Patent Publication Number: US-2021162909-A1

Title: Variable friction cargo surface system for vehicles

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This is a continuation of, and claims priority to, U.S. application Ser. No. 16/178,040, filed Nov. 1, 2018, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The technical field generally relates to the field of vehicles and, more specifically, to cargo systems for vehicles. 
     INTRODUCTION 
     Many vehicles include cargo regions. However, it may be desirable to provide improved cargo regions, for example that further facilitate holding cargo in place and facilitating movement of cargo when desired. 
     Accordingly, it is desirable to provide cargo systems for vehicles, for example that further facilitate holding cargo in place and facilitating movement of cargo when desired. 
     Furthermore, other desirable features and characteristics of the present invention will become apparent from the subsequent detailed description and the appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
     SUMMARY 
     A cargo system is provided for a vehicle. In one embodiment, the cargo system includes a surface that inhibits movement of cargo within the cargo system; and a control device that selectively activates and deactivates the surface based on conditions of the vehicle. 
     Also in one embodiment, the cargo system also includes a chamber coupled to the surface, the chamber configured to receive fluid for activating or deactivating the surface; and a fluid movement device configured to move fluid into or out of the chamber, to thereby activate or deactivate the surface. 
     Also in one embodiment, the cargo system also includes one or more channels coupled between the fluid movement device and the chamber for delivery of fluid therebetween; and the movement device includes a pump that is configured to: move fluid into the chamber for activation of the surface, when the surface is activated; and move fluid out of the chamber for de-activation of the surface, when the surface is activated. 
     Also in one embodiment, the cargo system also includes a sensor configured to receive sensor inputs regarding the conditions of the vehicle; and the control device includes a processor that is configured to determine a selected activation or deactivation of the surface based on the sensor inputs, and to provide instructions for the selected activation or deactivation of the surface. 
     Also in one embodiment, the surface includes a high friction surface having a second coefficient of friction; the cargo system further includes a low friction surface that facilitates movement of cargo within the cargo system, the low friction surface having a first coefficient of friction that is less than the second coefficient of friction; and the control device selectively activates the low friction surface and the high friction surface based on conditions of the vehicle. 
     Also in in one embodiment, the low friction surface contacts the cargo within the cargo system when the low friction surface is activated; and the high friction surface contacts the cargo within the cargo system when the high friction surface is activated. 
     Also in one embodiment, the cargo system further includes: a chamber coupled to the low friction surface or the high friction surface, the chamber configured to receive fluid for activating or deactivating the low friction surface or the high friction surface; and one or more channels coupled between the fluid movement device and the chamber for delivery of fluid therebetween and a fluid movement device configured to move fluid into or out of the chamber, via the one or more channels, to thereby activate or deactivate the low friction surface or the high friction surface. 
     Also in one embodiment, the cargo system further includes: a first chamber coupled to the low friction surface, the first chamber configured to receive fluid for activating the low friction surface; a second chamber coupled to the high friction surface, the second chamber configured to receive fluid for activating the high friction surface; one or more fluid movement devices configured to move fluid into and out of the first and second chambers, to thereby selectively activate and deactivate the low friction surface and the high friction surface; one or more first channels coupled between one or more of the fluid movement devices and the first chamber for delivery of fluid therebetween; and one or more second channels coupled between one or more of the fluid movement devices and the second chamber for delivery of fluid therebetween. 
     Also in one embodiment, the one or more fluid movement devices include a two-way pump that is configured to move fluid between the first chamber and the second chamber, to thereby selectively activate and deactivate the low friction surface and the high friction surface. 
     A method is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes: receiving sensor inputs from a sensor onboard a vehicle; and via a processor onboard the vehicle: selecting one of a low friction surface or a high friction surface of a cargo system for the vehicle for activation based on the sensor inputs; and providing instructions for the activation of the selected one of the low friction surface or the high friction surface; wherein: the low friction surface facilitates movement of cargo within the cargo system, with a first coefficient of friction; and the high friction surface inhibits movement of cargo within the cargo system, with a second coefficient of friction that is greater than the first coefficient of friction. 
     Also in one embodiment, the step of providing the instructions includes: providing instructions, via the processor, for one or more pumps onboard the vehicle to selectively provide fluid to a chamber associated with the selected one of the low friction surface or the high friction surface, to thereby activate the selected one of the low friction surface or the high friction surface and allow the selected one of the low friction surface or the high friction surface to contact cargo within the cargo system. 
     Also in one embodiment, the step of providing the instructions includes: providing instructions, via the processor, for one or more of the pumps onboard the vehicle to selectively provide fluid: out of the high pressure chamber and into the low pressure chamber, when activation of the low pressure chamber is desired; and out of the low pressure chamber and into the high pressure chamber, when activation of the high pressure chamber is desired. 
