EP4655174A1

EP4655174A1 - Connection system with protrusions for a vehicle

Info

Publication number: EP4655174A1
Application number: EP24705244.2A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Ludovico CAMPANA; Emmanuel DI MANSO; Alessandro BERRUTI
Original assignee: Tuc Srl
Current assignee: Tuc Srl
Priority date: 2023-01-27
Filing date: 2024-01-26
Publication date: 2025-12-03
Also published as: KR20250160430A; IT202300001284A1; CN120916918A; JP2026507313A; WO2024157209A1

Abstract

System for structurally anchoring an element (4, 6 ) to a vehicle (1), comprising a male connector (12) having a plurality of protrusions (10), and a female connector (2) having: a plurality of holes (8) for housing the respective protrusions (10) of the male connector (12), a movable element (7) configured for creating a shape constraint with the protrusions (10) in order to hold the protrusions (10) within the holes (8), an actuator (9) for moving the movable element (7) between a locking position, wherein the movable element (7) holds the protrusions (10) within the holes (8), and a releasing position, wherein the movable element (7) allows the protrusions (10) to be removed from the holes (8). The male connector (12) is intended to be mounted to the element (4, 6) to be anchored, and the female connector (2) is intended to be mounted to the vehicle (1). The male and female connectors (2, 12) comprise electrically conductive portions (18, 20) configured for abutting on each other, in order to allow electric energy to flow and data to be transferred between a control unit and the element (4, 6) of the vehicle (1).

Description

TITLE: CONNECTION SYSTEM WITH PROTRUSIONS FOR A VEHICLE

DESCRIPTION

Technical field

The present invention relates to the automotive field, and more particularly to a system for the installation of elements (e.g. a seat) in the passenger compartment, or in specific areas, of a vehicle while allowing electric current and data to flow to/from such elements.

Technical background

Modern cars are fixed products that do not allow any adaptation of the internal space to the user's needs. The vehicle is in a solid state, i.e. everything is fixed and irremovable, and the internal components are not designed to allow the user to make any changes. Such a "solid" architecture cannot respond to the specific requirements of today's modes of transportation (e.g. shared or private) .

It is also necessary, because of the ever increasing time that users spend in their vehicles, to find a solution to optimize the use of such time at best. Thanks to advances in technology and to the development of self-driving cars and active/passive safety systems, it is now possible to entrust such technology with the task of moving the vehicle in full safety, so that the user can utilize the space and time spent inside the vehicle for working or leisure activities .

WO 2018/211468 Al has responded to this requirement by creating a connector for constraining some elements (e.g. a seat or a dashboard) to the vehicle, while at the same time allowing the transfer of data. However, the need is felt to improve such connection.

Summary of the invention

It is one object of the present invention to provide a connector for vehicles which can overcome this and other drawbacks of the prior art .

In particular, it is a further obj ect of the present invention to provide a vehicle which can be configured in accordance with the reference market and the user' s needs .

According to the present invention, this and other obj ects are achieved through a connector as set out in the appended independent claims .

It is understood that the appended claims are an integral part of the technical teachings provided in the following detailed description of the present invention . In particular, the appended dependent claims define some preferred embodiments of the present invention that include some optional technical features .

Brief description of the drawings

Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent in light of the following detailed description, provided merely as a non-limiting example with reference to the annexed drawings , wherein :

• Figure 1 is a perspective view of part of a vehicle where there are a plurality of female connectors according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

• Figures 2a, 2b are views of the vehicle shown in Fig . 1 , wherein a seat is mounted in two di f ferent positions ;

• Figure 3 schematically shows the floor of the vehicle shown in Fig . 1 , whereon a seat and a dashboard are mounted;

• Figure 4 is an exploded view of the connection system according to a particular embodiment of the invention;

• Figure 5 is a plan view of a movable element according to a particular embodiment of the invention;

• Figure 6 is a plan view of the female connector ;

• Figures 7a, 7b are , respectively, a plan view and a front view of the male connector ;

• Figures 8a, 8b are views from below of part of the male and female connectors in two di f ferent operative positions ;

• Figure 9 is a perspective view of a movable element according to a di f ferent embodiment ;

