GB2568706A

GB2568706A - Spare wheel stowage system

Info

Publication number: GB2568706A
Application number: GB1719499.4A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Ian Jamieson Philip
Original assignee: Jaguar Land Rover Ltd
Current assignee: Jaguar Land Rover Ltd
Priority date: 2017-11-24
Filing date: 2017-11-24
Publication date: 2019-05-29
Also published as: GB201719499D0

Abstract

A spare wheel stowage system 60 for a vehicle load space has a base portion 21 for retaining at least part of a spare wheel (61, Figure 9), and an upper portion 77 mountable on base portion 21. Base portion 21 and upper portion 77 at least partially defines a spare wheel receiving space 63, wherein removal of at least a section of upper portion 77 exposes a peripheral area of receiving space 63 to aid removal of the spare wheel from stowage system 60.

Description

SPARE WHEEL STOWAGE SYSTEM

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a spare wheel stowage system. Aspects of the invention relate to a spare wheel stowage system, a load space assembly, and a vehicle.

BACKGROUND

Vehicles are typically provided with a spare wheel to replace a wheel on the vehicle should one of the wheels become damaged. Such damage generally relates to damage to a tyre of the wheel, such as a puncture. Spare wheels are typically retained in a load space of a vehicle, generally known as a ‘trunk’ or a ‘boot’ area of a vehicle. However, stowing a spare wheel in the load space reduces the volume of useable load space that is available. As such there is a need to minimize the space taken up by a spare wheel.

With a spare wheel received in the stowage space, they are typically securely stowed in the stowage space to prevent motion of the spare wheel. Such systems surround the spare wheel to aid stowage of the spare wheel and to help locating of other components, such as a load floor in the load space. However, spare wheels are typically relatively heavy and unwieldy to maneuver. Furthermore, in an effort to maximize the useable load space, in some load space configurations it is necessary to lift a spare wheel in a generally vertical direction in order to remove it from its stowage position. As such, there is a long felt need to ease the removal of a spare wheel from its stowed condition in the load space, as well as the insertion of a spare wheel or damaged wheel into the load space.

At least in certain embodiments, the present invention seeks to overcome or ameliorate at least some of the shortcomings associated with the prior art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Aspects and embodiments of the invention provide a spare wheel stowage system, a load space assembly, and a vehicle as claimed in the appended claims.

According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a spare wheel stowage system for a load space for a vehicle comprising a base portion for retaining at least part of a spare wheel, and an upper portion mountable on the base portion, the base portion and upper section portion at least partially defining a spare wheel receiving space, wherein at least a section of the upper portion is removable to expose a peripheral area of the spare wheel receiving space to aid removal of the spare wheel from the spare wheel stowage system.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a spare wheel stowage system for a load space for a vehicle comprising a base portion for retaining at least part of a spare wheel, and an upper portion mountable on the base portion, the base portion and upper portion at least partially defining a spare wheel receiving space, wherein at least a section of the upper portion is removable to expose a peripheral area of the spare wheel receiving space to aid removal of the spare wheel from the spare wheel stowage system.

With the above arrangement, accessibility of the spare wheel in its stowed condition is improved. The opening through which the spare wheel is able to be moved is increased through removal of at least a section of the upper portion. The spare wheel is able to be stored in a secure configuration, whilst simplifying insertion and removal of the spare wheel.

The base portion may comprise a spare wheel guide, at least part of the guide being covered by the at least the section of the upper portion when the at least the section of the upper portion is mounted on the base portion.

As such, a guide is provided to ease removal of the spare wheel, and reduce the effort required to insert and remove the spare wheel.

The spare wheel guide may comprise a ramped surface.

The height of the ramped surface may increase in a direction away from the spare wheel receiving space.

The base portion may have a mounting surface adjacent to the ramped surface against which the upper section is mountable.

As such, mounting of the upper surface may be simplified.

The ramped surface may extend to proximate the plane of the mounting surface.

The ramped surface may be inclined relative to the mounting surface.

The guide may have a width equal to or greater than the diametrical width of the spare wheel receiving space.

The base portion may define a lower part of the spare wheel receiving space.

The depth of the lower part of the spare wheel receiving space may be configured to be less than the height of the spare wheel such that at least part of the spare wheel protrudes from the base portion when received in the base portion.

The base portion may comprise a base stowage block defining the lower part of the spare wheel receiving space. As such, manufacture and assembly of the spare wheel stowage system may be simplified.

The base stowage block may be an expanded polypropylene block.

The upper portion may comprise an upper stowage block. As such, manufacture and assembly of the spare wheel stowage system may be simplified.

The upper stowage block may be an expanded polypropylene block.

The upper stowage block may be configured to at least partially receive the spare wheel.

The upper portion may comprise a first section and a second section. The first section and the second section may be mountable on the base portion. The first section may be removable to expose a peripheral area of the spare wheel receiving space to aid removal of the spare wheel from the spare wheel stowage system.

In use in a load space, the first section may be a rearward section. The second section may be a forward section. The rearward section and forward section may be mountable on the base portion.

The first section may be configured to mount to the base portion independently from the second section.

The second section may be integrally formed with the base portion.

The spare wheel may be a full-size spare wheel or a temporary replacement spare wheel.

The upper portion may be a first upper portion, and the system may comprise a second upper portion. The system may be configured to retain a first spare wheel when the first upper portion is mounted on the base portion, and the system may be configured to retain a second spare wheel when the second upper portion is mounted on the base portion.

With such an arrangement it is possible to selectively stow different spare wheel configurations or tyre repair systems without replacing an entire spare wheel stowage systems. As such, assembly of a vehicle is simplified. Furthermore, manufacture of a system for stowing different spare wheels is simplified by providing standardised parts that are capable of receiving at least part of more than one different spare wheel configurations.

According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a load space assembly for a vehicle comprising the spare wheel stowage system as set out above.

The load space assembly may comprise a load floor.

The load space assembly may comprise a spare wheel.

The base portion may be configured to support the load floor.

The upper section may be configured to support the load floor.

The load floor may comprise a first floor section having a releasably engagable fixed engagement member.

The load floor may comprise a second floor section movable relative to the first floor section; and a connecting floor section between the first floor section and the second floor section about which the first and second floor sections are pivotable.

The second floor section may be configured to be movable relative to the first floor section between a first position in which the load floor is supported on the base portion and a second position in which the load floor is supported on the upper section.

According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a vehicle comprising the spare wheel stowage system as set out above.

According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a spare wheel stowage system for a load space for a vehicle comprising a base portion for retaining at least part of a spare wheel configuration; and an upper section releasably mountable on the base portion.

Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and/or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and/or combination, unless such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and/or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

One or more embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a schematic side elevation view of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of a load space assembly of the vehicle of Figure 1 with a load floor;

Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of the load space assembly of Figure 2 with the load floor omitted, and having a spare wheel stowage system with a base portion stowing a temporary spare wheel;

Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view of the load space assembly with the spare wheel stowage system of Figure 3 having an upper portion, and stowing a full-size spare wheel;

Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view of the load space assembly with the spare wheel stowage system of Figure 3 having a different base portion, and stowing a tyre repair system;

Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the load space assembly with the spare wheel stowage system of Figure 3 having the upper portion omitted, and stowing a temporary spare wheel;

Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the load space assembly with the spare wheel stowage system of Figure 6 having the upper portion, and stowing a full-size spare wheel;

Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the load space assembly with the spare wheel stowage system of Figure 3 having the different base portion of Figure 5, and stowing the tyre repair system;

Figure 9 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the load space assembly with the load floor and the spare wheel stowage system of Figure 6 with the upper portion omitted, and stowing the temporary spare wheel;

Figure 10 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the load space assembly with the load floor and the spare wheel stowage system of Figure 7 with the upper portion, and stowing the full-size spare wheel;

Figure 11 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the load space assembly with the load floor and the spare wheel stowage system of Figure 8 with the different base portion, and stowing the tyre repair system;

Figure 12 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the load space assembly of Figure 8 with a first upper portion, and stowing the temporary spare wheel;

Figure 13 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the load space assembly of Figure 8 with a second upper portion, and stowing the full-size spare wheel;

Figure 14 is a schematic perspective view of the load space assembly with the load floor in a tyre repair system stowing condition;

Figure 15 is a schematic perspective view of the load space assembly with the load floor in a temporary spare wheel stowing condition;

Figure 16 is a schematic perspective view of the load space assembly with the load floor in a full-size spare wheel stowing condition;

Figure 17 is another schematic cross-sectional side view of the load space assembly shown in Figure 10, the upper portion having a forward section and a rearward section;

Figure 18 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the load space assembly of Figure 17 with the rearward portion removed from the base portion;

Figure 19 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the load space assembly of Figure 18 with the spare wheel partially removed from a stowed condition;

Figure 20 is a schematic plan view of spare wheel stowage system of Figure 19;