     A vehicle is provided. In one embodiment, the vehicle includes: a body; one or more occupant seats disposed within the body; and a cargo system including: a variable cargo surface disposed within the body of the vehicle behind one or more of the occupant seats, the variable cargo surface including: a low friction surface that facilitates movement of cargo within the cargo system, the low friction surface having a first coefficient of friction; a high friction surface that inhibits movement of cargo within the cargo system, the high friction surface having a second coefficient of friction that is greater than the first coefficient of friction; and a control device that selectively activates the low friction surface and the high friction surface based on conditions for the vehicle; wherein: the low friction surface contacts the cargo within the cargo system when the low friction surface is activated; and the high friction surface contacts the cargo within the cargo system when the high friction surface is activated. 
     Also in one embodiment, the vehicle further includes: a chamber coupled to the low friction surface or the high friction surface, the chamber configured to receive fluid for activating or deactivating the low friction surface or the high friction surface; a fluid movement device configured to move fluid into or out of the chamber, to thereby activate or deactivate the low friction surface or the high friction surface; and one or more channels coupled between the fluid movement device and the chamber for delivery of fluid therebetween. 
     Also in one embodiment, the chamber is coupled to the low friction surface; and the fluid movement device includes a pump that is configured to: move fluid into the chamber for activation of the low friction surface, such that the low friction surface extends above the high friction surface, such that the low friction surface contacts cargo in the vehicle when the low friction surface is activated; and move fluid out of the chamber for de-activation of the low friction surface, such that the low friction surface does not extend above the high friction surface, such that the high friction surface contacts the cargo in the cargo system when the low friction surface is activated. 
     Also in one embodiment, the vehicle further includes: a first chamber coupled to the low friction surface, the first chamber configured to receive fluid for activating the low friction surface; a second chamber coupled to the high friction surface, the second chamber configured to receive fluid for activating the high friction surface; one or more fluid movement devices configured to move fluid into and out of the first and second chambers, to thereby selectively activate and deactivate the low friction surface and the high friction surface; one or more first channels coupled between one or more of the fluid movement devices and the first chamber for delivery of fluid therebetween; and one or more second channels coupled between one or more of the fluid movement devices and the second chamber for delivery of fluid therebetween. 
     Also in one embodiment, the one or more fluid movement devices include a two-way pump that is configured to move fluid between the first chamber and the second chamber, to thereby selectively activate and deactivate the low friction surface and the high friction surface. 
     Also in one embodiment, the vehicle further includes: a sensor configured to receive sensor inputs regarding the conditions of the vehicle; wherein the control device includes a processor that is configured to determine a selected one of the low friction surface or the high friction surface for activation based on the sensor inputs, and to provide instructions for the activation of the selected one of the low friction surface or the high friction surface. 
     Also in one embodiment, the one or more occupant seats include one or more front occupant seats and one or more rear occupant seats; and the variable cargo surface is disposed in a rear cargo region behind the one or more rear occupant seats. 
     Also in one embodiment, the one or more occupant seats include one or more front occupant seats and one or more rear occupant seats; the one or more rear occupant seats have a front side, on which an occupant may sit when the one or more rear occupant seats are in a seating position, and a rear side, on which cargo may be stored when the one or more rear occupant seats are in a cargo position; and the variable cargo surface is disposed on the rear side of one or more of the rear occupant seats. 
    
    
     
       DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The present disclosure will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the following drawing figures, wherein like numerals denote like elements, and wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is a functional block diagram of a vehicle, namely an automobile, that includes a cargo system with variable friction surfaces, for example that facilitates holding cargo in place and facilitating movement of cargo when desired, in accordance with exemplary embodiments; 
         FIG. 2  provides an illustration of variable friction surfaces of the cargo system of  FIG. 1 , in accordance with exemplary embodiments; 
         FIG. 3  provides an exploded view of the variable friction surfaces of  FIG. 2 , shown with a high friction surface activated, in accordance with exemplary embodiments; 
         FIG. 4  provides a functional block diagram of a computer system of the cargo system of  FIG. 1 , in accordance with exemplary embodiments; 
         FIG. 5  depicts a functional block diagram of a control system of the cargo system of  FIG. 1 , and that can be implemented in connection with the computer system of  FIG. 4 , in accordance with exemplary embodiments; and 
         FIG. 6  depicts a flowchart of a process for controlling a cargo system of a vehicle, and that can be implemented in connection with the vehicle and cargo system of  FIG. 2 , the variable friction surfaces of  FIGS. 2 and 3  the computer system of  FIG. 4 , and the control system of  FIG. 5 , in accordance with exemplary embodiments. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the disclosure or the application and uses thereof. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory presented in the preceding background or the following detailed description. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates a vehicle  100  having a cargo system  102 , in accordance with exemplary embodiments. As described in greater detail below, the cargo system  102  includes a plurality of friction surfaces  120 , including a low friction surface  122  and a high friction surface  124 . 