• Figures 10- 14b correspond to the views of Figures 4- 8b, but show a connection system according to a di f ferent embodiment of the invention;

• Figures 15 and 16 are partial perspective views of a vehicle and a seat intended to be mounted on the vehicle by means of the connection system according to a first embodiment of the invention;

• Figure 17 is a partial perspective view of a vehicle whereon a seat is mounted by means of the connection system according to a first embodiment of the invention;

• Figure 18 is a partial perspective view of a vehicle and a seat to be mounted on the vehicle by means of the connection system according to a second embodiment of the invention;

• Figure 19 is a partial perspective view of a vehicle and a dashboard to be mounted on the vehicle by means o f the connection system according to a second embodiment of the invention .

Detailed description of the invention

With reference to the drawings , a system for structurally anchoring an element 4 , 6 in a passenger compartment of a vehicle 1 comprises : a male connector 12 comprising a plurality of protrusions ,

- a female connector 2 comprising : a plurality of holes 8 for housing the respective protrusions 10 of the male connector 12 , a movable element 7 configured for creating a shape constraint with protrusions 10, in order to hold protrusions 10 within holes 8, an actuator 9 for moving movable element 7 between a locking position, wherein movable element 7 holds protrusions 10 within holes 8, and a releasing position, wherein movable element 7 allows protrusions 10 to be removed from holes 8.

Male connector 12 is intended to be mounted to element 4, 6 that needs to be anchored, and female connector 2 is intended to be mounted to the passenger compartment, or to specific areas, of vehicle 1.

The male and female connectors 12, 2 comprise electrically conductive portions 18, 20 configured for abutting on each other, in order to allow electric energy to flow and data to be transferred between a control unit and element 4, 6 of vehicle 1.

In particular, the control unit may be a control unit already present in vehicle 1 for controlling it, e.g. a vehicle's ECU, and/or an additional electronic control unit configured to handle the transfer of data between one or more pairs of male and female connectors 12, 2.

Holes 8 are adapted to house and hold in position protrusions 10, so as to create a structural constraint between female connector 2 and male connector 12, thus constraining element 4, 6 to the passenger compartment, or to specific areas, of vehicle 1.

Male and female connectors 12, 2 can be moved along an insertion direction (e.g. vertically) to insert protrusions 10 into holes 8. The insertion direction is also used for separating the two connectors 2, 12 by sliding protrusions 10 out of holes 8. When movable element 7 is in the locking position, male and female connectors 2, 12 are constrained to each other, and any mutual rotation or movement is prevented. When movable element 7 is in the releasing position, male and female connectors 2, 12 can be separated, in particular by sliding along the insertion direction. In the example, when protrusions 10 are inserted in holes 8, they 8, 10 prevent any mutual rotation of connectors 2, 12 about the insertion direction.

Protrusions 10 and holes 8 can establish a reliable mechanical constraint between connectors 2, 12, thereby providing, advantageously, a low-cost, compact and light connection .

In particular, holes 8 are through holes, adapted to be crossed by protrusions 10. According to some possible variants, holes 8 are recesses (i.e. blind holes) . In the example, female connector 2 has a substantially circular shape when viewed from above. Also male connector 12 has a substantially circular shape.

For example, holes 8 and protrusions 10 are arranged in a polar-symmetrical fashion. In the example shown herein, holes 8 and protrusions 10 are disposed on a circumference and regularly spaced apart. This allows connectors 2, 12 to be mutually engaged with a plurality of different orientations .

In the example there are four holes 8 and four protrusions 10, but their number may vary, e.g. two, three, five, etc. In the example, holes 8 are elliptical in shape, but they may alternatively be circular, rectangular, square, etc .

In the example, actuator 9 is an electric one, which is preferably powered by an electric grid of vehicle 1. For example, actuator 9 is an electric motor. In the example, actuator 9 is mounted to female connector 2, in particular to main body 5 thereof.