Figure 21 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of an engagement member on the load floor and an attachment arrangement with the engagement member in a disengaged condition;

Figure 22 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the engagement member and attachment arrangement of Figure 21 with the engagement member received on the attachment arrangement;

Figure 23 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the engagement member and attachment arrangement of Figure 21 with the engagement member in a retained condition;

Figure 24 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the engagement member and attachment arrangement of Figure 21 with the engagement member in an engaged condition;

Figure 25 is a schematic perspective view of a load floor retaining system in a retracted condition;

Figure 26 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the load floor retaining system of Figure 25 in the retracted condition;

Figure 27 is a schematic perspective view of the load floor retaining system of Figure 25 in a protruded condition;

Figure 28 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the load floor retaining system of Figure 25 in the protruded condition;

Figure 29 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of part of a load space, load floor and spare wheel stowage system with the load floor retaining system of Figure 25; and

Figure 30 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the part of the load space, load floor and spare wheel stowage system with the load floor retaining system of Figure 25 retaining the load floor in a raised configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A vehicle 10 is shown in Figure 1. In the following description the term ‘front’ refers to components toward the front of the vehicle and the term ‘rear’ refers to components towards the rear of the vehicle. The terms ‘forward’ and ‘rearward’ shall be construed accordingly. The position of features may be construed relative to other components, for example a forward component may be disposed on a forward side of another component, but towards the rear of the vehicle.

The vehicle 10 comprises a vehicle body 11 and a passenger cabin 12. The vehicle 10 has a front end 13 and a rear end 14. Wheels 15 on the vehicle body 11 are each formed from a hub 16 and a tyre 17 disposed around the periphery of the hub 16. Access doors are defined in the vehicle body 11. A rearward access door or tailgate 19 is provided at the rear end 14 of the vehicle body 11. The rearward access door 19 closes a rearward access opening 27 which provides access to a load space 20.

The load space 20 of the vehicle 10 is also typically known as the ‘boot’ or ‘trunk’ of the vehicle 10. The load space 20 is at the rear end 14 of the vehicle 10. The load space 20 is defined from the passenger cabin 12 by a rearward passenger seating 18. However, it will be understood that an alternative feature may separate the load space 20 and the passenger cabin 12. Cut-away views of the load space 20 are shown in Figures 2 to 5.

The load space 20 is defined by the vehicle body 11. The load space 20 is partially defined by internal body panels 21. The internal body panels 21 define supports in the load space. Supports may be formed by other internal components. Herein the, or each, support refers to an element which is able to provide some support to a component in the load space, either directly or indirectly.

A load floor 30 is received in the load space 20. The load floor 30 extends across the load space 20 in a load configuration, for example as shown in Figure 2, and divides the load space into an upper load space 20a and a lower load space 20b. The upper load space 20a is defined above the lower load space 20b.

The load space 20 has a load space peripheral wall 22 and a load space base 23. A rearward scuff plate 24 is defined at a rearward end of the load space 20. The rearward access opening 27 is above the scuff plate 24. The scuff plate 24 extends to proximate the rearward access opening 27. As shown in Figure 6, the scuff plate 24 is stepped. The scuff plate 24 has an upper step 24a, a mid-step 24b and a lower step 24c. The upper step 24a, mid step 24b and a lower step 24c each extend on a substantially horizontal plane. The number and configuration of the steps 24a, 24b, 24c may vary. The mid-step 24b may act as a first step and the lower step 24c may act as a second step.

The term ‘horizontal’ is used herein to mean a plane which extends parallel to the plane of the surface on which a vehicle is located in normal operation.

A support block 25 is disposed in the load space 20. The support block 25 is at a forward end of the load space 20. The support block 25 extends laterally across the load space 20. The support block 25 defines a load floor supporting surface 26.

The load floor 30 is mountable in the load space 20. In the configuration shown in Figure 2, the load floor 30 extends between a floor forward end 30a which rests on the support block 25 at the forward end of the load space 20 and a floor rearward end 30b which rests on the scuff plate 24 at the rearward end of the load space 20. The load floor supporting surface 26 extends on a substantially horizontal plane. As such, the load floor is in a load configuration. The term ‘load configuration’ is used to refer to the load floor being disposed in a condition in which in which objects may be loaded in the load space 20 on the load floor 30. The term ‘raised configuration” is used to refer to a condition in which at least part of the load floor is moved from the load configuration into a raised position.

The load floor supporting surface 26 is substantially co-planar with the mid step 24b of the scuff plate 24. The upper step 24a of the scuff plate 24 is on a plane above the load floor supporting surface 26. The lower step 24c of the scuff plate 24 is on a plane below the load floor supporting surface 26.

The load floor 30 forms part of a load floor system 28. The load floor 30 may be manipulated to provide access to the lower load space 20b. The load floor 30 comprises a first floor section 31, a second floor section 32 and a connecting floor section 33. The connecting floor section 33 connects the first floor section 31 and the second floor section 32. The connecting floor section 33 acts as a coupling means between the first floor section and the second floor section. In the present embodiment, the coupling means comprises a rigid portion, however in an alternative embodiment the coupling means is flexible. The coupling means may comprise two or more connecting floor sections 33. The first floor section 31 is releasably mounted to the support block 25. A mount or engagement member 50 (refer to Figures 21 to 24) releasably mounts the load floor 30 on the support block 25. The support block 25 forms part of a support. The support block 25 acts as a support member having an attachment arrangement 100. The attachment arrangement is arranged in the support block. The engagement member 50 is a releasably engagable fixed engagement member. That is, the engagement member 50 is positionable in a fixed condition to locate the first floor section in a fixed position in the load space, but is configurable to be moved into a released condition, in which condition the load floor 30 is able to be removed from the load space 20 in response to a user action. The engagement member 50 may not be releasable. The support block abuts the first floor section 31 to prevent downward movement of the first floor section 31.

The connecting floor section 33 is pivotable about the first floor section. The connecting floor section 33 is pivotable about the rearward edge of the support block 25. The support block 25 has a side face 25a. The side face 25 extends at an angle to the load floor supporting surface 26. When the connecting floor section 33 is pivoted towards the side face 25a, the connecting floor section is able to abut the side face 25a. As such, side face 25a acts as an end stop to limit movement of the connecting floor section 33. In the present embodiment, the side face 25 extends at an acute angle, however the alignment of the side face may differ.

The second floor section 32 is movable relative to the first floor section 31 via the connecting floor section 33 which is pivotably connected to each of the first floor section 31 and the second floor section 32. Therefore the second floor section 32 of the load floor 30 is movable between different positions. In Figure 2 the load floor 30 is shown in a load configuration in which objects may be loaded in the load space 20 on the load floor 30.

The first floor section 31 is connected to the connecting floor section 32 about a first floor section edge 31a. The first floor section edge 31a is a rearward edge of the first floor section 31 when the load floor 30 is mounted in the load space 20. The second floor section 32 is connected to the connecting floor section 32 about a second floor section edge 32a. The second floor section edge 32a is a forward edge of the second floor section 32 when the load floor 30 is mounted in the load space 20.

The second floor section edge 32a is movable out of a plane of the first floor section 31. The second floor section edge 32a is configured to be movable to overlap the first floor section

31. That is, the second floor section edge 32a is configured to be moved past a notional plane which passes through the first floor section edge 31a and is perpendicular to the plane of the first floor section 31.

When the second floor section 32 is moved relative to the first floor section 31, the load floor 30 is to form a Z-shaped configuration defined by the first floor section 31, connecting floor section 33 and second floor section 32.

The fact that the rearward end of the load floor can be moved forward in the above described manner has the advantage that the rearward edge of the load floor can be further forward when raised and thus the rearward end is further from a user compared with where it would otherwise be when being raised and/or when raised, allowing easier access to/manoeuvring of e.g. spare wheels out from under the load floor.

A third or further floor section 34 of the load floor 30 is pivotable relative to the second floor section 32. The third floor section 34 is disposed at an opposing end of the second floor section 32 to the connecting floor section 33. In other embodiments, the third floor section 34 is rigidly mounted with the second floor section 32, or is omitted.

The load floor 30 has a handle 35. The handle 35 enables a user to manipulate the load floor 30. The handle 35 is on the third floor section 34. However, the handle may be alternately located, for example, on the second floor section 32.

The floor sections 31,32, 33, 34 are formed as board sections. Each floor section 31 -34 has a generally rectangular profile, although it will be understood that the shape of each floor section 31-34 may vary depending on the shape and configuration of the load space 20. Side walls of the load space 20 are configured to allow the load floor 30 to move in the load space 20 between different configurations.

