Improvements in or relating to support frames for vehicles

Abstract

A modular support frame for a vehicle comprising at least two frame modules, wherein the at least two frame modules are configured to be attachable to one another at more than one location.

Claims

1. A modular support frame for a vehicle comprising: at least two frame modules, wherein the at least two frame modules are configured to be attachable to one another at more than one location.

2. The modular support frame of claim 1, wherein the modular support frame is configured to be attachable to a base portion, floor portion, or load carrying area of the vehicle.

3. The modular support frame of claim 2, wherein the modular support frame is configured to be attachable to: at least one area, or space, between a side portion/wall member and the load carrying area of the vehicle; each area, or space, between the side portions/wall members of the vehicle and the load carrying area of the vehicle; or each area, or space, between the side portions/wall members of the vehicle, at least one area, or space, between a front portion of the vehicle and the load carrying area of the vehicle.

4. The modular support frame of claim 2, wherein the modular support frame is configured to be attachable to one or more side portions/wall members of the vehicle.

5. The modular support frame of claim 2, wherein the modular support frame is configured to be attachable to the vehicle such that it is spaced from a base portion, floor portion, or load carrying area of the vehicle.

6. The modular support frame of claim 1, wherein the modular support frame is configured to be attachable to one or more attachment points on the vehicle.

7. The modular support frame of claim 6, wherein the one or more attachment points of the vehicle are located: on the base portion, floor portion, or load carrying area of the vehicle; outside the load carrying area of the vehicle; in an area, or space, between a side portion/wall member of the vehicle and the load carrying area of the vehicle; in an area, or space, between each side portion/wall member of the vehicle and the load carrying area of the vehicle; in an area, or space, between the front portion of the vehicle and the load carrying area of the vehicle; in an area, or space, between the rear portion of the vehicle and the load carrying area of the vehicle; or in an area, or space, between each side portion/wall member of the vehicle and the load carrying area of the vehicle, and an area, or space, between the front portion of the vehicle and the load carrying area of the vehicle.

8. The modular support frame of claim 6, wherein the one or more attachment points of the vehicle are located on at least one, or both, of the side portions/wall members of the vehicle.

9. (canceled)

10. The modular support frame of claim 6, wherein the modular support frame includes one or more vehicle attachment members, the one or more vehicle attachment members being configured to be releasably engageable with the one or more attachment points of the vehicle.

11. The modular support frame of claim 10, wherein the one or more vehicle attachment members are located on at least one of the front portion, rear portion, side portion(s), upper portion, or lower portion of the modular support frame, wherein the modular support frame is configured such that the location of the vehicle attachment members on the modular support frame are arranged to align with the location of the one or more attachment points on the vehicle.

12. The modular support frame of claim 1, wherein the modular support frame further comprises one or more support legs, or leg members, the one or more support legs, or leg members, being configured to provide support to the modular support frame when the modular support frame is attached to the base portion, floor portion, or load carrying area of the vehicle.

13. The modular support frame of claim 12, wherein the modular support frame includes one or more vehicle attachment members, the one or more vehicle attachment members being configured to be releasably engageable with the one or more attachment points of the vehicle, wherein the one or more vehicle attachment members are located on the one or more support legs, or leg members.

14. The modular support frame of claim 13, wherein the vehicle attachment members of the modular support frame include releasable fastening devices, such that the modular support frame may be releasably attachable to the vehicle.

15. (canceled)

16. The modular support frame of claim 14, wherein at least one of the at least two frame modules of the modular support frame includes one or more vehicle attachment members, and the one or more support legs, or leg members.

17. (canceled)

18. (canceled)

19. The modular support frame of claim 1, wherein the modular support frame may include a plurality of frame modules, each frame module being configured to be attachable to one another at more than one location.

20. The modular support frame of claim 1, wherein at least one of the at least two frame modules is configured to provide support to an article or object mounted thereon, or thereto.

21. The modular support frame of claim 20, wherein the modular support frame and/or the at least two frame modules includes one or more article, or object, attachment members, the one or more article, or object, attachment members being configured to releasably engage with the article, or object.

22. The modular support frame claim 1, wherein at least one of the at least two frame modules has a length (L), width (W) and height (H), and the length (L), width (W) and height (H) of each frame module is an integer multiple.

23. (canceled)

24. A modular support frame for a vehicle comprising: one or more frame modules; and a frame module support member, wherein the frame module support member is attachable to the vehicle and is configured to provide support to the one or more frame modules.

