Console box

Abstract

A console box has a box main body, a storage portion, a side workbench, a shaft portion, a shaft support portion, and a rotation restriction portion. The storage portion is provided to a side portion of the box main body in a width direction of a vehicle seat. The side workbench is provided so as to be movable up and down between a storage position and an intermediate position. The shaft portion is provided to a lower end portion of the side workbench in a standing state. The shaft support portion supports the shaft portion so as to be rotatable in a manner that the side workbench rotates from the box main body to a side that is apart in the width direction with the shaft portion as a center in the intermediate position, and becomes a use position. The rotation restriction portion restricts rotation of the side workbench beyond the use position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a console box. Background Technology

[0002] Regarding automobiles, sometimes a console box is installed between adjacent car seats for storing small items (for example, see Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-98211).

[0003] However, including the aforementioned announcement, current control boxes have limited space for light work while seated in a car seat, making it difficult to ensure a flat working surface. Here, light work refers to tasks that can be performed while seated in a car seat, such as operating a personal computer or eating.

[0004] This is because the primary function of a car is to serve as a mobile unit. Therefore, the priority of setting up a space in the control box for light work while seated in a car seat is lower than that of other tasks. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The control console that solves the above problem is a control console disposed between adjacent vehicle seats, comprising: a main body; a storage section disposed on the side of the main body in the width direction of the vehicle seat, and having an opening at the upper end; a side worktable configured to move vertically between a storage position where it is stored in the storage section in an upright state and a middle position where it is exposed upward from the storage section in the upright state, and having a working surface on its surface; a shaft disposed at the lower end of the side worktable in the upright state and extending along the front-rear direction of the vehicle seat; a shaft support disposed above the storage section, and supporting the shaft so that the side worktable rotates from the main body away from the main body in the width direction with the shaft as the center in the middle position, so that the working surface faces upward, and the shaft is rotatable; and

[0006] A rotation limiting unit restricts the rotation of the side worktable beyond the usage position. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is a partial perspective view of the control box in the first embodiment, in which the side worktable is in the storage position and the central worktable and armrest are in the reference position.

[0008] Figure 2 This makes the side worktable from Figure 1 A partial perspective view of the control box, showing its state moving towards the usage position and the central workbench moving towards the extended position.

[0009] Figure 3 It makes the handrail from Figure 2 The state is further moved to a partial oblique view of the console box in an extended position.

[0010] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of the side worktable, shaft, and retainer in the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view of the bracket cover and longitudinal track of the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 6 It is an enlarged representation Figure 5 A partial oblique view of the upper part of the bracket cover.

[0013] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 Partial cross-sectional view of line 7-7.

[0014] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 Partial cross-sectional view of line 8-8.

[0015] Figure 9 yes Figure 2 A partial cross-sectional view along line 9-9.

[0016] Figure 10 yes Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional view along line 10-10.

[0017] Figure 11 yes Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional view of line 11-11.

[0018] Figure 12 yes Figure 3 A partial cross-sectional view along line 12-12.

[0019] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing the control console box of the second embodiment, and is a partial cross-sectional view of the control console box when the side worktable is in the use position.

[0020] Figure 14 This indicates that the side worktable is moved from... Figure 13 A partial cross-sectional view of the state in which the plane rotates downwards.

[0021] Figure 15 yes Figure 13 Enlarged cross-sectional view of part A.

[0022] Figure 16 yes Figure 14 Enlarged cross-sectional view of part B. Detailed Implementation

[0023] (First Embodiment)

[0024] Below, refer to Figures 1-12 The first embodiment, specifically implemented as a control console for automobiles, will be described.

[0025] Furthermore, in the following description, the forward direction of the car is defined as "forward" and the reverse direction as "rearward". Additionally, the up-down direction refers to the vertical movement of the car, while the left-right direction is defined as the width of the car and is consistent with the left-right direction when the car is moving forward.

[0026] like Figure 1 As shown, inside the passenger compartment 11 of the car 10, a pair of car seats 12 and 13 are configured as front seats, separated in the left-right direction. The right-side car seat 12 functions as the driver's seat, where the occupant (driver) sits. The left-side car seat 13 functions as the front passenger seat, where the occupant (front passenger) sits. The two car seats 12 and 13 are equivalent to vehicle seats.

[0027] The two car seats 12 and 13 are configured with their backrests facing forward. In this configuration, the width of the car seats 12 and 13 is consistent with their left-right orientation.

[0028] A console box (also called a center console, floor console, etc.) 20 is provided between the two car seats 12 and 13, functioning as a box-shaped storage section. Furthermore, in describing the various parts of the console box 20, the center portion in the left-right direction (the width direction of the car seats 12 and 13) is taken as the reference. Moreover, in the left-right direction, the direction closer to the center portion is sometimes referred to as "inner," "inner square," or "inner side," while the direction farther from the center portion is referred to as "outer," "outer square," or "outer side," etc.

[0029] like Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, a portion of the control console 20 includes a main body 21, a longitudinal rail 41, a side worktable 43, a shaft portion 61a, a retainer 65, a shaft support portion 35, and a rotation limiting portion 39a. The above-mentioned parts will now be described.