The first floor section 31 and the connecting floor section 33 are pivotably connected to each other via a first live hinge 36 which defines a first pivot axis 36a. The connecting floor section 33 and the second floor section 32 are pivotably connected to each other via a second live hinge 37 which defines a second pivot axis 37a. The second floor section 32 and the third floor section 34 are pivotably connected to each other via a third live hinge 38 which defines a third pivot axis 38a. A live hinge is thin flexible hinge or flexure bearing made from one of the same materials as the adjacent sections which are connected by the hinge. Live hinges connect two adjacent rigid sections. Live hinges are typically a thinned or partially cut region which allows the rigid sections to pivot relative to each other along the axis of the hinge. As such, the floor sections are integrally formed. Alternative hinge configurations may be used, and the floor sections may be separably formed.

The first and second pivot axes 36a, 37a are located along opposing distal edges of the connecting floor section 33. The pivot axes 36a, 37a, 38a are parallel to each other. As such, the first pivot axis and second pivot axis 36a, 37a are spaced from each other.

The first floor section 31 defines the floor forward end 30a of the load floor 30. The end of the load floor 30 at the third floor section 34 defines the floor rearward end 30b of the load floor 30. In an embodiment in which the third floor section 34 is omitted, the distal edge of the second floor section 32 defines the rearward end 30b of the load floor 30. A free edge 39 of the load floor 30 is defined at rearward end 30b of the load floor 30, distal from the first floor section 31.

The length of the connecting floor section 33 between the first floor section 31 and the second floor section 32 is less than 30% of the length of the load floor 30 between the connecting floor section 33 and the free edge. Preferably, the ratio is less than 20%.

The combined length of the first floor section 31 and the connecting floor section 33 is less than the length of a portion of the load floor 30 between the connecting floor section 33 and the free edge 39. The length of the first floor section 31 is greater than the length of the connecting floor section 33.

In Figure 3, the load space 20 is shown with the load floor 30 removed. A spare wheel stowage system 60 is received in the load space 20. The spare wheel stowage system 60 is configured to receive a spare wheel and/or a tyre repair system. The spare wheel stowage system 60 forms part of the load floor system 28. In Figures 3 and 6, a temporary replacement spare wheel 61 is shown stowed in the spare wheel stowage system 60. The temporary replacement spare wheel 61 is also known as a space saver wheel or a mini spare wheel. The width of the temporary replacement spare wheel 61 in an axial direction is less than the width of a full-size spare wheel. In Figures 4 and 7, a full-size spare wheel 62 is shown stowed in the spare wheel stowage system 60. The full-size spare wheel 62 generally corresponds to the size of the wheels 15 of the vehicle 10. In Figures 5 and 8, a tyre repair system 63 is shown stowed in the spare wheel stowage system 60.

The term ‘tyre repair system’ is used herein to define a system which is useable to, at least temporarily, repair a damaged wheel on the vehicle, for example due to one of the vehicle tyres becoming punctured, so that the vehicle 10 is capable of being used without the need, at least temporarily, to replace the damaged wheel. For example, in one configuration the tyre repair system 63 comprises an injectable sealant or expandable foam which is injected into the tyre 17 through a tyre valve and an inflation means for inflating the tyre, for example a pump.

The term ‘spare wheel configuration’ is used herein to define different configurations of spare wheel, including the temporary replacement spare wheel 61 and the full-size spare wheel 62. The full-size spare wheel 62 may act as the first spare wheel configuration, for example in the embodiment described with reference to Figure 10, and the temporary replacement spare wheel 61 may act as the second spare wheel configuration, for example in the embodiment described with reference to Figure 9. It will be understood that alternative arrangements are envisaged. For example, the temporary replacement spare wheel 61 may act as the first spare wheel configuration, and the full size spare wheel 62 may act as a second spare wheel configuration, as described below with reference to Figures 12 and 13.

Referring to Figures 6 and 7, the spare wheel stowage system 60 comprises a base portion 64 and an upper portion 65. The base portion 64 and the upper portion 65 together define a spare wheel receiving space 66. In the present embodiment the base portion 64 and upper portion 65 together define the whole circumference of the spare-wheel receiving space 66, but the skilled person will understand that either or both the base portion 64 or the upper portion 65 could only partially define the circumference. The base portion 64 comprises a stowage space acting as a lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66. The lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66 is configured to retain the temporary replacement spare wheel 61. The temporary replacement spare wheel 61 is received by the base portion 64.

The base portion 64 is formed as a base stowage block. The base stowage block is formed from expanded polypropylene. The base portion 64 is formed as a unitary block. In embodiments, the base portion 64 is two or more blocks assembled together. The peripheral dimensions of the base portion 64 are configured to correspond generally to the shape and size of the lower load space 20b. That is, the base portion 64 is configured to be received in the lower load space 20b. The base portion 64 is configured to be push fit into the lower load space 20b. This helps to restrict movement of the base portion 64 in the load space 20. In embodiments, the base portion 64 comprises outwardly protruding ribs (not shown), which act as locating protrusions, to locate and hold the base portion 64 in the load space 20b. In such embodiments, the ribs space at least part of a main body of the base portion 64 from the internal body panels 21 of the load space 20. The ribs act as a mounting system for mounting the base portion 64 in the load space 20. Alternative mounting systems may be used. One or more connectors 90 are used to releasably mount the base portion 64 to the internal body panels 21, acting as a support. The connector 90 comprises a locking part on one of the components and a corresponding attachment configuration, such as a stud, on the other component with which the locking part locks. However it will be understood that one or more different types of connector 90 may be used.

The base portion 64 has an upper face 68. The upper face 68 is configured to locate the upper portion 65. The upper face 68 is also configured to locate the load floor 30. The upper face 68 of the base portion 64 is substantially planar. The upper face 68 extends on a parallel plane to the load floor supporting surface 26. In the embodiment of Figure 6, the upper face 68 lies substantially co-planar with load floor supporting surface 26. The upper face 68 extends substantially horizontal when the base portion 64 is disposed in the load space 20.

Cavities are formed in the base portion 64. The cavities may be used to minimize the material required to form the base stowage block. Cavities in the upper face 68 of the base portion 64 are configured to be used as locating cavities to locate the upper portion 65 relative to the base portion 64.

Although the dimensions of the base portion 64 may differ, for example, in dependence on the size and shape of the load space 20, the temporary replacement spare wheel 61 is at least contained within the base portion 64 in the present embodiment. As such, the temporary spare wheel 61 does not protrude from the upper face 68 of the base portion 64. The depth of the lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66 substantially corresponds to the height of the temporary replacement spare wheel 61, that is the maximum dimension of the temporary replacement spare wheel in an axial direction.

The base portion 64 further comprises a Helmholtz resonator 69. The Helmholtz resonator 69 is integrally formed in the base portion 64. The Helmholtz resonator 69 is configured to help minimize noise in the load space 20. The Helmholtz resonator 69 may alternatively be in the upper portion 65. The spare wheel stowage system 60 may comprise two or more Helmholtz resonators. Helmholtz resonators may be formed in each of the base portion 64 and upper portion 65.

The lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66 is configured to retain the temporary replacement spare wheel 61. The lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66 is dimensioned to hold the temporary replacement spare wheel 61. The lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66 has a diameter substantially corresponding to the outer diameter of the temporary replacement spare wheel 61. As such, the temporary replacement spare wheel 61 is push fitted into the lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66. This provides a snug fit against a side wall 70 and restricts movement of the temporary replacement spare wheel 61 in the lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66. In an alternative embodiment, the lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66 has a diameter greater than the diameter of the temporary replacement spare wheel 61. In embodiments, retention elements, such as ribs (not shown) are provided in the lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66 to restrict movement of the temporary replacement spare wheel 61. The retention elements protrude into the lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66 from the side wall 70. The retention elements may be omitted.

The base portion 64 has a spacer 71 which defines a lower end of the lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66. The spacer 71 closes or at least partially closes the lower end of the lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66. The spacer 71 is configured to receive and abut the temporary replacement spare wheel 61 or full-size spare wheel 62 when received in the lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66. The spacer 71 may be omitted.

The full-size spare wheel 62 has an outer diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the temporary replacement spare wheel 61. This ensures that the temporary replacement spare wheel 61 is interchangeable with the full-size spare wheel 62. The lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66 is therefore also configured to at least partially receive the temporary replacement spare wheel 61.

The upper portion 65 is formed as an upper stowage block. The upper stowage block is formed from expanded polypropylene. The upper portion 65 comprises a forward section 72 and a rearward section 73. The rearward section 73 acts as a first section. The forward section 72 acts as a second section. The respective orientations of the first and second sections may differ. The forward section 72 and the rearward section 73 are separable from each other. The terms ‘forward’ and ‘rearward’ may be construed as relative to each other. The upper portion 65 therefore comprises a stowage block section forming the forward section 72 and a stowage block section forming the rearward section 73. The forward section 72 is formed from an expanded polypropylene block, and the rearward section 73 is formed from an expanded polypropylene block. In one embodiment, the upper portion 65 is formed as a unitary block. The upper portion 65 defines an upper part 74 of the spare wheel receiving space 66. The forward section 72 and rearward section 73 together define the upper part 74 of the spare wheel receiving space 66. The upper portion 65 is releasably mountable on the base portion 64.

