TRUNK SHELF SYSTEM

A trunk shelf system for mounting onto a seat back of a vehicle includes a support structure configured to be secured to the seat back. The support structure includes a first pair of connection pins and a second pair of connection pins spaced apart from the first pair of connection pins. The trunk shelf system further includes a shelf movably mounted to the support structure via one of the first pair of connection pins and the second pair of connection pins. The shelf has a bottom surface providing a primary support surface.

BACKGROUND & SUMMARY

The present technology relates generally to a stowable trunk shelf system for an automobile, such as a sports utility vehicle (SUV) and/or a cross over vehicle (CUV).

Currently there are a number of solutions for SUV and CUV cargo space organization. Some of these solutions attempt to compartmentalize or subdivide an SUV or CUV's cargo space but these solutions fail to meet the needs of the industry.

One aspect of the present technology is a repositionable shelf for an SUV or CUV trunk that allows users to take advantage of the height of the cargo space from the base of the trunk to the bottom of the rearmost head restraints.

Another aspect of the present technology is to have a restraining bar that runs around the perimeter of the shelf that keeps items placed on top of the shelf from falling over in transit.

Another aspect of the present technology is for the restraining bar to extend upward in height via telescoping rods. Once extended, the retraining bar locks firmly into place.

Another aspect of the present technology is to have a cargo netting enclosure on top of the shelf that hooks into the retraining bar that keeps items placed on top of the shelf from falling over in transit.

Yet another aspect of the present technology is to have vertical dividers on the shelf that sub-divide the shelf length and allow users to keep smaller items (such as grocery bags) firmly in place in transit. These dividers can fold down/collapse onto the base of the shelf or they can detach entirely so that the user can subdivide the length of the shelf as necessary.

Yet another aspect of the present technology is to enable the trunk shelf to collapse or stow while not in use.

Another aspect of the present technology is directed to an angle adjuster that allows users to adjust the angle of the trunk shelf, because not all seatbacks are positioned at the same angle relative to the trunk floor. The user sets the angle at which the shelf meets the seatback via the angle adjuster, e.g., pin and slot mechanism and/or bearing mechanism.

Another aspect of the present technology is a built-in level that shows users when the shelf is at the desired angle with the specific seat backs. This helps the user set the angle for the shelf based on the precise angle of his or her seatback and provides for horizontal positioning of the shelf.

Another aspect of the present technology is to allow the user to set the angle of the shelf via an angle adjuster that need only be set one time for any particular vehicle (e.g., “set and forget”).

Another aspect of the present technology is that it installs quickly and easily via an adjustable belt system that loops around the seatback itself and/or at least one of the seatback headrests. No tools or hardware are needed to install this technology into an SUV or CUV.

Another aspect of the present technology is that it installs on almost any SUV or CUV; it is nearly universal in its fit.

Another aspect of the present technology is detachable and collapsible telescoping legs. The legs will provide additional structural support when very heavy items are placed on the shelf.

One aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a trunk shelf system comprising a movable shelf, a support structure, or hard plastic backing that rests against the back of the seat on which it is installed, and at least one angle adjuster to set the angle of the shelf relative to the support structure.

The trunk shelf system may include a restraining bar that runs along the sides and front of the shelf and is extendable in height, a detachable sturdy cargo netting that extends over top of the shelf and hooks onto the restraining bar, collapsible or detachable horizontal shelf dividers that sit on top of the shelf for subdivision of the shelf s length, and/or a sturdy belt system, including at least one belt, that attaches the shelf to the rearmost seatback headrests and/or seatback itself. This belt system allows users to install the trunk shelf system with no tools or hardware.

The trunk shelf system also may also feature a set of detachable and collapsible legs that are height adjustable. When in use, the legs extend and meet the floor of the trunk to offer additional structural support for the repositionable shelf.

The trunk shelf system may be stowed while not in use. That is, the multi angle folding links or hinges holding the shelf in an upright position collapse or fold so that the shelf can stow and lay flat against the back of the seatback while not in use.

The device may also have one or more of the following:Customizable “skin,” cover, or design for the underside of the shelf with user's monogram, college or pro team logo, company name, etc. When stowed, the shelf would prominently display this logo or design. This same customizable skin or cover can be placed on the top of the shelf, too. When the detachable track system is in place to allow the shelf to move forward to the opening of the trunk, the top of the shelf's design or logo would be prominently displayed.A holder or receptacle for storing umbrellas that hooks onto the shelf;Pockets made of mesh or other lightweight material that attach to either of the shelf's sides to offer additional storage space;Pockets made of mesh or other lightweight material that attach to the front of the shelf to offer additional storage space;Cooler that hooks on to the top or onto the bottom of the shelf for storing cold items such as perishable groceries, water, etc.;Detachable or collapsible horizontal dividers that hook onto the bottom of shelf to offer sub-division of space underneath the shelf;Hooks that attach anywhere along the perimeter of the shelf restraining bar to offer hanging capability;Cup holders that attach to the front edge of the trunk shelf.