25-29. (canceled)

30. A method of installing a modular support frame to a vehicle, the method comprising the steps of: providing a modular support frame for a vehicle comprising: at least two frame modules, wherein the at least two frame modules are configured to be attachable to one another at more than one location; positioning a first frame module at a first location within the vehicle; aligning one or more vehicle attachment points of the first frame module with one or more modular support frame attachment points of the vehicle; attaching the first frame module to the vehicle; positioning a second frame module at a second location within the vehicle; aligning one or more vehicle attachment points of the second frame module with one or more modular support frame attachment points of the vehicle; attaching the second frame module to the vehicle; and attaching the first and second frame modules together.

31. (canceled)

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0323] An embodiment of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the drawings, in which:

[0324] FIG. 1a is a rear view of a vehicle to which the modular support frame/support frame of the present invention may be installed;

[0325] FIG. 1b is a top view of the base portion/load carrying area of the vehicle of FIG. 1a;

[0326] FIG. 1c is illustrates one example of support frame attachment points of the vehicle;

[0327] FIG. 2a is a top perspective view of the modular support frame/ support frame in accordance with the present invention;

[0328] FIG. 2b is a perspective view of a portion of the modular support frame/ support frame of FIG. 2a;

[0329] FIG. 2c is a side view of a frame module support member;

[0330] FIG. 2d is a top view of an alternate arrangement of the modular support frame/support frame of FIG. 2a;

[0331] FIG. 3 is a rear view of the vehicle of FIG. 1a with the modular support frame/support frame of FIG. 2a installed therein;

[0332] FIGS. 4a and 4b are partial end views of the modular support frame/ support frame installed in the vehicle of FIG. 3;

[0333] FIG. 5 is a partial end view of the modular support frame/support frame of FIG. 3 with two domestic appliances installed therein;

[0334] FIG. 6 is a rear view of the vehicle and modular support frame/support frame of FIG. 3 with a plurality of domestic amenities installed thereon; and

[0335] FIG. 7 is a partial view of the vehicle and modular support frame/support frame of FIG. 6 with objects stored on the load carrying area of the vehicle; and

[0336] FIGS. 8a to 8c are partial schematic representations of a frame module attachment member.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0337] With reference to FIGS. 2a, 2b and 3, a modular support frame 10 for a vehicle 1 is illustrated. An example of a vehicle 1 to which the modular support frame 10 may be installed is illustrated in FIGS. 1a and 1b.

[0338] In the embodiment illustrated and described here, the vehicle 1 is a van. However, it should be appreciated that the vehicle may be a car, boat, ship, train, truck, lorry, mobile plant, emergency vehicle, campervan, motorhome, aircraft, or the like.

[0339] As best illustrated, the vehicle 1 includes a base portion 1a (floor portion), which includes a load carrying area 1b. The load carrying area 1b is capable of carrying a load. As illustrated, the load carrying area 1b is substantially rectangular in shape. The shape of the load carrying area 1b is defined by the front 1d, rear 1e and sides 1f and 1g (examples of side portions/wall members) of the vehicle 1. The width of the load carrying area 1b is defined, or limited, by the wheel arches 1h of the vehicle 1. In the embodiment illustrated and described here, the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1 includes wooden flooring 1c, which includes underfloor heating (not illustrated). However, it should be appreciated that the invention may be used with a vehicle that has not been floored, or the like.

[0340] As illustrated, the side portions 1f, 1g of oppositely facing and extend between the rear 1e and front 1d of the vehicle 1. For the purposes of the present invention, the front portion 1d of the vehicle is considered to be located behind the cab portion 1d′ of the vehicle 1. In the embodiment illustrated and described here, the front portion 1d is “open”. That is, there is no wall portion separating the load carrying area (or load carrying portion) 1b from the cab portion 1d′. However, it should be appreciated that a wall portion may be included on the vehicle 1. In such an arrangement, the wall portion may be considered a side portion, or wall member in accordance with the present invention. The side portion 1f and rear 1e of the vehicle 1 may include doors 1e′. The doors 1e′ being arranged to allow access to the inside of the vehicle 1 and the load carrying area 1b. The vehicle 1 also includes a roof potion 1i. Together, the roof portion 1i, the base portion 1a, the two side portions 1f and 1g, the front portion 1d and the rear portion 1e define the internal volume of the vehicle 1.

[0341] The vehicle 1 includes a longitudinal axis 3, a lateral axis 5 and a vertical axis 7. The three axes 3, 5 and 7 are orthogonally arranged.

[0342] As best illustrated in FIG. 1b, the load carrying area 1b of the vehicle 1 may be smaller than the area of the base portion 1a. As best illustrated in FIG. 1b, the load carrying area 1b of the vehicle 1 is located within the area of the base portion 1a. The vehicle 1 includes: an area 1f′ between the side portion 1f and the load carrying area 1b; an area 1g′ between the side portion 1g and the load carrying area 1b; an area 1e″ between the rear 1e and the load carrying area 1b; and an area 1d″ between the front 1d and the load carrying area 1b. The areas 1f′, 1g′, 1e″ and 1d″ are generally rectangular in shape and extend along the length or width of the vehicle 1. Areas 1f′ and 1g′ in particular are separate by the width of the load carrying area 1b (between the wheel arches 1h) of the vehicle 1.