The diameter of the upper part 74 of the spare wheel receiving space 66 corresponds to the diameter of the lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66 in the base portion 64. As such, the full-size spare wheel 62 is able to protrude into the upper part 74 of the spare wheel receiving space 66 when the upper portion 65 is mounted on the base portion 64.

An alignment arrangement aids alignment of the upper portion 65 on the base portion 64 when the upper portion 65 is mounted on the base portion 64. The alignment arrangement comprises alignment elements (not shown) on the upper portion 65 which are receivable in the cavities on the base portion 64. The alignment elements may be omitted.

The upper portion 65 is releasably mounted to the base portion 64 by a connector arrangement. The connector arrangement comprises a connector 91 which releasably connects the base portion 64 with the upper portion 65. Although one connector 91 is shown in Figure 7, the number of connectors 91 may vary, and the connector arrangement may comprise two or more connectors 91. It will be understood that the type of connector 91 may vary. In one embodiment, the forward section 72 and rearward section 73 are connected to each other by one or more connectors.

When the upper portion 65 is mounted on the base portion 64, the forward section 72 and rearward section 73 are spaced from each other by a gap. Alternatively, the forward section 72 and rearward section 73 abut each other when the stowage system 60 is assembled.

The upper portion 65 is configured to be seated on the base portion 64. The forward section 72 and rearward section 73 are seated on the base portion 64 in predefined positions, and are located by one or more of the alignment arrangement and the connector arrangement.

The upper portion 65 has a top face 75. The top face 75 is configured to receive the load floor 30. The top face 75 of the upper portion 65 is substantially planar. In the embodiment of Figure 7, the top face 75 lies substantially co-planar with the upper step 24a when the stowage system 60 is assembled in the load space 20. The top face 75 extends substantially horizontal when the upper portion 65 is disposed in the load space 20 and seated on the base portion 64.

The upper portion 65 has a seating face 76 configured to seat on the upper face 68 of the base portion 64. When the upper portion 65 is mounted to the base portion 64 the upper part 74 of the spare wheel receiving space 66 aligns with the lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66. The full-size spare wheel 62 is therefore locatable in the upper part 74 and the lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66.

Although the dimensions of the base portion 64 and upper portion 65 may differ, for example, in dependence on the size and shape of the load space 20, the full-size spare wheel 62 is substantially contained within the base portion 64 and the upper portion 65 in the present embodiment. The combined depth of the upper part 74 and the lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66 substantially corresponds to the height of the full-size spare wheel 62, that is the maximum dimension of the full-size spare wheel 62 in an axial direction.

During assembly of the vehicle 10, the base portion 64 is disposed in the load space 20. The base portion 64 is seated in the load space 20 and the connectors 90 are used to releasably mount the base portion 64 to the internal body panels 21, acting as a support. The base portion 64 is now configured to receive a spare wheel configuration 61, 62. Due to the base portion 64 being formed as an expanded polypropylene block, the base portion 64 is easily manoeuvred into the load space 20 and assembly is simplified.

One of the spare wheel configurations is now selected, non-exclusively, from one of the temporary replacement spare wheel 61 or the full-size spare wheel 62.

Should the temporary replacement spare wheel 61 be selected, then the temporary replacement spare wheel 61 is moved into the load space 20 and inserted into the lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66. The temporary replacement spare wheel 61 is seated on the spacer 71. As such the temporary replacement spare wheel 61 is retained in position in the load space. As the height of the temporary replacement spare wheel 61 corresponds to the depth of the lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66, the temporary replacement spare wheel 61 does not protrude from the base portion 64.

The load floor 30 is then mounted in the load space 20. The load floor 30 is seated on the upper face 68 of the base portion 64. As such, the load floor 30 is seated substantially around the periphery of the lower load space 20b and so support of the load floor 30 is maximized. The load floor 30 is releasably mounted at the forward end of the load space 20 by the engagement member 50 which is pivoted into an engaged condition so that the floor forward end 30a of the load floor 30 lies against the load floor supporting surface 26. The floor rearward end 30b of the load floor 30 rests on and is supported by the mid step 24b of the scuff plate 24 at the floor rearward end of the load space 20. The scuff plate 24 therefore acts as a load step arrangement to support part of the load of the load floor 30 and any items placed thereon. The load step arrangement may be omitted.

When the load floor 30 is disposed on the base portion 64, the load floor 30 extends on a substantially horizontal plane, and is supported substantially along its length by the base portion 64. Such an arrangement is shown in Figures 9 and 15. The load floor 30 therefore defines a base of the upper load space 20a and items are able to be stowed on the load floor 30. As the load floor 30 defines a horizontal surface, items are easily disposed in the upper load space 20a. The load floor 30 is supported about its area from below. All of the floor sections extend co-planar with each other in this arrangement.

In the event that access to the lower load space 20b is required, then the load floor 30 is pivotable about one or more of the pivot axes 36a, 37a, 38a. The third floor section 34 is pivotable about the third pivot axis 38a to provide access to a rearward region of the lower load space 20b. The second floor section 32 is pivotable about the second pivot axis 37a to provide access to a greater extent of the lower load space 20b. By providing at least two pivot axes in the load floor 30 it is possible to help restrict the free edge 39 of the load floor 30 from becoming caught on the scuff plate 24, either in its load configuration, or as the load floor 30 is moved.

When the temporary replacement spare wheel 61 is required, the load floor 30 is moved between the load configuration and a raised configuration. In the raised configuration, the second and third floor sections 32, 34 of the load floor 30 are moved away from the spare wheel stowage system 60 to expose the spare wheel stowage system 60. A retaining system is configured to releasably hold the load floor 30 in the raised configuration. In embodiments, the retaining system includes at least one retainer 40a which is configured to releasably hold the second and third floor sections 32, 34 in a raised configuration. The retainer 40 is described below with reference to Figures 25 to 30. The retainer 40 may be omitted.

The temporary replacement spare wheel 61 is then able to be withdrawn from the spare wheel stowage system 60 and removed from the load space 20. It will be understood that the load floor 30 is then returned to its load configuration, and continues to be supportable by the spare wheel stowage system 60. If the temporary replacement spare wheel 61 is used to replace one of the vehicle’s full-sized wheels, the full-size wheel 62 may be retained in the upper load space 20a, or may be retained in the spare wheel stowage system 60. However, as the temporary replacement spare wheel 61 has a smaller height than the fullsize wheel 62 in the axial direction, the full-size wheel 62 will protrude from the base portion 64 when received in the spare wheel stowage system 60. In this situation, the load floor 30 is still able to be lowered into a loading condition, but will be supported on the full-size wheel itself. Such an arrangement may reduce the load that the load floor is capable of carrying due to the reduced support of the load floor 30. The connecting floor section 33 will pivot relative to the first floor section 31, and the second floor section 32 will pivot about the connecting floor section 33. As such, the first and second floor sections 31, 32 will be maintained in horizontal load positions.

Should the full-size spare wheel 62 be selected, then the upper portion 65 is disposed in the load space 20. The forward and rearward sections 72, 73 of the upper portion 65 are maneuvered into their respective positions and are seated on the base portion 64. The upper portion 65 is located in the correct position by means of the alignment elements locating in the cavities. Alternatively, or as well as, the upper portion 65 is located by the connectors 91. The upper portion 65 is coupled to the lower portion 64 by the connectors 91.

As such, the lower part 67 and upper part 74 of the spare wheel receiving space 66 are aligned to form a chamber in which the full-size spare wheel 62 is receivable.

The full-size spare wheel 62 is moved into the load space 20 and inserted into the chamber defined by the lower part 67 and the upper part 74 of the spare wheel receiving space 66. The full-size spare wheel 62 is seated on the spacer 71. As such the full-size spare wheel 62 is retained in the load space 20. As the height of the full-size spare wheel 62 corresponds to the combined depth of the spare wheel receiving space 66, the full-size spare wheel 62 does not protrude from the base portion 64, and so is contained by the stowage system 60.

The load floor 30 is then mounted in the load space 20. The load floor 30 is releasably mounted at the forward end of the load space 20 by the engagement member 50 which is pivoted into the engaged condition so that the first floor section 31 of the load floor 30 lies against the load floor supporting surface 26. The connecting floor section 33 is pivoted about the first floor section 31 to extend upwardly. The length of the connecting floor section 33 between the first and second pivot axes 36a, 37a is greater than the height of the upper portion 65. In embodiments, the length of the connecting floor section 33 between the first and second pivot axes 36a, 37a is at least equal to the height of the upper portion 65 so that the second pivot axis 37a is able to be positioned on a plane co-planer with the top face 75 of the upper portion 65. The second floor section 32 and third floor section 34 of the load floor 30 are together pivoted into an upper, substantially horizontal, load position. The second and third floor sections 32, 34 are received on the top face 75 of the upper portion 65 and supported thereon.

