fig. 7, the two rear wall mounting points 62, 64 and the two side wall mounting points 58, 60 are arranged at different heights when viewed along the z-direction z. In particular, the two rear wall mounting points 62, 64 are located above the two side wall mounting points 58, 60 when viewed along the z-direction z. When viewed along the y-direction y, the two rear wall mounting points 62, 64 are positioned between the two side wall mounting points 58, 60.

[0185] The first connecting plate 49 is associated with a first front wall mounting element 65. The first front wall mounting element 65 allows the first connecting plate 49 to be connected to the front wall 23 of the driver's cab 11. The first front wall mounting element 65 comprises a connecting section 66 extending towards the front wall 23, a mounting section 67 which can be connected to the first mounting section 50 of the first connecting plate 49, and two footrest brackets 68, 69 for holding footrests of the first seat 25. The first front wall mounting element 65, together with its connecting section 66, forms a first front wall mounting point 70 on the front wall 23.

[0186] A second front wall mounting element 71 is assigned to the second connecting plate 53. The second front wall mounting element 71 is identical in construction to the first front wall mounting element 65, except that the second front wall mounting element 71 is arranged in a mirror-symmetrical manner relative to the first front wall mounting element 65.

[0187] The second front wall mounting element 71 comprises a connecting section 72 extending towards the front wall 23, a mounting section 73 connected to the first mounting section 54 of the second connecting plate 53, and two footrest brackets 74, 75. The footrest brackets 74, 75 are used to hold the footrests of the second seat 26.

[0188] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria GmbH 34. The second front wall mounting element 71, together with its connecting section 72, forms a second front wall mounting point 76 on the front wall 23. The front wall mounting elements 65, 71 are preferably sheet metal bent parts. However, the front wall mounting elements 65, 71 can also each be made of a fiber composite material.

[0189] The seat crossmember 38A further comprises two additional deformation elements 77, 78. The deformation elements 77, 78 can be mounted on the recess 34 of the cab floor 18. Furthermore, two floor panel holders 79, 80 are associated with the seat crossmember 38A. The floor panel holders 79, 80 serve to mount two floor panels 81, 82. A first floor panel 81 is associated with the first seat 25. A second floor panel 82 is associated with the second seat 26. The floor panel holders 79, 80 can be designed as spring elements. A curved splash guard 83 is mounted on the seat crossmember center section 39, which extends at least partially along the recess 34. The floor panel holders 79, 80 can also be designed as deformation elements.

[0190] Because the seat crossmember 38A is only operatively connected to the cab floor 18 by means of the deformation elements 43, 44, the seat crossmember 38A is mechanically decoupled from the cab floor 18. "Mechanically decoupled" primarily means that no or only minimal forces can be transmitted from the cab floor 18 to the seat crossmember 38A. For this purpose, the deformation elements 43, 44 exhibit the lowest possible stiffness along the z-direction. Preferably, no connection other than the deformation elements 43, 44 is provided between the seat crossmember 38A and the cab floor 18. The seat crossmember 38A is only rigidly connected to the cab shell 19.

[0191] Returning to Figures 2 and 3, an explosive charge 84 can act on the cab 11, generating a blast or pressure wave 85 that impacts the RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0192] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0193] The pressure wave 85 acts on the cab floor 18. Because the seat crossbeam 38A is mechanically decoupled from the cab floor 18, accelerations resulting from the pressure wave 85, which act on the cab 11, do not directly affect the seating arrangement 28 and seats 25, 26, 27. Furthermore, the deformation elements 43, 44 convert kinetic energy acting on the cab floor 18 into deformation energy. The pressure wave 85 is thus at least partially absorbed. The occupants of the commercial vehicle 1, located on seats 25, 26, 27, are thus effectively protected from excessive accelerations and decelerations and therefore also from injuries.

[0194] Fig. 11 shows a schematic front view of another embodiment of a seat cross member 38B for the commercial vehicle 1.