[0343] As best illustrated in FIGS. 1a and 1b, areas 1f′, 1d″ and 1g′ of the base portion 1a include attachment points 12. The attachment points 12 are configured to allow one or more objects, or articles, to be attached thereto. The attachment points 12 are typically used to secure cargo within the vehicle during transport. The attachment points 12 may be configured to receive threaded screw members, bolt members, hooks, clips, or the like. Such attachment points 12 typically include D-rings, which may be screwed to the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1. Attachment points 12 are typically found in transport vehicles and the present invention is configured to engage with pre-existing attachment points 12. However, it should also be appreciated that it is also possible for new attachment points 12 to be created on the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1 as required. It should be appreciated that the access to the attachment portions 12 has been provided in the embodiment illustrated and described here by creating apertures 14 in the load carrying area 1b. It should also be appreciated that areas 1e″ may also include attachment points 12, although not illustrated.

[0344] The attachment points 12 are thus located outside the load carrying area 1b of the vehicle 1. In the embodiment illustrated and described here, the base portion 1a includes attachment points 12 on areas 1f′, 1d″ and 1g′. In this arrangement, the area 1d″ is considered as lying outside of the load carrying area 1b. However, ensuring that the attachment points 12 are located on areas 1f′and 1g′ may be considered as having a greater impact on maintaining the useable load carrying area 1b.

[0345] In the embodiment illustrated and described here, the attachment points 12 are support frame attachment points and are configured to receive and engage with the modular support frame 10, as described further below.

[0346] With reference to FIGS. 2a to 2c, the modular support frame 10 has a longitudinal axis 9, a lateral axis 11 and a vertical axis 13. The three axes 9, 11 and 13 are orthogonally arranged.

[0347] The modular support frame 10 is a structural support member constructed from a plurality of structural members 10a. Each structural member 10a is an elongate member. The structural members 10a may be attached together (fixedly, or releasably) to form the modular support frame 10.

[0348] The modular support frame 10 comprises a plurality of frame modules 16, as described further below. Each frame module 16 is configured to be attachable to another frame module 16 at more than one location.

[0349] Each frame module 16 is a structural support member and is constructed from a plurality of structural members 10a. The structural members 10a may be attached together (fixedly, or releasably) to form the frame modules 16.

[0350] The structural support members 10a may be made from metal, aluminium, metal alloy, fibre composites (e.g., glass fibre, carbon fibre etc.), plastic, recycled plastic, timber, laminated timber, ceramics, or the like.

[0351] The modular support frame 10 is configured such that it can be installed within the vehicle 1. The modular support frame 10 is installed in the vehicle 1 such that its longitudinal axis 9, lateral axis 11 and vertical axis 13 substantially matches the longitudinal axis 3, lateral axis 5 and vertical axis 7 of the vehicle 1.

[0352] As described further below, the modular support frame 10 is removably attachable to the vehicle 1. This allows the modular support frame 10 to be temporarily used with the vehicle 1. Alternatively, the modular support frame 10 may be fixedly attached to the vehicle 1.

[0353] With reference to FIGS. 2a to 4b, the modular support frame 10 is attachable to the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1. The modular support frame 10 is attached to the vehicle 1 at attachment points 12. The modular support frame 10 includes a plurality of vehicle attachment members 18. The vehicle attachment members 18 are configured to be releasably engageable with the attachment points 12 of the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1. The vehicle attachment members 18 are arranged to align with the attachment points 12 of the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1.

[0354] In the embodiment illustrated and described here, the modular support frame 10 includes a plurality of support legs 20 attached to a lower surface 10b thereof, and the vehicle attachment members 18 are located at lower portions 20a of each support leg 20. However, it should be appreciated that the modular support frame 10 may not include support legs 20, and that the vehicle attachment members 18 may be on the lower surface 10b of the modular support frame 10.

[0355] The support legs 20 are configured to provide support to the modular support frame 10. The support legs 20 are also configured to space the modular support frame 10 from the base portion 1a/load carrying area 1b. That is, the support legs 20 raise the modular support frame 10 from the base portion 1a/load carrying area 1b. As described further below, in this arrangement the load carrying area 1b of the vehicle 1 is accessible, as the modular support frame 10 is located above the load carrying area 1b.

