Opening and closing device for a glove box

Abstract

The present invention relates to an opening and closing device for a glove box, the opening and closing device including a housing coupled to the glove box, a handle rotatably installed to the housing, a locking unit installed to be movable in a direction in which the glove box is released from an instrument panel of a vehicle, and a link configured to connect the handle and the locking unit to each other and to move in a height direction of the locking unit when a user rotates the handle, wherein the locking unit is movable in a length direction of the locking unit in a state in which the locking unit is interlocked with the link, such that the locking unit is released from an engagement portion of the instrument panel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an opening and closing device for a glove box, and more particularly to such an opening and closing device for a glove box that enables the glove box to remain closed during normal time and to be opened when the user pulls the handle. Background Technology

[0002] Generally, glove boxes in vehicles are installed in the dashboard area opposite the passenger seats, creating storage space for items. Glove boxes are typically mounted in the dashboard in a rotatable manner. Recently, the number of vehicles equipped with drawer-type glove boxes that move in the fore-and-aft direction via a straight guide rail structure for opening and closing is increasing.

[0003] Regarding conventional glove boxes with a conventional rotatable opening and closing structure, Korean Patent Registration No. 2049486 (hereinafter referred to as "reference 1") discloses an electronic opening and closing device for glove boxes.

[0004] The electronic opening and closing device for a glove box cited in Reference 1 includes: a pair of locking levers mounted on the glove box and configured to simultaneously insert into or disengage from a pair of locking slots recessed on both sides inside the glove box mounting portion via a coupling end located at the end, so as to move linearly in opposite directions in an interlocked state; a magnetic generator configured to operate the locking levers by the interaction of electromagnetic force with a coupling end to lock or unlock the glove box; and a switching unit configured to interrupt the power supply to the magnetic generator.

[0005] The electronic opening and closing device for the glove box, cited in Reference 1, improves the tactile feedback and user inconvenience during glove box opening and closing, thus aligning with vehicle advancements.

[0006] However, in the electronic opening and closing device for a glove box described in Reference 1, it is inconvenient for the user to press or touch the switch unit and then pull the glove box. Furthermore, compared to a manual opening and closing device for a glove box, the electronic opening and closing device requires additional components, such as a switch unit and a magnetic actuator. Therefore, the electronic opening and closing device for a glove box in Reference 1 increases the thickness of the front surface of the glove box.

[0007] In the electronic opening and closing device for a glove box described in reference 1, when the switch unit is pressed, vehicle power is simultaneously applied to a pair of rotary actuators, thereby rotating the engaging end such that the guide inclined plane of the engaging end is opposite to the engaging protrusion of the locking groove. However, due to the characteristics of the electric operating device, the application of vehicle power and the rotation of the engaging end cannot occur simultaneously. That is, due to the characteristics of the electric operating device, there is a periodic delay time between the application of vehicle power and the rotation of the engaging end. Furthermore, noise specific to the electric operating device is generated.

[0008] The information disclosed in this background section is only for enhancing the understanding of the background of this invention. Therefore, the information contained in this background section does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art in this country. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The present invention is proposed to address the aforementioned problems associated with the prior art, and the object of the present invention is to provide an opening and closing device for a glove box that allows the glove box to remain closed during normal time and to open when the user pulls the handle, while reducing the thickness of the front surface of the glove box and minimizing noise generation.

[0010] In one aspect, the present invention provides an opening and closing device for opening and closing a glove box, the opening and closing device comprising: a housing coupled to a glove box; a handle rotatably mounted to the housing; a locking unit mounted to be movable in a direction for releasing the glove box from the dashboard of a vehicle; a linkage configured to connect the handle and the locking unit to each other and to move along the height direction of the locking unit when the user rotates the handle; and an elastic member configured to apply a spring force to the locking unit such that the locking unit engages with a joint of the dashboard, wherein the locking unit is movable along the length direction of the locking unit in a state of interlocking with the linkage such that the locking unit is released from the joint of the dashboard.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment, the handle includes: a rotating unit configured to rotate about a rotation axis; and a connecting unit extending from the rotation axis in a radial direction and connected to a link.

