Vehicle interior components

Abstract

A vehicle interior component is disclosed. The component may include a lid movable relative to a base and a latch mechanism to provide the lid with an unlatched state and a latched state when actuated by an external / inertial force (e.g., in an event such as a rollover). The latch mechanism may include a latch / member that extends through an opening in the lid into the base when the lid is closed and retracts into the lid when the lid is opened. When the lid is closed, the latch mechanism may provide an unlatched state in which the latch is in a neutral position (for normal use by an occupant) and a latched state in which the latch is fully extended to engage a catch in the base (in the event of an external force) to prevent the lid from opening. The component may include a console or armrest that provides storage compartments.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of and incorporates by reference in its entirety the following patent application: U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 993,213, filed March 23, 2020, entitled “Vehicle Interior Components.” Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a vehicle interior component. Background Art

[0004] It is known to provide a vehicle interior component comprising a base having a compartment and a lid movable relative to the base to facilitate access to the compartment. It is also known to provide a vehicle interior component configured to lock or latch in response to inertial forces applied, for example, in a rollover event.

[0005] It would be advantageous to provide an improved vehicle interior component configured for improved functionality and operation, including the features (and combinations of features) shown and described herein, including but not limited to an improved latch mechanism configured to be actuated by external / inertial forces (e.g., forces exerted during an event experienced by the vehicle). Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention relates to a vehicle interior component, comprising a base; a cover configured to move relative to the base between a closed position and an open position; and a latch mechanism configured to provide an unlatched state for the cover and a latched state for the cover. The latch mechanism may be configured to provide the latched state when actuated by an inertial force. The cover may include a latch mechanism. The latch mechanism may be configured to extend from the cover when the cover is in the closed position. The cover may include a wall including an opening; the latch mechanism may be configured to form a generally continuous surface with the cover wall when the cover is in the open position. The cover may include a wall including an opening; the latch mechanism may be configured to protrude through the opening in the cover wall when the cover is in the closed position. The latch mechanism may be configured to rotate relative to the base to engage the base. The cover may be configured to rotate relative to the base in an opening direction between the closed and open positions; the latch mechanism may be configured to rotate relative to the base in a direction generally perpendicular to the opening direction. The latch mechanism may include a rod configured to engage the base in the latched state. The rod of the latch mechanism may be configured to engage a flange of the base in a latched state. The rod of the latch mechanism may be configured to rotate into engagement with the base in the latched state. The component may include a counterweight configured to provide mass to move the rod toward engagement with the base. The component may include a spring mechanism configured to at least one of: (a) bias the rod in an unlatched state; or (b) move the rod in response to the removal of an inertial force. The rod of the latch mechanism may be configured to provide a gap with the base in the latched state. The gap may be configured to close to prevent the lid from moving to the open position. The latch mechanism may include a latch configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position through an intermediate position. The latch may include a curved member configured to engage the base in the latched state. The latch may be configured to move from the intermediate position toward the retracted position when the lid moves from the closed position toward the open position. The latch may be configured to move from the intermediate position toward the extended position in response to the inertial force. The lid may be configured to move from (a) an unlatched state in which the lid is in a closed position and the latch is in an intermediate position to (b) a transitional state in which the latch is in a fully extended position to (c) a latched state in which the lid is in a closed position and the latch is in an extended position. The component may include a gap between the latch mechanism and the base in the transitional state. The lid may be configured to move through the gap so as to contact the base in the latched state. The lid may be configured to pivot relative to the base between a closed position and an open position. The component may include at least one of: (a) a console; (b) a center console; (c) a floor console; or (d) an armrest.

[0007] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior that is potentially subject to external forces, such as in the event of a vehicle rollover. The component includes a base; a lid movable relative to the base between a closed position and an open position; and a latch mechanism configured to provide a latched state to secure the lid in the closed position relative to the base. Accordingly, when the vehicle is subjected to an external force, the latch mechanism is configured to actuate to the latched state to secure the lid in the closed position relative to the base. The latch mechanism may include a latch in the lid. The latch may be configured to retract when the lid is in the open position. The latch may be configured to partially extend when the lid is in the closed position. The latch mechanism may include a latch in the lid and a striker in the base. The striker in the base may include a plate. The latch of the latch mechanism may be configured to provide clearance from the plate in the latched state. The latch mechanism may include a latch configured to provide a retracted position and an extended position. In the event of a vehicle accident, the latch may be actuated to the extended position when the lid is in the closed position. The latch mechanism may be configured to move the latch to a retracted position when the lid is moved toward the open position. The latch may be configured to provide an intermediate position between the extended position and the retracted position. When in the intermediate position, the latch may be partially extended from the lid. When the lid is in the closed position, the latch may be in the intermediate position. When the latch is in the intermediate position, the lid may be movable relative to the base toward the open position. The latch may be configured to move to the intermediate position when the lid is moved to the closed position. The latch may be configured to rotate to the intermediate position when the lid is moved to the closed position. The component may include a spring; the latch may be configured to move to the intermediate position by operation of the spring. The latch mechanism may include a magnet arrangement. The magnet arrangement may include a magnet in the base and a magnet in the lid. The magnet in the base may be configured to provide magnetic repulsion to the magnet in the lid. The magnet arrangement may be configured to maintain the latch of the latch mechanism in an intermediate position between the retracted position and the extended position. The magnet arrangement may be configured to move the latch toward the retracted position. The latch mechanism may include a counterweight; the latch mechanism may be configured to actuate from an unlatched state to a latched state when an event in the vehicle provides an inertial force on the counterweight. The latch mechanism may include a latch and a spring configured to move the latch toward a retracted position. The spring may be configured to move the latch to the retracted position when the lid moves from a closed position to an open position. The spring may include a torsion spring. The latch mechanism may include a magnet arrangement configured to compress the torsion spring. The latch mechanism may include a latch and a spring configured to move the latch to an intermediate position between the extended position and the retracted position. The spring may include at least one of: (a) a beam spring; (b) a cantilever spring; (c) a stop; (d) a cam surface configured to engage the cam surface of the latch. The component may include a magnet arrangement configured to bias the latch against the spring. The spring may include a stop for the magnet arrangement.

