Knob linkage type armrest assembly

Abstract

The invention provides a knob linkage type armrest assembly. The armrest assembly includes a locking device that constrains the armrest and restricts rotation of the armrest when the armrest is changed to the locked posture. The locking device includes: a locking shaft fixed to a rotation center of the armrest; and a lock provided on the armrest so as to be movable in a locking direction approaching the locking shaft along with the operation of the knob and an unlocking direction separated from the locking shaft. When the armrest is in the locking posture, a locking section formed by a groove for inserting the locking teeth and an unlocking section extending from the locking section are formed along the periphery of the locking shaft, and the unlocking section is formed by an unlocking surface which is in contact with the tail ends of the teeth so as to maintain the state that the lock moves in the unlocking direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a vehicle armrest assembly. Background Art

[0002] Vehicles include armrests for the convenience of drivers and other passengers. Currently, such armrests are provided and used in vehicles in various forms. For example, the armrests can be provided in the form of seats such as front seats and rear seats in the vehicle (indoor), and in the form of a center console arranged between a driver's seat and a front passenger seat in the vehicle.

[0003] Generally, a vehicle armrest can rotate around an axis. To this end, the vehicle armrest can be mainly controlled to rotate by a knob and a locking module, wherein the knob is arranged on the front end side of the armrest, and the locking module is linked to the knob. The locking module can constrain the armrest according to the passenger's knob operation, thereby converting it into a locking mode (locking mode) for limiting the rotation of the armrest, and release the constraint on the armrest, thereby converting it into an unlocking mode (unlocking mode) allowing the armrest to rotate. The locking module receives the passenger's operating force on the knob through a wire or cable and operates.

[0004] However, this prior art has the problem that the linkage structure using the locking module, the metal wire (or cable), etc. is very complicated and / or the operation of the linkage structure becomes inaccurate (i.e., failure) due to the length error of the metal wire, the expansion and contraction phenomenon of the metal wire caused by the temperature change of the surrounding environment, or the permanent length change of the metal wire caused by long-term use. In particular, as one of the failures of the linkage structure, due to the structural problem of the locking module or the characteristics of the metal wire, the restraint force on the handrail becomes insufficient, and the handrail is accidentally released. Therefore, the actual situation is to set a plurality of connected metal wires and locking modules to compensate for the failure of the linkage structure. Of course, due to this problem, the prior art necessarily requires high costs in terms of manufacturing and / or maintenance.

[0005] As another problem, if the locking module is converted from the unlocking mode to the locking mode, the knob needs to be operated, or if the locking mode is maintained in the unlocking mode, the passenger needs to frequently operate the knob such as continuously applying operating force to the knob, which is very inconvenient in use.

[0006] Furthermore, when the armrest is in the form of a center console between the driver's seat and the front passenger seat, the armrest may become an element that restricts or hinders the movement of the passenger sitting in the driver's seat or the front passenger seat.

[0007] On the other hand, one of the things that future vehicles such as electric vehicles need is more diverse seat variations, and the relevant industry is actively conducting research and development to more effectively realize seat movement forward and backward, left and right, and swiveling. In view of these actual conditions, the current armrest constituting the center console may greatly hinder seat variation. Prior art literature Patent Literature

[0008] (Patent Document 1) Korean Registered Patent Gazette No. 10-0371541 (February 7, 2003) (Patent Document 2) Korean Registered Patent Gazette No. 10-1407265 (June 13, 2014) (Patent Document 3) Korean Registered Patent Gazette No. 10-2403655 (May 31, 2022) (Patent Document 4) Korean Registered Patent Gazette No. 10-2422966 (July 21, 2022). Summary of the invention Problem to be solved

[0009] Embodiments of the present invention provide a knob-linked vehicle armrest assembly that can accurately control the rotation of the armrest through a simpler structure.

[0010] Furthermore, the embodiments of the present invention provide a knob-linked vehicle armrest assembly that is more convenient to use.

[0011] In addition, the embodiment of the present invention provides a knob-linked vehicle armrest assembly that can be used by passengers in both front and rear seats. As an example, the armrest is used as a table and provided to the rear seats.

[0012] On the other hand, embodiments of the present invention provide a knob-linked vehicle armrest assembly that is advantageous in seat changes.

[0013] The problems to be solved are not limited to these, and other problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by ordinary technicians from the following description. Means of solving the problem

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle armrest assembly can be provided, the vehicle armrest assembly comprising: an armrest mount; an armrest rotatably arranged on the armrest mount with a first axis in the left-right direction as the center, and the posture can be changed to a first posture with the front end facing forward, a second posture facing downward, or a third posture facing backward with the rotation; an operation module arranged on the armrest and having a knob, the knob is operated from a locked state to an unlocked state by the operation of a passenger, and if the operation of the passenger is released, the knob is restored to the locked state by elastic force; a lock shaft fixed to the first shaft; a main lock arranged on the armrest so as to be movable in a first direction separated from the lock shaft and a second direction close to the lock shaft with the operation of the knob, a locking section and an unlocking section are formed on the lock shaft, the lock section has a locking groove along the periphery of the lock shaft, the unlocking section extends from the lock section to both sides, and the main lock has locking teeth (lock shaft) tooth), when the armrest is in the first posture, as the main lock moves in the second direction, the locking tooth is inserted into the locking groove, or, as the main lock moves in the first direction, the locking tooth is separated from the locking groove, and the unlocking section contacts the tooth end of the locking tooth to maintain the main lock moving in the first direction.

[0015] The main lock can rotate around a second A-axis parallel to the first axis. If it rotates along a first rotation direction, it can move in the first direction. If it rotates along a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction, it can move in the second direction.

