Illuminated cup holder

Abstract

Vehicle cup holders (22), comprising: a console support material (26) that defines a beverage container recess (30); a light source (34) arranged to emit light into the beverage container recess (30); an insert (38) arranged in the beverage container recess (30) and defining a bottom wall (38A) and a side wall (38B), wherein at least one of the bottom wall (38A) and the side wall (38B) defines a diffraction grating (42); and a holographic film (46) which is arranged between the insert (38) and the console support material (26).

Description

AREA OF INVENTION

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to drink holders and in particular to vehicles with illuminated drink holders. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Lighting systems used in vehicles can offer a unique and attractive visual experience. It can therefore be desirable to integrate such lighting systems into parts of the vehicle to provide functional and accent lighting.

[0003] The prior art patent US 6,604,839 B2 describes one or more light sources, a diffraction grating, and a holographic grating. US 7,708,436 B2 describes a vehicle cup holder comprising a console support material defining a cup holder recess and a light source arranged to emit light into the cup holder recess. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] A vehicle cup holder with the features of the independent claims is provided.

[0005] According to the invention, a vehicle cup holder comprises a console support material that defines a cup holder recess. A light source is arranged such that light is emitted into the cup holder recess. An insert is arranged within the cup holder recess and defines a bottom wall and a side wall. At least one of the bottom wall and side wall defines a diffraction grating. A holographic film is arranged between the insert and the console support material.

[0006] According to the invention, a vehicle cup holder comprises a console support material that defines a cup holder recess. A plurality of light sources are arranged such that light is emitted into the cup holder recess. An insert is arranged within the cup holder recess and defines a bottom wall and a side wall. At least one of the bottom wall and the side wall defines a holographic grating.

[0007] According to the invention, a vehicle beverage holder comprises a console support material that defines a beverage container recess. An insert is arranged within the beverage container recess and defines a bottom wall and a side wall. At least one of the bottom wall and the side wall defines a holographic grid and is arranged in the beverage container recess.

[0008] According to the invention, a vehicle cup holder comprises a console support material that defines a cup holder recess. Light sources are arranged near an edge of the cup holder recess to emit light into the cup holder recess. An insert is arranged within the cup holder recess and defines a bottom wall and a side wall, wherein at least one of the bottom wall and the side wall defines a diffraction grating. A holographic film is arranged between the insert and the console support material.

[0009] These and other aspects, objects and features of the present invention are apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the present patent specification, claims and attached drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The following applies to the drawings: Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle interior with holographic cup holders according to one embodiment; Fig. 2 is a top view of a drink holder according to one embodiment; Fig. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of line III in Fig. 2 according to one embodiment; Fig. 4 is an extended, Section IV in Fig. 3. View taken from one embodiment; Fig. 5A is an extended section VA in Fig. 4. View taken from one embodiment; Fig. 5B is an extended section VB in Fig. 4. View taken from one embodiment; Fig. 5C is an extended, section VC in Fig. 4. View taken from one embodiment; and Fig. Figure 6 is a block diagram of the vehicle according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED VERSIONS

[0011] Additional features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the detailed description below and will be evident to the person skilled in the art from the description or practical implementation of the invention as explained in the following description together with the claims and attached drawings.

[0012] As used herein, the term "and / or," when used in a list of two or more items, means that any one of the listed items may be used alone, or any combination of two or more of the listed items may be used. For example, if a composition is described as containing components A, B, and / or C, the composition may contain A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B in combination, A and C in combination, B and C in combination, or A, B, and C in combination.

[0013] In this document, referential terms such as first and second, above and below, and the like are used solely to distinguish one unit or process from another, without necessarily requiring or implying any actual relationship or sequence of such units or processes between them. The terms "include," "comprise," or any variation thereof are intended to express non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, procedure, article, or apparatus comprising a list of elements may include not only those elements but may also include other elements not expressly listed or inherent in such process, procedure, article, or apparatus. An element to which "includes..."The fact that a(s) is preceded by “ does not, without further limitations, exclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article or apparatus which includes the element.