An aspect of the present technology is directed to a trunk shelf system for mounting onto a seat back of a vehicle, the system comprising a support structure configured to be secured to the seat back; and a shelf movably mounted to the support structure, the shelf being movable between a stowed position and a deployed position, the shelf having a bottom surface providing a support surface.

Another aspect of the present technology is directed to trunk shelf system for mounting onto a seat back on a vehicle, the system comprising a support structure configured to be secured to the seat back; a shelf movably mounted to the support structure and being movable between a stowed position and a deployed position; and the shelf connectable to different locations on the support structure in order to change a height of the shelf relative to a floor of the vehicle.

The disclosed systems may provide for subdivision of the height of an SUV or CUV's cargo space. The shelf provides a large surface where users can place and store items securely above the trunk's floor, freeing up floor space for larger items such as strollers, coolers, and folding chairs. Further, the trunk shelf system offers a substantially universal fit; the device is installed onto the seatback of an SUV or CUV trunk via an intuitive system, e.g., one or more belts that requires no tools or hardware. This system is sturdy and secure, providing for one or more, e.g., three, separate attachment points of the shelf to almost any SUV or CUV. In examples, the system is unique due to the presence of one or more of the following: (1) a repositionable shelf that attaches via a belt system to an SUV or CUV's rear seatback head restraints; (2) one or more adjustable angle folding hinges or links to accommodate almost any angle of rear seatback to which the shelf is attached allowing the shelf to open and lay flat; (3) ability to collapse or stow the shelf against the seat on which it's installed when not in use; (4) sturdy cargo netting that attaches to the restraining bar that runs along the perimeter of the repositionable shelf and extends over top of the shelf; and/or (5) horizontal shelf divider functionality on the shelf to allow users to subdivide the horizontal space of the shelf itself if necessary (these shelf dividers can collapse down onto the floor of the shelf, retractor detach altogether).

One form of the technology is a trunk shelf system comprising a support structure and a shelf movably connected to the support structure at one of a first location and a second location.

One form of the technology is a trunk shelf system comprising a support structure configured to be secured to the seat back, the support structure including a at least a first connection pin, e.g., a first pair of connection pins, and at least a second connection pin, e.g., a second pair of connection pins, spaced apart from the at least said first connection pin or the first pair of connection pins; and a shelf movably mounted to the support structure via one of the at least said first connection pin or the first pair of connection pins and the at least second connection pin of the second pair of connection pins, the shelf being movable between a stowed position and a deployed position, the shelf having a bottom surface providing a primary support surface.

In some forms, a) the support structure includes a top bar, a bottom bar, and a pair of side bars each extending between the top bar and the bottom bar, and wherein the support structure forms a closed perimeter; b) the top bar, the bottom bar, and the pair of side bars are removably connected to one another; c) the first pair of connection pins are connected to the pair of side bars between the top bar and the bottom bar; d) each connection pin of the first pair of connection pins includes a fixed end connected to one side bar of the pair of side bars and a free end projecting toward the other side bar of the pair of side bars; and/or e) the second pair of connection pins are connected between the bottom bar and one side bar of the pair of side bars.

In some forms, a) the first pair of connection pins and the second pair of connection pins have substantially the same shape; and/or the first pair of connection pins and the second pair of connection pins are at least partially cylindrical.

In some forms, a) the shelf further comprises a first clip and a second clip, and wherein the first clip and the second clip are removably connectable to one of the first pair of connecting pins and the second pair of connecting pins; and/or b) the shelf is pivotably mounted to the support structure.

In some forms, a); the shelf is movable between a stowed position and a deployed position when mounted to the support structure; b) the shelf is removably mounted to either the first pair of connection pins or the second pair of connection pins in the deployed position; c) the shelf is removably mounted to the first pair of connection pins in the stowed position; d) the shelf includes side walls with a pair of notches; and/or e) the pair of notches are configured to receive the second pair of connection pins in the stowed position.

In some forms, a) at least one strap coupled between the support structure and the shelf, wherein the at least one strap is configured to oppose a gravitational force of the shelf; and/or b) the at least one strap includes a first strap and a second strap, the first strap is connected to one side bar and an end of the shelf, the second strap is connected to the other side bar and an opposite end of the shelf.