[0016] The main lock may have a front side and a back side, the locking teeth being arranged on the front side, and the back side being opposite to the front side. The main lock may have two shoulders protruding from the back side of the main lock and an interlocking groove between the two shoulders, and among the two shoulders, the second shoulder may be separated from the first shoulder of the two shoulders in the direction in which the armrest moves along the second rotation direction. The vehicle armrest assembly of the embodiment of the present invention may further include a sub-lock, which is arranged on the armrest and can rotate around a second-B axis parallel to the second A axis and rotate in conjunction with the knob. The secondary lock may have a linkage tooth, and in the linkage groove, if the secondary lock rotates along the first rotation direction, the linkage tooth contacts the inner wall of the second shoulder side, so that the primary lock moves in a manner of rotating along the second rotation direction, and if the secondary lock rotates along the second rotation direction, the linkage tooth contacts the inner wall of the first shoulder side, so that the primary lock moves in a manner of rotating along the first rotation direction. Moreover, the linkage tooth may have a tooth base and a tooth head, the tooth base is arranged on the second B axis, and the tooth head protrudes from the tooth base, and when the secondary lock rotates along the first rotation direction, the tooth base contacts the inner wall of the first shoulder side, and the tooth head contacts the inner wall of the second shoulder side, so that the secondary lock distributes the force of rotating along the first rotation direction to the primary lock in the opposite rotation direction through the first shoulder and the second shoulder.

[0017] In the armrest, the base end side thereof is arranged on the first shaft, the knob is arranged on the front end side of the armrest, and the operating module may include a link mechanism that transmits an operating force on the knob to the secondary lock.

[0018] The operating module may further include a knob cover, the knob cover having a head opening on the front end side of the armrest and a tail opening opposite to the head opening. The knob can rotate in the knob cover around a knob axis in the left-right direction. In addition, the knob may have a knob head disposed on the head opening side and a knob tail, the knob tail being based on the knob axis and connected to the connecting rod mechanism through the tail opening opposite to the knob head. The knob cover may contact the upper surface of the knob tail or the lower surface of the knob tail as the knob rotates to limit the rotation of the knob.

[0019] The knob may have a buffer element, and the buffer element is respectively arranged on the upper surface and the lower surface of the knob tail. The buffer element may be a buffer pad.

[0020] The connecting rod mechanism may include: a link bar, which can move toward the front end side and the base end side of the armrest; an input link, which moves the connecting rod toward the front end side or the base end side of the armrest as the knob is rotated between the knob and the connecting rod; and an output link, which rotates the secondary lock between the connecting rod and the secondary lock as the connecting rod moves.

[0021] In the linkage mechanism, if the passenger operates the knob, the input linkage can move the connecting rod toward the front end side of the armrest, and the output linkage causes the secondary lock to rotate along the second rotation direction. The operating module can also include an elastic component, which provides elastic force in the connecting rod to the base end side of the armrest.

[0022] The input connecting rod and the output connecting rod may be rotating connecting rods that rotate around the connecting rod axis in the left and right directions. The operating module may also include a connecting rod guide, which is used to guide the movement of the connecting rod. The connecting rod guide may have a plurality of guide components and a plurality of contact components, wherein the guide components are in contact with the left and right sides of the straight section of the connecting rod, respectively, and the contact components are in contact with the top and bottom of the straight section, respectively. During the movement of the connecting rod toward the front end side and the base end side of the handrail, each of the contact components can be elastically deformed as the connecting rod moves up and down in association with the rotation of the input connecting rod and the output connecting rod.

[0023] The armrest bracket may be disposed between a driver's seat and a passenger seat of the front row of seats. When in the first posture, the armrest may be provided to passengers in the front row of seats. When in the third posture, the armrest may be provided to passengers in the rear row of seats.

[0024] The armrest support may include a support, which can support the armrest in an upright state so that the armrest can rotate around the first axis. In the second posture, the armrest can be folded relative to the support.

[0025] The armrest support may further include: a fixed component; and a movable component, which is coupled to the fixed component in a manner that allows it to move in a horizontal direction. The support member may be disposed on the movable component.

[0026] The armrest bracket may further include a stop unit which fixes a position of the movable part relative to the fixing part.

[0027] The locking section and the unlocking section may be connected by a guide curved surface. The guide curved surface may guide the locking tooth with the tooth tip in contact with the unlocking surface toward the locking groove.

[0028] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle armrest assembly can be provided, which includes: an armrest bracket; an armrest that can rotate around a main axis (first axis) in the armrest bracket and change its posture as it rotates; a knob arranged on the armrest; a locking shaft fixed to the main shaft; a lock arranged on the armrest so as to be movable in a locking direction close to the locking shaft and in an unlocking direction separated from the locking shaft; a connecting rod mechanism having a plurality of connecting rods for connecting the lock with the knob, the locking shaft having a locking groove, and the lock having a locking tooth, and when the armrest is in a locked posture, as the lock moves in the locking direction, the locking tooth is inserted into the locking groove, or, as the lock moves in the unlocking direction, the locking tooth is separated from the locking groove.

[0029] The means for solving the problem will become more specific and clear through the following embodiments, drawings, etc. In addition, multiple solutions other than the solutions mentioned below can be proposed. Effects of the Invention

[0030] According to an embodiment of the present invention, when the posture of the armrest is a first posture (locking posture), the main lock connected to the knob moves toward the second direction (locking direction), so that the locking tooth of the main lock is inserted into the locking groove of the locking shaft (constraining the armrest); if the main lock moves toward the first direction (unlocking direction), so that the locking tooth is separated from the locking groove, and the armrest in the first posture rotates, the tooth end of the locking tooth contacts the unlocking surface of the locking shaft, so that the main lock maintains the state of moving toward the first direction. Therefore, the operation of the knob required to change the posture of the armrest, such as keeping the knob in an unlocked state, can be minimized without additional operation.

[0031] In addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention, since the secondary lock that operates the main lock in conjunction with the knob distributes the operating force on the knob to the main lock in the opposite rotation direction, the state in which the locking tooth is inserted into the locking groove can be maintained more stably and accurately.

