Movable table for motor vehicle

Abstract

A movable table for a motor vehicle is provided. The motor vehicle includes a rail extending at least partially around an interior space of the vehicle between a plurality of seating positions for seats within the vehicle. The movable table includes a tabletop, a support column, the tabletop being connected to a first end of the support column, and a driven element disposed at a second end of the support column, wherein the driven element is configured to movably connect the table to the rail so that the table can be moved between seats located at the seating positions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to table arrangements in vehicles, and more particularly to a table for a motor vehicle that is movable within an interior of the vehicle. Background Art

[0002] A vehicle, such as a motor vehicle, may have a plurality of seats that can be arranged in a plurality of seating configurations. For example, the seats may be arranged in a "standard" arrangement, in which the seats are arranged in one or more rows across the interior of the vehicle, with each seat generally facing the direction of travel. Alternatively, the seats may be arranged in a "conference" arrangement, in which two or more seats are arranged to face each other. In a conference arrangement, the seats may be arranged in rows, or may be spaced around the interior of the vehicle. In some arrangements, the seats may be able to change positions between configurations during a vehicle journey, depending on the needs of the occupants.

[0003] The vehicle may also include a table that is configured to allow the occupants to store items or documents that they wish to use or refer to during the journey. In addition, the occupants may use the table as a work surface during the journey. It is generally desirable that the table be in a convenient location for use by the occupants, regardless of the location of the configuration of the vehicle seats, for example. Summary of the invention

[0004] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a movable table for a motor vehicle includes a rail extending at least partially around an interior space of the vehicle. The movable table includes a tabletop. A support includes a first end connected to the tabletop. A driven element is disposed at a second end of the support and is configured to movably connect the table to the rail so that the table can be moved between seats located in seating positions.

[0005] The guide rail may be a first guide rail comprising a track or a slot. The driven element may be configured to movably connect the table to the track or the slot of the first guide rail. The driven element may include a roller configured to engage the first guide rail.

[0006] The motor vehicle may include a second rail disposed adjacent to the first rail and extending parallel to the first rail between two or more seating positions. The table may include a further driven element configured to be movably connected to the second rail. The table may include a protrusion connected to the second end of the support. The driven element may be disposed on the protrusion.

[0007] The table may also include a securing mechanism configured to selectively secure the table relative to the frame of the vehicle. For example, the securing mechanism may secure the protrusion and / or the driven element to the first rail. Alternatively, the securing mechanism may prevent the driven element from moving along the first rail by preventing a roller of the driven element from rotating.

[0008] The desktop may include a foldable portion. The foldable portion may be folded from an expanded configuration, in which the foldable portion forms a generally flat horizontal surface, to a folded configuration, in which at least a portion of the desktop is oriented generally vertically. When the foldable portion is in the folded configuration, the area of ​​the desktop forming the flat horizontal surface may be reduced compared to when the foldable portion is in the expanded configuration. One or more foldable portions may form a corner of the desktop. The foldable portion may include a plurality of elongated members. The elongated members may be configured to move (e.g., rotate and / or slide) relative to each other to allow the desktop to fold.

[0009] The desktop may include one or more cables extending between the elongated members. The cables may be configured to hold the elongated members together when the foldable portion unfolds due to tension in the one or more cables. The tension in the one or more cables may be released to allow the foldable portion to fold. Additionally or alternatively, the one or more cables may be configured to pull the foldable portion into a folded configuration when the one or more cables are in tension.

[0010] The support column may include a storage space, such as a drawer or cabinet, defined within the support column.

[0011] The movable table may include an actuator configured to drive movement of the movable table along the track assembly. Alternatively, the movable table may include a drive connector configured to selectively connect the movable table to a drive mechanism disposed on a vehicle, the drive mechanism being used to move the table and optional seat along the track assembly. The height of the tabletop of the movable table above the first track may be adjustable, for example, between a height at which the table can be stowed below the seat body of the seat and a height at which the tabletop is at or above the horizontal plane of the seat body. The table may be configured to rotate as the track changes direction as the movable table moves along a curved portion of the track. Additionally or alternatively, the table, such as a tabletop and / or support column, may be configured to rotate relative to the track by moving / rotating relative to a driven element.

[0012] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a motor vehicle assembly includes a track extending at least partially around a space within an interior of the vehicle between a plurality of seating positions. A table is movably connected to and supported by the track so that the table can be moved along the track between seats positioned at the seating positions.

[0013] The table may include the above-mentioned movable table. The table may include a tabletop, a support column configured to support the tabletop. The tabletop may be connected to a first end of the support column, and the driven element may be disposed at a second end of the support column and configured to movably connect the table to the guide rail. The table may further include a protrusion disposed at the second end of the support column, and the driven element may be connected to the protrusion.

[0014] At least a portion of the guide rail may extend in the longitudinal direction of the motor vehicle. Additionally or alternatively, at least a portion of the guide rail may extend in the transverse direction of the motor vehicle. At least a portion of the guide rail may be curved. The curved portion may be arranged between the longitudinally and transversely arranged portions of the guide rail.

[0015] The rail may be a first rail and the assembly may include a second rail disposed adjacent to the first rail and extending parallel to the first rail between the seating positions. The table may be movably connected to the second rail. The assembly may include two or more seats. The table may be connected to the first rail between the two seats and may be movable between the two seats. The seat may be movably connected to the first rail and / or the second rail and may be movable along the first rail and / or the second rail between the seating positions.