[0030] <Box Body 21>

[0031] like Figure 1 and Figure 10 As shown, the main body 21 is part of the skeleton of the control console 20, and is formed, for example, from resin material into a shape that is elongated in the front-back direction compared to the left-right direction.

[0032] The left and right sides of the box body 21 are formed by outer side wall portions 22. Inner side wall portions 23 are formed at the inwardly separating portions of each outer side wall portion 22. A recess 25 with an open top and a large volume is formed between the rear portions of the two inner side wall portions 23 (see reference). Figure 11 A recess 26 with an upper opening and a volume smaller than that of the recess 25 is formed in the front adjacent part of the recess 25 between the two inner sidewall portions 23.

[0033] An upper wall portion 24 is formed between the upper ends of adjacent outer wall portions 22 and inner wall portions 23, and in a larger portion in the front-rear direction.

[0034] like Figure 1 and Figure 8 As shown, a storage portion 28 with an opening 27 at its upper end is provided on the left-right side relative to the recess 26, between adjacent outer sidewall portions 22 and inner sidewall portions 23, in the first embodiment. A bracket cover 31 is disposed within the storage portion 28. That is, the control box 20 has a bracket cover 31. The bracket cover 31 is formed by bending a thin metal sheet, etc., and has a strength higher than that of the outer sidewall portions 22 and inner sidewall portions 23.

[0035] like Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, the bracket cover 31 has a main body plate 32, a bottom plate 33, and a pair of opposing plates 34. The main body plate 32 is located adjacent to the right side of the aforementioned outer side wall 22. The bottom plate 33 protrudes inward (to the right) from the lower edge of the main body plate 32. Each opposing plate 34 protrudes inward (to the right) from the front and rear edges of the main body plate 32. The two opposing plates 34 are parallel to each other in the front-rear direction.

[0036] <Longitudinal Track 41>

[0037] like Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, longitudinal rails 41 are respectively arranged at the rear adjacent to the front opposite plate portion 34 and at the front adjacent to the rear opposite plate portion 34. Each longitudinal rail 41 has a longitudinal guide groove 42 extending in the vertical direction. The front longitudinal guide groove 42 is open at the rear end face and the upper end face of the front longitudinal rail 41. The rear longitudinal guide groove 42 is open at the front end face and the upper end face of the rear longitudinal rail 41.

[0038] <Side workbench 43>

[0039] like Figure 4 and Figure 8As shown, the side worktable 43 has a structure in which the worktable bracket 44 is clamped by the worktable exterior 51 and the worktable interior 55. The worktable exterior 51 and the worktable interior 55 are, for example, formed of resin material.

[0040] The workbench exterior 51 has: a work plate portion 52 formed in the shape of a square plate; and four side plate portions 53 formed on each side of the work plate portion 52. The surface of the work plate portion 52 away from the workbench interior 55 constitutes the surface of the side workbench 43. This surface is formed flat and becomes a work surface 52a for performing light work.

[0041] The workbench interior 55 includes a main plate portion 56, an auxiliary plate portion 57, and a connecting plate portion 58. Both the main plate portion 56 and the auxiliary plate portion 57 are located away from the work plate portion 52 and are arranged parallel to it. The distance between the work plate portion 52 and the main plate portion 56 is set to be smaller than the distance between the work plate portion 52 and the auxiliary plate portion 57. The connecting plate portion 58 extends in a direction orthogonal to the work plate portion 52, connecting the main plate portion 56 and the auxiliary plate portion 57.

[0042] The worktable bracket 44 is formed by bending a thin metal sheet, etc., and has a strength higher than that of the worktable exterior 51 and the worktable interior 55. The worktable bracket 44 has: a main body plate portion 45 formed into a square plate shape; and a pair of opposing plate portions 46 that are separated from each other in a parallel state in the front-rear direction. Each opposing plate portion 46 is connected to the front or rear edge of the main body plate portion 45 in a state orthogonal to the main body plate portion 45. Each opposing plate portion 46 is formed into a shape that is elongated in the direction along the front and rear edges compared to the direction orthogonal to the main body plate portion 45. The shaft insertion hole 47 passes through one end of each opposing plate portion 46 in the front-rear direction along the aforementioned front and rear edges. A flat contact surface 48 is formed at the aforementioned one end of each opposing plate portion 46 on the edge opposite to the main body plate portion 45.

[0043] <Shaft 61a>

[0044] A metal shaft 61 extending in the front-to-back direction inserts two shafts of the worktable bracket 44 into insertion holes 47. The front and rear ends of the shaft 61 each form a shaft portion 61a. The front shaft portion 61a protrudes further forward than the front opposing plate portion 46. The rear shaft portion 61a protrudes further rearward than the rear opposing plate portion 46.

[0045] <Retaining component 65>

[0046] The retainer 65 assists in the vertical movement of the side worktable 43 between the storage position and the intermediate position (described later), and also assists in the rotation of the side worktable 43 between the intermediate position and the use position. Figure 4 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the retainer 65 is configured to move vertically within the storage section 28.

[0047] The retainer 65 has a base plate 66, a side plate 67, and a pair of opposing front and rear plates 68. The base plate 66 extends horizontally in the front-rear direction above the base plate 33 of the bracket cover 31. The side plate 67 extends vertically in the front-rear direction. The lower edge of the side plate 67 is connected to the base plate 66.