[0032] In addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention, since the armrest is arranged between the driver's seat and the front passenger seat of the front seat, and the armrest can change its posture to a posture protruding toward the rear seat side (third posture) as it rotates, passengers in the rear seats can use the armrest as a table, etc.

[0033] In addition, according to the embodiment of the present invention, since the posture of the armrest can be changed to a posture (second posture) folded relative to the armrest bracket as it rotates, the convenience of use for passengers can be further improved. Furthermore, according to the folded posture (second posture), etc., the seat change can be performed more easily without interfering with the armrest.

[0034] The effects of the invention are not limited thereto, and a person skilled in the art can clearly understand other effects not mentioned from this specification and the attached drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] Figure 1 The figure is a three-dimensional diagram showing a vehicle armrest assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figures 2 to 4 The diagrams are schematic diagrams showing the armrest in a vehicle armrest assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention in a first posture, a second posture, and a third posture as viewed from the left side. Figure 5 and Figure 6 The diagrams are partial perspective views showing the armrest in the vehicle armrest assembly according to the embodiment of the present invention, respectively, in a state where the armrest is in a second posture and a state where the armrest is in a third posture. Figure 7 The present invention is a three-dimensional diagram of a vehicle armrest assembly mainly showing a knob-linked locking device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 and Fig. 9 To represent Figure 7 A perspective view and an exploded perspective view of the front end side of the locking device shown. Fig.10 and Fig.11 To represent Figure 7 A perspective view and an exploded perspective view of the base end side of the locking device shown. Fig.12 To specifically indicate Figures 8 to 11 A partial cross-sectional view showing the operation of the locking device. Fig.13 To briefly show Figures 8 to 11 A cross-sectional view showing the operation of the locking device is shown. Fig.14 by Fig.12 The state of the locking component of the locking device when the posture of the armrest in the vehicle armrest assembly of the embodiment of the present invention is the first posture is represented. Fig.15 by Fig.12 It refers to the state of the locking component of the locking device when the posture of the armrest in the vehicle armrest assembly of the embodiment of the present invention is the second posture and the third posture. Fig.16 To express Fig.12Magnified view of part G. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described therein, but can be embodied in many different forms.

[0037] In the process of describing the embodiments of the present invention, if it is judged that the detailed description of the relevant well-known functions or structures may unnecessarily confuse the essence of the present invention, it will be omitted, and the same figure marks will be used for parts that produce similar functions or effects throughout the drawings.

[0038] Among the terms used in the specification, at least a part is defined in consideration of the function in the present invention, and therefore, may be different according to the intention, convention, etc. of the user or operator. Therefore, these terms should be interpreted based on the content of the entire specification. Moreover, in the specification, when it is indicated that a certain structure is included, as long as there is no special record to the contrary, it means that other structural elements are also included, rather than excluding other structural elements. Moreover, when it is indicated that a certain part is connected (or, combined) with other parts, this includes not only the case of direct connection (or, combination), but also the case of indirect connection (or, combination) with other parts in the middle.

[0039] On the other hand, in the drawings, the size or shape of components, the thickness of lines, etc. may be slightly exaggerated for easier understanding.

[0040] In order to provide convenience for passengers, the present invention can provide an armrest assembly, wherein the armrest assembly includes an armrest disposed in a vehicle. Furthermore, the present invention can also provide a vehicle including such an armrest assembly. The armrest assembly of the present invention can be applied to various elements constituting the interior of a vehicle, but the embodiment of the present invention observes the form in which the armrest assembly is applied between the driver's seat and the co-driver's seat in a vehicle instead of the center console.

[0041] Figures 1 to 16 The structure and operation of the armrest assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown.

[0042] like Figure 1 As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the armrest assembly of the embodiment of the present invention may include an armrest bracket 10 , a shaft module 20 and an armrest 30 .

[0043] The armrest assembly can be installed in the vehicle through the armrest bracket 10. Although not shown in the figure, the vehicle can include front seats and rear seats arranged with a gap in the front-to-back direction (Y-axis direction) in the interior, and the front seats can include a driver's seat and a passenger seat arranged in the left-to-right direction (X-axis direction). For reference, the front-to-back direction can be a direction consisting of a front direction and a rear direction toward the vehicle.

[0044] The armrest bracket 10 can be located between the driver's seat and the passenger seat in the vehicle. Figure 1 As shown, the armrest bracket 10 may include: a base 12, which is configured in the space between the driver's seat and the co-driver's seat; a support member 14, which is arranged and erected in the upward and downward directions (Z-axis direction) of the base 12; and a fixed bracket 16, which is fixed at the upper end portion of the support member 14.

[0045] The base 12 can be installed on the bottom surface of the space between the driver's seat and the passenger seat. Although not shown in the figure, the base 12 may include a fixed part and a movable part, and the movable part can slide in the horizontal direction (vertical direction relative to the up and down direction) on the fixed part, so that the position of the movable part changes along the moving direction of the movable part, and may also include a stop unit, which constrains the movable part relative to the fixed part to fix the position of the movable part. As an example, the movable part can slide in the horizontal direction along the front-back direction, and the stop unit may include a pressurizing body, which can move in the up and down direction on the movable part. The pressurizing body has a bolt structure that is threadedly connected to the movable part, and can move upward or downward along the rotation direction. The lower end of the pressurizing body can be in close contact with the upper surface of the fixed part (compression) according to the up and down movement of the pressurizing body to approximate the movable part, or be separated from the upper surface of the fixed part to the upper side (release the compression) to release the constraint of the movable part.

[0046] The lower end portion of the support member 14 can be combined with the base 12. Specifically, the lower end portion of the support member 14 can be combined with the movable part of the base 12. For example, the support member 14 can be configured as a panel structure with a width smaller than a length. Such a support member 14 can be configured to have two portions spaced apart from each other and facing each other in the left and right directions.

