Vehicle floor assembly

The present disclosure relates to a floor assembly for a vehicle load space. The floor assembly includes a floor panel that is configurable in a lowered position, a first raised position and a second raised position. The floor assembly includes a first pivot means defining a first pivot axis about which the floor panel pivots from the lowered position to the first raised position. The floor assembly includes a second pivot means defining a second pivot axis about which the floor panel pivots from the lowered position to said second raised position. The floor panel can perform different functions in the first and second raised positions. The present disclosure also relates to a vehicle having a floor assembly. The floor assembly may be provided in the floor of the vehicle load space.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to United Kingdom Patent Application No. GB 1720392.8 filed on 7 Dec. 2018.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a vehicle floor assembly. More particularly, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to a floor assembly for a vehicle load space. The present disclosure also relates to a vehicle incorporating a floor assembly.

BACKGROUND

Vehicles, such as sports utility vehicles (SUV), may be provided with a tailgate which opens to provide access to a load space. The tailgate may be a split tailgate comprising an upper tailgate which is top-hinged; and a lower tailgate which is bottom-hinged. When the lower tailgate is open, it may be difficult to reach the front of the load space (i.e. the region closest to the front of the vehicle). This may make it difficult for a user to retrieve items from the load space, for example if they have moved within the load space. It is also known to sit at the rear of the load space, for example using the lower tailgate as a temporary or occasional seat. However, this may prove uncomfortable over extended periods as there is no backrest.

It is against this backdrop that the present invention has been conceived. At least in certain embodiments, the present invention seeks to overcome or ameliorate at least some of the problems associated with prior art arrangements.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Aspects of the present invention relate to a floor assembly and to a vehicle as claimed in the appended claims.

According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a floor assembly for a vehicle load space, the floor assembly comprising:

a floor panel configurable in a lowered position, a first raised position and a second raised position;

first pivot means defining a first pivot axis about which the floor panel pivots from the lowered position to said first raised position; and

second pivot means defining a second pivot axis about which the floor panel pivots from the lowered position to said second raised position.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a floor assembly for a vehicle load space, the floor assembly comprising:

a floor panel configurable in a lowered position, a first raised position and a second raised position;

a first pivot defining a first pivot axis about which the floor panel pivots from the lowered position to said first raised position;

a second pivot defining a second pivot axis about which the floor panel pivots from the lowered position to said second raised position; and

a retaining mechanism for retaining the floor panel in at least one of the first raised position and the second raised position.

The retaining mechanism may be configured to retain the floor panel in at least one of:

one or more intermediate positions between the lowered position and the first raised position; and

one or more intermediate positions between the lowered position and the second raised position.

The floor panel may be pivoted from the lowered position to either the first raised position or the second raised position. The floor panel can perform different functions in said first and second raised positions. For example, the floor panel may selectively be configured as a load space partition and a backstop. The floor panel may be used selectively into the first position to partition or sub-divide the load space; and into the second position to function as a backstop for the load space to prevent items rolling out, or as a backrest for a person sitting at the rear of the load space or on a tailgate. When in the lowered position, the floor panel may form a continuation of the floor of the load space.

The first pivot may comprise a first pivoting coupling. The first pivoting coupling may comprise one or more pivot pins. The second pivot may comprise a second pivoting coupling. The second pivoting coupling may comprise one or more pivot pins.

The floor panel may be arranged to pivot about said first pivot axis in a first direction; and to pivot about the second pivot axis in a second direction. The first and second directions may be opposite to each other. For example, when installed in a vehicle, the first direction may be towards a front of the vehicle; and the second direction may be towards a rear of the vehicle. The pivoting directions may be reversed in certain applications.

The first and second pivot axes may be arranged substantially parallel to each other. The floor panel may comprise a plurality of sides. The first and second pivot axes may be disposed along opposing sides of the floor panel. The floor panel may comprise a rectangular panel having a major central axis and a minor central axis. The major central axis passes through the center of the shorter sides of the rectangular panel; and the minor central axis passes through the center of the longer sides of the rectangular panel. The first and second pivot axes may extend substantially parallel to said major central axis.

The floor assembly may comprise a coupling mechanism. The first pivot may be configured to pivotably mount the floor panel to said coupling mechanism. In use, the floor panel may be pivotable relative to said coupling mechanism about said first pivot axis.

The coupling mechanism may take the form of a support structure. For example, the support structure may take the form of a single continuous panel, side members adapted to support the floor panel, a support frame, a panel or any other suitable support structure.