[0048] Each opposing plate portion 68 is positioned parallel to each other in the front-rear direction. Each opposing plate portion 68 is formed as a flat plate that is elongated in the vertical direction compared to the horizontal direction. The front opposing plate portion 68 is fixed to the front ends of the base plate portion 66 and the side plate portion 67. The rear opposing plate portion 68 is fixed to the rear ends of the base plate portion 66 and the side plate portion 67.

[0049] The shaft insertion hole 69 passes through the upper part of each opposing plate portion 68 in the front-rear direction. The front shaft portion 61a is inserted into the front shaft insertion hole 69. The rear shaft portion 61a is inserted into the rear shaft insertion hole 69. With this structure, the upper end of the retainer 65 is connected to the worktable bracket 44 in a flexible manner via the two shaft portions 61a.

[0050] The front shaft portion 61a protrudes further forward than the opposing plate portion 68 on the front side of the retainer 65. The rear shaft portion 61a protrudes further rearward than the opposing plate portion 68 on the rear side of the retainer 65. The two shaft portions 61a are inserted into the longitudinal guide grooves 42 of the corresponding longitudinal rails 41 in a manner that allows them to slide in the vertical direction.

[0051] Pin 71 protrudes forward from a portion lower than the shaft insertion hole 69 in the front opposing plate portion 68. Pin 71 is inserted into the longitudinal guide groove 42 of the front longitudinal track 41 in a manner that allows it to slide vertically. Pin 71 protrudes rearward from a portion lower than the shaft insertion hole 69 in the rear opposing plate portion 68. Pin 71 is inserted into the longitudinal guide groove 42 of the rear longitudinal track 41 in a manner that allows it to slide vertically.

[0052] <Shaft support part 35>

[0053] like Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, shaft support portions 35 are formed at the upper ends of each opposing plate portion 34 of the bracket cover 31. Each shaft support portion 35 has an inclined portion 36 that slopes upwards from the upper end of the corresponding opposing plate portion 34, becoming closer to each other in the longitudinal direction as it moves upwards; and a bearing portion 37 extending upwards from the upper end of each inclined portion 36. Each bearing portion 37 is located above a corresponding longitudinal guide groove 42. A support hole 38, generally elongated in the vertical direction, is formed in each shaft support portion 35, spanning the inclined portion 36 and the bearing portion 37. Each support hole 38 has a width slightly larger than the diameter of the shaft portion 61a described above.

[0054] <Rotation restriction part 39a>

[0055] like Figure 6 and Figure 9 As shown, a cutout 39 is formed at the upper end of the main body plate portion 32 of the bracket cover 31. The bottom of the cutout 39 constitutes a rotation limiting portion 39a that restricts the rotation of the side worktable 43 by contacting the contact surface 48 of the worktable bracket 44.

[0056] <Posture and style of side worktable 43>

[0057] The side worktable 43 constructed in the above manner is designed to move between three positions. The three positions are the storage position, the middle position, and the usage position.

[0058] like Figure 1 and Figure 8 As shown, the side worktable 43 is stored upright within the storage section 28 in its storage position. The side worktable 43 is positioned as follows: Figure 2 and Figure 7 As shown by the double-dotted lines in each figure, it protrudes upwards from the storage section 28 in an upright position. Furthermore, in the middle position, the shaft section 61a is supported by the shaft support section 35 and is rotatable (see reference). Figure 7 ).like Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 9 As shown, the side workbench 43 is positioned in a horizontal state that protrudes from the upper end of the box body 21 to the left, with the opening 27 of the storage section 28 closed.

[0059] Based on the above structure, such as Figures 10-12 As shown, the control console 20 has a hinged component 75, a central worktable 91, and an armrest 95. The above components will now be described in detail.

[0060] <Hinged Component 75>

[0061] The hinge member 75 has a base 76 and a pair of support portions 84. The base 76 has a rectangular base plate portion 77 when viewed from above. In addition, the base 76 has a pair of side plate portions 78 on both sides in the left-right direction (see reference). Figure 10 ).

[0062] An inner transverse track 81 is formed on the upper part of the inner side surface of each side plate portion 78. Each inner transverse track 81 has an inner transverse guide groove 82 extending in the front-rear direction. Each inner transverse guide groove 82 is open to the inward side.

[0063] On the lower part of the outer side surface of each side plate 78, in the front-rear direction, multiple locations, such as two locations, are formed with outwardly protruding protrusions 83.

[0064] Each support portion 84 is disposed on the lower rear side of the left and right sides of the base 76. Each support portion 84 is connected to the rear of the two sides of the base 76 at its upper front end. Each support portion 84 has a shaft portion 85 extending in the left-right direction at its rear end. The hinge member 75 is supported on the rear of the housing body 21 by the aforementioned shaft portion 85. The hinge member 75 can be in a closed position (refer to) where the opening of the recess 25 is closed by the base 76. Figure 11 Rotate between the opening position (not shown) and the opening position that makes the opening open.