[0012] In another preferred embodiment, the locking unit includes a first locking lever and a second locking lever. The first locking lever further includes an inclined portion located on the first locking lever at a position corresponding to a corresponding engagement portion in the engagement portion. The first locking lever is configured to move along the length direction of the locking unit in response to upward or downward movement of the link.

[0013] In another preferred embodiment, a first locking lever is mounted on the glove box to be movable left and right and includes a first rack portion; and a second locking lever is mounted on the glove box to be movable left and right and includes a second rack portion, wherein the locking unit further includes a pinion that engages with the first rack portion and the second rack portion to move the first locking lever and the second locking lever toward opposite sides in the length direction of the locking unit.

[0014] In yet another preferred embodiment, the locking unit includes a third locking lever and a fourth locking lever, and an elastic member may be located between the proximal ends of the third locking lever and the fourth locking lever, and is configured to engage the distal ends of the third locking lever and the fourth locking lever with the joint of the instrument panel.

[0015] In yet another preferred embodiment, a pair of inclined portions are provided at the portions of the third and fourth locking rods on the connecting rod that face each other; and in response to the upward or downward movement of the connecting rod, the third and fourth locking rods move along the inclined plane in a direction in which the proximal ends of the third and fourth locking rods approach each other, such that the distal ends of the third and fourth locking rods disengage from the engagement portion.

[0016] In yet another preferred embodiment, the opening and closing device for the glove box further includes a guide mounted on the glove box such that the locking unit passes through the guide, and the guide can guide the movement of the locking unit along its length.

[0017] In another preferred embodiment, the opening and closing device for the glove box further includes: a through hole formed through the locking unit in a front-rear direction; a pin member inserted into the through hole to be slidably movable; and a pin hole formed in the guide such that the pin member is inserted therein, wherein when the vehicle tilts in a left-right direction based on its axis, the pin member is slidably movable along the through hole and inserted into a corresponding pin hole in the pin hole.

[0018] Other aspects and preferred embodiments of the invention will be discussed below.

[0019] The above and other features of the present invention will be discussed below. Attached Figure Description

[0020] The above and other features of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to certain exemplary embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, which are given hereinafter by way of illustration only and are not intended to limit the invention, and wherein:

[0021] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the glove box in an open state according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 2This is a partially exploded perspective view showing the installation state of an opening and closing device for a glove box according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 3 This is a view showing the glove box in a closed state, illustrating an opening and closing device for a glove box according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 4 This is a view showing the glove box in an open state, illustrating an opening and closing device for a glove box according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 5 This is a partially exploded perspective view showing the installation state of an opening and closing device for a glove box according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 6 and Figure 7 This is a view showing the closed state of a glove box via an opening and closing device for the glove box according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 8 This is a view showing the open state of a glove box through an opening and closing device for the glove box according to another embodiment of the invention; and

[0028] Figure 9A , Figure 9B and Figure 9C It is a cross-sectional view showing the various states between the locking lever and the guide.

[0029] It should be understood that the accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and thus present a simplified representation of various preferred features illustrating the basic principles of the invention. Specific design features of the invention are disclosed herein, including, for example, specific dimensions, orientations, positions, and shapes, which will be determined in part by the specific intended application and environment of use.

[0030] In the accompanying drawings, reference numerals refer to the same or equivalent parts of the invention in all the drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0031] The following description will refer in detail to various embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described below. While the invention will be described in conjunction with exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that this specification is not intended to limit the invention to these exemplary embodiments. Rather, the invention is intended to cover not only these exemplary embodiments, but also various alternatives, modifications, equivalents, and other embodiments that may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. In the following description of the invention, detailed descriptions of known functions and configurations incorporated herein will be omitted where such descriptions may render the subject matter of the invention rather obscure.

[0032] An opening and closing device for a glove box according to the present invention enables the glove box to remain closed for a normal period of time and to open immediately when the user pulls the handle, while reducing the thickness of the front surface of the glove box and minimizing noise generation.

[0033] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the glove box 2 in an open state according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 2 This is a partially exploded perspective view showing the installation state of an opening and closing device 10 for a glove box according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 3 This is a view showing the glove box 2 in a closed state, according to an embodiment of the present invention, using an opening and closing device 10 for a glove box. Figure 4 This is a view showing the glove box 2 in an open state, according to an embodiment of the present invention, using an opening and closing device 10 for a glove box.