Preferably, movable element 7 is a rotatable element. With particular reference to Figs. 5 and 11, the rotatable element is a ring gear or a toothed wheel. The rotatable element preferably has a toothed surface (in particular, in a peripheral position) adapted to engage with a complementary toothed surface of actuator 9. Actuator 9 can thus turn the rotatable element. According to the first embodiment shown herein, the toothed surface of the rotatable element is not a continuous surface, but comprises a plurality of curved toothed tracts 17 (four in the example) ; alternatively, the rotatable element may have a continuous toothed surface (e.g. circular) . In particular, toothed tracts 17 are sections of a circumference.

According to some possible variants, actuator 9 may be a pneumatic, hydraulic, mechanic or magnetic one. In particular, movable element 7 can rotate about an axis x-x that is parallel to the insertion direction of connectors 2, 12.

In the example, actuator 9 is mounted to female connector 2. As an alternative, actuator 9 may be mounted to male connector 12.

In the preferred embodiment, the rotatable element has, on its peripheral surface, a plurality of radial recesses 19 configured to be crossed by protrusions 10. Thus, the rotatable element allows protrusions 10 to go through holes 8 when radial recesses 19 are aligned with holes 8. Edges of the rotatable element, which define radial recesses 19, are configured to engage with protrusions 10 in the locking position. Protrusions 10 and radial recesses 19 can selectively establish a shape constraint. In Fig. 5 there are four radial recesses 19. Radial recesses 19 alternate with toothed tracts 17 in the peripheral part of the rotatable element. In the particular example shown, the rotatable element has a central hole 37 (in particular, a circular hole) .

In the example, radial recess 19 is defined by two shoulders 21, 23, between which there is a circumferential tract 25. Tract 25 is curvilinear. Shoulders 21, 23 are substantially aligned with a radial direction. In particular, one shoulder 21 is rectilinear, while the other shoulder 23 is curved.

In particular, female connector 2 comprises a main body 5, whereon holes 8 are formed. The main body is configured to be mounted to vehicle 1. In the example, it 5 has holes 15 intended to be crossed by screws fastened to the passenger compartment of vehicle 1, e.g. to the floor and/or dashboard of the passenger compartment or to specific areas of vehicle 1. Conveniently, main body 5 is circular in shape, and in the particular example shown herein it has a central hole 27 (in particular, a circular hole) . In particular, main body 5 has a substantially annular shape.

In the example, male connector 12 has holes 29 intended to be crossed by screws 31 to be fastened to element 4, 6 to be anchored to vehicle 1. In particular, male connector 12 has a substantially annular shape.

Preferably, male connector 12 and female connector 2 are configured to be mutually engaged with a plurality of different orientations, in particular with different angular orientations .

Preferably, all holes 8 have the same shape, and all protrusions 10 have the same shape as well. This makes it possible to insert male connector 12 into female connector 2 with a plurality of different orientations. For example, since there are four holes 8 and four protrusions 10, it is possible to couple connectors 2, 12 at four different mutual angles. Thus, advantageously, the element (e.g. seat 4) can be mounted in the passenger compartment with different orientations (in the example, four orientations) .

Protrusions 10 have a longitudinal extension aligned with the insertion direction. With reference to the example shown in Figs. 7a, 7b, at least one of protrusions 10 (in particular, all protrusions 10) has a respective lateral recess 36 into which a part of movable element 7, in particular a shoulder 21, 23, is intended to be inserted the prevent the extraction of protrusions 10 from holes 8. When movable element 7 is inserted in lateral recess 36, movable element 7 is in the locking position. When movable element

7 is removed from lateral recess 36, movable element 7 is in the releasing position. In general, at least one of protrusions 10 has a respective engagement portion into which a part of movable element 7 is intended to engage to prevent the extraction of protrusions 10 from holes 8.

Figs. 8a and 8b show the procedure for mutually locking connectors 2, 12. The user inserts protrusions 10 into holes

8 of female connector 2 (in particular, of main body 5) , and protrusions 10 cross radial recesses 19 of the rotatable element because said rotatable element is in the releasing position (Fig. 8a) . Thus, in the releasing position, the protrusions can go through radial recesses 19. Then movable element 7 is turned by actuator 9 (clockwise in the example) , and a shoulder 21 defining radial recess 19 abuts against lateral recess 36 of respective protrusion 10 (Fig. 8b) . At this point, movable element 7 is in the locking position, so that it 7 interferes with protrusions 10, preventing them from being extracted from holes 8. Connectors 2, 12 are now constrained to each other, and, as a result, element 4, 6 is fastened to vehicle 1. In order to separate connectors 2, 12, movable element 7 must be turned in the reverse direction .