The floor assembly may comprise at least one floor panel strut for supporting the floor panel. The at least one floor panel strut may be arranged to extend between the floor panel and the coupling mechanism. Each floor panel strut has a first end and a second end. One of said first and second ends may be pivotally connected to the floor panel or the coupling mechanism; and the other of said first and second ends may be movably mounted to the other of said floor panel and coupling mechanism. A movable coupling may be provided to movably couple the floor panel strut to the floor panel or the coupling mechanism. The movable coupling may comprise a guide track and a carriage.

The floor assembly may comprise a first retaining mechanism for retaining the floor panel in said first raised position. The first retaining mechanism may be configured to engage the at least one floor panel strut.

The floor assembly may comprise a first locking mechanism for locking the floor panel. The first locking mechanism may be configured to lock the floor panel in one or more intermediate position between said lowered position and said first raised position. Alternatively, or in addition, the first locking mechanism may be operable to lock the floor panel in said first raised position. The first locking mechanism may be configured to lock said floor panel strut. For example, the second locking mechanism may be configured to lock the carriage in said guide track.

The second pivot may be configured to pivotably mount the coupling mechanism. The second pivot, may for example, pivotably mount the coupling mechanism to a floor of the vehicle load space. The floor panel and the coupling mechanism may pivot together about said second pivot axis. The coupling mechanism may be configured to reinforce the floor panel when they pivot together.

The floor assembly may comprise at least one coupling mechanism strut for supporting the coupling mechanism. The at least one coupling mechanism strut may be arranged to extend between the coupling mechanism and a base. Each coupling mechanism strut has a first end and a second end. One of said first and second ends may be pivotally connected to the coupling mechanism or the base; and the other of said first and second ends may be movably mounted to the other of said coupling mechanism and base. A movable coupling may be provided to movably couple the coupling mechanism strut to the coupling mechanism or the base. The movable coupling may comprise a guide track and a carriage.

The floor assembly may comprise a second retaining mechanism for retaining the floor panel in said second raised position. The second retaining mechanism may be configured to engage the at least one coupling mechanism strut.

The floor assembly may comprise a second locking mechanism for locking the coupling mechanism. The second locking mechanism may be configured to lock the coupling mechanism such that the floor panel is disposed in one or more intermediate position between said lowered position and said second raised position. The second locking mechanism may be arranged to lock the coupling mechanism in one or more predefined angular position or may be continuously variable. Alternatively, or in addition, the second locking mechanism may be operable to lock the coupling mechanism such that the floor panel is disposed in said second raised position. The second locking mechanism may be configured to lock said coupling mechanism strut. For example, the second locking mechanism may be configured to lock the carriage in said guide track.

The floor assembly may comprise a base for mounting to a floor of the vehicle load space. The base may comprise a recess for receiving said coupling mechanism. The base may comprise a lower wall, and sidewalls. The base may form a tray in which the floor panel and/or the coupling mechanism is received. In certain embodiments, the floor panel and the coupling mechanism may be stowed in the base without impinging on the usable load space volume.

The floor assembly may comprise a retention mechanism arranged to prevent the side of the floor panel along which the first pivot axis is disposed from lifting away from the base when the floor panel is in the first raised position. The retention mechanism may comprise a clip mounted to the base for releasably engaging a cooperating feature mounted on a pivot pin. The clip may comprise a pair of arms for releasably engaging the cooperating feature when the floor panel is in the first raised position. The clip and cooperating feature may be further arranged such that, when the floor panel is in the lowered position, the cooperation feature is disengageable from the clip. In this manner, the clip and cooperating feature may be arranged to permit the side of the floor panel along which the first pivot axis is disposed to lift away from the base when the floor panel is moved from the lowered position to the second raised position.

The arms of the clip may define a receiving feature open at each end to allow the pivot pin to pass there through and capable of receiving therein the cooperating feature such that as the floor panel pivots about the first pivot axis between the lowered position and the first raised position, the cooperating feature is able to rotate within the receiving feature formed by the arms of the clip. A gap may be provided between the arms of the clip such an opening is provided at the top of the receiving feature. The cooperating feature may comprise a cross-section profile (e.g. an oval profile) configured to be able to pass through the opening provided at the top of the receiving feature when the floor panel is in the lowered position, but which cross-section profile is too large to pass through the opening provided at the top of the receiving feature when the floor panel is in the first raised position.

One of said first and second raised positions may be a load space partitioning position. The other of said first and second raised positions may be a backstop position.

