Ford engaged on climate-controlled frunk
EV entrance trunks, or frunks, present helpful cupboard space, however a latest Ford patent submitting factors to a method to make them much more helpful.
The submitting in query outlines giving frunks local weather management. It was revealed by america Patent and Trademark Workplace (USPTO) on March 19 however initially filed by Ford in 2022—roughly the identical timeframe as many different frunk-related patent filings from the automaker.
Ford climate-controlled frunk patent picture
On this case, Ford particularly describes climate-controlled trunks that may preserve groceries or different temperature-sensitive gadgets from getting too sizzling or too chilly. One possibility mentioned by Ford is having a thermal loop department off the primary climate-control loop used for the passenger cabin. However Ford additionally suggests giving the frunk its personal mini climate-control system, with the identical {hardware} used for the system chargeable for the car’s inside.
As a result of clients may need to preserve drinks cool with out turning your entire frunk into an icebox, Ford additionally discusses some methods of moderating the temperature in particular elements of the frunk. Dividers might be used to separate heated and cooled zones, or low-temperature air might be directed at a detachable cooler secured within the frunk, in accordance with the appliance.
Ford climate-controlled frunk patent picture
This is not the primary time frunk local weather management has cropped up in a Ford patent software. It is also one of many options described in a sequence of patent functions from the automaker that surfaced in late 2023, protecting all kinds of concepts starting from in-frunk wi-fi gadget charging to cellular office setups.
Not all patented concepts make it to manufacturing. But when Ford ever decides to repeat its stunt of filling a Mustang Mach-E frunk with shrimp, because it did to accompany a press launch concerning the frunk’s measurement in 2020, local weather management may at the very least reduce the probability of meals poisoning.