[0356] In the embodiment illustrated and described here, the vehicle attachment members 18 are threaded bolts and nuts 18a (an example of a releasable fastening device/mechanical fastening device). However, it should be appreciated that other suitable releasable fastening devices may be used. As illustrated partially schematically in FIG. 4a, the vehicle attachment member 18 of the modular support frame 10 is attached to the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1 with the threaded bolt and nut 18a. The threaded bolt and nut 18a is located within the support leg 20 of the modular support frame 10 and passes through the lower portion 20a into the attachment point 12 of the base portion 1a. As described above, the attachment point 12 is configured to receive and engage with a threaded member. The modular support frame 10 may therefore be releasably secured to the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1.

[0357] FIG. 3 illustrates the modular support frame 10 installed in the vehicle 1. As illustrated, the modular support frame 10 is attached to the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1 outside the load carrying area 1b.

[0358] As described above, the modular support frame 10 comprises a plurality of frame modules 16. Each frame module 16 is configured to be attachable to another frame module 16 at more than one location, or a plurality of locations. Together, the attached frame modules 16 form the modular support frame 10.

[0359] Each frame module 16 may be connected together at points A, as illustrated. Each frame module 16 includes at least one frame module attachment member located at point A. Each frame module attachment member is configured to allow each frame module 16 to be releasably attachable to another frame module 16. In the embodiment illustrated and described here, the frame module attachment members are threaded bolts and nuts (an example of a releasable fastening member). However, it should be appreciated that other suitable fastening devices may be used. However, it should be appreciated the frame modules 16 may be configured differently, as required.

[0360] In the embodiment illustrated and described here, and best illustrated in FIGS. 2a to 2c, the modular support frame 10 includes eight frame modules. It should be appreciated that each frame module 16 may be releasably attachable to another frame module 16 at more than one location.

[0361] Each frame module 16 may be releasably attachable to the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1. That is, each frame module 16 may be attachable separately/independently to the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1. In this arrangement, each frame module 16 is attached to the attachment points 12 of the vehicle 1.

[0362] Each frame module 16 therefore includes one or more attachment members 18 and are attached to the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1 in same manner as described above in relation to the modular support frame 10. Each frame module 16 includes support legs 20 located on the lower surface 16a thereof. Again, the vehicle attachment members 18 are arranged to align with the attachment points 12 of the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1.

[0363] Again, the support legs 20 raise each frame module 16 from the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1.

[0364] As described further below, with each frame module 16 being removably attachable to the vehicle 1, this allows the configuration of the modular support frame 10 to be altered to suit the requirements of the user of the vehicle 1. The frame modules 16 of the modular support frame 10 may be interchangeable. The frame modules 16 of the modular support frame 10 may be repositioned at more than one location. Thus, the configuration of the frame modules 16 may be varied by altering the position of any frame module 16.

[0365] Also, again it follows that each frame module 16 is attached to the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1 outside the load carrying area 1b, such that the formed modular support frame 10 is also attached to the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1.

[0366] As illustrated in FIGS. 2a, 5 and 6, the frame modules 16 may be attachable in the direction of the longitudinal axis 3, lateral axis 5 and/or vertical axis 7 of the vehicle 1. With reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, a frame module 16 is attached to an upper surface 16b of a lower frame module 16. In this arrangement, the upper frame module 16 is stacked, or arranged vertically, with respect to the lower frame module 16. As described further below the upper frame module 16 may be attached to front portion 1d, or roof 1i, of the vehicle 1. In this arrangement the upper frame module 16 is not attached to the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1.

[0367] With reference to FIGS. 2a to 2c, the modular support frame 10 may further comprise frame module support members 22 (one frame module support member being an example of a frame module). The frame module support member 22 may be a frame module 16 of the modular support frame 10.

[0368] In the embodiment illustrated and described here, the frame module support members 22 are configured to provide support to two frame modules 16e and 16d that are spaced apart from one another. As illustrated, the frame module support members 22 provide support to each frame module 16. The frame module support members 22 may be brace members, or strut members, that prevent translation, or collapse, of the frame modules 16e and 16d.

[0369] The frame module support members 22 are releasably attachable to each frame module 16e, 16d. The frame module support members 22 are attachable to the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1. The method of attachment of the frame module support members 22 to the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1 may be the same as the method of attaching the modular support frame 10 and the frame modules 16 described above. The area of location of the frame module support members 22 to the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1 may also be the same as the method of attaching the modular support frame 10 and the frame modules 16 described above. The frame module support members 22 may be arranged longitudinally, laterally, or vertically between frame modules 16. The frame module support members 22 may be arranged extend longitudinally along the sides 1f, 1g of the vehicle 1.

[0370] The frame module support members 22 may traverse the load carrying area 1b of the vehicle 1. The frame module support members 22 may be spaced from the load carrying area 1b of the vehicle 1. The frame module support members 22 may be capable of carrying a load. The frame module support members 22 may be attachable to the frame module attachment member 16c of the frame modules 16d, 16e, 16. Alternatively, the frame module support members 22 may be attachable to the frame modules 16d, 16e, 16 by other suitable releasable fastening devices, such as a nut and bolt, or the like.