[0035] In the following text, for ease of understanding of the invention, reference will be made to... Figure 1 The direction in which the glove box 2 is pulled out, facing the passenger seat, is called the front. Conversely, the direction in which the glove box 2 is retracted, facing the dashboard 1, is called the rear.

[0036] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the opening and closing device 10 for the glove box enables the glove box 2 to remain closed for a normal period of time and to open immediately when the user pulls the handle 200.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the opening and closing device 10 for a glove box includes: a housing 100, a handle 200, a locking unit, a connecting rod 500, an elastic member 600, a pinion 700, a guide 800, and an auxiliary guide 900. More specifically, the locking unit according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a first locking lever 300 and a second locking lever 400.

[0038] like Figure 2 As shown, the glove box 2 includes a main body 2A and a lid 2B. According to one embodiment of the present invention, an opening and closing device 10 for the glove box is disposed between the main body 2A and the lid 2B.

[0039] like Figure 1 As shown, the main body 2A forms a storage space 2S for storing items. A track 2R is mounted on the side surface of the main body 2A. The glove box 2 is mounted in the vehicle's dashboard 1 so that it can slide slidably in the front-rear direction via the track 2R.

[0040] The vehicle's dashboard 1 may include a glove box mounting section 1A. The glove box mounting section 1A forms a space in which the glove box 2 is pulled in. Although not shown in the accompanying drawings, a guide rail (not shown) may be mounted in the glove box mounting section 1A, on which a rail 2R is mounted for slidable movement.

[0041] like Figure 2 As shown, the cover 2B is attached to the front surface of the body 2A. The cover 2B can be attached to the front surface of the body 2A using an engagement structure such as a hook or by using bolts. A concave handle groove 102 is formed in the cover 2B. The user can pull the rotating unit 210 forward by operating the handle groove 102 with part of his / her body.

[0042] like Figure 2 As shown, the housing 100 is joined to the rear surface of the cover 2B. The housing 100 can be joined to the rear surface of the cover 2B using an engagement structure such as a hook, or it can be fastened by using bolts.

[0043] like Figure 3 As shown, the handle 200 is rotatably mounted on the housing 100. The handle 200 includes a rotating unit 210 and a connecting unit 220.

[0044] A rotating shaft 211 is formed in the rotating unit 210. A hole through the housing 100 is formed for the rotating shaft 211 to be rotatably inserted.

[0045] The rotating unit 210 forms the part that the user pulls with his / her hand to open the glove box 2. When the user rotates the rotating unit 210, the rotating unit 210 rotates around the rotation axis 211 from Figure 3 The state shown rotates to Figure 4 The state shown.

[0046] In the following text, for ease of understanding of the invention, Figure 3 The state shown is called the off state. Furthermore, Figure 4 The state shown is called the open state.

[0047] The connecting unit 220 extends from one end of the rotating shaft 211 in the radial direction. The upper part of the connecting rod 500 is connected to one end of the connecting unit 220.

[0048] A groove can be formed in the upper part of the connecting rod 500, and one end of the connecting unit 220 can be inserted into the groove in the connecting rod 500. Optionally, the connecting rod 500 and the connecting unit 220 can be rotatably coupled to each other by a pin. Therefore, the connecting rod 500 can be operated up and down integrally with the connecting unit 220, and the connecting rod 500 can rotate about the end coupled to the connecting unit 220 in response to the rotation of the rotating unit 210. The connecting rod 500 is configured to move downward in the height direction of the glove box 10 in response to the rotation of the rotating unit 210, so as to press against the inclined portion 320 located at the lower end of the connecting rod 500.

[0049] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, when the user rotates the rotating unit 210, the connecting unit 220 rotates from a closed state to an open state around the rotation axis 211. One end of the connecting unit 220 descends simultaneously with the rotation from the closed state to the open state. Therefore, the link 500 is configured to descend in a state interlocked with the connecting unit 220.

[0050] A spring 110 may be disposed in the housing 100, and the spring 110 applies a spring force to switch the handle 200 to the closed state. The upper end of the spring 110 is coupled to the housing 110, while the lower end of the spring 110 is coupled to the connecting unit 220. Therefore, when the connecting rod 500 descends in response to the rotation of the connecting unit 220, the spring 110 can be compressed to form a pulling force to push the connecting unit 220 upward.