[0016] The height of the tabletop of the table above the first rail may be less than the height of the seat bodies of the seats above the first rail, so that the tabletop may be at least partially located under the seat bodies of one or more seats. The height of the tabletop may be adjustable so that the height is less than the height of the seat bodies. The table may be movable between a stowed position and a deployed position, in which the tabletop is at least partially located under the seat bodies of the one or more seats.

[0017] The assembly can be configured such that the table can be stowed beneath the seat bodies of two seats when the two seats are generally aligned (e.g., in the longitudinal or lateral direction of the motor vehicle) so that the sides of the seats are adjacent and parallel to each other. In other words, the table can be stowed beneath the seat bodies when the seats are placed side by side, and the table can be deployed between the seats when the seats are separated. In the stowed position, the table can be received between seat posts configured to support the seat bodies above the guide rails. The table, such as a tabletop, can be rotatable so that when the table is stowed beneath one or more seat bodies, the diagonal axis of the table can be aligned with (e.g., parallel to) the longitudinal axis of the seat.

[0018] The movable table can be disposed in a corner of a motor vehicle between two seats, wherein the seats are disposed perpendicular to each other. A first edge of the tabletop can be positioned along (e.g., substantially parallel to) an edge of the first seat, and a second edge of the tabletop can be positioned along (e.g., substantially parallel to) an edge of the second seat. The first and second edges of the tabletop can be substantially perpendicular to each other.

[0019] In order to avoid unnecessary duplication of work and duplication of text in the specification, certain features are described only in conjunction with one or more aspects or embodiments of the present invention. However, it should be understood that, where technically possible, the features described with respect to any aspect or embodiment of the present invention may also be used with any other aspect or embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] These and other aspects, objects and features of the present invention will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art upon studying the following specification, claims and drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] For a better understanding of the invention, and in order to more clearly show how it may be put into practice, reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0022] Figure 1a is a schematic plan view of a motor vehicle assembly in a first configuration in accordance with an arrangement of the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 1b is a schematic plan view of a motor vehicle assembly in a second configuration in accordance with an arrangement of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 1c is a schematic plan view of a motor vehicle assembly in a third configuration in accordance with an arrangement of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 1d is a schematic plan view of a motor vehicle assembly in a fourth configuration in accordance with an arrangement of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a seat for a seating system in accordance with an arrangement of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a table for a vehicle in accordance with an arrangement of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a protrusion for a seat or table in accordance with an arrangement of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a guide rail for a seating system in accordance with an arrangement of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a guide rail for a seating system in accordance with an arrangement of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 7 is a schematic plan view of a vehicle assembly according to an arrangement of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 8 is a schematic plan view of a vehicle assembly according to an arrangement of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 9a is a schematic plan view of a motor vehicle assembly in a fourth configuration in accordance with an arrangement of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 9b is a front view of a seating system and a movable table arranged in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0035] Fig.10 is a schematic plan view of a motor vehicle including a table having a foldable portion;

[0036] Fig.11a is a plan view of a movable table with a foldable portion in an expanded configuration in accordance with an arrangement of the present disclosure;

[0037] Fig.11b is a schematic cross-sectional view of a movable table with a foldable portion in an unfolded configuration according to an arrangement of the present disclosure; and

[0038] Fig.11c is a schematic cross-sectional view of a movable table with a foldable portion in a collapsed configuration in accordance with an arrangement of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] refer to Figure 1a , 1b , 1c and 1d, a motor vehicle assembly 2 according to the arrangement of the present disclosure includes a track assembly 8 and a movable table 10. In the depicted arrangement, the motor vehicle assembly 2 also includes a seat system 4. The seat system 4 includes a plurality of seats 6a, 6b, 6c. The seats are movably supported by the track assembly 8 so that the seats can be moved between seat positions 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 7e, 7f defined in the vehicle.

[0040] In the arrangement shown in FIG. 1 , the seat system 4 includes three seats, a first seat 6a, a second seat 6b, and a third seat 6c. The seats can be moved between six seat positions 7a to 7f. In other arrangements, the seat system 4 can include one, two, four, or more than four seats that can be moved between two, three, or more than three seat positions. In some arrangements, the seat system may not define specific or discrete seat positions, and the seats can be moved along the track assembly 8 to any desired position.

[0041] The movable table 10 is movably (e.g., slidably) supported by the track assembly 8 so that the table can move along the track assembly 8. Specifically, the movable table 10 can be moved between seats (such as a pair of seats in a vehicle) so that occupants in different seats of the vehicle can use the table as needed.

[0042] like Figures 1a to 1d As shown, the movable table 10 is disposed on the guide rail assembly 8 between two seats, such as between the second seat 6b and the third seat 6c. The movable table 10 can be moved along the guide rail assembly 8 to any position between the two seats. As the two seats 6b and 6c move along the guide rail assembly 8 in the vehicle, the position where the movable table 10 moves changes. For example, Figure 1a As shown, when the second and third seats 6b, 6c are located in the second and third positions 7b, 7c, the movable table 10 can only be moved a short distance between the second and third seats 6b, 6c. Figure 1b and Figure 1c As shown, when the second seat 6b has been moved to the fourth position 7d, the movable table 10 is able to move a greater distance along the track assembly 8. Specifically, the movable table 10 is able to move between the positions of the second and third seats 6b, 6c around a corner 8c defined by the track assembly 8. Depending on the configuration of the track assembly 8 and the position of the seats 6, the movable table 10 is therefore able to move in a lateral direction within the vehicle interior and / or in a longitudinal direction within the vehicle interior.