The floor assembly may comprise at least one padded member for the floor panel. The at least one padded member may be permanently or removably attached to the floor panel.

The first pivot may comprise at least one first pivot pin. The second pivot may comprise at least one second pivot pin.

The floor assembly may be manually operated to pivot the floor panel between said lowered position, said first raised position and/or said second raised position. Alternatively, one or more actuator may be provided to pivot the floor panel between said lowered position, said first raised position and/or said second raised position. The one or more actuator may, for example, comprise an electromechanical actuator.

The floor assembly may comprise first and second side supports. The first and second side supports may be suitable for positioning in an upright configuration at respective ends of the floor panel when the floor panel is in said first raised position and/or said second raised position. The first and second side supports may be used in conjunction with, or instead of the first and second floor panel struts and/or the first and second coupling mechanism struts.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a vehicle comprising a floor assembly as described herein.

The floor assembly may be disposed in a load space of the vehicle. The floor assembly may be configured such that the floor panel forms a continuation of a floor of the load space when in said lowered position.

The floor assembly may be configured such that said first and second pivot axes extend in a transverse direction.

The floor panel may be configured to form a backstop for the load space or a backrest for one or more person sitting on a floor of the load space or on a tailgate which is opened to provide access to the load space.

In certain embodiments, the floor assembly may be removable from the vehicle. The floor assembly may be configured to form a temporary ramp to facilitate ingress to and/or egress from the load space by an animal, such as a dog. The floor assembly may comprise attachment means for attaching one end of the floor assembly to the vehicle.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a floor assembly for a vehicle load space, the floor assembly comprising: a floor panel configurable in a lowered position, a first raised position and a second raised position; a base for mounting the floor assembly to a floor of the vehicle load space; a first pivot axis about which the floor panel pivots relative to the base from the lowered position to said first raised position; a second pivot axis about which the floor panel pivots relative to the base from the lowered position to said second raised position; and a locking arrangement for retaining the floor panel in at least one of the first raised position and the second raised position.

Optionally, the floor assembly further comprises a support structure; wherein the floor panel is pivotally coupled to the support structure, the coupling between the floor panel and the support structure defining the first pivot axis; and wherein the support structure is pivotally coupled to the base, the coupling between the support structure and the base defining the second pivot axis.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A vehicle1comprising a floor assembly2in accordance with an aspect of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying figures. The vehicle1in the present embodiment is a sports utility vehicle (SUV), but the floor assembly2may be installed in other types of vehicle, such as a station-wagon or estate body style. The vehicle1is described herein with reference to a reference frame comprising a longitudinal axis X, a transverse axis Y and a vertical axis Z.

As shown inFIGS. 1 and 2, the floor assembly2is provided in a load space3of the vehicle1. In particular, the floor assembly2is mounted in a floor4of the load space3. The load space3is provided at the rear of the vehicle1behind an occupant cabin5. The load space3can be accessed via a tailgate which in the present embodiment is a split tailgate comprising upper and lower tailgates7,8. The upper tailgate7of the tailgate6is top-hinged and pivots upwardly to open the load space3. The lower tailgate8of the tailgate6is bottom-hinged and pivots downwardly to open the load space3. When lowered, the lower tailgate8may be used as an occasional seat.

The floor assembly2comprises a floor panel9and a base11. The floor panel9is rectangular and comprises a first side12-1, a second side12-2, a third side12-3, a fourth side12-4, an upper surface13and a lower surface14. The floor panel9comprises a major axis Y1and a minor axis X1. The floor panel9is configurable in a lowered position (shown inFIG. 10A); a first raised position (shown inFIG. 10B); and a second raised position (shown inFIG. 10C). When the floor panel9is in said lowered position, the second side12-2is positioned towards the front of the vehicle1, and the fourth side12-4is positioned towards the rear of the vehicle1. The upper surface13may be trimmed to match the remainder of the floor4, for example with a durable material, such as carpet. The base11comprises a lower wall, a first sidewall, a second sidewall, a third sidewall and a fourth sidewall. The second sidewall is positioned towards the front of the vehicle1; and the fourth sidewall is positioned towards the rear of the vehicle1. The base11is mounted in the floor4of the load space3and is configured to receive the floor panel9therein. The top of the base11is open to enable the floor panel9to be raised from said lowered position.

To enable the floor panel9to be configured in multiple positions, the floor assembly2comprises a first pivot17defining a first pivot axis P1about which the floor panel9pivots from the lowered position to the first raised position and a second pivot18defining a second pivot axis P2about which the floor panel9pivots from the lowered position to the second raised position.