[0371] As described above, the frame module support member 22 may be an example of one of the at least two frame modules of the present invention. The frame module support member 22 may be an example of a frame module of the modular support frame of the present invention.

[0372] In the embodiment illustrated and described here, the frame module support member 22 may be a first frame module and one of the frame modules 16d, 16e, or any other frame module 16, may be second frame module. The frame module support member 22 may be attachable to the vehicle 1 and the other frame module 16d, 16e may be attachable to the frame module support member 22. The other frame module 16d, 16e, 16 may also be attachable to the vehicle 1.

[0373] The frame module support members 22 may be configured to provide support to the other frame module(s) 16d, 16e, 16. The other frame module 16d, 16e, 16 may be configured to provide support to an article or object mounted thereon, or thereto.

[0374] In this arrangement the frame module support member 22 is directly attached to the vehicle 1 and the other frame module(s) 16d, 16e, 16 is attached to the frame module support member 22. The other frame module 16d, 16e, 16 may also be attached to the vehicle. A frame module support member 22 may be configured to provide support to the at least two frame modules of the present invention. In this arrangement the at least two frame modules 16d, 16e, 16 are not directly attached to the vehicle 1. In this arrangement the at least two frame modules 16d, 16e, 16 are indirectly attached to the vehicle 1 via the frame module support member(s) 22.

[0375] It should be appreciated that each frame module support member 22 may be a frame module of the modular support frame of the present invention.

[0376] FIG. 1c illustrates alternative attachment points 12′ of the vehicle 1 for the modular support frame 10. In the embodiment illustrated and described here, the attachment points 12′ are located on the side portions 1f and 1g of the vehicle 1. In this arrangement the modular support frame 10 is supported by the side portions 1f and 1g of the vehicle 1, as opposed to the base portion 1a.

[0377] The attachment points 12′ may be similar to the attachment points 12 of FIGS. 1a and 1b, in that they may be configured to receive a threaded member such as a threaded bolt and nut. However, it may be the case that attachment points 12′ may need to be created on the vehicle 1 prior to installation of the modular support frame 10. In this arrangement attachment points 12′, such as brackets, or the like, may need to be fixed by, for example, welding, bolting, riveting, adhesive bonding, magnetic attraction to the vehicle 1.

[0378] The attachment points 12′ are again configured receive and engage with corresponding vehicle attachment members 18 of the modular support frame 10. The attachment points 12′ are arranged to lie on the same plane. In alternative configurations, the attachment points 12′ may be arranged to lie in different planes to suite the configuration of the modular support frame 10, or vehicle 1. The location of the vehicle attachment members 18 of the modular support frame 10 are arranged to align with the location of the one or more attachment points 12′ on the vehicle 1.

[0379] Again, the attachment points 12′ are located outside the load carrying area 1b of the vehicle 1. In this arrangement, the modular support member 10 is suspended above the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1. It therefore follows that the load carrying area 1b of the vehicle 1 is accessible, as the modular support frame 10 is located above the load carrying area 1b.

[0380] As illustrated in FIG. 1c, each attachment point 12′ may be associated with a lower support attachment point 12b. The lower support attachment point 12 may be attached to the side portions 1f, 1g of the vehicle 1. Between each attachment point 12′ and the lower support attachment point 12b there may be provide a support member 12c, such as a strut member or brace member. The lower support attachment point 12b and support member 12c may provide additional support to the side portions 1f, 1g of the vehicle 1 to support the modular support frame 10. Support members 12c may also allow the attachment of the frame 10 to the vehicle 1.

[0381] It should be appreciated that each frame module 16 of the modular support frame 10 may be releasably attachable to the attachment points 12′ of the vehicle 1. That is, each frame module 16 may be attachable separately/independently to the attachment points 12′ of the vehicle 1. The attachment points 12′ are again configured receive and engage with corresponding vehicle attachment members 18 of the frame modules 16. The location of the vehicle attachment members 18 of the frame modules 16 are arranged to align with the location of the one or more attachment points 12′ on the vehicle 1.

[0382] Again, the attachment points 12′ are located outside the load carrying area 1b of the vehicle 1. In this arrangement, the modular support member 10 is suspended above the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1. It therefore follows that the load carrying area 1b of the vehicle 1 is accessible, as the modular support frame 10 is located above the load carrying area 1b.

[0383] When the modular frame 10 is mounted to the side portions 1f, 1g of the vehicle, it should be appreciated that it may not include the support legs 20. In this arrangement, the vehicle attachment points 18 of the modular support frame 10 may be located on side portions 10c thereof, as illustrated in FIG. 2a.