In some forms the support structure includes a top bar, a bottom bar, and a pair of side bars each extending between the top bar and the bottom bar, and wherein the support structure forms a closed perimeter; the first pair of connection pins are connected to the pair of side bars between the top bar and the bottom bar; each connection pin of the first pair of connection pins includes a fixed end connected to one side bar of the pair of side bars and a free end projecting toward the other side bar of the pair of side bars; and the second pair of connection pins are connected between the bottom bar and one side bar of the pair of side bars.

In some forms, the first pair of connection pins and the second pair of connection pins are at least partially cylindrical; and the shelf further comprises a first clip and a second clip, and wherein the first clip and the second clip are removably connectable to one of the first pair of connecting pins and the second pair of connecting pins.

In some forms, the support structure includes a top bar, a bottom bar, and a pair of side bars each extending between the top bar and the bottom bar, and wherein the support structure forms a closed perimeter; and a first strap and a second strap, the first strap is connected to one side bar and an end of the shelf, the second strap is connected to the other side bar and an opposite end of the shelf.

Another aspect of the present technology is directed to a trunk system having a shelf and a support structure in which various elements of the system (e.g., rails of the support structure, legs, and/or straps, etc.) may be stored or packed on the bottom surface of the shelf. In this position, the system may be packaged for shipping or removed from the car seat back for storage. This may help to keep all of the elements together without requiring extra storage space.

This disclosure will now provide a more detailed and specific description that will refer to the accompanying drawings. The drawings and specific descriptions of the drawings, as well as any specific or alternative examples discussed, are intended to be read in conjunction with the entirety of this disclosure. The trunk shelf system may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the examples set forth herein; rather, these examples are provided by way of illustration only and so that this disclosure will be thorough, complete and fully convey understanding to those skilled in the art. Moreover, one or more features of one example may be used in conjunction with any and all of the alternate examples.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE NON-LIMITING EXAMPLES

The present technology is directed to a trunk shelf system100for SUVs and CUVs. The system includes a repositionable shelf that can be selectively and repeatedly moved between one or more deployed positions (see, e.g.,FIGS.1to3) in which the shelf1is substantially horizontal and/or parallel to the trunk's floor, and a stowed position substantially parallel with the seatback when not in use (see, e.g.,FIG.11) and/or a storage position where the system100may be disconnected from the seatback and/or disassembled (see e.g.,FIG.12).

As shown inFIGS.1to3, one example of the system100includes a shelf1, which may be made of a substantially rigid material that is optionally reinforced. For example, the shelf1may be constructed from a durable hard plastic, a metal, or any similar material. The shelf1is connected to a rear support structure11. The rear support structure11may be constructed from a substantially rigid material. This may be the same material as the shelf1, or it may be a different material.

In some forms, a shelf liner (not shown) may be placed on at least a portion of the shelf. For example, the shelf liner may cover at least some of a bottom wall2and/or side walls6of the shelf1. The shelf liner may be constructed from a different material than the shelf1. For example, the shelf liner may be constructed from a flexible material (e.g., rubber and/or flexible plastic, and the liner may have a team logo or other personalized design).

In some forms, the material used to construct the shelf liner may have a coefficient of friction that is higher than the coefficient of friction of the shelf. In some forms, the shelf liner may include surface features (e.g., ridges, surface roughness, etc.), which may assist in retaining items in the shelf1as described in more detail below.

Adjustable Shelf

The shelf1may be adjustable to allow the user to select between various desired deployed positions. The various deployed positions may be beneficial for carrying different sized items on the shelf1. Moreover, the adjustable nature of the shelf may allow the user to move the shelf such that more or less space is provided below the shelf, depending on user preference.

As shown inFIGS.1to3, some forms of the system100may include different connection features in order to position the shelf1at different heights relative to the floor of the vehicle. The different positioned heights of the shelf1may help raise the shelf1so that items may be stored under the shelf1on the floor of the vehicle. Alternatively, a lower height of the shelf1may allow the bottom wall2to support larger objects while limiting extension over the top of the seat (e.g., and interfering with the head of the users).

In some forms, the support structure11may include the connection features, which may enable a connection between the shelf1and the support structure11.

As illustrated inFIG.3, the support structure11may include a pair of first pins30. The first pins30may be connected to side bars14of the support structure11that connect the top bar12to the bottom bar15. The illustrated example shows that the first pins30are permanently connected to the respective side bar14, although the first pins30may also be removably and/or adjustably connected. The first pins30also may be disposed approximately half-way between the top bar12and the bottom bar15.