[0065] A latching mechanism 86 is provided below the front part of the base 76 (see reference). Figure 11 and Figure 12 The latching mechanism 86 is used to lock the hinge member 75 to the housing body 21 when the hinge member 75 is in the closed position, thereby restricting the rotation of the hinge member 75 centered on the shaft 85. If the locking operation is performed, the hinge member 75 can be rotated about the shaft 85.

[0066] <Central Work Platform 91>

[0067] The central worktable 91 has an upper worktable 92 and a lower worktable 93 arranged vertically relative to each other. The central worktable 91 is formed by combining the upper worktable 92 and the lower worktable 93. The central worktable 91 is shaped as a rectangle, larger in the front-to-back direction than in the left-to-right direction when viewed from above (see reference). Figure 3 The central workbench 91 is positioned above the two inner sidewalls 23 on the left and right.

[0068] On the left and right sides of the central worktable 91, there are protrusions 94 that protrude outwards. The protrusions 94 are inserted into the inner horizontal guide grooves 82 of the inner horizontal track 81 in a manner that allows them to slide in the front-back direction.

[0069] The central worktable 91 is configured to slide back and forth between a reference position and an extended position. For example... Figure 1and Figure 11 As shown, at the reference position, the central workbench 91 is generally located on the base 76. Furthermore, at the reference position, the central workbench 91 is positioned further rearward than the storage section 28. Figure 2 and Figure 12 As shown, in the extended position, the front of the central worktable 91 is positioned further forward than the base 76.

[0070] like Figure 9 As shown, when the side worktable 43 is in the working position and the central worktable 91 is in the extended position, the upper surface of the central worktable 91 is set to be on the same surface as the working surface 52a of the side worktable 43. Additionally, as... Figure 8 As shown, when the side worktable 43 is in the storage position and the central worktable 91 is in the extended position, the upper surface of the central worktable 91 is set to be on the same surface as the outer surface (upper surface) of the side plate portion 53 of the side worktable 43.

[0071] <Handrail 95>

[0072] like Figures 10-12 As shown, the frame portion of the armrest 95 has an inner armrest 96 and an outer armrest 101 covering the inner armrest 96. A pad 102 is placed on the outer armrest 101. Furthermore, a skin material 103 covers the outer armrest 101 and the pad 102.

[0073] The interior of the armrest 96 has a pair of side panels 97 on both sides in the left and right directions (see reference). Figure 10 An outer transverse track 98 is formed on the lower part of the inner surface of each side plate portion 97. Each outer transverse track 98 has an outer transverse guide groove 99 extending in the front-rear direction. Each outer transverse guide groove 99 is open to the inward side. The protrusion 83 of the aforementioned hinge member 75 is inserted into each outer transverse guide groove 99. The armrest 95 can slide in the front-rear direction between a reference position and an extended position by changing the sliding position of the protrusion 83 of the outer transverse guide groove 99 relative to the armrest interior 96.

[0074] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 11 As shown, in the reference position, the armrest 95 is generally situated on the base 76 of the hinge member 75. Figure 3 and Figure 12 As shown, in the extended position, the rear of the armrest 95 is located further back than the base 76.

[0075] In addition, such as Figure 10As shown, a mechanism 105 for suppressing the swaying of the central worktable 91 in the left-right direction is provided between the hinge member 75 and the central worktable 91. In addition, a mechanism 106 is provided between the hinge member 75 and the central worktable 91 to stop the central worktable 91 in the position when it moves to the reference position and the extended position.

[0076] Next, the operation of the first embodiment constructed in the above manner will be explained. In addition, the effects that accompany the operation will also be explained.

[0077] The side worktable 43 can move up and down between the storage position and the middle position, and can also rotate between the middle position and the use position.

[0078] <(1) Situation where light work is not carried out>

[0079] (1-1) In this case, such as Figure 1 and Figure 8 As shown, the occupant positions the side worktable 43 in the stowed position. In the stowed position, the bottom plate portion 66 of the retainer 65 contacts the bottom plate portion 33 of the bracket cover 31, restricting downward movement. Additionally, the connecting plate portion 58 of the worktable interior 55 contacts the rotation restriction portion 39a of the bracket cover 31. This contact restricts downward movement of the worktable interior 55. The opening 27 of the stowed portion 28 is closed by the side worktable 43. The upper surface of the side plate portion 53 of the side worktable 43 is on the same surface as the upper wall portion 24 of the housing body 21, relative to the upper surface of the boundary portion of the side plate portion 53. The shaft portion 61a is located lower than the shaft support portion 35 and lower than the opening 27 within the stowed portion 28. Furthermore, the contact surface 48 of the worktable bracket 44 separates downward from the rotation restriction portion 39a within the stowed portion 28.

[0080] In this way, a large part of the side workbench 43 is hidden inside the storage section 28, so the side workbench 43 will not cause any obstruction.

[0081] (1-2) Additionally, in this case, such as Figure 1 and Figure 11 As shown, the occupant positions the hinge member 75 in the closed position. Additionally, the center console 91 and armrest 95 are positioned in their respective reference positions. In these reference positions, both the center console 91 and armrest 95 are located above the base 76 of the hinge member 75. The center console 91 is entirely covered by the armrest 95; alternatively, it is tucked between the armrest 95 and the base 76. Therefore, the center console 91 does not obstruct movement.