[0008] The present invention relates to a vehicle interior component, comprising a base; a lid configured to move relative to the base between a closed position and an open position; and a latch mechanism configured to provide the lid in an unlatched state and a latched state. The latch mechanism may be configured to provide the latched state when actuated by an inertial force. The lid may include a latch mechanism. The latch mechanism may be configured to extend from the lid when the lid is in the closed position. The lid may include a wall including an opening; the latch mechanism may be configured to form a generally continuous surface with the lid wall when the lid is in the open position. The lid may include a wall including an opening; the latch mechanism may be configured to protrude through the opening in the lid wall when the lid is in the closed position. The latch mechanism may be configured to rotate relative to the base to engage the base. The lid may be configured to rotate relative to the base in an opening direction between the closed and open positions; the latch mechanism may be configured to rotate relative to the base in a direction generally perpendicular to the opening direction. The latch mechanism may include a rod configured to engage the base in the latched state. The rod of the latch mechanism may be configured to engage a flange of the base in a latched state. The rod of the latch mechanism may be configured to rotate into engagement with the base in the latched state. The rod of the latch mechanism may be configured to provide clearance with the base in the latched state. The clearance may be configured to close to prevent the lid from moving to the open position. The component may include a counterweight configured to provide mass to move the rod toward engagement with the base. The component may include a spring mechanism configured to at least one of: (a) bias the rod in the unlatched state; or (b) move the rod in response to the removal of an inertial force. The latch mechanism may include a latch configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position through an intermediate position. The latch may include a curved member configured to engage the base in the latched state. The latch may be configured to move from the intermediate position toward the retracted position when the lid moves from the closed position toward the open position. The latch may be configured to move from the intermediate position toward the extended position in response to the inertial force. The lid may be configured to move from (a) an unlatched state in which the lid is in a closed position and the latch is in an intermediate position to (b) a transitional state in which the latch is in a fully extended position to (c) a latched state in which the lid is in a closed position and the latch is in a fully extended position. The component may include a gap between the latch mechanism and the base in the transitional state. The lid may be configured to move through the gap so as to contact the base in the latched state. The lid may be configured to pivot relative to the base between a closed position and an open position. The component may include at least one of: (a) a console; (b) a center console; (c) a floor console; or (d) an armrest.