In some forms, the top pins30may include a support bar32and a connection portion34. The support bar32may be connected (e.g., welded) to the respective side bar14. The illustrated support bar32includes a rectangular shape, although any shape (e.g., rounded) may be used. The connection portion34may extend from the support bar32toward a center of the support structure11(e.g., toward the opposite side bar14). The illustrated connection portion34may have a cylindrical shape.

In certain forms, the distance between the ends of the connection portions34may be approximately equal to the length of the shelf1.

As shown inFIG.2, some forms of the support structure11may include bottom pins36, which may be spaced apart from the top pins30. The top and bottom pins30,36on each side of the support structure11may be aligned (e.g., along an axis substantially parallel to the side bars14). Specifically, the ends of the top and bottom pins30,36on either side of the support structure11may be aligned with one another.

In some forms, the bottom pins36may be fixed to (e.g., integrally formed with) the bottom bar15and/or the respective side bar14. The bottom pins36may not have a free end while in use because either end is connected to one of the bars14,15. The bottom pins36may extend parallel to the bottom bar15in order to form part of the perimeter of the support structure11.

In some forms, the bottom pins36may each include a connection portion38that is substantially the same as the connection portion34of each top pin30. For example, the connection portions38may include a cylindrical shape.

As shown inFIG.5, the shelf1may include at least one clip40(e.g., a pair of clips40). The clips40may be connected to the shelf1. The illustrated example shows the clip40permanently connected to the side wall6of the shelf1, e.g., clip40extends rearwardly from the rear part of the side wall. However, the clip40may be connected to another portion of the side wall6and/or the bottom wall2without departing from the scope of the technology. Similarly, other examples may include at least one clip40that is removably connected to at least one of the walls2,6.

In some forms, the clip40may be substantially C-shaped in cross section. In other words, the side or cross-sectional view of the clip40may be a curvilinear shape with an open perimeter or shape with an opening that is smaller than the diameter/dimension of the pin. The open perimeter may form a round (e.g., partially circular) shape.

As shown inFIG.4, the clip40may connect to connection portion34of the pin30. For example, the clip40may be removably connected to the connection portion34. This may be accomplished using a snap fit, or any similar mechanical engagement. For example, the clip40may have one or more arms that temporarily and resiliently flex to overcome the larger size of the pin, and then the one or more arms flex back to secure the clip40to the pin. In an alternative, the pin may be provided to the shelf and the clip may be provided to the support structure.

Returning toFIGS.1and2, connecting the clips40to the connection portions34of the pins30may positioned the shelf1between the top bar12and the bottom bar15. When connected in this first deployed position, the clips40may be able to rotate with respect to the pins30. The user may adjust an angle of the shelf1(e.g., of the bottom wall2) with respect to the floor of the vehicle.

The angle may be selected to be parallel to the vehicle's floor, but it also may be selected to be inclined towards or away from the rear seat (or up or down compared to the horizontal position), depending on user preference. As described in more detail below, the system100may include various straps in order to retain the shelf1at the desired angle. In other examples, the clip40and the pin30may interface with a ratchet mechanism (with a plurality of set positions, e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 or up to 10 positions) so that they are not freely rotatable relative to one another.

As shown inFIG.3, the clips40may be disconnected from the top pins30and instead connected to the bottom pins36. As described above, the top and bottom pins30,36may include the substantially same shape and dimensions so that the clip40may connect to either set of pins30,36. For example, the snap fit connection may allow the shelf1to be repeatedly moved between the two sets of pins30,36.

In another alternative, the system may include a pair of shelves, where one is connected to the upper set of pins and the other is connected to the bottom set of pins.

In some forms, the shelf1may be positioned at least partially below the bottom bar15when connected to the pins36. This may create more space between the bottom surface and the top bar12.

In alternate forms (not shown), the clip40may be replaced with another type of connector. For example, a magnet may be used to connect the shelf1to one of the pair of pins30,36. The magnet may also be used in conjunction with the clip40.

FIGS.13to16illustrate another example of the present technology, aspects of which may be combined with the example ofFIGS.1-12. Like reference numbers represent like parts, but inFIGS.13-15, each reference number includes a “200” series reference number.

FIG.13shows a system200having a shelf201connected to a rear support structure211.

The shelf201may be adjustable to allow the user to select between various desired deployed positions.

As shown inFIGS.13to15, system200may include connection features to enable a connection between the shelf1and the support structure211. The connection features may be provided to position the shelf201at different heights relative to the floor of the vehicle.