[0082] The opening of the large recess 25 provided at the rear of the box body 21 is closed by the base 76 of the hinge member 75, the central worktable 91 and the handrail 95.

[0083] By placing their elbows on the armrests 95, occupants can reduce the burden on their shoulders, which support their arms.

[0084] Furthermore, the opening of the recess 26, which forms the front part of the box body 21, is open. Therefore, small items can be placed into the recess 26 through the opening. If described differently, the recess 26 can be used as a small item receiving part.

[0085] <(2) Light work performed on the side workbench 43>

[0086] In this situation, the occupant temporarily moves the side worktable 43 of the aforementioned storage position to the middle position, and then moves it to the use position.

[0087] (2-1) When moving the side worktable 43 from the storage position to the middle position, for example, by pinching the part (upper end) of the side worktable 43 in the storage position that protrudes from the storage section 28 with your fingers and pulling it up, the side worktable 43 rises. As a result, the side worktable 43 protrudes upward from the storage section 28.

[0088] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the retainer 65 is connected to the worktable bracket 44 of the side worktable 43 via the shaft 61. Therefore, as the side worktable 43 rises as described above, the retainer 65 also rises along with the side worktable 43. At this time, the shaft portion 61a and the pin 71 slide upward along the longitudinal guide groove 42 of the corresponding longitudinal rail 41. The movement direction of the shaft portion 61a and the pin 71 is limited to the vertical direction by the longitudinal rail 41. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the wobbling of the side worktable 43 and the retainer 65 and allow them to rise smoothly.

[0089] (2-2) Furthermore, if the side worktable 43 is pulled up, each shaft portion 61a is exposed upward from the corresponding longitudinal guide groove 42. A shaft support portion 35 with a support hole 38 is formed above each longitudinal rail 41. The bearing portion 37 is located above each longitudinal guide groove 42. Therefore, as the side worktable 43 rises, each shaft portion 61a moves from the longitudinal guide groove 42 to the support hole 38 and slides upward along the support hole 38.

[0090] like Figure 2 and Figure 7As shown by the double-dotted lines in the figures, if the side worktable 43 is pulled up to the middle position, the shaft portion 61a contacts the inner wall surface of the upper end of the support hole 38 of the corresponding bearing portion 37, thus restricting its further upward movement. The shaft portion 61a is configured to be rotatable, supported by the shaft support portion 35.

[0091] In the middle position, most of the side worktable 43 is exposed upwards from the storage section 28 in an upright state. The contact surface 48 of the worktable bracket 44 continues to separate from the rotation restriction section 39a.

[0092] The retainer 65 is positioned upright in the upper part of the storage section 28. Each pin 71 is located in its corresponding longitudinal guide groove 42. The base plate 66 of the retainer 65 is located at a position that is separated upward from the base plate 33 of the bracket cover 31.

[0093] (2-3) When moving the side worktable 43 from the middle position to the use position, the side worktable 43 is rotated relative to the main body 21 about the two shafts 61a, away from the car seat 13 in its width direction, i.e., to the lower left. At this time, the shafts 61a are supported by the bearings 37, so the position of the shafts 61a is stable. In addition, along with the above-mentioned rotation of the side worktable 43, the working surface 52a and the contact surface 48 rotate about the two shafts 61a.

[0094] (2-4) such as Figure 2 , Figure 7 and Figure 9 As shown, if the side worktable 43 is rotated to the use position, the shaft portion 61a continues to be supported by the shaft support portion 35. The opening portion 27 continues to be closed by the side worktable 43. In addition, the contact surface 48 of the worktable bracket 44 contacts the rotation restriction portion 39a of the bracket cover 31. This contact restricts the side worktable 43 from rotating downwards beyond the use position. The working surface 52a of the side worktable 43 is horizontal and faces upwards. Therefore, with the occupant seated in the car seat 13, light work can be performed on the working surface 52a of the side worktable 43.

[0095] Thus, according to the first embodiment, when light work is to be performed while seated in the car seat 13 (if necessary), the side worktable 43 is moved from the storage position to the use position, thereby ensuring space for light work.

[0096] (2-5) Here, both the workbench bracket 44 and the bracket cover 31 are formed of thin metal plates, which have high strength. Therefore, when a load is applied from top to bottom to the side workbench 43 in the use position during light work, it is easy to suppress the deformation of the shaft support 35 and the rotation restriction part 39a, and keep the side workbench 43 in the use position.

[0097] (2-6) Furthermore, the occupant performs the opposite operation to (2-1) to (2-4) described above while seated in the car seat 13. The side worktable 43 then moves in the opposite direction described above. The occupant can then return the side worktable 43 from its usage position to its storage position via the intermediate position.

[0098] Specifically, when the side worktable 43 is moved from the middle position to the storage position, the side worktable 43 is lowered from above the storage section 28 in an upright state.

[0099] As the descent occurs, each shaft portion 61a moves from its corresponding support hole 38 to the longitudinal guide groove 42 located below it. The retainer 65, which is connected to the side worktable 43 via the two shaft portions 61a, moves downward together with the side worktable 43 within the receiving portion 28.