[0384] FIG. 2d is an alternative illustration of the modular support frame 10′ of FIG. 2a. As illustrated and described above, the modular support frame 10 of FIG. 2a includes a plurality of frame modules 16, each frame module being attachable to the base portion 1a, or side portions 1f, 1g, of the vehicle 1.

[0385] However, in the alternative arrangement, the modular support frame 10′ may include a frame module support member 24 that is attachable to the base portion 1a, or side portions 1f, 1g, of the vehicle 1, and to which each frame module 16 may be attached. Each frame module 16 is attached to the frame module support member 24 at points B. The dashed lines at points B in FIG. 2d illustrate where each frame module may be separated from the frame module support member 24. The arrows in FIG. 2d illustrate the direction in which the frame modules 16 and frame module support members 24 may be separated. This arrangement is an example of a modular support frame in accordance with the present invention. A frame module support member 24 is also an example of a frame module in accordance with the present invention. A frame module support member 24 is also an example of one of the at least two frame modules in accordance with the present invention. A frame module support member 24 may be a first frame module and the other of the at least two frame modules 16 may be a second frame module. The frame module support member 24 may be attachable to the vehicle 1 and the other frame module 16 may be attachable to the frame module support member 24. The frame module support member 24 may be configured to provide support to the other frame module 16. As described further below, the other frame module 16 may be configured to provide support to an article or object mounted thereon, or thereto.

[0386] The frame module support members 24 are structural support members constructed from a plurality of structural members 24a. Each structural member 24a is an elongate member. The structural members 24a may be attached together (fixedly, or releasably) to form the frame module support members 24.

[0387] In the embodiment illustrated and described here, the modular support frame 10′ includes three frame module support members 24. Two of the frame module support members 24 are located at either side portion 1f and 1g of the vehicle 1, and the third frame module support member 24 is located at the front portion 1d of the vehicle. The frame module support members 24 may be releasably attachable to one another, or fixedly attached to one another. Each frame module support member 24 may be a frame module of the modular support frame 10′.

[0388] The frame module support members 24 are configured such that they can be installed within the vehicle 1. Again, the frame module support members 24 are removably attachable to the vehicle 1. This allows the modular support frame 10′ to be temporarily used with the vehicle 1. Alternatively, the frame module support members 24 may be fixedly attached to the vehicle 1.

[0389] With reference to FIGS. 2d and 3, the frame module support members 24 are attachable to the base portion 1a, or side portions 1f, 1g, of the vehicle 1. The frame module support members 24 are attached to the vehicle 1 at attachment points 12. The frame module support members 24 include a plurality of vehicle attachment members 18. The vehicle attachment members 18 are configured to be releasably engageable with the attachment points 12 of the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1. The vehicle attachment members 18 are arranged to align with the attachment points 12 of the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1.

[0390] In the embodiment illustrated and described here, the frame module support members 24 include a plurality of support legs 20 attached to a lower surface 24b thereof, and the vehicle attachment members 18 are located at lower portions 20a of each support leg 20. However, it should be appreciated that the frame module support members 24 may not include support legs 20, and that the vehicle attachment members 18 may be on the lower surface 24b of the frame module support members 24.

[0391] Again, the support legs 20 are configured to provide support to the frame module support members 24. The support legs 20 are also configured to space the frame module support members 24/modular support frame 10′ from the base portion 1 a/load carrying area 1b. That is, the support legs 20 raise the modular support frame 10′ from the base portion 1a/load carrying area 1b. As described further below, in this arrangement the load carrying area 1b of the vehicle 1 is accessible, as the modular support frame 10′ is located above the load carrying area 1b and provides access to the load carrying area 1b.

[0392] The attachment of the frame module support members 24 to the vehicle 1 is the same as that described above in relation to the modular support frame 10. This includes attachment of the frame module support members 24 to the side portions 1f, 1g of the vehicle 1. The modular support frame 10′ is spaced from the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1.

[0393] In this embodiment, each frame module 16 is attached to a frame module support member 24. An example of a frame module attachment member 27 is illustrated in FIGS. 8a to 8c. FIGS. 8a, 8b and 8c are top, front and side views of the frame module attachment member 27, respectively.

[0394] In this embodiment it should be appreciated that the, or each, frame module support member 24 may be installed in the vehicle, as described above, and each frame module 16 may be attached to the frame 24. Again, each frame module 16 may be attached and reattached as required by the user. It should be appreciated that the modular support frame 10′ in this configuration allows the frame modules 16 to be removed from the vehicle 1 if the vehicle 1 is to be used for an alternative purpose, but the frame module support member(s) 24 may remain in the vehicle 1. The user can then quickly reattach the frame modules 16 to convert the vehicle 1 back to its original purpose, or another purpose, due to the interchangeability of the frame modules 16.