     As depicted in  FIG. 1 , in certain embodiments, the vehicle  100  comprises an automobile, such as a sport utility vehicle. It will be appreciated that the cargo system  102  described herein may be implemented in any number of different types of vehicles and/or platforms. For example, in various embodiments, the vehicle  100  may comprise any number of different types of automobiles (e.g., taxi cabs, vehicle fleets, buses, sedans, wagons, trucks, and other automobiles), other types of vehicles (e.g., marine vehicles, locomotives, aircraft, spacecraft, and other vehicles), and/or other mobile platforms, and/or components thereof. 
     In various embodiments, the vehicle  100  includes a body  104  that is arranged on a chassis  106 . The body  104  substantially encloses other components of the vehicle  100 . The body  104  and the chassis  106  may jointly form a frame. The vehicle  100  also includes a plurality of wheels  108 . The wheels  108  are each rotationally coupled to the chassis  106  near a respective corner of the body  104  to facilitate movement of the vehicle  100 . In one embodiment, the vehicle  100  includes four wheels  108 , although this may vary in other embodiments (for example for trucks and certain other vehicles). 
     A drive system  110  is mounted on the chassis  106 , and drives the wheels  108 , for example via axles  112 . The drive system  110  preferably comprises a propulsion system. In certain exemplary embodiments, the drive system  110  comprises an internal combustion engine and/or an electric motor/generator, coupled with a transmission thereof. In certain embodiments, the drive system  110  may vary, and/or two or more drive systems  110  may be used. By way of example, the vehicle  100  may also incorporate any one of, or combination of, a number of different types of propulsion systems, such as, for example, a gasoline or diesel fueled combustion engine, a “flex fuel vehicle” (FFV) engine (i.e., using a mixture of gasoline and alcohol), a gaseous compound (e.g., hydrogen and/or natural gas) fueled engine, a combustion/electric motor hybrid engine, and an electric motor. 
     Also as depicted in  FIG. 1 , in various embodiments the vehicle  100  includes occupant seats  114 . In various embodiments, the vehicle  100  includes one or more front seats  116  and one or more rear seats  118 . In various embodiments, the front seats  116  comprise one or more seating benches, bucket seats, and/or one or more other types of seating configurations for a front row of the vehicle  100 , while the rear seats  118  comprise one or more seating benches, bucket seats, and/or one or more other types of seating configurations behind the front row. In certain embodiments, the rear seats  118  are foldable, rotatable, and/or otherwise movable between (i) a seating position, in which occupants may be seated on the rear seats  118 ; and (ii) a cargo position, in which cargo may be stored on the rear seats  118 . 
     In the depicted embodiment, the cargo system  102  includes the above-referenced variable friction surfaces  120 . In certain embodiments, the variable friction surfaces  120  are disposed in a rear cargo region, behind the rear seats  118 , or in an exterior cargo area, such as a truck bed. In certain embodiments, the variable friction surfaces  120  are disposed as part of the rear seats  118 , for example on a back side of the rear seats  118  (e.g., so that cargo may be stored on the friction surfaces  120  when the rear seats  118  are folded into the cargo position). 
     As noted above, in various embodiments, the variable friction surfaces  120  include a low friction surface  122  and a high friction surface  124 . In various embodiments, the low friction surface  122  is made of a first material that facilitates movement of cargo within, and into and out of, the cargo system  102 . Also in various embodiments, the high friction surface  124  is made of a second material that is different from the first material, and that inhibits movement of cargo within, and into and out of, the cargo system  102 . Accordingly, in various embodiments, when the low friction surface  122  is activated, cargo may move relatively freely into and out of (and within) the cargo system  102 . Conversely, also in various embodiments, when the high friction surface  124  is activated, cargo is inhibited from moving into and out of (and within) the cargo system  102 . 
     In various embodiments, the cargo system  102  selectively activates the low friction surface  122  and the high friction surface  124  depending on whether free movement of cargo is desired. For example, when free movement of the cargo is desired (e.g., for loading and unloading the cargo into and from the vehicle  100 ), then the low friction surface  122  is activated in various embodiments. Conversely, when free movement of the cargo is not desired (e.g., after the cargo is loaded and/or while the vehicle  100  is moving), then the high friction surface  124  is activated in various embodiments. 
     As depicted in  FIG. 1 , in various embodiments, the cargo system  102  also includes one or more sensors  126 , along with a computer system  128  and one or more fluid movement devices  130 . In various embodiments, the sensors  126  receive inputs for use in determining whether activation of the low friction surface  122  or the high friction surface  124  is desired. For example, in various embodiments, the one or more sensors  126  may receive inputs as to whether a switch for the cargo system  102  has been activated, and/or whether one or more other conditions are satisfied that may impact whether activation of the low friction surface  122  or the high friction surface  124  is desired (e.g., by way of example, as to whether the vehicle  100  is parked, a gear and/or transmission status of the vehicle  100 , whether a door or hatch of the vehicle  100  is open, whether the vehicle  100  is parked on an incline, and so on). 
