Vehicle panel and observation screen

Abstract

The invention provides a vehicle panel and a viewing screen. A method and apparatus includes a vehicle panel movable between a closed position and an open position; and a viewing screen supported with respect to an inner surface of the vehicle panel. The viewing screen is movable between an interior viewing position and an exterior viewing position when the vehicle panel is in the open position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to a vehicle panel having a viewing screen, and more particularly to a vehicle panel associated with an interior cabin wherein the viewing screen is movable between an interior viewing position and an exterior viewing position. Background Art

[0002] Vehicles are increasingly being used as mobile offices. Incorporating additional workplace features can further enhance this use. Summary of the invention

[0003] An apparatus according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, inter alia, a vehicle panel that is movable between a closed position and an open position; and an observation screen that is supported relative to an inner surface of the vehicle panel, wherein the observation screen is movable between an inner observation position and an outer observation position when the vehicle panel is in the open position.

[0004] In another non-limiting embodiment of the foregoing apparatus, the apparatus includes a coupling mechanism to attach the vehicle panel to a vehicle structure such that when the vehicle panel is in the open position, the vehicle panel is moveable to a first position for the interior viewing position and a second position for the exterior viewing position, the first position being different from the second position.

[0005] In a further non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing apparatus, the coupling mechanism includes a first coupler on one side of the vehicle panel and a second coupler on an opposite side of the vehicle panel.

[0006] In a further non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing apparatus, the first coupler and the second coupler include a linkage assembly having one or more powered strut actuators.

[0007] In a further non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing apparatuses, the apparatus includes a screen pivot coupling the viewing screen to the vehicle panel such that the viewing screen is movable between a plurality of viewing positions.

[0008] In a further non-limiting embodiment of any one of the foregoing devices, the viewing screen is movable via the screen pivot between at least an upright position and an inclined position non-parallel to the upright position when in the interior viewing position, and the viewing screen is movable via the screen pivot to an outward facing position when in the exterior viewing position.

[0009] In a further non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing devices, the viewing screen has a lower edge when in the interior viewing position, and wherein the lower edge of the screen becomes an upper edge when the viewing screen is pivoted from the upright position to the outward facing position.

[0010] In a further non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing devices, the occupant height is measured, and the screen tilt angle and / or occupant position are automatically adjusted to align the viewing screen with the occupant's face, or the screen tilt angle is automatically adjusted in response to detecting the occupant's tilted position to align the viewing screen with the occupant's face.

[0011] In a further non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing apparatus, the screen pivot comprises a powered actuator.

[0012] In a further non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing apparatus, the vehicle panel encloses a cabin when in the closed position.

[0013] In a further non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing apparatus, the vehicle panel includes a trunk or a front trunk.

[0014] In further non-limiting embodiments of any of the foregoing apparatus, the interior surface of the vehicle panel comprises a non-reflective surface, and / or wherein a surface area of ​​the cabin is coated with a lining material that withstands external weather conditions.

[0015] In a further non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing apparatus, the apparatus includes a rigid cover that overlaps a viewing surface of the viewing screen when the vehicle panel is in the closed position, and wherein the rigid cover is selectively removable when the vehicle panel is in the open position.

[0016] A method according to another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, inter alia: moving a vehicle panel between a closed position and an open position; supporting a viewing screen relative to an inner surface of the vehicle panel; and selectively moving the viewing screen between an interior viewing position and an exterior viewing position when the vehicle panel is in the open position.

[0017] In another non-limiting embodiment of the foregoing method, the method also includes connecting the vehicle panel to a vehicle structure; moving the vehicle panel to a first open position to provide the interior viewing position; and moving the vehicle panel to a second open position to provide the exterior viewing position, the first open position being different from the second open position.

[0018] In a further non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing methods, the method further includes coupling one side of the vehicle panel to the vehicle structure with a first coupling mechanism and coupling an opposite side of the vehicle panel to the vehicle structure with a second coupling mechanism.

[0019] In a further non-limiting embodiment of any one of the foregoing methods, the method further includes coupling the viewing screen to the vehicle panel using a screen pivot, the screen pivot allowing the viewing screen to pivot at least 90 degrees relative to an inner surface of the vehicle panel to provide a plurality of different viewing positions.