In some forms, the support structure211may include the connection features, which may enable a connection between the shelf201and the support structure211.

As illustrated inFIGS.13-14, the support structure211may include a pair of first pins230. The first pins230may be connected to side bars214of the support structure11that connect the top bar212to the bottom bar215. The illustrated example shows that the first pins230are permanently connected to the respective side bar214, although the first pins230may also be removably and/or adjustably connected. The first pins230also may be disposed approximately half-way between the top bar212and the bottom bar215.

The first pins230may extend toward a center of the support structure211(e.g., toward the opposite side bar14).

The illustrated first pins230may have a shaft231connected to the wall and a head233that is enlarged compared to the shaft231.

As shown inFIG.14A, some forms of the support structure211may include bottom pins236, which may be spaced apart from the top pins230. The top and bottom pins230,236on each side of the support structure211may be aligned (e.g., along an axis substantially parallel to the side bars214). Specifically, the ends of the top and bottom pins230,236on either side of the support structure211may be aligned with one another.

In some forms, the bottom pins236may be fixed to (e.g., integrally formed with) the respective side bar214.

In some forms, the bottom pins236may each a shaft and head that are substantially the same as the top pins230.

As shown inFIGS.14-16, the shelf201may include at least one clip240(e.g., a pair of clips40). The clips240may be connected to the shelf201. The illustrated example shows the clip240permanently connected to the side wall206of the shelf201. However, the clip240may be connected to another portion of the side wall206and/or the bottom wall202without departing from the scope of the technology. Similarly, other examples may include at least one clip240that is removably connected to at least one of the walls202,206.

In some forms, the clip240may be substantially C-shaped. The side view of the clip240may be a curvilinear shape with an open perimeter or shape with an opening241that is smaller than the diameter/dimension of the shaft231of the pin. The open perimeter may form a round (e.g., partially circular) shape. As shown inFIG.14A, the opening241is positioned to face an extended plane of the support surface of the shelf, such that when the shelf201is in the deployed position the opening241faces downwards and a channel243receives the head233. The outer part of the channel243may be bound by a flange245that helps to retain an inner surface of the head233.

Stated differently, the clip240may connect to a connection portion (e.g., shaft and/or head) of the pin230. For example, the clip240may be removably connected to the connection portion. This may be accomplished using a snap fit, or any similar mechanical engagement. For example, the C-shape of the clip240may have one or more arms that temporarily and resiliently flex to overcome the larger size of the pin, and then the one or more arms flex back to secure the clip240to the pin. In an alternative, the pin may be provided to the shelf and the clip may be provided to the support structure.

Connecting the clips240to the connection portions of the pins230may position the shelf201between the top bar212and the bottom bar215. When connected in this first deployed position, the clips240may be able to rotate with respect to the pins230. The user may adjust an angle of the shelf201(e.g., of the bottom wall202) with respect to the floor of the vehicle.

As described in more detail below, the system200may include various straps in order to retain the shelf201at the desired angle. In other examples, the clip240and the pin230may interface with a ratchet mechanism (with a plurality of set positions, e.g., 2, 3, 4, or 6 or up to 10 positions) so that they are not freely rotatable relative to one another.

The clips240may be disconnected from the top pins230and instead connected to the bottom pins236. As described above, the top and bottom pins230,236may include the substantially same shape and dimensions so that the clip240may connect to either set of pins230,236. For example, the snap fit connection may allow the shelf201to be repeatedly moved between the two sets of pins230,236.

Straps

With continued reference toFIGS.1to3, the system100may include a plurality of straps that may assist in the retaining the shelf1in the desired deployed position.

In some forms, a strap42may be connected to either side of the system100in order to retain the shelf1at the desired angle. The illustrated straps42may be constructed from a textile material, although other materials may be used. For example, the straps may be constructed from an elastic material or from a rigid material.

In some forms, the side walls6may include a pair of openings44. Each opening44may be disposed on a respective lateral side of the shelf1. The openings44may also be disposed toward a front of the shelf1(e.g., distal to the support structure11).

In alternate examples, the side walls6may include a single opening. This opening may be disposed in a center of the side wall6opposite to the support structure11.

In some forms, the support structure11may include a pair of slots46. Each slot46may be disposed on a respective lateral side of the support structure11. For example, each slot46may be disposed on a respective side bar14. The illustrated slots46may be disposed proximate to the top bar12, although the slots46may be positioned along any length of the side bars14.

In other forms, the support structure11may include a single slot46on the top bar12. The single slot46may be disposed in a center of the top bar12, which may be similar to a possible position of a single opening on the side wall6.