The floor rearward end 30b of the load floor 30 is spaced from the scuff plate 24 at the rearward end of the load space 20 but is maintained in a supported condition by the spare wheel stowage system 60. The load floor 30 therefore extends on a substantially horizontal plane, and is supported along its length.

When the load floor 30 is disposed on the upper portion 65, the load floor 30 extends on a substantially horizontal plane, with only the connecting floor section 33 extending at an inclined angle. Such an arrangement is shown in Figures 10 and 16. The load floor 30 therefore defines a base of the upper load space 20a and items are able to be stowed on the load floor 30. As the load floor 30 defines a substantially horizontal surface, items are easily and stably disposed in the upper load space 20a. The load floor 30 is supported about its area from below.

In the event that access to the lower load space 20b is required, then the load floor 30 is pivotable about one or more of the pivot axes 36a, 37a, 38a. When the full-size spare wheel 62 is required the load floor 30 is moved between the load configurationand the raised configuration. In the raised configuration, the second and third floor sections 32, 34 of the load floor 30 are moved away from the spare wheel stowage system 60 to expose the spare wheel stowage system 60. The retainer 40a is configured to releasably hold the second and third floor sections 32, 34 in the raised configuration.

The full-size spare wheel 62 is able to be withdrawn from the spare wheel stowage system 60 and removed from the load space 20. The load floor 30 is then returned to its upper load position, and continues to be supportable by the spare wheel stowage system 60. In the event that a vehicle wheel is replaced, the replaced vehicle wheel may be retained in the upper load space 20a, or may be retained in the spare wheel stowage system 60. The upper portion 65 may be dismounted from the base portion 64 and removed from the load space

20. In such a situation, the load floor 30 is then moved to be supported on the upper face 68 of the base portion 64. The usable load space is therefore increased.

The above described embodiments of the spare wheel stowage system 60 are described with reference to the temporary replacement spare wheel 61 and the full-size spare wheel 62. It will be understood that different sizes of temporary replacement spare wheel and fullsize spare wheel may be accommodated by selection of different base portions 64 and different upper portions 65. Should the tyre repair system 63 be desired to be stowed in the load space 20 then, in one embodiment, an alternative base portion 77 is disposed in the load space 20. Such an alternative base portion 77 is shown in Figures 5 and 8. It will be understood that the alternative base portion 77 is interchangeable with base portion 64 shown in Figure 3. The alternative base portion 77 generally corresponds to the base portion 64, but is configured to receive the tyre repair system 63. The alternative base portion 77 has a stowage space 78 and an upper face 79. The stowage space 78 is configured to retain the tyre repair system 63. The tyre repair system 63 is contained by the stowage space 78 such that it does not protrude from the upper face 79.

The alternative base portion 77 has a height which is less than the height of the base portion 64 shown in Figure 3 as it is only required to stow the tyre repair system 63. As such, the tyre repair system 63 is contained by the alternative base portion 77 such that it does not protrude from the alternative base portion 77 and has the minimum stowed space volume in the load space 20.

The load floor 30 is then mounted in the load space 20. Referring to Figures 11 and 14, the load floor 30 is seated on the upper face 79 of the alternative base portion 77. The load floor 30 is releasably mounted at the forward end of the load space 20 by the engagement member 50 which is pivoted into the engaged condition so that the first floor section 31 of the load floor 30 lies against the load floor supporting surface 26. The connecting floor section 33 is pivoted about the first floor section 31 to extend downwardly from the first floor section 31. The length of the connecting floor section 33 between the first and second pivot axes 36a, 37a is greater than the vertical distance between the upper face 79 and the load floor supporting surface 26. In embodiments, the length of the connecting floor section 33 between the first and second pivot axes 36a, 37a is at least equal to the vertical distance between the upper face 79 and the load floor supporting surface 26 so that the second pivot axis 37a is able to be positioned on a plane co-planer with the upper face 79 of the alternative base portion ΊΊ. The second floor section 32 and third floor section 34 of the load floor 30 are together pivoted into a lower, substantially horizontal, position. The terms ‘upper position’ and ‘lower position’ are to be determined as relative to another alternative position. The second and third floor sections 32, 34 are received on the upper face 79 and supported thereon.

The free edge 39 of the load floor 30 rests on and is supported by the lower step 24c of the scuff plate 24. When the load floor 30 is disposed on the alternative base portion 77, the load floor 30 extends on a substantially horizontal plane, with only the connecting floor section 33 extending at an inclined angle. The load floor 30 therefore defines a base of the upper load space 20a and items are able to be stowed on the load floor 30. As the load floor 30 defines a substantially horizontal surface, items are easily disposed in the upper load space 20a. The load floor 30 is supported about its area from below.

In the above described embodiments, different base portions are used in dependence on whether it is desired to stow the tyre repair system 63 or a wheel, including one of the temporary replacement spare wheel 61 or full-size spare wheel 62. However, referring to Figures 12 and 13, in embodiments a common base portion may be used to stow any one of the tyre repair system 63, the temporary replacement spare wheel 61 or the full-size spare wheel 62 in dependence on the selected upper portion, or the omission of the upper portion. The features of the spare wheel stowage system 60 shown in Figures 12 and 13 are generally the same as the features of the spare wheel stowage system 60 of Figures 6 and 7, and so a detailed description will be omitted and the same reference numerals will be utilised.

The base portion 64 is configured to retain the tyre repair system 63, and to partially retain the temporary replacement spare wheel 61 and the full-size spare wheel 62. When it is desired to retain the tyre repair system 63 in the load space 20, the base portion 64 is disposed in the load space 20. The lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66 of the base portion 64 is configured to retain the tyre repair system 63 so that it does not protrude from the upper side of the base portion 64. That is, the depth of the lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66 substantially corresponds to the vertical height of the tyre repair system to be received in the lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66. The load floor 30 is then disposed over the base portion 64. The load floor 30 will be disposed in a lower load position corresponding to that shown in Figure 11.

When it is desired to retain the temporary replacement spare wheel 61, acting as the first spare wheel configuration, in the load space 20, the base portion 64 is disposed in the load space 20 and a first upper portion 65a is mounted to the base portion 64 as shown in Figure 12. The lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66 formed by the base portion 64 is configured to partially retain the temporary replacement spare wheel 61, and the remainder of the temporary replacement spare wheel 61 is contained by the first upper portion 65a. The load floor 30 is then disposed over the base portion 64 and is disposed in an upper load position as shown in Figure 9. Such an upper load position is relative to the position corresponding to that shown in Figure 11, but may also be a lower load position relative to the load floor position corresponding to that shown in Figure 10. The upper and lower load positions are on at least substantially parallel planes.

In an alternative embodiment, when it is desired to retain the full-size spare wheel 62, acting as the second spare wheel configuration, in the load space 20, the base portion 64 is disposed in the load space 20 and a second upper portion 65b is mounted to the base portion 64 as shown in Figure 13. The lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66 of the base portion 64 is configured to partially retain the full-size spare wheel 62, and the remainder of the full-size spare wheel 62 is contained by the second upper portion 65b. The load floor 30 is then disposed over the base portion 64 and is disposed in an upper load position corresponding to that shown in Figure 10.

With the above arrangement it is possible to use a common base portion and stow different sized spare wheels or tyre repair kits, whilst maximizing the useable load space. In the event that a different spare wheel or tyre repair kit is desired to be used then it is possible to remove or replace the upper portion mounted to the base portion.

Although in the above described embodiments the load floor 30 is received on and supported by the spare wheel stowage system, it will be understood that the stowage system may be used to stow alternative components in addition to, or as an alternative to, spare wheels or tyre repair systems. As such, the stowage system may be a component stowage system configured to be received in the lower load space, the stowage system being configurable in a first configuration to support the second floor section in the upper load position and a second configuration to support the second floor section in the lower load position. The component stowage system forms part of the load floor system 28.

In the embodiments described above and with reference to Figures 3 to 13, when the upper portion 65 is mounted to the base portion 64 and one of the spare wheel configurations 61, 62 is retained by the base portion 64 and the upper portion 65, the spare wheel configuration 61, 62 is removed from the spare wheel stowage system 60 by lifting the spare wheel configuration 61,62 from the spare wheel stowage system 60.

The rearward section 73 of the upper portion 65 forms the first upper section of the spare wheel stowage system 60. The rearward section 73 is removable from the base portion 64. The rearward section 73 is releasably mountable on the base portion 64, and separable from the forward section 72, which forms the second upper section. When the rearward section 73 is removed, a rearward peripheral area of the spare wheel receiving space 66 defined by the upper portion 65 is exposed. The exposed area has a width greater than the diameter of the spare wheel 61, 62 retained in the spare wheel receiving space 66. The spare wheel 61, 62 is therefore removable from the spare wheel stowage system 60 by removing at least part of the spare wheel configuration 61, 62 through the exposed area. This arrangement minimizes the vertical extent by which the spare wheel 61, 62 has to be lifted and aids removal of the spare wheel from the spare wheel stowage system. If the upper portion 65 is a unitary portion, it may be removed in its entirety, aiding removal of the spare wheel in a similar manner.