[0020] In a further non-limiting embodiment of any one of the foregoing methods, the method further includes measuring the height of the occupant and automatically adjusting the screen tilt angle and / or automatically adjusting the occupant position to align the observation screen with the occupant's face, or automatically adjusting the screen tilt angle to align the observation screen with the occupant's face in response to detecting the occupant's tilted position.

[0021] In a further non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing methods, the method further comprises covering the interior surface of the vehicle panel with a non-reflective material, and / or coating the surface of the storage compartment area with a lining material that withstands external weather conditions.

[0022] In a further non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing methods, the method further includes covering a rigid cover over a viewing surface of the viewing screen when the vehicle panel is in the closed position and selectively removing the rigid cover when the vehicle panel is in the open position.

[0023] The embodiments, examples and alternatives of the preceding paragraphs, claims or the following description and drawings may be taken independently or in any combination, including any of their individual aspects or corresponding individual features. Features described in conjunction with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments, unless such features are incompatible. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] According to the detailed description, various features and advantages of the disclosed examples will become apparent to those skilled in the art. The drawings attached to the detailed description can be briefly described as follows:

[0025] Figure 1A is a perspective view of one example of a vehicle panel according to the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 1B is a perspective view of another example of a vehicle panel according to the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 2 is an exploded view of another example of a vehicle panel according to the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of one example of a coupling mechanism for connecting a vehicle panel to a vehicle structure.

[0029] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a vehicle panel and viewing screen in a vehicle panel closed position with a securing system.

[0030] Figure 5A The vehicle panel is in the open position and the viewing position of the internal viewing screen Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the vehicle panels and viewing screen.

[0031] Figure 5B is similar to Figure 5A , but showing a modified orientation of the viewing screen.

[0032] Figure 6 The vehicle panel is in the open position and the viewing screen is in the external viewing position. Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the vehicle panels and viewing screen.

[0033] Figure 7 The vehicle panel is in the closed position with the screen cover and screen pivot Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the vehicle panels and viewing screen.

[0034] Figure 8 The vehicle panel is in the open position and the viewing position of the internal viewing screen Figure 7 Schematic diagram of the vehicle panels and viewing screen.

[0035] Fig. 9 The vehicle panel is in the open position and the viewing screen is in the external viewing position. Figure 7 Schematic diagram of the vehicle panels and viewing screen. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] The present disclosure details a vehicle panel, such as a trunk or front hood, having a viewing screen that is selectively movable between an interior viewing position and an exterior viewing position.

[0037] refer to Figure 1A to Figure 1B , the vehicle 10 includes a vehicle panel 12 that encloses a storage or cargo area 14. The vehicle panel 12 is movable between a closed position and an open position. Figure 1A to Figure 1B The vehicle panel 12 is shown in an open position, with an inner surface of the panel facing, for example, a vehicle windshield area 16. The vehicle panel 12 may include a trunk, a front trunk, a rear lift panel, or any other type of movable panel. Figure 1AAn example is shown in which the vehicle panel 12 includes a trunk 12 a having a hood 18 and a fender 20 . Figure 1B An example of a trunk 12 b is shown where only the hood 18 is removable, which provides a reduced weight configuration.

[0038] In one example, the coupling mechanism 22 ( Figure 1A and Figure 3 ) is used to attach the vehicle panel 12 to the vehicle structure 24. In one example, the vehicle structure 24 includes a rigid longitudinal beam or beam extending along the longitudinal length of the vehicle. Other rigid vehicle structural members can also be used to mount the vehicle panel 12, such as, for example, an upper front radiator support.

[0039] In one example, viewing screen 50 ( Figure 4 ) is supported relative to the inner surface 26 of the vehicle panel 12. When the vehicle panel 12 is in the open position, the viewing screen 50 can be in the inner viewing position ( FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B ) and external observation position ( Figure 6 ). The viewing screen 50 can only be used when the vehicle 10 is stationary. The panel 12 will only be opened when the vehicle 10 is in park, and the vehicle 10 will not enter a driving state unless the panel 12 is lowered. In one example, the coupling mechanism 22 ( Figure 3 ) allows the vehicle panel 12 to be moved to different open positions to provide interior and exterior viewing of the viewing screen 50. In one example, the coupling mechanism includes a first coupling 22a on one side of the vehicle panel 12 and a second coupling 22b on an opposite side of the vehicle panel 12. In one example, the couplings 22a, 22b are positioned along the longitudinally extending sides of the vehicle panel 12.