In the present embodiment, the assembly2comprises a coupling mechanism10wherein the first pivot17is configured to pivotably mount the floor panel9to said coupling mechanism10, and the second pivot18is configured to pivotably mount the coupling mechanism10to the base11such that the floor panel9and the coupling mechanism10pivot together about said second pivot axis.

FIGS. 3 to 5illustrate an embodiment of the floor assembly2in more detail. The coupling mechanism10in the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 3 to 5comprises a single continuous panel. In other embodiments, the coupling mechanism10may comprise side members adapted to support the floor panel9(such as first and second side members10-1,10-2of a further embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 6A to 9C), a support frame, a panel or other support structure.

The floor panel9is shown in a lowered position inFIG. 3; in the first raised position inFIG. 4; and in the second raised position inFIG. 5. The floor panel9pivots about the first pivot axis P1between the lowered position and the first raised position. The floor panel9, along with the coupling mechanism10, pivots about the second pivot axis P2between the lowered position and the second raised position. The first and second pivot axes P1, P2are arranged substantially parallel to the transverse axis Y of the vehicle1. The first and second pivot axes P1, P2are disposed proximal to the front and rear of the base11respectively. In the lowered position, the floor panel9and the coupling mechanism10are stowed in the base11in a face-to-face arrangement and the upper surface13forms a continuation of the floor4of the load space3. In the first raised position, the floor panel9is configured to form a temporary partition for sub-dividing the load space3. The floor panel9is disposed in an upright position substantially perpendicular to the floor4and extends transversely across the load space3. In the second raised position, the floor panel9is configured to form a backstop for the load space or a backrest for a person sitting on the lower tailgate8of the tailgate6.

A second embodiment will now be described with reference toFIGS. 6A-D,7,8A-C and9A-C in which the floor panel9is pivotally mounted to the base11by way of first and second side members10-1,10-2. The first pivoting coupling17defines the first pivot axis P1. In use, the floor panel9pivots relative to the side members10-1,10-2about said first pivot axis P1when the floor panel9is pivoted from said lowered position to said first raised position. The first pivot axis P1extends in a transverse direction and is located proximal to the front of the floor assembly2when the floor panel9is in said lowered position. As shown inFIGS. 6A and 6B, the first pivoting coupling17in this second embodiment comprises first pivot pins19-1,19-2mounted on opposing sides of the floor panel9. The first pivot pins19-1,19-2each locate in a first pivot bracket20-1,20-2provided on the respective side member10-1,10-2. In this manner, the first pivot pins19-1,19-2and first pivot brackets20-1,20-2provide the first pivoting coupling17arranged to pivotably mount the floor panel9to the side members10-1,10-2.

First and second floor panel struts21-1,21-2are provided to support the floor panel9. The first and second floor panel struts21-1,21-2are pivotally mounted at a first end to fixed pins22mounted to an inset section of the lower surface14of the floor panel9. As shown inFIG. 6C, a second end of each of the first and second floor panel struts21-1,21-2is slidably coupled to the respective side member10-1,10-2. In particular, the second ends of the first and second floor panel struts21-1,21-2are connected to first and second carriages23-1,23-2arranged to travel along respective first and second guide tracks24-1,24-2provided on the respective side member10-1,10-2. The first and second guide tracks24-1,24-2are provided at respective outer facing sides of the side members10-1,10-2. The first and second floor panel struts21-1,21-2, first and second carriages23-1,23-2and first and second guide tracks24-1,24-2are configured to allow the floor panel9to pivot through a predetermined angular range. In the present embodiment, the first and second guide tracks24-1,24-2allow the floor panel9to pivot through approximately 90° as it transitions from said lowered position to said first raised position.

The floor assembly2may include means for locking or otherwise retaining the floor panel9in said first raised position. In the present embodiment, first and second locking mechanisms35-1,35-2are provided on the side members10-1,10-2for selectively engaging the first and second carriages23-1,23-2. The first locking mechanism35-1is partially shown inFIG. 7; and the second locking mechanism35-2is shown inFIG. 6D. The second locking mechanism35-2will now be described with reference toFIG. 6D. The second locking mechanism35-2comprises an arm40. The arm40is movable axially along the respective side member10-2between a passive position and a release position. A knob38is provided on the arm40for manual operation of the respective locking mechanism35-2.