[0014] With reference to Fig. Reference numeral 10 (1-7) generally designates a vehicle with an interior 14 within which a console 18 is arranged. The console 18 comprises one or more cup holders 22. The cup holders 22 comprise a console support material 26 and a cup holder recess 30 defined by the console support material 26. One or more light sources 34 are arranged near the cup holder 22 and configured to emit light into the cup holder recess 30. An insert 38 is arranged within the cup holder recess 30 and defines both a lower wall 38A and a side wall 38B. According to various embodiments, at least one of the lower wall 38A and one of the side wall 38B defines a diffraction grating 42. In some embodiments, a holographic film 46 is arranged between the insert 38 and the console support material 26.Additionally or alternatively, the insertion 38 can define one or more holographic grids 50.

[0015] With reference to Fig. As explained above, the interior 14 of the vehicle 10 includes one or more cup holders 22. In the illustrated embodiment, the cup holders 22 are arranged in a center console configuration of the console 18 of the vehicle 10, but it is understood that the cup holders 22 can be arranged in various locations within the vehicle 10. For example, the cup holders 22 could be located on a door 54 of the vehicle 10 near a door handle close to a footwell. Additionally or alternatively, the cup holders 22 could be located on the rear seat of the vehicle 10 on a (e.g., fold-out) rear seat center console, on the rear doors, seat backs, or other areas in the rear of the vehicle 10. Although the illustration shows two cup holders 22, it is understood that a single cup holder 22 or more than two cup holders 22 could be used with the vehicle 10.

[0016] With reference to Fig. As described above, the light sources 34 are configured to emit light into the beverage container recess 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the light sources 34 are arranged within the beverage container recess 30 above the insert 38. In the illustrated embodiment, the light sources 34 are arranged near the edge of the beverage container recess 30. It is understood that in alternative embodiments, the light sources 34 may be arranged behind the insert 38, or that the insert 38 may define windows to allow light from the light sources 34 to penetrate into the beverage container recess 30. Each beverage holder 22 may include a single light source 34 or a plurality of light sources 34. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, four light sources 34 are arranged in a spaced-apart configuration around the beverage container recess 30.Alternatively, in an embodiment with multiple light sources 34, the light sources 34 can be arranged close to one another or in a different pattern around the beverage holder. It is understood that the light sources 34 of a beverage holder 22 can illuminate more than one beverage holder 22. The light sources 34 can be capable of emitting white, colored, invisible (e.g., ultraviolet and / or infrared), coherent, and / or incoherent light in and around the beverage container recess 30. As described in more detail below, the light sources 34 can each be activated independently of one another, so that a variety of light patterns can be achieved. Furthermore, the light sources 34 can each emit a different type of light or have a different activation pattern.Although the illustration essentially shows the emission of light into the beverage container recess 30, it is understood that the light sources 34 can also illuminate parts of the console 18 and the console support material 26 outside the beverage container recess 30 without deviating from the teachings provided herein. The light sources 34 can include incandescent bulbs, light-emitting diodes, electroluminescent elements, and other sources of light. The light sources 34 can have a 120° beam pattern. According to some embodiments, the light sources 34 can be arranged away from the beverage holders 22 or in a different location than shown and can be optically coupled to one or more waveguides or light tubes. Such waveguides or light tubes can transmit light from the light sources 34 to the beverage container recess 30.

[0017] Within the beverage container recess 30 of the console support material 26, the optional holographic film 46 and the insert 38 are arranged. The holographic film 46 can define one or more holographic gratings 50. The holographic film 46 can be a polymer film with a variety of features configured to form an interference pattern (e.g., the diffraction grating 50). The features of the holographic film 46 can be ribs, variations in opacity, density, or surface profile. The holographic film 46 can be made of polyethylene terephthalate, oriented polypropylene, and / or polyvinyl chloride materials. The holographic film 46 can be metallized or transparent. The holographic film 46 can have a density in the range of approximately 70 g / m². 2 and approximately 450 g / m² 2Light from the light sources 34, falling on the interference pattern, refractes into a light field that forms a projected image 66. The projected image 66 is also referred to as a hologram. The light field that forms the projected image 66 can exhibit visual depth parameters, such as parallax and perspective, which realistically change with any change in the relative position of the observer (e.g., a passenger inside the interior 14 of the vehicle 10). If the projected image 66 has depth and changes with the changing perspective of the observer, the projected image 66 is a hologram. The use of embodiments of the cup holders 22 that incorporate multiple light sources 34 can be advantageous because they give the projected images 66 a uniform appearance regardless of the observer's viewing perspective (e.g., driver's seat versus passenger's seat).In other words, there is no distortion of the projected image 66 based on the lighting, or such distortion is not visible to the viewer. Furthermore, the use of different light sources 34 allows the projected image 66 to change in intensity and / or color and can also simulate movement in the projected image 66, as will be described in more detail below.

