EP2097294A1

EP2097294A1 - A module system and use of such a system

Info

Publication number: EP2097294A1
Application number: EP07857719A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Anders Carlsson; Katarina Andersson; Heléne CARLSSON
Original assignee: Modul System HH AB
Current assignee: Modul System HH AB
Priority date: 2006-12-22
Filing date: 2007-12-17
Publication date: 2009-09-09
Also published as: SE0602783L; WO2008077842A1; SE530769C2

Abstract

The invention discloses module system (2) for a cargo or a backspace in a service vehicle (10), said module system (2) comprising at least one storage space, having at least one cover (5), which at least one cover (5) having a first closed position and at least one second opened position from which the storing space is accessible, wherein a service vehicle illumination system (1) being arranged to said module system (2), said service vehicle illumination system (1) comprising at least one light source, and when said service vehicle illumination system (1) is on, the light (7) from said light source (6) being spread into said opened storage space and when said storage space being in its closed position the light (7) illuminates the storage space cover (5). Furthermore, the use of such module system (2) in a cargo or a backspace of a service vehicle (10) being disclosed.

Description

A MODULE SYSTEM AND USE OF SUCH A SYSTEM

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a module system for a cargo or a backspace in a service vehicle, said module system comprising at least one storage space, having at least one cover, which at least one cover having a first closed position and at least one second opened position from which the storing space is accessible. Furthermore, the use of such module system in a cargo or a backspace of a service vehicle being disclosed.

Technical Background

It is common practise in the art of service vehicles to equip a cargo space or a back space of an automotive vehicle with for example cupboards, tool holders, shelves, drawers or other module units, for the purpose of enabling storing of work equipment and also perform some work. The cargo- or the back space is often illuminated by a ceiling lamp.

However, when a person is in the cargo or the back space working or looking for e.g. work equipment or tools, the light of the ceiling lamp is often shadowed by that persons body. Furthermore, shadows may be created and fall within for example the module units, which also makes it hard to find the right equipment tool or the like, or for that matter to undertake work within the service vehicle. Furthermore, it is rare that there is an excess of windows in such service vehicles. All the above mentioned adding to possible issues of different working conditions.

US2005/0270770 discloses a convenience light for illuminating small interior spaces of enclosures, such as furniture, chests, jewellery boxes and the like. It has a battery powered LED lamp, a mechanical or magnetic switch device, which is used to automatically turn on and off the LED by opening and closing a movable member (drawer, door, etc.) of the enclosure. The low power consumption LED provides lengthy continuous use of the light with a watch battery.

In order to provide acceptable working conditions using this principle there is a need for many light sources, batteries and the amount of installation work and time is considered high for enabling good visibility on the cargo space. Module systems in service vehicle often needs to be adapted for different situations. Hence, it is desirable to have an illuminating system which is easy to install and not at least easy to install after the assembly of the module systems have been done. Furthermore, unsatisfactory and incorrect light may cause an increased risk of accident, and also cause eye problems. It is realized that the need for improving light conditions in the cargo or backspace of a service vehicle remains. It is a further issue to provide an illumination system, which is easy to install in such an environment. It is a further object to provide an illumination system, which may be installed efficiently in existing module systems of service vehicles.

Summary of the Invention

In view of the above, an objective of the invention is to solve or at least reduce the problems discussed above. Hence, the invention according to claim 1 discloses a module system for a cargo or a backspace in a service vehicle, said module system comprising at least one storage space, having at least one cover, which at least one cover having a first closed position and at least one second opened position from which the storing space is accessible, wherein a service vehicle illumination system being arranged to said module system, said service vehicle illumination system comprising at least one light source, and when said service vehicle illumination system is on, the light from said light source being spread into said opened storage space and when said storage space being in its closed position the light illuminates the storage space cover. An arrangement like this will help the worker to find his tools, being stored in the module system, faster and easier, because the light will illuminate the right spots. At the same time it makes the working environment more inviting and it also facilitates to work within the service vehicle. Shadows and dark shadowed areas, which otherwise would present limited sight may now be illuminated regardless of.

Preferably, the module system comprising at least one fastening zone, preferably above said storage space for the fastening of said service vehicle illumination system.

Preferably, the fastening zone being provided in an opening of the module system. The opening can also be used as positioning arrangement, so that the service vehicle illumination system always is placed in the right position. Advantagesouly, the service vehicle illumination system being arranged to said module system with at least one fastener.

Preferably, the fastener being a double-faced tape or a clip. However the fastener can be any kind of fastener means. Using double-faced tape is an easy way of fixing articles to a surface and it is lenient to the module system, since a minimum of openings is necessary.

Preferably, the service vehicle illumination system being arranged above said storage space and extending out over the storage space cover. So that the light from its light sources illuminated at least part of the cover when the storage space is closed, and when it is open it illuminates the inside of the drawer.

Advantageously, the module system comprising any one of a group of storage spaces consisting of at least one drawer and a set of drawers.