[0047] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 The armrest bracket 10 can stably support the shaft module 20 by using a fixing bracket 16. The fixing bracket 16 can be firmly mounted on the upper end portion of the two support members 14 by means of a mounting pin (not shown) and the like, and the position can be fixed. The two fixing brackets 16 can be arranged on the inner side of the two support members 14 in a manner facing each other.

[0048] like Figure 1 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 As shown in the figure, the shaft module 20 includes two shaft components 22, in which the first axis A1 extending horizontally along the left-right direction (X-axis direction) is formed, and these shaft components 22 can be supported by the fixed bracket 16. The shaft component 22 can be a fixed shaft maintained in a stopped state, and has a fixed part 22f and a support part 22s respectively configured to the left and right. For each shaft component 22, the support part 22s is supported by the fixed bracket 16, and in a state where its position is fixed, the fixed part 22f is firmly mounted on the support member 14 by means of the fixed panel 24, so that the function of the fixed shaft can be played.

[0049] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 5 The armrest 30 can be formed with a predetermined length and has a front end portion 30a and a base end portion 30b on both sides of the length direction, and the base end portion 30b can rotate around the first axis A1. The armrest 30 may include: an armrest frame 32 having a front end portion and a base end portion corresponding to the front end portion 30a and the base end portion 30b of the armrest 30, respectively; and a hinge bracket 36 provided on the armrest frame 32. Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , the armrest 30 may further include a housing 34 for housing the fixing bracket 16 , the armrest frame 32 , the hinge bracket 36 , etc. to protect them from external damage.

[0050] like Figures 5 to 7 As shown in the figures, there may be two hinge brackets 36 rotatably connected to the support portions 22s of the two shaft members 22, respectively. In the armrest 30, such a hinge bracket 36 may be connected to the base end portion of the armrest frame 32 so that the base end portion 30b thereof rotates around the first axis A1. The hinge bracket 36 may protrude from the lower surface of the armrest frame 32. As an example, the hinge bracket 36 may be respectively arranged between the combined support member 14 and the fixed bracket 16, and form an integral type with the armrest frame 32. The rotating element that utilizes frictional force to suppress the acceleration of the rotation speed of the armrest 30 may be respectively interposed between the support portion 22s of the shaft member 22 and the hinge bracket 36 of the armrest 30. The rotating element may guide the armrest 30 to rotate at a specified speed.

[0051] The posture of the armrest 30 can be changed as the armrest 30 rotates around the first axis A1. Specifically, the posture of the armrest 30 can be changed to a first posture in which the front end portion 30a of the armrest 30 faces forward (see Figure 1 and Figure 2), the front end portion 30a of the armrest 30 is facing downward (refer to the second posture Figure 3 ) or the third posture in which the front end portion 30a of the armrest 30 faces rearward (refer to Figure 4 ). When changing to the first posture and the third posture, the armrest 30 can be unfolded relative to the armrest bracket 10, and when changing to the second posture, the armrest 30 can be folded relative to the armrest bracket 10. When changing to the first posture and the third posture, the armrest 30 can maintain a horizontal state, and when changing to the second posture, the armrest 30 can maintain a downwardly inclined state (or a vertical state). For reference, the left and right support members 14 can be separated by a gap greater than the width of the armrest 30 in order to ensure a space for the armrest 30 to be in a folded state relative to the armrest bracket 10 when the armrest 30 is in the second posture, and extend along the up-down direction (Z-axis direction) so that the upper end portion can have a height spaced a specified distance upward from the base 12.

[0052] Reference Figures 2 to 4 , if the angle of the armrest 30 when the armrest 30 is in the first posture is taken as 0, the second posture can be a posture in which the armrest 30 is rotated 73 degrees in the first rotation direction R1 in the first posture (0°), and the third posture can be a posture in which the armrest 30 is rotated 180 degrees in the second rotation direction R2 opposite to the first rotation direction R1 in the first posture. Figure 2 (equivalent to the right side view), the first rotation direction R1 may be a rotation direction corresponding to the counterclockwise direction (CCW), and the second rotation direction R2 may be a rotation direction corresponding to the clockwise direction (CW).

[0053] like Figure 2 As shown, when the armrest 30 is in the first posture (0°), the armrest 30 can be placed between the front passenger and the front passenger with the upper surface of the armrest facing upward. Thus, the front passenger can freely use the armrest 30, for example, comfortably lean on the armrest 30 or place his arm on the armrest 30.

[0054] like Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , if the posture of the armrest 30 is changed from the first posture (0°) to the second posture (-73°), the armrest 30 can be folded relative to the armrest bracket 10 and retracted from between the driver's seat passenger and the front passenger seat passenger. With the retraction of the armrest 30, a free space can be secured between the driver's seat passenger and the front passenger seat passenger. The front seat passenger can move more freely or take a more comfortable posture by using the secured free space.

[0055] like Figure 4As shown, when the armrest 30 is in the third posture (180°), the armrest 30 can be turned 180 degrees in the first posture (0°) so that the lower surface of the armrest faces upward, and the front end portion 30a can protrude from the space between the driver's seat and the passenger seat to the rear seat side and provide space for the passengers in the rear seats. To this end, the passengers in the rear seats can use the armrest 30 as a table 30, for example, to place items such as mobile phones on the lower surface of the armrest facing upward.

[0056] On the other hand, one or more of the seats in the vehicle (front seats, rear seats, etc.) can be moved forward and backward, left and right, and / or rotated for seat changes, and the armrest 30 can be selectively changed to a suitable posture among the first posture (0°), the second posture (-73°), and the third posture (180°) as the seat changes.

[0057] When the armrest 30 is changed to the second posture (-73°), the armrest 30 can be moved by the front stopper 18a (refer to Figure 5 ) maintains the second posture, and when changing to the third posture (180°), the armrest 30 can be moved by means of the rear stopper 18b (refer to Figure 6 ) maintains the third posture. The front stopper 18a can limit the armrest 30 from rotating along the first rotation direction R1 at an angle exceeding the second posture, and the rear stopper 18b can limit the armrest 30 from rotating along the second rotation direction R2 at an angle exceeding the third posture. The armrest bracket 10 can have such a front stopper 18a and a rear stopper 18b. The front stopper 18a can be respectively provided at the front part of the two fixed brackets 16, and the rear stopper 18b can be respectively provided at the rear part of the fixed bracket 16.