The second locking mechanism35-2comprises a translation member41comprising an inclined surface42. The translation member41is coupled to the arm40and arranged to move axially along the second side member10-2with the arm40. The inclined surface42of the translation member41is inclined with respect to the direction of movement of the translation member41along the second side member10-2. In the illustrated embodiment, the translation member41comprises apertures37. Pins36provided on the arm40are arranged to be received within the apertures37of the translation member41to couple the translation member41to the arm40such that the translation member41moves with the arm40along the second side member10-2. The translation member41may alternatively form an integral part of the arm40.

A stop member43is mounted on the second side member10-2and prevented from axial movement in at least a first direction along the second side member10-2, whilst permitted at least a range of lateral movement relative to second side member10-2(e.g. towards and away from the second side member10-2). A biasing means (not shown), for example a compression spring, is provided to bias the stop member43into a stop position, for example in a direction away from the second side member10-2. The stop member43comprises an engagement feature44arranged to engage with the inclined surface42of the translation member41as the arm40moves between the passive and release positions, as described in greater detail below. A biasing means in the form of a compression spring39is provided to bias the arm40into the passive position.

When the floor panel9is raised to said first raised position, the second carriage23-2travels along the second guide track24-2until it reaches its limit of travel in that first direction, wherein the floor panel9is in the first raised position. When the second carriage23-2is at said limit of travel, it has passed beyond the stop member43, and the stop member43is biased away from the second side member10-2such that it prevents return movement of the second carriage23-2back along the second guide track24-2in a second direction of travel opposite to said first direction of travel. The floor panel9is thereby retained in said first raised position.

To return the floor panel9to the lowered position, the arm40, and thereby the translation member41, is displaced axially (for example manually using the knob38) from the passive position to the release position. As the translation member41is moved axially with the arm40, the inclined surface42of the translation member41engages with the engagement feature44of the stop member43, urging the stop member43out of the path of the second carriage23-2, for example towards the second side member10-2; thus translating the axial movement of the arm40into lateral movement of the stop member43. When the arm40is in the release position, the stop member43is urged completely out of the path of the second carriage23-2by the inclined surface42of the translation member41, thereby allowing the second carriage23-2to travel past the stop member43and back along the second guide track24-2in the second direction, thereby allowing the floor panel9to return to the lowered position.

Other locking mechanisms may be provided to lock the floor panel9in said first raised position. A second locking means, for example a mechanical or friction lock, may optionally be provided to lock the longitudinal position of the first and second carriages23-1,23-2in said first and second guide tracks24-1,24-2in one or more intermediate position.

The second pivoting coupling18defines the second pivot axis P2. In use, the floor panel9and the side members10-1,10-2pivot together about said second pivot axis P2when the floor panel9is pivoted from said lowered position to said second raised position. The second pivot axis P2extends in a transverse direction and is located proximal to the rear of the floor assembly2when the floor panel9is in said lowered position. As shown inFIGS. 6D and 7, the second pivoting coupling18comprises second pivot pins25-1,25-2mounted on opposing side members10-1,10-2. The second pivot pins25-1,25-2locate in second pivot brackets26-1,26-2fastened to the base11. First and second side member struts27-1,27-2(see Figures (are provided to support the side members10-1,10-2when in a raised position. As shown inFIGS. 9B and 9C, a first end of each of the first and second side member struts27-1,27-2is pivotally mounted to the base11. A second end of each of the first and second side member struts27-1,27-2is slidably coupled to the respective side member10-1,10-2. In particular, the first and second side member struts27-1,27-2are connected to third and fourth carriages28-1,28-2(seeFIGS. 9B and 9C) arranged to travel in respective third and fourth guide tracks29-1,29-2(seeFIGS. 9B and 9C) formed in the sides of the side members10-1,10-2. The first and second side member struts27-1,27-2, third and fourth carriages and third and fourth guide tracks are configured to allow the side members10-1,10-2and the floor panel9to pivot together through a predetermined angular range.

In the present embodiment, the third and fourth guide tracks allow the third and fourth carriages sufficient displacement to permit the floor panel9to pivot through an acute angle, as it transitions from said lowered position to said second raised position. The angular movement of the floor panel9may be less than 90°, for example approximately 80°, such that a backrest formed by the floor panel9when the floor panel9is in said second raised position is partially reclined.