[0009] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle interior that is potentially subject to external forces, such as in an event of a vehicle rollover. The component includes a base; a lid movable relative to the base between a closed position and an open position; and a latch mechanism configured to provide a latched state to secure the lid in the closed position relative to the base. Thus, when the vehicle is subjected to an external force, the latch mechanism can be configured to actuate to the latched state to secure the lid in the closed position relative to the base. The latch mechanism can include a latch in the lid. The latch can include a retractable latch. The latch can be configured to retract when the lid is in the open position. The latch can be configured to partially extend when the lid is in the closed position. The latch can be configured to be extended to provide the latched state. The latch can be configured to be extended to provide the latched state when subjected to an event. The latch mechanism can include a latch in the lid and a catch in the base. The latch can be configured to extend to engage the catch for the latched state. The catch can include a bracket. The latch in the base may include a plate; the latch of the latch mechanism may be configured to provide clearance from the plate in the latched state. The latch mechanism may be configured to provide an unlatched state. The latch mechanism may include a latch configured to provide a retracted position and an extended position. When in the retracted position, the latch may be within the lid. The latch may be configured to provide an intermediate position between the extended and retracted positions. When in the intermediate position, the latch may partially extend from the lid. When the lid is in the closed position, the latch may be in the intermediate position. When the latch is in the intermediate position, the lid may be movable relative to the base toward an open position. In the event of a vehicle, when the lid is in the closed position, the latch may be actuated to the extended position. The latch mechanism may be configured to move the latch to the retracted position when the lid moves toward the open position. The latch mechanism may include a magnet arrangement. The magnet arrangement may include magnets in the base. The magnet arrangement may include magnets in the lid. The magnet arrangement may include magnets in the base and in the lid; the magnets in the base may be configured to provide magnetic repulsion to the magnets in the lid. The magnets in the lid may include magnets of different polarities, and the magnets in the base may include magnets of different polarities, such that the magnets in the lid can provide a repulsive force against the magnets in the base. The polarity of the magnets in the lid may be the same as the polarity of the magnets in the base. The magnet arrangement may be configured to maintain a latch of the latch mechanism in an intermediate position between a retracted position and an extended position. The magnet arrangement may be configured to cause the latch to move toward the extended position. The latch mechanism may include a counterweight; the latch mechanism may be configured to actuate from an unlatched state to a latched state when an event in the vehicle provides an inertial force on the counterweight. In this case, the external force may include an inertial force. The component may include a hinge mechanism for the lid. The latch mechanism may include a latch and a spring configured to move the latch toward the retracted position. The spring may include a torsion spring. The latch mechanism may include a magnet arrangement configured to compress the torsion spring.The latch mechanism may include a latch and a spring configured to move the latch to an intermediate position between an extended position and a retracted position. The spring may include at least one of: (a) a beam spring; (b) a cantilever spring; (c) a stop; or (d) a cam surface configured to engage the cam surface of the latch. The component may include a magnet arrangement configured to bias the latch against the spring. The spring may include a stop for the magnet arrangement. The latch may include a hook. The latch may include a pivoting hook. When the lid is in the closed position and the latch mechanism is in an unlatched state, the magnet arrangement may be configured to provide a repulsive force to bias the latch against the beam spring. When the lid is moved to the closed position, the latch of the latch mechanism may be configured to move to an intermediate position. The torsion spring may be configured to move the latch to the retracted position when the lid moves from the closed position to the open position. When the lid is in the open position and the latch mechanism is in an unlatched state, the latch may be in the retracted position. When the lid is in the closed position during an event, the latch mechanism may be configured to move to a latched state, wherein the latch is in an extended position. The latch may be configured to engage the catch in the extended position. The latch may be configured to move to the intermediate position via operation of the torsion spring. The latch mechanism may include a counterweight configured to move the latch from the intermediate position to the extended position when an external force is applied by the event. The latch may include an arm providing the counterweight. The latch may include a hook. The latch may include a pivot. The latch may be configured to rotate from the extended position to the retracted position. The latch may be configured to engage the beam spring when in the intermediate position. The latch may be configured to engage the catch when in the extended position. The latch may be configured to disengage the catch when in the intermediate position. The catch may include a plate. The catch may include an opening. The catch may include a surface configured to engage the latch. The latch may be configured to retract within the contour of the lid when in the retracted position. The latch may be configured to be flush with the bottom of the lid when in the retracted position. The latch can be configured to rotate to an intermediate position when the lid is moved to the closed position. When in the intermediate position, the latch can be disengaged from the lock catch. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1A is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0011] Figures 1B to 1C is a schematic partial perspective view of a vehicle interior according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0012] Figure 1D is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0013] Figures 2A to 2B is a schematic perspective view of a conventional vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0014] Figures 3A to 3B is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0015] Figures 4A to 4B is a schematic perspective view of a conventional vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0016] Figures 5A to 5B is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0017] Figures 6A to 6B is a schematic exploded perspective view of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0018] Figure 6C is a schematic exploded perspective view of a cover and mechanism of a vehicle interior component according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0019] Figure 6D is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0020] Figure 7A is a schematic partial cross-sectional illustration of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0021] Figure 7B is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of a magnet arrangement for a vehicle interior component according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0022] Figures 8A to 8C is a schematic fragmentary perspective view of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0023] Figures 9A to 9C is a schematic partial cross-sectional illustration of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0024] Figures 9D to 9F is a schematic partial cross-sectional illustration of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0025] Figure 9G is a schematic partial cross-sectional illustration of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0026] Figure 9H is a schematic partial cross-sectional illustration of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0027] 10A to 10Cis a schematic partial cross-sectional illustration of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0028] Figures 10D to 10F is a schematic partial cross-sectional illustration of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0029] Figures 11A to 11C is a schematic partial cross-sectional illustration of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0030] Figures 11D to 11F is a schematic partial cross-sectional illustration of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0031] 12A to 12C is a schematic partial cross-sectional illustration of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0032] 12D to 12F is a schematic partial cross-sectional illustration of a vehicle interior component shown as a console assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0033] surface

[0034] Table A illustrates modes of operation of a vehicle interior component having a latch mechanism and a cover movable relative to a base, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0035] Table B illustrates modes of operation of a vehicle interior component having a latch mechanism and a cover movable relative to a base according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0036] Table C illustrates modes of operation of a vehicle interior component having a latch mechanism and a cover movable relative to a base according to an exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] As according to Figures 1A-1D As schematically shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG, a vehicle V may include an interior I having a component shown as a floor console FC, which includes a base B and a cover shown as an armrest AR that covers a storage compartment of the floor console FC. The cover / armrest AR may be configured to move between a closed position and an open position to facilitate access to the storage compartment.

[0038] like Figures 1A-1B and Figure 1D As schematically shown in FIG, a vehicle V may be subjected to an event in which an external force, represented by a force F, acts on the vehicle and on occupants, components, and contents within the vehicle interior I. Figure 1D As schematically shown in FIG, the event providing the external force F may be any of various types, such as collision, impact, rollover, etc. Figures 2A-2B 、 Figures 3A-3B 、 Figures 4A-4B and Figures 5A-5B As schematically shown in FIG, the external force F experienced during the event may act on internal components such as the console. Figure 1C 、 Figures 2A-2B 、 Figures 3A-3B 、 Figures 4A-4B and Figures 5A-5B As schematically shown in FIG, the component may include a console C / FC providing a storage compartment in a base B / Bx having a cover T / Tx providing an armrest AR movable relative to the base B / Bx to provide access to the storage compartment (which may contain objects, items, articles, etc.).