[0040] Figure 2 One example of a panel structure for a vehicle panel 12 is shown that is configured to support a viewing screen 50. A lightweight outer panel 52 is attached to a structural lightweight inner panel 54. The structural lightweight inner panel 54 includes a high strength reinforcement that includes a ring 56 that provides a load path between the screen mount, the hood hinge, and the fixed structure.

[0041] exist Figure 3In one example shown, the first coupler 22a and the second coupler 22b each include a linkage assembly 28 having one or more powered strut actuators 30 to allow the panel 12 to rotate / pivot to a desired position. For example, a dual powered strut system automatically raises the panel 12 and screen 50 to a desired position and locks it there so that it remains stable despite environmental conditions (e.g., air / wind), while a six-link system pivots the hinges downward and forward on the vehicle 10 to allow the panel 12 and screen 50 to travel so the panel 12 opens further along the Z axis than conventional hood systems. In one example, a user would operate the panel 12 and screen 50 from a console, key fob, exterior switch, etc. to activate the powered strut actuators to move the panel 12 and screen 50 to a desired display position.

[0042] In one example, the linkage assembly 28 includes a plurality of rods 32 coupled to hinges 34. In one example, the rods 32 are made of high-strength steel tubing to reduce deflection due to high loads. A first bracket 36 couples one end of a first powered strut actuator 30a to the vehicle structure 24, and a second end of the first powered strut actuator 30a is coupled to one of the rods 32. A second bracket 38 couples one end of a second powered strut actuator 30b to the vehicle panel 12, and a second end of the second powered strut actuator 30b is coupled to one of the rods 32. In one example, the rods 32 include a pair of rods extending generally parallel to one another. In one example, when the panel 12 is in a closed position, the second ends of the powered strut actuators 30a, 30b are connected to the same rod 32, for example, an upper rod of the pair of rods as shown. A first hinge 34a is associated with the vehicle structure 24, and a second hinge 34b is associated with the panel 12. The first hinge 34a is secured to a hydroformed tube 40 associated with the vehicle structure 24 for reinforcement. As shown in FIG. Figures 4 to 6 As shown, there is one linkage assembly on each side of the panel 12 .

[0043] Figure 3 The linkage assembly 28 is shown in a first position (eg, panel lowered / closed position wherein the rod 32 is generally parallel to the longitudinally extending vehicle rail structure 24 ) and a second position (eg, panel raised / open position wherein the rod is in a vertically extended position).

[0044] The disclosed link and power strut coupling mechanism is merely one example of a coupling structure for connecting a panel to a vehicle structure. Those skilled in the art having the benefit of this description will be able to determine other types of coupling mechanisms and structures that may be used to connect these structures together.

[0045] Figure 4An example of a vehicle panel 12 in a closed position and the coupling mechanisms 22a, 22b in a lowered position is shown. The dual powered securing mechanisms 42 are used to securely hold the panel 12 in place during travel. The use of the securing mechanisms 42 also allows components attached to the inner surface 26 of the panel 12 to remain stable in response to road inputs. Figure 4 As shown in one example in FIG. 1 , the securing mechanism 42 is connected at two locations, with the first location at the front end of the panel 12 near the center, and the second location at the rearward position of the panel 12 near the windshield area 16. The dual power securing mechanism 42 is shown schematically, as any type of securing mechanism may be used. Those skilled in the art with the benefit of this description will be able to determine the appropriate type of securing mechanism required.

[0046] Figure 5A Shows Figure 4 The vehicle panel 12 is in a raised position to display the viewing screen 50 in an interior viewing position. In this position, one or more vehicle occupants 46 can easily see the screen 50 when they are inside the vehicle 10. Figure 5B and Figure 5A The same, but the screen 50 is shown in a tilted, tilted or angled position for viewing by the occupant 46 .