[0051] When the user pulls the rotating unit 210 in one direction, the connecting unit 220 rotates from the closed state to the open state. At this time, the spring 110 is compressed. When the user removes his / her hand from the rotating unit 210, the rotating unit 210 rotates back to the closed state under the restoring force of the spring 110.

[0052] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the first locking lever 300 and the second locking lever 400 are configured to move in a direction that releases the housing 100 from the instrument panel 1. More specifically, the first locking lever 300 and the second locking lever 400 are configured to move along the width of the glove box 2 in the length direction (i.e., the left-right direction). An inclined portion 320 is formed at the distal end of the first locking lever 300. The inclined portion 320 can be configured such that the height of the inclined portion 320 increases as the inclined portion 320 approaches the distal end of the first locking lever 300.

[0053] The engagement portion is formed on two side surfaces of the housing mounting portion 1A, namely the left surface and the right surface. This engagement portion can be configured such that the distal ends of the first locking lever 300 and the second locking lever 400 are inserted into the engagement portion to secure it to the housing mounting portion 1A. More specifically, the engagement portion can be provided as a hole into which the distal ends of the first locking lever 300 and the second locking lever 400 are inserted.

[0054] like Figure 3 As shown, the closed state refers to the state in which the left and right ends (i.e., the distal ends) of the first locking lever 300 and the second locking lever 400 are inserted into the engagement portion. Figure 4 As shown, the open state refers to the state in which the left and right ends (i.e., the distal ends) of the first locking lever 300 and the second locking lever 400 are released from the engagement.

[0055] The guide 800 and the auxiliary guide 900 are attached to the front surface of the main body 2A. The guide 800 and the auxiliary guide 900 can be attached to the front surface of the main body 2A using a hook or thread combination structure. More specifically, at least one pair of guides 800 can be provided.

[0056] One of the pair of guides 800 has a hole through which a first locking lever 300 passes. Therefore, one guide 800 guides the left-right movement of the first locking lever 300 through the inner surface of the hole. The other guide 800 of the pair has a hole through which a second locking lever 400 passes. Therefore, the other guide 800 guides the left-right movement of the second locking lever 400 through the inner surface of the hole.

[0057] The auxiliary guide 900 is formed in the shape of a pin. A hole is formed in the second locking rod 400, and the auxiliary guide 900 is inserted into the hole in the left-right direction. The second locking rod 400 moves left and right while the auxiliary guide 900 is inserted into the hole.

[0058] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the pinion housing 710 is attached to the front surface of the body 2A. The pinion housing 710 can be attached to the front surface of the body 2A using an engagement structure such as a hook, or it can be fastened by using bolts. The pinion 700 is rotatably mounted on the pinion housing 710.

[0059] The first locking lever 300 includes a first rack portion 310, which has gear teeth arranged in a straight line. The second locking lever 400 includes a second rack portion 410, which has gear teeth arranged in a straight line.

[0060] The pinion 700 engages simultaneously with the first rack portion 310 and the second rack portion 410. The first rack portion 310 engages with the lower part of the pinion 700. The second rack portion 410 engages with the upper part of the pinion 700.

[0061] Therefore, when the first locking lever 300 moves in the left-right direction, the second locking lever 400 also moves in the left-right direction. The first locking lever 300 and the second locking lever 400 move in opposite directions due to the pinion 700. That is, when the first locking lever 300 is configured to move in the length direction (i.e., the width direction of the glove box 10) while interlocked with the connecting rod 500, the first locking lever 300 moves integrally with the second locking lever 400 through the rotation of the pinion 700.

[0062] A step may be formed in each of the upper and lower parts of the pinion housing 710. The pinion housing 710 may guide the left and right movement of the first locking lever 300 and the second locking lever 400 via the step.

[0063] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the linkage 500 connects the handle 200 and the first locking lever 300 to each other. The upper part of the linkage 500 is connected to one end of the connecting unit 220.

[0064] When the user pulls the rotating unit 210 in one direction, the connecting unit 220 rotates around the rotation axis 211 from a closed state to an open state. One end of the connecting unit 220 descends simultaneously with the rotation from the closed state to the open state. Therefore, the link 500 is configured to descend in a state interlocked with the connecting unit 220.