Preferably, the service vehicle illumination system being arranged in a longitudinal direction of said module system.

Advantageously, the light sources being arranged in one electric circuit connected to a switch for controlling operation of the service vehicle illumination system. This to enable a smooth installation procedure in vehicles carrying module system and efficient mounting in module systems of all kinds. It also enables to turn the service vehicle illumination system on and off and save current.

Preferably, the switch for controlling the operation of the service vehicle illumination system being arranged externally of said cargo and back space. By arranging the switch externally from the service vehicle illumination system it is possible to control the light manually from a distance. For example, if the service vehicle illumination system is arranged at the very back of the service vehicle the person who wants to switch it on or off, does not have to go into the dark cargo or back space to be able to do it. The switch could for example be placed at the back door or in the driving compartment. A timer could be connected, to turn off the lamp after a prescribed period of time in order to prevent the battery from draining if the light is left on. However, the switch can also be controlled automatically reacting on an input signal from a sensor.

Another option is that the switch could mechanically or automatically react to the closing or opening of the back door.

Advantageously, service vehicle illumination system, comprising a electrical system having electric current supplying means adopted for connection. This makes it possible to connect several light sources to each other, so that a service vehicle illumination system can be built up with optional length. In this way the service vehicle illumination system is suitable for all kind of spaces. Alternatively, the service vehicle illumination system comprising an electrical system, which comprises a rail, made for example of rubber, at least one printed circuit card which is connected to an electric current supplying means, said printed circuit card and electric current supplying means being at least partially embedded by the rail and at least one light source being arranged to said printed circuit card. The service vehicle illumination system may then be separated through, for example cutting it into smaller or larger pieces so that it can fit into/onto any kind of area and/or space.

Alternatively, the service vehicle illumination system comprising an electrical system, having at least one printed circuit card, to which at least one light source is arranged, said printed circuit card being connected to at least one electric current supply means.

Advantageously, the service vehicle illumination system comprising an armature to which said at least one electrical system being arranged.

Preferably, said armature being a rail. The service vehicle illumination system may be powered by a battery, preferably a car battery.

Advantageously, the light source in the service vehicle illumination system being a LED lamp. LED lamps are small, last long, are not necessarily consuming a lot of energy and are at the same time robust. However, it is realized that the light source is not limited to LED lamps.

It can be all kind of lamps or illuminating devices.

According to another aspect of the invention the module system may be used in a cargo or a backspace of a service vehicle.

Brief Description of the drawings

Currently preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in more detail, with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

Fig. 1 discloses an open-up perspective view of a service vehicle comprising a module system with drawers and a thereon arranged service vehicle illumination system according to the invention. Fig. 2a discloses a perspective top view of a module system, with a module unit with closed drawers according to the invention.

Fig. 2b discloses a perspective top view of a module unit of a module system with one open drawer according to the invention. Fig. 3 discloses one embodiment of the invention.

Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments

The above, as well as additional objects, features and advantages of the present invention, will be better understood through the following illustrative and non-limiting detailed description of preferred embodiments of the present invention, with reference to the appended drawings, where the same reference to the appended drawings, where the same reference numerals will be used for similar elements, wherein:

Fig. 1 shows a module system 2, with an arranged service vehicle illumination system 1 , arranged in a cargo or a back space of a service vehicle 10. The module system 2 which can be a drawer unit 3 containing for example drawers are placed and fixated within a service vehicle 10. The service vehicle illumination system 1 is arranged to the top of the module system 2, above the drawer unit 3 and it extends entirely or partially over the front A-A of the module system 2 and it extends from the front A-A over the front 5 of the drawers 4 so that the light 7 from the light source 6 is illuminating at least some part of the front 5 of the drawers 4. This arrangement will certify that at least one part of the module system 2 is sufficiently illuminated. The arrangement will also contribute to a better overall cargo or back space illumination of the service vehicle 10.

The service vehicle illumination system 1 is connected to a switch 8, which controls the operation manually or automatically of the service vehicle illumination system 1. The switch 8 is arranged externally from the service vehicle illumination system 1 close to a backdoor of the service vehicle 10, so that it easily can be controlled manually. The electrical circuitry is not shown in detail in the drawing as it may be adopted in accordance with different national standards.

Fig. 2a shows a module system 2 with closed drawers 4 with a service vehicle illumination system 1 arranged to it. The service vehicle illumination system 1 is arranged above the drawers 4 and extends from the plane A-A over the front covers 5 of the drawers 4. The light 7 from the light source 6 is directed so that it illuminates at least some parts of the front covers 5 of the drawers 4 when all drawers are in their closed position. This makes it easier to find the right drawer 4, when the drawers 4 for example are provided with text. It also provides for a better illumination within the whole cargo and back space of the service vehicle 10. The module system 2 comprises openings 10, which can be used as fixing areas for the service vehicle illumination system 1. The openings 10 can also be used as positioning arrangement, so that the service vehicle illumination system 1 is placed in the right position. For arranging the service vehicle illumination system 1 fastening means can be used. For example the fastener means can be fasteners, screws, double-stick tape etc. The openings 10 may be of all kind of sizes and forms.