[0195] The seat crossbeam 38B differs from the seat crossbeam 38A only in that, in the seat crossbeam 38B, the first mounting level 29 and the second mounting level 30 are not arranged at the same height when viewed along the z-direction z, but at different heights. For example, the second mounting level 30 is positioned above the first mounting level 29. The connecting plates 49, 53 can be of different lengths for this purpose. The seat crossbeam 38B can be part of the seat assembly 28 shown in Fig. 10.

[0196] The third mounting level 31 is spaced a first distance al from the first mounting level 29 along the z-direction z. The third mounting level 31 is spaced a second distance a2 from the second mounting level 30. The first distance al is greater than the second distance a2. However, a reverse arrangement is also possible, in which the first mounting level 29 is positioned above the second mounting level 30. In this case, the first distance al is less than the second distance a2. RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0197] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0198] 36

[0199] Fig. 12 shows another schematic sectional view of the driver's cab 11 according to section line XII-XII of Fig. 2.

[0200] Figure 12 does not show the cab shell 19. Rather, Figure 12 only shows the third seat 27 and the recess 34 of the cab floor 18. In a commercial vehicle 1 as described above, particularly in military applications, the third seat 27, which can also be referred to as the middle seat since it is located centrally in the cab 11 when viewed along the y-direction y, is often not ergonomically designed but rather intended and / or designed as an emergency seat. In cab-over-engine vehicles, such as the commercial vehicle 1 described above, the engine is usually located centrally under the cab 11, unlike in conventionally bonneted vehicles. The cab floor 18 is therefore curved upwards at the recess 34 to provide space for the engine block.

[0201] A central section of the cab 11 is therefore often already elevated. Furthermore, along the x-direction x, a dashboard or instrument panel 86 is located in front of the third seat 27, and a crew member 87 sitting in the third seat 27 can either rest their legs on the dashboard 86 or remain on the third seat 27 with their legs drawn up. In both cases, this results in a non-ergonomic seating position or a non-ergonomic leg position. Consequently, this is uncomfortable, and the legs can fall asleep. Furthermore, leg cramps can occur.

[0202] Common guidelines, such as DIN EN ISO 6682, specify certain requirements for seats 25, 26, 27 in driver's cabs 11, which must be met. These guidelines regulate, for example, the angles between the thighs and lower legs in the seated position. Furthermore, guidelines RMM24008PWO and DPT24011 WO specify

[0203] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd. 37

[0204] Reference is made to the angle at the hip, the feet on a floor or a footrest on which the feet are supported.

[0205] To comply with these guidelines, it is possible, for example, to move the third seat 27 further back towards the rear wall 24, which, however, restricts the sleeping space provided in the driver's cab 11. Furthermore, it is possible to omit the third seat 27, which would limit the number of crew members 87 permitted in the driver's cab 11 to a maximum of two. Alternatively, a regulation can be established stipulating that only shorter crew members 87 may use the third seat 27.

[0206] The aforementioned solutions are unsatisfactory. A particular disadvantage is that driver's cabs 11 can only be approved with two seats 25, 26 if the legal ergonomic requirements are not met. If approval is granted, this often results in a non-ergonomic and therefore very uncomfortable seating position. Long journeys are then impossible. Furthermore, there is little support for the crew member 87 using the third seat 27, especially due to the lack of leg rests. This needs to be improved.

[0207] Therefore, an ergonomic seating position for crew members 87, ranging from the fifth percentile for women to the ninety-fifth percentile for men, is to be achieved. The problem of the non-ergonomic design of the third seat 27 is solved by providing or arranging a foot recess 88 for the feet and / or lower legs of the crew member 87 seated in the third seat 27, either below the instrument panel 86 (viewed along the z-direction z) or in front of the seat crossmember 39 (viewed along the x-direction x). RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0208] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd. 38

[0209] In particular, the foot recess 88 is integrated into the cab structure of the cab 11. Specifically, a substructure 89 is provided below the instrument panel 86, which can support the instrument panel 86. The foot recess 88 is integrally formed on or in the substructure 89. The substructure 89 is part of the aforementioned cab structure. The foot recess 88 includes a footrest 90 on which the crew member 87 can place or rest their feet. The footrest 90 is inclined at an angle of less than 90° relative to the mounting planes 29, 30, 31.