An alternative embodiment of the spare wheel stowage system 60 with a releasably mountable rearward section 73 of the upper portion 65 is described with reference to Figures 17 to 20. This embodiment generally corresponds to the embodiment described above, and so a detailed description will be omitted and the same reference numbers will be retained. In Figure 17, the rearward section 73 of the upper portion 65 is shown mounted on the base portion 64. The forward section 72 is also mounted on the base portion 64. The received spare wheel configuration is the full-size spare wheel 62, although the received spare wheel configuration alternately is the temporary replacement spare wheel 61.

The base portion 64 has a spare wheel guide 80. The spare wheel guide 80 comprises a ramped surface 81. The ramped surface 81 is inclined upwardly towards the scuff plate 24, and is shown by the inclined dashed line in figures 18, 19 and 20. That is, the height of the ramped surface 81 increases in a direction away from the spare wheel receiving space 66. The ramped surface 81 is covered by the rearward section 73 when the rearward section 73 is mounted on the base portion 64. The ramped surface 81 extends from the lower part 67 of the spare wheel receiving space 66.

A mounting surface 82 is provided adjacent to the ramped surface 81 against which the rearward section 73 is mountable. The ramped surface 81 extends to proximate the plane of the mounting surface 82 to aid removal of the spare wheel 62. The ramped surface 81 is spaced from the spacer 71.

When the spare wheel 62 is to be removed from the spare wheel stowage system 60, the load floor 30 is moved into a raised configuration. Alternatively, the load floor 30 is removed from the load space 20. The rearward section 73 is released from the base portion 64 and removed. The spare wheel 62 is then slid along the spare wheel guide 80 to remove the spare wheel 62.

Although in the above described embodiments the forward section 72 of the upper portion 65 is removable from the base portion 64, in an alternative embodiment the forward section 72 is integrally formed with the base portion 64. That is, the forward section 72 is nonremovable.

As described above, the load floor 30 is releasably mounted in the load space 20. Mounting of the load floor 30 in the load space 20 will now be described with reference to Figures 21 to 24. The load floor system 28 comprises the load floor 30 having the engagement member 50, and the attachment arrangement 100 with which the engagement member is configured to selectively engage. The attachment arrangement 100 is on the support block 25 at the forward end of the load space 20. The support block 25 acts as a support having the attachment arrangement 100. The engagement member 50 and the attachment arrangement 100 together define an attachment.

Referring to Figures 21 to 24, the engagement member 50 and attachment arrangement 100 are shown in detail. The engagement member 50 on the load floor 30 is configured to selectively engage with the attachment arrangement 100 on the support block 25 when the load floor 30 is pivoted towards the engaged condition. The engagement member 50 is configured to disengage with the attachment arrangement when the load floor is pivoted towards the released condition. In Figure 21, the engagement member 50 is shown partially removed from the attachment arrangement 100. In Figure 22, the engagement member 50 is shown received on the attachment arrangement 100 in the released condition. In Figure 23, the engagement member 50 is shown in a retained or partially engaged condition. In Figure 24 the engagement member is shown in the engaged condition.

The load floor 30 has a pair of engagement members 50, and a corresponding pair of attachment arrangements 100 on the support block 25 with which the engagement members 50 are coupled. Only one is shown in each of the Figures. It will be understood that the number of engagement members and corresponding attachment arrangements may vary.

The engagement member 50 is in the form of a hook. The engagement member 50 protrudes from an underside of the load floor 30. In particular, the engagement member 50 protrudes from the underside of the first floor section 31 of the load floor 30. Each of the engagement members 50 are spaced apart. The engagement member 50 has a radiused form. The engagement member 50 has a free end 51 and has an arcuate form between the underside of the load floor 30 and the free end 51. The thickness of the engagement member 50 reduces from the underside of the load floor 30 to the free end 51. The engagement member comprises three principal portions: a shank portion 52 projecting from the underside of the load floor 30, an extension portion 53 extending from the shank portion 52 which extends substantially longitudinally to the underside of the load floor 30, and a return portion 54 extending from the extension portion 53 projecting back towards the underside of the load floor 30. The engagement member is formed from a rigid plastic, or another suitable material. The engagement member 50 and the underside of the load floor 30 together define a hook cavity 55. The hook cavity 55 is open at a forward side of the load floor 30.

A forward edge 56 of the load floor 30 is chamfered. The forward edge aids guiding the engagement member 50 into the correct orientation with the attachment arrangement 100. The engagement member 50 comprises a plinth 57. The plinth 57 is configured to mount the engagement member 50 to the underside of the load floor 30. The plinth 57 is between the shank portion 52 and the underside of the load floor 30. The plinth 57 may be omitted.

The attachment arrangement 100 comprises an attachment member 101 and a stop member 102. The attachment member 101 is spaced from the stop member 102. The thickness of the shank portion 52 corresponds to the spacing between the attachment member 101 and the stop member 102. A receiving gap 103 is defined between the attachment member 101 and the stop member 102. The receiving gap 103 is configured to receive the engagement member 50. The attachment member 101 is a shaft. The attachment member 101 comprises an arcuate face 104 against which the engagement member 50 is able to rotate. The plinth 57, in the present embodiment, acts as a guide surface. A rearwards guide edge 58 of the plinth 57 locates against the arcuate face 104 of the attachment member 50 and slides thereagainst to guide motion of the engagement member 50 relative to the attachment member 50.

The stop member 102 comprises a cam surface 105. The cam surface 105 opposes the arcuate face 104. The stop member 102 is integrally formed with the support block 25. The support block 25 is formed from polypropylene or another suitable material. The cam surface 105 is inclined relative to the load floor supporting surface 26.

The cam surface 105 is configured to guide the engagement member 50 so that the engagement member is received by the attachment arrangement 100 between the attachment member 101 and the stop member 102. The attachment member 101 is on or below the plane of the load floor supporting surface 26. As such, the engagement member 50 must be moved in a direction at an angle to the load floor supporting surface 26 when the engagement member 50 is received in and removed from the attachment arrangement 100.

In the arrangement shown in the figures, the first section 31 of the load floor 30 is orientated to an angle of approximately 70 degrees to the plane of the load floor supporting surface 26. The free end 51 of the engagement member 50 is then slid into the receiving gap 103 between the attachment member 101 and the stop member 102. The attachment member 101 is aligned with the engagement member 50 by one or both of the chamfered forward edge 56 of the load floor 30 and the cam surface 105 as shown in Figure 21. The engagement member 50 may then be received on the attachment member 101 as shown in Figure 22. In this condition, the engagement member 50 is received by the attachment arrangement, but is in the released condition. That is, the engagement member 50 may be withdrawn without any rotational motion and is not in an interference fit.

The stop member 102 restricts the direction in which the engagement member 50 is removable from the attachment arrangement 100. The stop member 102 prevents the engagement member 50, and therefore the load floor 30 from being drawn in a rearwards direction, without the engagement member being moved upwardly. As such, the stop member 102 helps to prevent the load floor 30 from being inadvertently released from the attachment arrangement 100. The stop member 102 acts to guide the engagement member 50 into and from the attachment arrangement 100.

When the engagement member 50 is in the released condition, the first floor section 31 of the load floor 30 is then rotated relative to the support block 25. The engagement member 50 slides against the cam surface 105 and is rotated together with the first floor section 31. The load floor 30 is configured to be pivoted through at least 45 degrees to move from the released condition into the engaged condition and, in this embodiment to be pivoted through at least 70 degrees.

As the load floor 30 and therefore the engagement member 50 is rotated from the released condition, the engagement member 50 is moved into the retained condition. That is, the engagement member 50 is in a position received by the attachment arrangement 100 in which the engagement member 50 cannot be released from the attachment arrangement 100 due to the action of the stop member 102 without rotation of the load floor 30 and therefore the engagement member 50, but the engagement member 50 is not in the engaged condition with the attachment arrangement 100.

As the engagement member 50 is rotated, the thickness of the section of the engagement member 50 received between the attachment member 101 and the stop member 102 increases. As such, the attachment arrangement 100 is configured to hold the engagement member in an interference fit when the load floor 30 is pivoted into the engaged condition. In such a condition, the receiving gap 103 is configured to have a width corresponding to the width of the portion of the load floor 30 such that the attachment arrangement clamps the engagement member 50 between the attachment member 101 and the stop member 102 when the load floor is pivoted into the engaged condition as shown in Figure 24.