     Also in certain embodiments, the computer system  128  may be used in determining whether the low friction surface  122  or the high friction surface  124  should be activated (e.g., based on the sensor data from the sensors  126 ), and for providing instructions for activating the selected surface. Also in various embodiments, the computer system  128  includes a processor  402  and other computer components as depicted in  FIG. 4  and described further below in connection therewith. 
     Also in various embodiments, the fluid movement devices  130  are utilized in selectively activating the low friction surface  122  and the high friction surface  124 . In certain embodiments, the fluid movement devices  130  comprise one or more pumps, vacuums, and/or other devices for movement of fluid (e.g., a gas or liquid), to thereby inflate and/or deflate respective chambers of the low friction surface  122  and/or high friction surface  124 . In certain embodiments, one or more fluid movement devices  130  inflate the desired surface (i.e., one of the low friction surface  122  or high friction surface  124 ) that is desired for activation, and/or deflate the non-desired surface (i.e., the other of the low friction surface  122  or high friction surface  124 ) that is not desired for activation. 
     As described further below in connection herewith with respect to  FIGS. 2 and 3 , in certain embodiments, the fluid movement devices pump and/or or remove fluid (e.g., a gas and/or liquid) to, from, or between respective chambers of the low friction surface  122  and/or high friction surface  124  to achieve activation of the selected surface. In addition, as described further below in connection with  FIGS. 4 and 5 , in certain embodiments, the fluid movement devices  130  perform these functions via instructions provided by the computer system  128  (e.g., the processor  402  thereof of  FIG. 4 ). For ease of reference, the fluid movement devices  130  may also referred to herein as “pumps”; however, it will be understood that such references to “pumps” may also include vacuums and/or other devices for moving fluid from one location to another, in various embodiments. 
       FIG. 2  provides an illustration of variable friction surfaces  120  of the cargo system  102  of  FIG. 1 , including an exemplary low friction surface  122  and high friction surface  124 , in accordance with exemplary embodiments. In various embodiments, the low friction surface  122  facilitates movement of cargo within the cargo system  102 . Also in various embodiments, the high friction surface  124  inhibits movement of cargo within the cargo system  102 . 
     In addition, in various embodiments, the low friction surface  122  has a first coefficient of friction, and the high friction surface  124  has a second coefficient of friction that is greater than the first coefficient of friction of the low friction surface  122 . In various embodiments, the low friction surface  122  and the high friction surface  124  are made of different materials. For example, in certain embodiments, the low friction surface  122  comprises a rubber material, and the high friction surface  124  comprises a nylon material. However, this may vary in other embodiments. 
     In various embodiments, the low friction surface  122  and high friction surface  124  may include one or more patterns of different/varying material to facilitate or inhibit, respectively, movement of cargo in the cargo system  102 . For example, in the example of  FIG. 2 , in certain embodiments, the low friction surface  122  may include a pattern with connected rows of shapes with circular top surfaces, with the high friction surface  124  filling in the regions in between. The specific patterns may vary in different embodiments. However, in various embodiments, the patterns (i) facilitate movement in multiple directions (e.g., front to back and side to side) when the low friction surface  122  is activated; and (ii) inhibit movement in multiple directions (e.g., front to back and side to side) when the high friction surface  124  is activated. 
     In the depicted embodiments, the variable friction surfaces  120  utilize an airtight bladder system in which one of the variable friction surfaces  120  is activated (e.g., raised above the other surface for contacting any cargo within the cargo system  102 ) at any particular time (e.g., via inflation of the surface and/or deflation of a different surface and/or respective chambers associated therewith), for example as described in additional detail further below. In various embodiments, the low friction surface  122  contacts the cargo within the cargo system  102  when the low friction surface  122  is activated. Conversely, also in various embodiments, the high friction surface  124  instead contacts the cargo within the cargo system  102  when the high friction surface  124  is activated. 
     As depicted in  FIG. 2 , in various embodiments, the variable friction surfaces  120  are coupled to one or more chambers  200 . In various embodiments, each chamber  200  is configured to receive fluid or have fluid removed, for inflation nor deflation thereof, respectively, for activating or deceiving a respective one of the variable friction surfaces  120 . Specifically, in certain embodiments depicted in  FIG. 2 , the low friction surface  122  is coupled to a first chamber  202 , and the high friction surface  124  is coupled to a second chamber  204 . Accordingly, in certain such embodiments, the first chamber  202  (i) receives fluid for inflation to elevate the low friction surface  122  when the low friction surface  122  is activated; and (ii) in certain embodiments has fluid removed for deflation to lower the low friction surface  122  when the high friction surface  124  is activated. Similarly, also in certain embodiments, the second chamber  204  (i) receives fluid for inflation to elevate the high friction surface  124  when the high friction surface  124  is activated; and (ii) in certain embodiments has fluid removed for deflation to lower the high friction surface  124  when the low friction surface  122  is activated. 