In particular, female connector 2 is configured for anchoring at least one of the following elements: a seat 4, a dashboard 6, a coffee-making machine, or a table. It is also possible to anchor a control panel or another specially developed component. Dashboard 6 may comprise, as is known, the instrument panel for the driver and indicators indicating the state of the vehicle. Dashboard 6 may be either digital or analogue. The steering wheel can be mounted to female connector 2 located in the dashboard area. Furthermore, the connection system of the invention can be mounted on the outside of vehicle 1, e.g. for the installation of headlights, sensors, radar devices, Lidar devices, and other functional devices to be added to vehicle 1 (e.g. an offroad kit, wheels, food-delivery systems, etc.) .

Female connector 2 and/or male connector 12 may preferably comprise sensor means, such as a proximity or contact sensor, for determining if male connector 12 has been correctly inserted in female connector 2. Such sensor may be an infrared sensor, a photocell, a switch, a capacitive sensor, a magnetic sensor, etc. Optionally, a combination of several different sensors may be used. Conveniently, the sensor means are located in proximity to holes 8 of female connector 2, e.g. on the bottom of a cavity facing such holes 8. The sensor means are adapted to detect the presence or contact of a portion of male connector 12. The sensor means are so configured that, when the presence or contact of a portion of male connector 12 is detected, it means that male connector 12 and female connector 2 have been correctly constrained to each other .

In the particular example shown in Fig . 7a, male connector 12 comprises a plurality of magnets 41 for detecting the correct mechanical connection and/or mutual orientation of the male and female connectors 12 , 2 . In more detail , magnet 41 is associated with a respective protrusion 10 , and, in particular, magnet 41 is located at a distal end of protrusion 10 .

The sensor means are configured to be operatively connected to the control unit of the vehicle . Preferably, the control unit is configured to allow electric current and/or data to flow between male and female connectors 2 , 12 when the sensor means detect a correct engagement between such connectors . This improves the user' s safety, in that electric voltage will be blocked in the event that connectors 2 , 12 have not been engaged correctly .

Preferably, the control unit is configured to control the actuation system for bringing movable element 7 into the locking position or holding it in such position when the sensor means detect a correct engagement between such connectors 2 , 12 . Thus , i f connectors 2 , 12 have been engaged correctly, protrusions 10 can be mechanically locked into holes 8 .

According to a particular embodiment , when the sensor means detect the proximity of male and female connectors 2 , 12 , then the control unit is configured to bring movable element 7 ( through actuator 9 ) into the releasing position in order to facilitate the engagement of connectors 2 , 12 . When the sensor means detect that connectors 2 , 12 have been fully and correctly engaged, the control unit is configured to bring movable element 7 into the locking position and allow the flow of electric current and data . Conveniently, the control unit is configured to receive from the user (e.g. by means of control means, such as a push-button, a screen, a portable electronic device like a smartphone or a tablet, etc.) a signal to command the actuation system to bring movable element 7 into the releasing position, for the purpose of removing protrusions 10 from hole 8 and disengaging male and female connectors 2, 12. In addition or as an alternative, the control unit is configured to receive from the user a signal for commanding the actuation signal to bring movable element 7 into the locking position, for the purpose of constraining protrusions 10 into holes 8, thereby fastening male and female connectors 2, 12.

Conveniently, female connector 2 is adapted to be mounted to vehicle 1, in particular in the passenger compartment, e.g. on a floor 16 of the passenger compartment or in the area of dashboard 6. Preferably, a plurality of female connectors 2 are mounted to vehicle 1; for example, there are a plurality of female connectors 2 mounted to floor 16 and/or in the area of dashboard 6. Male connector 12 is adapted to be mounted to the element to be installed in vehicle 1 (e.g. seat 4, dashboard 6, table) . Through connectors 2, 12 of the invention it is possible to removably mount various elements to the vehicle quickly and reliably, ensuring a perfect mechanical anchorage and providing power and data connections. This connection permits electricity to flow, and therefore the system can provide a power supply for any components that may be present on the element to be anchored. Conveniently, when a plurality of female connectors 2 are available, they are operatively connected to the control unit. A plurality of elements of the vehicle (e.g. seat 4, dashboard 6, table) can thus be connected to the control unit at the same time.