[0047] Figure 6 The vehicle panel 12 is shown in a raised position to display the viewing screen 50 to an external user 58 in an external viewing position. In this position, the screen 50 is flipped downward about the lower edge 48 of the screen 50, as shown in FIG. Figure 5B As shown, the lower edge 48 becomes the upper edge of the screen 50, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 In addition, at least two different screen heights are provided. In one example, there is a lower position, in which the panel 12 is in a first open position and the screen 50 is simply rotated / flipped down to accommodate a closed exterior position, and there is a higher position, in which the panel 12 is further rotated upward to a second open position, which makes the screen 50 taller to accommodate a standing position for better viewing from a distance.

[0048] In one example, the entire interior surface of the vehicle panel 12 comprises a non-reflective surface, such as Figure 6 Indicated by 80 in FIG. In addition, the linkage assembly components may be coated with matte black to reduce any reflections on the screen 50. In addition, in one example, the surface 82 of the cabin 14 is coated with a lining material capable of withstanding external weather conditions.

[0049] In one example, the screen pivot 60 ( Figure 7) couples the viewing screen 50 to the vehicle panel 12 so that the viewing screen 50 can be moved between a plurality of viewing positions. In one example, a screen pivot 60 is located near the center of the viewing screen 50 along an upper edge or a lower edge of the viewing screen when the vehicle panel 12 is in the closed position. In one example, the screen pivot 60 includes a powered actuator 62, such as a stepper motor, for example, which is held fixed to the panel 12 via a mount 64. The motor 62 drives an output 66 associated with the screen 50 to move the screen 50 between different display positions.

[0050] In one example, the powered actuator 62 is mounted to the reinforced hood interior region 54 / 56 ( Figure 2 ). By implementing a powered actuator 62 at the screen hinge pivot, the user is allowed to adjust the screen 50 in all modes.

[0051] Figure 7 The vehicle panel 12 is shown in a closed position, wherein the panel 12 encloses the storage compartment 14. In one example, when the vehicle panel 12 is in the closed position, the rigid cover 68 overlaps the viewing surface 70 of the viewing screen 50. The cover 68 includes a screen rigid cover that is mounted on the panel 12 to protect the screen 50 from water and prevent items stored in the compartment 14 from contacting the screen 50. When the vehicle panel 12 is in the open position, the rigid cover 68 is selectively removable. The cover 68 can be completely removed or pivoted to a non-overlapping position. Any type of mounting structure 72 ( Figure 7 ) to attach the cover 68 to the panel 12.

[0052] Figure 8 The panel 12 is shown in a first open position for interior viewing by a user 46 located within the vehicle 10. The rigid cover 68 is removed or rotated to a stowed position against the interior surface 26 of the panel 12, as shown. In this example, when in the interior viewing position, the viewing screen 50 is movable via the screen pivot 60 between at least an upright position 74 and an inclined position 76 that is non-parallel to the upright position 74. The inclined position 76 may include a plurality of discrete inclined positions as indicated by the dashed lines.

[0053] Fig. 9 Shows that Figure 8The panel 12 is positioned in a second open position different from the first open position for external viewing by a user 58 outside the vehicle 10. The rigid cover 68 is removed or rotated to a stowed position against the inner surface 26 of the panel 12, as shown. In this example, when in the external viewing position, the viewing screen 50 can be moved via the screen pivot 60 to an outward facing position 78 extending below the panel 12. In this example, the screen is pivoted via the screen pivot 60 so that the lower edge 48 of the screen 50 in the internal viewing position becomes the upper edge 48 of the screen 50 in the external viewing position. In one example, this is achieved by pivoting the screen 50 at least 90 degrees when moving from the upright position to the outward facing position. In one example, the screen 50 is pivoted at least 180 degrees.

[0054] In one example, a method includes moving a vehicle panel 12 between a closed position and an open position; supporting a viewing screen 50 relative to an interior surface 26 of the vehicle panel 12; and selectively moving the viewing screen 50 between an interior viewing position and an exterior viewing position when the vehicle panel 12 is in the open position.