When in the engaged condition, the first floor section 31 of the load floor 30 is fixedly held in place. The first floor section 31 is restricted from movement, irrespective of the relative movement of the other floor sections. As such, the first floor section 31 is held in a stationary position when the second floor section 32 is moved between different positions. In particular, the first floor section can remain in a fixed orientation when the load floor is moved from the first load position to the second load position. As such, movement in an upward direction is restricted.

When the engagement member is engaged with the attachment arrangement, the support block 25 acting as the support member abuts the first floor section 31 to prevent downward movement of the first floor section 31.

When the engagement member 50 is in the retained or engaged conditions, the stop member 102 is configured to abut the engagement member 50 in response to any linear motion in a forwards direction to restrict movement of the load floor away from the attachment arrangement 100. When the engagement member 50 is in the fully engaged condition, the first floor section 31 of the load floor 30 lies against the load floor supporting surface 26. The engagement member 50, and therefore the load floor 30, is restricted from moving in a linear motion, such as away from the attachment member 101, by the engagement member 50 abutting the stop member 102. The load floor 30 is restricted from moving in a pivoting motion by the interference fit of the engagement member 50 between the attachment member 101 and the stop member 102.

To release the load floor 30, the first floor section 31 is pivoted about the attachment member 101, away from the load floor supporting surface 26, and urged to be released from the interference fit. The first floor section 31 is then pivoted through at least 45 degrees to move between the engaged condition and into the released condition, and in this embodiment through at least 70 degrees. The engagement member 50 may then be withdrawn from the attachment arrangement 100.

Referring to Figure 25 to 30, the retaining system 40 will now be described. The retaining system 40 comprises retainers 40a. One retainer 40a is shown in figures 25 to 28. The retainer 40a comprises an engagement lever or latch 42. The engagement lever 42 is on a support in the load space, in this embodiment on one of the internal body panels 21. The retainer 40a comprises the support and the engagement lever 42.

The retaining system 40 may include multiple retainers or the single retainer 40a. The retaining system 40 is configured to releasably hold the load floor 30 in the raised configuration. In the present embodiment, the retainers 40a are configured to hold the second and third floor sections 32, 34 of the load floor 30 in a raised configuration. The retainers 40a are disposed at an upper end of the load space 20. The load space has a top wall 41, part of which is shown partially cut-away, and so omitted, in figure 3.

The or each retainer 40a is configured to retain a portion of the load floor 30, in this embodiment the second floor section 32, in a raised configuration, that is, away from the load configuration in which the load floor 30 is in its normal condition in the load space 20. The retaining system 40 holds at least part of the load floor 30 at or proximal to the top wall

41. In one embodiment the entire load floor 30 is moved into a raised configuration.

The retaining system 40 described herein comprises multiple retainers 40a, as shown in figures 29 and 30. Each retainer 40a comprises an engagement lever or latch. In the present embodiment, the retaining system 40 comprises forward retainers each comprising a forward engagement lever 42 and rearward retainers each comprising a rearward engagement levers 43. The levers 42, 43 are on the support in the load space 20, in this embodiment on one of the internal body panels 21. The retaining system 40 comprises opposing forward and rearward levers 42, 43 on opposing sides of the load space 20, although only one side is shown in the figures. The levers 42, 43 on opposing sides are configured to abut against the underside of the load floor, i.e. the load floor rests on the levers 42, 43, to support the load floor, at opposing side edges of the load floor 30. Levers

42, 43 on one of the opposing sides may be omitted. The number of levers 42, 43 on each side may vary. The levers 42, 43 are disposed proximate to the top wall 41.

As will be described below, the levers 42, 43 are configured to locate against the third floor section 34 of the load floor 30 to retain the second and third floor sections 32, 34 in the raised configuration. In embodiments, the third floor section 34 may be omitted and the or each lever may be configured to locate against and hold the second floor section 32 in the raised configuration.

Each lever 42, 43 is movable between a retracted condition as shown in Figures 25 and 26, and a protruded condition as shown in Figures 27 and 28. In the protruded condition, each lever 42, 43 is configured to protrude into a path along which part of the load floor 30 is movable. In the embodiment shown in Figures 29 and 30, each lever protrudes into the path of the third floor section 34. Alternatively, one or more levers 42, 43 protrude into the path of the second floor section 32.

In the retracted condition, each lever 42, 43 is configured to be retracted from the path along which part of the load floor 30 is movable into a raised configuration. In the embodiment shown in Figures 29 and 30, each lever 42, 43 is retracted so that the load floor 30 does not contact the lever 42, 43 as the load floor is moved along its path. Alternatively, one or more levers 42, 43 may contact the load floor 30 and be urged out of the path of the load floor 30 as it is moved along its path in one direction. Each lever 42, 43 is therefore configured to selectively act as a shoulder against which the load floor abuts.

One of the forward levers 42 is shown in Figures 25 to 27. The rearward levers 43 are generally identical. The lever 42 is pivotable between the retracted (Figures 25 and 26) and protruded (Figures 27 and 28) conditions. The lever 42 is mounted on one of the internal body panels 21, and the internal body panel 21 therefore acts as a support. The internal body panel or trim 21 defines an interior surface 21a of the load space 20, acting as a support surface, which extends substantially vertically, that is perpendicular to the pivot axes 36a, 37a, 38a of the load floor 30. This enables the load floor 30 to slide alongside the internal body panel 21 without contacting the body panel 21.

The lever 42 is disposed in a lever recess 44 defined in the interior surface 21a. The lever recess 44 receives the lever 42 in the retracted condition, and extends behind a portion of the lever. The lever 42 is mounted on the support. The lever 42 is pivotally mounted to the support to enable the lever 42 to pivot from being retracted in the lever recess 44 to protrude from the lever recess 44. In an alternative embodiment, the support and the lever 42 may form a discrete component separable from the interior surface of the load space. For example, a support with a recess 44 and pin 46 and the lever 42 attached may be assembled separately and then suitably attached in the load space, for example by insertion into an aperture/recess in one of the internal body panels 21 in the load space 20.

The lever 42 is elongate. The lever 42 has a retained end 42a and a protruding end 42b. The protruding end 42b is configured to protrude from the lever recess 44 in the protruded condition, and to be retracted into the lever recess 44 in the retracted condition. The retained end 42a is configured to be retained in the lever recess 44 in both the protruded and retracted conditions. A slot 47 is formed through the lever 42. The slot 47 extends in the lever 42 in a lengthwise direction along the lever, i.e. in a direction between the retained and protruding ends 42a, 42b. The slot 47 is elongate and extends longitudinally along the lever 42. The slot 47 has a first end 47a, the first end 47a being closer to the retained end 42a of the lever, and a second end 47b, the second end 47b being closer to the protruding end 42b of the lever 42. A pin 46 is provided on the support and the pin 46 extends through the slot 47. The lever 42 pivots about the pin 46. The pin 46 is a pivot shaft. The lever 42 is pivotable and slidable about the pin 46. The pin 46 extends in the lever recess 44. The pin 46 extends horizontally.

A cam surface 45 is provided in the recess 44 behind the lever 42, i.e. on the opposite side of the lever from the side facing the load space 20. The cam surface 45 is formed by a surface of the lever recess 44. The cam surface 45 is arcuate. The retained end 42a of the lever 42 locates against the cam surface 45. The cam surface 45 guides movement of the pin 46 along the slot 47 in a lengthwise direction of the slot 47. The cam surface 45 extends in a vertical direction. When the lever 42 is in the retained position, the pin 46 is located at the first end 47a of the slot 47. As the lever 42 is moved from the retracted to the protruded condition, the cam surface 45 acts on the retained end 42a of the lever 42 so that the slot 47 slides relative to the pin 46, until, when the lever 42 is in the protruded condition, the pin 46 is located at the second end 47b of the slot 47, i.e. the pin 46 changes position in the slot 47 in a lengthwise direction of the slot 47.

An abutment 49 is formed at an upper end of the cam surface 45. The abutment 49 is defined in the lever recess 44. The abutment 49 is formed by a surface extending transversely to the cam surface 45. The abutment 49 limits movement of the lever 42. The retained end 42a of the lever 42 is configured to abut against the abutment 49 in the protruded condition.

The lever 42 is cantilevered from the support in the protruded condition. The lever 42 is cantilevered about the abutment 49 and the pin 46. The retained end 42a abuts the abutment 49, with the pin 46 acting in the slot between the retained end 42a and the protruding end 42b, and the protruding end 42b extending from the lever recess 44.

An end stop 48 is defined in the lever recess 44. The protruding end 42b is configured to abut the end stop 48 in the retracted condition. The end stop 48 extends substantially perpendicular to the abutment 49. The end stop 48 and abutment 49 limit the range of movement of the lever 42. The cam surface 45 guides the movement of the lever 42 between limits provided by the end stop 48 and the abutment 49.