According to some possible variants, female connector 2 is adapted to be mounted to specific areas anywhere in the three-dimensional space of vehicle 1, in particular inside the passenger compartment and/or outside the passenger compartment .

Female connector 2 illustrated herein comprises a plurality of electrically conductive portions 18 to allow a flow of electric current between male connector and female connector 2, 12. Likewise, male connector 12 comprises a plurality of electrically conductive portions 20 adapted to contact respective electrically conductive portions 18 of female connector 2. According to the present embodiment, uelectrically conductive portions 18, 20 are plates suitable to come into mutual contact.

According to some possible variants, electrically conductive portions 18, 20, or just some of them, are configured to allow the transfer of data via optical fiber. In such a case, vehicle 1 includes optical fiber cables that can be connected to electrically conductive portions 18, 20. Through the optical fiber, the control unit, or ECU, of the vehicle can exchange signals with elements 4, 6 mounted in vehicle 1 via connectors 2, 12 of the invention.

In particular, conductive portions 18, 20 of female and male connectors 2, 12 are incorporated into two respective printed circuit boards, or PCBs, 33, 35. Preferably, there is a returning means, e.g. an elastic means like a spring, for pushing electrically conductive portions 18, 20 in contact with each other. In the example, such elastic means act upon either one or both PCBs 33, 35.

In more detail, electrically conductive portions 18, in particular the PCB 35, of male connector 12 are radially internal to protrusions 10, and electrically conductive portions 20 of female connector 2 are radially internal to holes 8. In the example, male connector 12 has an annular shape and includes a central hole 39, in which the PCB 35 is placed. In the particular example shown herein, central holes 37, 27 of movable element 7 and of main body 5 allow contact between electrically conductive portions 18, 20.

In the example, female connector 2 includes a support 40 for holding movable element 7 in position, allowing it to rotate between the two releasing and locking positions. In more detail, support 40 is mounted to main body 5. The illustrated support 40 has an annular shape, with a respective central hole 42 that allows contact between electrically conductive portions 18, 20. Therefore, movable element 7 is interposed between, in particular in contact with, main body 5 and support 40. Conveniently, female connector 2 has a cover 44 for covering PCB 33. Female connector 2 includes, in this order: main body 5, movable element 7, support 40, PCB 33, cover 44. Fastening means, preferably removable ones, such as screws, bolts, clips, glue, etc., are provided to keep the various elements in the two connectors 2, 12 fastened together.

Optionally, female connector 12 has a returning means, such as an elastic means, e.g. a spring, for pushing movable element 7 towards the locking position.

For example, electrically conductive portions 18, 20 may be powered with 120VAC to 240VAC or with 9VDC to 48VDC. According to some possible variants, some of electrically conductive portions 18, 20 included in each connector 2, 12 are adapted to be connected to a first power supply system (e.g. 12V) , and the other ones are adapted to be connected to a second power supply system (e.g. 220V) , such power supply systems differing from each other, for example, in voltage .

Without being limited thereto, electrically conductive portions 18, 20 of male connector 12 and/or of female connector 2 include spring-loaded pins. For example, pogo pins (in particular, 14 pogo pins) are associated with female connector 2.

In Fig. 4 there is an electric connection 46 carrying data and electricity up to female connector 2. In particular, there are cables 48 for carrying electric energy, and a cable 50 for data transfer (preferably through an Ethernet connection) . In the example, cables 48, 50 are mounted and connected to PCB 33. The various female connectors 2 of vehicle 1 may be electrically connected in series with each other .

In the example, movable element 7 is made of steel. One or more of male connector 12, main body 5, support 40, cover 44 are made of aluminium, in particular Ergal (Series 7000 alloy) , e.g. 7075-type alloy. According to some possible variants, one or more of said elements may be made of polymeric or composite material.