[0100] The shaft 61a and pin 71 slide downward along the longitudinal guide groove 42. The direction of movement of the shaft 61a and pin 71 is limited to the vertical direction by the longitudinal rail 41. Therefore, the wobbling of the side worktable 43 and the retainer 65 can be suppressed, and they can be lowered smoothly.

[0101] If the side workbench 43 descends to the storage position, then as Figure 8 As shown, the base plate portion 66 of the retainer 65 contacts the base plate portion 33 of the bracket cover 31 from above. This contact restricts the downward movement of the retainer 65. Additionally, the connecting plate portion 58 of the worktable interior 55 contacts the rotation restriction portion 39a of the bracket cover 31. This contact restricts the downward movement of the worktable interior 55.

[0102] <(3) Situation of expanding the workspace>

[0103] (3-1) In cases where the workspace needs to be expanded so that the side worktable 43 is in the working position, for example, such as Figure 1 and Figure 11 As shown, grasp the front end of the central worktable 91, which is in the reference position, and pull it forward. Thus, as... Figure 2 As shown, the front of the central worktable 91 protrudes forward from the armrest 95 located in the reference position and the base 76 of the hinge member 75 located in the closed position (see reference). Figure 12 ).

[0104] At this time, each protrusion 94 slides forward along the inner horizontal guide groove 82 of the corresponding inner horizontal track 81. The movement direction of each protrusion 94 is limited to the front-back direction by the corresponding inner horizontal track 81. Therefore, the shaking of the central worktable 91 can be suppressed and it can slide forward smoothly.

[0105] (3-2) If the central worktable 91 is pulled out to the extended position, the opening of the recess 26 is closed by the front of the central worktable 91 (see reference). Figure 12 Additionally, in the extended position, the front of the central workbench 91 is adjacent to the right side of the aforementioned storage section 28.

[0106] At this time, as described above, the side worktable 43 is in the use position, and the opening 27 of the storage section 28 is closed by the side worktable 43.

[0107] Therefore, by setting the working surface 52a of the side workbench 43 and the upper surface of the front part of the central workbench 91 as a space for light work while seated in the car seat 13, the working space can be further expanded to the right.

[0108] Additionally, at this time, the rear half of the central workbench 91 is covered from above by the armrest 95.

[0109] (3-3) In the above extended positions, such as Figure 9 As shown by the double-dotted line, the upper surface of the central workbench 91 is on the same surface as the working surface 52a of the side workbench 43 in the usage position. It is difficult to create a step between the central workbench 91 and the side workbench 43. Therefore, it is easy for the operator to perform light work across the side workbench 43 and the central workbench 91.

[0110] (3-4) Furthermore, the occupant performs the opposite operations to those described in (3-1) and (3-2) while seated in the vehicle seat 13. The central console 91 then moves in the opposite direction. The occupant can then return the extended central console 91 to its base position. Figure 11 As shown, in the reference position, the entire central workbench 91 is covered by the armrest 95, and the exposed portion disappears. The expansion of the workspace achieved by the central workbench 91 disappears. The workspace is only the work surface 52a of the side workbench 43.

[0111] This allows the central workbench 91 to slide in the front-to-back direction, thus increasing or decreasing the working space.

[0112] (3-5) When the work space is to be further extended rearward with the side worktable 43 in the use position and the central worktable 91 in the extended position, a rearward force is applied to the handrail 95.

[0113] Therefore, as Figure 3 and Figure 12As shown, the portion of the central workbench 91 covered by the armrest 95 is exposed. Correspondingly, the workspace expands rearward. The exposed portion of the central workbench 91 is at its maximum area when the armrest 95 is moved to the expanded position. Furthermore, the rear end of the central workbench 91 is covered from above by the armrest 95.

[0114] When the handrail moves backward at 95 degrees, as Figure 10 and Figure 12 As shown, the outer horizontal track 98 of the handrail 95 restricts the direction of movement to the front-to-back direction by the protrusion 83 of the hinge member 75. The handrail 95 slides smoothly backward in a state that suppresses swaying by changing the sliding position of the protrusion 83 relative to the outer horizontal guide groove 99.

[0115] (3-6) Furthermore, if the occupant performs the operation opposite to (3-5) while seated in the vehicle seat 13, the armrest 95 moves in the opposite direction. The occupant can then return the extended armrest 95 to the reference position.

[0116] <(4) Other functions and effects>

[0117] (4-1) In the first embodiment, the central worktable 91 and the armrest 95 are respectively mounted on the hinge member 75 in a manner that allows them to slide in the front-back direction. Therefore, compared with the case where the central worktable 91 and the armrest 95 are mounted on different parts in a manner that allows them to slide, the armrest 95 and its surrounding parts can be miniaturized.

[0118] (Second Implementation)

[0119] Next, refer to Figures 13-16 The second embodiment, specifically implemented as a control box 20 for automobiles, will be described.

[0120] In the second embodiment, the rotation limiting part replaces the rotation limiting part 39a in the first embodiment and has a spring 114 and a locking part 117. The combination of the spring 114 and the locking part 117 can be provided corresponding to both shaft parts 61a, or it can be provided corresponding to only a single shaft part 61a.