     In various embodiments, the type(s) of fluid used to inflate and/or deflate the chambers  200  may vary. For example, in certain embodiments, a gas (e.g., air) may be utilized for a pneumatic solution. In other embodiments, one or more liquids may be utilized. 
     In various embodiments, the low friction surface  122  is selected for contact with cargo in the cargo system  102  when movement of the cargo is to be facilitated, for example when cargo may be loaded into and/or unloaded from the cargo system  102  (e.g., when the vehicle  100  is parked). In certain embodiments, the low friction surface  122  serves as a “default” surface, for example for when the vehicle  100  is not in operation. In certain embodiments, the low friction surface  122 , when selected in this manner, is effectively elevated over the high friction surface  124  via inflation of the first chamber  202 , to thereby contact the cargo. In certain embodiments, the low friction surface  122  may be selected via deflation of the second chamber  204 , instead of or in addition to the inflation of the first chamber  202 . In addition, in certain embodiments, the low friction surface  122  may be stationary, and set as a “default” service that is above the high friction surface  124  (e.g., so that the low friction surface  122  is activated by default, until the high friction surface  124  is activated). 
     Conversely, also in various embodiments, the high friction surface  124  is selected for contact with cargo in the cargo system  102  when movement of the cargo is to be inhibited, for example when cargo may be stored in place within the cargo system  102  (e.g., when the vehicle  100  is in operation or moving). In certain embodiments, the high friction surface  124 , when selected in this manner, is effectively elevated over the low friction surface  122  via inflation of the second chamber  204 , to thereby contact the cargo. In certain embodiments, the high friction surface  124  may be selected via deflation of the first chamber  202 , instead of or in addition to the inflation of the second chamber  204 . 
     Also as depicted in  FIG. 2 , in various embodiments the variable friction surfaces  120  include and/or are coupled with one or more ports  210  and channels  220 . In various embodiments, respective ports  210  and channels  220  are coupled (e.g., connected) to one another, and between the fluid movement devices  130  of  FIG. 1  (e.g., a pump and/or vacuum, in certain embodiments) and respective chambers  200 , to facilitate fluid flow therebetween. For example, as depicted in  FIG. 2 , in certain embodiments, a first port  212  and a first channel  222  are coupled between one or more fluid movement devices  130  (not depicted in  FIG. 2 ) and the first chamber  202  to facilitate fluid flow therebetween, whereas a second port  214  and a second channel  224  are coupled between one or more fluid movement devices  130  and the second chamber  204  to facilitate fluid flow therebetween. 
     In certain embodiments, one or more control devices (such as the computer system  128  of  FIG. 1 , including the processor  402  thereof described further below in connection with  FIG. 4 ) selectively activate the low friction surface  122  or the high friction surface  124  at any particular point in time by providing instructions for the one or more fluid movement devices  130  to selectively move fluid into or out of the first chamber  202  or the second chamber  204  (e.g., via the first or second port  212 ,  214 , respectively and the first or second channels  222 ,  224 , respectively), and/or between the first and second chambers  202 ,  204  (e.g., via channels  222 ,  224 ). 
     Accordingly, in certain embodiments, when the low friction surface  122  is activated, one or more fluid movement devices  130  of  FIG. 1  (e.g., via instructions from the computer system  128 ) moves fluid into the first chamber  202  for inflation thereof via the first port  212  and the first channel  222 . As a result, the low friction surface  122  extends above the high friction surface  124 , such that the low friction surface  122  contacts cargo in the cargo system  102  when the low friction surface  122  is activated. In certain embodiments, this is accomplished by the fluid movement devices  130  (e.g., via instructions from the computer system  128 ) moving fluid out of the second chamber  204  for deflation thereof, with a similar end result of the low friction surface  122  extending above the high friction surface  124 , such that the low friction surface  122  contacts cargo in the cargo system  102 . In addition, in certain embodiments, the inflation of the first chamber  202  and the deflation of the second chamber  204  may be performed together when the low friction surface  122  is activated. 
     Conversely, also in certain embodiments, when the high friction surface  124  is activated, one or more fluid movement devices  130  of  FIG. 1  (e.g., via instructions from the computer system  128 ) moves fluid into the second chamber  204  for inflation thereof via the second port  214  and the second channel  224 . As a result, the high friction surface  124  extends above the low friction surface  122 , such that the high friction surface  124  contacts cargo in the cargo system  102  when the high friction surface  124  is activated. In certain embodiments, this is accomplished by the fluid movement devices  130  (e.g., via instructions from the computer system  128 ) moving fluid out of the first chamber  204  for deflation thereof, with a similar end result of the high friction surface  124  extending above the low friction surface  122 , such that the high friction surface  124  contacts cargo in the cargo system  102 . In addition, in certain embodiments, the inflation of the second chamber  204  and the deflation of the first chamber  202  may be performed together when the high friction surface  124  is activated. 