[0039] like Figures 2A-2B and Figures 4A-4B As schematically shown in FIG, a conventional vehicle interior component may include a console FC / 1000x having a cover Tx / 200x movable relative to a base Bx / 100x. Figure 2A and Figure 4A As shown, when experiencing an event in which an external force F is applied (ie, an external force exceeding a threshold level), the cover Tx / 200x may be in a closed position relative to the base Bx / 100x; as shown in FIG. Figure 2B and Figure 4B As shown, the force F may act to move the cover Tx / 200x to an open position relative to the base 100x. Figure 1D . (As schematically shown, Figures 2A-2B and Figures 4A-4B The conventional vehicle interior components shown may also include mechanisms or devices, such as latches, magnet arrangements, friction / hinge bearings, etc., to retain / secure the lid in a closed position relative to the base during normal use.

[0040] As according to Figures 3A-3B and Figures 5A-5B As schematically shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG, a vehicle interior component may include a console FC / 1000 having a cover T / 200 movable relative to a base B / 100 and a latch mechanism 300. See also Figure 6A and Figure 6D .like Figure 3A and Figure 5A As shown, when experiencing an event in which an external force F is applied (ie, the external force is above a threshold level), the cover T / 200 may be in a closed position relative to the base B / 100; as shown in FIG. Figure 3B and Figure 5B As shown, force F acts to actuate latch mechanism 300 to hold lid T / 200 in a closed position relative to base B / 100. Figure 1D and Figures 11A-11F.

[0041] As according to Figures 3A-3B 、 Figures 5A-5B 、 Figures 6A-6D and Figure 7A As schematically shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG, the latch mechanism 300 of component FC / 1000 can be configured to secure the cover T / 200 to the base B / 100 in response to an external force F on the vehicle. Figure 1D and Figures 11A-11D According to Figures 6B-6C 、 Figures 7A-7B and Figures 8A-8C In the exemplary embodiment shown, the cover 200 may include a top 202 and a bottom 204; a latch mechanism 300 for the cover 200 may include a pivot / hinge, shown as an axis / pin 310p for a member, and a counterweight 314, shown as a catch / arm configured as a latch 310, in a base / socket 310r having a torsion spring ST (e.g., to provide a latch as shown). Figures 8A-8C The latch mechanism 300 may include a flat / cantilever spring SC (eg, to provide a biasing force as indicated in FIG. 3 ); Figure 7A and Figures 8A-8C holding / biasing force as shown) and configured to provide a magnetic force FM (e.g., as Figure 7B and Figures 9G-9H A magnet arrangement MP (eg a magnet group) is schematically shown, such as with N / N magnetic polarity / force (magnetic repulsion).

[0042] like Figure 6B 、 Figure 6D 、 Figure 7A 、 Figures 8A-8C 、 Figures 9A-9H 、 Figures 10A-10F 、 Figures 11A-11F and Figures 12A-12F As schematically shown in FIG, in operation of the latch mechanism 300, the member shown as latch 310 can be configured to be disengaged and / or fully retracted / flush within the opening 212 in the cover 200 in a retracted position (e.g., disengaged and / or fully retracted / flush within the opening 212 in the cover 200, see e.g. Figure 9F and Figure 10D ) and pivotally move between a partially extended / intermediate position and a fully extended position, the fully extended position being accessible to the base 100 through the opening 212 in the cover 200 (e.g., partially extended and / or fully extended with a latching engagement shown as flange 110, compare Figures 9D-9E and Figures 11E-11F ). See also Tables A to C.

[0043] As according to Figures 9A-9H and Figures 10A-10FAs schematically shown in the exemplary embodiment in FIG, in normal use (in the absence of an external force F exceeding a threshold value), the latch mechanism 300 will remain in an unlatched state to allow the lid 200 to move between the closed position and the open position relative to the base 100 (e.g., as manually closed / opened by an occupant of the vehicle interior). See also Tables A and B. Figures 9A-9B 、 Figures 9D-9E 、 Figures 9G-9H 、 Figures 10B-10C and Figures 10E-10F As schematically shown in FIG, in ordinary use, the latch mechanism 300 can be configured by the operation of the torsion spring ST and the counterweight and the spring SC and the magnetic force FM at the magnet arrangement ML to provide the latch 310 in a partial / extended position when the lid 200 is in the closed position relative to the base 100. See also Table B and Figures 7A-7B and Figures 8A-8C .like Figure 9C 、 Figure 9F 、 Figure 10A and Figure 10D As schematically shown in FIG, in typical use, the latch mechanism can be configured by the operation of the torsion spring ST and the counterweight and the spring SC to provide the arm / latch in the retracted position when the lid 200 is in the open position relative to the base 100. See also Tables A and Figure 6D 、 Figures 7A-7B and Figures 8A-8C As per Figure 6B 、 Figure 6D 、 Figures 7A-7B and Figure 8A As schematically shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG, the component may include a mechanism shown as a magnet arrangement MC (e.g., a magnet group) configured to hold / secure the lid in a closed position relative to the base in normal use (e.g., by a net magnetic attraction having S / N magnet polarity / force, as shown). Figure 7B Schematically shown in ). See also Figure 1C .

[0044] As according to Figures 11A-11F and Figures 12A-12D As schematically shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG, with the lid 200 in the closed position relative to the base 100, upon application of an external force F (exceeding a threshold force represented as acting on a mass CM represented by its center of mass), the latch mechanism 300 will move to a latched state (e.g., with the latch member fully extended through the lid 200 to engage a plate / flange, shown as a latch 110, of the base 100), thereby retaining the lid 200 in the closed position relative to the base 100 (and preventing the lid 200 from moving to an open position relative to the base 100). See also Figure 1D 、 Figure 3B 、 Figure 5B and tables A and B.