With reference to the drawings, male connector 12 comprises a contact surface 32 adapted to abut on a base surface 28 of female connector 2 (in particular, of main body 5) . In the example, base 28 and contact 32 surfaces are substantially flat. In the example, base 28 and contact 32 surfaces are annular in shape when viewed from above. Protrusions 10 protrude from contact surface 32. Holes 8 are formed on base surface 28. Such surfaces 28, 32 exchange force to support element 4, 6 anchored to vehicle 1.

Fig. 9 shows an alternative movable element 7, which is a rotatable element wherein, between the two shoulders 21, 23 defining radial recess 19, there are two circumferential tracts 25a, 25b of different depth. Circumferential tract 25a is radially more internal than circumferential tract 25b. Circumferential tract 25a permits the insertion and removal of protrusion 10 into/from the releasing position. Shoulder 21 is adapted to abut against protrusion 10 in the locking position. Shoulder 21 is adjacent to circumferential tract 25b. In particular, circumferential tract 25a is concave, and circumferential tract 25b is convex. Circumferential tracts 25a, 25b are substantially in a circumferential position.

Although some specific embodiments have been described and illustrated above, the connection system of the invention may have different dimensions and shapes.

The connection system of the invention, particularly female connector 2, may be installed anywhere in the three- dimensional space of vehicle 1, whether inside the passenger compartment or on the outside part of vehicle 1. In the examples illustrated herein, the connection system is mounted in the passenger compartment.

Figures 10-14b show a connection system in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention. As can be noticed, many aspects are common to the previously described embodiment, illustrated in Figs. l-8b, and will not therefore be repeated for brevity's sake. Wherever possible, the two variants illustrated herein use the same reference numerals.

One of the most important differences lies in the shape of movable element 7, which also in this latter example (Fig. 11) has, on its peripheral surface, a plurality of radial recesses 19 configured to be crossed by protrusions 10. Thus, movable element 7, which is rotatable, allows protrusions 10 to go through holes 8 when radial recesses 19 are aligned with holes 8 . Edges of the rotatable element , which de fine radial recesses 19 , are configured to engage with protrusions 10 in the locking position . Protrusions 10 and radial recesses 19 can selectively establish a shape constraint . In Fig . 11 there are four radial recesses 19 . Radial recesses 19 do not alternate with toothed tracts 17 in the peripheral part of the rotatable element . In the particular example shown, movable element 7 has a central hole 37 ( in particular, a circular hole ) .

In the second embodiment shown herein, the rotatable element has a toothed surface , in particular a continuous toothed surface 22 , which is preferably circular in shape . In the example , the toothed surface is in a radially internal position relative to radial recesses 19 . In more detail , between two adj acent radial recesses 19 there is a substantially smooth and curved perimetrical edge .

In the example , radial recess 19 is defined by two shoulders 24 , between which circumferential tract 25 i s interposed . Tract 25 is curvilinear . Shoulders 24 are symmetrical . In particular, shoulders 24 are curved . Therefore , radial recess 19 has a symmetrical shape .

In the variant of Fig . 10 there is an electric connection 46 for transporting data and electricity to female connector 2 . Said electric connection 46 is mounted to female connector 2 , in particular to PCB 33 .

In the example of Figs . 18 and 19 there is a pipe 52 including a plurality of cables for transmitting data (preferably through an Ethernet connection) and electricity to female connector 2 . Conveniently, one or more cables carry data, and one or more cables carry electricity . Electric connection 46 is adapted to be connected to pipe 52 and to the cables therein, conveniently through a plug/ socket system. In the example, pipe 52 is mounted and connected to PCB 33.

In general, the transmission of data and/or electricity to/from connectors 2, 12 (e.g. from/to the control unit of vehicle 1) may occur by means of Ethernet cables, in particular connectable to electrically conductive portions 18, 20.

Various female connectors 2 of vehicle 1 may be electrically connected in series with each other. In particular, Figs. 18 and 19 show the connector of the second embodiment illustrated in Figs. 10-14b.