[0018] The projected image 66 can assume a variety of configurations, such as alphanumeric text, symbols (e.g., a cup holder symbol, vehicle make or model symbols, star patterns, etc.), and images. The projected image 66 can change color with a color change in the light sources 34. Furthermore, the projected image 66 can appear differently from different angles and in embodiments that use differently oriented or differently colored light sources 34. For example, the intensity or color of the projected image 42 can vary depending on the observer's seating position in the interior 14 of the vehicle 10. The intensity of the projected image 66 can increase or decrease by a corresponding increase or decrease in the light from one or more of the light sources 34.According to various embodiments, the activation of the light sources 34 can be configured to give the projected image 66 the appearance of movement. For example, by alternately activating the light sources 34, the projected image 66 can be alternately rotated to create the appearance of movement. Furthermore, another projected image 66 can be shaped by activating each light source 34 such that the projected image 66 appears to move around the cup holder 22. It is understood that more than one holographic film 46 can be used and that a light source can be provided for each holographic film 46. In such an embodiment, the projected image 42 can change based on which light source is activated.Based on the illumination from the light sources 34, the projected image 66 can provide a 120° conical image distance from the console support material 26 and / or the holographic film 46. The use of the holographic film 46 under the insert 38 can enable the projected image 66 to be formed within the insert 38 and / or within the beverage container recess 30.

[0019] In the illustrated embodiment, the insert 38 is arranged above the holographic film 46 within the beverage container recess 30. It is understood that in embodiments where the holographic film 46 is not used, the insert 38 can be in direct contact with the console support material 26. The insert 38 defines the bottom wall 38A and the side wall 38B. Furthermore, the insert 38 defines an inner surface 38C and an outer surface 38D. Both the inner and outer surfaces 38C, 38D of the bottom wall 38A and the side wall 38B can define the diffraction and holographic gratings 42, 50. The outer surface 38D is arranged so that it comes into contact with the holographic film 46 and / or the console support material 26, and the inner surface 38C is arranged so that it comes into contact with objects in the drink holder 22 (e.g. drinks, change, accessories).Insert 38 may be made of silicone, polyisoprene, polybutadiene, chloroprene, butyl rubber, nitrile rubber, fluate, fluoroelastomer, ethylene vinyl acetate, other soft polymer materials, and / or combinations thereof. In one specific example, insert 38 may be molded and made of silicone. The insert may be opaque, translucent, or substantially transparent. Insert 38 may have a transparency to light in a visible spectrum (e.g., approximately 400 nm to approximately 700 nm) of approximately 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, or 99%. In some examples, insert 38 may include a colorant (e.g., to color or filter the light passing through or reflected by insert 38), an ultraviolet inhibitor or blocker (e.g., a hindered amine or benzoyl).As explained in more detail below, the inner surface 38C and / or the outer surface 38D of the insert 38 can define one or more diffraction gratings 42 and / or holographic gratings. In embodiments where the insert 38 defines a holographic grating 50, the holographic grating of the insert 38 can be substantially similar to the holographic grating 50 of the holographic film 46.