[0043] The guide rail assembly 8 includes a first guide rail 8a and a second guide rail 8b. The second guide rail 8b is arranged on one side (e.g., radially inside) of the first guide rail 8a. The first and second guide rails 8a, 8b extend around a space 9 inside the vehicle 2. In the illustrated arrangement, the guide rail assembly 8 extends completely around the space 9 to form a closed loop enclosing the space 9. In other arrangements, the guide rail assembly 8 may extend partially around the interior space 9.

[0044] When the guide rail assembly 8 forms a closed loop, the seats 6a, 6b, 6c can be moved completely around the loop, so that a particular seat can be moved from a first seat position (e.g. position 7a) through another seat position 7b to 7f back to the first seat position. Each seat can thus be located in each seat position. Similarly, when the guide rail assembly 8 forms a closed loop, the movable table 10 can also be moved completely around the loop, for example together with two seats between which the movable table 10 is arranged.

[0045] As the seats 6 are moved between the seat positions 7a to 7f and the movable table 10 is moved between the seats, the order of the seats 6a, 6b, 6c and the movable table 10 around or along the track assembly 8 can remain unchanged. In other words, the seats 6a, 6b, 6c and the movable table 10 can be prevented from moving past each other along the track assembly 8.

[0046] When the track assembly 8 extends around one or more sides of the interior space 9 and does not form a closed loop, each seat can be moved between two or more seat positions. In this arrangement, a particular seat may not be able to move to each seat position along the track assembly 8 due to the presence of other seats. When the track assembly 8 does not form a closed loop, for example, when the tracks 8a, 8b of the track assembly extend between the ends of the track assembly, a movable table 10 can be set between the seat and one of the ends of the track assembly. In this case, the movable table can be moved between the seat and the end of the track assembly.

[0047] In some configurations, the seats 6a, 6b, 6c may be configured to be removable from the track assembly 8 to allow the order of the seats and movable table 10 to be changed along the track assembly 8.

[0048] When the order of the seats changes, the seat positions where a particular seat can be positioned, such as being blocked by other seats before it moves along the track assembly 8, can also be changed. In addition, when the order of the seats 6 changes, the seats between which the movable table 10 is arranged can also be changed.

[0049] Additionally or alternatively, the movable table 10 can be configured to be detachable from the track assembly 8. The movable table 10 can be separated from the track assembly 8 and reconnected to the track assembly 8 at a different location (such as between a different pair of seats 6) so that the movable table 10 can be moved between different seats in the vehicle or between one of the seats and one of the ends of the track assembly. For example, in Figure 1d In the arrangement shown, the movable table 10 has been reconnected to the track assembly 8 between the first and second seats 6a, 6b so that the movable table 10 can be moved between the first and second seats 6a, 6b.

[0050] In an alternative arrangement, the seats 6 and / or movable table 10 may be configured such that one or more of the seats and the table are able to pass each other as they move along the track assembly 8 .

[0051] refer to Figure 2 , a seat 200 for the seat system 4 will now be described. The seats 6a, 6b, 6c depicted in FIG. 1 may be similar to Figure 2The seat 200 shown in and described below. The features described about the seat 200 can be equally applied to the seats 6a, 6b, 6c. The seat 200 includes a seat body 210 having a base 212 and a backrest 214. The seat body 210 may also include a headrest 216. The seat body 210 is supported by a seat post 220. The seat post 220 extends from a first end 220a of the seat post to a second end 220b in a generally vertical direction. The first end 220a of the seat post is connected to the seat body 210 (such as connected to the base 212) and the second end 220b is connected to the protrusion 230 of the seat 200.

[0052] exist Figure 2 In the illustrated arrangement, the seat post 220 is a tubular support member having an oblong cross-section. However, in other arrangements, the cross-section of the seat post 220 may be circular, oval, square, rectangular, or any other desired shape. Alternatively, the seat post 220 may include a solid beam, such as an I-beam, or any other desired structure or frame. When the seat post 220 includes a solid beam, such as an I-beam, or another structure or frame, the seat post 220 may include a tubular trim portion surrounding the solid beam, structure, or frame.

[0053] The seat 200 also includes one or more follower assemblies 232 connected to the protrusions 230. The follower assemblies 232 are configured to engage the track assemblies 8 to guide the movement of the seat 200 between seat positions, such as seat positions 7a to 7f as shown in FIG1. ​​In addition, the follower assemblies 232 and / or the protrusions 230 can be configured to support the seat 200 within a vehicle and transfer any load from the seat (such as the weight of a passenger seated in the seat) to a frame (not shown) of the vehicle.

[0054] refer to Figure 3 , a movable table 300 for a vehicle assembly 2 will now be described. The movable table 10 described with reference to FIG. 1 may correspond to Figure 3 The movable table 300 shown in and described below. The movable table 300 includes a tabletop 310 supported by a table support 320. The tabletop 310 is connected to the table support 320 at a first end 320a of the table support. The table support can extend in a generally vertical direction to a second end 320b of the table support. The second end 320b of the table support is connected to a table protrusion 330.