When access to the lower load space 20b is desired, the floor rearward end 30b of the load floor 30 is manipulated to lift it from its load position. The third floor section 34 is lifted by the handle 35. The connecting floor section 33, second floor section 32 and third floor section 34 are moved relative to the first floor section 31. The load floor 30 is moved along a path from the load configuration towards the raised configuration. The floor rearward end 30b of the load floor 30 is moved beyond the location of the or each engagement lever 42, 43.

The levers 42, 43 are initially in their retracted condition such that the load floor 30 is movable beyond the position of the engagement levers 42, 4340. Upon moving the load floor 30 above the location of the engagement levers 42, 43, the levers 42, 43 are each operated to move the or each lever 42, 43 into the protruded position. To cause a lever 42 to move from the retracted condition to the protruded condition, a force is exerted on a lower end, that is the retained end 42a, of the lever 42. The lever 42 is therefore urged to pivot about the pin 46. The cam surface 45 guides the lever into the correct protruded condition. The latch 42 slides along the pin 46 in a lengthwise direction of the lever 42, that is of the slot 47. The pin 46 is configured to locate proximate the protruding end 42b in the retracted condition and proximate the retained end 42a in the protruding condition. As such, the levers 42, 43 protrude from the support into the path of the load floor 30, with the load floor disposed above the location of each lever 42, 43.

The load floor 30 is then lowered into abutment with the levers 42, 43, i.e. so that it rests on top of the levers. Thus, the levers support the load floor. In the present embodiment shown in Figures 29 and 30, the third floor section 34 is moved into abutment with the levers 42, 43, although in alternative embodiments the second floor section 32 is also or alternatively moved into abutment with the levers 42, 43. The load floor 30 is in abutment with the protruding end 42b of each lever 42.

The levers 42, 43 support the load floor 30 in the raised configuration as shown in Figure 30. In this configuration, the load floor 30 is moved away from its load configuration, and enables easy access to the lower load space 20b. The floor rearward end 30b of the load floor 30 is maintained in its raised configuration, with the levers restricting the load floor 30 from being lowered.

To move the load floor from the raised configuration into the load configuration, the process is reversed. The load floor 30 is lifted from abutment with the engagement levers 42, 43, and the levers 42, 43 are moved from their protruded condition into their retracted condition. This movement is caused by a force being applied to the protruded end 42a of each lever 42, 43 to cause the lever 42, 43 to rotate.

In alternative embodiments, the second and/or third floor sections abut against the top wall 41 in the raised configuration. The top wall 41 of the load space 20 acts as an upper locating surface. In such an arrangement, the rearward end of the second and/or third floor sections abuts against the top wall 41, with the underside of the load floor abutting against the at least one retainer 40a. As such, the load floor is retained between the top wall 41 and at least one lever 42.

In alternative embodiments, any levers 42, 43 may be deployable by a method other than that described above. For example, the levers may slide between the retracted condition and the protruded condition. The levers may be spring biased to allow deployment to the protruded condition on removal of a retaining feature such as a catch which retains the lever in the retained position.

In alternative embodiments, the or each retainer may be fixed in a protruded condition. That is, the or each retainer may be immovable. The retainer may be brought into contact with the load floor by manipulation of the load floor 30 so that the load floor is moved around the retainer when it is moved into the raised configuration. For example, in the load floor arrangement 30 discussed above, the rearmost end 30b of the load floor 30 can be moved forwards whilst the load floor 30 is lifted. With suitable positioning of the retainers, this load floor functionality could allow the rearmost end 30b of the load floor 30 to be moved forward of the retainers while being lifted and then once the rear end 30b is higher than the retainers, the rear end 30b can be pulled forward again so that it extends rearward of the retainers and the load floor 30 can be rested on top of the retainers.

Although in the above described embodiments the retainer 40a includes a lever, alternative embodiments are anticipated. For example, in an alternative arrangement, the retainer 40a comprises a magnetic arrangement to releasably hold the second floor section in the raised configuration. In such an arrangement, magnets and corresponding magnetic attraction elements are disposed in the third floor section 34 and top wall 41 of the load space 20. When the load floor 30 is moved into the raised configuration, the magnets and corresponding magnetic attraction elements align with each other and attract to hold the load floor 30 in the raised configuration.

Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in the preceding paragraphs with reference to various examples, it should be appreciated that modifications to the examples given can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as claimed.

Features described in the preceding description may be used in combinations other than the combinations explicitly described.

Although functions have been described with reference to certain features, those functions may be performable by other features, whether described or not.

Although features have been described with reference to certain embodiments, those features may also be present in other embodiments whether described or not.

Whilst endeavouring in the foregoing specification to draw attention to those features of the invention believed to be of particular importance, it should be understood that the Applicant claims protection in respect of any patentable feature or combination of features 5 hereinbefore referred to and/or shown in the drawings, whether or not particular emphasis has been placed thereon.

Claims

1. A spare wheel stowage system for a load space for a vehicle comprising:

a base portion for retaining at least part of a spare wheel, and an upper portion mountable on the base portion, the base portion and upper portion at least partially defining a spare wheel receiving space, wherein at least a section of the upper portion is removable to expose a peripheral area of the spare wheel receiving space to aid removal of the spare wheel from the spare wheel stowage system.

2. The spare wheel stowage system according to claim 1, wherein the base portion comprises a spare wheel guide, at least part of the guide being covered by at least the section of the upper portion when the at least the section of the upper portion is mounted on the base portion.

3. The spare wheel stowage system according to claim 2, wherein the spare wheel guide comprises a ramped surface.

4. The spare wheel stowage system according to claim 3, wherein the height of the ramped surface increases in a direction away from the spare wheel receiving space.

5. The spare wheel stowage system according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the base portion has a mounting surface against which the at least the section of the upper portion is mountable.

6. The spare wheel stowage system according to claim 5, wherein the ramped surface extends to proximate the plane of the mounting surface.

7. The spare wheel stowage system according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the ramped surface is inclined relative to the mounting surface.

8. The spare wheel stowage system according to any of claims 2 to 7, in which the spare wheel guide has a width equal to or greater than the diametrical width of the spare wheel receiving space.

9. The spare wheel stowage system according to any preceding claim, in which the base portion defines a lower part of the spare wheel receiving space.

10. The spare wheel stowage system according to claim 9, wherein the depth of the lower part of the spare wheel receiving space is configured to be less than the height of the spare wheel such that at least part of the spare wheel protrudes from the base portion when received in the base portion.

11. The spare wheel stowage system according to claim 9 or 10, in which the base portion comprises a base stowage block defining the lower part of the spare wheel receiving space.

12. The spare wheel stowage system according to claim 11, in which the base stowage block is an expanded polypropylene block.

13. The spare wheel stowage system according to any preceding claim, in which the upper portion comprises an upper stowage block.

14. The spare wheel stowage system according to claim 13, in which the upper stowage block is an expanded polypropylene block.

15. The spare wheel stowage system according to claim 13 or claim 14, wherein the upper stowage block is configured to at least partially receive the spare wheel.

16. The spare wheel stowage system according to any preceding claim, in which the upper portion comprises a first section and a second section, the first section and the second section being mountable on the base portion, the first section being removable to expose a peripheral area of the spare wheel receiving space to aid removal of the spare wheel from the spare wheel stowage system.

17. The spare wheel stowage system according to claim 16, wherein the first section is configured to mount to the base portion independently from the second section.

18. The spare wheel stowage system according to claim 16, wherein the second section is integrally formed with the base portion.

19. The spare wheel stowage system according to claim 16, claim 17, or claim 18, wherein the first section is arranged to be, in use in a load space, a rearward section and the second section is arranged to be, in use in a load space, a forward section.

20. The spare wheel stowage system according to any preceding claim, wherein the spare wheel is a full-size spare wheel or a temporary replacement spare wheel.

21. The spare wheel stowage system according to any preceding claim, in which the upper portion is a first upper portion, and the system comprises a second upper portion, wherein the system is configured to retain a first spare wheel when the first upper portion is mounted on the base portion, and the system is configured to retain a second spare wheel when the second upper portion is mounted on the base portion.

22. A load space assembly for a vehicle comprising the spare wheel stowage system according to any preceding claim, and a load floor.

23. The load space assembly according to claim 22, comprising a spare wheel.

24. The load space assembly according to claim 22 or 23, wherein the base portion is configured to support the load floor.

25. The load space assembly according to any of claims 22 to 24, wherein the upper portion is configured to support the load floor.

26. The load space assembly according to any of claims 22 to 25, in which the load floor comprises a first floor section having an engagement member.

27. The load space assembly according to claim 26, in which the load floor comprises a second floor section movable relative to the first floor section; and a connecting floor section between the first floor section and the second floor section about which the first and second floor sections are pivotable; wherein the second floor section is configured to be movable relative to the first floor section between a first position in which the load floor is supported on the base portion and a second position in which the load floor is supported on the upper portion.

28. A vehicle comprising a spare wheel stowage system according to any of claims 1 to 21, or a load space assembly according to any of claims 22 to 27.