[0121] like Figure 13 and Figure 15 As shown, a spring mounting portion 111 is formed around the side plate portion 53 of the side worktable 43, which is also the shaft portion 61a. The spring mounting portion 111 has a pair of curved portions 112 that are bent into an arc shape in a radially outward manner at the part where the shaft portion 61a is sandwiched in the middle and opposite to each other. The lower ends of the two curved portions 112 are separated from each other in the circumferential direction.

[0122] The spring 114 is formed in a C-shape and is mounted on the spring mounting portion 111 in a manner that allows it to rotate as a whole, while surrounding the two curved portions 112.

[0123] The engaging portion 117 is formed on the outer side of the opposing plate portion 68 of the retainer 65 and the radial spring mounting portion 111 of the shaft portion 61a. The engaging portion 117 protrudes toward the shaft portion 61a and is formed with a pointed front end.

[0124] In the spring 114, between the lower ends of the two circumferentially curved portions 112, an elastic deformation portion 115 is formed that is capable of elastic deformation in the radial direction of the shaft portion 61a. The elastic deformation portion 115 has a protrusion 115a that protrudes radially outward from the shaft portion 61a.

[0125] Furthermore, the load applied to the side worktable 43 when the protrusion 115a passes over the engaging portion 117 due to elastic deformation of the elastic deformation portion 115 is set to be less than the load applied to the side worktable 43 in the first embodiment.

[0126] In addition, such as Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, a cutout 118 is formed on the upper part of the outer wall portion 22 of the storage portion 28. Additionally, a cutout 119 is also formed on the upper part of the main body plate portion 32 of the bracket cover 31. The bottoms of the cutouts 118 and 119 are located at a position lower than the bottom of the cutout 39 (rotation restriction portion 39a) in the first embodiment.

[0127] The structure other than that described above is the same as in the first embodiment. Therefore, elements that are the same as in the first embodiment are labeled with the same reference numerals and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0128] Therefore, according to the second embodiment, the same functions and effects as those described in the first embodiment (1-1), (1-2), (2-1) to (2-3), (2-6), (3-1) to (3-6), and (4-1) can be obtained. In the second embodiment, the side worktable 43 can rotate beyond the usage position. Along with this, the following functions and effects can be obtained. Furthermore, (2-4′) is the function and effect corresponding to (2-4), and (2-7) and (2-8) are new functions and effects.

[0129] (2-4') The side worktable 43 rotates about the shaft 61a as it moves from the middle position to the use position. If the side worktable 43 rotates, the spring 114 rotates together with the side worktable 43 about the shaft 61a. Figure 13 and Figure 15As shown, if the side worktable 43 rotates to the use position, the protrusion 115a of the elastic deformation portion 115 of the spring 114 engages (contacts) with the engaging portion 117 of the retainer 65. This engagement restricts the rotation of the side worktable 43 beyond the use position. If no large load is applied to the working surface 52a of the side worktable 43 in the use position to the extent that the protrusion 115a passes over the engaging portion 117, the elastic deformation portion 115 continues to engage with the engaging portion 117, thus holding the side worktable 43 in the use position.

[0130] Therefore, space can be ensured for light work. The occupant can perform light work on the work surface 52a of the side workbench 43 while seated in the car seat 13.

[0131] (2-7) In contrast, if a load is applied to the side worktable 43 through the aforementioned working surface 52a to the extent that the protrusion 115a passes over the engaging portion 117, then as Figure 14 and Figure 16 As shown, the elastic deformation portion 115 undergoes elastic deformation. If the elastic deformation portion 115 elastically deforms radially inward toward the shaft portion 61a, causing the protrusion 115a to pass over the engaging portion 117, the engagement is released, and the engaging portion 117 no longer restricts the rotation of the spring 114. Therefore, in this case, the side worktable 43 can be rotated past the use position. Furthermore, if the protrusion 115a passes over the engaging portion 117, the elastic deformation portion 115 returns to its shape before elastic deformation due to its own elastic restoring force.

[0132] The side worktable 43 contacts at least one bottom of the cut portions 118 and 119, thereby restricting the side worktable 43 from rotating downward.

[0133] (2-8) Furthermore, if the side worktable 43, which has rotated past the usage position, rotates in the opposite direction described above, the elastic deformation section 115 performs an action opposite to the aforementioned action. The elastic deformation section 115 elastically deforms again, allowing the side worktable 43 to rotate in the opposite direction. Moreover, the side worktable 43 can be rotated to the usage position or to the intermediate position.

[0134] According to the second embodiment, in addition to the above-described effects and benefits, the following effects and benefits can also be expected.

[0135] (4-2) In the second embodiment, the load applied to the side worktable 43 when the protrusion 115a passes over the engagement portion 117 is set to be less than the load applied to the side worktable 43 in the first embodiment.

[0136] Therefore, when a load of the same magnitude as in the first embodiment is applied, as described above, the side worktable 43 rotates further downward than in its operating position. Thus, the aforementioned load can suppress deformation of various parts of the control console 20, including the shaft support 35 and the rotation limiting part. By changing the wording, the shaft support 35, the rotation limiting part, etc., can be made without using high-strength components, thereby reducing the cost of the control console 20.

[0137] Furthermore, the above-described embodiments can also be implemented as variations thereof, as described below. The above-described embodiments and the following variations can be combined and implemented to the extent that they are not technically contradictory.