[0058] When the posture of the armrest 30 is changed to the second posture (-73°), the front stopper 18a can contact the armrest frame 32 to prevent the armrest 30 from rotating along the first rotation direction R1. When the posture of the armrest 30 is changed to the third posture (180°), the rear stopper 18b can contact the armrest frame 32 to prevent the armrest 30 from rotating along the second rotation direction R2. The armrest frame 32 may have: a contact portion 38a (see Figure 5 ), when the armrest 30 is in the second position, it contacts the front stopper 18a; and the contact portion 38b (refer to Figure 6 ), when the armrest 30 is in the third posture, it contacts the rear stopper 18b.

[0059] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 7The armrest assembly may further include a locking device (see 2 and 4), which controls the rotation of the armrest 30 when the posture of the armrest 30 is changed to the first posture (0°). The locking device may constrain the armrest 30 to limit the rotation of the armrest 30 (lock) when the posture of the armrest 30 is the first posture, and release the constraint of the armrest 30 to allow the rotation of the armrest 30 (unlock). When in the first posture, the armrest 30 may be constrained by such a locking device and maintain the first posture.

[0060] The locking device may include: an operating module 2 for performing locking and unlocking operations; and a lock assembly 4 for performing restraint and release of the armrest 30 as the operating module 2 operates.

[0061] The operation module 2 is disposed on the armrest 30. Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Fig.10 The operation module 2 may include: a knob 61, which operates in an unlocked state under a locked state by the operation of a passenger, and returns to a locked state by elastic force if the operation of the passenger is released; and a link mechanism (refer to 62, 63 and 64), which transmits the operating force acting on the knob 61 to the lock assembly 4. The operation module 2 may make the knob 61 operated by the passenger have a form exposed to the outside.

[0062] The knob 61 may be disposed at the front end of the armrest 30 for easy operation. The operation module 2 may further include a knob cover 71, which is combined with the lower surface of the front end portion of the armrest frame 32. The knob 61 may be protected by the knob cover 71. Figure 8 and Fig.12 As shown, the knob cover 71 may have an internal storage space and a head opening 71a and a tail opening 71b respectively connected to the storage space. The head opening 71a may face the front end side of the armrest frame 32, and the tail opening 71b may face the base end side of the armrest frame 32. The head opening 71a and the tail opening 71b may be arranged opposite to each other.

[0063] Reference Figure 8 , Fig. 9 The knob 61 can be stored in the storage space of the knob cover 71. The knob 61 can rotate around the knob pin 61h in the storage space of the knob cover 71. A knob shaft can be formed on the knob pin 61h, and the knob shaft extends horizontally in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) and is parallel to the first axis A1.

[0064] The knob 61 may include a knob head 611 disposed toward the head opening 71a and a knob tail 612 disposed toward the tail opening 71b, and a knob pin 61h may pass through the knob head 611 and the knob tail 612. The knob head 611 may be operated by a passenger, and the knob tail 612 may be connected to a link mechanism (see 62, 63, and 64) through the tail opening 71b.

[0065] like Fig.12 Part (b) of Fig.13 As shown in part (b) of FIG. 1 , if the passenger lifts the knob head 611 , the knob 61 can rotate along the second rotation direction R2 around the knob pin 61h and enter the unlocked state. Figure 8 , Fig. 9 The at least one knob restoring spring shown in the figure is a torsion spring 61s. The torsion spring 61s can provide elastic force to the knob 61 in the direction in which the knob 61 rotates along the first rotation direction R1. Fig.12 Part (a) and Fig.13 As shown in part (a) of FIG. 1 , when the passenger's operation is released, the knob 61 can be operated so as to rotate in the first rotation direction R1 around the knob pin 61h and enter a locked state.

[0066] The knob cover 71 can limit the rotation angle range of the knob 61. The knob cover 71 can improve the operating reliability of the knob 61 by limiting the rotation angle of the knob 61. In the knob cover 71, when the knob 61 is rotated along the second rotation direction R2 by the operating force of the passenger (the unlocked state of the knob, refer to Fig.12 (B) part), may have a bottom surface portion in contact with the lower surface of the knob tail 612, when the knob 61 is rotated along the first rotation direction R1 by the elastic force of the torsion spring 61s (the locked state of the knob, refer to Fig.12 (A) portion), may have a top portion that contacts the upper surface of the knob tail 612.

[0067] The knob 61 may have a cushion 613 having a cushion. When the knob 61 is rotated, the cushion 613 may be respectively disposed on the upper surface of the knob tail 612 in contact with the top portion of the knob cover 71 and the lower surface of the knob tail 612 in contact with the bottom portion of the knob cover 71. Such a cushion 613 can prevent noise caused by the knob tail 612 contacting the bottom portion or the top portion of the knob cover 71, damage to the knob 61, etc.

[0068] like Figure 7 , Fig.10 , Fig.11As shown in FIG. 5 , the lock assembly 4 may be provided at the base end portion 30b of the armrest 30. The lock assembly 4 may include a locking shaft 40 and a lock (see 50 and 55).

[0069] Reference Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Fig.11 , Fig.14 The locking shaft 40 may be horizontally arranged on the first axis A1 along the left-right direction (X-axis direction) and may be separated from the lower surface of the armrest frame 32. The locking shaft 40 may be a fixed shaft maintained in a stopped state, and may be arranged between two fixed brackets 16, and the left and right end portions 41 may be respectively fixed to the fixed brackets 16 to play the function of a fixed shaft. The locking shaft 40 may be provided with at least one locking groove 42 between the left and right end portions 41. In the locking groove 42, the groove entrance may face the lower surface (upper side) of the armrest frame 32.