As shown inFIG.8, the slot46may be a loop around which the strap42may be threaded. The strap42may not be fixed to the support structure11so that it can be removed and/or replaced (e.g., with a new strap42and/or a different sized strap42).

As shown inFIG.9, an alternate slot46may be a single opening through which the strap42is threaded. The strap42may include a knot50at one end. The knot50may be larger than the slot46and the buckle48may be larger than the slot46. This may limit the ability of the user to remove the strap42from the support structure through the slot46.

In some forms, each strap42may include a buckle48with a ladder lock or similar mechanism to adjust a length of the strap. When the shelf1is in either deployed position, the straps42may form a triangular shape with respect to the side bar14and the side wall6.

With continued reference toFIGS.1to3, the length of the straps42may be adjusted between the first deployed position (see e.g.,FIGS.1and2) and the second deployed position (see e.g.,FIG.3). For example, the shelf1(and therefore the openings44) may be further from the slots46in the second deployed position than in the first deployed position. Thus, the length of the straps42may be extended in order to reach this greater length. Alternatively, the straps42illustrated inFIGS.1and2may be replaced with longer straps42for the second deployed position inFIG.3. This may allow for the use of more rigid materials (e.g., metal) in the straps42.

In either deployed position, the straps42may be positioned (e.g., tightened) into a taut position, which may assist in counterbalancing the gravitational force of the shelf1and any items place on the shelf1. This may maintain the bottom wall2at the desired position relative to the floor of the vehicle.

In certain forms, at least one level indicator, e.g., a vial type “bubble” level mostly filled with liquid and including a bubble (not shown), may be provided to indicate whether the shelf is level. For example, the indicator5may assist the user in horizontally positioning the bottom wall2, which may be parallel to the vehicle floor but it also may be slightly inclined towards the seatback to keep any items on the shelf in place, especially during operation of the vehicle.

Cargo Netting

The system may include detachable sturdy cargo netting (not shown) that extends over top of the shelf1.

The netting can be attached to the shelf1to prevent cargo from falling off the shelf1. The netting may be stretchable in order to fit over different items stored on the shelf. This may be particularly helpful when items placed on the shelf1extend more superior than the top of the side walls6. The stretchable cargo net may attach to at least a portion of the perimeter of the side walls along the perimeter. The cargo net may also attach to at least a portion of the support structure11that attaches to the seatback. Netting may also function to help support the shelf1in case of heavy cargo (e.g., by providing an additional force in the superior direction that resists the gravitational force of the shelf1and items placed on the shelf1).

Dividers

The system may include one or more horizontal dividers (not shown) that can detach or fold down when not in use. The bottom wall2and/or the side walls6of the shelf1may include one or more divider supports that may include a slot to retain the dividers in the vertical position. The position of the dividers can be fixed or repositionable. For example, the one or more dividers may be equal to or less than the height of the side walls6(e.g., as measured from the bottom wall2), and may be fixed within the divider supports. The shelf1may be foldable into the stowed position without interference from the dividers. Alternatively, the dividers may be removably positionable within the divider supports (e.g., via frictional engagement and/or by sliding into the divider supports). The dividers may be removed from the divider supports when the shelf1is in the closed position and may be connected to the divider supports when the shelf1is in the in use position.

In other forms, the bottom wall2and the dividers may be formed in one piece (e.g., using a “living” hinge) or be integrally formed. The dividers may be biased toward an upright position (e.g., approximately 90° with respect to the bottom wall2). The dividers may be movable (e.g., pivotable) toward a stowed positioned (e.g., substantially parallel to the bottom wall2). This allows the dividers to be stowed in a compact position, and then spring to life when the shelf1is in an in use position.

In some forms, the dividers may alternatively be in the form of a belt that stretches from the seat back to the front of the shelf1(e.g., between the side walls6in a direction toward or away from the seat). The belt dividers may be like seat belts, extending from a retracted position to the front part of the side wall, attached with a fastener (e.g., a clip, like those used for seat belts, a magnet, etc.) that allows for removable connection. Some additional dividing material, such as nets, can be suspended from the belt dividers. Dividers may alternatively be formed from rope, bungee, and/or wire. Dividers may be extendable if the shelf1is moved to an extended position.

Securing System

A securing system attaches the shelf1to the vehicle's seat. For example, a belt system may include one or more belts, straps or cords8to secure the support structure11to the rear of the vehicle's seat, e.g., by a pair of headrest belts8that loop around the vehicle's headrests. One belt8is located towards the left side, and the other belt8is located towards the right side. The belts8for both sets are anchored on a top bar12of the system. The belts8loop around the metal support structure of the rearmost seating row headrests, and are connected via a buckle13. The belts8are adjusted in length according to the size of the headrests on which they are fastened.