[0395] As illustrated in FIGS. 8a to 8c, the frame module attachment member 27 includes a bracket 30 and engaging member 31. The bracket 30 is configured to be attachable to a frame module 16 and the engaging member 31 is located on the frame module support member 24. The engaging member 31 includes a pin member 33. The pin member 33 may be removably attachable to the frame module support member 24. The bracket 30 includes a pin member receiving slot 32, which is configured to receive and engage with the pin member 33. The frame module 16 is attached to the frame module support member 24 by mounting the bracket 30 to the pin member 33. The pin member 33 (and frame module support member 24) thus provide support to the frame module 16. The frame module attachment member 27 may further comprise a releasable fastening device 27′, which includes a nut and bolt 35, which is configured to engage with a holes 37 in the frame module support member 24 and the bracket 30.

[0396] The frame module attachment member 27 allows the frame module 16 to be releasably attachable to the frame module support member 24.

[0397] It should also be appreciated that the frame module attachment members may be threaded bolts and nuts (an example of a releasable fastening member). However, it should be appreciated that other suitable fastening devices may be used.

[0398] Again, it should be appreciated that each frame module 16 may be releasably attachable to another frame module 16 at more than one location.

[0399] In this arrangement, each frame module 16 is spaced from the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1. In this arrangement, each frame module 16 is attached to the frame module support members 24, and is suspended above the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1. In this arrangement the frame module support member 24 is directly attached to the vehicle 1 and the other frame module 16 is not directly attached to the vehicle 1.

[0400] Again, with each frame module 16 being removably attachable to the vehicle 1, this allows the configuration of the modular support frame 10′ to be altered to suit the requirements of the user of the vehicle 1. The frame modules 16 of the modular support frame 10′ may be interchangeable. The frame modules 16 of the modular support frame 10′ may be repositioned at more than one location. Thus, the configuration of the frame modules 16 may be varied by altering the position of any frame module 16.

[0401] With reference to FIGS. 5 to 7, each frame module 16 (and frame module support member) may be configured to support an article, or object, above the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1. Similarly, each frame module 16 may be configured to receive an article, or object, therein, or thereon. Each frame module 16 may be a storage module.

[0402] Each frame module 16 may have a length (L), width (W) and height (H). The lengths (L), widths (W) and heights (H) of the frame modules 16 may be integer multiples. That is, the length (L) of the frame modules 16 may be 2×L, 3×L, 4×L, etc. The width (W) of the frame modules 16 may be 2×W, 3×W, 4×W, etc. The height (H) of the frame modules 16 may be 2×H, 3×H, 4×H, etc. The frame modules 16 may be double, triple, quadruple etc. length, width, or height. This standardising of the dimensions of the frame modules 16 simplifies construction and assembly of the modular support frame 10, 10′ and allows flexibility with the mounting location of each frame module, e.g., sink location, refrigerator, seat, table etc.

[0403] In the embodiment illustrated and described here, each frame module 16 is configured to support a domestic, or retail, appliance, home appliance, household appliance, or retail appliance 26. Such a domestic, or retail, appliance, home appliance, or household appliance may include an oven, a stove, a cooking device, a dishwasher, a clothes dryer, a washing machine, a waste disposal unit, a refrigerator, a freezer, a microwave, an air conditioning unit, a water heater, a trash/waste compactor, an induction cooker, an electric mixer, coffee grinder, coffee machine, a medical device, an emergency response device, or the like. Similarly, each frame module 16 may be configured to support an entertainment and information appliance, Such an entertainment and information appliance may include a home electronics device, a radio receiver, a television set, a music stereo system, a personal computer, a mobile telecommunication device, a medical device, an emergency response device, a navigation device, a data gathering device, a camera, a GPS device, or the like. Also, each frame module 16 may be configured to support an amenity, such as a domestic, or retail, amenity 28. Such an amenity may include a shower, sofa, sofa bed, a bed, a bath, a worktop, a couch, a chair, a table, a sink, a storage unit, a cupboard, a cabinet, a shelf, a drawer, a drying box, a desk, a heating device, a table, or the like.

[0404] The frame module attachment member 27 illustrated in FIGS. 8a to 8c above may also be used to attach the articles, or objects, (26, 28) to the each frame module 16. In this arrangement, the engaging member 31 is located on the frame module 16 and the bracket 30 is located on the article, or object, (26, 28). However, it should be appreciated that other arrangements are possible. Similarly, it should be appreciated that other releasable fastening devices may be used. The frame module attachment member 27 is advantageous in that it allows simple and quick installation of the article or object in the frame module 16 and/or the frame module 16 to the frame module support member 24. The article or object may be slotted/hooked to the frame module 16 and the frame module may be slotted/hooked to the frame module support member 24.

[0405] Each frame module 16 may be configured to receive a supply of electricity, and may include one or more electrical power supply sockets.