[0055] The table support 320 is configured similarly to the chair support 220 and is a tubular support member having an oblong cross-section. In other arrangements, the cross-section of the table support 320 may be circular, oval, square, rectangular, or any other desired shape. Figure 3As shown, the table support 320 defines a storage space 322 within the support. Figure 3 In the illustrated arrangement, the support column 320 includes a drawer 324 received within the storage space 322. The drawer 324 is movable from a closed position in which the drawer 324 is substantially completely received within the storage space 322 to an open position, such as Figure 3 In an alternative arrangement, the storage space 322 may form a cabinet, and the movable table 300 may include a cabinet door movably (eg, slidably or pivotably) connected to the table support 320 at the storage space 322 to provide access to the storage space.

[0056] In other arrangements, the table support 320 may include a solid beam, such as an I-beam, or any other desired structure or frame. When the table support 320 includes a solid beam, structure, or frame, such as an I-beam, the table support 320 may include a tubular decorative portion surrounding the solid beam. Additionally, when the table support 320 includes a solid beam, the table support 320 may not define the storage space 322. However, when the table support 320 includes another structure or frame, the structure or frame may be configured to accommodate or define the storage space 322.

[0057] The movable table 300 further includes one or more follower assemblies 332 connected to the protrusions 330. The follower assembly 332 is configured to engage the track assembly 8 so as to guide the movement of the movable table 300 between adjacent seats along the track assembly 8. In addition, the follower assembly 332 and / or the protrusions 330 can be configured to support the table 300 within the vehicle to transfer any load from the table 300 (such as the weight of items placed on the tabletop 310 and / or in the storage space 322) to the frame of the vehicle.

[0058] In some configurations of the present disclosure, the protrusion 230 of the seat 200 can be similar to the protrusion 330 of the movable table 300 because they are configured to move along the same track. In addition, the follower assembly 232 provided on the seat 200 can be similar to the follower assembly 332 provided on the movable table 300.

[0059] refer to Figure 4 In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the protrusion 230, 330 is substantially a triangle with three rounded corners. Three follower assemblies 232, 332 are connected to each protrusion 230, 330 near the corner of the protrusion 230, 330 on a line perpendicular to and bisecting the edge of the protrusion 230, 330. One of the follower assemblies 232, 332 is configured to engage with the first guide rail 8a, and two of the follower assemblies 232, 332 are configured to engage with the second guide rail 8b.

[0060] In other arrangements, it is also contemplated that the protrusions 230, 330 may be any other desired shape, and any number of follower assemblies 232, 332 may be connected to the protrusions. For example, the protrusions 230, 330 may be circular, oval, square, or rectangular, and may include two, four, or more than four follower assemblies. In other arrangements, different numbers of follower assemblies may engage with different ones of the rails 8a, 8b. For example, two of the follower assemblies may engage with the first rail 8a and one of the follower assemblies may engage with the second rail 8b.

[0061] Furthermore, in other arrangements, the protrusion 230 disposed on the seat 200 may have a different shape and / or may include a different number of follower assemblies 232 than the protrusion 330 disposed on the movable table 300 .

[0062] like Figure 4 As shown, the follower assemblies 232, 332 each include one or more follower elements, such as rollers 232a, 332a rotatably connected to the protrusions 230, 330 via respective pivots 232b, 332b. The follower elements are configured to engage with and roll along the guide rails 8a, 8b of the guide rail assembly 8 so as to support the movement of the seat 200 and the movable table 300, respectively.

[0063] exist Figure 4 In the illustrated arrangement, each follower assembly 232, 332 includes a single follower element, shown as a single roller 232a, 332a, respectively. However, in other arrangements, each follower assembly 232, 332 may include two, three, four or more follower elements, each of which is configured to engage with the guide rail assembly 8 as desired.

[0064] The protrusions 230, 330 and the follower assemblies 232, 332 are configured such that the orientation of the protrusions 230, 330 within the vehicle is determined based on the position of the seat 200 or movable table 300 along the track assembly 8 (e.g., the position on the track 8a, 8b to which the follower assemblies 232, 332 engage). The table support 320 can be fixedly connected to the protrusion 330, and the tabletop 310 can be fixedly connected to the table support 320. In this arrangement, the orientation of the tabletop 310 is determined based on the position of the movable table 10 along the track assembly. In other words, the orientation of the movable table 10 within the vehicle interior 9 can be changed, for example, the movable table 10 can be rotated by the curved track assembly 8.

[0065] Additionally or alternatively, the tabletop 310 can be movably (e.g., pivotally) connected to a table post 320, such as at a first end 320a of the table post, to allow the orientation of the tabletop 310 to be adjusted without moving the movable table 10 along the guide rail assembly 8.

[0066] Additionally or alternatively, it is also contemplated that the table post 320 may be pivotally connected to the protrusion 330 so that the table post 320 and the table top 310 may be rotated relative to the track assembly 8. Alternatively, in other arrangements, the follower assembly 332 may be movably connected to the protrusion 330 or otherwise configured to allow the protrusion 330 to rotate relative to the track assembly 8 in order to adjust the orientation of the table post 320 and the table top 310.