The straps may be fixed in place relative to the support structure11, or they may be adjustable to compensate for varying distance between the headrests. Adjustability may be provided in a number of different ways, e.g., belts8may include one or more magnetic connectors that are attached to different lateral positions along the top bar12of the support structure11. In addition or in the alternative, the top bar12may include a number of slots along its length in order to allow the user to select the appropriate slot that aligns with the headrests.

In use, each belt8may be wrapped around the respective headrest and connected to itself via a buckle13(although other connectors, like magnets, hook and loop material, other mechanical fasteners may be used). Alternatively, the top bar12may include a top bar buckle (not shown) that is connectable to the buckle13. The spacing between the connection of the respective belt8to the top bar12and the top bar buckle may be approximately the width of a headrest.

The belt system may also include a central belt9that may be wrapped around the vehicle seat and connected, e.g., via a buckle16having a male part and a female part that are snapped together. Belt9is anchored at the top of the support structure11. The belt9loops vertically around the rearmost seating row, and secures the device flush against the backside of the seat. Belt9may be adjusted in length according to the size of the seatback on which it is fastened.

In some forms, the buckle16may be positioned on the rear surface of the seat while in use. The rear surface may be opposite to the seating surface where the user places their back. This may keep the buckle16away from the user in order to avoid interference.

As shown inFIG.1, some forms may include the buckle16below the bottom surface2of the shelf1while in use. This may limit obstruction from any items stored on the shelf1.

Belt9is positioned between the headrest belts8. The system may also include additional features to maintain the support structure in abutment with the rear of the vehicle seat, such as hook and loop fasteners (to attach to seat backs that may be carpeted). In additional, certain vehicles have additional structures to which the support structure may be secured, e.g., small bar built in to the back of the seat.

The belts8,9may be made of a lightweight and/or sturdy material, such as nylon. Polyester, acrylic and/or treated cotton may be used alternatively and/or additionally.

As shown inFIG.2, the securing system may include a further belt17connected to the support structure11and another belt18connected to the shelf1, e.g., on the side wall6or elsewhere. In some forms, the belt17may be connected to the support structure11via the belt9. The belts17,18are associated with respective buckle parts19,20.

As shown inFIG.2, the belt17connected to the support structure11may be connected to the belt18connected to the shelf1via the connection of the buckle parts19,20. The belt17(and/or the belt18) may be tightened in order to secure the shelf1in the in use position (e.g., to limit or prevent movement in the superior or posterior direction).

As shown inFIG.11, when the shelf1is in the stowed position, the buckle parts19,20may be disconnected from one another and the buckle part20may be connected to a further buckle part22of belt21. The belt21may be connected to the support structure11proximate to the central belt9. For example,FIGS.3and7the belt21may be connected to the central belt9. The shelf1may be moved toward the support structure11. The buckle part22may be substantially the same as the buckle part19so that the buckle part20may be interchangeably connected to either. Connecting the buckle parts20,22together and tightening the belt18and/or the belt21may secure the shelf in the stowed position (e.g., and limit movement toward and away from the seat back and/or the support structure11). When it is desired to move the shelf1to the deployed position, the buckle parts20,22are detached as shown inFIG.1.

The belts8,917,18,21may be length adjustable, e.g., using hook and loop mechanisms, using ladder locks, mechanical fasteners, and/or magnets.

Alternatively, or in addition, the shelf1can be locked or secured into the stowed position via one or more magnets, a locking hinge or link, or a latch system. For example, the shelf1may include one or more shelf magnets that are intended to match the position of magnets on the support structure11. Thus, when the shelf1is raised to the stowed position, the magnets on the shelf1are attracted to the magnets on the support structure11

Extension System

The system may allow users to move the shelf from a retracted position to an extended position closer to the opening of the trunk while the shelf1is in an in use position. For example, a portion of the bottom wall2and/or side walls6may be telescopic so that a user may pull the shelf1forward toward the trunk opening while the rearward component remains in place. This may extend the surface area of the bottom wall2so that more items may be stored.

Alternatively and/or additionally, the side walls6may be extendable (e.g., telescopically extendable) relative to the bottom wall2. This may create a larger storage volume within the shelf1, which may assist in retaining larger items.