The floor assembly2may include a retaining mechanism or other means for retaining the floor panel9in said second raised position. For example, the locking arrangement described herein to retain the floor panel9in said first raised position may be replicated. Locking mechanisms may be provided for selectively locking the third and fourth carriages at a limit of travel in a first direction, wherein the floor panel9is in the second raised position. Other locking or retaining means may be used. A second locking or retaining mechanism, for example a mechanical or friction lock, may optionally be provided to lock the longitudinal position of the third and fourth carriages in said third and fourth guide tracks in one or more intermediate position

As shown inFIG. 6A, in this illustrated embodiments a clip30is mounted to the base11for releasably engaging a cooperating feature39mounted on the pivot pin19-2. The clip30in the present embodiment comprises a pair of arms31for releasably engaging the cooperating feature39when the floor panel9is in the first raised position. In this manner, the clip30and cooperating feature39form a retention mechanism arranged to prevent the second pivot pin19-2, and thus the second side12-2of the floor panel9, from lifting away from the base11when the floor panel9is in the first raised position. The clip30and cooperating feature39are further arranged such that, when the floor panel9is in the lowered position, the cooperation feature39is disengageable from the clip30. In this manner, the clip30and cooperating feature39are arranged to permit the second pivot pin19-2, and thus the second side12-2of the floor panel9, to lift away from the base11when the floor panel9is moved from the lowered position to the second raised position.

In the illustrated embodiment, the arms31of the clip30define a receiving feature open at each end to allow the pivot pin19-2to pass there through and capable of receiving therein the cooperating feature39such that as the floor panel9pivots about the first pivot axis P1between the lowered position and the first raised position, the cooperating feature39is able to rotate within the receiving feature formed by the arms31of the clip30. A gap is provided between the arms31of the clip30such an opening is provided at the top of the receiving feature. The cooperating feature39comprises a cross-section profile (e.g. an oval profile) configured to be able to pass through the opening provided at the top of the receiving feature when the floor panel9is in the lowered position, but which cross-section profile is too large to pass through the opening provided at the top of the receiving feature when the floor panel9is in the first raised position. As illustrated inFIG. 6B, a similar such clip30and cooperating feature39may also be provided for the pivot pin19-1.

As shown inFIGS. 8A and 9A, the floor panel9comprises first and second grips32,33to facilitate pivoting of the floor panel9about said first and second pivot axes P1, P2. In the present embodiment the first and second grips32,33comprise loops of webbing, fabric or other flexible material. The first grip32is disposed proximal to the fourth side12-4of the floor panel9, i.e. proximal the side closest to the rear of the vehicle1when the floor panel9is in the lowered position. By lifting the first grip32, the floor panel9pivots about the first pivot axis P1towards the front of the vehicle1. The second grip33is disposed proximal to the second side12-2of the floor panel9, i.e. closest to the front of the vehicle1when the floor panel9is in the lowered position. By lifting the second grip33, the floor panel9pivots about the second pivot axis P2towards the rear of the vehicle1.

The operation of the floor assembly2will now be described. The reconfiguring of the floor panel9from the lowered position to the first raised position is illustrated inFIGS. 8A, 8B and 8C. The floor panel9is initially in the lowered position, as shown inFIG. 8A, and the upper surface13forms a continuation of the floor4of the load space3. The user grips the first grip32and applies an upwards force to pivot the floor panel9about the first pivot axis P1, as illustrated inFIG. 8B. The first and second floor panel struts21-1,21-2pivot relative to the fixed pins22and the first and second carriages23-1,23-2travel along the first and second guide tracks24-1,24-2. The floor panel9is thereby pivoted to said first raised position, as shown in FIG.8B8C. In this first raised position the floor panel9forms a partition in the load space3. A user operates the first locking mechanism35to release the first and second carriages23-1,23-2. The floor panel9can then pivot about the first pivot axis P1to return to the lowered position.

The reconfiguring of the floor panel9from the lowered position to the second raised position is illustrated inFIGS. 9A, 9B and 9C. The floor panel9is initially in the lowered position, as shown inFIG. 9A, and the upper surface13forms a continuation of the floor4of the load space3. The user grips the second grip33and applies an upwards force to pivot the floor panel9about the second pivot axis P2, as illustrated inFIG. 9B. The first and second side-member struts27-1,27-2pivot relative to the first and third sidewalls16-1,16-3of the base11and the third and fourth carriages28-1,28-2travel along the third and fourth guide tracks29-1,29-2. The floor panel9is thereby pivoted to said second raised position, as shown inFIG. 9B. In this second raised position the floor panel9forms a backstop or backrest in the load space3. A user operates the locking mechanisms to release the third and fourth carriages. The floor panel9can then pivot about the second pivot axis P2to return to the lowered position.