[0020] With reference to Fig. 4-5C The inner surface 38C of the insert 38 can have a generally curved shape, or a flat, square, rectangular, polygonal, corrugated, or other complex shape, as shown. For example, one or more places of the inner surface 38C of the insert 38 can be faceted, non-planar, or characterized by other shapes. Furthermore, the inner and outer surfaces 38C, 38D can be characterized by sections having planar features and sections having non-planar features. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, for example, the insert 38 has flat inner and outer surfaces 38C, 38D that define the diffraction and holographic gratings 42, 50, as can be seen in the cross-section. The insert 38 can define a plurality of spacings 70 between the diffraction and holographic gratings 42, 50 on the inner and outer surfaces 38C, 38D, which remain essentially transparent to ambient light and / or light from light sources 34. The spacings 70 allow ambient light to penetrate the insert 38 to come into contact with the diffraction and holographic gratings 42, 50 arranged on the outer surface 38D or with the holographic film 46. Furthermore, the spacings 70 allow light that has come into contact with the diffraction and / or holographic gratings 42, 50 to be emitted by the insert 38.Furthermore, each of the multiple diffraction gratings 42 can have a different grating period, a different range of grating periods, and / or a different shape, so that the iridescence of the insert 38 appears random and more jewel-like. The spacings 70 and the diffraction gratings 70 can be strategically arranged along the inner and outer surfaces 38C, 38D to cooperate with the shape of the inner and outer surfaces 38C, 38D to create a more jewel-like appearance. The use of the holographic gratings 50 can contribute to the jewel-like appearance of the insert 38.

[0021] With reference to Fig. 5A and Fig. In 5B, the diffraction grating 42 is configured to produce an iridescent pattern from incident light. The diffraction grating 42 can be mounted on a flat embodiment of the insert 38 ( Fig. 5A), on a curved embodiment of the insert 38 ( Fig. 5B) or on other shapes of the inner or outer surfaces 38C, 38D of the insert 38. For example, the diffraction grating 42 can be configured to reflect light of different wavelengths in different directions. The diffraction grating 42 can have a thickness 74 ranging from approximately 250 nm to approximately 1000 nm. According to one embodiment, the thickness 74 of the diffraction grating 42 should, for example, be kept in the range of approximately 250 nm to approximately 1000 nm to ensure that the insert 38 exhibits a jewel-like appearance due to light diffraction when illuminated in direct ambient light, while at the same time having a minimal effect on the optical clarity of the insert 38 under indirect illumination. Preferably, the thickness 74 of the diffraction grating 42 is between approximately 390 nm and 750 nm. As in Fig. Figure 5A, in an exemplary form, shows that the diffraction grating 42 can assume a sawtooth or triangular shape. In three dimensions, these gratings 42 can appear with a stepped or sawtooth shape without angular features, pyramidal, or a combination of stepped and pyramidal shapes. Other shapes of the diffraction grating 42 include hillock-shaped features (e.g., sinusoidal or curved features). The diffraction grating 42 can also include sections with a combination of triangular and hillock-shaped features. More generally, the shapes of the grating 42 should be suitable to provide an effective blaze angle θ. B of at least 15 degrees for one or more sections of each grating, tooth, or groove of the diffraction grating 42. The blaze angle θ Bis the angle between the perpendicular step (i.e. the direction that is perpendicular to each step or tooth of the grating 42) and a direction 78 that is perpendicular to the inner and / or outer surfaces 38C, 38D with the diffraction grating 42.

[0022] Generally, the blaze angle θ B optimized to maximize the efficiency of the wavelength(s) of the incident light, which may be typical ambient sunlight or light from the light sources 34, to ensure that maximum refractive power is concentrated in one or more diffraction orders while minimizing the residual power in other diffraction orders (e.g., the zeroth diffraction order, which indicates the ambient light itself). An advantage of situating the diffraction gratings 42 on planar sections or aspects of the inner and outer surfaces 38C, 38D of the insert 38 is that a constant blaze angle θ Band a grating period of 82 leads to consistently reflected and diffracted light produced by the diffraction grating 42.

[0023] The diffraction grating 42 of the insert 38 can be characterized by one or more grating periods 82 (called d in the standard nomenclature of diffraction gratings). In most aspects of the insert 38, the grating period 82 of the diffraction grating 42 is maintained between approximately 52 nm and approximately 5 micrometers. Generally, the maximum wavelength that a given diffraction grating 42 can diffract is approximately twice the grating period 82. Therefore, a diffraction grating 42 with a grating period 82 maintained between approximately 50 nm and approximately 5 micrometers can diffract light in an optical range from 100 nm to approximately 10 micrometers. In a preferred embodiment, the grating period 82 is kept between approximately 150 nm and approximately 400 nm to ensure that the diffraction pattern 42 can effectively diffract light in an optical range of approximately 300 nm to approximately 800 nm, which roughly covers the visible spectrum.