Preferably, male connector 12 comprises a column 54 adapted to be inserted into a complementary recess of female connector 2. This facilitates the mutual centering of connectors 2, 12 during the installation process. In particular, column 54 has a cylindrical shape that extends along insertion axis x-x of connectors 2, 12. Preferably, column 54 has a circular outer surface.

In the example, column 54 prevents any relative movement of connectors 2, 12 in a plane perpendicular to the insertion axis x-x, but, conveniently, it permits relative rotations of connectors 2, 12 about such axis x-x.

In particular, column 54 defines central hole 39. Therefore, column 54 is at least partially hollow. In the example, the recess into which column 54 is inserted is central hole 27.

The illustrated column 54 is in a radially internal position relative to protrusions 10. In particular, column 54 is positioned centrally in male connector 12.

In particular, column 54 protrudes from contact surface 32. Column 54 and protrusions 10 protrude from the same face of male connector 12. Conveniently, column 54 protrudes from male connector 12 farther than protrusions 10 . In other words , column 54 i s longer than protrusions 10 . Thus , one can first center connectors 2 , 12 , and then easily introduce protrusions 10 into holes 8 .

The invention also relates to a male connector 12 or a female connector configured for engaging with a female connector 2 or, respectively, a male connector 12 according to any embodiment .

Furthermore , the invention concerns a vehicle 1 comprising such connection system .

The invention also concerns a vehicle 1 comprising at least one female connector 2 or one male connector 12 . Female connector 2 or male connector 12 is fastened, preferably in a removable manner, to vehicle 1 , particularly in the passenger compartment . Preferably, at least one female connector 2 is mounted to vehicle 1 , and male connector 12 is mounted (preferably in a removable manner ) to element 4 , 6 to be anchored to vehicle 1 .

The invention also concerns a system comprising male connector 12 and/or female connector 2 , and a control unit operatively connected to said connector 2 , 12 .

Preferably, vehicle 1 has a power supply system for supplying power to female connectors 2 . The vehicle has a frame or chassis performing a structural function .

Conveniently, floor 16 of the passenger compartment is flat to accommodate female connector 2 or, preferably, a plurality thereof . Connectors 2 , anchored to the chassis , create a multimodal and modular platform whereon di f ferent elements ( e . g . seat 4 , dashboard 6 , control panel , etc . ) can be anchored in full safety . The female connector may also be arranged anywhere in the three-dimensional space of the vehicle .

Male or female connector 2, 12 is a multimodal connector that can act as a base for safely anchoring elements contributing to the on-board experience of vehicle 1 and for exchanging information with such elements. In fact, in addition to providing structural anchorage, said connector ensures the flow of electricity and the transfer of data, including, for example, audio and/or video signals, or control signals between the control unit and the element plugged into the connector, as well as commands for the connector itself.

Vehicle 1 according to the invention may be a motor vehicle (which may be an internal combustion vehicle, a hybrid vehicle or a fully electric vehicle) , such as a car, a train, a boat, or an aircraft, etc.

For example, the elements mounted to the vehicle by means of the male and female connectors may be interconnected through the control unit, so that they can communicate with one another. For example, an element (e.g. seat 4) is conveniently equipped with an interface, such as a screen (conveniently, a touchscreen) , or with integrated controls to be able to exchange signals with the control unit. For example, through the interface the user can interact with the other users of the vehicle (e.g. via other interface- equipped elements, or by means of electronic devices such as smartphones, personal computers, etc.) . Optionally, the user can, through the interface, access electronic mail, browse the Internet, etc. Moreover, the screen may optionally be able to send information about the state of vehicle 1, the journey, the traffic, etc. to the control unit. The element (e.g. the seat) may comprise an electronic device configured to operate as described above. Conveniently, the control unit may be able to interact with other electronic units of the vehicle. Optionally, the control unit can operatively connect to a remote storage unit or a remote server (e.g. a "cloud") , e.g. by means of a dedicated application for electronic devices (e.g. smartphones or tablets) . Optionally, the element (e.g. seat 4) is adapted to connect, e.g. in wireless mode, the control unit to at least one portable electronic device of a user (e.g. PC, smartphone, tablet) and/or to mutually connect portable electronic devices of several users. For example, the control unit may send information to the portable electronic device in order to show such information to the user, or may receive commands from said portable device in order to control vehicle 1 (e.g. operating the windows or the seats, adjusting the air conditioning system, tuning the radio, setting a destination to be reached, etc.) .