Support Legs

In some forms, one or more collapsible and/or detachable telescoping legs (not shown) may be attached to the shelf1. For example, legs are structured to provide additional support for very heavy items and/or when the shelf1. The legs may be extended or positioned in a retracted and/or folded position, allowing the user to stow the repositionable shelf flat against the seatback.

Customizing

The repositionable shelf can be customized with a “skin,” or design (name, label, sign, symbol, etc.) for the underside of the shelf with user's monogram, college or pro team logo, company name, etc. When stowed, the shelf prominently displays this logo or design. This same customizable skin or cover can be placed on the top of the shelf, too. When the detachable track system is in place to allow the shelf to move forward to the opening of the trunk, the top of the shelf's design or logo would be prominently displayed.

Stowed Position

As described above,FIG.11may illustrate a stowed position of the system100(e.g., a non-use position). In the stowed position, the shelf1may be moved (e.g., pivoted) so that it is no longer substantially parallel to the floor of the vehicle. For example, the bottom surface2may be substantially parallel to the back of the seat. In this position, the shelf1may take of a smaller volume of space so that the system may be easily stored. The user may also leave the system100connected to the seat, while using the smaller stowed position to free up more space within the vehicle.

In other examples (not shown) the shelf1may not be movable (e.g., pivotable) relative to the upper pins30and/or lower pins36. Instead the shelf1may be disconnected and reconnected in order to move to the stowed position.

As described above, buckle parts20,22of belts18and21respectively may be connected together in order to retain the shelf1in the stowed position. The outer perimeter of the shelf1(e.g., the outer dimensions of the side walls6) may be smaller than the inner dimensions of the support structure11so that the shelf1may move into the central opening of the support structure11in the stowed position.

As shown inFIG.11, the shelf1may begin in the second deployed position prior to moving into the stowed position. For example, the dimension of the shelf1is approximately the size of the inner dimension of the support structure11. When the clips40are connected to the bottom pins36, the shelf1is able to move (e.g., pivot) into the opening of the support structure11without interfering with the top bar12. Although, as described above, the shelf1may be disconnected and reconnected in the stowed position.

In some forms, the shelf1may include notches52in the side wall6. For example, each notch52may be disposed on a lateral side of the shelf proximate to and spaced apart from the respective opening44. The notch52is illustrated as having a rectangular shape, although any shape may be used.

In certain forms, each notch52may be approximately centered along the lateral side wall6. More specifically, a distance between a notch52and the respective clip may be approximately the same distance as between the upper pin30and the lower pin36on the same side.

As the shelf1is positioned in the showed position, the upper pins30may be received within the respective notch52. The depth of each notch52may be approximately equal to or greater than the diameter of the connection portion34. This may allow the shelf1to fully fold into the stowed position (e.g., without substantial interference between the side walls6and the connection portions34).

As shown inFIG.12, the various elements of the system may be stored on the bottom surface2while the shelf1is in the storage (or shipping) position. In this position, the system100may be removed from the car seat back for storage. This may help to keep all of the elements together without requiring extra storage space. In this connection, it should be noted that the top and bottom bars may have an identical or substantially identical construction, and the side bars14may also have an identical or substantially construction. This helps with manufacture as the same mold can be used for the top and bottom bars, and the same mold can be used for the side bars. This is also helpful from the point of view of shipping, as the positions of the side bars can be interchanged relative to the shelf, and the positions of the top and bottom bars can be interchanged. Moreover, when the user wishes to store the system, the same is true.

For example, the support structure11may be disassembled and stored on the bottom surface2in the shelf1. Each side bar14and bottom pin36may together form one piece, and the top and bottom bars12,15may each form one piece. The side bar14and bottom pin36combination may include ends with smaller widths than openings on the top and bottom bars12,15so that the ends may be received within the top and bottom bars12, A mechanical lock (e.g., a spring biased pin) may be used to retain the support structure11in the assembled position.

In this storage position, the system100may take up a smaller physically footprint than in the stowed position and/or either deployed position. The storage position may be used to pack and/or ship the system100to a customer in order to reduce packaging size. The user may also disassemble the system100in to the storage position when the system100is not in use (e.g., being stored in their house, garage, etc.).

Different features, variations and multiple different examples have been shown and described with various details. What has been described in this application at times in terms of specific examples is done for illustrative purposes only and without the intent to limit or suggest that what has been conceived is only one particular example or specific examples. It is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to any single specific examples or enumerated variations. Many modifications, variations and other examples will come to mind of those skilled in the art, and which are intended to be and are in fact covered by both this disclosure.

While the present technology has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be some practical and preferred examples, it is to be understood that the present technology is not to be limited to the disclosed examples, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the disclosure.