[0138] The central worktable 91 can be fixed to the hinge member 75. In this case, when the hinge member 75 is in the closed position, the central worktable 91 is located on the body 21 and is positioned inward relative to the opening 27. Furthermore, the upper surface of the central worktable 91 is on the same surface as the working surface 52a of the side worktable 43 in the usage position. This allows the workspace to be expanded by utilizing the central worktable 91.

[0139] • Handrail 95 can be fixed to hinge component 75.

[0140] • The central workbench 91 can be omitted. In this case, the side workbench 43 can also be used to ensure working space.

[0141] The number of tracks can be changed to 1 or more or more than 3.

[0142] • The retainer 65 can be omitted.

[0143] Regarding the aforementioned control console 20, in order to ensure working space, at least one of the central worktable 91 and the armrest 95 can be slid to the extended position while the side worktable 43 is in the storage position.

[0144] • The control box disclosed herein can be applied to control boxes installed in vehicles other than automobiles.

Claims

1. A control console disposed between adjacent vehicle seats, wherein, The control console has: Box body; A storage section is provided on the side of the main body of the box in the width direction of the vehicle seat, and has an opening at the upper end; A side workbench is configured to move up and down between a storage position where it is stored in the storage section in an upright state and a middle position where it is exposed upward from the storage section in the upright state, and has a working surface on its surface. A shaft portion is provided at the lower end of the side worktable in the upright state and extends along the front-rear direction of the vehicle seat; A shaft support portion is disposed above the storage portion, and is supported in such a way that the side worktable, in the middle position, rotates from the main body of the box away from the side in the width direction with the shaft portion as the center, to a usage position with the working surface facing upwards, thereby enabling the shaft portion to rotate; and The rotation limiting unit restricts the rotation of the side worktable beyond the usage position. The side worktable has a worktable bracket with a contact surface. The control console also has a bracket cover disposed in the storage section, the bracket cover having the shaft support section and the rotation limiting section. The shaft support contacts the shaft at the intermediate position and the usage position, thereby supporting the shaft so that it can rotate. The rotation limiting part contacts the contact surface at the usage position, thereby limiting the rotation of the side worktable. The bracket cover is fixed inside the storage section.

2. The control console according to claim 1, wherein, The workbench bracket is formed of a thin metal sheet. The bracket cover is formed of a thin metal plate.

3. The control console according to claim 1, wherein, The control console also includes a retainer configured to move vertically within the storage compartment, assisting in the vertical movement of the side worktable between the storage position and the intermediate position, and assisting in the rotation of the side worktable between the intermediate position and the usage position. The upper end of the retainer is connected to the side worktable in a flexible manner via the shaft.

4. The control console according to claim 3, wherein, The control console also has a longitudinal rail disposed within the storage section, the longitudinal rail having longitudinal guide grooves extending in the vertical direction. The retainer has a pin that moves up and down along the longitudinal guide groove.

5. A control console disposed between adjacent vehicle seats, wherein, The control console has: Box body; A storage section is provided on the side of the main body of the box in the width direction of the vehicle seat, and has an opening at the upper end; A side workbench is configured to move up and down between a storage position where it is stored in the storage section in an upright state and a middle position where it is exposed upward from the storage section in the upright state, and has a working surface on its surface. A shaft portion is provided at the lower end of the side worktable in the upright state and extends along the front-rear direction of the vehicle seat; A shaft support is provided above the storage section, and the shaft is supported in such a way that the side worktable rotates from the box body away from the box body in the width direction with the shaft as the center in the middle position, so that the working surface faces upwards in the use position, and the shaft is rotatable. A rotation limiting part that restricts the rotation of the side worktable beyond the usage position; as well as A retainer is disposed within the storage section in a manner that allows it to move vertically, assisting in the vertical movement of the side worktable between the storage position and the intermediate position, and also assisting in the rotation of the side worktable between the intermediate position and the use position. The upper end of the retainer is connected to the side worktable in a flexible manner via the shaft. The rotation limiting part includes: a spring that surrounds the shaft portion and is integral with the side worktable to rotate the shaft portion around a center; and a locking part disposed on the outside of the spring in the radial direction of the retaining member and the shaft portion. The spring has an elastically deformable portion that contacts the engaging portion at the use position, thereby restricting the rotation of the side worktable beyond the use position, and elastically deforming the shaft portion in the radial direction to pass the engaging portion, thereby releasing the restriction.

6. The control console according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The side workbench closes the opening at the usage position. The control console also includes a central workbench, which is located on the main body of the console and adjacent to the opening in the width direction. The upper surface of the central workbench is formed on the same surface as the working surface of the side workbench at the usage location.

7. The control console according to claim 6, wherein, The central workbench is configured to slide relative to the main body of the box in the front-back direction.

8. The control console according to claim 7, wherein, The control console also has an armrest located above the central workbench on the main body of the console. The armrest is configured to cover at least the rear end of the central workbench from above and is slidable in the front-back direction.

9. The control console according to claim 8, wherein, The control console also has a hinge component configured on the main body of the console. The central workbench and the armrest are respectively mounted on the hinged component in a manner that allows them to slide along the front-back direction.

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