     In certain embodiments, a single fluid movement device  130  (e.g., a two-way pump) may be used for inflation and deflation of the first and second chambers  202 ,  204 . In one such embodiment, the fluid movement device  130  comprises a two-way pump that moves fluid between the first and second chambers  202 ,  204 . In certain other embodiments, the fluid movement device(s)  130  may move fluid between the chambers  202 ,  204  and one or more accumulators. Also in certain other embodiments, different fluid movement devices  130  (e.g., different pumps and vacuums) may be used for inflating versus deflating the chambers  202 ,  204 , and/or different fluid movement devices  130  may similarly be used for different respective chambers  202 ,  204 . 
       FIG. 3  provides a close-up illustration of the variable friction surfaces  120  of  FIG. 2 , in accordance with exemplary embodiments. Specifically,  FIG. 3  depicts a closer view of a portion of the low friction surface  122  and high friction surface  124 . In  FIG. 3 , the high friction surface  124  is depicted in an activated state. Accordingly, in this state, the high friction surface  124  extends above the low friction surface  122 , and would therefore contact cargo in the cargo system  102 , to thereby inhibit movement of the cargo (e.g., while the vehicle  100  is in operation and/or moving). 
       FIG. 4  provides a functional block diagram of the computer system  128  of the cargo system  102  of  FIG. 1 , in accordance with exemplary embodiments. As depicted in  FIG. 4 , in various embodiments, the computer system  128  (or controller) of the cargo system  102  includes a processor  402 , a memory  404 , an interface  406 , a storage device  408 , and a bus  410 . The processor  402  performs the computation and control functions of the computer system  128 , and may comprise any type of processor or multiple processors, single integrated circuits such as a microprocessor, or any suitable number of integrated circuit devices and/or circuit boards working in cooperation to accomplish the functions of a processing unit. During operation, the processor  402  executes one or more programs  412  contained within the memory  404  and, as such, controls the general operation of the computer system  128 , generally in executing the processes described herein, such as the process  600  described further below in connection with  FIG. 6 . The control system may also be included within a larger control module within the vehicle responsible for multiple functions. 
     The memory  404  can be any type of suitable memory. For example, the memory  404  may include various types of dynamic random access memory (DRAM) such as SDRAM, the various types of static RAM (SRAM), and the various types of non-volatile memory (PROM, EPROM, and flash). In certain examples, the memory  404  is located on and/or co-located on the same computer chip as the processor  402 . In the depicted embodiment, the memory  404  stores the above-referenced program  412  along with one or more stored values  414 . 
     The bus  410  serves to transmit programs, data, status and other information or signals between the various components of the computer system  128 . The interface  406  allows communication to the computer system  128 , for example from a system driver and/or another computer system, and can be implemented using any suitable method and apparatus. In one embodiment, the interface  406  obtains the various data from the sensors  126  and/or the drive system  110  of  FIG. 1 . The interface  406  can include one or more network interfaces to communicate with other systems or components. The interface  406  may also include one or more network interfaces to communicate with technicians, and/or one or more storage interfaces to connect to storage apparatuses, such as the storage device  408 . 
     The storage device  408  can be any suitable type of storage apparatus, including direct access storage devices such as hard disk drives, flash systems, floppy disk drives and optical disk drives. In one exemplary embodiment, the storage device  408  comprises a program product from which memory  404  can receive a program  412  that executes one or more embodiments of one or more processes of the present disclosure, such as the steps of the process  600  (and any sub-processes thereof) described further below in connection with  FIG. 6 . In another exemplary embodiment, the program product may be directly stored in and/or otherwise accessed by the memory  404  and/or a disk (e.g., disk  416 ), such as that referenced below. 
     The bus  410  can be any suitable physical or logical means of connecting computer systems and components. This includes, but is not limited to, direct hard-wired connections, fiber optics, infrared and wireless bus technologies. During operation, the program  412  is stored in the memory  404  and executed by the processor  402 . 
     It will be appreciated that while this exemplary embodiment is described in the context of a fully functioning computer system, those skilled in the art will recognize that the mechanisms of the present disclosure are capable of being distributed as a program product with one or more types of non-transitory computer-readable signal bearing media used to store the program and the instructions thereof and carry out the distribution thereof, such as a non-transitory computer readable medium bearing the program and containing computer instructions stored therein for causing a computer processor (such as the processor  402 ) to perform and execute the program. Such a program product may take a variety of forms, and the present disclosure applies equally regardless of the particular type of computer-readable signal bearing media used to carry out the distribution. Examples of signal bearing media include: recordable media such as floppy disks, hard drives, memory cards and optical disks, and transmission media such as digital and analog communication links. It will be appreciated that cloud-based storage and/or other techniques may also be utilized in certain embodiments. It will similarly be appreciated that the computer system  128  may also otherwise differ from the embodiment depicted in  FIG. 4 , for example in that the computer system  128  may be coupled to or may otherwise utilize one or more remote computer systems and/or other control systems. 