FIGS. 11A-C,12and13A-B illustrate an alternative embodiment of a retaining mechanism100for locking or otherwise retaining the floor panel9in a raised position.FIG. 11Aillustrates a side view of a guide rail housing105within which a locking mechanism110of the retaining mechanism100is housed. The guide rail housing105provides a guide rail115within which a carriage120is slidably received. The carriage120is configured to be attached to a first end of a strut (not shown), a second end of which is pivotably attached to, for example, one of the side-members10-1,10-2or the base11. In the illustrated embodiment, the carriage120comprises a lug122to which the strut may be pivotably coupled.

FIG. 11Billustrates a top-down cross-sectional view through the retaining mechanism100along the line A:A inFIG. 11Ashowing the locking mechanism110within the guide rail housing105, andFIG. 11Cillustrates a top-down view of the locking mechanism110from the same perspective.

The guide rail housing105is configured to be pivotal about an axis P. For example, the guide rail housing105may be mounted to an edge of the floor panel1and thus arranged to pivot with the floor panel9about the first pivot axis P1between the lowered position and the first raised position. In this case, the second end of the strut (not shown) is pivotably coupled to one of the side members10-1,10-2, and as the guide rail housing105pivots about the first pivot axis P1relative to the side member10-1,10-2the carriage slides along the guide rail115, with the strut (not shown) pivoting at each end thereof. Alternatively, the guide rail housing105may be mounted to, or form a part of, one of the side members10-1,10-2and thus arranged to pivot with said side member10-1,10-2about the second pivot axis P2between the lowered position and the second raised position. In this case, the second end of the strut (not shown) is pivotably coupled to the base11.

In a latched configuration as illustrated inFIGS. 11A-C, for example when the floor panel is in one of the first or second raised positions, the carriage120abuts against a stop element130of the locking mechanism110. The stop element130is coupled to a slider132which is slidably received within the guide rail housing105. A first biasing means134, which in the illustrated embodiment is in the form of a spring element, applies a biasing force to the slider132in a direction along the length of the guide rail115away from the pivot axis P. In this manner, in the latched configuration the stop member130is biased against the carriage120and provides a biased stop against which the carriage is held.

A latching mechanism140is fixedly received within the guide rail housing105and comprises a latch element142configured to releasably retain the carriage120in abutment with the stop element130when in the latched configuration, as illustrated inFIG. 13A.FIG. 12illustrates a cross-section view of the latching element142in greater detail. The latching element142is rotatably mounted about an axis144and comprises a latching feature146configured to releasably engage with the carriage120to retain the carriage120in abutment with the stop element130when in the latched configuration. The latching element142further comprises a leg148used to control rotation of the latching element142about the axis144.

A second biasing means136is configured to apply a biasing force to a first side of the leg148of the latching element142to bias the latching element142in a first rotational direction about the axis144such that, in the latched configuration, the latching feature146applies a corresponding force to the carriage120in a direction along the length of the guide rail115towards the stop element130. In the illustrated embodiment, the second biasing means136comprises a further spring element located between the slider132and the latching element142.

A piston150is slidably received within the latching mechanism140and is configured to engage with a second side of the leg18of the latching element142, opposite the first side of the leg148to which the second biasing means136applies a biasing force. An arm152is slidably received within the guide rail housing105along the guide rail housing105substantially from the latching mechanism142to an end of the guide rail housing105distal from the pivot axis P. A first end of the arm152extends from the distal end117of the guide rail housing105and forms a knob155operably by a user to release the latching mechanism140. When the knob155is pushed or otherwise urged in a direction along the guide rail housing105, a second end of the arm152proximal the latching mechanism142is configured engage with the piston150and transfer the force applied to the knob155to the piston150, which in turn transfers said force to the leg148of the latching element142.

In this manner, the knob155, arm152and piston150collectively permit a force to be applied to the second side of the leg148of the latching element142to overcome the biasing force of the second biasing means136to cause the latching element to be rotated in a second rotational direction about the axis144. As the latching element142is rotated in the second rotation direction about the axis144, the latching feature146is rotated out of the way of the carriage120, enabling the carriage120to slide along the guide rail115away from the stop element120, and thus out of the latched configuration, as illustrated inFIG. 13B.