[0024] Incident light 84 (usually ambient light, sunlight and phosphorescent light) at an angle of incidence α is focused onto a sawtooth-shaped diffraction grating 42 with a thickness 74, a grating period 82 and a blaze angle θ B directed. In particular, a portion of the incident light 84 (preferably a small portion) striking the diffraction grating 42 at an angle of incidence α is reflected as reflected light 84r at the same angle α, and the remaining portion of the incident light 84 is diffracted at corresponding diffraction angles βn, βn+1, etc., at certain wavelengths corresponding to diffracted light 84n, 84n+1, etc. In accordance with standard diffraction grating terminology, the reflected light 84r indicates the zeroth order (i.e., n = 0), and the diffracted light 84 n , 84 n+1 , 84 n+2indicates the nth diffraction, where n is an integer corresponding to specific wavelengths of the reflected or diffracted light.

[0025] With reference to Fig. Figure 5C shows an exemplary diffraction grating 42 using different grating periods (e.g., including a range of grating periods) that can be used in iridescent inserts 38, shown in a cross-sectional view. In the illustrated example, the diffraction grating 42 can have two or more sets of teeth or grooves, each with a specific grating period 82, which can produce light in unique or different diffraction orders. As shown here, the grating 42 is configured with three grating periods—period 82A, period 82B, and period 82C. A set of teeth of the diffraction grating 42 with a period 82A can diffract light 84n and 84 n+1 to produce, another set of teeth with a period of 82B can diffract light 84 n+2 and 84 n+3generate, and a third set of teeth with a period of 82C can diffract light 84 n+4 and 84 n+5 generate, all from the same incident light 84. Consequently, the diffraction grating 42, whether on the inner or outer surfaces 38C, 38D ( Fig. 4) of the insert 38, advantageously producing jewel-like effects from a wide range of wavelengths within different areas of the insert 38.

[0026] The diffraction and holographic gratings 42, 50 can be formed into the insert 38 in various ways. For example, a chemical laser can etch a mold used for injection molding the insert 38 with the diffraction and holographic gratings 42, 50. The material of the insert 38 can flow into the etchings, thereby forming the diffraction and holographic gratings 42, 50 on the insert 38.

[0027] In some aspects, the diffraction grating 42 comprises a varying period that varies between two and ten discrete values, or preferably between two and five discrete values, across the diffraction grating 42. According to another aspect, the diffraction grating 42 with varying periods can be used in one or more sections of the inner and / or outer surfaces 38C, 38D of the insert 38, and one or more diffraction gratings 42 with a constant period are used in other sections of the inner and / or outer surfaces 38C, 38D of the insert 38 to achieve an interesting, jewel-like effect through the insert 38 using the gratings 42.In another example, the diffraction grating 42 comprises a varying period that alternates between any number of values, limited only by the overall length of the grating 42 and / or the processing capabilities to develop such variability through precise control of casting dimensions. In another embodiment, a plurality of diffraction gratings 42 can be arranged in a spaced configuration over the inner and / or outer surfaces 38C, 38D of the insert 38. In such an embodiment, the plurality of diffraction gratings 42 can have the same or different periods. In yet another embodiment, the diffraction grating(s) 42 can substantially cover the inner and / or outer surfaces 38C, 38D of the insert 38.In examples where diffraction gratings 42 are present on the outer surface 38B, the diffraction taking place on the outer surface 38B can give the insert 38 an aesthetically pleasing “depth”.

[0028] In some examples, optional coatings can be applied to the inner surface 38C of the insert 38. For instance, an optically transparent sealing layer (e.g., a polyurethane sealant) can be applied to the inner surface 38C to provide the insert 38 with additional mechanical and / or ultraviolet light protection, particularly to any diffraction gratings 42 defined by the inner surface 38C. The addition of a relatively thin protective layer can protect the diffraction gratings 42 while retaining the advantages of positioning the grating on the inner surface 38C of the insert 38 with respect to diffraction efficiency and the overall iridescence achieved by the insert 38.