[0070] The locks are a main lock 50 and a secondary lock 55. Figure 7 As shown in the figures, the locks can be arranged between the armrest frame 32 and the locking shaft 40. The lock can be mounted on the armrest frame 32 by means of the locking bracket 75. Specifically, the locking bracket 75 can be combined with the armrest frame 32, and the lock can be combined with the locking bracket 75. Accordingly, if the armrest 30 rotates around the first axis A1, the lock rotates together with the armrest 30 and moves around the locking shaft 40 around the first axis A1.

[0071] Reference Figures 10 to 15 The main lock 50 can move in a first direction away from the locking shaft 40 and in a second direction close to the locking shaft 40 as the knob 61 is turned. The main lock 50 is rotatably coupled to the locking bracket 75 around a second A-axis A21 parallel to the first axis A1, so as to move in the first direction or the second direction as the main lock 50 rotates around the second A-axis A21.

[0072] When the main lock 50 moves in the second direction when the armrest 30 is in the first posture (0°), it has a front side facing the locking groove 42 of the locking shaft 40 and a back side opposite thereto, and may have a fixed end 51 and a free end, wherein the fixed end 51 is relatively arranged on the front end portion 30a side of the armrest 30, and the free end is located opposite to the fixed end 51 and is relatively arranged on the base end portion 30b side of the armrest 30. The main lock pin 50h forming the second A-axis may pass horizontally through the fixed end 51 of the main lock 50 along the left-right direction (X-axis direction). According to this structure, if the main lock 50 is rotated along the first rotation direction R1, it can move in the first direction, and if the main lock 50 is rotated along the second rotation direction R2, it can move in the second direction. Furthermore, if the passenger operates the knob 61 in the locked state to the unlocked state, the main lock 50 can move in the first direction (unlocking direction) (refer to Fig.12 Part (b) of Fig.13 On the contrary, if the knob 61 is restored to the locked state by the torsion spring 61s, the main lock 50 can move in the second direction (locking direction) (refer to Fig.12 Part (a) and Fig.13 (a) of the Regulations).

[0073] The main lock 50 may have a locking tooth 52. The locking tooth 52 may be disposed on the front side of the main lock 50. When the armrest 30 is in the first posture (0°), if the main lock 50 moves in the second direction (locking direction), the locking tooth 52 may be inserted into the locking groove 42, and if the main lock 50 moves in the first direction (unlocking direction), the locking tooth 52 may be separated from the locking groove 42 (refer to Fig.12 and Fig.13 If the locking shaft 40 is a fixed shaft, the main lock 50 is disposed on the armrest 30 through the locking bracket 75 so that the locking tooth 52 is inserted into the locking groove 42, and the armrest 30 can be prevented from rotating in the first rotation direction R1 and the second rotation direction R2. Therefore, the posture of the armrest 30 can be maintained in the first posture.

[0074] like Fig.11 , Fig.14 As shown in the figures, the locking shaft 40 can make the middle part between the left and right end parts 41 have a circular structure. A locking section and an unlocking section can be formed on the locking shaft 40, and the locking section has a locking groove 42 along the periphery of the middle part, and the unlocking section has an unlocking surface 43 extending from the locking section to both sides. In the middle part of the locking shaft 40, along the periphery, a part of the upper section (locking section) in the entire section can be composed of a groove in which the locking groove 42 is set, and the remaining section (unlocking section) can be composed of an unlocking surface 43 in the shape of an arc centered on the first axis A1. Refer to Fig.15When the locking tooth 52 is separated from the locking groove 42 and the armrest 30 in the first posture (0°) is rotated to change the posture, etc., so that the main lock 50 rotates together with the armrest 30, the unlocking surface 43 can contact the tooth end of the locking tooth 52, so that the main lock 50 maintains the state of moving in the first direction. Accordingly, the passenger can keep the knob 61 in the unlocked state without additional operation. Moreover, if the posture of the armrest 30 is changed to the first posture, the knob 61 is locked due to the torsion spring 61s, and the locking tooth 52 is inserted into the locking groove 42, so that the operation of the knob 61 required to change the posture of the armrest 30 can be minimized.

[0075] like Fig.15 As shown, the locking section and the unlocking section can be connected by a guide curved surface 44. The guide curved surface 44 can naturally guide the locking tooth 52 whose tooth end contacts the unlocking surface 43 to the locking groove 42.

[0076] Reference Fig.11 , Fig.14 The main lock 50 may have a first shoulder 53a and a second shoulder 53b protruding from the opposite back side on the front side where the locking teeth 52 are arranged, and may have a linkage groove 54 between the first shoulder 53a and the second shoulder 53b. The second shoulder 53b may be spaced from the first shoulder 53a in the direction in which the armrest 30 moves along the second rotation direction R2. The secondary lock 55 may be arranged between the armrest frame 32 and the main lock 50. The secondary lock 55 is rotatably combined with the locking bracket 75 around the second B-axis A22 parallel to the first axis A1, and can be rotated in conjunction with the knob 61.

[0077] The secondary lock 55 may have a linkage tooth 56. In the linkage groove 54, if the secondary lock 55 rotates along the first rotation direction R1, the linkage tooth 56 contacts the second shoulder side inner wall 54b, so that the main lock 50 rotates along the second rotation direction R2. If the secondary lock 55 rotates along the second rotation direction R2, the linkage tooth 56 contacts the first shoulder side inner wall 54a, so that the main lock 50 rotates along the first rotation direction R1. The linkage tooth 56 may have a tooth base 561 (see Fig.14 ) and tooth head 562 (refer to Fig.14), the tooth base 561 is arranged on the second B axis A22, and the tooth head 562 protrudes from the tooth base 561. The secondary lock pin 55h provided with the second B axis can horizontally penetrate the tooth base 561 of the secondary lock 55 along the left-right direction (X-axis direction). In the interlocking tooth 56, when the secondary lock 55 rotates along the first rotation direction R1, the tooth base 561 can contact the inner wall 54a on the first shoulder side, and the tooth head 562 can contact the inner wall 54b on the second shoulder side, so that the secondary lock 55 distributes the force of rotation along the first rotation direction R1 to the main lock 50 in the opposite rotation direction through the first shoulder 53a and the second shoulder 53b. According to this structure, when the locking tooth 52 is inserted into the locking groove 42, the main lock 50 can be prevented from rotating along the first rotation direction R1 and the second rotation direction R2, thereby, the posture of the armrest 30 can be stably maintained in the first posture (0°) by utilizing the further increased restraining force.