[0065] An inclined plane is formed on the first locking lever 300. In the closed state, the lower part of the connecting rod 500 contacts the lowermost part of the inclined plane of the inclined portion 32. When the rotating unit 210 rotates, a downward pulling force is applied to the inclined plane that contacts the lower end of the connecting rod 500 as the connecting rod 500 descends. The lower part of the connecting rod 500 slides on the inclined plane while descending.

[0066] The height of the inclined plane decreases as the distance from the pinion 700 increases. Furthermore, the first locking lever 300 and the second locking lever 400 are installed in the glove box 2 so that they can move left and right.

[0067] Therefore, as the connecting rod 500 descends, the first locking rod 300 and the second locking rod 400 move toward the pinion 700. Then, the left and right ends (i.e., the distal ends) of the first locking rod 300 and the second locking rod 400 separate from the engagement portion.

[0068] The elastic member 600 is configured such that one end is fixed to the body 2A adjacent to the corresponding engagement portion, while the other end is coupled to the first locking lever 300, so as to apply elastic force to the first locking lever 300, which moves along the length direction. The elastic member 600 may be configured as a helical spring, thus allowing the body 2A and the first locking lever 300 to be connected to each other.

[0069] Therefore, when the user removes his / her hand from the rotating unit 210, the first locking lever 300 moves to its original position corresponding to the closed state by the restoring force of the elastic member 600. The second locking lever 400 moves in the opposite direction to the movement of the first locking lever 300 via the pinion 700. Thus, the second locking lever 400 is also moved to its original position corresponding to the closed state.

[0070] Figure 5 A partially exploded perspective view shows the installation state of an opening and closing device 10 for a glove box according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Figure 6 and Figure 7 A view showing the closed state of a glove box 2 of a glove box opening and closing device 10 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 This is a view of the opening and closing mechanism 10 for the glove box, as seen from the cover 2B. Figure 7 This is a view of the opening and closing device 10 for the glove box, as seen from the main body 2A.

[0072] Figure 8 This is a view showing the glove box 2 in an open state via the glove box opening and closing device 10 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 This is a view of the opening and closing device 10 for the glove box, as seen from the main body 2A.

[0073] like Figures 5 to 8 As shown, according to another embodiment of the invention, the opening and closing device 10 for the glove box enables the glove box 2 to remain closed during normal time and to open when the user pulls the handle 200.

[0074] According to another embodiment of the present invention, an opening and closing device 10 for a glove box includes: a housing 100, a handle 200, a locking unit, a connecting rod 1500, an elastic member 1600, and a guide 1700. More specifically, the locking unit may include a third locking lever 1300 and a fourth locking lever 1400. The third locking lever 1300 and the fourth locking lever 1400 are configured to move along the length direction (i.e., the width direction of the cover 2B) while interlocked with the connecting rod 1500.

[0075] like Figure 5As shown, the glove box 2 includes a main body 2A and a lid 2B. According to another embodiment of the present invention, an opening and closing device 10 for the glove box is disposed between the main body 2A and the lid 2B.

[0076] like Figure 5 As shown, the main body 2A forms a storage space 2S for storing items. A track 2R is mounted on the side surface of the main body 2A. The glove box 2 is mounted in the vehicle's dashboard 1 so that it can slide in the front-rear direction via the track 2R.

[0077] The vehicle's dashboard 1 may include a glove box mounting section 1A. The glove box mounting section 1A may form a space in which the glove box 2 is pulled in (retracted). Although not shown in the drawings, a guide rail (not shown) may be mounted in the glove box mounting section 1A, and a track 2R is mounted on the guide rail for slidable movement thereon.

[0078] like Figure 5 As shown, the cover 2B is attached to the front surface of the body 2A. The cover 2B can be attached to the front surface of the body 2A using an engagement structure such as a hook, or it can be fastened by using bolts. A concave handle groove 102 is formed in the cover 2B. The user can pull the rotating unit 210 forward by placing his / her hand in the handle groove 102.

[0079] like Figure 5 As shown, the housing 100 is joined to the rear surface of the cover 2B. The housing 100 can be joined to the rear surface of the cover 2B using an engagement structure such as a hook, or it can be fastened by using bolts.