Of course, without prejudice to the principle of the invention, the forms of embodiment and the implementation details may be extensively varied from those described and illustrated herein by way of non-limiting example, without however departing from the scope of the invention as set out in the appended claims.

Claims

1. System for structurally anchoring an element (4, 6) to a vehicle (1) , in particular in a passenger compartment of the vehicle (1) , comprising:

- a male connector (12) comprising a plurality of protrusions (10) ,

- a female connector (2) comprising: a plurality of holes (8) for housing the respective protrusions (10) of the male connector (12) , a movable element (7) configured for creating a shape constraint with the protrusions (10) , in order to hold the protrusions (10) within the holes (8) , an actuator (9) for moving the movable element (7) between a locking position, wherein the movable element (7) holds the protrusions (10) within the holes (8) , and a releasing position, wherein the movable element (7) allows the protrusions (10) to be removed from the holes (8) ; wherein the male connector (12) is intended to be mounted to the element (4, 6) to be anchored, and the female connector (2) is intended to be mounted to the vehicle (1) ; wherein the male and female connectors (2, 12) comprise electrically conductive portions (18, 20) configured for abutting on each other, in order to allow electric energy to flow and data to be transferred between a control unit and the element (4, 6) of the vehicle (1) .

2. System according to claim 1, wherein the female connector (2) is configured for anchoring at least one of the following elements: a seat (4) , a dashboard (6) , a coffee-making machine, or a table.

3. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the protrusions (10) have a respective lateral recess (36) , into which part of the movable element (7) is intended to be inserted in order to prevent the extraction of the protrusions (10) from the holes (8) .

4. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the movable element (7) is a movable element.

5. System according to claim 4, wherein the movable element has, on a peripheral surface thereof, a plurality of radial recesses (19) configured to be crossed by the protrusions (10) , and edges of the movable element that define the radial recesses (19) are configured to engage with the protrusions (10) in the locking position.

6. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the male connector (12) and the female connector (2) are configured to be mutually connected with a plurality of different orientations.

7. System according to claim 6, wherein the holes (8) and the protrusions (10) are arranged on a circumference and are equally spaced apart.

8. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the conductive portions (18, 20) of the female and male connectors (2, 12) are incorporated into two respective printed circuit boards, or PCBs (33, 35) .

9. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrically conductive portions (18) of the male connector (12) are radially internal to the protrusions

(10) , and the electrically conductive portions (20) of the female connector (2) are radially internal to the holes (8) .

10. Female connector (2) intended to be mounted to a vehicle (1) , in particular in a passenger compartment of the vehicle (1) , for structurally anchoring an element (4, 6) , comprising : a plurality of holes (8) for housing respective protrusions (10) of a male connector (12) , a movable element (7) configured for creating a shape constraint with the protrusions (10) , in order to hold the protrusions (10) within the holes (8) , an actuator (9) for moving the movable element (7) between a locking position, wherein the movable element (7) holds the protrusions (10) within the holes (8) , and a releasing position, wherein the movable element (7) allows the protrusions (10) to be removed from the holes (8) ; electrically conductive portions (18) configured for abutting on electrically conductive portions (20) of the male connector (12) , in order to allow electric energy to flow and data to be transferred between a control unit and the element (4, 6) of the vehicle (1) .

11. Male connector (12) configured for engaging with a female connector (2) according to claim 10, wherein the male connector (12) is intended to be mounted to an element (4, 6) to be anchored to the vehicle (1) , in particular in a passenger compartment of the vehicle (1) , and comprising: a plurality of protrusions (10) configured for being inserted into the holes (8) and engaging with the movable element (7) of the female connector (2) , electrically conductive portions (20) configured for abutting on the electrically conductive portions (18) of the female connector (2) .

12. Vehicle (1) comprising a system according to any one of claims 1 to 9.