[0045] like Figures 11A-11F As schematically shown in FIG, the cover 200 is opened from the middle position ( Figure 11D ) to the fully extended position ( Figures 11E-11F ) to engage the flange / latch 110 of the base, an external force F acting on the mass CM against the spring SC engages the latch mechanism 300 into the latched state. See also Table C. When the latch mechanism is in the latched state and the lid is in the fully closed position relative to the base, a gap G can be provided between the flange / latch 110 and the end of the latch 310 (see Figure 11E By engaging the end of the latch 310 with the flange / latch 110, the cover 200 is prevented from moving relative to the base to the open position (see Figure 11F ).

[0046] like Figures 12A-12F Schematically shown, after this event (no external force exceeding a threshold acts on mass CM), the latch mechanism 300 can be configured by operation of the torsion spring ST and counterweight and the spring SC and magnetic force FM at the magnet arrangement ML to return the latch mechanism to an unlatched state, wherein the latch 310 moves to disengage from the flange / latch 110 and into a partially extended / intermediate position (wherein the lid 200 is in a closed position relative to the base 100 and can be moved to an open position). See also Tables C and Figures 7A-7B 、 Figures 8A-8C 、 Figures 9A-9F and Figures 10A-10F .

[0047] According to an exemplary embodiment, the pattern of decapping operation of the components is shown in Table A.

[0048] According to an exemplary embodiment, the modes of lid closing operation of the components are shown in Table B.

[0049] According to an exemplary embodiment, the mode of latching the cover of the component in response to external / inertial forces is shown in Table C.

[0050]

[0051]

[0052]

[0053]

[0054]

[0055] Exemplary embodiments

[0056] As according to Figure 2A and Figure 2B As schematically shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG, a conventional floor console may include a cover Tx covering a storage compartment SC. For example, when the vehicle experiences a rollover, an external force F may be applied to the cover Tx. Due to the applied force F, the conventional cover Tx may move from a closed position to an open position.

[0057] As according to Figure 3A and Figure 3B As schematically shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG, a floor console may include a cover T covering the storage compartment. An external force F may be applied to the cover T. The cover T may be maintained in a closed position in response to application of a predetermined amount of force F.

[0058] As according to Figure 4A and Figure 4B As schematically shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG, a conventional vehicle interior component shown as a floor console 1000x may include a cover Tx / 200x covering a box or storage compartment SC. For example, when the vehicle rolls over, an external force F may be applied to the cover 200x. As a result of applying a force F exceeding a predetermined amount, the cover 200x may be removed from the vehicle. Figure 4A The closed position shown schematically moves to Figure 4B The open position is schematically shown in FIG.

[0059] As according to Figure 5A and Figure 5B As schematically shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG, a vehicle interior component 1000, shown as a floor console, may include a base 100 and a cover 200, shown as an armrest covering a box or storage compartment. For example, when the vehicle rolls over, an external force F may be applied to the cover 200. The cover 200 may be maintained in a closed position in response to the application of a predetermined amount of force F. The cover 200 may be configured to open from a closed position in response to the application of an opening force. Figure 5A The lid 200 can be configured to be moved from the closed position shown to the open position. Figure 5A The lid 200 may be configured to adjust from an unlatched state, as schematically shown, covering the box, to an open state, as schematically shown, not covering the box. Figure 5B The latched state of the cover box is schematically shown in FIG.

[0060] As according to Figures 6A-6CAs schematically shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG, a vehicle interior component 1000 may include a base 100, a lid 200, and a latch mechanism 300. The base 100 may include a bin or storage compartment 102. The lid 200 may include a top 202 and a bottom 204. The latch mechanism 300 may include a latch 310, a torsion spring ST, shown as a torsion spring, a spring SC, shown as a cantilever spring, and a counterweight 314. The lid 200 may include the latch mechanism 300. The counterweight 314 may be coupled to the latch 310; the latch 310 may include a receptacle or retainer 310r configured to receive the counterweight 314. The counterweight 314 and latch 310 may be coupled to move together relative to the lid 200 and base 100. The bottom 204 of the lid 200 may include a feature that receives the latch 310 and guides its rotation relative to the lid 200; the latch 310 may include a pin 310p configured to rotate relative to the bottom 204 of the lid 200. The spring SC can be configured to deflect to allow the latch 310 to rotate. The spring SC can be configured to provide a stop for the latch 310. The cover 200 can include a latch mechanism 300. The torsion spring ST can be configured to rotate the latch 310. The latch mechanism 300 can be assembled to the bottom 204 of the cover 200 and covered by the top 202 of the cover 200.

[0061] See also Figures 1A-1D 、 Figures 2A-2B 、 Figures 3A-3B 、 Figures 4A-4B and Figures 5A-5B , for a component 1000 / 1000x inside a vehicle V, which may be subjected to an external force F in the event of, for example, a rollover of the vehicle V. Figures 6A-6D As shown, the component may include a cover 200 movable between a closed position and an open position relative to the base 100, and a latch mechanism 300 configured to provide a latched state to fix the cover in the closed position relative to the base; when the vehicle is subjected to an external force F, the latch mechanism may be configured to actuate to the latched state to fix the cover in the closed position relative to the base, as shown in FIG. Figure 3B and Figure 5B As shown schematically. Figures 6A-6D and Figures 8A-8C As schematically shown in FIG, the latch mechanism 300 may include a latch 310 in the cover; the latch may be configured to retract when the cover is in the open position; and the latch may be configured to partially extend when the cover is in the closed position. Figures 9A-9F and Figures 10A-10F and Tables A and B. The latch mechanism may include a latch shown as latch 310 in the cover and a catch in the base; the catch in the base may include a plate shown as flange / catch 110; the latch 310 of the latch mechanism 300 may be configured to provide a gap G when the plate / catch 110 is in the latched state. See Figure 11EThe latch mechanism may include a latch configured to provide a retracted position and an extended position. Figures 11A-11F and Figures 12A-12F and Table C.