[0080] like Figures 5 to 8 As shown, the handle 200 is mounted on the housing 100 so that it can rotate. The handle 200 includes a rotating unit 210 and a connecting unit 220.

[0081] A rotating shaft 211 is formed at the rotating unit 210. A hole for rotatable insertion of the rotating shaft 211 is formed through the housing 100.

[0082] The rotating unit 210 forms a part that the user pulls with his / her hand to open the glove box 2. When the user rotates the rotating unit 210 in one direction, the rotating unit 210 rotates around the rotation axis 211 from... Figure 7 The state shown rotates to Figure 8 The state shown.

[0083] In the following text, for ease of understanding of the invention, Figure 7 The state shown is called the off state. Furthermore, Figure 8 The state shown is called the open state.

[0084] The connecting unit 220 extends radially from one end of the rotating shaft 211. The upper part of the connecting rod 500 is connected to one end of the connecting unit 220.

[0085] A groove may be formed in the upper part of the connecting rod 1500, and one end of the connecting unit 220 may be inserted into the groove of the connecting rod 1500. Optionally, the connecting rod 1500 and the connecting unit 220 may be rotatably coupled to each other by a pin.

[0086] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, when the user rotates the rotating unit 210 in one direction, the connecting unit 220 rotates around the rotation axis 211 from a closed state to an open state. One end of the connecting unit 220 rises simultaneously with its rotation from the closed state to the open state. Therefore, the connecting rod 1500 rises in a state interlocked with the connecting unit 220.

[0087] A pair of inclined portions 1510 are formed at the lower part of the connecting rod 1500. An inclined plane is formed on the upper surface of the inclined portions 1510. The inclined planes are symmetrical to each other based on the vertical line passing between them.

[0088] like Figures 6 to 8 As shown, the third locking lever 1300 and the fourth locking lever 1400 are installed in the glove box 2 so that they can be moved left and right.

[0089] The engagement portion is formed on both side surfaces of the housing mounting portion 1A, namely the left surface and the right surface. The engagement portion refers to the portion that engages with the left and right ends (i.e., the distal ends) of the third locking lever 1300 and the fourth locking lever 1400 in the front-rear direction. The engagement portion may be formed adjacent to the distal ends of the third locking lever 1300 and the fourth locking lever 1400 and is provided with holes for the insertion of the distal ends of the first locking lever 300 and the second locking lever 400.

[0090] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the closed state refers to the state in which the left and right ends (i.e., the distal ends) of the third locking lever 1300 and the fourth locking lever 1400 are inserted into the engagement portion. Figure 8 As shown, the open state refers to the state in which the left and right ends (i.e., the distal ends) of the third locking lever 1300 and the fourth locking lever 1400 are released from the engagement.

[0091] The guide 1700 is attached to the front surface of the body 2A. The guide 1700 can be attached to the front surface of the body 2A using an engagement structure such as a hook or thread combination structure. A pair of guides 1700 are provided.

[0092] A guide 1700 has a hole through which a third locking lever 1300 passes. Thus, the guide 1700 guides the left and right movement of the third locking lever 1300 through the inner surface of the hole.

[0093] Another guide 1700 has a hole through which the fourth locking lever 1400 passes. Thus, the other guide 1700 guides the left and right movement of the fourth locking lever 1400 through the inner surface of the hole.

[0094] like Figures 6 to 8 As shown, link 1500 connects handle 200 to third locking lever 1300 and fourth locking lever 1400. The upper part of link 1500 is connected to one end of connecting unit 220.

[0095] When the user rotates the rotating unit 210 in one direction, the connecting unit 220 rotates around the rotation axis 211 from a closed state to an open state. One end of the connecting unit 220 rises simultaneously with this rotation. Therefore, the connecting rod 1500 also rises.

[0096] A pair of inclined portions 1510 are formed at the lower part of the link 1500. An inclined plane is formed on the upper surface of the inclined portions 1510. The inclined planes are symmetrical to each other based on a vertical line passing between them. More specifically, the inclined planes are configured to have an upward inclination angle in two directions from the center of the link 1500 so as to move integrally in the vertical direction in response to the movement of the link 1500.