[0055] The method may further include any of the following steps, alone or in any combination. The method includes coupling a vehicle panel 12 to a vehicle structure 24; moving the vehicle panel to a first open position to provide an interior viewing position; and moving the vehicle panel to a second open position to provide an exterior viewing position, the first open position being different from the second open position. The method includes coupling one side of the vehicle panel 12 to the vehicle structure 24 using a first coupling mechanism 22a and coupling an opposite side of the vehicle panel 12 to the vehicle structure 24 using a second coupling mechanism 22b. The method includes coupling a viewing screen 50 to the vehicle panel 12 using a screen pivot 60, the screen pivot allowing the viewing screen 50 to pivot at least 90 degrees relative to an interior surface 26 of the vehicle panel 12 to provide a plurality of different viewing positions. The method includes enclosing a storage compartment area 14 when the vehicle panel 12 is in a closed position. The method includes covering the interior surface 26 of the vehicle panel 12 with a non-reflective material, such as, for example, matte black paint, and / or coating a surface 82 of the storage compartment area 14 with a lining material capable of withstanding exterior weather conditions. The method includes covering the rigid cover 68 over the viewing surface 70 of the viewing screen 50 when the vehicle panel 12 is in the closed position, and selectively removing the rigid cover 68 when the vehicle panel 12 is in the open position. The method includes opening the panel 12 only when the vehicle 10 is in park, and preventing the vehicle 10 from entering a driving state unless the panel 12 is lowered.

[0056] In one example, multiple sensors can be connected to the viewing screen 50 and the control system 84 ( Figure 6) is used in conjunction with the control system 84. The control system 84 includes one or more controls that are operable to control the power struts 30 and the screen pivot 60 to place the screen 50 in a desired position. In one example, a user will use an input 90 such as a console, a key fob, an external switch, etc. to, for example, activate a power strut actuator to move the panel 50 to an open position and move the screen 50 to a desired display position to control such movement.

[0057] The one or more controls of the control system 84 may include a processor, memory, and one or more input and / or output (I / O) device interfaces communicatively coupled via a local interface. The one or more controls may be hardware devices for executing software, particularly software stored in memory, and may include one or more processing units or any device for executing software instructions. The software in memory may include one or more separate programs, each of which includes an ordered list of executable instructions for implementing a logical function.

[0058] In one example, the screen 50 is wirelessly linked (e.g., BLE) to the vehicle 10 to monitor the temperature of the screen 50 via at least one temperature sensor T1. This temperature information is transmitted to the control system 84, and if the screen 50 is approaching an over-temperature condition, a signal can be generated so that the vehicle 10 can be moved to a more shaded area or turned away from the sun.

[0059] In one example, one or more interior sensors 86 (such as, for example, cameras facing the interior and the driver) can measure the height of the driver and passengers and automatically adjust the screen tilt to the correct angle, and / or adjust the occupant position accordingly. In one example, one or more interior sensors 86 (such as, for example, interior cameras and radar) can be used to determine the time-averaged angle of the observer's face, and the screen 50 will be tilted to ensure that the screen 50 and the observer's face are parallel. If the observer's facial angle is outside a pre-calibrated range, the tilt of the screen 50 can also be based on the tilt angle of the comfort support member. In one example, the interior camera can detect gestures to control the screen.

[0060] In one example, one or more panel sensors 88 (e.g., radar / ultrasonic sensors) may be mounted adjacent to the panel 12 and / or the compartment storage area 14 to monitor the open position to observe an animal / person entering the storage area 14. This information may be transmitted to the control system 84, which may generate an audible signal to notify that something is entering the storage area 14.

[0061] As described above, the panel 12 will only open when the vehicle 10 is in park, and the vehicle 10 will not be placed in drive unless the panel 12 is lowered.

[0062] In one example, the screen 50 comprises an outdoor monitor rated for full sunlight (e.g., having an increased brightness of at least 1700 nits and a minimum operating range of -22 degrees Fahrenheit to 122 degrees Fahrenheit). In one example, the screen 50 provides a sealed enclosure to prevent dust and moisture ingress, and, for example, has an IP rating of at least 5 and a moisture resistance rating of at least 5. The screen 50 can include a conformally coated PCB to provide further moisture protection. If not in use, the screen 50 can also automatically fold based on temperature to protect it from sunlight.