[0210] To create the necessary installation space for the foot recess 88, an air conditioning unit, which is usually installed centrally below the dashboard 86, can be moved further down. This can be achieved by reducing the size of the air conditioning unit or by repositioning and / or installing it differently. For example, the air conditioning unit can be installed in front of the second seat 26. The resulting foot recess 88 below the dashboard 86 allows the crew member 87 using the third seat 27 to extend their legs into the foot recess 88 and rest their feet on the footrest 90.

[0211] Due to the elevated seating position of the third seat 27, the foot recess 88 is positioned in an upper area below the dashboard 86 to provide an ergonomic and / or comfortable hip angle and thus an ergonomic and / or comfortable seating position. As previously mentioned, the footrest 90 is inclined slightly towards the crew member 87 using the third seat 27, so that the angle between the feet and the lower legs or shins corresponds to an ergonomic 90° ± 10°. In the event of abrupt deceleration of the vehicle 1, the crew member 87 using the third seat 27 can thus brace themselves against centrifugal forces and is not merely suspended by the seat belts of the third seat 27. RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0212] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd. 39

[0213] The foot recess 88 offers the following advantages. The crew member 87 using the third seat 27 can place their feet in the foot recess 88 and sit ergonomically and / or comfortably, and can brace themselves, for example, in the event of abrupt deceleration of the commercial vehicle 1. Body angles, such as those relating to the foot, knee, and / or hip, are within a recommended and comfortable range for the majority of potential crew members 87.

[0214] Sufficient clearance is achieved for mine protection from the engine hood and / or the cab floor 18, as the legs and feet are elevated and the third seat 27 is also mounted on the suspended seat crossbeam 38 A, 38B, thus ensuring sufficient clearance from the surface 17 on which the explosive device 84 is located. When the third seat 27 is not in use, the foot recess 88 can also be used as storage space and / or a shelf. In this case, for example, a net can be hung in front of the foot recess 88.

[0215] Fig. 13 shows a schematic perspective view of the foot recess 88.

[0216] A connecting unit 91 is associated with the foot recess 88, by means of which the foot recess 88 is connected to the third seat 27 and / or to the seat crossbeam 38A, 38B. In particular, the connecting unit 91 is connected to the footrest 90. The connecting unit 91 serves to allow the legs to be placed on it.

[0217] Furthermore, the connecting unit 91 serves to reduce the risk of injury to crew member 87 in the event of an explosion of the commercial vehicle 1. The connecting unit 91 is, for example, in the form of a sheet metal plate. The connecting unit 91 can be connected, in particular, to the protective plate 83 RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0218] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0219] 40. In particular, the mudguard 83 can be part of the connecting unit 91. The connecting unit 91 can therefore consist of multiple parts. Furthermore, an additional footrest can be attached to the connecting unit 91 for a crew member 87 of short stature.

[0220] Although the present invention has been described using exemplary embodiments, it can be modified in many ways.

[0221] RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0222] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0223] 41

[0224] REFERENCE MARK LIST

[0225] 1 commercial vehicle

[0226] 2 chassis

[0227] 3-axis

[0228] 4-axis

[0229] 5-axis

[0230] 6-axis

[0231] 7 wheel

[0232] 8 wheel

[0233] 9 wheel

[0234] 10 wheels

[0235] 11 Driver's cab

[0236] 12 Interior

[0237] 13 Environment

[0238] 14 Door

[0239] 15 Structure

[0240] 16 Direction of travel

[0241] 17 Underground

[0242] 18 Cab floor

[0243] 19 Cab shell

[0244] 20 roof

[0245] 21 Side wall

[0246] 22 side wall

[0247] 23 Front wall

[0248] 24 Back panel

[0249] 25 seats

[0250] 26 seats

[0251] 27 seats

[0252] 28 Seat arrangement RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0253] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0254] 42