[0062] like Figure 3B 、 Figure 5B and Figures 11A-11D As schematically shown in FIG, in the event of a vehicle being in a closed position (external force F being greater than a threshold force), the latch 310 of the latch mechanism 300 can be actuated to the extended position when the lid is in the closed position. See also Table C. Figures 9A-9F and Figures 10A-10F As schematically shown in FIG, the latch mechanism 300 can be configured to move the latch 310 to a retracted position when the lid is moved toward the open position; the latch 310 can be configured to have an intermediate position between the extended position and the retracted position; when in the intermediate position, the latch can be partially extended from the lid. See Tables A and B.

[0063] according to Figures 9A-9F and Figures 10A-10F In an exemplary embodiment schematically shown in FIG, the latch 310 may be in an intermediate position when the lid is in the closed position; when the latch is in the intermediate position, the lid may be moved toward the open position relative to the base; the latch may be configured to move to the intermediate position when the lid is moved to the closed position; and the latch may be configured to rotate to the intermediate position when the lid is moved to the closed position.

[0064] According to Figures 6A-6D and Figures 8A-8C In the exemplary embodiment schematically shown in FIG, the latch mechanism 300 of the component may include a spring arrangement; the latch may be configured to move to the intermediate position by operation of the spring arrangement; the spring arrangement may include a torsion spring ST and / or a flat / cantilever spring SC. Figures 7A-7B and Figures 8A-8C In the exemplary embodiment schematically illustrated in FIG, the latch mechanism 300 may include a magnet arrangement ML; the magnet arrangement may include a magnet in the base and a magnet in the cover; the magnet in the base may be configured to provide magnetic repulsion to the magnet in the cover; the magnet arrangement may be configured to maintain the latch of the latch mechanism in an intermediate position between a retracted position and an extended position; the magnet arrangement may be configured to move the latch toward the retracted position. See also Figures 9G-9H and tables A and B.

[0065] according to Figures 6A-6D 、 Figure 7A and Figures 8A-8CIn the exemplary embodiment schematically shown in FIG, the latch mechanism 300 may include a counterweight 314; the latch mechanism may be configured to actuate from an unlatched state to a latched state when an event of the vehicle provides an inertial force on the counterweight. Figure 3B 、 Figure 5B 、 Figures 11A-11F and Table C. According to an exemplary embodiment, the latch mechanism may include a latch, and the spring arrangement may be configured to move the latch toward a retracted position; the spring arrangement may be configured to move the latch to the retracted position when the lid moves from the closed position toward the open position; the spring arrangement may include a torsion spring ST. According to an exemplary embodiment, the latch mechanism may include a magnet arrangement ML configured to compress the torsion spring; the latch mechanism may include a latch and a spring configured to move the latch to an intermediate position between the extended position and the retracted position. The component may include a magnet arrangement ML configured to bias the latch against the spring arrangement; the spring arrangement may include a stop for the magnet arrangement; the spring arrangement may include a flat / cantilever spring Sc. According to an exemplary embodiment, the spring / spring arrangement may include at least one of: (a) a beam spring; (b) a cantilever spring; (c) a stop; (d) a cam surface configured to engage the cam surface of the latch. See, e.g. Figures 8A-8C .