[0078] Reference Fig. 9 , Fig.11 , Fig.12 The linkage mechanism may be composed of a plurality of linkages for linking the locks 50, 55 with the knob 61. Specifically, the linkage mechanism may include an input linkage (first linkage) 62, a connecting rod 63, and an output linkage (second linkage) 64. The input linkage 62 may connect the knob 61 and the connecting rod 63, the connecting rod 63 may connect the input linkage 62 and the output linkage 64, and the output linkage 64 may connect the connecting rod 63 and the secondary lock 55. The secondary lock 55 may have a connecting arm 57 extending from the tooth base 561 toward the front end side of the armrest 30. The knob tail 612 of the knob 61 and the first end 62a of the input link 62 can be connected by a first link pin P1, the second end 62b of the input link 62 and the first end 63a of the connecting rod 63 can be connected by a second link pin P2, the second end 63b of the connecting rod 63 and the first end 64a of the output link 64 can be connected by a third link pin P3, and the second end 64b of the output link 64 and the connecting arm 57 of the secondary lock 55 can be connected by a fourth link pin P4.

[0079] The connecting rod 63 can move toward the front end side and the base end side of the armrest 30 (can move along the length direction of the armrest), the input link 62 can move the connecting rod 63 toward the front end side or the base end side of the armrest 30 as the knob 61 is rotated, and the output link 64 can rotate the secondary lock 55 as the connecting rod 63 moves. The input link 62 can rotate around the first shaft pin 62h horizontally arranged along the left-right direction (X-axis direction), and the output link 64 can rotate around the second shaft pin 64h horizontally arranged along the left-right direction (X-axis direction). If the passenger operates the knob 61, the input link 62 can rotate around the first shaft pin 62h along the first rotation direction R1, so that the connecting rod 63 moves toward the front end side of the armrest 30, and the output link 64 can rotate around the second shaft pin 64h along the first rotation direction R1, so that the secondary lock 55 rotates along the second rotation direction R2.

[0080] refer to Figure 7 , Fig.12 , Fig.13 The operating module 2 may further include a first elastic component 74a on the connecting rod 63. If an elastic force is provided to the base end side of the handrail 30 to release the passenger's operating force on the knob 61, the first elastic component 74a restores the connecting rod 63 to the base end side of the handrail 30. Figure 7 , Fig.13 The operating module 2 may further include a second elastic component 74a. If the passenger's operating force on the knob 61 is released, the second elastic component 74ba may utilize elastic force to restore the output connecting rod 64 to its original position (rotating along the second rotation direction R2 with the second shaft pin 64h as the center to restore to its original state).

[0081] The operating module 2 may further include a connecting rod guide 73, and the connecting rod guide 73 is used to guide the movement of the connecting rod 63. Fig.16 As shown in FIG. 1 , the link guide 73 may include a plurality of guide members 73a and a plurality of contact members 73b. The plurality of guide members 73a are in contact with the left and right of the straight section of the connecting rod 63, respectively, and the plurality of contact members 73b are in contact with the top and bottom of the straight section of the connecting rod 63, respectively. In the process of the connecting rod 63 moving toward the front end side and the base end side of the handrail 30, the contact member 73b can be elastically deformed along with the up and down movement of the connecting rod 63 accompanied by the rotation of the input link 62 and the output link 64. As an example, the contact member 73b may be a leaf spring applied to the main body of the link guide 73 in a cantilever manner. According to the link guide 73, the accurate movement of the connecting rod 63 can be guided in correspondence with the up and down movement of the connecting rod 63, and deformation of the connecting rod 63 can be prevented.

[0082] The present invention is described above, but the present invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments and the attached drawings, and can be implemented by ordinary technicians in various ways without departing from the technical concept of the present invention. In addition, the technical concept described in the embodiments of the present invention can be implemented independently or in combination of two or more. Description of Reference Numerals

[0083] 2: Operation module 4: Lock component 10: Handrail bracket 20: Axis module 30: Handrail 40: Locking shaft 50: Main lock 55: Secondary lock 61: Knob 62: Input Link 63: Connecting rod 64: Output connecting rod A1: First axis A21: Second A axis A22: Second B axis R1: First rotation direction R2: Second rotation direction.

Claims

1. A vehicle-mounted armrest assembly, characterized in that: include: Handrail bracket; An armrest is rotatably arranged on the armrest bracket with a first axis in the left-right direction as the center, and its posture can be changed to a first posture with the front end facing forward, a second posture facing downward, or a third posture facing backward as the armrest rotates; An operating module is provided on the armrest and has a knob, wherein the knob is operated from a locked state to an unlocked state by a passenger's operation, and returns to the locked state by elastic force if the passenger's operation is released; A locking shaft, fixed to the first shaft; a main lock, arranged on the armrest so as to be movable in a first direction separated from the locking shaft and in a second direction close to the locking shaft as the knob moves; The lock shaft is formed with a lock section and an unlock section, the lock section has a lock groove along the periphery of the lock shaft, and the unlock section extends from the lock section to both sides. The main lock has a locking tooth, and when the armrest is in the first posture, as the main lock moves in the second direction, the locking tooth is inserted into the locking groove, or as the main lock moves in the first direction, the locking tooth is separated from the locking groove. The unlocking section contacts the tooth end of the locking tooth to maintain the main lock moving in the first direction.