[0255] 29 Mounting level

[0256] 30 Mounting level

[0257] 31 Mounting level

[0258] 32 Protrusion

[0259] 33 Protrusion

[0260] 34 indentation

[0261] 35 bulge

[0262] 36 Front edge

[0263] 37 axis of rotation

[0264] 38A Seat crossmember

[0265] 38B Seat crossbar

[0266] 39 Seat crossmember center section

[0267] 40 surface

[0268] 41 Fastening section

[0269] 42 Fastening section

[0270] 43 Deformation element

[0271] 44 Deformation element

[0272] 45 Seat crossbeam side panel

[0273] 46 Seat crossbeam side panel

[0274] 47 surface

[0275] 48 surface

[0276] 49 Connecting plate

[0277] 50 fastening section

[0278] 51 Fastening section

[0279] 52 Connecting section

[0280] 53 Connecting plate

[0281] 54 Fastening section

[0282] 55 Fastening section

[0283] 56 Connecting section

[0284] 57 Side wall mounting element RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0285] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd.

[0286] 43

[0287] 58 Side wall mounting point

[0288] 59 Side wall mounting element

[0289] 60 Side wall mounting point

[0290] 61 Rear wall mounting element

[0291] 62 Rear wall mounting point

[0292] 63 Rear panel mounting element

[0293] 64 Rear wall mounting point

[0294] 65 Front wall mounting element

[0295] 66 Connecting section

[0296] 67 Fastening section

[0297] 68 footrest brackets

[0298] 69 Footrest brackets

[0299] 70 Front wall mounting point

[0300] 71 Front wall mounting element

[0301] 72 Connecting section

[0302] 73 Fastening section

[0303] 74 Footrest brackets

[0304] 75 Footrest brackets

[0305] 76 Front wall mounting point

[0306] 77 Deformation element

[0307] 78 Deformation element

[0308] 79 Base plate holders

[0309] 80 base plate holders

[0310] 81 Floor plate

[0311] 82 Floor plate

[0312] 83 mudguard

[0313] 84 explosive device

[0314] 85 pressure wave

[0315] 86 Dashboard

[0316] 87 Crew member RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO

[0317] Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd. 44

[0318] 88 Foot recess

[0319] 89 Substructure

[0320] 90 footrest

[0321] 91 Connecting unit a Distance al Distance a2 Ab st and b Width g Gravity direction x x-direction / Longitudinal direction y y-direction / Transverse direction z z-direction / Vertical direction

Claims

1. RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd. 45 PATENT CLAIMS 1. Commercial vehicle (1), in particular a military commercial vehicle, with a driver's cab (11) and a chassis (2) which supports the driver's cab (11), wherein the driver's cab (11) has a cab floor (18) with a recess (34) extending along a longitudinal direction (x) of the driver's cab (11) and extending into an interior space (12) of the driver's cab (11), a seat crossbeam (38A, 38B) on which several seats (25, 26, 27) for a crew of the commercial vehicle (1) can be mounted, and an instrument panel (86) arranged within the interior space (12), wherein the seat crossbeam (38A, 38B) extends along a transverse direction (y) of the driver's cab (11) oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (x), wherein the seat crossbeam (38A, 38B) is guided around the recess (34) such that the seat crossbeam (38A, 38B) provided mounting levels (29, 30, 31) for the seats (25, 26,27) are arranged at different heights along a vertical direction (z) of the cab (11) oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (x) and perpendicular to the transverse direction (y), wherein the seat crossbeam (38A, 38B) has a seat crossbeam center section (39) arranged above the indentation (34) when viewed along the vertical direction (z), and wherein a foot recess (88) for a crew member (87) is arranged below the dashboard (86) when viewed along the vertical direction (z) and in front of the seat crossbeam center section (39) when viewed along the longitudinal direction (x).

2. Commercial vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that, RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Österreich GesmbH 46 that the seat cross member (38A, 38B) is mechanically decoupled from the cab floor (18).

3. Commercial vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the seat cross member middle part (39) is interchangeable for adapting the seat cross member (38 A, 38B) to a width (b) of the driver's cab (11).