       FIG. 5  depicts a functional block diagram of a control system  500  of the cargo system  102  of  FIG. 1 , and that can be implemented in connection with the computer system  128  of  FIG. 4 , in accordance with exemplary embodiments. Specifically, as depicted in  FIG. 5 , and with continued reference to  FIGS. 1 and 4 , in certain embodiments, a control system  500  for the cargo system  102  of  FIG. 1  generally includes an input module  510  and a processing module  520 . In various embodiments, both the input module  510  and the processing module  520  are disposed onboard the vehicle  100 . In certain embodiments, one or both of the input module  510  and/or processing module  520 , and/or components thereof, may be disposed remote from the vehicle  100  (e.g., on a remote server that communicates with the vehicle  100 ). As can be appreciated, in various embodiments, parts of the control system  500  may be disposed on a system remote from the vehicle  100  while other parts of the control system  500  may be disposed on the vehicle  100 . 
     In various embodiments, the input module  510  obtains data from various sensors and/or other systems of the vehicle  100 . For example, in certain embodiments, the input module  510  obtains sensor data from one or more sensors  126  and/or the drive system  110  of  FIG. 1  with respect to circumstances as to whether the low friction surface  122  or the high friction surface  124  is desired for the cargo system  102  (e.g., by way of example, as to whether the vehicle  100  is parked, a gear and/or transmission status of the vehicle  100 , whether a door or hatch of the vehicle  100  is open, whether the vehicle  100  is parked on an incline, and so on). 
     In various embodiments, the processing module  520  receives the data as inputs  515 , and processes the data. In various embodiments, the processing module  520  processes sensor data from the input module  510 , determines whether the low friction surface  122  or the high friction surface  124  is desired based on the processing, and provides instructions for the activation of the desired surface. In various embodiments, the processing module  520  provides outputs  525  for the activation of the selected surface (e.g., instructions for the pump  130  to move fluid into, out of, or between one or more of the surfaces accordingly, to attain the activation of the desired surface), for example as described greater below in connection with the process  600  of  FIG. 6 . 
       FIG. 6  depicts a flowchart of a process  600  for controlling a cargo system  102  of a vehicle. In various embodiments, the process  600  can be implemented in connection with the vehicle  100  and cargo system  102  of  FIG. 2 , the variable friction surfaces  120  of  FIGS. 2 and 2 , the computer system  128  of  FIG. 4 , and the control system  500  of  FIG. 5 , in accordance with exemplary embodiments. 
     As depicted in  FIG. 6 , the process begins at  602 . In one embodiment, the process  600  begins when a vehicle drive or ignition cycle begins, for example when a driver approaches or enters the vehicle  100 , or when the driver or occupant approaches the vehicle and/or turns on the vehicle and/or an ignition therefor (e.g. by turning a key, engaging a keyfob or start button, and so on). In one embodiment, the steps of the process  600  are performed continuously during operation of the vehicle. 
     In various embodiments, the cargo system  102  has a default surface activated (in addition to an activated state, there could also be a default, statically ‘deployed’ state, i.e. the high friction surface is just nominally taller than the low friction surface) at  604 . In certain embodiments, the low friction surface  122  is activated as the default surface when the process  600  begins. In certain embodiments, the first chamber  202  of  FIG. 2  is inflated at  604 , so that the low friction surface  122  extends above the high friction surface  124 . In certain other embodiments, the low friction surface  122  may comprise a static component that is deployed in the cargo system  102  at a height that is above the high friction surface  124 . In such embodiments, the low friction surface  122  extends above the high friction surface  124  to contact cargo in the cargo system  102 . In certain embodiments, the default surface is activated when the vehicle  100  is not in operation and is not moving. In certain embodiments, the default surface may vary. 
     Also in various embodiments, inputs are received at  606 . In certain embodiments, sensor data is obtained from the sensors  126  of  FIG. 1  (e.g., via the input module  510  of  FIG. 5 ). Also in certain embodiments, the sensor data comprises data as to whether a switch for the cargo system  102  has been activated, whether the vehicle  100  is parked, a gear and/or transmission status of the vehicle  100 , whether a door or hatch of the vehicle  100  is open, whether the vehicle  100  is parked on an incline, whether cargo loads are being applied to the system surface(s), and/or data pertaining to whether one or more other conditions are satisfied that may impact whether activation of the low friction surface  122  or the high friction surface  124  is desired. 
     Also in certain embodiments, a determination is made at  608  as to whether a change in the activated surface is desired, based on the inputs. For example, in certain embodiments, a change to activate the high friction surface  124  may be desired when a switch to activate the high friction surface  124  is engaged, and/or when the vehicle  100  is moving, a rear hatch or other door of the vehicle  100  is closed, an ignition for the vehicle  100  has been turned on, and/or the vehicle  100  is otherwise ready for movement (e.g., such that it may be desired to keep the cargo in place within the cargo system  102  while the vehicle is moving), and/or when the vehicle  100  is parked at a steep angle (e.g., such that it may be desired for the cargo not to slide out too quickly). In certain embodiments, such a determination of  608  may be made by one or more processors, such as the processor  402  of  FIG. 4  (e.g., via the processing module  520  of  FIG. 5 ). 