[0066] See also Figures 1A-1D 、 Figures 2A-2B 、 Figures 3A-3B 、 Figures 4A-4B and Figures 5A-5B The vehicle interior component may include a base, a cover configured to move relative to the base between a closed position and an open position, and a latch mechanism configured to provide an unlatched state of the cover and a latched state of the cover. Figures 9A-9F 、 Figures 10A-10F 、 Figures 11A-11F 、 Figures 12A-12F and Tables A, B and C. Figure 7A 、 Figures 8A-8C 、 Figures 11A-11F and Figures 12A-12F In an exemplary embodiment schematically shown in FIG, the latch mechanism may be configured to provide a latched state when actuated by an inertial force. The cover may include a latch mechanism. The latch mechanism may be configured to extend from the cover when the cover is in a closed position. Figures 6A-6D and Figures 8A-8CIn an exemplary embodiment schematically illustrated in , the cover may include a wall including an opening; the latch mechanism may be configured to form a generally continuous surface with the wall of the cover when the cover is in the open position. The cover may include a wall including an opening; the latch mechanism may be configured to protrude through the opening in the wall of the cover when the cover is in the closed position. The latch mechanism may be configured to rotate relative to the base to engage the base. The cover may be configured to rotate relative to the base in an opening direction between the closed position and the open position; the latch mechanism may be configured to rotate relative to the base in a direction generally perpendicular to the opening direction. See also Figure 6D 、 Figure 7A 、 Figures 9A-9H and Figures 10A-10D According to Figures 11A-11F and Figures 12A-12F In an exemplary embodiment schematically shown in , the latch mechanism may include a rod configured to engage the base in a latched state. The rod of the latch mechanism may be configured to engage a flange of the base in the latched state; the rod of the latch mechanism may be configured to rotate into engagement with the base in the latched state. Figures 6A-6D 、 Figures 8A-8C and Table C. The component may include a counterweight configured to provide mass to move the rod toward engagement with the base. The component may include a spring mechanism configured to at least one of: bias the rod in an unlatched state and move the rod in response to removal of the inertial force. See Figures 6A-6D and Figures 8A-8C and Tables A, B and C. According to Figures 11A-11F In the exemplary embodiment schematically shown in FIG, the rod of the latch mechanism can be configured to provide a gap with the base in the latched state; the gap can be configured to close to prevent the cover from moving to the open position. Figures 11A-11F and Figures 12A-12F In an exemplary embodiment schematically illustrated in , the latch mechanism may include a latch configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position through an intermediate position; the latch may include a curved member configured to engage the base in the latched state; the latch may be configured to move from the intermediate position toward the retracted position when the lid moves from the closed position toward the open position; the latch may be configured to move from the intermediate position toward the extended position in response to the inertial force. The lid may be configured to move from (a) an unlatched state in which the lid is in a closed position and the latch is in an intermediate position to (b) a transitional state in which the latch is in a fully extended position to (c) a latched state in which the lid is in a closed position and the latch is in an extended position. See also Figures 9A-9F 、 Figures 10A-10F 、 Figures 11A-11F 、 Figures 12A-12Fand Tables A, B, and C. The component may include a gap between the latch mechanism and the base in a transitional state; the cover may be configured to move through the gap to contact the base in the latched state; and the cover may be configured to pivot relative to the base between a closed position and an open position. See also Figures 11A-11F and Table C.

[0067] According to Figure 1B and Figure 1C In the exemplary embodiment schematically shown in FIG, the component may include at least one of the following: (a) a console; (b) a center console; (c) a floor console; (d) an armrest.

[0068] It is important to note that the present invention (e.g., inventive concepts, etc.) is described in the specification of this patent document and / or shown in the drawings according to exemplary embodiments; these embodiments of the invention are given by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The construction and / or arrangement of the elements of the inventive concepts embodied in the present invention as described in the specification and / or shown in the drawings is merely illustrative. Although exemplary embodiments of the invention have been described in detail in this patent document, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that equivalents, modifications, variations, etc. of the subject matter of the exemplary embodiments and alternative embodiments are possible and are considered to be within the scope of the invention; all such subject matter (e.g., modifications, variations, embodiments, combinations, equivalents, etc.) are intended to be included within the scope of the invention. It should also be noted that various / other modifications, changes, substitutions, equivalents, alterations, omissions, etc. may be made to the configuration and / or arrangement of the exemplary embodiments (e.g., in concept, design, structure, device, form, component, construction, means, function, system, process / method, step, order of process / method steps, operation, operating conditions, performance, material, composition, combination, etc.) without departing from the scope of the present invention; all of these subjects (e.g., modifications, changes, embodiments, combinations, equivalents, etc.) are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention. The scope of the present invention is not intended to be limited to the subject matter described in the specification of this patent document and / or shown in the drawings (e.g., details, structures, functions, materials, actions, steps, orders, systems, results, etc.). It is expected that the claims of this patent document will be appropriately interpreted to cover the full scope of the subject matter of the present invention (e.g., including any and all such modifications, changes, embodiments, combinations, equivalents, etc.); it should be understood that the terminology used in this patent document is intended to provide a description of the subject matter of the exemplary embodiments and not as a limitation on the scope of the present invention.

[0069] It is also important to note that, depending on the exemplary embodiments, the present invention may include conventional technologies (e.g., implemented and / or integrated in exemplary embodiments, modifications, variations, combinations, equivalents, etc.) or may include any other applicable technologies (current and / or future) having the applicability and / or ability to perform the functions and processes / operations described in the specification and / or shown in the drawings. All such technologies (e.g., as implemented in embodiments, modifications, variations, combinations, equivalents, etc.) are considered to be within the scope of the present invention of this patent document.

Claims

1. A vehicle interior component, comprising: (a) Base; (b) a cover configured to move relative to the base between a closed position and an open position; as well as (c) a latch mechanism configured to provide an unlatched state of the cover and a latched state of the cover; wherein the latch mechanism is configured to provide the latched state when actuated by an inertial force; Wherein, the latch mechanism includes a magnet arrangement configured to maintain a latch of the latch mechanism in an intermediate position between a retracted position and an extended position, the magnet arrangement being configured to move the latch toward the retracted position.

2. The component of claim 1, wherein the cover comprises the latch mechanism. 3 . The component of claim 1 , wherein the latch mechanism is configured to extend from the cover when the cover is in a closed position.

4. The component of claim 1 , wherein the cover includes a wall including an opening; wherein the latch mechanism is configured to form a generally continuous surface with the wall of the cover when the cover is in the open position.

5. The component of claim 1, wherein the cover includes a wall including an opening; wherein the latch mechanism is configured to protrude through the opening of the cover wall when the cover is in the closed position. The component of claim 1 , wherein the latch mechanism is configured to rotate relative to the base to engage the base.

7. The component of claim 1 , wherein the cover is configured to rotate relative to the base in an opening direction between the closed position and the open position; and wherein the latch mechanism is configured to rotate relative to the base in a direction generally perpendicular to the opening direction.