[0029] With reference to Fig.Figure 6 shows a block diagram of vehicle 10, in which the cup holder is implemented. Vehicle 10 includes a controller 120 communicating with the light sources 34. The controller 120 can include a memory 124 containing instructions that are executed by a processor 128 of the controller 120. The controller 120 can supply the light sources 34 with electrical current via a power source 132 on board the vehicle 10. The memory 124 can contain a variety of routines configured to emit the color and intensity of the light sources 34, which can be executed by the controller 120. For example, the light sources 34 can increase in brightness and / or change color to correspond to different vehicle operations (e.g., welcome or farewell operation, vehicle start-up, in motion, stationary).In specific examples, the intensity of the light sources 34 can be changed relative to each other to make the projected image 66 appear to move, or to change color as described above. Furthermore, the intensity and / or color of the light sources 34 can each be changed based on a user-defined preference for ambient light in the interior 14 of the vehicle 10. In another example, the intensity of each of the light sources 34 can be set in an arbitrary sequence and pulse for an arbitrary period of time to give the insert 38 an arbitrarily shimmering appearance. Light sources 34 that generate the projected images 66 can also be activated.

[0030] The use of this disclosure can offer many advantages. First, the use of the holographic film 46 and / or the holographic gratings 50 and the light sources 34 can provide a projected image 66 that appears to float within the insert 38 and / or within the beverage container recess 30. Such a feature can enhance the aesthetic appearance of the beverage holders 22. Second, the use of multiple light sources 34 allows the projected image 66 to change its appearance by varying its intensity, color, and / or movement. Third, the use of the diffraction gratings 42 can create a pleasing crystal-like effect. For example, in transparent embodiments of the insert 38, where the diffraction gratings 42 are defined on the outer surface 38D of the insert 38, the diffraction of light through the transparent insert 38 can create a "crystal-like" appearance.In examples where the insert 38 is colored (e.g. black) and the diffraction gratings 42 are defined on the inner surface 38A, a “black quartz” effect can be achieved.

[0031] It is understood that the diffraction gratings 42 and the holographic grating 50 can be defined or arranged on the console support material 26.

[0032] Modifications to the disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art and to those who manufacture or use this disclosure. Therefore, it is understood that the embodiments shown in the drawings and described above are purely for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, which is defined by the following claims in an interpretation consistent with the principles of patent law, including the doctrine of equivalence.

[0033] Experts will understand that the construction of the described disclosure and other components is not limited to a specific material. Other exemplary embodiments of the disclosure may be formed from a wide range of materials, unless otherwise described herein.

[0034] For the purposes of this disclosure, the terms "coupled" and "connected" (in all forms, such as couple, coupled, connect, etc.) generally refer to the direct or indirect connection of two components (electrical or mechanical). Such a connection may be stationary or movable. Such a connection may be achieved by forming the two (electrical or mechanical) components and any additional intermediate elements integrally as a single body with each other or with the two components. Unless otherwise specified, such a connection may be permanent, removable, or detachable.

[0035] It is also important to point out that the construction and arrangement of the elements of this disclosure, as shown in the exemplary embodiments, is purely illustrative. Although only some embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in size, dimensions, structures, shapes and ratios of the various elements, parameter values, fastening devices, use of materials, colors, orientation, etc.) without substantially departing from the teachings and advantages of the present subject matter.For example, elements shown as a single body may be constructed from multiple parts, or elements shown as multiple parts may be formed as a single body; the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied; the length or width of the structures and / or links or connectors or other elements of the system may be varied; the type or number of adjustment positions between the elements may vary. It should also be noted that the elements and / or assemblies of the system may be manufactured from any of a wide range of materials that possess sufficient strength and durability, in any of a wide range of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are considered to be included within the scope of the present innovations.Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations.

[0036] It is understood that any described processes or steps within described processes can be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of this disclosure. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein serve only for illustration and must not be interpreted as limiting.

[0037] It is also understood that variations and modifications to the aforementioned structures and methods may be made without deviating from the concepts that are to be covered by the following claims, unless the claims expressly provide otherwise. Furthermore, the claims listed below are incorporated into the present detailed description and form an integral part thereof.