4. Commercial vehicle according to one of claims 1 - 3, characterized in that the seat cross member (38A, 38B) has deformation elements (43, 44), wherein the seat cross member middle part (39) is connected to the recess (34) by means of the deformation elements (43, 44).

5. Commercial vehicle according to one of claims 1 - 4, characterized in that the seat cross member (38A, 38B) has a first seat cross member side part (45) and a second seat cross member side part (46), wherein the seat cross member center part (39) is arranged between the first seat cross member side part (45) and the second seat cross member side part (46) when viewed along the transverse direction (y), wherein the first seat cross member side part (45) is connected to the seat cross member center part (39) by means of a first connecting plate (49), and wherein the second seat cross member side part (46) is connected to the seat cross member center part (39) by means of a second connecting plate (53).

6. Commercial vehicle according to claim 5, characterized in that the first connecting plate (49) extends obliquely to the transverse direction (y) and obliquely to the vertical direction (z) along the indentation (34), and wherein the second connecting plate (53) extends obliquely to the transverse direction (y) and obliquely to the RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd. 47 The vertical direction (z) runs along the indentation (34), so that the indentation (34) is arranged between the first connecting plate (49) and the second connecting plate (53) when viewed along the transverse direction (y).

7. Commercial vehicle according to one of claims 1 - 6, characterized in that the driver's cab (11) has a driver's cab shell (19) which is connected to the driver's cab floor (18), wherein the seat cross member (38A, 38B) is connected to the driver's cab shell (19).

8. Commercial vehicle according to claim 7, characterized in that the seat cross member (38A, 38B) is connected to a first side wall (21), a second side wall (22), a front wall (23) and / or a rear wall (24) of the cab shell (19).

9. Commercial vehicle according to claim 8, characterized in that the seat cross member (38A, 38B) has a first rear wall attachment point (62) at which the seat cross member (38A, 38B) is connected to the rear wall (24), and a second rear wall attachment point (64) at which the seat cross member (38A, 38B) is connected to the rear wall (24).

10. Commercial vehicle according to claim 9, characterized in that the indentation (34) is arranged between the first rear wall mounting point (62) and the second rear wall mounting point (64) when viewed along the transverse direction (y).

11. Commercial vehicle according to claim 9 or 10, RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Österreich GesmbH 48 characterized in that the seat crossbeam (38A, 38B) has a first side wall attachment point (58) at which the seat crossbeam (38A, 38B) is connected to the first side wall (21), and a second side wall attachment point (60) at which the seat crossbeam (38A, 38B) is connected to the second side wall (22), wherein the two rear wall attachment points (62, 64) and the two side wall attachment points (58, 60) are arranged at different heights when viewed along the vertical direction (z).

12. Commercial vehicle according to one of claims 1 - 11, characterized in that the seat cross member (38A, 38B) has a first mounting level (29) for a first seat (25), a second mounting level (30) for a second seat (26) and a third mounting level (31) for a third seat (27) which can be mounted along the transverse direction (y) viewed between the first seat (25) and the second seat (26).

13. Commercial vehicle according to claim 12, characterized in that the first mounting level (29) and the second mounting level (30) are arranged at the same height when viewed along the vertical direction (z), wherein the third mounting level (31) is arranged above the first mounting level (29) and above the second mounting level (30) when viewed along the vertical direction (z), or wherein the first mounting level (29) and the second mounting level (30) are arranged at different heights when viewed along the vertical direction (z), and wherein the third mounting level (31) is arranged above the first mounting level (29) and above the second mounting level (30) when viewed along the vertical direction (z).

14. Commercial vehicle according to one of claims 1 - 13, RMM24008PWO DPT24011 WO Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles Austria Ltd. 49 characterized in that the foot recess (88) has a foot support (90) which is inclined at an angle of inclination of less than 90° relative to the mounting planes (29, 30, 31).

15. Commercial vehicle according to one of claims 1 - 14, characterized by several seats (25, 26, 27) mounted on the seat cross member (38A, 38B), wherein one of the seats (25, 26, 27) is connected to the foot recess (88) by means of a connecting unit (91).

Images