8. The component of claim 1, wherein the latch mechanism comprises a lever configured to engage the base in the latched state.

9. The component of claim 8, wherein the lever of the latch mechanism is configured to engage a flange of the base in the latched state.

10. The component of claim 8, wherein the lever of the latch mechanism is configured to rotate into engagement with the base in the latched state.

11. The component of claim 8, further comprising a counterweight configured to provide mass to move the rod toward engagement with the base.

12. The component of claim 8, further comprising a spring mechanism configured to at least one of: (a) bias the lever in the unlatched state; (b) move the lever in response to removal of an inertial force.

13. The component of claim 8, wherein the rod of the latch mechanism is configured to provide clearance from the base in the latched state.

14. The component of claim 13, wherein the gap is configured to close to prevent the cover from moving to the open position.

15. The component of claim 1, wherein the latch mechanism includes a latch configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position through an intermediate position.

16. The component of claim 15, wherein the latch includes a curved member configured to engage the base in the latched state.

17. The component of claim 15, wherein the latch is configured to move from the intermediate position toward the retracted position when the lid moves from the closed position toward the open position.

18. The component of claim 15, wherein the latch is configured to move from the intermediate position toward the extended position in response to the inertial force.

19. The component of claim 15, wherein the cover is configured to move from (a) the unlatched state in which the cover is in the closed position and the latch is in the intermediate position to (b) a transitional state in which the latch is in a fully extended position to (c) the latched state in which the cover is in the closed position and the latch is in the extended position.

20. The component of claim 19, wherein the component comprises a gap between the latch mechanism and the base in the transition state.

21. The component of claim 20, wherein the cover is configured to move through the gap to contact the base in the latched state.

22. The component of claim 1, wherein the cover is configured to pivot relative to the base between the closed position and the open position.

23. The component of claim 1, wherein the component comprises at least one of: (a) a console; (b) a center console; (c) a floor console; (d) an armrest.

24. A component for a vehicle interior adapted to withstand external forces in the event of a vehicle rollover, comprising: base; a cover movable relative to the base between a closed position and an open position; as well as a latch mechanism configured to provide a latched state to secure the lid in the closed position relative to the base; Thus, when the vehicle is subjected to an external force, the latch mechanism is configured to actuate to a latched state to secure the lid in a closed position relative to the base; Wherein, the latch mechanism includes a magnet arrangement configured to maintain a latch of the latch mechanism in an intermediate position between a retracted position and an extended position, the magnet arrangement being configured to move the latch toward the retracted position.

25. The component of claim 24, wherein the latch mechanism comprises a latch in the cover.

26. The component of claim 25, wherein the latch is configured to retract when the cover is in the open position.

27. The component of claim 25, wherein the latch is configured to partially extend when the lid is in the closed position.

28. The component of claim 25, wherein the latch mechanism comprises a latch in the cover and a catch in the base.

29. The component of claim 28, wherein the latch in the base comprises a plate; and wherein the latch of the latch mechanism is configured to provide clearance from the plate in the latched state.

30. The component of claim 24, wherein the latch mechanism comprises a latch configured to provide a retracted position and an extended position.

31. The component of claim 30, wherein during a vehicle event, when the lid is in the closed position, the latch is actuated to the extended position.

32. The component of claim 30, wherein the latch mechanism is configured to move the latch to the retracted position when the lid is moved toward the open position.

33. The component of claim 30, wherein the latch is configured to provide an intermediate position between the extended position and the retracted position.

34. The component of claim 33, wherein the latch partially extends from the cover when in the intermediate position.

35. The component of claim 33, wherein the latch is in the intermediate position when the cover is in the closed position.

36. The component of claim 33, wherein the cover is movable relative to the base toward the open position when the latch is in the intermediate position.

37. The component of claim 33, wherein the latch is configured to move to the intermediate position when the cover is moved to the closed position.

38. The component of claim 33, wherein the latch is configured to rotate to the intermediate position when the lid is moved to the closed position.

39. The component of claim 33, further comprising a spring; wherein the latch is configured to move to the intermediate position by operation of the spring.

40. The component of claim 24, wherein the magnet arrangement comprises a magnet in the base and a magnet in the cover.

41. The component of claim 40, wherein the magnet in the base is configured to provide magnetic repulsion to the magnet in the cover.

42. The component of claim 24, wherein the latch mechanism includes a counterweight; wherein the latch mechanism is configured to actuate from an unlatched state to the latched state when an event of the vehicle provides an inertial force on the counterweight.

43. The component of claim 24, wherein the latch mechanism comprises a latch and a spring configured to move the latch toward a retracted position.

44. The component of claim 43, wherein the spring is configured to move the latch to the retracted position when the lid moves from the closed position toward the open position.

45. The component of claim 43, wherein the spring comprises a torsion spring.

46. ​​The component of claim 45, wherein the latch mechanism comprises a magnet arrangement configured to compress the torsion spring.

47. The component of claim 24, wherein the latch mechanism comprises a latch and a spring configured to move the latch to an intermediate position between an extended position and a retracted position.

48. A component according to claim 47, wherein the spring comprises at least one of the following: (a) a beam spring; (b) a cantilever spring; (c) a stop; (d) a cam surface configured to engage a cam surface of the latch.

49. The component of claim 47, further comprising a magnet arrangement configured to bias the latch against the spring.

50. The component of claim 49, wherein the spring comprises a stop for the magnet arrangement.

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