Fig. 2b shows the service vehicle illumination system 1 arranged to the drawer unit 3 of the module system 2 with one open drawer 4. The light 7 from the light source 6 illuminates the inside of drawer 4 and the articles stored within it.

Fig. 3 shows one embodiment of the service vehicle illumination system 1. It comprises a rail 9, a printed circuit board 11 with light sources 6 arranged on it, a transparent cover 12, and two end covers 13. The rail 9 has a U-formed profile. However, it should be noticed that the profile can take any kind of form. The rail 9 works as an armature onto which the electric arrangement of the service vehicle illumination system 1 is arranged to. The rail 9 contains groves into which the printed circuit board, with its light sources 6, and the transparent cover 12 is inserted. The rail 9 is preferably made of aluminium, but can be of any kind of material. On each end of the service vehicle illumination system 1 is an end cover 13 arranged. The light 7 from the light sources 6 will illuminate the underlying area through the transparent cover 12. The light sources 6 is preferably of LED-type or any other lamp or illuminating device and when the light sources 6 are more than one they are positioned at a distance to each other. The invention has mainly been described above with reference to some embodiments. However, as is readily appreciated by a person skilled in the art, other embodiments than the ones disclosed above are equally possible within the scope of the invention, as defined by the appended patent claims. Furthermore, the features described in association with different embodiments and aspects of the invention may be combined with the claimed scope in order to enable further embodiments.

Claims

1. Module system (2) for a cargo or a backspace in a service vehicle (10), said module system (2) comprising at least one storage space, having at least one cover, which at least one cover (5) having a first closed position and at least one second opened position from which the storing space is accessible, c h a r a c t e r i s e d in that a service vehicle illumination system (1) being arranged to said module system (2), said service vehicle illumination system (1) comprising at least one light source, and when said service vehicle illumination system (1) is on, the light (7) from said light source (6) being spread into said opened storage space and when said storage space being in its closed position the light (7)illuminates the storage space cover (5).

2. Module system (2) according to claim 1 , in which said module system (2) comprising at least one fastening zone, preferably above said storage space for the fastening of said service vehicle illumination system (1 ).

3. Module system (2) according to claim 2, in which said fastening zone being provided in an opening (10) of the module system (2).

4. Module system (2) according to any one of claim 1-3, in which the service vehicle illumination system (1) being arranged to said module system (2) with at least one fastener.

5. Module system (2) according to claim 4, in which said fastener being a double-faced tape.

6. Module system (2) according to claim 4, in which said fastener being a clip.

7. Module system (2) according to any one of claims 1-6, in which said service vehicle illumination system (1) being arranged above said storage space and extending out over the storage space cover (5).

8. Module system (2) according to any one of claims 1-7, in which said module system (2) comprising any one of a group of storage spaces consisting of at least one drawer (4) and a set of drawers (4).

9. Module system (2) according to anyone of claims 1-8, in which said service vehicle illumination system (1 ) being arranged in a longitudinal direction of said module system (2).

10. Module system (2) according to anyone of claims 1-9, in which the light sources (6) being arranged in one electric circuit connected to a switch (8) for controlling operation of the service vehicle illumination system (1 ).

11. Module system (2) according to claim 10, in which said switch (8) for controlling the operation of the service vehicle illumination system (1 ) being arranged externally of said cargo and back space.

12. Module system (2) according to any one of claims 1-11 , in which said service vehicle illumination system (1), comprising a electrical system having electric current supplying means (15) adopted for connection.

13. Module system (2) according to any one of claims 1 -12, in which said service vehicle illumination system (1) comprising an electrical system, which comprises rail, made for example of rubber, at least one printed circuit card (11 ) which is connected to an electric current supplying means (15), said printed circuit card (11) and electric current supplying means (15) being at least partially embedded by the rail and at least one light source (6) being arranged to said printed circuit card (11).

14. Module system (2) according to any one of claims 1-13, in which said service vehicle illumination system (1) comprising an electrical system, having at least one printed circuit card (11 ), to which at least one light source (6) is arranged, said printed circuit card (11 ) being connected to at least one electric current supply means.

15. Module system (2) according to any one of claims 12-14 in which said service vehicle illumination system (1) comprising an armature to which said at least one electrical system being arranged.

16. Module system (2) according to claim 15, in which said armature being a rail (9).

17. Module system (2) according to any one of claim 1-16, wherein the service vehicle illumination system (1) being powered by a battery, preferably a car battery.

18. Module system (2) according to any one of claim 1 -17, in which the light source (6) being a LED lamp.

19. Use of a module system (2) according to any one of claims 1 -18 in a cargo or a backspace of a service vehicle (10).