[0063] The present disclosure provides a viewing screen that is mounted on the inside of a hood panel with or without a guard to protect the screen from external elements and theft. The screen is pivotable to allow the screen to swing down to be viewable from the outside. In addition, there are at least two height levels: a lower position in which the screen is only rotated down to accommodate an approaching outside position; and a higher position in which the panel is rotated further to make the screen higher to accommodate a standing position for better viewing from a distance. A powered screen pivot mechanism is provided that allows the screen to be adjusted to an inside observer position / angle and automatically flips down when the panel is raised to an outside conference room mode (e.g., an outside viewing position).

[0064] The foregoing description is illustrative and non-restrictive in nature. Changes and modifications to the disclosed examples may become apparent to those skilled in the art, and the changes and modifications do not necessarily depart from the essence of the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of protection granted to the present disclosure can only be determined by studying the attached claims.

[0065] According to the present invention, an apparatus is provided, comprising: a vehicle panel, which is movable between a closed position and an open position; and an observation screen, which is supported relative to an inner surface of the vehicle panel, wherein when the vehicle panel is in the open position, the observation screen is movable between an inner observation position and an outer observation position.

[0066] According to an embodiment, the present invention is also characterized by a connecting mechanism, which is used to attach the vehicle panel to the vehicle structure, so that when the vehicle panel is in the open position, the vehicle panel can be moved to a first position for the internal observation position and a second position for the external observation position, and the first position is different from the second position.

[0067] According to an embodiment, the coupling mechanism comprises a first coupling on one side of the vehicle panel and a second coupling on an opposite side of the vehicle panel.

[0068] According to an embodiment, the first coupler and the second coupler include a linkage assembly having one or more powered strut actuators.

[0069] According to an embodiment, the invention also features a screen pivot that couples the viewing screen to the vehicle panel such that the viewing screen is movable between a plurality of viewing positions.

[0070] According to an embodiment: when in the internal viewing position, the viewing screen can be moved via the screen pivot between at least an upright position and an inclined position non-parallel to the upright position, and when in the external viewing position, the viewing screen can be moved via the screen pivot to an outward facing position.

[0071] According to an embodiment, the viewing screen has a lower edge when in the interior viewing position, and wherein the lower edge of the viewing screen becomes an upper edge when the viewing screen is pivoted from the upright position to the outward facing position.

[0072] According to an embodiment, the occupant height is measured, and the screen tilt angle and / or the occupant position are automatically adjusted to align the viewing screen with the occupant face, or the screen tilt angle is automatically adjusted in response to detecting the occupant's tilted position to align the viewing screen with the occupant face.

[0073] According to an embodiment, the screen pivot comprises a powered actuator.

[0074] According to an embodiment, the vehicle panel encloses a cabin when in the closed position.

[0075] According to an embodiment, the vehicle panel comprises a luggage compartment or a front trunk.

[0076] According to an embodiment, the inner surface of the vehicle panel comprises a non-reflective surface and / or wherein a surface area of ​​the cabin is coated with a lining material that withstands external weather conditions.

[0077] According to an embodiment, the invention further features a rigid cover that overlaps a viewing surface of the viewing screen when the vehicle panel is in the closed position, and wherein the rigid cover is selectively removable when the vehicle panel is in the open position.

[0078] According to the present invention, a method includes: moving a vehicle panel between a closed position and an open position; supporting a viewing screen relative to an inner surface of the vehicle panel; and selectively moving the viewing screen between an interior viewing position and an exterior viewing position when the vehicle panel is in the open position.

[0079] In one aspect of the present invention, the method includes connecting the vehicle panel to a vehicle structure, and the method also includes: moving the vehicle panel to a first open position to provide the interior viewing position; and moving the vehicle panel to a second open position to provide the exterior viewing position, the first open position being different from the second open position.

[0080] In one aspect of the invention, the method includes coupling one side of the vehicle panel to the vehicle structure with a first coupling mechanism and coupling an opposite side of the vehicle panel to the vehicle structure with a second coupling mechanism.

[0081] In one aspect of the invention, the method includes coupling the viewing screen to the vehicle panel with a screen pivot that allows the viewing screen to pivot at least 90 degrees relative to an inner surface of the vehicle panel to provide a plurality of different viewing positions.