[0406] The one or more articles, amenities or appliances may be objects required for the function of the environment within the vehicle 1. That is, the articles, amenities and appliances may be relevant for the living/working environment intended within the vehicle 1.

[0407] As described above, the modular support frame 10, 10′ is installed in the vehicle 1 either on the base portion 1a, or on the side portions 1f, 1g. (It should be appreciated that the modular support frame 10, 10′ may also be installed in the vehicle 1 on the front and/or rear portions 1d, 1e. The modular support frame 10, 10′ is attached to the vehicle 1 by attachment points 12, 12′ and the vehicle attachment members 18. The modular support frame 10, 10′ is thus releasably attachable to the vehicle 1. The installation of the modular support frame 10, 10′ in the vehicle 1 is illustrated inf FIGS. 3 to 7. FIGS. 3 to 4b illustrate the installation of the modular support frame 10, 10′ on the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1. (FIG. 1c illustrates the attachment points 12′ for the attachment of the modular support frame 10, 10′ to the side portions 1f, 1g of the vehicle 1). FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrates the modular support frame 10, 10′ with appliances/amenities 26, 28 mounted to the frame modules 16 (dishwasher, sink, storage unit, seating area/couch). FIG. 6 also illustrates the modular support frame 10, 10′ being raised from the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1. FIG. 7 illustrates how the load carrying area 1b of the vehicle 1 remains accessible when the modular support frame 10, 10′ is installed in the vehicle 1. The modular support frame 10, 10′ may be substantially parallel to the base portion 1a/load carrying area 1b of the vehicle 1.

[0408] The modular support frame 10, 10′ of the present invention allows the frame modules 16 (and appliances) to be interchanged, swapped, changed etc. This allows the modular support frame 10, 10′ to be configured (re-configured) to suit the use of the user of the vehicle 1. Thus, depending on the required use of the vehicle 1 for a particular task, the user may reconfigure the frame accordingly. The frame may then be returned to its original configuration. Providing a plurality of frame modules 16, with each module 16 being configured to support an article, or object, described above, allows a user to customise their vehicle 1, and upgrade, replace or change appliances over time.

[0409] Furthermore, as the modular support frame 10, 10′ is raised from the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1, the load carrying area 1b remains accessible. This allows articles or objects to be carried in the vehicle 1 without removing the frame. This provides additional storage within the vehicle 1 underneath the modular support frame 10, 10′. The raised modular support frame10, 10′ may allow for the installation of a further floor, or base portion, in the vehicle 1. The raised modular support frame 10, 10′ may allow for the installation of an underfloor heating module within the vehicle 1. The raised modular support frame 10, 10′ may allow for an increased volume of air above an underfloor heating module so as to improve the flow of hot air within the vehicle 1.

[0410] Furthermore, the raised modular support frame 10, 10′ may allow for enhanced aesthetic qualities of the interior of the vehicle 1. The raised modular support frame 10, 10′ may create the impression of an increased space and/or volume within the vehicle 1. The raised modular support frame may create the visible impression of an increased space and/or volume within the vehicle 1.

[0411] Modifications may be made to the foregoing embodiment without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, although the modular support frame 10, 10′ has been illustrated and described above as being raised from the base portion 1a of the vehicle 1, it should be appreciated that the modular support frame 10, 10′ may be located on the base portion 1a, or floor portion, of the vehicle 1.

[0412] Furthermore, it should be appreciated that the modular support frame 10, 10′ and each frame module 16 may have a front portion, a rear portion and two side portions, and that the vehicle attachment members 18 may be located on the front portion, rear portion, or side portions thereof. The one or more vehicle attachment members 18 may be located on the at least one, or each, side portion of the modular support frame 10, 10′/frame module 16. The vehicle attachment members 18, may be located on the perimeter of the modular support frame 10, 10′/frame module 16. The vehicle attachment members 18, may be located on the outer edges of the modular support frame 10 10′/frame module 16

[0413] Also, it should be appreciated that the modular support frame 10, 10′/frame module 16 may be attached to the vehicle 1 by an adhesive, or the like.

[0414] Furthermore, although the modular support frame 10, 10′ has been illustrated and described above as being assembled from a plurality of releasable structural members, it should be appreciated that the modular support frame 10, 10′ may be integrally formed. Similarly, the frame modules 16 may be integrally formed with the other components of the frame, such that the support frame may be a one-piece member. In this arrangement the support frame is an example of a support frame for a vehicle in accordance with the present invention.

[0415] Also, although the modular support frame 10 has been illustrated and described above as being attachable to attachment points 12, 12′ of the vehicle 1, it should be appreciated that the modular support frame 10 may be attached directly to the vehicle body, chassis etc., or any other existing part of the structure, including any wall panels.