[0067] refer to Figure 3 , the movable table 300 may include a locking mechanism 318 configured to prevent movement (e.g., pivoting) of the movable table 300 or tabletop 310 relative to the track assembly 8 unless the locking mechanism 318 is disengaged. The movable table 300 also includes a securing mechanism 340 configured to selectively secure the movable table 300 relative to the frame of the vehicle to prevent movement of the movable table 300 along the track assembly 8 when such movement is undesirable. For example, the movable table 300 may be secured using the securing mechanism 340 while the vehicle is moving.

[0068] The fixing mechanism 340 may be disposed on the protrusion 330 or the table support column 320. The fixing mechanism 340 may be configured to engage with the guide rail assembly 8 and / or the frame of the vehicle to prevent movement of the movable table 300. Alternatively, the fixing mechanism 340 may be configured to prevent the follower assembly 332 from moving along the guide rails 8a, 8b to prevent movement of the movable table 300. For example, the fixing mechanism 340 may prevent the roller 332a of the follower assembly 332 from rotating and rolling along the guide rails 8a, 8b.

[0069] In other embodiments of the present disclosure, a plurality of fixing mechanisms 340 may be provided on the rail assembly 8 or may be connected to the frame of the vehicle 2. The fixing mechanisms 340 may be configured to engage with the protrusions 330 and / or the follower assembly 332 of the movable table 300 to prevent them from moving along the rails 8a, 8b so as to fix the movable table 300 at the position of the fixing mechanisms 340. Additionally or alternatively, the fixing mechanisms 340 may be configured to engage with a dedicated fixing structure (not shown) provided on the movable table 300.

[0070] The fixing mechanism 340 can be arranged at a plurality of positions along the guide rail assembly. For example, the fixing mechanism 340 can be arranged at or near each seat position 7a to 7f defined by the seat system 4, such as shown in FIG. 1, and when they are arranged at each seat position 7a to 7f, they allow the movable table to be fixed at or near the seats 6a, 6b, 6c.

[0071] When the fixing mechanism 340 is provided on the movable table 300, the movable table 300 can be fixed at any position along the guide rail assembly 8. However, in some arrangements, the fixing mechanism 340 can be configured so that the movable table 300 can only be fixed at a predetermined position. For example, the fixing mechanism 340 provided on the movable table 300 can be configured to engage with a fixing structure provided on the guide rail assembly 8, the frame of the vehicle, or the seat 6.

[0072] Even when the securing mechanism 340 is capable of securing the movable table 300 at any position along the track assembly 8, it may be desirable that the movable table 300 be secured only at specific positions or that the movable table cannot be secured at other specific positions. For example, it may be desirable to prevent the movable table from being secured at a position that may restrict access to a doorway of the vehicle. The vehicle assembly 2 may include one or more table position sensors 312 configured to determine the position of the movable table 300. The securing mechanism 340 may be prevented from securing the movable table relative to the track assembly 8 when the movable table is not in a predetermined fixed position. As depicted, the table position sensor 312 may be disposed on the movable table 300. Alternatively, the table position sensor may be disposed on the track assembly 8 or on the frame of the vehicle.

[0073] The vehicle assembly 4 can be configured to indicate to the user when the movable table is in a predetermined fixed position and can be secured. For example, the vehicle assembly 2 can be configured to illuminate a light disposed on the movable table to indicate that the movable table is in a suitable fixed position, or to display a message on a display disposed on the vehicle. In some arrangements, the vehicle assembly can be configured to indicate, for example, in which direction the movable table 300 should be moved in order to position the movable table in the closest predetermined fixed position.

[0074] refer to Figure 5 , one or both of the first and second rails 8a, 8b may include a track 500 having a base flange 502, a head flange 504, and a web 506 between the head flange 504 and the base flange. The base flange 502 may be connected to a frame of a vehicle.

[0075] The follower assemblies 232, 332 of the seat 200 and the movable table 300 may be configured to engage the head flange 504 of the track 500. The follower assemblies 232, 332 roll along the head flange 504 to allow the seat 200 and the movable table 300 to move along the rails 8a, 8b.

[0076] The follower assembly 232, 332, and in particular the rollers 232a, 332a of the follower assembly, can be configured to engage the top surface 504a and / or the bottom surface 504b of the head flange 504. Figure 5 In the illustrated arrangement, the follower assembly 232, 332 includes four rollers 232a, 332a configured to engage the top and bottom surfaces of the head flange 504 on both sides of the web 506. In this arrangement, the pivot shaft 232b, 332b of the follower assembly 232, 332 is disposed perpendicular to the web 506. Figure 4 The axis of the pivot 232b, 332b shown is in the direction so that the roller 232a, 332a engages the web of the flange. In other arrangements, the axis of the pivot 232b, 332b can be arranged in other directions as needed.

[0077] In other arrangements, the follower assembly 232 , 332 may additionally or alternatively be configured to engage the base flange 502 (eg, the top surface 502a of the base flange). Additionally or alternatively, the follower assembly 232 , 332 may be configured to engage the track web 506 .

[0078] refer to Figure 6 In another arrangement of the present disclosure, one or both of the rails 8a, 8b may include a channel 600 having a slot 602 (e.g., a T-shaped slot). The follower assembly 232, 332 may be at least partially received in the slot 602. For example, the rollers 232a, 332a of the follower assembly 232, 332 may be disposed in the slot 602. The follower assembly 232, 332 may be configured to engage the channel 600 at the slot 602 to support movement of the seat 200 and the movable table 300 along the rails 8a, 8b.