[0082] In one aspect of the present invention, the method includes: measuring the height of the occupant, and automatically adjusting the screen tilt angle and / or automatically adjusting the occupant position to align the viewing screen with the occupant's face, or automatically adjusting the screen tilt angle in response to detecting the occupant's tilted position to align the viewing screen with the occupant's face.

[0083] In one aspect of the invention, the method comprises covering the inner surface of the vehicle panel with a non-reflective material and / or coating the surface of the storage compartment area associated with the viewing screen with a lining material that withstands external weather conditions.

[0084] In one aspect of the invention, the method includes overlying a rigid cover over a viewing surface of the viewing screen when the vehicle panel is in the closed position and selectively removing the rigid cover when the vehicle panel is in the open position.

Claims

1. A device comprising: a vehicle panel movable between a closed position and an open position; as well as A viewing screen is supported relative to an interior surface of the vehicle panel, wherein the viewing screen is movable between an interior viewing position and an exterior viewing position when the vehicle panel is in the open position.

2. An apparatus according to claim 1, comprising a coupling mechanism to attach the vehicle panel to a vehicle structure so that when the vehicle panel is in the open position, the vehicle panel is capable of moving to a first position for the interior viewing position and a second position for the exterior viewing position, the first position being different from the second position.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the coupling mechanism comprises a first coupling on one side of the vehicle panel and a second coupling on an opposite side of the vehicle panel, and optionally wherein the first coupling and the second coupling comprise a linkage assembly having one or more powered strut actuators.

4. The apparatus of claim 1 including a screen pivot coupling the viewing screen to the vehicle panel such that the viewing screen can be moved between a plurality of viewing positions, and optionally wherein the screen pivot includes a powered actuator.

5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein: When in the interior viewing position, the viewing screen is movable via the screen pivot between at least an upright position and an inclined position non-parallel to the upright position, and When in the exterior viewing position, the viewing screen is movable via the screen pivot to an outward facing position.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the viewing screen has a lower edge when in the interior viewing position, and wherein the lower edge of the viewing screen becomes an upper edge when the viewing screen is pivoted from the upright position to the outward facing position.

7. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein: measuring an occupant height, and wherein the screen tilt angle and / or seat occupant position is automatically adjusted to align the viewing screen with the occupant's face, or The screen tilt angle is automatically adjusted in response to detecting a tilted position of the occupant to align the viewing screen with the occupant's face.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vehicle panel encloses a cabin when in the closed position, and optionally wherein the vehicle panel comprises a luggage compartment or a trunk.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the interior surface of the vehicle panel comprises a non-reflective surface, and / or wherein a surface area of ​​the cabin is coated with a lining material that withstands external weather conditions.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, comprising a rigid cover that overlies a viewing surface of the viewing screen when the vehicle panel is in the closed position, and wherein the rigid cover is selectively removable when the vehicle panel is in the open position.

11. A method comprising: moving a vehicle panel between a closed position and an open position; supporting a viewing screen relative to an inner surface of the vehicle panel; as well as The viewing screen is selectively moved between an interior viewing position and an exterior viewing position when the vehicle panel is in the open position.

12. The method of claim 11, comprising coupling the vehicle panel to a vehicle structure, the method further comprising: moving the vehicle panel to a first open position to provide the interior viewing position; as well as The vehicle panel is moved to a second open position to provide the exterior viewing position, the first open position being different than the second open position.

13. The method of claim 12, comprising coupling the viewing screen to the vehicle panel with a screen pivot, the screen pivot allowing the viewing screen to pivot at least 90 degrees relative to an inner surface of the vehicle panel to provide a plurality of different viewing positions.

14. The method according to claim 11, comprising: measuring the height of the occupant and automatically adjusting the screen tilt angle and / or automatically adjusting the seat occupant position to align the viewing screen with the occupant's face, or The screen tilt angle is automatically adjusted in response to detecting a tilted position of the occupant to align the viewing screen with the occupant's face.

15. The method according to claim 11, comprising: covering said interior surface of said vehicle panel with a non-reflective material, and / or coating the surface of the storage compartment area associated with said viewing screen with a lining material that withstands external weather conditions; and / or A rigid cover is overlapped over a viewing surface of the viewing screen when the vehicle panel is in the closed position and the rigid cover is selectively removed when the vehicle panel is in the open position.

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