[0097] Furthermore, the proximal ends 1310 of the third locking lever 1300 and 1410 of the fourth locking lever 1400 (hereinafter referred to as "mounting portions"), which are adjacent to each other, contact the higher portion of the inclined plane of the inclined portion 1510. When the connecting rod 1510 rises, the mounting portions 1310 and 1410, which are in contact with the inclined plane, move towards the center of the connecting rod 1500. More specifically, the inclined plane is configured to engage with the mounting portions 1310 and 1410 respectively; therefore, as the connecting rod 1500 rises, while the mounting portions 1310 and 1410 contact the lower portion of the inclined plane, the third locking lever 1300 and the fourth locking lever 1400 move in a direction closer to each other.

[0098] In other words, as the connecting rod 1500 rises, the third locking rod 1300 and the fourth locking rod 1400 move along the shape of the inclined plane, causing the distal ends of the third locking rod 1300 and the fourth locking rod 1400 to release from the engagement portion. Therefore, when the connecting rod 1500 rises, the mounting portion 1310 and the mounting portion 1410 slide closer to each other on the inclined plane.

[0099] The elastic member 1600 is located between the third locking lever 1300 and the fourth locking lever 1400. The elastic member 1600 may be configured as a compression spring. The elastic member 1600 applies elastic force to the third locking lever 1300 and the fourth locking lever 1400, such that the distal ends of the third locking lever 1300 and the fourth locking lever 1400 engage with the engagement portion.

[0100] Therefore, when the user removes his / her hand from the rotating unit 210, the third locking lever 1300 and the fourth locking lever 1400 are moved to their original positions corresponding to the closed state under the restoring force of the elastic member 1600.

[0101] Figures 9A to 9C A cross-sectional view is shown of a first locking lever 300 or a third locking lever 1300 and a guide 700 or a guide 1700 according to one or another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9A This shows the vehicle in a state where it is not tilted in the longitudinal direction, while Figure 9B and Figure 9C This shows the vehicle tilted at a 45° angle in the longitudinal direction.

[0102] like Figure 9A As shown, a through hole 301 is formed in the front-rear direction through which either the first locking rod 300 or the third locking rod 1300 can pass, and a pin component 300 can be inserted into the through hole 301 for slidable movement. The pin component 330 includes a sliding portion 331 and a pair of insertion portions 332.

[0103] The sliding part 331 can slide along the inner surface of the through hole 301. The sliding part 331 can slide along the inner surface of the through hole 301 due to gravity and inertial force.

[0104] A pair of insertion portions 332 extend from the sliding portion 331 along the length direction of the through hole 301. The two insertion portions 332 extend in opposite directions. A pair of pin holes 801 for insertion of the insertion portions 332 are formed in the guide 700 or the guide 1700.

[0105] A pair of elastic devices 333 are provided in the through hole 301. A step is formed on the inner surface of the through hole 301. The elastic device 333 may be located between the step and the sliding part 331. The elastic device 333 applies a restoring force to the sliding part 331, causing the insertion part 332 to separate from the pin hole 801.

[0106] like Figure 9A As shown, when the vehicle is not tilted in the forward and backward direction, the restoring force of the elastic device 333 can keep the insertion part 332 separated from the pin hole 801.

[0107] like Figure 9B and Figure 9CAs shown, when the vehicle is tilted at a 45° angle in the longitudinal direction, an insertion part 332 is inserted into the pin hole 801 by gravity applied to the pin member 330. That is, when the vehicle is tilted at a 45° angle in the longitudinal direction, the load on the pin member 330 is greater than the restoring force of the elastic member 323. Therefore, the insertion part 332 is inserted into the pin hole 801 and held in place.

[0108] When a vehicle is impacted, it may tilt severely in the longitudinal direction. Therefore, the glove box 2 may be unintentionally pulled out by the impact applied to the vehicle, potentially transferring the impact to passengers seated in the passenger seat. Furthermore, the glove box 2 may unintentionally hinder passenger escape.

[0109] like Figure 9B and Figure 9C As shown, when the vehicle tilts severely along the left-right direction (i.e., in the lateral direction) based on its axis, the pin component 330 slides due to gravity and is inserted into a corresponding pin hole 801. Therefore, movement of the third locking lever 1300 in the left-right direction is prevented. Thus, when the vehicle is subjected to an impact, the glove box 2 is prevented from being accidentally pulled out.