[0079] In the illustrated arrangement, the follower assembly 232, 332 is configured to engage with the upper inner surface 602a of the slot. In other arrangements, the follower assembly 232, 332 may be configured to engage with the lower inner surface 602b of the slot. Additionally or alternatively, in some arrangements, the follower assembly 232, 332 may be configured to engage with one or more side surfaces 602c of the slot. Additionally or alternatively, the follower assembly 232, 332 may be configured to engage with the upper surface of the channel 600a outside the slot 602. For example, the follower assembly 232, 332 may include one or more rollers 232a, 332a disposed outside the slot 602.

[0080] The movable table 300 can be configured to be manually moved by a user pushing or pulling the movable table so that the follower assembly 332 moves along the track assembly 8. Additionally or alternatively, the movable table 300 can be configured so that when the seat 6 moves between the seat positions 7a to 7f along the track assembly 8, the movable table 300 is moved by the seat 6. For example, the movable table 300 can be connected to the seat so that the movable table moves as the seat moves. The seat system 4 may include an actuator configured to drive the movement of the seat. Therefore, the movable table 300 can be moved by an actuator disposed within the seat system 4.

[0081] Or, if Figure 7 As shown, the vehicle assembly 2 may include an actuator 700 configured to drive the movable table 10, 300 to move around the track assembly. Figure 7 In the illustrated arrangement, the actuator 700 is disposed on the movable table 10, 300 and drives the movement of the movable table 10 along the guide rail assembly 8, respectively, for example separately from the movement of the seat.

[0082] exist Figure 7 In the arrangement shown in , the actuator 700 is configured to rotate one or more pinions 702 that mesh with one or more racks 704 disposed on the track assembly 8 to drive the movable table 10, 300 along the track assembly 8. The follower assembly 332 may include the pinion 702. For example, the roller 332a of the follower assembly may define the pinion 702, and the rack 704 may be connected to or formed on one or both of the tracks 8a, 8b.

[0083] Despite Figure 7In the illustrated arrangement, the actuator 700 uses a gear drive system including a pinion 702 and a rack 704 to drive the movement of the movable table, but it is also conceivable that in other embodiments of the present disclosure, the actuator 700 can be configured to use any other desired drive system (such as a belt or chain drive system) to drive the movement of the movable table 300.

[0084] The vehicle assembly 2 may include a controller 710 configured to control the operation of the actuator 700. The controller 710 may also be configured to control the operation of an actuator disposed in the seat system 4 to drive the seat in a certain position. Figures 1a to 1d The controller 710 can be configured to control the movement of the movable table 300 together with the seats 6 so that the movable table 300 remains in the same position relative to one or more seats when the seats move around the track assembly 8.

[0085] refer to Figure 8 In an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure, the vehicle assembly 2 includes an actuator 800 disposed on the track assembly 8 or the frame of the vehicle. In other words, the actuator 800 may be fixed relative to the frame of the vehicle and may not move with the seat 6 or the movable table 10. In this embodiment, only one seat 6 is provided. However, it is also conceivable that in Figure 8 Two, three, four or any desired number of seats 6 may be provided in the seating system shown in FIG. 1 and configured as described below.

[0086] The vehicle assembly also includes a drive mechanism 810 powered by the actuator 800. Figure 8 In the illustrated arrangement, the drive mechanism 810 includes a cable drive system including a plurality of pulleys 812 and cables 814. However, the drive mechanism 810 may additionally or alternatively include any other suitable drive mechanism, such as a chain or gear drive mechanism.

[0087] The drive mechanism 810 is configured so that the cable 814 follows the guide rail assembly 8. The seat 6 and / or the movable table 10 can be connected to the drive mechanism, for example, to the cable 814, so that the movement of the seat 6 and / or the movable table 10 is driven by the actuator 800 via the drive mechanism 810.

[0088] exist Figure 8In the illustrated arrangement, the seat 6 and the movable table 10 each include a drive connector 816 associated with the seat 6 and the movable table 10, respectively, and configured to connect the associated seat 6 or movable table 10 to the drive mechanism 810. The drive connector 816 is configured to selectively connect the associated seat or movable table to the drive mechanism 810. In this way, a particular seat or movable table 10 can be separated from the drive mechanism 810 while the movement of other parts of the seat and / or movable table continues to be driven by the drive mechanism 810. This allows the relative positions of the seats and the movable table to be changed. One or more actuators and associated drive mechanisms can thereby be used to control the positions of a greater number of seats, such as greater than the number of actuators and drive mechanisms.

[0089] In one arrangement, a single actuator 800 is used to control the position of each of the seats 6 and movable table 10 disposed within the vehicle assembly 2. However, in other arrangements, the vehicle assembly 2 may include two or more actuators 800 and associated drive mechanisms 810. For example, a first group of seats, such as two of the seats, may be connected to a first drive mechanism driven by a first actuator, and a second group of seats, such as the remaining seats, may be connected to a second drive mechanism driven by a second actuator. The movable table may be connected to the first or second drive mechanism or a third drive mechanism. In some arrangements, the vehicle assembly 2 may include an actuator 800 and drive mechanism 810 for each seat 6 and movable table 10.