     If a change in the activated surface is not desired, then, at  610 , the currently activated surface remains the same. For example, in certain embodiments, during an initial iteration of  610 , the low friction surface  122  remains activated as the default surface during  610 . Also in various embodiments, the process proceeds to  618 , described further below. 
     Conversely, if a change in the activated surface is desired, then a change in the activated surface is implemented at  612  in various embodiments. For example, in certain embodiments, the processor  402  of  FIG. 4  (e.g., via the processing module  520  of  FIG. 5 ) provides instructions for one or more fluid movement devices  130  (e.g., one or more pumps) to selectively inflate or deflate one or more appropriate chambers  200  to thereby activate the desired surface, for example as described in greater detail with various examples above with respect to  FIG. 2 . For example, in certain embodiments, when the high friction surface  124  is selected for activation, fluid is provided to inflate the second chamber  204 , and/or fluid is removed from the first chamber  202 , to thereby effectively have the high friction surface  124  elevated with respect to the low friction surface  122  to contact the cargo in the cargo system  102 . 
     In certain embodiments, the activation of the desired surface at  612  may be performed without any processor, and without any specific determinations of  608 . For example, in certain embodiments, the fluid movement device(s)  130  (e.g., a pump) may be mechanically or otherwise coupled to the sensors  126  for automatic activation of the desired surface, without requiring a processor, when a switch is engaged by a user or vehicle device. Also in certain embodiments, the fluid movement device(s)  130  (e.g., a pump) may also be connected or otherwise coupled to one or more vehicle devices for activation when a condition exists (e.g., via coupling to a rear hatch, such that the pump moves air into or out of the desired chamber when the rear hatch is opened or closed), and so on in various embodiments. 
     In various embodiments, a determination is also made at  614  as to whether another change in the activated surface is desired. In certain embodiments, inputs from  606  are continuously obtained, and further determinations are continuously made in iterations of  614  as to whether a further change exists for the desired surface for activation. For example, in certain embodiments, if a change in surface was made in  612  as a result of the vehicle  100  being driven, and the vehicle  100  is subsequently parked, then another change in the activated surface may be warranted based on the vehicle  100  now being parked, and so on. In various embodiments, the determinations of  614  are similar to those of  608 , described above. 
     If a further change in the activated surface is desired, then such a further change in the activated surface is implemented at  616 . In various embodiments, the activation of  616  is similar to that of  612 , but with respect to a different activated surface. For example, in certain embodiments, if the high friction surface  124  was activated in a most recent iteration of  612  and a further change is subsequently desired, then the low friction surfaced  112  may be activated in a current iteration of  614 , and so on. Conversely, if a further change in the activated surface is not desired, then in various embodiments the process proceeds instead to step  610 , as the activated surface remains the same. In various embodiments, in either case, the process then proceeds to  618 , described below. 
     In various embodiments, a determination is made at  618  at to whether the process is to continue. For example, in certain embodiments, during  618 , a processor determines whether the vehicle  100  is still in operation, and/or whether a user is still in proximity to the vehicle  100 . In certain embodiments, if the process is to continue, then the process returns to  606  in a new iteration. Otherwise, in various embodiments, the process terminates at  620 . 
     Accordingly, the systems and vehicles described herein provide for cargo systems for vehicles, with the cargo systems utilizing variable friction surfaces. In various embodiments, a low friction surface is activated when appropriate (e.g., when the vehicle is parked) to facilitate movement of cargo in and out of the cargo system. Conversely, also in various embodiments, a high friction surface is activated when appropriate (e.g., when the vehicle is moving) to restrict movement of cargo within the cargo system. 
     It will be appreciated that the systems and vehicles (and components thereof) may vary from those depicted in the Figures and described herein. It will similarly be appreciated that the cargo system, and components and implementations thereof, may be installed in any number of different types of platforms (including those discussed above), and vary from that depicted in  FIGS. 1-5  and described in connection therewith, in various embodiments. It will also be appreciated that the processes (and/or subprocesses) disclosed herein may differ from those described herein and/or depicted in  FIG. 6 , and/or that steps thereof may be performed simultaneously and/or in a different order as described herein and/or depicted in  FIG. 6 , among other possible variations. 
     While at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented in the foregoing detailed description, it should be appreciated that a vast number of variations exist. It should also be appreciated that the exemplary embodiment or exemplary embodiments are only examples, and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the disclosure in any way. Rather, the foregoing detailed description will provide those skilled in the art with a convenient road map for implementing the exemplary embodiment or exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that various changes can be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the scope of the disclosure as set forth in the appended claims and the legal equivalents thereof.