[0110] Due to the sudden braking of the vehicle prior to the impact or collision, a large inertial force may be applied. Therefore, in response to the sudden stop or braking of the vehicle, the insertion part 332 is inserted into a pair of pin holes 801 under the action of inertial force. Thus, the glove box 2 is prevented from being unintentionally pulled out in advance.

[0111] According to the present invention, an opening and closing device 10 for a glove box is provided, which enables the glove box 2 to remain closed for normal time and to open immediately when the user pulls the handle 200, as the distal ends of the third locking lever 1300 and the fourth locking lever 1400 are released from the joint of the instrument panel 1, thereby reducing the thickness of the front surface of the glove box 2 and minimizing the generated noise.

[0112] As is evident from the above description, the present invention provides an opening and closing device for a glove box, which enables the glove box to remain closed for normal periods of time and to open when the user pulls the handle, as the locking unit is immediately released from the engagement, thereby reducing the thickness of the front surface of the glove box and minimizing noise generation.

[0113] The present invention has been described in detail with reference to its preferred embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will understand that changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined in the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An opening and closing device for opening and closing a glove box, the opening and closing device comprising: The housing is attached to the glove box; A handle that is rotatably mounted to the housing; The locking unit is installed to be movable in the direction in which the glove box is released from the vehicle's dashboard; as well as A linkage is configured to connect the handle and the locking unit to each other, and to move along the height direction of the locking unit when the user rotates the handle. A pair of inclined portions are formed at the lower part of the connecting rod. The locking unit is capable of moving along its length while interlocked with the linkage, thereby releasing the locking unit from at least one engagement of the instrument panel. As the connecting rod rises, the inclined portion also rises, and the mounting portion of the locking unit moves toward each other along the inclined plane, wherein the inclined plane is inclined upward from the center of the connecting rod in two directions.

2. The opening and closing device according to claim 1, wherein the handle comprises: The rotating unit is configured to rotate about a rotation axis; as well as A connecting unit extends from the rotation axis in the radial direction of the rotation axis and is connected to the connecting rod.

3. The opening and closing device according to claim 1, wherein, The locking unit includes a third locking lever and a fourth locking lever, and The elastic member is located between the proximal ends of the third locking lever and the fourth locking lever, and is configured to engage the distal ends of the third locking lever and the fourth locking lever with the joint of the instrument panel.

4. The opening and closing device according to claim 3, wherein: A pair of inclined portions are provided at the portions of the third locking rod and the fourth locking rod facing each other on the connecting rod; and In response to the upward or downward movement of the connecting rod, the third locking rod and the fourth locking rod move along the inclined plane of the pair of inclined portions in a direction in which the proximal ends of the third locking rod and the fourth locking rod approach each other, such that the distal ends of the third locking rod and the distal ends of the fourth locking rod are respectively separated from the engaging portion.

5. The opening and closing device according to claim 1 further includes a guide member, the guide member being mounted on the glove box such that the locking unit passes through the guide member. in, The guide element guides the movement of the locking unit along its length.

6. An opening and closing device for opening and closing a glove box, the opening and closing device comprising: The housing is attached to the glove box; A handle that is rotatably mounted to the housing; The locking unit is installed to be movable in the direction in which the glove box is released from the vehicle's dashboard; A linkage is configured to connect the handle and the locking unit to each other, and to move along the height direction of the locking unit when the user rotates the handle; A guide, which is mounted on the glove box such that the locking unit passes through the guide; A through hole extends along the length direction through the locking unit; A pin component is inserted into the through hole so that it can slide. as well as A pin hole is formed in the guide so that the pin component can be inserted. in, The guide element guides the movement of the locking unit along its length. The locking unit is capable of moving along its length while interlocked with the linkage, thereby releasing the locking unit from the joint of the instrument panel. When the vehicle tilts left and right based on its axis, the pin component can slide along the through hole and be inserted into the corresponding pin hole in the pin hole.

7. The opening and closing device according to claim 1 or 6 further includes an elastic member configured to apply an elastic force to the locking unit, such that the locking unit engages with the joint of the dashboard.

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