Claims

[1] Vehicle cup holder (22), comprising: a console support material (26) that defines a beverage container recess (30); a light source (34) arranged to emit light into the beverage container recess (30); an insert (38) arranged in the beverage container recess (30) and defining a bottom wall (38A) and a side wall (38B), wherein at least one of the bottom wall (38A) and the side wall (38B) defines a diffraction grating (42); and a holographic film (46) which is arranged between the insert (38) and the console support material (26). [2] Vehicle drink holder (22) according to claim 1, wherein the holographic film (46) is arranged between the lower wall (38A) and the console support material (26). [3] Vehicle drink holder (22) according to claim 1, wherein the holographic film (46) is arranged between the side wall (38B) and the console support material (26). [4] Vehicle drink holder (22) according to claim 1, wherein the diffraction grating (42) is defined on an inner surface (38C) of the insert (38). [5] Vehicle drink holder (22) according to claim 1, wherein the diffraction grating (42) is defined on an outer surface (38D) of the insert (38). [6] Vehicle cup holder (22) according to claim 1, wherein multiple light sources (34) are configured to emit light into the insert (38). [7] Vehicle drink holder (22) according to claim 6, wherein the multiple light sources (34) are arranged in a spaced configuration around the drink container recess (30). [8] Vehicle drink holder (22) according to claim 7, wherein the plurality of light sources (34) is arranged above the insert (38). [9] Vehicle drink holder (22) according to claim 1, wherein the insert (38) is translucent. [10] Vehicle cup holder (22), comprising: a console support material (26) that defines a beverage container recess (30); a plurality of light sources (34) arranged to emit light into the beverage container recess (30); and an insert (38) which is arranged in the beverage container recess (30) and defines a bottom wall (38A) and a side wall (38B), wherein at least one of the bottom wall (38A) and the side wall (38B) defines a holographic grid (50). [11] Vehicle drink holder (22) according to claim 10, wherein the insert (38) defines several diffraction gratings (42). [12] Vehicle drink holder (22) according to claim 11, wherein the diffraction gratings (42) are defined on an inner surface (38C) of the insert (38). [13] Vehicle drink holder (22) according to claim 10, wherein the holographic grid (50) is defined on the side wall (38B). [14] Vehicle drink holder (22) according to claim 10, wherein the holographic grid (50) is defined on the lower wall (38A). [15] Vehicle drink holder (22) according to claim 10, wherein the plurality of light sources (34) is arranged above the insert (38). [16] Vehicle cup holder (22), comprising: a console support material (26) that defines a beverage container recess (30); and an insert (38) which is arranged in the beverage container recess (30) and defines a bottom wall (38A) and a side wall (38B), wherein the insert (38) defines at least one holographic grid (50) which is arranged within the beverage container recess (30). [17] Vehicle drink holder (22) according to claim 16, wherein the lower wall (38A) defines the holographic grid (50). [18] Vehicle drink holder (22) according to claim 16, wherein the lower wall (38A) defines a diffraction grating (42). [19] Vehicle drink holder (22) according to claim 17, further comprising: a plurality of light sources (34) arranged on the console support material (26) above the insert (38) and configured to emit light into the insert (38). [20] Vehicle drink holder (22) according to claim 19, wherein the insert (38) is translucent. [21] Vehicle cup holder (22), comprising: a console support material (26) that defines a beverage container recess (30); Light sources (34) arranged near an edge of the beverage container recess (30) to emit light into the beverage container recess (30); an insert (38) arranged in the beverage container recess (30) and defining a bottom wall (38A) and a side wall (38B), wherein at least one of the bottom wall (38A) and the side wall (38B) defines a diffraction grating (42); and a holographic film (46) which is arranged between the insert (38) and the console support material (26). [22] Vehicle cup holder (22), comprising: a console support material (26) that defines a beverage container recess (30); a plurality of light sources (34) arranged to emit light into the beverage container recess (30); and an insert (38) which is arranged in the beverage container recess (30) and defines a bottom wall (38A) and a side wall (38B), wherein at least one of the bottom wall (38A) and the side wall (38B) defines a diffraction grating (42) and the plurality of light sources (34) is arranged above the insert (38).

Images