As also illustrated inFIG. 13B, the arm152is separable from the piston150. In this manner, the piston150is able to achieve sufficient movement along the guide rail housing105to rotate the latching element142between the latched configuration illustrated inFIG. 13Band a retracted configuration illustrated inFIG. 13A, whilst allowing the knob155to have a smaller range of movement.

In the illustrated embodiment, a clearance aperture160(illustrated inFIG. 12) is provided within the housing of the latching mechanism140to permit rotation of the leg148of the latching element142.

It is contemplated that the retaining mechanism100as illustrated inFIGS. 11A-C,12and13A-B may be provided on each side of the floor panel9, for example to retain the floor panel9in the first raised position, and on or within each of the side members10-1,10-2, for example to retain the floor panel9in the second raised position.

Alternatively, it is contemplated that the retaining mechanism100as illustrated inFIGS. 11A-C,12and13A-B may be provided on only one side of the floor panel9, for example to retain the floor panel9in the first raised position, and on or within only one of the side members10-1,10-2, for example to retain the floor panel9in the second raised position.

Alternatively, it is contemplated that the retaining mechanism100as illustrated inFIGS. 11A-C,12and13A-B may be provided on each side of the floor panel9, for example to retain the floor panel9in the first raised position as a back rest (thereby reducing the risk of the floor panel accidentally being released by a user leaning against the back rest), whilst on or within only one of the side members10-1,10-2, for example to retain the floor panel9in the second raised position as a loadspace partition.

It will be understood that various changes and modifications may be made to the floor assembly2described herein without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, the floor assembly2may comprise first and second side supports34-1,34-2(shown inFIGS. 3, 4 and 5) for positioning in an upright configuration at respective ends of the floor panel9when the floor panel9is in said first and second raised positions. When deployed as such, the first and second side supports34-1,34-2are arranged at an angle to the floor panel9, such that they support the floor panel9in the raised or upright configuration. The first and second side supports34-1,34-2may extend substantially perpendicular to the floor panel9. The first and second side supports34-1,34-2may be used in conjunction with, or instead of the first and second floor panel struts21-1,21-2and/or the first and second side-member struts27-1,27-2. The first and second side supports34-1,34-2may, for example, function as supports to retain the floor panel9in said first and second raised position. The first and second side supports34-1,34-2may be hingedly connected to the floor panel9or may be removably attached thereto.

The floor assembly2may optionally also comprise at least one padded member for the floor panel9. The at least one padded member may comprise a foam member, for example. The at least one padded member may function as backrest padding when the floor panel9is in said second raised position. The at least one padded member may, for example, be provided on the upper surface13or the lower surface14of the floor panel9. The at least one padded member may be fastened to the floor panel9. Alternatively, the at least one padded member may be removably mounted. The base11may be arranged to stow the at least one padded member when the floor panel9is in said lowered position. For example, the at least one padded member may be stowed below the coupling mechanism10,10-1,10-2; or between the floor panel9and the coupling mechanism10,10-1,10-2.

It will be appreciated that various modifications may be made to the embodiment(s) described herein without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

The floor assembly1has been described herein as comprising a first pivoting coupling17arranged to pivotally mount the floor panel9to the coupling mechanism10,10-1,10-2; and a second pivoting coupling18to pivotally mount the coupling mechanism10,10-1,10-2to the base11. In a variant, the floor panel9the first and second pivoting couplings16,17may both be releasably coupled to the floor panel9. The first and second pivoting couplings16,17may, for example, each comprise one or more releasable pivoting couplings. In an arrangement of this type, one of said first and second pivoting couplings16,17may be released to enable the floor panel9to pivot about the pivot axis X1, X2defined by the other of said first and second pivoting couplings16,17. The coupling mechanism10,10-1,10-2may be omitted from this arrangement. For example, the first and second pivoting couplings16,17may pivotally couple the floor panel9directly to the base11or to the floor4of the load space3.

In a modified arrangement, the first and second raised positions could provide fore and aft load space partitions. The longitudinal position of the floor panel in the vehicle in said first and second raised positions could provide alternate partitions in the load space3.

It will be understood that the floor assembly2described herein could be removable from the vehicle. In a further modification the floor assembly2could be configured to form a temporary ramp to facilitate ingress to and/or egress from the load space3for an animal, such as a dog. The floor assembly2may comprise attachment means for attaching one end of the floor assembly2to the vehicle1. The attachment means could, for example comprise a releasable mechanical fastener or coupling mechanism, for attaching the end of the floor assembly to the floor4of the load space3. The other end of the floor assembly may be positioned on the ground behind the vehicle1to form an inclined ramp.