[0090] refer to Figure 9a and Figure 9b The width of each seat 200 (such as the seat body 210 of the seat) can be selectively variable, for example, adjustable. The width of the seat 200 can be between a first width (as shown in FIG. 1 ) and a second width (as shown in FIG. 2 ). Figure 9a and 9b Adjust between the following:

[0091] like Figure 9a and Figure 9b As shown, when the width of two adjacent seats 6b, 6c has been increased, the seat bodies 210 of the adjacent seats are adjacent. The two adjacent seats thus form a long seat 900. Forming a long seat 900 can provide additional space to allow additional passengers to sit in the vehicle. When the adjacent seats are arranged in the second and third seat positions 7b, 7c, the seat bodies 210 can abut the center of the vehicle, and the long seat 900 can extend substantially across the entire width of the interior of the vehicle 2.

[0092] The movable table 300 can be configured so that the tabletop 310 is located at a lower height above the track assembly 8 than the seat body 210. Figure 1a ,1c , 9a and 9b, the movable table 300 can be positioned so that at least a portion of the tabletop 310 is located below the seat body 210 of one or more seats. The height of the tabletop 310 can be fixed at a desired height. Alternatively, the movable table 300 can be configured so that the tabletop 310 can be raised and lowered to selectively fit under the seat body.

[0093] like Figure 9a and 9b As shown, when the movable table 300 is disposed between adjacent seats 6b, 6c, its width may have been extended to form a long seat 900, and the movable table 300 may be substantially completely positioned under the seat bodies 210 of the adjacent seats 6b, 6c. In other words, the movable table 300 may be stored under the seat bodies 210 of the adjacent seats. The size of the tabletop 310 may be configured so that the tabletop 310 may be located between the seat pillars 220 of the adjacent seats when the seat bodies of the adjacent seats are aligned or abutted in the longitudinal or transverse direction of the vehicle to form a long seat 900.

[0094] refer to Fig.10 In some arrangements, due to the size of the tabletop 310 and / or the arrangement of the track assembly 8 relative to the interior wall 1010 of the vehicle, it may be desirable that a portion 312 of the tabletop 310 is foldable so that the foldable portion can be folded to prevent the portion 312 of the tabletop 310 from colliding with the interior wall 1010 when the movable table 300 is moved around the track assembly 8. Fig.10 As shown, when the movable table 300 is moved along the track assembly 8, the foldable portion forms a corner of the table top 310 located adjacent to the inner wall 1010.

[0095] When the movable table 300 is in a location where sufficient space is available, the foldable portion 312 can be unfolded into a generally flat horizontal configuration flush with and parallel to the non-foldable portion 314 of the table top 310 in order to maximize the table space.

[0096] refer to Fig.11a , 11b 11c, the foldable portion 312 of the table top may include a plurality of elongated members 312a extending across the table top. Fig.11b and 11c As shown, the cross-section of the elongated member 312a can be wedge-shaped such that the width of the elongated member 312a decreases between the upper surface 310a of the table top and the lower surface 310b of the table top.

[0097] The foldable portion 312 may include a cover 312b extending over the elongated member 312a. The cover 312b forms an outer surface of the foldable portion 312 of the table top. The cover 312b may be flexible so as to conform to the shape of the foldable portion when the foldable portion is unfolded and folded. When the foldable portion 312 is in an unfolded (e.g., horizontal) configuration, such as Fig.11b As shown, the cover 312 b may form a portion of the upper surface 310 a and the lower surface 310 b of the table top 310 in the area of ​​the foldable portion 312 .

[0098] The movable table 300 also includes a first cable 314 extending between the elongated members 312a of the foldable portion 312. The first cable 314 is configured so that when the cable is in a tensioned state, the cable 314 pulls the elongated members to unfold the foldable portion 312 of the table. Fig.11b and 11c As shown, when the cable is in tension, each elongated member 312a can define a shoulder 312c. Each elongated member 312 can abut an adjacent elongated member at its respective shoulder 312c to maintain the foldable portion 312 in the deployed configuration.

[0099] When the tension in the first cable 314 is released, the elongated member 312a can be folded into the foldable portion 314. Fig.11c The folded configuration shown can be moved, for example, pivoted and / or slid relative to each other. The foldable portion 312 can include a biasing element configured to bias the foldable portion 312 into the folded configuration when the tension in the cable 314 is released. Alternatively, the foldable portion 312 may fold due to the weight of the elongated member 312a.

[0100] In some arrangements, the movable table 300 can additionally include an additional or second cable extending between the elongated members 312a. The second cable can be configured such that when the second cable is in tension, the second cable pulls the elongated members 312a to collapse the foldable portion. Either the first cable or the second cable can be in tension to arrange the foldable portion 312 of the tabletop into a desired configuration.

[0101] In other arrangements of the present disclosure, the foldable portion 312 may include a biasing element configured to bias the foldable portion 312 into an unfolded configuration. In this arrangement, the foldable portion 312 may remain in an unfolded configuration when the first cable 314 is not in a tensioned state. The first cable 314 may be configured so that when the cable is in a tensioned state, the cable 312 is used to keep the foldable portion 312 in an unfolded configuration so as to increase the support provided by the foldable portion for an object placed on the desktop 310. The second cable may be configured to pull the elongated member 312a to fold the foldable portion 312 when necessary. Alternatively, when the foldable portion is biased into an unfolded configuration, the first cable 314 may be configured to pull the elongated member 312a to fold the foldable portion when the first cable 314 is in a tensioned state. In this case, the second cable may be omitted.