2. The vehicle armrest assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The main lock can rotate around a second A-axis parallel to the first axis. If it rotates along a first rotation direction, it moves in the first direction. If it rotates along a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction, it moves in the second direction.

3. The vehicle armrest assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that: The main lock has a first shoulder, a second shoulder and a linkage groove, wherein the first shoulder and the second shoulder protrude from a back side opposite to a front side where the locking teeth are arranged, and the linkage groove is arranged between the first shoulder and the second shoulder. The second shoulder is spaced from the first shoulder toward a direction in which the armrest moves along the second rotational direction, The vehicle armrest assembly further includes a secondary lock, which is arranged on the armrest and can rotate around a second B axis parallel to the second A axis and rotate in conjunction with the knob. The secondary lock has a linkage tooth. In the linkage groove, if the secondary lock rotates along the first rotation direction, the linkage tooth contacts the inner wall of the second shoulder side, so that the main lock moves in a rotational manner along the second rotation direction. If the secondary lock rotates along the second rotation direction, the linkage tooth contacts the inner wall of the first shoulder side, so that the main lock moves in a rotational manner along the first rotation direction. The linkage tooth has a tooth base and a tooth head, the tooth base is arranged on the second B axis, and the tooth head protrudes from the tooth base. When the secondary lock rotates along the first rotation direction, the tooth base contacts the inner wall of the first shoulder side, and the tooth head contacts the inner wall of the second shoulder side, so that the secondary lock distributes the force of rotation along the first rotation direction to the main lock in the opposite rotation direction through the first shoulder and the second shoulder.

4. The vehicle armrest assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that: In the armrest, the base end side is arranged on the first axis, The knob is arranged at the front end side of the armrest. The operating module includes a connecting rod mechanism, and the connecting rod mechanism transmits the operating force on the knob to the secondary lock.

5. The vehicle armrest assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that: The operation module further includes a knob cover, wherein the knob cover has a head opening at the front end side of the armrest and a tail opening opposite to the head opening. The knob can be rotated in the knob cover around the knob axis in the left and right directions, and has a knob head arranged on the head opening side, and a knob tail, and the knob tail is based on the knob axis and is connected to the connecting rod mechanism through the tail opening on the opposite side of the knob head. The knob cover contacts with the upper surface of the knob tail or the lower surface of the knob tail as the knob rotates, so as to limit the rotation of the knob.

6. The vehicle armrest assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that: The knob has a buffer element, and the buffer element is respectively arranged on the upper surface and the lower surface of the tail of the knob.

7. The vehicle armrest assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that: The knob can be rotated around the knob axis in the left and right directions. The connecting rod mechanism comprises: A connecting rod capable of moving toward the front end side and the base end side of the handrail; An input link between the knob and the connecting rod, causing the connecting rod to move toward the front end side or the base end side of the handrail as the knob rotates; An output connecting rod is between the connecting rod and the secondary lock, and causes the secondary lock to rotate as the connecting rod moves.

8. The vehicle armrest assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that: In the link mechanism, when the passenger operates the knob, the input link moves the connecting rod toward the front end side of the armrest, and the output link rotates the secondary lock along the second rotation direction. The operation module further includes an elastic member on the connection rod, and the elastic member provides elastic force to the base end side of the armrest.

9. The vehicle armrest assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that: The input connecting rod and the output connecting rod are rotating connecting rods that rotate around the connecting rod axis in the left and right directions. The operating module further comprises a connecting rod guide, wherein the connecting rod guide is used to guide the movement of the connecting rod. The connecting rod guide has a plurality of guide components and a plurality of contact components, wherein the guide components are respectively in contact with the left and right sides of the straight section of the connecting rod, and the contact components are respectively in contact with the top and bottom of the straight section. In a process in which the connecting rod moves toward the front end side and the base end side of the armrest, the contact member can be elastically deformed along with the up-and-down movement of the connecting rod accompanying the rotation of the input link and the output link.

10. The vehicle armrest assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The armrest bracket is arranged between the driver's seat and the co-driver's seat of the front seat. In the first posture, the armrest is provided to the passengers of the front seats, and in the third posture, the armrest is provided to the passengers of the rear seats.

11. The vehicle armrest assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The armrest bracket includes a support member, which supports the armrest in an upright state so that the armrest can rotate around the first axis. When in the second position, the armrest is folded relative to the support.

12. The vehicle armrest assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The armrest bracket comprises: Fixed parts; A movable member is coupled to the fixed member so as to be movable in a horizontal direction; The support member is arranged on the movable component and supports the armrest so that the armrest can rotate around the first axis.

13. The vehicle armrest assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that: The armrest bracket further includes a stopping unit, which fixes a position of the movable component relative to the fixing component.

14. The vehicle armrest assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The locking section and the unlocking section are connected by a guide curved surface.

15. An armrest assembly, characterized in that: include: Handrail bracket; An armrest, which can rotate around a main axis in the armrest bracket and change its posture as it rotates; A knob, disposed on the armrest; A locking shaft, fixed to the main shaft; A lock is provided on the armrest so as to be movable in a locking direction approaching the locking shaft as the knob is turned and in an unlocking direction spaced from the locking shaft, The lock shaft is formed with a lock section and an unlock section, the lock section has a lock groove along the periphery of the lock shaft, and the unlock section extends from the lock section to both sides. The lock has a locking tooth, and when the armrest is in a locked position, as the lock moves in the locking direction, the locking tooth is inserted into the locking groove, or as the lock moves in the unlocking direction, the locking tooth is separated from the locking groove. The unlocking section contacts the tooth end of the locking tooth to maintain the lock in a state of moving in the unlocking direction.

16. The armrest assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that: A linkage mechanism is also included, which has a plurality of linkages for linking the lock with the knob.

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