[0102] In other arrangements, the foldable portion 312 may include a flap pivotally connected to the table top 310 or multiple flaps pivotally connected to one or more adjacent flaps throughout the length of the foldable portion.

[0103] In the illustrated arrangement, the foldable portion 312 of the tabletop is disposed at a corner of the table adjacent to an interior wall of the vehicle when the table is moved about the track assembly 8. In other arrangements, the foldable portion 312 may be additionally or alternatively disposed at one or more other areas of the tabletop, such as other corners of the tabletop. For example, the foldable portion 312 of the tabletop may be disposed at an opposing corner of the tabletop closest to the interior space of the vehicle and may be foldable to prevent the tabletop 310 from extending from under a seat when the table is stowed under the seat.

[0104] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that while the invention has been described by way of example with reference to one or more exemplary examples, the invention is not limited to the disclosed examples and that alternative examples may be constructed without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0105] It will be appreciated that changes and modifications may be made to the above described constructions without departing from the inventive concept and it will be appreciated that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless the claims expressly state otherwise by their language.

Claims

1. A motor vehicle assembly, comprising: a rail extending at least partially around a space within an interior of the vehicle between a plurality of seating positions; a table movably connected to and supported by the rails so that the table is movable along the rails between seats located at the seating positions; and The assembly includes two or more seats, the seats including a seat body and a seat post supporting the seat body, wherein the table is connected to the track between two of the seats and is movable between the two seats, and wherein the seats are movably connected to the track and are movable along the track between the seat positions; The table includes a tabletop having a height above the rails that is less than a height of the seat bodies of the seats above the rails so that the tabletop can be at least partially located under the seat bodies of one or more of the seats, the tabletop including a foldable portion including a plurality of longitudinal members configured to move relative to each other so as to allow the tabletop to fold so as to prevent the tabletop from extending from under the seat when the table is stowed under the seat, the tabletop including one or more cables extending between the longitudinal members, and wherein the one or more cables are configured to hold the longitudinal members together when the foldable portion is not folded.

2. The motor vehicle assembly of claim 1 , wherein at least a first portion of the guide rail extends in a longitudinal direction of the motor vehicle, at least a second portion of the guide rail extends in a transverse direction of the motor vehicle, and at least a third portion of the guide rail is curved.

3. The motor vehicle assembly of claim 1 , wherein the rail is a first rail, and the assembly further comprises a second rail disposed adjacent to the first rail and extending parallel to the first rail between the seating positions, wherein the table is movably connected to the second rail.

4. The motor vehicle assembly of claim 1 wherein the table is rotatable such that a diagonal axis of the table is aligned with a longitudinal axis of the seat when the table is stowed beneath the seat body.

5. The motor vehicle assembly of claim 1 , wherein the table is movable between a stowed position in which the table is at least partially located beneath a seat body of one or more of the seats and a deployed position in which the table is away from beneath the seat body.

6. The motor vehicle assembly of claim 1 wherein the table is configured such that the table can be stowed beneath seat bodies of two of the seats when the two seats are generally aligned.

7. The motor vehicle assembly of claim 1 , wherein the movable table is positionable in a corner of the motor vehicle between two of the seats, the seats being disposed perpendicular to one another, and wherein a first edge of the tabletop is positionable along an edge of a first seat and a second edge of the tabletop is positionable along an edge of a second seat, and wherein the first edge and the second edge of the tabletop are substantially perpendicular to one another.

8. The motor vehicle assembly of claim 1, wherein the movable table comprises: a support column including a first end connected to the tabletop; and A follower element is disposed at the second end of the support column and is configured to movably connect the table to the rail so that the table can be moved between seats positioned at the seating locations.

9. The motor vehicle assembly of claim 8, wherein the guide rail comprises a track or a slot, wherein the driven element is configured to movably connect the table to the track or slot of the guide rail.

10. The motor vehicle assembly of claim 8, wherein the driven element includes a roller configured to engage the rail.

11. A motor vehicle assembly according to claim 8, wherein the guide rail is a first guide rail and the motor vehicle includes a second guide rail, which is arranged adjacent to the first guide rail and extends parallel to the first guide rail between two or more of the seat positions, and wherein the driven element is a first driven element and the table includes a second driven element configured to be movably connected to the second guide rail.

12. The motor vehicle assembly of claim 11, wherein the table includes a protrusion connected to the second end of the support column, wherein the first driven element and the second driven element are disposed on the protrusion.

13. The motor vehicle assembly of claim 8, wherein the table further comprises a securing mechanism configured to selectively secure the table relative to a frame of the vehicle.

14. The motor vehicle assembly of claim 8, wherein the pillar includes a storage space defined within the pillar.

15. The motor vehicle assembly of claim 8, wherein the movable table includes an actuator configured to drive movement of the movable table along the rails.

16. The motor vehicle assembly of claim 8, wherein the height of the tabletop of the movable table above the rails is adjustable.

17. The motor vehicle assembly of claim 8, wherein the table is rotated by the track changing direction as the table moves along the track.

18. The motor vehicle assembly of claim 8, wherein the table is configured to rotate relative to the track.

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